Test method and system for protection safety of falling passenger based on eVTOL

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of eVTOL safety test, and particularly discloses an eVTOL-based falling passenger protection safety test method and system, and the method comprises the steps: obtaining the first body data of a to-be-tested eVTOL in a predicted falling collision test according to the preset test starting time; a first safety test result is determined according to the first body data, the first test result is used for judging whether the human body simulator is safe or not, if the first safety test result is qualified, the human body simulator is safe, and if the first safety test result is unqualified, test data of the human body simulator body is obtained; first test data about mutual impact between the human body simulator and the protection device; analyzing the first test data and the test data of the human body simulator body to obtain a second test result; and obtaining a body structure damage result of the human body simulator body after the eVTOL falls according to the second test result. According to the invention, the evaluation result of the passenger protection safety performance when the eVTOL falls can be accurately obtained.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of eVTOL safety testing technology, and in particular to a testing method and system based on the safety of eVTOL occupant protection in the event of a fall. Background Art

[0002] eVTOL, short for Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing, is a new type of aircraft design that utilizes an electric propulsion system to achieve vertical takeoff and landing, similar to the functionality of a helicopter, but typically employs a multi-rotor, tilt-rotor, or hybrid layout. The development of eVTOL technology has been driven by the concept of Urban Air Mobility (UAM), which aims to address urban traffic congestion and provide a more environmentally friendly and efficient mode of transportation. With the continuous advancement of eVTOL technology, this new type of transportation is becoming a focus of research and industry. The unique feature of eVTOL is its ability to switch freely between ground travel and airborne flight, as well as its ability to take off and land vertically and fly short distances, greatly improving transportation efficiency. However, due to its structural differences from existing aircraft and aircraft, eVTOL still faces many unresolved technical challenges in terms of safety, particularly in protecting occupants in crash accidents.

[0003] Current safety assessments for eVTOLs primarily focus on flight stability, powertrain reliability, and flight attitude control. However, effective assessment methods are still lacking for assessing occupant safety in extreme situations, such as free fall or crashes. In particular, in the event of an eVTOL malfunction or loss of control leading to free fall, the lack of established assessment standards and scientific testing methods makes it difficult to accurately predict the occupant's survival rate and potential injury in such a scenario.

[0004] Although the aviation and aircraft industries each have their own occupant safety testing standards for crash accidents, such as emergency landing tests for aircraft and crash tests for aircraft, these testing methods are not fully applicable to eVTOLs. The reason is that eVTOLs exhibit unique dynamic and aerodynamic characteristics when falling, and existing aircraft crash tests or aircraft tests cannot fully simulate the complex physical phenomena of eVTOLs during an uncontrolled fall. This is because eVTOLs are interfered with by multiple factors during an uncontrolled fall, including centrifugal force, gravity, and other forces caused by unstable control, which can cause various nose orientation problems before the eVTOL falls. In addition, the design of eVTOLs usually includes multiple power systems, complex structural components, and innovative occupant protection devices, which makes it difficult for existing testing standards and methods to fully cover the comprehensive assessment of eVTOL occupant survivability and safety in extreme accidents. Therefore, the existing eVTOL drop test can only refer to the test of small vertical take-off and landing aircraft. However, eVTOLs are electrically controlled and have significant differences in the testing process compared to fuel-powered small vertical take-off and landing aircraft, including whether fuel-powered small vertical take-off and landing aircraft will explode due to fuel tank fire after falling. Therefore, the safety testing of eVTOLs using fuel-powered small vertical take-off and landing aircraft often results in inaccurate assessments.

[0005] In existing technologies, methods and devices for testing the performance of eVTOL underbody airbags, such as those disclosed in patent application number CN202411100999.7, collect data to determine the time of the operating condition test. This data is then combined with the operating condition time, the airbag pressure curve, and the vehicle crash image to generate a first test result. This first test result indicates whether the airbag is damaged; if damaged, the first test result fails. If the first test result passes, a second test result is generated based on the fuselage acceleration curve and the Z-axis load curve of the vehicle dummy's lumbar spine. If the second test result passes, fuselage shape variable data is obtained and combined with the vehicle's structural integrity change curve to generate a third test result. Based on the third test result, the final performance test result of the eVTOL underbody airbag is determined. This solution only tests the airbag; if it is included in the scope of indirect testing of occupant safety, the test will be inaccurate. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present invention aims to provide a testing method and system based on the safety of occupant protection in the event of an eVTOL fall, so as to accurately obtain an evaluation of the occupant protection safety performance of the eVTOL when it falls.

[0007] In order to achieve the above object, the present invention adopts the following technical solutions:

[0008] The first scheme is based on a test method for the safety of occupant protection in an eVTOL crash. According to a preset test start time, first body data of the eVTOL to be tested in an expected crash test is obtained; wherein, the first body data includes the impact force of the fuselage contacting the impact surface, the maximum deformation of the seat, and the reaction time of the protection device; a first safety test result is determined based on the first body data, and the first test result is used to judge whether the human body simulator is safe. If the first safety test result is qualified, the human body simulator is safe; if it is unqualified, test data of the human body simulator body and first test data on the mutual impact between the human body simulator and the protection device are obtained; a second test result is obtained based on analysis of the first test data and the test data of the human body simulator body; and according to the second test result, the result of the main structural damage of the human body simulator body after the eVTOL crash is obtained.

[0009] Beneficial effects: First, by obtaining the first body data of the eVTOL in the expected crash test (including the impact force of the fuselage contacting the impact surface, the maximum deformation of the seat and the reaction time of the protective device), the method can make a preliminary evaluation of the occupant protection performance of the eVTOL when it falls from multiple key aspects. These data cover the factors that have a greater impact on the occupants when the eVTOL falls, such as the impact force is directly related to the degree of external force that the occupants may be subjected to; the seat deformation reflects the support and protection effect of the seat on the occupants; and the reaction time of the protective device determines whether the protective device can play a role in time. Through the comprehensive analysis of these data, the protection ability of the eVTOL for the occupants in the fall scenario can be judged more comprehensively. When the first safety test result fails, further test data of the human simulator body and the first test data on the impact between the human simulator and the protective device are obtained, and the second test result is obtained based on these data, and then the main structural damage result of the human simulator body after the eVTOL falls is obtained. This process makes the assessment more in-depth and detailed, and can more accurately understand the specific stress conditions and possible injuries suffered by the occupants during the fall, thereby providing a more targeted basis for the design and improvement of eVTOL.

[0010] Secondly, this method can clearly identify which aspects of the eVTOL perform well and which aspects lack performance during a fall. For example, if the protective device's response time is too long or the seat's deformation is excessive, these can be intuitively reflected in the test results. This allows eVTOL designers and engineers to optimize and improve the eVTOL's structure, protective devices, and other aspects based on the test results, thereby improving the eVTOL's occupant protection performance in a fall accident and reducing the risk of occupant injury, thereby promoting the development of eVTOL technology and making it safer and more reliable.

[0011] Furthermore, with the continuous development of eVTOL technology, its safety assessment has become particularly important. However, eVTOLs exhibit unique dynamic and aerodynamic characteristics when falling. Traditional aircraft crash tests or aircraft testing methods cannot fully simulate the complex physical phenomena of eVTOLs during an uncontrolled fall, making it difficult to accurately assess the occupant protection performance of eVTOLs during a fall. This test method is specifically designed for eVTOL fall scenarios, comprehensively considering the structural characteristics of eVTOLs and various factors during the fall process. It provides a scientific and effective method for testing the occupant protection performance of eVTOLs during a fall, and helps to improve the safety assessment system for eVTOLs.

[0012] Finally, this method provides a standardized testing method for eVTOL safety certification, making the evaluation of eVTOL's fall protection performance more scientific, objective, and quantifiable. This will facilitate the development of more stringent and reasonable eVTOL safety certification standards, ensuring that eVTOLs meet certain safety requirements before market release. It also provides strong technical support for regulatory authorities to oversee eVTOL safety, helping to protect public life and property and promote the healthy and orderly development of the eVTOL industry.

[0013] Preferably, the first body data, the first test data, and the test data of the human body simulator body are scored:

[0014]

[0015] Si is the final score of each data, a is the threshold when each data is rated as excellent, c is the threshold when each data is rated as unqualified, and d is the actual test value of each data; and the scoring range of each data is 0 to 100 points; the data includes: first body data, first test data and test data of the human body simulator body.

[0016] Beneficial effects: A specific method for scoring the first body data, the first test data, and the test data of the human simulator body. By setting the excellent and unqualified thresholds for each data, as well as the relationship between the actual test value and the threshold, the complex test data is converted into an intuitive score form, making the test results clearer, easier to understand and compare. This scoring method can not only quantify the occupant protection performance of the eVTOL when it falls, but also provide a clear direction and basis for the design optimization of the eVTOL. For example, designers can quickly identify key indicators that need to be improved based on the scores of each data, thereby improving the safety design efficiency of the eVTOL. In addition, this standardized scoring system also facilitates horizontal comparisons between different eVTOLs, providing a unified reference standard for safety assessment and supervision.

[0017] Preferably, the first body data score includes an acceleration score, a seat deformation score and a reaction time score of a protective device; the first test data score includes an impact force score; and the test data score of the human simulator body includes a pressure change score.

[0018] Beneficial effects: The specific scoring items for the first body data, the first test data and the test data of the human simulator body are clarified. By subdividing the scoring into specific indicators such as impact force score, acceleration score, pressure change score, seat deformation score and reaction time score of the protection device, the claim can more accurately evaluate the impact of various key factors on the occupant protection performance when the eVTOL falls. This segmented scoring method not only improves the scientificity and comprehensiveness of the evaluation, but also makes the test results more targeted and operational. For example, designers can quickly locate the design links that need to be optimized based on the scoring results of each specific indicator, thereby more targetedly improving the safety performance of the eVTOL and increasing the probability of survival of the occupants in a fall accident.

[0019] Preferably, the safety of the human body simulator is scored according to the scores of each data.

[0020]

[0021] Among them, T is the safety score of the human body simulator, S1 is the impact force score, S2 is the acceleration score, S3 is the pressure change score, S4 is the seat deformation score, and S5 is the reaction time score of the protective device; W1, W2, W3, W4, and W5 correspond to the weights of each score of S1, S2, S3, S4, and S5.

[0022] Beneficial effects: By introducing a comprehensive safety scoring formula, the scores of various key indicators (such as impact force, acceleration, pressure change, seat deformation and protection device reaction time) are weighted and calculated to obtain a comprehensive safety score for the human simulator itself. This comprehensive scoring method can integrate multiple scattered test indicators into a unified evaluation standard, making the overall evaluation of the eVTOL's fall occupant protection performance more intuitive and scientific. It can not only quickly reflect the overall safety level of eVTOL in a fall accident, but also highlight the importance of key indicators through the setting of weights, providing a more guiding reference for the design optimization and safety evaluation of eVTOL.

[0023] Preferably, a reaction time of the protection device of less than 150ms is excellent; a reaction time of the protection device of not less than 150ms and less than 250ms is good; a reaction time of the protection device of not less than 250ms is unqualified.

[0024] Beneficial effects: The specific grading standards for the reaction time of the protective device are clarified, and the reaction time is divided into three levels: excellent (less than 150ms), good (150ms to 250ms) and unqualified (not less than 250ms). This clear grading standard makes the performance evaluation of the protective device more specific and quantitative, and can quickly determine whether the protective device can play a timely role in a fall accident. This is crucial for the safety design of eVTOL, because the timely response of the protective device is a key factor in reducing the risk of occupant injury. Through this standard, designers can have a clearer understanding of the performance of the protective device and make targeted optimizations to ensure that the safety of the occupants can be protected to the greatest extent in the event of a fall accident.

[0025] Preferably, within 0.01 to 0.05 seconds after the eVTOL touches the impact surface, an impact force score of less than 3000N is excellent, an impact force of not less than 3000N and less than 6000N is good, and an impact force of not less than 6000N is unqualified.

[0026] Beneficial effects: A clear grading standard has been set for the impact force score when the eVTOL touches the impact surface, and the impact force is divided into three levels: excellent (less than 3000N), good (3000N to 6000N) and unqualified (not less than 6000N). This grading standard provides a specific quantitative basis for evaluating the impact protection performance of eVTOL for occupants when falling. Impact force is one of the key factors affecting the degree of injury to the occupants. Through clear grading standards, it is possible to quickly determine whether the impact protection of eVTOL for occupants during the fall meets the safety requirements. This not only helps the designers of eVTOL optimize the body structure and protective devices to reduce the impact force during the fall, but also provides a clear reference for safety assessment, ensuring that eVTOL can effectively protect occupants from serious injuries in extreme situations.

[0027] Preferably, the seat deformation score is specifically as follows: if the maximum deformation value of the seat is less than 30 mm, it is excellent; if it is not less than 30 mm and less than 60 mm, it is good; if it is not less than 60 mm, it is unqualified.

[0028] Beneficial effects: Specific grading standards are set for scoring seat deformation, which are divided into three levels: excellent (maximum value less than 30mm), good (30mm to 60mm) and unqualified (not less than 60mm). This grading standard makes the evaluation of the protective performance of the seat in a fall accident more specific and quantitative. The deformation of the seat is directly related to the stability of the occupant during the fall and the degree of possible injury. Through clear grading standards, it is possible to quickly determine whether the seat can provide sufficient support and protection for the occupant during a fall. This is of great significance to the safety design of eVTOL, because the reasonable design of the seat can effectively reduce the risk of injury to the occupant in a fall accident. It also helps eVTOL manufacturers optimize the seat structure and improve occupant protection performance.

[0029] Preferably, within 0.01 to 0.05 seconds of the eVTOL contacting the impact surface, the acceleration score is specifically: if the acceleration borne by the human simulator is less than 2g, it is excellent; if it is not less than 2g and less than 3g, it is good; if it is not less than 3g, it is unqualified.

[0030] Beneficial effects: The acceleration scoring criteria for the human simulator when the eVTOL touches the impact surface are clarified, and the acceleration is divided into three levels: excellent (less than 2g), good (2g to 3g) and unqualified (not less than 3g). This grading standard provides a specific quantitative basis for evaluating the acceleration to which the occupants of the eVTOL are subjected when falling. Acceleration is one of the important factors affecting the physiological damage of the occupants. Excessive acceleration may cause serious internal organ damage, fractures, etc. Through clear grading standards, it is possible to quickly determine whether the acceleration protection of the eVTOL for the occupants during the fall meets the safety requirements. This not only helps the designers of the eVTOL to optimize the body structure and protective devices to reduce the acceleration during the fall, but also provides a clear reference for safety assessment, ensuring that the eVTOL can effectively protect the occupants from serious physiological damage in extreme cases.

[0031] Beneficial effects of the first solution

[0032] First, this approach comprehensively evaluates the eVTOL's occupant protection by analyzing multiple key indicators, including acceleration, seat deformation, and structural damage. Compared to existing single-impact evaluation methods, this multi-dimensional assessment provides a more detailed and accurate safety analysis.

[0033] Secondly, this solution utilizes a highly flexible and scalable scoring formula and evaluation method that can be adjusted to accommodate different eVTOL models, changing test conditions, and the development of new technologies, ensuring its applicability and foresight. This approach not only enables accurate evaluation of existing technologies but also leaves room for future innovation.

[0034] Finally, a comprehensive scoring system was introduced to standardize the safety performance of eVTOLs using a series of detailed scoring criteria and quantitative indicators. This systematic evaluation method provides a clear and specific reference for eVTOL design optimization, helping to drive the entire industry towards higher safety standards.

[0035] The second solution is a test system based on the safety of eVTOL occupant protection in the event of a fall, which is characterized by including a data analysis module, which includes an electronic device, which includes a memory, a processor, and a computer program stored in the memory and executable on the processor. When the processor executes the computer program, the electronic device implements the test method based on the safety of eVTOL occupant protection in the event of a fall as described in the first solution. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0036] Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the test method for eVTOL fall occupant protection safety according to Example 1;

[0037] Figure 2 Schematic diagram of the calculation formula;

[0038] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the test system for eVTOL fall occupant protection safety according to Example 3;

[0039] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the electronic equipment structure of the test system for eVTOL fall occupant protection safety according to Example 3. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] The following embodiments of the technical solution of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following embodiments are only used to more clearly illustrate the technical solution of the present invention and are therefore only examples and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0041] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the technical or scientific terms used in this application should have the common meanings understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs.

[0042] Some special terms of the specific embodiments are explained:

[0043] Definition of a Fall Scenario: A fall scenario refers to a situation in which an eVTOL loses control and enters a free-fall state. This can occur during takeoff and landing, during normal flight, or in the event of an emergency, causing the eVTOL to lose control and begin a free-fall. This scenario encompasses a wide range of variables, including fall speeds, angles, and attitudes, reflecting the complex dynamic characteristics of an eVTOL in an uncontrolled fall.

[0044] Definition of Occupant Safety: Occupant safety refers to the ability of an eVTOL to provide varying degrees of safety protection for occupants in different situations, based on their specific landing conditions, after a fall. This means that eVTOL designs must consider how to protect passengers from serious injury in the event of an unforeseen fall.

[0045] Definition of occupant protection device test: The occupant protection device test is designed to evaluate the effectiveness of key protective equipment such as seat belts, seats, and airbags under various fall conditions. During the test, a test dummy or human model will be fixed to the eVTOL seat, and the experiment will be carried out by simulating the impact force generated during an actual fall. High-precision sensors (such as accelerometers and pressure sensors) are used to monitor the acceleration, impact force, vibration and other data experienced by the dummy / human model in real time. These precise data can truly reflect the force conditions of the occupants in actual fall scenarios, thereby providing a scientific basis for evaluating the occupants' probability of survival.

[0046] The reference numerals in the drawings of the specification include:

[0047] A test system 100 for eVTOL fall occupant protection safety, a processor 101 , an input device 102 , an output device 103 , a memory 104 , a bus 105 , and a computer program 1041 .

[0048] Example 1

[0049] This embodiment provides a test method based on the safety of eVTOL occupant protection in a fall, such as Figure 1 As shown, according to the preset test start time, the first body data of the eVTOL to be tested in the expected crash test is obtained; wherein, the first body data includes the impact force of the fuselage touching the impact surface, the maximum deformation of the seat and the reaction time of the protection device. The test start time refers to the time when the eVTOL touches the impact surface. The first safety test result is determined based on the first body data. The first test result is used to determine whether the human body simulator is safe. If the first safety test result is qualified, the human body simulator is safe. The first test result is used to verify the damage of the eVTOL body. If the damage is minor, it does not meet the test conditions for the safety of the eVTOL's falling occupant protection. The human body simulator is in a safe state, then the test fails and needs to be retested.

[0050] If the test fails, the system obtains test data for the human body simulator and first test data regarding the impact between the human body simulator and the protective device. A second test result is obtained based on the analysis of the first test data and the test data for the human body simulator. Based on the second test result, the damage results for the human body simulator's main structure after the eVTOL crash are determined.

[0051] Specifically, the first body data, the first test data and the test data of the human simulator body are scored, and each sub-score ranges from 0 to 100 points. The specific scoring levels can be divided into the following categories. Excellent (above 100 points): The score reaches an excellent performance. Excellent (90-100 points): The score reaches a very good performance that meets the standard, which is better than the conventional design. Good (70-89 points): The performance is close to the best design and has certain advantages. Qualified (50-69 points): Meets the minimum standard, but the performance is average or there is room for optimization. Unqualified (0-49 points): Failed to meet safety requirements and there are safety hazards. The specific score of each factor is determined based on the actual measurement value. The specific calculation formula is shown in Si:

[0052]

[0053] Si is the final score for each data point, a is the threshold for each data point to be rated as excellent, c is the threshold for each data point to be rated as unqualified, and d is the actual test value for each data point; the score range for each data point is 0 to 100. In this embodiment, the protective devices include airbags and seat belts. The human body simulator includes a test dummy and a human model.

[0054] The maximum impact force a test dummy or human model experiences at the moment of impact with the eVTOL. The impact force is measured and recorded within 0.01 to 0.05 seconds after the eVTOL touches the ground. The unit is Newtons (N). Excellent: <3000N; Good: 3000N ≤ impact force <6000N; Unacceptable: ≥6000N. Note: Excessive impact force can cause fatal damage to the occupants' internal organs and bones. According to existing aircraft safety standards, impact forces greater than 6000N typically result in fatal injuries.

[0055] The acceleration to which the test dummy or human model is subjected, especially the instantaneous maximum acceleration generated when the eVTOL touches the ground. Measure and record the acceleration within 0.01 to 0.05 seconds after the eVTOL touches the ground. The unit is meter per second squared (m / s 2 ), Excellent: <2g (g is the acceleration due to gravity, 1g≈9.8m / s 2 ), Good: 2g ≤ acceleration < 3g, Unqualified: ≥ 3g. Note: Acceleration exceeding 30g usually causes serious physiological damage, including rupture of internal organs and fractures.

[0056] The pressure changes generated between the eVTOL and the seat will be transmitted to the test dummy or human model, so it is necessary to pay attention to the pressure changes between the test dummy or human model and the seat and seat belt. Measure and record the pressure between the test dummy or human model and the seat and seat belt within 0.05 to 0.1 seconds after the eVTOL touches the ground. The unit is Pascal (Pa). Excellent: Maximum pressure change <1500Pa, Good: 1500Pa≤pressure change <3000Pa, Unqualified: ≥3000Pa. Note: Excessive pressure between the seat and the occupant will cause excessive impact on important parts of the occupant such as the head and spine; excessive pressure changes between the seat belt and the occupant will cause serious damage to the occupant's chest and abdomen.

[0057] Maximum seat deformation after eVTOL touches down. Measure and record the maximum seat deformation within 0.01 to 0.05 seconds after eVTOL touches down. The unit is millimeters (mm). Excellent: Seat deformation <30mm; Good: 30mm ≤ Seat deformation <60mm; Unacceptable: ≥60mm. Note: Excessive seat deformation can affect occupant stability, potentially leading to spinal injury and compromising the seat's protective effectiveness.

[0058] The time required from the start of the eVTOL falling or touching the ground to the full deployment of the protective device or the preparation for protection. Measure and record the time from the start of the eVTOL falling or touching the ground to the full response of the protective device. The unit is milliseconds (ms), excellent: <150ms, good: 150ms≤airbag response time<250ms, unqualified: ≥250ms. Note: If the reaction time of the protective device is too long, it will cause the occupants to score the safety of the human simulator according to the various data scores. Specifically,

[0059]

[0060] Among them, T is the safety score of the human body simulator, S1: impact force score, S2: acceleration score, S3: pressure change score, S4: seat deformation score, S5: reaction time score of the protective device; W1, W2, W3, W4, and W5 correspond to the weights of S1, S2, S3, S4, and S5 respectively. Failure to obtain timely protection during impact increases the risk of injury.

[0061] like Figure 2 As shown, the total score is 100 points: Optimal survivability, the eVTOL provides the highest level of protection for occupants in the event of a crash, meeting industry standards. 80 to 90 points: Good survivability, with a high probability of occupant survival, but still requiring improvement. 60 to 80 points: Moderate survivability, with certain safety risks. Below 60 points: Critical survivability, with a low probability of occupant survival after a crash, requiring immediate design improvements.

[0062] Beneficial effects of this embodiment

[0063] Compared to existing technologies, this method can be used to test and evaluate the safety of passengers experiencing a fall while riding an eVTOL. This method can first obtain first-body data to indirectly assess the passenger's safety. This shortens testing time and improves testing efficiency. If the human body simulator is unsafe, the test data from the human body simulator itself is then evaluated. The secondary test results optimize the testing method and ensure accuracy. Furthermore, by obtaining direct and authentic first-body data and test data from the human body simulator itself, the safety impact of an eVTOL fall on passengers can be significantly restored in real-world scenarios.

[0064] In addition, compared with the crash test of cars, whether it is a fuel car or an electric car, its collision mode is single. Specifically, the collision of a car is generally a large-scale collision of the front or side of the car body, or a test of the vehicle rollover. However, when the vehicle rolls over, the entire side of the car body collides. The collision surface of the car is relatively uniform and has a larger area. The drop test of eVTOL focuses more on the collision of a certain point or a small area, because when falling, it is generally a certain point or a small area that contacts the ground first, and this kind of drop test is generally difficult to calculate the force at the collision position. Therefore, when doing the eVTOL drop collision test, it is necessary to obtain the first body data to understand the drop collision of the eVTOL. The first body data includes the impact force of the body contacting the collision surface, the maximum deformation of the seat and the reaction time of the protective device. These can directly reflect the drop collision of the eVTOL, but the drop collision of the eVTOL alone is not accurate enough, because the eVTOL may flip when falling from a height. Each occupant will be subject to centrifugal force and gravity that are not considered in automobile collision tests. This may cause corresponding changes in the occupant's posture and position, which may easily make it unclear in which direction the occupant is subjected to greater force during a collision. Therefore, it is necessary to obtain the first test data of the impact between the human simulator and the protective device. Only in this way can the test results of the eVTOL falling occupant protection safety be accurately obtained. Compared with automobile collision tests, more attention will be paid to the injuries of the occupants, and the first test data of the impact between the human simulator and the protective device will not be analyzed. If the test is conducted according to the method of automobile collision test, not only will the test efficiency be low, but the test results will also be inaccurate.

[0065] First, Example 1 defines the eVTOL fall occupant protection safety test process, including obtaining primary body data (such as impact force, seat deformation, and protective device response time), determining whether the primary safety test result is qualified, and, if it fails, further obtaining test data from the human simulator body and mutual impact data. This specific process makes the test operation more standardized and operational, providing clear guidance for actual testing.

[0066] Secondly, a detailed scoring standard was introduced to quantify key safety indicators during an eVTOL fall (such as impact force, acceleration, pressure change, seat deformation, and protective device reaction time), and specific thresholds for excellent, good, qualified, and unqualified were defined. This quantitative evaluation standard makes the test results more intuitive and easy to understand, and also provides clear direction for eVTOL design optimization.

[0067] Furthermore, by comprehensively considering both aircraft and human simulator data, Example 1 not only assesses the damage to the eVTOL itself during a fall, but also provides an in-depth analysis of the stress and structural damage to the human simulator during the fall. This comprehensive and targeted assessment method more accurately reflects the protection provided to occupants by the eVTOL during a fall, providing a more comprehensive reference for eVTOL safety design.

[0068] At the same time, through clear test steps and scoring criteria, subjectivity in the testing process is reduced, and the efficiency and accuracy of the test are improved. Testers can quickly determine whether the eVTOL's occupant protection performance meets the standards based on specific criteria, saving time and resources while ensuring the reliability of test results.

[0069] Next, by providing a scientific and systematic testing method, Example 1 provides a standardized means for eVTOL safety assessment. This not only helps eVTOL manufacturers optimize product design and improve occupant protection, but also provides technical support for eVTOL safety certification and supervision, promoting the healthy development of eVTOL technology.

[0070] Finally, the advantages and disadvantages of eVTOLs in terms of occupant protection in a fall can be clearly identified. For example, if a particular indicator scores poorly, designers can make targeted improvements, thereby gradually improving the overall safety of the eVTOL. This data-driven improvement approach can effectively reduce the risk of occupant injury in eVTOL fall accidents and enhance the market competitiveness of eVTOLs.

[0071] Example 2

[0072] Different from the above-mentioned embodiment, the test method based on the eVTOL fall occupant protection safety provided in this embodiment also includes: before obtaining the first body data of the eVTOL to be tested in the expected crash test, first obtaining the instantaneous acceleration of the eVTOL when the crash occurs, specifically the instantaneous acceleration when the eVTOL instantly crashes on the test ground.

[0073] Specifically, a rotation matrix or direction cosine matrix (DCM) is used to transform the IMU data from the sensor coordinate system to the eVTOL global coordinate system, eliminating errors caused by rotation and restoring the actual acceleration generated when the aircraft falls and impacts the impact surface. The IMU data is the raw physical quantities collected by the Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) through the accelerometer, gyroscope, and magnetometer, and the eVTOL attitude information after fusion calculation. The three rotation angles are set as Φ, θ, and φ for Roll, Pitch, and Yaw, respectively.

[0074] The roll matrix is ​​as follows:

[0075]

[0076] The pitch matrix is ​​as follows:

[0077]

[0078] The yaw matrix is ​​as follows:

[0079]

[0080] Total rotation matrix: R = R z ·R y ·R x

[0081] Assume that the acceleration vector obtained in the sensor coordinate system is a=[a x , a y , a z ], then in the eVTOL's global coordinate system, the instantaneous acceleration is: a' = R·a. By obtaining the instantaneous acceleration, it can be evaluated against the first acceleration test threshold. The first acceleration test threshold is a preset value, customizable for different users.

[0082] Specifically, before obtaining the first body data of the eVTOL to be tested during a predicted crash test, a first acceleration test threshold is preset. The instantaneous acceleration of the eVTOL at the time of the crash is obtained. If the instantaneous acceleration is less than or greater than the first acceleration test threshold, the test is repeated. If the instantaneous acceleration is equal to the first acceleration test threshold, the test is continued. It should be understood that if the instantaneous acceleration is within the range of 98%-102% of the first acceleration test threshold, it is considered within the allowable error range and testing can continue. At the same time, instantaneous acceleration can also be used to evaluate the maximum impact force that the eVTOL receives when it hits the ground. This is because it is impossible to directly obtain the acceleration data of the eVTOL at the moment of impact. This is because when the impact force is strong and the impact angle is unclear, it is easy to cause damage to the accelerometer directly installed on the front of the vehicle, or its accelerometer does not directly contact the ground. The original physical quantities collected by the gyroscope and magnetometer installed on the vehicle body (non-collision surface) and the eVTOL attitude information after fusion calculation can accurately and quickly obtain the instantaneous acceleration data of the eVTOL. This not only reduces the test cost without damaging the test instrument, but also improves the accuracy and efficiency of the test.

[0083] Beneficial effects of this embodiment

[0084] First, during the eVTOL fall, since the fuselage may simultaneously experience multiple complex motion states such as roll, pitch, and yaw, the acceleration data obtained directly from the sensor may be affected by the rotation of the fuselage, resulting in inaccurate measurement results. Example 2 converts the IMU data from the sensor coordinate system to the global coordinate system by applying a rotation matrix or direction cosine matrix (DCM), which can effectively eliminate the error caused by rotation, thereby more accurately restoring the true acceleration of the eVTOL at the moment of the fall. This is crucial for evaluating the occupant protection performance of the eVTOL during a fall, because accurate acceleration data is the key basis for judging the force conditions of the occupants and the degree of possible injury.

[0085] Secondly, by precisely converting and correcting acceleration data, Example 2 can provide more reliable test results. This is crucial for eVTOL safety assessments, as reliable test results can more accurately reflect the occupant protection performance of eVTOLs in crashes, providing valuable insights for eVTOL design optimization and safety improvements. Accurate test results also help improve eVTOL safety certification standards and regulatory oversight, ensuring that eVTOLs meet stringent safety requirements before entering the market.

[0086] Furthermore, eVTOLs can exhibit a variety of complex attitudes during a fall, including varying roll, pitch, and yaw angles. Example 2, by introducing a rotation matrix and a direction cosine matrix, effectively handles these complex attitude changes, ensuring accurate acceleration measurement and evaluation in any fall posture. This makes testing eVTOL crash occupant protection more comprehensive and scientific, covering more realistic fall scenarios and providing more comprehensive assurance for eVTOL safety design.

[0087] This embodiment also utilizes advanced mathematical methods and data processing techniques, incorporating complex coordinate transformations and error correction into the testing methodology. This scientific approach not only enhances the sophistication of the testing method but also makes it more technologically competitive. This advanced data processing approach enables eVTOL manufacturers and testing organizations to more accurately assess the safety performance of eVTOLs, thereby promoting the development of eVTOL technology.

[0088] Next, by accurately reproducing the actual acceleration during a fall, Example 2 can provide more precise feedback to eVTOL designers. Based on this precise data, designers can optimize the eVTOL's structural design, seat layout, and protective devices to improve occupant protection in the event of a fall. This precise data-based design optimization can effectively reduce the risk of occupant injury in a fall and enhance the overall safety of the eVTOL.

[0089] Finally, accurate acceleration data is a crucial basis for eVTOL safety certification and regulation. By providing more accurate test results, Example 2 can better support eVTOL safety certification efforts and ensure that eVTOLs comply with relevant standards and regulations for fall protection. This is crucial for protecting public life and property and promoting the healthy development of the eVTOL industry.

[0090] Example 3

[0091] Different from the above-mentioned embodiment, this embodiment provides a test system based on the safety of eVTOL occupant protection. Figure 3 As shown, a test system based on the safety of occupant protection in the event of an eVTOL fall includes a data analysis module, the data analysis module includes an electronic device, the electronic device includes a memory, a processor, and a computer program stored in the memory and executable on the processor. When the processor executes the computer program, the electronic device implements a test method based on the safety of occupant protection in the event of an eVTOL fall according to any one of the above embodiments.

[0092] Specifically, such as Figure 4As shown, the electronic device may include: one or more processors 101, one or more input devices 102, one or more output devices 103, one or more memories 104, and a computer program stored in the memories 104 and executable on the processors. The processors 101, input devices 102, output devices 103, and memories 104 are interconnected via a bus 105. The memory 104 is used to store the computer program, which includes program instructions. The processor 101 is configured to invoke the program instructions to execute the method steps described in the above method embodiments.

[0093] It should be understood that in this embodiment, the processor 101 may be a central processing unit (CPU), or may be other general-purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSP), application-specific integrated circuits (ASIC), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, or discrete hardware components. A general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor or any conventional processor.

[0094] The input device 102 may include a keyboard, etc., and the output device 103 may include a display (LCD, etc.), a speaker, etc.

[0095] The memory 104 may include a read-only memory and a random access memory, and provides instructions and data to the processor 101. A portion of the memory 104 may also include a non-volatile random access memory. For example, the memory 104 may also store device type information.

[0096] In a specific implementation, the processor 101, input device 102, and output device 103 described in the embodiment of the present invention can execute the implementation method described in the relevant embodiments of a test method and system based on the eVTOL fall occupant protection safety provided by the embodiment of the present invention, which will not be repeated here.

[0097] It should be noted that for a more specific description of the workflow of electronic equipment and a test method for executing eVTOL fall occupant protection safety, please refer to the aforementioned method embodiment section, which will not be repeated here.

[0098] Example 4

[0099] Unlike the previous embodiment, the memory described in this embodiment should be understood in a broad sense. It can be not only a hardware component for temporarily storing data in a computer system, but also a physical medium that can store digital information and be read by a computer. These media can be permanent or temporary, including but not limited to hard disks and solid-state drives.

[0100] Specifically, the memory can be an internal storage unit of the electronic device described in any embodiment, such as a hard disk or memory of the system. The memory can also be an external storage device of the system, such as a plug-in hard disk, a smart memory card (SmartMediaCard, SMC), a secure digital (SecureDigital, SD) card, a flash card (FlashCard), etc. equipped on the system. Furthermore, the memory can also include both the internal storage unit of the system and an external storage device. The memory is used to store the computer program and other programs and data required by the system. The memory can also be used to temporarily store data that has been output or is to be output.

[0101] The memory includes: U disk, mobile hard disk, read-only memory ROM, Read-Only Memory, random access memory RAM, Random Access Memory, disk or CD and other media that can store program code.

[0102] In this specification, a large number of specific details are described. However, it is understood that embodiments of the present invention can be put into practice without these specific details. In some instances, known methods, systems, and techniques are not shown in detail so as not to obscure the understanding of this specification. In the description of this specification, the description of reference terms "one embodiment", "some embodiments", "example", "specific example" or "some examples" etc. means that the specific features, methods, materials or characteristics described in conjunction with the embodiment or example are included in at least one embodiment or example of this specification.

[0103] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, rather than to limit it. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the above embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that they can still modify the technical solutions described in the above embodiments, or make equivalent replacements for some or all of the technical features therein. These modifications or replacements do not deviate the essence of the corresponding technical solutions from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, and they should all be included in the scope of the claims and description of the present invention.

Claims

1. A test method for eVTOL fall occupant protection safety, characterized in that: Obtaining first airframe data of the eVTOL to be tested in a predicted crash test according to a preset test start time; wherein the first airframe data includes the impact force of the airframe contacting the impact surface, the maximum deformation of the seat, and the reaction time of the protective device; Determining a first safety test result based on the first body data, the first test result being used to determine whether the human body simulator is safe; if the first safety test result is qualified, the human body simulator is safe; if it is unqualified, obtaining test data of the human body simulator body and first test data regarding the impact between the human body simulator and the protective device; Obtaining a second test result based on analyzing the first test data and the test data of the human body simulator body; According to the second test result, the main structural damage result of the human body simulator body after the eVTOL falls is obtained.

2. The test method for eVTOL fall occupant protection safety according to claim 1, characterized in that: Scoring the first body data, the first test data, and the test data of the human body simulator: Si is the final score of each data, a is the threshold when each data is rated as excellent, c is the threshold when each data is rated as unqualified, and d is the actual test value of each data; and the scoring range of each data is 0 to 100 points; the data includes: first body data, first test data and test data of the human body simulator body.

3. The test method for eVTOL fall occupant protection safety according to claim 2, characterized in that: The first body data score includes an acceleration score, a seat deformation score, and a reaction time score of the protective device; the first test data score includes an impact force score; and the test data score of the human simulator body includes a pressure change score.

4. The test method for eVTOL fall occupant protection safety according to claim 3, characterized in that: The safety of the human simulator is scored based on the scores of various data: Among them, T is the safety score of the human body simulator, S1 is the impact force score, S2 is the acceleration score, S3 is the pressure change score, S4 is the seat deformation score, and S5 is the reaction time score of the protective device; W1, W2, W3, W4, and W5 correspond to the weights of each score of S1, S2, S3, S4, and S5.

5. The test method for eVTOL fall occupant protection safety according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: The response time of the protection device is less than 150ms, which is excellent; the response time of the protection device is not less than 150ms and less than 250ms, which is good; the response time of the protection device is not less than 250ms, which is unqualified.

6. The test method for eVTOL fall occupant protection safety according to any one of claims 3-4, characterized in that: Within 0.01 to 0.05 seconds after the eVTOL touches the impact surface, an impact force score of less than 3000N is excellent, an impact force of not less than 3000N and less than 6000N is good, and an impact force of not less than 6000N is unqualified.

7. The test method for eVTOL fall occupant protection safety according to any one of claims 3-4, characterized in that: The specific scoring of seat deformation is: if the maximum deformation of the seat is less than 30mm, it is excellent; if it is not less than 30mm and less than 60mm, it is good; if it is not less than 60mm, it is unqualified.

8. The test method for eVTOL fall occupant protection safety according to any one of claims 3-4, characterized in that: Within 0.01 to 0.05 seconds of the eVTOL contacting the impact surface, the acceleration score is specifically: if the acceleration borne by the human simulator is less than 2g, it is excellent; if it is not less than 2g and less than 3g, it is good; if it is not less than 3g, it is unqualified.

9. A test system for eVTOL occupant protection safety based on fall, characterized in that: The device comprises a data analysis module, the data analysis module comprises an electronic device, the electronic device comprises a memory, a processor, and a computer program stored in the memory and executable on the processor, and when the processor executes the computer program, the electronic device implements any one of claims 1-8 of the test method for eVTOL fall occupant protection safety.

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