Abstract: A safety restraint system for use in a vehicle. The system includes a safety restraint component coupled to a navigational module. The navigational module is adapted to determine a location of the vehicle. The component is adapted to be actuated in response to the determination. The safety restraint component may be a safety belt pretensioner. The component may be adapted to be actuated when the navigational module determines the vehicle has entered or is approaching a zone meeting a predefined criteria.

Abstract: A vehicle part with an airbag device and a support. A cover is arranged flush with an opening in the support that is brought into a retracted position within the support when the airbag is triggered. A covering layer is positioned over the cover. The cover and the covering layer have mutually cooperating interlocking parts that assure that when the airbag is trigged, the covering layer and the cover are retracted within the support. A method for effecting the interlocking of the cover and the covering layer, and a method for providing a weakening of the covering layer along a predetermined line.

Abstract: An assembly for a vehicle occupant restraint system comprises an inflator and a gas exit tube connected in a gas-tight manner thereto. The inflator is provided with a discharge portion for the gas generated by the inflator when required. The discharge portion comprises a circumferential groove having in cross-section a saw tooth profile with a flank perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the discharge portion. This flank is located on the side of the groove facing the gas exit tube. The gas exit tube comprises a portion which engages the groove in an interfitting manner by means of a plastically deformed portion and secures the gas exit tube axially thereto at the inflator.

Abstract: A method of indicating seatbelt usage to observers outside a vehicle. The method employs buckle assemblies, pressure switches, and belt position sensors to send information diagnostic information to a processor. The processor includes control electronics that analyzes the diagnostic information and sends display instructions to an indicator assembly. The indicator assembly is directs easily-discernable visual output to a conspicuous location on the monitored car. The method provides information that is recognizable regardless even if the monitored vehicle is in motion.