Schroth Racing All models - Competition Instructions - Manual (Page 10)

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W
HAT HAPPENS DURING A FRONTAL IMPACT
:
This data is based on an optimised installation with an upright seating
position during dynamic testing. It simulates a 90° head on collision,
utilising a 75 kg [165 lb] mass dummy, an impact velocity of 50 kph
[31 mph] and a stopping distance of approximately 400 mm [16”] with a
maximum deceleration of 30 g [FIA Standard 8854/98 dynamic test
requirements]:
¾ The pelvic load, expected to surpass 14 kN [3,100 lb] at each
side, will elongate the lap belt and compress the tissue on the
pelvis. The pelvis will slide forward by 80 to 100 mm [3”-4”]
¾ The upper torso load is expected to surpass 7 kN [1,550 lb] on
each strap, will elongate the shoulder belts, the upper body will
roll in, the adjusters will move up the chest by approximately
200 mm [8”] and forward head trajectory will be up to 400 mm
[16”]
¾ The pelvic movement combined with the shoulder belt forces will
load the anti-sub straps to more than 6 kN [1,320 lb] each in a 5-
or 6-point racing harness and can be intentionally higher in a
F-type model where the anti-sub straps are routed rearwards.
In more reclined seating positions, the pelvic load will be reduced to
approx. 9 kN [2,000 lb] since the seat pan, designed as a ramp, will take
some of the load. Therefore it is essential the seat or chassis
manufacturer ensure the seat pan is strong enough not to bend or even
collapse under extreme loads.
In any case, seats are a significant component of the safety system!
W HAT DOES THE DISCUSSION OF FRONTAL IMPACTS MEAN TO THE
OCCUPANT
?:
The numbers above seem to be quite high when compared with actual
racing accidents. Fortunately, most racing accidents are not 90° head-
on collisions. Car deformation is greater than the 400 mm [16”], and
modern soft walls also convert impact energy. Therefore, accidents with
higher impact speeds are often less severe than the FIA required test set
up. However, SCHROTH racing harnesses have been tested to speeds
and decelerations surpassing FIA requirements.