Justification of the need of development of a new test procedure to assess passive safety of motorcycles

Introduction (problem statement and relevance). Modern daily life is increasingly dependent on motorcycles and power products, especially in large cities where motorcycles are popular due to their maneuverability. Today’s widespread of vehicle automatic piloting and self-driving systems creates new dangers increasing the number of road traffic accidents involving motorcycles. Despite the growing popularity of motorcycles, there is a lack of research on their passive safety, and that leaves gaps in understanding how to increase the protection level for motorcyclists. The purpose of the study is to justify the development of a test procedure and assessment criteria for motorcycle passive safety. Methodology and research methods . In order to achieve the purpose in view, the development of a domestic test procedure using deformable standardised barriers simulating vehicles is proposed. The analysis of road traffic accident statistics in different countries will allow us to identify the main patterns and regularities, based on which the test program and conditions will be developed. The virtual tests to be conducted using the LS-DYNA software and validation of calculation models will help to justify the optimal test conditions. Scientific novelty and results . The research results will provide a new approach to motorcycle passive safety assessing by identifying the key parameters and conditions affecting motorcyclist injuries. The scientific novelty consists in development of more accurate and realistic test methods that can improve the effectiveness of motorcycle safety assessment. Practical significance . Development and implementation of the motorcycle passive safety test procedure are important to ensure safety of motorcyclists. The results obtained can provide grounds for creation of regulations and crash test series, as well as contribute to development of safe motorcycle designs.