How to generate finite element mesh for folded airbags

This work presents a novel algorithm for generating a geometric mesh of an airbag after a series of folds are defined on it, for use in crash simulations. The process of airbag folding is simulated as a series of geometric transformations to the airbag mesh, which is modeled as a stack of connected planar layers. Along with these transformations, optimization techniques are used to minimise change in the geometry and the area of the airbag post inflation. The results from this approach are compared with other commercial airbag folding software, and it is observed that the algorithm is effective in ensuring minimum change in the area and geometry of the airbag during the folding process. The current paper is a sequel to [3] which shows some initial results of the folding process.