It is difficult to install side impact padding of sufficient depth, due to the limited space inside conventional automobiles. A different approach is to use the air bag technique to provide sufficient energy absorption and softening of the occupant door impact. This paper presents an air bag system for side impact protection jointly developed by Volvo Car Corporation and Electrolux Autoliv AB. The system uses pyrotechnical gas generators to deploy a side air bag hidden within the door structure. A description of the function of the system is given together with a detailed description of the system components including the sensor and diagnostic unit, the gas generators and the side air bag. Results from crash testing and computer simulation of the system will also be presented. For the covering abstract of the conference, see IRRD 837684.
Samenvatting