6 Dimensional Sensor Package (6DSP)

Understanding the kinematics of intruding structures (floor plans, doors, roofs, etc.) as well as dummy motions is critical to safety related research. DTS believes the best way to acquire this data is to use small lightweight sensor packages to dynamically track the motion of single points using six degrees-of-freedom measurements. This methodology does not require line of sight to the measured point. The overall objective of the proposed project is to supply a working, validated prototype of a small device (6DSP) that along with University of Virginia developed algorithms can generate dynamic, 3D positional data of a point during during a typical crash test. The 6DSP device must be lightweight and small so a matrix of devices can be positioned to map motion with little to no affect on vehicle structure or dummy kinematics. Key objectives of this effort include creation a 20 x 20 x 10 mm, 9 channel sensor package to measure 3 axis of linear acceleration, angular rate and tilt. Precision manufacturing techniques and added signal conditioning will be designed to produce ultra-accurate, low noise sensor signals. Industry standard CMD probes and video tracking systems will be used to test the sensor package and processing algorithm.