Expandable, redeployable automotive headrest

The present invention relates to headrests used in automobiles to prevent whiplash-type injuries, and more specifically to such a headrest that expands to offer better protection against such injuries. An active, resettable head restraint system includes a collision prediction system for detecting objects approaching the vehicle from the rear, a pressure tank containing a quantity of pressurized air, a motor-driven compressor for maintaining a desired pressure in the tank, and an expandable headrest. The headrest comprises a base mounted to the seat back in conventionally known fashion, a pad connected to the base for movement between a rearward pre-deployment position and a forward deployed position, and at least one inflatable bladder located between the base and the pad. The bladder is connected with the pressure tank for inflation when activated by the collision prediction system. When in the deflated condition, the bladder is substantially contained within the base, and the headrest has a relatively narrow pre-deployment configuration. When the bladder is inflated it expands to urge the pad forward, and simultaneously expands laterally outward beyond the pre-deployment perimeter of the base to enlarge the overall width of the headrest. The headrest is relatively narrow when in the pre-deployment condition in order to minimize obstruction of the driver's rearward vision and rear seat passengers, forward vision. When inflated, the headrest expands to a relatively wide configuration to provide improved head restraint during an accident.