The Biokinematical Limits of Air Bag Protection of Small Car Occupants in Oblique Impacts

Investigations were performed to determine for oblique impacts the occupant kinematic protection limits afforded by full front seat air bags installed in a subcompact car.

Techniques used in this investigation included three-dimensional crash victim simulation modeling (CAL-3D model), the use of the NHTSA developed passenger air cushion (DJPAC) simulation program, and the design, installation and testing of production component driver and passenger air bag systems in a compact car.

The results of this program demonstrate that occupants of the subject small car can be protected by air bag restraints in 45° oblique principal direction of force (PDOF) impacts up to 30 mph barrier equivalent velocity.