Rear side airbag, function - GF91.60-P-4015-02B

Model 163 as of 12/99 with code 293 (left and right rear side airbag) 

When the actuation threshold is exceeded in the event of a side collision the front and rear side airbags are triggered simultaneously on the corresponding side of the vehicle.

The left and right rear side airbags are triggered electrically and directly by the supplemental restraint systems control module (N2/7)  via the left rear side airbag squib (R12/11)  and right rear side airbag squib (R12/12)  .

The corresponding squib ignites the solid fuel in the gas generator. The solid fuel burns developing a gas which flows explosively into the folded airbag under high pressure. Under the high pressure of the incoming gases the airbag inflates tearing open the side airbag housing and the intended tear area in the door liner and entering the passenger compartment. After a few milliseconds the airbag reaches its maximum volume of approx. 16 liters.

After the maximum volume is reached the pressure in the airbag immediately starts to decrease. The gas escapes from the airbag through a filter causing the airbag to deflate.