Device for protecting the knees of vehicle occupants

US6769713B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG · DE

Inventors

• Martin Kamm · Berlin, DE
• Juergen Schnitzer · Gaildorf, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: May 31, 2002
• Grant date: Aug 3, 2004
• Expiry date: May 31, 2022

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B60R2021/23386
• WIPO field: Transport
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A knee protection device for vehicle occupants comprises at least one airbag, which, in the inflated operation position, extends in front of the knees of a vehicle occupant, lies against the knees in the event of a restraint and prevents the knees from shifting forward. A knee-protection device, which functions well, is easily constructed and avoids injury during the inflation of the airbag. The airbag or air cushion comprises at least two transversely extending airbags, which are disposed directly one behind another in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. Adjoining airbags are coupled to one another on the side, facing the knees, by an approximately tangentially extending outer fabric bridge or by an otherwise disposed fabric bridge.