Vehicle front-mounted airbag protection for pedestrians - uses microwave based proximity sensor to sense imminent impact and then connects airbag to pressure source

摘要

The additional airbag system is mounted on the front of the vehicle to reduce injury to pedestrian. A proximity sensor (7,8), e.g. microwave system, senses the imminent impact and connects the airbag to a pressure reservoir (6). After operation the airbag can be retracted using the inlet pressure of the engine. The airbag is stored in a hollow bumper trim (2) which is opened up by the expanding airbag. As the airbag is retracted after use it is drawn back into the trim which closes up through elastic force. The pressure reservoir is charged using an onboard compressor. ADVANTAGE - Reduces injuries, reduces damage to vehicle e.g. when parking, reusable.