Abstract: A computer based system and method for designing an automotive vehicle orients an occupant representation, in electronic form, with respect to a three-dimensional electronic representation of a portion of the vehicle. At least one vehicle system is represented, also in electronic form, with respect to a common reference point, at least one human factors study is electronically performed to determine occupant interaction with at least one vehicle system, and an outcome of that study is reported to a vehicle designer. The designer then has an option to vary, or alter, the occupant orientation, the location of the vehicle system, or both, so that the design meets a predetermined criteria of the study. However, the designer may opt to retain the design despite non-compliance with the criteria.

Abstract: A computer based system and method for designing an automotive vehicle orients an occupant representation, in electronic form, with respect to a three-dimensional electronic representation of a portion of the vehicle. At least one vehicle system is represented, also in electronic form, with respect to a common reference point, at least one human factors reflection study is electronically performed to determine occupant reflection reception with at least one vehicle system, and an outcome of that study is reported to a vehicle designer. The designer then has an option to vary, or alter, the occupant orientation, the location of the vehicle system, or both, so that the design meets a predetermined reflection criteria of the study. However, the designer may opt to retain the design despite non-compliance with the reflection criteria.

Abstract: An inflatable occupant restraint system for an automotive vehicle is provided. The vehicle includes a body structure having a laterally extending beam and an instrument panel carried with the body structure. The occupant restraint system includes an air bag module, an aperture formed in the instrument panel which receives the air bag module, and a trim portion of the instrument panel fixedly secured to the air bag module in overlying relationship thereto for closing the aperture. The occupant restraint system further includes a latch assembly having a portion thereof directly connected to the laterally extending beam and another portion thereof directly connected to the air bag module. The latch assembly releasably secures the air bag module to the beam.