Gas generator

Abstract

A gas generator (1) is provided with a housing main body (10), a holder assembly, and an igniter. The holder assembly has a holder part (20A) made of metal and a connector part (20B) made of resin. The holder part (20A) includes a cylindrical first body part (21) having a first end surface (22) provided with a recessed part (22a), and the connector part (20B) includes: a cylindrical second body part (24) having a second end surface (25) provided with a protruding part (25a); and a locking part (26) protruding toward the inner peripheral surface of the housing main body (10) provided with the step part (12). In the axial direction, the protruding portion (25a) abuts against the recessed portion (22a), the locking portion (26) abuts against the step portion (12), in the circumferential direction, the protruding portion (25a) abuts against the recessed portion (22a), and therefore the connector portion (20B) is fixed in an immovable mode in the axial direction and the circumferential direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a gas generator incorporated in an airbag device as an occupant protection device equipped in an automobile or the like, and in particular to a so-called cylinder-type gas generator having an elongated cylindrical outer shape that is suitably incorporated in a side airbag device or the like. Background Art

[0002] In the past, airbag devices have been widely used as passenger protection devices from the perspective of protecting passengers in automobiles, etc. Airbag devices are equipped for the purpose of protecting passengers from impacts generated when vehicles collide, etc., and the airbags are instantly inflated and deployed when vehicles collide, and the airbags serve as cushions to receive the bodies of passengers.

[0003] The gas generator is a device that is installed in the airbag device and, when a vehicle collides, ignites the igniter by power supplied from the control unit, and the flame generated by the igniter burns the gas generating agent to instantly generate a large amount of gas, thereby inflating and deploying the airbag.

[0004] Gas generators have various configurations based on the installation position relative to the vehicle or the like, output, and other specifications. One of these is a gas generator called a cylinder-type gas generator. The cylinder-type gas generator has an elongated cylindrical shape and is suitably incorporated into a side airbag device, a curtain airbag device, a knee airbag device, a seat airbag device, and the like.

[0005] Typically, in a cylinder-type gas generator, an igniter is mounted on one end of the shell in the axial direction, and a gas generator containing chamber containing a gas generator is provided on the one end side, a filter chamber equipped with a filter is provided on the other end side of the shell in the axial direction, and a gas outlet is provided on the peripheral wall portion of the shell that defines the filter chamber.

[0006] In the cylinder-type gas generator configured in this manner, the gas generating agent is burned as the igniter is actuated to generate gas inside the housing, and the generated gas passes through the inside of the filter and is ejected to the outside through the gas ejection port.

[0007] In addition, as a document disclosing such a cylinder type gas generator, there is, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-314102 (Patent Document 1). In Patent Document 1, a housing is configured to include a substantially cylindrical housing body and a retainer inserted into an open end of the housing body.

[0008] Here, the retainer is required to retain the igniter, receive the connector connected to the igniter, be firmly connected to the housing body, and have strength that can withstand the increase in internal pressure of the combustion chamber when the gas generator is working. Therefore, the shape of the retainer is inevitably complicated, and high processing accuracy is also required. As a result, there is a problem that the cost of the retainer parts becomes high. In addition, in recent years, there is a strong demand for lightweight gas generators, but since the retainer is a relatively large metal part, there is also a problem of increased weight of the cylinder type gas generator.

[0009] In this regard, for example, Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-517522 discloses a cylinder-type gas generator in which the manufacturing cost and weight of the retainer can be reduced by forming a connector portion of the retainer that can accommodate a connector with another resin component. Prior Art Literature Patent Literature

[0010] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2007-314102; Patent document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-517522. Summary of the invention Problems to be solved by the invention

[0011] Generally, in a cylinder type gas generator, a short-circuit clip is inserted into a resin connector portion that can receive the above-mentioned connector and mounted on the connector portion as needed. The short-circuit clip is used to prevent malfunction of the cylinder type gas generator due to static electricity discharge, etc. during transportation of the cylinder type gas generator, by intentionally short-circuiting the terminal pins of the igniter.

[0012] Here, the cylinder type gas generator disclosed in Patent Document 2 adopts an assembly structure in which the connector portion is fixed to the housing body by so-called snap-fitting composed of a locking portion and a step portion capable of locking the locking portion.

[0013] However, in the case of the above-mentioned assembly structure, the connector part has a lot of shaking in the axial direction and the circumferential direction. There is a risk that the shaking may cause the cylinder type gas generator to malfunction due to the short circuit of the terminal pin of the igniter being accidentally released by the short-circuit clip. In addition, there is also a risk that the shaking may cause the electric conduction between the core wire of the wire harness and the terminal pin of the igniter to be accidentally released when the wire harness is inserted into the connector part and the igniter is energized during the assembly stage of the cylinder type gas generator to the airbag device, resulting in a power supply failure.

[0014] Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of such a problem, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gas generator that can achieve a reduction in manufacturing cost and weight while realizing a stable operation. Solutions to Solve Problems

[0015] The gas generator according to the first aspect of the present invention comprises a housing body, a retainer assembly and an igniter. The housing body is composed of a cylindrical metal member which contains a combustion chamber containing a gas generating agent. The retainer assembly is inserted into the open end of the housing body in the axial direction and includes a through-hole-shaped hollow opening extending in a direction parallel to the axial direction. The igniter includes an ignition portion containing ignition powder and a terminal pin connected to the ignition portion, and in a state where the ignition portion is located on the combustion chamber side and the terminal pin is located on the side opposite to the combustion chamber side, at least a part of the igniter is arranged inside the hollow opening. The retainer assembly comprises: a metal retainer portion which is located on the combustion chamber side and receives and retains the igniter; and a resin connector portion which is located on the side opposite to the combustion chamber side and can receive a connection connector connected to the terminal pin. The retainer portion includes a cylindrical first body portion which defines the hollow opening. The connector portion includes: a second cylindrical body portion defining the hollow opening portion; and a locking portion protruding from the second body portion toward the inner peripheral surface of the housing body. The first body portion has a first end surface facing the second body portion at the end portion of the first body portion on the side opposite to the combustion chamber side, and a recess is provided on the first end surface. The second body portion has a second end surface facing the first body portion at the end portion of the second body portion on the combustion chamber side, and a protrusion is provided on the second end surface. A step portion capable of locking the locking portion is provided on the inner peripheral surface of the housing body. In the gas generator based on the first aspect of the present invention, the connector portion is fixed in an immovable manner in the axial direction by the protrusion and the recess abutting in the axial direction, and the locking portion and the step abutting in the axial direction. Furthermore, in the gas generator according to the first aspect of the present invention, the connector portion is fixed so as not to be movable in the circumferential direction by the abutment between the protrusion and the recess in the circumferential direction of the housing body.

[0016] The gas generator according to the second aspect of the present invention comprises a housing body, a retainer assembly and an igniter. The housing body is composed of a cylindrical metal member which contains a combustion chamber containing a gas generating agent. The retainer assembly is inserted into the open end of the housing body in the axial direction and includes a through-hole-shaped hollow opening extending in a direction parallel to the axial direction. The igniter includes an ignition portion containing ignition powder and a terminal pin connected to the ignition portion, and in a state where the ignition portion is located on the combustion chamber side and the terminal pin is located on the side opposite to the combustion chamber side, at least a part of the igniter is arranged inside the hollow opening. The retainer assembly comprises: a metal retainer portion which is located on the combustion chamber side and receives and retains the igniter; and a resin connector portion which is located on the side opposite to the combustion chamber side and can receive a connection connector connected to the terminal pin. The retainer portion includes a cylindrical first body portion which defines the hollow opening. The connector portion includes: a second cylindrical body portion defining the hollow opening portion; and a locking portion protruding from the second body portion toward the inner peripheral surface of the shell body. The first body portion has a first end surface facing the second body portion at the end portion of the first body portion on the side opposite to the combustion chamber side. The second body portion has a second end surface facing the first body portion at the end portion of the second body portion on the combustion chamber side, and a protrusion is provided on the second end surface. A step portion capable of locking the locking portion is provided on the inner peripheral surface of the shell body. In the gas generator based on the second situation of the present invention, when tilted toward the outer side in the radial direction of the shell body, the protrusion and the second end surface abut in the axial direction, so that the connector portion is fixed in the axial direction in a manner that cannot be moved. In addition, in the gas generator based on the second situation of the present invention, when the protrusion is tilted toward the outside in the radial direction, the protrusion and the inner circumferential surface of the shell body abut in the radial direction, so that the connector part is fixed in the circumferential direction of the shell body in an immovable manner. Effects of the Invention

[0017] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a gas generator that can achieve a reduction in manufacturing cost and weight while realizing stable operation. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the cylinder type gas generator according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An enlarged cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the igniter is shown. Figure 3 yes Figure 2An enlarged cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the protrusion and recess is shown. Figure 4 yes Figure 1 An enlarged cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the partition member is shown. Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the retainer portion shown. Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the connector portion is shown. Figure 7 It is shown Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an assembly step of a retainer assembly is shown. Figure 8 It is shown Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an assembly step of a retainer assembly is shown. Fig. 9 It is a perspective view showing the shape of the protrusion of the connector part according to the first modification. Fig.10 It is a cross-sectional view showing an assembly procedure of the cage assembly according to the first modification. Fig.11 It is a perspective view showing the shape of the recessed portion of the retainer segment according to the second modification. Fig.12 It is a perspective view showing the shape of the protrusion of the connector part according to the second modification. Fig.13 It is a cross-sectional view showing an assembly procedure of a cage assembly according to a second modification. Fig.14 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the vicinity of an igniter of the cylinder type gas generator according to the second embodiment. Fig.15 yes Fig.14 An enlarged cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the protrusion and recess is shown. Fig.16 It is shown Fig.14 A top view of the protrusion of the connector portion is shown. Fig.17 yes Fig.14 A perspective view of the connector portion is shown. Fig.18 It is a cross-sectional view showing an assembly step of the cage assembly according to the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The embodiments shown below illustrate the case where the present invention is applied to a cylinder-type gas generator incorporated into a side airbag device. In addition, in the embodiments shown below, the same or common parts are marked with the same reference numerals in the drawings, and their descriptions are not repeated.

[0020] (Implementation Method 1) Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the cylinder type gas generator according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An enlarged cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the igniter is shown. Figure 3 Yes Figure 2 An enlarged cross-sectional view showing an enlarged area III including the vicinity of the protrusions and recesses. Figure 4 Yes Figure 1 An enlarged cross-sectional view is shown enlarging a region IV including the vicinity of the partition member. Figure 5 and Figure 6 They are Figure 1 First, refer to these Figures 1 to 6 Next, the configuration of the cylinder-type gas generator 1 according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0021] like Figure 1 As shown, the cylinder type gas generator 1 has an elongated cylindrical outer shape and has an elongated cylindrical housing with one end positioned in the axial direction and the other end closed. The housing includes a housing body 10, a retainer assembly 20 and a closing member 30.

[0022] The inside of the housing composed of the housing body 10, the retainer assembly 20 and the closing member 30 contains the igniter 40, the partition member 50, the gas generator 60, the coil spring 70 and the filter 80 as internal components. In addition, the gas generator storage chamber S1 containing the gas generator 60 and the coil spring 70 among the above-mentioned internal components and the filter chamber S2 equipped with the filter 80 are located inside the housing.

[0023] Here, in the following description, the space inside the cylinder type gas generator 1 including the space corresponding to the gas generating agent storage chamber S1 and the space corresponding to the hollow portion 81 of the filter 80 described later in the filter chamber S2 is referred to as a combustion chamber.

[0024] The housing body 10 constitutes the peripheral wall of the housing, and is composed of a long cylindrical member with openings formed at both ends in the axial direction. The retainer assembly 20 is composed of a cylindrical member having a through-hole-shaped hollow opening extending in a direction parallel to the axial direction of the housing body 10, and has a retainer portion 20A and a connector portion 20B described later. The blocking member 30 is composed of a substantially disc-shaped member having a flange portion.

[0025] The housing body 10 may also be made of a metal component such as stainless steel, steel, aluminum alloy, stainless steel alloy, or a stamped product formed into a cylindrical shape by stamping a rolled steel plate represented by SPCE. In addition, the housing body 10 may also be made of an electric welded pipe represented by STKM.

[0026] In particular, when the housing body 10 is formed of a press-formed product of a rolled steel plate or an electric-resistance-welded pipe, the housing body 10 can be formed easily and at a low cost and can be significantly reduced in weight compared to a case where a metal member such as stainless steel or steel is used.

[0027] like Figure 2 As shown, a hole portion penetrating in the radial direction of the housing body 10 is provided at one end portion of the cylindrical housing body 10 on which the retainer assembly 20 is assembled in the axial direction. Thus, a step portion 12 capable of locking a locking portion 26 of a connector portion 20B described later is formed on the inner circumferential surface of the housing body 10. There is no particular restriction on the number of the hole portion and the step portion 12 formed by the hole portion, and it can be either single or multiple. In the cylinder type gas generator 1, when viewed along the axial direction of the housing body 10, the two hole portions and the step portion 12 are arranged at a rotationally symmetrical position of 180°.

[0028] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the retainer assembly 20 is fixed to the housing body 10 in a manner that closes one open end in the axial direction of the housing body 10. Specifically, with respect to the retainer portion 20A of the retainer assembly 20, in a state where the retainer portion 20A is inserted into the above-mentioned one open end of the housing body 10, the retainer portion 20A and the housing body 10 are engaged at or near the contact portion, so that the retainer portion 20A is fixed. In addition, with respect to the connector portion 20B of the retainer assembly 20, in a state where the connector portion 20B is pressed into the above-mentioned one open end of the housing body 10, the connector portion 20B is fixed to the housing body 10 by a so-called snap fit. Thus, one end portion in the axial direction of the housing is constituted by the retainer assembly 20. In addition, the details of the assembly steps of the retainer assembly 20 will be described later.

[0029] like Figure 1 As shown, the closing member 30 is fixed to the housing body 10 in a manner of closing the other open end in the axial direction of the housing body 10. Specifically, the closing member 30 is partially inserted into the other open end of the housing body 10, and is fixed by welding the flange portion of the closing member 30 to the housing body 10 at or near the contact portion. Thus, the other end portion in the axial direction of the housing is constituted by the closing member 30.

[0030] The blocking member 30 is formed of a metal member such as stainless steel, steel, aluminum alloy, or stainless steel alloy.

[0031] The blocking member 30 and the housing body 10 corresponding to the portion into which the blocking member 30 is inserted are provided with a welded portion 90 extending along the circumferential direction of the housing body 10. Electron beam welding, laser welding, resistance welding, or the like can be suitably used for welding the blocking member 30 and the housing body 10.

[0032] When the blocking member 30 is fixed to the housing body 10 by welding, the gap between the blocking member 30 and the housing body 10 is filled and sealed by the welded portion 90. Therefore, by configuring in this way, the airtightness of this portion can be ensured.

[0033] The assembly structure of the blocking member 30 relative to the housing body 10 is not limited to the above-mentioned assembly structure, and other assembly structures may be adopted. In addition, the housing body 10 and the blocking member 30 may not be separated, but may be composed of a single member having a bottomed cylindrical shape.

[0034] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the igniter 40 is mounted on the above-mentioned one end portion in the axial direction of the housing by being supported by the retainer assembly 20. The igniter 40 is used to burn the gas generating agent 60, and is provided so as to face the space inside the housing.

[0035] The igniter 40 is used to generate flames and is also called a squib. The igniter 40 includes a base 41, an ignition portion 42, and a pair of terminal pins 43. The base 41 is a portion that holds the ignition portion 42 and the pair of terminal pins 43, and is also a portion that is fixed relative to the retainer assembly 20. The base 41 is held by the pair of terminal pins 43 inserted through it.

[0036] The ignition unit 42 contains therein: ignition powder that ignites and burns to generate flames during operation; and a resistor (bridge wire) for igniting the ignition powder. A pair of terminal pins 43 are connected to the ignition unit 42 to ignite the ignition powder.

[0037] More specifically, the ignition unit 42 has the following structure: it includes a squib cup formed in a cup shape, the resistor body is installed in a manner that the ends of a pair of terminal pins 43 inserted into the squib cup are connected, and the squib cup is filled with ignition powder in a manner that surrounds the resistor body or is close to the resistor body. In addition, the ignition unit 42 may be filled with detonating powder as needed.

[0038] Here, as the resistor, a nickel-chromium alloy wire or a resistance wire made of an alloy containing platinum and tungsten is generally used, and as the ignition powder, ZPP (zirconium-potassium perchlorate), ZWPP (zirconium-tungsten-potassium perchlorate), lead trinitroresorcinol, etc. are generally used. In addition, as the detonating powder, a composition composed of metal powder / oxidant represented by B / KNO3, B / NaNO3, Sr(NO3)2, etc., a composition composed of titanium hydride / potassium perchlorate, a composition composed of B / 5-aminotetrazole / potassium nitrate / molybdenum trioxide, etc. are used.

[0039] When a collision is detected, a predetermined amount of current flows through the resistor via the terminal pin 43. When a predetermined amount of current flows through the resistor, Joule heat is generated in the resistor, and the ignition charge starts to burn. High-temperature hot particles generated by the combustion cause the squib cup containing the ignition charge to crack. When a nickel-chromium alloy wire is used as the resistor, the time from the flow of current through the resistor to the operation of the igniter 40 is generally less than 2 milliseconds.

[0040] The igniter 40 is fixed to the retainer assembly 20 in a state where the ignition portion 42 thereof is positioned protruding toward the inside of the housing and a portion thereof is arranged inside the above-mentioned hollow opening portion of the retainer assembly 20. Thus, with respect to the igniter 40, the ignition portion 42 thereof is located on the gas generating agent storage chamber S1 side, and the terminal pin 43 thereof is located on the side opposite to the gas generating agent storage chamber S1 side. In addition, the details of the fixing structure of the igniter 40 relative to the retainer assembly 20 will be described later.

[0041] like Figure 1 and Figure 4 As shown, a partition member 50 is disposed at a predetermined position in the space inside the housing. The partition member 50 is a member for partitioning the space inside the housing into a gas generating agent storage chamber S1 and a filter chamber S2 in the axial direction.

[0042] The partition member 50 has a bottomed cylindrical shape and is made of a metal member such as stainless steel, steel, aluminum alloy, stainless steel alloy, etc. The partition member 50 has a flat partition wall portion 51 arranged in a manner perpendicular to the axial direction of the housing body 10, and a cylindrical plate-shaped annular wall portion 52 erected from the peripheral edge of the partition wall portion 51 toward the gas generating agent storage chamber S1. The partition member 50 is arranged in such a manner that the main surface of the outer side of the partition wall portion 51 abuts against the filter 80, and the outer peripheral surface of the annular wall portion 52 abuts against the inner peripheral surface of the housing body 10.

[0043] A notch 51a is provided on the main surface of the filter 80 that abuts against the partition wall 51. The notch 51a is used to cause the partition wall 51 to rupture and form an opening when the internal pressure of the gas generating agent storage chamber S1 increases due to the combustion of the gas generating agent 60, and is composed of, for example, a plurality of grooves that are radially arranged in a mutually intersecting manner. The notch 51a is provided in a portion of the filter 80 that is opposite to the hollow portion 81.

[0044] The partition member 50 is fixed by being joined to the housing body 10 while being inserted into the housing body 10. More specifically, the partition member 50 is pressed into the housing body 10 and fixed by welding the annular wall portion 52 of the partition member 50 and the housing body 10 at or near the contact portion.

[0045] Thus, a welded portion 91 extending along the circumferential direction of the housing body 10 is formed between the housing body 10 and the partition member 50 corresponding to the portion into which the partition member 50 is inserted. Electron beam welding, laser welding, resistance welding, or the like can be suitably used for welding the partition member 50 and the housing body 10.

[0046] When the partition member 50 is fixed to the housing body 10 by welding, the gap between the partition member 50 and the housing body 10 is sealed by filling the welded portion 91. Therefore, by configuring in this way, the airtightness of this portion can be ensured.

[0047] In addition, the method of fixing the partition member 50 to the housing body 10 is not limited to the above-mentioned fixing method using press-fitting and welding, and other fixing methods can also be used. In addition, in this case, the airtightness between the partition member 50 and the housing body 10 can be ensured by setting an O-ring or a sealing tape at an appropriate position.

[0048] like Figure 1 and Figure 4 As shown, the gas generating agent 60 , the coil spring 70 , and the auto-igniting agent 100 are arranged in a space (ie, the gas generating agent storage chamber S1 ) sandwiched between the retainer assembly 20 and the partition member 50 in the interior of the housing.

[0049] The coil spring 70 is disposed on the side where the partition member 50 is located (i.e., the other end side of the axial direction of the shell in the gas generating agent storage chamber S1), and the gas generating agent 60 is disposed between the retainer assembly 20 and the coil spring 70. In addition, the automatic ignition agent 100 is disposed between the partition member 50 and the coil spring 70 in a manner abutting against the partition member 50.

[0050] The gas generating agent 60 is a chemical that generates gas by ignition and combustion using hot particles generated by the operation of the igniter 40. As the gas generating agent 60, a non-azide type gas generating agent is preferably used, and the gas generating agent 60 is generally constituted as a molded body containing a fuel, an oxidant, and an additive.

[0051] As the fuel, for example, triazole derivatives, tetrazole derivatives, guanidine derivatives, azodicarbonamide derivatives, hydrazine derivatives, or combinations thereof are used. Specifically, for example, nitroguanidine or guanidine nitrate, cyanoguanidine, 5-aminotetrazole, or the like is suitably used.

[0052] As the oxidizing agent, for example, alkaline metal salts such as basic copper nitrate and basic copper carbonate, perchlorates such as ammonium perchlorate and potassium perchlorate, nitrates containing cations selected from alkali metals, alkaline earth metals, transition metals, and ammonia are used. As the nitrate, for example, sodium nitrate and potassium nitrate are suitably used.

[0053] As additives, binders, slag forming agents, combustion regulators, etc. can be cited. As binders, organic binders such as metal salts and stearates of carboxymethyl cellulose or inorganic binders such as synthetic hydrotalcite and acid clay can be suitably used. As slag forming agents, silicon nitride, silicon dioxide, acid clay, etc. can be suitably used. As combustion regulators, metal oxides, ferrosilicon, activated carbon, graphite, etc. can be suitably used.

[0054] The shape of the molded body of the gas generant 60 includes various shapes such as granular, pellet, cylindrical, and disk-like shapes. In addition, for the cylindrical molded body, a porous molded body (for example, a single-hole cylinder shape or a multi-hole cylinder shape, etc.) having a through hole inside the molded body is also used. These shapes are preferably selected appropriately according to the specifications of the airbag device in which the cylinder-type gas generator 1 is installed. For example, it is preferable to select a shape in which the gas generation rate changes over time when the gas generant 60 burns, and select the best shape corresponding to the specifications. In addition, it is preferable that in addition to the shape of the gas generant 60, the linear combustion rate, pressure index, etc. of the gas generant 60 are also taken into consideration to appropriately select the size or filling amount of the molded body.

[0055] The coil spring 70 is provided to prevent the gas generating agent 60 formed of a molded body from being crushed due to vibration or the like, and includes a cylindrical portion 71 formed by bending a metal wire and a pair of pressing portions 72 located at both ends thereof.

[0056] The cylindrical portion 71 is composed of a spring-shaped portion in which a metal wire is spirally wound. On the other hand, regarding a pair of pushing portions 72, one is provided at one end of the cylindrical portion 71, and the other is provided at the other end of the cylindrical portion 71. The pair of pushing portions 72 is configured in the following manner: for example, by arranging the metal wires substantially parallel to each other at a predetermined interval or arranging the metal wires in a spiral shape at a predetermined interval, the pair of pushing portions 72 has a substantially disk-like shape as a whole. One of the pair of pushing portions 72 contacts the gas generating agent 60, and the other contacts the automatic ignition agent 100.

[0057] Here, the coil spring 70 is compressed by being sandwiched between the auto-igniter 100 and the gas generating agent 60. Therefore, the gas generating agent 60 is elastically urged toward the retainer assembly 20 side (i.e., the aforementioned one end side of the housing) by the coil spring 70, thereby preventing the gas generating agent 60 from moving inside the gas generating agent storage chamber S1. Therefore, by configuring in this way, it is possible to prevent the gas generating agent 60 composed of the molded body from being crushed due to vibration or the like.

[0058] Furthermore, when the coil spring 70 is assembled, the coil spring 70 is sandwiched and compressed between the autoigniter 100 and the gas generating agent 60 , so that dimensional variations of various components accommodated in the housing can also be absorbed by the coil spring 70 .

[0059] The automatic igniter 100 is composed of a pellet formed in a flat, substantially cylindrical shape. The automatic igniter 100 is arranged on the side opposite to the side where the gas generating agent 60 is located (i.e., the filter 80 side) as viewed from the coil spring 70, and is sandwiched and held by the partition wall portion 51 of the partition member 50 and the coil spring 70. Thus, the automatic igniter 100 is separated from the gas generating agent 60 by the coil spring 70.

[0060] The automatic ignition agent 100 is a chemical that ignites automatically without depending on the operation of the igniter 40. More specifically, the automatic ignition agent 100 ignites naturally at a lower temperature than the gas generating agent 60, and is used to prevent abnormal operation of the cylinder type gas generator 1 due to external heating in the event of a fire or the like in a vehicle equipped with an airbag device in which the cylinder type gas generator 1 is installed.

[0061] like Figure 1 As shown, a filter 80 is arranged in a space (i.e., filter chamber S2) sandwiched between the closing member 30 and the partition member 50 in the space inside the housing. The filter 80 is composed of a cylindrical member having a hollow portion 81 extending in a direction parallel to the axial direction of the housing body 10, one end face of which in the axial direction abuts against the closing member 30, and the other end face of which in the axial direction abuts against the partition wall portion 51 of the partition member 50.

[0062] The filter 80 functions as a cooling mechanism for cooling the gas by taking away the high temperature heat of the gas when the gas generated by the combustion of the gas generating agent 60 passes through the filter 80, and also functions as a removal mechanism for removing slag (residue) and the like contained in the gas. By using the filter 80 composed of a cylindrical member as described above, the flow resistance to the gas flowing in the filter chamber S2 during operation is suppressed to a low level, and efficient gas flow can be achieved.

[0063] As the filter 80, a material composed of a collection of metal wires or metal mesh materials composed of stainless steel or steel, etc. can be suitably used. Specifically, a knitted metal mesh or a plain woven metal mesh, a collection of woven metal wires, or a material obtained by pressing and consolidating these metal wires, etc. can be used.

[0064] In addition, a material obtained by winding a perforated metal plate can also be used as the filter 80. In this case, as the perforated metal plate, for example, expanded metal obtained by cutting slits in a staggered manner in a metal plate and expanding the metal plate to form holes and processing the metal plate into a mesh shape, or hook metal obtained by punching holes in a metal plate and flattening the burrs generated at the periphery of the holes by squeezing the burrs, etc. can be used.

[0065] Here, the filter 80 is arranged to be separated from the portion of the housing body 10 in such a manner that a gap 82 of a predetermined size is formed between the filter 80 and the portion of the housing body 10 that defines the filter chamber S2. By providing the gap 82, the gas generated by the combustion of the gas generating agent 60 passes through substantially the entire area of ​​the filter 80, and the utilization efficiency of the filter 80 can be improved.

[0066] A plurality of gas ejection ports 11 are provided in the casing body 10 defining the filter chamber S2 along the circumferential direction and the axial direction. The plurality of gas ejection ports 11 are used to discharge the gas having passed through the filter 80 to the outside of the casing.

[0067] Next, refer to Figure 1 Next, the operation of the cylinder-type gas generator 1 according to the present embodiment during operation will be described.

[0068] Reference Figure 1 When a vehicle equipped with the cylinder gas generator 1 according to the present embodiment collides, a collision detection mechanism provided separately in the vehicle detects the collision, and based on this, the igniter 40 is operated by energizing from a control unit provided separately in the vehicle.

[0069] When the igniter 40 is operated, the pressure in the ignition section 42 increases due to the combustion of the ignition powder or the combustion of the detonating powder, thereby rupturing the squib cup of the ignition section 42, and hot particles generated by the combustion of the ignition powder or the combustion of the detonating powder flow out to the outside of the ignition section 42. The hot particles reaching the gas generating agent 60 cause the gas generating agent 60 to burn, thereby generating a large amount of gas in the gas generating agent storage chamber S1.

[0070] Along with this, the pressure of the gas generating agent storage chamber S1 rises, and the internal pressure of the gas generating agent storage chamber S1 reaches a predetermined pressure, so that the portion provided with the notch 51a in the partition member 50 is ruptured. As a result, an opening is formed in the partition member 50 at a portion opposite to the hollow portion 81 of the filter 80, and the gas generating agent storage chamber S1 and the filter chamber S2 are in communication via the opening.

[0071] Along with this, the gas generated in the gas generating agent storage chamber S1 flows into the filter chamber S2 through the opening formed in the partition member 50. The gas flowing into the filter chamber S2 flows in the axial direction through the hollow portion 81 of the filter 80, then changes direction toward the radial direction, and flows inside the filter 80. At this time, the heat is taken away by the filter 80, the gas is cooled, and the slag contained in the gas is removed by the filter 80.

[0072] Then, the gas flowing through the filter 80 is ejected to the outside of the housing through the gas ejection port 11 provided in the housing body 10. The ejected gas is introduced into the inside of the airbag provided adjacent to the cylinder type gas generator 1, and inflates and deploys the airbag.

[0073] Here, as described above, the cylinder type gas generator 1 according to the present embodiment includes the retainer assembly 20 as a part of the housing, and the retainer assembly 20 is attached to the opening end of the housing body 10 on the one end side. Figures 1 to 3 , Figure 5 as well as Figure 6 The configuration of the holder assembly 20 and the structure for fixing the igniter 40 to the holder assembly 20 will be described in detail.

[0074] like Figures 1 to 3 , Figure 5 as well as Figure 6 As shown, the retainer assembly 20 includes: a metal retainer portion 20A, which is located on the gas generating agent storage chamber S1 side; and a resin connector portion 20B, which is located on the side opposite to the gas generating agent storage chamber S1 side. The retainer assembly 20 is configured as an integrated part by assembling the retainer portion 20A and the connector portion 20B with each other. The retainer assembly 20 is mounted on the above-mentioned one opening end of the housing body 10.

[0075] like Figures 1 to 3 as well as Figure 5 As shown, the retainer portion 20A is composed of a flat, substantially disc-shaped member having a through portion extending in the axial direction at its central portion, and includes a cylindrical first body portion 21. The first body portion 21 has a first end face 22 facing a second body portion 24 of the connector portion 20B described later at the end portion on the side opposite to the gas generating agent storage chamber S1 side.

[0076] A substantially hemispherical recess 22a is provided on the first end surface 22. The recess 22a is a portion that receives a protrusion 25a of the connector portion 20B described later. The number of recesses 22a is not particularly limited, but preferably corresponds to the number of protrusions 25a. In the cylinder-type gas generator 1, when viewed in the axial direction of the retainer portion 20A, the two recesses 22a are arranged at rotationally symmetrical positions of 180°. In addition, the shape of the recess 22a is not particularly limited to a substantially hemispherical shape, and can be appropriately changed in coordination with the shape of the protrusion 25a.

[0077] The retainer portion 20A is inserted into the housing body 10 so that its axial direction is parallel to the axial direction of the housing body 10 . Thus, the through portion provided in the retainer portion 20A defines a part of the above-mentioned hollow opening portion of the retainer assembly 20 .

[0078] The retainer portion 20A is a component for receiving and retaining the igniter 40. In order to receive the igniter 40, a concave-shaped receiving portion 23a is provided at the end portion on the gas generating agent receiving chamber S1 side in the axial direction thereof. The receiving portion 23a is communicated with a through portion provided in the retainer portion 20A. In addition, a caulking portion 23b is provided at the end portion on the gas generating agent receiving chamber S1 side of the retainer portion 20A so as to surround the receiving portion 23a. The caulking portion 23b is a portion for caulking and fixing the igniter 40 to the retainer portion 20A.

[0079] The retainer segment 20A is formed of a metal member such as stainless steel, steel, aluminum alloy, or stainless steel alloy.

[0080] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the igniter 40 is fixed to the holder portion 20A in a state where the base portion 41 thereof is accommodated in the accommodation portion 23a of the holder portion 20A. Specifically, the base portion 41 is inserted into the accommodation portion 23a of the holder portion 20A, and the base portion 41 abuts against the bottom surface of the accommodation portion 23a. In this state, the caulking portion 23b provided in the holder portion 20A is bent, so that the igniter 40 is fixed to the holder portion 20A. Thus, the igniter 40 is held by the holder portion 20A.

[0081] Here, a sealing member 27 composed of an O-ring or the like is interposed and installed between the retainer portion 20A and the igniter 40, and the gap between the retainer portion 20A and the igniter 40 is filled with the sealing member 27, so that the gap is sealed. Therefore, by configuring in this way, the airtightness of this portion can be ensured. In addition, the fixing method of the igniter 40 is not limited to the fixing method using the above-mentioned caulking portion 23b, and other fixing methods can also be used.

[0082] like Figures 1 to 3 as well as Figure 6 As shown, the connector part 20B is composed of a substantially cylindrical member having a through portion extending in the axial direction at its central portion, and includes a cylindrical second body portion 24 and a hook-shaped stopper 26 protruding from the second body portion 24 toward the outer side of the connector part 20B in the radial direction. There is no particular limitation on the number of the stopper 26, and it can be either single or multiple. In the cylinder-type gas generator 1, when viewed in the axial direction of the connector part 20B, the two stopper portions 26 are arranged at rotationally symmetrical positions of 180°.

[0083] The second body portion 24 has a second end surface 25 facing the first body portion 21 of the retainer portion 20A at the end portion on the gas generating agent storage chamber S1 side. The second end surface 25 is provided with a substantially conical protrusion 25a.

[0084] The protrusion 25a is pressed toward the recess 22a of the retainer portion 20A and abuts against the recess 22a. More preferably, the protrusion 25a is pressed against the recess 22a in a state where it is flattened by being pressed toward the recess 22a. There is no particular limitation on the number of protrusions 25a, and the number may be single or multiple. In the cylinder-type gas generator 1, when viewed in the axial direction of the connector portion 20B, the two protrusions 25a are arranged at rotationally symmetrical positions of 180°. In addition, the shape of the protrusion 25a is not particularly limited to a roughly conical shape, and can be appropriately changed to a roughly prism shape, a roughly truncated pyramid shape, a roughly hemispherical shape, etc.

[0085] The connector portion 20B is inserted into the housing body 10 so that its axial direction is parallel to the axial direction of the housing body 10 . Thus, the through portion provided in the connector portion 20B defines a part of the above-mentioned hollow opening portion of the retainer assembly 20 .

[0086] The connector part 20B is used to receive the connection connector connected to the terminal pin 43 of the igniter 40. The terminal pin 43 of the igniter 40 is arranged inside the connector part 20B. The through part provided in the connector part 20B constitutes a part for receiving the connection connector.

[0087] In more detail, in the cylinder type gas generator 1, the igniter 40 needs to be electrically connected to a control unit (not shown) of a vehicle or the like provided outside, and a wire harness is generally used for this electrical connection. A male connector is installed at the end of the wire harness, and a female connector that can be connected to the male connector needs to be provided in the connector portion 20B. The through portion provided in the connector portion 20B constitutes the female connector.

[0088] Furthermore, by inserting a male connector of the wire harness into the through portion functioning as a female connector, electrical conduction is achieved between the core wire of the wire harness and the terminal pin 43, thereby connecting the igniter 40 to a control unit of a vehicle or the like.

[0089] The material of the connector part 20B is not particularly limited. For example, 6 nylon, 66 nylon, and nylon resins represented by materials filled with glass fillers, polyacetal (POM) resin, polycarbonate (PC) resin, polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) resin, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) resin, etc. can be appropriately used.

[0090] Figure 7 and Figure 8 It is shown Figure 1 sectional views of the assembly steps of the retainer assembly of the cylinder type gas generator shown in FIG. Figure 7 and Figure 8 , a description will be given of a procedure for assembling the retainer assembly 20 of the cylinder type gas generator 1 according to the present embodiment.

[0091] When the retainer assembly 20 is assembled to the housing body 10, first, Figure 7 As shown, an assembly in which the igniter 40 is mounted on the holder portion 20A is prepared and inserted into one open end of the housing body 10. Next, the holder portion 20A and the housing body 10 are fixed by welding at or near their contact portions.

[0092] Thus, the housing body 10 and the retainer portion 20A corresponding to the portion into which the retainer portion 20A is inserted form a welded portion 92 extending along the circumferential direction of the housing body 10. In addition, electron beam welding, laser welding, resistance welding, etc. can be appropriately used for welding the retainer portion 20A and the housing body 10.

[0093] When the holder portion 20A is fixed to the housing body 10 by welding, the gap between the holder portion 20A and the housing body 10 is sealed by filling the welded portion 92. Therefore, by configuring in this way, the airtightness of this portion can be ensured.

[0094] Then, if Figure 8As shown, the connector part 20B is assembled relative to the retainer part 20A. Specifically, the connector part 20B is pressed into the above-mentioned one opening end of the shell body 10. As a result, the protrusion 25a of the connector part 20B is deformed, and the protrusion 25a abuts against the recess 22a of the retainer part 20A. Furthermore, in the state where they abut, the connector part 20B is fixed by locking the locking part 26 relative to the step part 12 provided on the inner peripheral surface of the shell body 10. Here, it is preferred that the protrusion 25a is deformed in a manner that it is flattened, thereby the protrusion 25a is pressed into contact with the recess 22a.

[0095] Through the above series of steps, the connector portion 20B is assembled to the retainer portion 20A equipped with the igniter 40, and the retainer assembly 20 composed of the retainer portion 20A and the connector portion 20B is assembled to the housing body 10. In addition, thereby, the open end of the housing body 10 on the one end side is closed by the retainer assembly 20.

[0096] By configuring as described above, it is possible to provide the cylinder-type gas generator 1 which can realize stable operation.

[0097] That is, in the cylinder type gas generator 1 according to the present embodiment, as described above, the projection 25a and the recess 22a abut against each other in the axial direction of the retainer portion 20A and the connector portion 20B in a state where the projection 25a is deformed and an elastic restoring force is generated thereon. As a result, the connector portion 20B moves toward the gas generating agent storage chamber S1 in the axial direction thereof (i.e., toward the gas generating agent storage chamber S1). Figure 3 The upward movement in the middle is restricted, and is elastically biased toward the side opposite to the gas generating agent storage chamber S1 side in the above-mentioned axial direction.

[0098] In this state, the connector part 20B is fixed by its locking part 26 being locked relative to the step part 12 of the housing body 10. Thus, the locking part 26 and the step part 12 abut in the axial direction, and as a result, the connector part 20B is fixed in a manner that cannot move in the axial direction.

[0099] Furthermore, in the cylinder type gas generator 1, the projection 25a and the recess 22a abut against each other in the circumferential direction of the retainer portion 20A and the connector portion 20B in a state where the projection 25a is deformed and generates elastic restoring force, thereby fixing the connector portion 20B in a manner that it cannot move in the circumferential direction.

[0100] That is, in the case of the cylinder-type gas generator 1 according to the present embodiment, the connector portion 20B is fixed so as not to be movable in either the axial direction or the circumferential direction, thereby suppressing rattling of the connector portion 20B in these directions.

[0101] Therefore, the short circuit of the terminal pin 43 of the igniter 40 using the short-circuit clip inserted into the connector part 20B or the accidental release of the electrical conduction between the core wire of the wiring harness inserted into the connector part 20B and the terminal pin 43 due to the shaking of the connector part 20B is effectively prevented, thereby enabling the cylinder-type gas generator 1 to achieve stable operation.

[0102] Furthermore, in the cylinder-type gas generator 1 involved in the present embodiment, the retainer which is conventionally composed of a single metal part is constituted by the retainer assembly 20 which is a composite part of the metal retainer part 20A and the resin connector part 20B. As a result, the amount of metal material used can be drastically reduced, and with this, a significant weight reduction can be sought. In addition, there is no need for processing with high processing accuracy required in the case of a retainer composed of a single metal part, and further, the structure of the retainer is greatly simplified, so that in this regard, the material cost or the processing cost can also be reduced.

[0103] Therefore, by using the cylinder-type gas generator 1 according to the present embodiment, it is possible to achieve a stable operation while reducing the manufacturing cost and weight compared to the related art.

[0104] In the cylinder type gas generator 1 according to the present embodiment, the connector portion 20B is provided with two protrusions 25a, each of which abuts against the corresponding recess 22a of the retainer portion 20A. This can more reliably prevent the above-mentioned shaking of the connector portion 20B compared to the case where only one protrusion 25a is provided.

[0105] (First Modification) Fig. 9 is a perspective view showing the shape of a connector portion of a cylinder-type gas generator according to a first modified example based on the above-mentioned first embodiment. Fig.10 1 is a cross-sectional view showing the assembly steps of the retainer assembly according to the first modification. Fig. 9 and Fig.10 Next, a cylinder-type gas generator 1A according to a first modification will be described. The assembly procedure of the retainer assembly according to the first modification is basically the same as the assembly procedure of the retainer assembly according to the first embodiment described above.

[0106] like Fig. 9 and Fig.10 As shown, when the cylinder type gas generator 1A according to the first modification is compared with the cylinder type gas generator 1 according to the above-described first embodiment, only the shape of the protrusion 25a1 of the connector portion 20B1 is different.

[0107] Specifically, in the connector portion 20B1 according to the first modification, the protrusion 25a1 has a substantially quadrangular pyramid shape whose cross-sectional shape becomes smaller toward the gas generating agent storage chamber S1 side.

[0108] In such a configuration, the protrusion 25a1 of the connector portion 20B1 and the recess 22a of the holder portion 20A abut at four locations in the circumferential direction of the holder portion 20A and the connector portion 20B1. Therefore, in such a configuration, in addition to the effects described in the first embodiment, the circumferential shaking of the connector portion 20B1 can be more reliably prevented.

[0109] (Second Modification) Fig.11 and Fig.12 Each of them is a perspective view showing the shape of a recessed portion of a retainer portion and a protruding portion of a connector portion of a cylinder type gas generator according to a second modified example based on the above-described first embodiment. Fig.13 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the assembly steps of the retainer assembly according to the second modification. Figures 11 to 13 Next, a cylinder type gas generator 1B according to a second modification example will be described. The assembly procedure of the retainer assembly according to the second modification example is basically the same as the assembly procedure of the retainer assembly according to the first embodiment described above.

[0110] like Figures 11 to 13 As shown, the cylinder type gas generator 1B according to the second modification is different from the cylinder type gas generator 1 according to the first embodiment in the shape of the recessed portion 22a2 of the retainer portion 20A2 and the shape of the protruding portion 25a2 of the connector portion 20B2.

[0111] Specifically, in the retainer portion 20A2 according to the second modification, the recess 22a2 is defined by a V-shaped groove extending in a direction perpendicular to the circumferential direction of the retainer portion 20A2. In addition, in the connector portion 20B2 according to the second modification, the protrusion 25a2 has a triangular prism shape extending in a direction perpendicular to the circumferential direction of the connector portion 20B2.

[0112] In the case of such a configuration, the protrusion 25a2 and the recess 22a2 are in surface contact at two locations and abut against each other at the same time. In the case of such a configuration, the friction resistance generated between the protrusion 25a2 and the recess 22a2 increases dramatically compared to the case where the protrusion 25a2 and the recess 22a2 are in point contact. Therefore, in addition to the effects described in the above-mentioned embodiment 1, the shaking of the connector part 20B2 in the circumferential direction can be more reliably prevented.

[0113] (Implementation Method 2) Fig.14is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the igniter of the cylinder type gas generator according to the second embodiment, Fig.15 Yes Fig.14 The enlarged cross-sectional view shown is an enlarged view of a region XV in the vicinity of the protrusion including the connector portion. Fig.16 It is shown Fig.14 A top view of the protrusion of the connector portion shown, Fig.17 is a perspective view of the connector portion. Fig.18 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the assembly steps of the retainer assembly according to the second embodiment. Figures 14 to 18 , the cylinder type gas generator 2 involved in the second embodiment is described. Fig.16 , the connector portion 20B3 is shown in a top view, and the portion of the housing body 10 that contacts the projection 25a3 of the connector portion 20B3 is shown in a schematic cross-sectional view. In addition, the assembly steps of the retainer assembly involved in the second embodiment are basically the same as the assembly steps of the retainer assembly involved in the above-mentioned first embodiment.

[0114] like Figures 14 to 16 As shown, the cylinder type gas generator 2 according to the present embodiment is different in shape of the protrusion 25a3 of the connector portion 20B3 from the cylinder type gas generator 1 according to the above-mentioned embodiment 1. In addition, the cylinder type gas generator 2 according to the present embodiment is also different from the cylinder type gas generator 1 according to the embodiment 1 in that the recess 22a is not provided in the retainer portion 20A3.

[0115] Specifically, the protrusion 25a3 of the connector portion 20B3 involved in Embodiment 2 has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape extending along the tangential direction of the second body portion 24 when viewed along the axial direction of the connector portion 20B3. In addition, the side surface of the portion of the protrusion 25a3 located on the inner side in the radial direction of the connector portion 20B3 includes an inclined surface 28 that is inclined in a manner that is inclined toward the outer side in the above-mentioned radial direction as it approaches the gas generating agent storage chamber S1 side. In addition, there is no particular restriction on the number of protrusions 25a3, and it can be either single or multiple. In the cylinder-type gas generator 2, when viewed along the axial direction of the connector portion 20B3, the two protrusions 25a3 are arranged at rotationally symmetrical positions of 180°.

[0116] like Fig.17 and Fig.18As shown in FIG. 1 , before the connector portion 20B3 is assembled to the retainer portion 20A3, the protrusion 25a3 protrudes toward the first end surface 22 of the first body portion 21 of the retainer portion 20A3. On the other hand, since the protrusion 25a3 includes the inclined surface 28, when the connector portion 20B3 is pressed into the housing body 10, the protrusion 25a3 contacts the first end surface 22 and at the same time faces the outer side in the radial direction (that is, toward the outer side). Fig.18 Pour in the direction of arrow F).

[0117] The protrusion 25a3 in the state of generating elastic restoring force due to such tilting and the first end face 22 of the retainer part 20A3 abut in the axial direction of the retainer part 20A3 and the connector part 20B3. As a result, the connector part 20B3 is fixed in a manner that cannot move in the above-mentioned axial direction. In addition, it is preferable that the protrusion 25a3 and the first end face 22 are pressed in the above-mentioned axial direction in the state where the protrusion 25a3 generates elastic restoring force.

[0118] In addition, the protrusion 25a3 in a state where the elastic restoring force is generated due to the tilting abuts against the inner peripheral surface of the housing body 10 in the radial direction of the connector part 20B3. As a result, the connector part 20B3 is fixed in a manner that cannot move in its circumferential direction. In addition, it is preferred that the protrusion 25a3 and the above-mentioned inner peripheral surface are pressed in the above-mentioned radial direction in a state where the protrusion 25a3 generates an elastic restoring force.

[0119] Even in the case of such a configuration, the same effects as those described in the above-mentioned first embodiment can be obtained.

[0120] Furthermore, in the cylinder type gas generator 2 according to the present embodiment, as Fig.15 As shown, the projections 25a3 abut against the inner peripheral surface of the housing body 10 in the radial direction at two locations in the circumferential direction of the connector portion 20B3. This can more reliably prevent the connector portion 20B3 from rattling in the circumferential direction.

[0121] In addition, in the cylinder type gas generator 2 involved in the present embodiment, as the protrusion 25a3, a protrusion having the shape of the above-mentioned inclined surface 28 is exemplified and described, but the shape of the protrusion 25a3 is not particularly limited thereto. That is, the protrusion 25a3 can be configured in such a manner that the connector part 20B3 is pressed into the housing body 10 and the protrusion 25a3 contacts the first end face 22 and tilts toward the outside in the above-mentioned radial direction. For example, a fragile portion may be provided by cutting off a part of the outer side surface in the above-mentioned radial direction. Alternatively, a guide surface inclined in such a manner as to guide the protrusion 25a3 toward the outside in the above-mentioned radial direction may be provided on the first end face 22 of the retainer part 20A at a portion corresponding to the protrusion 25a3.

[0122] (Note) The characteristic configuration of the gas generator disclosed in the above-mentioned embodiment is summarized as follows.

[0123] [Note 1] A gas generator comprising: A cylindrical metal housing body including a combustion chamber containing a gas generating agent; a retainer assembly inserted into the open end of the housing body in the axial direction and including a through-hole-shaped hollow opening extending in a direction parallel to the axial direction; and An igniter comprising an ignition portion containing ignition powder and a terminal pin connected to the ignition portion, wherein at least a portion of the igniter is disposed inside the hollow opening portion in a state where the ignition portion is located on the combustion chamber side and the terminal pin is located on the side opposite to the combustion chamber side. The retainer assembly includes: a metal retainer portion, which is located on the combustion chamber side and receives and retains the igniter; and a resin connector portion, which is located on the side opposite to the combustion chamber side and can receive a connection connector connected to the terminal pin. The retainer portion includes a first cylindrical body portion defining the hollow opening portion. The connector portion includes: a second cylindrical body portion defining the hollow opening portion; and a locking portion protruding from the second body portion toward the inner peripheral surface of the housing body. The first body portion has a first end surface facing the second body portion at an end portion of the first body portion on the side opposite to the combustion chamber side. A recess is provided on the first end surface. The second body portion has a second end surface facing the first body portion at an end portion of the second body portion on the combustion chamber side. A protrusion is provided on the second end surface. The inner peripheral surface of the housing body is provided with a step portion capable of locking the locking portion. The connector portion is fixed in a manner that cannot move in the axial direction by the protrusion and the recess abutting in the axial direction, and the locking portion and the step portion abutting in the axial direction. The connector portion is fixed in a manner that is non-movable in the circumferential direction by the abutment between the protrusion and the recess in the circumferential direction of the housing body.

[0124] [Note 2] The gas generator as described in Supplementary Note 1, wherein: The protrusion has a truncated pyramid shape.

[0125] [Note 3] The gas generator as described in Supplementary Note 1, wherein: The protrusion and the recess extend in a direction intersecting the circumferential direction. As the protrusion is fitted into the recess, the side surface of the protrusion positioned in the circumferential direction comes into surface contact with the recess.

[0126] [Note 4] A gas generator as described in any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 3, wherein: A plurality of the protrusions and recesses are provided in the circumferential direction.

[0127] [Note 5] A gas generator comprising: A cylindrical metal housing body including a combustion chamber containing a gas generating agent; a retainer assembly inserted into the open end of the housing body in the axial direction and including a through-hole-shaped hollow opening extending in a direction parallel to the axial direction; and An igniter comprising an ignition portion containing ignition powder and a terminal pin connected to the ignition portion, wherein at least a portion of the igniter is disposed inside the hollow opening portion in a state where the ignition portion is located on the combustion chamber side and the terminal pin is located on the side opposite to the combustion chamber side. The retainer assembly includes: a metal retainer portion, which is located on the combustion chamber side and receives and retains the igniter; and a resin connector portion, which is located on the side opposite to the combustion chamber side and can receive a connection connector connected to the terminal pin. The retainer portion includes a first cylindrical body portion defining the hollow opening portion. The connector portion includes: a second cylindrical body portion defining the hollow opening portion; and a locking portion protruding from the second body portion toward the inner peripheral surface of the housing body. The first body portion has a first end surface facing the second body portion at an end portion of the first body portion on the side opposite to the combustion chamber side. The second body portion has a second end surface facing the first body portion at an end portion of the second body portion on the combustion chamber side. A protrusion is provided on the second end surface. The inner peripheral surface of the housing body is provided with a step portion capable of locking the locking portion. When the protrusion is tilted toward the outer side in the radial direction of the housing body, the protrusion abuts against the second end surface in the axial direction, so that the connector portion is fixed in a manner that cannot move in the axial direction. When the protrusion is tilted outward in the radial direction, the protrusion abuts against the inner peripheral surface of the housing body in the radial direction, so that the connector portion is fixed in a manner that cannot move in the circumferential direction of the housing body.

[0128] [Note 6] The gas generator as described in Supplementary Note 5, wherein: The side surface of the projection at a portion located on the inner side in the radial direction includes an inclined surface that is inclined toward the outer side in the radial direction as it approaches the combustion chamber side.

[0129] [Note 7] The gas generator according to Supplement 5 or 6, wherein: The protrusion is provided in plurality in the circumferential direction.

[0130] (Other methods) In the above-mentioned embodiment of the present invention, the case where the present invention is applied to a cylinder-type gas generator installed in a side airbag device is illustrated for explanation, but the application of the present invention is not limited to this. It can also be applied to a cylinder-type gas generator installed in a curtain airbag device, a knee airbag device, a seat airbag device, etc., or a so-called T-shaped gas generator having a long strip shape like the cylinder-type gas generator.

[0131] In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiment of the present invention, the case where the number of step portions provided on the housing body is two is exemplified and described, but the number of step portions is not particularly limited to two, and may be a single step or a plurality of steps of more than three. The same is true for the number of locking portions provided on the connector portion.

[0132] Furthermore, in the above-mentioned embodiment of the present invention, the case where the number of protrusions provided on the connector portion is two is exemplified and described, but the number of protrusions is not particularly limited to two, and may be a single protrusion or a plurality of protrusions of more than three. The same is true for the number of recesses provided on the retainer portion.

[0133] Thus, the above-mentioned embodiment disclosed this time is an illustration in all points and is not restrictive. The technical scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, and all changes within the meaning and scope equivalent to the description of the claims are included. Description of Reference Numerals

[0134] 1, 1A, 1B, 2 cylinder type gas generator, 10 housing body, 11 gas ejection port, 12 step portion, 20 retainer assembly, 20A, 20A2, 20A3 retainer portion, 20B, 20B1, 20B2, 20B3 connector portion, 21 first body portion, 22 first end surface, 22a, 22a2 recessed portion, 23a accommodating portion, 23b caulking portion, 24 second body portion, 25 second end surface, 25a, 25a1, 25a2, 25a3 protrusion part, 26 locking part, 27 sealing part, 28 inclined surface, 30 blocking part, 40 igniter, 41 base, 42 ignition part, 43 terminal pin, 50 partition part, 51 partition wall part, 51a notch, 52 annular wall part, 60 gas generating agent, 70 coil spring, 71 cylindrical part, 72 pushing part, 80 filter, 81 hollow part, 82 gap part, 90, 91, 92 welding part, 100 automatic ignition agent, S1 gas generating agent containing chamber, S2 filter chamber.

Claims

1. A gas generator comprising: A cylindrical metal housing body including a combustion chamber containing a gas generating agent; a retainer assembly inserted into an open end of the housing body in the axial direction and including a through-hole-shaped hollow opening extending in a direction parallel to the axial direction; and An igniter comprising an ignition portion containing ignition powder and a terminal pin connected to the ignition portion, wherein at least a portion of the igniter is disposed inside the hollow opening portion in a state where the ignition portion is located on the combustion chamber side and the terminal pin is located on the side opposite to the combustion chamber side. The retainer assembly includes: a metal retainer portion located on the combustion chamber side and receiving and retaining the igniter; and a resin connector portion located on the side opposite to the combustion chamber side and capable of receiving a connection connector connected to the terminal pin. The retainer portion includes a first cylindrical body portion defining the hollow opening portion, The connector portion includes: a second cylindrical body portion defining the hollow opening portion; and a locking portion protruding from the second body portion toward the inner peripheral surface of the housing body. The first body portion has a first end surface facing the second body portion at an end portion of the first body portion on the side opposite to the combustion chamber side. A recess is provided on the first end surface. The second body portion has a second end surface facing the first body portion at an end portion of the second body portion on the combustion chamber side. A protrusion is provided on the second end surface, A step portion capable of locking the locking portion is provided on the inner peripheral surface of the housing body. The connector portion is fixed in a manner that cannot move in the axial direction by the protrusion and the recess abutting in the axial direction, and the locking portion and the step portion abutting in the axial direction. The connector portion is fixed in a manner that cannot move in the circumferential direction by the protrusion and the recess abutting against each other in the circumferential direction of the housing body.

2. The gas generator according to claim 1, wherein: The protrusion has a truncated pyramid shape.

3. The gas generator according to claim 1, wherein: The protrusion and the recess extend in a direction intersecting the circumferential direction, As the protrusion is fitted into the recess, the side surface of the protrusion positioned in the circumferential direction comes into surface contact with the recess.

4. The gas generator according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The protrusions and the recesses are both provided in plural numbers in the circumferential direction.

5. A gas generator comprising: A cylindrical metal housing body including a combustion chamber containing a gas generating agent; a retainer assembly inserted into an open end of the housing body in the axial direction and including a through-hole-shaped hollow opening extending in a direction parallel to the axial direction; and An igniter comprising an ignition portion containing ignition powder and a terminal pin connected to the ignition portion, wherein at least a portion of the igniter is disposed inside the hollow opening portion in a state where the ignition portion is located on the combustion chamber side and the terminal pin is located on the side opposite to the combustion chamber side. The retainer assembly includes: a metal retainer portion located on the combustion chamber side and receiving and retaining the igniter; and a resin connector portion located on the side opposite to the combustion chamber side and capable of receiving a connection connector connected to the terminal pin. The retainer portion includes a first cylindrical body portion defining the hollow opening portion, The connector portion includes: a second cylindrical body portion defining the hollow opening portion; and a locking portion protruding from the second body portion toward the inner peripheral surface of the housing body. The first body portion has a first end surface facing the second body portion at an end portion of the first body portion on the side opposite to the combustion chamber side. The second body portion has a second end surface facing the first body portion at an end portion of the second body portion on the combustion chamber side. A protrusion is provided on the second end surface, A step portion capable of locking the locking portion is provided on the inner peripheral surface of the housing body. When the protrusion is tilted toward the outer side in the radial direction of the housing body, the protrusion and the second end surface abut in the axial direction, so that the connector portion is fixed in a manner that cannot move in the axial direction. In a state where the protrusion is tilted toward the outside in the radial direction, the protrusion abuts against the inner peripheral surface of the housing body in the radial direction, so that the connector portion is fixed in a manner that cannot move in the circumferential direction of the housing body.

6. The gas generator according to claim 5, wherein: The projection includes, on a side surface of a portion located on the inner side in the radial direction, an inclined surface that is inclined toward the outer side in the radial direction as it approaches the combustion chamber side.

7. The gas generator according to claim 5 or 6, wherein: The protrusion is provided in plurality in the circumferential direction.

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