V70 2.4T L5-2.4L Turbo VIN 58 B5244T3 (2002)
Seat Latch: Description and Operation
WHIPS
WHIPS seat
The aim of WHIPS (Whiplash Protection System) is to reduce the risk of whiplash injuries in the event of collision from the rear. The system is designed
for maximum performance at low speed collisions. The majority of whiplash injuries occur during accidents at a speed of 10-20 km/h (6-12 mph).
WHIPS seats have a normal folding function, similar to the passenger seats in the present 850 series. However the mechanism has been modified to take
a WHIPS deployment mechanism for the backrest in both joints (a pendulum function with a suppressing deformation element).
The mechanism consists of the following components:
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Mounting plate for seat backrest.
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Heat plate with window (23).
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Link (25).
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Deformation element (24).
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Seat anchor plate (23).
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Indicator pin (26).
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Damper spring.
WHIPS seats are standard for both front seats.
In relation to current seats, WHIPS seats backrests are more resistant to twisting because of the greater lower tube dimension while the upper section of
the backrest is shaped like a closed beam. The springs for the backrest back pad are equipped with compression limiters (22).
In order to protect the occupants' heads during an accident, the head restraint is now in a more forward position (the same position as in the P90). The
distance between the head restraint struts has also been reduced.
The deployment mechanism begins to operate in the event of a collision speed of approximately 14 to 18 km/h (9 - 11 mph), depending on the weight
of the occupant (the collision speed at which the indicator pin shears off).
In the event of a collision from the rear, the seat moves forward, thereby pressing the backrest against the occupant. The system then activates, going
through two clearly defined phases.