Automotive Side Glazing for Primary and Secondary Occupant Retention

The occupant retention performance of laminated and tempered side glazing during rollover collisions is analyzed. A brief history of automotive glazing is given, including a discussion of current technology. A summary of glazing failure mechanisms is provided, along with the results of impact and quasi-static pushout testing of undamaged commercial and prototype door windows. The investigation shows that supported laminated side glazing gives performance comparable to windshield glazing and can effect both primary and secondary containment of occupants. Results of documented unplanned rollover collisions and staged rollover tests are presented in support of the conclusions drawn.