BASIC RESEARCH IN CRASHWORTHINESS II-DEVELOPMENT AND TESTING OF VEHICLE SIDE STRUCTURE MODIFICATIONS

Structural modifications were developed for full-size, frame chassis automobiles to improve occupant protection in side collision accidents. These modifications involved redesign of the side pillars, doors, roof and frame structure to ntrusion resistance of the occupant compartment, and to more effectively dissipate crash energy. Vehicles incorporating side structure modifications were subjected to extensive crash testing, which included perpendicular and oblique vehicle-to-vehicle side collisions at speeds up to 45 MPH, and lateral impacts against a narrow fixed object at 21 MPH. Side impacts by both conventional and modified from structure striking vehicles were performed. Relative to conventional vehicle (base line) performance, the modified side structures demonstrated significantly enhanced crashworthiness under all of the investigated side impact conditions. Portions of this document are not fully legible.

  • Corporate Authors:

    Calspan Corporation

    4455 Genesee Street
    Buffalo, NY  United States  14225
  • Authors:
    • Greene, J E
  • Publication Date: 1973-6

Media Info

  • Pagination: 337 p.

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 00050763
  • Record Type: Publication
  • Source Agency: National Technical Information Service
  • Report/Paper Numbers: CALSPAN-YB-2987-V-14Intrm Rpt
  • Contract Numbers: DOT-FH-11-7622
  • Files: NTIS
  • Created Date: Jan 31 1974 12:00AM