Mercedes-Benz has recently made history by conducting the world’s first crash test using x-ray imaging technology. The test took place at the EMI research crash facility in Freiburg, Germany and demonstrated the capabilities of high-speed x-ray technology to capture internal deformation processes during a real car crash.
The test vehicle was equipped with a SID II dummy designed with a female anatomy, positioned on the left side to simulate a side impact. This dummy is specifically crafted for side impact tests to provide accurate data on potential injuries in such collisions.
Mercedes-Benz has been working on this technology for several years and has finally achieved a breakthrough that enables the visualization of all materials commonly used in vehicle construction. By using a linear accelerator with photon energy up to 9 megaelectron volts, the company was able to capture up to 1,000 x-ray images per second during the crash test, significantly improving upon conventional medical x-ray procedures.
During the crash test, x-ray beams penetrated the bodywork and dummies from above, with a flat detector positioned underneath the test vehicle to receive digital images. The detector generated an electrical signal based on how much radiation was absorbed by the structure of the vehicle and dummies, resulting in visible grey values that resembled x-ray images taken in medical or security settings.
The results of this crash test confirmed the effectiveness of occupant protection systems in vehicles tested by Mercedes-Benz. The passenger cell and high-voltage battery structure remained intact, showcasing their ability to protect passengers during accidents. This new technology demonstrates Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to advancing safety measures in
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