Computer Simulation: The Beginning of a New Era

The role of computer simulation in the automobile industry is changing because of the increasing feasibility of meeting the challenges it faces. The increase in feasibility is the result of increases in computer equipment capability and decreases in equipment costs. In particular, the use of computer simulation in accident reconstruction is increasing rapidly. Key issues for computer simulation in the accident reconstruction industry are credibility, cost, software availability, and visualization of both the simulation process and results. Visualization is a key issue because most reconstruction is in support of litigation so that results must be made as clear and easy to understand as is possible.