How is the maximum weight determined when stacking airbags?

When stacking airbags, the maximum weight that can be applied is determined by the strength of the smallest bag. This is because in a stacked configuration, the weight and forces are distributed among all the bags, but cannot exceed the capacity of the weakest link in the system. If one of the bags has a lower strength rating compared to the others, it will be the limiting factor for the entire stack’s ability to support weight safely.

Each airbag has a specific design and strength rating, which states the maximum load it can safely handle. Therefore, if bags with differing strengths are used together, the weakest bag will dictate the maximum weight that can be applied without risk of failure. This ensures that safety is maintained during operations, as exceeding the strength of any bag can lead to catastrophic failure, potentially resulting in injury or further complications in rescue situations.

In contrast, focusing solely on the largest bag's weight or strength would not provide an accurate assessment for safety in a stacked configuration, and considering the total weight of all bags could lead to an oversight of the critical limits posed by the individual bags in the stack.