A Modular Dynamic Simulation Approach to the Reconstruction of Automobile Accidents

Abstract

Dynamic computer simulation of automobile accidents can play a significant role in reconstructing vehicular motion. A modular approach, where individual computer modules are used interactively by an investigator to reconstruct the physical events of an accident in separate phases is proposed. This approach presents an opportunity for widespread application and therefore influence on automobile safety due to its simplicity, costs, accuracy, and ability to meet size limitations on small computers. Modular algorithms to analyze trajectory and impact phases of accidents and a series of nondimensional graphs applicable to the impact phase are developed and applied to two different accidents. The example reconstructions and comparisons with results from trying to reconstruct the accidents using a large “general purpose” program indicate the utility, viability, and promise of a modular algorithm reconstruction approach.