A perspective of human transportation fatalities is presented. An historical review of certain human crash restraint concepts and of the airbag restraint concept is presented. The results of the first Martin airbag restraint program and of the spacecraft and 'Airlitter' applications are summarized. The aircraft airbag restraint program is reported. Potential applications to automobiles, high speed trains and other advanced transportation systems are briefly discussed. It is concluded that the aircraft airbag restraint concept of providing the passenger with broad controlled deformation surfaces in all directions, with transparent chest and foot bags inflated before every takeoff and landing and after any inflight emergency, can provide the passenger with significant load isolation and protection in the event of a crash or severe turbulence. Following the crash, the airbags and the airseats would be automatically deflated, very significantly increasing the ease and speed of all passengers leaving the aircraft. A preliminary automatic deflation control system was successfully tested. It is emphasized that engineering development of this 'airstop' restraint system has not yet been carried out, although it is considered that the system is now ready for such development, with final weight possibly not exceeding the weight of present seat systems. The airstop restraint system appears engineeringly feasible and can further reduce the hazards of flight. (Author)
Passenger Transportation Applications of the Airstop Restraint System
1965
194 pages
Report
No indication
English