Abstract: An inflatable protective system provides cushioning and containment for the head, thorax, and pelvis of an occupant of a vehicle during side impact of the vehicle by another object. The system includes an inflatable bag that is attached to a mounting plate, which extends over the lower section of a side panel assembly of the vehicle. The inflatable bag includes an upper portion foldable into a stowed position facing the occupant's thorax when seated on the seat. A deployment envelope including at least one sheet of bearing material and at least one sheet of friction reducing material is sandwiched between the bag and a cushioning panel, which is detachably connected to an inner side of the side panel assembly, to enhance the smooth deployment of the bag.

Abstract: An inflatable protective system provides cushioning and containment of an occupant of a vehicle from side impact of the vehicle by another object. The system includes an inflatable bag which is foldabble into a collapsed, relatively compact configuration for placement within a door of a vehicle. An inflator and an impact sensor are also mounted within the door, with the inflator being in flow communication with the bag. Upon impact of the door, the sensor activates the inflator to inflate the bag. The inflated bag forms a substantially broad, planar air cushion having dimensions sufficient to extend over the window opening in the door. The inflated bag forms a shock absorbing cushion that prevents the occupant's head from striking the door elements and also acts as a cushioning barrier to restrain the occupant's head from being ejected through the window opening.

Abstract: A test dummy head for measuring impact surface forces and pressures applied thereto comprises a pressure-sensing face incorporated to a dummy skull structure. A plurality of thin pressure-sensitive electric films are attached to the face. The films provide electrical signals representative of a time history of pressure or force applied up to 100 individual areas of the face. A pressurized calibration chamber is employed to simplify the calibration process.