Impulse-momentum based analysis of vehicle collision accidents using Monte Carlo simulation methods

Abstract

This paper proposes impact analysis tools based on the Monte Carlo simulation method which considers the impulse-momentum theory and uncertainties of related coefficients targeted on the vehicle‘s collision behavior in order to make the reliable practical application of vehicle collision accident reconstruction analysis possible. Also, an effective estimation method for the coefficient of restitution and the impulse ratio, which are important constraints in impact models, was presented. In this study, the uncertainty of the collision coefficients based on the estimating equations expressed with pre-impact conditions was considered in 95% prediction interval which has larger band width than 95% confidence interval, and to assess the subsequent uncertainty in the impact analysis, the Monte Carlo simulation has been performed. The coefficient of restitution and the impulse ratio were based on the values determined by an estimating equation within specified prediction interval, and a numerical analysis which considers both uniform distribution and normal distribution was performed and the results were compared and discussed.