AIR AND KNEE BOLSTER RESTRAINT SYSTEM - LABORATORY SLED TESTS WITH HUMAN CADAVERS AND THE HYBRID-III DUMMY

Growing evidence from data base and laboratory studies demonstrates ef fective occupant protection with the airbag supplemental restraint and seatbelt restraint system. Concern that drivers of vehicles equipped with airbags may assume adequate protection without concomitant seatbe lt use prompted the study of unbelted occupant behavior in frontal cra shes. Objective: To evaluate the crash protection afforded unbelted dr ivers in airbag-equipped vehicles. Design: Six laboratory sled tests w ere conducted with a production driver's side airbag and knee bolster restraint system but without a seatbelt restraint system. Materials an d Methods: Four human cadavers and the Hybrid III dummy were used as o ccupants in 32 km/h and 48 km/h tests with a simulated mid-size vehicl e. Measurements and Main Results: Head contact with the windshield/hea der region of the simulated vehicle and abdominal impingement on the l ower rim of the steering wheel were noted in all tests. Autopsy examin ations and radiographic images identified extensive spinal and thoraci c trauma in addition to lower extremity and facial injuries. Injury Se verity Scores were considered severe to critical for all occupants. Co nclusions: The evidence suggests the need to emphasize the use of seat belts in conjunction with airbags and to develop a redesigned airbag a nd knee bolster system to control occupant kinematics and loading more effectively.