DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF AN AUTOMATICALLY CONTROLLED VARIABLE-LOAD ENERGY ABSORBER
The feasibility of an automatically controlled variable-load hydraulic energy absorber for use in crashworthy seating systems was investigated. In contrast to other systems, this model contained an acceleration-sensing device capable of automatic control to compensate for difference in occupant weight. A series of dynamic crash tests were performed in which the hardware successfully decelerated weights representing those of the 5th- through 95th-percentile occupants to a predetermined constant acceleration. The system was also prepared to a previously developed variable-load energy absorber system in terms of size, weight, cost, reliability, and accuracy. The program concluded that the automatically controlled variable-load energy absorber is capable of providing a predetermined constant deceleration, but recommends further testing with human surrogates to verify the capability of properly protecting human occupants from spinal injury.
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Corporate Authors:
Simula Incorporated
2223 South 48th Street
Tempe, AZ United States 85282 -
Authors:
- Warrick, J C
- Coltman, J W
- Publication Date: 1984-3
Media Info
- Pagination: 71 p.
Subject/Index Terms
- TRT Terms: Acceleration (Mechanics); Automatic control; Crash tests; Crashes; Crashworthiness; Deceleration; Energy absorbing materials; Hydraulic equipment; Injuries; Seats; Sensors; Spinal column; Testing; Vehicle occupants
- Old TRIS Terms: Energy absorbers; Hydraulic systems
- Subject Areas: Highways; Passenger Transportation; Research; Safety and Human Factors; Vehicles and Equipment; I91: Vehicle Design and Safety;
Filing Info
- Accession Number: 00390664
- Record Type: Publication
- Report/Paper Numbers: TR-83423, NADC-82025-60
- Files: TRIS
- Created Date: Jan 30 1985 12:00AM