Module, Occupant Restraint Controller: Description: Description

The Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) (1) is secured with four nuts to four studs on a stamped steel mounting bracket welded onto the top of the floor panel transmission tunnel between the two front seats beneath the floor console and rearward of the transmission gearshift mechanism in the passenger compartment of the vehicle. Concealed within a hollow in the center of the molded plastic ORC housing is the electronic circuitry of the ORC which includes a microprocessor, an electronic impact sensor, an electronic safing sensor, and an energy storage capacitor. A molded plastic end cover plate with a rubber O-ring seal is secured to the open end of the ORC housing with two integral latch features to enclose and protect the internal electronic circuitry and components.

An arrow (2) printed on the label (3) on the top of the ORC housing provides a visual verification of the proper orientation of the unit, and should always be pointed toward the front of the vehicle. The ORC housing has four integral mounting flanges (5) with metal sleeves to provide crush protection. Two molded plastic electrical connector receptacles (4) are integral to the end cover plate. These receptacles connect the ORC to the vehicle electrical system through dedicated take outs and connectors from the instrument panel and the body wire harnesses.

The impact sensor and safing sensor internal to the ORC are calibrated for the specific vehicle, and are only serviced as a unit with the ORC. In addition, there are unique versions of the ORC for vehicles with or without optional seat-mounted side airbags. The ORC cannot be repaired or adjusted and, if damaged or ineffective, it must be replaced.