Headrest Strength Tester

The Headrest Strength Tester is intended to satisfy the requirements of FMVSS 202.  It includes the mechanical test machinery and a separate, floor standing, P.C. based Control & Data Acquisition system.  The entire system operates on 115 V.A.C. electrical power (other voltages available).

Generally, this is a very rigid machine for testing the ultimate strength of up to three headrest assemblies concurrently on a single bench seat.  The machine shown has all hydraulic movements controlled by simple double-solenoid directional valves and compensated regulators.  Only the table lift is electric.  The test surface is 1 inch (25.4mm) thick ground steel with a 4 inch (101.6mm) array of ½" – 13 holes tapped through it.  Both the height and in/out movements of the test surface are adjustable relative to the "H" point pivots on the three test stations.  Only the center station has adjustment for "H" point alignment up and down, and in and out relative to the outer two test station "H" points.  The outer two stations can be moved laterally relative to the center station for occupant spacing.  All set-up movements include locking means after positioning to eliminate displacement "chuck".

The Control & Data Acquisition system allows the operator to select how many stations will be in use and all the other test parameters.  Once set-up, the machine movements are very slow and allow the operator time to observe test sample deflections in real time.  All data is saved in the P.C. and plotted on the display after completion of the test.  There are many options for plotting using standard pull-down menus. The final graphical result can be printed on the plain paper color ink jet printer, which is also housed within the console.  This test data can also be saved or downloaded onto any other suitable P.C. type format.

Generally, this destructive test system is simple to both set-up and operate.  Technicians that are P.C. literate will have little trouble learning how to operate the software.

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