Volvo unveils world-first adaptive seat belt that adjusts to every body in real time

Why it matters: Automaker Volvo has long had a reputation for building vehicles with a focus on safety features. It is continuing that trend with the release of what it calls the multi-adaptive safety belt, which uses real-time data from interior and exterior sensors to alter a belt's protection settings. The new seat belts can take into account factors such as the wearer's height, weight, body shape and seating position, along with the direction and speed of the vehicle. This information is sent to the seatbelt "in the blink of an eye" so its safety profile can be adapted to the individual, applying the optimal amount of force. Volvo gave the example of a larger occupant receiving a higher belt load setting to reduce the risk of head injury in the event of a severe crash. If the crash is less severe, those with smaller frames will receive lower belt load settings to prevent rib injuries. Seatbelts use load limiters to minimize belt-inflicted injury. These release a little more exce ... Read full article.