Abstract
The police crash investigation department requires an engineering study of a vehicle crash before presenting a case to the judicial system. Vehicle crash reconstruction simulations establish new scientific basis for the judiciary system. Computer models are used to reconstruct the vehicle performance, since the dynamic performance of a vehicle collision cannot be repeated in real time. Vehicle dynamics is the engineering study of a vehicle based on mechanics and physics. This thesis uses modern techniques in combination with the information of Event Data Recorders (EDR) to help the judiciary system identify the safety parameters and condition of vehicles. The research analysis mainly focuses on the performance of police vehicles. The EDR is a device installed in the vehicle to record how the driver responds to a crash event. Since 2004 the event data recorders are mandatory in every vehicle. Also, the EDR is able to analyze the change in velocity of the vehicle at the time of the impact. The analysis of the change in velocity allows a base structure for computer simulation. A 3-D computer solid model of a 2004 Ford Crown Victoria is developed using Solidwoks. Also, dynamic computer simulations are developed using Adams View. The solid models consist of a tire assembly, a suspension assembly and a vehicle structure. These are assembled to form a complete model of the vehicle. The main objective is to analyze the vehicle’s performance during tactile driving maneuverers. The second objective is to provide new alternative methods to demonstrate a crash reconstruction to the judicial system. This method will provide a simpler, faster, and more accurate analysis of a vehicle dynamics. Additionally, the outcome of these simulations will provide a theoretical basis for future vehicle design.