Gerald W. Nyquist

Rheology of the cornea: Experimental techniques and results

A study of the stress-strain-time properties of the cornea as evidenced by uniaxial tensile tests is presented. Stresses were applied using dead weight loads, and the resulting strains were recorded by means of photomicrography. For the physiological range of stress the mechanical properties are nearly linear, whereas non-linearity predominates over an extended range. Anisotropy considerations indicate that the mechanical properties are not a function of angular orientation, which supports theories of random orientation of the stromal fibers. The response of the cornea to an applied stress includes instantaneous and retarded (time dependent) elastic components.

Airbag Effects on the Out-Of-Position Child

This paper describes experiments involving airbag systems. Because there is the least amount of data on the tolerance of children to impact, the out-of-position child was used in the experiments. After careful consideration it was decided that a primate of approximately the same weight as a child be used, which would provide the most realistic evaluation of potential injuries. The animal chosen for the experimental program was the baboon. Five distinct positions were chosen and this paper describes in detail the experimental physiological conditions and results. For the covering abstract see IRRD 810752. (Author/TRRL)

Lumbar and pelvic orientations of the vehicle seated volunteer

An X-ray radiographic study of two volunteers in a vehicle seated configuration was performed to gain insights into the lower torso skeletal geometry associated with this posture. A pseudo three-dimensional analysis of each radiogram was utilized to obtain quantitative results. The analyses provided indications of the pelvis and femur relative and absolute orientations. Further, the geometry of the lumbar spine and its location relative to the pelvis were defined. The relevance of the data from the standpoint of anthropomorphic dummy design is discussed, and recommendations are offered for further studies of vehicle seat/vehicle occupant interfacing biomechanics. Anthropometric data on each volunteer are included. Language: en

Safety Performance of Shaped Steering Assembly Airbag

This paper discusses a program wherein studies were made of forward force simulations of crashes and destructive barrier crashes using a shaped steering assembly airbag. It was shown that the airbag was offered the best protection when compared with the performance of lap belts and lap and shoulder belt combinations. This shaped airbag deploys between the abdomen and the steering wheel and between the head and the steering wheel, thus providing protection of these two important areas.