5 ^th Percentile Driver Out of Position Computer Simulation

A finite element model of a folded airbag with the module cover and steering wheel system was developed to estimate the injury numbers of a 5^th percentile female dummy in an out-of-position (OOP) situation. The airbag model was correlated with static airbag deployments and standard force plate tests. The 5^th percentile finite element dummy model developed by First Technology Safety Systems (FTSS) was used in the simulation.

The following two OOP tests were simulated with the airbag model including a validated steering wheel finite element model:

1. 1.
   Chest on air bag module for maximum chest interaction from pressure loading (MS6-D) and
2. 2.
   Neck on air bag module for maximum neck interaction from membrane loading (MS8-D).

These two simulations were then compared to the test results. Satisfactory correlation was found in both the cases.

This airbag mathematical model was then used in parametric studies to investigate the effects of airbag module design changes and occupant position mapping studies.