I refined this a bit by using a Google Images search on accelerometer and velocity plots of car crash tests and got better hits. It looks like the velocity profile of a well-designed car will try to minimize the peak deceleration during the crash, which makes sense. So the profile of the velocity during the crash deceleration is a fairly straight decreasing line, which means that the deceleration forces felt by the passengers is fairly constant during the crash duration in order to minimize injuries. If the velocity profile were exponential, you would have higher peak deceleration forces at first, and then decreasing forces after that. Not very healthy...berkeman said:
An automotive crash test is a controlled experiment designed to evaluate the safety and performance of vehicles during collisions. These tests help manufacturers understand how vehicles respond to impacts and are essential for improving safety features and complying with regulatory standards.
There are several types of crash tests, including frontal impact tests, side impact tests, rear impact tests, and rollover tests. Each type assesses the vehicle's structural integrity, occupant protection, and safety features in various collision scenarios.
Crash test results are measured using various metrics, including the forces experienced by crash test dummies, the deformation of the vehicle structure, and the effectiveness of safety features such as airbags and seatbelts. Results are often quantified using ratings, such as stars or scores, to indicate the level of safety provided.
Several organizations conduct automotive crash tests, including the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), and various international agencies. These organizations establish testing protocols and publish safety ratings to inform consumers and promote vehicle safety.
Crash tests significantly influence vehicle design by providing critical data that informs engineers about potential weaknesses and areas for improvement. Manufacturers use test results to enhance structural integrity, optimize safety features, and ensure compliance with safety regulations, ultimately leading to safer vehicles for consumers.