Interpretation ID: 86-5.46

TYPE: INTERPRETATION-NHTSA

DATE: 11/14/86

FROM: BINICHI DOI -- NSK REPRESENTATIVE OFFICE

TO: STEPHEN L. OESCH -- DEPUTY ASSISTANT CHIEF COUNSEL FOR RULEMAKING NHTSA

TITLE: ASKING FOR RULING: A DEVICE TO MAKE REACHING FOR BELT/TONGUE EASIER

ATTACHMT: ATTACHED TO LETTER DATED 03/06/87, TO BINICHI DOI, FROM ERIKA Z ZONES, REDBOOK A30 (4) STANDARD 208, STANDARD 210

TEXT: Dear Mr. Oesch,

The enclosed sketch shows a device installed at the shoulder-anchor portion of a safety belt system which positions the tongue at an easier to reach location than the normal on-door-pillar position.

The "arm" (called "belt reacher" in the sketch) is made of material which does not interfere with the general safety/comfort of passengers and is installed semi-rotationally around the shoulder-anchor point so that it can hold the tongue in a convenient position for reaching. At the same time, it complies with the movement of the belt for its original protective function.

Your kind consideration and a prompt as possible ruling as to the installation of such a device in vehicles offered with this type of safety belt system will be appreciated by us.

Very truly yours,

ENCLOSURE