Abstract: A passive restraint system is provided with a head restraint which is shiftable along with a torso restraint from a stowed position to an operative position for limiting movement of the head and neck at the time of an accident. The preferred head restraint element is an energy absorbing cushion or pillow-like member which is shifted from its stowed position beneath the dashboard of the vehicle by a cable means to the operative position at which it engages the chin of the vehicle occupant. Preferably, a pivotally mounted knee restraint element is likewise shifted to an operative position against the knees of the vehicle occupant to limit the forward and downward movement of the occupant relative to the seat. Each of the restraint elements is returned by retracting it to a stowed position and is available for reuse.

Abstract: A passive restraint safety belt system for a vehicle comprises at least one belt movable from a hidden stowed position to a restraining position about the occupant of the vehicle at the time of an accident. Means are provided for sensing an impact or sudden deceleration or acceleration of the vehicle and are operable to shift the belt from the stowage position to the restraining position. Means are also provided for returning automatically the belt from the restraining position to the stowage position so that the belt may be readily reused. Preferably, the safety belt is substantially hidden from view and does not interfere with ingress or egress from the vehicle.