2021/01/08

Automotive Airbag Connectors for SRS on the Rise

MX72 Series

Input Output (IO) Connectors
Board to Cable Connectors

As the safety performance of automobiles improves, the number and variety of airbags used in a vehicle also increases. New and existing automotive airbag applications are supported in various places which include typical driver and passenger side airbags, curtain and thorax airbags throughout the vehicle, and newer applications such as knee airbags and pedestrian airbags that deploy externally to prevent injury to pedestrians. The trend for improved vehicle safety is expected to continue to increase over time.
JAE offers a wide range of airbag connectors that meet the safety requirements of automobiles. This page will define what a squib connector is and why it is widely used as an airbag connector.

What is a Squib Connector?

A squib is a controlled miniature explosive device integrated into an air bag or mechanical retraction system for the SRS. When the sensor detects a collision, an electric current flows through the igniter and the gas generator (inflator) is activated, causing the air bag to swell or mechanical system to retract.
The MX72 squib connector offers the option to choose whether a short terminal is used or not. The AK2 type has a short terminal or shunt installed. Generally, the interface types AK3 do not have a short circuit terminal (no shunt).
Looking outwards, there is a trend towards the installation of products without short-circuit shunt terminals, and the JAE MX72 C/D shunt-less series is available as on option.

AK2 Types

A shorting terminal is built into the interior.

The AK2 type has three types of retainers.

Shuntless Types

MX72C/D Series (Without Short Terminals) – Appearance

The non-short terminal type has four retainer types.

MX72 Series Application Examples

Airbag and retraction systems for the SRS ensure passenger safety in the event of a car collision and are installed in various places in the cabin. Refer to the following illustrations for global application examples using MX72 squib connectors within the SRS.

The vehicle interior is equipped with a driver's airbag, side airbags, and side curtain airbags.

Example of Connector Use in Driver's Seat Airbag

SRS devices installed in various locations typically require connector integration work confined to small space. JAE offers highly reliable squib connectors that facilitate installation in locations where it is difficult to make such connections. The following sections describes features of the MX72 squib series for the SRS.

MX72 Series Self-Rejecting Squib Connector with CPA Functionality

Typical squib connectors for the SRS require a two-touch step to engage mechanical CPA (Connector Position Assurance), holding the connector for mating and engaging the CPA push-button locking.
MX72 Series connectors have the advantage of conveniently engaging connector position assurance with a single, spring enforced push, that easily confirms successful coupling through an audible click and tactile feedback. In addition, incomplete engagement is prevented by the reaction force of the spring in the connector. Should the MX72 squib connector not be properly seated, the spring pushes away plug from receptacle.