Restraint systems for occupant protection

This paper describes the state of the art for seat belt systems, and the dynamic behaviour in simulated crashes. It recommends a dynamic seat belt test with injury criteria. The paper also deals with the contribution of passive restraint systems to comfort. The performance of the passive system in the vw-golf is described. Comments are made on additional research required to provide information on the usefulness of force limiters and pre-loaded belt systems. (A)