Preparing for virtual testing for crashworthiness: proposing a method for certifying ATD models for frontal crash assessments

Abstract

In the Euro NCAP 2030 roadmap, Virtual Testing using the H3 adult ATD FE-models is planned to be implemented in the next phase. Certification of ATD models ensures that the virtual models can predict the response of the mechanical counterpart at an acceptable level of accuracy. The aim of this study was to develop an open-source generic frontal impact sled FE-model and method that can be used to certify H3 adult ATD models for Virtual Testing. The method included two crash pulses corresponding to 40 and 56 kmh full-frontal rigid barrier crashes. An objective rating metric based on the ISOTS-18571 was used to determine model correlation. Six simulations were conducted, and the predictions were compared to the results from 18 physical tests. A fair-to-good correlation (0.757-0.810) was observed for all simulations, with a similar correlation at both crash pulses for each ATD model. Although the H35F and H350M models had the best correlation, the H395M model had a fair rating. A good correlation (0.832-0.856) was observed for the sled measurements, with no significant differences between ATDs and crash pulses. This model and method could be a part of the H3 adult ATD model certification to be used for Virtual Testing. © 2024 International Research Council on the Biomechanics of Injury. All rights reserved.