TECH-AIR 5 PLASMA Airbag System
Product Usage Instructions
- Safety Warnings:
- The following four words and icons are used in this User Manual to provide various warnings, important information, and tips about the Airbag System:
- WARNING! Provides critical information which, if not followed, may cause injury.
- IMPORTANT! PLEASE READ BEFORE FIRST USE.
- Initial Setup:
- Before using the Airbag System for the first time, carefully read the user manual and familiarize yourself with the product.
- Operating Instructions:
- Follow the specific instructions provided in the user manual for correct installation and usage of the Airbag System.
- Maintenance:
- Regularly inspect the Airbag System for any signs of damage or wear and follow maintenance guidelines provided in the manual.
FAQs
- Q: How often should I inspect the Airbag System?
- A: It is recommended to inspect the Airbag System before each use and regularly as per the maintenance schedule outlined in the user manual.
- Q: Can the Airbag System be used in all types of vehicles?
- A: The compatibility of the Airbag System with different vehicles may vary. Refer to the user manual or contact customer support for specific vehicle compatibility information.
Legend for the Tech-Air® System Manual
The following four words and icons are used in this User Manual to provide various warnings, important information and tips about the Airbag System: WARNING! Provides critical information which, if not followed, may cause injury,
death, System malfunction or non-function, and/or an exaggerated expectation of the Tech-Air® System’s abilities. IMPORTANT! Provides important information regarding the limitations of the System. Tip: Provides useful advice regarding the Tech-Air® System.
Provides information related to the Tech-Air® App optional functionalities.
IMPORTANT! PLEASE READ BEFORE FIRST USE
The Tech-Air® 5 PLASMA (hereinafter referred to as the “System”) is shipped with its Shipping Mode activated (with the Shipping Mode Switch (8) in the “OFF” position). Before using the System for the first time, please ensure the battery is connected to the Electronic Control Unit by following these instructions: a) Remove the rear covteir of the Airbag ConfitroltiUnit (5). b) With the cover removed, locate the Shipping Mode Switch (8). Slide the tab all the way down into the “ON” position. c) Next, close the rear covetri toi f the AirbagfifiCottiintrol Unit (5) and follow the instructions reported in Section 6, “System Operation.”
6 EN
Introduction
Dear User, thank you for choosing this Product!
The Tech-Air® 5 System (hereinafter referred to as the “System”) is an active safety system for mainstream/recreational motorcycling, which offers protection to a motorcycle user both as a rider or passenger. In the event of an accident or other triggering event, the System provides complete upper body protection as it covers the user’s shoulder, chest, ribs and full back, regardless of the type of motorcycle used. The System is designed to function in both road riding and light off-road riding situations (subject to the Off-Road limitations indicated in Section 3 below).
When Race Mode is activated, it can also be used on a closed race track within the conditions and limitations delineated in this Guide.
The System consists of a standalone vest which is designed to protect from impacts occurring during an accident. It does not provide any protection against possible abrasion during an accident, therefore, the System must be always used in combination with an outer protective garment, compatible with the System (for further information see Section 8).
WARNING! The Tech-Air® 5 System does not offer the Dual Charge Concept. Once the airbag has deployed there’s no further airbag charge. User is without further airbag protection until the System is serviced.
WARNING The System, including its components, are technologically advanced pieces of motorcycling safety equipment and should not be treated like a normal motorcycle garment. Similar to one’s motorcycle, the System and its components must be cared for, serviced and maintained, so that they may function correctly.
WARNING The System MUST be used in combination with an outer protective garment, compatible with the System (Section 8).
WARNING It is essential to read this Guide carefully, to understand it completely and to follow the advice and warnings. If you have any questions regarding the equipment contact Tech-Air® Support (Section 19).
WARNING Without any additional notice, Alpinestars reserves all rights to, from time to time, update the software and/or the electronic components of the System. Accordingly, it is important that users register on the Tech-Air App to receive instant notifications and updates.
Principles of Operation
The System consists of an Airbag Electronic Control Unit (with built-in sensors) integrated into the back protector, (Figure 1). The cluster of sensors consists of 3 accelerometers and 3 gyroscopes. These six sensors monitor the user’s body for shocks or unexpected movements. In the event the user’s body is subject to a high and/or sudden amount of energy, the System will deploy. This may occur when the motorcycle is involved in an accident, such as when the motorcycle collides with another vehicle or object, when the rider loses control or when the rider falls off the motorcycle.
The System is equipped with a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) device located in the electronic control unit. The BLE allows the System to connect directly to a mobile phone in order to receive important information from the System, while also permitting the users to access a number of other functions (for further information see “Tech-Air® App” in Section 17). To connect the System to the mobile phone via Bluetooth, remember to activate the Bluetooth module within your phone and to download the TechAir® App available at Android Play Store or at Apple Store.
RACE MODE: The System comes with two different algorithms that permit the use of the System on both streets and light off-road paths (the “Street Mode”) and race tracks (the “Race Mode”). User can easily switch between these two modes by using the TechAir® App (Race Mode is available from software release 01.02.00.0104.P.0200).
WARNING! User must always ensure via the App that the System is running the most up to date software release. On first purchase of the System, check that your System has the latest software installed (see “Tech-Air® App” in Section 17).
WARNING! Without any additional notice, Alpinestars reserves all rights to, from time to time, update the software and or the electronic components of the System. Accordingly, it is important that users register on the Tech-Air App to receive instant notifications and updates.
WARNING! When the System is in Race Mode it stays active and ready to deploy when riding at 100km/h and above. Should User stop or reduce the speed under 100km/h for an extended period of time, the System will reperform the System Check so it will not activate in case of an accident.
WARNING! System must be used in Street Mode when riding outside race tracks.
Tech-Air® Envelope of Protection
In general, there are three basic factors that determine whether an airbag system will provide protection to a user:
• Whether the forces experienced by the user during an event (such as an accident) occur within an area covered by the airbag; and
• Whether the airbag deploys before the user collides with a vehicle, an obstacle or the ground.
• Whether the airbag deploys before the user collides with parts or accessories of his/her own motorcycle. For example, mirrors, windscreens or tank bags.
To provide protection to a user, an airbag system must be fully deployed. The deployment time consists of the time for the sensors to detect the dangerous event, plus the time it takes to fill the airbag fully with gas, which, for the System is about 40 milliseconds (ms) maximum. The time to deploy the airbag depends on the type of accident, the type of motorcycle (e.g. scooter, custom, sports) and the speed involved, amongst other things. The “Envelope of Protection” is a term used to generally describe situations and/or circumstances where the System may provide protection denoted as “inside the Envelope”, and those where it will not, denoted as “outside the Envelope”. The System protects both the rider and the passenger wearing the System in the event of an accident or other triggering events; however, like any other product, there are limitations to the protection it can provide.
WARNING! No product can provide complete protection from injury (or death), or damage to persons or property in the event of a fall, accident, collision, impact, loss of control or other event.
The System provides impact protection for those areas where airbag coverage is shown in Figure 2.
WARNING!
The System provides only limited impact protection against forces in the areas of airbag coverage as depicted in Figure 2. No guarantee is given that the System will prevent injuries (including severe or fatal injuries) inside and/or outside the areas of airbag coverage or the Envelope of Protection.
WARNING!
The System cannot prevent accidents or injuries to the user.
WARNING!
No protective device, including the System, can provide protection against all possible sources of injury and therefore cannot provide complete protection against injuries.
WARNING!
Wearing the System is not a substitute for wearing other protective motorcycling clothing and gear. To provide full potential protection, the System must always be worn in conjunction with suitable motorcycling gear. Complementary PPE garments could be: jackets or trousers (in accordance with EN 17092 parts 2, 3, 4 and 5), other impact protectors, boots (in accordance with EN 13634) and gloves (in accordance with EN 13594) and visibility clothing (in accordance with EN 1150) or high visibility accessories (in accordance with EN 13356).
The above parameters are valid for both the rider and passenger.
IMPORTANT! If the speed of the motorcycle is less than 25km/h (15 mph), the System may not deploy at the time of the collision/crash, but may deploy if the rider or passenger suddenly falls from the motorcycle after the impact.
Limitations of Use
WARNING! USERS SHOULD BE AWARE THAT NO PRODUCT (INCLUDING PROTECTOR/S) WILL PROVIDE COMPLETE PROTECTION AGAINST INJURY AND NO GUARANTEES, WARRANTIES (EXPRESS OR IMPLIED) ARE MADE REGARDING THE PROTECTOR’S ABILITY TO AVOID RISK OF INJURY.
WARNING! Since the System is sensitive to sudden body movements and shocks, the System is to be used ONLY for motorcycling within the conditions and limitations delineated above. The System is NOT for use in:
a. Any racing or competitive events, unless the Race Mode is selected;
b. Enduro, Motocross, or Supermoto events;
c. Motorcycle stunts; or
d. Side skidding, wheelies, etc.;
e. ANY non-motorcycling activities.
WARNING!
Due to shocks, movement and/or other input detected and/or received by the System while in use, although unlikely, the System may deploy even though there is no crash event.
USERS SHOULD BE AWARE THAT NO PRODUCT (INCLUDING PROTECTOR/S) WILL PROVIDE COMPLETE PROTECTION AGAINST INJURY AND NO GUARANTEES, WARRANTIES (EXPRESS OR IMPLIED) ARE MADE REGARDING THE PROTECTOR’S ABILITY TO AVOID RISK OF INJURY. The System’s working temperature is between -20° and +50° (-4°F to 122°F).
Do not use the System 4000 meters above sea level as low pressure may damage the internal battery.
This protector will provide limited protection against impacts in the event of an accident or fall.
Depending on the motorcycle type, for example a scooter or trials bike, it cannot be guaranteed that the System will inflate before the user collides with parts of the motorcycle, or other objects.
Wearing the System is not a substitute for wearing other protective motorcycling clothing and gear. To offer full potential protection the
System must always be worn in conjunction with suitable motorcycling gear and apparel that covers the rider from head to toe, including a helmet, protectors, boots, gloves, jacket, and other appropriate protective equipment.
System Overview
The diagrams below illustrate the different parts of the Tech-Air® 5 System. The numbered parts are used to guide you through this user’s guide.
TECH-AIR® SYSTEM
AIRBAG CONTROL UNIT (8)
10. Micro USB port
11. Micro USB Adapter
12. Magnetic Charging Cable
13. USB Charger
Sizing
The System is available in sizes from XS to 4XL. Each size is characterized by a specific waist-to-shoulder length of the user (Figure 6).
Table 1 below lists the sizes of the System, the waist-to-shoulder length and a suggested person height to assist with the selection.
WARNING! The height range suggested is only for reference. Check always the correct waist-to-shoulder length before choosing the size of the System.
Health and Age Restrictions
WARNING!
The Tech-Air® 5 System must not be handled by children at any time.
In the event of a crash, inflation of the System will cause sudden pressure across the back and torso. This can cause discomfort and for users in poor health this may cause complications.
The Tech-Air® 5 System must not be used by persons with a history of heart problems, or other diseases, conditions, afflictions or illnesses which may weaken the heart.
Any body piercings which coincide with the airbag coverage area should be removed before electing to use the System, as inflation of the airbag into and against the body piercings may cause discomfort and/or injury.
The Tech-Air® 5 System must not be used by persons with neck or back problems.
The Tech-Air® 5 System must not be used by women during pregnancy.
The Tech-Air® 5 System must not be used by women with artificial breast implants.
The Tech-Air® 5 System must not be used by persons fitted with a pacemaker or other implanted electronic medical devices.
Allergy Advice
Persons with certain skin allergies to synthetic, rubber or plastic materials, should carefully monitor their skin each time the Tech-Air® System is worn. If any irritation of the skin occurs, immediately stop wearing the System and seek medical advice and/or attention
Outer Garment
The System must be used with an outer protective garment as the vest is not abrasion resistant. Provided that the correct sizing is selected, the System can be used with all the
Tech-Air® Compatible Garments, meaning also the new generation of Tech-Air® Ready garments, as the Tech-Air® Compatible Garments are already designed with stretch panels to accommodate the inflated airbag after deployment.
It is generally recommended to the user to choose an outer protective garment so that, when worn over the System, it does not cause discomfort and does not prevent the functionality of the System.
The System can be used with any abrasion resistant garment designed for two wheeled motor vehicles provided that the garment has sufficient space to allow the expansion of the airbag after the deployment. Follow the procedure described below to check if your garment is compatible with the System. Remember to ensure that you select an Outer Garment that has the proper fit and should any protectors be present on such garment, that the protectors are correctly positioned. If the garment you have chosen is a leather garment, it is highly recommended that it has stretch panels to accommodate the inflated airbag after deployment.
The System’s airbag covers the shoulder, chest, ribs and full back area, accordingly the System must not be used inside of a leather suit or a 2 pieces leather suit, unless such leather suit or 2 piece leather suit has sufficient space to accommodate the inflation of the airbag, as shown below, and it’s not too tight in the crotch area in order to prevent discomfort in case of deployment.
Moreoverr, it is highly recommended to use the System in combination with a protective garment, therefore certified in accordance with EN 17092-2, 3, 4 or 5 parts, that can guarantee protection for the uncovered areas.
The Tech-Air® System must ALWAYS be used with a correctly fitting Outer Garment of the user’s appropriate body size. Use of the System with the incorrect size of an Outer Garment, or not compliant with the size check recommendations above, may result in the System malfunction or failure and injury, including severe injury and/or death.
WARNING!
A
B
A – Chest measure B – Garment width
IMPORTANT! When the System is used with an Outer Garment, other than those specifically designed for Tech-Air® Systems by Alpinestars, the user must verify if the Outer Garment provides a sufficient inner volume able to contain the deployed airbag as follows:
1. Measure the circumference of the chest
2. Measure the garment width on the chest region
Documents / Resources
 | TECH-AIR 5 PLASMA Airbag System [pdf] Instruction Manual 5 PLASMA Airbag System, 5 PLASMA, Airbag System, System |