TRW Launches Production of Headliner-Mounted Airbag

TRW Automotive Holdings Corp. has begun supplying a front passenger airbag system that mounts in the headliner above the windshield rather than in the instrument panel.

The "bag in roof" system frees up IP space. It also reduces developmental costs associated with in-dash airbags by eliminating the need to custom design deployment openings in the dash, according to TRW.

The technology is debuting in Europe now in the Citroen C4 Cactus small crossover. The system consists of the cushion, a gas diffusion channel and gas generator packaged in a housing that fits where the headliner and windshield meet.

Unlike conventional airbags that inflate toward the occupant, the TRW system's airbag deploys downward along the windscreen in front of the passenger.