Numerical tools for comfort analyses of automotive seating

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Aspects of seat modelling for seating comfort analysis

The development of more comfortable seats is an important issue in the automotive industry. However, the development of new car seats is very time consuming and costly since it is typically based on experimental evaluation using prototypes. Computer models of the human–seat interaction could accelerate this process. The objective of this paper is to establish a protocol for the development of seat models using numerically efficient simulation techniques. The methodology is based on multi-body techniques: arbitrary surfaces, providing an accurate surface description, are attached to rigid bodies. The bodies are connected by kinematic joints, representing the seat back recliner and head restraint joint. Properties of the seat foam and frame have been lumped together. Further, experiments have been defined to characterise the mechanical properties required for the seat model for comfort applications. The protocol has been exemplified using a standard car seat. The seat model has been validated based on experiments with rigid loading devices with human-like shapes in terms of force–deflection characteristics. The response of the seat model agrees well with the experimental results. Therefore the presented method can be a useful tool in the seat development process, especially in early stages of the design process

Estimation of spinal loading in vertical vibrations by numerical simulations

Objective. This paper describes the prediction of spinal forces in car occupants during vertical vibrations using a numerical multi-body occupant model. Background. An increasing part of the population is exposed to whole body vibrations in vehicles. In literature, vertical vibrations and low back pain are often related to each other. The cause of these low back pains is not well understood. A numerical human model, predicting intervertebral forces, can help to understand the mechanics of the human spine during vertical vibrations. Methods. Numerical human and seat models have been used. Human model responses have been validated for vertical vibrations (rigid and standard car seat condition): simulated and experimental seat-to-human frequency response functions have been compared. The spinal shear and compressive forces have been investigated with the model. Results. The human model seat-to-pelvis and seat-to-T1 frequency response functions in the rigid seat condition and all seat-to-human frequency response functions in the standard car seat condition approach the experimental results reasonably. The lumbar and the lower thoracic spine are subjected to the largest shear and compressive forces. Conclusions. The human model responses correlate reasonable with the volunteer responses. The predicted spinal forces could be used as a basis for derivation of hypothetical mechanisms and better understanding of low back pain disorders. Relevance In order to solve the problem of whole body vibration related injuries, knowledge about the interaction between human spinal vertebrae in vertical vibrations is required. This interaction cannot be measured in volunteer experiments. This paper describes the application of a numerical human model for prediction of spinal forces, that could be used as a basis for derivation of hypotheses regarding low back pain disorders