Driver/passengers horizontal in vehicle?

Question

I was wondering whether it would be better to design a vehicle where occupants are secured horizontally rather than vertically.  One immediate upside to this configuration would be the decreased height of the vehicle and thus reducing the wind resistance and hopefully increasing fuel economy.  As far as securing the occupants one could use restraints or maybe even a protective inflatable membrane like a reverse air matress.  The vehicle could have a stronger frame with less materials needed due to a decrease in surface area needed.  My question is how would a sudden verticle impact on the human body compare in this configuration to the more traditional horizontal impact?  Would there really be that much physical difference from where the impact occurred and would it be enough of a difference to disallow this kind of setup?

bluestem0916 · Accepted Answer

I could see the wind resistance, but there's several issues that come to mind with being vertical: 1. how does the driver see to drive? Granted, I'm picturing a bob-sled configuration here... 2. It compacts things horizontally, but enlongates the vehicle, especially if there are more than a couple of passengers. Wouldn't t a longer vehicle increase traffic congestion? 

Now, getting to your question... 3. I don't think it would be safer in collisions because with a lower profile, there would be the concern of one vehicle going over the other.  Also, compaction from a straight-on collision would drive legs into the body...?

I think for safety, the issue is more about how to reduce compaction and then shock to the body.  Maybe we need a car that has a passenger pod similar to the Anecia baby seat:  http://www.americaninventorspot.com/node/937

Sid Has · Answer

Sorry to say, but this would be a total flop!!!
Coz u are used to normal sway, back n forth, in ur daily life - in chair, while walking etc... so minor impact is negligible, like brakes. etc..
U don't move downward, coz of the ground beneath u,, unless every driver has bungee jumping experience - or, ever come down with a broken (string) lift...

Secondly, people would sleep more often - no thanks to alcohol...!!!

ottinger · Answer

For goodness sake, how a good distance do you pick "wellness and protection " to bypass!!!!!!?????? in basic terms be careful and stay. we are in a position to't be wrapped in cotton wool continuously. Jeeeeez! with the aid of the way my answer is not any, a convincing one as there is too lots....DO AS I SAY from our governments.

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Driver/passengers horizontal in vehicle?

3 Answers