Inflatable helmets already existed, but now Decathlon’s Btwin brand has introduced the Airbag Vest. The airbag system operates autonomously, without the need for an external sensor. An electronic unit located inside the vest serves as the control center. It contains 6 sensors (3 accelerometers, 3 gyroscopes) that analyze the user’s position 1,000 times per second. 

This data is processed by predictive algorithms that forecast the impact of a fall—whether the user falls or collides with something—and control the deployment. Within 30 milliseconds, the vest is inflated with air stored in a cartridge as soon as the system detects a fall. 

Decathlon promotes the vest for everyday cyclists, scooter riders, or equestrians. A version for mountain bikers is not currently in the works. In motorcycle and ski sports, inflatable protectors are already common. 

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