Importance

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Abstract

A device and method for triggering an occupant protection system when a motor vehicle tilts about a longitudinal axis includes a rate-of-rotation sensor, an inclination sensor, which can be a mechanical inclination switch, and a triggering device. The rate-of-rotation sensor detects a rotation rate about the longitudinal axis and generates an output signal. The inclination sensor detects motor vehicle inclination and generates an output signal. The mechanical inclination switch serves as safing sensor. The triggering device activates an occupant protection system based upon the rotation and the inclination output signals. The occupant protection system triggers only when both the rate-of-rotation sensor indicates a rotary movement greater than or equal to a specific value and the inclination sensor indicates an inclination angle greater than or equal to a given value. The triggering device blocks an activation of the occupant protection system when the inclination signal indicates a tilted position of the vehicle lasting longer than a predetermined time interval even if the rotation signal subsequently indicates a motor vehicle tilting movement about the longitudinal axis.

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First Claim