Interpretation ID: nht71-1.26

DATE: 05/16/71

FROM: AUTHOR UNAVAILABLE; Rodolfo A. Diaz; NHTSA

TO: Mitsubishi Motors Corporation

TITLE: FMVSS INTERPRETATION

TEXT: Thank you for your letter of February 17, 1971, to Mr. Douglas W. Torns, regarding positioning of the anthropornorphic test devices for use in the crashes described in Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 208.

I am enclosing a copy of the newly revised version of the standard as well as an accompanying press release.

In regard to your specific inquiry, Standard No. 208 does not contain specifications for the alignment of the dummy's head once positioned in the vehicle. Paragraph S8.1.11(a) specifies that the dummy head is aligned prior to positioning in the vehicle. Paragraphs S8.1.11(b) through (c) specify the procedure for positioning the dummy in the vehicle seat. If the procedures in S8.1.11 are followed as specified, the dummy's neck and head may actually be inclined because of contact with the roof or other vehicle components.

Thank you for your interest in our motor vehicle safety programs.