Airbag system for a motor vehicle

US6428041B1 · kind B1 · utility

Assignee

• VOLKSWAGEN AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT · DE

Inventors

• Thomas Wohllebe · Braunschweig, DE
• Ruprecht Sinnhuber · Gifhorn, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Nov 21, 2001
• Grant date: Aug 6, 2002
• Expiry date: Nov 21, 2021

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B60R2021/2633
• WIPO field: Transport
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

An airbag system includes a contact sensing element acted on by a gas generator to extend in the direction of airbag deployment. The contact sensing element carries a sleeve which initially covers gas openings on the generator and when the contact element is fully extended uncovers the openings to enable rapid airbag deployment. Deployment is slowed in the event the contact element encounters an obstacle, such as an out-of-position passenger.