Influence of Air Bag Folding Pattern on OOP-injury Potential

Four different air bag folding patterns are discussed in this paper. The influence of air bag folding pattern on inflation characteristics and occupant OOP-injuries is simulated and evaluated. The results indicate that different folding patterns strongly influence their aggressiveness. Compared with the other foldings, the leporello-folding, corresponding to the high opening pressure and high “punch out”-, “bag slap”-, “membrane loading”-effect is proved to be a critical folding pattern for the OOP-Injuries.

This study also shows that the combination of design, test and simulation provides a comprehensive and effective tool to investigate the influence of air bag design parameters on the OOP-injury and to develop the “Advanced Air Bags”.