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Thesis work - Comparing ATDs and HBMs for Next-Generation Adaptive Restraint Tuning

Thesis Worker at Volvo Cars
Welcome to explore the world of Volvo Cars by writing your thesis with us! As a thesis worker in our organization you are supported by a supervisor who follows you during your project. Through your thesis work you will be able to contribute to our company purpose – providing freedom to move in a safe, sustainable and personal way – from day one! 

About this opportunity - Background

The automotive industry is rapidly evolving toward highly automated and autonomous vehicles, which are already reducing crash frequency. However, not all crashes can be avoided; therefore, occupant protection in the event of a crash needs to continue evolving. One such advancement is adaptive restraint systems. These systems offer more tuning possibilities, allowing them to enhance safety for a wider range of occupants, regardless of body shape, size, or seating position. Traditionally, restraint system development and tuning rely on Anthropomorphic Test Devices (ATDs). Human Body Models (HBMs) provide a more detailed representation of human anatomy and variability. A key question remains: Do ATD-based tuning strategies align with those derived from HBMs? Understanding this is critical for selecting the method to be used for tuning of next-generation adaptive systems that protect everyone effectively.

Scope of the thesis work

The aim of this thesis is to investigate alternative strategies for tuning adaptive restraint systems. More specifically, the study will compare the effect of alternative occupant surrogates (ATDs and HBMs) on restraint system tuning.


Task description
•    Literature Review: Review state-of-the-art adaptive restraint systems, tuning methodologies, and differences between ATD and HBM-based evaluations.
•    Simulation Setup:
      - Configure a baseline adaptive restraint system (e.g., tuneable belt load limiter, airbag parameters).
      - Define occupant scenarios with variations in body size and seating positions.
•    ATD-Based Analysis: Perform restraint system tuning of traditional crash test dummies across selected crash scenarios.
•    HBM-Based Analysis: Perform equivalent tuning using Human Body Models.
•    Compare occupant response and injury risk predictions and tuning recommendations from ATDs and HBMs.

What you'll bring

The project is suitable for two students with good knowledge of solid mechanics, the FE method, and biomechanics. The work will be carried out at Volvo Cars Safety Centre and Chalmers during spring 2026. FE simulations will be done using the LS-DYNA FE software.

Duration

•    The work will be performed during spring 2026, exact start date to be discussed
•    The duration for this thesis work is 20 weeks.
•    30 academic credits in agreement with your Thesis Advisor at the University
•    This thesis is to be conducted by 2 Students working in a pair. 


Volvo Cars. For Life.
For nearly a century, Volvo Cars has empowered people to move freely in a personal, sustainable and safe way. Today, we are driving bold advancements in electrification, sustainability and automotive safety. To realise our ambitious vision, we are seeking innovative minds who are ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow – today.

At Volvo Cars, we believe extraordinary things are achieved by ordinary people with a passion for making a difference. If you’re inspired by the opportunity to help redefine the future of mobility, we invite you to be part of our journey.

Ready to take the next step?
Submit your CV in English and tell us why you’re the ideal candidate for a role at Volvo Cars. Applications must be received no later than November 16, 2025. You will receive a confirmation email after your submission. Please note that the selection process will be held continously. 

For specific questions about the position, please reach out to Hiring Manager Camilla Stålstad at camilla.stalstad@volvocars.com.

As part of the recruitment process, the final candidates might undergo a background check.

Welcome with your application!

Gothenburg, SE, 40531

Job requisition ID:  77746

Apply now »