TRW
Automotive Holdings Corp. has recently started production of its roof airbag
technology on the Citroen C4 Cactus. The new 'bag in roof' replaces passenger
airbags typically mounted in the instrument panel and can allow for improved
interior design aesthetics, ergonomics and functionality while saving space in
the instrument panel, said a press statement
With
2013 sales of $17.4 billion, TRW Automotive ranks among the world's leading
automotive suppliers. The company is headquartered in Livonia, Michigan,
USA. TRW Automotive products include
integrated vehicle control and driver assist systems, braking systems, steering
systems, suspension systems, occupant safety systems (seat belts and airbags),
electronics, engine components, fastening systems and aftermarket replacement
parts and services.
Dirk
Schultz, engineering director for TRW's Inflatable Restraint Systems commented:
"Interior design requirements have evolved significantly over the last
decade with some manufacturers looking for more instrument panel space for the
latest multimedia technologies or a means of increasing storage, or are
proposing more open and airy cockpit environments.
"TRW's
new roof airbag system is a unique development and provides enhanced styling
flexibility for future vehicle interior requirements in combination with
excellent restraint performance."
The
airbag unit comprises a cushion, a gas diffusion channel and a gas generator
within a housing which is fixed onto (or beneath) the headlining above the
windscreen. Upon deployment, the bag unfolds along the windscreen in front of
the seat occupant, rather than towards them, helping to restrain front seat
passengers of varying shapes and sizes.
The
product offers easy assembly with opportunities for standardisation as some of
the components are common to all TRW airbag applications.
The
roof airbag's new design concept also helps to enhance development efficiency –
by eliminating the need to package a passenger airbag in the instrument panel,
it can significantly reduce the development costs of the dashboard as there is
no need to design and test a specific 'door' that opens with the airbag
deployment. It is also functionally compatible with a wide range of vehicle
architectures.
Thierry
Metais, TRW global account director for PSA added: "We are proud to launch
our roof airbag for the first time on this modern, striking new vehicle which
marks a new era for the French brand. Our technology has helped to deliver a
de-cluttered, more relaxing cabin environment while supporting restraint
performance across the range of occupants."
Picture courtesy TRW