How does an airbag system work?
How airbags work. The airbag’s deployment is controlled by sensors that detect the occurrence and severity of a crash. When the airbag controller determines that the airbag should be deployed, the system triggers an inflator unit that burns chemicals very rapidly to produce large volumes of inert gas to inflate the bag …
What is the difference between hydraulics and airbags?
Air bag systems use a bag enclosed in a heavy rubber case, and a series of valves connected to a compressor to adjust ride quality and height. Hydraulic suspensions utilize hydraulic fluid and shocks or struts instead of air bags and air pressure.
What principle does the airbag use to make it work?
The chemical at the heart of the air bag reaction is called sodium azide, or NaN3. CRASHES trip sensors in cars that send an electric signal to an ignitor. The heat generated causes sodium azide to decompose into sodium metal and nitrogen gas, which inflates the car’s air bags.
How long does it take for the airbag to inflate?
about 40 milliseconds
Why do airbags inflate and deflate quickly?
It follows Newton’s second law: its momentum continues until an outside force (usually the steering wheel, dash board or windshield) brings it to a stop. That’s why airbags inflate and then quickly deflate—to gradually bring the driver’s momentum from 60 mph to zero.
Can an airbag deploy if ignition is off?
No, the airbag will not deploy if the car is parked with the ignition off, even if the key is in the ignition (but turned off). If the key is in the ignition and turned on, even if the engine is not running, the airbags will be active.
What triggers the airbag to deploy?
Today’s vehicles are built with pressure and crash sensors that help to detect when a collision has occurred. When the sensors detect a collision, they trigger the deployment of the corresponding airbags (front, side or head curtain airbags).
Will airbags work if airbag light is on?
It is not safe to drive with the airbag light ON. When the light is on, it means that there is a problem with the airbag system. When there is a problem with the system, it will not deploy the airbags at all in an accident. If you have an error in your airbag control unit, your airbag will not work in a collision.
Why do airbags fail to deploy?
Common Defects That Cause Airbags to Fail to Deploy Crash sensors detect impact and send a signal that tells the airbag to deploy. When there is a defect in the sensor, it may fail to tell the airbag to deploy. Such a defect might stem from the design or installation of the sensors, or from improper calibration.
Will airbag deploy if seat belt not?
The airbag light in a vehicle ties into this system. However, in many vehicles, the airbags will still deploy whether or not an occupant is fastened by a safety belt. Unfortunately for the occupant, not wearing a seat belt and crashing into an airbag can yield much more serious injuries than if a seat belt were worn.