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Wölfel CASIMIR Model Uses Abaqus FEA for Vehicle Seat Comfort Analysis

Case study shows how Wölfel applies finite element analysis with CASIMIR human-body model to evaluate static and dynamic seating comfort and reduce physical prototypes.

Published
June 4, 2026
Read time
3 min read
Source

Wölfel engineers use Abaqus FEA and the CASIMIR human-body model to simulate seat pressure distribution, vibration transfer, and spinal loads during vehicle seat design. The model incorporates detailed anatomical data for muscle, fat, and skeletal structures to improve accuracy of comfort predictions. Results help automotive suppliers optimize seat geometry and materials early in development while cutting prototype costs.

Key takeaways

CASIMIR model enables virtual assessment of seat pressure distribution and whole-body vibration effects

Enhanced anatomical detail in thigh and buttock regions improves prediction of lumbar spine loads

Static and dynamic Abaqus analyses correlate well with physical test measurements

Virtual prototyping reduces seat prototype costs from 10,000-20,000 euros to model setup in under one day

Muscle activation modeling differentiates driver versus passenger seating conditions

Market overview

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