Air curtains in the car - the principle of operation and basic information!

Air curtains in the car are inflatable and are mounted on both sides of the ceiling. Thanks to them, manufacturers increase the protection of drivers and passengers inside the car. Typically, curtain airbags are marked with the IC Airbag symbol. They are activated when the sensors detect a strong collision.

Air curtains in the car - what is it?

According to the latest data provided by the Seat brand, side impacts account for as much as 20% of collisions. They take second place after frontal strikes. Manufacturers, developing advanced safety technologies, decided to install air curtains in the car. What is it really?

Curtain airbags are side airbags. They are adapted to reduce possible damage to the upper body and head. In addition, they support the implementation of all structural measures applied in the area of ​​the body. Thus, the curtain airbag in the car protects passengers from a side impact, as well as in other situations that require additional protection..

Types of side curtains and airbags - the most common varieties

Manufacturers use different types of air curtains, as well as other airbags. This combination significantly affects the higher level of safety for both passengers and drivers.

Their work is profiled for the landing of people in the car. In addition, attention is drawn to the parts of the body that need to be protected. We present the most commonly used varieties.

Combined air curtains

Manufacturers use combined curtain airbags in the car, which are designed to protect the torso and head at the same time. The system provides safety at the height of the hips, shoulders, neck and head. It is used to protect passengers in the front seats.

Trunk protection systems

The second is airbags that protect the surface of the body from the shoulders to the hips. Engineers install them primarily to protect front seat occupants. Some manufacturers also choose to use protection for rear seat passengers.

They are activated from the chair or door level. The air curtain in the car inflates the material with air, creating a cushion that protects the passenger's torso.. This ensures that the body does not hit the door panels or the vehicle body directly.

Side airbags

Side airbags are also an extremely popular form of protection. They protect the heads of front and rear passengers when hitting the extreme side of the car. 

When activated, they create a cushion between the person sitting in the chair and the glass. They also provide protection when the car rolls over on its side.

Where can an air curtain be installed?

The curtain can be located in different places. For drivers, it is mounted in the backs of the front seats. Mainly protects the upper body. The passenger side airbag is located in the door panels. Why is it not located - as in the case of the driver's protection - in front?

The air curtain in the machine is located on the side, because in this place the machine has few deformation zones. In addition, the distance between the passenger and the door is short. This leads to the need to install a protective system that will have a short reaction time. Therefore, airbags, such as those integrated in the driver's seat, are not used.

Benefits of a system developed by Volvo

Air curtains in a car greatly reduce the risk of being killed in an accident. This applies to drivers of passenger cars, as well as SUVs and minivans. This is not the only advantage that you can enjoy when choosing a car equipped with this security system.

Side airbags are a soft barrier between passengers and the car frame.

The task of the front airbags is to protect the driver and passenger in the event of a frontal collision. In the event of a side impact, it is more difficult to protect the passengers inside the vehicle.

Air curtains are a way to provide the right level of protection during events of this kind. They are a soft barrier between the passenger and the car frame. They also remain active after the moment of impact. This will prevent people from falling out of the car.

Air curtains do not pose much of a threat to children

The combination of the force of the crash and the deployment of the airbags would pose a double threat to the fragile physiques of the children. This can be easily avoided.

Manufacturers recommend placing the smallest in the rear seats. To ensure maximum safety for children, they should be seated facing away from the direction of travel of the vehicle. 

Answers to the most frequently asked questions!

We have already explained that the side curtain airbags deploy to protect the head and torso in the event of a side impact. It is worth noting that they protect passengers not only from serious injuries, but also prevent people from being ejected from the car. 

Their use significantly reduces the risk of injury in the event of a vehicle rollover or impact. What are the most frequently asked questions about the operation of this system?

How is the system turned on?

The airbags deploy from under the vehicle roof during an accident. The durable material is inflated with air and closes windows across the entire side of the vehicle. Thus, passengers are protected.

What parts of the body are protected in a crash?

In the event of a collision or other dangerous event, the curtain airbag in the vehicle protects the head and torso. 

How does a curtain airbag protect passengers and the driver?

The pillow protects the head and torso while absorbing shock. It prevents the passenger's body from coming into direct contact with the window or door, hard and sharp surfaces.

What should be remembered if the car has curtain airbags?

A malfunction of the inflatable curtain system may cause a malfunction that could result in serious injury. For this reason, whenever a system failure or malfunction occurs, you should immediately visit an authorized dealer service center.

Another issue is not to hang or secure heavy objects on brackets in the roof. Hooks are factory-made, designed for light coats and jackets. What's more, you can't attach anything to the headlining, door pillars, or side panels of the car. Following these steps can effectively prevent proper activation air curtains.

The last point is to leave about 10 cm of space between the cargo and the side windows. In cases where the vehicle is loaded above the top of the side windows, air curtains may also not work correctly. It should also be borne in mind that air curtains are an additional element of protection. Always travel with your seat belts fastened.