Citation

Yu H, Zhou Q, Neat GW. Int. J. Veh. Safety 2007; 2(1-2): 116-140.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2007, Inderscience Publishers)

DOI

10.1504/IJVS.2007.012589

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This paper addresses development, calibration and validation of a three-dimensional finite element model of the torso sub-assemblies of a THOR 50th percentile adult male dummy. Modelled sub-assemblies include shoulders, a rib cage, bibs and attachments, a thoracic and lumbar spine, two abdominal modules, a pelvis and a jacket. The finite element mesh is constructed mainly from the CAD data, and mass properties are consistent between the model and the physical dummy on sub-assembly levels. The deformable materials include rib steel and damping materials, bibs, spinal flex joints, abdominal foams, etc. Systems identification is the main method used to calibrate the deformable material parameters based on tests conducted on material, component and/or sub-assembly levels. The model is validated with three types of impact tests performed on chest, upper abdomen or lower abdomen of a full assembly of the test device. Simulation results of impact force vs. deflection/penetration are analysed and compared with the corresponding experimental data, and simulation errors are discussed for forces, displacements and an energy dissipation measure.