Goes into operation automatically as soon as the driver of the autom obile has closed the vehicle door. Safely experts at the Volkswagen wor ks devised this passive restraint mechanism, simply outlined here for i nstructive purposes, with three primary elements providing the backbone of the sytems. The locking mechanism (1) which includes the door and v ertical door frame (2) the automatic belt-winding reel beneath the seat and (3) the cushioned knee buffer. In case of a collision or a sudden braking action the belt-winding reel freezes the given in the cross-sho ulder belt. Under normal driving conditions the belt sits loosely to en able posture changes for comfort's sake. The other terminal point of th e shoulder safety belt is the emergency locking mechanism of the door o f the vehicle. When the door is open the belt "follows" it. If it is cl osed then the actual locking mechanism for the belt situated on the upr ight door frame goes into operation. VW experts feel they have develope d an alternative to the airbag safety system with this two-point system (in the airbag system a "ballon" of study material fills within fracti ons of a second to envelop auto occupants lurching forward from the imp act of a collision). The two-point system still needs official sanction .

Paid up registered users

AR/MAKPHOTOS/36/39

English