Inflatable tubular knee bolster
US6336653B1 · kind B1 · utility
29Cited by
96References
30Claims
0Family size
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 21, 1997 |
| Grant date | Jan 8, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 21, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60R2021/2615
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
This invention is an Inflatable Tubular Bolster (ITB) which prevents or limits injury to an occupant of a motor vehicle due to a frontal or semi-frontal crash. In particular, the invention protects the front seat occupant's legs and lower torso by providing a cushioned barrier that absorbs impact energy and restricts the occupant's lower body from moving forward and into or underneath the instrument panel and toward the foot well. This invention can be effective in any vehicle where an occupant's lower body is subject to crash injury from a dashboard, instrument panel, or similar structure.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.