Crash analyses and design of a belt integrated seat for occupant safety

Abstract

\The performance of a belt integrated seat (BIS) is evaluated by using a sled test and occupant analysis software. The seat belt is attached to the seat back in the BIS to improve occupant safety. A simulation model of a BIS is established by using an occupant analysis program, SAFE. The model is constructed on the basis of data obtained from the structural investigation and a frontal sled test of a BIS. The numerical result from the simulation model is validated for consistency by comparison with high speed photographs taken during the sled test. Characteristics of both the conventional seat and the BIS are discussed. It is shown that occupant safety can be improved considerably with the BIS. A parametric study is conducted for various seat belts and a recommendation for an appropriate one is proposed. Structural analysis and optimization of the BIS are performed to establish the preliminary design trend considering occupant safety. A finite element model of the BIS is created, and the structure is optimized by the structural analysis and optimization program GENESIS. The seat components are reinforced on the basis of the shape of the existing BIS product. The results are discussed and a design recommendation for a BIS is made.