Occupant Positioning Module for Virtual Crash Test Standardization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Variations in the interpretation of parameters for placing anthropomorphic test dummies in virtual vehicle crash tests lead to inconsistencies in meeting Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS), resulting in differing crash test results among different groups within vehicle manufacturers.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle test system with an occupant positioning module that generates standardized parameters for the positioning of virtual dummies within virtual vehicles based on FMVSS, using a code that links specific points on the vehicle and dummy components, ensuring consistent implementation across various groups, and facilitates the use of these parameters through Extensible Markup Language (XML) for uniformity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If different groups interpret FMVSS parameters independently, then each group can customize their test procedures, but inconsistencies in dummy positioning and test results occur across groups
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the interpretation of FMVSS regulatory text into specific, quantifiable parameters including 3D coordinates (x, y, z positions), Euler angles (orientations), and dimensional measurements. These parameterized specifications are stored in a database and automatically applied to virtual dummy models, ensuring consistent interpretation across different groups while maintaining the ability to adapt to various vehicle configurations and test scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary system consisting of a database storing standardized positioning parameters and software that automatically applies these parameters to virtual dummy models. This intermediary layer sits between the FMVSS regulations and the actual test execution, ensuring that all groups use the same interpretation standards while allowing flexibility in implementing specific test scenarios.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual interpretation of FMVSS is used, then flexibility in applying standards is maintained, but time consumption and human error increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by pre-processing the FMVSS regulatory text into structured parameter specifications before actual test execution. The database stores pre-calculated positioning parameters, coordinate systems, and orientation angles that can be automatically retrieved and applied during testing. This eliminates the need for manual interpretation during each test setup, significantly reducing time consumption while maintaining flexibility through the structured parameter system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of interpreting and applying FMVSS parameters with an automated computer-based system. Software automatically retrieves parameters from the database, applies them to virtual dummy models, and generates test configurations. This substitution eliminates human error in interpretation and dramatically reduces the time required for setup while preserving the ability to adapt to different test scenarios through programmable flexibility.
3Measurement precision
If detailed parameter specifications are provided, then positioning precision is improved, but system complexity and data management burden increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the complex positioning problem into distinct, manageable components: coordinate system definitions, translation parameters, rotation parameters, and dummy-specific measurements. Each segment is stored as a separate parameter in the database with clearly defined data structures. This segmentation allows for high precision in each individual parameter while simplifying overall system management through modular organization and automated processing of each segment independently.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle test system includes an occupant positioning module that receives a virtual vehicle and a virtual dummy. The occupant positioning module generates a first set of parameters based on the virtual vehicle, the virtual dummy and a first adapted vehicle standard. N groups receive the first set of parameters. N is an integer greater than 1.