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This paper reports the results of a study to determine the effects of a top tether strap on the performance of child restraint systems (CRS). Four commercially available CRSs and the CanFIX were tested. All restraints tested had a similar design T-shield type harness system to minimize harness variability. As part of the test matrix, tether webbing, tether height and tether slack were varied. The dummies used for testing were the 12-and 18-month CRABI. Head and chest acceleration, head excursion, upper and lower neck loads and resultant moments were recorded. Although the presence of slack in the tether strap degrades the performance of the CRS, a tether strap with slack present improved the response of a dummy restrained in a CRS when compared to an identical tetherless restraint. With maximum slack, the results for the restraint condition approached results from a tetherless condition while still demonstrating a slight benefit.

This paper describes the development of an interface system for attaching infant and child restraints and booster cushions to passenger vehicles. The resulting prototype, known as CANFIX is based on the ISOFIX concept which was conceived in Sweden. The CANFIX design comprises two rear attachments to be secured to two anchorage points located behind the vehicle seat bight. In forward-facing child restraints, the CANFIX system also includes the tether anchorage feature. The results of preliminary dynamic testing of three CANFIX modified restraint systems are presented in the paper with the results of tests to examine the compatibility of the CANFIX system with current vehicle seats.

In Canada child restraint systems are currently evaluated under the Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Regulations. The present paper reviews the relevance of the criteria and test procedures used to evaluate child restraint systems under these regulations. Special attention is given to the reported high incidence of misuse in Canada including data from a recently completed road-side survey conducted in Ontario by Transport Canada. Legislative and experimental attempts to reduce the opportunity for misuse of child restraint systems in Canada are considered in light of the results of this study. Consideration is also given to areas for improving child restraints by more realistic testing and performance requirements. This includes the results of a preliminary test program to develop a standardized test procedure for the evaluation of the head contact surface of child restraint systems.