This is How Car Airbags Work Along with Their Functions and Types

Knowing how car airbags work is something that will make you realize how important airbags are in a car. Primarily, for your safety as a car owner.

The way airbags work is not too simple. The workings of this complex car component will be discussed in this article. However, before that, we will first inform you about the functions and types of airbags themselves.

Functions of Airbags in Cars

Knowing the function of airbags in cars is quite important. Understanding this will help you recognize airbags, as well as make it easier for you to understand how they work.

The main function of an airbag is to protect the head during a car accident. With the presence of an airbag, your head will be protected from severe injury due to a car accident. Airbags are usually installed in several parts of the car that are vulnerable to head impacts. Primarily, during a car accident.

In addition to the head, airbags can also protect your chest and neck when they occur. This is provided that the airbags used are of the type commonly placed near the head, chest, and neck.

Types of Airbags

Currently, airbags are available in various types. The types of airbags are formed based on where the airbags are installed. The types of airbags are as follows:

1. Driver Airbag

This first type of airbag is commonly installed in the steering wheel of the car. Primarily, in the center. This type of airbag is considered essential for every car owner, regardless of the type of car.

The steering wheel itself is an area that is prone to head impacts, especially during an accident. With the presence of this type of airbag, the head will not hit the steering wheel.

2. Side Airbag

This one is commonly installed beside the driver of the car. With the presence of this type of airbag, the driver's body will not be impacted sideways during an accident. Especially, if the accident involves a collision from the side.

3. Passenger Airbag

As the name suggests, this type of airbag is intended to protect car passengers. Specifically, the passengers sitting in the front. This type of airbag is usually installed in the dashboard of the car. Some car owners also place it outside the dashboard.

Make sure this airbag is not installed together with objects that can easily be thrown. For example, a mobile phone. Because, if that happens, this type of airbag will bounce the object when it inflates.

4. Curtain Airbag

This type of airbag is commonly installed in the roof inside the car. This type of airbag can protect the head and neck of the driver and passengers. Primarily when the car rolls over due to an accident.

How Car Airbags Work

Now we enter the main discussion of this article, which is how car airbags work. As we mentioned earlier, the way car airbags work is not simple. If outlined with subheadings, the workings of car airbags are roughly as follows:

Starting from the Impact on the Car

Airbags will start to work when the car begins to experience an impact, especially during an accident. When an impact occurs, the car's sensors will send a signal to the airbag.

After receiving the signal, the airbag will heat up and release nitrogen gas. This substance will cause the airbag to inflate. The nitrogen in the airbag is considered safe. In addition to inflating the airbag, nitrogen also prevents the airbag from sticking when it has not yet inflated.

Impacted by the Driver

Once the airbag successfully inflates, it will immediately be impacted by the driver (usually in the head area) who is affected by the accident. If successfully impacted, the airbag will slowly deflate.

Specifically for Side Airbags, this type of airbag will inflate if the car experiences an accident from the opposite side. For example, if the Side Airbag is installed on the left side, this type of airbag will inflate when the car has an accident on the right side.