CHILD RESTRAINT SYSTEMS: FRONTAL IMPACT PERFORMANCE

The main objectives of this Swedish project have been to define the state of the art of design concepts, medical knowledge, regulations and impact performance of different child restraint systems; to recommend compliance test procedures and performance criteria. Earlier research and the present hardware situation are presented, as well as medical aspects and current test methods. To define the impact performance of different systems, 34 frontal impact tests were made with 25 systems. Based upon the design and the results from the tests, the systems were separated into 5 types: rearward-facing frontal seat and backseat; forward-facing and belts with upper torso straps; lap belts, shields, cushions and harnesses; hookover seats. The two rearward-facing systems have better protection performance, especially with head acceleration and displacement. It is proposed that head accelerations be the main performance criteria. It is important to keep accelerations as low as possible. Buckles should not be easily removable by a child. Three-point belts with a moveable upper anchorage point should be used in rearward-facing seats. Regulations should cover the possibility of rearward-facing seats accommodating two childred. /MW/

• Corporate Authors:

  Swedish National Road and Transport Research Institute (VTI)

  Linköping,   Sweden  SE-581 95
• Authors:
  • Turbell, T
• Publication Date: 1974

Media Info

• Features: Figures; References;
• Pagination: 123 p.

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Adolescents; Crash tests; Design; Performance; Restraint systems
• Old TRIS Terms: Minors; Occupant restraint
• Subject Areas: Design; Highways; Research; Safety and Human Factors;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00099553
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: National Safety Council Safety Research Info Serv
• Report/Paper Numbers: No. 36A
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Nov 5 1975 12:00AM