This paper provides an overview of the "Side Impact Comprehension Program" conducted at PSA Peugeot Citroen in France. A simple Spring-Dashpot-Gap-Mass computer simulation model has been developed for representing both body side intrusions and biomechanical criteria. A Computer Test Procedure EUROSID-1 integrated in the simulation model indicates biomechanical criteria. The model has been used to reproduce the behaviour of a so-called "European Average Vehicle". Systematic sensitivity analysis has been performed to evaluate the influence of a structural modification (for example reinforcement body and doors) or a vehicle compartiment ergonomy change (padding, SID position, etcetera) on the intrusion etcetera) on the intrusion magnitudes and biomechanical criteria. The computer simulation model framed in ABAQUS Finite Element (FE) code can be run on a Cray computer within a couple of minutes. The results are in very good agreement with the "European Average Vehicle" results for all intrusions, velocities, accelerations and biomechanical criteria (for instance rib deflection and velocity, and pelvis load). The parametric study clearly indicates the design modifications required to improve the behaviour of a tested prototype. (A)
Abstract