Gas generator

Abstract

A gas generator in which a gas generating agent and an igniter are housed in a housing having a gas discharge port, the housing has a circular plan view shape, the housing has a top plate, a bottom plate opposed to the top plate in an axial direction, and a peripheral wall portion between the top plate and the bottom plate, a ratio of an outer diameter D to a length L in the axial direction is L / D ≤ 1.1, the gas discharge port is blocked by a blocking member, the gas discharge port is composed of a plurality of first opening portions in which a breaking pressure P1 of the blocking member is low and a plurality of second opening portions in which a breaking pressure P2 of the blocking member is higher than the breaking pressure P1, the plurality of first opening portions and the plurality of second opening portions are formed at intervals on a circumference of the same circle in at least one of the peripheral wall portion and the top plate, and first center lines passing through a center of the same circle and centers of the first opening portions and second center lines passing through the center of the same circle and centers of the second opening portions are arranged so that an angle θ1 formed by the first center lines and the second center lines is in a range of 15° to 65°.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the Chinese Patent Application No. 201880062344.1 (PCT Application No. PCT / JP2018 / 041146) with the title of “Gas Generator” and filed on November 6, 2018. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present application relates to a gas generator that can be used as a gas generator for a safety airbag device mounted on a vehicle. BACKGROUND

[0003] A gas generator used in a safety airbag device generally has a plurality of gas discharge ports arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of a housing, and gas is discharged radially from the plurality of gas discharge ports at the time of operation of the gas generator, causing a safety airbag to expand. However, there is known an invention in which the positions, sizes, and the like of the gas discharge ports in the gas generator are adjusted in consideration of the mounting position of the safety airbag device in a vehicle, changes in the temperature environment around the safety airbag device, and the like.

[0004] In the invention of JP2008-201243A, there is disclosed a scheme in which six large-diameter gas discharge ports 15a, 15b having the same opening area are formed in the peripheral wall portion of a gas generator, and one small-diameter gas discharge port 16a, 16b is formed in a portion orthogonal to the large-diameter gas discharge ports, and the large-diameter gas discharge ports and the small-diameter gas discharge port are plugged with a sealing tape having the same thickness. At the time of operation, more gas is discharged from the large-diameter gas discharge ports 15a, 15b, causing a safety airbag to expand preferentially in a specific direction.

[0005] In the invention of JPH06-183310A, there is disclosed a gas generator in which three types of orifices having different diameters are formed in the peripheral wall portion of a housing. It is formed such that a first orifice 26 has a larger area than a second orifice 28, and the two orifices 26 and 28 are offset from each other on the housing. In addition, a third orifice 34 is formed in the end portion of the housing, and the opening area thereof is intermediate between the opening area of the first orifice 26 and the opening area of the second orifice 28. In addition, a foil 36 covering the third orifice is thicker than a foil 32 covering the first and second orifices.

[0006] These orifices are used to adjust the internal pressure of the housing and the output resulting therefrom due to differences in the ambient temperature at the time of operation. SUMMARY

[0007] A first aspect of the present application (hereinafter referred to as “first aspect”) provides a gas generator that houses a gas generating agent and an igniter in a housing having a gas discharge port, in which

[0008] The housing has a circular plan view shape, and has a top plate, a bottom plate opposed to the top plate in an axial direction, and a peripheral wall portion between the top plate and the bottom plate, and a ratio of an outer diameter D to a length L in the axial direction is L / D ≤ 1.1,

[0009] The gas discharge port is combined with a plurality of first opening portions and a plurality of second opening portions, the rupture pressure (P1) of the sealing member at the first opening portion is low, and the rupture pressure (P2) of the sealing member at the second opening portion is higher than the rupture pressure (P1),

[0010] The plurality of first opening portions and the plurality of second opening portions are formed at intervals on a circumference of the same circle in at least one of the peripheral wall portion and the top plate,

[0011] The first opening portion and the second opening portion adjacent in the circumferential direction are configured such that an angle (θ1) formed by a first center line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the first opening portion and a second center line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the second opening portion is in a range of 15° to 65°.

[0012] A second aspect of the present application (hereinafter referred to as "second aspect") provides a gas generator that houses a gas generating agent and an igniter in a housing having a gas discharge port, in which

[0013] The housing has a circular plan view shape, and has a top plate, a bottom plate opposed to the top plate in an axial direction, and a peripheral wall portion between the top plate and the bottom plate, and a ratio of an outer diameter D to a length L in the axial direction is L / D ≤ 1.1,

[0014] The gas discharge port is combined with a plurality of first opening portions and a plurality of second opening portions, the rupture pressure (P1) of the sealing member at the first opening portion is low, and the rupture pressure (P2) of the sealing member at the second opening portion is higher than the rupture pressure (P1),

[0015] The plurality of first opening portions and the plurality of second opening portions are formed at intervals on a circumference of the same circle in at least one of the peripheral wall portion and the top plate,

[0016] The plurality of first opening portions and the plurality of second opening portions are configured in any of the following (a) to (f):

[0017] (a) a plurality of first opening portion groups in which a plurality of first opening portions are arranged at intervals to form a group, and one of the plurality of second opening portions is arranged between the first opening portion groups,

[0018] (b) a plurality of second opening portion groups in which a plurality of second opening portions are arranged at intervals to form a group, and one of the plurality of first opening portions is arranged between the second opening portion groups,

[0019] (c) a plurality of first opening portion groups in which a plurality of first opening portions are arranged at intervals to form a group, and a plurality of second opening portion groups in which a plurality of second opening portions are arranged at intervals to form a group, the first opening portion groups and the second opening portion groups being arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction,

[0020] (d) in the arrangement of (c), a first opening portion or a second opening portion is arranged alone between the first opening portion groups and the second opening portion groups, between the first opening portion groups, or between the second opening portion groups,

[0021] (e) in the arrangement of (c), an arrangement in which a second opening portion is arranged alone in the first opening portion groups or a first opening portion is arranged alone in the second opening portion groups,

[0022] (f) a part of an arrangement selected from one or two or more of (a) to (e),

[0023] The first opening portion and the second opening portion adjacent in the circumferential direction are arranged so that an angle (θ1) formed by a first center line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the first opening portion and a second center line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the second opening portion is in a range of 15° to 65°.

[0024] A third aspect of the present application (hereinafter referred to as "the third aspect") provides a gas generator in which a gas generating agent and an igniter are housed in a housing having a gas discharge port, wherein

[0025] The housing has a circular plan view shape, and has a top plate, a bottom plate opposed to the top plate in the axial direction, and a peripheral wall portion between the top plate and the bottom plate, and a ratio of an outer diameter D to a length L in the axial direction is L / D ≤ 1.1,

[0026] The igniter is housed inside a cover member fixed to the bottom plate, and has a plurality of ignition holes in the peripheral wall portion,

[0027] The plurality of ignition holes are offset on the semi-circular side (first semi-circular side) of the peripheral wall of the cover member. The cover member has a circular shape in plan view and is located at a position offset from the center of the housing. The cover member is arranged in the combustion chamber formed inside the housing with its first semi-circular side positioned away from the peripheral wall of the housing.

[0028] The gas outlet is sealed by a plugging component. The gas outlet is a combination of multiple first openings and multiple second openings. The rupture pressure (P1) of the plugging component at the first opening is low, and the rupture pressure (P2) of the plugging component at the second opening is higher than the rupture pressure (P1).

[0029] The plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings are formed at intervals on the same circumference in at least one of the peripheral wall portion and the top plate.

[0030] The configuration of the plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings is any of the configurations in (a) to (f) of the second embodiment.

[0031] When the semicircular side of the housing corresponding to the first semicircular side of the peripheral wall of the cover member that is biased with the plurality of fire holes is designated as the first semicircular region, and the remaining semicircular side is designated as the second semicircular region, the ratio (A2 / A1) of the total opening area (A1) of the plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings formed in the first semicircular region to the total opening area (A2) of the plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings formed in the second semicircular region is in the range of 0.25 to 0.40.

[0032] A fourth aspect of the present invention (hereinafter referred to as "the fourth aspect") provides a gas generator that houses a gas generating agent and an igniter within a cylindrical housing having a gas outlet.

[0033] The cylindrical shell has a circular cross-sectional shape in the width direction, and the ratio of its outer diameter D to its axial length L is L / D > 1.1.

[0034] The igniter is installed at either end of the cylindrical housing.

[0035] The gas outlet is sealed by a plugging component. The gas outlet is a combination of multiple first openings and multiple second openings. The rupture pressure (P1) of the plugging component at the first opening is low, and the rupture pressure (P2) of the plugging component at the second opening is higher than the rupture pressure (P1).

[0036] The plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings are formed on the circumference of the same circle on the peripheral wall of the cylindrical shell.

[0037] The first opening and the second opening adjacent in the circumferential direction are configured such that the angle (θ1) formed by the first center line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the first opening and the second center line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the second opening is in the range of 15° to 65°.

[0038] A fifth aspect of the present invention (hereinafter referred to as "the fifth aspect") provides a gas generator that houses a gas generating agent and an igniter within a cylindrical housing having a gas outlet.

[0039] The cylindrical shell has a circular cross-sectional shape in the width direction, and the ratio of its outer diameter D to its axial length L is L / D > 1.1.

[0040] The igniter is installed at either end of the cylindrical housing.

[0041] The gas outlet is sealed by a plugging component. The gas outlet is a combination of multiple first openings and multiple second openings. The rupture pressure (P1) of the plugging component at the first opening is low, and the rupture pressure (P2) of the plugging component at the second opening is higher than the rupture pressure (P1).

[0042] The plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings are formed on the circumference of the same circle on the peripheral wall of the cylindrical shell.

[0043] The configuration of the plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings is as follows:

[0044] (a) A configuration having a plurality of first openings arranged in a group at intervals from each other, and one of the plurality of second openings disposed between the groups of first openings.

[0045] (b) A configuration in which a plurality of second openings are arranged in a group at intervals from each other, and one of the plurality of first openings is disposed among the groups of second openings.

[0046] (c) The configuration formed by combining the configuration of (a) and the configuration of (b).

[0047] (d) In the configuration described in (c), a first opening or a second opening is individually arranged between the first opening group and the second opening group, between the first opening groups of each other, or between the second opening groups of each other.

[0048] (e) In the configuration described in (c), either a second opening is provided separately within the first group of openings, or a first opening is provided separately within the second group of openings.

[0049] (f) A configuration that includes a portion of one or more configurations selected from (a) to (e).

[0050] The axial direction is formed with multiple rows of configurations selected from one or more of (a) to (f).

[0051] This invention also includes the following technical solutions:

[0052] (1) A gas generator, which contains a gas generating agent and an igniter within a housing having a gas outlet.

[0053] The shell has a circular shape when viewed from above. It has a top plate, a bottom plate axially opposite the top plate, and a peripheral wall between the top and bottom plates. The ratio of the outer diameter D to the axial length L is L / D ≤ ​​1.1.

[0054] The gas outlet is sealed by a plugging component. The gas outlet is a combination of multiple first openings and multiple second openings. The rupture pressure (P1) of the plugging component at the first opening is low, and the rupture pressure (P2) of the plugging component at the second opening is higher than the rupture pressure (P1).

[0055] The plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings are formed at intervals on the circumference of the same circle in at least one of the peripheral wall portion and the top plate.

[0056] The first opening and the second opening adjacent in the circumferential direction are configured such that the angle (θ1) formed by the first center line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the first opening and the second center line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the second opening is in the range of 15° to 65°.

[0057] (2) A gas generator, which contains a gas generating agent and an igniter within a housing having a gas outlet.

[0058] The shell has a circular shape when viewed from above. It has a top plate, a bottom plate axially opposite the top plate, and a peripheral wall between the top and bottom plates. The ratio of the outer diameter D to the axial length L is L / D ≤ ​​1.1.

[0059] The gas outlet is sealed by a plugging component. The gas outlet is a combination of multiple first openings and multiple second openings. The rupture pressure (P1) of the plugging component at the first opening is low, and the rupture pressure (P2) of the plugging component at the second opening is higher than the rupture pressure (P1).

[0060] The plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings are formed at intervals on the circumference of the same circle in at least one of the peripheral wall portion and the top plate.

[0061] The arrangement of the plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings is any arrangement selected from (a) to (f) below:

[0062] (a) A plurality of first openings arranged in a group at intervals from each other, wherein one of the plurality of second openings is disposed between the groups of first openings.

[0063] (b) A plurality of second openings arranged in a group at intervals from each other, wherein one of the plurality of first openings is disposed between the groups of second openings.

[0064] (c) A plurality of first opening groups having the plurality of first openings arranged in a group spaced apart from each other, and a plurality of second opening groups having the plurality of second openings arranged in a group spaced apart from each other, the first opening groups and the second opening groups being arranged spaced apart in the circumferential direction.

[0065] (d) In the configuration described in (c), a first opening or a second opening is individually disposed between the first opening group and the second opening group, between the first opening groups of each other, or between the second opening groups of each other.

[0066] (e) In the configuration described in (c), there is a configuration in which a second opening is separately arranged in the first group of openings, or a configuration in which a first opening is separately arranged in the second group of openings.

[0067] (f) includes a portion of one or more configurations selected from (a) to (e).

[0068] The first opening and the second opening adjacent in the circumferential direction are configured such that the angle (θ1) formed by the first center line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the first opening and the second center line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the second opening is in the range of 15° to 65°.

[0069] (3) In the gas generator described in (2) above, wherein,

[0070] In the configurations described in (b), (c), (d), and (e), the plurality of second openings forming the second opening group are spaced equally apart, and the angle (θ2) formed by the two center lines passing through the center of the same circle and the center of each adjacent second opening is in the range of 10° to 30°, and θ1 > θ2.

[0071] (4) In the gas generator described in (2) above, wherein,

[0072] In the configuration described in (a), the plurality of first openings forming the first opening group are spaced equally (L1) from each other.

[0073] The interval (L3) between L1 and the first opening and the second opening adjacent to it in the circumferential direction has the relationship L1 < L3.

[0074] (5) In the gas generator described in (2) above, wherein,

[0075] In the configuration described in (b), the plurality of second openings forming the second opening group are spaced equally (L2) from each other.

[0076] The interval (L3) between L2 and the second opening and the first opening adjacent to it in the circumferential direction has a relationship of L3 > L2.

[0077] (6) In the gas generator described in (2) above, wherein,

[0078] In the configuration described in (c), the plurality of first openings forming the first opening group are spaced equally (L1), and the plurality of second openings forming the second opening group are spaced equally (L2).

[0079] The L1, the L2, and the interval (L3) between the adjacent first and second openings in the circumferential direction have the relationship L3 > L1 and L3 > L2.

[0080] (7) In the gas generator described in (2) above, wherein,

[0081] In the configuration described in (d), the plurality of first openings forming the first opening group are spaced equally (L1), and the plurality of second openings forming the second opening group are spaced equally (L2).

[0082] L1, L2, and the interval (L3) between the first opening group and the second opening group, which is separately arranged between the first opening group and the second opening group, and the second opening group (adjacent second opening) adjacent to the separately arranged first opening, or the interval (L3) between the second opening group and the first opening group (adjacent 1 opening) adjacent to the separately arranged second opening, have the relationship L3 > L1 and L3 > L2.

[0083] (8) In the gas generator described in (2) above, wherein,

[0084] In the configuration described in (e),

[0085] The plurality of first openings forming the first opening group are spaced equally (L1) from each other, and the distance (L3) between the first openings and the adjacent second openings in the circumferential direction has the relationship L3 > L1.

[0086] The plurality of second openings forming the second opening group are spaced equally (L2) from each other, and the L2 has a relationship of L3 > L2 with respect to the spacing (L3) between the second opening and the first opening adjacent to it in the circumferential direction.

[0087] (9) The gas generator of any one of (1) to (8) above, wherein,

[0088] Regarding the plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings,

[0089] When the plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings are formed on the peripheral wall portion, they are formed in multiple rows on the same circumference at different height positions on the peripheral wall portion.

[0090] When the plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings are formed on the top plate, they are formed in multiple rows on the top plate in a manner that constitutes multiple layers of circles.

[0091] (10) A gas generator, wherein a gas generating agent and an igniter are housed within a housing having a gas outlet, wherein,

[0092] The shell has a circular shape when viewed from above. It has a top plate, a bottom plate axially opposite the top plate, and a peripheral wall between the top and bottom plates. The ratio of the outer diameter D to the axial length L is L / D ≤ ​​1.1.

[0093] The igniter is housed inside a cover member, which is fixed to the base plate, with its opening side abutting against the base plate and having multiple ignition holes on its peripheral wall. These ignition holes are offset to the semi-circular side (first semi-circular side) of the peripheral wall of the cover member. The cover member has a circular shape in plan view and is located offset from the center of the housing. The cover member is positioned within a combustion chamber formed inside the housing, with its first semi-circular side away from the peripheral wall of the housing. The gas outlet is sealed by a sealing member, which is a combination of multiple first openings and multiple second openings. The rupture pressure (P1) of the sealing member at the first opening is low, while the rupture pressure (P2) of the sealing member at the second opening is higher than the rupture pressure (P1).

[0094] The plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings are formed at intervals on the same circumference in at least one of the peripheral wall portion and the top plate.

[0095] The arrangement of the plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings is any of the arrangements in (a) to (e) of claims 2.

[0096] When the semicircular side of the housing corresponding to the semicircular side of the peripheral wall of the cover member that is biased with the plurality of fire holes is designated as the first semicircular region, and the remaining semicircular side is designated as the second semicircular region, the ratio (A2 / A1) of the total opening area (A1) of the plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings formed in the first semicircular region to the total opening area (A2) of the plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings formed in the second semicircular region is in the range of 0.25 to 0.40.

[0097] (11) A gas generator, wherein a gas generating agent and an igniter are housed within a cylindrical housing having a gas outlet, wherein,

[0098] The cylindrical shell has a circular cross-sectional shape in the width direction, and the ratio of its outer diameter D to its axial length L is L / D > 1.1.

[0099] The igniter is installed at either end of the cylindrical housing.

[0100] The gas outlet is sealed by a plugging component. The gas outlet is a combination of multiple first openings and multiple second openings. The rupture pressure (P1) of the plugging component at the first opening is low, and the rupture pressure (P2) of the plugging component at the second opening is higher than the rupture pressure (P1).

[0101] The plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings are formed on the circumference of the same circle on the peripheral wall of the cylindrical shell.

[0102] The first opening and the second opening adjacent in the circumferential direction are configured such that the angle (θ1) formed by the first center line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the first opening and the second center line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the second opening is in the range of 15° to 65°.

[0103] (12) A gas generator, wherein a gas generating agent and an igniter are housed within a cylindrical housing having a gas outlet, wherein,

[0104] The cylindrical shell has a circular cross-sectional shape in the width direction, and the ratio of its outer diameter D to its axial length L is L / D > 1.1.

[0105] The igniter is installed at either end of the cylindrical housing.

[0106] The gas outlet is sealed by a plugging component. The gas outlet is a combination of multiple first openings and multiple second openings. The rupture pressure (P1) of the plugging component at the first opening is low, and the rupture pressure (P2) of the plugging component at the second opening is higher than the rupture pressure (P1).

[0107] The plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings are formed on the circumference of the same circle on the peripheral wall of the cylindrical shell.

[0108] The configuration of the plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings is as follows:

[0109] (a) A configuration having a plurality of first openings arranged in a group at intervals from each other, and one of the plurality of second openings disposed between the groups of first openings.

[0110] (b) A configuration in which a plurality of second openings are arranged in a group at intervals from each other, and one of the plurality of first openings is disposed among the groups of second openings.

[0111] (c) The configuration formed by combining the configuration of (a) and the configuration of (b).

[0112] (d) In the configuration described in (c), a first opening or a second opening is individually arranged between the first opening group and the second opening group, between the first opening groups of each other, or between the second opening groups of each other.

[0113] (e) In the configuration described in (c), either a second opening is provided separately within the first group of openings, or a first opening is provided separately within the second group of openings.

[0114] (f) A configuration that includes a portion of one or more configurations selected from (a) to (e).

[0115] The axial direction is formed with multiple rows of configurations selected from one or more of (a) to (f). Attached Figure Description

[0116] The present invention will be more fully understood through the following detailed description and accompanying drawings, but these are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the invention.

[0117] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional view of the housing used in a gas generator, but it is only used to indicate the location of the gas outlet.

[0118] Figure 2 This is a top view showing the configuration when a gas outlet is formed on the peripheral wall of the housing, and a diagram showing the location of the gas outlet that should not be visible in the top view.

[0119] Figure 3 This further illustrates the configuration of the gas outlet in another embodiment. Figure 2 The same top view.

[0120] Figure 4 This further illustrates the configuration of the gas outlet in another embodiment. Figure 2 The same top view.

[0121] Figure 5 This further illustrates the configuration of the gas outlet in another embodiment. Figure 2 The same top view.

[0122] Figure 6 This further illustrates the configuration of the gas outlet in another embodiment. Figure 2 The same top view.

[0123] Figure 7This further illustrates the configuration of the gas outlet in another embodiment. Figure 2 The same top view.

[0124] Figure 8 This further illustrates the configuration of the gas outlet in another embodiment. Figure 2 The same top view.

[0125] Figure 9 This is a perspective view of a gas generator according to another embodiment.

[0126] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of a gas generator according to another embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0127] The invention of JP2008-201243A is used to preferentially direct the discharge of gas in a specific direction, and only in the case of cracking of all gas outlets (paragraphs

[0036] ,

[0037] ) is it intended to control the rupture pressure of the sealing strip by using gas outlets of different sizes.

[0128] The present invention provides a gas generator having a gas outlet including a plurality of first openings and a plurality of second openings, wherein, as designed, the first openings open first and the second openings open later, or only the first openings open without affecting the second openings, the rupture pressure (P1) of the sealing components such as sealing strips at the openings of the gas outlets at the first openings is low, and the rupture pressure (P2) of the sealing components at the second openings is higher than the rupture pressure (P1).

[0129] The gas generator of the first embodiment can be applied to both single-pole gas generators with one igniter for igniting the gas generating agent and bipolar gas generators with two igniters. It can also be applied to mixed-type gas generators that combine the gas generating agent and pressurized gas. The same applies to the other embodiments described below.

[0130] The housing of the gas generator in the first scheme is a disk shape with an outer diameter D and an axial length L ratio of L / D ≤ ​​1.1.

[0131] The gas outlet can be formed in the peripheral wall, the top plate, or both, depending on the location of the gas generator in the vehicle.

[0132] Regarding the multiple first openings and multiple second openings, in addition to the configuration in which the centers of the multiple first openings and the multiple second openings are located on the same circumference, there is also a configuration in which the centers of the multiple first openings and the multiple second openings are located on the same circumference and not on the same circumference (including the configuration in which the centers of the multiple first openings are located on the first same circumference and the centers of the multiple second openings are located on the second same circumference, but the first same circumference and the second same circumference are different and not on the same circumference), and a configuration in which the centers of the multiple first openings and the multiple second openings are not located on the same circumference but at least a portion of these openings are located on the same circumference.

[0133] Alternatively, the gas outlet may be sealed from the inside with a metal sealing strip for moisture prevention.

[0134] The gas outlet is sealed by a plugging component, which is a combination of multiple first openings with low rupture pressure (P1) and multiple second openings with higher rupture pressure (P2) than rupture pressure (P1) of the plugging component. <P2)。

[0135] The first opening of the rupture pressure (P1) and the second opening of the rupture pressure (P2) can be configured in any of the following forms:

[0136] (i) A configuration in which the diameter of the first opening is larger than the diameter of the second opening, and the first and second openings are sealed with the same sealing tape.

[0137] (ii) The opening diameter of the first opening is the same as the opening diameter of the second opening; the tensile strength of the sealing strip sealing the first opening (first sealing strip) and the sealing strip sealing the second opening (second sealing strip) is such that the tensile strength of the first sealing strip is less than the tensile strength of the second sealing strip; and

[0138] (iii) A form formed by combining the forms of (i) and (ii) above.

[0139] The configuration of the plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings can be appropriately adjusted according to the required functions of the gas generator, but in the gas generator of the present invention, in order to solve the problems of the present invention, it is preferable to satisfy the following requirements.

[0140] That is, the first opening and the second opening that are adjacent in the circumferential direction of the same circle are configured such that the angle (θ1) formed by the first center line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the first opening and the second center line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the second opening is in the range of 15° to 65°.

[0141] The gas generator of the first scheme reliably achieves the function of opening primarily the first opening followed by the second opening, or opening only the first opening, during operation. When the airbag device using this gas generator is in operation, the gas generating agent burns to produce combustion gases, which inflate the airbag.

[0142] In this case, if the first opening and the second opening are configured close to each other, the first opening will open first, causing the combustion gas flow to concentrate at the open first opening. Consequently, the adjacent second opening may also open due to the influence of the combustion gas flow. This problem can occur in both single-polar gas generators with one igniter and bipolar gas generators with two igniters, and is particularly significant in bipolar gas generators where the two igniters operate with a time difference.

[0143] However, in the gas generator of the first scheme, the first opening and the second opening are arranged at a distance of a predetermined angle (θ1). The second opening is less affected by the flow of combustion gas flowing into the open first opening. Therefore, the problem of the second opening opening when it should not be open, as described above, can be avoided.

[0144] The gas generator of the second embodiment can be applied to both single-pole gas generators with one igniter for igniting the gas generating agent and bipolar gas generators with two igniters. Alternatively, it can also be applied to mixed-type gas generators that combine a gas generating agent and a pressurized gas.

[0145] The housing of the gas generator in the second scheme is a disk shape with an outer diameter D and an axial length L ratio of L / D ≤ ​​1.1.

[0146] The gas outlet can be formed in the peripheral wall, the top plate, or both, depending on the location of the gas generator.

[0147] Regarding the multiple first openings and multiple second openings, in addition to the configuration in which the centers of the multiple first openings and the multiple second openings are on the same circumference, there is also a mixed configuration in which the centers of the multiple first openings and the multiple second openings are on the same circumference and in which they are not on the same circumference (including the configuration in which the centers of the multiple first openings are on the first same circumference and the centers of the multiple second openings are on the second same circumference, but the first same circumference and the second same circumference are different and not the same circumference), and the configuration in which the centers of the multiple first openings and the multiple second openings are not on the same circumference but at least a portion of these openings are on the same circumference.

[0148] Alternatively, the gas outlet may be sealed from the inside with a metal sealing strip for moisture prevention.

[0149] The gas outlet is sealed by a plugging component. The gas outlet is a combination of multiple first openings with low rupture pressure (P1) of the plugging component and multiple second openings with higher rupture pressure (P2) than rupture pressure (P1) of the plugging component. <P2)。

[0150] The first opening of the rupture pressure (P1) and the second opening of the rupture pressure (P2) can be configured in any of the embodiments (i), (ii) or (iii) in the same way as the gas generator of the first scheme.

[0151] The configuration of the multiple first openings and multiple second openings can be selected from the configurations shown in (a) to (f). The configuration of the multiple first openings and multiple second openings can be adjusted according to different requirements of the gas generator due to the installation location in the vehicle, vehicle model, etc., and (a) to (f) are configurations that concretize the configuration of the multiple first openings and multiple second openings.

[0152] (a) is configured in such a way that the three first openings are grouped together as a group to form three groups (group 1a, group 2a, group 3a), and a second opening is configured between group 1a and group 2a, between group 2a and group 3a, and between group 3a and group 1a.

[0153] (b) is configured, for example, by grouping the three second openings into three groups (group 1b, group 2b, and group 3b), with a first opening arranged between group 1b and group 2b, between group 2b and group 3b, and between group 3b and group 1b.

[0154] (c) The configuration can be, for example, arranged such that the two first openings are grouped together as three groups (group 1a, group 2a, group 3a), and the two second openings are grouped together as three groups (group 1b, group 2b, group 3b). The arrangement order of these groups can be determined according to the performance requirements of the gas generator, and can be either regular or random, as long as the performance range is met. For example, it can be arranged in a pattern where groups 1a, 1b, 2a, 2b, 3a, and 3b alternate on the same circumference with equal intervals between each group.

[0155] (d) is a configuration in which, in the configuration of (c), a first opening or a second opening is provided between each of the adjacent groups.

[0156] The configuration in (e) is such that, in the configuration in (c), one first opening or one second opening is arranged between each of the plurality of first openings or plurality of second openings constituting each group. For example, when group 1a includes four first openings, the configuration in (e) is such that a second opening is arranged in the middle position of the four first openings; when group 1b includes four second openings, the configuration in (e) is such that a first opening is arranged in the middle position of the four second openings.

[0157] (f) is an example of a configuration in which half (1 / 2 circumference) of the plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings formed on the same circumference is one configuration, and the remaining 1 / 2 circumference is another configuration. For example, the 1 / 2 circumference can be set as configuration (a), and the remaining 1 / 2 circumference can be set as configuration (b).

[0158] The preferred configuration of the gas generator in the second configuration is that, in the configurations described in (b), (c), (d), and (e), the plurality of second openings forming the second opening group are equally spaced from each other, and the angle (θ2) formed by the two center lines passing through the center of the same circle and the center of each adjacent second opening is in the range of 10° to 30°, and θ1 > θ2.

[0159] The configurations (b), (c), (d) and (e) all have a second group of openings.

[0160] Regarding the second opening of the second opening group, adjacent second openings satisfy θ2 = 10° to 30°, and simultaneously satisfy (θ1) = 15° to 65° and θ1 > θ2. Therefore, for example, when θ2 = 30°, θ1 must be an angle larger than 30°.

[0161] By making θ1 and θ2 satisfy the above relationship, it is possible to prevent the second opening from being affected by the open first opening in the same way as the first scheme, and to increase the degree of freedom of the arrangement of the second openings to arbitrarily adjust the gas discharge direction.

[0162] Another preferred embodiment of the gas generator in the second scheme is that, in the configuration described in (a), the plurality of first openings forming the first opening group are spaced equally (L1) apart from each other.

[0163] The interval (L3) between L1 and the first opening and the second opening adjacent to it in the circumferential direction has the relationship L1 < L3.

[0164] (a) is configured in such a way that the three first openings are grouped together as a group to form three groups (group 1a, group 2a, group 3a), and a second opening is configured between group 1a and group 2a, between group 2a and group 3a, and between group 3a and group 1a.

[0165] The three first openings of each of the groups 1a, 2a, and 3a are equally spaced (L1). When there is a second opening between the groups 1a and 2a, the interval (L3) between the second opening and the first opening of the adjacent group 1a in the circumferential direction, or the interval (L3) between the second opening and the first opening of the adjacent group 2a in the circumferential direction, satisfies the relationship L1 < L3.

[0166] When L1 and L3 are made to satisfy the relationship L1 < L3, similar to the first scheme, the second opening can be prevented from being affected by the combustion gas flow discharged from the open first opening.

[0167] Another preferred embodiment of the gas generator in the second scheme is that, in the configuration described in (b), the plurality of second openings forming the second opening group are spaced equally (L2) apart from each other.

[0168] The interval (L3) between L2 and the second opening and the first opening adjacent to it in the circumferential direction has a relationship of L3 > L2.

[0169] (b) is configured, for example, by arranging the three second openings as a group (group 1b, group 2b, group 3b), and by arranging a first opening between group 1b and group 2b, between group 2b and group 3b, and between group 3b and group 1b.

[0170] The three first openings of each of the groups 1b, 2b, and 3b are equally spaced (L2). When there is a first opening between the groups 1b and 2b, the distance (L3) between the first opening and the second opening of the adjacent group 1b in the circumferential direction, or the distance (L3) between the first opening and the second opening of the adjacent group 2b in the circumferential direction, satisfies the relationship L2 < L3.

[0171] When L2 and L3 are made to satisfy the relationship L2 < L3, similar to the first scheme, the second opening can be prevented from being affected by the combustion gas flow discharged from the open first opening.

[0172] Another preferred embodiment of the gas generator in the second scheme is that, in the configuration described in (c), the plurality of first openings forming the first opening group are spaced equally (L1) from each other, and the plurality of second openings forming the second opening group are spaced equally (L2) from each other.

[0173] The interval (L3) between L1, L2, and the adjacent first and second openings in the circumferential direction has the relationship L3 > L1 and L3 > L2.

[0174] (c) is configured, for example, by arranging the two first openings as a group to form three groups (group 1a, group 2a, group 3a) and the two second openings as a group to form three groups (group 1b, group 2b, group 3b). The groups are arranged on the same circumference in the form of group 1a, group 1b, group 2a, group 2b, group 3a, group 3b, with equal intervals between each group.

[0175] The first openings in the first opening group (groups 1a, 2a, and 3a) are spaced apart by L1. The first openings in the second opening group (groups 1b, 2b, and 3b) are spaced apart by L2. In the circumferential direction, groups 1a and 1b are adjacent, and the distance between the first opening at the outermost end of group 1a (the end first opening) and the second opening in group 1b located closest to the end first opening is L3.

[0176] L1, L2, and L3 have the relationship L3 > L1 and L3 > L2. This relationship ensures that, similar to the first scheme, the second opening is protected from the influence of the combustion gas flow exiting the open first opening.

[0177] Another preferred embodiment of the gas generator in the second scheme is that, in the configuration described in (d), the plurality of first openings forming the first opening group are spaced equally (L1) from each other, and the plurality of second openings forming the second opening group are spaced equally (L2) from each other.

[0178] L1, L2, and the interval (L3) between the first opening group and the second opening group, which is individually disposed between the first opening group and the second opening group, and the second opening of the second opening group adjacent to the individually disposed first opening (adjacent second opening), or

[0179] The interval (L3) between the second opening, which is separately configured between the first opening group and the second opening group, and the first opening of the first opening group (adjacent first opening) adjacent to the separately configured second opening has the relationship L3>L1 and L3>L2.

[0180] (d) is a configuration in which, in the configuration of (c), a first opening or a second opening is provided between the first group and the first group, between the first group and the second group, between the second group and the second group, between the second group and the third group, between the third group and the third group, and between the third group and the first group.

[0181] The first openings in the first opening group (group 1a, group 2a, group 3a) are spaced apart by L1. The first openings in the second opening group (group 1b, group 2b, group 3b) are spaced apart by L2. The distance between a first opening individually located between group 1a and group 1b and a second opening in group 1b adjacent to that individually located first opening, or the distance between a second opening individually located between group 1a and group 1b and a first opening in group 1a adjacent to that individually located second opening, is L3.

[0182] L1, L2, and L3 have the relationship L3 > L1 and L3 > L2. This relationship, L3 > L1 and L3 > L2, similar to the first scheme, prevents the second opening from being affected by the combustion gas flow exiting the open first opening.

[0183] Another preferred embodiment of the gas generator in the second scheme is, in the configuration described in (e),

[0184] The plurality of first openings forming the first opening group are spaced equally (L1) from each other, and the distance (L3) between the first openings and the adjacent second openings in the circumferential direction has the relationship L3 > L1.

[0185] The plurality of second openings forming the second opening group are spaced equally (L2) from each other, and the L2 has a relationship of L3 > L2 with respect to the spacing (L3) between the second opening and the first opening adjacent to it in the circumferential direction.

[0186] The configuration of (e) is such that, in the configuration of (c), when the first opening group (e.g., the first a group) is composed of four first openings, a second opening is arranged at the middle position of the four first openings; or when the second opening group (e.g., the first b group) is composed of four second openings, a first opening is arranged at the middle position of the four second openings.

[0187] The first openings in the first opening group (groups 1a, 2a, and 3a) are spaced L1 apart from each other. The first openings in the second opening group (groups 1b, 2b, and 3b) are spaced L2 apart from each other. When there is a second opening in the middle of the four first openings, the distance between the second opening and the adjacent first openings on both sides of the second opening is L3; or when there is a first opening in the middle of the four second openings, the distance between the first opening and the adjacent second openings on both sides of the first opening is L3.

[0188] L1, L2, and L3 have the relationship L3 > L1 and L3 > L2. This relationship, L3 > L1 and L3 > L2, similar to the first scheme, prevents the second opening from being affected by the combustion gas flow exiting the open first opening.

[0189] Alternatively, in configuration (e), there may be a second opening in the middle of the two groups where the four first openings form two groups and each group includes two first openings.

[0190] Similarly, the configuration of (e) can also be such that, in the case where the four second openings form two groups, each group including two second openings, there is a first opening in the middle of the two groups.

[0191] The preferred gas generator for the first, second, and other aforementioned schemes comprises the plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings.

[0192] When the plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings are formed on the peripheral wall portion, they are formed in multiple rows on the same circumference at different height positions on the peripheral wall portion.

[0193] When the plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings are formed on the top plate, they are formed in multiple rows on the top plate in a manner that constitutes multiple layers of circles.

[0194] When gas outlets are formed on the peripheral wall of the shell, they are formed in multiple rows at different heights. For example, the configuration is as follows: a first row of gas outlets (a combination of multiple first openings and multiple second openings) is formed on the circumference at the same height, a second row of gas outlets (a combination of multiple first openings and multiple second openings) is formed at intervals in the height direction relative to the first row of gas outlets on the circumference at the same height, and then a third or more rows of gas outlets are formed in the same manner.

[0195] When the gas outlets are formed on the top plate of the shell, they are formed in multiple rows in a multi-layered circular manner. For example, the configuration is as follows: a first row of gas outlets (a combination of multiple first openings and multiple second openings) is formed on the circumference of the same circle on the top plate; a second row of gas outlets (a combination of multiple first openings and multiple second openings) is formed on the inner side separated from the first row of gas outlets by a gap; and then a third or more rows of gas outlets are formed in the same manner.

[0196] The housing of the gas generator in the third scheme is a disk shape with an outer diameter D and an axial length L ratio of L / D ≤ ​​1.1.

[0197] The gas outlet can be formed in the peripheral wall, the top plate, or both, depending on the location of the gas generator.

[0198] Regarding the multiple first openings and multiple second openings, in addition to the configuration in which the centers of the multiple first openings and the multiple second openings are on the same circumference, there is also a mixed configuration in which the centers of the multiple first openings and the multiple second openings are on the same circumference and in which they are not on the same circumference (including the configuration in which the centers of the multiple first openings are on the first same circumference and the centers of the multiple second openings are on the second same circumference, but the first same circumference and the second same circumference are different and not the same circumference), and the configuration in which the centers of the multiple first openings and the multiple second openings are not on the same circumference but at least a portion of these openings are on the same circumference.

[0199] Alternatively, the gas outlet may be sealed from the inside with a metal sealing strip for moisture prevention.

[0200] The gas outlet is sealed by a plugging component. The gas outlet is a combination of multiple first openings with low rupture pressure (P1) of the plugging component and multiple second openings with higher rupture pressure (P2) than rupture pressure (P1) of the plugging component.

[0201] Regarding the first opening for the rupture pressure (P1) and the second opening for the rupture pressure (P2), similarly to the gas generator in the first scheme, they can be configured in any of the forms (i), (ii) or (iii).

[0202] The igniter is housed inside a cover component with multiple ignition holes on its peripheral wall.

[0203] The cover member has a circular shape in plan view, and the plurality of ignition holes are offset on the semi-circular side (first semi-circular side) of the peripheral wall of the cover member. More than two-thirds of the total number of ignition holes are formed on the first semi-circular side, and the remainder are formed on the other semi-circular side (second semi-circular side). All the ignition holes are the same size, so during operation, more combustion products containing flames are released from the first semi-circular side with more ignition holes.

[0204] In addition, the cover member (i.e., the igniter) is positioned off-center from the center of the housing, such that the first semicircular side of the cover member is located away from the peripheral wall of the housing, and the second semicircular side is located close to the peripheral wall of the housing.

[0205] Therefore, the volume of the combustion chamber on the first semicircular side facing the shroud member away from the shell peripheral wall is larger than the volume of the combustion chamber on the second semicircular side facing the shell peripheral wall, and there is more gas generator on the first semicircular side.

[0206] When the semicircular side of the peripheral wall portion of the housing that is offset from the plurality of fire holes of the cover member is designated as the first semicircular region and the remaining second semicircular side is designated as the second semicircular region, the ratio (A2 / A1) of the total opening area (A1) of the plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings formed in the first semicircular region to the total opening area (A2) of the plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings formed in the second semicircular region is in the range of 0.25 to 0.40.

[0207] As described above, the combustion chamber volume on the first semicircular side of the shroud member away from the shell (i.e., the volume of the first semicircular region) is greater than the combustion chamber volume on the second semicircular side closer to the shell (i.e., the volume of the second semicircular region), and there is more gas generator on the first semicircular region side.

[0208] Therefore, the gas generator facing the first semicircular region with a large combustion surface area has more ignition holes, which can promote the combustion of the gas generator in the first semicircular region.

[0209] In addition, the openings of the ignition holes are provided corresponding to the combustion surface area of ​​the gas generator in the combustion chambers of the first and second semicircular regions, so that there is almost no difference in the combustibility of the gas generator in the first and second semicircular regions.

[0210] The housing of the gas generator in the fourth scheme is a cylinder with an outer diameter D and an axial length L ratio of L / D > 1.1.

[0211] The gas outlet is formed on the peripheral wall, and its position can be adjusted according to the location of the gas generator.

[0212] The plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings are formed such that their respective centers are on the circumference of the same circle.

[0213] Alternatively, the gas outlet may be sealed from the inside with a metal sealing strip for moisture prevention.

[0214] The same applies to the other implementation methods described below.

[0215] The gas outlet is sealed by a plugging component, which is a combination of multiple first openings with low rupture pressure (P1) and multiple second openings with higher rupture pressure (P2) than rupture pressure (P1) of the plugging component. <P2)。

[0216] Regarding the first opening for the burst pressure (P1) and the second opening for the burst pressure (P2), similarly to the gas generator in the first embodiment, they can be configured in any of the forms shown in (i), (ii), or (iii). The same applies to the other embodiments described below.

[0217] The first and second openings, which are adjacent in the circumferential direction of the same circle, are configured such that the angle (θ1) formed by the first center line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the first opening and the second center line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the second opening is in the range of 15° to 65°.

[0218] The gas generator of the fourth scheme also reliably achieves the function of opening the first opening first and the second opening later, or opening only the first opening, during operation. When the airbag device using this gas generator is in operation, the gas generator burns to produce combustion gas, which can inflate the airbag.

[0219] In this case, if the first opening and the second opening are configured close together, when the blocked first opening opens first, the combustion gas flow will concentrate at the open first opening. As a result, the adjacent second opening may also open due to the influence of the combustion gas flow. This problem can occur in both single-polar gas generators with one igniter and bipolar gas generators with two igniters, and is particularly significant in bipolar gas generators where the two igniters operate with a time difference.

[0220] However, in the gas generator of the fourth scheme, the first opening and the second opening are arranged at a predetermined angle range (θ1), and the second opening is less affected by the combustion gas flow flowing into the open first opening. Therefore, the problem of the second opening opening when it should not be open, as described above, can be avoided.

[0221] The configuration of the gas generator with multiple first openings and multiple second openings in the fifth embodiment becomes the configuration of (a) to (f) in the invention of the second embodiment.

[0222] The plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings may also be formed in multiple rows spaced apart along the axial direction of the cylindrical shell. In this case, each row may be configured in a different configuration selected from (a) to (f). The configurations of (a) to (f) are the same as those of (a) to (f) in the second embodiment of the invention.

[0223] In the gas generator of the present invention, when having a gas outlet including a plurality of first openings and a plurality of second openings, the second openings are less affected by the combustion gas flow flowing into the open first openings, thus avoiding the problem of the second openings cracking when they should not. The rupture pressure (P1) of the sealing member at the first opening is low, and the rupture pressure (P2) of the sealing member at the second opening is higher than the rupture pressure (P1).

[0224] The gas generator of the present invention can be used as a gas generator for use in a vehicle airbag device.

[0225] Implementation of the invention

[0226] (1) has Figure 2 The gas generator shown has the configuration of the gas outlet.

[0227] Except for the configuration of the gas outlet, the gas generator of the present invention is the same as known gas generators that house a gas generating agent, an igniter, a filter, etc., within a housing. There may be one or more igniters.

[0228] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a gas generator 100 with a housing 101.

[0229] The housing 101 includes a top plate 102, a bottom plate 103 axially opposite to the top plate 102, and a peripheral wall portion 104 between the top plate 102 and the bottom plate 103, and also has a flange portion 105 for mounting on a component housing.

[0230] The housing 101 is a disk shape with an outer diameter D and an axial length L ratio of L / D ≤ ​​1.1.

[0231] exist Figure 1In this paper, the first gas outlet (first opening) 11, 12 and the second gas outlet (second opening) 31, 32 are formed only in the peripheral wall portion 104. However, it may also be a form in which the gas outlet is formed only in the top plate 102, or a form in which the gas outlet is formed in both the top plate 102 and the peripheral wall portion 104.

[0232] In addition Figure 1 In this system, the gas outlets are formed as a single row in the circumferential direction, but they can also be spaced out in the axial direction to form multiple rows.

[0233] Figure 2 The arrangement of the gas outlet formed in the peripheral wall portion 104 of the housing 1 is shown in a manner that makes it easy to understand.

[0234] The embodiments shown in the following figures are described in the form of a gas outlet disposed on the peripheral wall portion 104 of the housing.

[0235] exist Figure 2 In the configuration of the gas outlet shown, a plurality of first openings 11 to 14 with low rupture pressure (P1) of the sealing component blocking the gas outlet are combined with a plurality of second openings 31 to 34 with higher rupture pressure (P2) than rupture pressure (P1) of the sealing component.

[0236] The opening diameter of the first openings 11-14 is larger than that of the second openings 31-34, and both the first openings 11-14 and the second openings 31-34 are sealed on the inside with the same metal sealing strip. Therefore, the rupture pressure (P1) of the first openings 11-14 is lower than the rupture pressure (P2) of the second openings 31-34 (p1 < P2).

[0237] The first openings 11-14 and the second openings 31-34 are arranged alternately on the same circumference. Here, "on the same circumference" means that the centers of all the first openings 11-14 and the second openings 31-34 are located on the same circumference. In other embodiments described below, the configuration also involves all the centers of the plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings being located on the same circumference (peripheral wall surface).

[0238] The first opening 11 and the second opening 31, which are adjacent in the circumferential direction, are arranged such that the angle (θ1) formed by the first center line 1 passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the first opening 11 and the second center line 2 passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the second opening 31 is in the range of 15° to 65°.

[0239] Similarly, the second opening 31 and the first opening 12, the second opening 12 and the first opening 32, the second opening 32 and the first opening 13, the first opening 13 and the second opening 33, the second opening 33 and the first opening 14, and the first opening 14 and the second opening 3 adjacent in the circumferential direction are also arranged in a manner that satisfies the range of the aforementioned angle (θ1).

[0240] Using Figure 2 When the airbag device of the gas generator 100 at the gas outlet of the configuration shown is activated and the gas generating agent burns to produce combustion gas, the first opening 11-14 with low rupture pressure opens first, and the second opening 31-34 with high rupture pressure opens later, allowing gas to be discharged at time intervals to inflate the airbag. Alternatively, depending on the situation, sometimes only the first opening 11-14 opens.

[0241] At this time, if the first opening 11-14 and the second opening 31-34 are configured close to each other, when the blocked first opening 11-14 is opened, the combustion gas flow will be concentrated in the opened first opening 11-14. As a result, the close second opening 31-34 will be affected by the combustion gas flow, which may cause the opening to occur earlier than the designed opening time or to open under circumstances that should not be opened.

[0242] The aforementioned problem can arise in both single-polar gas generators with one igniter and bipolar gas generators with two igniters, and is particularly significant in bipolar gas generators where the two igniters operate with a time difference.

[0243] However, in the presence of Figure 2 In the gas generator with the gas outlet configuration shown, the first openings 11-14 and the second openings 31-34 are arranged at a predetermined angle (θ1). The second openings 31-34 are less affected by the combustion gas flow flowing to the open first openings 11-14, so the problem of the second openings 31-34 opening earlier than the designed opening time will not occur as described above.

[0244] (2) has Figure 3 The gas generator shown has the configuration of the gas outlet.

[0245] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing the configuration of the gas outlet as described in (a) above.

[0246] The first openings 11 and 12 form the first group 51, the first openings 13 and 14 form the second group 52, the first openings 15 and 16 form the third group 53, and the first openings 17 and 18 form the fourth group 54. The first group 51 to the fourth group 54 are arranged at equal intervals.

[0247] A second opening 31 is provided at the middle position between the first group 51 and the second group 52, a second opening 32 is provided at the middle position between the second group 52 and the third group 53, a second opening 33 is provided at the middle position between the third group 53 and the fourth group 54, and a second opening 34 is provided at the middle position between the fourth group 54 and the first group 51.

[0248] Regarding the second opening 31, which is adjacent to the first opening 12 of the first group 51 in the circumferential direction, the angle (θ1) formed by the center line of the first opening 12 passing through the center of the same circle (which is the same as the center of the top plate 102) and the center line of the second opening 31 passing through the center of the same circle and the center line of the second opening 31 is in the range of 15° to 65°.

[0249] Similar to the first opening 12 and the second opening 31 mentioned above, the angles (θ1) between adjacent second opening 31 and first opening 13, first opening 14 and second opening 32, second opening 32 and first opening 15, first opening 16 and second opening 33, second opening 33 and first opening 17, first opening 18 and second opening 34, and second opening 34 and first opening 11 are also in the range of 15° to 65°.

[0250] By setting it like this Figure 3 The configuration shown, with θ1 = 15° to 65°, allows for the acquisition of a configuration similar to the one shown. Figure 2 The configuration shown has the same effect.

[0251] In addition Figure 3 In the configuration shown in (a), the spacing between each pair of first openings forming the first opening groups 51 to 54 is all equal (L1). Here, the spacing between the two first openings is, for example, the distance between the arcs of the first openings 11 and 12 (a portion of the circumference, the arc of the part of the two first openings that is closest to each other). The same applies in the other embodiments below.

[0252] The interval (L3) between the first opening forming the first opening group 51 to 54 and the second opening adjacent to the first opening in the circumferential direction has a relationship of L1 < L3.

[0253] exist Figure 3 For example, the interval between the first opening 11 and the first opening 12 of the first group 51 is L1, and the interval between the first opening 12 and the second opening 31 is L3.

[0254] L3 / L1 is preferably in the range of 1 to 27.

[0255] By associating the intervals of L1 and L3, the same effect can be achieved as when the range of θ1 is set to 15° to 65°.

[0256] Furthermore, for example, even if θ1 remains constant despite increases or decreases in the opening diameters of the first opening 12 and the second opening 31, L3 may increase or decrease. In particular, when the opening diameters of the first opening 12 and the second opening 31 increase, the first opening 12 and the second opening 31 will approach each other even if θ1 remains constant. Therefore, it is preferable that, in addition to θ1, the relationship between L1 and L3 is also adjusted for the configuration of the gas outlet.

[0257] However, the opening diameters of the first opening 12 and the second opening 31 are naturally limited due to their relationship with the strength of the casing. In fact, the configuration of the gas outlet can be controlled solely by θ1. The same applies in the following embodiments (configuration of the gas outlet).

[0258] (3) has Figure 4 The gas generator shown has the configuration of the gas outlet.

[0259] Figure 4 This is a diagram showing the configuration of the gas outlet as described in (b) above.

[0260] The second openings 31 and 32 form the first group 61, the second openings 33 and 34 form the second group 62, and the second openings 35 and 36 form the third group 63. The first group 61 to the third group 63 are arranged at equal intervals.

[0261] A first opening 11 is provided at the middle position between the first group 61 and the second group 62, a first opening 12 is provided at the middle position between the second group 62 and the third group 63, and a first opening 13 is provided at the middle position between the third group 63 and the first group 61.

[0262] The angle (θ1) between the center line of the second opening 32 of the first group 61 and the first opening 11 adjacent to it in the circumferential direction, passing through the center of the same circle (the same as the center of the top plate 102) and the center line of the second opening 32 and passing through the center of the same circle and the center line of the first opening 11, is in the range of 15° to 65°.

[0263] Similar to the second opening 32 and the first opening 11 mentioned above, the angle (θ1) between each of the adjacent first opening 11 and the second opening 33, the second opening 34 and the first opening 12, the first opening 12 and the second opening 35, and the second opening 36 and the first opening 13 is also in the range of 15° to 65°.

[0264] In the first group 61 to the third group 63, the angle (θ2) formed by the two center lines passing through the center of the same circle (the same as the center of the top plate 102) and the center of the adjacent second opening is in the range of 10° to 30°, and θ1 > θ2.

[0265] exist Figure 4 In the middle, the angle between the line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the second opening 31 and the line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the second opening 32 is in the range of 10° to 30°.

[0266] This is achieved by setting it as follows Figure 4 As shown, the configuration with θ1 = 15°~65°, θ2 = 10°~30°, and θ1 > θ2 can be obtained to achieve the same result as... Figure 2 The configuration shown has the same effect.

[0267] In addition Figure 4 In the configuration shown in (b), the intervals between each pair of second openings forming the second opening groups 61 to 63 are all equal (L2). Here, the interval between the two second openings is, for example, the length of the arc between the second opening 31 and the second opening 32 (a part of the circumference, between the arcs of the two first openings that are close to each other).

[0268] The interval (L2) between the second openings forming the second opening group 61 to 63 and the interval (L3) between the second opening and the first opening adjacent to it in the circumferential direction have the relationship L2 < L3.

[0269] exist Figure 4 For example, in the third group 63, the interval between the second opening 35 and the second opening 36 is L2, and the interval between the first opening 36 and the first opening 13 is L3.

[0270] L3 / L2 is preferably in the range of 1 to 15.

[0271] By associating the intervals of L2 and L3, the same effect can be achieved as when the range of θ1 is set to 15° to 65°.

[0272] (4) has Figure 5 The gas generator shown has the configuration of the gas outlet.

[0273] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing the configuration of the gas outlet as described in (c) above.

[0274] The second openings 31 and 32 form the first group 61 (b), the second openings 33 and 34 form the second group 62 (b), the first openings 11, 12 and 13 form the first group 51 (a), and the first openings 14, 15 and 16 form the second group 52 (a). They are arranged at equal intervals on the same circumference in the order of the first group 61 (b), the first group 51 (a), the second group 62 (b), and the second group 52 (a).

[0275] The angle (θ1) formed by the two center lines passing through the center of the same circle (the same as the center of the top plate 102) and the center of the adjacent first and second openings 61 and 62 of group 1b and 62 respectively, and the first openings 11 and 13 of group 1a and 14 and 16 of group 2a in the circumferential direction, is in the range of 15° to 65°.

[0276] In Group 1a 51 and Group 2a 52, the angle (θ2) formed by the two center lines passing through the center of the same circle (which is the same as the center of the top plate 102) and the center of the adjacent first opening is in the range of 10° to 30°, and θ1 > θ2.

[0277] exist Figure 5 In the middle, the angle (θ2) between the line passing through the center of the circle and the center of the first opening 15 and the line passing through the center of the circle and the center of the first opening 16 is in the range of 10° to 30°.

[0278] In Group 1b 61 and Group 2b 62, the angle (θ3) formed by the two center lines passing through the center of the same circle (which is the same as the center of the top plate 102) and the center of each of the adjacent second openings is in the range of 10° to 30°, and θ1 > θ3.

[0279] exist Figure 5 In the middle, the angle (θ3) between the line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the second opening 31 and the line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the second opening 32 is in the range of 10° to 30°.

[0280] By setting it like this Figure 5 As shown, the configurations with θ1 = 15°–65°, θ2 = 10°–30°, θ3 = 10°–30°, θ1 > θ2, and θ1 > θ3 can be obtained, thus achieving the same... Figure 2 The configuration shown has the same effect.

[0281] In addition Figure 5In the configuration shown in (c), the plurality of first openings forming the first opening group 51 and the second opening group 52 are spaced equally (L1), and the plurality of second openings forming the second opening group 61 and the second opening group 62 are spaced equally (L2).

[0282] The interval (L3) between adjacent first and second openings in the circumferential direction has a relationship of L3 > L1 and L3 > L2. For example, the interval between the first openings 11 to 13 of group 1a 51 is L1, the interval between the second openings 31 and 32 of group 1b 61 is L2, and the interval between the second opening 32 and the first opening 11 is L3, which has a relationship of L3 > L1 and L3 > L2. L3 / L1 is preferably in the range of 1 to 27, and L3 / L2 is preferably in the range of 1 to 15.

[0283] By associating the intervals of L1, L2, and L3 in this way, the same effect can be achieved as when the range of θ1 is set to 15° to 65°.

[0284] (5) has Figure 6 The gas generator shown has the configuration of the gas outlet.

[0285] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the configuration of the gas outlet as described in (d) above.

[0286] A first group 61 consisting of second openings 31 and 32 is provided, and a second group 62 consisting of second openings 34 and 35 is provided at a position opposite to the first group 61 in the radial direction.

[0287] A first group 51, consisting of first openings 11 to 13, is disposed between the first group 61 and the second group 62. A second group 52, consisting of first openings 15 to 17, is disposed opposite the first group 51 in the radial direction.

[0288] A second opening 33 is separately disposed between group 1b 61 and group 1a 51, a first opening 14 is separately disposed between group 1a 51 and group 2b 62, a second opening 36 is separately disposed between group 2b 62 and group 2a 52, and a first opening 18 is separately disposed between group 2a 52 and group 1b 61.

[0289] Regarding the separately configured second opening 33 and the first opening 11 of the adjacent first group 51 in the circumferential direction, the angle (θ1) formed by the center line of the second opening 33 passing through the center of the same circle (which is the same as the center of the top plate 102) and the center line of the first opening 11 passing through the center of the same circle and the center line of the first opening 11 is in the range of 15° to 65°.

[0290] Similar to the second opening 33 and the first opening 11 mentioned above, the angle (θ1) between each of the adjacent first opening 14 and second opening 34, second opening 36 and first opening 15, and first opening 18 and second opening 31 is also in the range of 15° to 65°.

[0291] In Group 1a 51 and Group 2a 52, the angle (θ2) formed by the two center lines passing through the center of the same circle (which is the same as the center of the top plate 102) and the center of the adjacent first opening is in the range of 10° to 30°, and θ1 > θ2.

[0292] For example in Figure 6 In the middle, the angle (θ2) between the line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the first opening 15 and the line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the first opening 16 is in the range of 10° to 30°.

[0293] In Group 1b 61 and Group 2b 62, the angle (θ3) formed by the two center lines passing through the center of the same circle (which is the same as the center of the top plate 102) and the center of the adjacent second opening is in the range of 10° to 30°, and θ1 > θ3.

[0294] For example, in Figure 6 In the middle, the angle (θ3) between the line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the second opening 31 and the line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the second opening 32 is in the range of 10° to 30°.

[0295] By setting it like this Figure 6 As shown, the configurations with θ1 = 15°–65°, θ2 = 10°–30°, θ3 = 10°–30°, θ1 > θ2, and θ1 > θ3 can be obtained, thus achieving the same... Figure 2 The configuration shown has the same effect.

[0296] In addition Figure 6 In the configuration shown in (d), the plurality of first openings forming the first opening group 51 and the second opening group 52 are spaced equally (L1), and the plurality of second openings forming the second opening group 61 and the second opening group 62 are spaced equally (L2).

[0297] The interval (L3) between adjacent first and second openings in the circumferential direction has a relationship of L3 > L1 and L3 > L2. For example, the interval between the first openings 11 to 13 of group 1a 51 is L1, the interval between the second openings 34 and 35 of group 1b 62 is L2, and the interval between the second opening 34 and the first opening 14 is L3, which has a relationship of L3 > L1 and L3 > L2. L3 / L1 is preferably in the range of 1 to 27, and L3 / L2 is preferably in the range of 1 to 15.

[0298] By associating the intervals of L1, L2, and L3 in this way, the same effect can be achieved as when the range of θ1 is set to 15° to 65°.

[0299] (6) has Figure 7 The gas generator shown has the configuration of the gas outlet.

[0300] Figure 7 Another embodiment of (d) shown has the following configuration.

[0301] The system is configured with a first group 61 consisting of second openings 31 to 33. Starting from the first group 61, the system is configured in the circumferential direction with the following groups in sequence: a first group 51 consisting of first openings 11 and 12; a separately configured first opening 13; a second group 52 consisting of first openings 14 and 15; a second group 62 consisting of second openings 34 to 36; a third group 53 consisting of first openings 16 and 17; a separately configured first opening 18; and a fourth group 54 consisting of first openings 19 and 20.

[0302] The angle (θ1) between the center line of the second opening 33 of the first group 61 and the center line of the first opening 11 of the first group 51 adjacent to it in the circumferential direction, passing through the center of the same circle (the center of the top plate 101) and the center line of the second opening 33 and passing through the center of the same circle and the center line of the first opening 11, is in the range of 15° to 65°.

[0303] Similar to the second opening 33 and the first opening 11 mentioned above, the angle (θ1) between each of the adjacent first opening 15 and second opening 34, second opening 36 and first opening 16, and first opening 20 and second opening 31 is also in the range of 15° to 65°.

[0304] In the first group 51 to the fourth group 54, the angle (θ2) formed by the two center lines passing through the center of the same circle (the same as the center of the top plate 102) and the center of the adjacent first opening is in the range of 10° to 30°, and θ1 > θ2.

[0305] For example, in Figure 7In the middle, the angle (θ2) between the line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the first opening 11 and the line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the first opening 12 is in the range of 10° to 30°.

[0306] In Group 1b 61 and Group 2b 62, the angle (θ3) formed by the two center lines passing through the center of the same circle (which is the same as the center of the top plate 102) and the center of the adjacent second opening is in the range of 10° to 30°, and θ1 > θ3.

[0307] For example, in Figure 7 In the middle, the angle (θ3) formed by the lines passing through the center, the center of the second opening 31 and the center of the second opening 32 and the angle formed by the lines passing through the center, the center of the second opening 32 and the center of the second opening 33 are in the range of 10° to 30°.

[0308] By setting it like this Figure 7 As shown, the configurations with θ1 = 15°–65°, θ2 = 10°–30°, θ3 = 10°–30°, θ1 > θ2, and θ1 > θ3 can be obtained, thus achieving the same... Figure 2 The configuration shown has the same effect.

[0309] In addition Figure 7 In another embodiment of the configuration shown in (d), the plurality of first openings forming the first opening group 51 to 54 of the first opening group are spaced equally (L1), and the plurality of second openings forming the first opening group 61 of the first opening group and 62 of the second opening group are spaced equally (L2).

[0310] The interval (L3) between the first and second adjacent openings in the circumferential direction has the relationship L3 > L1 and L3 > L2.

[0311] For example, the interval between the first openings 11 and 12 of group 1a 51 is L1, the interval between the second openings 31 and 32 of group 1b 61 is L2, and the interval between the second opening 33 and the first opening 11 is L3, with a relationship of L3 > L1 and L3 > L2. L3 / L1 is preferably in the range of 1 to 27, and L3 / L2 is preferably in the range of 1 to 15.

[0312] By associating the intervals of L1, L2, and L3, the same effect can be achieved as when the range of θ1 is set to 15° to 65°.

[0313] (7) has Figure 8 The gas generator shown has the configuration of the gas outlet.

[0314] Figure 8This is a diagram showing the configuration of the gas outlet as described in (e) above.

[0315] (e) is implemented in the following way:

[0316] A first opening 11 is disposed between the four second openings 31, 32, 37, and 38 constituting group 1b 61 and group 4b 64, and a first opening 15 is disposed between the four second openings 33 to 36 constituting group 2b 62 and group 3b 63.

[0317] Additionally, configuration (e) also includes the following implementation methods:

[0318] There is a first opening 11 in the middle of the two groups 1b 61 (second openings 31, 32) and 4b 64 (second openings 37, 38), and there is a first opening 15 in the middle of the two groups 2b 62 (second openings 33, 34) and 3b 63 (second openings 35, 36).

[0319] The first opening 11 is configured separately, and starting from the first opening 11, the following groups are arranged in the circumferential direction: a first b group 61 composed of the second openings 31 and 32, a first a group 51 composed of the first openings 12 to 14, a second b group 62 composed of the second openings 33 and 34, a first opening 15 configured separately, a third b group 63 composed of the second openings 35 and 36, a second a group 52 composed of the first openings 16 to 18, and a fourth b group composed of the second openings 37 and 38.

[0320] The angle (θ1) between the center line of the first opening 11 and the center line of the second opening 31 of the first group 61 adjacent to it in the circumferential direction, passing through the center of the same circle (the same as the center of the top plate 102) and the center line of the first opening 11 and the center line of the second opening 31 passing through the center of the same circle, is in the range of 15° to 65°.

[0321] Similar to the first opening 11 and the second opening 31 mentioned above, the angles (θ1) between adjacent second opening 32 and first opening 12, first opening 14 and second opening 33, second opening 34 and first opening 15, first opening 15 and second opening 35, second opening 36 and first opening 16, first opening 18 and second opening 37, and second opening 38 and first opening 11 are also in the range of 15° to 65°.

[0322] In Group 1a 51 and Group 2a 52, the angle (θ2) formed by the two center lines passing through the center of the same circle (which is the same as the center of the top plate 102) and the center of the adjacent first opening is in the range of 10° to 30°, and θ1 > θ2.

[0323] For example, in Figure 8 In the above, the angle (θ2) between the line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the first opening 12 and the line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the first opening 13, and the angle (θ2) between the line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the first opening 13 and the line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the first opening 14, is in the range of 10° to 30°.

[0324] In groups 1b61 to 4b64, the angle (θ3) formed by the two center lines passing through the center of the same circle (which is the same as the center of the top plate 102) and the respective centers of the adjacent second openings is in the range of 10° to 30°, and θ1 > θ3. For example, in Figure 8 In the above, the angle (θ3) between the line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the second opening 31 and the line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the second opening 32, and the angle (θ3) between the line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the second opening 33 and the line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the second opening 34, is in the range of 10° to 30°.

[0325] By setting it like this Figure 8 As shown, the configurations with θ1 = 15°–65°, θ2 = 10°–30°, θ3 = 10°–30°, θ1 > θ2, and θ1 > θ3 can be obtained, thus achieving the same... Figure 2 The configuration shown has the same effect.

[0326] In addition Figure 8 In the configuration shown in (e), the multiple first openings forming the first group 51 and the second group 52 are spaced equally (L1), and the multiple second openings forming the first group 61 to the fourth group 64 are spaced equally (L2).

[0327] The interval (L3) between the first and second adjacent openings in the circumferential direction has the relationship L3 > L1 and L3 > L2.

[0328] For example, the interval between the first openings 12 to 14 of group 1a 51 is L1, the interval between the second openings 31 and 32 of group 1b 61 is L2, and the interval between the first opening 11 and the second opening 31, and between the second opening 32 and the first opening 12 is L3, with a relationship of L3 > L1 and L3 > L2. L3 / L1 is preferably in the range of 1 to 27, and L3 / L2 is preferably in the range of 1 to 15.

[0329] By associating the intervals of L1, L2, and L3 in this way, the same effect can be achieved as when the range of θ1 is set to 15° to 65°.

[0330] (9) A gas generator having a configuration that partially includes the above-described (a) to (e)

[0331] The configuration in (f) is a configuration that partially includes the configurations in (a) to (e) above. For example, it can be set that 1 / 2 in the circumferential direction is the configuration in (a) and the remaining 1 / 2 in the circumferential direction is the configuration in (b).

[0332] Regarding gas generators with the various configurations of the aforementioned gas outlets, in cases such as Figure 1 When a gas outlet is provided in the peripheral wall portion 104, as shown, the gas outlet can also be provided at different positions in the height direction (axial direction).

[0333] In addition Figure 1 When the top plate 102 is equipped with a gas outlet, it can also be configured in multiple rows in a multi-layered circular manner.

[0334] (10) has Figure 9 The gas generator shown has the configuration of the gas outlet.

[0335] Figure 9 The housing 101 of the gas generator shown has a similar structure to... Figure 1 The housing shown has the same shape, and the igniter 110 is fixed to the base plate 103 and housed in the cover component 111.

[0336] The cover member 111 has a bottom part, a peripheral wall part 112 and an opening part, and is configured such that the opening part abuts against the bottom plate 103 and the bottom part approaches or even abuts against the top plate 102.

[0337] In the space within the enclosure member 111, excluding the igniter 110, gunpowder (not shown) is stored. The gunpowder is the same as that used in known gas generators; in addition, a gas generating agent that functions as gunpowder may also be used.

[0338] The cover component 111 has a circular shape when viewed from above, and has multiple fire-guiding holes 113a to 113e on its peripheral wall portion 112.

[0339] The fire holes 113a to 113d of the plurality of fire holes 113a to 113e of the cover member 111 are formed on the semi-circular side (first semi-circular side) of the peripheral wall portion of the cover member 111, and the remaining fire holes 113e are formed on the remaining semi-circular side (second semi-circular side).

[0340] The cover member 111 is located at a position offset from the center of the housing 101, and is configured such that the first semicircular side (the side of the ignition hole 113a to 113d) is located away from the peripheral wall portion 104 of the housing 101, and the second semicircular side (the side of the ignition hole 113e) is located close to the peripheral wall portion 104 of the housing 101.

[0341] Figure 9 The configuration of the gas generator shown is equivalent to the configuration of (e).

[0342] The second opening 31 is configured separately. Starting from the second opening 31, a group 51 consisting of the first openings 11 and 12, a second opening 32 configured separately, a group 52 consisting of the first openings 13 and 14, a second opening 33 configured separately, a group 53 consisting of the first openings 15 and 16, a second opening 34 configured separately, a group 54 consisting of the first openings 17 and 18, and up to a second opening 35 configured separately.

[0343] Furthermore, starting from the separately configured second opening 35, the remaining half circumference is provided with separately configured first opening 19, a group 61 consisting of second openings 36 and 37, separately configured first opening 20, a group 62 consisting of second openings 38 and 39, separately configured first opening 21, and so on up to separately configured second opening 31.

[0344] The second opening 31 and the second opening 35 are located in the middle of the two semicircles.

[0345] With respect to the first opening 11 and the second opening 31 adjacent to it in the circumferential direction, the angle (θ1) formed by the center line of the first opening 11 passing through the center of the same circle (which is the same as the center of the top plate 102) and the center line of the second opening 31 passing through the center of the same circle and the center line of the second opening 31 is in the range of 15° to 65°.

[0346] Similar to the first opening 11 and the second opening 31 mentioned above, the angles (θ1) between adjacent second opening 32 and first openings 12, 13, second opening 33 and first openings 14, 15, second opening 34 and first openings 16, 17, first opening 18 and second opening 35, first opening 19 and second opening 36, first opening 20 and second openings 37, 38, and first opening 21 and second opening 39 are also in the range of 15° to 65°.

[0347] In the first group 51 to the fourth group 54, the angle (θ2) formed by the two center lines passing through the center of the same circle (the same as the center of the top plate 102) and the center of the adjacent first opening is in the range of 10° to 30°, and θ1 > θ2.

[0348] For example, in Figure 9 In the middle, the angle (θ2) between the line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the first opening 11 and the line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the first opening 12 is in the range of 10° to 30°.

[0349] In the first group 61 to the second group 62, the angle (θ3) formed by the two center lines passing through the center of the same circle (which is the same as the center of the top plate 102) and the center of the adjacent second opening is in the range of 10° to 30°, and θ1 > θ3.

[0350] For example, in Figure 9 In the middle, the angle (θ3) (not shown) formed by the line passing through the center and the center of the second opening 36 and the line passing through the center and the center of the second opening 37 is in the range of 10° to 30°.

[0351] By setting it like this Figure 9 As shown, the configurations with θ1 = 15°–65°, θ2 = 10°–30°, θ3 = 10°–30°, θ1 > θ2, and θ1 > θ3 can be obtained, thus achieving the same... Figure 2 The configuration shown has the same effect.

[0352] In addition, Figure 9 In the configuration shown in (e), the multiple first openings forming the first group 51 to the fourth group 54 are spaced equally (L1), and the multiple second openings forming the first group 61 to the second group 62 are spaced equally (L2).

[0353] The interval (L3) between the first and second adjacent openings in the circumferential direction has the relationship L3 > L1 and L3 > L2.

[0354] For example, in group 1a 51, the interval between the first openings 11 and 12 is L1, the interval between the first opening 12 and the second opening 32 is L3, and the interval between the first opening 11 and the second opening 31 is L3, with L3 > L1. Similarly, in group 1b 61, the interval between the second openings 36 and 37 is L2, the interval between the first opening 19 and the second opening 36 is L3, and the interval between the first opening 19 and the second opening 35 is L3, with L3 > L2. L3 / L1 is preferably in the range of 1 to 27, and L3 / L2 is preferably in the range of 1 to 15.

[0355] By associating the intervals of L1, L2, and L3 in this way, the same effect can be achieved as when the range of θ1 is set to 15° to 65°.

[0356] When the semicircular side of the housing 101 corresponding to the first semicircular side in the cover member 111 where the fire-guiding holes 113a to 113d are formed is designated as the first semicircular region (from the second opening 31 through the first group 51 to the second opening 35), and the semicircular side of the housing 101 corresponding to the second semicircular side where the fire-guiding holes 113e are formed is designated as the second semicircular region (from the second opening 35 through the first opening 19 to the second opening 31), the ratio (A2 / A1) of the total opening area (A1) of the plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings formed in the first semicircular region to the total opening area (A2) of the plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings formed in the second semicircular region is in the range of 0.25 to 0.40.

[0357] Using Figure 9 When the igniter 110 of the gas generator with the gas outlet shown in the configuration is working, it releases combustion products such as flames from the ignition holes 113a to 113e of the cover member 111.

[0358] At this time, in the ignition holes 113a-113d and ignition holes 113e, more combustion products are released from the ignition holes 113a-113d into the interior of the casing (the interior of the combustion chamber), causing the gas generator to ignite and burn to produce combustion gases.

[0359] The distance from the ignition holes 113a-113d to the peripheral wall 104 of the casing is greater than the distance from the ignition hole 113e to the peripheral wall 104 of the casing, and more gas generating agent is contained in the first semicircular region. However, because the amount of combustion products released from the ignition holes 113a-113d is large and has a relationship of A2 / A1 = 0.25-0.40, the combustion of the gas generating agent filled in this region develops rapidly.

[0360] On the other hand, the amount of combustion products released from the ignition hole 113e is small, but the distance from the ignition hole 113e to the peripheral wall portion 104 of the casing is short, and the amount of gas generated is also small. Therefore, the gas generator filled into the second semicircular region causes combustion to develop at the same time as the gas generator in the first semicircular region.

[0361] Then, the combustion gases are discharged from the first opening, 11-21, and then from the second opening, 31-39. Alternatively, depending on the situation, the gases may be discharged only from the first opening, 11-21.

[0362] During such an operation, as described above, the configuration is such that θ1 = 15° to 65°, θ2 = 10° to 30°, θ3 = 10° to 30°, θ1 > θ2, θ1 > θ3 and L3 > L1, L3 > L2. Therefore, the second openings 31 to 39 will not be affected by the combustion gas flow discharged from the first openings 11 to 21 and will not open.

[0363] (11) Figure 10 The gas generator shown

[0364] Figure 10 The gas generator 200 has a cylindrical shell 201 with a circular cross-sectional shape in the width direction and an outer diameter D to an axial length L ratio of L / D > 1.1.

[0365] Regarding the cylindrical shell 201, an igniter 205 is fixed at the first end 202, the second end 203 is sealed, and a gas outlet is formed in the peripheral wall 204. The gas generating agent is contained in the internal space (combustion chamber) of the cylindrical shell 201.

[0366] It is possible Figure 10 The cylindrical housing 201 of the gas generator forms a gas outlet comprising a combination of a first opening and a second opening, which are arranged in any of the configurations described in (a) to (f) above. Figure 10 The configuration of (a) is shown in the figure. Figure 3 ).

[0367] The gas outlet, including the combination of the first opening and the second opening, satisfies some or all of the following requirements: θ1 = 15° to 65°, θ2 = 10° to 30°, θ3 = 10° to 30°, θ1 > θ2, θ1 > θ3, L3 > L1, L3 > L2. Therefore, the second opening will not be affected by the first opening which is open during operation.

[0368] The invention has been described as above. Of course, the invention encompasses various modifications within its scope, which do not depart from the scope of the invention. Furthermore, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that all modifications of the invention are covered within the protection scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A gas generator, comprising a gas generating agent and an igniter housed within a casing having a gas outlet. The shell has a circular shape when viewed from above, and the shell has a top plate, a bottom plate opposite to the top plate in the axial direction, and a peripheral wall portion between the top plate and the bottom plate. The gas outlet is sealed by a plugging component. The gas outlet is a combination of multiple first openings and multiple second openings. The rupture pressure P1 of the plugging component at the first opening is low, and the rupture pressure P2 of the plugging component at the second opening is higher than the rupture pressure P1. The plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings are formed at intervals on the circumference of the same circle on the peripheral wall portion. The plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings are configured in the following configuration (a) or (b): (a) A plurality of first openings arranged in a group at intervals from each other, wherein one of the plurality of second openings is individually disposed among the groups of first openings. (b) A plurality of second openings arranged in a group at intervals from each other, wherein one of the plurality of first openings is individually disposed among the groups of second openings. In the configuration described in (a), the separately configured second opening and one of the plurality of first openings forming the group of first openings, which is adjacent to the separately configured second opening in the circumferential direction, are configured such that the angle θ1 formed by the first center line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the first opening, and the second center line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the second opening, is in the range of 15° to 65°. In the configuration described in (b), the separately configured first opening and one of the plurality of second openings forming the group of second openings, which is adjacent to the separately configured first opening in the circumferential direction, are configured such that the angle θ1 formed by the first center line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the first opening and the second center line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of the second opening is in the range of 15° to 65°.

2. The gas generator according to claim 1, wherein, In the configuration described in (a), the plurality of first openings forming the first opening group are spaced equally at intervals L1. The interval L1 between the first opening and the second opening adjacent to it in the circumferential direction has the relationship L1 < L3.

3. The gas generator according to claim 1, wherein, In the configuration described in (b), the plurality of second openings forming the second opening group are spaced equally at intervals L2. The interval L3 between L2 and the second opening and the first opening adjacent to it in the circumferential direction has the relationship L3 > L2.

4. The gas generator according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, Regarding the plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings, they are formed in multiple rows on the same circumference at different height positions of the peripheral wall portion.

5. A gas generator, which houses a gas generating agent and an igniter within a housing having a gas outlet. The shell has a circular shape when viewed from above, and the shell has a top plate, a bottom plate opposite to the top plate in the axial direction, and a peripheral wall portion between the top plate and the bottom plate. The gas outlet is a combination of multiple first openings and multiple second openings. The rupture pressure P1 at the first opening is low, and the rupture pressure P2 at the second opening is higher than the rupture pressure P1. The plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings are blocked openings, and are formed at intervals on the circumference of the same circle on the peripheral wall portion. The plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings are configured as follows: a plurality of first opening groups having the plurality of first openings arranged in a group spaced apart from each other, and a plurality of second opening groups having the plurality of second openings arranged in a group spaced apart from each other, wherein the first opening groups and the second opening groups are arranged adjacent to each other in a circumferentially spaced manner. The center line passing through the center of the same circle and the center line of the first opening of the first opening group that is close to the center of the first opening of the second opening group, and the center line passing through the center of the same circle and the center line of the second opening of the second opening group that is close to the center of the second opening of the first opening group, the angle θ1 between these two center lines is 15° to 65°. The center line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of one of the multiple first openings in the group of first openings, and the center line passing through the center of the same circle and the center of another first opening close to the one first opening in the group of first openings, the angle between these two center lines is θ2. A centerline passing through the center of the same circle and the center of one of the multiple second openings in the group of second openings, and a centerline passing through the center of the same circle and the center of another second opening close to the one second opening in the group of second openings, the angle between these two centerlines is θ3, satisfying θ1 > θ2 and θ1 > θ3. The configuration of the first opening group and the second opening group includes the following configuration (a) or (b): (a) One of the plurality of second openings is individually disposed among the group of first openings. (b) One of the plurality of first openings is individually disposed among the group of second openings.

6. The gas generator according to claim 5, wherein, The values ​​of θ2 and θ3 are 10° to 30°.

7. The gas generator according to any one of claims 1 to 3, 5, and 6, wherein, The ratio of the outer diameter D of the shell to its axial length L is L / D≤1.

1.

8. The gas generator according to any one of claims 1 to 3, 5, and 6, wherein, The first group of openings and the second group of openings respectively include the plurality of first openings and the plurality of second openings arranged in the circumferential direction of the housing.

Images