This paper discusses developments in car passive safety systems from the French manufacturer Renault. Developments range through seat belt load limiters and the programmed restraint system including airbags to enhancements to body and seat structure. Analysis of accidents involving a particular model, the Laguna 2, is illustrated with detailed reference to one case. Significant improvement was observed in protection of passengers in frontal crashes, some improvement in side impact protection and disappointing results where child restraint systems were used. Future developments include effective seat belt reminder systems, driver education on correct restraint use, and driver activated speed limiters. Advanced engineering should provide adaptive airbags, tailored to crash pulse and occupant position and weight, enabling minor injury reduction. Higher pressure bags will be needed but without making them harmful to out of position occupants. Harmonisation of anthropometric dummies is recommmended, possibly by using computer simulation models. For the covering abstract see ITRD E126782.
Samenvatting