Performance Matrices of Four Restraint Systems

For three given deceleration pulses of defined shape and peak magnitude, total velocity change was varied from 20 to 40 mph by changing duration of the pulse. Several restraint systems were compared, for these combinations of speed change and pulse shape, using head injury criterion, chest severity index, and femur loads to evaluate potential injury. Limit curves for each restraint are developed in terms of velocity change and peak deceleration, and the significance of these curves is discussed.