The purpose of this study is to develop and analyze the possibilities of implementing a new crash test method for child bike trailers based on StVZO §67 Explanation 19 Appendix 2 at Thule Test Center or use an alternative method. The study is based on the following three problem statements: can a new method based on StVZO §67 Explanation 19 Appendix 2 replace TÜV and RISE test methods? Is it possible to implement a new test method in Thule Crash Lab using the acceleration sled track or using a different approach? How can crash testing contribute to optimizing the development of child bike trailers? This study began with background information and the problem description of Thule’s lack of test method and their need for a new alternative. The theorical background provides information about testing for product development. It also provides information about StVZO §67 Explanation 19 Appendix 2 which will be the basis for the study and the previous test methods Thule has used, which were RISE and TÜV. 

Observations, analyzes and an interview from the previous test methods established the foundation for the concept study which included brainstorming sessions to generate concepts for the new test method. The concepts consisted both of methods with and without the acceleration sled track. Several workshops served as concept selections which filtered out concepts that exceeded limitations of the facilities at Thule Test Center. The concepts that could not fulfill the requirements from StVZO §67 Explanation 19 Appendix 2 was also filtered out. 

To find out if the acceleration sled could be used as a test method, different tests were involved which included evaluation of test impulses and crash tests with handmade fixtures for the child bike trailer. This was carried out to ensure that the crash sled could operate under the variables that was calculated in preparation for the test and that the fixtures could handle the accelerations. 

The study also included discussions and conclusions with suggestions for modifications to the concepts that could not be directly implemented due to the limitations in Thule facilities. Some of the modifications were also taken up as suggestions for further research. The study also included comparison between internal and external testing. The comparison explained the importance for Thule to have an internal test method and generally an alternative for crash testing their child bike trailers. As presented in the study, crash testing is crucial for an optimized development of new child bike trailers to ensure safe, qualitative and durable child bike trailers. It is also crucial to stay competitive in the market.

To validate stresses and forces subjected onto the construction of the final test method, static calculations were performed which gave an indication of what dimensions the beams for the construction could have. As discussed, dynamic calculations could have been done to achieve a more precise and accurate result. 

The final test method is an example of what Thule could use for crash testing their child bike trailers with the requirements from StVZO §67 Explanation 19 Appendix 2. Design changes are possible if it were to be implemented and the new test method gives Thule an internally option.