Abstract:
Disclosed are embodiments of an airbag cushion and related airbag modules including a plurality of flaps that may be used to secure the airbag within a module housing. In one embodiment of the invention, first and second flaps are connected with the airbag cushion. The airbag cushion is adapted to be condensed into a compact configuration wherein the first flap extends adjacent to the second flap and in at least approximately the opposite direction as the second flap.
Abstract:
A multi-sensor network having a plurality of receivers and sensors connected to a common communication line is provided. A controller will activate one of the plurality of receivers, thereby allowing one of the plurality of sensors to transmit data to the communication line. The plurality of sensors each individually have a logic device preventing more than one sensor from transmitting data in a given time interval.
Abstract:
An airbag cushion is disclosed for use in automotive protective systems. The airbag cushion includes a diffuser for re-directing gas out of the cushion via cinch tubes when an obstruction is encountered.
Abstract:
An inflatable curtain airbag including a throat liner and a stiffening member is disclosed. The stiffening member has a stiffness greater than the throat liner and is configured to minimize recoil of the throat liner into inflatable chambers of the curtain airbag.
Abstract:
Systems, methods, and apparatus for use in an airbag inflation system are disclosed. An explosively formable projectile piece is positioned adjacent to an opening and, upon deployment of an initiator, is forced through the opening, thereby changing the shape of the projectile piece. The projectile piece is projected towards a rupturable wall. Once the projectile piece has ruptured the wall, the airbag inflation gas can pass through the opening in the wall and inflate the airbag.
Abstract:
A device for pretensioning a seatbelt attached to a seatbelt retractor is provided. The device includes a frame, a spindle, a torsion member, a tread head, and a locking element. The frame is for fixedly attaching the seatbelt retractor to a vehicle structure. The spindle is supported by the frame for rotatable movement within the frame. The pretensioning device is connected to the spindle for rotating the spindle to tighten the seatbelt. The torsion member is disposed within the spindle and has a first end fixedly secured to the spindle and a second end fixedly secured to the pretensioning device. The tread head is selectively engaged to the spindle for preventing rotation of the spindle and protraction of the seatbelt. The locking element is for selectively locking the tread head to the spindle. During pretensioning the locking elements are disengaged to enable pretensioning via the torsion bar.
Abstract:
An airbag restrain system is disclosed for use in automotive protective systems. The airbag restraint system includes an inflatable airbag cushion having a tether coupled to the interior surface of the cushion. The airbag restraint system further includes first and second inflators for dual mode airbag cushion deployment. Upon a pre-impact condition, the first inflator deploys to partially inflate the cushion and release the tether. The second inflator also deploys to inflate the cushion to approximately full capacity. Upon an impact condition, only the second inflator deploys and the tether extends until taut to limit expansion of the cushion. Means are provided to retain and release the tether in response to the first inflator.
Abstract:
A dual spool retractor for a motor vehicle seat belt system. The dual spool retractor includes shoulder belt and lap belt spool assemblies engaging with the shoulder belt and lap belt portions of the seat belt webbing. The dual spool retractor incorporates a gas driven pretensioner system incorporating a common gas generator connection for both the shoulder belt spool assembly and the lap belt spool assembly. Both spool assemblies are caused to undergo pretensioning retraction energized by a single gas generator.
Abstract:
The present invention provides an airbag inflator assembled, in part, using ultrasonic welding. The inflator includes a housing adapted to receive an initiator assembly and an adaptor socket to connect the inflator to the electronic systems of the vehicle. The initiator and the adaptor socket are welded together at a point of interface through the housing of the inflator using an ultrasound welding process. Joint seals are provided that allow the production of a gas-tight seal upon completion of assembly of the airbag inflator.
Abstract:
A system (18) for sensing an impending collision and controlling a safety device (13, 14, 16, 18, 19), such as an airbag, in response to the detection of an impending collision target. Deployment characteristics of the safety device (13, 14, 16, 18, 19) are adjusted based on sensor output. One implementation of the system includes a radar sensor (10) and a vision sensor (11) carried by the vehicle. The radar sensor (10) provides a radar output (20) related to the range and relative velocity of the target. The vision sensor (11) provides a vision output (22) related to the bearing and bearing rate of the target. An electronic control module receives the radar output (20) and the vision output (22) and generates control signals for control safety device and adjusting deployment characteristics.