This paper provides an overview of testing equipment which is used to conduct Free Motion Headform (FMH) impact testing. With the issuance of new safety regulations concerning head impact protection, automobile manufacturers and suppliers must add testing capabilities to their laboratories. Drawing upon a large amount of FMH testing experience, as well as the design and fabrication of numerous systems, this paper presents an overview of the types of systems available, as well as a discussion of the various operating aspects of the equipment. Peripheral equipment items such as a Coordinate Measurement Machine (CMM), FMH template, and FMH calibration drop tower are also reviewed. Simple techniques used in FMH tests which can help in achieving repeatable results is also presented. (A)
Samenvatting