UMTRI Project

Evaluation of the Performance of a Four-Point Belt System in Far-Side Lateral Impact

Sponsor: Ford Motor Company
Investigator: Jonathan Rupp
10/01/2005 - 12/31/2006

Biosciences researchers are assisting with the biomechanical evaluation of a new four-point belt restraint that is expected to offer improved occupant protection in frontal and far-side impacts and reduce belt-loading injuries through improved distribution of restraint forces over the occupant’s chest. Because one of the shoulder belts is placed over the inboard shoulder, there is concern that cervical spine and vascular neck injuries may result from interaction between the neck and inboard torso belt in far-side impacts. This project evaluates this injury potential using sled tests with PMHS.