Abstract
This paper describes the modelling techniques used in optimising the design of a proposed side airbag system according to ECE Regulation 95 and other side impact criteria. For efficiency, a sub-system approach was taken where only the occupant, relevant parts of the vehicle and side airbag were modelled. A sub-system model comprising the occupant, side airbag and vehicle structure was created using the crash simulation software MADYMO. The model takes advantage of the combination of FE, rigid body and flexible body modelling techniques in the one simulation. The deformation of the vehicle structure is predicted by crash test data instead of requiring the large effort of a full FE vehicle model.
The simulation shows very good correlation with test results both qualitatively and quantitatively. The correlated model was then used to select parameters that would maximise the effectiveness of the airbag system. This study supported by experimental evidence has shown that the modelling techniques adopted provided an accurate, efficient and effective design tool.