Optimization of Biomechanical Systems for Crashworthiness and Safety

The optimal performance of a safety device for crashworthiness and safety is studied in this paper. The problem is treated as the optimal control and optimization of a biomechanical system consisting of the safety device and occupant. The performance of this system is usually measured by certain injury criteria. The limiting performance analysis is implemented to find the best possible performance for the system. The parametric optimization is introduced for the optimal design of a safety device. Computational modeling and simulation of biomechanical systems is discussed with a brief description of various modeling techniques. The use of an Articulated Total Body model in the limiting performance analysis and parametric optimization is addressed in detail. The optimization of the safety performance of a type of ejection seat cushion is studied.