These predetermined breaking points are created by laser perforation in airbag flaps. On the back of the material the laser generates a tear line along the desired shape of the airbag flap. A specially developed sensor system prevents the laser from completely severing the material. However, the perforation line weakens the material in a way that allows the airbag to break through this line and open up during a collision.
The automotive supplier YFV had already purchased several laser systems from Jenoptik’s Lasers & Material Processing division since the cooperation began in 2002.
Patented laser perforation process.
The JENOPTIK-VOTAN® A laser perforating system is suitable for the manufacture of concealed predetermined breaking points for passenger and knee airbags in car dashboards. The system is capable of processing single or multi-layer materials and decorative layers made from plastic, textiles or leather, working quickly and reliably. Customer-specific solutions allow for flexible processing of airbag covers: the type of perforation holes, their spacing and the shape of the perforated line are variable and can be adjusted according to the type of material being used.
Images of JENOPTIK-VOTAN® A can be found in the Jenoptik Image Database under Lasers & Material Processing / Press.
Jena, October 18, 2013