Sensing lateral impact states with increased safety involves actuating restraining device if discriminating impact signal and either of first or second safety sensor signals indicate impact

摘要

The method involves using a discriminating acceleration sensor with its sensitivity axes perpendicular to the vehicle's longitudinal axis and two centrally mounted safety acceleration sensors, one with its sensitivity axes perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and one parallel to the axis. A laterally actuated restraining device is activated if the discriminating impact signal indicates an impact and either the first or second safety sensor signals indicate an impact. An Independent claim is also included for an arrangement for controlling a laterally actuated vehicle occupant restraint device.