Energy Absorption Material Selection Methodology for Head/A-Pillar

The objectives of this paper are to establish a reasonable procedure for padding selection (for head/A-pillar protection) and to demonstrate how the procedure would be applied in a particular vehicle. The objectives are met by a four step procedure:

1. 1.
   Theoretical analysis of material properties and the effect of padding materials on head responses,
2. 2.
   Static or quasi-static and dynamic evaluations of the material properties,
3. 3.
   Preliminary evaluation of the protective capabilities of the materials by simulated A-pillar component testing, and
4. 4.
   Final evalution of the most promising material candidate by component testing the material installed on the upper A-pillar of a 1981 Chevrolet Citation.