Advanced Head Protection System (AHPS)
Advanced Head Protection System (AHPS)
New for the E65/E66 is the Advanced HPS,(AHPS) an extended head airbag. The ITS Inflatable Tubular Structure familiar from other BMW models has been extended by a curtain.
There are two versions of the AHPS.
The Advanced HPS I is for the head area of the driver and passenger. It runs from the A-pillar to behind the B-pillar, as before. The volume is approx.12 liters.
When rear airbags are ordered as an option (SA 261), there is the Advanced HPS II for the head area at the front and rear. The AHPS II runs from the A-pillar to the C-pillar and covers the entire side section. The volume is approx.24 liters.
In conjunction with the side airbags in the front and rear doors, it provides optimum side protection for all passengers. The Advanced HPS prevents the head and other extremities of the occupants from swinging outward. This leads to less severe neck backlash forces and less severe head injuries.
Advantages of the system:
- Extended covered area for side windows front and rear.
- Protection against glass splinters and penetrating objects.
- Improved protection area for any size occupants.
Operation
The Advanced HPS is fitted in the roof zone. It consists of a woven tube with an additional curtain wrapped around it. The curtain is secured to the roof frame and is tensioned downward by the woven tube.
In the event of a side collision, the generator is ignited and the gas flows through the gas injector into the woven tube. The woven tube expands to approx.130 mm in diameter and its length is reduced.
Secure fitting of the woven tube on the A-pillar and the C-pillar HPS II or on the roof frame (AHPS I) brings the head airbag into position. In the process, the curtain tightens between the side window or pillar trim and the occupant.
The high tensioning force in the woven tube pulls the curtain downward, which increases the stability of the curtain. The closed system means that the structural firmness and stability remain for several seconds. This is an advantage if the vehicle rolls over.