Investigation into suitability of current ATDs to represent ageing drivers

Abstract

Ageing car occupants are expected to become a larger part of the driver and passenger population in developed countries in the future. Currently, Anthropomorphic Test Devices (ATDs) are essential tools to assess safety of automobiles; however, they do not fully embody the features of all occupant groups in the world population. This study investigates the features of ageing drivers. The data are collected and analysed with respect to age and gender. Information particularly on driver–automobile interaction is provided in the form of distances and angles measured in-car. The physical characteristics of existing ATDs are investigated and compared with the anthropometric data of ageing drivers. Comparisons indicate that the current ATDs do not incorporate some of the features of ageing drivers. The requirements of future ATDs such as sitting height, abdominal depth and posture are discussed. These specifications are essential for the development of new ATDs representing ageing drivers.

Keywords:

• ageing
• ageing driver
• anthropometric measurements
• in-car measurements
• ATD

Acknowledgements

The authors gratefully acknowledge funding support from Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council and Loughborough University Innovative Manufacturing and Construction Research Centre. The authors also thank the volunteers who participated in the measurement sessions of this study.