Representative data from vehicle crash and component level tests have been analyzed to determine the acceleration levels and frequency content in a realistic dynamic environment for dummy-based accelerometers. A series of component level tests (head drop calibration tests) and initial calibration tests (using a state-of-the-art commercially available comparison shock calibrator) were performed with a selection of accelerometers to determine dynamic response variability. A limited series of glazing tests is presented with discussion of the implications that high frequency accelerometer resonance response has on accelerometer selection and data acquisition practices. The results of the tests and recommendations for possible test procedures for evaluating accelerometer performance and equivalency in the crash test environment are presented in this paper.
Abstract