Airbags
Experimentation with airbags can be dated as far back as World War II. Since then, the concept has undergone quite a revolutionary development, and it’s hard to imagine today a car without such safety device…
An air bag is device installed in various locations in a car (steering wheel, dashboard, door, roof, or seat ) and meant to inflate instantly upon collision, thereby preventing any potential damage upon the car occupants. All new cars today are equipped with air bags/cushions. The reason for this is obviously “safety” of the driver and passengers.
So how do airbags work?
Source: http://inventors.about.com
In the event of a collision airbag sensors are triggered, which in turn cause the airbag to ignite. This happens when a chemical reaction releases gas into the pre-prepared cloth airbag hidden in various vehicle locations.
Once the airbag fulfills its role, it deflates, thus allowing the person to conduct evasive maneuvers aimed at exiting the vehicle and possible tending any wounded passengers.
Of course, as stated above, the aim of airbags is to improve the vehicles safety parameters. We have to be aware however that airbags are designed for grown up human beings, hence we have to take appropriate measures ensuring that children are well seated prior to our voyage. There were situations when airbags turned out to hurt people. And of course remember to fasten your seatbelts!
The fact nonetheless remains that “To date, statistics show that airbags reduce the risk of dying in a direct frontal crash by about 30 percent.” (Marshall Brain)
