Static out-of-position (OOP) tests were performed to identify the potential for injury as a function of position, airbag type and vehicle seat characteristics. Seat and door mounted airbags, head curtains and head tubes were evaluated. OOP testing was carried out with the Hybrid III 3-year-old, 6-year-old and the TNO Q3 3-year-old child dummies. In-position tests and a dynamic test were conducted to monitor child seat and airbag interactions, and to confirm that properly restrained children would not be exposed to undue risk from a deploying side airbag. Results of the OOP testing suggest that current side airbag designs may cause serious and/or fatal neck and chest injuries. In-position static testing with child seats suggested a potential for intrusion into the child occupant space leading to structural damage of the car seat. (A)
Abstract