In a remarkable leap forward for automotive safety, the world has witnessed the creation of the very first female crash test dummy, affectionately known as SET 50F. This pioneering invention, spearheaded by Swedish engineer Astrid Linder, marks a crucial milestone in the ongoing quest to enhance protection for women in automobile accidents.
As it stands, current legislation mandates that car manufacturers conduct crash tests using dummies designed to emulate the proportions of the male physique—a practice rooted in the 1970s. Remarkably, this has persisted despite compelling statistics revealing that women face a heightened risk of injury in frontal collisions.
To represent women and children in crash tests, car manufacturers have resorted to using downsized versions of male crash test dummies. However, these adaptations have largely overlooked the unique anatomical attributes of women’s bodies.
Astrid Linder, an engineer at the Swedish National Road and Transport Research Institute (VTI), resolved to bridge this glaring gap by developing what has been hailed as “the world’s first average-sized female crash test dummy,” as reported by VTI.
In a warehouse located in Linkoping, situated 200 kilometers (125 miles) south of Stockholm, the female crash test dummy is meticulously secured into a car seat. It is then propelled along a metal rail at a speed of 16 kilometers per hour (10 miles per hour) before being abruptly brought to a halt.
This high-speed encounter is captured on screen in slow motion, revealing stark differences when compared to a standard male crash test dummy. Notably, the chest area of the female dummy stands out as a significant point of contrast.
Tommy Petterson, a colleague of Linder’s at VTI, explains, “The muscles in the neck are normally weaker in a woman,” emphasizing the neck’s flexibility and enhanced mobility when compared to its male counterpart.
The female prototype, which commenced testing in Sweden in late 2022, is constructed using a combination of rubber, metal, and plastic. Boasting 24 sensors, this trailblazing creation measures 162 centimeters (5 feet 3 inches) in height and weighs 62 kilograms (137 pounds). These dimensions starkly contrast with those of a male crash test dummy, featuring a 15-centimeter reduction in height and a 15-kilogram decrease in weight. Further distinctions include narrower shoulders and wider hips, reflecting the unique anatomical attributes that play a pivotal role in assessing the risks faced by women during vehicular accidents.
Linder underscores the importance of addressing these disparities, particularly within the context of non-fatal injuries that can result in lasting disabilities. She stresses, “When it comes to non-fatal injuries with the potential for long-term disabilities, statistics consistently highlight the discrepancies between men and women. The resulting suffering can be lifelong. It is imperative to establish comprehensive protection for all individuals.”
A study conducted by the University of Virginia in 2019 further underscores the gravity of this issue. The study revealed that women face a staggering 73% higher likelihood of sustaining injuries in frontal collisions compared to men. Additionally, due to distinctive neck anatomy and the design of neck supports in vehicles, women are twice as likely to experience whiplash injuries.
While some automakers, including Sweden’s Volvo, have already incorporated Linder’s female crash test dummy into their testing protocols, there are currently no global regulations mandating its utilization.
Linder, who also imparts her expertise in the field of automotive engineering, ardently advocates for legislative action at this juncture. She asserts, “The existing regulations stipulate the use of an average male model for all testing without exception.”
Despite receiving recognition and accolades for her contributions to the automotive industry, the widespread adoption of her innovative solution has yet to gain substantial traction.
Emily Thomas, the head of automobile testing at the US non-profit organization Consumer Reports, highlights the historical bias towards male vehicle safety. She observes, “In our society and culture, the focus on ensuring the safety of male occupants in vehicles prevailed for a significant period, reflecting the prevailing demographics of drivers. Even as societal norms evolved, unfortunately, safety innovations did not evolve at the same pace.”
Linder issues a compelling call to legislators, urging them to embrace change and inclusivity in this vital arena. She passionately states, “Our aim is to foster a society that is both sustainable and inclusive. Presently, the existing legislation excludes females from the safety equation.”
Her aspiration is to manufacture additional SET 50F female crash test dummies and disseminate this groundbreaking advancement worldwide. Ultimately, Linder’s pioneering work stands as a beacon of hope, striving for safer roads that cater to the safety and well-being of all individuals, regardless of their gender.
Her aspiration is to produce more SET 50F female crash test dummies and disseminate this pivotal advancement across the globe. Ultimately, Linder’s pioneering work stands as a beacon of hope for safer roads for all, irrespective of gender.
