Anthropometric evaluation of THOR-05F.

An exemplar THOR-05F was compared to the anthropometric specification from the Anthropometry of Motor Vehicle Occupants (AMVO) study on a wide variety of dimensions, including segment lengths, masses and CG locations; relative joint and landmark positions; and external body contours. Overall, the ATD matched the specifications well. Four potentially significant discrepancies were noted: 1. The upper-arm segment of the THOR­05F is shorter than the AMVO specification. 2. The shoulder cannot readily be placed into the driving posture represented by the AMVO contour, which might affect the realism of seat belt fit in some circumstances. 3. The THOR-05F buttock contour differs substantially from the AMVO contour, but the differences may represent an appropriate compromise given the differences between ATD and human flesh. 4. The jacket components representing breast tissue may not have sufficient positional control, potentially affecting belt routing and thoracic response. Based on these observations, five recommendations were made: 1. Consideration should be given to lengthening the upper arm segment by 35 mm to better match the AMVO specification. 2. The static positioning of the shoulder components should be examined to determine if a more realistic driving posture could be created. 3. The vertical position of the ATD as installed in vehicle seats should be compared to the positioning of similar-size occupants to address the buttock contour concerns. 4. The effects of the jacket and breast components on belt routing relative to the pelvis, thorax, and shoulder should be examined to determine if greater control of the installation and positioning of these soft components is needed to ensure test repeatability and reproducibility. 5. Future ATD development efforts should include the provision of physical landmarks on the ATD to support anthropometric verification. (Author/publisher)