GM Using New Crash Test Dummy for Rear Impacts

General MotorsGMUnited States of America, 1998 > present8 models
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is using a new crash test dummy that is specifically engineered for rear impacts. The dummy is called the BioRID and was developed at Chalmers University in Gothenburg, Sweden. It has 24 vertebra simulators so it can react naturally in impacts. 

To ensure that the BioRID reacts in a predictable way, GM created a series of tests to evaluate them to produce consistent measurements. The chair of GM's Occupant Safety Research Partnership’s Rear Impact Dummy Task Group, Barbara Bunn, created the test procedure. She designed a rig that would test four BioRIDs simultaneously and worked with engineers from PorschePorscheGermany, 1931 > present43 models
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, VolkswagenVolkswagenGermany, 1938 > present98 models
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, DaimlerDaimlerGermany, 1889 > present12 models
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, ChryslerChryslerUnited States of America, 1925 > present70 models
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and FordFordUnited States of America, 1903 > present92 models
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to determine correct seating postures. It collected data on strain on the upper and lower back and compared the results to other automaker labs.

“The execution of the BioRID test matrix couldn’t have been done without a strong spirit of collaboration. Ultimately, every automaker wants to improve the crash dummies that we use to design safety into our vehicles. That way, all of our customers will benefit in the long run," said Bunn.