Active Intervention into Passive Systems: From Passive Safety to Safe Driving

The evolution of passive safety from the initial application of seatbelts, through the development of supplemental occupant protection mechanisms, including driver and passenger airbags, knee bolsters, thorax and head airbags, sensors, and vehicle stability control suggests how the trend toward greater inter-operation of various technology disciplines leads to new fields of safety. This paper will provide an historical overview of passive restraints and most of the components that comprise the restraint system, take a look at where the industry is today and the influences that have taken us to this point, and finally project into the future how passive restraints will continue to play a significant role as active safety systems evolve into the future.