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The American Solar Challenge is sponsored by the United States Department of Energy
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Official Interpretation
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| 1/12/2005 |
Regulation 6.5.6 |
| Question: |
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My question is regarding the use of safety belts in the solar raycing. The regulations specify a minimum a five-point lap and shoulder belt (harness system). Most of the safety belts used, are those found in normal street racing applications. They are designed so that the majority of the restraining force can be applied to the drivers torso via the shoulder straps. This is effective in a traditional driving position, as the driver tends to pivot forward while their abdomen is secured to the seat. My concern/question is that given the nature of solar car racing, drivers normally assume a more reclined position in the seat. As a result, I am concerned that the majority of the restraining force is placed on the drivers crotch and not through the designed shoulder pads. I am not just raising this question because it would be horribly uncomfortable for the driver, but that a traditional street racing belt is not used in a traditional way. I was wondering if ASC has considered a climbing style harness to hold the drivers abdomen in place while still implementing the shoulder straps. By climbing harness, I am referring to a harness that would strap over each of the drivers thighs rather than through the crotch. I realize that egress is still a major concern and may become more difficult with a climbing style harness, but if it can be shown that the driver can egress in the required time, would such a safety belt be permitted? (provided it meets commercial standards). Thanks very much for your time and I look forward to your reply.
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| Official Response: |
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The regulations do not specifically exclude an over-the-thigh style seatbelt, but any seatbelt must meet all requirements.
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