Karina Jacobsen
U.S DOT, Mechanical Engineering
Volpe National Transportation Systems Center
Karina Jacobsen Bio
Karina is a senior mechanical engineer at the Volpe National Transportation Systems Center, a research center under the U.S. Department of Transportation. Her roles include conducting accident investigations and using results to plan and conduct research into safety topics such as fuel tank integrity, development of crush zones for passenger rail equipment, and alternative propulsion equipment crashworthiness.
Karina received her Bachelor and Master of Science degrees in Mechanical Engineering from Tufts University.
Train Accident Investigations and Crashworthiness Research
Conducting accident investigations is a critical step in evaluating how existing rail equipment is performing and identifying the causal mechanisms for injuries and fatalities. In this presentation, some examples are shared of how accident findings have fueled the Federal Railroad Administration’s research programs into improving railcar structures and interior features.
Kristine Severson
Senior Mechanical Engineer
Volpe National Transportation Systems Center
Kristine Severson Bio
Kristine Severson has worked at the Volpe National Transportation Systems Center in Cambridge, MA, since 1994. As a senior mechanical engineer, she investigates train accidents, evaluates the crashworthiness of interior components, such as seats, workstation tables, and glazing, and works to develop strategies to mitigate injuries and fatalities due to secondary impacts. This technical research supports the efforts of the Federal Railroad Administration to improve federal regulations and industry safety standards.
Ms. Severson received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Minnesota. She received her Master of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering from Tufts University.
Glazing Retention in Rollover Accidents
Glazing retention has been identified as a significant safety concern during multiple rollover accidents, resulting in NTSB safety recommendations. The zip strips and gaskets used to remove windows for emergency egress have inadvertently been removed when cars slide on their sides after a derailment. Ongoing research is being conducted to develop and evaluate retrofit designs to inhibit this behavior. Additional research is needed to develop improved glazing retention strategies.