Interpretation ID: 77-4.41

TYPE: INTERPRETATION-NHTSA

DATE: 11/29/77

FROM: AUTHOR UNAVAILABLE; R. L. Carter; NHTSA

TO: General Motors Corporation

TITLE: FMVSS INTERPRETATION

TEXT: This is in reply to your letter of June 3, 1977, to Ms. Joan Claybrook, requesting an interpretation of whether the release action of your "c-ring" seat belt latch mechanism qualifies as a push button action as specified in paragraph S7.2(c) of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 208, Occupant Crash Protection.

Your efforts to improve the comfort and convenience of belt systems thereby increasing the likelihood that they will be used is to be commended. I must point out, however, that the primary purpose of the requirement in paragraph S7.2(c) is to standardize the release method of all seat belts. This reduces the likelihood that occupants will become confused as to how to release a belt in a strange car or in an emergency situation.

We have reviewed the operation of your "c-ring" and conclude that the action necessary to release the mechanism does not constitute push botton action. However, incorporation of a push botton release, similar to the design being used in Saab automobiles, would bring your "c-ring" into conformance with S7.2(c) and permit its use.