test dummy

The Head and Neck Injury Test

A test dummy is an anthropomorphic test device (ATD) used to measure human injury potential in simulated crashes. An ATD is designed to represent the articulation of a human body and its responses to accelerations, deflections, forces, and moments of inertia generated during a crash impact. Hundreds of sensors are installed within the ATD to provide life-saving data to test engineers.

This video provides a behind-the-scenes look at test dummy usage. The data collected from the dummies allows engineers to assess the severity of injuries that could occur during a flight vehicle crash. This knowledge guides the vehicle design to minimize injuries, especially to those of the head and neck.

Review Question 3.1: How does a test dummy contribute to the safety of a flight vehicle?

It provides data relevant to occupant injury, and thus guides the design of a safer vehicle.

.gif animated image of a test dummy in an airplane seat, in a simulated crash

THE Head and Neck Injury Test

Airplane seat configurations must pass a head and neck injury test per FAA’s requirements. A typical test setup includes a row-to-row seat configuration with the back seats occupied. The test simulates a 16g survivable crash. Notice that the dummy’s head strikes the seatback of the front row seat, resulting in a severe bending of the dummy’s neck.

Review Question 3.2: betty is designing a tray table, a seatback, and recline features for an airplane seat. what corcerns should she address?

Occupant head and neck injury during a crash should be her primary concern. Her design must comply with the regulatory requirements.

Review Question 3.3: what is a typical seat configuration for a head and neck injury test?

A row-to-row arrangement with the back row occupied.

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