In recent years, passive safety has been continuously improved. Legal requirements and demands regarding occupant protection in side impacts exist. A lot of reinforcements for the BIW of the cars have been constantly optimized, based on the results of static and dynamic tests. A new developed part of the occupant protection is a door-based side-airbag system combined with an energy-absorbing door, named POSIP, ie POrsche Side Impact Protection system. The side-airbag module includes a totally new 30 1 two-chamber airbag which covers a big part of the upper door area. This side airbag has been designed to reduce both the head and thorax loads also in side pole impacts. For the first time in automotive history, a standard head protection system is offered which can be installed regardless of the roof design. The POSIP system also protects the occupants of convertibles or of cars with novel roof concepts when involved in side impact pole crashes. (A)
Abstract