Technical Paper
Real Time Test for Automotive Seating Foam
1993-03-01
930634
Accurate and relevant assessments of foam performance in automotive seating applications have been achieved with a newly developed computerized laboratory test. In the new test a hydraulically powered indentor foot provides seat cushion foam loading in a dynamic mode, comparable to actual conditions of cushioning applications. In a relatively short period of time (∼ 8 hrs) it is possible to record several Real Time foam property changes related to seating performance. These properties are believed to be critical to in-use seating comfort and durability qualities. Moreover, the data obtained with the new test should be sufficiently reliable in assessing seating performance to reduce the need for extensive and rather costly in-car test track evaluations. The test device is equipped with a temperature and humidity chamber and is capable of evaluating fully fabricated seat cushion assemblies, as well as separate foam cushioning materials.