Abstract: A system for storing beginning and ending odometer readings of a plurality of individual trips made by a vehicle. The odometer readings for each trip are stored individually for future retrieval and use. The system can be directly connected to an odometer device included on the vehicle, or odometer information can be manually input by the vehicle operator. The date and other data such as the vehicle and operator identify, trip purpose, and customer identification codes, are stored for each trip. A data I/O port is provided to allow direct transfer of data from the system to a central computer where the data can be used by appropriate computer programs. The distance traveled during each trip can be calculated by a central computer, or the system can be programmed to calculate the trip distance. The apparatus is accommodated in a compact housing which slides into a cradle mounted inside the vehicle for convenient relocation from one vehicle to another or to a computer for data transfer.

Abstract: An inflatable protective system provides cushioning and containment for the head, thorax, and pelvis of an occupant of a vehicle during side impact of the vehicle by another object. The system includes an inflatable bag that is attached to a mounting plate, which extends over the lower section of a side panel assembly of the vehicle. The inflatable bag includes an upper portion foldable into a stowed position facing the occupant's thorax when seated on the seat. A deployment envelope including at least one sheet of bearing material and at least one sheet of friction reducing material is sandwiched between the bag and a cushioning panel, which is detachably connected to an inner side of the side panel assembly, to enhance the smooth deployment of the bag.