Research:
Analyzing How Seatbelts Fit During Pregnancy
Researchers in the Orthopaedics and Injury Biomechanics Group (OIBG), led by Dr. Peter Cripton, are investigating how seatbelts fit pregnant people. Seatbelts have been primarily evaluated with male Anthropometric Test Devices (ATDs, aka crash test dummies), however, there are large differences in female and male body shape and size. Pregnant anatomy introduces a new set of poorly understood challenges associated with achieving appropriate seat belt fit, and there is a significant lack of seatbelt performance testing for pregnant occupants. This research study aims to analyze seatbelt fit with respect to external anatomy of pregnant occupants, and will provide novel information that can advance future developments in injury prediction models and ATDs.
This study involves collecting images of 500 pregnant participants in 2 environments:
1. In-Clinic Scan: Participants are 3D scanned while seated in a simulated vehicle seat. This scan is done in a maternity clinic, and participants are recruited in collaboration with this clinic.
2. In-Vehicle Scan: Participants are taught how to wear their seatbelt while pregnant, then a short video (1 minute) is taken of participants seated in their own vehicle. A 3D image is then created from the video using a mathematical approach called photogrammetry.
We are actively recruiting participants for the in-vehicle scan!
Eligibility: We are looking for pregnant participants between the ages of 19 and 60. Interested participants can partake in this study at any gestational age. Participants are also welcome to participate in the study multiple times throughout their pregnancy.
Participation Time: Participation in this study will require 5-10 minutes of time commitment. We can come to you, or you can organize to meet a member of our research team at your convenience.
Benefit of Participating: Our research team will teach you how to wear your seatbelt correctly while pregnant, and provide you with feedback specific to your vehicle.
Contact Us: If you are interested in participating or would like more information, please contact Danielle Rowlands at danielle.rowlands@ubc.ca.
