TRW unveils head protection technology for convertibles

TRW Automotive Holdings (TRW) has unveiled its second generation Head Protection System for Convertibles (HPSC II), which works together with the torso protection system and both can be tuned individually.

TRW's HPSC II technology is fully integrated in the backrest bolster eliminating the need for an integrated head rest and thereby increasing its compatibility with a broader range of convertible vehicles at a lower cost.

HPSC II operates via a small, lightweight pyrotechnic gas inflator with a diameter of only 20mm.

Based on the SPI-EVO gas inflator technology, the system will ensure a high level of restraint efficiency at an affordable price for future vehicles.

Inflatable Restraint Systems global engineering director Dirk Schultz said that HPSC II is compact and comprises light weight component parts resulting in a lower mass module overall.

Like the first generation HPSC, the second generation HPSC also takes into account different load cases and passenger sizes, and this adaptability improves the airbags' position in relation to the occupant in the event of a side crash situation, Schultz said.

Safety is an increasingly important factor in the decision making process of the consumer and the industry needs to continuously improve the protection of occupants of such vehicles, with affordable solutions.

TRW's first generation HPSC is currently in production with a major European vehicle manufacturer and the second generation of the airbag module concept will be ready for vehicle launches in 2013.