From the Rolls-Royce experimental archive: a quarter of a million communications from Rolls-Royce, 1906 to 1960's. Documents from the Sir Henry Royce Memorial Foundation (SHRMF).
The benefits of foamed latex cushioning, covering odor, space-saving, and safety features.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 132\3\ scan0233 | |
| Date | 9th January 1939 guessed | |
| - 6 - Odor Careful selection of compounding materials and repeated washing of the vulcanized product are protective steps to prevent contamination of the essentially odorless latex. Utilization of the product for domestic and institutional mattresses is proof of the results obtained. Foamed latex is also free from lint and dust. Persons allergic to this type of matter obtain definite relief by the use of this material. Space Saving The inherent properties of foamed latex promote efficient cushioning per unit of thickness. It has already been used to some extent in jump or opera type seats, and many other varied applications where dimensional restrictions are severe. Additional rear seat head room in streamlined bodies, clearance beneath front seats to facilitate heating or air conditioning in the rear compartment, and greater fore and aft interior dimensions for a given wheelbase are typical problems resulting from the current trend in design. Solution of such problems with the retention or minimum loss of cushioning comfort requires a material that will conform readily to the load shape and has a high energy absorbing capacity. Fig. #9 shows a typical body with the outline of possible seat sections added. The rear seat is moved forward the amount saved by reduction of the front seat back, and lowered by reducing the rear cushion thickness. The rear passenger is in a better location with respect to the rear axle for riding comfort, further streamlining is possible without reduction in head room, and more luggage space is available in the rear compartment. By leaving the back line of the rear seat in the original position, several inches of additional fore and aft space may be obtained in the rear seat compartment. Space is available under the front seat for a heater or storage compartments and, by replacement of the solid toe panel, air may be passed in to the rear compartment for heating. The re-allocation of space for greater utility or an actual reduction in overall body dimensions are worthy of consideration in the engineering cost analysis. Safety Features Upon first consideration, safety may appear to be a remote topic in a discussion of cushioning material. However, the great increase in driving range in recent years has lent importance to the fatigue factor in accidents. Verification of this statement is found in the first two general recommendations made by the National Safety Council after a survey on the effect of fatigue in traffic accidents. (2) "The element of fatigue should be given a more important place, on accident report forms used by fleet owners, insurance companies, states and cities." There is urgent need for scientific research to determine what effect continuous driving, long hours without sleep, and various mechanical aspects of vehicles have on fatigue and to ascertain the recuperative value of various rest periods." The reduction in fatigue by the use of foamed latex becomes increasingly important after the first two or three hours of driving. This fact is almost universally attested to by test car and long distance drivers. In near accidents of certain types, the shock absorbing qualities and stability of the cushions are a definite aid in maintaining control. In actual | ||