alpinestars Tech-Air Street Airbag System User Guide

alpinestars Tech-Air Street Airbag System

Introduction

The Tech-Air™ Street airbag system is an active safety system for mainstream/recreational motorcycling, which offers protection to both riders and passengers. In the event of an accident or other triggering event, the airbag system provides upper body protection to the user regardless of the type or age of motorcycle used. The system is designed to function in both on- and off-road riding situations (subject to the Off-Road limitations indicated in Section 3 below).
In this manual the following three presentation styles are used to provide information:
Tip: Provides useful advice regarding the system.
IMPORTANT! Provides important information regarding the limitations of the 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 system’s abilities.

The Tech-Air™ Street airbag system is comprised of two components.

1. The Alpinestars Tech-Air™ Street airbag vest (“airbag vest”);
2. An Alpinestars garment/jacket (“Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket”) compatible with and to be used with the airbag vest. The airbag vest and the Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket are sold separately.

WARNING! The airbag system, including its components (the airbag vest and the Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket), 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 airbag vest MUST be used with an Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket.
WARNING! Use of an Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket without the airbag vest will provide the user with NO airbag protection.
WARNING! It is essential to read this manual carefully, understand it completely and to follow the advice and warnings. If you have any questions regarding the equipment contact Tech-Air™ Support (Section 21).

Principles of Operation

The Tech-Air™ Street airbag vest contains an airbag control unit (with built- in sensor) integrated into the back protector, and two external sensors positioned on the shoulders (Figure 1). These three 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 airbag will inflate. This may occur when the motorcycle collides with another vehicle or obstacle, when the rider loses control, falls from the motorcycle or has an accident .

Tech-Air™ “Envelope of Protection”

The Tech-Air™ Street airbag system offers protection to both riders and passengers in the event of an accident or other triggering event; however, like any other product there are limitations to the protections that 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 “Envelope of Protection” is used to generally describe situations and/or circumstances where the Tech-Air™ Street airbag system may provide protection (”inside the envelope”), and those where it will not (“outside the envelope”).
In general, there are three basic factors that determine whether an airbag system will provide protection to a user:

• (a) Whether the forces experienced by the user during an event (such as an accident) occur within an area covered by the airbag; and
• (b) Whether the airbag deploys before the user collides with a vehicle, an obstacle or the ground.
• (c) Whether the airbag deploys before the user collides with parts or accessories of their own motorcycle. For example, mirrors, windscreens or tank bags.

(The deployment time consists of the time for the sensors to detect the event plus the time it takes to fill the airbag fully with gas, which is about 25 milliseconds (ms). The time available to deploy the airbag is dependent upon factors such as the type of the accident, the type of motorcycle (e.g. scooter, custom, sports) and the speed of involved vehicles.
The Tech-Air™ Street airbag system provides impact protection for those areas of airbag coverage shown in Figure 2.

WARNING! The Tech-Air™ Street airbag system provides only limited protection against forces experienced at the areas of airbag coverage depicted in Figure 2. No guarantee is given that the Tech-Air™ Street airbag system will prevent injuries (including severe or fatal injuries) inside and/or outside the covered/protected areas.
WARNING! The Tech-Air™ Street airbag system cannot prevent accidents.
WARNING! No protective device, including the Tech-Air™ Street airbag system, can provide protection against all possible sources of injury and therefore cannot provide complete protection against injuries.
WARNING! Wearing the Tech-Air™ Street airbag system is not a substitute for wearing other protective motorcycling clothing and gear. To provide full potential protection, the Tech-Air™ Street airbag 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, and other appropriate protective equipment.

Crashes Where a Vehicle Strikes a Stationary Motorcycle:

Valid for both rider and passenger

Crashes Where a Motorcycle Strikes a Vehicle or Obstacle (Figure 3):

The above parameters are valid for both the rider and passenger.

IMPORTANT! If the speed of the vehicle is less than 25km/h, the system may not deploy at the time of the collision, but may deploy if the rider or passenger suddenly falls from the motorcycle after the impact.

IMPORTANT! Figure 3 outlines the envelope where the Tech-Air™ Street airbag system is expected to inflate before the user’s body contacts an obstacle. At speeds above 25km/h the system will deploy regardless of the impact angle, but outside the envelope the airbag may not be fully inflated before there is contact between the obstacle and the user.

Loss of Control Crashes

A Loss of Control Crash often results in the motorcycle falling over during riding. This commonly happens when tire grip on the roadway is lost during a turn or heavy braking. These are often similar to crashes in racing (known as “low-side” crashes).

WARNING! The user does not need to be involved in a crash for the system to deploy. For example, the system will deploy if the user falls while wearing the system, such as when dismounting from the motorcycle. These types of “non- riding” deployments are not failures of the system.

Motorcycle Type

The Tech-Air™ Street airbag system can be utilized by riders or passengers on any type of motorcycle, including electric motorcycles.

Off-Road Riding

The Tech-Air Street airbag system may be used off road IN A LIMITED CAPACITY riding on gravel roads only. For the purpose of using the Tech-Air Street airbag system off road, the definition of a gravel road is:

• An unpaved road surfaced with gravel.
• Has a minimum width of 4m (13ft).
• Has no gradients +/-30%.
• Has no ruts, steps or holes greater than 50cm (19.5”) in depth.

IMPORTANT! The chances of falling are notably higher when riding off- road, particularly when a rider is inexperienced. Even when stopped, a fall may cause the Tech-Air™ Street airbag system to deploy, leaving the user without protection until the system is returned for recharging (see Section 16).

Limitations of Use

WARNING! The Tech-Air™ Street airbag system is to be used ONLY for motorcycling within the conditions and limitations delineated above. The system is NOT for use in:

• Any racing or competitive events;
• Enduro, Motocross, or Supermoto events;
• Motorcycle stunts; or
• 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.
WARNING! 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 or accessories of the motorcycle .
WARNING! Wearing the Tech-Air™ Street airbag 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™ Street airbag system (airbag vest and an Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket). The numbered parts are used to guide you through this user’s guide.

TECH AIR SYSTEM

**COMPATIBLE JACKET

**

Compatible Garments

ELECTRONIC UNIT (6)

1. Attachment Snaps
2. Back Protector Studs
3. Vest attachment zips (Vest)
4. Detachable belt
5. Sealed closure zip
6. Control Unit
7. LED Display socket
8. Master Switch
9. Micro USB Port
10. Zip Sensor Socket
11. Vest attachment zips (Jacket)
12. Back Protector attachments
13. Vest Snap attachment loops
14. Cable Passage
15. LED Display cable
16. Zip Sensor cable
17. Zip Sensor
18. LED Display
    • 18a. Green Indicator
    • 18b. Orange Indicator
    • 18c. Red Indicator
19. On-board power LED

Sizing

The Tech-Air™ Street airbag vest is available in sizes from S to 2XL. The airbag inside is available in three sizes that correspond to the waist to shoulder length of the user (Figure 5). Table 1 below lists the sizes of vest and the airbag size which they contain. This chart contains suggested sizing.

Table 1

Vest Size| Euro Size| US

Size

| User’s Waist to Shoulder Range| Suggested Height Range| MTF
---|---|---|---|---|---
XS| 46| 36| 37 – 40cm (14.6” – 15.7”)| 1.41 – 1.52m (4’7” – 5’0”)| <4 KN
S| 48| 38| 37 – 40cm (14.6” – 15.7”)| 1.41 – 1.52m (4’7” – 5’0”)| <4 KN
M| 50| 40| 40 – 45cm (15.7” – 17.7”)| 1.52 – 1.71m (5’0” – 5’7”)| <4 KN
L| 52| 42| 40 – 45cm (15.7” – 17.7”)| 1.52 – 1.71m (5’0” – 5’7”)| <4 KN
XL| 54| 44| 40 – 45cm (15.7” – 17.7”)| 1.52 – 1.71m (5’0” – 5’7”)| <4 KN
2XL| 56| 46| 45 – 50cm (17.7” – 19.7”)| 1.71 – 1.90m (5’7” – 6’3”)| <4 KN
3XL| 58| 48| 45 – 50cm (17.7” – 19.7”)| 1.71 – 1.90m (5’7” – 6’3”)| <4 KN

IMPORTANT! The airbag vest must be installed inside an Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket first.
MTF = Mean Transmitted Force attained during testing.

Health and Age Restrictions

IMPORTANT! In Europe the pyrotechnic Directive (2007/23) prohibits the sale of pyrotechnic articles to anyone under the age of 18.
WARNING! The Tech-Air™ Street airbag system must not be handled by children at any time.
WARNING! In the event of a crash, inflation of the airbag will cause sudden pressure across the back and torso. This can cause discomfort and for users in poor health this may cause complications.
WARNING! The Tech-Air™ Street airbag 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.
WARNING! The Tech-Air™ Street airbag system must not be used by persons fitted with a pacemaker or other implanted electronic medical devices.
WARNING! The Tech-Air™ Street airbag system must not be used by persons with neck or back problems.
WARNING! The Tech-Air™ Street airbag system must not be used by women during pregnancy.
WARNING! The Tech-Air™ Street airbag system must not be used by women with artificial breast implants.
WARNING! Any body piercings which coincide with the airbag coverage area should be removed before electing to use the Tech-Air™ Street airbag system, as inflation of the airbag into and against the body piercings may cause discomfort and/or injury.

Allergy Advice

Persons with certain skin allergies to synthetic, rubber or plastic materials, should carefully monitor their skin each time the Tech-Air™ Street airbag system is worn. If any irritation of the skin occurs, immediately stop wearing the system and seek medical advice and/or attention.

Vest Installation

WARNING! The Tech-Air™ Street airbag vest must ALWAYS be used with an Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket of corresponding and appropriate size. Use of the airbag vest with the incorrect size of Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket, or a non-compatible Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket, may result in injury, including severe injury and/or death.

To install an airbag vest into a Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket airbag:

1. Clip the airbag vest onto the smaller central rear hook (1).
2. Attach the two studded connectors to the back protector of the airbag vest (2). In the first case mount the protector on the upper two studs
3. Clip the underarm snaps to the corresponding loops (1) on the Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket.
4. Zip the airbag vest into the Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket by zips (3) on both sides of the Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket.
5. Where applicable, remove the internal back padding of the Garment/Jacket and pass the Zip Sensor (16) and LED Display molded cable exit (14).
6. Connect the Zip Sensor cable (16) to the Zip Sensor socket (10).
7. Connect the LED Display cable (15) to the LED Display socket (7).
   IMPORTANT! Do not cross the cables over inside the Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket They should flow cleanly from the Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket to the airbag vest (Figure 7).
   Tip: If quickly trying only the fit of the garment, the electrical connections (Steps 6 & 7) do not need to be made, but any internal back padding MUST be removed (Step 5).

Fitting

Once the airbag vest has been installed the Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket may be worn and fastened like any other riding jacket. For those users who prefer the airbag vest to fit snugly, the internal belt (4) can be used, however this is a matter of personal preference and the airbag vest may be worn with the belt unfastened or removed.
When fitting the Tech-Air™ Street airbag system, users should check in particular that:

• the sleeves are of the correct length;
• the sleeves can be adjusted to work with the gloves that will be worn;
• the compatible airbag garment is not too tight across the chest.

In the event that the garment fits well except that it is tight in the collar, two possible solutions are to:

• Zip the system (Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket and airbag vest) to the riding pants AND/OR
• Install the airbag vest on the lower two studs (Step 2 of the airbag vest installation – see Figure 6).

WARNING! It is imperative that the Tech-Air™ Street airbag system is fitted correctly in order to provide maximum potential protection in an accident. Compatible garments/jackets which are too small will cause severe discomfort when the system is inflated, compatible garments/jackets which are too large may not hold the airbag vest in place during a fall or accident. In case of doubts or questions regarding fit, seek advice from an Alpinestars dealer.

Transportation of Objects Inside the Compatible Airbag Garment

When using an Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket consideration needs to be given to the objects which may be placed inside its pockets. For example:

• Sharp or pointed objects placed in pockets may pierce the airbag and compromise inflation.
• Bulky objects will reduce the amount that the airbag can expand, reducing or potentially reducing the efficacy of the airbag and/or making the system feel much tighter when inflated, possibly increasing discomfort or causing distraction or injury.

IMPORTANT! Extra attention should be paid to the contents of the internal Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket breast pocket. ONLY flat objects such as a wallet or mobile phone should be stored there.
WARNING! Under NO circumstances should a user attempt to transport objects of ANY size or shape, including sharp or pointed objects, stuffed inside the Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket, as they may cause injury to the user and/or damage to the airbag. Only blunt objects should be transported in the Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket provided that they fit completely inside the pockets.
Tip: Users should note that Tech-Air™ Street airbag system has been tested to be safe when used in combination with backpacks loaded up to a maximum of 6kg (approximately 13 pounds) in weight.

Battery Charging

Charge the unit fully before first use. To do this, connect the supplied charger to the Micro USB port (9) on the unit. The LED display will display green (18a) and orange (18b) lights when the battery is fully charged.
IMPORTANT! The battery will only recharge when the ambient temperature is between
0°C – 45°C (32°F – 113°F).
IMPORTANT! It is not possible to charge the Tech-Air™ Street airbag vest when in use.
IMPORTANT! If the battery is not charged periodically as indicated in section 14 as a minimum, it may require replacement. Read Section 14 for further information.
WARNING! Do not leave the unit unattended while charging the battery. Charge only in a dry location with a temperature range of 0°C to 45°C (32°F – 113°F).

Charging and Use Times
Approximately six hours is required to recharge a discharged battery with the supplied charger. A fully charged battery will provide approximately 25 hours of use. If time is limited, charging the battery for approximately one hour will provide approximately three to four hours of use.

Tip: The unit may be charged by connecting it to a computer, or to an alternative Micro USB charger, however if the current output is under 2 amps then charging times will be longer than stated above.
WARNING! The unit should be recharged as soon as possible when the red Battery Level LED light (18c) flashes, as this indicates low battery level.

Operation

Turning On
To make power available to the system, move the Master Switch (8) to the “l” position. The Master Switch should remain in the “I” position at all times when the system is in use.
With the Master Switch on, the Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket is donned as normal and zipped up past the Zip Sensor (i.e. closed). The Zip Sensor (17) will detect that the zip was zipped up and the system will turn on and activate. At this point, the user MUST check the LED Display (18) to verify that the system starts correctly. See Section 13, Display Indications below for the meanings of the LED indicator lights.

Tip: If the system does not power on (no LED Indications illuminate) check that there is nothing in between the sensor area (Figure 8, below) and that the flap with the sensor is not folded inside the Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket.

WARNING! In order to activate the Tech-Air™ Street airbag system, the Master Switch must be turned on (“I” position) AND the Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket must be zipped up past the Zip Sensor (17).

Stability Check
During the first 20-60 seconds after the system is activated, the system remains disarmed while it performs a stability check as indicated by a flashing green indicator light (18a). During this period the system is looking for the body to conduct one or all of the following activities:

• Walking (including up and down stairs)
• Mounting the motorcycle
• Riding the motorcycle.
  If the check is passed a solid green indicator light will be illuminated (18a).

Note that the following activities are unlikely to pass the stability check:

• Zipping up the jacket without wearing it
• Standing still
• Running or other dynamic actions (such as sharp changes of direction or speed when walking)
• Sitting down – INCLUDING on the motorcycle with the engine at idle.

If after 60 seconds the system cannot determine stability it will give an error indication by illuminating a single red indicator light (18c) in the LED Display (18). In this case the garment must be unzipped and closed again to restart the stability check.

WARNING! You MUST ALWAYS check the LED Display (18) after the Stability Check to confirm you have the solid green LED before starting to ride/ using the Tech-Air™ Street airbag system. The system will not deploy if needed while the 20-60 second Stability Check is proceeding and will not deploy if needed unless the Stability Check registers no errors in the system, as indicated by a solid green indicator light (18a).
Tip: The Zip Sensor (17) functions using magnets. Magnetically sensitive items (such as credit cards) should be kept at least 1cm away from the sensor area.

Turning Off
Turn the system off by unzipping the Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket. The orange LED (18b) will flash and the system will shut down after 5 seconds. Confirm that the system is off and/or not receiving power by checking to see that there are no indicator lights illuminated in the LED Display (18).
If you want to continue wearing the Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket after shutting the system down, then keep the Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket unzipped below the Zip Sensor (17) or tuck the internal flap inside the Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket (Figure 8) to prevent the Zip Sensor from making contact while wearing the Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket.
To make power unavailable to the system, move the Master Switch to the off position. Turn the Master Switch off if the Tech-Air™ Street airbag vest is to be stored, transported or shipped.

WARNING! ALWAYS turn the system off [by unzipping the Alpinestars Compatible Garment/Jacket past the Zip Sensor] when you are not riding a motorcycle, even if you continue to wear the system. Although the stability of the system has been evaluated for a number of non-riding activities, keeping the system powered up and/or active increases the possibility of an unwanted deployment and drains the battery. Note also that the system will power back up if the zip of the Alpinestars Compatible Garment/Jacket is closed past the Zip Sensor.

WARNING! When not in use and being stored, transported or shipped, the system must be shut down at the Master Switch. This makes power unavailable to the system, prevents battery drain and possible reduced battery life, as well as inadvertent supplying of power to and powering-up of the system.

Display Indications

The LED Display (18) has three colored LEDs which are used to indicate the status of the system.

Indications During Use

IMPORTANT! The solid Green LED indicates that the system is functioning and will deploy in a crash.
WARNING! A single RED LED or a flashing green LED indicates that the system will NOT deploy in a crash.
Tip: With a single red indication, the red LED will blink a number of times to indicate the code of the system error for the problem that the system is experiencing. These codes and the corresponding errors are listed in Section 20, and the errors can also be viewed using the Tech-Air™ Connect software (Section 18).

Indications during battery charging
During battery charging the LED Display will show a continuous animation. When the battery is fully charged all 3 LEDs will remain illuminated.

Cleaning, Storage and Transportation

Airbag Vest Cleaning
Use only a cloth dampened with water to clean the airbag vest (fabric and plastic parts). Solvents or chemical cleaners must not be used, as they may compromise the integrity of the airbag.

WARNING! Under NO circumstances should the airbag vest be washed in a washing machine, submerged in water, tumble dried or ironed. This may cause permanent damage to the airbag system and cause malfunction.
Tip: As part of the recommended biannual service the airbag vest will be disassembled and washed.

Outer Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket Cleaning
Once separated from the airbag vest, the outer Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket may be cleaned and/or washed according to the instructions on the garment. Where machine washing is permitted, the LED Display (18) and Zip Sensor (17) need not be removed, but fabric conditioner must NOT be used.
IMPORTANT! Do not use fabric softeners when cleaning the Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket as it will cause damage.

Storage

The Tech-Air™ Street airbag system (i.e. airbag vest and outer Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket) is best stored hung from a rail. It may also be stored flat in a drawer, provided no heavy or sharp objects are placed on top of it. The Tech-Air™ Street airbag system should be stored in a cool, dry place, out of direct sunlight, and the Master Switch (7) should be turned off
If storing the airbag vest only, it is best stored in its original packaging. Likewise, it may be stored flat in a drawer provided that no heavy or sharp objects are placed on top of it. Also, it should be stored in a cool, dry place, out of direct sunlight, and the Master Switch (7) should also be turned off.
The battery of the Tech-Air™ Street airbag system slowly self discharges, even if the system is not operated, in particular if the system is stored in a warm environment. It is thus recommended that even in storage the system be periodically recharged (at least once every 18 months) to prevent deep discharge and non functioning of the battery.
IMPORTANT! If the battery becomes deeply discharged the system will not function even if an attempt is made to recharge it. It is thus important that the system is periodically recharged as indicated.

WARNING! Do NOT leave the airbag vest in direct sunlight inside a closed car or otherwise exposed to high temperatures. High temperatures will damage the battery and possibly the other electronics of the unit.
WARNING! Zipping the Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket closed will cause the system to activate. To prevent this, it is essential that
the Master Switch (7) be turned off or that the inner flap of the Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket be folded away from the Zip Sensor (17; Figure 8). Failure to do so will cause the unit to remain powered, which will cause the battery to drain. When storing the Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket with the zip zipped up, check that there are no
indicator lights illuminated on the LED Display (18).

Transportation

Users should be aware that the airbag inflators are pyrotechnic devices. Under the European pyrotechnic Directive (2007/23/EC) they are certified safe for transportation, including by air, provided that the airbag vest is checked into the aircraft’s hold as checked luggage.
When transporting the vest by air, users are strongly recommended to download and print a copy of the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) in caset they are questioned by airport staff. This can be downloaded from the Tech-Air™ Data Portal (Section 17).
Note: Not all countries worldwide permit the import of pyrotechnic devices. Prior to traveling, users should check with the appropriate authorities of countries through which and to which they are traveling to determine if the system will be permitted entry or not.

Maintenance, Servicing and Disposal

Garments with electronically activated airbags are critical safety systems which must be maintained in good working order to ensure their correct function. If not, they may not function properly or at all.

Maintenance
Prior to each use, the user should conduct a check of the Tech-Air™ Street airbag system (Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket and the airbag vest), looking for any signs of wear (loose threads, holes, marks on the airbag surface) or damage. If found, the system should be inspected further by an authorized Alpinestars dealer.

Servicing
Alpinestars recommends that the airbag vest be serviced by Alpinestars or an authorized service provider at least every 2 years. This permits wear of the airbag and the unit’s components to be inspected in detail. Service can be requested directly from an Alpinestars Tech-Air™ dealer. The following work is undertaken as part of the standard service:

• All components are removed from the airbag vest and the airbag vest is washed.
• The diagnostics of the electronic unit are checked (and firmware upgraded, if applicable).
• The airbag is inspected for wear and/or damage.
• The system is reassembled into the airbag vest and function checked as per new production items.

Tip: Two years is the maximum recommended period between inspections, however if the airbag vest is used extensively, then the recommended
inspection and service interval is 6 months to 1 year.

WARNING! If no service or recharge operation has been conducted after two years of the purchase date, there is the possibility that the system will not always function inside the envelope of protection.

IMPORTANT! Even if serviced regularly, there is the possibility that after 10 years the system will not function within the envelope of protection.

WARNING! There are NO user-serviceable parts inside the airbag vest. Under no circumstances should users attempt to open, service, disassemble or modify the airbag vest. Any and all work performed on the airbag vest must be done by Alpinestars or an authorized service provider. Severe injury or damage may result otherwise.

IMPORTANT! The access zip to the airbag vest is sealed (5). Cutting this seal voids the warranty on the product.

Disposal – Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket

The outer Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket should be disposed of in accordance with local waste regulations. Note that under the European WEEE regulation, the LED Display and Zip Sensor cannot be disposed of in normal household waste. These must be removed from the airbag garment and disposed of at a suitable facility for the recycling of electronic parts.

Disposal – Deployed Airbag Vest
A deployed airbag vest contains electronic components. Under the European WEEE regulation, these must be removed and disposed of at a suitable recycling facility. The remaining airbag vest chassis and used airbag can be disposed of in accordance with local waste regulations.

Tip: A deployed vest can be confirmed by turning on the system and looking for the “Deployed” indicator light on the LED Display (Section 13).

Disposal – Undeployed Airbag Vest

WARNING! An undeployed airbag vest still contains live pyrotechnic charges and thus must NOT be disposed of in household waste or incinerated.
Undeployed airbag vests must be returned to an Alpinestars dealer for subsequent return to Alpinestars who will handle the disposal. This service is free of charge.

Actions in the Event of an Accident

Accident WITHOUT Deployment
In the case of minor, low energy and/or low speed accidents, such as those involving speeds below those described in Section 3, Tech-Air™ “Envelope of Protection”S, it is likely that the airbag will not fire. Nonetheless, a thorough inspection of the Tech-Air™ Street airbag system (i.e. Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket and the airbag vest) should be made to ensure that there is no significant damage (tears, holes, etc.) which could compromise the function of the system, as per the maintenance check outlined in Section 15.

Tip: If the outer Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket has sustained considerable damage, but the airbag vest is completely undamaged, then it may be more economical and faster to purchase a replacement outer Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket instead of arranging a repair.

Accident WITHOUT Deployment, BUT Where the User Believes the System Should Have Deployed

IMPORTANT! In these circumstances, the system must be turned off IMMEDIATELY after the accident because the electronic unit only holds 2 minutes of data. After that, the crash data will be overwritten and the possibility to analyze the data will be lost.
The airbag vest should be returned to an Alpinestars Tech-Air™ dealer along with a detailed account of the event (including photos, if possible). Alpinestars will then analyze the information and respond.

Accident WITH Deployment
Where the airbag has deployed, a recharge service is available from Tech-Air™ dealers to have the airbag and inflators replaced. During this service, a full inspection will be made of the airbag vest and of its electronic equipment.
The outer Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket should also be inspected. For an extra fee, the user may have the Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket inspected for damage and repaired while the airbag vest is being recharged.

Accident or Other Situation WITH Deployment, BUT Where the User Believes the System Should Not Have Deployed
The airbag vest should be returned to an Alpinestars Tech-Air™ dealer along with a detailed account of the event (including photos, if possible). Alpinestars will then analyze the information and respond.

Tech-Air™ Data Portal

The Tech-Air™ Data Portal is an online resource which records information on the manufacture and servicing of each individual airbag system. By using the Data Portal users can access the following information:

• The service history of Tech-Air™ system(s) (Street and Race) owned.
• The status of any systems undergoing service.
• Manufacturing information on Tech-Air™ system(s) owned.
• Ask to be sent a reminder when the next service is due.
• Download the Tech-Air™ Connect software (See Section 18).
• Download the Material Safety Data Sheet (See Section 14).
• Locate the nearest Alpinestars dealer who can handle Tech-Air™ Systems.
• Be kept up to date on news relevant to your system.

Similar to a motorcycle, each airbag system has a serial number called the Chassis Number. This can be found under the QR code on the inside of the airbag vest near the collar. Scanning the QR code with a mobile phone will automatically connect to the Data Portal and provide manufacturing and service history for that system.
The Data Portal also records details on the ownership of the system (customer name and a contact e-mail address). Normally ownership is registered by the dealer during purchase of the system, however if this did not happen registration can be executed following the instructions below.

IMPORTANT! It is essential that each owner is correctly registered in the Data Portal. Alpinestars will not use owner information for marketing purposes or pass the information to third parties.

IMPORTANT! Requests made for servicing, recharge, or warranty returns will only be carried out if the system ownership has been registered with Alpinestars.

New User Registration
In order to register ownership there are two steps, first to create a customer record, and then to transfer the ownership.
Registration can be made directly from the Tech-Air™ website: www.alpinestars.com/techair. Click on the “New User Registration” button and a dialogue as shown in Figure 9 below will appear.

Complete the details requested and click “Register”. A customer number will be assigned, which the customer should note for future reference. Note that at this point this customer does not “own” any systems.

Transfer of Ownership
Ownership of a system can only be assigned by a Tech-Air™ dealer or by Alpinestars Tech-Air™ Support. Transfer of Ownership is applicable for first owners (brand new systems) as well as systems that have then been sold privately, second-hand.

• At a dealership:
  The user shall present the airbag vest and provide the dealer their customer number. The dealer will then register ownership of the system.

• By Tech-Air™ support:
  The user shall advise the chassis number and (for brand new systems) provide proof of purchase. Alpinestars will then register ownership of the system.

Tip: System ownership can be transferred by any Tech-Air™ dealer, it does not need to be the dealer where the system was purchased. A list of dealers who handle Tech-Air™ systems can also be obtained from the Tech-Air™ web page.

Customer Login
Once registered, customers can login from the Tech-Air™ website. This presents a main screen (Figure 10) where the following information can be seen:

1. Account info: use to verify and update user details.
2. Change Login Password.
3. List of products owned.
4. Download area. (New firmware for your unit may also be downloaded from here.)
5. News Bulletins.

By clicking on one of the products owned, manufacturing information and the service history can be viewed. If the product has been submitted for servicing, the progress of the service can also be viewed here.

Tech-Air™ Connect

Tech-Air™ Connect is a software program for Windows computers which permits the electronic unit to communicate with the computer. With Tech-Air™ Connect you can:

• Use “One Click Diagnostics” to collect diagnostic data and send this to Alpinestars;
• View diagnostic data for the system;
• Read the error history register;
• Update the unit firmware;
• Store ownership details on board.
  To connect the unit to the computer a USB to Micro USB cable will be required.

IMPORTANT! A USB 3 cable is not suitable for data communications to the unit (only battery charging).
Tech-Air™ Connect software is only available by download to registered customers from the Tech-Air™ Data Portal. Once downloaded follow these steps to install the software and connect your unit:

1. Run the installation software.
2. Connect your unit to a vacant USB port, and wait until the drivers are installed.
3. Run the Tech-Air™ Connect software. This will present you with the screen in Figure 11.

The information presented on the main screen is as follows:

1. Selects between basic or advanced mode.
2. Provides key information on the electronic unit.
3. Shows owner information (if previously inserted, otherwise blank).
4. Click here to update owner information.
5. Shows the status of the connected unit.
6. Diagnostic Buttons.
   Owner Information
   ** Inserting owner information here is optional and only provides an additional layer of traceability in the event that systems become mixed up or stolen. It is not connected in any way to the registered owner on the Tech- Air™ data portal. One-Click Diagnostics**
   Clicking on this button prepares a single text file containing all diagnostic information from the unit. This is then ready for e-mail to Alpinestars’ Tech- Air™ Support who can analyze its contents.

Save Diagnostics
Prepares the same diagnostic file as for One Click Diagnostics, except the file is saved directly to disk, rather than e-mailed.

Advanced Tab
The “advanced” tab (see figure 12) is for use during a direct telephone discussion with Tech-Air™ Support to better understand the behavior of the system, in normal circumstances it is only required when updating the unit firmware.

From the advanced tab the following information is presented:

7. Information on the battery voltage and unit internal power supplies.
8. The error register.
9. Firmware Upgrade.
10. Information on the internal and external unit sensors.
11. (Where installed) To download data from the SD Card.

Error Register
The error register records any malfunctions of the unit, even if temporary. Each error is recorded with the time stamp of when it occurred. An index of the error codes is provided in Section 20.
Firmware Upgrade
Prior to starting this procedure a new version of firmware is required to be downloaded from the Data Portal. Click the “Firmware Upgrade” button and when instructed to do so select the new firmware file. This will first be uploaded to the unit and then flashed into the memory. Wait for the “Upgrade Successful” message before disconnecting the unit.
IMPORTANT! During the firmware upgrade procedure it is important that the USB cable remain connected. If using a laptop computer check that there is sufficient battery power to cover the upgrade operation (7 minutes). If communication is interrupted at this point the unit may need to be returned to Alpinestars for upgrade.

Troubleshooting

Switch (8)
Battery fully discharged| Recharge battery (Section 11)
Jacket and vest not connected| Connect jacket wires to unit (Section 8)
Jacket open| Zip the jacket closed, ensuring the zip runs above the zip sensor
Zip sensor obstructed| Check that the zip sensor flap is not tucked inside the garment, and that there are no obstructions between the magnetic parts on either side of the zip
Single Red Indication on LED Display| Dependent on error| Consult list of error codes in Section 20 for the recommended solution
Immediate Green indication on LED Display without startup sequence and regardless if jacket is open

or closed

| LED Display and zip switch cables have been crossed over| Invert cables. LED Display will be off, then wear and zip jacket closed to start the system as normal

Index of Error Codes

Tech-Air™ Support

In case of questions or if customers need further information, they may first contact the Tech-Air™ dealer where the product was purchased, however support is also available direct from Alpinestars:
E-mail: techairsupport@alpinestars.com
Tel: +39 0423 5286 (asking for Tech-Air™ Support)

Tip: Remember that a full list of Tech-Air™ dealers in your country is available from the Tech-Air™ Data Portal.

Certification Information

The Tech-Air™ Street vest is covered by a number of certifications.

Personal Protective Equipment
The Tech-Air™ Street vest is considered Category 2 Personal Protective Equipment under EU Directive 89/686/EEC. As such a CE Type examination has been conducted. As the motorcyclists’ inflatable protectors standard (EN1621-4:2013) is for mechanically triggered systems, this has been used with reference to impact performance and ergonomics only. The examination was conducted by Notified Body #0120 SGS United Kingdom Limited, Park Way, Weston Super Mare, BS22 6WA, UK. The explanation of the product markings are as follows:

• Name of the manufacturer
• SAB1 Unique identification code
• Garment Size (waist to shoulder)
• Sizing table in Section 6
• Indicates that an inflatable protector is installed
• Indicates that the product is for motorcycle use, meets level 1 airbag requirements and provides protection to the full back of the user

Pyrotechnic Articles
The Tech-Air™ Street Vest contains two pyrotechnically activated cold gas inflators, and as such, the whole item is considered as an “AIRBAG MODULE” category P1 under EU Directive 2007/23. As such a CE Type Examination (Module B) has been conducted on the design of the system, and a CE Type Examination and Audit (Module E) has been conducted on the assembly of the system.
The CE Type Examination and Audit have been conducted by Notified Body #0080, Ineris, Parc Technologique ALATA BP2, Verneuil-en-Halatte, 60550, France.

Electromagnetic Stability
The electronic unit of the Tech-Air™ Street vest has been homologated to ECE R10 04 which dictates minimum requirements for electromagnetic stability, electromagnetic interference, and electrostatic discharge for automotive electronic devices.
Homologation No: E13 10R – 04 – 12891

Important Information for Users

WARNING!
The Tech-Air™ System is an active safety protection system that is different from normal motorcycle clothing and as a result requires additional care and precautions. You must read and understand the instruction manual fully before use, as well as pay close attention to the following warnings:

• An airbag system can only provide a limited amount of protection in an accident or event. As such, there always remains a possibility that a serious or fatal injury could occur even when using the airbag system.
• The Tech-Air™ system is designed and developed for street use and limited off-road use only. This product has not been designed for hard off-road use, race use, stunt use or any non-motorcycling applications. Alpinestars does not accept any claims for malfunctions of the system used outside the environments for which its use is intended.
• Certain types of movement could be interpreted as a crash by the Tech-Air™ system and cause a deployment though no crash has occurred.
• The Tech-Air™ system has been designed to deploy in crashes above a minimum energy threshold. This is to prevent wasteful use of the charges in situations where protection typically would not be needed. Thus, in low speed/low energy crashes it is likely and reasonable that the product will not deploy.
• The Tech-Air™ system contains no parts which may be serviced by final customers, and must be serviced and recharged ONLY by approved Alpinestars Service Personnel, in order to ensure this equipment is sealed into the vest. Breaking this seal will void any claims against warranty or system malfunctions.
• Do not attempt to make any modifications or adjustments to the electronics, airbag vest or Alpinestars’ Compatible Garment/Jacket of the Tech-Air™ system.
• The Tech-Air™ system must only be used for motorcycle street riding or limited off-roading – it is not to be used for any other purpose, motorcycle-related or otherwise. This includes: Enduro, Motocross, Supermoto, racing of any kind, performing stunts and any type of non-motorcycling activity. Wearing the product during any non-intended activity (with the unit switched on) may cause the system to deploy and cause injury or death to you or others and may cause damage to property.
• When not in use and being stored, transported, or shipped the Tech-Air™ system must be powered off at the Master Switch.
• Prior to each use, the Tech-Air™ system should be inspected for any signs of wear or damage. Additionally, when powered on the LED display must be checked. In the event that the system reports a fault (Red LED is illuminated), users should not use the product and must follow the instructions in this booklet.
• Whenever the LED Display gives a low battery indication the unit MUST be recharged as soon as possible.
• The Tech-Air™ system must never be machine washed, submerged in water, tumble dried or ironed.
• After deployment, the unit must be returned to the Tech-Air™ Support Team which can arrange for the unit to be recharged.
• Even if the Tech-Air™ system has not been used, or the airbag never fired, it is important that the equipment be serviced at least once every two years, or if the system is used extensively, that it be serviced every 6 months to a year. This can be arranged through a Tech-Air™ authorized dealer.

References

• Alpinestars® Official Site
• Alpinestars Tech-Air® Autonomous Airbag Systems | Alpinestars

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