Impact Sensor: Description and Operation

The Electronic Crash Sensor (ECS) is located centrally near the steering column in a protected position behind the instrument panel. The ECS is mounted in a vertical position to facilitate longitudinal impact sensing. The ECS consists of an auxiliary power supply, accelerometer, safing sensor, Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC) and a microprocessor.

Impact sensing and evaluation for frontal impacts is supported internally within the ECS whereas side impacts are detected and evaluated by two side air bag satellite sensors.