TRW introduces roof airbag technology

TRW Automotive announced a new ‘bag in roof’ airbag system which replaces passenger airbags typically mounted in the instrument panel. TRW claims that the new airbag can ‘help to mitigate passenger injuries and can allow for improved interior design aesthetics, ergonomics and functionality while saving space in the instrument panel’.
Dirk Schultz, engineering director for TRW’s Inflatable Restraint Systems said: “Occupant safety systems are becoming increasingly versatile. With the increasing focus on reducing road fatalities, we need to develop new ways to enhance the protection of occupants – one area of focus is the design and configuration of airbags. TRW’s new roof airbag system is a unique development and studies have shown that such a technology provides enhanced styling flexibility for future vehicle interiors in combination with excellent restraint performance.”
The airbag unit has a cushion and a gas generator which supplies the gas to the cushion in the event of an impact.