Test Pendulum Arrangement with Adjustable Cable Length
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional crash test dummy certification devices require significant space and are ergonomically challenging due to the large size and weight of crash test dummies, leading to inefficient operation and safety risks during pendulum-based tests, especially in environments with low ceiling clearance.
Innovation Solution
A test pendulum arrangement with a reduced cable length and actuator system, including linear actuators and adjustable cable configurations, allows for precise and safe operation in a smaller space, enabling efficient certification with reduced collision risks and improved ergonomics by using actuators to control the pendulum's movement and maintain consistent cable tension.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a standardized cable length is used for the test pendulum, then the measurement precision is maintained, but the space requirements and ceiling height increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The cable length is made dynamically adjustable rather than fixed at the standardized length. The cable assembly includes a cable length adjustment device that allows the cable length to be varied between a first length (L1) and a second length (L2), enabling the system to adapt to different space constraints while maintaining measurement functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The physical parameter of cable length is changed from a fixed standardized value to a variable parameter. By adjusting the cable length between L1 and L2, the system can operate in different spatial environments while the actuator ensures the pulse delivered to the crash test dummy remains within required tolerances
2Measurement precision
If the test pendulum is swung from a great height to achieve the required pulse, then the measurement precision is maintained, but the area and volume of the test device increase
Solution Approach 1:
The solution transitions from a purely vertical pendulum swing to a system that can deliver the required pulse horizontally or at reduced height. The actuator system enables the test probe to contact the crash test dummy without requiring the traditional high-arc pendulum swing, effectively changing the dimensional approach from vertical to horizontal pulse delivery
Solution Approach 2:
The traditional gravity-based pendulum mechanism is supplemented or replaced with an actuator system. The actuator can directly propel the test probe or adjust the cable tension to achieve the required pulse without relying solely on gravitational potential energy from a high swing arc
3Measurement precision
If the crash test dummy is positioned precisely multiple times for certification, then the measurement precision is maintained, but the time required for certification increases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator system performs preliminary positioning and tensioning adjustments before the actual impact test. By pre-adjusting the cable length and tension to the optimal values, the system eliminates the need for multiple positioning iterations during the certification process
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms to monitor the pulse delivered to the crash test dummy. The actuator adjusts cable length and tension based on feedback from previous tests, automatically optimizing the configuration to deliver the required pulse within tolerances without manual repositioning
4Adaptability or versatility
If a long cable is used for the test pendulum, then the standardized test procedure is maintained, but the device complexity and safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cable assembly with adjustable length and actuator system serves multiple functions: it maintains compliance with standardized test procedures, adapts to different spatial constraints, and provides controlled pulse delivery. This multi-functional design replaces the need for multiple specialized devices
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution significantly reduces space requirements and operational risks, enabling more efficient and precise certification of crash test dummies, allowing for higher throughput and safer laboratory operations with lower ceiling heights.
Implementation Method 1
at least one actuator, in particular at least one linear motor
Implementation Method 2
a test probe (4), which is hangingly disposed at a cable assembly (6)
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a test pendulum arrangement for carrying out a crash test dummy certifications, having a test probe which is arranged suspended on a cable arrangement, wherein test conditions are standardized and a cable standard length (lN) is provided, the cable arrangement having a suspension, wherein a first drive for accelerating the test probe and at least a second drive for displacing the suspension are provided. The invention also relates to a method for operating a corresponding test pendulum arrangement.