A system for detecting proper usage of a seatbelt in a vehicle by an
operator of the vehicle is provided. The seatbelt usage detection system
includes a first communication device arranged on the seatbelt and a
second communication device. One of the first and second communication
devices is a transmitter and the other of the first and second
communication devices is a receiver. The receiver and transmitter are
capable of establishing a communication link with each other. The second
communication device is arranged in the vehicle so as to be able to
establish a communication link with the first communication device of a
predetermined signal strength upon proper fastening of the seatbelt
around the body of an operator. The system also includes a processing
unit for monitoring the signal strength of the communication link between
the first and second communication devices and for providing a signal
that the seatbelt is unfastened when the signal strength is less than the
predetermined signal strength.