Inflatable tubular torso restraint system
US5839753A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 31, 1997 |
| Grant date | Nov 24, 1998 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 31, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60R2022/1818
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A seat restraint system whose torso belt inflates upon impact to protect the occupants of a vehicle such as an automobile. The inflating component of the present invention is a braided tube linked to a gas generator and crash sensor. When an impact is detected, the gas generator is ignited, inflating the braided tube. As the braided tube inflates, the diameter of the tube increases significantly and its length decreases significantly, due to the orientation of the fibers comprising the braided tube. The contracting tube pretensions the seat belt system by pulling any slack out of the seat belt systems. The inflated structure restricts the forward motion of an occupant and distributes crash loads over a larger occupant surface area to reduce both primary and secondary injuries. In a side impact the inflated structure restricts occupant motion, distributes crash loads and provides head protection.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.