Abstract: An electronic communication system including: (a) a fastener (2) operable to close or open to secure an item such as a seat (20) to a vehicle; (b) electronic communication means (42) linking the fastener (2) to at least one separate device, such as a second fastener (2) or a handheld remote user-controlled device (40), to communicate information to the separate device; and (c) electronic circuitry to detect the status of the fastener and to generate the information to be communicated by the electronic communication means to the separate device, wherein the information, which may be an electrical signal such as electrical pulse, relates to the open or closed status of the fastener.

Abstract: An electronic communication system including: (a) a fastener 2 operable to close or open to secure an item such as a seat 20 to a vehicle; (b) electronic communication means 4 linking the fastener 2 to at least one separate device, such as a second fastener 2 or a handheld remote user-controlled device, to communicate information to the separate device; and (c) electronic circuitry to detect the status of the fastener and to generate the information to be communicated by the electronic communication means to the separate device, wherein the information, which may be an electrical signal such as an electrical pulse, relates to the open or closed status of the fastener.

Abstract: The invention provides a fastener (10) for releasably securing a first element, such as an air bag (12) to a second element such as a bracket (14) located in a vehicle. Fastener (10) has a locking pin (16) which is movable between a locked position and a release position. Locking pin (16) has an engageable head (18). Fastener (10) includes means such as clip (22) for engaging head (18). Locking pin (16) is biased to the release position, for example, by spring (26). Fastener (10) includes an actuator such as spring (32), comprising or including shape memory alloy and adapted to elongate upon application of appropriate energy. When spring (32) is elongated, it causes locking pin (16) to move to the release position. The invention also provides a fastener assembly (130) including at least one post (122) having a groove (124). Fastener assembly (130) includes a bar or latch, for example, in the form of wire (126) adapted to engage the groove (124).