This paper, published in its computer slide format, describes a vehicle occupant protection system developed by Mercedes-Benz, PRE-SAFE. The development concept was based on consideration of real-world accidents to provide individualised preventive protection. This enabled the use of less aggressive protection systems which concentrate on fixing occupants more tightly to their seats, so increasing the distance to the airbag or intruding vehicle components and keeping the occupant in a safer position for potential impact. The mathematical models used in the design are given. Additional activations are moving seat position and angle, and closing the sun roof to prevent occupant ejection. Drivers did not feel restricted in their handling of the car and did not always notice the system being activated. Further possible developments are mentioned. For the covering abstract see ITRD E126782.
Samenvatting