An Improved Side Impact Model for Use on Micro Computers

This paper discusses the side impact computer model,SIFEM (Side Impact Finite Element Model). The SIFEM model is being developed for use as an analytical design and evaluation tool for vehicle-to-vehicle side impacts. The SIFEM model uses two (2)two-dimensional, linked, rigid body models to represent the three dimensional movement of the occupant and a two-dimensional spring -mass model to represent the impacting vehicles. The model makes use of the elasto-plastic,finite element method to calculate the force-displacement characteristics of various spring elements in the model. This paper discusses the technical features of the model and the theoretical basis from which the model was derived.