Designing safer vehicles

Article Abstract:

European countries have adopted new regulations to improve frontal and side collision protection for car occupants. The Working Group of the European Experimental Vehicles Committee (EEVC) has designed a test procedure to produce real-life car collisions, using an instrumented dummy. The Transport Research Laboratory has developed leg protection for motorcyclists, while research is underway for using airbags for safety in frontal collisions. EEVC is examining the cost-effectiveness of using the energy absorption structure of a car against collision impact. Pedestrian-friendly cars are discussed.

Research, Motorcycles, Traffic safety

---

Dummy runs

Article Abstract:

Anthropomorphic test dummies (ATDs) have been on the foreground of airbag and car safety system development since the 1970s. However, the earliest crash dummies failed to simulate human trajectory, acceleration and deformation conditions. Sierra Engineering Co. produced the Sierra Sam dummy in 1949 to test ejector seats in military aircraft. Alderson Research Labs' automotive ATD tested pelvic structure and spinal deformation. A more modern ATD, the Hybrid 3, was created by General Motors Corp. in 1986.

Evaluation, Air bag restraint systems, Airbag restraint systems

---

Cost and benefit

Article Abstract:

Reduction of additional costs, incurred due to new safety technology in cars, is the prime issue facing the automobile industry. A survey of the automotive community reveals top priorities for safety features, including safety seats for children and improved vision for night driving. Manufacturers are aware of the customers' reluctance to pay a premium for advanced features. Developments in lighting, vehicle stability enhancement systems, and crash testing and simulation are underway.

Surveys, Automobile industry

Similar abstracts:

• Abstracts: Designing for drama. Safe passage. Center stage
• Abstracts: Designing the future. Digital literacy
• Abstracts: Balancing on the tides. Ready for anything. Wider ride to the Rainbow
• Abstracts: Down in the depths. A change of mindset. Design disasters and how to avoid them
• Abstracts: Assessing the risk posed by pesticides. Pesticides yield a toxic harvest. EPA's policy on pesticides gets tougher

This website is not affiliated with document authors or copyright owners. This page is provided for informational purposes only. Unintentional errors are possible.