Shape sensing system and method for anthropomorphic test devices

A method for repeatably positioning an anthropomorphic test device within a test fixture, said method comprising the steps of:

• disposing at least one optical fiber throughout a plurality of body parts forming the anthropomorphic test device, the optical fiber having a plurality of cores extending between a first end and a second end with each of the cores being in a spaced and parallel relationship with one another between the first and the second ends and each of the cores having a plurality of grating sensors inscribed integrally therein with the sensors spaced along a length between the first and the second ends;
• positioning the anthropomorphic test device within the test fixture in an initial position and orientation of the body parts;
• emitting an initial instance of a light through the cores of the optical fibers;
• detecting an initial reflected light of the initial instance of the light from the sensors that corresponds to the initial position and orientation;
• subjecting the anthropomorphic test device to a sudden impact causing the body parts to move from the initial position and orientation;
• repositioning the anthropomorphic test device within the test fixture with the at least one optical fiber disposed thereabout;
• emitting a second instance of a light through the cores of the optical fibers;
• detecting a second reflected light of the second instance of the light from the sensors;
• continuing to reposition and reorient the anthropomorphic test device until the second reflection correlates with the initial reflection such that the position and orientation of the anthropomorphic test device corresponds to the initial position and orientation.