Search Results

In a collision of a low mass vehicle (600 kg) against a typical compact car (1200 kg), both vehicles cruising at 50 km/h, the LMV will experience a Δv of 20 m/s and a mean deceleration level of 45 - 50 g, approximately. The restraint systems of such vehicles must be adapted to this specific situation in order to guarantee a level of passive safety equal to current standards. The purpose of this study is to show that, in sled tests, FMVSS 208 and European occupant protection criteria can be met under the conditions encountered in a LMV, utilizing restraint system components which are appropriately adapted and optimised with respect to the severity of the crash situation under consideration.

Results of a one year field study initiated by the Swiss Federal Police Department in connection with a mandatory seat belt law effective January 1, 1976 are presented. 304 accidents with 153 killed and 257 severely injured (OAIS ≧ 2) belted occupants were analysed during this program. As belt effectiveness has previously been demonstrated in field investigations the following specific problems are discussed: Frequency and statistical significance of cases in which, with a high degree of probability, the belt had an adverse effect Relevant injury patterns Frequency and causes of belt failures including releasing difficulties after a crash Possible improvements. Furthermore, the applicability of Calspan's SMAC method is demonstrated and discussed. In case of car to car collisions the mass ratio is shown to be of importance. A correlation analysis between the velocity change during the collision phase (Δv) and the injury severity is performed.