Coupling feedback control loop-based model in Simulink to finite element model in LS-Dyna: Application to reposition forward leaning occupant to upright posture

Forward leaning postures have been observed for current car passengers [1] and are expected to occur even more frequently in future autonomous vehicles [2]. For existing restrain systems a strategy to provide optimized protection is to deploy mechatronic belt pre-pretensioner (MBPPT) before the crash targeting to maintain or better prevent possible forward leaning postures, mostly induced through pre-crash vehicle maneuvers [3 - 5]. Where for future restraint systems in highly automated vehicles [6 - 9] an additional load case for MBPPT might become important. Here the airbag restraint system is mounted into the seat, enclosing the upright occupant during deployment. If the occupant is out-of-position, the enclosure of the restrain system might not function optimally. Hence, a pre-triggered MBPPT can be used to bring the occupant back to the upright position before the crash.