Seventeen left lateral impact experiments were performed using anesthetized swine to determine the biomechanics of injury production in this impact mode. Two series of eight animals were used and one animal served as a control. The conclusion of this report is that loading- surface discontinuities can cause significant injury. Therefore, in design of side doors and interiors, consideration should be given to the location of surface indentations (such as map pockets)as well as surface protuberances (such as armrests).
Abstract