Several accident statistics show that the lower extremities are the second most endangered body region in a frontal crash. Especially the area of ankle and foot is endangered most. PARS (Passive Rückhaltesysteme) has designed protection devices for the feet as well as new simulation tools like sled tests with dynamic footwell intrusion. PARS performed crash tests with different crash severity and car types. These data were used to investigate injury mechanisms for the occupant, and to develop protection devices for the foot area. Moreover, the data were used to define the demands on a dynamic footwell intrusion system for the sled test facility. The protection devices were ranked with the use of an simulation model, based on a worst case scenario. The foot airbag, which comes out of the investigation is the most promising concept with a proven reduction potential in a sled test up to nearly 80%. (A)
Abstract