Air bag module with internal deployment flap
US6371510B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 9, 1999 |
| Grant date | Apr 16, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 9, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60R2021/161
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A vehicle occupant safety device (20) comprising: an air bag (70) initially in a folded configuration and when inflated by inflation gases expands to an inflated configuration to protect the occupant; an inflator (50) for providing inflation gases to inflate the air bag; a shroud (80) comprising a plurality of frangible straps, preferably loosely positioned about the exterior of the folded air bag for controlling the trajectory of the inflating air bag by initially restricting the forward extension of the air bag by interaction with the shroud (80) and thereafter directing the air bag to inflate along a passageway defined by the shroud which is oriented at a downward angle relative to the occupant. Once the air bag exits the shroud it is free to inflate laterally and upwardly to protect the occupant. In one embodiment the shroud includes a tearable strap (140).
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.