Airbag with inflator attachment

Abstract

An apparatus for helping to protect an occupant of a vehicle seat includes an airbag (70) defining an inflatable volume for receiving an inflation fluid from an inflator (74) having a first end and a second end (76, 78). The airbag (70) has a first sleeve (440) configured to receive the first end (76) of the inflator (74) and a second sleeve configured to receive the second end (78) of the inflator (74). The first sleeve (440) and the second sleeve extend from the airbag.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates generally to vehicle airbags, and more particularly to airbags that are directly attached to an inflator attached thereto. Background Technology

[0002] As is well known, airbags inflate to help protect vehicle occupants in the event of a side collision. Airbags are typically stored in the vehicle seat in a deflated state along with the inflator. If a side collision occurs that exceeds a predetermined threshold in severity, the inflator is activated, and the airbag inflates to a position between the vehicle occupant and the adjacent side structure of the vehicle (such as an adjacent door). Airbags can help protect vehicle occupants from powerful impacts or being struck by vehicle components such as doors. Airbags can also help protect vehicle occupants from objects that may intrude through the doors. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In one example, a device for helping to protect occupants of a vehicle seat includes an airbag defining an inflatable volume for receiving inflatable gas from an inflator having a first end and a second end. The airbag has a first sleeve configured to receive a first end of the inflator and a second sleeve configured to receive a second end of the inflator. The first and second sleeves extend from the airbag.

[0004] In another example, a device for helping to protect occupants of a vehicle seat includes an airbag defining an inflatable volume for receiving inflatable gas from an inflator having a first end and a second end. The airbag has a first sleeve and a second sleeve, the first sleeve being configured to receive a first end of the inflator, and the second sleeve being configured to receive a second end of the inflator. The first sleeve is formed of a first panel that folds itself and is inserted between a second panel and a third panel defining the inflatable volume of the airbag. A first stitch extends from the first end positioned on the first sleeve to a second end positioned on the periphery of the second and third panels. A second stitch extends from the first end positioned on the first sleeve to a second end positioned on the periphery of the second and third panels. The first ends of the first stitch and the first ends of the second stitch extend parallel to each other.

[0005] On the other hand, alone or in combination with any other aspect, the first sleeve comprises multiple layers of fabric material sewn together and extending from the airbag.

[0006] On the other hand, either alone or in combination with any other aspect, the first sleeve is formed by a first panel that folds itself and is inserted between a second panel and a third panel that define the inflatable volume of the airbag.

[0007] On the other hand, either alone or in combination with any other aspect, the stitches extend through the first panel, the second panel, and the third panel.

[0008] On the other hand, alone or in combination with any other aspect, the stitching includes a first stitch extending from a first end positioned on the first sleeve to a second end positioned on the periphery of the second and third panels. A second stitch extends from the first end positioned on the first sleeve to a second end positioned on the periphery of the second and third panels. The first ends of the first and second stitches extend parallel to each other.

[0009] On the other hand, either alone or in combination with any other aspect, the second ends of the first suture and the second ends of the second suture overlap each other on the periphery of the second panel and the periphery of the third panel.

[0010] On the other hand, either alone or in combination with any other aspect, the portions of the first and second seams positioned on the first sleeve extend along the length of the first sleeve.

[0011] On the other hand, either alone or in combination with any other aspect, a first seam and a second seam positioned on the first sleeve extend parallel to a fold line, on which the first panel itself folds to form the first sleeve.

[0012] On the other hand, alone or in combination with any other aspect, the first sleeve includes a base extending from the periphery of the airbag, an opening for receiving a first end of the inflation device, and tabs aligned with the opening and positioned on opposite sides of the inflation device.

[0013] On the other hand, either alone or in combination with any other aspect, the clamp extends around the first end of the tab and the inflation device for securing the tab and the first end of the inflation device together.

[0014] On the other hand, either alone or in combination with any other aspect, the first suture extends around the opening.

[0015] On the other hand, either alone or in combination with any other aspect, the second suture extends around the first suture and through the tab.

[0016] On the other hand, either alone or in combination with any other aspect, the airbag is formed as a central side airbag.

[0017] Other objects and advantages of the invention, as well as a more complete understanding of the invention, will become apparent from the following detailed description and accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 This is a top view of a vehicle including an exemplary occupant restraint system mounted on the seat.

[0019] Figure 2 This is a schematic representation of the passenger compartment of a vehicle with an exemplary airbag in a stored state, featuring an exemplary seating arrangement and restraint system.

[0020] Figure 3 This is a top view of the seat, with the airbag in its stored position.

[0021] Figure 4A This is a side view of the airbag in its deployed state.

[0022] Figure 4B This is a top view of the airbag in its deployed state.

[0023] Figure 5 This is a top view of the first panel of the airbag.

[0024] Figure 6 This is a top view of the second panel of the airbag.

[0025] Figure 7 This is a top view of the third panel of the airbag.

[0026] Figure 8 This is a top view of the fourth panel of the airbag.

[0027] Figure 9 This is a top view of the fifth panel of the airbag.

[0028] Figure 10 This is a top view of the sixth panel of the airbag.

[0029] Figure 11 This is a top view of the first stage of airbag assembly.

[0030] Figure 12A This is a top view of the second stage of assembling the airbag.

[0031] Figure 12B yes Figure 12A A magnified view of a portion of the image.

[0032] Figure 13 This is a top view of the third stage of airbag assembly.

[0033] Figure 14 This is a top view of the fourth stage of airbag assembly.

[0034] Figure 15 This is a schematic illustration of the inflation device connected to the airbag. Detailed Implementation

[0035] The present invention relates generally to vehicle airbags, and more particularly to airbags that are directly attached to an inflator attached thereto. Figures 1 to 3An exemplary vehicle safety system in the form of an occupant restraint system 10 is shown for vehicle 20. Vehicle 20 extends along a centerline 22 from a first end or front end 24 to a second end or rear end 26. Vehicle 20 extends to the left side 28 and right side 30 on opposite sides of the centerline 22. The first end 24 of vehicle 20 includes a dashboard 42 facing the passenger compartment or cabin 40. A windshield or deflector 44 may be located between the dashboard 42 and the roof 32. A steering wheel 49 is attached to the dashboard 42 on the left side 28 of vehicle 20.

[0036] Seats 50 are positioned in the passenger compartment 40 and can be arranged, respectively, in a forward-facing configuration as in a conventional vehicle, as front row 52 and rear row 54. It should be understood that vehicle 20 may alternatively include more or fewer rows of seats 50 (not shown). In any case, seat belts 56 are associated with each seat 50 for restraining occupants 60 within that seat.

[0037] Each seat 50 is along the front and rear center lines 59 (see...) Figure 3 The seat back 55 extends from the base 53 toward the roof 32 and receives the upper torso 64 of the occupant 60. The headrest 57 is attached to the seat back 55 and receives the head 62 of the occupant 60.

[0038] The occupant restraint system 10 includes at least one vehicle occupant protection device in the form of an inflatable airbag 70, housed / concealed within a seat 50, located, for example, behind the seat trim. Installing the airbags 70 within the seat 50 is convenient because each airbag can be positioned at a desired distance from the occupant 60 it is intended to help protect. This helps reduce the necessary inflatable volume of the airbags 70 and also helps provide the desired airbag deployment time without requiring an excessively large inflator.

[0039] Airbag 70 is stored in module 68, which has a housing 69 made of a durable material such as plastic or metal. In the exemplary configuration shown, airbag module 68 is installed in the seat back 55 of each seat 50, and on the inside of the occupant 60 associated with the seat back. Airbag 70 inflates and deploys upward (i.e., toward the vehicle centerline 22) on the inside of the passenger compartment 40, as... Figures 4A to 4B As shown. In this way, airbag 70 is a center side airbag. Other occupant restraint systems (not shown) that can be constructed according to the invention may include, for example, curtain airbags, side impact airbags, inflatable seat belts, inflatable knee pads, and inflatable roof trim panels.

[0040] The airbag 70 undergoes at least one of rolling and folding before being placed in the housing 69 of the module 68. The module 68 is then placed within the seat back 55 of the seat 50 and covered with seat upholstery and / or door panels. An inflation device 74 is positioned in each module 68 to provide inflation fluid to each airbag 70. The inflation device 74 is operatively (e.g., via wiring) connected to an airbag controller 80 (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 2 The airbag controller includes or communicates with one or more collision sensors (not shown). The airbag controller 80 is operable to determine the occurrence of a collision event and actuate the inflator 74 in a known manner to inflate the airbag 70. The inflator 74 can be of any known type, such as a gas-storage type, a solid propellant type, a pressurized type, or a hybrid type.

[0041] The airbag 70 can be constructed from any suitable material, such as nylon (e.g., textile nylon 6-6 yarn), and can be constructed in any suitable manner. For example, the airbag 70 may comprise one or more material pieces or material panels. If more than one material piece or material panel is used, these material pieces or material panels can be interconnected in known ways (such as stitching, ultrasonic welding, thermal bonding, or adhesives) to form the airbag 70. The airbag 70 can be uncoated, coated with a material (such as impermeable urethane), or laminated with a material (such as an impermeable membrane). Thus, the airbag 70 can have an airtight or substantially airtight construction. Those skilled in the art will recognize that alternative materials (such as polyester yarn) and alternative coatings (such as silicone) can also be used to construct the airbag 70.

[0042] The occupant restraint system 10 may include multiple airbags 70 disposed in each seat 50 in each row 52, ​​54. In other words, each seat 50 in the vehicle 20 may have a separate module 68 associated with it (with a corresponding airbag 70 and an inflation device 74). Although the airbags in each seat 50 are the same for each row disposed in the vehicle 20, for the sake of brevity, the construction and operation of the airbag associated only with the left (driver's side) 28 seat 50 in the rear row 54 will be discussed.

[0043] like Figures 4A to 4BAs shown, upon sensing an event (such as a vehicle collision) that would cause the airbag 70 to inflate, the controller 80 provides a signal to the inflator 74. Upon receiving the signal from the controller 80, the inflator 74 is actuated and supplies inflation fluid to the inflatable volume of the airbag 70 in a known manner. The inflating airbag 70 exerts force on the housing 69, causing both the housing and the seat upholstery to open (e.g., via a tear or door). This releases the airbag 70 to inflate and deploy from its stored state behind the seat upholstery to a deployed state extending into the passenger compartment 40, inside and aligned with the seat 50 in the rear seat 54. The airbag 70 helps protect the vehicle occupant 60 in the rear seat 54 by absorbing the impact during inflation.

[0044] Airbag 70 inflates from its storage location in the seat back 55 to its deployed state. When deployed, airbag 70 extends from its lower end 84 to its upper end 86. Airbag 70 includes a first airbag or portion 90 and a second airbag or portion 100. The first portion 90 and the second portion 100 have corresponding inflatable volumes 92, 102. An opening 96 in the panel defining airbag 70 fluidly connects to the inflatable volumes 92, 102, as will be discussed.

[0045] The first part 90 is connected to the seat 50 and fluidly connected to the inflation device 74. The upper end 86 and the second part 100 are positioned adjacent to the head 62 of the occupant 60 in the seat 50 and are located outside the first part 90. The outer side 104 of the airbag 70 faces the occupant 60 in the associated seat 50. The inner side 106 faces away from the occupant 60 and toward the side structure 29.

[0046] In its deployed state, the airbag 70 is configured to extend substantially the entire depth of the seat 50 to the outside of the associated occupant 60. The lower end 82 is configured to cover at least a portion of the occupant's knees and the upper part of the legs 66. The upper end 86 is configured to extend vertically to a position sufficient to accommodate and help protect the occupant's head 62 and upper torso 64.

[0047] The degree of vertical and / or horizontal deployment of the airbag can be adjusted (e.g., Figures 4A to 4B (As shown), the coverage of the airbag can be adjusted. For this purpose, the airbag 70 can be configured to extend further forward and / or rearward to help protect the occupant 60 in the event of a side impact, oblique impact, or offset impact. The inflation width of the airbag 70 in the inside-outside direction can also be adjusted.

[0048] Because occupant 60 is wearing a seatbelt, the side impact that causes the inner occupant 60 to move results in the occupant moving along the path toward the airbag 70, such as... Figure 4BThe arrow F in the diagram roughly indicates this. That is, the connection between the lower end 84 and the seat base 53, combined with the engagement between the deployed airbag 70 and the adjacent seat 50 (not shown), serves to limit or restrain the inward movement of the airbag away from the occupant 60 in response to occupant penetration. In other words, one or more seats 50 in the rear row 54 can help prevent or limit the movement of the airbag 70 in the direction F.

[0049] The inflation rate, deployment trajectory, and shape of the airbag 70 can be configured to optimize protection for occupants 60 with a wide range of body sizes and / or seating positions. To this end, the airbag 70 may optionally be used in conjunction with tethers and / or have multiple chambers to achieve appropriate or desired deployment characteristics suitable for the vehicle interior and / or the seating position of the occupant 60. These features can be configured to help protect occupants 60 who are lethargic, reclining, etc.

[0050] With this in mind, Figures 5 to 15 Exemplary components and manufacturing steps for assembling an airbag 70 with an inflation device 74 are shown. For this purpose, the airbag 70 includes a series of panels 120, 170, 220, 250, 290, 310, which are interconnected to define a first portion 90 and a second portion 100, and their inflatable volumes 92, 102, for receiving inflation fluid from the inflation device 74. The weave direction of each panel 120, 170, 220, 290, 310 is indicated by W.

[0051] The first panel 120 is in Figure 5 The diagram shows and includes a first protrusion 126 and a second protrusion 128 extending outwardly from the first panel 120. The first protrusion 126 may have a truncated conical shape. The second protrusion 128 includes a base 130 connected to the first panel 120. An opening 132 extends through the base 130. Tabs 134 extend outwardly from the base 120 on opposite sides of the opening 132. As shown, the tabs 134 are diametrically opposed to each other around the opening 132. A notch 135 extends into the base 130 at the end opposite to the tabs 134.

[0052] An inflation opening 140 extends through the interior of the first panel 120. The openings 140 are linearly aligned with each other and may have different sizes (as shown) or the same size (not shown). Figure 5 In the example shown, the size of the opening 140 increases in a generally straight line. A first longitudinal edge 136 extends from the first protrusion 126 around the opening 140 to the second protrusion 128. A second longitudinal edge 138 extends between the first protrusion 126 and the second protrusion 128.

[0053] A series of alignment openings are provided along edges 136, 138 to aid in aligning the first panel 120 with the other panels in the airbag during assembly of the airbag 70. In one example, a first alignment opening 150, a second alignment opening 152, a third alignment opening 154, a fourth alignment opening 156, and a fifth alignment opening 158 are provided in the first panel 120. More or fewer alignment openings are conceivable. As shown, the first alignment opening 150 is provided on the first protrusion 126. The second alignment opening 152 is opposite to the first protrusion 126 and is provided along edge 136. The third alignment opening 154 is provided on opposite sides of the first protrusion 126. The fourth alignment opening 156 is provided along edge 138 between the first protrusion 126 and the second protrusion 128. The fifth alignment opening 158 is provided along edge 136 and is relatively closer to the inflation opening 140.

[0054] Figure 6 A second panel 170 is shown, which is a mirror image of the first panel 120, but the inflation opening 140 is omitted. That is, features in the second panel 170 corresponding to features in the first panel 120 are assigned corresponding reference numerals that are 50 units larger than those in the first panel; for example, edges 136 and 138 in the first panel 120 correspond to edges 186 and 188 in the second panel 170. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, a detailed description of the second panel 170 is omitted.

[0055] The third panel 220 is in Figure 7 The third panel 220 is shown in the figure and is generally symmetrical about the center line 222. The third panel 220 includes a first longitudinal edge 232 and a second longitudinal edge 234, which extend on opposite sides of the center line 222 and intersect each other at a location on the center line. An inflation opening 230 extends through the interior of the third panel 220. The openings 230 are linearly aligned with each other and may have different sizes (as shown) or the same size (not shown). Figure 7 In the example shown, the size of the opening 220 is increased and it is positioned along the centerline 222. In any case, the inflation opening 220 has the same size and arrangement as the inflation opening 140 in the first panel 120.

[0056] The fourth panel 250 is in Figure 8The fourth panel 250 is shown in the figure and is substantially symmetrical about the centerline 252. An opening 256 extends through the interior of the fourth panel 250 and is positioned on opposite sides of the centerline 252. A series of alignment openings are provided along the periphery of the fourth panel 250 to aid in aligning the fourth panel with the other panels in the airbag during assembly of the airbag 70. As shown, alignment openings 260, 262, and 270 are provided along the top of the fourth panel 250. Alignment openings 262 and 268 are provided along the left side of the fourth panel 260. Alignment openings 264, 266, 272, and 274 are provided along the bottom of the fourth panel 260. Alignment openings 270 and 276 are provided along the right side of the fourth panel 260. More or fewer alignment openings are conceivable.

[0057] The fifth panel 290 is in Figure 9 The figure shows edges 293 and 294 extending generally along the centerline 292. A pair of longitudinal edges 293 and 294 extend parallel to each other and laterally (e.g., perpendicular to) the centerline 292. A pair of edges 295 and 296 extend on opposite sides of the centerline 292 and interconnect edges 293 and 295. As shown, edges 293 and 294 are straight, while edges 295 and 296 are formed by a series of curves arranged end-to-end. Edges 295 and 296 are symmetrical about the centerline 292.

[0058] Multiple rows of openings are provided between edges 295 and 296, extending parallel to edges 293 and 294. The number of rows corresponds to the number of curves in edges 295 and 296. Each row includes a first opening 298 located adjacent to edge 293, a second opening 300 located adjacent to edge 294, and a third opening 302 located between the first and second openings. The second opening 300 and the third opening 302 are located on the same side of the centerline 292. As shown, four rows of openings 298, 300, and 302 are provided, corresponding to and aligned with the four curves in each edge 295 and 296.

[0059] The sixth panel 310 is in Figure 10 The figures are shown and symmetrical about centerline 312. Protrusions 313 and 330 extend from centerline 312 and from each other in opposite directions. The first protrusion 313 includes a base 314 extending from a first end 316 located adjacent to centerline 312 to a second free end 318. An opening 320 extends through the second end 318. A tab 322 extends radially outward from the second end 318 relative to the opening 320. As shown, the tabs 322 are diametrically opposed to each other around the opening 320.

[0060] A notch 324 is formed in the first end 316 of the first protrusion 313. A pair of tabs 326 extend outward from the first end 316 in opposite directions and generally parallel to the center line 312. Alignment openings 328 are provided in the free ends of each tab 326.

[0061] The second protrusion 330 includes a base 332 extending from a first end 336 located adjacent to the centerline 312 to a second free end 338. An opening 340 extends through the second end 338. A tab 342 extends radially outward from the second end 338 relative to the opening 340. As shown, the tabs 342 are diametrically opposed to each other around the opening 340.

[0062] A notch 344 is formed in the first end 336 of the second protrusion 330. A pair of tabs 346 extend outward from the first end 336 in opposite directions and generally parallel to the center line 332. Alignment openings 348 are provided in the free ends of each tab 346.

[0063] Figures 11 to 14 The steps for assembling panels 120, 170, 220, 250, 290, and 310 into airbag 70 are shown. (Reference) Figure 11 The first panel 120 and the second panel 170 are arranged symmetrically about the center line 350, wherein a first protrusion 126 on the first panel is aligned with and overlaps a first protrusion 176 on the second panel. A second alignment opening 152 and a third alignment opening 154 on the first panel 120 are aligned with a second alignment opening 202 and a third alignment opening 204 on the second panel 170, respectively. In this orientation, the second protrusions 128 and 178 face the center line 350 and extend towards each other.

[0064] The third panel 220 is positioned behind the first panel 120 (as shown), wherein the inflation opening 230 in the third panel is aligned with the inflation opening 140 in the first panel. This causes the centerline 222 of the third panel 220 to extend toward and intersect the centerline 350.

[0065] A fourth panel 250 is positioned on top of the first panel 120, wherein a center line 252 bifurcates the overlapping first protrusions 126, 176 and coincides with a center line 350. A first alignment opening 260 is aligned with second alignment openings 152, 202 in the second panel 120 and the third panel 170. Third alignment openings 264 and 266 are aligned with one of the third alignment openings 204 and 206 in the second panel 170, respectively. A seventh alignment opening 272 and an eighth alignment opening 274 are aligned with one of the third alignment openings 154 and 156 in the second panel 170, respectively.

[0066] Stitches are provided to secure panels 120, 170, 220, and 250 to each other. Specifically, stitches 370 and 372 interconnect and extend through the first panel 120, the second panel 170, the third panel 220, and the fourth panel 250. Stitch 374 extends around aligned openings 150 and 200 in the first protrusions 126 and 176. Stitch 380 extends around aligned inflation openings 140 and 220 and through both panels 120 and 220.

[0067] refer to Figures 12A to 12B The second panel 170 and the fourth panel 250 are folded on the centerline 350 in the manner indicated at point A, such that the second panel overlaps and aligns with the first panel 120. In other words, the second panel 170 is folded such that edges 136 and 190 overlap each other, and edges 138 and 192 overlap each other.

[0068] The second protrusions 128 and 178 are also aligned with each other, but do not overlap or join. Conversely, the sixth panel 310 (see also...) Figure 10 The sixth panel 310 is positioned between the aligned second protrusions 128 and 178. More specifically, the sixth panel 310 is folded on the center line 312 such that the bases 314 and 332 overlap each other, the tab 322 overlaps the tab 342, the tab 326 overlaps the tab 346, and the openings 320 and 340 are aligned with each other.

[0069] Then, the folded sixth panel 310 is inserted between the aligned second protrusions 128 and 178, such that the openings 132, 182, 320, and 340 are aligned with each other, the tabs 134, 184, 322, and 342 are aligned with each other, the notches 135, 185, 324, and 344 are aligned with each other, and the folded tabs 326 and 346 extend between the panels 120 and 170 along the two overlapping edges 136, 190 and 138, 192, respectively.

[0070] Suture 386 extends through edges 136 and 190 and interconnects these edges. Suture 388 extends through edges 138 and 192 and interconnects these edges. Suture 388 extends to and along the length of the overlapping first protrusions 126 and 176. Suture 386 may overlap with suture 388 in the regions of tabs 326 and 346. Sutures 386 and 388 interconnect the first panel 120 and the second panel 170 in a fluid-impermeable manner to define an inflatable volume 92 of the first portion 90.

[0071] Seams 370 and 372 are also located near the center line 350 of the first panel 120 and the second panel 170. Figure 12A The suture 374 extends through the first protrusions 126 and 176 and surrounds the openings 150 and 200. The suture 390 extends through the panels 120, 170 and 250 to form a groove that guides the incoming inflation fluid to the lower end 84 of the airbag 70.

[0072] Further reference Figure 9 The fifth panel 290 is folded in an accordion manner along the center line 292, such that all edges 295 overlap each other and all edges 296 overlap each other. This aligns all first openings 298 with each other, all second openings 300 with each other, and all third openings 302 with each other.

[0073] Insert the end of the fifth panel 290, which carries the overlapping edge 296, between panels 120 and 170 until the aligned second opening 300 and aligned third opening 302 are aligned with the opening 260 in the folded fourth panel 250. The stitch 392 extends through the folded fifth panel 290 and the overlapping panels 120, 170, and 250 as shown, and extends around opening 298 and aligned openings 260, 300 and 260, 302, respectively.

[0074] refer to Figure 12B Suture 394 extends through the overlapping bases 130, 180, 314, and 332 of the respective panels 120, 170, and 310, and surrounds the aligned openings 132, 182, 320, and 340. Additional suture 400 extends through the overlapping bases 130, 180, 314, and 332. Specifically, suture 400 begins at end 402 along the periphery of the overlapping tabs 134, 184, 322, and 342, continues to the overlapping bases 130, 180, 314, and 332 and partially surrounds the openings 132, 182, 320, and 340, extends across the other overlapping tabs, and terminates at end 404 along the periphery of the other tabs.

[0075] The suture 400 may include backstitches (not shown) at each respective end 402, 404 and on opposite sides of the interconnecting panels 120, 170, 310 to prevent suture loosening. As shown, the portions of the suture 400 extending through the tabs 134, 184, 322, 342 are generally aligned with each other on opposite sides of the openings 132, 182, 322, 342, i.e., the suture portions are diametrically opposed to each other around the openings. The portions of the suture 400 extending through the bases 130, 180, 314, 332 extend substantially parallel to or substantially concentrically with the suture 394 surrounding the openings 132, 182, 320, 340.

[0076] exist Figure 13 In the next step shown, the edge portions 230, 232 of panel 220 are secured together with stitch 410. Thus, the folded and sewn-together panel 220 forms a second portion 110 and defines an inflatable volume 102 for this second portion. The inflatable volumes 92, 102 of the first portion 90 and the second portion 92 are fluidly connected to each other through aligned inflation openings 140, 220. Additional stitches 412, 414 extend through panels 120, 170, 250 to further interconnect these panels.

[0077] refer to Figure 14 The overlapping, sewn-together bases 130, 180, 313, and 330 are folded around the center line 420 as indicated at point C. Notches 135, 185, 324, and 344 (see...) Figure 12B This folding is facilitated. In any case, the folding of the bases 130, 180, 313, and 330 positions all tabs 134, 184, 322, and 342 on one side of the aligned openings 132, 182, 314, and 322. Furthermore, all tabs 134, 184, 322, and 342 are aligned with and overlap each other.

[0078] Multiple sets of sutures 424, 434 extend from a first end 426, passing through bases 130, 180, 313, 330, to a second end 428 positioned on panels 120, 170 and extending through these panels and the overlapping tabs 326, 346 between them. The portions of sutures 424, 434 positioned on bases 130, 180, 313, 330 extend parallel or substantially parallel to each other. As shown, the portions of sutures 424, 434 positioned on bases 130, 180, 313, 330 also extend parallel to the centerline 420. The portions of sutures 424, 434 positioned on tabs 326, 426 overlap each other. In one example, the second ends 428, 438 of sutures 424, 434 are arranged in an "X" pattern.

[0079] refer to Figure 15Once the airbag 70 is assembled, its various parts mate to receive and hold the inflatable device. Specifically, the first end 76 of the inflatable device 74 is inserted between the first protrusions 126 and 176 and into the inflatable volume 92 of the first portion 90 until the first end is aligned with the panel 290. In this way, the first protrusions 126 and 176 mate to form a first sleeve 440, which is integrally formed with the airbag 70 for receiving the first end 76 of the inflatable device 74. The panel 290 may be folded or wrapped around the first end 76 of the inflatable device 74 and sewn (not shown) or otherwise secured to the first portion 90 to help hold the first end in place.

[0080] The second end 78 of the inflation device 74 is inserted through aligned openings 132, 182, 314, 322 in a direction generally indicated by D and between protrusions 134, 184, 322, 342 on opposite sides. In this way, protrusions 128, 178, 313, 330 cooperate to form a second sleeve 442, which is integrally formed with the airbag 70 for receiving the second end 78 of the inflation device 74.

[0081] The inflation device 74 can be securely fastened to the first sleeve 440 and the second sleeve 442 via fasteners, adhesives, etc. As shown, a clamp 450 extends around the first end 76 of the inflation device 74 and the first protrusions 126, 176 and is radially compressed to securely fasten the first end of the inflation device and these first protrusions together. Another clamp 452 extends around the second end 78 of the inflation device and the tabs 134, 184, 322, 342 and is radially compressed to securely fasten the second end of the inflation device and these tabs together.

[0082] Once the inflator 74 is secured to the airbag 70, the airbag undergoes at least one of rolling up and folding in a generally E-direction toward the inflator, achieving a size and geometry suitable for placement within the housing 69 of the module 68. Openings in the airbag 70 (e.g., openings 150, 200) allow fasteners 79 to extend through the airbag to secure the module 68 to the vehicle seat 50, roof 32, etc. One or more additional fasteners 79 may extend from the inflator 74 for further securing the inflator to the vehicle structure.

[0083] Return to reference Figure 2The inflator 74 and airbag 70 are oriented in the seat back 55 such that the second end 78 is positioned below the first end 76, and thus the second sleeve 442 is positioned below the first sleeve 440. When a vehicle collision is detected, the inflator 74 releases inflation gas to inflate and deploy the airbag 70. During inflation, the reaction force generated by the expelled inflation gas pushes the airbag 70 away from the inflator 74, which is fixed to the vehicle structure. More specifically, the inflating airbag 70 attempts to move along the... Figure 15 The direction E is opposite to that of the inflation device 74.

[0084] Sleeves 440, 442 (and more specifically, the second sleeve 442) are advantageously configured to bear and distribute these tensile / reaction forces. For this purpose, the second sleeve 442 acts as a tether that maintains the connection between the inflator 74 and the airbag 70. In the example shown, six fabric layers securely connect the second end 78 of the inflator 74 to the airbag 70; two fabric layers come from panels 120, 170, and four fabric layers come from the double-folded panel 310. All layers are sewn together at their bases 130, 180, 314, 332 to form a strong connection between the sleeve 442 and the inflator 74. It should be understood that more or fewer layers can help connect the sleeve 442 to the airbag 70. That is, it should be understood that multiple layers together form the “base,” “opening,” “plate,” etc., of the second sleeve 442.

[0085] In all cases, the lengths of the bases 130, 180, 314, 332 and the seams 424, 434 extending through the bases are aligned with and counteract the reaction force / tension of operating the inflation device 74. Furthermore, the curved / overlapping ends 428, 438 facilitate the guidance and distribution of the reaction force along the overlapping edges 136, 190 and 138, 192, respectively. That is, the profiles of the seams 424, 434 are specifically designed to maximize the ability of the sleeve 442 to withstand the reaction force generated by the inflatable airbag 70 at the second end 78 of the inflation device 74. It should be understood that one or more features of the sleeve 442 can be adjusted / customized according to the specific application. For example, the dimensions of openings 132, 182, 320, 340, the dimensions of tabs 134, 184, 322, 342, the lengths of bases 130, 180, 314, 332, and / or the construction of any of the seams 394, 400, 424, 434 may differ from those shown to help ensure that sleeve 442 remains securely connected to the inflation device 74 and airbag 70 during airbag inflation and deployment.

[0086] The advantage of the airbag of this invention is that it provides a robust, integral connection between the airbag and the inflator, reducing the need for additional supports typically used to assist in attaching the airbag to the inflator. Supports and / or fasteners used to secure the inflator to the airbag may include sharp edges that could damage (e.g., tear) the airbag at the attachment point. The supports used may also bend / damage during deployment in response to the reaction forces generated by airbag inflation. By reducing this additional support, the inflator sleeve provides a method of attaching the airbag to the inflator with reduced cost and a reduced risk of airbag damage.

[0087] The examples described above are examples of the invention. It is certainly impossible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methods for the purposes of describing the invention, but those skilled in the art will recognize that many other combinations and substitutions of the invention are possible. Therefore, the invention is intended to cover all such changes, modifications, and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A device for helping to protect occupants of a vehicle seat, the device comprising: An airbag defining an inflatable volume for receiving an inflatable gas from an inflating device having a first end (76) and a second end (78), the airbag having a first sleeve (440) and a second sleeve (442), the first sleeve being configured to receive the first end of the inflating device, the second sleeve being configured to receive the second end of the inflating device, the first sleeve and the second sleeve extending from the airbag, wherein the second sleeve (442) is formed by a first panel (310), the first panel being folded and inserted between a second panel (120) and a third panel (170) defining the inflatable volume of the airbag, the device further including a stitch extending through the first panel, the second panel and the third panel, wherein the stitch includes: A first seam (424) extends from a first end positioned on the second sleeve (442) to a second end positioned on the periphery of the second panel and the third panel; and A second seam (434) extends from a first end positioned on the second sleeve (442) to a second end positioned on the periphery of the second panel and the third panel, wherein the first ends of the first seam and the first ends of the second seam extend parallel to each other.

2. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The first sleeve comprises multiple layers of fabric material sewn together and extending from the airbag.

3. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The second end of the first stitch and the second end of the second stitch overlap each other on the periphery of the second panel and the periphery of the third panel.

4. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The portions of the first and second seams positioned on the second sleeve extend along the length of the second sleeve.

5. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The portions of the first and second seams positioned on the second sleeve extend parallel to the fold line, on which the first panel itself folds to form the second sleeve.

6. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The second sleeve includes a base extending from the periphery of the airbag, an opening for receiving a second end (78) of the inflation device, and tabs aligned with the opening and positioned on opposite sides of the inflation device.

7. The device of claim 6, further comprising a clamp (452) extending around the tab and the second end of the inflation device for securing the tab and the second end of the inflation device together.

8. The device as claimed in claim 6, wherein, The third suture (394) extends around the opening.

9. The device as claimed in claim 8, wherein, The fourth suture (400) extends around the third suture and through the protrusion.

10. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The airbag includes a central side airbag.

11. A device for helping to protect occupants of a vehicle seat, the device comprising: An airbag defining an inflatable volume for receiving an inflatable gas from an inflatable device having a first end (76) and a second end (78), the airbag having a first sleeve (440) and a second sleeve (442), the first sleeve being configured to receive a first end of the inflatable device, the second sleeve being configured to receive a second end of the inflatable device, the second sleeve (442) being formed of a first panel (310) folded over itself and inserted between a second panel (120) and a third panel (170) defining the inflatable volume of the airbag, wherein a first seam extends from a first end positioned on the second sleeve to a second end positioned on the periphery of the second panel and the third panel, wherein a second seam extends from a first end positioned on the second sleeve to a second end positioned on the periphery of the second panel and the third panel, the first ends of the first seam and the first ends of the second seam extending parallel to each other.

12. The device as claimed in claim 11, wherein, The second end of the first stitch and the second end of the second stitch overlap each other on the periphery of the second panel and the periphery of the third panel.

13. The device as claimed in claim 11, wherein, The portions of the first and second seams positioned on the second sleeve extend along the length of the second sleeve.

14. The device as claimed in claim 11, wherein, The portions of the first and second seams positioned on the second sleeve extend parallel to the fold line, on which the first panel itself folds to form the second sleeve.

15. The device as claimed in claim 11, wherein, The second sleeve includes a base extending from the periphery of the airbag, an opening for receiving a second end of the inflation device, and tabs aligned with the opening and positioned on opposite sides of the inflation device.

16. The device of claim 15, further comprising a clamp (452) extending around the tab and the second end of the inflation device for securing the tab and the second end of the inflation device together.

17. The device as claimed in claim 15, wherein, The third suture (394) extends around the opening.

18. The device as claimed in claim 17, wherein, The fourth suture (400) extends around the third suture and through the protrusion.

19. The device as claimed in claim 18, wherein, The airbag includes a central side airbag.

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