The i Gel is a protective system that comprises a full-body airbag suit, and is designed for protecting people engaged in a wide variety of potentially dangerous activities including motorbiking, cycling, skiing and more. The unique hedgehog-shaped contraption was unveiled at the Wearable Technologies Conference in Munich.
The i Gel consists of up to 20 nitrogen-activated airbags that inflate to protect the head, torso and lower body. Inspired by hedgehogs' ability to roll into a protective ball, this system cradles the torso and lower body inside a fetal-style ball, helping to protect against injury.
The system could also be equipped with radar and supersonic sensor that would enable it to detect crashes well ahead of time.
This is a great example of next-generation science harnessing inspiration from the humble creatures that have surrounded us for millennia.
What's Driving This Trend
- Full-body Airbag Protection
- Innovative trends in creating full-body airbag suits that provide protection for individuals engaged in dangerous activities.
- Animal-inspired Safety Gear
- Innovative trends in creating protective gear for individuals inspired by animals' natural defense mechanisms.
- Sensor-enabled Protective Wear
- Innovative trends in creating protective wear that are equipped with sensors to detect potential crashes and prevent injuries.
Who This Affects Most
- Sports and Recreation
- The sports and recreation industry can benefit from incorporating full-body airbag suits into their protective gear and equipment for activities such as cycling and skiing.
- Automotive
- Automotive industries can explore the use of sensor-enabled protective wear and integrate them into car models to prevent injuries in potential crashes.
- Military and Defense
- Military and defense industry can incorporate full-body airbag suits in combat gear to protect soldiers and minimize injuries.
