Initiators for air bag inflators

US6584911B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• TRW Limited · US

Inventors

• Lee D. Bergerson · Willow View Lane, US
• Ivan L. Stonich · Hermosa Beach, US
• Christopher Shih · Torrance, US
• Timothy A. Swann · Mesa, US
• Brian R. Pitstick · Mesa, US
• Bryan W. Shirk · Mesa, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Apr 26, 2001
• Grant date: Jul 1, 2003
• Expiry date: Apr 26, 2021

Classification

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

Abstract

An initiator (40) for actuating an inflation fluid source (34) for an inflatable vehicle occupant protection device (36) comprises a plurality of electrically energizable microelectromechanical system (MEMS) devices (120-126). In one embodiment, the MEMS devices (120-126) are associated in a one to one relationship with chambers (75-78) containing ignitable material (130). Each one of the MEMS devices (120-126), when energized, generates combustion products, including heat, for igniting the associated ignitable material (130). At least one terminal pin (44-46) is electrically connected with the plurality of MEMS devices (120-126) for receiving an electric signal for energizing at least one of the MEMS devices.