DETROIT, Aug. 10 (UPI) -- A suburban Detroit auto parts supplier has developed a self-adjusting air bag that changes the pressure inside an inflating bag to prevent injuries.
Key Safety Systems Inc. of Sterling Heights, Mich., says its TickerTape Air Bag uses specially-coded polyester sensor tape sewn inside the front surface of the passenger air bag cushion to tailor the force of an inflating air bag to the size and body position of the front seat passenger.
"TTAB allows a variable level of safety protection for small adults, in situations where present air bag systems might be turned off," Key Safety Systems director of engineering for frontal airbags told Tuesday's Detroit News.
For years auto safety experts have warned about the dangers of current air bag technology during crashes for people of smaller stature and children improperly restrained.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates air bags used with seat belts have saved 15,000 lives since 2002. However, experts say infants and small children should ride in the back seat.
