Evaluation of Passive Belts for Different Size Occupants

摘要

The report presents findings of a combined analytical and experimental research program to: (1) determine the effect of independent variation of the vertical and longitudinal position of the upper anchor point of the Volkswagen Rabbit passive belt on the performance of the restraint system for occupants ranging in size from a 6 yr. old child to a 95th percentile adult male; and (2) to design and develop a vertically adjustable upper anchorage for the VW passive belt and evaluate the performance in impact sled tests. From analyses of results from 40 sled tests (80 occupant exposures) simulating both 30 MPH frontal and angled barrier crashes it is concluded that the location of the existing, fixed anchor point in the 2-door model Rabbit is close to the optimum for the overall range of adult size occupants in terms of performance but the belt geometry does not comply with proposed criteria for belt fit. The data indicate that at least for belt crossing angles near the lower end of the range permitted by the comfort zone, the allowed position of the belt is too low and increases the likelihood of loading the lower abdomen due to occupants rolling over the belt. A vertically adjustable anchor designed for installation inside the door window frame and B-pillar of the 1976 2-door Rabbit is described. Static and dynamic strength proof-tests performed demonstrate that the adjustable anchor is capable of withstanding the belt loads developed during a crash with an adequate margin of safety.