When Volvo invented the modern seat belts, they opened a patent for universal free use

Modern three-point seat belts were invented in 1959, Volvo engineer Nils Bohlin. His invention significantly increases the safety of the driver and passengers compared to the previous model the two-point belts. Such belts have since been used in all cars, in fact, their availability and use are governed by the laws of most countries.

One reason for this popularity lies in the fact that Volvo's decided to open a patent for free use by anyone. The company's management has concluded that the new invention is more valuable as a tool for the rescue of people, rather than as another source of revenue. There is no doubt that this is a humane solution saved millions of lives over the past half-century.

via factroom.ru