Abstract:
A vehicle model including main and secondary modules is provided. The vehicle module may also include vehicle components, a frame, a camera system, and a controller. The vehicle components are operably connected to the modules. The frame supports the modules and components and defines a 3D grid including identifiable reference points. The camera system is arranged with the frame to capture activity within the 3D grid. The controller is in communication with, and configured to direct operation of, the modules, components, and camera system based on the identifiable reference points and accessible vehicle CAD data. The vehicle components may comprise a subject platform located adjacent to, detached from, and integrated to function with the modules. The subject platform may be configured to vertically adjust between a plurality of positions for simulating ground outside a vehicle.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
       [0001]    This application is a divisional of application Ser. No. 11/839,194 filed Aug. 15, 2007, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated in its entirety by reference herein. 
     
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
       [0002]    One aspect of the present disclosure generally relates to a reconfigurable vehicle model. 
       BACKGROUND 
       [0003]    Vehicle models, otherwise referred to as vehicle bucks, have been utilized to conduct studies into human motion relating to vehicles. A vehicle model generally includes moveable parts that can be adjusted to reflect a variety of vehicle packages. A typical study includes the collection of human motion data related to one or more of the modeled vehicle packages. 
         [0004]    For example, a vehicle model can be variably adjusted to conduct research into human motion while entering and exiting a vehicle (otherwise referred to as ingress and egress). Vehicle models can also be configured to conduct other human occupant package research studies, including, but not limited to, roominess, vision and reachability. Vehicle models can also be used to conduct human ergonomics studies. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0005]    In one embodiment, a vehicle model includes main and secondary modules, vehicle components, a frame, a camera system, and a controller. The vehicle components are operably connected to the modules. The frame supports the modules and components and defines a 3D grid including identifiable reference points. The camera system is arranged with the frame to capture activity within the 3D grid. The controller is in communication with, and configured to direct operation of, the modules, components, and camera system based on the identifiable reference points and accessible vehicle CAD data. The vehicle components may comprise a subject platform located adjacent to, detached from, and integrated to function with the modules. The subject platform may be configured to vertically adjust between a plurality of positions for simulating ground outside a vehicle. The frame may further comprise mounting zones for the camera system positioned at locations based on the reference points. The identifiable reference points may be based on a single datum point identifiable by the camera system. The 3D grid may be based on a single datum point defined by the frame, modules, or components. The activity may comprise human movement with the 3D grid. The camera system and frame may be arranged with one another such that one or more cameras of the camera system have a clear line of site to the activity. 
         [0006]    In another embodiment, a vehicle model includes main and secondary modules, vehicle components including a subject platform, a frame, a camera system, and a controller. The vehicle components are operably connected to the modules. The subject platform is located adjacent to, detached from, and integrated to function with the modules. The subject platform is configured to vertically adjust between a plurality of positions for simulating ground outside a vehicle. The frame supports the modules and components and defines a 3D grid including identifiable reference points. The camera system is arranged with the frame to capture activity within the 3D grid. The controller is in communication with, and configured to direct operation of, the modules, components, and camera system based on the identifiable reference points and accessible vehicle CAD data. The frame may further comprise mounting zones for the camera system positioned at locations based on the reference points. The identifiable reference points may be based on a single datum point identifiable by the camera system. The 3D grid may be based on a single datum point defined by the frame, modules, or components. The 3D grid may be based on a single datum point defined by the frame, modules, or components. The camera system and frame may be arranged with one another such that one or more cameras of the camera system have a clear line of site to the activity. 
         [0007]    In yet another embodiment, a method for tracking activity of a vehicle model includes manipulating at least a first and second positionable vehicle module supported by a frame defining a three-dimensional grid and manipulating one or more vehicle components operably connected to the modules. The method also includes positioning one or more cameras of a camera system within the three-dimensional grid to capture reference point locations defined on the modules or components. The method further includes initiating, via a controller, a motion capture task executed by the camera system in which the controller accesses stored vehicle CAD data to compare with output from the motion capture task identifying locations of the modules and components based on the reference points. The method may further include manipulating a subject platform of the one or more vehicle components to simulate ground outside a vehicle. The method may further include, for at least one of a plurality of module configurations, having a human enter and exit the vehicle model and capturing, using the one or more cameras, the motion of the human as the human enters and exits the vehicle model. The method may include calculating, via the controller, an overall effort of the human entering and exiting the vehicle model. The method may include manipulating the one or more vehicle components based on the stored vehicle CAD data. The method may include accessing trim panel data from the stored vehicle CAD data and manipulating a position of a trim panel of the one or more vehicle components based on the trim panel data. The three-dimensional grid may be based on a single datum point having x, y, and z points of the reference point locations. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0008]    The features of the present disclosure which are believed to be novel are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. The present disclosure, both as to its organization and manner of operation, together with further objects and advantages thereof, may best be understood with reference to the following description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings which: 
           [0009]      FIG. 1  illustrates a system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure; 
           [0010]      FIG. 2  is an illustration of a datum definition of a vehicle model according to one embodiment of the present disclosure; 
           [0011]      FIG. 3   a  depicts a side view of a reconfigurable vehicle model according to one embodiment of the present disclosure; 
           [0012]      FIG. 3   b  depicts an isolated, top view of a detachable mounting feature according to the embodiment shown in  FIG. 3   a;    
           [0013]      FIG. 3   c  depicts a cross-sectional side view of the detachable mounting feature shown in  FIG. 3   b;    
           [0014]      FIG. 4   a  depicts a side view of a reconfigurable vehicle model according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; 
           [0015]      FIG. 4   b  depicts an isolated, top view of a detachable mounting feature according to the embodiment shown in  FIG. 4   b;    
           [0016]      FIG. 5   a  depicts a top view of a vehicle model footprint according to one embodiment of the present disclosure; 
           [0017]      FIG. 5   b  depicts a cross-sectional side view of the vehicle model footprint of  FIG. 5   a;    
           [0018]      FIG. 6  depicts an example of a camera mounting fixture according to one embodiment of the present disclosure; and 
           [0019]      FIG. 7  depicts an example of an overlapping, sliding trim panel according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0020]    According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a reconfigurable vehicle model is disclosed that can be utilized to conduct research into human motion while entering and exiting (otherwise referred to as ingress and egress) a vehicle. The reconfigurable vehicle model of one or more embodiments of the present disclosure can also be utilized to conduct other human occupant research studies, such as, but not limited to interior roominess, vision and reachability. 
         [0021]    The vehicle model can include a number of vehicle modules detachably mounted to a number of primary bases. Each of the number of vehicle modules includes a primary base and a number of components supported by the primary base and moveable relative to the primary base. In one embodiment, the number of vehicle modules includes a main module and a secondary module. In certain embodiments, vehicle components and armatures can be referred to collectively as vehicle components. 
         [0022]    The vehicle model thus described can be implemented in combination with a computer system. One example of such a system is disclosed in  FIG. 1 .  FIG. 1  illustrates a system  10  according to the teachings of one embodiment of the present disclosure. The system  10  includes a vehicle model  12 , a computer system  14 , and a computer  16 , for example, a computer aided design (CAD) computer. 
         [0023]    Vehicle model  12  includes primary base 1  through baseN for supporting module 1  through moduleN. Each of the modules includes a set of components, defined as component 1 , component 2  through componentN. 
         [0024]    The computer system  14  and the vehicle model  12  can be in two-way electrical communication with each other through communication line  18 . Software  22  and database  20  are stored in non-volatile memory  24 . Software  22  can be configured to generate machine instructions that are stored in volatile memory  23  and executed by central processing unit (CPU)  26 . The machine instructions can include instructions for receiving user input for adjusting the position of one or more components of one or more vehicle modules. The CPU  26  transmits instructions to a controller  28  to electronically adjust the positions of the one or more components via a signal transmitted by the controller  28  through communication line  18  to the vehicle model  12 . In at least one embodiment, the controller  28  is capable of adjusting the position of each component from the minimum position to the maximum position within 15 seconds. In other embodiments, the minimum position to maximum position adjustment can be achieved within 10 seconds. In at least one embodiment, the controller can achieve positioning of each component within +/−1.0 millimeter. 
         [0025]    The machine instructions generated by software  22  can include instructions for confirming the achievability of a requested component position and for interference checking that may result from the requested position adjustment. The machine instructions can be configured to prevent the controller  28  from actuating one or more components that may result in unachievable positions or interference between components. Controller computer  14  can receive feedback from vehicle model  12  regarding an adjustment command through communication line  18 . 
         [0026]    The machine instructions of software  22  can be configured to generate one or more control interfaces for display on the display  30  through display adapter  32 . The one or more control interfaces available to a user may depend on the one or more vehicle modules that are detachably mounted to the primary base and electronically coupled to the controller  28  through communication line  18 . In at least one embodiment, the machine instructions of software  22  can be configured to automatically or semi-automatically enable and disable the available control interfaces when one or more modules are removed and/or added to the system  10 . 
         [0027]    The machine instructions of software  22  can be configured to transmit and receive text-based commands from computer  16  through an intranet  34  or the Internet  36  through network adapter  38  of controller computer  14 . The machine instructions generated by software  22  can be configured to convert incoming text commands into instructions for adjusting the position of one or more components. The machine instructions of software  22  can also be configured to transmit the results of the position adjustment instructions through network adapter  38  to computer  16 . In at least one embodiment, the machine instructions generated by software  22  can be configured to initiate position adjustment commands and to receive a response through communication line  18 . In at least one embodiment, the text-based commands are prepared in an extended markup language (XML) format. The text-based commands can be based on CAD data or tessellated data of the positions of one or more components of a vehicle model. 
         [0028]    The machine instructions of software  22  can be configured to receive input from a user through input device  40 . The input can include a definition of the x, y and z positions of one or more components of the vehicle model  12 . These positions can be utilized to adjust the position of the one or more components via controller  28 . The machine instructions of software  22  can be configured to receive user instructions for moving one or more components in a uniaxially, i.e. x, y or z, direction. 
         [0029]    The database  20  can be configured to store a number of position configurations for one or more of the components of a vehicle model. The machine instructions of software  22  can be configured to generate an interface for display on display  30  for allowing the user to select a desired configuration from the stored configurations and to initiate motion of the vehicle  12  based on the selection. 
         [0030]    The database  20  can also be configured to store a database of components, component offsets, component sizes and other dimensions to allow a user to modify the component database when different components and trim panels are used. 
         [0031]    The machine instructions of software  22  can be configured to couple the movement of two or more components. The movement of the accelerator and steering wheel can be coupled with the primary seat in the y direction. The movement of front header armature can be coupled to the front side roof rail armature in the x and/or y directions. The movement of the rear side roof rail armature can be coupled to the front side roof rail armature in the y and/or z directions. 
         [0032]      FIG. 2  depicts an illustration  50  of a datum definition of a vehicle model according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The datum definition is utilized for the various embodiments of the present disclosure as set forth herein, although other definitions can be utilized without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. The datum definition is a single datum point  52  positioned at the intersection of the centerline of the rear face  54  of a front pillar armature  56  and the upper face  58  of the primary floor armature  60 . 
         [0033]    The single datum point  52  can be represented as (X0,Y0,Z0). The positive X-axis  62  extends from the datum point  52  towards the rear of the primary floor armature  60 . The X-axis  62  can be utilized to position and track the fore and aft movement of the vehicle model. The positive Y-axis  64  extends from the datum point  52  towards the inside of the primary floor armature  60 . The Y-axis  64  can be utilized to position and track the lateral movement of the vehicle model. The positive Z-axis  66  extends from the datum point  52  orthogonally from the upper face  58  of the primary floor armature  60 . The Z-axis  66  can be utilized to position and track the upward and downward movement of the vehicle model. 
         [0034]      FIG. 3   a  depicts a side view of a re-configurable vehicle model  100  according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.  FIG. 3   a  illustrates a vehicle model  100  representing a first vehicle row configuration. As shown in  FIG. 3   a , vehicle model  100  is a quarter vehicle model showing the left side of the first row of a vehicle. It should be appreciated that the embodiments of the present disclosure can be extended to half-vehicle models and full vehicle models. Moreover, the quarter vehicle model can represent the left and/or right side of the second vehicle row or the left and/or right side of a subsequent vehicle row. 
         [0035]    The reconfigurable vehicle model  100  generally includes primary base  102 , main module  104  and number of secondary modules including hood module  106 , pedal module  108 , instrument panel module  110 , and secondary seat module  112 . Main module  104  includes a primary base portion  114  for supporting the main module  104 . Hood module  106  includes a primary base portion  116  for supporting the hood module  106 . Secondary seat module  112  includes a primary base portion  118  for supporting the secondary seat module  112 . In at least one embodiment, the primary base portions  114 ,  116  and  118  are detachably mounted to the primary base  102  such that the supported modules  104 ,  106  and  112  are supported by primary base  102  while being easily detached so that the modules  104 ,  106  and  112  can be reconfigured to represent various vehicle configurations. 
         [0036]      FIG. 3   b  depicts an isolated, top view of the detachable mounting of primary base portions  114 ,  116  and  118  to the primary base  102  according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.  FIG. 3   c  depicts a cross-sectional side view of the detachable mounting shown in  FIG. 3   b . Each of the primary base portions  114 ,  116  and  118  includes a number of projections  120  extending orthogonally downward from the underside of each of the primary base portions  114 ,  116  and  118 . The projections  120  are slidably engaged by either a first longitudinal groove  122  or a second longitudinal groove  124  formed in the primary base  102 . The slidable engagement can be utilized to slide the modules on and off of the primary base  102  to reconfigure the vehicle module into different vehicle configurations. 
         [0037]    In at least one embodiment, the detachably mounted primary base portions  114 ,  116  and  118  are anchored to the primary base  102  such that movement between the primary base and the primary base portions during use of the vehicle model is restricted, or even prevented. As shown in  FIG. 3   b , a number of clamps  126  are utilized to restrict this relative movement. Each clamp  126  contacts a recess  128  formed in the upper surface of one of the primary base portions  114 ,  116  and  118  and a recess  128  formed in a lateral side of the primary base  102  such that the primary base portion  114 ,  116  or  118  is held in place relative to the primary base  102  by the contacting force of the clamp  126 . It should be appreciated that this is but one non-limiting example of a feature that can be implemented to restrict or even prevent movement of one or more primary base portions relative to the primary base. 
         [0038]    The main module  104  includes a number of vehicle components and/or armatures. As used in certain embodiments of the present disclosure, the term vehicle armature refers to a skeletal member of a vehicle model and the term vehicle component refers to components of a vehicle, such as a seat or steering wheel, that are typically affixed to one or more vehicles armatures. In at least one embodiment, vehicle components and/or armatures can be referred to as elements. The main module  104  includes front pillar  132 , rear pillar  134 , door  136 , floor  138 , primary seat  140 , side roof rails  142 , sill (not shown), headliner (not shown), and front header  143 , and console  141 . In at least one embodiment, the top of each of the front and rear pillars and the front and rear ends of the side roof rails include pivot points to which the upper front pillar and the upper rear pillar are attached. In at least one embodiment, universal joints are affixed at one or more of the pivot points. In one embodiment, universal joints are affixed at all four of the pivot points. Each of the joints is configured for rearward and frontward movement and/or in and out movement of two components coupled by the universal joint. 
         [0039]    The door  136  includes an armature frame defining a perimeter  144  of the door  136 . The door armature frame can be configured to mount one or more panels that represent the interior trim of a door. In at least one embodiment, the door armature frame is adjustable such that the frame can accommodate a change in height of a beltline (i.e. the height of the front and rear pillars) and the fore-aft position of the rear pillar. In at least one embodiment, this adjustment can be made manually. Additionally, the lower perimeter of the door armature frame can be adjusted to avoid interference with the sill. In at least one embodiment, the door  136  is mounted to the front pillar  132  such that the inner face of the door  136  is aligned with the centerline of the front pillar  132 . 
         [0040]    The armatures and components of the main module  104  can be a made of a steel alloy or other suitable alloy. In at least one embodiment, suitable materials include such materials that can withstand a vertical load of 300 lbf with minimal plastic deformation and controlled elastic deformation. 
         [0041]    The secondary seat module  112  includes a seat  146  and a floor  148 . The secondary seat module  112  can be detachably mounted to the primary base  102  in front of or to the rear of the main module  104 . As depicted in  FIG. 4   a , the secondary seat module  112  is detachably mounted in front of the main module  104 . As depicted in  FIG. 3   a , the secondary seat module  112  is detachably mounted to the rear of main module  104 . According to the configuration shown in  FIG. 3   a , the secondary seat module  112  represents a second row seat in a two-door vehicle or a third row in a four-door vehicle. According to the configuration shown in  FIG. 4   a , the secondary seat module  112  represents the first or second row seat and the primary seat  140  represents a second or third row seat, respectively. 
         [0042]    The armatures and components of the secondary module  112  can be a made of a steel alloy or other suitable alloy. In at least one embodiment, suitable materials include such materials that can withstand a vertical load of 300 lbf with minimal plastic deformation and controlled elastic deformation. 
         [0043]    The instrument panel module  110  includes an instrument panel  151 , a steering column  153  and a steering wheel  154 . The steering column can be a telescopic steering column. The instrument panel module  110  can be attached to a frontward position within the main module  104 . When the instrument panel module  110  is attached to a frontward position within the main module  104 , then the main module  104  represents a driver&#39;s compartment. In at least one embodiment, the instrument panel module  110  includes an instrument panel armature capable of supporting a full instrument panel. 
         [0044]    The pedal module  108  includes an accelerator, brake and clutch. The accelerator may be capable of independent movement in the x, y and z directions and may have the option of being electronically coupled with the movement of the primary seat reference point SgRPy. The movement of the brake and/or accelerator can be coupled to the movement of the accelerator. 
         [0045]    The hood module  106  can include a cowl point having motion in the x, y and z directions. In at least one embodiment, the hood angle can be achieved by adjusting the z position of the hood 500 mm from the cowl point in the negative x direction. 
         [0046]    In at least one embodiment, the interchangeable modules, i.e. the hood, secondary seat, instrument panel and pedal modules, can be fitted with one or more wheels to facilitate movement and re-configuration. It should be appreciated that other features can be affixed to one or more interchangeable modules to facilitate relatively easy movement and re-configurability. 
         [0047]    The seats  140  and  146  can be automotive seats provided by a vendor for integration into the main module  104  and secondary seat module  112 , respectively. The primary base portions  114  and  118  can be configured to allow different seats to be easily interchanged without seat-specific mounting fixtures. During ingress/egress testing, the driver actuated seat adjustments remain operational so that the computer system can record feedback regarding the driver selected seat positions. 
         [0048]    As shown in  FIGS. 3   a ,  3   b ,  4   a  and  4   b , the modules are detachably mounted to a primary base. In other embodiments, the ground can support one or more of the modules. 
         [0049]    In at least one embodiment, one or more armature elements are formed with a row, rectangular grid or other configuration of holes at a suitable spacing. For example, the hole diameter can be 12 mm and the spacing can be 50 mm. The hole configuration can be utilized to attach one or more panels and/or one or more components to the armature element. According to at least one embodiment, one or more of the armature elements can support trim pieces fabricated from any suitable foam or plastic. 
         [0050]    Each of the armature elements can include a reference point, which is represented by a hole on the armature element. Table 1 identifies the reference points of each armature element according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 1 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 Module 
                   
                   
               
               
                 Name 
                 Armature Or Component 
                 Reference Location Definition 
               
               
                   
               
             
             
               
                 Main 
                 Floor 
                 Point on the top face of the floor armature 
               
               
                 Module 
                 Lower front pillar 
                 Point on the rear face in x of front pillar armature, on 
               
               
                   
                   
                 the centerline in y and offset −100 mm in z from the 
               
               
                   
                   
                 lower front pillar pivot point 
               
               
                   
                 Lower rear pillar 
                 Point on the forward face in x of rear pillar armature, 
               
               
                   
                   
                 on the centerline in y and offset −100 mm in z from 
               
               
                   
                   
                 lower rear pillar pivot point 
               
               
                   
                 Sill 
                 Point on the top face of the sill armature element, 
               
               
                   
                   
                 along the centerline of the sill armature element in y 
               
               
                   
                 Primary seat 
                 Point on the top face of the armature plate at SgRPx 
               
               
                   
                   
                 and SgRPy 
               
               
                   
                 Console 
                 Point on the center (x&amp;y) of the upper face of the 
               
               
                   
                   
                 console armature 
               
               
                   
                 Door 
                 Point on the inside face or the door frame armature. 
               
               
                   
                   
                 The inside face (in y) is aligned with the centerline 
               
               
                   
                   
                 (in y) of front pillar armature element 
               
               
                   
                 Ground 
                 Point on the top face of the subject platform 
               
               
                   
                 Headliner 
                 Point on the center (x, y) lower face of the headliner 
               
               
                   
                   
                 armature 
               
               
                   
                 Front header 
                 Point in the center (x, y) of the lower face of the 
               
               
                   
                   
                 header armature 
               
               
                   
                 Front of siderail 
                 Intersection point of the centerlines (longitudinal 
               
               
                   
                   
                 axes) of upper front pillar and side roof rail 
               
               
                   
                 Rear of siderail 
                 Intersection point of the centerlines (longitudinal 
               
               
                   
                   
                 axes) of upper rear pillar and side roof rail 
               
               
                 Secondary 
                 Secondary seat (in front  
                 Point on the top face of the armature plate at SgRPx 
               
               
                 Seat Module 
                 position) 
                 and SgRpy 
               
               
                   
                 Secondary rear floor 
                 Point on the top face of the floor armature 
               
               
                 Pedal 
                 Accelerator 
                 Point on the center of the accelerator pedal armature 
               
               
                 Module 
                   
                   
               
               
                 IP Module 
                 IP 
                 Left top reference hole on the IP armature attachment 
               
               
                   
                   
                 fixture 
               
               
                   
                 Steering wheel 
                 Pivot point of steering column 
               
               
                   
                 Steering column angle 
                 Steering column center line wrt x axis 
               
               
                 Hood 
                 Cowl point 
                 Point in the center (x, y) of the top face of the cowl 
               
               
                 Module 
                   
                 armature 
               
               
                   
                 Hood 
                 Point −500 mm from cowl in the −x direction along 
               
               
                   
                   
                 the centerline of the hood in the y direction 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0051]    Table 2 provides ranges of movement for each of the armature elements according one embodiment of the present disclosure. The ranges are defined as absolute dimensions relative to the reference datum  52 . For each armature element, a home position can be defined as a position in which no inference occurs between the elements. 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 2 
               
             
             
               
                   
               
               
                 Module 
                 Armature or 
                 X (mm) 
                 Y (mm) 
                 Z (mm) 
               
             
          
           
               
                 Name 
                 Component 
                 Min 
                 Max 
                 Min 
                 Max 
                 Min 
                 Max 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 Main  
                 Floor 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
               
               
                 Module 
                 Lower front  
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 510 
                 770 
               
               
                   
                 pillar 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                 Lower rear  
                 790 
                 1920 
                   
                   
                 510 
                 770 
               
               
                   
                 pillar 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                 Sill 
                   
                   
                 −45 
                 120 
                 −65 
                 195 
               
               
                   
                 Primary seat 
                 495 
                 920 
                 305 
                 575 
                 −135 
                 205 
               
               
                   
                 Console 
                 335 
                 920 
                 710 
                 955 
                 −5 
                 275 
               
               
                   
                 Door 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                 Ground 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 −665 
                 −110 
               
               
                   
                 Headliner 
                 670 
                 1420 
                 400 
                 875 
                 910 
                 2210 
               
               
                   
                 Front header 
                 −130 
                 620 
                 400 
                 875 
                 860 
                 1560 
               
               
                   
                 Front of  
                 −130 
                 620 
                 0 
                 475 
                 870 
                 1570 
               
               
                   
                 siderail 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                 Rear of  
                 645 
                 2100 
                 0 
                 475 
                 870 
                 1570 
               
               
                   
                 siderail 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
               
               
                 Secondary 
                 Secondary  
                 −580 
                 −170 
                 285 
                 575 
                 −105 
                 240 
               
               
                 Seat  
                 seat (in front  
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
               
               
                 Module 
                 position) 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                 Secondary  
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 −110 
                 185 
               
               
                   
                 Rear Floor 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
               
               
                 Pedal  
                 Accelerator 
                 −275 
                 −60 
                 465 
                 650 
                 130 
                 265 
               
               
                 Module 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
               
               
                 IP  
                 IP 
                 −255 
                 −30 
                   
                   
                 530 
                 680 
               
               
                 Module 
                 Steering  
                 −135 
                 145 
                 285 
                 595 
                 390 
                 675 
               
               
                   
                 Wheel 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                 Steering  
                   
                   
                 15 
                 30 
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                 Column 
                   
                   
                 deg 
                 deg 
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                 Angie 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
                   
               
               
                 Hood  
                 Cowl point 
                 −585 
                 −235 
                 710 
                 955 
                 700 
                 850 
               
               
                 Module 
                 Hood 
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 625 
                 905 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0052]    According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, one or more components can include overlapping trim panels that can slide over each other to conceal a gap caused by the movement of another component. For example, the main module floor panel can include overlapping trim panels to fill gaps created by seat movement in the x and/or y directions and sill movement in the y direction. As another non-limiting example, the secondary floor panel can include overlapping trim panels to fill gaps created by secondary seat movement in the x and/or y directions. As yet another example, the interior door panel can include overlapping trim panels to fill gaps created by the expansion of the door in response to rear pillar movement in the x and z direction (beltline) and/or sill movement in the z direction. Moreover, the front side roof rail trim can include an overlapping trim panel to fill gaps created by the movement on the rear side roof rail in the x direction. Yet another example includes overlapping sill trim that fills gaps created by the movement of the rear pillar armature in the x direction. In at least one embodiment, the gap-filling feature is limited to a range of two times the minimum size of the trim panel. In at least one embodiment, components without overlapping trim panels can be either fixed components or fixed trim panels.  FIG. 7  depicts an example of overlapping, sliding door panel  250  including fixed portion  252  and sliding portion  254  that can slide in direction  256  to change the geometry and dimensions of the panel  250 . 
         [0053]    The locations and ranges of motion for each of the armature elements as identified in Tables 1 and 2 are derived based on vehicle model dimensions including components and panels. 
         [0054]      FIG. 5   a  depicts a top view of a vehicle model footprint  150  according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.  FIG. 5   b  depicts a cross-sectional side view of the vehicle model footprint  150 . The footprint  150  includes a subject platform  152  for simulating the ground outside of the vehicle. The subject platform  152  can include rails (not shown) secured to the upper surface perimeter of the subject platform  152 . An adjustable canvas curtain can be utilized to cover the sides of the subject platform  152  or any other pinch points. In at least one embodiment, the subject platform  152  has a load capacity of 1200 lbf with minimal plastic deformation and with controlled elastic deformation. According to one embodiment, the size of the subject platform is 1.2 meters in width and 2.8 meters in length. 
         [0055]    The subject platform  152  can include a force platform  155  disposed on a portion of the subject platform  152  adjacent to the door opening of the vehicle model. In at least one embodiment, the subject platform  152  is adjustable based on the human ergonomics study being performed. The subject platform  152  can include a cutout to accommodate the force platform  155 . The force platform  155  can be utilized to record the force imparted by an occupant&#39;s feet as the occupant enters and exits the vehicle model. The force platform  155  can be custom sized, although in at least one embodiment, the force platform  155  is 500 mm in length, 500 mm in width, 44 mm in height and weights 11.4 kg. 
         [0056]    The primary base portion  114  can include a force platform  156  positioned in the area of a footwell. The floor  138  can include a cutout to accommodate the force platform  156  such that the force platform  156  can move with the seat  140  in the x and y directions. The force platform  156  can be utilized to record the force imparted by an occupant&#39;s feet as the occupant enters and exits the vehicle model. The force platform  156  can be custom sized. In at least one embodiment, the force platform  156  is movable in the x and y directions in combination with the seat  140 . 
         [0057]    The secondary seating module floor  148  can include a cutout to accommodate a force platform such that the force platform can move with the seat  140  in the fore and aft directions. 
         [0058]    Covers can be utilized to conceal the cutouts in the event that the platforms are removed. In at least one embodiment, a conduit can be formed in a side of the cutout to accommodate a cable connecting the force platform to a control box for the force platform. In at least one embodiment, the conduit has a 25 mm diameter. 
         [0059]    According to at least one embodiment, a number of a cameras for capturing the motion of occupants are integrated with the vehicle model. This integration aids in the development of digital human models of ingress and egress motion. The motion capture data and/or the force platform data can be utilized to study the joint torques of occupants and thus the overall effort of entering and exiting the vehicle. 
         [0060]    As shown in  FIGS. 5   a  and  5   b , a number of camera mounting zones  158 ,  160 ,  162 ,  164  and  166  are defined for receiving one or more camera mounting fixtures and one or more cameras. Mounting zone  158  is positioned adjacent to the right side of the occupant when seated in the vehicle model  100 . Mounting zone  160  is positioned in front of the header  143  of the vehicle model  100 . Mounting zone  162  is positioned adjacent to the left side of the occupant when seated in the vehicle model  100 . Mounting zone  164  is positioned adjacent to the footwell of the main module  104 . Mounting zone  166  is positioned above the occupant when seated in the vehicle model  100 . 
         [0061]      FIG. 6  depicts an example of a camera mounting fixture  200 , which includes a number of substantially upright rods  202  for supporting a mounting member  204 . The mounting member  204  defines an opening  206  for receiving at least a portion of the hood  208  of the main module and/or other components of the main and other modules. A number of threaded holes  210  are formed in mounting member  204  for mounting one or more cameras in a number of locations. Mounting clamps can be utilized to mount the camera to the mounting fixture. In at least one embodiment, the mounting clamps for mounting the cameras to the fixtures are Manfrotto Super Clamps without Stud #2915, available from Gruppo Manfrotto, S.r.l. of Italy. As shown in  FIG. 6 , mounting fixture  200  can be utilized to mount one or more cameras in mounting zones  158 ,  160  and  162 . The mounting fixture also includes a number of clamps  211  attached to the rods  202  for attaching the mounting fixture  200  to fixed points on the vehicle model  100 . 
         [0062]      FIG. 6  depicts an example of a vehicle superstructure, i.e. mounting fixture  200 , that can be utilized to mount one or more vehicle modules and camera fixtures. In at least one embodiment, the roof of vehicle model is supported by a superstructure, thereby separating the roof from the pillars of the vehicle model. 
         [0063]      FIGS. 5   a  and  5   b  depict the placement of cameras  168  and  170  within zones  158  and  160 , respectively. In at least one embodiment, the cameras are VICON SV Cameras and are 100×60×70 mm in size. Once mounted and calibrated, the cameras remain in a fixed position for the duration of a study and do not move relative to one another even by a few centimeters, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Therefore, the mounting fixture for the cameras remain stationary as the components of the vehicle model  100  move to change the vehicle configuration and the positioning of components. The mounting fixture for the cameras provides that the positions of the cameras are relatively stable when exposed to minor disturbances such as vibration or inadvertent bumping by a subject, while the mounting fixture is adjustable independent of the vehicle. This adjustability allows the cameras to be located at desired locations within the camera mounting zones  158 ,  160 ,  162 ,  164  and  166 . The adjustability of the camera mounting fixtures can be continuous, meaning that the camera mounting fixtures allow the cameras to be mounted anywhere in the zones, not just at discrete locations. As depicted in  FIGS. 5   a  and  5   b , continuous mounting reference lines  172 ,  174 ,  176 ,  178  and  180  are shown for mounting zones  158 ,  160 ,  162 ,  164  and  166 , respectively. In at least one embodiment, rod fixtures can be positioned at the mounting reference lines for mounting cameras. 
         [0064]    Sightlines from the camera mounting locations to the occupant (both seated occupant and an occupant completing an ingress or egress motion) are clear of obstructions according to one embodiment. Structures other than elements of the vehicle model, such as support structures for the mounting fixture, are not placed in the camera mounting zones according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In addition, any elements of the vehicle model within the zones can be designed to provide minimal obstruction for the camera sight lines. The position of the overhead camera can be such that the headliner armature and trim can be moved up to their highest position without obstruction from the camera. In at least one embodiment, the vehicle model does not include a roof such that additional camera sight lines can be accommodated. 
         [0065]    As required, detailed embodiments of the present disclosure are disclosed herein. However, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the disclosure that may be embodied in various and alternative forms. Therefore, specific functional details described herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a representative basis for the claims and/or as a representative basis for teaching one of ordinary skill in the art to variously employ the present disclosure. 
         [0066]    While the best mode for carrying out the disclosure has been described in detail, those familiar with the art to which this disclosure relates will recognize various alternative designs and embodiments for practicing the disclosure as defined by the following claims.