Finite Element Modeling Comparisons of Rollover Test Devices

Rollover test equipment is of interest in the development of rollover protection system designs. The Controlled Rollover Impact System (CRIS) by Exponent and the Jordan Rollover System (JRS) from the original founder of VIA Systems represent two such systems available. The two systems represent significantly different approaches to the same problem; the CRIS utilizes a structure moving over the ground, while the JRS utilizes a rotating vehicle over a moving ground. Finite Element (FE) modeling of CRIS impacts has been presented previously. In this paper, the ability to model the JRS system is demonstrated. A Finite Element model of the JRS was created and compared with an over-the-ground rollover under the same conditions. An analysis using Finite Element models of a production and roll-caged vehicles and Hybrid III dummies with the CRIS and JRS devices under the same impact conditions then was conducted. The results of the analysis are provided and discussed.