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Development of a seat with an active adjustable seatback stiffness for enhanced safety during a rear impact is demonstrated. Review of literature suggests that there is not a single value for seatback stiffness to optimize occupant protection. An automobile seat whose stiffness can be actively adjusted based on EDR input and other factors can potentially enhance occupant safety during some rear impact crashes. Static pull tests were performed using a prototype seat demonstrating how seatback stiffness can be modified, and deformation limited, using electromechanical means. Research and development of this technology is ongoing.

Snowmobile acceleration, braking and cornering performance data are not well developed for use in accident reconstruction. Linear acceleration and braking data published by D'Addario[1] gives results for testing on 4 snowmobiles of various make and model. This paper presents the results of on-snow tests performed in 2014 which include acceleration and cornering maneuvers that have not been published previously. Maximum and average cornering speeds and corresponding lateral accelerations are presented for turns of radius 20, 35 and 65 feet (6.1, 10.7 and 19.8 meters) on level, packed snow. Performance values for acceleration, braking, and cornering are determined in tests with and without a passenger. Results of linear acceleration and braking tests were found to be comparable to the previously published work. The data are useful in snowmobile accident reconstruction for certain types of snowmobile motion analyses.