Scenario establishment and simulation analysis for multiple-car rear-end collision accidents

Multiple-car rear-end collision accidents can be divided into three categories: sequential collision from the rear; sequential collision from the front; mixed-order collision. In this study, a total of five scenarios were constructed by using a statistical analysis based on the National Automotive Sampling System Crashworthiness Data System and by setting the gap between the cars based on the travel distance calculated from the reaction time of the driver and the speed and/or the deceleration of the car. Two simulation analysis methods were proposed for each scenario. The first method used a three-dimensionally scanned car model in the simulation program. This enabled more realistic simulations to be utilized for tuned cars. The second method involved simulating high-speed multiple rear-end collisions by using a program originally made for low-speed single rear-end collisions. This paper proposed appropriate tests and analysis methods for multiple collisions which will help to improve safety devices for cars.