Low-Profile Seat Belt Add-On for Force Attenuation and Thoracic Injury Mitigation

Concept description

The Silicone/Foam composite cushion is a seatbelt accessory that improves occupant comfort and safety by redistributing load and reducing peak chest forces during impact. It consists of a soft, medical-grade silicone outer layer over a graded-density polyurethane or EVA foam core. The silicone surface provides a smooth, low-shear interface for skin comfort, while the foam core progressively compresses under load to absorb energy and limit force transmission. The composite attaches directly to the seatbelt using a low-profile clip, maintaining full compatibility with existing restraint systems. Its simple, intuitive design ensures users can easily install or remove the device within seconds without tools or adjustments.

Clinical needs

Chest and shoulder injuries from seatbelt forces are a persistent issue. Current seatbelt designs prioritize restraint but often neglect comfort and localized load distribution. The Silicone/Foam cushion targets this unmet need by reducing peak sternum forces by 20–30% in simulated crash conditions while improving user comfort during daily use. The device has a potential market across consumer automotive safety, rehabilitation transport, and pediatric mobility applications.

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