Developing MIRA's Linear Guided Head Impact Rig

Linear guided head impact rig ideal for new legislative tests

MIRA’s design team have redesigned the impactor used in our linear guided head impact rig to improve its modal characteristics. In addition to providing better signal response, MIRA’s engineers took the opportunity to enable the new impactor to be used in its normal attitude as opposed to the less practical, inverted orientation of the original. The new design also meets the requirements of forthcoming changes to the legislative requirements for seat head restraints, FMVSS 202a. Designed to reduce the occurrence and severity of whiplash injuries this legislation calls for minimum energy absorption characteristics for head restraints.

The design team considered a variety of configurations for the impactor before deciding upon an aluminium welded fabrication consisting of tube, plate and machined billet components. CAE analysis was extensively used to assess and optimise the design to give minimal stress levels, deformation and modes of vibration. The final design achieved both a specified critical target weight and a resonant frequency outside of the range induced when operating the rig.

Unlike conventional drop and pendulum impact rigs, MIRA’s linear guided head impact rig can be adjusted through a wide range of angles enabling more representative simulations of real world impacts.

In addition to head restraints, the upgraded facility is being used for occupant protection studies on facias, steering wheels, instrument panels and various trim items.

MIRA's Linear guided head impactor rig is one of a suite of facilities used for interior trim development others can be found here:

Testing - Environmental Main

Test Services - Safety and Structural