VEHICLE AIRBAG ASSOCIATION GROUP

Abstract

A vehicle includes a seat assembly comprising a seat cushion and a backrest. The vehicle includes a center console adjacent to the seat assembly. The vehicle includes an airbag capable of inflating from a deflated to an inflated position. The airbag is supported by the backrest in both the deflated and inflated positions. The vehicle includes a gas generator supported by the center console, the gas generator being operatively connected to the airbag to provide an inflation medium.

Description

FIELD OF TECHNOLOGY

[0001] This disclosure relates to an airbag assembly in vehicles. GENERAL STATE OF THE ART

[0002] A vehicle may include one or more airbags that are deployable during certain vehicle impacts to control the kinematics of occupants inside the vehicle during the impact. The airbag may be a component of an airbag assembly that includes a housing supporting the airbag and an inflator in communication with the airbag for inflating the airbag from a deflated position to an inflated position. SUMMARY

[0003] A vehicle includes a seat assembly having a seat bottom and a seatback. The vehicle includes a center console adjacent to the seat assembly. The vehicle includes an airbag inflatable from a deflated position to an inflated position, the airbag supported by the seatback in the deflated position and the inflated position. The vehicle includes an inflator supported by the center console, the inflator operatively connected to the airbag to provide an inflation medium.

[0004] The vehicle may include a second seat assembly having a seat bottom and a backrest, and a second airbag inflatable from a deflated position to an inflated position, the second airbag supported by the backrest of the second seat assembly, the inflator being operatively connected to the second airbag.

[0005] The vehicle may include a valve between the inflator, the airbag, and the second airbag, the valve being movable to selectively connect the inflator to the airbag and the second airbag.

[0006] The vehicle may include a valve between the inflator, the airbag, and the second airbag, the valve being movable between a first position in which the valve fluidly connects the inflator to the airbag and fluidly disconnects the inflator and the second airbag to provide inflation medium to the airbag and not to the second airbag, a second position in which the valve fluidly connects the inflator to the second airbag and fluidly disconnects the inflator and the airbag, and a third position in which the valve fluidly connects the inflator to the airbag and the second airbag.

[0007] The vehicle may include a computer having a processor and a memory storing instructions executable by the processor to move the valve to the first position or the second position, then actuate the gas generator to provide inflation medium, and then move the valve to the third position.

[0008] The instructions may include instructions to move the valve to the third position a predetermined period of time after actuating the gas generator to provide the inflation medium.

[0009] The vehicle may include an actuator configured to move the valve to the first position and the second position.

[0010] The vehicle may include a second actuator configured to move the valve to the third position.

[0011] The actuator may include a motor and the second actuator may be a pyrotechnically activated device.

[0012] The valve may initially be in the first position, and the vehicle may include a computer having a processor and a memory storing instructions executable by the processor to detect a particular potential impact to a first side of the vehicle and, in response to detecting the particular potential impact to the first side of the vehicle, move the valve to the second position.

[0013] The instructions may include instructions to detect a particular impact to the first side of the vehicle and, in response to detecting the particular impact to the first side of the vehicle, actuate the inflator to provide an inflation medium and move the valve to the third position.

[0014] The instructions may include instructions to detect whether the second seat assembly is occupied and, in response to detecting that the second seat assembly is occupied, to move the valve to the third position a predetermined period of time after actuating the gas generator to provide the inflation medium.

[0015] The predetermined period can be 10 to 30 milliseconds.

[0016] The instructions may include instructions to detect a particular impact to a second side of the vehicle and, in response to detecting the particular impact to the second side of the vehicle, actuate the inflator to provide an inflation medium, and move the valve to the third position the predetermined amount of time after actuating the inflator to provide an inflation medium.

[0017] The instructions may include instructions to determine that a particular impact to the first side of the vehicle has not been detected within a predetermined time period from moving the valve to the first position, and in response to determining that the particular impact to the first side of the vehicle has not been detected, to move the valve to the second position.

[0018] The vehicle may include a pivot joint that connects the gas generator to the airbag.

[0019] The vehicle may include a braided metal tube connecting the swivel to the gas generator. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. 1 is a plan view of a portion of a vehicle broken away to show a passenger compartment and seat assemblies with airbags in deflated positions. Fig. Figure 2 is a plan view of the section of the vehicle broken away to show the passenger compartment and seat assemblies with the airbags in inflated positions. Fig. 3 is a side cross-sectional view of a valve in a first position directing inflation medium to one of the airbags. Fig. 4 is a side cross-sectional view of the valve in a second position directing inflation medium to another of the airbags. Fig. 5 is a side cross-sectional view of the valve in a third position directing inflation medium to both of the airbags. Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional plan view of the valve in the first position, directing an inflation medium to one of the airbags. Fig. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional plan view of the valve in the third position, which directs inflation medium to both of the airbags. Fig. Figure 8 is a cross-sectional plan view of the valve in the second position directing inflation medium to another of the airbags. Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional plan view of the valve in another third position, directing inflation medium to both of the airbags. Fig. 10 is a plan view of the valve with a first actuator and a second actuator for actuating the valve. Fig. Figure 11 is a plan view of the valve with the second actuator operating the valve to the third position. Fig. 12 is a block diagram of components of the vehicle. Fig. 13 is a flowchart showing a process for controlling the valve and airbags. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] Referring to the figures, wherein like reference numerals indicate like parts throughout the several views, a vehicle 20 is shown having a seat assembly 22a, 22b. The seat assembly 22a, 22b has a seat bottom 24 and a seat back 26. The vehicle 20 includes a center console 28 adjacent the seat assembly 22a, 22b. The vehicle 20 includes an airbag 30a, 30b inflatable from a deflated position to an inflated position. The airbag 30a, 30b is supported in the deflated position and in the inflated position by the seat back 26. The vehicle 20 includes an inflator 32 supported by the center console 28, the inflator 32 being operatively connected to the airbag 30a, 30b to provide an inflation medium.

[0021] With reference to the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, the vehicle 20 may be any suitable type of motor vehicle, e.g., a passenger or commercial vehicle, such as a sedan, a coupe, a truck, an SUV, a crossover vehicle, a van, a minivan, a taxi, a bus, etc.

[0022] The vehicle 20 may define a passenger compartment 34 for accommodating passengers, if any, of the vehicle 20. The passenger compartment 34 may extend across the vehicle 20, e.g., from a left side of the vehicle 20 to a right side of the vehicle 20. The passenger compartment 34 includes a front end and a rear end, with the front end being in front of the rear end during forward movement of the vehicle 20.

[0023] One or more seat assemblies 22a, 22b may be supported within the passenger compartment 34, e.g., supported by and secured to a floor of the vehicle 20. For example, a first seat assembly 22a may be supported on a first side 36 of the vehicle 20, and a second seat assembly 22b may be supported on a second side 38 of the vehicle 20. The first side 36 and the second side 38 of the vehicle 20 may be arranged along a vehicle transverse axis A1. For example, the first side 36 may be a right side and the second side 38 a left side of the vehicle 20. The second side 38 of the vehicle 20 may be a driver's side. A steering wheel 40 for controlling the pointing direction of wheels of the vehicle 20 may be supported, for example, on the second side 38 of the vehicle 20, e.g., B. through a dashboard in the front part of the passenger compartment 34.

[0024] Each seat assembly 22a, 22b includes the backrest 26 and the seat bottom 24, which can support an occupant of the seat assembly 22a, 22b. For example, the occupant of the seat assembly 22a, 22b can sit on an upper surface of the seat bottom 24 and recline against the backrest 26. The backrest 26 and the seat bottom 24 can each include a frame. The frames can include tubes, beams, etc. The frames can be made of any suitable plastic material, e.g., carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), glass fiber reinforced preformed thermoplastic composite material (organic sheet), etc. As another example, some or all components of the frames can be made of a suitable metal, e.g., steel, aluminum, etc. The backrest and / or the seat bottom 24 can include a cover. The trim can include a trim and padding.The cover can be made of fabric, leather, synthetic leather, or any other suitable material. The cover can be sewn in panels around the frame. The padding can be located between the cover and the frame. The padding can be foam or any other suitable material. The backrest 26 can be stationary or movable relative to the seat 24. The backrest 26 and the seat 24 can be adjustable in several degrees of freedom. In particular, the backrest 26 and the seat 24 can themselves be adjustable, in other words, adjustable components within the backrest 26 and / or the seat 24, and / or can be adjustable relative to one another.

[0025] The center console 28 of the vehicle 20 is located adjacent to, i.e., adjacent to, the seat assemblies 22a, 22b. The center console 28 is located between the first seat assembly 22a and the second seat assembly 22b, e.g., along the vehicle transverse axis A1. The center console 28 may be located on a longitudinal centerline of the vehicle 20, as shown in the figures. In other examples, the center console assembly may be located in the middle of two adjacent seat assemblies, e.g., the first seat assembly 22a and the second seat assembly 22b, and offset from the longitudinal centerline of the vehicle 20. The center console 28 may be elongated along a vehicle longitudinal axis A2. The center console 28 may include an armrest, cup holders, etc.

[0026] The vehicle 20 includes one or more airbags 30a, 30b, e.g., a first airbag 30a and a second airbag 30b, for controlling the kinematics of one or more occupants of the passenger compartment 34 during certain impacts with the vehicle 20. The airbags 30a, 30b may be supported by, e.g., attached to, the seat assemblies 22a, 22b. For example, the first airbag 30a may be supported by the backrest 26 of the first seat assembly 22a, and the second airbag 30b may be supported by the backrest 26 of the second seat assembly 22b. The airbags 30a, 30b may be attached to, e.g., attached to, the frames of the backrests 26 of the first seat assembly 22a and the second seat assembly 22b. B. via a fastening element, a bracket, an airbag housing, etc. The airbags 30a, 30b can be located on the vehicle inner sides of the backrests 26, e.g. adjacent to the center console 28.The vehicle 20 may include one or more airbags in addition to the first airbag 30a and the second airbag 30b, e.g., front airbags, curtain airbags, etc.

[0027] The first airbag 30a and the second airbag 30b are each inflated from a non-inflated position which is Fig. 1, into an inflated position, which is Fig. 2, inflatable. The airbags 30a, 30b are supported by the respective seatback 26 in both the deflated position and the inflated position. The airbags 30a, 30b may be located within the cover of the seatbacks 26 in the deflated positions. The airbags 30a, 30b may be located outside the cover of the seatbacks 26 in the inflated positions, e.g., extending forward from the seatbacks 26 along the center console 28. The first airbag 30a and the second airbag 30b may each include panels of a polymeric fabric or any other suitable material defining inflation chambers capable of containing an inflation medium to inflate the first airbag 30a and the second airbag 30b to the inflated positions. As an example, the first airbag 30a and the second airbag 30b may be formed from nylon woven yarn, for example, nylon 6-6.Other examples include polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyetherketoneketone (PEKK), polyester, etc. The polymer fabric may include a coating such as silicone, neoprene, urethane, etc. For example, the coating may be polyorganosiloxane.

[0028] The inflator 32 is operatively connected to both the first airbag 30a and the second airbag 30b to provide an inflation medium for inflating the first airbag 30a and the second airbag 30b to the inflated positions. The inflator 32 may be, for example, a pyrotechnic inflator that uses a chemical reaction to propel an inflation medium into the first airbag 30a and / or the second airbag 30b. The inflator 32 may be of any suitable type, for example, a cold gas inflator. The inflator 32 may provide sufficient inflation medium to inflate both the first airbag 30a and the second airbag 30b to the inflated positions. The inflator 32 is supported by the center console 28. For example, the inflator 32 may be supported within the center console 28. The gas generator 32 can be attached to the center console 28, e.g.via a fastener, bracket and / or other structure.

[0029] The inflator 32 may be operatively connected to the first airbag 30a and the second airbag 30b such that an inflation medium may be directed from the inflator 32 to the inflation chamber of the first airbag 30a and / or the second airbag 30b. For example, the inflator 32 may be operatively connected to the first airbag 30a and the second airbag 30b via a valve 42, pivots 44, fill tubes 46, or other suitable structure, including, in some examples, conventional structures.

[0030] The vehicle 20 includes the valve 42 between the inflator 32, the first airbag 30a, and the second airbag 30b to selectively direct an inflation medium from the inflator 32 to the first airbag 30a and / or the second airbag 30b. The valve 42 is movable to selectively connect the inflator 32 to the first airbag 30a and the second airbag 30b. The valve 42 may be a three-way valve, for example, having an inlet port 48 and a first outlet port 50 and a second outlet port 52. The valve 42 may be movable to a first position that is Fig. 3 and Fig. 6. In the first position, the valve 42 fluidly connects the inflator 32 to the first airbag 30a and fluidly disconnects the inflator 32 and the second airbag 30b, thereby providing inflation medium to the first airbag 30a and not to the second airbag 30b. For example, in the first position, the valve 42 may permit fluid flow from the inlet port 48 to the first outlet port 50 and prevent fluid flow from the inlet port 48 to the second outlet port 52. The valve 42 may be movable to a second position that is Fig. 4 and Fig. 8. In the second position, the valve 42 fluidly connects the gas generator 32 to the second airbag 30b and fluidly disconnects the gas generator 32 and the first airbag 30a. For example, in the second position, the valve 42 may permit fluid flow from the inlet port 48 to the second outlet port 52 and prevent fluid flow from the inlet port 48 to the first outlet port 50. The valve 42 may be movable to a third position, which is Fig. 5, Fig. 7 and Fig. 9. In the third position, the valve 42 fluidly connects the inflator 32 to the first airbag 30a and the second airbag 30b. For example, in the third position, the valve 32 may prevent fluid flow from the inlet port 48 to the first outlet port 50 and the second outlet port 52.

[0031] With reference to the Fig. 3-10, the valve 42 may include a housing 54 and a body 56 disposed therein. The housing 54 may include the inlet port 48, the first outlet port 50, and the second outlet port 52. The inlet port 48 may be located on a bottom of the housing 54, and the first outlet port 50 and the second outlet port 52 may be located on sides of the housing 54. The body 56 may be spaced from the bottom and the inlet port 48. The body 56 may be rotatable within the housing 54 to the first position, the second position, and the third position. The body 56 may block the second outlet port 52 in the first position. The body 56 may block the first outlet port 50 in the second position. The body 56 may not block the first outlet port 50 or the second port in the third position.In other words, the first outlet port 50 and the second port may be open when the body 56 is in the third position. The body 56 may be in the position shown in . Fig. 7 shown third position generally by 180 degrees relative to the body 56 in the third position shown in Fig. 9. The valve 42 may include any other suitable structure, such as a ball valve, including, in some examples, conventional structures.

[0032] The valve 42 may be operatively connected between the inflator 32, the first airbag 30a, and the second airbag 30b, i.e., such that inflation medium may flow from the inflator 32 to the valve 42 and then from the valve 42 to the first airbag 30a and / or the second airbag 30b. For example, the inflator 32 may be connected to the inlet port 48, the first airbag 30a may be connected to the first outlet port 50, and the second airbag 30b may be connected to the second outlet port 52, e.g., via hoses or other suitable structure. A pivot 44 may connect the inflator 32 to the first airbag 30a, and another pivot 44 may connect the inflator 32 to the second airbag 30b, e.g., via hoses or another suitable structure. B. via the valve 42. The swivel joint 44 can be arranged at an intersection point of the backrest 26 and the seat surface 24.The pivot joint 44 can pivot along with a change in the angle of inclination of the seatback 26. The pivot joint 44 can define an internal passage that fluidly connects and directs an inflation medium to the respective first airbag 30a or second airbag 30b and the inflator 32. The pivot joints 44 can support the fill tubes 46 that fluidly connect the respective first airbag 30a or second airbag 30b to the indicator. The pivot joints 44 can be supported by, e.g., attached to, the frames of the seatbacks 26 and / or the seat bottoms 24 of the first seat assembly 22a and the second seat assembly 22b. The fill tubes 46 can fluidly connect the pivot joints 44 to the inflator 32.For example, one fill tube 46 may extend from the first outlet opening 50 to the pivot 44 supported by the first seat assembly 22a, and another fill tube 46 may extend from the second outlet opening 52 to the pivot 44 supported by the second seat assembly 22b. The fill tubes 46 may be of sufficient length to allow movement of the first seat assembly 22a and the second seat assembly 22b, e.g., along the vehicle longitudinal axis A2 and a vehicle vertical axis A3. The fill tubes 46 may be, for example, braided metal tubes connecting the pivots 44 to the inflator 32. The fill tubes 46 may be made of any suitable material.

[0033] The vehicle 20 may include a first actuator 58 configured to move the valve 42 from one position to another, e.g., to the first position or the second position. The first actuator 58 may include a motor 60. The motor 60 may be rotatably coupled to the body 56 of the valve 42, i.e., such that torque generated by the motor 60 can rotate the body 56 relative to the housing 54. The motor 60 may be rotatably coupled to the body 56, e.g., via reduction gears (not shown) or any suitable structure. The first actuator 58 may include a position sensor (not shown) configured to detect the position of the body 56, e.g., for feedback control of the motor 60.The motor 60 may rotate the body 56 in a first rotational direction RD1 from the first position to the second position, and may rotate the body 56 in the first rotational direction RD1 from the second position to the first position, e.g., as commanded by a computer 62 of the vehicle 20. The first actuator 58 may include any other suitable structure for moving the valve 42 from one position to another, including, in some examples, conventional valve actuation structures. For example, the first actuator 58 may include a servo, a solenoid, etc. The first actuator 58 may be supported by, e.g., attached to, the housing 54 of the valve 42 or any other suitable structure of the vehicle 20. The first actuator 58 may be a component of the valve 42.

[0034] The vehicle 20 may include a second actuator 64 configured to move the valve 42 to the third position. The second actuator 64 may be a pyrotechnic-activated device. A pyrotechnic-activated device includes pyrotechnic material 66. The volume of the pyrotechnic material rapidly increases upon actuation, e.g., in response to receiving an electrical pulse, and activates the movement of the second actuator 64. The pyrotechnic material 66 may be combustible to generate gas. The pyrotechnic material 66 may be formed from a solid mixture of substances that, when ignited, reacts to generate the gas, e.g., sodium azide (NaNO3), potassium nitrate (KNO3), and silicon dioxide (SiO2), which react to form nitrogen gas (N2). For example, the second actuator 64 may include a linkage with a piston 68, in which the pyrotechnic material 66 drives, for example, a piston 68.In other examples not shown, the second actuator 64 may include a ball-in-tube linkage in which a pyrotechnic charge propel a ball or balls via a gear; or any other suitable structure. The second actuator 64 may rotate the body 56 in the first rotational direction RD1 from the first position or the second position. The second actuator 64 may allow free rotation of the body 56 in the first rotational direction RD1. For example, the second actuator 64 may be connected to the body 56 via ratchet teeth 70 that slide past each other in one direction and mesh with each other in another direction. The second actuator 64 may be supported by, e.g., attached to, the housing 54 of the valve 42 or any other suitable structure of the vehicle 20. The second actuator 64 may be a component of the valve 42.

[0035] With reference to Fig. 12, the vehicle 20 may include one or more occupancy sensors 72 configured to detect occupancy of the seat assemblies 22a, 22b. The occupancy sensors 72 may include visible light or infrared cameras directed toward the seat assemblies 22a, 22b, weight sensors supported by the seat bottoms 24, or other suitable structure, including, in some examples, conventional structures. The occupancy sensors 72 may provide data to the computer 62 of the vehicle 20, where the data specifies whether the first seat assembly 22a is occupied or unoccupied, whether the second seat assembly 22b is occupied or unoccupied, etc.

[0036] The vehicle 20 may include one or more impact sensors 74 configured to detect certain potential impacts on the vehicle 20 and certain impacts on the vehicle 20. A "certain vehicle impact" is an impact of the type and / or severity for which the inflation of the airbag 30a and / or 30b is configured; that is, "certain" indicates the type and / or severity of the impact. The type and / or severity of such "certain vehicle impacts" may be pre-stored in the computer 62, e.g., a restraint control module and / or a body control module. Detecting a "potential certain vehicle impact" includes detecting the potential of a certain vehicle impact, as described further below. "Potential" means that the certain impact is more likely than not to occur.For example, "potential certain vehicle impact" indicates that the "certain vehicle impact" will occur unless the vehicle 20 or the detected object (such as another vehicle) changes speed, trajectory, acceleration, etc. The impact sensor 74 may be of any suitable type, for example, post-contact sensors such as accelerometers, pressure sensors, and contact switches; and pre-impact sensors such as radar, LIDAR, and vision sensing systems. The vision sensing systems may include one or more cameras, CCD image sensors, CMOS image sensors, etc. The impact sensor 74 may be located at numerous locations in or on the vehicle 20.

[0037] The vehicle 20 may include a communications network 76. The communications network 76 includes hardware, such as a communications bus, for facilitating communication between vehicle components, e.g., the occupancy sensors 72, the computer 62, the impact sensors 74, the inflator 32, the first actuator 58, the second actuator 64, etc. The communications network 76 may facilitate wired or wireless communication between the vehicle components according to a variety of communication protocols, such as Controller Area Network (CAN), Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Local Interconnect Network (LIN), and / or other wired or wireless mechanisms. Alternatively or additionally, in cases where the computer 62 includes a plurality of devices, the communications network 76 may be used for communication between devices, which are illustrated in this disclosure as the computer 62.

[0038] The computer 62 may be a microprocessor-based computer implemented via circuits, chips, or other electronic components. The computer 62 includes a processor, memory, etc. The memory of the computer 62 may include memory for storing programming instructions executable by the processor, as well as for electronically storing data and / or databases. For example, the computer 62 may be a general-purpose computer with a processor and memory, as described above, and / or may include an electronic control unit (ECU) or controller for a specific function or set of functions, and / or a dedicated electronic circuit including an ASIC manufactured for a specific operation, e.g., an ASIC for processing sensor data and / or communicating the sensor data.In another example, computer 62 may be a restraint control module. In another example, computer 62 may include an FPGA (field-programmable gate array), which is an integrated circuit fabricated to be user-configurable. Typically, a hardware description language such as VHDL (very high-speed integrated circuit hardware description language) is used in electronic design automation to describe digital and mixed-signal systems such as FPGAs and ASICs. For example, an ASIC is fabricated using VHDL programming provided prior to fabrication, whereas logical components within an FPGA may be configured based on VHDL programming stored, for example, in memory electrically connected to the FPGA circuitry.In some examples, a combination of processor(s), ASIC(s), and / or FPGA circuitry may be included in computer 62. The storage may be of any type, such as hard disk drives, solid-state drives, servers, or any volatile or non-volatile media. The storage may store the collected data sent by the sensors.

[0039] The computer 62 is programmed, i.e., instructions executable by the processor are stored in memory, to move the valve 42 to the first position, the second position, or the third position. The computer 62 can move the valve 42 by transmitting a command, e.g., via the communications network 76, to the first actuator 58. The command can specify the first position, the second position, or the third position. The command can specify an actuation of the motor 60, e.g., in a certain direction of rotation, a certain number of revolutions, until the body 56 is in a certain position. The computer 62 can move the valve 42, e.g., to the third position, by transmitting a command to the second actuator 64. The command can, for example, include a pulse that triggers the pyrotechnic material 66 of the second actuator 64.

[0040] The computer 62 is programmed to actuate the gas generator 32 to provide an inflation medium. The computer 62 may actuate the gas generator 32 by transmitting a command to the gas generator 32, for example, via the communications network 76. The command may include, for example, a pulse that triggers the pyrotechnic material 66 of the gas generator 32.

[0041] The computer 62 is programmed to detect certain potential impacts on the vehicle 20, e.g., a certain potential impact on the first side 36 of the vehicle 20, a certain potential impact on the second side 38 of the vehicle 20, etc. The computer 62 may detect certain potential impacts on the vehicle 20 based on data received from the impact sensors 74, e.g., via the communications network 76. The computer 62 may detect certain potential impacts using image recognition, object detection, trajectory prediction, threat probability analysis, and / or other analysis techniques, including, in some examples, conventional data analysis techniques.

[0042] The computer 62 is programmed to detect certain actual impacts on the vehicle 20, e.g., a particular impact on the first side 36 of the vehicle 20, a particular impact on the second side 38 of the vehicle 20, etc. For example, data from the impact sensors 74, such as accelerometers, pressure sensors, and contact switches, may indicate a particular impact on the first side 36 of the vehicle 20 or a particular impact on the second side 38 of the vehicle 20. For example, a detected acceleration of the vehicle 20 in a particular direction and at a particular magnitude may indicate a particular impact on the first side 36 of the vehicle 20 or a particular impact on the second side 38 of the vehicle 20.As another example, a detected pressure above a certain magnitude on a certain portion of the vehicle 20 may indicate a certain impact on the first side 36 of the vehicle 20 or a certain impact on the second side 38 of the vehicle 20.

[0043] The computer 62 is programmed to detect whether each of the seat assemblies 22a, 22b is occupied or not, e.g., whether the first seat assembly 22a is occupied, whether the second seat assembly 22b is occupied, etc. For example, data from the occupancy sensors 72, such as detecting a weight above a threshold, detecting occupants in images, etc., may indicate that the first seat assembly 22a and / or the second seat assembly 22b are occupied.

[0044] Fig.13 is a process flow diagram illustrating an exemplary process 1300 for controlling the inflation of the first airbag 30a and the second airbag 30b. The process 1300 may be performed by the computer 62. In other words, the memory of the computer 62 may store instructions executable by the process to perform the process 1300. The process 1300 begins at a block 1305 where the computer 62 collects data received, for example, via the communications network 76 from the occupancy sensor 72, the impact sensor 74, etc. The computer 62 may continue to receive data throughout the process 1300. Throughout the process 1300, in the present context, means substantially continuously or at time intervals, for example, every 100 milliseconds. The computer 62 may use the collected data, as well as other determinations, detections, commands, etc.received, performed, or transmitted throughout process 1300. Valve 42 may initially be in the second position to provide inflation medium to the second airbag 30b and not to the first airbag 30a when process 1300 begins at block 1305.

[0045] Next, at a block 1310, the computer 62 determines whether a particular potential impact to the first side 36 of the vehicle 20 has been detected. The computer 62 determines whether a particular potential impact to the first side 36 of the vehicle 20 has been detected based on data received from the impact sensors 74, e.g., received via the communications network 76, as described herein. In response to determining that a particular potential impact to the first side 36 of the vehicle 20 has not been detected, the computer 62 proceeds to a block 1315. In response to determining that a particular potential impact to the first side 36 of the vehicle 20 has been detected, the computer 62 proceeds to a block 1355.

[0046] At block 1315, the computer 62 determines whether a particular potential impact to the second side 38 of the vehicle 20 has been detected. The computer 62 determines whether a particular potential impact to the second side 38 of the vehicle 20 has been detected based on data received from the impact sensors 74, e.g., received via the communications network 76, as described herein. In response to determining that a particular potential impact to the second side 38 of the vehicle 20 has not been detected, the computer 62 returns to block 1305, e.g., repeats process 1300. In response to determining that a particular potential impact to the second side 38 of the vehicle 20 has been detected, the computer 62 proceeds to block 1320.

[0047] At block 1320, the computer 62 moves the valve 42 to the first position to provide inflation medium to the first airbag 30a and not to the second airbag 30b. The computer 62 moves the valve 42 to the first position, for example, by transmitting a command to the first actuator 58 via the communications network 76, as described herein. After block 1320, the computer 62 proceeds to block 1325.

[0048] At block 1325, the computer 62 determines whether a particular impact to the second side 38 of the vehicle 20 was detected within a threshold time period of moving the valve 42 to the first position. The computer 62 determines whether a particular impact to the second side 38 of the vehicle 20 was detected based on data from the impact sensors 74, received, for example, via the communication network 76. For example, the computer 62 may detect a particular impact to the second side 38 of the vehicle 20 when data from post-contact sensors, such as accelerometers, pressure sensors, and contact switches, indicate that a particular impact to the second side 38 of the vehicle 20 has occurred. The threshold time period is a sufficient time period for the detected particular potential impact to actually occur.In other words, if the detected particular potential impact to the second side 38 of the vehicle 20 does not occur within the threshold time period, the detected particular potential impact is unlikely to become a particular impact to the second side 38 of the vehicle 20. For example, the threshold time period may be at least three seconds. If a particular impact to the second side 38 of the vehicle 20 is not detected within the threshold time period of moving the valve 42 to the first position, the computer 62 proceeds to a block 1330. In response to detecting a particular impact to the second side 38 of the vehicle 20 within the threshold time period of moving the valve 42 to the first position, the computer 62 proceeds to a block 1335.

[0049] At block 1330, the computer 62 moves the valve 42 back to the second position. The computer 62 moves the valve 42 to the second position, for example, by transmitting a command to the first actuator 58 via the communications network 76, as described herein. After block 1330, the computer 62 returns to block 1305, for example, repeating process 1300.

[0050] At block 1335, the computer 62 detects whether the second seat assembly 22b on the second side 38 of the vehicle 20 is occupied or unoccupied. The computer 62 determines whether the second seat assembly 22b is occupied or unoccupied based on data from the occupancy sensors 72, received, for example, via the communications network 76, as described herein. In response to detecting that the second seat assembly 22b is unoccupied, the computer 62 proceeds to block 1340. In response to detecting that the second seat assembly 22b is occupied, the computer 62 proceeds to block 1345.

[0051] At block 1340, the computer 62 actuates the inflator 32 to provide an inflation medium and moves the valve 42 to the third position to provide an inflation medium to the first airbag 30a and the second airbag 30b. The computer 62 actuates the inflator 32 to provide an inflation medium, e.g., by transmitting a command, such as a pulse, over the communications network 76, as described herein. The computer 62 moves the valve 42 to the third position, e.g., by transmitting a command, such as a pulse, to the second actuator 64 over the communications network 76, as described herein. The computer 62 may actuate the inflator 32 and move the valve 42 to the third position substantially simultaneously, i.e., such that the first airbag 30a and the second airbag 30b are inflated to the inflated position simultaneously. After block 1340, process 1300 ends.

[0052] At block 1345, computer 62 actuates gas generator 32 to provide inflation medium, e.g., by transmitting a command, such as a pulse, over communications network 76, as described herein. After block 1345, computer 62 proceeds to block 1350.

[0053] At block 1350, the computer 62 first waits a predetermined period of time, then, after the predetermined period of time has elapsed following actuation of the inflator 32 to provide the inflation medium, the computer 62 moves the valve 42 to the third position. The computer 62 moves the valve 42 to the third position by, for example, transmitting a command, such as a pulse, to the second actuator 64 via the communications network 76, as described herein. The predetermined period of time is a sufficient period of time to allow the first airbag 30a to inflate first, that is, such that the first airbag 30a is inflated to the inflated position before the second airbag 30b is inflated to the inflated position.The predetermined time period may be sufficiently short such that the second airbag 30b is inflated to control the kinematics of a second seat occupant during the detected particular impact to the second side 38 of the vehicle 20. For example, the predetermined time period may be 10 to 30 milliseconds. The predetermined time period may be determined empirically, e.g., via a crash test of the vehicle 20, and / or may be determined by simulation, e.g., using conventional computational simulation and design software. After block 1350, the process 1300 ends.

[0054] At block 1355, the computer 62 determines whether a particular impact to the first side 36 of the vehicle 20 has been detected. The computer 62 determines whether a particular impact to the first side 36 of the vehicle 20 has been detected based on data from the impact sensors 74, received, for example, via the communications network 76. If a particular impact to the first side 36 of the vehicle 20 has not been detected, the computer 62 returns to block 1305, e.g., repeats process 1300. In response to detecting a particular impact to the first side 36 of the vehicle 20, the computer 62 proceeds to block 1360.

[0055] At block 1360, the computer 62 detects whether the first seat assembly 22a on the first side 36 of the vehicle 20 is occupied or unoccupied. The computer 62 determines whether the first seat assembly 22a is occupied or unoccupied based on data from the occupancy sensors 72, received, for example, via the communications network 76, as described herein. In response to detecting that the first seat assembly 22a is unoccupied, the computer 62 proceeds to block 1365. In response to detecting that the first seat assembly 22a is occupied, the computer 62 proceeds to block 1370.

[0056] At block 1365, the computer 62 actuates the inflator 32 to provide an inflation medium and moves the valve 42 to the third position. The computer 62 actuates the inflator 32 to provide an inflation medium, e.g., by transmitting a command, such as a pulse, over the communication network 76, as described herein. The computer 62 moves the valve 42 to the third position, e.g., by transmitting a command, such as a pulse, over the communication network 76 to the second actuator 64, as described herein. The computer 62 may actuate the inflator 32 and move the valve 42 to the third position substantially simultaneously, i.e., such that the first airbag 30a and the second airbag 30b are inflated to the inflated position simultaneously. After block 1365, the process 1300 ends.

[0057] At block 1370, computer 62 actuates gas generator 32 to provide inflation medium, e.g., by transmitting a command, such as a pulse, over communications network 76, as described herein. After block 1370, computer 62 proceeds to block 1375.

[0058] At block 1375, the computer 62 first waits a predetermined period of time, and then, after the predetermined period of time has elapsed following actuation of the gas generator 32 to provide the inflation medium, the computer 62 moves the valve 42 to the third position. The predetermined period of time is a sufficient period of time to allow the second airbag 30b to inflate first, e.g., as determined above. The predetermined period of time may be, for example, 10 to 30 milliseconds. After block 1375, the process 1300 ends.

[0059] In the drawings, the same reference numerals indicate the same elements. With respect to the media, processes, systems, methods, etc. described in this specification, it is understood that although the steps of such processes, etc., have been described as occurring according to a certain ordered sequence, in performing such processes, the described steps could be performed in an order other than the order described in this specification, unless otherwise specified or apparent from the context. Likewise, it is further understood that certain steps could be performed concurrently, other steps could be added, or certain steps described in this specification could be omitted.

[0060] The adjectives “first” and “second” are used throughout the scripture as identifiers and do not symbolize meaning, order, or number.

[0061] Computer-executable instructions may be compiled or interpreted from programs of computer 62 created using a variety of programming languages ​​and / or techniques, including, among others, either alone or in combination, Java, C, C++, Visual Basic, Java Script, Perl, HTML, etc. In general, a processor, e.g., a microprocessor, receives instructions, e.g., from memory, a computer-readable medium, etc., and executes those instructions, thereby performing one or more processes, including one or more of the processes described herein. Such instructions and other data may be stored and transferred using a variety of computer-readable media. A file in a networked device is generally a collection of data stored on a computer-readable medium, such as a storage medium, random access memory, etc.A computer-readable medium includes any medium involved in providing data (e.g., instructions) that can be read by a computer. Such a medium may take many forms, including, without limitation, non-transitory media and volatile media. Instructions may be transmitted through one or more transmission media, including fiber optics, wires, wireless communications, including internal structural elements comprising a system bus coupled to a processor of a computer. Common forms of computer-readable media include, for example, RAM, a PROM, an EPROM, a FLASH EEPROM, any other memory chip or storage device, or any other medium from which a computer can read.

[0062] The use of “in response to,” “based on,” and “upon determining” in this paper indicates a causal relationship, not just a purely temporal one.

[0063] The disclosure has been described in an illustrative manner, and it is understood that the terminology used is intended to be in the nature of description rather than limitation. Many modifications and variations of the present disclosure are possible in light of the above teachings, and the disclosure may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described.

[0064] According to the present invention, a vehicle is provided comprising: a seat assembly having a seat bottom and a seat back; a center console adjacent to the seat assembly; an airbag inflatable from a deflated position to an inflated position, the airbag supported by the seat back in the deflated position and in the inflated position; and an inflator supported by the center console, the inflator being operatively connected to the airbag to provide an inflation medium.

[0065] According to one embodiment, the above invention is further characterized by: a second seat assembly having a seat bottom and a backrest, and a second airbag inflatable from a deflated position to an inflated position, the second airbag being supported by the backrest of the second seat assembly, the gas generator being operatively connected to the second airbag.

[0066] According to one embodiment, the above invention is further characterized by a valve between the gas generator, the airbag and the second airbag, the valve being movable to selectively connect the gas generator to the airbag and the second airbag.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the above invention is further characterized by a valve between the gas generator, the airbag and the second airbag, the valve being movable between: a first position in which the valve fluidly connects the gas generator to the airbag and fluidly disconnects the gas generator and the second airbag, wherein inflation medium is provided to the airbag and not to the second airbag, a second position in which the valve fluidly connects the gas generator to the second airbag and fluidly disconnects the gas generator and the airbag, and a third position in which the valve fluidly connects the gas generator to the airbag and the second airbag.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the above invention is further characterized by a computer having a processor and a memory having stored thereon instructions executable by the processor to: move the valve to the first position or the second position, then actuate the gas generator to provide an inflation medium, and then move the valve to the third position.

[0069] According to one embodiment, the instructions include instructions to move the valve to the third position a predetermined period of time after actuating the gas generator to provide the inflation medium.

[0070] According to one embodiment, the above invention is further characterized by an actuator configured to move the valve to the first position and the second position.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the above invention is further characterized by a second actuator configured to move the valve to the third position.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the actuator includes a motor and the second actuator is a pyrotechnically activated device.

[0073] According to one embodiment, the valve is initially in the first position and further comprising a computer having a processor and a memory having stored thereon instructions executable by the processor to: detect a particular potential impact to a first side of the vehicle; and in response to detecting the particular potential impact to the first side of the vehicle, move the valve to the second position.

[0074] According to one embodiment, the instructions include instructions to: detect a particular impact to the first side of the vehicle, and in response to detecting the particular impact to the first side of the vehicle, actuate the inflator to provide an inflation medium and move the valve to the third position.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the instructions include instructions to: detect whether the second seat assembly is occupied, and in response to detecting that the second seat assembly is occupied, move the valve to the third position a predetermined period of time after actuating the gas generator to provide the inflation medium.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the predetermined period of time is 10 to 30 milliseconds.

[0077] According to one embodiment, the instructions include instructions to: detect a particular impact to a second side of the vehicle and, in response to detecting the particular impact to the second side of the vehicle, actuate the inflator to provide an inflation medium, and move the valve to the third position the predetermined period of time after actuating the inflator to provide an inflation medium.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the instructions include instructions to: determine that a particular impact to the first side of the vehicle has not been detected within a predetermined time period from moving the valve to the first position, and in response to determining that the particular impact to the first side of the vehicle has not been detected, move the valve to the second position.

[0079] According to one embodiment, the above invention is further characterized by a pivot joint connecting the gas generator to the airbag.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the above invention is further characterized by a braided metal tube connecting the swivel joint to the gas generator.

Claims

[1] Vehicle comprising: a seat assembly having a seat and a backrest; a center console adjacent to the seat assembly; an airbag inflatable from a deflated position to an inflated position, the airbag being supported by the seatback in the deflated position and the inflated position; and a gas generator supported by the center console, the gas generator being operatively connected to the airbag to provide an inflation medium. [2] The vehicle of claim 1, further comprising: a second seat assembly having a seat and a backrest; and a second airbag inflatable from a deflated position to an inflated position, the second airbag supported by the backrest of the second seat assembly; wherein the gas generator is operatively connected to the second airbag. [3] The vehicle of claim 2, further comprising a valve between the inflator, the airbag, and the second airbag, the valve being movable to selectively connect the inflator to the airbag and the second airbag. [4] The vehicle of claim 2, further comprising a valve between the gas generator, the airbag and the second airbag, the valve being movable between: a first position in which the valve fluidically connects the gas generator to the airbag and fluidically separates the gas generator and the second airbag, thereby providing an inflation medium to the airbag and not to the second airbag, a second position in which the valve fluidically connects the gas generator to the second airbag and fluidically separates the gas generator and the airbag, and a third position in which the valve fluidly connects the gas generator to the airbag and the second airbag. [5] The vehicle of claim 4, further comprising a computer having a processor and a memory storing instructions executable by the processor to: Moving the valve to the first position or the second position, then actuating the gas generator to provide an inflation medium, and then move the valve to the third position. [6] The vehicle of claim 5, wherein the instructions include instructions to move the valve to the third position a predetermined period of time after actuating the gas generator to provide the inflation medium. [7] The vehicle of claim 4, further comprising an actuator configured to move the valve to the first position and the second position. [8] The vehicle of claim 7, further comprising a second actuator configured to move the valve to the third position. [9] The vehicle of claim 4, wherein the valve is initially in the first position, and further comprising a computer having a processor and a memory having stored thereon instructions executable by the processor to: Detecting a specific potential impact on a first side of the vehicle and in response to detecting the particular potential impact on the first side of the vehicle, moving the valve to the second position. [10] A vehicle according to claim 9, wherein the instructions include instructions for: Detecting a specific impact on the first side of the vehicle and in response to detecting the particular impact to the first side of the vehicle, actuating the inflator to provide an inflation medium and moving the valve to the third position. [11] A vehicle according to claim 10, wherein the instructions include instructions for: Detecting whether the second seat assembly is occupied, and in response to detecting that the second seat assembly is occupied, moving the valve to the third position a predetermined period of time after actuating the gas generator to provide the inflation medium. [12] A vehicle according to claim 11, wherein the instructions include instructions for: Detecting a specific impact on a second side of the vehicle and in response to detecting the determined impact on the second side of the vehicle, actuating the inflator to provide an inflation medium, and moving the valve to the third position the predetermined period of time after actuating the inflator to provide an inflation medium. [13] A vehicle according to claim 10, wherein the instructions include instructions for: Determining that a particular impact on the first side of the vehicle has not been detected within a predetermined period of time from moving the valve to the first position, and in response to determining that the particular potential impact to the first side of the vehicle was not detected, moving the valve to the second position. [14] A vehicle according to any one of claims 1-13, further comprising a pivot joint connecting the gas generator to the airbag. [15] The vehicle of claim 14, further comprising a braided metal tube connecting the swivel joint to the gas generator.

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