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The electronic belt-fit test device (eBTD): A method for certifying safe seat belt fit
Technical Paper
2001-06-0081
Sector:
Language:
English
Abstract
The belt-fit test device (BTD) measures and assesses static seat
belt geometry of automobile seat belts. It was conceived and
developed by Transport Canada throughout the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s
to address abdominal and upper body injuries that resulted from a
mismatch between seat belt geometry and occupants'
anthropometric characteristics. When positioned on an automobile
seat, the BTD indicates whether the lap and shoulder belts fall
within specified bounds that have been established to minimize the
risk of serious injuries to soft tissue and organs from belt
intrusion.
Recently, work has focused on the development of an electronic
version of the BTD using computer-human modeling techniques and
computer-aided design (CAD). Tecmath AG, creators of the RAMSIS™
3D human modeling system, are currently developing an electronic
BTD (or eBTD). In addition to providing a convenient tool with
which to certify seat belt fit of current vehicle models, the eBTD
will help designers assess seat belt geometry before a vehicle
reaches production.