US Patent:
20050062274, Mar 24, 2005
Inventors:
Brett Snellgrove - Makawao HI, US
International Classification:
B60R021/16
Abstract:
An inflatable airbag (by mouth or mechanical pump) that remains continuously inflated and deployed for use in situations where complex impact detection sensors and gas generator inflation, deployment devices are not practical or desirable. It is anticipated this device will have most suitable application in the protection of the vulnerable spinal regions of participants in foot launched and ultralight aviation, in particular paraglider pilots. Participants in this aviation sport suffer from an unacceptably high incidence of vertebral fracture, spinal injury and paralysis due to the semi-reclined, seated position adopted in flight, and in utilizing aircraft subject to turbulence induced deflation and collapse at low altitude with resulting ground impact. This device when fashioned into an aerodynamic, L shaped curve and positioned in the rear of the flying harness, covers and protects the upper thigh, buttock, lumbar, thoracic and cervical spine from dorsal impacts.