The increase in performance and reduction in cost of microelectronics technology has revolutionised the complexity of systems that can be cost-effectively realised for automotive applications. The advance in technological achievement applied to the primary safety aspects of vehicles has been immense. For example, anti-lock braking systems are now commonly available to optimise braking efficiency. There is also much interest in introducing electronics and communication systems into vehicles and the road infrastructure, to provide for example route guidance and collision avoidance systems. Future developments such as using intelligent systems to tailor the performance of secondary safety devices to respond in crashes according to the nature of the crash or the characteristics of the occupants, will also provide safety benefit. This paper addresses the potential safety benefits to be derived from the appropriate application of this advanced technology for primary and secondary safety, and also considers the risks attendant on inappropriate design and implementation. (A)
Abstract