An Automotive Crash Test Facility

Systems and techniques for conducting crash tests have been under study for a long period of time. Those now used by have been refined to the point where test parameters (speed, point of impact, etc.) are repeatable, and the acquisition of dynamic data is assured.

This paper describes GM's facility. Discussion will center on the function and performance of systems and techniques such as:

1. 1.
   Total test control.
2. 2.
   Method of test vehicle towing.
3. 3.
   Control and determination of impact speed.
4. 4.
   Electronic and photographic data acquisition.
5. 5.
   Test abort.
6. 6.
   Provisions for personnel safety.