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A general discussion of crash sensor requirements is provided, with emphasis on the advantages of long inflation times. An explanation of the basic radar system is offered, and various designs, broken down both by antenna configuration and carrier modulation, are investigated. After careful study it is found that all radar sensors suffer from the same inadequacy-the inability to correctly classify obstacles into hazardous and nonhazardous categories. Several approaches to solving this problem are discussed. The conclusion is reached that radar crash sensors will be unavailable for MY 1976 air cushion requirements.

Development of the structures for an experimental safety vehicle by General Motors Corp. in compliance with Contract DOT-OS-00095 involved defining vehicle crash dynamics and relating structural characteristics to dummy occupant kinematics. Analytical tools were used to simulate vehicle crush characteristics, relate the crush/deceleration behavior to occupant kinematics, and simulate occupant behavior. A comprehensive test program was planned and final crashworthiness testing and validation were conducted.

An integrated heating and air conditioning system that would automatically bring the passenger compartment to a comfortable temperature and maintain this temperature under all climatic and engine operating conditions has long been a goal of many automotive engineers in this field. Fulfillment of this objective was realized with the introduction of the Comfort Control system on the 1964 Cadillac. This paper presents a brief history of General Motors’ experience with automatic climate controls, describes the preliminary design and development of the Cadillac system, and explains how the Comfort Control system operates.

This paper presents a comprehensive guide of basic points concerning engineering supervision and management. It is based on the practical experience of supervisors, supplemented by research findings of behavioral scientists. The purpose is to introduce this important subject in a practical and useful way to interested engineers, as well as to furnish a systematic review for the further development of experienced supervisors. The first section covers the main responsibilities of technical work coordination and supervision; the second section covers the additional personnel and administrative responsibilities of the engineering supervisor. A selected reading list is also provided for reference to further information on specific subjects.

This paper discusses the design of an automobile air cushion restraint system which will provide adequate occupant protection. The extensive process employed in the design of such a system is presented; systems analysis, engineering, testing, and evaluation are the major points of the process. The program is intended to provide low-cost safety methods, and to provide a basis for future development of more improved safety systems.

This paper covers progress made by General Motors in development and use of the SHED technique since report of its initial development to SAE in January, 1968. Additional details are given on SHED leakage, interior temperature, and car background emission. Auxiliary equipment developed to facilitate evaporative emission testing is described. Methods of emission control hardware evaluation are discussed, for which the SHED technique has unique capability.

A design guide for bolt engagement in cast iron has been developed. The design engagements are sufficient to insure that if a bolt is overloaded and failure occurs, either at assembly or in service, the bolt will break rather than strip the bolt or cast iron threads. In addition to the design guide, this report presents information concerning: 1. The ratio of gray cast iron shear strength to tensile strength. 2. The ratio of shear strength to tensile strength for SAE Grade 5 and Grade 8 bolts.