This paper describes a system which enables a crashworthiness design engineer to construct a vehicle model to comply with occupant tolerance levels and legislative requirements. It discusses how the system delivers effective design advice concerning crash resistance, impact energy management, contact forces and the application of advanced restraint systems. The paper proceeds to highlight the significant advantages of the design tool, these being that it: (1) indicates how to design the vehicle to comply with tougher future legislation; (2) allows the engineer to conduct a safety audit of the vehicle design; (3) provides an effective learning tool for a novice engineer; and (4) ensures valuable company expertise is retained and protected. The paper identifies how the system is integrated into the overall crashworthiness process and how it presents appropriate advice depending upon design constraints. In addition, the paper discusses how the system permits engineers to update the knowledge base as new occupant protection technologies are developed. For the covering abstract see ITRD E116488.
Abstract