Cougar L4-122 2.0L DOHC VIN 3 SFI (1999)
Side Air Bag: Description and Operation
Driver And Passenger Air Bag Module Inflator
The driver, passenger and side air bag modules consist of the following components which cannot be disassembled:
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Inflator
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Bag
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Container
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Cover
The inflator is screwed into a metal cup-shaped container. The bag is then folded on top of the inflator and the whole subassembly is enclosed by the
cover.
The side air bag module(s) are integrated into the front seat backrests providing an unobtrusive appearance. The unique seat cover has been designed to
accommodate air bag deployment. When the side air bag is deployed the stitched seam of the seat cover adjacent to the side air bag module splits
allowing the air bag to exit the seat backrest unobstructed.
The purpose of the inflator is to generate the gas needed to fill the air bag. It consists of a high strength steel casing filled with a solid propellant charge
and an electrically activated igniter. The igniter is activated by a signal from the electronic control module which in turn ignites the propellant charge.
The very rapid burning of the propellant produces sufficient gas to fill the air bag(s). As the gases expand they cool, preventing heat damage to the bag.
The side air bag has a single inflator and a bag with a filled volume of 12 liters.
The bag(s) are a one piece woven item with a silicon coating to provide flame and heat protection in the vicinity of the inflator. The shape of the side air
bag (when equipped) are tailored to the vehicle proportions.
