Takata improves safety with headrest mounted airbag
Concept addresses challenges of safety in future urban mobility vehicles
James Scoltock in News.
- Published in News.
Headache: Takata's hoodbag concept shows how airbag technology can be adapted for new vehicle design
Tier One manufacturer Takata has developed an airbag mounted in the headrest for future urban mobility vehicles.
OEMs are increasingly developing concept vehicles that use fighter jet-style cabins - including the VW Nils and Opel RAK e - making use of current airbag technology challenging.
Takata's hoodbag concept design integrates the airbag into the seat's headrest improving safety levels and addressing packaging issues.
Takata said: “As OEMs push the boundaries of vehicle design and the definition of urban mobility, traditional airbag systems no longer become feasible. By integrating the hoodbag into the headrest we are able to offer a protective barrier for drivers and passengers in the event of an accident.”
The hoodbag is constructed from the same materials as traditional airbag technology, but because of the increased use of glass in the cabin, benefits from a double-layering to increase durability and robustness should the cabin shatter.
The hoodbag is one solution to the challenge of occupant safety in future mobility vehicles and Takata said the technology could be developed for series production within 18 months. The Renault Twizy quadricycle, which is released next year, uses a single wheel mounted airbag to protect the driver.
Greenhouse: Future urban mobility vehicle concepts make greater use of glass cabins
