Modification and Validation of a Finite Element Model of a Pedestrian Dummy

Aims of the research This study aims to modify the lower body (the pelvis, thigh, and leg) of the mid-sized male pedestrian dummy FE model by considering the latest version of the physical dummy and to evaluate both the accuracy by comparing test results of the past studies and the biofidelity specified in SAE J2782 in both component and full-scale validations. Methods 1 Component validation The validation of the modified pelvis model was performed in dynamic lateral compression simulations. The sacrum and the pubis force-deflection responses of the iliac or the acetabulum impact were measured. The modified thigh and leg models were evaluated in a dynamic 3-point lateral bending simulation, measuring the force-deflection responses. The results from the simulations were compared with test results and the biofidelity requirements. 2 Full-scale validation The whole-body model was updated by incorporating these modified component models. The model of the generic buck developed for the assessment of pedestrian whole-body impact response and specified in SAE J3093 was used in this study. The buck model was made to collide with the full-scale dummy model at 40 km/h laterally. The trajectories of the head, upper spine, mid-thorax, and pelvis were measured and compared with those of the test results and the biofidelity requirements. Results The force-deflection responses from the pelvis, thigh, and leg models were similar to those of the test results, indicating they almost fell within the biofidelity requirements. As the results of the full-scale simulation, the trajectories of the head, upper spine, mid-thorax, and pelvis showed a strong agreement with those of the test results, indicating almost the same tendency as the biofidelity corridors, except for that of the pelvis. Conclusions As the results of component and full-scale validations, the equivalences of the modified pedestrian dummy model to test results and the biofidelity were confirmed in most cases.