Abstract: A method for determining a criterion of the severity of an accident by means of an acceleration signal and a solid-borne sound signal. The signal edge direction of the absolute value of the acceleration signal is detected. If the signal edge of the absolute value of the acceleration signal drops, the solid-borne sound signal which occurs in the process is evaluated. The solid-borne sound signal may be integrated and the criterion of the severity of the accident is derived therefrom. This criterion of the severity of the accident can be used directly, or as a function of criteria, to trigger the protection devices.

Abstract: A method for determining a criterion of the severity of an accident by means of an acceleration signal and a solid-borne sound signal. The signal edge direction of the absolute value of the acceleration signal is detected. If the signal edge of the absolute value of the acceleration signal drops, the solid-borne sound signal which occurs in the process is evaluated. The solid-borne sound signal may be integrated and the criterion of the severity of the accident is derived therefrom. This criterion of the severity of the accident can be used directly, or as a function of criteria, to trigger the protection devices.

Abstract: To provide for maximum light intensity in a selected mode of operation--th or flashlight mode or warning flasher mode, an elongated tubular housing has a body portion (2) and a head portion (3), the two portions being connected together by a hollow tube (17) secured preferably to the head portion (3) and slideable within the body portion. A reflector system (5) is secured to the head portion, and the halogen incandescent lamp seated on the body portion. For flashlight operation, the reflector system is fitted over the halogen incandescent lamp, and light from the lamp is directed axially outwardly of the flash lamp; for blinker operation, the entire head portion is pulled upwardly, along with the reflector for a distance, such that the reflector will clear the halogen incandescent lamp (16), thus providing for 360.degree. light radiation--with respect to the axis of the lamp--and essentially directing all light from the halogen incandescent lamp for blinder or warning purposes.