Abstract: A system and a method for protecting the occupant of a vehicle during a side-impact detects an approaching vehicle and identifies a collision threat. A collision threat level is assessed based on a set of parameters, and when the collision threat exceeds a pre-determined collision threat threshold level, the system unlatches the occupant's door, pushes it a few centimeters outwards, and locks it in that position. Pressure sensors and accelerometers disposed at suitable locations on the sides of the vehicle, provide crash signals to a Restraint Control Module (RCM). When the crash signals exceed a certain threshold, the RCM commands an airbag deployment module to deploy the airbag between the occupant and the door. Since the door is pushed outwards, an extra pre-crush space is created between the occupant and the door, which allows the use of larger and softer side airbags to provide enhanced protection to the vehicle occupants.

Abstract: A system and a method for protecting the occupant of a vehicle during a side-impact detects an approaching vehicle and identifies a collision threat. A collision threat level is assessed based on a set of parameters, and when the collision threat exceeds a pre-determined collision threat threshold level, the system unlatches the occupant's door, pushes it a few centimeters outwards, and locks it in that position. Pressure sensors and accelerometers disposed at suitable locations on the sides of the vehicle, provide crash signals to a Restraint Control Module (RCM). When the crash signals exceed a certain threshold, the RCM commands an airbag deployment module to deploy the airbag between the occupant and the door. Since the door is pushed outwards, an extra pre-crush space is created between the occupant and the door, which allows the use of larger and softer side airbags to provide enhanced protection to the vehicle occupants.