Systematic research on accident sequences undertaken at BMW since 1976 has shown that side collisions make up 21 % of all collisions. On the total of fatal road traffic accidents, the proportion of side collisions is 36 %. BMW's integrated side protection (reinforced door sills, strong multilayer roof system, door bracing and door anchors) leads to a reduction in the depth of penetration and intrusion speeds of objects ramming the vehicle. The impact energy is, however, still transmitted to the occupants. The newly developed side airbag is located between the head of the occupant and the internal contouring of the vehicle. In contrast to previous airbag materials, a polyurethane-based thermoplastic elastomer is used, which is enclosed in a polyester braid. This airbag keeps its size and compression characteristics for a longer period of time, so as to longer protect the occupants after the crash has occured. The principle elements of the airbag are described. The airbag has a volume of 12 litres and consists of a gas-tight inner tube (bladder), a filler tube, a polyester mesh, and the gas generator. The modul is attached with the help of two tapes above the dashboard under the A-pillar trim and near the rear handgrip, respectively. It takes 24 ms to reach the protective position by covering the side window. This side airbag is the first type that uses a membrane to contain airbag ignitor gases, with a technical mesh to give its form. This BMW protection system goes far beyond the fulfillment of legal requirements and sets new safety standards in transportation. (Bilingual document: French/English)
Des airbags pout la tete. Automobile
Automobilindustrie. Airbags als Kopfschutz
Airbags for heads protection. Automotive industry
TUT Textiles a Usages Techniques ; 29 ; 62-64
1998
3 Seiten, 4 Bilder
Article (Journal)
French , English
Online Contents | 2002
Online Contents | 2001