Renault Master Handbook page 33

METHODS OF RESTRAINT IN ADDITION TO THE FRONT SEAT BELTS
Air bags for driver and front
passenger
It is fitted to the front seats on the driv-
er's side and, depending on the vehicle,
on the passenger's side as well.
Depending on the vehicle, an "air bag"
marking on the steering wheel and the
dashboard (air bag area A) indicates
that this device is fitted.
Each air bag system consists of:
– an air bag and gas generator fitted
on the steering wheel for the driver
and in the dashboard for the front
passenger;
– an electronic unit for system monitor-
ing which controls the gas generator
electrical trigger system;
å
– a special tell-tale light;
– remote sensors.
Operation
This system is only operational when
the ignition is switched on.
If a severe frontal impact occurs, the
air bag(s) inflate rapidly, thus cushion-
ing the impact of the driver's head and
chest on the steering wheel and those
of the passenger on the dashboard;
the air bag(s) then deflate immediately
after the impact to prevent the occu-
pants from being impeded in any way
when leaving the vehicle.
(2/3)
A
The air bag system uses
pyrotechnic principles. This
explains why, when the air
bag inflates, it will gener-
ate heat, produce smoke (this does
not mean that a fire is about to start)
and make a noise upon detonation.
In a situation where an air bag is
required, it will inflate immediately
and this may cause some minor, su-
perficial grazing to the skin or other
problems.
1.27