Airbag device for vehicle

Abstract

A vehicle airbag device with a simple structure that improves occupant restraint performance and safety is provided. The airbag cushion (104) has: a chamber including an occupant side panel (114) and a steering side panel (116); a gas vent (120); and a first strap (124). The first strap (124) has: one end (126) which is directly or indirectly connected to the occupant side panel (114); and another end (128a, 128b) which is connected to the steering side panel (116). The edge of the gas vent (120) is designed to be pulled into the interior of the chamber (105) by the tensioned first strap (124), and the opening area of ​​the gas vent (120) when the edge of the gas vent (120) is pulled into the interior of the chamber (105) is smaller than when the first strap (124) is relaxed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle safety airbag device for restraining passengers in case of vehicle emergency. Background Art

[0002] In recent years, most vehicles are equipped with airbags as standard. Airbags are safety devices that are activated in emergency situations such as vehicle collisions, causing bag-shaped airbag cushions to expand and deploy under gas pressure to catch and protect passengers.

[0003] There are various types of airbag devices for vehicles depending on the installation location and purpose. For example, in order to protect the driver from collisions from the front and rear directions, a front airbag device is installed in the center of the steering device. In addition, in order to protect passengers from impacts from the vehicle width direction caused by side collisions, etc., curtain airbag devices are installed near the ceiling above the side windows, and side airbag devices are installed on the sides of the seats.

[0004] In a general airbag device, an airbag cushion is provided with an inflator for supplying gas and an exhaust hole for exhausting gas to the outside. Currently, a mechanism for adjusting the amount of gas discharged from the exhaust hole has been developed, and the internal pressure of the airbag cushion is set according to various factors.

[0005] For example, in Patent Document 1, Figure 8 As disclosed in the patent document 1, the internal pressure regulating mechanism 30 is provided near the exhaust port 27 of the airbag 19. The internal pressure regulating mechanism 30 is mainly composed of a cylindrical opposing sheet 34 and two tethers 32. According to the technology of the patent document 1, it is described that the exhaust is suppressed by tightening the tether 32 to pull the outlet of the opposing sheet 34, and when the occupant comes into contact with the airbag 19, the tether 32 is loosened to exhaust from the outlet of the opposing sheet 34.

[0006] Prior art literature

[0007] Patent Literature

[0008] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-172013 Summary of the invention

[0009] However, the internal pressure regulating mechanism 30 of Patent Document 1 requires the provision of a cylindrical opposing piece 34 that protrudes and expands from the airbag 19 , and has a complicated structure, so there is room for improvement in terms of simplification and cost reduction.

[0010] Problem that the invention aims to solve

[0011] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a vehicle airbag device that improves occupant restraint performance and safety with a simple structure.

[0012] Solutions to the problem

[0013] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, a typical structure of a vehicle airbag device according to the present invention is as follows:

[0014] The invention provides an inflator provided at a predetermined position of a vehicle and an airbag cushion which receives gas from the inflator and expands between a steering wheel and an occupant in a driver's seat. The airbag cushion is characterized in that the airbag cushion comprises: a chamber which is formed into a bag shape and stores gas by including a passenger side panel located at the passenger side and a steering side panel located at the steering wheel side; a gas discharge portion which is formed by cutting or cutting out a predetermined portion of the steering side panel along a predetermined line; a first tether which is mounted at a predetermined position of the chamber, the first tether comprising: one end portion which is connected to the passenger side panel or the vicinity of the passenger side panel inside the chamber; one or more other ends which are connected to the steering side panel, the one or more other ends of the first tether being connected to the vicinity of an edge portion of the gas discharge portion in the steering side panel of the chamber, the edge portion of the gas discharge portion being in a state that can be pulled into the inner side of the chamber by the stretched first tether, and the opening area of ​​the gas discharge portion in a state in which the edge portion of the gas discharge portion is pulled into the inner side of the chamber is smaller than when the first tether is relaxed.

[0015] When the airbag cushion is inflated and deployed, the first tether is tightened, and the opening area of ​​the gas discharge portion is reduced. Moreover, when the occupant contacts the passenger side panel of the chamber of the airbag cushion, the first tether is loosened, and the opening area of ​​the gas discharge portion is increased. Therefore, the airbag cushion reduces the amount of gas discharged before the occupant contacts and maintains the internal pressure of the chamber, and increases the amount of gas discharged when the occupant contacts the passenger side panel of the chamber, thereby suppressing the load applied to the occupant. Therefore, according to the above structure, a vehicle airbag device that improves occupant restraint performance and safety can be provided with a simple structure that can be realized at a low cost.

[0016] When the gas fills the chamber, the edge of the gas discharge portion may also be pulled into the inner side of the chamber by the tensioned first tie.

[0017] According to the above configuration, by pulling the edge of the gas discharge portion into the inner side of the chamber, the opening area of ​​the gas discharge portion can be reduced, thereby suppressing the amount of gas discharged.

[0018] One end of the first tether may also be connected to the passenger side panel of the chamber. With this structure, an airbag cushion having the above-mentioned effects can be preferably realized.

[0019] The airbag cushion may further include a second tether mounted on the passenger side panel and the steering side panel inside the chamber, and one end of the first tether is connected to a predetermined portion of the second tether and connected to the passenger side panel or the vicinity of the passenger side panel via the second tether. According to this structure, an airbag cushion having the above-mentioned effect can also be well realized.

[0020] The first tether may also be in the form of a belt or a rope. With this structure, a simple structure of the first tether can be realized.

[0021] The width of one or more other ends of the first tie may be smaller than the length of the gas discharge portion in the longitudinal direction. The first tie of this structure is preferred because it does not hinder the discharge of gas from the gas discharge portion.

[0022] One or more other end portions of the first tether may be connected to the vicinity of the gas discharge portion on the outside of the turning side panel while being exposed to the outside of the turning side panel through the gas discharge portion.

[0023] According to the above structure, when the first tether is tightened, the area around the gas discharge portion of the turning side panel can be effectively pulled into the inside of the chamber.

[0024] The airbag cushion further comprises a first reinforcing patch installed outside the chamber around the gas discharge portion of the steering side panel, and one or more other ends of the first tether can be connected to the first reinforcing patch.

[0025] According to the above structure, while reinforcing the area around the gas discharge portion to prevent damage, the area around the gas discharge portion of the steering side panel can be effectively pulled into the inner side of the chamber when the first tether is tightened.

[0026] The airbag cushion further comprises a second reinforcing patch installed around the gas discharge portion of the turning side panel outside the chamber, and one or more other ends of the first tether may be integrally connected to the second reinforcing patch.

[0027] According to the above structure, the area around the gas discharge portion can be reinforced to prevent damage, and at the same time, the area around the gas discharge portion of the steering side panel can be effectively pulled into the inside of the chamber when the first tether is tightened.

[0028] The above-mentioned airbag cushion also has a prescribed slit formed near the edge of one side of the gas discharge part, and one or more other ends of the first tether can also be connected near the edge of the other side of the gas discharge part outside the chamber while being exposed from the slit to the outside of the chamber and passing over the gas discharge part.

[0029] According to the above configuration, it is also possible to adjust the amount of gas discharged from the gas discharge portion using the first tie.

[0030] The other end of the above-mentioned first tether is provided with one, and the other end is connected to the edge of the gas exhaust part outside the chamber. The airbag cushion also has a specified ring portion, which is arranged in the edge of the gas exhaust part near the edge on the opposite side of the edge of the other end of the first tether connected to the edge. One end side of the first tether can also pass over the top of the gas exhaust part and be inserted from the gas exhaust part to the inside of the chamber in a state of being folded back at the ring portion.

[0031] This structure also makes it possible to adjust the amount of gas discharged from the gas discharge portion using the first tie.

[0032] The other end portion of the first tether may be provided in plurality, and the plurality of other end portions may be connected to the vicinity of respective opposite edge portions of the gas discharge portion.

[0033] According to the above configuration, the edge of the gas discharge portion is pulled into the inner side of the chamber to reduce the opening area of ​​the gas discharge portion, thereby suppressing the amount of gas discharged.

[0034] The above-mentioned gas exhaust portion can also be formed by being cut into a straight line, a rectangle or an ellipse, and there are two of the multiple other end portions of the first tie, and the two other end portions of the first tie are connected to the edge of the straight line, rectangle or ellipse The gas exhaust portion is near the center of each of the two opposite long sides.

[0035] According to the gas discharge portion and the first tether of the above-described structure, the amount of gas discharged can be suppressed when the inflation and deployment of the airbag cushion are completed, and the amount of gas discharged can be increased when the occupant comes into contact with the airbag cushion, with a simple structure.

[0036] The above-mentioned gas exhaust portion can also be a state in which a specified portion of the turning side panel is cut along multiple intersecting lines, thereby forming multiple free ends at the edge of the gas exhaust portion, and the multiple other end portions of the first strap are respectively connected to the multiple free ends formed at the edge of the gas exhaust portion.

[0037] With the gas discharge portion and the first tether having the above-described structure, it is also possible to suppress the amount of gas discharged when the inflation and deployment of the airbag cushion are completed and to increase the amount of gas discharged when the occupant comes into contact with the airbag cushion with a simple structure.

[0038] Effects of the Invention

[0039] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a vehicle airbag device that improves occupant restraint performance and safety with a simple structure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0040] Figure 1 It is a diagram schematically illustrating a vehicle airbag device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 2 It is shown from all directions Figure 1 (b) is a perspective view of the airbag cushion when inflated and deployed.

[0042] Figure 3 This is an example showing Figure 2 (b) Diagram of the structure around the secondary ligament.

[0043] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 (b) are cross-sectional views of the airbag cushion.

[0044] Figure 5 This is an example Figure 4 A diagram showing the state of the airbag cushion when the occupant is restrained.

[0045] Figure 6 This is an example showing Figure 3 FIG. 4 is a diagram of a modification of the secondary ligament.

[0046] Figure 7 This is an example showing Figure 3 (b) is a diagram of a modified example of the exhaust hole.

[0047] Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating a first reinforcement patch that may be installed around the exhaust hole of the steering side panel.

[0048] Fig. 9 is a diagram illustrating a second reinforcement patch that may be installed around the exhaust hole of the steering side panel.

[0049] Fig.10 These are the second and third variations of the second reinforcement patch.

[0050] Fig.11 yes Figure 3 (b) Another variation of the exhaust hole and the auxiliary tether.

[0051] Fig.12 This is an example Figure 5 FIG. 2 is a diagram of another variation of the first tether.

[0052] Fig.13 This is an example Figure 3 (a) is a diagram of another modified example of the first tether.

[0053] Fig.14 This is an example Figure 3 (b) is a diagram of another modified example of the first tether.

[0054] Fig.15 This is an example Figure 2 (a) is a diagram of another modified example of the gas exhaust portion. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0055] Hereinafter, the preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The dimensions, materials, and other specific numerical values ​​shown in the above embodiments are only for illustration to facilitate understanding of the invention, and unless otherwise specified, do not limit the present invention. In addition, in this specification and the accompanying drawings, for elements having substantially the same function and structure, repeated description is omitted by marking the same symbols, and elements that are not directly related to the present invention are omitted from the drawings.

[0056] Figure 1 FIG1( a ) is a diagram showing an overview of a vehicle airbag device (hereinafter referred to as an airbag device 100) according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG1( a ) is a diagram showing a vehicle before the airbag device 100 is activated. Figure 1 In other drawings, arrows F (Forward) and B (Back) are used to indicate the front and rear directions of the vehicle, arrows L (Left) and R (Right) are used to indicate the left and right directions of the vehicle width, and arrows U (up) and D (down) are used to indicate the up and down directions of the vehicle.

[0057] In the present embodiment, the airbag device 100 is implemented as a driver's seat (front left seat 102) in a left-side steering wheel vehicle. In the following, the explanation is made assuming the front right seat 102, and for example, the outer side of the vehicle in the vehicle width direction (hereinafter referred to as the outer side of the vehicle) refers to the left side of the vehicle, and the inner side in the vehicle width direction (hereinafter referred to as the inner side of the vehicle) refers to the right side of the vehicle. In addition, in the present embodiment, from the perspective of an occupant who is properly seated on the seat 102, the front direction is recorded as "front" and the back direction is recorded as "rear". Similarly, the right hand direction of a properly seated occupant is recorded as "right", and the left hand direction is recorded as "left". Furthermore, relative to the body center of the occupant at this time, the direction toward the head is set to "up", and the direction toward the feet is set to "down".

[0058] The airbag cushion 104 of the airbag device 100 (see Figure 1 (b)) In a folded or rolled state, the seat 102 is accommodated in a hub 108 at the center of the steering wheel 106 in front of the normal seating position of the seat 102. An inflator (not shown) for supplying gas is also accommodated in the hub 108 together with the airbag cushion 104. When an impact occurs to the vehicle, a signal is sent from a sensor (not shown) to the inflator, and gas is supplied from the inflator to the airbag cushion 104.

[0059] Figure 1(b) is a diagram showing a vehicle after the airbag cushion 104 of the airbag device 100 is inflated and deployed. When the airbag cushion 104 receives gas from the inflator, it ruptures the cover portion of the surface of the wheel hub 108 and the like, and the steering wheel 106 (see FIG. Figure 1 (a)) inflates and expands between the occupant in the driver's seat to restrain the occupant's upper body and head when the occupant moves forward. The airbag cushion 104 is circular when viewed from the seat side and is formed by overlapping and sewing or bonding a plurality of base fabrics constituting its surface.

[0060] Figure 2 It is shown from all directions Figure 1 (b) is a perspective view of the airbag cushion 104 when inflated and deployed. Figure 2 (a) shows an example of a vehicle viewed from the upper left in the vehicle width direction. Figure 1 (b) The airbag cushion 104 of this embodiment is substantially in the shape of a flat sphere and is configured to include a passenger side panel 114 located on the passenger side and a steering wheel 106 (see FIG. Figure 1 (a)) side steering panel 116. Both the passenger side panel 114 and the steering side panel 116 are circular, connected at their edges, and form a bag-shaped chamber 105 as a chamber for accumulating gas. In addition, since the passenger side panel 114 is located in front of the passenger, it is also called the front panel, and the steering side panel 116 is located in the back of the passenger, it is also called the rear panel.

[0061] Figure 2 (b) shows an example of the vehicle width direction viewed from the upper left side of the steering side panel 116. Figure 2 (a) shows the state of the airbag cushion 104. In the center of the steering side panel 116, an inflator insertion portion 118 is provided into which a part of an inflator (not shown) is inserted.

[0062] In the airbag cushion 104 of the airbag device 100, as a characteristic part, a gas discharge portion 120 which is cut into a straight and elongated shape is provided on the upper part of the steering side panel 116. In addition, a first tether 124 (see FIG. 1 ) described later is connected to the side of the gas discharge portion 120. Figure 3 The first tie 124 is a member for changing the amount of gas discharged from the gas discharge portion 120, and the other ends 128a, 128b of the first tie 124 are exposed from the gas discharge portion 120 and connected to the outer side of the steering side panel 116.

[0063] Figure 3 It is an example Figure 2 (b) is a diagram of the peripheral structure of the first tether 124. Figure 3(a) is a diagram showing the first tether 124 and the second tether 122 through the inside of the chamber 105 of the airbag cushion 104. The second tether 122 and the first tether 124 are provided as a plurality of tethers inside the chamber 105 of the airbag cushion 104. These tethers are in a tight state when the inside of the chamber 105 is filled with gas, and the gas discharge portion 120 of the steering side panel 116 is pulled into the inside of the chamber 105, thereby reducing the opening area of ​​the gas discharge portion 120 and suppressing the discharge amount of gas.

[0064] The state in which the chamber 105 is filled with gas refers to the state at the time when the internal pressure of the chamber 105 reaches a value capable of restraining the occupant from the start of the operation of the inflator (not shown) supplying gas to the end of the operation, and the state thereafter. That is, the state in which the chamber 105 is filled with gas includes not only the state at the end of the operation of the inflator, but also the state in which the internal pressure of the chamber 105 rises to a level capable of restraining the occupant during the operation of the inflator.

[0065] The second tether 122 is formed in a belt shape with a width wider than the first tether 124 and is mounted on the passenger side panel 114 (see Figure 2 (b)) and the slightly upper part of the inner side of the turning side panel 116. At this time, the second tether 122 is set to form a plane that expands forward, backward, left and right when tightened.

[0066] The first tether 124 is a belt-shaped member having a narrower width than the second tether 122, and has one end 126 and two other ends 128a and 128b branching therefrom. The one end 126 of the first tether 124 is connected to a portion near the center of the second tether 122, and is indirectly connected to the passenger side panel 114 (see Figure 2 (b)) and the inner side of the turning side panel 116 are connected.

[0067] The other ends 128a and 128b of the first tether 124 pass through the gas discharge portion 120 (see Figure 2 (b)) In a state where the gas discharge portion 120 is exposed to the outside of the chamber 105, the gas discharge portion 120 is connected to the vicinity of the turning side panel 116 outside the chamber 105.

[0068] Figure 3 (b) is an enlarged example showing Figure 2 (b) shows the gas discharge portion 120 and the other end portions 128a, 128b of the first tie 124. As described above, the gas discharge portion 120 is formed by cutting the upper portion of the turn side panel 116 into a straight line. The end portions 130a, 130b of the gas discharge portion 120 in the longitudinal direction are opened in a circular shape to avoid the concentration of load.

[0069] The other ends 128a, 128b of the first tie 124 are connected to the vicinity of the center of each of the two opposite long sides 120a, 120b of the edge portion of the gas discharge portion 120 of the turning side panel 116. According to this structure, when the other ends 128a, 128b of the first tie 124 are connected to the second tie 122 (refer to Figure 3 (a)) When the first tether 124 is tightened, the area around the gas discharge portion 120 of the steering side panel 116 can be effectively pulled into the passenger side panel 114, that is, the inner side of the chamber 105. That is, the edge of the gas discharge portion 120 can be pulled into the chamber 105 by the tension of the first tether 124 (see Figure 3 (a)) The inner state.

[0070] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 (b) are cross-sectional views of the airbag cushion 104 . Figure 4 (a) Yes Figure 1 (b) is a cross-sectional view taken along AA of the airbag cushion 104. The cross-sectional view taken along AA is a longitudinal cross-sectional view taken along the front-rear direction of the airbag cushion 104 in a state where the airbag cushion 104 is fully inflated and deployed and before the occupant is restrained.

[0071] When the gas fills the chamber 105, the second tether 122 and the first tether 124 are in a tight state. At this time, the gas discharge portion 120 of the passenger side panel 114 is pulled toward the passenger side panel 114 and into the inner side of the chamber 105 through the other end portions 128a and 128b (see FIG. 3(b)) of the tight first tether 124, thereby reducing the opening area compared to when the first tether 124 is relaxed. Through this action, the airbag cushion 104 can reduce the amount of gas discharged from the gas discharge portion and maintain the internal pressure of the chamber 105 high before contacting the passenger.

[0072] The width of the other end 128a of the first tie 124 is configured to be smaller than the length in the longitudinal direction of the gas discharge portion 120. The first tie 124 is preferably used because it is not blocked or clogged by the gas discharge portion 120 and does not hinder the discharge of gas from the gas discharge portion 120.

[0073] Figure 4 (b) Yes Figure 1 (b) is a BB cross-sectional view of the airbag cushion 104. Figure 4 (a) Similarly, a cross section in the front-rear direction of the airbag cushion 104 before the occupant is restrained.

[0074] When the gas fills the chamber 105, the second tie 122 becomes taut in the front-to-back direction. Furthermore, the first tie 124 is pulled from one end 126 toward the second tie 122, and the gas discharge portion 120 is pulled into the inner side of the chamber 105. At this time, at the other ends 128a and 128b of the two strands of the first tie 124, one end 126 is stretched, thereby exerting a force that forces the two strands to close and become straight. As a result, the gas discharge portion 120 (see Figure 3 (b)) The opening action is hindered and the opening area is reduced.

[0075] Furthermore, when the lengths of the other ends 128a and 128b of the first tie 124 are set shorter, the force for closing the gas discharge portion 120 is increased. For example, the lengths of the other ends 128a and 128b can be set to be less than half of the overall length of the first tie 124.

[0076] Figure 5 This is an example showing Figure 4 FIG. 1 is a diagram of the airbag cushion 104 when an occupant is restrained. Figure 5 (a) schematically illustrates when the occupant 132 contacts Figure 5 (a) The situation when the passenger side panel 114 of the airbag cushion 104 is in contact with the passenger side panel 114. When the passenger 132 contacts the passenger side panel 114, the chamber 105 of the airbag cushion 104 becomes sandwiched between the passenger 132 and the steering wheel 106 (see Figure 1 (a)) between the passenger side panel 114 and the steering side panel 116, the dimension in the front-rear direction is reduced. Then, by reducing the distance between the passenger side panel 114 and the steering side panel 116, the second tether 122 becomes loose, and similarly the first tether 124 also becomes loose. As a result, the gas exhaust portion 120 can be released from the other end portions 128a, 128b (see Figure 3 (b)) Release and open from the tensioning force.

[0077] Figure 5 (b) schematically illustrates the occupant 132 and Figure 4 (b) is a situation when the passenger side panel 114 of the airbag cushion 104 is in contact with the airbag cushion 104. When the second tether 122 and the first tether 124 are loosened, the gas discharge portion 120 opens to the left and right, the opening area increases, and the amount of gas discharged increases.

[0078] As described above, when the airbag cushion 104 is inflated and deployed (see FIG. 4 ), the first tether 124 is in a tight state, and the opening area of ​​the gas discharge portion 120 is reduced. Figure 5), the first tether 124 is loosened, and the opening area of ​​the gas discharge portion 120 increases. Therefore, the airbag cushion 104 can reduce the amount of gas discharged until the occupant 132 contacts, maintain the internal pressure of the chamber 105, and increase the amount of gas discharged when the occupant 132 contacts, thereby suppressing the load applied to the occupant 132.

[0079] As described above, according to the airbag device 100 , the occupant restraint performance and the improvement of safety can be achieved by a simple structure including the elongated gas discharge portion 120 and the first tether 124 that can be realized at low cost.

[0080] (Variation Example)

[0081] The following describes modifications of the above-mentioned components. Fig. 9 to Fig.15 In each figure, the same reference numerals are given to the same elements as those already described, thereby omitting the description of the already described elements. In addition, in the following description, even if different reference numerals are given to the components with the same names as those already described, they have the same functions unless otherwise specified.

[0082] Figure 6 This is an example showing Figure 3 FIG. 1 is a diagram of a modified example of the first tether 124 .

[0083] Figure 6 (a) is a diagram showing a first strap 160 of a first variant. The first strap 160 is configured such that a slit 164 is provided in the middle of a strap member 162 in the longitudinal direction, another strap member 166 is passed through, and the root of the strap member 166 is connected to the strap member 162. The first strap 160 can also be used to Figure 3 The first tie 124 has the same function and effect.

[0084] Figure 6 (b) is a diagram showing a first tether 180 of a second modified example. In the first tether 180, a two-strand structure is achieved by connecting a longer string component 182 to another shorter string component 184. The first tether 180 can also be used in conjunction with Figure 3 The first tie 124 has the same function and effect. In particular, the first rope-shaped tie 180 has a smaller length in the longitudinal direction relative to the gas discharge portion 120, so it will not be blocked by the gas discharge portion 120 or block the gas discharge portion 120, and will not affect the discharge of gas.

[0085] Figure 7 This is an example showing Figure 3 (b) is a diagram showing a modified example of the gas exhaust unit 120. Figure 7(a) is a diagram showing a gas exhaust portion 200 of a first modified example. The gas exhaust portion 200 is formed by cutting a portion of the turning side panel 116 into a rectangular shape. The gas exhaust portion 200 can also be used in conjunction with the Figure 3 (b) has the same function and effect as the gas exhaust part 120.

[0086] Figure 7 (b) is a diagram showing a gas exhaust unit 220 according to a second modification. Figure 7 Compared with the gas discharge part 200 of (a), the gas discharge part 220 is a rectangular shape with rounded corners at the end. In the case of the gas discharge part 220, since there is no internal angle, the load of gas pressure is less likely to be concentrated, and damage can be appropriately prevented.

[0087] Figure 7 (c) is a diagram showing a gas exhaust portion 240 of a third modified example. The gas exhaust portion 240 is formed in an almond shape. The gas exhaust portion 240 is formed by cutting a portion of the turning side panel 116 into an elliptical shape. The gas exhaust portion 240 can also be used to Figure 3 (b) has the same function and effect as the gas exhaust part 120.

[0088] Figure 8 1 is a diagram illustrating a first reinforcement patch 260 that may be installed around the gas discharge portion 120 of the turning side panel 116 . Figure 8 (a) is a diagram showing a single example of the first reinforcing patch 260. The first reinforcing patch 260 is formed into a rounded rectangular shape using the same base fabric as the steering side panel 116, and has a slit 262 in the center. The first reinforcing patch 260 is formed by aligning the slit 262 with the gas discharge portion 120 (see Figure 3 (b)) The gas discharge portion 120 is overlapped and installed around it by sewing or the like, so that the gas discharge portion 120 is protected from damage due to gas pressure.

[0089] Figure 8 (b) is an example showing Figure 8 (a) is a diagram showing the installation state of the first reinforcing patch 260. The other ends 128a and 128b of the first tether 124 pass through the gas discharge portion 120 (see Figure 3 (b)) and the slit 262 of the first reinforcing patch 260 are exposed to the outside of the chamber 105, and are connected to the turning side panel 116 together with the first reinforcing patch 260 by sewing or the like.

[0090] Figure 8 (c) Yes Figure 8(b) is a CC cross-sectional view of the first reinforcing patch 260 and the first tie 124. The first reinforcing patch 260 is installed around the gas discharge portion 120 of the turning side panel 116 on the outside of the chamber 105 together with the other ends 128a and 128b of the first tie 124. With this structure, the area around the gas discharge portion 120 can be reinforced to prevent damage, and the area around the gas discharge portion 120 can be effectively pulled into the inside of the chamber 105 when the first tie 124 is tightened.

[0091] Figure 8 (d) Yes Figure 8 (c) is a first modification of the first reinforcing patch 260 and the first tie 124. The other ends 128a, 128b of the first tie 124 may also be sewn to the turning side panel 116 and the first reinforcing patch 260 from the inside of the chamber 105. With this structure, reinforcement around the gas discharge portion 120 and retraction of the gas discharge portion 120 can also be achieved.

[0092] Figure 8 (e) Yes Figure 8 (c) A second modified example of the first reinforcing patch 260 and the first tether 124. The other end portions 128a, 128b of the first tether 124 may also be wound from the upper side to the lower side of the first reinforcing patch 260 after passing through the gas discharge portion 120 and the slit 262 of the first reinforcing patch 260, and connected to the turning side panel 116 together with the first reinforcing patch 260. According to this structure, the other end portions 128a, 128b of the first tether 124 and the first reinforcing patch 260 can be connected more firmly.

[0093] Figure 8 (f) Yes Figure 8 (c) A third modified example of the first reinforcing patch 260 and the first tether 124. In this modified example, slits 264a and 264b are provided on both sides of the gas discharge portion 120 in the turning side panel 116.

[0094] The other end portions 128a and 128b of the first tether 124 may also pass through the gas discharge portion 120 and the slit 262 of the first reinforcing patch 260, and then return to the inner side of the chamber 105 through the slits 264a and 264b, and be connected to the turning side panel 116 together with the first reinforcing patch 260. With this structure, the other end portions 128a and 128b of the first tether 124 can also be firmly connected to the turning side panel 116 and the first reinforcing patch 260.

[0095] In addition, Figure 8In each of the illustrated embodiments, the first tie 124 may have only one other end 128a, and the only other end 128a is connected to the first reinforcing patch 260, etc. With this structure, the gas exhaust part 120 can be pulled into the inner side of the chamber 105.

[0096] Fig. 9 1 is a diagram illustrating a second reinforcement patch 300 that may be installed around the gas discharge portion 120 of the turning side panel 116 . Fig. 9 (a) is a diagram showing the second reinforcing patch 300 alone, and Figure 8 The difference between the structure of the first reinforcing patch 260 of (a) is that the second reinforcing patch 300 and the first lace 124 (see Fig. 9 (b)) The other end portions 128a and 128b are connected as one.

[0097] Fig. 9 (b) is an example showing Fig. 9 (a) is a diagram showing the arrangement of the second reinforcing patch 300. In the second reinforcing patch 300, the other ends 128a and 128b on both sides can be folded back and passed through the slit 262 and the gas discharge portion 120 (see Figure 3 (b)), and is provided on the turning side panel 116 by sewing around the gas discharge portion 120, etc.

[0098] Fig. 9 (c) Yes Fig. 9 (b) is a DD cross-sectional view of the second reinforcing patch 300. The second reinforcing patch 300 is installed around the gas discharge portion 120 outside the chamber 105 together with the other end portions 128a and 128b of the first tie 124. With this structure, the area around the gas discharge portion 120 can be reinforced to prevent damage, and the area around the gas discharge portion 120 can be effectively pulled into the inside of the chamber 105 when the first tie 124 is tightened.

[0099] Fig. 9 (d) Yes Fig. 9 (c) A first modification of the second reinforcing patch 300. The other ends 128a and 128b of the first tether 124 may also be connected to the turning side panel 116 together with the second reinforcing patch 300 while being inserted into the inner side of the chamber 105 through the slits 264a and 264b. With this structure, the other ends 128a and 128b of the first tether 124 can also be firmly connected to the turning side panel 116 and the first reinforcing patch 260.

[0100] Fig.1010(a) shows a second reinforcing patch 320 of the second modified example. The second reinforcing patch 320 is configured such that the curved patches 320a and 320b are respectively connected to the first strap 124 (see FIG. 10(a) and FIG. 10(b)). Figure 3 The other ends 128a and 128b of (a)) are connected as one.

[0101] Fig.10 (b) Yes Fig.10 (a) is an example of the second reinforcing patch 320. The second reinforcing patch 320 is arranged so that the other end portions 128a and 128b are inserted into the gas discharge portion 120, and the patches 320a and 320b are arranged and joined to form a circle around the gas discharge portion 120. The second reinforcing patch 320 can also appropriately reinforce the periphery of the gas discharge portion 120.

[0102] Fig.10 (c) shows a second reinforcing patch 340 of a third modified example. The second reinforcing patch 340 is configured such that the angular patches 340a and 340b are respectively connected to the first strap 124 (see Figure 3 The other end portions 128a and 128b of (a)) are connected to form a whole and have a rectangular shape.

[0103] Fig.10 (d) Yes Fig.10 (c) is an example of the second reinforcing patch 340. The second reinforcing patch 340 is arranged so that the other end portions 128a and 128b are inserted into the gas discharge portion 120, and the patches 340a and 340b are arranged and joined around the gas discharge portion 120 to form a rectangular shape. The second reinforcing patch 340 can also appropriately reinforce the periphery of the gas discharge portion 120.

[0104] In addition, Fig. 9 , 10 In each of the illustrated embodiments, only one other end 128a may be provided on the first tie 124 so that the end 128a is integrated with only one of the pair of second reinforcing patches in each embodiment.

[0105] Fig.11 yes Figure 3 (b) is another modified example of the gas discharge portion 120 and the first tether 124. Fig.11 (a) shows three gas discharge parts 360 and first tie 362. The gas discharge part 360 is a state where a predetermined part of the turning side panel 116 is cut so that three straight lines intersect at one point. In addition, the first tie 362 has three other end parts 362a to 362c.

[0106] Three free ends 360a to 360c are formed by three straight lines intersecting at the edge of the gas discharge portion 360. The other ends 362a to 362c of the first tie 362 are connected to the free ends 360a to 360c of the gas discharge portion 360, respectively.

[0107] Even through the gas exhaust portion 360 and the first tether 362, when the gas fills the chamber 105 (refer to Figure 4 ), the free ends 360a to 360c of the gas discharge portion 360 can be pulled into the inner side of the chamber 105 by the tightened first tether 362, and the gas discharge portion 360 can be reduced to suppress the amount of gas discharged. Figure 5 ) when it contacts the passenger side panel of the chamber 105, the first tether 362 can be relaxed and the gas discharge portion 360 can be opened wider to increase the amount of gas discharged.

[0108] Fig.11 (b) shows an example of four gas exhaust parts 380 and a first tie 382. The gas exhaust part 380 is formed by cutting a predetermined portion of the turning side panel 116 in a manner that four straight lines intersect at one point, and four free ends 380a to 380d are formed at the edge. In addition, the other ends 382a to 382d of the four branches of the first tie 382 are connected to the free ends 380a to 380d of the gas exhaust part 380, respectively.

[0109] Even through the gas discharge portion 380 and the first tether 382, ​​when the gas fills the chamber 105 (refer to Figure 4 ), the free ends 380a to 380c of the gas discharge portion 380 can be pulled into the inner side of the chamber 105 by the tightened first tether 382, ​​and the gas discharge portion 380 can be reduced to suppress the amount of gas discharged. Figure 5 ) when in contact with the airbag cushion 104, the first tether 382 can be relaxed and the gas discharge portion 380 can be opened wider to increase the amount of gas discharged.

[0110] Fig.12 This is an example showing Figure 5 FIG. 4 is a diagram of another modified example (first tether 400 ) of the first tether 124 . Fig.12 (a) is an example showing the corresponding Figure 5 (a) is a diagram of a first tether 400 of a modified example. One end 402 of the first tether 400 is directly connected to the passenger side panel 114 of the chamber 105. Therefore, in this modified example, the second tether 122 (see Figure 5 (a)).

[0111] In this modified example as well, when the passenger 132 comes into contact with the passenger side panel 114 and the dimension of the chamber 105 in the front-to-rear direction is reduced, the first tether 400 becomes loose, the gas exhaust portion 120 is released from the force pulled by the first tether 124, and the opening area of ​​the gas exhaust portion 120 increases.

[0112] Fig.12 (b) corresponds to Figure 5 (b) is a diagram showing a first tie 400 of a modified example. As described above, by loosening the first tie 400, the gas discharge portion 120 is opened to the left and right, the opening area is increased, and the amount of gas discharged is increased. In this way, by omitting the second tie 122 (see Figure 5 (b)) The relatively simple structure of the first tether 400 can also achieve the restraint performance of the airbag cushion 104 on the occupant and improve safety.

[0113] In addition, the one end portion 402 of the first tether 400 is connected not only to the passenger side panel 114, but also to other panels near the passenger side panel 114, for example, when the chamber 105 includes other panels other than the passenger side panel 114 and the steering side panel 116. In any structure, when the passenger comes into contact with the passenger side panel 114, by connecting the one end portion 402 of the first tether 400 to a portion close to the gas discharge portion 120, the opening area of ​​the gas discharge portion 120 can be increased in conjunction with the restraint of the passenger.

[0114] Fig.13 This is an example Figure 3 (a) is a diagram of another modified example (first tether 420) of the first tether 124. The first tether 420 and the first tether 124 (refer to Figure 3 (a)) is different from the first tether 420, in which the width direction of the one end portion 422 is consistent with the width direction of the second tether 122, and the second tether 122 is connected. The first tether 420 with this structure can also produce the same function and effect as the first tether 124.

[0115] Fig.14 This is an example Figure 3 (b) is a diagram of another modified example of the first tether 124. Fig.14 (a) is a diagram showing a first tether 440 of a modified example. Figure 3 (b) is different from the first tether 124, in that the other end 442 of the first tether 440 is not branched. Figure 2 The outer side of (b)) is connected to the vicinity of an edge of one of the gas discharge portions 120 in the turning side panel 116 .

[0116] In this modification, the turning side panel 116 is formed with a slit 444 near the edge portion of the gas discharge portion 120, which is opposite to the edge portion to which the other end portion 442 of the first tie 440 is connected. One end side (not shown) of the first tie 449 is inserted into the chamber 105 (see FIG. 1 ) through the slit 444 while passing over the gas discharge portion 120. Figure 2 (b)) Inside the chamber 105, one end of the first tie 440 can be connected to Figure 3 (a) the second tether 122, or may be as Fig.12 (a) is directly connected to the passenger side panel 114 as the first tether 400.

[0117] Even in the structure using the first tether 440 whose other end 442 is not branched, the edge of the gas discharge portion 120 can be pulled into the inner side of the chamber 105 through the first tether 440 until the occupant contacts the occupant side panel 114, thereby reducing the amount of gas discharged from the gas discharge portion 120 and maintaining the internal pressure of the chamber 105. Furthermore, when the occupant contacts the occupant side panel 114, the first tether 440 is loosened, and the edge of the gas discharge portion 120 can be released, thereby increasing the amount of gas discharged from the gas discharge portion 120 and suppressing the load applied to the occupant. Therefore, according to the above structure, it is also possible to provide a vehicle airbag device with improved occupant restraint performance and safety with a simple structure that can be realized at a low cost.

[0118] Fig.14 (b) is a diagram illustrating a first tie 460 of a modified example. Furthermore, in this modified example, a ring portion 464 is provided near an edge portion of the gas discharge portion 120 of the steering side panel 116 on the side opposite to the edge portion to which the other end portion 462 of the first tie 460 is connected. The ring portion 464 is formed by sewing the vicinity of both ends of a strip of fabric to the steering side panel 116 using a predetermined sewing portion illustrated by a quadrilateral dotted line. The range between the sewn portions of the ring portion 464 is separated from the steering side panel 116, and the first tie 460 can be inserted.

[0119] One end side (not shown) of the first tether 460 passes through the space between the ring portion 464 and the turning side panel 116 after passing over the gas discharge portion 120 and being folded back at the ring portion 464, and is inserted from the gas discharge portion 120 into the inner side of the chamber 105 (see Figure 2 (b)). Inside the chamber 105, one end of the first tether 460 can be connected to Figure 3 (a) on the second strap 122, or can be Fig.12 The first tether 400 of (a) is directly connected to the passenger side panel 114.

[0120] In the structure using the first tether 460, the edge of the gas discharge portion 120 is pulled into the inner side of the chamber 105 by the first tether 460 until the occupant comes into contact with the occupant side panel 114, thereby reducing the amount of gas discharged from the gas discharge portion 120 and maintaining the internal pressure of the chamber 105. Furthermore, when the occupant comes into contact with the occupant side panel 114, the edge of the gas discharge portion 120 is released by loosening the first tether 460, increasing the amount of gas discharged from the gas discharge portion 120 and suppressing the load applied to the occupant. Therefore, according to the above structure, it is also possible to provide a vehicle airbag device with improved occupant restraint performance and safety with a simple structure that can be realized at a low cost.

[0121] Fig.15 This is an example Figure 2 (a) is a diagram showing another modified example of the gas exhaust unit 120. Fig.15 (a) is an example in which two gas exhaust parts 500, 502 are provided on one turning side panel 116. In the case where two gas exhaust parts 500, 502 are provided, two first ties 124 can be provided (see Figure 3 (b)), or the other end 128a, 128b of a first tie 124 may be connected to the edge of each of the gas discharge portions 500, 502. In this case, one end 126 of the two first ties 124 may be connected to one second tether 122, or may be connected to the other end 128a, 128b of the first tether 124. Fig.12 The first tethers 400 of (a) are connected to the passenger side panels 114, respectively.

[0122] Fig.15 (b) is an example in which three gas exhaust parts 500, 502, 504 are provided on one turning side panel 116. When three gas exhaust parts 500, 502, 504 are provided, three first ties 124 can be provided (see Figure 3 (b)), or the other end of the first tie 124 is formed into a three-strand structure, which is respectively connected to the gas exhaust parts 500, 502, and 504. As described above, the number and position of the gas exhaust parts can be appropriately set according to the internal pressure of the chamber 105 or the position where the gas can be exhausted away from the surrounding structures.

[0123] Fig.15 (c) is an example in which one gas exhaust portion 120 and two exhaust holes 520, 522 are provided on one turning side panel 116. The exhaust holes 520, 522 are also locations for exhausting gas from the interior of the chamber 105. The gas exhaust portion 120 can be provided in conjunction with the exhaust holes 520, 522, so that the internal pressure of the chamber 105 can be adjusted according to the purpose.

[0124] Fig.15 (d) is an example of providing a gas discharge portion 540 and a gas discharge hole 542 on a turning side panel 116. The gas discharge amount can be changed by increasing the diameter of the gas discharge hole. For example, the diameter of the gas discharge hole 542 is larger than Fig.15 (c) Diameter of the exhaust hole 520. In this way, the diameter of the exhaust hole and the position and number of the exhaust holes can be appropriately set according to the target internal pressure value of the chamber 105 or the position where the gas can be exhausted avoiding the surrounding structures.

[0125] The preferred embodiments of the present invention are described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, but the above-described embodiments are preferred examples of the present invention, and other embodiments may be implemented or completed by various methods. Unless otherwise specified in the subject matter of the present application specification, the present invention is not restricted by the shape, size, and structural configuration of the detailed components shown in the accompanying drawings. In addition, the expressions and terms used in the present application specification are for the purpose of explanation, and are not limited thereto unless otherwise specified in the subject matter.

[0126] Therefore, it is obvious that a person skilled in the art can conceive of various changes and modifications within the scope described in the claims, and these also belong to the technical scope of the present invention.

[0127] Industrial Applicability

[0128] The present invention can be used for a safety airbag device for restraining passengers in an emergency.

[0129] Explanation of symbols

[0130] 100... Airbag device 102... Seat

[0131] 104...airbag cushion 105...chamber

[0132] 106…Steering wheel 108…Wheel hub

[0133] 114 ... Passenger side panel 116 ... Steering side panel

[0134] 118 ...Inflator insertion portion 120 ...Gas discharge portion

[0135] 120a, 120b...long sides of the gas discharge portion

[0136] 122…Second tether 124…First tether

[0137] 126…One end

[0138] 128a, 128b ... other end

[0139] 130a, 130b ... Ends of the gas discharge portion

[0140] 132…Crew

[0141] 160…First tether of first variant example

[0142] 162 ... a belt member 164 ... a slit

[0143] 166… Another belt part

[0144] 180…First tether of the second variant

[0145] 182 ... a rope member 184 ... another rope member

[0146] 200 ... Gas exhaust portion of the first modified example

[0147] 220 ... Gas exhaust portion of the second modified example

[0148] 240 ... Gas exhaust portion of the third modified example

[0149] 260…first reinforcing patch 262…slit

[0150] 264a, 264b...slit 300...second reinforcement patch

[0151] 320…Second reinforcement patch of the second variant

[0152] 320a, 320b…SMD

[0153] 340…Second reinforcement patch of the third variant

[0154] 340a, 340b…SMD

[0155] 360…Gas exhaust portion of a modified example

[0156] 360a~360c…free end

[0157] 362…First tether of modified example

[0158] 362a~362c…other end

[0159] 380 ... Gas exhaust portion of a modified example

[0160] 380a~380d…free end

[0161] 382…First patch of the modified example

[0162] 382a~382d…other end

[0163] 400…First tether of modified example

[0164] 402…One end

[0165] 420…First tether of modified example

[0166] 422…One end

[0167] 440…First tether of modified example

[0168] 442…other end 444…slit

[0169] 460 ... first tether of the modified example 462 ... other end

[0170] 464…Ring

[0171] 500, 502, 504 ... modified example gas exhaust part

[0172] 520, 522…Exhaust hole

[0173] 540 ...Gas exhaust portion of a modified example 542 ...Exhaust hole.

Claims

1. A vehicle airbag device, characterized in that: The vehicle airbag device includes an inflator installed at a predetermined position of the vehicle and an airbag cushion that receives gas from the inflator and expands between a steering wheel and an occupant in a driver's seat. The airbag cushion has: a chamber including a passenger side panel located on the passenger side and a steering side panel located on the steering wheel side and formed into a bag shape and storing the gas; a gas discharge portion formed by cutting or cutting out the upper portion of the turning side panel along a predetermined line; A first tether is mounted at a predetermined position of the chamber, a second tether strap mounted on the passenger side panel and the steering side panel on the inner side of the chamber, The first strap has: an end portion connected to a predetermined portion of the second tether and connected to the passenger side panel or the vicinity of the passenger side panel via the second tether; The other two ends are connected to the steering side panels. The other two ends of the first tie are exposed from the gas discharge portion and connected to the outer side of the steering side panel, the other two ends of the first tie are connected to the vicinity of the center of the two opposite long sides of the edge portion of the gas discharge portion of the steering side panel, and the width of the other two ends of the first tie is smaller than the length of the gas discharge portion in the longitudinal direction. The edge of the gas discharge portion is in a state that it can be pulled into the inner side of the chamber by the tensioned first tether. When the chamber is filled with gas, the first tether is in a tight state, and the one end is stretched, so that the other ends of the first tether generate forces that close the other ends and become straight lines. The edge of the gas discharge portion is pulled into the inner side of the chamber by the other ends of the tensioned first tether toward the passenger side panel. The opening area of ​​the gas discharge portion in a state where the edge portion of the gas discharge portion is pulled into the inner side of the chamber is smaller than that when the first tie is loosened.

2. The vehicle airbag device according to claim 1, wherein: One end of the first tether is connected to the passenger side panel of the chamber.

3. The vehicle airbag device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The first strap is in the form of a belt or a rope.

4. The vehicle airbag device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The airbag cushion further includes a first reinforcement patch installed outside the chamber around the gas discharge portion of the steering side panel, One or more other ends of the first strap are connected to the first reinforcement patch.

5. The vehicle airbag device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The airbag cushion further includes a second reinforcement patch installed outside the chamber around the gas discharge portion of the steering side panel, One or more other ends of the first strap are integrally connected to the second reinforcement patch.

6. The vehicle airbag device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The airbag cushion further includes a predetermined slit formed near an edge portion on one side of the gas discharge portion. The other ends of the first tether are connected to the vicinity of the edge of the other side of the gas discharge portion outside the chamber while being exposed from the slit to the outside of the chamber and passing over the gas discharge portion.

7. The vehicle airbag device according to claim 1, wherein: The gas discharge portion is formed by being cut into a straight line, a rectangle, or an ellipse.

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