Development of testing methods and experimental analysis of airbag type protection systems

The evolution of airbag systems represents a pivotal advancement in safety technologies for high-risk sports such as skiing, motorcycling, equestrian activities, and motocross. Originally conceived for automotive applications, airbags have been progressively adapted to meet the unique demands of sporting environments, providing critical protection to areas like the spine, neck, chest and abdomen. This study investigates the development, testing, and performance of airbag systems across three main categories: passive, mechanical, and electronic solutions. By combining insights from biomechanics, materials science, and electronic engineering, this research evaluates the effectiveness of these systems in mitigating injuries under diverse conditions. The study also highlights their adherence to stringent European safety standards, such as EN 1621, which ensure reliability and protection across varying use cases. Preliminary tests on rubber, used as a model material, reveal the significant impact of geometry on energy absorption. The integration of electronic devices with back protectors, particularly in skiing, demonstrates that such devices do not hinder impact absorption and, in some cases, improve performance. Evaluations of mechanical airbag systems for equestrian sports highlight their effectiveness in reducing injury severity during fall. In motocross, electronic airbag systems have set new benchmarks for safety, leveraging advanced sensors and algorithms to detect crashes in real time and deploying airbags within milliseconds to protect critical areas like the neck, chest, and spine. This work underscores the transformative potential of electronic airbag systems, which, unlike their mechanical counterparts, can adapt to complex movement patterns and offer superior speed and precision. However, challenges remain in optimizing these systems for diverse sports and environmental conditions. Future directions include the development of more advanced sensor arrays for enhanced accuracy, the use of lightweight yet robust materials to improve comfort, and sport-specific customizations to align with the unique risks and dynamics of each activity. Additionally, integrating wearable technologies for real-time monitoring and performance feedback offers a promising avenue for innovation. The findings emphasize the need for interdisciplinary approaches to enhance both protection and usability, ensuring that airbag systems continue to evolve as a cornerstone of safety in high-performance sports.