Abstract: A control method for automated control of a transverse deviation and/or a steering wheel angle of a motor vehicle by an overall control loop is described. The overall control loop has a first control module, a second control module, and at least one controlled system. The at least one controlled system comprises a front-axle actuator of the motor vehicle and/or a steering wheel of the motor vehicle. A provisional manipulated variable is determined by way of the first control module, wherein the provisional manipulated variable is independent of a speed of the motor vehicle. A final manipulated variable for the at least one controlled system is determined based on the provisional manipulated variable by way of the second control module, wherein the second control module compensates for a speed dependency of the at least one controlled system. A controller and a motor vehicle are also described.

Abstract: A test system is provided for simulating pre-tensioner systems that use pyrotechnic gas generators. In a preferred form, the test system includes a pneumatic cylinder energized by pressurized air from an accumulator and passing through a fast acting ball valve. A substantially linear relationship is established between accumulator pressure and the time rate of change of acceleration of a piston in the pneumatic cylinder. Use of the test system allows improved evaluation of seat belt systems employing pre-tensioners with pyrotechnic gas generators.

Abstract: A device (60) for inflating an air bag (36) adapted within a steering wheel comprising: a pressure vessel (66; 166; 210) formed of a length of narrow tubing for storing a quantity of inert gas under pressure and a rupturable disk (80) for enclosing a first end of the tubing; an activator or initiator such as a squib (120) responsive to a control signal indicative of a vehicular crash situation for opening the seal means to permit the pressurized gas to inflate the air bag and a manifold (50) for communicating released gas to an air bag.