Interpretation ID: nht71-2.44

DATE: 05/06/71

FROM: AUTHOR UNAVAILABLE; Robert L. Carter; NHTSA

TO: Toyo Kogyo Co. Ltd.

TITLE: FMVSS INTERPRETATION

TEXT: This is in reply to your letter of April 6, 1971, requesting an interpretation of section S7 of Standard No. 208, Occupant Crash Protection.

Your question concerns the requirement of S7.1.2 that the intersection of the upper torso belt with the lap belt shall be at least 6 inches from the occupant's front vertical centerline. As we understand your question, you have asked whether this 6-inch distance must be achieved by using an inboard belt segment of fixed length, or whether a manual adjusting device may be used that will permit lengthening of the inboard belt segment when the seat is moved forward.

It is the intent of section S7.1.2 to require an intersection point that cannot be adjusted so that it is less than 6 inches from a 50th percentile male occupant's centerline. We are considering a possible amendment to the standard to clarify this intent.

Please advise us if further explanation is needed.