Occupant injury response with different arm postures in far-end side collision

ObjectiveThe study investigates the influence of arm posture on injury risk in far-end side collision.MethodThe side collision simulation model was built by using total human model for safety. First, the model and occupant restraint system were validated using open literature cadaver tests. On this basis, two typical initial arm postures (i.e., vertical arm position and driving arm position) were established to conduct collision simulations. Finally, a comparative analysis was performed on occupant dynamic responses and injury biomechanical indicators with two postures.ResultThe arm posture has a significant influence on occupant chest injury. Compared with the driving arm position, occupants adopting the vertical arm position exhibits a significant increase in both chest compression and maximum viscous response coefficient. It implies higher risk of more severe viscous injury to the chest. Rib fractures are observed during collision with all occupant models. Elderly occupant models show higher risk of rib fractures. No significant injuries were observed in pelvis in all test conditions; however, there is a risk of neck ligament injury in all cases.ConclusionThe standard seat belts struggle to effectively restrain the lateral movement of occupants in far-side collision scenarios. As the primary rigid structure in direct contact with occupant's body, the center console is the key contact component that causes an increase in injury metrics of chest and other body parts. The arm position significantly influences the injury response of upper torso; while the vertical arm posture increases chest compression and maximum viscous criterion, which help reduce rib fractures.