Schreiner ProTech Applies Award-Winning Automotive Airbag Cover Concept to Thorax Airbags

SOUTHFIELD, Mich.--Schreiner ProTech today announced it is expanding the application of its laser-based, airbag cover manufacturing process to include automotive thorax airbags. Previously only applicable to side inflatable curtain airbag wraps, Schreiner’s new and customizable Miniature Thorax Airbag Wraps can now be used in vehicles to protect the thorax and pelvis of occupants.

Airbags are covered by special wraps to ensure their reliable deployment in case of an accident, even years after installation in an automobile. Airbag wraps have to meet exacting safety specifications. The production of these covers has historically involved time-consuming processes like manual sewing of material to create sleeve-type wraps or costly plastic injection molded covers.

Made of a non-woven fabric, Schreiner’s Miniature Thorax Airbag Wraps are printed, laser-welded, and cut to size through a high-speed, one-step process that eliminates the need for complex sewing of the fabric parts, thus cost-effectively improving assembly process efficiency. Multilingual warnings can be conveniently and accurately positioned on the compact fabric part, enabling airbag manufacturers to flexibly tailor their products to fit customer needs no matter where they are located. Schreiner’s Thorax Airbag Wraps are certified under ISO/TS 16949 and are currently being used by international auto manufacturers.

Introduced last year, Schreiner’s revolutionary side airbag covers were awarded the 2008 Bavarian Innovation Award in recognition of outstanding innovation. Schreiner’s Miniature Thorax Airbag Wraps are ten times smaller than their side airbag counterparts but leverage the same efficient manufacturing process and materials.

About Schreiner ProTech

As a certified systems supplier and development partner, the Schreiner High-Tech Group designs intelligent solutions in seven specialized divisions. The company’s research and development in this area ranges from adhesion and film technologies as well as laser and membrane applications all the way to Printed Electronics. Schreiner ProTech offers its customers comprehensive turnkey solutions – from special labels, printers and scanners to software and complete system connectivity.