Browse Topic: Safety

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Vibroacoustic Analysis and Optimisation of an Electric Refrigerant Scroll Compressor2026-01-0722To be published on 06/10/2026
In electrified vehicles, auxiliary units can be a dominant source of noise, one of which is the refrigerant scroll compressor. Compared to vehicles with combustion engines, e-vehicles re-quire larger refrigerant compressors, as in addition to the interior, the battery and the electric motors must be cooled. Various types of excitation in the compressor cause vibrations on the compressor surface and the emission of airborne noise. Fluid dynamic forces resulting from the cyclic compression principle act on flow-conducting components, while alternating forces caused by the imbalance of the eccentrically running compressor scroll or by torque fluctua-tions on the drive shaft are transmitted to the housing via the bearings. In order to identify the sound generation mechanisms in the compressor, the vibrations of the compressor surface were measured using a laser scanning vibrometer and the sound radiation was characterised using a sound intensity probe. This paper illustrates the
Saur, Lukas, Beer, Gabriel, Fritzsche, Marco, Becker, Stefan
NoiseSphere: An AI-Based Approach for Dynamic and Large-Scale Noise Mapping2026-01-0719To be published on 06/10/2026
Noise pollution is a major environmental and health challenge, yet its strong spatial and temporal variability makes comprehensive mapping highly complex. Current approaches under the European Noise Directive (END) provide only partial coverage and often lack temporal dynamics. The NoiseSphere project, fundet by the Austrian Research Promotion Agency FFG, develops an AI-based methodology for dynamic, large-scale noise prediction and mapping. A machine learning model is trained on heterogeneous data sources, including semantically enriched Sentinel-2 satellite imagery, OpenStreetMap road data, floating car data (traffic density and speed), and existing noise maps. The model is refined through integration of noise emission data and validated using targeted in-situ measurements. Two case studies, one located in an urban environment (Graz) and the other one in a rural region near Linz demonstrate the model’s applicability across contrasting settings. By combining remote sensing, traffic
Girstmair, Josef
Bridging Simulation And Reality: Incorporating Seal Contact Detachment Into Stick–Slip Prediction2026-01-0714To be published on 06/10/2026
Preventing stick–slip in virtual vehicle development combines virtual displacement data with experimental sliding tests. If the calculated relative displacement at a contact exceeds the distance of two stick–slip impulses, that contact could be a potential noise source. Such risks can be mitigated only by design changes or alternative sealing concepts. Stick–slip tests provide the experimental reference, showing how often a frictional pairing produces impulses over a defined sliding distance. The basis for this assessment is Multibody Dynamics (MBD) simulations, which compute component deformations during virtual drives and derive relative displacements at contact interfaces (e.g. in the sealing gap between body and closure), representing the theoretical sliding distance that enables stick–slip effects. Yet, this combined approach has overlooked a critical factor: the deformability of automotive seals. Due to their elastomeric properties and geometry, seals can elastically follow
Strangfeld, Martin, Fritz, Susanne, Weber, Jens, Rosell, Anneli
Electric drive unit housing ribbing for low noise radiation2026-01-0687To be published on 06/10/2026
Although propulsion noise often constitutes a minority of the overall noise in electric vehicles, it remains an important quality indicator due to its high-frequency tonal character, which is undesirable even at low levels. There are many factors that influence the interior car levels of propulsion noise, i.e. gear whine and electric motor whine. The primary ones to consider are the electric drive units (EDU) internal forces, but also secondary properties such as EDU housing design and encapsulation, vehicle sound pack and mount isolation play important roles. This work focuses on EDU housing design and more particularly on the housing ribbing that enables attachment point stiffness and housing strength, but which can also cause problems in terms of noise radiation. Numerical parameter studies on geometrical properties such as length dimensions, thickness and curvature were performed on single ribs of different types. For each design iteration, the key performance indicators radiated
Lennström, David, Malm, Oskar, wurzinger, Jakob, Cederlund, Johan
Improvement of rCF behaviour through the introduction of NF2026-37-0039To be published on 06/09/2026
The use of recycled carbon fibres (rCF) allows for reduction of emissions impacting energy and resource requirements. A major drawback of using rCF composites is the discontinuous nature of the fibres as this limits the performance and applications. The present investigation aimed to overcome some of these limitations by manufacturing hybrid composites by combining rCF and natural fibres (NF). One of the key observations was a significant change in the failure mode of hybrid samples under various loading scenarios, where the composite did not shatter but rather failed in a controlled manner. Initial results also showed an overall improvement impact properties in comparison to plain rCF. Similar performance was observed in other tests. Research was focused on determining the most effective ply sequencing under different types of loading and understanding the effect of the ply sequence on the failure mechanisms. It was determined that depending on the application, the layups does effect
Hnatyk, Dawid, Chrysanthou, Andreas, De Vuyst, Tom, Ismail, Sikiru
Integrating Formal Methods into Model Based Systems Engineering(MBSE) to Mitigate Requirement Escapes2026-26-0712To be published on 06/01/2026
The industry is undergoing a significant digital transformation in the way system requirements are defined, communicated, and managed. Major original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) are moving toward fully model-based development processes, with plans to deliver requirements exclusively in the form of system models. It is no longer sufficient to manage requirements using traditional document-based approaches; instead, organizations must adopt tools and processes that enable the consumption, interpretation, and implementation of model-based requirements. Preparing to meet this industry direction is critical to maintaining competitiveness and alignment with our customers’ expectations. Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) plays a central role in this transition. MBSE enables engineers to define, analyze, and manage system requirements, architectures, behaviors, and verification strategies within a cohesive model-based framework. It supports traceability, promotes consistency across
Gupta, Chandan, Nakkeeran, Rupashree
ADS-B in the Age of Cyber Threats: Preserving Safety Without Compromising Accessibility2026-26-0768To be published on 06/01/2026
Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast (ADS-B) has become a cornerstone of modern aviation, revolutionizing Air Traffic Management (ATM) through its ability to continuously transmit real-time flight data—including GPS-derived position, altitude, and velocity. Since its widespread operational deployment over the past decade, ADS-B has significantly enhanced situational awareness, improved safety, extended surveillance coverage into previously unmonitored airspace, and enabled more efficient aircraft routing and separation. However, despite its many advantages, the fundamental design of ADS-B introduces notable security vulnerabilities. Because ADS-B signals are unencrypted and unauthenticated, malicious actors can inject fraudulent broadcasts, creating the illusion of non-existent aircraft. Such spoofing attacks can trigger false cockpit alerts and distract pilots during critical phases of flight. The current ADS-B data format prioritizes simplicity to accommodate a broad range of
Chikkegowda, Kantha, Shetty, Ramesh, Khan, Kalimulla, Sahoo, Subhransu
Predictive Obsolescence Management2026-26-0780To be published on 06/01/2026
This abstract is towards Aerospace Sustainability - End-of-Life Management for Aerospace Assets. In the field of Aerospace, which has a long Life-Cycle process [20-30Years], Component Obsolescence has become a major problem as it prevents Maintenance & sustenance of a product with committed life-cycle period. Obsolescence Management plays a vital role by deriving strategic plans on proactive obsolescence where the system needs to be supported for several decades. This abstract analyzes the obsolescence challenges in the Aviation industry especially in Avionics System impacted by component obsolescence and present the possible proactive obsolescence management in terms of Engineering, Technology, and business/cost elements. The Obsolescence problem cannot be avoided but the impact of obsolescence and mitigate the risk can be minimized by planning and managing response. The obsolescence risk assessment for the Bill Of Materials (BOM) is a paramount activity to manage obsolescence
Dharmananyala, Rohith, Munirathnam, Krishna, Marokeyfrancis, Joisyjose, Sadashivaiah, Nagesh, Kondamari, Harshitha
Integrating Human Factors and Predictive Modeling for Enhanced Aviation Safety: A Data-Driven Approach to Risk Mitigation and System Design2026-26-0795To be published on 06/01/2026
The evolution of the aviation industry from manual control to highly automated and autonomous systems has brought human factors to the forefront of safety, design, and operational efficiency. This paper presents an integrated analysis combining machine learning techniques with statistical modeling to assess the impact of human-system interaction on aviation incident outcomes. The first phase of this research involved a longitudinal dataset covering aircraft design evolution, training programs, and incident records. Using classification algorithms, including XGBoost, the study achieved an accuracy of 81.82% in predicting incident likelihood. Performance metrics such as F1-scores (0.85 for “Incident” and 0.78 for “No Incident”) highlighted the model’s robustness in identifying risk patterns associated with human factors and system complexity. In the second phase, 50 plus detailed aviation incident reports were analyzed using logistic regression, t-tests, and Cook’s Distance to identify
Valiyaparambil, Praveen
Data-Driven Air Traffic Management: Forecasting Demand, Modeling Delay Propagation, and Demand Capacity Balancing2026-26-0772To be published on 06/01/2026
Air traffic management (ATM) systems must accurately estimate flight demand, analyze network delays, and optimize capacity. This research uses a global airline dataset with passenger information, airport characteristics (including geographic markers and continental classifications), flight scheduling data (timing and destination details), crew information, operational status records, and OpenSky Network real-time states data to create an intelligent ATM decision-support framework. Advanced machine learning (ML) methods like gradient boosting and sequential modeling are used to build network models of flight routes between origins and destinations, develop temporal demand patterns for individual airports, analyze delay factors, and predict congestion periods. The research uses mixed-effects statistical models using crew data to measure operational variability and demographic and nationality-based analysis to identify demand trends for improving staffing and security processing during
Senthilkumar, N., S, Gopalakrishnan, Gopinath, S
Accelerating aircraft verification and certification through an integrated virtual and physical testing approach2026-26-0710To be published on 06/01/2026
Aircraft verification and certification entails a variety of testing tasks and requires coordination among numerous stakeholders across different disciplines to ensure alignment on requirements. Historically, certification strategies have relied on both physical testing and high-fidelity simulation. The integration of these complementary approaches is essential to address their respective blind spots and to support credible certification evidence. A key challenge lies in the rigorous correlation of simulation models with physical test data. Flutter verification, for instance, is a critical component in defining the aircraft’s flight envelope and plays a foundational role in certifying safe operational boundaries. In this work, the process of freedom from flutter verification starting from the pre-test analysis is demonstrated. This work introduces a novel approach to combining simulation and test data with the aim to accelerate and streamline the verification process leading to more
Hallez, Raphael, Yadabettu, Dayanand Kumar, de Boer, Jens, Aspasiou, Vicky
Implementation of Wireless IoT Technology in EVAC Slide Emergency Systems2026-26-0792To be published on 06/01/2026
Emergency evacuation slides (EVAC slides) are critical safety devices used on aircraft to enable rapid egress during emergencies. While these slides provide a quick and reliable escape route, communication between separated slides during evacuation remains a challenge. Often, during raft deployment over water, slides may drift apart, impeding communication among evacuees and rescue personnel, potentially compromising safety. Existing aircraft EVAC systems on the market lack integrated wireless communication, relying on visual or shouted voice signals, which are unreliable in noisy or chaotic conditions. With the rise of the Internet of Things (IoT), wireless sensor networks have become effective tools for monitoring and communication in various safety and industrial applications. This paper explores the integration of wireless IoT technology into EVAC slide systems to facilitate inter-slide communication and monitor critical parameters, such as slide air pressure and the floating
Sengodan, Rajkumar, Talore, Suresh
Biomechanical Responses and Injuries of Male Post-Mortem Human Subjects in Rear-Facing Frontal Impacts with Unreinforced Airbag-Equipped Production Seats09-14-01-00305/4/2026
Previous rear-facing post-mortem human subject (PMHS) studies utilizing a reinforced seat have prompted questions as to whether the seat could have been a contributing factor to the severe rib and pelvis injuries observed in those experiments. In response, a recent PMHS study used an unreinforced seat in a similar experiment, which was expected to mitigate severe injuries by dissipating energy from seatback deformations. However, the PMHS tested in the unreinforced seat sustained even more severe rib fracture numbers than in the reinforced seat. No studies have investigated how additional variables (i.e., countermeasures) may influence rib fractures in high-speed rear-facing frontal impacts (HSRFFI). Therefore, this study aimed to explore the effect of an airbag-equipped seat (AES) on male PMHS responses and injuries. Rear-facing sled tests were conducted using five mid-size male PMHS seated in the AES at ΔV of 56 km/h: PMHS1 with no airbag as a baseline, PMHS2 with a seatback airbag
Kang, Yun-Seok, DeWitt, Timothy, Wensink, Timothy, Marcallini, Angelo, Jung, Yong Hyun, Lee, Dong Gil, Harm, Jae Jun, Ko, Seokhoon, Hunter, Randee, Agnew, Amanda M.
Visual–Language Model–Driven Annotation and Analysis of Maneuver Data for Enhanced Vehicle Safety09-14-01-00325/4/2026
Vehicle maneuver data are essential for perception and planning in advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and automated driving systems (ADS). While high-quality annotations improve machine-learning performance, existing maneuver datasets remain fragmented, labor-intensive to annotate, and inconsistent in semantic richness. Challenges persist in scalability, interpretability, and contextual labeling. This article establishes a structured framework for maneuver data analysis by combining a systematic review of existing resources with the development of a new multimodal dataset. First, we conduct a systematic review of publicly available datasets such as HDD, KITTI, BDD-X, D2CAV, Brain4Cars, DrivingDojo, and the Driving Behavior Database. We further evaluate the data modality and sensor configurations including event data recorders, onboard logging systems, and smartphone sensing. We then propose the Matt3r Data Collection System with modern metadata management, which integrates video
Bai, Ling, Yuan, Chongyu, Osman, Islam, Lin, Zirui, Mirab, Ghazal, Saheb, Amir, Parnian, Neda, Shapiro, Evgeny, Shehata, Mohamed S., Liu, Zheng
Validation of Vehicle-Based Injury Severity Prediction Using Crash Telemetry Data09-14-01-00095/4/2026
Subaru has developed vehicle-based Injury Severity Predictions (ISP) models using data from the National Automotive Sampling System Crashworthiness Data System (NASS-CDS) covering calendar years 1999–2015, for integration into Advanced Automatic Collision Notification (AACN) systems. This study evaluates the accuracy of these ISP models by comparing predictions derived from Subaru vehicle telemetry with actual Injury Severity Scores (ISS) of transported occupants. Two crash databases were utilized: Subaru Telematics Assisted Accident Research (STAAR) data for calendar years 2021–2024, which includes Automatic Collision Notification (ACN) data, police reports, emergency medical services (EMS), and medical records from the medical centers across Michigan; and the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) data for calendar years 2021–2023, matched with ACN data to supplement serious injury cases. ISS values were obtained from medical records in STAAR, while fatal cases in FARS were
Ejima, Susumu, Zhang, Peng, Cunningham, Kristen, Wang, Stewart
The Effect of Initial Foot Position on THOR-50M and THOR-05F Lower Leg Response in a Realistic Vehicle Buck09-14-01-00085/4/2026
This study aims to explore and evaluate the effect of various foot positions on the kinematic and kinetic response of the lower extremity during frontal crashes using a realistic vehicle interior. Frontal impact sled tests were performed with the Test Device for Human Occupant Restraint, 50th-percentile Male (THOR-50M) and Test Device for Human Occupant Restraint, 5th-percentile Female (THOR-05F) anthropometric test device (ATD) in the driver’s seat of a midsize SUV testing buck (with realistic interior components including an instrument panel with steering wheel and steering wheel airbag, seat, three-point seat belt with pretensioner and force-limiter, accelerator pedal, brake pedal, knee airbag, and seat belt retractor pretensioner). Six sled tests were performed in two principal directions of force (PDOF) [three each in frontal (0°) and oblique (−20°) configurations]. The right foot was positioned on the accelerator pedal, fully on the brake, and half on the brake. A single test was
Noss, Junior, Donlon, John-Paul, Morris, Anna, Samier, Germain, Park, Joseph, Forman, Jason
Injury and Kinematics of Obese PMHS in Frontal Impacts with Reclined Seating09-14-01-00035/4/2026
Objective: This study investigated injury outcomes and body kinematics in obese occupants exposed to frontal impacts while seated in reclined postures. With increasing interest in non-traditional seating configurations and a growing population of obese vehicle occupants, the objective was to evaluate how seat stiffness and restraint features influence injury patterns and whole-body excursions. Methods: Nine obese post-mortem human surrogates (PMHS; mean age: 64 years, stature: 1.70 m, body mass: 102 kg, BMI: 35 kg/m2) were tested under frontal impact conditions simulating a delta-V of 50 kph. All specimens were seated on a spring-controlled seat with a 45° reclined seatback and restrained by a three-point belt system with pretensioner and load limiter. Three configurations were evaluated: (1) stiffer seat, (2) softer seat, and (3) stiffer seat with a knee bolster 100 mm from the knees. Each subject underwent one test. Whole-body kinematics were captured using a VICON motion analysis
Somasundaram, Karthik, Yoganandan, Narayan, Pintar, Frank
Interactions of Rear-Facing Child Restraints in Frontal Crash Tests09-14-01-00105/4/2026
The aims of this study were to investigate the kinematics of child anthropomorphic test devices in a large sample of rear-facing child restraint system installations and the effects of anti-rebound features and load legs on the kinematics of rear-facing child anthropomorphic test devices. The test matrix included a general sample of 70 rear-facing child restraint system installations to observe trends in frontal crash tests; 14 full-scale crash tests with paired comparisons to investigate the effect of anti-rebound features; and five paired comparisons of rear-facing child restraint systems installed with and without a load leg. The paired t-test was used to determine the statistical significance of differences in kinematic responses. In the general sample, 84% of anthropomorphic test devices in infant seats with the base in outboard seats interacted with the first-row seat. In 52% of tests, the anthropomorphic test device head directly contacted the front seatback. Head accelerations
Tylko, Suzanne, Tang, Kathy
Regional-Specific Patterns of Abdominal Injury in Belted Male and Female Frontal Crash Occupants: Insights from Redefined Anatomical Mapping09-14-01-00025/4/2026
Research Question/Methods The study examined abdominal injuries of 87 belted occupants in CIREN frontal crashes for sex-based differences in abdominal injury patterns. It introduced a more anatomically detailed method for identifying injury locations in an abdominal-pelvic region that includes skeletal structures. The study introduces and applies a novel Abdominal New Injury Severity Score (AbNISS) to address limitations of traditional AIS coding in capturing sex-based differences in injury patterns. The operative reports/EDR/imaging data in CIREN cases enabled identification of sex-specific crash outcomes. The dominant analytical motif is Betrand Russel’s knowledge by acquaintance and definite descriptions. Results Females had a higher rate of moderate to severe abdominal injuries than males: Only females sustained AIS 5 injuries, lumbar Chance fractures, posterior pelvic arch injuries, and more AIS 2, 3, and 4 injuries, with more injuries in superior-mid, left-superior, and medial
Halloway, Dale, Curry, William, Somasundaram, Karthik, Pintar, Frank
Characterization of Fatal Cyclist Collisions Involving Nine Vehicle Types Traveling at Low and High Speeds in Japan09-14-01-00055/4/2026
To reduce traffic fatalities through vehicle safety measures, particular attention must be given to cyclist-related fatalities. Clarifying the characteristics of hazardous events leading to cyclist fatalities, not only by vehicle speed range but also by vehicle type, is essential and should be based on analyses of real-world accident data. Accordingly, this study aimed to characterize fatal cyclist accidents involving vehicles traveling at low and high speeds in Japan. We used macro accident data from the Japanese Institute for Traffic Accident Research and Data Analysis covering the period from 2013 to 2022. Based on nine vehicle types, we investigated the effects of road type, vehicle behavior, and accident type on cyclist fatalities. Additionally, we identified the five most frequent accident scenarios separately for each low- and high-speed category. At signalized intersections, the proportions of cyclist fatalities involving vehicles traveling at low speeds were higher than those
Matsui, Yasuhiro, Oikawa, Shoko
Driver Understanding of Yellow Indication Laws and Preferences for Configuration of In-Vehicle Alerts for Dilemma Zones09-14-01-00065/4/2026
Drivers frequently encounter Type II dilemma zones at signalized intersections, where the decision to stop or proceed during the onset of a yellow indication can be ambiguous. Decision-making relies on drivers’ expectations of the yellow change interval duration and behavioral factors. While boundaries of these zones are well studied, less is known about how familiar drivers are with their local yellow indication laws, which vary from state to state, and whether their typical reactions to yellow indications align with the laws. Existing interventions like signal timing adjustments, improved vehicle detection, and advance warning signs reduce the number of drivers caught in dilemma zones but may not reach distracted drivers. In-vehicle alerts tailored to dilemma zone scenarios are a potential solution not yet implemented widely in North America. This study addresses how drivers may interpret these alerts. A web-based survey of 640 licensed drivers in Michigan and Washington (ages 18–85
Anderson, Erika, Jashami, Hisham, Ahmed, Ananna, Hurwitz, David
Characterization of Front Row Occupants Involved in Motor Vehicle Crashes Compared to ATDs and the U.S. Population09-14-01-00275/4/2026
Currently, adult anthropomorphic test devices used in regulatory and consumer information crash testing in the United States are targeted to represent a small female (5th percentile) and an average male (50th percentile). The anthropometry determined previously might not represent the current population, or as investigated in the current study, those that are at least moderately injured during a motor vehicle crash. The objective of this study was to use field data to determine if the current frontal anthropomorphic test devices are representative. Data from the National Automotive Sampling System–Crashworthiness Data System (2010-2015) and Crash Investigation Sampling System (2017–2023) were queried for sex, age, size, and injury information for front seat occupants in frontal crashes. Additional datasets used were from the National Trauma Data Bank and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. According to field data, the most frequently injured female and male is approximately
McNeil, Elizabeth, Atwood, Jonathan, Rudd, Rodney, Craig, Matthew
Geometric Variabilities and Their Effects on Impact Responses in Midsize Male and Female Occupants09-14-01-00255/4/2026
The objective of this study is to use parametric human body models (HBMs) to understand how geometric variability among individuals who have the same sex, stature, and body weight may affect the impact responses and injury outcomes, using midsize male and midsize female populations as representative cases. Methods were developed to quantify skeletal and external body surface variations using principal component analysis, regression, and residual error analysis. Based on this analysis, nine midsize male and nine midsize female geometric models were created, focusing on ribcage and pelvis variations, which account for most of the observed variability. These geometries were then applied to morph the simplified Global Human Body Model Consortium (GHBMC) midsize male model, producing 18 distinct HBMs. Each morphed HBM was subjected to nine impact scenarios, resulting in a total of 162 simulations to assess the effects of geometric variability. Substantial geometric variation was observed in
Hu, Jingwen, Lin, Yang-Shen, Boyle, Kyle, Khandare, Sujata, Bonifas, Anne, Reed, Matthew P., Hasija, Vikas
Rear-Impact Crash Injury Patterns and Predictors: Insights from Contemporary CISS and CIREN Field Data09-14-01-00295/4/2026
The objective of this study was to investigate occupant injury patterns and predictors in rear-impact crashes using recent US field data. Cases were queried from the Crash Investigation Sampling System (CISS, 2017–2023) and the Crash Injury Research and Engineering Network (CIREN, 2017–2024), yielding 1923 front-row outboard occupants from 1533 crashes. Crash documentation and vehicle photographs were manually reviewed to classify seatback deformation magnitude and secondary impact severity. Multivariable logistic regression models estimated associations between occupant, vehicle, and crash characteristics and Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) ≥ 2 and AIS ≥ 3 injury outcomes across body regions. Sensitivity analyses included CISS-only, weighted, single-event, and interaction models. Thoracic injuries were further subdivided into skeletal and cardiopulmonary categories. Findings reflect associations within the pooled CISS + CIREN analytic sample rather than nationally representative injury
Lockerby, Jack, Rudd, Rodney
Modification and Validation of a Finite Element Model of a Pedestrian Dummy09-14-01-00125/4/2026
Aims of the research This study aims to modify the lower body (the pelvis, thigh, and leg) of the mid-sized male pedestrian dummy FE model by considering the latest version of the physical dummy and to evaluate both the accuracy by comparing test results of the past studies and the biofidelity specified in SAE J2782 in both component and full-scale validations. Methods 1 Component validation The validation of the modified pelvis model was performed in dynamic lateral compression simulations. The sacrum and the pubis force-deflection responses of the iliac or the acetabulum impact were measured. The modified thigh and leg models were evaluated in a dynamic 3-point lateral bending simulation, measuring the force-deflection responses. The results from the simulations were compared with test results and the biofidelity requirements. 2 Full-scale validation The whole-body model was updated by incorporating these modified component models. The model of the generic buck developed for the
Asanuma, Hiroyuki, Gunji, Yasuaki, Mori, Fumie, Nagashima, Akiko
SAE Level 2 ADAS Performance in Specific Crash-Imminent Scenarios09-14-01-00155/4/2026
This research examined the performance of SAE Level 2 (L2) advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) in crash-imminent scenarios (CIS), with particular attention to how vehicle configuration like body style and powertrain (internal combustion engine, plug-in hybrid, electric vehicle) influences vehicle system performance. The objectives were to (1) identify CIS relevant to L2-equipped vehicles using crash databases and naturalistic driving studies (NDSs), (2) develop scenario-based test procedures and test matrices, and (3) evaluate system and vehicle responses across configurations and conditions. Multiple crash data sources were analyzed, including NHTSA’s Standing General Order dataset of L2-related crashes, the Fatality Analysis Reporting System, the Crash Report Sampling System, and NDS data from the Second Strategic Highway Research Program and the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute L2 NDS. Coded variable analyses from the datasets identified three common CIS: lane and road
Beale, Gregory, Kefauver, Kevin, Venegas, Michael, Li, Eric, Chen, Jay, Huggins, Steven, Guduri, Balachandar, Llaneras, Eddy
Machine Learning–Driven Safety Analysis of Automated Vehicles in Simulated Mixed Traffic Environments09-14-01-00215/4/2026
Automated Vehicles (AV) pose new challenges in road safety, multimodal interaction, and urban planning, requiring a holistic approach that prioritizes sustainability and protects all road users. The KASSA.AST project addresses this by deploying and evaluating an automated shuttle in southern Austria on three routes. The study area is a Park & Ride zone near a train station, enabling seamless transfers and higher transit use. To assess the safety impacts of the automated shuttle, four Mobility Observation Boxes (MOBs) were deployed. These AI-based systems detect and classify road users, track their trajectories and geospatial coordinates, and identify safety-critical events via Surrogate Safety Measures (SSMs). Over 10 days, a trajectory dataset captured interactions among vehicles and the shuttle. The resulting real-world dataset is a core contribution. This dataset underpins microscopic behavior modeling. Trajectory pairs yield car-following and interaction metrics (relative distance
Losada Arias, Ángel, Rosenkranz, Paul, Hula, Andreas, Aleksa, Michael, Saleh, Peter, Erdelean, Isabela
Effects of Vehicle Speed, Category, and Front-End Design on Full-Body Injury Risks of a Midsized Male Pedestrian09-14-01-00175/4/2026
This study investigated how vehicle front-end geometry, impact speed, and vehicle category influence injury risk to a midsize male pedestrian. Eighty-one generic vehicle (GV) models representing sedans, sport utility vehicles (SUVs), pickup trucks, and minivans sold in the United States were developed by morphing three base models using an automated pipeline. Front-end parameters that were varied included ground clearance (GC), bumper height (BH), hood leading-edge (HLE) height, hood length (HL), bumper lead angle (BLA), hood angle (HA), and windshield angle (WSA). Each vehicle impacted the Global Human Body Models Consortium 50th percentile male simplified pedestrian (GHBMC M50-PS) model at 30, 40, and 50 kph, totaling 243 simulations. Boundary conditions followed the European New Car Assessment Program (Euro NCAP) pedestrian test protocol. Thirty-five injury metrics were extracted across the head, neck, thorax, abdomen, pelvis, and lower extremities. Linear mixed-effects regression
Poveda, Luis, Miller, Logan E., Edwards, Colin C., Pollock, Madeline, Armstrong, William M., Hsu, Fang-Chi, Gayzik, Scott F., Weaver, Ashley A., Stitzel, Joel D., Devane, Karan S.
Assessing Injury Prediction with Human Body Models: Application to Rib Fracture Risk Prediction Using SAFER HBM09-14-01-00235/4/2026
As a consequence of the introduction of mathematical human body models (HBMs) in consumer information programs, there is an increased need for reliable methods that can demonstrate and build trust in the capability of HBMs to predict human response and injury risk in crashes. Therefore, a framework for validation of strain-based injury prediction is proposed. The framework comprises stepwise validation with the final step to validate the utility of risk predictions by means of the area under the curve (AUC) combined with Brier scores. SAFER HBM V11.1.0 previously validated at component and body part levels was selected for the demonstration of the final step of the framework to validate the capability to predict fracture risk in frontal, oblique, and lateral loading. For frontal loading, five postmortem human surrogate (PMHS) test series with 43 PMHS (age range: 19–88 years) were reconstructed. The predicted rib fracture risk for 2+ and 3+ fractured ribs was compared to the number of
Pipkorn, Bengt, Niranjan Poojary, Yash, Osth, Jonas, Larsson, Karl-Johan, Iraeus, Johan
Comparative Analysis of Thoracic Injury and Causative Factors across Sexes in Serious Frontal Motor Vehicle Collisions in the Crash Injury Research and Engineering Network Database09-14-01-00315/4/2026
This study investigated sex-specific differences in thoracic injury prevalence, causation, and rib fracture patterns among seriously injured occupants in frontal motor vehicle collisions. Crash Injury Research and Engineering Network (CIREN) data from 2005 to 2022 included 793 front-seat occupants aged 16 years and older with Abbreviated Injury Scale 2+ thorax injury, representing 1802 thoracic injuries. Injuries were grouped as rib fracture, sternum fracture, hemo/pneumothorax, lung injury, heart injury, and other. A weighted scoring system captured contributions of involved physical components to each injury. Logistic and linear regression with generalized estimating equations assessed sex associations with injury presence and causation. Two models were estimated: a comprehensively adjusted model including demographic, crash, vehicle, restraint, and airbag deployment, and a simplified model adjusting for age, body mass index, delta-V, and occupant role. Among occupants with AIS 2
Armstrong, William, Devane, Karan, Hsu, Fang-Chi, Heilmann, Nina, Sink, Joel, Miller, Anna N., Kiani, Bahram, Martin, R. Shayn, Stitzel, Joel D., Weaver, Ashley
Feature Reduction for Scenario-Based Safety Assessment of Automated Driving Systems09-14-01-00185/4/2026
Vehicles equipped with an Automated Driving System (ADS) have the potential to significantly reduce road collisions. To enable widespread adoption of ADSs, rigorous safety assessment is essential. Valuable insights for ADS safety validation can be gained by simulating scenarios across a broad range of feature variations. A common challenge in simulating these scenarios is known as the curse of dimensionality, where increasing the number of scenario features requires a near-infinite number of simulations to cover all variations. This issue of complexity presents a need for reducing scenario features. Most related work focuses on identifying important scenario features, while few evaluate how reducing these features impacts ADS failure estimation. The present study aims to address this gap by employing a wide range of feature reduction methods and assessing their effect on ADS failure estimation. Previous research generated datasets for three distinct scenario categories by performing
Lankhorst, Bram, de Gelder, Erwin, Janssen, Christian P., Scholich, Andre
Front-Row Seatback Contact for Pediatric Occupants Seated in Rearward-Facing Infant Child Restraint Systems during Frontal Crashes09-14-01-00195/4/2026
Using a subset of the Transport Canada dataset of rearward-facing CRS in full-frontal rigid barrier vehicle tests, the aim of the current study was to evaluate CRS and/or ATD head contact with the front-row seatback and categorize the contribution to the peak ATD head acceleration. For 33 cases of ATDs seated in rearward-facing CRS models installed in the second-row outboard seats across 19 vehicle tests, high-speed video footage was analyzed to identify instances and timings of CRS and/or ATD head contact with the front-row seatback. The timing of contact was compared to the ATD head acceleration time history to identify instances of “contributory contact” with the front-row seatback, which was defined as contact occurring before the ATD head acceleration was within 10 g of the peak. ATD contributory contact cases involved both the ATD head and CRS contacting the front-row seat, whereas CRS contributory contact cases involved only the CRS, but not the ATD head, contacting the front
Patton, Declan A., Tang, Kathy, Tylko, Suzanne, Arbogast, Kristy B.
An Investigation of Drowsy Lane Departures from Driving Simulator Studies09-14-01-00145/4/2026
NHTSA is conducting research to evaluate the current state-of-the-art technology for lane departure warning (LDW) and lane-keeping assistance (LKA) technology. NHTSA is undertaking research to understand the nature of real-world lane departures and recovery behaviors. While some information about lane departures can be learned from crash datasets, the purpose of this work was to mine simulator datasets for lane departures, analyze them in greater detail than is possible from crash reports or naturalistic studies, and link their characteristics to driver drowsiness. The objective of the study was to determine whether there are differences in lane departure characteristics as a function of driver drowsiness. This research used a novel approach by combining data from six different driving simulator studies on driver drowsiness. The dataset included a sample of 380 drivers. Study drives occurred during overnight hours after periods of sleep deprivation, with participants being awake for at
Schwarz, Chris, Gaspar, John, Shull, Emily, Venegas, Michael
Characterization of Pedestrian Automatic Emergency Braking Acceleration in Modern Light Vehicles: Potential Implications for Occupant Safety09-14-01-00075/4/2026
The objective of this study was to characterize and compare pedestrian automatic emergency braking (PAEB) pulses in modern light vehicles to understand the loading environment that vehicle occupants are being exposed to during PAEB maneuvers. PAEB tests (n = 8008) conducted using 2018–2023 vehicle model years were analyzed. Pulse, vehicle, and impact characteristics (e.g., jerk, peak acceleration, pedestrian scenario, etc.) were derived from each PAEB test. Two k-means clustering analyses were used to group PAEB pulses with and without target collisions based on their similarity between characteristics. One-way ANOVA and Kruskal–Wallis tests were performed on the PAEB pulse characteristics to examine differences between clusters (p < 0.05). Two non-collision clusters (NC1 and NC2) were identified for PAEB pulses without collisions: NC1 had a statistically significant lower jerk (0.8 ± 0.4 g/s) and peak acceleration (1.0 ± 0.1 g) compared to NC2 (1.6 ± 0.8 g/s and 0.9 ± 0.1 g
Witmer, Maitland, Kidd, David, Graci, Valentina
Assessing the Influence of Reclined Vehicle Seatback Configurations with and without a Belt-Positioning Booster on Child Posture via Pressure Mapping09-14-01-00045/4/2026
Objective: This study sought to implement pressure mapping methodology to assess variation in children’s center of force positions in reclined vehicle scenarios. Methods: Thirty-four children between 4 and 12 y (8.1 ± 2.0 y) were statically evaluated on a vehicle seat across two seating conditions (with and without a backless booster) and three seatback recline conditions (25°, 45°, and 60°). Center of force was recorded using pressure sensors attached to the seating surface. Average center of force fore/aft positions were calculated and transformed into the vehicle coordinate system using 3D coordinate measurements. Descriptive statistics and repeated measures ANOVA were used to assess variation in center of force position across seating and recline conditions, with subject included as a random effect. Results: Center of force fore/aft position varied (p < 0.05) with recline condition, seating condition, and the recline/seating condition interaction term. On the booster, the average
Baker, Gretchen H., Connell, Rosalie R., Graci, Valentina, Mansfield, Julie A.
Frontal Crash Classification and Occupant Outcomes from 2017 to 2023 US Field Cases09-14-01-00245/4/2026
This study provides an updated characterization of real-world frontal crash types—considering overlap and obliquity—based on their overall frequency and associated injury outcomes. The results of this study will support an evaluation of how well NHTSA’s frontal oblique crash test condition addresses the current population of serious frontal crashes, as compared to frontal test modes in existing crashworthiness programs. U.S. field crash data from 2017 to 2023 were analyzed to classify frontal crashes by coded damage characteristics. Oblique frontal crashes were defined as those with principal direction of force between 10°–40° and 320°–350°. Non-ejected belted first and second row occupants in model year 2000 and newer passenger vehicles absent a rollover event were included. Occupants were stratified by sex, age, and body mass index, and injury outcomes based on moderate, serious, and fatal thresholds were analyzed across crash configurations. Among the belted first row occupants
Rudd, Rodney W.
Understanding and Modeling Effectiveness of Predictive Risk Notifications for Early Assistance for Safe Driving: A Public Road Testing Study09-14-01-00265/4/2026
While an enlarged lead time from risk notifications to collisions is widely acknowledged to facilitate safe driving, it remains challenging to effectively notify drivers of invisible risks and non-apparent risks coming from uncertain behaviors on the part of road users. The current study examined whether verbal notifications are able to assist early awareness of predictive risks. We also attempted to identify human and environmental factors that could possibly improve the effectiveness of predictive risk information. Twenty-eight licensed drivers participated in a public road test conducted in two different urban areas on 3 days. They drove predefined courses on which potential risk locations were identified prior to the test, using a sport utility vehicle equipped with an automatic verbal notification system triggered based on the distance to the potential risk locations. After passing through the locations each time, the participants were instructed to verbally evaluate the shift in
Maruyama, Masaki, Koyama, Keiichiro, Ezaki, Toru, Sakamoto, Junichi, Sawada, Yuta, Matsuoka, Takahiro
Neck and Spinal Responses in the Reclined Large Omnidirectional Child Anthropomorphic Test Device with and without a Booster Seat during Far-Side Lateral Oblique Impacts09-14-01-00115/4/2026
Objective The objective of this study was to examine the Large Omnidirectional Child (LODC) anthropomorphic test device (ATD) neck and spine responses in reclined seating configurations with and without a backless belt-positioning booster (BPB) in far-side lateral oblique impacts. Methods The LODC was seated on a production passenger seat with an integrated seatbelt and tested in nine lateral oblique impact (80° from frontal) sled tests (31.3 km/h). A condition with a nominal seatback angle (~25°) with a backless BPB and two conditions with reclined seatback angles (~45° and ~60°) with and without a BPB were compared. Each condition was repeated, except for the 60° without BPB. Peak upper neck tension force and lateral moment, T1, T6, and T12 lateral rotation, lumbar axial and lateral shear forces, and lumbar axial moment (Mz) were extracted. Results With noBPB, upper neck tension (45° noBPB: 2.0 ± 0.1 kN; 60° noBPB: 1.8 kN) and lateral moment (45° noBPB: 31.7 ± 2.3 Nm; 60° noBPB: 29.2
Graci, Valentina, Humm, John, Hauschild, Hans
Increasing the Competency and Confidence of Older Drivers in the Use of Advanced Vehicle Technologies: The MOVETech Randomized Controlled Trial09-14-01-00135/4/2026
Programs that teach older drivers how to confidently and competently use advanced vehicle technologies (AVTs) are limited. The MOVETech study evaluated a training program specifically designed to teach older drivers how to use these technologies. Participants (n = 119) were randomized to the intervention (training program) or control group (brochure). The intervention involved an in-person classroom education session on the use and benefits of AVTs, and an on-road driving session where participants drove along a pre-defined route in a dual-controlled vehicle with instruction on AVT use by a driving instructor. All participants completed in-person and telephone assessments at baseline and 3 months. Driving performance and on-road AVT competence assessments were the primary outcomes. Self-reported driving confidence, competence, and confidence in use of AVT, crashes, citations, and count of vehicle damage were the secondary outcomes. Program fidelity was also evaluated using a checklist
Nguyen, Helen, Ren, Kerrie, Coxon, Kristy, Neville, Nick, O’Donnell, Joan, Cheal, Beth, Brown, Julie, Keay, Lisa
Characterization of Lane Keeping and Departure Scenarios Using Large-Scale Naturalistic Driving Data09-14-01-00225/4/2026
Roadway departures remain a major cause of crashes, injuries, and fatalities on U.S. roads. Technologies such as lane keeping assist (LKA) and lane centering assist (LCA) can help mitigate these crashes, but their development involves extensive characterization of the parameter space in which they operate. Lane and road departures (LDs/RDs) and lane changes (LCs) must be systematically described and quantified to distinguish kinematic features, identify contributing factors, and benchmark system influence on lateral control. This study developed a unified pipeline to mine over 36 million miles of naturalistic driving study (NDS) data collected from more than 3800 participants. The pipeline integrates various types of signals to detect roadway boundary crossings, classify LKA-relevant scenarios, and extract roadway, driver, environmental, and assistance-related parameters. Lane keeping epochs with and without LKA were also extracted to quantify system influence on lateral control. In
Ali, Gibran, Terranova, Paolo, Williams, Vicki, Holley, Dustin, Saffy, Joshua, Antona-Makoshi, Jacobo, Kefauver, Kevin, Shull, Emily, Li, Eric, Venegas, Michael
Advanced Tool for Traffic Crash Analysis: An AI-Driven Multi-Agent Approach to Pre-Crash Reconstruction09-14-01-00335/4/2026
Traffic collision reconstruction traditionally relies on human expertise and, when performed properly, can be incredibly accurate. However, attempting to perform pre-crash reconstruction, i.e., reconstructing the driver and vehicle behaviors that preceded the actual crash, poses significantly more challenges. This study develops a multi-agent artificial intelligence (AI) framework that reconstructs pre-crash scenarios and infers vehicle behaviors from fragmented collision data. We present a two-phase collaborative framework combining reconstruction and reasoning phases. The system processes 277 rear-end lead vehicle deceleration (LVD) collisions from the Crash Investigation Sampling System (CISS; 2017–2022), integrating textual crash reports, structured tabular data, and visual scene diagrams. Phase I generates natural language crash reconstructions from multimodal inputs. Phase II performs in-depth crash reasoning by combining these reconstructions with the temporal event data
Xu, Gerui, Chen, Boyou, Guo, Huizhong, LeBlanc, Dave, Kusari, Arpan, Yarbasi, Efe, Ahmed, Ananna, Sun, Zhaonan, Bao, Shan
Synthetic Rubber Hot Oil Resistant, High Swell 45 - 55AMS3222J (Current)4/28/2026
This specification covers a synthetic rubber in the form of sheet, strip, tubing, extrusions, and molded shapes. This specification should not be used for molded rings, compression seals, O-ring cords, and molded in place gaskets for aeronautical and aerospace applications without complete consideration of the end use prior to the selection this material.
AMS CE Elastomers Committee
A Comparison between Leica RTC360 and Recon-3D Scan Data in Pre- and Post-Collision Vehicle Documentation2026-01-50304/22/2026
Documenting and mapping using three-dimensional (3D) technologies have become essential in crime- and crash-scene investigations in recent years. Traditionally, this has been accomplished using terrestrial laser scanners (TLS), which often come with significant upfront costs. In contrast, Recon-3D, launched in 2022, leverages the capabilities of Apple’s light detection and ranging (LiDAR) sensor, available in Pro and Pro Max models since 2020. This study aims to evaluate the relative accuracy of documenting vehicles in both pre- and post-collision conditions using these technologies. A deviation analysis was conducted utilizing CloudCompare software to compare point cloud data collected from the Leica RTC360 laser scanner with that obtained from Recon-3D for 7 vehicles in a pre- and post-impact condition for a total of n = 14 vehicles. At the 1, 2, and 3 cm deviation thresholds, the average percent of points which fell below each threshold level for all vehicles was 66%, 91%, and 97
Lim, Jihwa, Liscio, Eugene
SAE TOMORROW TODAY - Building Trust in AV Safety135644/17/2026
As AVs continue to grow in popularity, one question remains top of mind: How do we know autonomous driving systems are genuinely safe? The Automated Vehicle Safety Consortium (AVSC) is an industry collaboration group focused on improving the safe development and deployment of automated driving systems (ADS). By bringing together automakers, technology companies, suppliers, mobility providers, and government stakeholders, the AVSC develops voluntary best practices and technical guidance that fosters public trust and delivers consistent AV safety standards. Listen in as we sit down with Darcyne Foldenauer, Executive Director, AVSC, and Erin McCurry, Principal Engineer, AVSC, to explore two new publications: Best Practice for ADS-DV Assessment of Safety Claims, and the Information Report on ADS-DV Stopped Conditions. From the difference between minimal risk maneuvers and minimal risk conditions, to when it's actually safer for a vehicle to stay stopped in lane, this conversation sheds
Patterson, Lori
Camera Monitor Systems Test Protocols and Performance RequirementsJ3155_202604 (Current)4/13/2026
This SAE Recommended Practice provides test protocols with performance requirements for camera monitor systems (CMS) to replace existing statutorily required inside and outside rearview mirrors for U.S. market road vehicles. This practice expands specific technical content while retaining harmonization with the FMVSS 111 rear visibility standard and other international standards. This is accomplished by defining required roadway fields of view as specific fields of view (FOV) displayed inside the vehicle. Specific testing protocols and/or specifications are added to enhance ease of use using straightforward language, and any specifications are intended to be independent of different camera and display technologies unless otherwise explicitly stated.
Driver Vision Standards Committee
Method of Measuring and Reporting the Pressure Differential Flow Characteristics of a Hydraulic Fluid Power ValveJ1117_202604 (Current)4/13/2026
Applies to hydraulic fluid power valves as applied to Off-Road Self-Propelled Work Machines defined in SAE J1116.
CTTC C1, Hydraulic Systems
Securing Child Restraint Systems in Motor VehiclesJ1819_202604 (Current)4/13/2026
The scope of this SAE Recommended Practice is to promote compatibility between child restraint systems and vehicle seats and seat belts. Design guidelines are provided to vehicle manufacturers for certain characteristics of seats and seat belts and to child restraint system (CRS) manufacturers for corresponding CRS features so that each can be made more compatible with the other. The CRS accommodation fixture (see Figure 1) is used to represent a CRS to the designers of both the vehicle interior and the CRS for evaluation of each product for compatibility with the other. The features of the accommodation fixture are described as each is used.
Children's Restraint Systems Committee
Development and Validation of a Self-Propelled Trailer: A Standards-Based Approach to Enhancing Compact Vehicle Towing2026-01-00554/7/2026
This paper presents a structured test plan for the development and validation of a Self-Propelled Trailer (SPT), an emerging concept designed to enhance the towing capacity of compact, fuel-efficient vehicles. Unlike conventional trailers, the proposed system integrates electric propulsion and autonomous sensing to actively assist the towing vehicle, reducing engine load and improving both safety and fuel economy. The methodology employs a Design Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (DFMEA) to systematically identify potential risks, while incorporating Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) standards to guide environmental durability testing (dust, water ingress, gravel impact) and dynamic performance evaluations (gradeability, braking, and stability). A comprehensive set of test procedures is outlined to validate system reliability, robustness, and compliance with established towing requirements. The study demonstrates how powered trailer technology can extend the practical use of
Reilly, Carter, Peters, Diane, Zadeh, Mehrdad
Enhancing Traditional Adaptive Cruise Control through Map-Based Feature Integration: A Performance Evaluation Study on Stationary Vehicle Response at High Speeds2026-01-00564/7/2026
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) has become a widely adopted driver-assist technology, designed primarily to regulate a vehicle’s longitudinal movement while maintaining a safe following distance from the preceding vehicle. A key performance criterion is the system’s ability to detect and respond to both moving and stationary target vehicles within the ego vehicle’s path. While manufacturers typically validate ACC performance within specific speed ranges, responding to stationary objects remains particularly challenging due to limited sensor range, difficulty in detecting distant stationary targets, and constrained deceleration capabilities. Beyond certified operating limits, overall system reliability may degrade. Nonetheless, increasing industry and regulatory expectations are driving the need to extend ACC functionality across wider and more clearly defined speed domains. Modern ACC systems are further evolving to recognize and respond to various road features, including traffic lights
Awathe, Arpit, Patel, Darsh, Mathur, Dhruv, Raut, Abhinandan Vijay
Reconstruction of Pedestrian-Vehicle Collisions Using 3D Skeletal Estimation from Vehicle-Mounted Camera Video2026-01-05754/7/2026
Pedestrian fatalities in traffic accidents continue to rise, with severe injuries often resulting from both vehicle impact and subsequent ground contact, frequently occurring outside the field of view of vehicle-mounted cameras. This study presents a proof-of-concept (PoC) approach for reconstructing three-dimensional pedestrian motion—including occluded regions—using dashcam video. The method integrates 2D human pose estimation (MMPose) and monocular depth estimation (Depth Anything V2),the latter was fine-tuned on a custom dataset, to generate 3D skeletal coordinates.To evaluate motion matching, the reconstructed pedestrian poses were quantitatively compared with a database of vehicle collision simulations using the THUMS human body model and skeletal data representing real-world crash scenarios generated in PC-Crash. Composite similarity indices based on thoracic center of gravity trajectory and torso orientation vectors were employed for this comparison. Preliminary results
Onishi, Koji, Wang, Kewang, Uno, Eriko, Ichikawa, Koji, Tanase, Noboru, Ando, Takahiro
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