Airbag device for vehicle

Abstract

Provided is a vehicle airbag device capable of suppressing a driver's injury value with a simple configuration. An airbag cushion (104) of a vehicle airbag device (100) is provided with: a bottom surface (118) into which an inflator (112) is inserted; a restraint surface (116) on the occupant side; a side surface (118) connecting the bottom surface (118) and the constraining surface (116); a recess (120) formed so as to be recessed toward the bottom surface (118) side within a predetermined range of the center of the restraining surface (116); and one or more laces (122) bridged on the side of the recess (120) and the bottom surface (118). The recess (120) is formed by being tensioned toward the bottom surface (114) side by the lacing (122) during expansion and deployment. The airbag cushion (104) further has wrinkles (204a-204e) and restraining parts (206a-206e) which are formed along the dotted line (V1) on the inner wall of the recessed part (120) when the airbag cushion (104) is inflated and deployed.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] In recent years, most vehicles are equipped with airbag devices as standard. For example, many vehicles have driver airbags installed on the steering wheel. The airbag cushion of the driver airbag is mainly stored in the center of the steering wheel, and its expansion pressure causes the resin cover to rupture, and the airbag expands and deploys in front of the occupant.

[0003] The inventors of the present application have focused on the fact that the rotation of the head of an occupant easily puts a burden on the body due to the structure of the human body, and have therefore developed an airbag cushion that can efficiently restrain the occupant's head while suppressing rotation of the occupant's head.

[0004] For example, in the case of an oblique collision that is tilted relative to the direction of travel, it is known that the occupant enters the airbag cushion at an angle and the head is easily rotated. Figure 2 As disclosed, a technology has been developed to form a recessed portion 120 using an inner tether 122 in the center of the passenger side of the airbag cushion 104 .

[0005] Prior art literature

[0006] Patent Literature

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2020-37382 Summary of the invention

[0008] Problem that the invention aims to solve

[0009] In the technique of Patent Document 1, the central base fabric 118 and three inner ties 122 are used to form the recessed portion 120. Currently, a technique is being developed that can more effectively form the recessed portion and further reduce the burden on the occupant during restraint.

[0010] The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a vehicle airbag device capable of suppressing the injury level of a driver with a simple structure.

[0011] Solutions to the problem

[0012] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the representative structure of the vehicle airbag device involved in the present invention is a vehicle airbag device, which comprises: an airbag cushion, which is inflated and deployed between a structure in a vehicle cabin and an occupant sitting on a seat in an emergency; an inflator, which is arranged on the structure, and is characterized in that the airbag cushion comprises: a bottom surface, in which the inflator is inserted; a restraint surface on the occupant side; a side surface, which connects the bottom surface and the restraint surface; a recessed portion, which is formed by being recessed in the direction of the bottom surface within a specified range in the center of the restraint surface; one or more tethers, which are mounted on the recessed portion and the bottom surface side, and the recessed portion is tightened toward the bottom surface side by the tether when inflated and deployed, and the airbag cushion also comprises: a plurality of folds, which are formed along the dotted line on the inner wall of the recessed portion when inflated and deployed; and a plurality of restraints, which are formed radially by dividing the inner wall in the inner circumferential direction by a plurality of folds when inflated and deployed.

[0013] According to the above structure, by forming a recessed portion in the center of the restraint surface, when the occupant enters the airbag cushion at an angle due to an oblique collision, for example, the rotation of the head can be suppressed compared to the case where the occupant is restrained only by a flat surface. In particular, in the above structure, by being pulled into the inner side of the airbag cushion by the tether, wrinkles and a restraint portion are formed on the inner wall of the recessed portion. According to the restraint portion, the occupant can be restrained more softly, so the injury value of the occupant can be further suppressed.

[0014] The above-mentioned recess has: an entrance on the passenger side; a middle bottom on the bottom side; and an intermediate portion, which is formed at a specified position between the entrance and the middle bottom. In a cross section orthogonal to the virtual line of the airbag cushion, the inner space of the intermediate portion can also be narrower than the inner space of the entrance and the middle bottom respectively.

[0015] The recessed portion is configured such that the middle portion protrudes inward. The middle portion has a small radius of curvature and a small tension, so that the occupant can be restrained with a smaller burden.

[0016] The one or more tethers mentioned above may be provided in plurality, and the plurality of tethers may be arranged at three locations around the inflator in a cross section.

[0017] By tightening the recessed portion with the tie, the pleats and the restraining portion can be efficiently formed.

[0018] When the cross section is compared to a clock, at least one of the plurality of laces may be arranged near the 12 o'clock position, and the other laces may be arranged between 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock.

[0019] By means of the above-mentioned tie, the recessed portion is also tightened so that the above-mentioned pleats and the restraining portion can be effectively formed.

[0020] The size of the lace arranged near the 12 o'clock position may be shorter than the sizes of other laces.

[0021] By means of the above-mentioned tie, the recessed portion is also tightened so that the above-mentioned pleats and the restraining portion can be effectively formed.

[0022] The lengths of the above-mentioned multiple ties may also be the same.

[0023] By means of the above-mentioned tie, the recessed portion is also tightened, so that the above-mentioned pleats and the restraining portion can be effectively formed.

[0024] The one or more tethers described above may be provided in plurality, and the plurality of tethers may be arranged at positions that divide the periphery of the inflator into three equal parts in cross section.

[0025] By means of the above-mentioned tie, the recessed portion is also tightened, so that the above-mentioned pleats and the restraining portion can be effectively formed.

[0026] When the cross section is compared to a clock, at least one of the plurality of laces may be arranged near the 12 o'clock position, and the other laces may be arranged between 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock.

[0027] By means of the above-mentioned tie, the recessed portion is also tightened so that the above-mentioned pleats and the restraining portion can be effectively formed.

[0028] The size of the lace arranged near the 12 o'clock position may be shorter than the other laces.

[0029] By means of the above-mentioned tie, the recessed portion is also tightened so that the above-mentioned pleats and the restraining portion can be effectively formed.

[0030] The lengths of the above-mentioned multiple ties may also be the same.

[0031] By means of the above-mentioned tie, the recessed portion is also tightened so that the above-mentioned pleats and the restraining portion can be effectively formed.

[0032] The one or more tethers may be provided in plurality, and the plurality of tethers may be arranged at positions opposite to each other with the inflator as the center in the cross section.

[0033] By means of the above-mentioned tie, the recessed portion is also tightened so that the above-mentioned pleats and the restraining portion can be effectively formed.

[0034] When the cross section is compared to a clock, the plurality of ties may be arranged near the 12 o'clock position and the 6 o'clock position.

[0035] By means of the above-mentioned tie, the recessed portion is also tightened so that the above-mentioned pleats and the restraining portion can be effectively formed.

[0036] When the cross section is compared to a clock, the plurality of laces may be arranged near the 3 o'clock position and the 9 o'clock position.

[0037] By means of the above-mentioned tie, the recessed portion is also tightened so that the above-mentioned pleats and the restraining portion can be effectively formed.

[0038] The range from the side surface of the above-mentioned airbag cushion to at least a part of the restraint surface is formed by a specified side panel, and the side panel includes a plurality of sub-panels divided along the circumferential direction of the side surface, and the plurality of sub-panels respectively have: a pair of side edges, which are joined to adjacent sub-panels; one side on the restraint surface side; and the other side on the bottom surface side. The pair of side edges can also be joined to adjacent sub-panels by sewing along a virtual line connecting the geometric center of the inflator and the center of the occupant's head when the airbag cushion is inflated and deployed.

[0039] In the above structure, a plurality of sub-panels constituting the side and recessed portion of the airbag cushion are joined by sewing along the imaginary line connecting the inflator and the head of the occupant. In the sewing along the imaginary line, the force of the airbag cushion expanding in the circumferential direction is applied in the orthogonal direction when viewed from the occupant, so that the force can be absorbed. Therefore, the tension of the sub-panel is suppressed, and the sub-panel is pulled into the inner side of the airbag cushion by the tether, so that wrinkles and a restraint portion are formed on the inner wall of the recessed portion. According to the restraint portion, the occupant can be restrained more softly, so the injury value of the occupant can be further suppressed.

[0040] The one side on the restraining surface side may be shorter than the other side on the bottom surface side.

[0041] In the above structure, since one side of the restraining surface side of the sub-panel is shorter than the other side of the bottom surface side, when the side sides of the sub-panels are connected to form a side panel, the side panel becomes narrow on the restraining surface side. According to this side panel, a recess can be efficiently formed on the restraining surface. In addition, according to this side panel, since the structure is simple, the amount of material used can be suppressed, so that it is also possible to achieve lightweight and low cost due to the improvement of material yield, and further, the airbag cushion can be folded and stored more compactly.

[0042] The structure may be a steering wheel of a vehicle, the inflator is disposed at a central portion of the steering wheel, and the airbag cushion may be rolled or folded and accommodated in the central portion.

[0043] According to the above structure, a driver airbag is realized and the occupant can be restrained appropriately.

[0044] Effects of the Invention

[0045] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a vehicle airbag device capable of suppressing the injury level of an occupant with a simple structure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0046] Figure 1 It is a diagram schematically illustrating a vehicle airbag device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 2 It is shown from all directions Figure 1 (b) is a diagram of the airbag cushion during inflation and deployment.

[0048] Figure 3 This is an example of the structure Figure 2 (a) is a diagram of the panels of the airbag cushion.

[0049] Figure 4 This is an example showing Figure 3 (b) A diagram showing the state of each panel being unfolded on a plane.

[0050] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 (b) are cross-sectional views of the airbag cushion.

[0051] Figure 6 This is an example showing Figure 4 (c) Diagram of the sewing of the side edge of the sub-panel.

[0052] Figure 7 It is shown from all directions Figure 6 (a) Diagram of the airbag cushion.

[0053] Figure 8 This is an example Figure 1 (b) is a diagram showing the process by which the airbag cushion restrains the driver during an oblique collision.

[0054] Fig. 9 This is an example showing Figure 7 (a) is a diagram of a first modified example of the airbag cushion.

[0055] Fig.10 This is an example Figure 7 (a) is a diagram of a second modified example of the airbag cushion.

[0056] Fig.11 yes Figure 4 (d) A modified example of the sub-panel shown as an example.

[0057] Fig.12 This is an example Figure 3 (a) is a diagram of a first modification example and a second modification example of the side panel.

[0058] Fig.13 The example shows Figure 3 (a) is a diagram of a third modification and a fourth modification of the side panel. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0059] Hereinafter, the preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The dimensions, materials, and other specific numerical values ​​shown in the above embodiments are merely examples for facilitating the understanding of the invention, and unless otherwise specified, do not limit the present invention. In addition, in this specification and the accompanying drawings, for elements having substantially the same function and structure, repeated descriptions are omitted by marking the same reference numerals, and elements that are not directly related to the present invention are omitted from the drawings.

[0060] Figure 1 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating a vehicle airbag device (hereinafter referred to as an airbag device 100 ) according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] Figure 1 (a) is a diagram illustrating a state before the airbag device 100 is activated. Figure 1 As shown in (b), the airbag device 100 is implemented as a driver's airbag for a front left driver's seat 102 of a left-hand drive vehicle.

[0062] In the present embodiment, a driver 166 (see FIG. 1 ) sitting on the driver's seat 102 is assumed as a passenger. Figure 8 (a)). When the driver 166 sits on the driver's seat 102 in a normal posture, the direction the driver 166 is facing is called the front, and the opposite direction is called the rear, which is called the front-back direction when the coordinate axis is represented. In addition, when the driver 166 sits on the driver's seat 102 in a normal posture, the right side of the driver 166 is called the right direction, and the left side of the driver 166 is called the left direction, which is called the left-right direction when the coordinate axis is represented. Furthermore, when the driver 166 sits in a normal posture, the direction of the driver's 166's head is called the top, and the direction of the driver's 166's waist is called the bottom, which is called the up-down direction when the coordinate axis is represented.

[0063] In the drawings used in the description of the embodiments of the present invention, arrows F (Forward), B (Back), L (Left), R (Right), U (up), and D (down) are used to indicate the direction of the driver 166 (see FIG. Figure 8 (a)) is the front, back, left, right, up and down directions.

[0064] Figure 1 In an emergency, the airbag device 100 of (a) expands and deploys the airbag cushion 104 between the structure of the vehicle cabin and the driver sitting on the seat, protecting the driver from contact with the structure. As described above, in this embodiment, the airbag device 100 is implemented as a driver airbag, and the airbag cushion 104 is used for the driver 166 (refer to Figure 8(c) Restraining and protecting the driver 166 from contact with the steering wheel 106 or flying out of the windshield, etc.

[0065] The airbag cushion 104 is a bag-shaped member that can be expanded by gas, and is rolled or folded into a small storage form, and is connected to the inflator 112 (see Figure 5 (a)) are housed together in a housing portion 110 in the center of the steering wheel 106.

[0066] The storage portion 110 is provided at the center side of the rim 108 of the steering wheel 106. The storage portion 110 has a groove-shaped tear line or the like provided inside the resin cover on the surface, and serves as a space between the airbag cushion 104 (see Figure 1 (b)) The cracked structure during expansion and unfolding.

[0067] Figure 1 (b) is a diagram showing an example of a state after the airbag device 100 is activated. The airbag cushion 104 is inflated by the inflator 112 (see Figure 5 (a)) causes the expansion pressure of the gas to rupture the cover of the storage unit 110 and simultaneously to the driver 166 (see FIG. Figure 8 ) inflates and deploys to restrain the upper body and head of the driver 166 who wants to move forward.

[0068] The airbag cushion 104 has a circular shape when viewed from the driver's seat side, and is inflated and deployed into a shape having a concave portion 120 formed at the center. The airbag cushion 104 is formed by sewing or bonding a plurality of panels constituting the surface thereof.

[0069] Figure 2 It is shown from all directions Figure 1 (b) is a diagram of the airbag cushion 104 when inflated and deployed. Figure 2 (a) Viewed from slightly above the outside of the vehicle Figure 1 (b) the airbag cushion 104.

[0070] The airbag cushion 104 expands and deploys into a cylindrical shape with a rounded shape. The surface of the airbag cushion 104 generally includes a steering wheel 106 (see Figure 1 (a)) side bottom surface 114; occupant side restraint surface 116; and the side surface 118 connecting the bottom surface 114 and the restraint surface 116.

[0071] The airbag cushion 104 has a recessed portion 120 as a characteristic portion, which is recessed at the center of the restraint surface 116. Figure 8 As shown, the recess 120 is used to inhibit rotation of the head 168 of the driver 166 when restraining the occupant.

[0072] The recessed portion 120 is formed by tightening a panel forming the restraint surface 116 of the airbag cushion 104 toward the bottom surface 114 side using a tether 122 provided inside the airbag cushion 104 .

[0073] Figure 2 (b) Exposed and illustrated Figure 2 (a) The tether 122. The tether 122 is a belt-shaped component, and a total of three tethers (a first tether 122a, a second tether 122b, and a third tether 122c) are provided. One end of the tether 122 is connected to the center panel 130 on the restraint surface side inside the airbag cushion 104, and the other end is connected to a predetermined portion on the bottom surface 114 side inside the airbag cushion 104, which is the opposite side.

[0074] Figure 3 This is an example of the structure Figure 2 (a) is a diagram of each panel of the airbag cushion 104. Figure 3 (a) Disassembly Figure 2 (a) is a diagram of a panel of the airbag cushion 104.

[0075] The bottom surface 114 of the airbag cushion 104 is formed by the bottom side panel 124. The inner panel 126 is arranged to overlap with the bottom side panel 124 inside the airbag cushion 104, and the tether 122 is connected thereto.

[0076] The composite panel 128 is a panel in which the tie 122 and the center panel 130 are integrated. The center panel 130 is disposed on the restraint surface 116 (see Figure 2 (a)) forms the portion of the midsole of the recess 120 in the center. The lace 122 extends from the center panel 130 in three strands and is joined to the inner panel 126.

[0077] The side panel 132 is a panel that forms the range from the side surface 118 to the inner wall of the recessed portion 120 of the restraining surface 116 , and is joined to the bottom side panel 124 and the center panel 130 .

[0078] Figure 3 (b) is an example showing Figure 3 (a) is a diagram showing the state in which each panel is unfolded. The side panel 132 is formed by a plurality of sub-panels 132a to 132c divided in the circumferential direction of the side surface 118. In this embodiment, the side panel 132 is formed by combining three sub-panels 132a to 132c. The sub-panels 132a to 132c are each of the same polygonal structure.

[0079] Figure 4 This is an example Figure 3 (b) is a diagram showing the state of each panel being unfolded on a plane. Figure 4 (a) is an example showing Figure 3 (b) is a diagram of the bottom side panel 124.

[0080] The bottom side panel 124 is circular and is formed to extend from the steering wheel 106 (see FIG. 1 ) when the airbag cushion 104 is inflated and deployed. Figure 1 (a)) The reaction force surface of the reaction force is obtained. In the center of the bottom side panel 124, the inflator 112 is inserted (refer to Figure 5 ) and fixed to the storage portion 110 (refer to Figure 1 In the region (a), a fixing region 156 is formed. In addition, exhaust holes 157a and 157b are provided as a portion for exhausting gas to the outside.

[0081] Figure 4 (b) is an example showing Figure 3 (b) is a diagram of the inner panel 126. In the inner panel 126, the inflator 112 is inserted so as to overlap with the fixing area 156 of the bottom side panel 124 (see Figure 5 In the portion (a), a fixing region 158 is formed. In addition, three protrusions 160a to 160c are formed as the portions to which the three ties 122a to 122c are joined.

[0082] Figure 4 (c) is an example showing Figure 3 (b) is a diagram of a composite panel 128. The composite panel 128 is a three-stranded shape in which three belt-shaped ties 122a to 122c extend from a circular center panel 130. The center panel 130 is circular and forms a concave portion 120 (see Figure 2 (a)) midsole. The laces 122a-122c extend radially from the edge of the circular center panel 130 and are respectively connected to the protrusions 160a-160c of the inner panel 126 by sewing or the like. In this embodiment, the laces 122a-122c are set to the same length, but the sizes of these laces 122a-122c do not need to be strictly uniform, and some size differences can be allowed.

[0083] In addition, the central panel 130 is not limited to a circular shape, but may also be a polygon, etc. In addition, the ties 122a to 122c are not limited to a structure formed integrally with the central panel 130, but may also be formed as another component and connected to the central panel 130, and the central panel 130 can be tightened toward the bottom side panel 124 by any structure.

[0084] Figure 4 (d) is an example showing Figure 3 (b) is a diagram of the sub-panel 132a. The sub-panels 132a to 132c are in a polygonal shape. The pair of left and right sides 134 and 135 of the sub-panel 132a are connected to the adjacent sub-panels 132b and 132c by sewing or the like (see Figure 3 (b))Jointed edges.

[0085] One side 136 is the restraining surface 116 (see Figure 2 (a)) side edge, connected to the circular inner panel 126 ( Figure 4 (c)) is joined to the edge. The other side 138 is the bottom surface 114 (refer to Figure 2 (a)) side edge, by sewing and the like with the circular bottom side panel 124 (refer to Figure 4 One side 136 and the other side 138 are slightly curved to match the shape of the central panel 130 and the bottom side panel 124.

[0086] The side edges 134 and 135 of the sub-panel 132a protrude in an angular shape, and the width is greatest (middle portion 140) at a portion slightly closer to the other side 138 than the center between the one side 136 and the other side 138. At this time, the dimension from one side of the sub-panel 132a to the other side 138 is set longer than the dimension of the middle portion 140.

[0087] The tapered region 142 from the middle portion 140 to the side 136 gradually tapers in width toward the side 136. When the airbag cushion 104 is inflated and deployed, the tapered region 142 including the side 136 is pulled into the bottom side panel 124 (see FIG. 1 ) by the tether 122. Figure 3 (a)) side, a recess 120 is formed.

[0088] In this embodiment, one side 136 of the sub-panel 132a is formed shorter than the other side 138. Figure 3 As shown in (a), when the side panels 132 are formed by connecting the side edges 134 and 135 of the sub-panels 132a, the side panels 132 are narrowed on the side of the restraint surface 116. With this side panel 132, the recessed portion 120 can be efficiently formed on the restraint surface 116.

[0089] In addition, if it is the side panel 132, the recess 120 can be formed while seeking to simplify the structure through the sub-panels 132a~132c of the above-mentioned structure, thereby being able to suppress the amount of material used, and also achieve lightweight, low cost brought about by improved material yield, and furthermore, the airbag cushion 104 can be folded and stored more compactly.

[0090] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 (b) are cross-sectional views of the airbag cushion 104 . Figure 5 (a) Yes Figure 1 (b) is a cross-sectional view of the airbag cushion 104 taken along line AA. The internal structure of the airbag cushion 104 will be described.

[0091] Inside the airbag cushion 104, the tether 122 is arranged between the recess 120 and the bottom surface 114. By tightening the recess 120 toward the inflator 112 using the tether 122, the airbag cushion 104 can efficiently form and maintain the recess 120 in a depressed state.

[0092] The inflator 112 is a gas generating device and is fixed to the storage portion 110 (see Figure 1 The bottom portion of (a)) having the gas ejection port passes through the bottom side panel 124 and is inserted into the interior of the airbag cushion 104 .

[0093] The inflator 112 is activated by an impact detection signal from a sensor (not shown) to supply gas to the airbag cushion 104. The inflator 112 is disk-shaped and has a cylindrical body 144 having a discharge port and a flange 146 provided on the outer periphery of the body 144.

[0094] The inflator 112 is provided with a plurality of studs 148. The studs 148 penetrate the bottom side panel 124 of the airbag cushion 104 and are fastened to the storage portion 110 (see Figure 1 By fastening the studs 148 , the airbag cushion 104 is also fixed to the storage portion 110 .

[0095] In addition, currently popular inflators include a type that generates gas by burning a gas generating agent, a type that generates gas by burning a compressed gas without generating heat, or a hybrid type that uses both combustion gas and compressed gas. Any type of inflator 112 may be used.

[0096] Each tether such as the tether 122c is laid over the center panel 130 and the inner panel 126 around the inflator 112. The dimension L1 from the root 150 of the tether 122c on the center panel 130 side to the root 162 of the protrusion 160c of the inner panel 126 is formed to be a dimension that can be stretched between the center panel 130 and the inner panel 126, that is, between the center panel 130 and the inflator 112 when the airbag cushion 104 is inflated and deployed, and can pull the center panel 130 toward the inflator 112. With the tether 122 having this structure, the recessed portion 120 recessed toward the bottom surface 114 side on the restraint surface 116 can be efficiently formed and maintained.

[0097] In another embodiment, the front end of the tether 122 can be connected to the inflator 112, a retainer (not shown) used to fix the inflator 112, and the storage portion 110 (see Figure 1 The bottom portion of the airbag cushion 104 , such as the bottom portion of (a), is appropriately connected.

[0098] Figure 5 (b) is a schematic diagram showing only Figure 5(a) is a diagram of a panel of the airbag cushion 104. Figure 4 When the side panel 132 is formed by forming the sub-panel 132a of the shape (d), the side panel 132 is not a simple cylindrical shape, but a shape in which the width gradually increases toward the driver's side. Figure 4 (d) The middle portion 140, Figure 5 The airbag cushion 104 of (b) is also formed with a maximum diameter portion 164 having the largest diameter.

[0099] The position of the maximum diameter portion 164 can be changed and adjusted between one side 136 and the other side 138 of the secondary panel 132a (see Figure 4 (d)) The portion of the central panel 130 from the maximum diameter portion 164 to the concave portion 120 of the side panel 132 has a small curvature radius and is easy to be less tensile, so it can more softly receive the driver 166 (see Figure 8 (c)).

[0100] Figure 6 This is an example Figure 4 (c) is a diagram showing the sewing (sewn portions 200, 202) of the side edges 134, 135 of the sub-panel 132a. Figure 6 (a) is a diagram showing an example of the airbag cushion 104 and the driver 166 viewed from above. Assume that the driver 166 is seated in the driver's seat 102 in a normal posture (see FIG. Figure 1 (a)) status.

[0101] The dotted line V1 is a virtual straight line connecting the geometric center P1 of the inflator 112 and the center P2 of the head 168 of the driver 166 who is properly seated when the airbag cushion 104 is inflated and deployed. The center P1 of the inflator 112 may be the shape center point or the center of gravity of the inflator 112. In addition, the center P2 of the head 168 may also be the shape center point or the center of gravity of the head 168. Furthermore, the side edges 134, 135 of the sub-panel 132a of the airbag cushion 104 are connected to the side edges of the adjacent sub-panels 132b, 132c by the sewing portions 200, 202 extending and sewing in the direction of the dotted line V1.

[0102] The above-mentioned "direction along the dotted line V1" includes not only a structure parallel to the dotted line V1 but also a structure extending in substantially the same direction as the dotted line V1. For example, assuming that the orthogonal line perpendicular to the dotted line V1 is at an angle of ±90° with respect to the dotted line V1, the range of 0° to ±45° with respect to the dotted line V1 can be defined as "direction along the dotted line V1".

[0103] Figure 6 (b) From the left side in the vehicle width direction Figure 6(a) is a diagram showing an example of an airbag cushion 104 and a driver 166 observing. Figure 6 In (b), the sewn portion 200 is also formed to extend in the direction of the virtual line V1, that is, within the range of 0° to ±45° with respect to the virtual line V1.

[0104] Figure 7 It is shown from all directions Figure 6 (a) is a diagram of the airbag cushion 104. Figure 7 (a) From the passenger side Figure 6 (a) is a diagram showing an example of observing the airbag cushion 104. In the airbag cushion 104 of this embodiment, when inflated and deployed, a dotted line V1 (see FIG. 1 ) is formed on the inner wall of the recess 120. Figure 6 (b)) Five folds 204a to 204e extending, and five constraining portions 206a to 206e are divided and formed by these folds 204a to 204e.

[0105] The restraints 206a to 206e are formed radially from the center of the recess 120 by dividing the inner wall of the recess 120 in the inner peripheral direction by a plurality of folds 204a to 204e when inflated and deployed. The restraints 206a to 206e are provided as a softer means for the driver 166 (see Figure 8 (c)) The head 168 functions as a restraining part.

[0106] The pleats 204a to 204e and the restraining portions 206a to 206e are connected by the tie 122 (see Figure 5 Specifically, the range from the side surface 118 of the airbag cushion 104 to the restraining surface 116 including the recessed portion 120 is formed by continuously arranging a plurality of sub-panels 132a to 132c without any seams (see Figure 6 (a) etc.) is formed. Furthermore, the recess 120 is formed by passing through the side 136 of the auxiliary panel 132a (see Figure 4 (d)) is formed by being largely pulled into the inner side of the airbag cushion 104 by the tether 122 .

[0107] As described above, if the sewn portions 200, 202 (see Figure 6 (a)) If the airbag cushion 104 is formed along the imaginary line V1 connecting the inflator 112 and the head 168 of the driver 166, the force of the airbag cushion 104 to expand in the circumferential direction is applied to the sewn portions 200 and 202 as viewed from the driver 166. And, the force is absorbed by the sewn portions 200 and 202 and other multiple sewn portions, so that the airbag cushion 104 can be suppressed from expanding in the radial direction with the imaginary line V1 as the center, and the airbag cushion 104 can be kept soft in the direction along the imaginary line V1.

[0108] The concave portion 120 is formed by connecting one side 136 of the sub-panels 132a to 132c (see Figure 4 (d)) The side is folded back to the inner side of the airbag cushion 104 (see Figure 3 (a)) The portion of the restraining surface 116 including the concave portion 120 formed in these sub-panels 132a to 132c has an excess, so the tension of this portion is relatively weakened, and it becomes a loose state without tension. Due to these actions and the force of the tie 122 tightening the concave portion 120, wrinkles are formed on the inner wall of the concave portion 120 (see Figure 7 (a)) In addition, the portion between the folds 204a to 204e in the inner wall of the recess 120 protrudes toward the center of the recess 120 to form restraining portions 206a to 206e.

[0109] Figure 7 (b) Yes Figure 6 (a) is a BB cross-sectional view of the airbag cushion 104. The BB cross-sectional view is a cross-sectional view perpendicular to the dotted line V1. Figure 7 The formation of (a)) can be adjusted by the configuration of the ties 122a to 122c.

[0110] like Figure 7 As shown in (b), in the present embodiment, three tethers 122a to 122c are provided. These tethers 122a to 122c are located at three locations around the inflator 112, and are arranged at positions that divide the circumference of the inflator 112 into three equal parts.

[0111] The tethers 122a to 122c of the present embodiment are configured such that, when a cross section perpendicular to the virtual line V1 of the airbag cushion 104 is compared to a clock face, the tether 122a is arranged near 12 o'clock, and the other tethers 122b and 122c are arranged between 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock.

[0112] Specifically, it is assumed that a clock face with a predetermined point as a rotation axis is arranged in a state where the inflated and deployed airbag cushion 104 is viewed from the passenger side, and the top direction of the airbag cushion 104 is set to the 12 o'clock direction and the bottom direction is set to the 6 o'clock direction. The clock face is arranged at positions divided into 12 equal parts at each time, for example, 4 o'clock represents a position rotated 120° clockwise from the 12 o'clock position, and 8 o'clock represents a position rotated 240° from the 12 o'clock position. In the present embodiment, the center P1 of the inflator is used as the center point of the clock, but in addition, the center of the shape of the airbag cushion 104 may be used as the center point of the clock.

[0113] In this embodiment, among the three straps 122a to 122c, strap 122a is arranged near the 12 o'clock position, strap 122b is arranged near the 4:30 position, and strap 122c is arranged near the 7:30 position. The 4:30 position is the position where the lower half of the dial of the clock is divided into four equal parts at 45 degrees, and the position rotated 45 degrees from 3 o'clock. And the position rotated 90 degrees from there is the 7:30 position. By tightening the recess 120 ( Figure 7 (a)), the above-mentioned pleats 204a to 204e and the restraining portions 206a to 206e can be efficiently formed.

[0114] In addition, the above-mentioned arrangement positions of the straps 122a to 122c are examples, and they do not need to be strictly arranged at the above-mentioned positions of 12 o'clock, 4:30, and 7:30, and can also be arranged at other positions. In addition, the rotation center of the dial of the clock does not need to coincide with the center P1 of the inflator. For example, one strap can be arranged first, and the strap can be regarded as the 12 o'clock position of the clock, and other straps can be arranged at the positions of each time based on this position.

[0115] Figure 7 (c) Yes Figure 7 (a) is a CC cross-sectional view of the airbag cushion 104. The recessed portion 120 includes an inlet 208 on the passenger side, a middle bottom portion 210 on the bottom surface 114 side, and an intermediate portion 212 formed at a predetermined position between the inlet 208 and the middle bottom portion 210.

[0116] In the direction perpendicular to the virtual line V1 of the airbag cushion, i.e., in the cross section perpendicular to the virtual line V1, the space E3 inside the middle part 212 of the recessed part 120 is narrower than the spaces E1 and E2 inside the inlet 208 and the middle bottom 210, respectively (E1, E2>E3). That is, the recessed part 120 is configured such that the middle part 212 protrudes toward the virtual line V1. The curvature radius of the middle part 212 of this structure is small, and the tension is also small, so that the burden can be further suppressed and the driver 166 (see Figure 8 (c)) to constrain.

[0117] Figure 8 This is an example Figure 1 (b) is a diagram showing a process in which the airbag cushion 104 restrains the driver 166 during an oblique collision. Figure 8 The figures correspond to Figure 1 (b) is an AA cross-sectional view of the airbag cushion 104 , showing the airbag cushion 104 and the driver 166 as viewed from above the vehicle.

[0118] Figure 8 (a) is a diagram showing the state of the airbag cushion 104 immediately after it is inflated and deployed. Figure 8(a) shows an example in which, when the vehicle is impacted by an oblique collision, the airbag cushion 104 is directed toward the driver's seat 102 (see Figure 1 (b)) The front of the vehicle inflates and deploys.

[0119] Figure 8 (b) is an example showing Figure 8 (a) is a diagram showing a situation where the driver 166 moves toward the front of the vehicle. The driver 166 may move from the front of the vehicle due to inertia during an oblique collision. Figure 8 The state (a) moves diagonally forward to the left in the vehicle width direction.

[0120] Figure 8 (c) is an example showing Figure 8 (b) shows the driver 166 moving further forward of the vehicle. The driver 166 moving diagonally forward, for example, makes contact with the surrounding portion of the recess 120 in the restraint surface 116 with his left shoulder and contacts with the inner wall of the recess 120 from the left side of the head 168 .

[0121] The restraining surface 116 forming the recess 120 can suppress tension around the recess 120 compared to the conventional restraining surface extending in a planar shape, and restrain the head 168 from the oblique front by the inner wall of the recess 120. In particular, since the restraining portions 206a to 206e (see FIG. 2 ) whose tension is suppressed are formed on the inner wall of the recess 120, Figure 7 (a)), the recessed portion 120 can more flexibly restrain and protect the head portion 168.

[0122] As described above, the airbag cushion 104 can minimize the rotation 172 of the head 168 of the driver 166 relative to the shoulder 170 through the recess 120 and uniformly restrict the movement of the head 168 and the shoulder 172 without causing the driver 166 to be disengaged when tilting in an oblique collision.

[0123] In particular, in the present embodiment, the tether 122 can efficiently form the recessed portion 120 in the center of the restraint surface 116 by tightening the restraint surface 116. In the airbag cushion 104, the occupant is restrained in a normal collision, and the rotation 172 of the head 168 of the driver 166 is greatly reduced or eliminated in an oblique collision, and the angular velocity of the head 168 is reduced, thereby suppressing the damage value of the driver 166 accompanying the rotation 172 of the head 168.

[0124] As reference Figure 7As described in (a), in this embodiment, the plurality of sub-panels 132a to 132c constituting the side surface 118 and the recessed portion 120 of the airbag cushion 104 are joined by the sewn portions 200 and 202 along the imaginary line V1 connecting the inflator 112 and the head 168 of the driver 166. At the sewn portions 200 and 202 along the imaginary line V1, the force of the airbag cushion 104 to expand in the circumferential direction is applied in the orthogonal direction when viewed from the driver 166, and thus the force can be absorbed. Therefore, the tension of the sub-panels 132a to 132c is suppressed, and the sub-panels 132a to 132c are further pulled into the inner side of the airbag cushion 104 by the tether 122, so that the pleats 204a to 204e and the restraint portions 206a to 206e are formed on the inner wall of the recessed portion 120. According to the restraint portions 206 a to 206 e , the driver 166 can be restrained more flexibly, and thus the injury level of the driver 166 can be further suppressed.

[0125] In addition, in the present embodiment, the concave portion 120 is formed with a simple structure by using the side panel 132 and the tie 122 which are a combination of the plurality of sub-panels 132a to 132c. Therefore, in the present embodiment, a small amount of material such as the panel can be used, and the cost can be reduced by weight reduction and an increase in material yield, and the airbag cushion 104 can be folded and stored more compactly.

[0126] In reference to the above Figure 8 In the description of (c), a clockwise rotation 172 is cited as an example of the rotation generated in the head 168. However, in an emergency situation, for example, when the driver 166 moves diagonally to the right front in the vehicle width direction, the head 168 may rotate counterclockwise around the neck when viewed from above. For this counterclockwise rotation, the airbag cushion 104 of this embodiment can also reduce or eliminate the rotation of the head 168 by using the recess 120, thereby reducing the angular velocity of the head 168. In this way, the airbag cushion 104 of this embodiment can obtain the same effect for the driver 166 moving in any direction in the vehicle width direction.

[0127] (Variation Example)

[0128] Fig. 9 This is an example Figure 7 (a) is a diagram of a first modified example (airbag cushion 220) of the airbag cushion 104. Fig. 9 In the following description, even if different symbols are used for components with the same names as the components already described, they have the same functions unless otherwise specifically stated.

[0129] Fig. 9(a) From the passenger side Figure 7 (a) is a diagram showing an example of an airbag cushion 220. The airbag cushion 220 has six pleats 222a to 222f and six restraining portions 224a to 224f. Figure 7 The structure of the airbag cushion 104 of (a) is different.

[0130] Fig. 9 (b) is an example showing Fig. 9 (a) is a diagram of a composite panel 226 provided in an airbag cushion 220. The structure of the composite panel 226 is similar to Figure 4 The structure of the composite panel 128 of (c) is different in that it is arranged at the 12 o'clock position (refer to Figure 7 (b)) The size of the tether 228 is shorter than the other tethers 122b, 122c.

[0131] Fig. 9 (c) is an example showing Fig. 9 (a) is a diagram showing the internal structure of the airbag cushion 220. In the airbag cushion 220, the bottom surface 114 and the recessed portion 120 (see Fig. 9 (a)) The length of the lace 228 at the 12 o'clock position is shorter than the lengths of the other laces 122b and 122c. Therefore, the upper side of the recess 120 is greatly pulled in by the lace 228.

[0132] By having the structure of the tether 228, the concave portion 120 is also tightened to efficiently form the pleats 222a to 222f and the restraining portions 224a to 224f. In particular, since the tether 228 is short, the airbag cushion 220 can be formed to be smaller than Figure 7 The airbag cushion 104 of (a) has five restraints 206a to 206e or more six restraints 224a to 224f. Thus, by changing the size of the tether 228, the number of the restraints 224a to 224f can be changed, and the tension of the inner wall of the recess 120 can be adjusted.

[0133] Fig.10 This is an example Figure 7 (a) is a diagram of a second modification example (airbag cushion 240) of the airbag cushion 104. Fig.10 (a) From the passenger side Figure 7 (a) is a diagram showing an example of an airbag cushion 240. The airbag cushion 240 has four pleats 242a to 242d and four restraining portions 244a to 244d. Figure 7 The structure of the airbag cushion 104 of (a) is different.

[0134] Fig.10 (b) is an example showing Fig.10(a) is a diagram of a composite panel 246 provided in an airbag cushion 240. The composite panel 246 has tethers 248a and 248b disposed near three o'clock positions (see Figure 7 (b)) and the point near the 9 o'clock position, and Figure 4 The structure of the composite panel 128 of (c) is different.

[0135] Fig.10 (c) is an example showing Fig.10 (a) is a diagram of an inner panel 250 provided in an airbag cushion 240. The inner panel 250 is similar to the composite panel 246 in that it has two protrusions 252a and 252b. Figure 4 The structure of the inner panel 126 of (b) is different.

[0136] Fig.10 (d) is an example showing Fig.10 (a) is a diagram showing the internal structure of the airbag cushion 240. In the airbag cushion 240, the tethers 248a and 248b are arranged on the inflator 112 (see Figure 7 (b)) is the left-right relative position of the center. As mentioned above, this position is Figure 7 The vicinity of the 3 o'clock position and the vicinity of the 9 o'clock position in (b) are, for example, positions on both sides of the left and right sides of the center P1 of the inflator 112 .

[0137] The concave portion 120 is also tightened by the above-mentioned ties 248a, 248b (refer to Fig.10 (a)) can efficiently form the pleats 242a to 242d and the restraints 244a to 244d. In particular, since the number of the tethers 248a and 248b is small, the airbag cushion 240 can be formed more efficiently. Figure 7 The airbag cushion 104 of (a) has five restraints 206a to 206e but four restraints 244a to 244d. In this way, by changing the number of tethers 248a and 248b, the number of restraints 244a to 244d can be changed, and the tension of the inner wall of the recess 120 can be adjusted.

[0138] As Fig.10 (d) Another example of the straps 248a, 248b may be to place the two straps near the 12 o'clock position (see Figure 7 (b)) and 6 o'clock. By using the tie of this structure, the recess 120 is also tightened (refer to Figure 7 (a)), the pleats and the restraining portions similar to the pleats 242a to 242d and the restraining portions 244a to 244d can be formed efficiently.

[0139] In the above embodiments, the number of ties is 2 or 3, but as a further modification, 4 or more ties may be provided. The number of pleats and restraints can be adjusted by increasing or decreasing the number and length of the ties, thereby changing the tension of the inner wall of the recess.

[0140] Fig.11 yes Figure 4 (d) A modified example of the sub-panel 132a shown as an example. Fig.11 (a) is a diagram illustrating a sub-panel 180 according to a first modification.

[0141] The other side 182 of the sub-panel 180 is the widest. According to this structure, it is possible to realize a maximum diameter portion 164 (see Figure 5 (b)), the airbag cushion 104 can be inflated and deployed in a more stable posture. Moreover, according to this structure, the side edges of the plurality of sub-panels 180 are also connected to each other, and the side panel 132 with a narrow shape on the side of the restraint surface 116 can be appropriately formed (see Figure 3 (a)).

[0142] Fig.11 (b) is a diagram illustrating a sub-panel 190 according to a second modification. The sub-panel 190 has a shape in which side edges 192 and 194 are curved.

[0143] The sub-panel 190 is configured such that a pair of left and right side edges 192 and 194 are curved and protrude in directions away from each other. Furthermore, by combining a plurality of sub-panels 190, a side panel 132 that can expand in a gently curved shape can be realized (see Figure 3 (a)). Furthermore, by connecting the side edges of the sub-panels 190 to each other, it is also possible to appropriately form the side panels 132 having a narrow shape on the side of the restraint surface 116 (see Figure 3 (a)).

[0144] In the above examples, the combined sub-panels may not have the same shape, and may be divided into three or more. In any structure, by joining the side edges of the sub-panels, the side panel 132 with a narrow shape on the passenger side can be appropriately realized (see Figure 3 (a)).

[0145] In the above examples, the technical concept of the airbag device 100 is implemented as a driver airbag. In addition, the airbag device 100 can also be implemented as a knee airbag. Even when the airbag device 100 is used as a knee airbag, the knees of the occupant can be properly restrained from the front by using the concave portion of the tether to protect them from contacting the instrument panel. In addition, the airbag device 100 can also be implemented to restrain the occupants of the rear seats, for example, the occupants of the rear seats can be restrained from the front to protect them from contacting the front seats or flying forward.

[0146] Fig.12 This is an example Figure 3 (a) is a diagram of a first modification example and a second modification example of the side panel 132. Fig.12 (a) is a diagram illustrating a side panel 260 according to a first modification.

[0147] The side panel 260 is formed by connecting the side edges 262a, 262b, 264a, 264b of two trapezoidal sub-panels 262, 264 to each other. Taking the sub-panel 262 as an example, the sub-panel 262 is sewn to the bottom side panel 124 (refer to Figure 4 (a)) is sewn to the passenger side panel (see Fig.12 (b)) forms the side of the airbag cushion.

[0148] The long side 262c of the sub-panel 262 on the passenger side is wider than the short side 262d on the steering wheel side. Therefore, the airbag cushion formed by using the side of the sub-panel 262 is directed toward the driver 166 (see Figure 6 (b)) gradually becomes larger, and a margin is generated on the panel on the passenger side, so that when the tether 122 (refer to Figure 5 (a) When tightened, wrinkles 204a to 204e are easily formed (refer to Figure 7 (a)) and the restraining parts 206a~206e.

[0149] Fig.12 (b) is an example showing Fig.12 (a) is a diagram of a passenger side panel 266 formed by combining the sub-panels 262 and 264. The passenger side panel 266 is circular and forms a support for the driver 166 (see FIG. 164 ) when the airbag cushion is inflated and deployed. Figure 6 (b)) The restraint surface 116 for restraint. A composite panel 128 (see FIG. 1 ) is formed in the center of the passenger side panel 266. Figure 4 (c)) The sewn portion 268 of the center panel 130.

[0150] According to the present embodiment, the center panel 130 may be joined to the inner side of the passenger side panel 266 (see Figure 4 (c)) by tying the central portion of the passenger side panel 266 to the bottom side panel 124 (see Figure 4 (a)) side is tightened, thereby forming a recessed portion 120 in the central portion of the passenger side panel 266 (see Figure 5 (a)).

[0151] The airbag cushion using the side panel 260 and the passenger side panel 266 can also be expanded and deployed in the recessed portion 120 (see Figure 7 (a)) along the inner wall of the dotted line V1 (refer to Figure 6 (b)) is extended to form folds 204a to 204e and restraints 206a to 206e. Therefore, even with this modification, the driver 166 can be restrained flexibly, and the damage value of the driver 166 can be further suppressed.

[0152] In addition, the side panel 260 and the passenger side panel 266 can also form the recess 120 while simplifying the airbag cushion structure, which can reduce the amount of material used, achieve lightweight, reduce costs due to improved material yield, and further fold and store the airbag cushion more compactly.

[0153] Fig.12 (c) is a diagram illustrating a side panel 270 according to a second modification. The side panel 270 is a state in which four annular sector-shaped sub-panels 272 are combined.

[0154] The side panel 270 is in an arc-shaped strip shape when it is unfolded on a plane. The arc 274 on the large diameter side of the side panel 270 is sewn to the passenger side panel 266 (see Fig.12 (b)) edge, the arc 276 on the small diameter side is sewn to the bottom side panel 124 (refer to Figure 4 (a)) forms the side of the airbag cushion.

[0155] The sub-panel 272 is formed into a circular sector shape with a large arc on the passenger side panel 266 side, and the side edges 272a and 272b are connected to the side edges of the adjacent sub-panels to form the side panel 270. The airbag cushion formed on the side by the sub-panel 272 is also connected to the airbag cushion formed by the sub-panels 262 and 264 (see Fig.12 (a)) is the same as the airbag cushion, facing the driver 166 ( Figure 6 (b) gradually becomes larger, and a margin is generated on the panel on the passenger side, so that when the tether 122 (see Figure 5 (a)) When tightened, wrinkles 204a to 204e are easily formed (refer to Figure 7(a)) and the restraining parts 206a~206e.

[0156] By utilizing the side panel 270 and the airbag cushion of the passenger side panel 266, when the airbag cushion is inflated and deployed, the concave portion 120 (see FIG. 1 ) formed in the passenger side panel 266 can be formed. Figure 7 (a)) along the inner wall of the dotted line V1 (refer to Figure 6 (b)) is extended to form folds 204a to 204e and restraints 206a to 206e. Therefore, even with this modification, the driver 166 can be restrained flexibly, and the damage value of the driver 166 can be further suppressed.

[0157] In addition, the side panel 270 and the passenger side panel 266 can also form the recess 120 while simplifying the structure of the airbag cushion, which can reduce the amount of material used, achieve lightweight, reduce costs due to improved material yield, and further fold and store the airbag cushion more compactly.

[0158] Fig.13 This is an example Figure 3 (a) is a diagram of a third modification and a fourth modification of the side panel 132. Fig.13 (a) is a diagram illustrating a side panel 280 according to a third modification.

[0159] The side panel 280 has a flower-like shape when unfolded on a plane, and the adjacent side edges of the sub-panel portions 282a to 282c are connected to form the restraint surface 116 on the passenger side of the airbag cushion (see Figure 6 (b) and the dome-shaped shape from the side.

[0160] The shape of the side panel 280 is described in detail. When expanded on a plane, three tapering cutouts 286a to 286c are formed from the curved periphery 284 toward the center, forming a state where three sub-panel portions 282a to 282c are formed. The side edges of the sub-panel portions 282a to 282c such as the side edge 288 and the side edge 290 are gently curved, and can be formed into a dome shape by joining adjacent side edges.

[0161] The side panel 280 has a central portion formed therein and is joined to the inner side with the composite panel 128 (see Figure 4 (c)) of the sewn portion 292 of the central panel 130. The side panels 280 may also be formed by sewing the central panel 130 (see Figure 4 (c)) is joined to the inner side of the central portion and the central portion is connected to the bottom side panel 124 (see Figure 4 (a)) side is tightened, thereby forming a concave portion 120 in the central portion (see Figure 5 (a)).

[0162] By utilizing the airbag cushion of the side panel 280, it is also possible to place the airbag cushion in the recessed portion 120 (see FIG. 28 ) during expansion and deployment. Figure 7 (a)) along the inner wall of the dotted line V1 (refer to Figure 6 (b) The folds 204a to 204e and the restraining portions 206a to 206e are extended. Therefore, even with this modification, the driver 166 can be restrained flexibly, and the injury value of the driver 166 can be further suppressed.

[0163] Fig.13 (b) is a diagram showing a side panel 300 according to a fourth modification example. When expanded on a plane, the side panel 300 has four tapered cutouts 306a to 306d extending from the curved outer periphery 304 toward the center, forming four sub-panel portions 302a to 302d.

[0164] The side panel 300 is also formed by connecting adjacent side edges of the sub-panel portions 302a to 302d, such as the side edge 310 and the side edge 312, so as to form a restraint surface 116 on the passenger side having the airbag cushion (see Figure 6 (b)) and the dome-shaped shape from the side.

[0165] The side panel 300 is also provided with a connection to the central panel 130 (see Figure 4 (c)) is sewn on the central portion 308 and is connected to the bottom side panel 124 (see FIG. Figure 4 (a) The side is tightened to form a concave portion 120 in the central portion (see Figure 5 (a)).

[0166] By utilizing the airbag cushion of the side panel 300, it is also possible to place the airbag cushion in the recessed portion 120 (see FIG. 1 ) during expansion and deployment. Figure 7 (a)) along the inner wall of the dotted line V1 (refer to Figure 6 (b) The folds 204a to 204e and the restraining portions 206a to 206e are extended. Therefore, even with this modification, the driver 166 can be restrained flexibly, and the injury value of the driver 166 can be further suppressed.

[0167] The preferred embodiments of the present invention are described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, but it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to this example. It is obvious that those skilled in the art can think of various changes or modifications within the scope of the claims, which of course also belong to the technical scope of the present invention.

[0168] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, an example in which the airbag device of the present invention is applied to an automobile has been described. However, the airbag device of the present invention may be applied to aircraft, ships, etc. other than automobiles, and the same operational effects can be obtained.

[0169] Industrial Applicability

[0170] The present invention can be used in a vehicle airbag device for restraining passengers in an emergency.

[0171] Explanation of symbols

[0172] 100 ... air bag device 102 ... driver's seat

[0173] 104…Airbag cushion 106…Steering wheel

[0174] 108 ... wheel rim 110 ... storage portion

[0175] 112 ... inflator 114 ... bottom surface

[0176] 116 ...constraint surface 118 ...side surface

[0177] 120 ... recessed portion 122 ... tie

[0178] 122a...first tether 122b...second tether

[0179] 122c…third tie 124…bottom side panel

[0180] 126…Inner Panel 128…Composite Panel

[0181] 130…Central panel 132…Side panel

[0182] 132a-132c...sub-panels 134, 135...sides

[0183] 136... one side 138... the other side

[0184] 140 ... middle part 142 ... tapered area

[0185] 144 ...Main body 146 ...Flange

[0186] 148…Stud 150…Root

[0187] 156 ...fixed area 157a, 157b ...exhaust hole

[0188] 158 ...Fixed area 160a ...Protrusion

[0189] 162…Root 164…Maximum diameter

[0190] 166…driver 168…head

[0191] 170…Shoulder 172…Rotation

[0192] 180...Sub-panel 182...Other side

[0193] 190…Sub-panel 192, 194…Side

[0194] E 1~E 3…Space L1…Dimensions

[0195] P 1…Inflator center P 2…Head center

[0196] V 1…dashed lines 200, 202…sewing part

[0197] 204a to 204e ... folds 206a to 206e ... restraining parts

[0198] 208…Entrance 210…Middle bottom

[0199] 212 ... middle portion 220 ... airbag cushion

[0200] 222a to 222f ... pleats 224a to 224f ... restraining parts

[0201] 226…Composite panels 228…Tie

[0202] 240 ... airbag cushion 242a-242d ... wrinkles

[0203] 244a to 244d ...constraints 246 ...composite panel

[0204] 248a, 248b ... straps 250 ... inner panel

[0205] 252a, 252b ... protrusion 260 ... side panel

[0206] 262, 264...sub-panels 262a, 262b...sides

[0207] 262c…long side 262d…short side

[0208] 266 ... Passenger side panel 268 ... Sewing part

[0209] 270…Side panel 272…Sub-panel

[0210] 272a, 272b ... side 274 ... arc

[0211] 276...Arc 280...Side Panel

[0212] 282a to 282c ... each sub-panel portion 284 ... outer periphery

[0213] 286a~286c…cutouts 288, 290…sides

[0214] 292…Sewing part 300…Side panel

[0215] 302a~302d…Sub-panel portion 304…Outer periphery

[0216] 306a to 306d ... incision 308 ... sewing part

[0217] 310, 312…side

Claims

1. A vehicle airbag device, comprising: An airbag cushion that inflates and deploys between a structure in the vehicle compartment and an occupant seated on a seat in an emergency; an inflator, which is disposed on the structure, It is characterized in that The airbag cushion comprises: a bottom surface into which the inflator is inserted; the restraint surface on the passenger side; a side surface connecting the bottom surface and the restraining surface; a concave portion formed by being recessed toward the bottom surface within a predetermined range at the center of the restraining surface; One or more straps, which are bridged between the recess and the bottom surface, The concave portion is pulled toward the bottom surface by the tether during the expansion and deployment. The airbag cushion also has: a plurality of folds formed along the imaginary lines on the inner wall of the recessed portion during the expansion and unfolding; A plurality of restraining portions are radially formed by dividing the inner wall in an inner peripheral direction by the plurality of folds during the inflation and expansion.

2. The vehicle airbag device according to claim 1, wherein: The recess has: said passenger side entrance; a middle bottom portion of the bottom surface side; an intermediate portion formed at a predetermined position between the inlet and the middle bottom, In a cross section of the airbag cushion orthogonal to the imaginary line, an inner space of the middle portion is narrower than inner spaces of each of the inlet and the middle bottom portion.

3. The vehicle airbag device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The one or more straps are provided with a plurality of The plurality of tethers are disposed at three locations around the inflator in the cross section.

4. The vehicle airbag device according to claim 3, wherein: When the cross section is compared to a clock, at least one of the plurality of laces is arranged near the 12 o'clock position, and the other laces are arranged between 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock.

5. The vehicle airbag device according to claim 4, wherein: The size of the lace arranged near the 12 o'clock position is shorter than the sizes of the other laces.

6. The vehicle airbag device according to claim 4, wherein: The multiple ties have the same length.

7. The vehicle airbag device according to claim 2, wherein: The one or more straps are provided with a plurality of In the cross section, the plurality of tethers are arranged at positions dividing the periphery of the inflator into three equal parts.

8. The vehicle airbag device according to claim 7, wherein: When the cross section is compared to a clock, at least one of the plurality of laces is arranged near the 12 o'clock position, and the other laces are arranged between 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock.

9. The vehicle airbag device according to claim 8, wherein: The size of the lace arranged near the 12 o'clock position is shorter than the other laces.

10. The vehicle airbag device according to claim 8, wherein: The multiple ties have the same length.

11. The vehicle airbag device according to claim 2, wherein: The one or more straps are provided with a plurality of In the cross section, the plurality of tethers are arranged at positions opposing each other with the inflator as the center.

12. The vehicle airbag device according to claim 11, wherein: When the cross section is compared to a clock, the plurality of laces are arranged near the 12 o'clock position and the 6 o'clock position.

13. The vehicle airbag device according to claim 11, wherein: When the cross section is compared to a clock, the plurality of laces are arranged near the 3 o'clock position and the 9 o'clock position.

14. The vehicle airbag device according to claim 1, wherein: A range from the side surface of the airbag cushion to at least a portion of the restraint surface is formed by a predetermined side panel, The side panel includes a plurality of sub-panels divided along the circumferential direction of the side surface, The plurality of sub-panels respectively have: a pair of side edges that engage adjacent sub-panels; One side of the constraint surface; The other side of the bottom surface, The pair of side edges are joined to the adjacent sub-panel by sewing along an imaginary line connecting a geometric center of the inflator and a center of the occupant's head when the airbag cushion is inflated and deployed.

15. The vehicle airbag device according to claim 14, wherein: One side on the restraining surface side is shorter than the other side on the bottom surface side.

16. The vehicle airbag device according to any one of claims 5, 6, 9, 10 and 12 to 15, characterized in that: The structure is a steering wheel of a vehicle, The inflator is disposed at the central portion of the steering wheel, The airbag cushion is rolled or folded and accommodated in the central portion.

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