Browse Topic: Crashes

Items (6,296)

Assessing Injury Prediction with Human Body Models: Application to Rib Fracture Risk Prediction Using SAFER HBM

4/8/2026

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

Determining Video Frame Capture Rate through Reverse Engineering

2026-01-0543

4/7/2026

The timing of video recordings, along with the spatial positioning of objects, is a fundamental parameter for calculating the speed time history. If the task involves determining the average speed of an object moving at approximately constant speed, it may be acceptable to average the speed over several to a dozen frames, using the fps (frames per second) parameter as the basic time unit.. However, if the objective is to compute speed from individual frames, the reliability of the timing becomes crucial. Without access to DVR hardware documentation, proprietary algorithms, or software – and considering the frequent hardware modifications and software updates - the most effective way to solve the problem is through a reverse-engineering approach. This study discusses several aspects of timing analysis, including: (1) making a test recording of a calibrated LED lightboard; (2) analyzing the relationship between the lightboard time and the presentation time stamp (pts) extracted from the

Wach, Wojciech

Vehicle Deceleration Levels during Wet-to-Dry Transitions on an Asphalt Surface with a High Proportion of Aggregate

2026-01-0542

4/7/2026

The braking performance of a vehicle at varying levels of road wetness is an important factor in collision reconstruction. Here we quantify the deceleration levels of two modern vehicles equipped with antilock brake systems (ABS) on a wetted asphalt surface with a high proportion of exposed, large-sized aggregates as the road naturally dried over time. We also compare our current results to prior tests on asphalt with a small proportion of small-sized aggregate. Two ABS-equipped vehicles were maximally braked on an asphalt road surface as the road naturally transitioned from a saturated wet state to a completely dry state. Road wetness was visually categorized from photographs taken during testing. Overall, we found that deceleration levels on wet asphalt were significantly less than deceleration levels on dry asphalt (average dry: 0.902g and 0.962g; average wet: 0.787g and 0.818g for the two vehicles). Within the wetness categories we used, there was either no significant difference

Ahrens, Matthew, Arnold, Nikolas, Miller, Ian, Siegmund, Gunter P.

Driver Response Times to Turn-In-Path Events from Real World Responses in SHRP-2 Data

2026-01-0545

4/7/2026

This study analyzed driver behavior in Turn-In-Path (TIP) scenarios using the Second Strategic Highway Research Program (SHRP2) naturalistic driving dataset. A total of 167 real-world incidents, including both crashes and near-crashes, were examined to evaluate human driver perception-response times (PRT) and avoidance behaviors when an intruding vehicle (the principal other vehicle, or POV) turns into the path of a straight-moving subject vehicle (SV). The combined analysis includes TIP events involving POVs turning from intersecting roads to either cross or merge into the SV’s lane and continues in the direction of the SV. Each event was reviewed to identify the driver behavior in an emergency response event, with measurements taken from video and telematics data. Response time was measured across two different starting points. Key variables included time to conflict, POV behavior, SV driver engagement in secondary tasks, and environmental factors such as lighting and roadway

Dinakar, Swaroop, Muttart, Jeffrey, Maloney, Timothy, Adhikari, Bikram

Collision Avoidance Effectiveness of an Automated Driving System Using a Human Driver Behavior Reference Model in Reconstructed Fatal Collisions

2026-01-0520

4/7/2026

Avoiding and mitigating any potential collision is dependent on (1) road user ability to avoid entering into a conflict (conflict avoidance effect) and (2) road user response should a conflict be entered (collision avoidance effect). This study examined the collision avoidance effect of the Waymo Driver, a currently deployed SAE level 4 automated driving system (ADS), using a human behavior reference model, designed to be representative of a human driver that is non-impaired, with eyes on the conflict (NIEON). Reliable performance benchmarking methodologies for assessing ADS performance are an essential component of determining system readiness. This consistently performing, always-attentive driver does not exist in the human population. Counterfactual simulations were run on responder collision scenarios based on reconstructions from a 10-year period of human fatal crashes from the Operational Design Domain of the Waymo ADS in Chandler, Arizona. Of 16 simulated conflicts entered, 12

Scanlon, John M., Kusano, Kristofer D., Engstrom, Johan, Victor, Trent

Evaluation of PAEB Performance of a GM Vehicle Using EDR and Ground Truth Data

2026-01-0054

4/7/2026

In order to determine the on-board EDR data recording characteristics of a GM vehicle, a 2023 GMC Sierra Denali was tested in several Pedestrian Automatic Emergency Braking (P-AEB) scenarios. Using a variety of test tools, including the STRIDE robotic platform and its onboard data systems, a GPS/IMU installed in the vehicle, and several camera units, the vehicle was put into collision imminent scenarios in which the crash avoidance systems were actuated. The flags in the EDR data, the order in which EDR events were written, and the correlation between the EDR and data recorded by the aforementioned external acquisition systems were examined for each test case. Testing was done in both forward and reverse scenarios and at low speeds only. These results provide a picture of the current state of the additional data available in current EDRs installed on GM vehicles equipped with P-AEB capability, as well as an insight into the accuracy and meaning of that data which should prove

Bartholomew, Meredith, Arnett, Michael, Guenther, Dennis

SAE Level 2 ADAS Performance in Specific Crash-Imminent Scenarios

09-14-01-0015

4/7/2026

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

Curb Impact: Non-linear Structural FE Analyses in Multibody Dynamics Models

2026-01-0219

4/7/2026

In a few extreme customer abuse load cases such as curb impact and potholes, automotive structures see non-linear (plastic) deformations as well as large rigid body motion. The load cases can be simulated by a few tools: crash analysis tools such as LS-Dyna, non-linear structure analysis tools, or multi-body dynamics (MBD) analysis tools like Ansys Motion. The three simulation tools have pros and cons, respectively. In this study, a curb impact simulation was performed using the multi-body dynamic approach with nonlinear structural analysis capabilities included in Ansys Motion. The tool demonstrated the simulation was completed faster than other MBD tools due to smartly recycling the system Jacobian matrix when structural deformation was not significant. The results were compared with structural analysis and correlated reasonably well. The post-impact suspension alignment changes can also be simulated for reviewing design requirements. This approach proposes a new way to simulate

Hong, Hyung-Joo, Kim, Wangoo

Evaluating the Effects of Improper Positioning and Unbuckling of a Restraint System on a 10-Year-Old Child ATD in a Far Side Side-Impact Environment

2026-01-0562

4/7/2026

Five sled tests were performed with a Hybrid III (H-III) 10-year-old child sized Anthropomorphic Test Device (ATD) positioned in the 2nd row left seat of a three row 2006 Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV). A HYGE Sled buck was positioned to represent/replicate a side impact collision to the passenger (right) side of the SUV, with a Principal Direction of Force (PDOF) of 60 degrees, resulting in a far side side-impact for the ATD. Of the 5 tests performed, three of the five tests were performed with a delta-V of 17 mph, and two of the tests at a delta-V of 24 mph. Of the 17 mph tests, one test was performed with a properly restrained ATD, and two tests performed with improper restraint positioning. Both of the 24 mph tests were performed with improper restraint positioning, effectively identical to the two 17 mph delta-V tests. The two improper restraint use tests (at both 17 and 24 mph delta-V) included two different improper restraint scenarios. The first scenario of improper restraint

Luepke, Peter, Hewett, Natalie, Betts, Kevin, Van Arsdell, William, Weber, Paul, Stankewich, Charles, Miller, Gregory, Watson, Richard, Sochor, Mark

Testing of Rigid Two- and Three-Wheeled Vehicle Pitch-Over Threshold Models

2026-01-0538

4/7/2026

The phenomenon of bicycle pitch-over is simple in concept, yet determining threshold criteria for pitch-over has yet to be well established, particularly with respect to determining whether or not a bicycle’s front wheel will roll over a particular obstacle or not. Two prior SAE papers have laid out two different analytical approaches to predict this threshold – the Moment-Inversion and Brach Pitch-Over Threshold models - and this paper proposes a modification to the Moment-Inversion model to account for tire deflection. Testing began by measuring the center of gravity locations and moments of inertia for a bicycle with weights and training wheels and for a test rider on a bicycle and tricycle. These physical measurements were used to calculate the predicted pitch-over height for each system for each model. The test systems were then ridden over a series of progressively taller square edge obstacles until they transitioned from rolling over to stopping or pitching over. From this

Sweet, David Michael, O'Brien, Nathan, Bretting, Gerald

Reconstruction of Pedestrian-Vehicle Collisions Using 3D Skeletal Estimation from Vehicle-Mounted Camera Video

2026-01-0575

4/7/2026

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

Use Inertial Sliding of Reclined Seat to Enhance Occupant Retention under Rear-End Crash

2026-01-0563

4/7/2026

Autonomous vehicles may attract more passengers to recline their seat for comfort. However, under severe rear-end crashes and large reclining angle, the backward inertia could completely throw occupant out of seat. Even if the occupant body can be restrained by seatbelt, the occupant’s head could slide out of the head restraint area. Any of these situations may cause severe injuries. To address this safety concern, we developed a sliding seat system designed to enhance occupant retention. Activated by impact inertia of rear-end collision, the system allows the seat sliding backward along its track in a controlled manner, and the sliding stroke is accompanied by a restraint force and absorbs some amount of kinetic energy during the sliding. Thus, occupant retention can be enhanced, and injury risks of head and neck can be reduced. To demonstrate this concept, we built a MADYMO model and conducted a parametric analysis. The model includes a 50th percentile human model, a vehicle seat

Dai, Rui, Zhou, Qing, Puyuan, Tan, Shen, Wenxuan

Development of Automotive Hood Using Multi-Material Double Injection Molding – An Overview

2026-01-0476

4/7/2026

This paper presents the multidisciplinary development of a hybrid automotive hood manufactured using double-shot injection molding with overmolded brackets. Conventional steel and aluminum hoods, while structurally reliable, pose challenges in terms of weight reduction, pedestrian head protection, and manufacturing cost. Composite and thermoplastic alternatives supported by computational analysis and advanced molding processes provide opportunities to address these challenges. Finite element analysis (FEA) was employed to evaluate torsional and bending stiffness, locking load, and crashworthiness, while pedestrian headform simulations following ECE R127 and EEVC WG17 guidelines were conducted to assess compliance with safety regulations. Adhesion and bonding strength of overmolded polymer–polymer interfaces were studied to validate manufacturing feasibility. Results confirm that hybrid hoods fabricated using multi-material double-shot molding can achieve weight reductions of up to 30

Ganesan, Karthikeyan, Seok, Sang Ho, Jo, Hyoung Han

Sideswipe Impact Severity Testing and Analysis with an Instrumented Hybrid III Anthropomorphic Test Device (ATD)

2026-01-0532

4/7/2026

Vehicle-to-vehicle sideswipe collisions are unique in their impact characteristics because the vehicles typically do not reach a common velocity at impact. To better understand the characteristics and dynamics of sideswipe collisions, vehicle-to-vehicle crash testing was performed to find the relationships between variables related to the impact, such as closing speed, relative angle, and overlap depth. This paper discusses data collected for three sideswipe (oblique) impact tests conducted at a testing facility in Buffalo, New York. The tests were conducted using a passenger vehicle as the sideswiping vehicle, which impacted a stationary cargo van. The passenger vehicle was towed into the van at relative angles ranging from 8 to 15 degrees and at velocities of 5 to 20 mph. Two different (but identical) passenger cars and two cargo vans were used during the testing series. Test results were then utilized to investigate a methodology of analyzing sideswipe collisions as a combination of

Danaher, David, McDonough, Sean, Donaldson, Andrew, Neale, William, Cochran, Reece

Multi-Physics Topology Optimization and Neural Network–Based Design of Experiments for Lightweight Automotive Cast Components

2026-01-0510

4/7/2026

This paper presents a hybrid optimization framework that integrates Multi-Physics Topology Optimization (MPTO) with a Neural Network–surrogated Design of Experiments (NN-DOE) to enable lightweight structural design while satisfying crashworthiness, durability, and noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) requirements under practical casting and packaging constraints. In the proposed MPTO formulation, crash and durability performances are incorporated through equivalent static compliance measures, while NVH performance is assessed using a frequency-domain dynamic stiffness metric, allowing consistent evaluation of trade-offs among competing design requirements. The framework is first demonstrated using a mass-produced passenger-car lower control arm (LCA) as a benchmark component. In this application, MPTO achieves weight reduction under multi-physics objectives by removing non-load-bearing material. Results show that single-discipline optimization produces unbalanced topologies, while

Kim, Hyosig, Senkowski, Andres, Gona, Kiran, Saroha, Lalit, Boraiah, Mahesh

Benchmarking Driver Responses in Head-On Conflicts: Expanding the Framework for TTC, Affordances, and Uncertainty

2026-01-0534

4/7/2026

Head-on emergency events present unique challenges for evaluating both human and automated-vehicle (AV) performance because they do not conform to a direct stimulus–response sequence. Instead, driver behavior in these scenarios follows a stimulus–wait–response pattern governed by time-to-conflict (TTC), uncertainty, and environmental affordances. Prior research has often failed to distinguish between conflict types, resulting in generalized reaction-time assumptions that do not account for contextual uncertainty. This study integrates simulator and naturalistic driving data from a four-part research program to establish objective benchmarks for driver responses in head-on encounters. When an encroaching vehicle crossed the centerline 2.5 s before impact, drivers initiated braking with a weighted average of approximately 1.0 s before impact. When the encroaching vehicle crossed or was first observed at approximately 3.5 s before impact, braking typically began with a weighted average of

Muttart, Jeffrey, Dinakar, Swaroop, Maloney, Timothy, Adikhari, Bikram, Gernhard-Macha, Suntasty

Forensic Acquisition and Analysis of Unsupported Lexus Infotainment Modules via CMD42 Bypass and Data Carving

2026-01-0540

4/7/2026

Crashes involving passenger vehicles increasingly include vehicles equipped with infotainment systems that are unsupported by commercial vehicle system forensics hardware and software. Examiners facing these systems must overcome challenges in acquiring and analyzing user data, requiring an understanding of both digital forensics principles and the proprietary characteristics of the modules. This paper presents a methodology for acquiring data from previously unsupported Lexus infotainment modules, including techniques to bypass CMD42 security locks on SD cards and extract data. Once acquired, the paper outlines methods for analyzing user data through data carving techniques, enabling recovery of information from binary images even when the full file system cannot be reconstructed. Emphasis is placed on maintaining the integrity of the evidence and validating findings through controlled testing. These validation procedures ensure that the recovered information is both accurate and

Burgess, Shanon

Modification and Validation of a Finite Element Model of a Pedestrian Dummy

09-14-01-0012

4/7/2026

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

Bias and Uncertainty in the Time, Position, and Speed Data of Consumer-Grade GPS Devices

2026-01-0544

4/7/2026

The goal of this study is to quantify the accuracy (bias) and precision (uncertainty) of the time, position, and speed data acquired by a range of consumer-grade devices (4 bike computers, 5 watches, 1 application on 3 smart phones, and a camera) that access Global Positioning System (GPS) satellite signals. We acquired data at each device’s maximum sampling rate (typically 1 Hz) during 207 minutes (twelve sessions of ~17 min) over 61.6 km of road cycling. The time and position data from these devices were compared to real-time kinematic (RTK) data acquired using a differential GPS system, and speed data from these devices were compared to a high-resolution wheel speed sensor synchronized to the RTK data in order to statistically estimate the bias and 95th percentile confidence intervals of the uncertainty of the devices’ data. Overall, we found the position and speed data from the devices generally lagged the reference by 4 s or less, although the lags between the speed and position

Booth, Gabrielle R., Mitchell, Alan L., Siegmund, Gunter P.

Residual “Non-Zero” Speedometer Readings in Crash Tests Using a HYGE ^TM Crash Simulation System

2026-01-0537

4/7/2026

The design trend among analog speedometer and tachometer instruments in recent decades has been toward stepper motor drives. If power is interrupted during a traffic crash, such gauges often do not return to a zero reading. Speedometers and tachometers displaying residual readings after a crash have been observed with increasing frequency in recent years. In conducting a crash reconstruction, a question often arises as to whether such a residual reading corresponds to the indicated vehicle speed at the time of impact in the crash. Prior publications in this area have included a variety of crash tests under a wide range of relatively uncontrolled conditions. The present investigation evaluated a total of nine instrument clusters with a range of static torque required to move the needles when unpowered. The clusters were mounted on a HYGETM crash simulation sled and subjected to consistent impulses at orientations representing frontal, rear, left and right lateral, and left and right

Walker, James, Duran, Amanda, Kent, Steven, Barnes, Daniel, Osterhout, Aaron, Clayton, Aidan

From Algorithm to Engineering Judgment: Navigating Topology Optimization’s Limits in Crash Applications

2026-01-0189

4/7/2026

The non-linear nature of crash scenarios has led to many designs being developed through extensive trial and error based on the intuitions of the design engineer. As such, effectively utilizing topology optimization for crash applications offers opportunities to provide major improvements in cost, weight, and passenger safety. Topology optimization is known for creating stiff, lightweight structures, however its application to crash scenarios must be handled carefully. Compliance minimization, the most common optimization objective, can yield misleading designs that prioritize undesirable qualities when developing structures for crash applications. In this paper, the design process of a passenger seat assembly subject to sequentially applied enforced displacement, and crash deceleration loads is discussed. Due to the conflicting nature of compliance minimization and enforced displacement, the design was split into two types of regions; sacrificial, which are regions manually designed

Orr, Mathew, Shi, Yifan, Lee, Jake, Gray, Savannah, Park, Taeil, Wotten, Erik, LeFrancois, Richard, Huang, Yuhao, Patel, Anuj, Kim, Hansu, Burns, Nicholas, Jalayer, Shayan, Grant, Robert, Kok, Leo, Hansen, Eric, Kim, Il Yong

Inertial Pedal Displacement and Brake Switch Activation in Frontal Crash Events

2026-01-0541

4/7/2026

This paper presents research into the inertial displacement of brake pedals and the subsequent activation of brake light switches during crash events. In certain scenarios, such as multiple-impact crashes or crashes with pre-impact interactions such as curb strikes or sideswipes, inertial forces alone may generate sufficient brake pedal movement to trigger the brake switch, activating the brake lights. Such signals may be recorded by an Event Data Recorder (EDR) or observed by witnesses and incorrectly interpreted as an indication of intentional driver braking. To investigate this phenomenon, HYGE sled tests were performed using brake pedal assemblies and associated components from a Toyota Tacoma pickup truck and a Cadillac DeVille passenger sedan. The assemblies were subjected to acceleration pulses simulating a frontal impact, with high-speed video used to capture brake pedal displacement and brake light activation. The tests demonstrated that inertial loading from a pulse with a

Walker, James, Duran, Amanda, Barnes, Daniel, Osterhout, Aaron, Clayton, Aidan

Speed Determination Using Audio Analysis of Dash Camera Video from Commercial Vehicle Tires Frequencies for Vehicle Accident Reconstruction

2026-01-0536

4/7/2026

Prior research has validated a reliable method for determining vehicle speed using audio recorded by cameras mounted in vehicles, specifically for rolling passenger vehicle tires. Passenger vehicle tires produce a frequency component directly correlated to vehicle speed when traveling on concrete roadways. However, prior research has not been conducted on audio for rolling commercial vehicle tires, which differ in construction from passenger vehicle tires. The stiffer Commercial tires produce audio signals on roadway surfaces that passenger vehicles tires did not when tested in the prior study. The current research concluded that commercial vehicle tires rolling on various roadway surfaces also generated a frequency that varied with vehicle speed. The purpose of this study was to outline, test, and confirm the source of the speed-dependent frequency and to develop a validated method for use in forensic applications. A modified version of the passenger vehicle tire equation from prior

Vega, Henry V., Cornetto, Anthony, Ngo, Long Justin, Hatab, Ziad, Hunter, Eric

The Effects of Collision-Related Power Loss on Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 Event Data

2026-01-0548

4/7/2026

Toyota vehicles equipped with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) can record detailed information surrounding various driving events. Often, this data is employed in accident reconstruction to better understand the dynamics of a collision. TSS data is comprised of three main categories: Vehicle Control History (VCH), Freeze Frame Data (FFD), and image records. During an event, it is possible that a vehicle undergoes a catastrophic power loss from the damage sustained during the event. In this paper, the effects of sudden power loss on the VCH, FFD, and images are studied. Events are triggered on a TSS 3.0 equipped vehicle by driving toward a stationary target. After system activation, a total power loss is induced, triggered on the instrument cluster “BRAKE” alert message, at various delays after activation. This testing studies various signals recorded across VCH, FFD and image data including vehicle speed and time and date. Results show that there is a minimum time to record after system

Getz, Charles, Yeakley, Adam, DiSogra, Matthew

A Dynamic Driver Comfort Index for Stabilizing Mixed Traffic Behavior

2026-01-0099

4/7/2026

Despite remarkable advances in vehicle technology - enhancing comfort, safety, and automation – productivity of transportation over the road continues to decline. Stop-and-go driving remains one of the most persistent inefficiencies in modern mobility systems, leading to greater travel delays, energy waste, emissions, and accident risk. As vehicle volumes rise, these effects compound into systemic challenges, including driver frustration, unstable flow dynamics, and elevated greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. To address these issues, an extensive data-driven evaluation was performed characterizing the underlying causes of traffic instability and uncovering hidden behavioral parameters influencing traffic flow. This research led to the identification of a previously unrecognized metric - the Driver Comfort Index (DCI) - which quantifies an inter-vehicle spacing behavior that reflects intrinsic human driving behavior. Building on this discovery, mixed traffic is explored to identify its

Schlueter, Georg J.

Effects of Obstacle Height and Vehicle Roll Behavior on Electric Vehicle Side Impact Safety

2026-01-0405

4/7/2026

Electric vehicles (EVs) face unique safety challenges under pole side impact conditions, largely due to the presence of floor-mounted battery packs. Existing regulatory test procedures, such as FMVSS 214, primarily address occupant injury using full-height cylindrical obstacles. These procedures were originally developed for internal combustion vehicles (ICVs). However, real-world roadside crashes frequently involve obstacles of varying heights, such as guardrails, curbs, and median bases. While these obstacles pose limited risk to the passenger compartment, they can intrude into the battery pack and trigger thermal runaway. This study investigates the influence of obstacle height on EV pole side impacts. Finite element simulations of a commercially available sedan were conducted against rigid obstacles of different heights. Results reveal a non-monotonic trend of battery intrusion governed by the interplay between rollover dynamics and structural stiffness. Theoretical analyses were

Ma, Chenghao, Xing, Bobin, Zhou, Qing, Xia, Yong

High Biofidelity Modification of Thoracolumbar Structure in THOR Model for Reclined Occupant

2026-01-0196

4/7/2026

With the rapid development of automated driving and the increasing adoption of “zero-gravity” seats, the crash safety of highly reclined occupants has become a critical issue. The current THOR dummy, designed for frontal impacts in the standard upright posture, exhibits limitations when directly applied to reclined seating configurations, including insufficient spinal flexion capability and excessive posterior pelvic rotation. In this study, the thoracolumbar spine kinematics of the THUMS human body model, reconstructed against post-mortem human subject (PMHS) tests, were analyzed. A two-segment linear fitting was employed to characterize a “dummy-like” spinal flexion response, yielding a virtual rotational hinge located near the thoracolumbar joint of the original THOR model. The characteristic rotation angle obtained from THUMS showed a strong linear correlation with the flexion moment of the T12–L1 vertebrae. Based on this relationship, the rotational joint of the THOR dummy was

Guo, Wencheng, Kuang, Gaoyuan, Shen, Wenxuan, Tan, Puyuan, Zhou, Qing

High Order Control Lyapunov Function - Control Barrier Function - Quadratic Programming Based Autonomous Driving Controller for Bicyclist Safety

2026-01-0034

4/7/2026

Ensuring the safety of Vulnerable Road Users (VRUs) is a critical challenge in the development of advanced autonomous driving systems in smart cities. Among vulnerable road users, bicyclists present unique characteristics that make their safety both critical and also manageable. Vehicles often travel at significantly higher relative speeds when interacting with bicyclists as compared to their interactions with pedestrians which makes collision avoidance system design for bicyclist safety more challenging. Yet, bicyclist movements are generally more predictable and governed by clear traffic rules as compared to the sudden and sometimes erratic pedestrian motion, offering opportunities for model-based control strategies. To address bicyclist safety in complex traffic environments, this study proposes and develops a High-Order Control Lyapunov Function–High-Order Control Barrier Function–Quadratic Programming (HOCLF-HOCBF-QP) control framework. Through this framework, CLFs constraints

Chen, Haochong, Cao, Xincheng, Guvenc, Levent, Aksun Guvenc, Bilin

CAE Acceleration with Machine Learning for Results Prediction

2026-01-0488

4/7/2026

Industries are following a tedious product development cycle for developing their product. In product development major steps includes design ideas, Drawings, CAD, CAE, Testing and design improvement cycle. This is a monotonous process and takes time which impacts on its time to deliver product and cost on development. Now a days industries are fast growing and targeting to reduce development cycle time and cost. AI&ML is impacting almost all areas in the industry and significantly reducing efforts time and cost. To make use of AI&ML in CAE, Altair Physics AI is an effective tool. To ensure the design of product traditional way is to develop a CAD of the product, develop, perform CAE and analyze performance. If we consider CAE procedure it is time consuming process which includes FEA model build, applying boundary conditions, running simulation and analyzing results which could take minutes to hours. By using ML with Physics AI we can make predictions on new design of the product in

Dangare, Anand Manohar, Kulkarni, Mandar

Machine Learning Based Meta-Analysis of IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal Crash Test for Rear Seat Occupant Safety Performance

2026-01-0579

4/7/2026

A machine learning (ML)-based meta-analysis was conducted to evaluate rear seat occupant safety performance in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Moderate Overlap Frontal (MOF) 2.0 crash test. ML models were trained on historical IIHS crash test data to predict rear passenger injury metrics using vehicle architecture, restraint system characteristics, crash pulse parameters, and vehicle kinematics as input features. The models demonstrated high predictive accuracy and were subsequently used in a Sobol sensitivity analysis to identify critical design parameters influencing injury outcomes. The analysis revealed that rear passenger injury metrics were most sensitive to restraint system parameters. Specifically, crash pulse magnitude was the dominant factor for head injury metrics, pretensioner activation time for neck tension force, and lap belt force for the Neck Injury Criterion (Nij). For chest-related metrics—sternum deflection, dynamic belt position, and maximum belt

Lalwala, Mitesh, Kim, Wonhee, Furton, Lisa, Song, Jay

Revisiting Rear Seat Safety: Field Evaluations of Relative Injury Risk Across Seating Positions and the Integration of Advanced Rear Seat Belt Systems

2026-01-0561

4/7/2026

Despite advances in crash avoidance, occupant restraint systems remain crucial in protecting the motoring public. Following decades of improvement in occupant protection, including several supplemental restraint systems for front seat occupants, the safety of rear seat occupants has recently undergone scrutiny. Studies evaluating rear seat occupant injury risk via field crash data have reported reduced relative safety in rear seating positions and alluded to advanced rear seat restraints, such as pretensioners and load limiters, as potential solutions. While the pursuit of novel technologies has historically improved occupant outcomes, evaluation of new systems in both controlled laboratory environments and field crashes is necessary to understand potential consequences of widespread introduction. This study analyzed the prevalence of advanced seat belts (load limiters and pretensioners) in the rear seating positions in the U.S. fleet. Additionally, occupant injury risk was compared

Rapp van Roden, Elizabeth Ann, Miller, Bruce, Pearson, Joseph, Williamson, James, Brown, Thomas

Modified Hybrid A* Collision-Free Path-Planning for Reverse Parking a Vehicle in Tight Spaces

2026-01-0046

4/7/2026

Parking a vehicle in tight spaces is a challenging task to perform due to the scarcity of feasible paths that are also collision-free. This paper presents a strategy to tackle this kind of maneuver with a modified Hybrid-A* path-planning algorithm that combines the feasibility guarantee inherent in the standard Hybrid A* algorithm with the addition of static obstacle collision avoidance. A kinematic single-track model is derived to describe the low-speed motion of the vehicle, which is subsequently used as the motion model in the Hybrid A* path-planning algorithm to generate feasible motion primitive branches. The model states are also used to reconstruct the vehicle centerline, which, in conjunction with an inflated binary occupancy map, facilitates static obstacle collision avoidance functions. Simulation study and animation are set up to test the efficacy of the approach, and the proposed algorithm proves to consistently provide kinematically feasible trajectories that are also

Cao, Xincheng, Chen, Haochong, Aksun Guvenc, Bilin, Guvenc, Levent

Design and Simulation Analysis of an Integrated Honeycomb-Filled Front Bumper for a Special Vehicle

2026-01-0475

4/7/2026

In frontal collisions of automobiles, the bumper beam at the front of the vehicle plays a crucial role in absorbing energy and protecting the vehicle body during a collision. To enhance the collision resistance of a specific type of special vehicle with a non-load-bearing body structure, this paper focuses on this type of vehicle and conducts a study on the design and collision performance of an integrated vehicle front bumper - anti-collision beam structure based on aluminum alloy additive manufacturing technology. A novel bumper structure is proposed, which integrates the front bumper and the front anti-collision beam of the vehicle and is integrally formed using aluminum alloy additive manufacturing technology. This integrated structure is directly connected to the vehicle frame. Firstly, based on the appearance of the special vehicle body and the form of the front anti-collision beam of traditional passenger vehicles, an integrated design of the vehicle front bumper- anti-collision

王, Xufan, Yuan, Liu-Kai, Zhang, Tangyun, Wang, Tao, Zhang, Ming, Wang, Liangmo

Optimal Control Analysis of Minimum-Time Maneuvers for Vehicles Recovering from Instability

2026-01-0218

4/7/2026

Vehicles may enter highly unstable dynamic states due to lateral collisions, sudden loss of grip, or extreme steering disturbances. When such instability arises in congested road sections where obstacle avoidance is required, the safety risk to both the ego vehicle and surrounding traffic escalates significantly. In such scenarios, the vehicle must not only regain stability but also navigate the roadway in the shortest feasible time to prevent secondary collisions. This paper investigates the minimum-time maneuver of a vehicle starting from an unstable dynamic condition and constrained to travel within prescribed road boundaries. A single-track vehicle model with combined-slip nonlinear tire model is employed to capture the vehicle dynamics under high slip conditions. Phase-plane analysis is conducted to reveal how control inputs reshape the system’s vector field and influence the possibility and speed of stability recovery. An optimal control problem is formulated to compute the

Leng, Jiatong, Yu, Liangyao, Wang, Yongxin, You, Weijie, Li, Ziang, Jin, Zhipeng

Vault-Induced Pitchover Crash Testing of a Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle (ROV)

2026-01-0546

4/7/2026

Vehicle pitchover crashes can result in very severe accelerations and forces. Literature and test data available on pitchover crashes is sparse. This paper presents the results of a full-scale pitchover/rollover crash test using an instrumented vehicle in a controlled and documented off-road environment. The test vehicle was driven to the launch point by an off-board operator using remote steering and throttle controls. The test vehicle then experienced an airborne phase during which forward pitching occurred, followed by a front-to-ground impact which induced additional pitchover motion. Then, following the initial front and rear impacts, the vehicle transitioned from a pitchover to rollover motion before coming to rest. The resulting vehicle motion, vehicle damage markings, and ground markings were documented with various slow motion and real time camera views. The test vehicle was instrumented with accelerometers, rotation rate sensors, and other sensors, the results of which

Warner, Mark, Warner, Wyatt, Swensen, Grant, Perl, Mark

Occupant and Seat Responses in Various Moderate- to High-Speed Rear Impact Conditions: Focus on Head-to-Head Restraint Interactions

2026-01-0565

4/7/2026

Head restraint requirements and designs have evolved to minimize the delay in head support and reduce differential loading in the neck. As a result, they have become bigger, closer to the occupant’s head, and angled forward relative to the seat back. Head restraints have been found missing or detached in the field; they may be removed pre-crash due to occupant comfort issues, or post-crash for better accessibility during extrication. Additionally, although rare, head restraints may become detached in severe rear impacts due to occupant loading. To better understand occupant-to-head restraint dynamic interactions, nine rear sled tests were conducted. The test conditions were selected to represent worst case severe loading scenarios. An instrumented 50th Hybrid III ATD (Anthropomorphic Test Device) was lap-shoulder belted on a right-front seat. The neck was equipped with a bracket and lower neck load cell designed for rear impacts. Three series of sled tests were performed wherein the

Parenteau, Chantal, Burnett, Roger, Davidson, Russell

Pre-Crash Scenario Analysis and Generation for Integrated Safety System Virtual Testing with Real Accident Data

2026-01-0062

4/7/2026

Integrated active and passive safety protection systems have made substantial contributions to reducing traffic accidents and mitigating human injuries. However, assessing such systems through vehicle collision tests is limited, as this approach cannot cover the wide range of accident scenarios. To address this gap, identifying and generating representative pre-crash scenarios from real-world accidents provides key boundary conditions for the setup of virtual test scenarios. In this study, we used the Future Mobile Traffic Accident Scenario Study (FASS) dataset to reconstruct 112 two-wheeler accidents. For each case, we extracted pre-crash dynamic information, static attributes, and environmental context. An autoencoder was employed to encode high-dimensional features of scenarios, and K-means clustering was applied to categorize the accidents into eight representative pre-crash scenarios. For each scenario, we examined the motion states of participants and further compared the

Wang, Guojie, Gao, Xin, Liu, Siyuan, Liu, Jiaxin, Li, Quan, Shi, Liangliang, Nie, Bingbing

Predictive AEB Activation for Secondary Collision Risk Reduction

2026-01-0518

4/7/2026

Although the evaluation criteria of New Car Assessment Programs (NCAP) continue to evolve, they still predominantly focus on one-to-one collision scenarios. However, accident analyses based on traffic databases from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in the United States and the Institute for Traffic Accident Research and Data Analysis (ITARDA) in Japan indicate that in real-world traffic environments, particularly at intersections with multi-lane arterial roads, complex situations involving multiple vehicles are likely to arise. Further examination of these crash configurations suggests that AEB activation, depending on the resulting stopping position, may entail a potential secondary collision risk under certain intersection conditions. To mitigate secondary collision risks, this study introduces a Secondary Collision Mitigation Logic (SCM Logic), which estimates Time-To-Intercept (TTI) for multiple crossing vehicles to predict when each vehicle will reach the

Kobayashi, Fumiya, Fukuda, Kentaro, Tani, Hiroaki

Effects of Child Anthropometry, Seatback Angle, Seat Rotation Angle, Seatbelt Force Limiting, and Collision Type on Injury Risk of Child Occupants in Highly Automated Vehicles

2026-01-0570

4/7/2026

This study aimed to evaluate the influence of child anthropometry, seating postures (recline and rotation), seatbelt force limiting, and frontal collision scenarios on the kinematic response and injury risk in highly automated vehicles. The TUST IBMs 6YO-O model was conducted the frontal collisions in sled tests. This simulation matrix includes five percentiles six-year-old occupants (P3, P25, P50, P75, and P97), three seatback angles (20°, 30°, and 45°), four seat rotation angles (0°, 90°, 180°, and 270°), three seatbelt force limiting (2.6 kN, 3.6 kN, and 4.6 kN), and three frontal collision types. Injury risks were assessed including the child occupant's head, neck, chest/abdomen, and lumbar region in each simulation (n=540). The results indicate that the child anthropometry, the seatback angle, and the seat rotation angle have a significant influence on the motion responses. Statistically significant differences between all the groups within each independent variable category were

Wang, Yanxin, Zhao, Hongqian, Li, Haiyan, He, Lijuan, Cui, Shihai, Lv, Wenle

Statistical Assessment of Pretensioner and Load Limiter Effects on the Large Omnidirectional Child ATD Response in Frontal Impacts

2026-01-0550

4/7/2026

Enhancing child occupant protection requires a clear understanding of how seatbelt restraint parameters influence crash injury metrics. Real-world vehicles mostly include pretensioner and load limiter technologies to mitigate injuries, but rear seat restraints often do not include these. The FMVSS No. 213 test bench closely represents current restraint systems but does not involve such active vehicle restraint features. This study explores the response of the Large Omnidirectional Child ATD to evaluate potential injury mitigation under FMVSS No. 213 frontal sled test conditions. A simulation-based full factorial design was implemented in LS-DYNA to vary pretensioner retraction, retractor load-limiting thresholds, and webbing payout, with injury measures including head acceleration, head excursion, chest compression, and abdominal pressure twin sensors (APTS). Statistical evaluation using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey-Kramer post-hoc tests quantified main and interaction

Khattak, Mohid Muneeb, Bendig, Colleen, Louden, Allison, Noll, Scott

Novel Tube-in-Tube Steel Side Sill Reinforcement Design and Validation for Enhanced Crash Performance in EVs

2026-01-0478

4/7/2026

Increased use of Electrical vehicles (EVs) brings in unique structural design challenges particularly in Side Impact scenarios when the battery pack positioned near the sill region elevates the possibility of battery penetration and thermal runway in crash event. Thus, Electric Vehicles require unique structural design solutions. This study focuses on a novel steel tube-in-tube Side Sill reinforcement design and its performance benefits over a traditional aluminum Side Sill reinforcement commonly used for battery protection in EV vehicles body components. The proposed Steel Side Sill design layout mainly focuses on structural rigidity and improved load transfer during side pole impact crash cases and addressing manufacturing complexity and cost reduction opportunity. Multiple Steel Side Sill reinforcement design iterations are carried out by finite element analysis with software like LSDYNA Hyper works [1]. The goal was to develop an optimal tubular design - maximizing load transfer

Kusnoorkar, Harsha, Khutorsky, Alex, Penumetsa, Vivek, Koraddi, Basavaraj

Advanced Wheel Attachment Loosening Identification through Algorithmic Gear Error Analysis and Probabilistic Assessment

2026-01-0590

4/7/2026

At present, tire failures directly affect road safety, and the number of incidents caused by them is gradually increasing. Examining wheel attachment loosening on time is vital for vehicle safety. Tire-related incidents not only put people in peril but also have a detrimental effect on the economy. Therefore, the goal of this research is to develop a new and effective method for identifying wheel attachment loosening. A novel gear error reduction approach, distinct from traditional methods, combines advanced computing and probabilistic analysis. This paper involves three key components: extracting looseness eigenvalues, calculating ring gear errors, and computing the tire loosen probabilities. Gear errors derived from the Kalman filter and adjusted for speed, eigenvalues were calculated, and a tire loosening probability analysis was performed. Real-car trials across speeds and roads confirm its accuracy and reliability. This technology can improve automotive safety and maintenance

Liu, Jianjian, Zhang, Zhijie, Wang, Zhenfeng, Ma, Guangtao, Shi, Meijuan, Liu, Jing, Zhao, Binggen, Lu, Yukun

A Study on the Injury Risk of Occupant with Different Head and Neck Rotating Postures under the Frontal Impact Sled Conditions

2026-01-0574

4/7/2026

Drivers obtain road information through head and neck rotation. In order to study the influences of head and neck rotation posture on occupant injury in frontal impact scenario, the THUMS (Total Human Model for Safety) AM50 human body model with five different head and neck rotation postures but without active muscles was adopted to study the biomechanical injury responses of occupant under the frontal impact scenario at 56 km/h in this study. Firstly, the kinematic responses of total body and head acceleration curves at the center of gravity predicted by PMHS (Post Mortem Human Subject) and THUMS AM50 human model under the sled test conditions were compared to verify the simulation model for subsequent study. Then, the THUMS AM50 human model with standard occupant seating posture was adjusted to have five different head and neck rotation postures with 0°, ±20°, and ±40° rotation angle, respectively. Finally, a series of frontal impact sled with or without airbag simulations were

Li, Dongqiang, jiang, Yejie, Tan, Chun, Li, Yanyan, Gong, Chuangye, Wu, Hequan, Jiang, Binhui

Effective Design Method for Lightweight Suite of Seats Considering Crashworthiness and Cost

2026-01-0493

4/7/2026

This paper presents a methodology for designing and evaluating lightweight, crashworthy aircraft seats that meet 21g crash safety standards and injury criteria. Four seat classes—double economy, single economy, premium economy, and business—were developed using a modular design strategy focused on part commonality (family of parts) and manufacturability. A shared family of structural components was implemented across all seat types, with dimensional modifications applied only, when necessary, due to differences in seat width or height. In such cases, the same material systems and design principles were used to ensure consistency and reduce manufacturing complexity. The designs were evaluated using finite element simulations to verify performance under aerospace crash conditions. Each seat configuration was validated against regulatory crashworthiness criteria and injury thresholds, including pelvic, lumbar, and femur compressive forces, as well as head injury criteria (HIC) values. The

Gray, Savannah, Orr, Mathew, Shi, Yifan, Park, Taeil, Lee, Jake, Wotten, Erik, LeFrancois, Richard, Huang, Yuhao, Patel, Anuj, Kim, Hansu, Burns, Nicholas, Jalayer, Shayan, Grant, Robert, Kok, Leo, Hansen, Eric, Kim, Il Yong

Injury Risk Analysis of Occupant with Different Lower Limb Postures under the Frontal Impact Sled Conditions

2026-01-0572

4/7/2026

To investigate the characteristics of injuries sustained by occupant with different lower limb postures under the frontal impact sled conditions. Using the finite element method a series of simulation analyses were conducted on THUMS (Total Human Model for Safety) AM50 human body model with four different postures, including standing posture, lower limb bent at 100°, 90°, and crossed forward-backward, under the frontal impact scenario at 56 km/h in this study. The simulation results indicated that the overall injury risk predicted by the THUMS AM50 huma body model with lower limb crossed forward-backward was higher than that predicted by the model with other postures. The values of injury criteria including of HIC (Head Injury Criterion), head resultant acceleration, and thoracic VC (Viscous Criterion) predicted by the THUMS AM50 huma body model with lower limb crossed forward-backward were highest in these series simulations. Also, the biomechanical responses, including stress or

Li, Dongqiang, jiang, Yejie, Tan, Chun, Li, Yanyan, Li, Yihui, Wu, Hequan, Jiang, Binhui, Zhu, Feng

The Effect of Tire Tread Depth on Antilock-Brake System (ABS) Decelerations on Dry and Wet Asphalt and Concrete Road Surfaces

2026-01-0549

4/7/2026

The effect of tire tread depth on the deceleration performance of anti-lock brake systems (ABS) in newer vehicles is not well studied. A single sport-utility vehicle (SUV) was used to perform a series of 216 ABS-engaged braking tests on dry and wet asphalt and concrete surfaces using six sets of four tires with tread depths varying from 0.8 mm (1/32″) to 7.1 mm (9/32″). Vehicle speed and deceleration as a function of time were calculated from 5th-wheel displacement data sampled at 200 Hz. Braking tests were initially conducted on a dry surface, after which a water truck distributed water onto the road to create a wet condition and additional tests of each tire set were conducted. Overall, average deceleration levels did not vary significantly across the tires sets with tread depths from 7.1 mm (9/32″) down to 2.4 mm (3/32″) for both road surfaces in both dry and wet conditions. Compared to the deceleration levels at these larger tread depths, dry deceleration levels were greater for

Miller, Ian, King, David, Siegmund, Gunter P.

Numerical Investigation on Thorax Rib Deflections of 50th Male in Vehicle Side Oblique Pole Impact Using Human Body Model

2026-01-0566

4/7/2026

The WorldSID-50M dummy is widely adopted in regulatory and third-party testing programs (e.g., ECE, Euro-NCAP, C-NCAP) owing to its advanced design and superior biofidelity. However, in vehicle side oblique pole crash tests involving shoulder-covered side airbags - an expanded testing modality - excessive deflection of the upper thoracic ribs was observed. Notably, this phenomenon was absent in standard side moving deformable barrier (SMDB) tests. This study pursued two core objectives: (1) to systematically document the excessive upper thoracic rib deflection of the WorldSID-50M dummy in side oblique pole crash tests; and (2) to investigate the influence of arm-thorax interaction on such deflection using a Human Body Model (HBM) representative of a 50th percentile male occupant. Numerical simulation results reveal that while arm-thorax interaction does contribute to rib deflection, its impact on the excessive deflection of the upper thoracic ribs is negligible.

Zhou, DY, Chen, Shaopeng, Yan, Li, Wu, Jing, Liu, Chong, Lv, Xiaojiang, Yang, Heping

Pre-Impact Seat Rotation for Mitigating Lumbar Injury in Flying Car Crash

2026-01-0558

4/7/2026

Flying cars have already been used in tourism, firefighting, and logistics, and might be soon used for short-distance commute. However, the lumbar spine injury risks in flying car crash accidents have raised safety concerns. This is because the crash load of a flying car is largely aligned with the orientation of the occupant’s spine. This study introduces a countermeasure of actively adjusting seat posture for mitigating lumbar injury in crash events. A flying car crash usually has a few seconds of warning time before collision to ground. The pre-impact warning time is enough to rotate the seat and occupant together using seat motors. Posteriorly rotating seat can alter the angle between the crash load and the spinal axis, thereby reducing lumbar injury risk. Using numerical simulations, the 30g deceleration pulse defined in SAE-AS-8049 was applied to seat of flying car. The THUMS (Total Human Model for Safety) human body model was used to model occupant, sitting in a typical vehicle

Zhuang, Ziao, Puyuan, Tan, Shen, Wenxuan, Zhou, Qing, Gu, Gongyao

Development of a Tire Blowout Experimental Platform for Dynamics and Control Validation

2026-01-0202

4/7/2026

Tires are critical to vehicle dynamics, transmitting traction, braking, and cornering forces to the road. A tire blowout, the sudden and rapid loss of inflation pressure due to puncture or structural failure, can cause severe instability, rollover, or collisions. Understanding vehicle response during blowout events is essential for developing robust safety systems and control strategies. Earlier developed simulation models are used to study and understand vehicle behavior during blowouts, but there is a lack of on-road testing platforms to validate these models experimentally. In this paper, an experimental platform integrating a tire blowout device and an instrumentation system has been developed to address this gap. The blowout device consists of multiple solenoid valves mounted on the wheel surface and powered by a 12V power supply. All valves can be triggered at the same time using an RF remote, producing rapid and synchronized deflation. As an extension of this implementation, an

Kanthala, Maha Vishnu Vardhan Reddy, Krishnakumar, Ashwin, Lin, Wen-Chiao, Chen, Yan

Safety Monitor for Off-Road Planning with Uncertainty Bounded Bekker Costs

2026-01-0141

4/7/2026

Reliable off-road autonomy requires operational constraints so that behavior stays predictable and safe when soil strength is uncertain. This paper presents a runtime assurance safety monitor that collaborates with any planner and uses a Bekker-based cost model with bounded uncertainty. The monitor builds an upper confidence traversal cost from a lightweight pressure sinkage model identified in field tests and checks each planned motion against two limits: maximum sinkage and rollover margin. If the risk of crossing either limit is too high, the monitor switches to a certified fallback that reduces vehicle speed, increases standoff from soft ground, or stops on firmer soil. This separation lets the planner focus on efficiency while the monitor keeps the vehicle within clear safety limits on board. Wheel geometry, wheel load estimate, and a soil raster serve as inputs, which tie safety directly to vehicle design and let the monitor set clear limits on speed, curvature, and stopping at

Naik, Akshay, Norris, William, Sreenivas, Ramavarapu S., Soylemezoglu, Ahmet, Nottage, Dustin S., Patterson, Albert

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