AIRBAG CONTROL MODULE
Introduction
• The airbag control module is a computer that controls a car's airbag
system
• It monitors data from various sensors to evaluate when a crash occurs and
triggers the appropriate airbags to lessen the severity of the accident on
occupants
• The module is also known as the airbag sensor, diagnostic unit, computer
module, and other names, and is mounted in different locations
throughout the vehicle
Working principle of ACM
• The ACM continuously receives inputs from various sensors strategically placed
throughout the vehicle. These sensors include accelerometers, crash sensors, seatbelt
sensors, occupancy sensors, and others.
• The ACM analyzes the sensor data in real-time to detect signs of a collision. Sudden
deceleration, changes in vehicle motion, and other criteria are evaluated to determine if
a collision has occurred.
• Once a collision is detected, the ACM assesses the severity of the impact. The data
from the sensors help the ACM understand the type and intensity of the collision.
Working principle of ACM
• The ACM's sophisticated algorithms make rapid decisions based on the collision
severity assessment. These decisions include determining which airbags should be
deployed, the force with which they should deploy, and the timing of deployment.
• Upon making decisions, the ACM sends deployment commands to the specific airbag
modules positioned throughout the vehicle.
• The airbag modules receive these commands and rapidly inflate the corresponding
airbags to provide a protective cushion for vehicle occupants.
• After airbags deploy, the ACM may have a reset function to prepare the system for
future events. Some ACMs need to be replaced or reprogrammed after deployment.
CAN Network
• The Controller Area Network (CAN) is a standardized communication protocol used in modern
vehicles.
• Facilitates seamless and efficient communication among ECUs, allowing them to share data and
coordinate actions.
• Two-wire differential serial communication.
• Multi-master architecture.
• Message-oriented communication.
Sensors Used in Airbag Control Module
ü Crash Sensors
ü Seatbelt Sensors
ü Occupancy Sensors
ü Side-Impact Sensors
ü Frontal Impact Sensors Crash Sensor Seatbelt Sensor
ü Roll Sensors
ü Yaw Sensors
ü Gyroscopes
ü Wheel Speed Sensors
Yaw Sensor Wheel Speed Sensor
Integration of ACM with CAN
Centralized Communication Hub:
ü The Airbag Control Module (ACM) serves as a centralized hub for airbag-related
decisions.
ü Integrates seamlessly with the Controller Area Network (CAN), acting as a
communication bridge among various Electronic Control Units (ECUs).
Real-Time Decision-Making:
ü The ACM relies on the CAN network for real-time communication, enabling rapid
decision-making during critical events.
ü Ensures quick dissemination of information to relevant ECUs for coordinated responses.
CAN Signals in ACM
Ø Accelerometer signal
Ø Seat belt buckle sensor signal
Ø Weight sensor signal
Ø Deployment command
Ø Deployment force level
Ø Ignition status
Ø Gyroscope or crash signal
Tx and Rx Node for ACM
Transmit/Receive Control Unit: Airbag Control Unit
Ø The Airbag Control ECU can act as both a transmitter and a receiver, depending on the
specific messages being exchanged on the network.
Ø The messages transmitted by the Airbag Control ECU could include information about
the status of the airbag system, deployment commands, diagnostic data, and more.
Ø The receiver of these messages would be other ECUs on the CAN bus that need to
receive and process information related to the airbag system.
Ø For example:Engine Control Unit (ECU),Body Control Module (BCM),Instrument
Cluster
Benifits of ACM
Enhanced Safety
ü The ACM contributes to the overall safety of the vehicle by ensuring timely and
appropriate deployment of airbags based on crash severity.
Occupant Protection
ü By processing data from impact sensors and other sources, the ACM helps
customize airbag deployment to provide optimal protection for vehicle occupants.
Reduced Injury Risk
ü Properly functioning airbag systems, managed by the ACM, can significantly
reduce the risk of injury during a collision.
