Evaluation of child restraints for Holden Commodores

Charlton, Judith L.; Fildes, Brian; Olsson, Ted; Truedsson, Niklas; Smith, Stuart; Kobus, Jo; Kelly, Paul

Affiliations

¹Monash University Accident Research Centre, Australia

²Holden, Australia

³Australia

Abstract

A two-stage study was conducted to identify a suitable child restraint (CRS) to fit a Holden Commodore vehicle. Seven CRS were evaluated: 1 infant capsule (rear-facing), 3 dedicated forwardfacing restraints and 3 convertibles (rear-facing mode for infants and forward-facing mode for children). Stage 1 testing involved an evaluation of goodness-of-fit and quality of installation. Stage 2 testing involved dynamic sled tests (frontal and side-impact) using the 5 best performers from Stage 1. Amongst the rear-facing restraints, the capsule performed better than all convertibles, showing least reduction of front seat space and greatest lateral stability under a 200N force. Of the restraints tested in forward-facing mode, one dedicated forward-facing restraint was found to be superior. The sled tests showed differences in dummies’ forward head excursion, forward and lateral stability of CRS, and side-impact head protection. Overall, although the findings suggested a good level of protection, several areas for design improvement were highlighted including methods of fixing the restraint to the vehicle and the size of the side wings.

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Cited By (1)

Year	Entry
2004	Charlton JL, Fildes B, Laemmle R, Smith S, Douglas F. A preliminary evaluation of child restraints and anchorage systems for an Australian car. In: 48th Annual Proceedings, Association for the Advancement of Automotive Medicine (AAAM). September 13-15, 2004; Key Biscayne, FL.73-86.