摘要: |
The purpose of this paper is to outline Ford Motor Company's air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) field evaluation programs, including both the experience gained with occupant restraint systems, and some observations of the evaluation processes which are analogous to Intelligent transportation System (ITS) safety evaluation issues, in terms of methodology and institutional relationships. The success of modern-day supplemental air bag systems is clear, but key challenges remain. Field experience has confirmed that the combination of safety belts and air bags can provide the best overall risk reduction, but only if safety belts are used, and used properly. Continued in-depth field investigation and statistical analysis remain critical to the automotive safety community's understanding of "real world" occupant restraint system performance: the nature and extent of potential air bag deployment "side effects" on vehicle occupants; and new technology as it continues to be introduced, e.g., side air bags. |