Restraints and Safety Systems: Description and Operation: Overview

Air Bag Systems

OVERVIEW

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The SRS (supplemental restraint system) provides additional protection for the vehicle occupants in certain impact conditions. The system is controlled by the RCM (restraints control module), which is mounted beneath the floor console. The system includes twin stage drivers and front passenger airbags.
The RCM (restraints control module) receives inputs from various sensors around the vehicle and determines which, if any, airbags should be deployed.
The SRS (supplemental restraint system) features an occupant detection system. The occupant detection system comprises a mat fitted inside the front passenger seat. By monitoring the condition of the mat, the RCM (restraints control module) can determine if the front passenger seat is occupied. It uses this information to determine which airbags to deploy in the event of an impact. This information is also used to illuminate the safety belt instrument cluster warning lamp if the front passenger seat is occupied and the safety belt is not engaged.
North American Specification (NAS) vehicles also feature an occupant classification system. The occupant classification system comprises a control module, pressure pad and safety belt tension sensor. The system can determine the size and weight of the front seat passenger. This information is transmitted to the RCM (restraints control module) over the high speed CAN (controller area network) bus. The RCM (restraints control module) uses this information to help determine which airbags to deploy in the event of an impact.