Apparatus and method for rapidly fastening an airbag apparatus
US6705635B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 1, 2001 |
| Grant date | Mar 16, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 1, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60R21/232
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An attachment assembly for attaching a cushion member for an airbag apparatus to a vehicle surface is disclosed. The attachment assembly is particularly useful for attaching curtain type cushion members, as for a side impact airbag system. The attachment assembly may include a protrusion with a rod and a knob larger than the rod. A compressible spring washer is affixed to the rod. A hole formed in a mounting portion of the cushion member is then fitted around the rod, outside the washer. A cap is affixed to the rod to keep the cushion member in place. The protrusion, with the attached cushion member, may then be affixed to the vehicle surface through the use of a keyhole formed in the vehicle surface. The knob is pushed longitudinally into a larger, clearance portion of the keyhole, such that the spring washer is compressed. Then, the protrusion is moved transversely into an engaged configuration, in which the knob and the spring washer engage the interference portion. The protrusion can be locked in place to form a locked configuration by providing an arcuate slot intersecting the keyhole, into which the washer fits. Alternatively, upraised tabs may be formed around the keyhole, s…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.