Locking Mechanism for Rotating Seats

Research is proposed to develop a locking mechanism for intercity (Amtrak) rotating seats that can be retro-fit to existing seats. Current intercity rail seats, according to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), present a safety hazard to the riding public. Post accident investigations show that passenger rail seats were found to have been uncontrollably rotated even though current seats are fitted with anti-rotation locks. Passengers are thrown from the seat during the accident and other safety hazards result such as passenger egress. The uncontrolled rotation results not because of any inherent inadequacy of the seat, but rather because either passenger may rotate the seats while in transit and fail to lock them securely or because the seats were not locked properly at the start of revenue service. Two special features of the locking mechanism to be developed are that it will be operable by only the train crew and that it will provide positive indication to the train crew that the seat is locked. NTSB Safety Recommendations, background information on rotating seats, and safety regulations and standards for rail passenger seating are discussed. The variety of past and current seat manufacturers presented and discussed.