Examination of the Ability of Conceptual Airbag Systems to Affect Restrained Occupant Kinematics and Associated Neck Loads During Rollover Impact Conditions

Rollover occupant protection systems consist of many design elements such as various seat belt types, airbags, active and passive seats, and deployable systems in rollover impacts. In this study conceptual airbag systems intended to modify occupant kinematics were examined. The potential effects of these systems on occupant neck loads were evaluated. Finite element models of an LTV type vehicle and a 50th percentile dummy were utilized to evaluate the effects of alternative designs on neck loads under example rollover conditions. CAE representations of deployable airbag system types were created. Results of the study are summarized below.