Effect of the Q10 dummy upgrade kit in UN Regulation No. 129 front and side impact tests

Objective: The objective of this study was to compare the kinematics and dummy loadings between the original Q10 and the Cellbond Q10 upgrade kit and determine the effect of the kit on the type approval of booster systems in United Nations (UN) Regulation No. 129.Methods: Front and side impact pilot experiments were carried out according to dynamic test procedures in UN Regulation No. 129. In each case, the original Q10 and Q10 upgrade kit were compared in a booster seat.Results: In front impact, the Q10 and Q10 upgrade kit displayed very similar kinematics and seat belt interaction. The peak dummy loads were also very similar. In side impact, the Q10 and Q10 upgrade kit displayed similar kinematics and interaction with the side structure of the booster seat. Once again, the peak dummy loads were also very similar.Conclusions: The original Q10 and the Q10 upgrade kit generated very similar kinematics and loadings in both front and side impact. Adoption of the kit for UN Regulation No. 129 would be unlikely to have significant effects on the type approval of booster seats. However, it would also appear not to offer any specific benefits. This will be verified in a larger program of experiments with a broader range of booster systems.