Abstract
"Smart" safety belt systems sense specific crash event characteristics, including crash severity, and respond accordingly. Rather than deliver a single level of occupant restraint, "Smart" safety belt systems have the potential to respond with varying levels of occupant restraint and energy absorption. Elements for optimizing the Total Safety System combination include safety belt pretensioning, load limiters, energy absorption devices and complementary "Smart" airbag systems. Safety belt enhancements which may present meaningful occupant protection benefits are discussed. (A)