Citation

Werz M, Biss DJ. Collision 2011; 6(1): 100-112.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2011, Collision Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

In three high speed car-to-car rear impact crash tests, the driver's seats were found to be significantly reclined post-test. The setup of these tests was geometrically similar to the updated Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) 301 standard, but the closing speeds were up to 112 Km/h (70 mph). This study analyzed the failure modes for each of these seats in order to observe how production seats perform from a crashworthiness standpoint. Data analysis included high speed videos, acceleration data, and teardown analysis of the seats. Applicable FMVSS standards regarding seat back strength requirements were reviewed and DeHaven's basic occupant protection principles were interpreted for seats in rear impacts. Findings suggest that there is reason to be concerned about seat safety in rear impacts even though the seats met the minimum FMVSS standards. The design of non-collapsing, stronger seats that would offer more occupant protection in rear collisions is feasible using existing technical knowledge.