Method and apparatus for forming an air bag deployment opening
US5080393A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 30, 1989 |
| Grant date | Jan 14, 1992 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 30, 2009 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60R2021/21654
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method and apparatus are disclosed for instantly forming an air bag deployment opening in an auto interior trim panel structure such as an instrument panel or steering wheel cover just prior to inflation of the air bag. A delineated pattern of concentrated energy is instantaneously applied to the inside of the trim structure as by ignition of a segment of detonating cord to fracture a section of the trim panel in a required door shape just before the air bag is inflated. The air bag, stored behind the trim panel, engages and pushes open the door so formed in the trim panel when activated, and is able to be deployed through the resulting opening. The trim panel may therefor be free from any exteriorly visible markings defining a deployment door until deployment actually occurs.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.