nFrontier's 'inflatable' unfolds from a center console to an ergonomic middle car seat

the compact ‘inflatable’ car seat enhances comfort

Deviating from traditional norms with its transformative functionality, nFrontier’s INFLATABLE is a highly integrated folding car seat. Shaped to be as compact as possible, INFLATABLE starts as a small center console and smoothly transitions into a full, ergonomically-shaped, 20% middle seat when unfolded. This relies on fusing advanced technologies like additive manufacturing, generative design, and CFD simulation, to devise a holistic shape that sets a new standard in car seating design.

Designed for convenient use, when folded into a center console, INFLATABLE reveals a hidden display, phone charging slots, cupholders, and a transparent storage compartment. Within the headrest, integrated speakers enhance the audio experience, cupholders discreetly slide out, and a ‘shytech’ surface enables for notifications and calls. Silicone pockets provide storage options, while wireless phone charger slots are accessible from both the back row and center console positions.

air flow is visualized by adding white fog | all images courtesy of nFrontier

nfrontier utilizes advanced technologies

Unlike conventional seats with inbuilt functionalities like cooling fans and massage systems bulkily layered on top of one another, INFLATABLE leverages the vehicle’s infrastructure, utilizing air conditioning and pneumatic systems for comfort and climate control. Its internal design topology enables cooling air circulation within designated areas of the seat, and pneumatic pressure for seating pad inflation for a comfortable ride. Unfolded, the backrest and seat are divided into different zones. Berlin-based studio nFrontier enhances comfort by integrating segmented backrest and cushion zones that inflate for customized padding, while ventilation and heating come from perforated chambers in the seat’s center axis, connected to the in-car air conditioning system.

As INFLATABLE continues to undergo iterative testing for a client project, nFrontier CEO Daniel Büning notes: ‘Our vision was to develop a lightweight hybrid between a floor console and a folding seat, that will advance the user experience driven by embedded technology. We wanted to create a previously unseen experience — converging different technologies, features and materials into one folding seat.’

INFLATABLE starts as a small center console and smoothly unfolds into an ergonomic 20% middle seat

additive manufacturing, generative design, and CFD simulation devise a holistic shape

ventilation and heating are integrated in the backrest

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the pads of INFLATABLE are actuated using a pneumatic system.

the perforated areas in the centre axis of the seat provide ventilation and heating

the headrest accommodates integrated speakers

folding into a compact, center console

project info:

name: INFLATABLE 

designer: nFrontier

lead designer: Beatriz Lobao

lead engineer, prototyping, film: Yomi Ajani

prototyping and film: Tobias Winnen

concept: Daniel Büning 

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edited by: ravail khan | designboom