News

We are excited to announce a new and innovative project within SAFER’s Idea Exploration Program: Analysis of the 3D H-point Machine in Relation to Diversity. This project is led by Autoliv, Chalmers University of Technology and the Swedish Transport Agency and aims to enhance the understanding of how the three-dimensional H-point machine (HPM) influences injury risk variation and its relationship to occupant diversity.

Today, UN-regulated crash tests are conducted using dummies that represent an average male (175 cm, 77 kg) and, for frontal crashes, a scaled-down male dummy representing a 5th percentile female (151 cm, 48 kg). However, a review by UNECE’s working group on equitable occupant protection highlighted that women face higher injury risks in various types of crashes.

The HPM is a reference tool used to establish seating reference points and other critical measurements in vehicles. It is based on an average male’s contours and significantly influences vehicle design, including the geometry and fit of safety belts.

Project Objectives

This pre-study project will:

• Analyse how the HPM impacts vehicle design and protective safety.
• Map the regulations that rely on HPM and its application in these frameworks.
• Propose ways to adapt and integrate findings from the HPM into future research and development to address diversity and equity.

Expected Outcomes

Short-term:

• Insights into how the HPM shapes vehicle design and safety features.
• An overview of the standards and regulations involving the HPM.
• Analysis of how the HPM affects critical safety functions like seatbelt fit.

Long-term:

• Recommendations on how findings related to the HPM can inform future research and regulatory updates.
• Contributions to a deeper understanding of how regulations and standards influence safety for different genders and body types.

Contribution to SAFER and the Global Sustainability Goals

This project supports SAFER’s mission to advance road safety for everyone while contributing to several UN Sustainable Development Goals:

• Goal 3.6: Improve road safety.
• Goal 5.C: Strengthen policies and legislation for gender equality.
• Goal 9.6: Promote gender-responsive standards.

About SAFER’s Idea Exploration Program

SAFER’s Idea Exploration Program funds research activities that contribute to a safer road transport system while delivering value to our partners. By supporting innovative seed projects, we pave the way for a sustainable and equitable future in traffic safety.