Preliminary Evaluation of OpenSim as a Tool for Simulating Occupant Kinematics in Low-Speed Rear-End Collisions

Authors: Brandon Fugger—Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Dakota; Jesse Rhoades—Department of Education, Health & Behavior, University of North Dakota

Abstract

This study explored the feasibility of using OpenSim’s forward dynamics tool to model occupant kinematics in low-speed rear-end collisions. The crash pulse characteristics and comparison kinematic data were obtained from an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) dynamic rear seat test. Given the exploratory nature of this phase of the study, certain assumptions and methodological simplifications were necessary to prioritize feasibility. The  forward dynamics tool was applied using  a combined whole-body musculoskeletal model representing a 50^th percentile male. The model was positioned on a simplified vehicle seat model and simulated in a 16 km/h low-speed rear impact, subjected to an IIHS 10G crash pulse. The simulation produced realistic acceleration magnitudes and patterns at the head, T1, and pelvis. The results suggest that OpenSim offers a promising, computationally efficient, open-source approach for studying occupant kinematics. This proof-of-concept study indicates that with further refinement and comprehensive validation against human subject test data, OpenSim’s forward dynamics tool could be optimized for future applications in rear-impact simulations.

Type: Short Communication

Keywords: OpenSim, whole-body finite element modeling, occupant kinematics, rear-end collisions

© Stapp Car Crash Conference, 2024

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