Assembly comprising a rigid rod attached with an expansable curtain airbag and vehicle

Abstract

The invention provides a curtain airbag assembly and a vehicle including the same. The curtain airbag assembly includes an inflator, an inflatable curtain airbag, and a rigid rod. The inflatable curtain airbag includes a pocket portion and a body portion extending from the pocket portion. The pocket portion defines one or more pockets and a plurality of cutouts spaced apart from each other in a vehicle longitudinal direction of the pocket portion. The main body portion, upon activation, receives gas from the inflator and expands. A rigid rod extends through the one or more pockets and is received within a plurality of receiving members mounted to a body member of the vehicle to secure the curtain airbag assembly to the body member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This specification generally relates to curtain airbags for vehicles, and more specifically to vehicles that include curtain airbags that are easy to install into vehicles more quickly and easily. Background Technology

[0002] Curtain airbags (also known as side curtain airbags) are designed to protect a passenger's head in the event of a side collision or rollover. A curtain airbag assembly, consisting of a folding airbag and an inflator, is typically mounted within the vehicle's roof structure along the edge of the roof frame above the doors and windows. In the event of a side collision or rollover, the airbag deploys downwards to cover the side window and protect the passenger from impact with the window, side structure, or external objects.

[0003] During the installation of the curtain airbag assembly, the inflator is positioned and secured to the roof frame based on positioning features or markings. Then, multiple fastening components extending from the airbag are secured one by one to body components such as the vehicle's roof frame or pillars, using bolts, screws, etc. This can be a time-consuming process, requiring each individual fastening component to be individually attached to the vehicle. Furthermore, the need to individually attach each fastening component can increase the airbag's manufacturing cost and time.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need for improved curtain airbag assemblies that allow for faster installation in vehicles while also reducing the manufacturing cost and time of the airbags themselves. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In one embodiment, the curtain airbag assembly includes an inflator, an inflatable curtain airbag, and a rigid rod. The inflatable curtain airbag includes a pocket portion and a body portion extending from the pocket portion. The pocket portion defines one or more pockets and a plurality of slits spaced apart from each other along the vehicle longitudinal direction of the pocket portion. The body portion inflates upon activation by receiving gas from the inflator. The rigid rod extends through one or more pockets.

[0006] In another embodiment, the curtain airbag assembly includes an inflator, an inflatable curtain airbag, and a rigid rod. The inflatable curtain airbag includes an attachment portion and a main body portion extending from the attachment portion. The attachment portion defines a plurality of attachment holes spaced apart from each other along the vehicle longitudinal direction of the attachment portion. The main body portion inflates by receiving gas from the inflator when activated. The rigid rod defines a plurality of receiving holes spaced apart from each other along the vehicle longitudinal direction at positions corresponding to the plurality of attachment holes.

[0007] In another embodiment, the vehicle includes a body component, a plurality of spaced-apart receiving components mounted on a frame, and a curtain airbag assembly including an inflator, an inflatable curtain airbag, and a rigid rod. The inflatable curtain airbag includes a pocket portion and a body portion extending from the pocket portion. The pocket portion defines one or more pockets and a plurality of slits spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. The body portion inflates upon activation by receiving gas from the inflator. The rigid rod extends through the one or more pockets, wherein each of the plurality of receiving components engages with the rigid rod to secure the inflatable curtain airbag to the frame.

[0008] These and additional features provided by the embodiments described herein will be more fully understood in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and the following detailed description. Attached Figure Description

[0009] The embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings are illustrative and exemplary in nature and are not intended to limit the subject matter defined by the claims. The following detailed description of the illustrative embodiments will be understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein the same structures are indicated by the same reference numerals, and wherein:

[0010] Figure 1 A partial sectional side view of a vehicle according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein, including an embodiment of a curtain airbag assembly mounted to a body component of the vehicle, is schematically illustrated.

[0011] Figure 2 The illustrations schematically depict one or more embodiments according to those shown and described herein. Figure 1 A partial side view of a curtain airbag assembly that defines multiple cutouts and engages with a receiving member;

[0012] Figure 3 The illustration schematically depicts one or more embodiments shown and described herein. Figure 2 Line 3-3, taken as an example, shows the engagement with the receiving component. Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the curtain airbag assembly;

[0013] Figure 4 A partial front view of another embodiment of a curtain airbag assembly including folded tabs in a pre-assembled state, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein, is illustrated schematically.

[0014] Figure 5 The illustration schematically depicts a folded tab in an assembled state according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein. Figure 4 A partial front view of the curtain airbag assembly;

[0015] Figure 6A partial front view schematically illustrates another embodiment of a curtain airbag assembly defining a plurality of slits according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein; and

[0016] Figure 7 A partial front view of another embodiment of a curtain airbag assembly including a rigid rod defining a plurality of holes, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein, is illustrated schematically. Detailed Implementation

[0017] The embodiments described herein relate to a curtain airbag assembly including a rigid rod for attaching an inflatable curtain airbag to a vehicle frame. The curtain airbag assembly includes an inflator, an inflatable curtain airbag, and a rigid rod. The inflatable curtain airbag includes a pocket portion and a body portion extending from the pocket portion. The pocket portion defines one or more pockets and a plurality of slits spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. The body portion inflates and deploys upon activation by receiving gas from the inflator. The rigid rod extends through the one or more pockets and is received within a plurality of receiving members mounted to a body member of the vehicle, thereby quickly and easily securing the curtain airbag assembly to the vehicle. Various embodiments of the curtain airbag assembly and its operation are described in more detail herein. Wherever possible, the same reference numerals will be used in all the figures to denote the same or similar parts.

[0018] As used herein, the term "vehicle longitudinal direction" refers to the forward and backward direction of the vehicle (i.e., Figure 1 The + / - vehicle Y direction is shown in the diagram. The term "vehicle lateral direction" refers to the direction across the vehicle (i.e., Figure 1 The + / - vehicle X direction is shown in the diagram, and it is transverse to the vehicle's longitudinal direction. The term "vehicle vertical direction" refers to the vehicle's up-down direction (i.e., Figure 1 The figure shows the + / - Z-direction of the vehicle. As used herein, "up" and "above" are defined as the positive Z-direction of the coordinate axis shown in the figure. "Below" and "below" are defined as the negative Z-direction of the coordinate axis shown in the figure. As used herein, the terms "inner" and "outer" may be used to refer to relative orientations along the lateral direction. For example, "outer" refers to a relative position that is closer to or faces the lateral side of the vehicle than its longitudinal center. Conversely, "inner" refers to a relative position that is closer to or faces the longitudinal center of the vehicle than its lateral side.

[0019] Now for reference Figure 1Vehicle 100 is partially illustrated according to one or more embodiments described herein. Vehicle 100 includes a frame 102 defining a passenger compartment 104. Frame 102 includes a roof longitudinal beam 106 and a plurality of pillars extending from the roof longitudinal beam 106 at their upper ends. The pillars may include A-pillar 108, B-pillar 110, and C-pillar 112. A plurality of receiving members 114 are provided on body members extending in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. Frame 102, roof longitudinal beam 106, A-pillar 108, B-pillar 110, and C-pillar 112 are all non-limiting examples of body members capable of securing a curtain airbag assembly 116.

[0020] The curtain airbag assembly 116 is secured to the vehicle body structure via a receiving member 114. The curtain airbag assembly 116 includes an inflator 118, a rigid rod 120, and an inflatable curtain airbag 122. The inflatable curtain airbag 122 receives gas from the inflator 118. The curtain airbag assembly 116 also includes sensors and a control system (not shown) that detects a collision / rollover or an impending collision / rollover and transmits an activation signal to the inflator 118. Although... Figure 1 The inflator 118 shown is located on the front side of the curtain airbag assembly 116, but the location of the inflator 118 is not limited to this. The inflator 118 can be one of several types of inflators, such as a pyrotechnic inflator, a gas-storage inflator, or a combined inflator, and can be a single-stage or multi-stage inflator. The inflator 118 can be stored in any suitable location relative to the inflatable curtain airbag 122. The inflator 118 can be located at any suitable location along the curtain airbag assembly 116, including the central portion, the rear side, or any intermediate location between the front and rear sides of the curtain airbag assembly 116. When the inflator 118 is a pyrotechnic inflator, the inflator 118 can contain propellant that ignites in response to the receipt of an activation signal to rapidly generate inflation gas. The inflatable curtain airbag 122 is in a retracted state before receiving gas from the inflator 118 (e.g., Figure 1 In both the extended and unfolded states, the pole extends from the A-pillar 108 to the C-pillar 112 along the longitudinal direction of the vehicle.

[0021] In the event of an actual or impending collision, the inflatable curtain airbag 122 can inflate downward along the side of the vehicle 100 in the vertical direction between one or more passengers of the vehicle 100 and one or more side surfaces of the vehicle 100 (such as the side windows 124 and pillars 108, 110, 112 of the vehicle 100).

[0022] The inflatable curtain airbag 122 can typically be in a retracted state, in which it is concealed behind interior trim (such as side roof trim) of the vehicle 100. Before being installed in the vehicle 100, the inflatable curtain airbag 122 can be compressed into a retracted state (e.g., by rolling, folding, or a combination thereof), such that the inflatable curtain airbag 122 takes on an elongated shape extending along a path whose length is much greater than the height or width of the cross-sectional shape of the inflatable curtain airbag 122.

[0023] Once compressed into a stowed state, the inflatable curtain airbag 122 can be held in this stowed state using conventional methods such as packaging and fasteners for easy transport and installation. As described in more detail in the text, the inflatable curtain airbag 122 can be secured to the vehicle 100 by engaging the receiving member 114 mounted on the frame 102 of the vehicle 100. Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, as described in more detail in the text, the receiving member 114 is located within a corresponding cutout or recess in the inflatable curtain airbag 122 to engage with the rigid rod 120.

[0024] The inflatable curtain airbag 122 can typically be formed of two layers of flexible material (woven or nonwoven fabric) and can include an inner fabric layer on the inside of the inflatable curtain airbag 122 and an outer fabric layer on the outside of the inflatable curtain airbag 122. According to one example, the inflatable curtain airbag 122 is typically made of woven nylon fabric, but other fabrics or flexible materials may also be used. The inner and outer fabric layers can be secured together at the periphery, for example, by peripheral stitching. Alternatively, the inner and outer fabric layers can be secured together by mechanical fastening, adhesives, integral weaving, stitching, radio frequency (RF) welding, ultrasonic welding, or any other suitable method known in the art.

[0025] Despite the curtain airbag assembly 116 in Figure 1 The curtain airbag is shown as being installed on the passenger side of vehicle 100, but it should be understood that this disclosure is equally applicable to curtain airbags installed in other locations on vehicle 100 (e.g., on the driver side of vehicle 100). The curtain airbag located on the driver side is designed to protect the driver or operator from impacts with various frontal surfaces of vehicle 100 (e.g., steering wheel, dashboard, etc.).

[0026] Now for reference Figure 2The curtain airbag assembly 116 is illustrated as including an inflatable curtain airbag 122 and a rigid rod 120. As described herein, the inflatable curtain airbag 122 can be formed in any suitable manner comprising one or more layers of flexible material. In an embodiment, the inflatable curtain airbag 122 is formed by integral weaving, such that the inflatable curtain airbag 122 is an integral structure including an inflatable portion and a non-inflatable portion. The inflatable curtain airbag 122 includes a pocket portion 126 having an upper edge 128 and an opposing lower edge 130, and a body portion 132 having an upper edge 134 and an opposing lower edge 136. It should be understood that at least a portion of the body portion 132 is inflated from the inflator 118 ( Figure 1 It is expandable when receiving gas.

[0027] In one embodiment, a lower stitch 138, formed of thread or any other suitable sewing material, is positioned to define the lower edge 130 of the pocket portion 126 and the upper edge 134 of the body portion 132. Thus, the body portion 132 extends from the lower edge 130 of the pocket portion 126. In another embodiment, an upper stitch 140, formed of thread or any other suitable sewing material, is positioned below the upper edge 128 of the pocket portion 126.

[0028] like Figure 2 As shown, a plurality of cutouts 142 are formed within the pocket portion 126 by removing individual, spaced-apart portions of the pocket portion 126, or, in some embodiments, by forming discontinuous pockets 248 within the pocket portion 126. Each cutout 142 is defined by a lower cutout edge 144 and a pair of side cutout edges 146. As shown, the lower cutout edge 144 is spaced apart from the lower weave 138 so as not to intersect with the body portion 132 of the inflatable curtain airbag 122. The pair of side cutout edges 146 extend to the upper edge 128 of the pocket portion 126 to form an opening at the upper edge 128. The height of the pair of side cutout edges 146 defines the height to which the cutout 142 extends in the vertical direction of the vehicle, and the distance between the pair of side cutout edges 146 defines the length to which the cutout 142 extends in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. Although three cuts 142 are shown, it should be understood that the inflatable curtain airbag 122 may have any number of cuts 142 extending along the length of the inflatable curtain airbag 122 in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle.

[0029] As described above, the curtain airbag assembly 116 includes a rigid rod 120 extending through the inflatable curtain airbag 122. Specifically, the rigid rod 120 extends through a plurality of pockets 148 defined within a pocket portion 126, positioned above the lower weave 138 and below the upper weave 140 when an upper weave 140 is provided. The rigid rod 120 can be formed of any suitable material, such as metal, plastic, etc. More specifically, the rigid rod 120 can be formed of stainless steel, aluminum, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), etc. In embodiments, the rigid rod 120 is a continuous, one-piece integral component. In other embodiments, the rigid rod 120 is formed of a plurality of interconnected rigid rod segments that allow the rigid rod 120 to fold or collapse to reduce the size of the packaging and transport. In embodiments, the rigid rod 120 is formed of a rigid material that is more rigid than the material forming the inflatable curtain airbag 122, particularly the rigidity of the pocket portion 126 and the body portion 132. As shown in the figure, the rigid rod 120 has a circular cross-sectional shape. However, it should be understood that the rigid rod 120 can have any suitable cross-sectional shape, such as a square or rectangular cross-sectional shape, such that the inner and outer surfaces of the rigid rod 120 are flat rather than... Figure 3 It is curved as shown.

[0030] In one embodiment, a limiting thread 150, formed of thread or any other suitable sewing material, is positioned above the lower thread 138. The limiting thread 150 reduces the height of the pocket 148 in the vertical direction of the vehicle. Therefore, the reduced height of the pocket 148 restricts the movement of the rigid rod 120 received in the pocket 148 in the vertical direction of the vehicle.

[0031] When the rigid rod 120 is inserted into the pocket 148 of the pocket portion 126 of the inflatable curtain airbag 122, a gap 152 is provided between the rigid rod 120 and the lower cut edge 144 of the inflatable curtain airbag 122. The gap 152 has a height defined by the lower surface of the rigid rod 120 and the lower cut edge 144. As described above, the limiting thread 150 limits the vertical movement of the rigid rod 120 in the vertical direction of the vehicle, thereby maintaining the height of the gap 152. Therefore, the limiting thread 150 is provided above the lower cut edge 144. If the limiting thread 150 is not provided in the inflatable curtain airbag 122, the height of the gap 152 may be reduced, thereby making it easier to mount the inflatable curtain airbag 122 to the frame 102 of the vehicle 100. Figure 1 It is even more difficult, as described in more detail in this article.

[0032] like Figure 2 As shown, the receiving member 114 extends through the cutout 142 and engages with the rigid rod 120, thereby securing the inflatable curtain airbag 122 to the receiving member 114, as... Figure 1 As shown, the receiving component is mounted onto the frame 102 of the vehicle 100. Although in Figure 2 Only a single receiving member 114 within one of the cuts 142 is shown, but it should be understood that the receiving member 114 may be positioned within the respective cut 142 and received within the gap 152 defined by the rigid rod 120 and the lower cut edge 144 of the respective cut 142.

[0033] Now for reference Figure 3 It shows along Figure 2 A cross-sectional side view along line 3-3 shows the rigid rod 120 engaging with the receiving member 114 and extending through a pocket 148 formed in the inflatable curtain airbag 122. The pocket 148, formed in the pocket portion 126, is defined by an inner fabric layer 154 and an outer fabric layer 156, which, as discussed herein, can be secured together by mechanical fastening, adhesive bonding, integral weaving, sewing, RF welding, ultrasonic welding, or any other suitable method known in the art.

[0034] like Figure 3 As shown, the inner fabric layer 154 and the outer fabric layer 156 are connected together at one or more locations. Specifically, as discussed herein, the inner fabric layer 154 and the outer fabric layer 156 can be connected by a lower weave 138 that distinguishes the pocket portion 126 and the body portion 132. The inner fabric layer 154 and the outer fabric layer 156 can also be connected by an upper weave 140 below the upper edge 128 of the pocket portion 126, and in some embodiments, by a limiting weave 150 formed between the lower weave 138 and the upper weave 140. Thus, the rigid bar 120 extends within the pocket 148, below the upper weave 140 and above the limiting weave 150 when it is provided. Alternatively, when the limiting weave 150 is not provided, the rigid bar 120 extends within the pocket 148 below the upper weave 140 and above the lower weave 138.

[0035] In an embodiment, the receiving member 114 includes any suitable structure for retaining the rigid rod 120, which extends through the pocket 148 of the inflatable curtain airbag 122. In an embodiment, the receiving member 114 has any suitable geometry corresponding to the rigid rod 120, and the receiving member 114 forms a retaining hook for receiving and retaining the rigid rod 120 when engaged with it. Figure 3As shown, the receiving member 114 includes an outer wall 158 having an upper end 160 and an opposing lower end 162, an inner wall 164 having an upper end 166 and an opposing lower end 168, and a connecting wall 170 extending between the lower end 162 of the outer wall 158 and the lower end 168 of the inner wall 164. The receiving member 114 can be formed of any suitable material, such as stainless steel, aluminum, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), etc. However, as described in more detail herein, in embodiments, at least the inner wall 164 is formed of a deformable and / or elastic material, such that the inner wall 164 can deflect or bend away from the outer wall 158.

[0036] In operation, the receiving component 114 is installed at a predetermined position on the outer side wall 158 onto the frame 102 of the vehicle 100. Figure 1 For example, roof longitudinal beam 106 ( Figure 1 The outer sidewall 158 can be mounted to the frame 102 in any suitable manner, such as mechanical fastening, welding, or any other suitable method known in the art. In an embodiment, as... Figure 3 As shown, a hole 172 is formed in the outer sidewall 158, allowing a fastener to be inserted through the hole 172 to secure the receiving member 114 to the frame 102 of the vehicle 100. The hole 172 may be formed near the upper end 160 of the outer sidewall 158, so that the inner sidewall 164 does not obstruct the insertion of the fastener into the hole 172 and the securing of the receiving member 114 to the frame 102 of the vehicle 100.

[0037] In one embodiment, the inner sidewall 164 has a serpentine shape to accommodate the rigid rod 120 having a circular cross-sectional shape. Similarly, in one embodiment, the connecting wall 170 has a curved shape to accommodate the rigid rod 120 and provide a smooth transition from the inner sidewall 164 to the outer sidewall 158. More specifically, the inner sidewall 164 has a first curved portion 174 extending upward in the vertical direction of the vehicle from its lower end 168, and a second curved portion 176 extending downward in the vertical direction of the vehicle from its upper end 166 to the first curved portion 174. As the first curved portion 174 extends upward, it extends toward the outer sidewall 158 in the lateral direction of the vehicle. As the second curved portion 176 extends upward from the first curved portion 174, it extends opposite the outer sidewall 158 in the lateral direction of the vehicle. Thus, the distance between the outermost point of the outer wall 158 and the second curved portion 176 closest to the outermost point of the outer wall 158 is less than the distance between the outer wall 158 and the first curved portion 174.

[0038] like Figure 3As shown, the outer diameter of the rigid rod 120 is greater than the distance between the second curved portion 176 of the inner wall 164 and the outer wall 158. In operation, the rigid rod 120 is inserted into the receiving member 114 by pressing the rigid rod 120 into the space between the outer wall 158 and the inner wall 164. In doing so, the rigid rod 120 contacts the second curved portion 176 and applies an inward force to deflect the inner wall 164 away from the outer wall 158, thereby allowing the rigid rod 120 to pass through the second curved portion 176 and be received within the space defined by the first curved portion 174, the connecting wall 170, and the outer wall 158. Thus, the outer wall 158, the connecting wall 170, and the first curved portion 174 define a receiving portion for receiving the rigid rod 120, and the second curved portion 176 defines a retaining portion configured to allow the rigid rod 120 to be received within the receiving portion and to prevent the rigid rod 120 from being removed from the receiving portion. Although this document describes the installation of the inflatable curtain airbag 122 via the engagement of the rigid rod 120 with the receiving member 114, it should be understood that the inflator 118 ( Figure 1 The inflator 118 can be attached to the vehicle body component before the rigid rod 120 engages with the receiving member 114, or after the rigid rod 120 engages with the receiving member 114. The inflator 118 can be attached to the vehicle body component in any suitable manner, such as by using fasteners, such as bolts, screws, etc. In other embodiments, the inflatable curtain airbag 122 can be additionally attached to the vehicle body component after the rigid rod 120 engages with the receiving member 114. For example, as... Figure 1 As shown, the inflatable curtain airbag 122 can be attached to the vehicle body structure in any suitable manner, such as by using fasteners (e.g., bolts, screws, etc.) extending through holes 121 formed at least at opposite ends of the inflatable curtain airbag 122. Although the holes 121 are... Figure 1 The hole 121 is shown as being formed at opposite ends of the inflatable curtain airbag 122, but it should be understood that the hole 121 can be formed at any suitable location along the length of the inflatable curtain airbag 122, such as near the middle portion of the inflatable curtain airbag 122 in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. Furthermore, it should be understood that attaching the inflatable curtain airbag 122 by fasteners passing through the hole 121 serves to securely attach the inflatable curtain airbag 122 to the vehicle body component, and attaching the inflatable curtain airbag 122 to the vehicle body component provides support for positioning and mounting the inflatable curtain airbag 122 on the vehicle body component.

[0039] Now for reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 This illustrates another embodiment of the curtain airbag assembly 216. Unlike those described herein and... Figure 2The cutout 142 shown is formed by removing material from the pocket portion 126 or forming discontinuous pockets 248 in the pocket portion 126. The curtain airbag assembly 216 includes an inflatable curtain airbag 222 having a plurality of tabs 223 defining the respective pockets 248. Figure 4 As shown, the inflatable curtain airbag 222 is shown in a partially assembled state, in which the free end 225 of each tab 223 is not fixed to the rest of the inflatable curtain airbag 222. Figure 5 As shown, the inflatable curtain airbag 222 is shown in an assembled state, in which the free end 225 of each tab 223 is fixed to the remainder of the inflatable curtain airbag 222. Because... Figure 4 and Figure 5 The curtain airbag assembly 216 shown is Figure 2 The curtain airbag assembly 116 shown is similar, and therefore it should be understood that the same reference numerals may be used to denote the same parts.

[0040] More specifically, the curtain airbag assembly 216 is shown as including an inflatable curtain airbag 222 and a rigid rod 120. As described herein, the inflatable curtain airbag 222 can be formed in any suitable manner comprising one or more layers of flexible material. In an embodiment, the inflatable curtain airbag 222 is formed by integral weaving, making the inflatable curtain airbag 222 a one-piece integral structure. The inflatable curtain airbag 222 includes a pocket portion 226 having a lower edge 230 and a body portion 232 having an upper edge 234 and an opposing lower edge 236. It should be understood that the body portion 232 is inflatable.

[0041] In this embodiment, a lower stitch 238, formed of thread or any other suitable sewing material, is configured to define the lower edge 230 of the pocket portion 226 and the upper edge 234 of the body portion 232. Therefore, the body portion 232 extends from the lower edge 230 of the pocket portion 226.

[0042] As described above, the pocket portion 226 includes a plurality of tabs 223 spaced apart from each other along the length of the pocket portion 226 in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. As described herein, each tab 223 includes a free end 225, which is connected to the pocket portion 226 or the body portion 232 in any suitable manner (e.g., stitching). Since the tabs 223 are spaced apart from each other, the tabs 223 define a cutout 242 formed in the pocket portion 226, in which a corresponding receiving member 114 is positioned to engage with a rigid rod 120 extending through the pocket 248 formed by the tabs 223.

[0043] Each cutout 242 is defined by a lower cutout edge 244 and a pair of side cutout edges 246 extending along the side edges of the adjacent tabs 223. As shown, the lower cutout edge 244 is spaced apart from the lower weave 238 so as not to intersect with the body portion 232 of the inflatable curtain airbag 222. When the tabs 223 are folded around the central portion during assembly, as... Figure 5 As shown, the height of the cut 242 extending in the vertical direction of the vehicle is substantially half the height of the opposite cut edge 246, and the distance between the opposite cut edges 246 defines the length of the cut 242 extending in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. Although three cuts 242 are shown, it should be understood that the inflatable curtain airbag 222 may have any number of cuts 242 extending along the length of the inflatable curtain airbag 222 in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle.

[0044] like Figure 5 As shown, the tabs 223 are depicted folded around the central portion, and the free end 225 of each tab 223 is secured to the body portion 232 below the lower weave 238. The free end 225 of each tab 223 can be secured in any suitable manner, such as by sewing, to define the corresponding pocket 248. Thus, Figure 5 The diagram shows a tab stitch 249 that secures the free end 225 of the tab 223 to the main body portion 232. However, as described above, the free end 225 of each tab 223 can also be secured to the pocket portion 226 by providing the tab stitch 249 above the lower knitting thread 238.

[0045] As described above, the curtain airbag assembly 216 includes a rigid rod 120 extending through the inflatable curtain airbag 222. Specifically, the rigid rod 120 extends through a plurality of pockets 248 defined within the pocket portion 226, above the tab stitch 249, and more specifically above the lower weave 238 when it is provided. When the rigid rod 120 is inserted into the pockets 248 of the pocket portion 226 of the inflatable curtain airbag 222, a gap 252 is provided between the rigid rod 120 and the lower cut edge 244 of the inflatable curtain airbag 222. The gap 252 has a height defined by the lower surface of the rigid rod 120 and the lower cut edge 244.

[0046] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the receiving member 114 extends through the cutout 242 and engages with the rigid rod 120, thereby securing the inflatable curtain airbag 222 to the receiving member 114, as... Figure 1 As shown, the receiving component is mounted onto the frame 102 of the vehicle 100. Although in Figure 4 and Figure 5Only a single receiving member 114 within one of the cuts 242 is shown, but it should be understood that the receiving member 114 may be positioned within the respective cut 242 and received within the gap 252 defined by the rigid rod 120 and the lower cut edge 244 of the respective cut 242.

[0047] In other embodiments, it should be understood that the tab 223 may be independently attached to the body portion 232 of the inflatable curtain airbag 222, rather than forming an integral structure with the rest of the inflatable curtain airbag 222. Therefore, in such embodiments, the relatively free ends of the tab 223 are secured to the respective front and rear surfaces of the body portion 232 of the inflatable curtain airbag 222 in any suitable manner (e.g., stitching), rather than as discussed herein. Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, only the free end 225 of the tab 223 is attached. It should be understood that attaching the tabs 223 individually requires positioning the tabs 223 relative to the main body portion of the inflatable curtain airbag 222 and attaching the relative free ends of each tab to the main body portion 232 respectively. Although this may require additional time, it saves overall time and / or cost because it eliminates the need to individually form multiple tabs 223 in the pocket portion 226 of the inflatable curtain airbag 222.

[0048] Now for reference Figure 6 This illustrates another embodiment of the curtain airbag assembly 316. Unlike those described herein and... Figure 2 The cutout 142 is formed by removing material from the upper edge 128 of the pocket portion 126 of the inflatable curtain airbag 122, or as described herein and Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, cuts are formed by fixing tabs 223, resulting in multiple cuts 342 completely below the pocket 348 in the curtain airbag assembly 316. In other words, the multiple cuts 342 are completely surrounded by the material of the inflatable curtain airbag 322 forming the curtain airbag assembly 316. Due to Figure 6 The curtain airbag assembly 316 shown is Figure 2 The curtain airbag assembly 116 shown is similar, and therefore it should be understood that the same reference numerals may be used to denote the same parts.

[0049] More specifically, the curtain airbag assembly 316 is shown as including an inflatable curtain airbag 322 and a rigid rod 120. As described herein, the inflatable curtain airbag 322 can be formed in any suitable manner comprising one or more layers of flexible material. In embodiments, the inflatable curtain airbag 322 is formed by integral weaving, making the inflatable curtain airbag 322 a one-piece integral structure. The inflatable curtain airbag 322 includes a pocket portion 326 having an upper edge 328 and an opposing lower edge 330, and a body portion 332 having an upper edge 334 and an opposing lower edge 336. It should be understood that the body portion 332 is inflatable.

[0050] In one embodiment, the pocket portion 326 includes a lower edge 330, while the body portion 332 includes an upper edge 334. Therefore, the body portion 332 extends from the lower edge 330 of the pocket portion 326. In another embodiment, an upper stitch 340, formed of thread or any other suitable sewing material, is positioned below the upper edge 328 of the pocket portion 326.

[0051] like Figure 6 As shown, multiple cuts 342 are formed within the pocket portion 326 by removing the spaced-apart portions. Each cut 342 is defined by a lower cut edge 344, an upper cut edge 345, and a pair of side cut edges 346 extending between the lower cut edge 344 and the upper cut edge 345. As shown, the lower cut edge 344 is spaced apart from the main body portion 332 of the inflatable curtain airbag 322. The height of the pair of side cut edges 346 defines the height of the cut 342 extending in the vertical direction of the vehicle, and the distance between the pair of side cut edges 346 defines the length of the cut 342 extending in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. Figure 6 As shown, the length of each cut 342 is greater than the height of the cut 342. Although three cuts 342 are shown, it should be understood that the inflatable curtain airbag 322 may have any number of cuts 342 extending along the length of the inflatable curtain airbag 322 in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle.

[0052] As described above, the curtain airbag assembly 316 includes a rigid rod 120 extending through the inflatable curtain airbag 322. Specifically, the rigid rod 120 extends through a pocket 348 defined within a pocket portion 326, located above the main body portion 332, and below the upper weave 340 when it is provided. The pockets 148, 248 discussed herein include a plurality of spaced-apart pockets 148, 242 defined by cutouts 142, 242 and / or tabs 223. Figures 2 to 5 The embodiments of the inflatable curtain airbags 122 and 222 are opposite to those of the inflatable curtain airbags. Figure 6 The inflatable curtain-type airbag 322 shown defines a single, uninterrupted pocket 348 through which the rigid rod 120 extends.

[0053] In one embodiment, a limiting thread 350, formed of thread or any other suitable sewing material, is positioned above the main body portion 332. The limiting thread 350 lowers the height of the pocket 348 in the vertical direction of the vehicle. Therefore, the reduced height of the pocket 348 limits the movement of the rigid rod 120 received within the pocket 348 in the vertical direction of the vehicle. Figure 6 As shown, the cut 342 is located between the main body portion 332 and the restricting thread 350. In this way, the restricting thread 350 further restricts the rigid rod 120 from falling into the path of the cut 342 within the bag portion 348.

[0054] like Figure 6 As shown, the receiving member 114 extends through the cutout 342 and engages with the rigid rod 120, thereby securing the inflatable curtain airbag 322 to the receiving member 114, as... Figure 1 As shown, the receiving component is mounted onto the frame 102 of the vehicle 100. Although in Figure 6 Only a single receiving member 114 extending through one of the cutouts 342 is shown, but it should be understood that the receiving member 114 may extend through the respective cutout 342 and engage with the rigid rod 120 at separate intervals. In other embodiments, the rigid rod 120 may be secured to the rear surface of the inflatable curtain airbag 322 in any suitable manner, such as mechanical fastening, adhesive, radio frequency (RF) welding, ultrasonic welding, or any other suitable method known in the art.

[0055] Now for reference Figure 7 This illustrates another embodiment of the curtain airbag assembly 416. Unlike... Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 6 Remove material as shown, or as Figure 4 and Figure 5 The attached tab 223 shown forms a plurality of attachment holes 417 in the inflatable curtain airbag 422, and a receiving hole 419 is formed in the rigid rod 420 at a position corresponding to the attachment holes 417 formed in the inflatable curtain airbag 422.

[0056] More specifically, the curtain airbag assembly 416 is shown as including an inflatable curtain airbag 422 and a rigid rod 420. As described herein, the inflatable curtain airbag 422 can be formed in any suitable manner comprising one or more layers of flexible material. In embodiments, the inflatable curtain airbag 422 is formed by integral weaving, such that the inflatable curtain airbag 422 is a one-piece integral structure. The inflatable curtain airbag 422 includes an attachment portion 426 having an upper edge 428 and an opposing lower edge 430, and a body portion 432 having an upper edge 434 and an opposing lower edge 436. It should be understood that the body portion 432 is inflatable.

[0057] In one embodiment, a lower thread 438, formed of thread or any other suitable sewing material, is configured to define the lower edge 430 of the attachment portion 426 and the upper edge 434 of the body portion 432. Therefore, the body portion 432 extends from the lower edge 430 of the attachment portion 426. In another embodiment, an upper thread 440, formed of thread or any other suitable sewing material, is disposed below the upper edge 428 of the attachment portion 426.

[0058] like Figure 7 As shown, multiple attachment holes 417 are formed in the attachment portion 426, located above the lower weave 438, and below the upper weave 440 when the upper weave 440 is provided. Although Figure 7 Three attachment holes 417 are shown, but it should be understood that any number of attachment holes 417 can be formed in the attachment portion 426.

[0059] As described above, the curtain airbag assembly 416 includes a rigid rod 420 disposed behind the inflatable curtain airbag 422. Therefore, in Figure 7 In the illustrated embodiment, the inflatable curtain airbag 422 does not define a pocket through which the rigid rod 420 extends. Instead, the rigid rod 420 is entirely located on the exterior of the inflatable curtain airbag 422. A plurality of receiving holes 419 are formed in the surface of the rigid rod 420, the positions of which correspond to the attachment holes 417 formed in the attachment portion 426 of the inflatable curtain airbag 422. In the embodiment, the rigid rod 420 has a square or rectangular cross-section such that the receiving holes 419 in the rigid rod 420 are formed through a flat inner and outer surface, and the rigid rod 420 can be flush with the frame 102 of the vehicle 100. Figure 1 In an embodiment, the rigid rod 420 may be secured to the rear surface of the inflatable curtain airbag 422 in any suitable manner, such as mechanical fastening, adhesive, radio frequency (RF) welding, ultrasonic welding, or any other suitable method known in the art.

[0060] In use, the receiving hole 419 formed in the rigid rod 420 is aligned with the corresponding attachment hole 417 formed in the attachment portion 426 of the inflatable curtain airbag 422. Thereafter, the inflatable curtain airbag 422 and the rigid rod 420 are aligned along the frame 102 of the vehicle 100. Figure 1 The inflatable curtain airbag 422 and the rigid rod 420 are positioned and fasteners such as bolts and screws are inserted through attachment holes 417 in the inflatable curtain airbag 422 and receiving holes 419 in the rigid rod 420 to secure the inflatable curtain airbag 422 and the rigid rod 420 to the frame 102. It should be understood that in this embodiment, the receiving member 114 is not used as a member to secure the inflatable curtain airbag 422, and the rigid rod 420 is secured to the frame 102 by fasteners, rather than by engaging the receiving member 114 with the rigid rod 420.

[0061] As can be understood from the above, this document defines a curtain airbag assembly comprising an inflator, an inflatable curtain airbag, and a rigid rod. In an embodiment, the rigid rod extends through one or more pockets formed in the pocket portion of the inflatable curtain airbag. When the curtain airbag assembly is mounted on a vehicle, the rigid rod engages with multiple receiving members mounted on a frame, thereby eliminating the need for additional fasteners.

[0062] Note that the terms “substantially” and “about” are used herein to indicate the degree of uncertainty attributable to any quantitative comparison, value, measurement, or other representation. These terms are also used herein to indicate the extent to which a quantitative representation can vary from a specified reference value without altering the essential function of the subject matter under discussion.

[0063] While specific embodiments have been described and illustrated herein, it should be understood that various other changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the claimed subject matter. Furthermore, although various aspects of the claimed subject matter have been described herein, these aspects need not be used in combination. Therefore, the appended claims are intended to cover all such changes and modifications within the scope of the claimed subject matter.

Claims

1. A curtain-type airbag assembly, comprising: Air inflator; Inflatable curtain airbags include: A pocket portion, defining one or more pockets and a plurality of slits, the plurality of slits being spaced apart from each other along the vehicle longitudinal direction of the pocket portion; and The main body portion, extending from the pocket portion, inflates upon activation by receiving gas from the inflator; and A rigid rod that extends through the one or more pockets.

2. The curtain-type airbag assembly according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the plurality of cuts is defined by a lower cut edge and a pair of side cut edges, and each of the plurality of cuts opens toward the upper edge of the pocket portion.

3. The curtain airbag assembly of claim 2, further comprising a limiting line formed in the pocket portion, the limiting line being located above a lower line defining the lower edge of the pocket portion and the upper edge of the body portion, the limiting line limiting vertical movement of the rigid rod within the one or more pockets in the vertical direction of the vehicle.

4. The curtain-type airbag assembly according to claim 1, wherein, A gap is provided between the rigid rod and the edge of the lower cut.

5. The curtain-type airbag assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The pocket portion defines a plurality of tabs spaced apart from each other, each of the plurality of tabs defining a corresponding pocket in one or more pockets.

6. The curtain-type airbag assembly according to claim 5, wherein, The free end of each of the plurality of tabs is fixed to the main body portion or the pocket portion.

7. The curtain-type airbag assembly according to claim 6, wherein, The free end of each of the plurality of tabs is fixed to the main body portion.

8. The curtain-type airbag assembly according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the plurality of incisions is completely surrounded by the material forming the inflatable curtain airbag.

9. The curtain-type airbag assembly according to claim 8, wherein, Each cut has a length extending in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, the length being greater than the height of the cut extending in the vertical direction of the vehicle.

10. The curtain-type airbag assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The inflatable curtain airbag is formed by integral weaving, making it a one-piece, integral structure.

11. A curtain-type airbag assembly, comprising: Air inflator; Inflatable curtain airbags include: The attachment portion defines a plurality of attachment holes spaced apart from each other along the vehicle longitudinal direction of the attachment portion; and The main body portion, extending from the attachment portion, expands upon activation by receiving gas from the inflator; and A rigid rod that defines a plurality of receiving holes spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal direction of the vehicle at positions corresponding to the plurality of attachment holes.

12. The curtain-type airbag assembly according to claim 11, wherein, The inner surface of the rigid rod is flat, and the plurality of receiving holes are formed through the inner surface.

13. The curtain-type airbag assembly according to claim 11, wherein, The inflatable curtain airbag is formed by integral weaving, making it a one-piece, integral structure.

14. The curtain airbag assembly of claim 11, further comprising a lower weave line defining a lower edge of the attachment portion and an upper edge of the body portion.

15. The curtain airbag assembly of claim 14, further comprising an upper thread disposed below the upper edge of the attachment portion and above the lower thread.

16. A vehicle comprising: Vehicle body components; Multiple receiving components, spaced apart from each other, are mounted to the vehicle body component; as well as Curtain airbag assembly, including: Air inflator; Inflatable curtain airbags include: The pocket portion defines one or more pockets and a plurality of slits, the plurality of slits being spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal direction of the vehicle; and The main body portion, extending from the pocket portion, inflates upon activation by receiving gas from the inflator; and A rigid rod extends through one or more of the pockets. Each of the plurality of receiving members engages with the rigid rod to secure the inflatable curtain airbag to the vehicle body component.

17. The vehicle according to claim 16, wherein: Each of the plurality of receiving members is received within a corresponding cut in the plurality of cuts; Each of the plurality of receiving members includes an outer side wall, an inner side wall opposite to the outer side wall, and a connecting wall extending between the lower end of the outer side wall and the lower end of the inner side wall; and The rigid rod is received within the space defined by the outer side wall, the inner side wall, and the connecting wall.

18. The vehicle according to claim 17, wherein, The inner sidewall has a serpentine shape to accommodate the rigid rod having a circular cross-sectional shape.

19. The vehicle according to claim 16, further comprising: The lower knit line defines the lower edge of the pocket portion and the upper edge of the main body portion; as well as A limiting thread, formed above the lower thread in the pocket portion, restricts the vertical movement of the rigid rod within the one or more pockets in the vertical direction of the vehicle.

20. The vehicle according to claim 16, wherein: Each of the plurality of incisions is completely surrounded by the material forming the inflatable curtain-like airbag; and Each cut has a length extending in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, the length being greater than the height of the cut extending in the vertical direction of the vehicle.

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