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Analytical computer simulations were used to optimize and fabricate an Advanced Integrated Safety Seat (AISS) for frontal, rear, side, and rollover crash protection. The AISS restraint features included: dual linear recliners, pyrotechnic lap belt pretensioner, 4 kN load-limiter, extended head restraint system, rear impact energy absorber, seat-integrated belt system, and side impact air bag system. The evaluation and optimization of the AISS design was achieved through analytical simulations using MADYMO multi-body analysis software, LS-DYNA3D finite element software, and through LS-DYNA3D/MADYMO coupling. Frontal and rear impact sled tests were also conducted with physical AISS prototypes and baseline integrated seats to verify performance. Both the analytical modeling and the experimental sled testing demonstrated safety improvements over the baseline integrated seat.

This study examines the added safety improvement effects of the Integrated (Belted) Structural Seat (ISS™) combined with an inflatable shoulder belt that inflates to form a cylindrical airbag during an automobile frontal crash. Although inflatable shoulder belts have been studied for many years with proven results, occupant impact response data and sled testing has been very limited to date when combining these two relatively new types of automotive safety systems. Accident studies show that frontal collisions, are by far the crashes with the most serious consequences. In frontal collisions, the main lesions placed upon the occupants are thoracic, mainly high chest deceleration, head injuries which result from the high deceleration levels due to occupant’s contact with the vehicle interiors, and rib fractures resulting from the high seat belt contact forces.