A brief explanation of how modern airbags work is
Modern airbags work on the principle of rapid inflation and deflation to provide protection during a collision. When a collision occurs, sensors located in the vehicle detect the impact and send a signal to the airbag control unit. The control unit then triggers an igniter, which initiates a chemical reaction that rapidly produces a gas, typically nitrogen, which inflates the airbag.
The inflated airbag acts as a cushion between the occupants and the vehicle's hard surfaces, preventing them from hitting their head or body against the steering wheel, dashboard, or other interior parts. This reduces the risk of severe injuries like head trauma, chest injuries, and whiplash.
The airbag is composed of a fabric-like material that can withstand high pressures and is designed to rapidly inflate to provide maximum protection. Once the airbag is fully inflated, it starts to deflate immediately to gradually reduce the pressure and allow the occupant to settle back into the seat.
To ensure optimal deployment, modern airbags utilize advanced sensors that determine the severity of the collision and the position of the occupants. These sensors measure factors such as the speed of impact, angle of collision, and whether seat belts are in use. Based on this information, the airbag control unit adjusts the inflation force and deployment speed accordingly, providing tailored protection for each unique situation.
Additionally, modern vehicles often feature multiple airbags, including frontal airbags for the driver and front passenger, side airbags for head and torso protection, knee airbags, and curtain airbags that deploy from the roofline to shield the occupants from side impacts or rollovers. These different airbags work in conjunction to provide comprehensive protection during various types of collisions.
Overall, the modern airbag system is a crucial component of vehicle safety, designed to mitigate the impact forces on occupants during a collision and reduce the risk of severe injuries.