Search Results

Magnetically damped and biased crash sensors have several technologically advanced features which lead to a major increase in calibration flexibility and an improvement in inflatable restraint system safety reliability. The sensor's theory of operation, associated simulation model and a comparison with test data is presented. The procedure to optimize sensor characteristics for both quick response and avoidance of inadvertent deployments is shown. The sensor provides new safety features such as testability and reconfiguration which are discussed. A byproduct of including these features is a substantial reduction in capital outlays for manufacturing test equipment and reduced on-line testing time. Simple, microprocessor controlled on-line test equipment can be used to emulate either haversine or recorded crash test pulses without actually moving the sensor with a thruster.