Additional safety systems Issues Explained: A Complete Breakdown

How it Works: Additional safety systems

An automotive airbag system provides instantaneous occupant cushioning by converting a crash-sensor signal into a controlled gas deployment that creates a protective pillow between passengers and interior structures. Multiple accelerometers and pressure sensors continuously sample vehicle deceleration in all axes. When the electronic control unit detects a collision profile exceeding calibrated thresholds, it energizes a squib inside the inflator module of each relevant airbag. The squib—an electrically heated bridge wire—ignites a gas-generating propellant, typically sodium-azide-free guanidine nitrate pellets, or opens a valve on a hybrid inflator containing compressed argon. Rapid gas release fills the woven nylon bag within 20–40 milliseconds. Strategically placed vents and seam stitches meter internal pressure, letting the cushion absorb kinetic energy while preventing rebound. A silicone inner coating limits gas permeation, and tether straps shape the bag for targeted head, chest, knee, or curtain coverage. After impact loads dissipate, gases exit through vent holes, allowing quick deflation for occupant egress. Seat-belt latches, occupant-classification mats, and seat-track sensors feed real-time data so the controller suppresses or stages deployment based on weight, position, and crash severity. Integrated front, side, curtain, centre, and pedestrian airbags operate independently yet share redundant power supplies and continuous self-diagnostics to guarantee readiness across internal-combustion, hybrid, and battery-electric vehicles. Comprehensive event data is stored for post-crash analysis and regulatory reporting purposes worldwide, ensuring compliance.