Development of a Flexible Head Protection Cap for Bicyclists (Practical Implementation Model)

Atsuhiro Konosu･Takahiro Isshiki (JARI)･Kumiko Mori･Asako Fukudumi (Tokushuiryou)･Satoshi Yoshinari (Muroran Institute of Technology)

In a previous study, we proposed a conceptual design for a bicycle head protector that integrated flexibility with shock absorption, aiming to enhance the adoption of protective gear. Building on this concept, the present study focused on practical implementation and successfully developed an improved prototype by refining its appearance—such as adjusting the dimensions of the cushioning material—and incorporating retention features, including a chin strap.

Improving Whiplash CAE Simulation Accuracy through Multi-Objective Optimization

Tomohiro Ueguri (SUBARU)

The introduction of Virtual Testing in crash safety assessments is accelerating, increasing the importance of CAE simulation accuracy. In this study, we developed a multi-objective optimization workflow that leverages whiplash analysis results to evaluate and improve correlation accuracy. Using an optimization platform with machine-learning–based techniques, we explored design-variable combinations that maximize correlation with physical test results. This presentation summarizes the workflow and its effectiveness.

New concepts to improve energy absorption in Front End Structures

Victor Garcia Santamaria･Mario Perez Donaire (Appuls+ IDIADA)･Genis Mensa Vendrell (Applus+ IDIADA)･Jorge Velasco Manrique (Cidaut)･KarlHeinz Kunter (Virtual Vehicle Research GmbH)･Ahmed Elmarakbi (North Umbria University)･Patryk Nossol (Fraunhofer-IWU)･Vanessa Ventosinos Louzao (CTAG)

The EU-funded SALIENT project developed innovative vehicle concepts that are safer, lighter, circular, and smarter. It focused on developing, validating, and testing light front-end structures (FES) to enhance vehicle safety using advanced materials and improved manufacturing techniques and novel safety concepts. The project created smart FES with high energy absorption capabilities, adaptable to future mixed traffic-scenarios crash events through the integration of ADAS and Passive Safety components. This paper explains how the project designed and optimized those components, its working principles, how it has implemented advanced materials into those parts and the virtual assessments and crashworthiness models of those elements.

Design, Numerical and Experimental Validation of a Simplified Side Impact Sub-System Test Approach

Alessandro Gravina･Jordi Vinas･Gustavo Maturana･Emmanouil Bouras (Applus IDIADA)

This paper introduces a novel, simplified sub-system test methodology for lateral impact scenarios that offers significant advantages over existing market solutions. Unlike complex alternatives, this effective approach uses an optimized system controlling deceleration, door intrusion, and dummy-interior interactions to replicate the full crash kinematics. Virtual validation at component and sub-system levels precedes physical testing, demonstrating good correlation in pelvis and torso injury metrics, dummy kinematics and SAB deployment. Despite minor intrusion velocity differences affecting shoulder forces, this accessible methodology provides representative crash severity comparable to full-scale tests, enabling efficient side restraint system development from early design phases.

Safety and effectiveness of the novel wheelchair with a seatbelt system

Masahito Hitosugi･Ayumu Kuwahara (Shiga University of Medical Science)

We developed the novel wheelchair with a seatbelt system. We have confirmed the safety of the wheelchair by sled tests representing a 48 km/h frontal collision with Hybrid III AM50 and AF05. According to driving tests with a welfare vehicle, the time required to board and disembark the vehicle and burden of caregivers were reduced. Therefore, we also confirmed the effectiveness of the novel wheelchair with a seatbelt system.