
Helping Volvo to drive innovation in child safety
Client
Volvo Concept & Monitoring Center
Services
Research
Industrial Design
Mechanical Design
Prototyping
The drop-stitch inflatable fabric technology used to create the bladder portion of the seat was originally developed for use in the military and boating industries. The fabric is characterized by 2 surfaces that are connected by a large number of threads. When the 2 sides are connected with a sidewall and inflated the threads create tension in the structure allowing for inflation to high-pressure and a much more rigid surface than a typical inflatable product. Tangram had previously worked with Walker Bay Boats on the design and development of their line of inflatable kayaks and docks.
Our previous experiences provided the Volvo design team with in-depth information and guidance regarding the opportunities for innovation and limitations of working with drop-stitch fabric.