A fundamental look at side impact

This paper analyzes side impact data using a method based on the velocity - time history of several key points in the colliding vehicles. This method exhibits on a single graph the relationship between structural modifications, interior padding, intrusion, change-of-velocity of the struck car door, and human injury criteria. Using the model to analyze a side impact with a dummy and one matched collision with a cadaver, it appears that this method is compatible with current side impact injury levels.