The automotive airbag is one of the early vehicle safety systems that has become more ubiquitous over the years. Simply put, the airbag is an occupant-restraint system. It's a common mistake to think that airbags are a substitute for seatbelts, but the airbag is part of the safety restraint systems. Once you understand how they work, it will make a whole lot of sense in the context of a vehicle accident. Early airbags from the 1970s were equipped in luxury cars and had limited success, but over time, they had improved, and the adoption of airbags increased from the 1980s and onwards. Airbags have become a necessity due to numerous vehicle safety assessment programs that have popped up over the years. They are a passive safety system.
Related: Can airbags be replaced?
What is an airbag made of? Where will you find them?
You'll generally find airbags in the car's interior. In terms of form factor, they're either in the steering wheel, passenger side of the dashboard, or side pillar, and you can even get curtain and knee airbags. Modern cars can have anywhere from 2 to 10 airbags, depending on the vehicle. Some cars have experimented with pedestrian airbags that are proving to be successful. Airbags consist of an inflation module, an impact sensor, an airbag cushion, and a fabric textile bag. They are found behind an airbag labelled interior panel piece.
How do airbags work?
Airbags work and deploy in a matter of milliseconds. When you slow it down and look at the sequence of how they work, it's pretty fascinating. Generally, the impact sensors detect movement when an impact occurs, indicating that a collision is occurring. The inflation module detonates a small explosive, which inflates the airbag to protect the vehicle occupants. You may have often seen the label 'SRS Airbag'. SRS means Supplementary Restraint System. Airbags don't work alone to keep you safe, as they work in conjunction with the seatbelt system. Is there a difference between SRS airbags and other airbags?
As time has gone on, airbags have improved with controller units that can detect the type of collision, angle and severity of the impact to determine not only if the airbag/airbags have to be deployed but also to inflate appropriately to help protect you in an accident situation. Airbags can be dangerous if you're not using a seatbelt, as the airbag deploys with a significant amount of force. Suppose your vehicle has been subject to a recall relating to airbags, like the Takata airbag recall situation. In that case, it's wise to go to your vehicle's OEM dealership and have the vehicle repaired.
What happens when an airbag deploys?
As mentioned earlier, the airbag inflates in a matter of milliseconds, thanks to a lot of it due in part to the mini-explosion that inflates the airbag. The noise of the explosion blends in with the collision noise. The noise from all of this can cause some ringing in your ears. Some manufacturers like Mercedes-Benz play a particular pink noise just before an impact that triggers the human body to prepare the ears to protect the eardrums, particularly for the moment of impact. You'll also find some talcum powder after deployment; this is just used to lubricate the system while it's on standby. Could it cause burns?
Should I use a rear-facing baby seat in my front passenger seat with the passenger airbag on?
Never put a rear-facing baby seat in the front passenger while the airbag is armed, as the child's head can get injured during airbag deployment. There is generally a button to disarm the passenger airbag if you need to put a rear-facing baby seat in. The rear seat is a better option, which is why you generally see ISOFIX child seat anchors in the rear seats.
