The speed at which the airbags are activated is over 250 km/h, and it only takes 30 milliseconds to fill the airbags.
They are built on several sensors, and a control unit that analyzes the data gathered by these sensors is what makes them work.
Since 2006, installing an airbag in a vehicle, not using one, is required. It is a nitrogen-filled “bag” that rapidly expands to take in the kinetic energy of an impact.
Let’s argue that because of its activation by deceleration sensors and the detonator’s response, it “cushions” our hit. But how quickly does the airbag inflate?
There are two possible responses to this query: one relates to the speed at which the airbag inflates, and the other relates to the rate necessary for the safety system to operate in the event of an incident.
The second situation, however, is more challenging to explain because there isn’t a defined speed; instead, it depends on deceleration, which will increase the less energy absorbed during impact.
How quickly does an airbag in a car deploy during a collision?
A car’s airbag inflates at over 250 km/h, which translates to a fill time of 30 ms. Yes, it moves quickly, but our head will only collide with it after 30 milliseconds.
As a result, airbags are made to fill quickly and take in kinetic energy.
Three systems make up an airbag: sensors that measure the force, point of origin, trajectory, and deceleration of an impact; a control unit that interprets this data and produces the required response; and finally, the airbags themselves.
The sensors, which include pressure, gyroscope, and accelerometers, can “detect” the size and type of impact.
And the control unit interprets the data acquired by the sensors like that of a “computer.”
Last but not least, the airbag is a protective bag inflated under 30 milliseconds thanks to a chemical reaction, the detonator’s action, and the control unit’s command.
However, they have openings that allow them to deflate upon collision swiftly. Otherwise, they can increase the damage caused by the energy instead of absorbing it.
