Abstract: Embodiments of a car seat include an outer protective shell, an inner seat, a suspension system connecting and permitting relative movement between the inner seat and the outer protective shell. The suspension system may include a plurality of plastically deformable suspension elements. Also, embodiments of a car seat system include a frame constructed to couple to a vehicle seat. The frame and/or the car seat may have a plastically deformable energy absorbing element extending outwardly to absorb energy, such as from a side impact. The frame may include tubular members filled with reinforcing material. The frame may have a connection arrangement with the car seat to restrict connection of the car seat so that it can only be installed in predefined orientations relative to the frame. The car seat may have a harness that includes a bolster panel or straps to limit movement of an occupant in the car seat.

Abstract: Embodiments of a car seat include an outer protective shell, an inner seat, a suspension system connecting and permitting relative movement between the inner seat and the outer protective shell. The suspension system may include a plurality of plastically deformable suspension elements. Also, embodiments of a car seat system include a frame constructed to couple to a vehicle seat. The frame and/or the car seat may have a plastically deformable energy absorbing element extending outwardly to absorb energy, such as from a side impact. The frame may include tubular members filled with reinforcing material. The frame may have a connection arrangement with the car seat to restrict connection of the car seat so that it can only be installed in predefined orientations relative to the frame. The car seat may have a harness that includes a bolster panel or straps to limit movement of an occupant in the car seat.