ZF develops smart seatbelt technology; debut in 2025

The system responds by taking into account the size and weight of the wearer, rather than continuing the current one-size-fits-all approach.

According to media reports, ZF has developed a prototype of a new seatbelt technology, which aims to further improve in-car passive safety. The new seatbelt technology is expected to enter service in a European car sometime in 2025.

ZF claims that the newly developed seatbelt comes with a multi-stage load limiter (MSLL) wherein the system responds by taking into account the size and weight of the wearer, rather than continuing the current one-size-fits-all approach. The new tech is aimed at managing the effect of the seatbelt on the human body more sympathetically during the course of a crash. It also helps the system meet the tougher safety requirements - 'Vision 2030', set by Euro NCAP back in late 2022.

The report further mentions that although seatbelts currently come with pre-tensioners and have done so for the last two decades, there is no way for them to take into account the size and weight of the passengers they are trying to protect. The MSLL system can vary the restraining forces during different stages of the crash based on the size, weight and shape of the occupant. It also takes into account 'out of position' scenarios to ensure they are effective every time.

The tech will also make use of interior cameras to detect the movement of the occupants. Also, sensors in the seatbelt itself will measure how far it has been pulled to estimate the circumference of the person's body - further detecting their size and weight.

In addition to this, the MSLL system is linked to the external radar and camera to know from which direction an impact is coming, allowing it to better adapt its response and protect the occupant.

Source: Autocar UK