NASCAR tech to save astronauts

[Elmo T]

NASCAR to NASA: HANS tested for astronauts (http://www.nascar.com/news/101223/hans-device-nasa/index.html?sc_cid=sm66)

So NASA is looking to NASCAR to assist in astronaut safety? At least according to NASCAR they are...


ATLANTA -- What do HANS device inventor Dr. Robert Hubbard, NASA and NASCAR have in common? All three are collaborating in an effort to improve crash restraints for astronauts.

:rolleyes::saywhat::shakehead

[Methanolandbrats]

I bet that will help a lot if they are burning up on re-entry or crash into the ocean at 1000 mph.

[devilmaster]

Whatever happened to nascars answer to the hans device? ;)

[Andrew Longman]

Whatever happened to nascars answer to the hans device? ;)http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hutchens_device
http://www.speedpartz.com/newslettersummer02/Hutchens_device_drawing.jpg

From 2001 until 2005 NASCAR mandated that drivers use either the Hutchens device or the HANS device. Beginning in 2005 the Hutchens device was no longer sanctioned as an acceptable restraint device as it failed to live up to its former performance claims when tested to the independent SFI 38.1 standard.But it was cheaper. Still can buy it. http://www.speedwaymotors.com/Hutchens-Device,2473.html

I love how the photo in the NASCAR link calls it a "NASCAR HANS device", as if they invented or even manufacture it. Granted they did provide some unwitting "crash dummies" in the run up to mandating them.

[dando]

What's an astronaut? :saywhat: :irked:

-Kevin

[Indy]

I think it was that guy from 90210 who crashed in a mini-crapwagon wearing the Hutchens device. I heard that it was gruesome and he was very, very lucky to survive.

I hate NASCAR. I hate big, soulless corporations. I hate unchecked greed. I hate the idea that progress always means growth in profits. And I especially hate public relations departments insuring that their companies get credit for innovations that had nothing to do with them.

But, I like astronauts. I wish we would place a higher priority on space exploration.

[gjc2]

What's an astronaut? :saywhat: :irked:

-Kevin

:cry:

[Elmo T]

NASCAR tech is what gets me. :irked:

Maybe they will use a carburetor on the latest Mars mission engines. Add a little wedge in, take out a spring rubber to make those last minute adjustments.

[STD]

Jim Downing/Dr. Robert Hubbard collaboration.
I recall some of the early untested prototypes that Jim wore in Camel Lights races in the early nineties.