Citation

Giorgetta F, Gobbi M, Mastinu G, Ravicino R. Int. J. Veh. Syst. Model. Test. 2009; 4(3): 201-217.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2009, Inderscience Publishers)

DOI

10.1504/IJVSMT.2009.029389

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This paper deals with the development of a new (patented) headrest able to decrease whiplash injuries during a (rear) crash. The study has started with the definition of crash pulses that typically occur during a rear crash. In order to develop the new headrest system, a small sled (carrying only the headrest) was constructed and used. By means of the small sled, the accelerations that were registered at the top of the seat back during rear crashes were applied at the headrest under development. The braking action on the sled is developed by a pneumatic cylinder (100 mm diameter) with compensation chamber. A full virtual model of the small sled has been developed for design and tuning purposes. The actual crash pulses can be reproduced rather easily on the small sled. This has allowed the developing of a new headrest.