Controlling Airbags with Solenoids

A manual reset latching solenoid was used to in order to control airbag inflation based on variables programmed into the system that determined the severity of the accident.

Customer Problem

Airbags have evolved from a single safety measure to intricate systems that use multiple sensors and sophisticated software algorithms. Modern airbag systems deploy based on a list of variables: is the seat occupied, how much does the person weigh, are they wearing a seat belt, how fast is the car traveling.

In order to further protect passengers from injury, manufacturers sought to control airbag inflation based on variables programmed into the system, which determined the severity of the accident.

The TLX Solution

A manual reset latching solenoid provided the best solution for this application. When the airbag did not need to be completely inflated, a short electrical pulse cancelled the permanent magnet holding the solenoid in position.

Once de-latched, the solenoid opened a pressure relief valve to vent excess gas not needed for airbag inflation, preventing additional injury to passengers. Since the solenoid needed to be manually reset, it would not return to the latched position accidentally during the accident.

View Design Solution

Miniature Manual Reset Latching Solenoid

Stroke: 2.5 mm

Holding force: > 28 N

Supply voltage: 6-16 Vdc

Response time: > 3 ms

Coil resistance at 20°C: 16.5 Ω ± 10%

Spring load: 5 N

Current: .7 amps

All TLX components are customized to fit system requirements, meaning technical specifications are unique to each customer and design. Examples given on our website are for illustration purposes only.

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Our Process

Step 1 / Initial Review

Our engineering team works directly with you to determine the viability of your program and identify the best solution based on your specifications.

Step 2 / Quote

Quotes include all costs related to your project - tooling, prototype, piece part, production and project specific costs.

Step 3 / Design Review & Prototypes

Our engineering team reviews the design with you and makes any adjustments needed. Prototypes are built according to design specifications for testing.

Step 4 / Testing

Prototypes are tested according to your specifications, with all relevant test data provided to you for evaluation.

Step 5 / APQP

DFMEA’s, PFMEA’s, control plans and process flow diagrams are started to drive the product intent design.

Step 6 / Pre-Production

Working drawings are developed for production. A second prototype build and a set of production parts are made from tooling and thoroughly tested.

Step 7 / PPAP/Production

The final design along with the PPAP (Production Part Approval Process) is developed and the new product enters production.

Step 8 / Ongoing Improvements

Our team collaborates with you to continue making improvements to the product to best meet your needs, increasing efficiency and reducing cost.

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