........ published in NEWSLETTER # 63
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........ published in NEWSLETTER # 63
CRASHWORTHINESS OF TRANSPORTATION SYSTEMS: STRUCTURAL IMPACT AND OCCUPANT PROTECTION
by Professor N. Jones, The University, Liverpool (U.K.)
This book (NATO ASI SERIES E332) contains the lectures which were presented at the Advanced Study Institute on Crashworthiness of Transportation Systems: Structural Impact and Occupant Protection which was held in Troia, Portugal, from 7-19 July 1996. The objective of this Study Institute was to bring together experts covering a wide range of topics related to the crashworthiness of transportation systems. This book has succeeded admirably in achieving this aim. It contains four chapters on impact biomechanics, and another four chapters on road data and compatibility issues and testing, while a further three chapters discuss occupant simulation models. The next eight chapters discuss structural impact, finite-element modelling in crashworthiness and multibody dynamics approaches, while the next two chapters focus on aircraft crash protection.
Thus, it is evident that the entire spectrum of the topic is addressed in this book, and in most cases, by the world's leading experts.
A final chapter in the book presents the conclusions reached during a panel session. It contains several sections on various important topics including occupant kinematics and occupant biomechanics, structural impact, numerical methodologies for analysis and design, accident data and forensic analysis, industrial needs and aerospace specific issues.
Although important advances have been made in the field of crashworthiness, much still remains to be done to improve the current situation with about one-quarter of a million people being killed each year on the world's roads. It is suggested that much further work is required on improving the biofidelity of dummies, integrating structural impact and occupant kinematics in numerical schemes and the use of new materials.
This book is an excellent introduction for anyone who wishes to apprise themselves of the multifaceted aspects of the crashworthiness of transportation systems.
Reference books: E42, E332, F5