[Code of Federal Regulations]
[Title 49, Volume 5]
[Revised as of October 1, 2002]
From the U.S. Government Printing Office via GPO Access
[CITE: 49CFR571.225]
[Page 701-735]
TITLE 49--TRANSPORTATION
OF TRANSPORTATION
PART 571--FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARDS--Table of Contents
Subpart B--Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards
Sec. 571.225 Standard No. 225; Child restraint anchorage systems.
S1. Purpose and scope. This standard establishes requirements for
child restraint anchorage systems to ensure their proper location and
strength for the effective securing of child restraints, to reduce the
likelihood of the anchorage systems' failure, and to increase the
likelihood that child restraints are properly secured and thus more
fully achieve their potential effectiveness in motor vehicles.
S2. Application. This standard applies to passenger cars; to trucks
and multipurpose passenger vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating
(GVWR) of 3,855 kilograms (8,500 pounds) or less, except walk-in van-
type vehicles and vehicles manufactured to be sold exclusively to the
U.S. Postal Service; and to buses (including school buses) with a GVWR
of 4,536 kg (10,000 lb) or less, except shuttle buses.
S3. Definitions.
Child restraint anchorage means any vehicle component, other than
Type I or Type II seat belts, that is involved in transferring loads
generated by a child restraint system to the vehicle structure.
Child restraint anchorage system means a vehicle system that is
designed for attaching a child restraint system to a vehicle at a
particular designated seating position, consisting of:
(a) Two lower anchorages meeting the requirements of S9; and
(b) A tether anchorage meeting the requirements of S6.
Child restraint fixture (CRF) means the fixture depicted in Figures
1 and 2 of this standard that simulates the dimensions of a child
restraint system, and that is used to determine the space required by
the child restraint system and the location and accessibility of the
lower anchorages.
Rear designated seating position means any designated seating
position (as that term is defined at Sec. 571.3) that is rearward of the
front seats(s).
Seat bight means the area close to and including the intersection of
the surfaces of the vehicle seat cushion and the seat back.
SFAD 1 means Static Force Application Device 1 shown in Figures 12
to 16 of this standard.
SFAD 2 means Static Force Application Device 2 shown in Figures 17
and 18 of this standard.
Shuttle bus means a bus with only one row of forward-facing seating
positions rearward of the driver's seat.
Tether anchorage means a user-ready, permanently installed vehicle
system that transfers loads from a tether strap through the tether hook
to the vehicle structure and that accepts a tether hook.
Tether strap means a strap that is secured to the rigid structure of
the seat back of a child restraint system, and is connected to a tether
hook that transfers the load from that system to the tether anchorage.
Tether hook means a device, illustrated in Figure 11 of Standard No.
213 (Sec. 571.213), used to attach a tether strap to a tether anchorage.
S4. General vehicle requirements.
S4.1 Each tether anchorage and each child restraint anchorage
system installed, either voluntarily or pursuant to this standard, in
any new vehicle manufactured on or after September 1, 1999, shall comply
with the configuration, location, marking and strength requirements of
this standard. The vehicle shall be delivered with written information,
in English, on how to appropriately use those anchorages and systems.
S4.2 For passenger cars manufactured on or after September 1, 1999
and before September 1, 2000, not less than 80 percent of the
manufacturer's average annual production of vehicles (not including
convertibles), as set forth in S13, shall be equipped with a tether
anchorage as specified in paragraphs (a), (b) and (c) of S4.2, except as
provided in S5.
(a) Each vehicle with three or more forward-facing rear designated
seating positions shall be equipped with a tether anchorage conforming
to the requirements of S6 at no fewer than three forward-facing rear
designated
[[Page 702]]
seating positions. The tether anchorage of a child restraint anchorage
system may count towards the three required tether anchorages. In each
vehicle with a forward-facing rear designated seating position other
than an outboard designated seating position, at least one tether
anchorage (with or without the lower anchorages of a child restraint
anchorage system) shall be at such a designated seating position. In a
vehicle with three or more rows of seating positions, at least one of
the tether anchorages (with or without the lower anchorages of a child
restraint anchorage system) shall be installed at a forward-facing
seating position in the second row if such a forward-facing seating
position is available in that row.
(b) Each vehicle with not more than two forward-facing rear
designated seating positions shall be equipped with a tether anchorage
conforming to the requirements of S6 at each forward-facing rear
designated seating position. The tether anchorage of a child restraint
anchorage system may count toward the required tether anchorages.
(c) Each vehicle without any forward-facing rear designated seating
position shall be equipped with a tether anchorage conforming to the
requirements of S6 at each front forward-facing passenger seating
position.
S4.3 Each vehicle manufactured on or after September 1, 2000 and
before September 1, 2002, shall be equipped as specified in paragraphs
(a) and (b) of S4.3, except as provided in S5.
(a) A specified percentage of each manufacturer's yearly production,
as set forth in S14, shall be equipped as follows:
(1) Each vehicle with three or more forward-facing rear designated
seating positions shall be equipped with a child restraint anchorage
system conforming to the requirements of S9 at not fewer than two
forward-facing rear designated seating positions. In a vehicle with
three or more rows of seating positions, at least one of the child
restraint anchorage systems shall be at a forward-facing seating
position in the second row if such a forward-facing seating position is
available in that row.
(2) Each vehicle with not more than two forward-facing rear
designated seating positions shall be equipped with a child restraint
anchorage system conforming to the requirements of S9 at each forward-
facing rear designated seating position.
(b) Each vehicle, including a vehicle that is counted toward the
percentage of a manufacturer's yearly production required to be equipped
with child restraint anchorage systems, shall be equipped as described
in S4.3(b)(1), (2) or (3).
(1) Each vehicle with three or more forward-facing rear designated
seating positions shall be equipped with a tether anchorage conforming
to the requirements of S6 at no fewer than three forward-facing rear
designated seating positions. The tether anchorage of a child restraint
anchorage system may count towards the three required tether anchorages.
In each vehicle with a forward-facing rear designated seating position
other than an outboard designated seating position, at least one tether
anchorage (with or without the lower anchorages of a child restraint
anchorage system) shall be at such a designated seating position. In a
vehicle with three or more rows of seating positions, at least one of
the tether anchorages (with or without the lower anchorages of a child
restraint anchorage system) shall be installed at a forward-facing
seating position in the second row if such a forward-facing seating
position is available in that row.
(2) Each vehicle with not more than two forward-facing rear
designated seating positions shall be equipped with a tether anchorage
conforming to the requirements of S6 at each forward-facing rear
designated seating position. The tether anchorage of a child restraint
anchorage system may count toward the required tether anchorages.
(3) Each vehicle without any forward-facing rear designated seating
position shall be equipped with a tether anchorage conforming to the
requirements of S6 at each front passenger seating position.
S4.4 Vehicles manufactured on or after September 1, 2002 shall be
equipped as specified in paragraphs (a)
[[Page 703]]
through (c) of S4.4, except as provided in S5.
(a) Each vehicle with three or more forward-facing rear designated
seating positions shall be equipped as specified in S4.4(a)(1) and (2).
(1) Each vehicle shall be equipped with a child restraint anchorage
system conforming to the requirements of S9 at not fewer than two
forward-facing rear designated seating positions. At least one of the
child restraint anchorage systems shall be installed at a forward-facing
seating position in the second row in each vehicle that has three or
more rows, if such a forward-facing seating position is available in
that row.
(2) Each vehicle shall be equipped with a tether anchorage
conforming to the requirements of S6 at a third forward-facing rear
designated seating position. The tether anchorage of a child restraint
anchorage system may count towards the third required tether anchorage.
In each vehicle with a forward-facing rear designated seating position
other than an outboard designated seating position, at least one tether
anchorage (with or without the lower anchorages of a child restraint
anchorage system) shall be at such a designated seating position.
(b) Each vehicle with not more than two forward-facing rear
designated seating positions shall be equipped with a child restraint
anchorage system conforming to the requirements of S9 at each forward-
facing rear designated seating position.
(c) Each vehicle without any forward-facing rear designated seating
position shall be equipped with a tether anchorage conforming to the
requirements of S6 at each front forward-facing passenger seating
position.
S4.5 As an alternative to complying with the requirements of S4.2
through S4.4 that specify the number of tether anchorages that are
required in a vehicle and the designated seating positions for which
tether anchorages must be provided, a vehicle manufactured from
September 1, 1999 to August 31, 2004 may, at the manufacturer's option
(with said option irrevocably selected prior to, or at the time of,
certification of the vehicle), meet the requirements of this S4.5. This
alternative ceases to be available on and after September 1, 2004. A
tether anchorage conforming to the requirements of S6 must be installed-
-
(a) For each designated seating position, other than that of the
driver, in a vehicle that has only one row of designated seating
positions;
(b) For each forward-facing designated seating position in the
second row of seating positions in a passenger car or truck;
(c) For each of any two forward-facing designated seating positions
in the second row of seating positions in a multipurpose passenger
vehicle that has five or fewer designated seating positions; and,
(d) For each of any three forward-facing designated seating
positions that are located to the rear of the first row of designated
seating positions in a multipurpose passenger vehicle that has six or
more designated seating positions.
S5. General exceptions.
(a) Convertibles and school buses are excluded from the requirements
to be equipped with tether anchorages.
(b) A vehicle may be equipped with a built-in child restraint system
conforming to the requirements of Standard No. 213 (49 CFR 571.213)
instead of one of the required tether anchorages or child restraint
anchorage systems.
(c)(1) Each vehicle that--
(i) Does not have a rear designated seating position and that thus
meets the conditions in S4.5.4.1(a) of Standard No. 208 (Sec. 571.208);
and
(ii) Has an air bag on-off switch meeting the requirements of S4.5.4
of Standard No. 208 (Sec. 571.208), shall have a child restraint
anchorage system for a designated passenger seating position in the
front seat, instead of only a tether anchorage. In the case of
convertibles, the front designated passenger seating position need have
only the two lower anchorages meeting the requirements of S9 of this
standard.
(iii) For vehicles manufactured on or after September 1, 2002, each
vehicle that does not have a rear designated seating position, and does
not have an air bag installed at front passenger designated seating
positions pursuant to a temporary exemption granted by NHTSA under 49
CFR Part 555, must
[[Page 704]]
have a child restraint anchorage system installed at a front passenger
designated seating position. In the case of convertibles, the front
designated passenger seating position need have only the two lower
anchorages meeting the requirements of S9 of this standard.
(2) Each vehicle that--
(i) Has a rear designated seating position and meets the conditions
in S4.5.4.1(b) of Standard No. 208 (Sec. 571.208); and,
(ii) Has an air bag on-off switch meeting the requirements of S4.5.4
of Standard 208 (Sec. 571.208), shall have a child restraint anchorage
system for a designated passenger seating position in the front seat,
instead of a child restraint anchorage system that is required for the
rear seat. In the case of convertibles, the front designated passenger
seating position need have only the two lower anchorages meeting the
requirements of S9 of this standard.
(iii) For vehicles manufactured on or after September 1, 2002, each
vehicle that has a rear designated seating position and meets the
conditions in S4.5.4.1(b) of Standard No. 208 (Sec. 571.208), and does
not have an air bag installed at front passenger designated seating
positions pursuant to a temporary exemption granted by NHTSA under 49
CFR Part 555, must have a child restraint anchorage system installed at
a front passenger designated seating position in place of one of the
child restraint anchorage systems that is required for the rear seat. In
the case of convertibles, the front designated passenger seating
position need have only the two lower anchorages meeting the
requirements of S9 of this standard.
(d) A vehicle that does not have an air bag on-off switch meeting
the requirements of S4.5.4 of Standard No. 208 (Sec. 571.208), shall not
have any child restraint anchorage system installed at a front
designated seating position.
(e) A vehicle with a rear designated seating position for which
interference with transmission and/or suspension components prevents the
location of the lower bars of a child restraint anchorage system
anywhere within the zone described by S9.2 or S15.1.2.2(b) such that the
attitude angles of S15.1.2.2(a) could be met, is excluded from the
requirement to provide a child restraint anchorage system at that
position. However, except as provided elsewhere in S5 of this standard,
for vehicles manufactured on or after September 1, 2001, such a vehicle
must have a tether anchorage at a front passenger designated seating
position.
S6. Requirements for tether anchorages.
S6.1 Configuration of the tether anchorage. Each tether anchorage
shall:
(a) Permit the attachment of a tether hook of a child restraint
system meeting the configuration and geometry specified in Figure 11 of
Standard No. 213 (Sec. 571.213);
(b) Be accessible without the need for any tools other than a
screwdriver or coin;
(c) Once accessed, be ready for use without the need for any tools;
and
(d) Be sealed to prevent the entry of exhaust fumes into the
passenger compartment.
S6.2 Location of the tether anchorage. A vehicle manufactured on or
after September 1, 1999 and before September 1, 2004 may, at the
manufacturer's option (with said option irrevocably selected prior to,
or at the time of, certification of the vehicle), meet the requirements
of S6.2.1 or S6.2.2. Vehicles manufactured on or after September 1, 2004
must meet the requirements of S6.2.1 of this standard.
S6.2.1 Subject to S6.2.1.1 and S6.2.1.2, the part of each tether
anchorage that attaches to a tether hook must be located within the
shaded zone shown in Figures 3 to 7 of this standard of the designated
seating position for which it is installed. The zone is defined with
reference to the seating reference point (see Sec. 571.3). (For purposes
of the figures, ``H Point'' is defined to mean seating reference point.)
S6.2.1.1 In the case of passenger cars and multipurpose passenger
vehicles manufactured before September 1, 2004, the part of each user-
ready tether anchorage that attaches to a tether hook may, at the
manufacturer's option (with said option selected prior to, or at the
time of, certification of the vehicle), instead of complying with
S6.2.1, be located within the shaded zone shown in Figures 8 to 11 of
this standard of the designated seating position for which it is
installed, relative to the
[[Page 705]]
shoulder reference point of the three dimensional H-point machine
described in section 3.1 of SAE Standard J826 (June 1992),
(incorporation by reference; see Sec. 571.5), such that--
(a) The H-point of the three dimensional H-point machine is located-
-
(1) At the actual H-point of the seat, as defined in section
2.2.11.3 of SAE Recommended Practice J1100 (June 1993), (incorporation
by reference; see Sec. 571.5), at the full rearward and downward
position of the seat; or
(2) In the case of a designated seating position that has a child
restraint anchorage system, midway between vertical longitudinal planes
passing through the lateral center of the bar in each of the two lower
anchorages of that system; and
(b) The back pan of the H-point machine is at the same angle to the
vertical as the vehicle seat back with the seat adjusted to its full
rearward and full downward position and the seat back in its most
upright position.
S6.2.1.2 In the case of a vehicle that--
(a) Has a user-ready tether anchorage for which no part of the
shaded zone shown in Figures 3 to 7 of this standard of the designated
seating position for which the anchorage is installed is accessible
without removing a seating component of the vehicle; and
(b) Has a tether strap routing device that is--
(1) Not less than 65 mm behind the torso line for that seating
position, in the case of a flexible routing device or a deployable
routing device, measured horizontally and in a vertical longitudinal
plane; or
(2) Not less than 100 mm behind the torso line for that seating
position, in the case of a fixed rigid routing device, measured
horizontally and in a vertical longitudinal plane, the part of that
anchorage that attaches to a tether hook may, at the manufacturer's
option (with said option selected prior to, or at the time of,
certification of the vehicle) be located outside that zone.
S6.2.2 Subject to S6.2.2.1 and S6.2.2.2, the portion of each user-
ready tether anchorage that is designed to bind with a tether strap hook
shall be located within the shaded zone shown in Figures 3 to 7 of this
standard of the designated seating position for which it is installed,
with reference to the H-point of a template described in section 3.1 of
SAE Standard J826 (June 1992) (incorporation by reference; see
Sec. 571.5), if:
(a) The H-point of the template is located--
(1) At the unique Design H-point of the designated seating position,
as defined in section 2.2.11.1 of SAE Recommended Practice J1100 (June
1993) (incorporation by reference; see Sec. 571.5), at the full downward
and full rearward position of the seat, or--
(2) In the case of a designated seating position that has a means of
affixing the lower portion of a child restraint system to the vehicle,
other than a vehicle seat belt, midway between the two lower restraint
system anchorages;
(b) The torso line of the template is at the same angle to the
transverse vertical plane as the vehicle seat back with the seat
adjusted to its full rearward and full downward position and the seat
back in its most upright position; and
(c) The template is positioned in the vertical longitudinal plane
that contains the H-point of the template.
S6.2.2.1 In passenger cars and multipurpose passenger vehicles
manufactured before September 1, 2004, the portion of each user-ready
tether anchorage to which a tether strap hook attaches may be located
within the shaded zone shown in Figures 8 to 11 of the designated
seating position for which it is installed, with reference to the
shoulder reference point of a template described in section 3.1 of SAE
Standard J826 (June 1992) (incorporation by reference; see Sec. 571.5),
if:
(a) The H-point of the template is located--
(1) At the unique Design H-point of the designated seating position,
as defined in section 2.2.11.1 of SAE Recommended Practice J1100 (June
1993) (incorporation by reference; see Sec. 571.5), at the full downward
and full rearward position of the seat, or--
(2) In the case of a designated seating position that has a means of
affixing the lower portion of a child restraint
[[Page 706]]
system to the vehicle, other than a vehicle seat belt, midway between
the two lower restraint system anchorages;
(b) The torso line of the template is at the same angle to the
vertical plane as the vehicle seat back with the seat adjusted to its
full rearward and full downward position and the seat back in its most
upright position; and
(c) The template is positioned in the vertical longitudinal plane
that contains the H-point of the template.
S6.2.2.2 The portion of a user-ready tether anchorage in a vehicle
that is designed to bind with the tether strap hook may be located
outside the shaded zone referred to in S6.2.2, if no part of the shaded
zone is accessible without removing a seating component of the vehicle
and the vehicle is equipped with a routing device that--
(a) Ensures that the tether strap functions as if the portion of the
anchorage designed to bind with the tether strap hook were located
within the shaded zone;
(b) Is at least 65 mm behind the torso line, in the case of a non-
rigid-webbing-type routing device or a deployable routing device, or at
least 100 mm behind the torso line, in the case of a fixed rigid routing
device; and
(c) When tested after being installed as it is intended to be used,
is of sufficient strength to withstand, with the user-ready tether
anchorage, the load referred to in S6.3.4 or S6.3.4.1, as applicable.
S6.3 Strength requirements for tether anchorages. Subject to
S6.3.2, a vehicle manufactured on or after September 1, 1999, and before
September 1, 2004 may, at the manufacturer's option (with said option
irrevocably selected prior to, or at the time of, certification of the
vehicle), meet the requirements of S6.3.1 or S6.3.4. Subject to S6.3.2,
vehicles manufactured on or after September 1, 2004 must meet the
requirements of S6.3.1 of this standard.
S6.3.1 Subject to S6.3.2, when tested in accordance with S8, after
preloading the device with a force of 500 N, point X of the SFAD must
not be displaced horizontally more than 125 mm during the application of
the force.
S6.3.2 In vehicles manufactured before September 1, 2004, each
user-ready tether anchorage in a row of designated seating positions in
a passenger car may, at the manufacturer's option (with said option
selected prior to, or at the time of, certification of the vehicle),
instead of complying with S6.3.1, withstand the application of a force
of 5,300 N, when tested in accordance with S8.2, such that the anchorage
does not release the belt strap specified in S8.2 or allow any point on
the tether anchorage to be displaced more than 125 mm.
S6.3.3 Provisions for simultaneous and sequential testing. (a) In
the case of vehicle seat assemblies equipped with more than one tether
anchorage system, the force referred to in S6.3.1 and S6.3.2 may, at the
agency's option, be applied simultaneously to each of those tether
anchorages. However, that force may not be applied simultaneously to
tether anchorages for any two adjacent seating positions whose midpoints
are less than 400 mm apart, as measured in accordance with S6.3.3(a)(1)
and (2) and Figure 20.
(1) The midpoint of the seating position lies in the vertical
longitudinal plane that is equidistant from vertical longitudinal planes
through the geometric center of each of the two lower anchorages at the
seating position.
(2) Measure the distance between the vertical longitudinal planes
passing through the midpoints of the adjacent seating positions, as
measured along a line perpendicular to the planes.
(b) A tether anchorage of a particular child restraint anchorage
system will not be tested with the lower anchorages of that anchorage
system if one or both of those lower anchorages have been previously
tested under this standard.
S6.3.4 Subject to subsections S6.3.4.1 and S6.3.4.2, every user-
ready tether anchorage in a row of designated seating positions shall,
when tested, withstand the application of a force of 10,000 N--
(a) Applied by means of one of the following types of test devices,
installed as a child restraint system would be installed in accordance
with the manufacturer's installation instructions, namely,
(1) SFAD 1, to test a tether anchorage at a designated seating
position
[[Page 707]]
that does not have a child restraint anchorage system; or
(2) SFAD 2, to test a tether anchorage at a designated seating
position that has a child restraint anchorage system;
(b) Applied--
(1) In a forward direction parallel to the vehicle's vertical
longitudinal plane through the X point on the test device, and,
(2) Initially, along a horizontal line or along any line below or
above that line that is at an angle to that line of not more than 5
degrees;
(c) Approximately linearly over a time, at the option of the vehicle
manufacturer, of not more than 30 seconds, at any onset force rate of
not more than 135 000 N/s; and
(d) Maintained at a 10,000 N level for one second.
S6.3.4.1 In a passenger car manufactured before September 1, 2004,
every user-ready tether anchorage in a row of designated seating
positions must, when tested, subject to subsection S6.3.4.2, withstand
the application of a force of 5,300 N, which force must be--
(a) Applied by means of a belt strap that--
(1) Extends not less than 250 mm forward from the vertical plane
touching the rear top edge of the vehicle seat back,
(2) Is fitted at one end with suitable hardware for applying the
force and at the other end with a bracket for the attachment of the
user-ready tether anchorage, and
(3) Passes over the top of the vehicle seat back as shown in Figure
19 of this standard;
(b) Applied--
(1) In a forward direction parallel to the vehicle's longitudinal
vertical plane, and
(2) Initially, along a horizontal line or along any line below that
line that is at an angle to that line of not more than 20 degrees;
(c) Attained within 30 seconds, at any onset force rate of not more
than 135,000 N/s; and
(d) Maintained at a 5,300 N level for one second.
S6.3.4.2 If the zones in which tether anchorages are located
overlap and if, in the overlap area, a user-ready tether anchorage is
installed that is designed to accept the tether strap hooks of two
restraint systems simultaneously, both portions of the tether anchorage
that are designed to bind with a tether strap hook shall withstand the
force referred to in subsection S6.3.4 or S6.3.4.1, as the case may be,
applied to both portions simultaneously.
S6.3.4.3 Provisions for simultaneous and sequential testing. (a) In
the case of vehicle seat assemblies equipped with more than one tether
anchorage system, the force referred to in S6.3.4, 6.3.4.1 or S6.3.4.2
may, at the agency's option, be applied simultaneously to each of those
tether anchorages. However, that force may not be applied simultaneously
to tether anchorages for any two adjacent seating positions whose
midpoints are less than 400 mm apart, as measured in accordance with
S6.3.4.3(a)(1) and (2) and Figure 20.
(1) The midpoint of the seating position lies in the vertical
longitudinal plane that is equidistant from vertical longitudinal planes
through the geometric center of each of the two lower anchorages at the
seating position.
(2) Measure the distance between the vertical longitudinal planes
passing through the midpoints of the adjacent seating positions, as
measured along a line perpendicular to the planes.
(b) A tether anchorage of a particular child restraint anchorage
system will not be tested with the lower anchorages of that anchorage
system if one or both of those lower anchorages have been previously
tested under this standard.
S6.3.4.4 The strength requirement tests shall be conducted with the
vehicle seat adjusted to its full rearward and full downward position
and the seat back in its most upright position. When SFAD 2 is used in
testing and cannot be attached to the lower anchorages with the seat
back in this position, adjust the seat back as recommended by the
manufacturer in its instructions for attaching child restraints. If no
instructions are provided, adjust the seat back to the position that
enables SFAD 2 to attach to the lower anchorages that is the closest to
the most upright position.
S7. Test conditions for testing tether anchorages.
[[Page 708]]
The test conditions described in paragraphs (a) and (b) of S7 apply
to the test procedures in S8.
(a) Vehicle seats are adjusted to their full rearward and full
downward position and the seat back is placed in its most upright
position. When SFAD 2 is used in testing and cannot be attached to the
lower anchorages with the seat back in this position, adjust the seat
back as recommended by the manufacturer in its instructions for
attaching child restraints. If no instructions are provided, adjust the
seat back to the position that enables SFAD 2 to attach to the lower
anchorages that is the closest to the most upright position.
(b) Head restraints are adjusted in accordance with the
manufacturer's instructions, provided pursuant to S12, as to how the
head restraints should be adjusted when using the child restraint
anchorage system. If instructions with regard to head restraint
adjustment are not provided pursuant to S12, the head restraints are
adjusted to any position.
S8. Test procedures. Each vehicle shall meet the requirements of
S6.3.1 and S6.3.3 when tested according to the following procedures.
Where a range of values is specified, the vehicle shall be able to meet
the requirements at all points within the range. For testing specified
in the procedures, the SFAD used in the test is connected to the
anchorage by means of a steel cable that is fitted at one end with a
high strength steel tether hook for attachment to the tether anchorage.
The tether hook meets the specifications in Standard No. 213
(Sec. 571.213) as to the configuration and geometry of tether hooks
required by that standard. A second steel cable is connected to the X
point through which the test force is applied.
S8.1 Apply the force specified in S6.3.1 as follows--
(a) Use the following specified test device, as appropriate:
(1) SFAD 1, to test a tether anchorage at a designated seating
position that does not have a child restraint anchorage system; or,
(2) SFAD 2, to test a tether anchorage at a designated seating
position that has a child restraint anchorage system.
(b) Attach the SFAD 1 to the vehicle seat using the vehicle belts or
the SFAD 2 to the lower anchorages of the child restraint anchorage
system, as appropriate, and attach the test device to the tether
anchorage, in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions provided
pursuant to S12 of this standard. For the testing specified in this
procedure, if SFAD 1 cannot be attached using the vehicle belts because
of the location of the vehicle belt buckle, the test device shall be
attached by material whose breaking strength is equal to or greater than
the breaking strength of the webbing for the seat belt assembly
installed as original equipment at that seating position. The geometry
of the attachment shall duplicate the geometry, at the pre-load point,
of the attachment of the originally installed seat belt assembly. All
belt systems used to attach SFAD 1 shall be tightened to a tension of
not less than 53.5 N and not more than 67 N, as measured by a load cell
used on the webbing portion of the belt. A rearward force of 135 N
15 N shall be applied to the center of the lower front
crossmember of SFAD 2 to press the device against the seat back as the
fore-aft position of the rearward extensions of the SFAD is adjusted to
remove any slack or tension.
(c) Apply the force--
(1) Initially, in a forward direction in a vertical longitudinal
plane and through the Point X on the test device; and
(2) Initially, along a line through the X point and at an angle of
10 5 degrees above the horizontal. Apply a preload force of
500 N to measure the angle; and then
(3) Increase the pull force as linearly as practicable to a full
force application of 15,000 N in not less than 24 seconds and not more
than 30 seconds, and maintain at a 15,000 N level for 1 second.
S8.2 Apply the force specified in S6.3.2 as follows:
(a) Attach a belt strap, and tether hook, to the user-ready tether
anchorage. The belt strap extends not less than 250 mm forward from the
vertical transverse plane touching the rear top edge of the vehicle seat
back, and passes over the top of the vehicle seat
[[Page 709]]
back as shown in Figure 19 of this standard;
(b) Apply the force at the end of the belt strap--
(1) Initially, in a forward direction in a vertical longitudinal
plane that is parallel to the vehicle's longitudinal centerline;
(2) Initially, along a horizontal line or along any line below or
above that line that is at an angle to that line of not more than 20
degrees;
(3) So that the force is attained within 30 seconds, at any onset
rate of not more than 135,000 N/s; and
(4) Maintained at a 5,300 N level for a minimum of 1 second.
S9 Requirements for the lower anchorages of the child restraint
anchorage system. As an alternative to complying with the requirements
of S9, a vehicle manufactured on or after September 1, 1999 and before
September 1, 2004 may, at the manufacturer's option (with said option
irrevocably selected prior to, or at the time of, certification of the
vehicle), meet the requirements in S15 of this standard. Vehicles
manufactured on or after September 1, 2004 must meet the requirements of
S9 of this standard.
S9.1 Configuration of the lower anchorages
S9.1.1 The lower anchorages shall consist of two bars that--
(a) Are 6 mm .1 mm in diameter;
(b) Are straight, horizontal and transverse, and whose centroidal
longitudinal axes are collinear;
(c) Are not less than 25 mm, but not more than 40 mm in length;
(d) Can be connected to, over their entire length, as specified in
paragraph S9.1.1(c), by the connectors of a child restraint system;
(e) Are 280 mm 1 mm apart, measured from the center of
the length of one bar to the center of the length of the other bar;
(f) Are an integral and permanent part of the vehicle or vehicle
seat; and
(g) Are rigidly attached to the vehicle such that they will not
deform more than 5 mm when subjected to a 100 N force in any direction.
S9.2 Location of the lower anchorages.
S9.2.1 With adjustable seats adjusted as described in S9.2.2, each
lower anchorage bar shall be located so that a vertical transverse plane
tangent to the front surface of the bar is:
(a) Not more than 70 mm behind the corresponding point Z of the CRF,
measured parallel to the bottom surface of the CRF and in a vertical
longitudinal plane, while the CRF is pressed against the seat back by
the rearward application of a horizontal force of 5 N at point A on the
CRF; and
(b) Not less than 120 mm behind the vehicle seating reference point,
measured horizontally and in a vertical longitudinal plane.
S9.2.2 Adjustable seats are adjusted as follows:
(a) Place adjustable seat backs in the manufacturer's nominal design
riding position in the manner specified by the manufacturer; and
(b) Place adjustable seats in the full rearward and full downward
position.
S9.3 Adequate fit of the lower anchorages. Each vehicle and each
child restraint anchorage system in that vehicle shall be designed such
that the CRF can be placed inside the vehicle and attached to the lower
anchorages of each child restraint anchorage system, with adjustable
seats adjusted as described in S9.3(a) and (b).
(a) Place adjustable seat backs in the manufacturer's nominal design
riding position in the manner specified by the manufacturer; and
(b) Place adjustable seats in the full rearward and full downward
position.
(c) To facilitate installation of the CRF in a vehicle seat, the
side, back and top frames of the CRF may be removed for installation in
the vehicle, as indicated in Figure 1A of this standard. If necessary,
the height of the CRF may be 560 mm.
S9.4 Strength of the lower anchorages.
S9.4.1 When tested in accordance with S11, the lower anchorages
shall not allow point X on SFAD 2 to be displaced horizontally more than
125 mm, after preloading the device, when--
(a) A force of 11,000 N is applied in a forward direction in a
vertical longitudinal plane that is parallel (0 5 degrees)
to the vehicle's longitudinal centerline; and
(b) A force of 5,000 N is applied in a lateral direction in a
vertical longitudinal plane that is 755 degrees to either
side of a vertical longitudinal
[[Page 710]]
plane that is parallel to the vehicle's longitudinal centerline.
S9.4.1.1 Forces described in S9.4.1(a), forward direction, shall be
applied with an initial force application angle of 10 5
degrees above the horizontal. Forces described in S9.4.1(b), lateral
direction, shall be applied horizontally (0 5 degrees).
S9.4.1.2 The amount of displacement is measured relative to an
undisturbed point on the vehicle body.
S9.4.2 Provisions for simultaneous and sequential testing. (a) In
the case of vehicle seat assemblies equipped with more than one child
restraint anchorage system, the lower anchorages may, at the agency's
option, be tested simultaneously. However, forces may not be applied
simultaneously for any two adjacent seating positions whose midpoints
are less than 400 mm apart, as measured in accordance with S9.4.2(a)(1)
and (2) and Figure 20.
(1) The midpoint of the seating position lies in the vertical
longitudinal plane that is equidistant from vertical longitudinal planes
through the geometric center of each of the two lower anchorages at the
seating position.
(2) Measure the distance between the vertical longitudinal planes
passing through the midpoints of the adjacent seating positions, as
measured along a line perpendicular to the planes.
(b) The lower anchorages of a particular child restraint anchorage
system will not be tested if one or both of the anchorages have been
previously tested under this standard.
S9.5 Marking and conspicuity of the lower anchorages. Each vehicle
shall comply with S9.5(a) or (b).
(a) Above each bar installed pursuant to S4, the vehicle shall be
permanently marked with a circle:
(1) That is not less than 13 mm in diameter;
(2) Whose color contrasts with its background; and
(3) That is located on each seat back such that its center is not
less than 50 mm and not more than 75 mm above the bar, and in the
vertical longitudinal plane that passes through the center of the bar.
(b) The vehicle shall be configured such that each of the bars
installed pursuant to S4 is visible, without the compression of the seat
cushion or seat back, when the bar is viewed, in a vertical longitudinal
plane passing through the center of the bar, along a line making an
upward 30 degree angle with a horizontal plane.
S10. Test conditions for testing the lower anchorages. The test
conditions described in this paragraph apply to the test procedures in
S11.
(a) Adjust vehicle seats to their full rearward and full downward
position and place the seat backs in their most upright position. When
SFAD 2 is used in testing and cannot be attached to the lower anchorages
with the seat back in this position, adjust the seat back as recommended
by the manufacturer in its instructions for attaching child restraints.
If no instructions are provided, adjust the seat back to the position
closest to the upright position that enables SFAD 2 to attach to the
lower anchorages.
(b) Head restraints are adjusted in accordance with the
manufacturer's instructions, provided pursuant to S12, as to how the
head restraints should be adjusted when using the child restraint
anchorage system. If instructions with regard to head restraint
adjustment are not provided pursuant to S12, the head restraints are
adjusted to any position.
S11. Test procedure. Each vehicle shall meet the requirements of
S9.4 when tested according to the following procedures. Where a range of
values is specified, the vehicle shall be able to meet the requirements
at all points within the range.
(a) Forward force direction. Place SFAD 2 in the vehicle seating
position and attach it to the two lower anchorages of the child
restraint anchorage system. Do not attach the tether anchorage. A
rearward force of 135 15 N shall be applied to the center
of the lower front crossbar of SFAD 2 to press the device against the
seat back as the fore-aft position of the rearward extensions of the
SFAD is adjusted to remove any slack or tension. Apply a preload force
of 500 N at point X of the test device. Increase the pull force as
linearly as practicable to a full force application of 11,000 N in not
less than
[[Page 711]]
24 seconds and not more than 30 seconds, and maintain at an 11,000 N
level for 10 seconds.
(b) Lateral force direction. Place SFAD 2 in the vehicle seating
position and attach it to the two lower anchorages of the child
restraint anchorage system. Do not attach the tether anchorage. A
rearward force of 135 15 N shall be applied to the center
of the lower front crossbar of SFAD 2 to press the device against the
seat back as the fore-aft position of the rearward extensions of the
SFAD is adjusted to remove any slack or tension. Apply a preload force
of 500 N at point X of the test device. Increase the pull force as
linearly as practicable to a full force application of 5,000 N in not
less than 24 seconds and not more than 30 seconds, and maintain at a
5,000 N level for 10 seconds.
S12. Written instructions. The vehicle must provide written
instructions, in English, for using the tether anchorages and the child
restraint anchorage system in the vehicle. If the vehicle has an owner's
manual, the instructions must be in that manual. The instructions shall:
(a) Indicate which seating positions in the vehicle are equipped
with tether anchorages and child restraint anchorage systems;
(b) In the case of vehicles required to be marked as specified in
paragraphs S4.1, S9.5(a), or S15.4, explain the meaning of markings
provided to locate the lower anchorages of child restraint anchorage
systems; and
(c) Include instructions that provide a step-by-step procedure,
including diagrams, for properly attaching a child restraint system's
tether strap to the tether anchorages.
S13. Tether anchorage phase-in requirements for passenger cars
manufactured on or after September 1, 1999 and before September 1, 2000.
S13.1 Passenger cars manufactured on or after September 1, 1999 and
before September 1, 2000 shall comply with S13.1.1 through S13.2. At
anytime during the production year ending August 31, 2000, each
manufacturer shall, upon request from the Office of Vehicle Safety
Compliance, provide information identifying the passenger cars (by make,
model and vehicle identification number) that have been certified as
complying with the tether anchorage requirements of this standard. The
manufacturer's designation of a passenger car as a certified vehicle is
irrevocable.
S13.1.1 Subject to S13.2, for passenger cars manufactured on or
after September 1, 1999 and before September 1, 2000, the number of
vehicles complying with S4.2 shall be not less than 80 percent of:
(a) The manufacturer's average annual production of passenger cars
manufactured on or after September 1, 1996 and before September 1, 1999;
or
(b) The manufacturer's production of passenger cars manufactured on
or after September 1, 1999 and before September 1, 2000.
S13.1.2 For the purpose of calculating average annual production of
vehicles for each manufacturer and the number of vehicles manufactured
by each manufacturer under S13.1.1, a vehicle produced by more than one
manufacturer shall be attributed to a single manufacturer as provided in
S13.1.2(a) through (c), subject to S13.2.
(a) A vehicle which is imported shall be attributed to the importer.
(b) A vehicle manufactured in the United States by more than one
manufacturer, one of which also markets the vehicle, shall be attributed
to the manufacturer which markets the vehicle.
(c) A vehicle produced by more than one manufacturer shall be
attributed to any one of the vehicle's manufacturers specified by an
express written contract, reported to the National Highway Traffic
Safety Administration under 49 CFR part 596, between the manufacturer so
specified and the manufacturer to which the vehicle would otherwise be
attributed under S13.1.2(a) or (b).
S13.2 For the purposes of calculating average annual production of
passenger cars for each manufacturer and the number of passenger cars
manufactured by each manufacturer under S13.1, each passenger car that
is excluded from the requirement to provide tether anchorages is not
counted.
S14. Lower anchorages phase-in requirements for vehicles
manufactured on or after September 1, 2000 and before September 1, 2002.
[[Page 712]]
S14.1 Vehicles manufactured on or after September 1, 2000 and
before September 1, 2002 shall comply with S14.1.1 through S14.1.2. At
anytime during the production years ending August 31, 2001, and August
31, 2002, each manufacturer shall, upon request from the Office of
Vehicle Safety Compliance, provide information identifying the vehicles
(by make, model and vehicle identification number) that have been
certified as complying with the child restraint anchorage requirements
of this standard. The manufacturer's designation of a vehicle as a
certified vehicle is irrevocable.
S14.1.1 Vehicles manufactured on or after September 1, 2000 and
before September 1, 2001. Subject to S14.4, for vehicles manufactured on
or after September 1, 2000 and before September 1, 2001, the number of
vehicles complying with S4.3 shall be not less than 20 percent of:
(a) The manufacturer's average annual production of vehicles
manufactured on or after September 1, 1997 and before September 1, 2000;
or
(b) The manufacturer's production on or after September 1, 2000 and
before September 1, 2001.
S14.1.2 Vehicles manufactured on or after September 1, 2001 and
before September 1, 2002. Subject to S14.4, for vehicles manufactured on
or after September 1, 2001 and before September 1, 2002, the number of
vehicles complying with S4.3 shall be not less than 50 percent of:
(a) The manufacturer's average annual production of vehicles
manufactured on or after September 1, 1998 and before September 1, 2001;
or
(b) The manufacturer's production on or after September 1, 2001 and
before September 1, 2002.
S14.2 Vehicles produced by more than one manufacturer.
S14.2.1 For the purpose of calculating average annual production of
vehicles for each manufacturer and the number of vehicles manufactured
by each manufacturer under S14.1.1 through S14.1.2, a vehicle produced
by more than one manufacturer shall be attributed to a single
manufacturer as follows, subject to S14.2.2.
(a) A vehicle which is imported shall be attributed to the importer.
(b) A vehicle manufactured in the United States by more than one
manufacturer, one of which also markets the vehicle, shall be attributed
to the manufacturer which markets the vehicle.
S14.2.2 A vehicle produced by more than one manufacturer shall be
attributed to any one of the vehicle's manufacturers specified by an
express written contract, reported to the National Highway Traffic
Safety Administration under 49 CFR part 596, between the manufacturer so
specified and the manufacturer to which the vehicle would otherwise be
attributed under S14.2.1.
S14.3 Alternative phase-in schedules. (a) Final-stage manufacturers
and alterers. A final-stage manufacturer or alterer may, at its option,
comply with the requirements set forth in S14.3(a)(1) and (2) instead of
the requirements set forth in S14.1.1 through S14.1.2.
(1) Vehicles manufactured on or after September 1, 2000 and before
September 1, 2002 are not required to comply with the requirements
specified in this standard.
(2) Vehicles manufactured on or after September 1, 2002 must comply
with the requirements specified in this standard.
(b) Small volume manufacturers. Vehicles manufactured on or after
September 1, 2000 and before September 1, 2002 that are manufactured by
a manufacturer that produces fewer than 5,000 vehicles worldwide
annually are not required to provide the lower anchorages specified in
this standard.
S14.4 For the purposes of calculating average annual production of
vehicles for each manufacturer and the number of vehicles manufactured
by each manufacturer under S14.1.1 and S14.1.2, each vehicle that is
excluded from the requirement to provide child restraint anchorage
systems is not counted.
S15 Alternative to complying with the requirements of S9. As an
alternative to complying with the requirements of S9, a vehicle
manufactured on or after September 1, 1999 and before September
[[Page 713]]
1, 2004 may, at the manufacturer's option (with said option irrevocably
selected prior to, or at the time of, certification of the vehicle),
meet the requirements in S15 of this standard. Vehicles manufactured on
or after September 1, 2004 must meet the requirements of S9 of this
standard.
S15.1 Dimensions and installation requirements.
S15.1.1 General. The vehicle anchorages are positioned near the
seat bight. The location of the anchorages is defined with respect to
the CRF. If the vehicle seat is adjustable, it is adjusted as
recommended by the vehicle manufacturer for use with child restraint
systems.
S15.1.2 Anchorage dimensions and location.
S15.1.2.1 The lower anchorages shall consist of two bars that--
(a) Are 6 mm .1 mm in diameter;
(b) Are straight, horizontal and transverse;
(c) Are not less than 25 mm in length;
(d)-(e) [Reserved]
(f) Are permanently attached to the vehicle or vehicle seat such
that they can only be removed by use of a tool, such as a screwdriver or
wrench.
S15.1.2.2 (a) The anchorage bars are located at the vehicle seating
position with the aid of and with respect to the CRF rearward
extensions, with the CRF placed against or near the vehicle seat back.
With the CRF attached to the anchorages and resting on the seat cushion,
the bottom surface shall have attitude angles within the limits in the
following table, angles measured relative to the vehicle horizontal,
longitudinal and transverse reference planes.
Table to S15.1.2.2(a)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pitch...................................................... 15 deg.
10 d
e
Roll....................................................... 0 deg.
5 de
g
Yaw........................................................ 0 deg.
10 d
e
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note: An explanation of the above angles is given in Figure 1.
(b) With adjustable seats adjusted as described in S15.1.2.2(c),
each lower anchorage bar shall be located so that a vertical transverse
plane intersecting the center of the bar is:
(1) Not more than 70 mm behind point Z of the CRF, measured parallel
to the bottom surface of the CRF and to the center of the bar, with the
CRF rear surface against the seat back; and
(2) Not less than 120 mm behind the vehicle seating reference point,
measured horizontally and to the center of the bar. (Note: To facilitate
installation of the CRF in a vehicle seat, the CRF may be constructed of
smaller separable parts and assembled in the vehicle seat.
Alternatively, vehicle components may be removed to allow access.)
(c) Adjustable seats are adjusted as recommended by the vehicle
manufacturer for use with child restraint systems.
S15.2 Static Strength Requirements.
S15.2.1 The strength of the anchorages shall be determined using
the procedure of S15.3 to apply forces to the SFAD 2, installed in the
vehicle seating position and engaged with the anchorages. The vehicle
seat shall be installed in the vehicle, or in sufficient parts of the
vehicle so as to be representative of the strength and rigidity of the
vehicle structure. If the seat is adjustable, it shall be placed in the
position recommended by the vehicle manufacturer for use with child
restraint systems. If no adjusted position is recommended, the seat
shall be placed in any position, at the agency's option.
S15.2.2 Horizontal excursion of point X during application of the 8
kN and 5 kN forces must be not more than 125 mm, after preloading the
device. The amount of displacement is measured relative to an
undisturbed point on the vehicle body.
S15.3 Forces and directions.
S15.3.1 A rearward force of 135 N 15 N shall be
applied to the center of the lower front crossbar of SFAD 2 to press the
device against the seat back as the fore-aft position of the rearward
extensions of the SFAD is adjusted to remove any slack or tension.
Forces shall be applied to SFAD 2 in forward and lateral directions
according to the following table.
Table to S15.3.1.--Directions of Test Forces
------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Forward..................... 0 deg. 8 kN
5 deg.. 0.25 kN
[[Page 714]]
Lateral..................... 75 deg. 5 kN
5 deg. (to both 0.25 kN
sides of straight
forward).
------------------------------------------------------------------------
S15.3.2 Forces in the forward direction shall be applied with an
initial force application angle of 10 5 degrees above the
horizontal. Lateral forces shall be applied horizontally (0 deg.
5 deg.). A pre-load force of 500 N 25 N shall
be applied at the prescribed loading point (point X) in Figure 17. The
force shall be increased to 8 kN 0.25 kN for forward tests,
or to 5 kN 0.25 kN for lateral tests. Full application of
the force shall be achieved within a time period of 2 seconds or less.
The force shall be maintained for a period of 0.25 seconds
0.05 seconds.
S15.3.3 Provisions for simultaneous and sequential testing. (a) If
anchorages for more than one child restraint anchorage system are
installed in the vehicle seat assembly and not directly into the vehicle
structure, the forces described in S15.3 may, at the agency's option, be
applied simultaneously to SFADs engaged with the anchorages. However,
that force may not be applied simultaneously to SFADs engaged at any two
adjacent seating positions whose midpoints are less than 400 mm apart,
as measured in accordance with S15.3.3(a)(1) and (2) and Figure 20.
(1) The midpoint of the seating position lies in the vertical
longitudinal plane that is equidistant from vertical longitudinal planes
through the geometric center of each of the two lower anchorages at the
seating position.
(2) Measure the distance between the vertical longitudinal planes
passing through the midpoints of the adjacent seating positions, as
measured along a line perpendicular to the planes.
(b) The lower anchorages of a particular child restraint anchorage
system will not be tested if one or both of the anchorages have been
previously tested under this standard.
S15.4 Marking and conspicuity of the lower anchorages. At least one
anchorage bar (when deployed for use), one guidance fixture, or one seat
marking feature shall be readily visible to the person installing the
CRF. If guidance fixtures are used to meet this requirement, the
fixture(s) (although removable) must be installed. Storable anchorages
shall be provided with a tell-tale or label that is visible when the
anchorage is stored.
[[Page 715]]
Figures to Sec. 571.225
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[64 FR 10823, Mar. 5, 1999, as amended at 64 FR 47587, Aug. 31, 1999; 65
FR 46640, July 31, 2000]