ANALYSIS OF COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE FACTORS IN IMPROVED RESTRAINT SYSTEMS

Six occupant restraint systems (both current production and prototype) were evaluated in terms of comfort and convenience by 30 subjects. Questions were asked concerning particular problem areas as well as overall system comparisons. A new paired comparison statistical procedure was developed that considers each subject as an independent control factor and, therefore, eliminated personal bias. The modified Seville was significantly better than the other systems. The modified Volare, standard Volare, and Impala rated in the upper to middle category. The Rabbit and Chevette ranked as the worst systems tested. Smoothness, repeatability, and comfortable tension in the shoulder belt retractor appeared to be the most important factors influencing comfort and convenience.

• Corporate Authors:

  National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

  Safety Research Laboratory, P.O. Box 37
  East Liberty, OH  United States  43319
• Authors:
  • Gordon, S
  • Kondo, A
  • Breedon, D
• Publication Date: 1976-12

Media Info

• Pagination: 65 p.

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Acceptance; Alternatives analysis; Automobiles; Comfort; Design; Maneuverability; Manual safety belts; Mathematical models; Questionnaires; Restraint systems; Safety engineering; Shoulder harnesses; Smoothness
• Uncontrolled Terms: Acceptability; Convenience; Design criteria
• Old TRIS Terms: Occupant restraint; Shoulder harness
• Subject Areas: Design; Highways; Safety and Human Factors;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00151215
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: National Technical Information Service
• Report/Paper Numbers: DOT-HS-802113 Final Rpt.
• Files: NTIS, TRIS, USDOT
• Created Date: Apr 13 1977 12:00AM