The impact of vibrations on the comfort and safety of children in car seats: A review of current knowledge

Vibrations in vehicles are a significant issue affecting passenger comfort and safety, particularly for children transported in car seats. Children's small bodies are more susceptible to the effects of vibrations, which can lead to discomfort and potential health problems. The greatest risks to humans caused by exposure to vibrations related to vehicle movement occur in road transport [1]. Vibration phenomena have been a subject of interest for many research centers and scientific institutions both nationally and internationally for many years, and numerous studies on this topic can be found in the literature [1-3]. Over the turn of the century, the amount of time people spend in cars has increased (and continues to do so), leading to a growing interest in children transported in car seats not only in terms of passive safety but also regarding the impact of vibrations [4]. Due to the effects of vibrations on children, especially vertical vibrations, long-distance travel is particularly significant. In this context, medical aspects must also be taken into account [1,3,5]. The Importance of Vibration Reduction in Car Seats Reducing vibrations in child car seats is essential for ensuring the comfort and safety of young passengers. High levels of vibration can negatively impact children's musculoskeletal systems and overall well-being during travel. Vibrations experienced during driving can cause various pathological symptoms in humans, including gastrointestinal issues, joint and muscle pain, vestibular symptoms, headaches, pain in the lumbar-sacral and cervical spine, as well as conditions such as kyphosis and lordosis, among others [6]. While the effects of vibrations on the adult human body are well documented evidenced by numerous regulations and research studies conducted by various institutions [7-22] research on their impact on children is still in its early stages. Homologation tests for child car seats are primarily focused on protection against the harmful effects of collisions and are mainly assessed through crash tests [22]. The aim of this publication is to review the literature on the impact of vibrations on a child's travel comfort, analyze research findings, and present proposals for innovative solutions.