Comparison of Three Rotation Measurement Techniques in Rear Impact Application

Three different measurement methods for angular displacement (rotation) of a dummy head and torso were evaluated in a rear impact crash environment. The data were collected using a Hybrid III 50th percentile male dummy in rear impact sled tests tuned to the FMVSS 202 deceleration pulse. Angular rate sensors yielded rotation data closely matching the results from high-speed digital video images to within 3 degrees with a total displacement range up to 110 degrees. Linear acceleration data generally yield less accurate angular displacement results, in addition to being cumbersome in data processing.