Apparatus for deploying an airbag through a hard panel
US6203056A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 16, 1999 |
| Grant date | Mar 20, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 16, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60R2021/2163
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus for deploying an air bag through an automotive dash panel includes an air bag door integrally formed in the panel and defined by a door perimeter including a frangible edge of reduced cross section. A dispenser supports the air bag behind the door. A metal reaction plate is positioned between the air bag and the door. When the air bag inflates, it forces the reaction plate to bend around a horizontal hinge line. As the reaction plate pivots it concentrates inflation force along a lower portion of the frangible door edge. This helps to predictably separate the door from the dash panel by tearing along the lower door edge and allowing the tear to propagate up two side edges. In one embodiment, the tear also propagates across an upper edge to completely separate the door from the panel. At least one, and preferably two or three tethers limit how far the door can travel during air bag inflation. A stop member may be included to limit reaction plate bending. After deployment, the reaction plate remains in a position that prevents the door from returning to its original position. A retaining structure may be included to preclude at least a portion of the air bag door from te…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.