Citation

Kompass K, Digges KH, Malliaris A. Proc. Int. Tech. Conf. Enhanced Safety Vehicles 1998; 1998: 1760-1767.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1998, In public domain, Publisher National Highway Traffic Safety Administration)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Beginning in model year 1997, BMW introduced an innovative head protection system HPS called the Inflatable Tubular Structure (HPS). Tests indicate that the system dramatically reduces the severity of head impacts in side crashes. This investigation is an evaluation of casualty abatement benefits that are derived from applying injury measures based on the HPS test results to the population in US National Accident Sampling System (NASS/CDS). The results of component and vehicle crash tests are summarized. The procedures for estimating benefits are described along with the benefits in terms of injuries mitigated, maximum injuries to occupants mitigated, and fatalities prevented. The benefits cited are over and above the benefits offered by other safety systems. These systems include: frontal air bags, side air bags, FMVSS 214 side impact protection, and FMVSS 201 head protection for the vehicle roof and headers.