UMTRI Project

Evaluation of CRS in Side Impact

Sponsor: George Washington University
Investigator: Kathleen DeSantis Klinich
07/01/2004 - 06/30/2005

A series of sled tests was performed using the Q3S anthropomorphic test device (ATD) and the ECE R44 sled buck to study CRS and pediatric occupant kinematics in far-side impacts. Using one model of convertible child restraint system (CRS), tests were performed using a 24 km/hr, 20 g pulse to compare ATD and CRS response to lateral loading in both forward-facing (FF) and rearward-facing (RF) configurations. Tests examined how various methods of securing the CRS to the vehicle seat affect lateral movement of the CRS and ATD. Tests were run using four tether anchorage locations for the FF configuration and three tether anchorage locations for the rearward-facing configuration. In addition, the CRS was installed using different combinations of vehicle belt restraints and LATCH systems. In FF tests, using the 3-point-belt with the shoulder belt anchored on the impacted side provided the greatest reduction in lateral head excursion compared to a lap-belt only condition. Using a tether in FF tests also reduced maximum head excursion. In RF tests, using any type of LATCH reduced head excursion compared to conventional installation with only a lap belt. In a RF configuration, some tether configurations reduced head excursion of the ATD. In addition to evaluating head excursion, head retention within the child restraint was also noted. The key to retaining the ATD head within the CRS is to minimize rotation of the CRS about a vertical axis. This was achieved in a FF orientation through rigid LATCH lower attachments, a 3-point belt with the shoulder belt anchored on the impacted side, or a reverse belt path with a lap belt. The ATD head was not retained within the CRS in any of the RF tests.