ZF is one of the largest suppliers to the global automotive industry. Although they are known for their gearboxes and transmission systems, the Lifetec division of the multinational is responsible for the development and manufacturing of security systems for all types of vehicles. Among them, the important airbags. After seat belts, the passive safety system that saves the most lives in accidents. and this recent innovation in ZF airbags could change forever flyer design of cars.
Steering wheels could change forever
When airbags began to be installed in car steering wheels, they became designed with the principle of form over function. The stylized and thin ruffles of yesteryear became “stuffed” with square mazacots that could clearly be improved in appearance. As technology and technique evolved, airbags became smaller and smallerfreeing up space on the steering wheel for multifunction controls, and again giving designers some leeway to create beautiful steering wheels.
These days, the airbag hardly affects the design of steering wheels, whose shape is no longer round – we will talk about that fashion one day – and is a key element in the appearance of the driving position of any car. However, no matter how small it is, it still occupies the central area of the steering wheel. ZF Lifetec innovation consists of moving the airbag to the upper rear part of the steering wheel. In the event of an accident, the airbag would inflate through the steering wheel rim, with the same effectiveness and function as any existing airbag.
In addition to the new airbag, this steering wheel allows installing sensors that detect the presence of our hands under the leather rim.
The change in the location of the airbag system allows the steering wheel face to become a blank canvas. In the concept presented by ZF Lifetec, a glossy black plastic panel with haptic buttons has been installed. This is just an example: although they are not pleasing to the eye for ergonomics or distractions, they could also house touch screens or buttons with customizable functions – whether we like it or not, in a world of increasingly digitalized and connected cars, every space is capable of hosting screens.
The possibilities are huge, and part of me thinks we should go back to creating minimalist, clean and simple looking flyers. At the moment, ZF Lifetec has not announced when this technology will hit the streets, nor in the hands of which manufacturer.
Photo of – We take them for granted, but steering wheels could change forever with this ZF innovation
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