Honda's new
airbag , the i-SRS, is an important step forward in
safety technology . Compared to a conventional airbag (SRS), the i-SRS deploys twice as quickly (in 0.020 seconds) and protects the driver longer.
To achieve these results, Honda's engineers developed a system that gradually deploys the airbag. Gas is introduced through a spiralling tunne and is first directed to the centre of the airbag, which quickly attains the pressure required to protect the driver. The gas then continues down the spiral, increasing the airbag's diameter. The airbag has also been equipped with a gas release control valve ensuring that the gas is only released once the airbag is completely inflated. It remains at a constant pressure longer, increasing the driver's safety.The i-SRS will be introduced in the Honda Life, a small car scheduled for launch in Japan this November.
photo: Honda