An optical, non-contact roof deformation monitoring system will be designed based on an existing multi-point, non-contact, multi-axis optical sensor-based measurement system that is currently used to measure chest deflection in crash-test dummies. The research involves determining suitable components to be used in the optical path, from high-power LED arrays through lenses and optical sensors. These components would replace existing parts in order to extend the measurement volume from the small thorax of a crash-test dummy to the larger volume need for measuring dynamic roof crush. The larger measurement volume requires an increase in light energy at the sensors of 100 times that required for the dummy thorax. The project will culminate in the design of a roof monitoring system that can be used to monitor the roof over an occupant's head. Multiple systems could be used in parallel to extend the measurement range to the whole vehicle roof, as well as restraint system anchor points.
