Dynamic Performance of Child Seating Systems

In a previous study, an extensive study of the dynamic performance of child seating systems indicated that little protection was provided under circumstances other than panic braking. This study was performed with impact test conditions of 30 mph frontal and 20 mph lateral and rear barrier impacts with seating systems meeting the requirements of FMVSS 213. Additionally, the performance of prototype seats developed under contract with the Department of Transportation under similar test conditions will be presented to compare the protective qualities available with seats of current design and those that could become available in the future.

The performance of the child seats will be evaluated using two criteria, motion limits and acceleration limits. It is believed that the performance of child seats can be determined without the extensive test equipment and facilities required for adult seating and restraint systems.