Development of a New Finite Element Model in Abaqus for the WorldSID 50^th Percentile Male Side Impact Dummy

This paper describes the modeling and validation of the new WorldSID 50^th percentile male dummy (WorldSID50) model for the Abaqus finite element (FE) software suite [1]. The Abaqus WorldSID50 model has been developed by Dassault Syste`mes Simulia Corp. in cooperation with the Partnership for Dummy Technology and Biomechanics (PDB), a consortium that includes the following German automobile manufacturers: Audi, BMW, Daimler, Porsche, and Volkswagen. The objective of the dummy development project was to develop a robust virtual dummy model that closely mimics the behavior of the hardware dummy in order to minimize the need for physical testing during vehicle design. Data obtained through extensive experimental tests performed at all levels of the dummy assembly — material coupon, component, sub-assembly, and full dummy — were used to calibrate and validate the finite element model. The Abaqus WorldSID50 model results show good correlation with the hardware dummy output signals for a wide range of tests. The Abaqus WorldSID50 model was approved for use in production by the PDB.