Motorcyclist neck protection system: Design and investigation of the effectiveness and feasibility of airbag integrated neck protection

Li, Peihao

Permalink

https://hdl.handle.net/2142/120130 Copy

Description

Title

Motorcyclist neck protection system: Design and investigation of the effectiveness and feasibility of airbag integrated neck protection

Author(s)

Li, Peihao

Issue Date

2023-05-02

Director of Research (if dissertation) or Advisor (if thesis)

Weightman, David

Committee Member(s)

• Kendall, James
• Goldstein, Molly

Department of Study

Art & Design

Discipline

Art and Design

Degree Granting Institution

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Degree Name

M.F.A.

Degree Level

Thesis

Keyword(s)

• motorcycle
• protection
• neck brace
• airbag

Abstract

With the development of technology, the manufacturing level of motorcycles has become better and better. More electronic devices are installed on motorcycles such as ABS and Traction Control. This can make riding safer, but it doesn't mean you can ride a motorcycle fast. Protective gear for motorcyclists cannot be ignored. Motorcycle accidents are a major cause of serious injury and even death on the road, with fragile neck injuries being particularly serious. Neck injuries take a long time to recover from, and strains or sprains can lead to serious consequences, even paralysis. This research examines the design, development, and evaluation of a neck brace with an integrated airbag for motorcyclists to enhance rider safety and reduce the probability and severity of neck injuries. A multidisciplinary approach combining ergonomics, materials, aesthetics, and industrial design was used to develop a lightweight, comfortable, and effective neck brace. A combination of computer simulations and laboratory tests were conducted to evaluate the performance of the airbag-integrated neck brace compared to conventional neck protection systems. Reference and research were done on neck protection devices used in different fields, such as HANS in F1, medical neck brace, and motocross neck brace. Based on the research of existing airbag products in the market, including automotive airbags, motorcycle airbags, and various forms of airbag vests. Data was collected from different testing institutes. Based on the above research, an integrated airbag neck brace concept was designed and modeled for motorcyclists for daily riding and track driving use. While more research is needed to understand the full effectiveness of neck braces, available studies suggest that airbag neck braces can play a key role in reducing the risk of neck injuries to motorcyclists. The results of this study help improve the riding environment for motorcyclists and advocate for the integration of advanced safety features into motorcyclists' personal protective equipment.

Graduation Semester

2023-05

Type of Resource

Thesis

Copyright and License Information

Copyright 2023 Peihao Li

Owning Collections