Energy Methods and Damage Analysis in Traffic Crash Reconstruction

For many traffic crash reconstructionists, the topic of energy can be intimidating, mysterious or down right scary. Because of this, reconstructionists shy away from utilizing energy methods in their analysis. This course will help de-mystify the concept of energy and present energy-based methods and techniques to use in analyzing traffic crashes. During the course, you will learn to view and analyze crashes from an energy point of view. We will explore energy methods beginning with the basics and progressing to more advanced concepts. We will discuss the often-misunderstood topics of Equivalent Barrier Speed (EBS) and delta-V and you will learn different ways to analyze collisions, such as damage momentum, where a traditional conservation of linear momentum may not be the most appropriate analysis. We will also explore the topic of crush. We will examine the basis of the three familiar energy equations that use crush measurements. Outside projects will provide you with “hands-on” experience in examining and measuring crash vehicles and then calculating damage energy and speeds. This course will help you become more comfortable in utilizing energy-based methods in your analysis as we examine the underlying science that computer-based “crash” programs rely upon. It is an excellent complement to other training courses that teach you how to use “crash” software. You should have a firm understanding of the topics of traffic crash reconstruction and conservation of linear momentum as well as strong basic math skills. Topics Include Standards, measurements and dimensional analysis Understanding and using conversion factors Vectors Damage momentum and crush analysis Crush measuring protocol and measuring techniques Outdoor project - interpreting damage and measuring crush Energy concepts and analysis Determining appropriate post-impact drag factors Understanding EBS and delta-V Conservations of linear momentum and delta-V vectors Introduction to c