Final answer:
Automatic Collision Notification (ACN) is a system that automatically contacts emergency services when a vehicle's airbags deploy during a significant collision. It uses cell technology to provide important crash details to first responders, aiding in a quicker emergency response.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a vehicle's airbag deploys, Automatic Collision Notification (ACN) is a safety feature that is designed to automatically contact emergency services in the event of a serious collision. When airbags deploy, indicating a significant impact or sudden stop, the ACN system uses cellular technology to relay important information, such as the vehicle's location and the nature of the crash, to a response center or directly to emergency responders. This feature can be critical for getting help to the crash site as quickly as possible, particularly if the occupants are unable to call for help themselves due to injuries or being unconscious.
An understanding of impulse is pivotal in automotive safety design. Airbags, along with dashboard padding and the use of plastics in car components, extend the time over which the force of an impact acts, thereby reducing the net force and potential injuries to passengers. With the addition of ACN, these safety measures not only minimize injury but also enhance post-accident response and potentially save lives.