For the Advanced Safety Vehicle Project Phase 2 (ASV-2) as conducted by the Ministry of Transport of Japan, two types of prototype “ASV motorcycles” were produced to promote studies on safety. The research topics for the two types of prototype “ASV motorcycles” were selected from two viewpoints:• Active safety technologies:(1) “Inter-vehicle communication system” which provides information on the mutual presence of motorcycles and automobiles.(2) “Discharge headlight for motorcycles” taking into consideration the high voltage unit and optimizing light distribution.(3) “TUFFUP tires” applied to minimize pressure leaks due to punctures of tubeless tires with a self-seal gel sealed in their double structure chambers.(4) “Air pressure monitor system” which will display air pressure and give an alarm when certain conditions exist.• Passive safety technologies:(5) “Airbag system for motorcycles” including an airbag, inflator and sensor system.(6) “Advanced safety helmet” to reduce brain damage resulting from rotational acceleration of the head.It is believed that potential accident reduction effects may be anticipated through the application of these technologies.
Article of Honda R&D Technical Review Vol.12 No.2 (9 - 16)