Evaluation of Side Impact Protection in Barrier to Car Tests

Eight barrier to car side impact tests were conducted with dummies and with cadavers.

The barrier and the test configuration were those proposed by NHTSA for side impact car testing. Two types of car were used: an unmodified (baseline) Rabbit, and a modified (for side impact protection) Rabbit. The modifications concern the reinforcement of the side structures and the use of an internal padding for protection of pelvis and thorax.

The results of these tests show a good repeatability of car deformation, a decrease of injury related parameters with the modified Rabbit, and a change in the velocity of car elements and body regions.