During the last 100 years, motor vehicle safety has been achieved by adding devices and systems to protect the occupants during an impact. In the twenty-first century, much of the new development is occurring in crash avoidance - how the vehicle can help the driver to avoid being involved in an accident. 100 Years of Vehicle Safety Developments chronicles the changes that automotive engineers have made to the automobile during its development to achieve a higher level of occupant protection. Featuring 100 landmark SAE technical papers from the past century, this book takes a look at the technological advancements and accomplishments that were critical in the evolution of motor vehicle safety over the last 100 years. Through the various chapters, Editor Daniel J. Holt examines the many changes made to occupant and vehicle safety systems through history, including basic safety items such as lighting enhancements, windshields, braking systems, steering columns, door latches, bumpers, shock absorbers, and seat belts. Readers will get a feel for the extensive work that the developers went through to raise the level of occupant protection and the progression made to bring the current automobile to what it is today. Chapters include: Early changes; Electric headlamps; Hydraulic brakes; Safety glass; Interior changes; Steering columns; Door guard beams; Door latches; Energy-absorbing bumpers; Seat belts; Airbags. (Author/publisher)
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