This paper describes a semipassive seat belt system that was one of a series developed during a program to examine the possibilities of modifying seat belt designs to meet the passive occupant restraint requirements in the original proposed amendment to FMVSS 208. As such, many features are prohibited by the interlock ignition option of the latest amended 208. This semipassive seat belt installation utilizes a system of electrical interlocks to achieve an improved seat belt wearing rate. It is estimated that a usage rate of 95% would be achieved, making it more effective than an air bag.
