In recent years, technological advances will revolutionize the way we approach road safety. The Help Flash is a good example of this technological revolution, but other devices, such as the airbag, play a crucial role in protecting vehicle occupants in the event of a collision. From its initial conception to its latest innovations, airbags have evolved to become an obligatory element in any current automobile.
Origens e Evolução
The history of airbags dates back to the beginning of the 20th century, when the principle of operation of the system was patented, but it was only in the 1970s that the first concepts applied to automobiles began to emerge. In the USA, this solution emerged as a kind of alternative to the use of safety belts, but it was quickly realized that, to enhance its effectiveness, this device should be part of a more open and integrated safety concept. In the 1980s, the first airbag systems came, only a few years ago, to become widespread and brands such as Mercedes-Benz and Porsche introduced airbags in selected models. The S Class, for example, had this solution (along with belt tensioning) in 1981. E, in 1987, the Porsche 944 Turbo was the same first model with front airbags for driver and passenger.
Functioning and Impact on Rodoviária Safety
The operation of two airbags is based on a series of sensors that detect a sudden deceleration, such as that which occurs during a collision. When activated, these air pillows are insufflated by pyrotechnic action almost instantly (30 milliseconds). An elongated set of sensors measures deceleration and when a certain value is reached or exceeded (similar to a collision at 23 km/h against an unformed object), the airbag control unit triggers the ignition of a propellant generating inert gas (nitrogen) to inflate rapidly (20 to 30 milliseconds) a fabric or nylon bag. The white release is just enough of talcum powder and its function is to prevent the airbag from leaking into the bag.
When the vehicle occupant collides with the bag it opens, gas escapes in a controlled manner through small ventilation holes. The small injuries that may occur may result in injuries, as always, such as damage generated between the fabric and the skin, for example, when the user uses blinders, but the advantages are incomparably superior to the possible “secondary” effects.
Normally, after being “made” the decision to activate an airbag in a frontal collision, the bag takes about 30 milliseconds to inflate. According to some studies, the association of the airbag with the programmed restraint systems (belts with pre-tensioners) reduces the risk of death by 30% in the event of an accident.
Types of airbags
These are the types of airbags most used today:
- Front airbags . Modern cars are equipped with two front airbags, for the driver (mounted on the steering wheel) and front seat passage (mounted on the top of the dashboard). The airbags, which are activated in two or more phases, due to impact, are adaptive. In most cases, the front passenger airbag can be deactivated to be able to safely transport, for example, a baby's chain turned backwards.
- Side airbags . These are normally found in the side area of the front bench. Some cars also include side airbags for the rear bench passages. The modern airbag systems have two chambers, one more firm and one more solid. At first it is uncovered to protect the second for nothing.
- Joelho airbags . One is installed for the driver on the steering wheel, and another for the passenger on the glass holder.
- Curtain airbags . They can be mounted on the front or rear part of the back, as well as between the pillars, consonant or model.
- Center airbag . It is mounted on the armrest of the front seats or in the central part of the two rear seats.
- Airbag in safety belts : The objective of the insufflated safety belt is to forcefully distribute accidents over a larger area of people's bodies.
- Peão airbag . It is designed to reduce the level of car accidents in the event of a collision with a car.
Technological Evolution
As technology advances, manufacturers continue to develop new ways to improve the effectiveness of airbags and adapt them to different traffic situations. For example, adaptive airbag systems can adjust to their response based on impact characteristics and occupant conditions, providing more personalized and effective protection.
Furthermore, the integration of more advanced sensors and communication systems with other vehicle components will allow a more rapid and accurate response in emergency situations. Advanced airbag systems include bench position sensors and weight sensors. Based on this information and impact severity, the advanced airbag system determines the ideal airbag opening. These promising innovations point to a future where airbags not only continue to be essential for road safety, but also become even more effective in protecting vehicle occupants.
So, you know, in case of an accident with some seriousness, you will always be able to count on this sophisticated “almofada” insuflável as your guardian. Likewise, in the event of a breakdown or immobilization next to a public road, you will always have Help Flash, a light that helps save lives.
