The Toyota's THUMS (Total Human Model for Safety) software program has been updated to Version 7 to address the impact of driver-assist systems on people's posture, which can vary from a seated position to a reclined position. This can have a significant effect on the body's reaction to seat and restraint systems and the injuries sustained in the event of a collision. THUMS enables computer simulation and analysis of crash impacts on human models, providing a more precise prediction of injuries.
The latest version of THUMS allows for more accurate computerized crash simulations, which assist in developing more effective safety features, particularly in light of the increasing prevalence of advanced driver-assist systems in modern vehicles. The software can simulate the impact on human bones, muscles, and organs, and predict how individuals will adjust their posture and brace their muscles during emergency maneuvers or when safety systems are activated.
Sabine Compigne, Technical Manager in Toyota's R&D Safety Research operations, emphasized the importance of keeping the pelvis in the seat during a collision to avoid abdominal injuries and prevent spinal injuries resulting from compression on the spine. Toyota has used THUMS in vehicle development and extended free access to its know-how since 2021, with the goal of promoting safer mobility in society. The principles of THUMS can also be applied to other transport fields, such as trains and aviation.
Source: Toyota
