Identification and control for future restraint systems

In this paper, an approach to design an ideal restraint system is discussed. The problem, normally solved by optimization approaches, is translated to a tracking problem, where a given reference trajectory has to be tracked. Before a controller can be designed, identification of the local dynamic input-output behavior is performed in several operating points using stepwise perturbations added to the input. Using the obtained model, a stabilizing controller is designed with loop shaping for performance. Results are shown for the design of the belt force, such that the maximum chest deceleration of the driver in a frontal crash test with 56 km/h crash velocity, is minimized. A reduction of 60% of the maximum chest acceleration is achieved.