Hybrid inflator with projectile gas release
US5709406A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 28, 1996 |
| Grant date | Jan 20, 1998 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 28, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60R2021/2633
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A hybrid adaptive airbag inflator with initially low pressure upon deployment. The inflator includes two separate chambers, each containing a quantity of stored inert gas. Each chamber additionally includes a heating device to heat the stored gas. To provide adaptive performance, one, or the other, or both of the heating devices may be fired, depending upon the severity of the collision. At least one of the chambers includes a quantity of gas generating material associated with a projectile. The heating device causes combustion of the gas generating material, which in turn causes the projectile to move and pierce a burst disc sealing the chamber. This permits the gas to exit the inflator before substantial heating of the stored gas, and thus at a lower pressure, to reduce the possibility of the cushion injuring the passenger.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.