Gas generator and airbag module arrangement

Abstract

A gas generator includes a temperature rise suppression member provided in contact with an outer surface of a casing to cover at least a portion of the outer surface. The temperature rise suppression member includes an endothermic agent that absorbs heat from the casing by undergoing a chemical change or a state change due to the heat of the casing when a temperature of the casing rises due to combustion of the gas generating agent, and a binder coexisting with the endothermic agent so that the temperature rise suppression member has flexibility.

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

[0001] The present invention relates to a gas generator and an airbag module arrangement. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] A well-known gas generator contains a gas-generating agent in a housing, combusts the agent by activating an igniter to produce gas, and releases the gas from the housing. Such a gas generator is used, for example, to supply gas to an airbag or a seatbelt retractor in a car.

[0003] When the gas generator is activated, a surface of the housing is heated to a high temperature by the conduction of the combustion heat from the gas-generating medium. For example, if the gas generator is activated to expand and inflate the airbag, and the airbag comes into contact with a high-temperature housing, there is a risk of thermal damage to the components surrounding the housing, such as the airbag melting. In this respect, a gas generator is disclosed in which a heat-insulating element is provided on a surface of a housing to suppress a temperature increase of the housing's surface temperature (for example, patent document 1). SOURCE REFERENCE Patent document

[0004] Patent Document 1: JP 2002-326553 A BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Technical Problem

[0005] To more efficiently suppress a temperature rise in a housing after the activation of a gas generator, it is important to provide an element for suppressing the temperature rise in the housing with improved continuous contact.

[0006] The technology according to the present disclosure was manufactured in view of the aforementioned circumstances, and one objective of the present disclosure is to provide a technology with which it is possible to further effectively suppress a temperature rise of a housing after the actuation of a gas generator. Solution to Problem Aspect 1

[0007] To solve the aforementioned problems, a gas generator according to one aspect of the present disclosure adopts the following configurations. That is to say, a gas generator according to the present disclosure comprises a gas-generating means that produces gas by combustion, a metal housing wherein the housing contains the gas-generating means, wherein the housing has a gas discharge opening formed therein through which the gas produced by combustion of the gas-generating means is emitted to the outside of the housing, an ignition device configured to ignite the gas-generating means by actuation, and a temperature rise suppression element provided in contact with an outer surface of the housing to cover at least a portion of the outer surface, wherein the temperature rise suppression element is an endothermic means that absorbs heat from the housing.by undergoing a chemical change or a change of state due to heat of the casing when the temperature of the casing increases as a result of the combustion of the gas-generating agent, and having a binder present along with the endothermic agent, such that the element has flexibility to suppress the temperature increase. Aspect 2

[0008] In the aforementioned aspect 1, the binder can be mixed with the endothermic agent. Aspect 3

[0009] In the aforementioned aspect 1 or aspect 2, the endothermic agent may comprise at least one type selected from the group consisting of fatty acid polycarbonate, magnesium carbonate, fumaric acid and terephthalic acid. Aspect 4

[0010] In any one of the aforementioned aspects 1 to 3, the binder may have a compound with a hydroxyl group or a carbonyl group. Aspect 5

[0011] In any one of the aforementioned aspects 1 to 4, the content ratio of the endothermic agent in the temperature rise suppression element may be 70% or more and 95% or less, and the content ratio of the binder in the temperature rise suppression element may be 5% or more and 30% or less. Aspect 6

[0012] In any one of the aforementioned aspects 1 to 5, the housing may have a peripheral wall section with a tubular shape, wherein the gas vent opening is formed in the peripheral wall section, wherein a first closure section closes one end section of the peripheral wall section and a second closure section closes the other end section of the peripheral wall section, wherein the gas vent opening may be formed at a position where a distance between the gas vent opening and the first closure section is shorter than a distance between the gas vent opening and the second closure section in an axial direction of the housing, and the temperature rise suppression element may be formed on an outer surface of the first closure section. Aspect 7

[0013] In any one of the aforementioned aspects 1 to 6, the housing may have a peripheral wall section with a tubular shape, wherein the gas discharge opening is formed in the peripheral wall section and the temperature rise suppression element may be provided on an outer surface of the peripheral wall section. Aspect 8

[0014] In any one of the aforementioned aspects 1 to 7, a contact section of the outer surface of the housing with the temperature rise suppression element can be designed such that it has recesses and projections. Aspect 9

[0015] In any one of the aforementioned aspects 1 to 8, the gas generator may further comprise a label sheet displaying predetermined information, wherein the label sheet can be attached to the temperature rise suppression element in such a way that the temperature rise suppression element is arranged between the label sheet and the housing. Aspect 10

[0016] The technology according to the present disclosure can also be specified as an airbag module arrangement comprising a gas generator. That is to say, another aspect of the present disclosure can be an airbag module arrangement comprising the gas generator according to the aforementioned aspect 6 and an airbag arranged in a folded state, wherein the airbag is configured to be expanded and inflated by the gas emitted from the gas discharge opening, and wherein the gas generator can be arranged such that the first closure section and the airbag are facing each other in a folded state. Aspect 11

[0017] The airbag module arrangement according to another aspect of the present disclosure may comprise the gas generator according to the aforementioned aspect 7 and an airbag arranged in a folded state, wherein the airbag is configured to be expanded and inflated by the gas emitted from the gas discharge opening, wherein the gas generator may be arranged such that the peripheral wall section and the airbag are facing each other in a folded state, and the temperature rise suppression element may be provided on an outer surface of a section of the peripheral wall section facing the airbag. Advantageous effects of the invention

[0018] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to suppress a temperature increase of a housing after the operation of a gas generator more efficiently. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state of an airbag module arrangement with a gas generator according to a first embodiment before actuation. Fig. Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state of the gas generator according to the first embodiment before actuation. Fig. Figure 3 is a partially enlarged view of the gas generator according to a first modified example of the first embodiment. Fig. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state of an airbag module assembly including a gas generator according to a second modified example of the first embodiment prior to actuation. Fig. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state of the gas generator according to the second modified example of the first embodiment before actuation. Fig. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state of the airbag module arrangement with a gas generator according to a second embodiment before actuation. Fig. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state of the gas generator according to the second embodiment before actuation. DESCRIPTION OF THE EXECUTION FORMS

[0019] Embodiments according to the present disclosure are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The present embodiment describes one aspect in which the technology according to the present disclosure is applied to a gas generator for an airbag (inflation device). However, the application of the technology according to the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the technology can be applied to a gas generator for a seatbelt retractor. It should be noted that the respective configurations and combinations thereof in the respective embodiments are merely examples, and that additions, omissions, substitutions, and other modifications to the configurations can be made appropriately without departing from the core of the present invention. The present disclosure is not limited by the embodiment and is limited only by the claims. First embodiment

[0020] Fig. Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state of an airbag module arrangement 1000 with a gas generator (hereinafter referred to simply as gas generator) 100 for an airbag according to a first embodiment before actuation. Fig. Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state of the gas generator 100 according to the first embodiment before actuation. Fig. 1 and Fig. Figure 2 illustrates a cross-section along a central axis A1 of a housing designated by reference numeral 1. Here, one direction (axial direction) along the central axis A1 of the housing 1 is defined as a vertical direction of the gas generator 100, a side of an upper shell designated by reference numeral 2 in Figure 2. Fig. 2 is designated (i.e., an upper side in Fig. 2), is defined as an upper side of the gas generator 100 and a side of a lower shell, which is designated by reference numeral 3 in Fig. 2 (i.e., a lower side in Fig. 2) is defined as a lower side of the gas generator 100. It should be noted that, for the sake of simplicity, in this patent specification the actuation of an igniter enclosed in an ignition device enclosed in the gas generator may be referred to as "actuation of the ignition device", "actuation of the gas generator" or "actuation of the airbag module assembly". Overall configuration

[0021] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 1, the airbag module assembly 1000 includes the gas generator 100, an airbag 200, and a module housing 300 that accommodates the gas generator 100 and the airbag 200. The airbag module assembly 1000 is, for example, a frontal impact protection airbag device (so-called front airbag device) that is mounted on a vehicle and protects an occupant from an impact by deploying and inflating the airbag 200 in the event of a frontal collision. However, according to the present disclosure, the airbag module assembly is not limited to the front airbag device. The airbag module assembly can, for example, be a side impact protection airbag device (so-called side airbag device) that protects an occupant from an impact in the event of a side collision of a vehicle by deploying and inflating an airbag.Although the airbag module arrangement 1000 according to the present disclosure is installed, for example, in a driver's seat (in particular a steering wheel) of a vehicle, the airbag module arrangement according to the present disclosure can be installed, for example, in a dashboard of a passenger seat or in other locations.

[0022] The gas generator 100 is a gas supply source for inflating the airbag 200. The gas generator 100 is configured to be activated when, for example, a sensor (not illustrated) in the vehicle detects an impact, and to release gas to the outside. The gas generator 100 is described in detail below.

[0023] The airbag 200 is a bag body that expands when gas is supplied from the gas generator 100. The airbag 200 is made of polyamide, for example, and is housed in a folded state in the module housing 300 before the gas generator 100 is activated, as illustrated in Fig. 1.

[0024] The module housing 300 is a box that contains the gas generator 100 and the airbag 200. The module housing 300 includes an airbag cover 400 and a backplate 500. The airbag cover 400 includes a tubular wall section 401, which has a tubular shape and forms a side surface of the module housing 300, and a front surface section 402, which closes an end section of the tubular wall section 401 and forms a front surface of the module housing 300. The airbag cover 400 is designed so that it can be combined, for example, with a vehicle steering wheel.The rear plate 500 includes a tubular wall section 501, which is attached to the tubular wall section 401 of the airbag cover 400 to form, together with the tubular wall section 401, the side surface of the module housing 300, and a rear surface section 502, which closes an end section of the tubular wall section 501 to form a rear surface of the module housing 300. The rear surface section 502 is provided with a mounting bore 502a, which is used for mounting the gas generator 100. The airbag 200 is connected to the gas generator 100 and is arranged in a folded state between the gas generator 100 and the front surface section 402 of the module housing 300.

[0025] The airbag module assembly 1000 is installed in a vehicle such that the front surface section 402 of the airbag cover 400 faces an occupant (in this example, a driver) who is to be protected by the airbag 200. When the gas generator 100 is activated, the front surface section 402 is torn open by the pressure resulting from the expansion of the airbag 200, and as a result, the airbag 200 springs out of the module housing 300 and inflates in front of the occupant. Thus, the occupant is protected from the impact. Gas generator

[0026] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 2, the gas generator 100 according to the first embodiment is designed in a short tubular (disc-shaped) form and includes an ignition device 4, an inner tubular element 5, a filter 6, a first gas-generating means 110, a second gas-generating means 120, the metal housing 1 that accommodates these components, and a temperature rise suppression element 7 provided on an outer surface of the housing 1. The gas generator 100 is configured as a so-called one-type gas generator, which has only one ignition device. The gas generator 100 is configured as a so-called pyrotechnic gas generator, which uses only one gas-generating means as a gas source. However, the gas generator according to the present disclosure is not limited to what has been described above.The gas generator according to the present disclosure can have a variety of ignition devices and can also be configured as a so-called hybrid gas generator, which has a gas generating means and pressurized gas as a gas source.

[0027] The gas generator 100 is configured to combust the first gas-generating agent 110 and the second gas-generating agent 120 by actuating an igniter 41 enclosed in the ignition device 4 and to release the combustion gas, which is the resulting combustion product, from the gas discharge openings 11 formed in the housing 1. Each configuration of the gas generator 100 is described below. Housing

[0028] The housing 1 is formed in a short cylindrical shape, with both axial ends closed by the connection of an upper shell 2 and a lower shell 3 made of metal. These shells are each formed in a substantially cylindrical shape with a base, in a state where their opening ends face each other. The housing 1 is made of metal. The metal material used for the housing 1 is not particularly restricted, but examples may include stainless steel. An interior space of the housing 1 forms a combustion chamber 10. The ignition device 4, the inner tubular element 5, the filter 6, the first gas-generating element 110, and the second gas-generating element 120 are arranged in the combustion chamber 10.

[0029] The upper shell 2 has an upper peripheral wall section 21 with a tubular shape and an upper plate section 22 that closes the upper end of the upper peripheral wall section 21, thus forming an interior space. An opening section of the upper shell 2 is formed by a lower end section of the upper peripheral wall section 21. The lower end section of the upper peripheral wall section 21 is connected to a flange-shaped connecting section 23 that extends radially outward. The lower shell 3 has a lower peripheral wall section 31 with a tubular shape and a base plate section 32 that closes a lower end of the lower peripheral wall section 31 and encloses the attached detonator 4, thus forming an interior space. A mounting bore 32a for mounting the detonator 4 is formed on the base plate section 32.An upper end section of the lower peripheral wall section 31 is connected to a flange-shaped connecting section 33 that extends radially outwards.

[0030] The upper shell 2 and the lower shell 3 can be formed, for example, by pressing stainless steel. The connecting section 23 of the upper shell 2 and the connecting section 33 of the lower shell 3 overlap and are joined by laser welding or the like to form the housing 1 with a short tubular shape, where both axial ends are closed. The upper peripheral wall section 21 of the upper shell 2 and the lower peripheral wall section 31 of the lower shell 3 form a tubular peripheral wall section 12, which connects the upper plate section 22 and the base plate section 32. That is, the housing 1 encloses the tubular peripheral wall section 12, the upper plate section 22, which closes one end section of the peripheral wall section 12, and the base plate section 32, which closes the other end of the peripheral wall section 12 and to which the ignition device 4 is mounted.The upper plate section 22, the bottom plate section 32, and the peripheral wall section 12 define the combustion chamber 10. It should be noted that a central axis of the peripheral wall section 12 forms the central axis A1 of the casing 1. The upper plate section 22 is an example of a "first closure section" according to the present disclosure. The bottom plate section 32 is an example of a "second closure section" according to the present disclosure.

[0031] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 2, a plurality of gas discharge openings 11 are formed side by side along a circumferential direction on the peripheral wall section 12 (more precisely, on the upper peripheral wall section 21 of the upper shell 2), through which the combustion chamber 10 is connected to the outer space of the housing 1. The gas discharge openings 11 are closed by a sealing strip (not shown) in the state prior to the actuation of the ignition device 4.

[0032] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 2, the outer surface of the housing 1, more precisely a surface on the opposite side of a surface defining the interior (combustion chamber 10) of the housing 1, is designated by the reference symbol S1. The outer surface S1 is a surface facing the outside of the gas generator 100. Of the outer surfaces S1, a surface of the peripheral wall section 12 is designated as outer surface S12, a surface of the upper plate section 22 is designated as outer surface S22, and a surface of the bottom plate section 32 is designated as outer surface S32.

[0033] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 1, the gas generator 100 is mounted on the backplate 500 by attaching the flange sections (connecting sections 23 and 33) of the housing 1 to the rear surface section 502 in a state in which the gas vent openings 11 and the upper plate section 22 of the housing 1 are inserted into the module housing 300 from the mounting opening 502a of the module housing 300. In the airbag module assembly 1000, the gas vent openings 11 and the upper plate section 22 of the housing 1 are located inside the module housing 300, and the bottom plate section 32 is located outside the module housing 300. The gas generator 100 is positioned such that the upper plate section 22 of the housing 1 faces the airbag 200.

[0034] As seen here in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 2, d1 denotes a distance between each of the gas discharge openings 11 and the upper plate section 22 in the axial direction of the housing 1 (in this example, the vertical direction), and d2 denotes a distance between each of the gas discharge openings 11 and the bottom plate section 32 in the axial direction of the housing 1. Here, the gas discharge opening 11 is formed at a position where d1 is shorter than d2 in the axial direction of the housing 1. That is, the gas generator 100 according to the present embodiment is configured such that d1 < d2. Therefore, the gas discharge opening 11 is formed at a position that is closer to the upper plate section 22 than to the bottom plate section 32.To ensure a trouble-free gas supply to the airbag 200, the gas discharge opening 11 in the gas generator 100 is designed in a position closer to the upper plate section 22 next to which the airbag 200 is located, namely in the upper plate section 22 and in the bottom plate section 32. Ignition device

[0035] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 2, the detonator 4 includes the detonator 41, a collar 42, and a resin section 43, and is mounted on the base plate section 32 of the lower shell 3. The detonator 41 includes a metallic cup body 411 containing a detonator and a pair of conductive pins 412 and 412 for receiving an external current. The detonator 41 is actuated by a detonating current applied to the pair of conductive pins 412 and 412 to combust the detonator and release the resulting combustion product to the outside of the cup body 411. The collar 42 is a metallic element that supports the detonator 41. The collar 42 is tubular in shape and is secured by welding or the like in a position where it is pressed into the mounting bore 32a formed in the base plate section 32.The resin section 43 is a resin element inserted between the detonator 41 and the collar 42 to secure the detonator 41 to the collar 42. The resin section 43 covers the lower portion of the detonator 41 and engages with the collar 42, thus securing the detonator 41 to the collar 42 such that at least part of the cup body 411 is exposed by the resin section 43. However, the entire cup body 411 can be overmolded with the resin section 43. That is, the entire cup body 411 can be covered with the resin. Within the resin section 43, inside the collar 42, a connector insertion space is formed into which a connector (not illustrated) can be inserted for supplying power from an external power source to the pair of conductive pins 412 and 413.The resin section 43 covers and holds part of the pair of conductive pins 412 and 412 such that the lower ends of the pair of conductive pins 412 and 412 are exposed towards the connector insertion space. The insulation between the pair of conductive pins 412 and 412 is maintained by the resin section 43. It should be noted that the fastening of the detonator 41 and the collar 42 and the relationship between the collar 42 and the base plate section 32 are not related to the one in . Fig. 2 shown are limited and that a known technique can be used. Inner tubular element

[0036] The inner tubular element 5 is a tubular metal element extending from the base plate section 32 to the upper plate section 22 and surrounding the ignition device 4. The inner tubular element 5 is formed in a tubular shape with both end sections open. Within the combustion chamber 10, a fire transfer chamber 51 is formed between the inner tubular element 5 and the ignition device 4. The fire transfer chamber 51 is a space in which the first gas-generating agent 110 is housed. The first gas-generating agent 110 is combusted by actuating the igniter 41 to produce combustion gas or the like. The inner tubular element 5 is provided with a plurality of connecting bores 52 through which the interior (i.e., the fire transfer chamber 51) communicates with the exterior.The connecting bores 52 are closed by a sealing band (not shown) in a state prior to the actuation of the ignition device 4. filter

[0037] Filter 6 is a tubular element made of a metal material, extending vertically and featuring numerous holes. As shown in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 2, the filter 6 is arranged in the combustion chamber 10 such that the filter 6 surrounds the second gas-generating element 120 and the gas discharge openings 11 are located radially outside the filter 6. That is, the filter 6 is positioned between the second gas-generating element 120 and the gas discharge openings 11 such that it surrounds the second gas-generating element 120. Of the two axial end surfaces of the filter 6, one end surface (upper end surface, designated by reference numeral 61) is in contact with and supported by the upper plate section 22 of the upper shell 2, and the other end surface (lower end surface, designated by reference numeral 62) is in contact with and supported by the bottom plate section 32 of the lower shell 3.

[0038] Since the filter 6 has a multitude of holes, the combustion gas from the second gas-generating device 120 located in the combustion chamber 10 can pass through the filter 6. The filter 6 acts as a coolant and cools the combustion gas by extracting heat from the combustion gas flowing through it. In addition to the cooling function of the combustion gas described above, the filter 6 also filters the combustion gas by capturing combustion residues contained within it. Gas production equipment

[0039] The first gas-generating agent 110 is a so-called transfer charge, which is burned by actuating the ignition device 4 to ignite the second gas-generating agent. In addition to a known black powder, a gas-generating agent 110 can be used that has high flammability and a higher combustion temperature than the second gas-generating agent 120. The combustion temperature of the first gas-generating agent 110 can be set in a range of 1700 °C to 3000 °C. A known agent containing, for example, nitroguanidine (34 wt%) and strontium nitrate (56 wt%) can be used as the first gas-generating agent 110. Furthermore, the first gas-generating agent 110 can have any of a variety of forms, such as granules, pellets, columns, or discs.

[0040] The second gas-generating agent 120 can be a gas-generating agent with a relatively low combustion temperature. The combustion temperature of the second gas-generating agent 120 can be set in the range of 1000 °C to 1700 °C. The second gas-generating agent 120 can be a known agent containing, for example, guanidine nitrate (41 wt%), basic copper nitrate (49 wt%), a binder, and an additive. The second gas-generating agent 120 can be in any of a variety of forms, such as granules, pellets, columns, or discs. Temperature rise suppression element

[0041] The temperature rise suppression element 7 is an element that suppresses a further temperature rise of the casing 1 by absorbing heat from the casing 1 when the temperature of the casing 1 rises due to the combustion of the gas-generating medium. As shown in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 2, the temperature rise suppression element 7 is provided to cover a portion of the outer surface S1 of the housing 1. In the present embodiment, the temperature rise suppression element 7 is in contact only with a section of the outer surface S1, namely the outer surface S22 of the upper plate section 22, which faces the airbag 200 in the airbag module assembly 1000. The outer surface S22 of the upper plate section 22 is covered with the film-like temperature rise suppression element 7. According to the present embodiment, the temperature rise suppression element 7 is in contact with the outer surface S1 (in this example, the outer surface S22) of the housing 1 such that the heat from the housing 1 is readily transferred to the temperature rise suppression element 7.In the housing 1, the temperature rise suppression element 7 makes airtight contact with the outer surface S22 over the entire area of ​​the upper plate section 22, which is the section in which the temperature rise suppression element 7 is located. When the temperature of the housing 1 rises due to the combustion of the gas-generating medium, the heat from the housing 1 is transferred to the temperature rise suppression element 7 by thermal conduction. It should be noted that in the technology according to the present disclosure, the section in which the temperature rise suppression element is provided within the housing is not limited. It may suffice for the temperature rise suppression element to be in contact with the outer surface of the housing to cover at least a portion of the outer surface.For example, the temperature rise suppression element can be provided to be in contact with the entire area of ​​the outer surface of the housing.

[0042] The temperature rise suppression element 7 includes an endothermic agent exhibiting an endothermic effect and a binder that is present together with the endothermic agent to give flexibility to the temperature rise suppression element 7, and is preferably formed by mixing the endothermic agent and the binder.

[0043] When the temperature of the casing 1 rises to a predetermined temperature due to the combustion of the gas-generating agent, the endothermic agent absorbs the heat of the casing 1 by undergoing a chemical change or a change of state using the heat of the casing 1. The predetermined temperature is set to a temperature higher than the temperature of the casing 1 before the gas generator 100 is activated and lower than the maximum temperature of the casing 1 assumed when the gas-generating agent is combusted in a case where the temperature rise suppression element 7 is not provided in the casing 1. The predetermined temperature is not subject to any special limitations.However, the predetermined temperature is set to less than 300 °C, for example, in a case where the maximum temperature, assuming the temperature of housing 1 rises due to the combustion of the gas-generating agent in a state where the temperature rise suppressor 7 is not present, is 300 °C. That is, the endothermic agent undergoes a chemical change or a change of state accompanied by an endothermic effect at a temperature lower than the maximum temperature of housing 1 assumed during the combustion of the gas-generating agent in a case where the temperature rise suppressor 7 is not present in housing 1. This prevents the temperature of housing 1 from rising to the maximum temperature. In this case, the chemical change of the endothermic agent caused by the heating of housing 1 results in a change to a different compound.The change of state of the endothermic agent caused by the heating of the housing 1 represents a physical change in form. The type of chemical change or change of state that the endothermic agent undergoes due to heat is not particularly limited. Examples of chemical changes include the thermal decomposition of a compound. Examples of changes of state include sublimation from a solid to a gaseous state. That is, the endothermic agent can be thermally decomposed by the heat of the housing 1 in order to absorb the heat of the housing 1, or it can be sublimated from a solid to a gas by the heat of the housing 1 in order to absorb the heat of the housing 1. The endothermic agent cools the housing 1 by removing the thermal energy required for such a change of state or chemical change from the housing 1.

[0044] The endothermic agent can be a non-flammable substance. For example, the endothermic agent can comprise at least one compound selected from the group consisting of a fatty acid polycarbonate and a magnesium carbonate, which is thermally decomposed at a temperature below 300 °C. Alternatively, the endothermic agent can comprise at least one compound selected from the group consisting of p-dichlorobenzene, DL-camphor, naphthalene, fumaric acid, and terephthalic acid, which exhibits endothermic properties through sublimation. The endothermic agent can also comprise a combination of the aforementioned compounds. However, the material of the endothermic agent according to this disclosure is not limited to the materials described above.

[0045] The binder is used together with the endothermic agent to impart flexibility to the temperature rise suppression element 7. It is only necessary that the binder be present in the temperature rise suppression element 7 along with the endothermic agent. The binder is located at any suitable point, but is preferably mixed with the endothermic agent. By imparting flexibility to the temperature rise suppression element 7 through the binder, the continuous contact of the temperature rise suppression element 7 with the housing 1 is improved, and it is less likely that the temperature rise suppression element 7 will detach from the housing 1. For this reason, the endothermic agent and the binder must not be mixed within the temperature rise suppression element 7.

[0046] For example, the binder can be arranged separately from the endothermic agent without being mixed with it, and can be inserted in layer form between the housing and the endothermic agent. However, to improve the flexibility of the temperature rise suppression element 7, it is preferred to mix the binder with the endothermic agent so that these agents are integrated. Imparting flexibility to the temperature rise suppression element 7 prevents the temperature rise suppression element 7, attached to the housing 1, from being damaged (for example, cracking) due to deformation of the housing 1 or external influence.

[0047] It is preferred to use a binder that does not generate unnecessary gas (carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide, or the like), even if the binder is decomposed by heat during operation of the gas generator 100. In this respect, the binder preferably comprises a compound having a hydroxyl group or a carbonyl group as a functional group in the molecule and is preferably used mixed with the endothermic agent. Using a compound with a composition containing these functional groups as a binder appropriately improves the flexibility of the temperature rise suppression element 7. Even if, for example, a gas is produced from the binder heated by heat transfer from the housing 1, the gas can be rendered harmless.

[0048] The binder may comprise at least one type selected from the group consisting of, for example, butadiene rubber, silicon rubber, polyvinyl alcohol, ethylene vinyl alcohol, styrene-butadiene rubber, natural rubber, chloroprene rubber, isoprene rubber, acrylic rubber, alkylacetalized polyvinyl alcohol, and polycarboxylic acid copolymer. The binder may comprise a combination of the aforementioned compounds. For example, alkylacetalized polyvinyl alcohol or a polycarboxylic acid copolymer mixed with an endothermic agent is used as the binder, such that even if the temperature rise suppressor 7, which is attached to the housing 1, is bent, cracks are less likely to form and the temperature rise suppressor 7 is less likely to detach from the housing 1. However, the binder material according to the present disclosure is not limited to the materials described above.

[0049] It is preferred that the ratio of the endothermic agent to the temperature rise suppressor element 7 is 70% or more and 95% or less, and that the ratio of the binder is 5% or more and 30% or less. This allows the temperature rise suppressor element 7 to be given suitable flexibility while simultaneously suppressing the temperature rise of the casing 1 through the heat-absorbing effect of the endothermic agent. For example, if the temperature rise suppressor element 7 is a mixture composed only of the endothermic agent and the binder, the ratio between the endothermic agent and the binder can be selected from the range of 7:3 to 95:5.However, the ratio of the endothermic agent to the ratio of the binder in the temperature rise suppression element according to the present disclosure is not limited to the ranges described above. The temperature rise suppression element may comprise a different material than the endothermic agent and binder described above.

[0050] The temperature rise suppression element 7 can be provided as a coating film on the outer surface S1 of the housing 1 by applying the temperature rise suppression element 7 to the outer surface S1 of the housing 1 in a state in which it is dissolved in a solvent and drying the temperature rise suppression element 7. Operation

[0051] The operation of the gas generator 100 and the airbag module arrangement 1000 according to the first embodiment is described below with reference to the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 described. When a sensor (not illustrated) of an automobile detects an impact, an ignition current is applied to the pair of conductive pins 412 and 412, and the igniter 41 is actuated. Then the ignition medium contained in the cup body 411 of the igniter 41 burns, and flame, high-temperature gas, and the like, which are the resulting combustion products, are released to the outside of the cup body 411. Thus, the first gas-generating medium 110, which is located in the fire transfer chamber 51, burns, and a combustion gas is produced. The combustion gas of the first gas-generating device 110 breaks through the sealing band that closes the connecting bores 52 and flows out of the connecting bores 52 into the fire transfer chamber 51. Then the combustion gas of the first gas-generating device 110 comes into contact with the second gas-generating device 120, and the second gas-generating device 120 is ignited.The combustion of the second gas-generating agent 120 produces a combustion gas at high temperature and high pressure in the combustion chamber 10. As this combustion gas passes through the filter 6, it is cooled, and the combustion residues are collected. The combustion gas from the second gas-generating agent 120, cooled and filtered by the filter 6, passes through a gap 13, ruptures the sealing band that closes the gas discharge openings 11, and is released from the gas discharge openings 11 to the outside of the gas generator 100. The combustion gas of the second gas-generating device 120 is released on the outside of the gas generator 100 and then flows into the airbag 200 in the module housing 300. When the airbag 200 is expanded by the gas supply, the front surface section 402 of the module housing 300 is torn open by the expansion pressure, and the airbag 200 springs out of the module housing 300 and inflates in front of the occupant.As a result, a cushion forms between the occupant and a rigid structure, and the occupant is protected from the impact. Temperature rise suppression in the housing

[0052] When the gas generator 100 is activated, the heat generated by the combustion of the gas-generating agent is transferred to the housing 1 and then conducted to the temperature rise suppression element 7, which is in contact with the housing 1. Therefore, as the temperature of the housing 1 increases, the temperature of the temperature rise suppression element 7 also rises. When the temperature of the temperature rise suppression element 7 reaches a predetermined temperature, the endothermic agent contained within the temperature rise suppression element 7 begins a change of state or a chemical change. At this point, the endothermic agent extracts thermal energy from the housing 1 and uses this thermal energy for a chemical change or a change of state.

[0053] As a result, the housing 1 is cooled by the heat-absorbing effect of the endothermic agent, and the temperature rise of the housing 1 is suppressed. The heat is absorbed by a contact section of the housing 1 with the temperature rise suppression element 7, so that the temperature rise at the upper plate section 22, which is in contact with the temperature rise suppression element 7, is suppressed.

[0054] As seen here in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 1, in the airbag module assembly 1000, the gas generator 100 is arranged such that the upper plate section 22 and the airbag 200 face each other in a folded state. Therefore, after the airbag 200 has contracted following inflation, it is in a state where it easily comes into contact with the upper plate section 22 of the housing 1. If the temperature of the upper plate section 22 of the housing 1 becomes excessively high after activation of the gas generator 100, the deflated airbag 200 comes into contact with the upper plate section 22 of the housing 1, which can cause the airbag 200 to melt and produce unwanted gas or odors. As shown in Figure 1, the airbag 200 can be compressed in such a way that it can easily come into contact with the upper plate section 22 of the housing 1. Fig. As illustrated in Figure 2, in the gas generator 100 according to the present embodiment, the upper end surface 61 of the metal filter 6, to which the combustion residues adhere at high temperature, is in contact with the upper plate section 22 of the housing 1. Furthermore, in the gas generator 100 according to the present embodiment, the upper end section of the inner tubular element 5 made of metal, which is filled with the first gas-generating agent 110, is in contact with the upper plate section 22 of the housing 1. Therefore, a large amount of heat is conducted via the filter 6 and the inner tubular element 5 to the upper plate section 22. In particular, a large part of the heat consists of combustion residues generated from the first gas-generating agent 110 and the second gas-generating agent 120, and these combustion residues adhere to the inner surface of the housing 1 and the filter 6, causing a temperature increase of the housing 1.This means that the temperature of housing 1 gradually increases after the gas generator 100 is activated, and thus the temperature of housing 1 rises to a maximum after the airbag 200 has performed its function (after the airbag 200 inflates). Therefore, when the gas generator 100, which lacks the temperature rise suppression element 7, is activated, the upper plate section 22 is likely to be at a high temperature. If the inflated bag comes into contact with the upper plate section 22 in such a hot state, the bag will melt, leading to the formation of odors or unwanted gases.

[0055] On the other hand, in the gas generator 100 according to the present embodiment, the temperature rise suppression element 7 is provided in contact with the outer surface S22 of the upper plate section 22 of the housing 1. Therefore, as described above, the temperature rise at the upper plate section 22, which forms a contact section of the housing 1 with the temperature rise suppression element 7, is suppressed. Thus, in the airbag module assembly 1000, the temperature of the upper plate section 22 facing the airbag 200 is prevented from becoming excessively high. Consequently, the melting of the airbag 200, caused by contact of the deflated airbag 200 with the upper plate section 22 of the housing 1, is suppressed. This suppresses the generation of odors and unwanted gases.The melting of the airbag 200 after activation of the gas generator 100 is suppressed, and consequently, the adhesion of the airbag 200 to the housing 1 of the gas generator 100 is suppressed. As a result, the gas generator 100 can be easily disposed of after activation. Furthermore, according to the gas generator 100, the temperature rise of the housing 1 is suppressed, thus preventing an occupant from suffering burns upon contact with the housing 1.

[0056] For example, if the airbag 200 is made of polyamide, the airbag 200 melts at about 350 °C, but the gas generator 100 can prevent the airbag 200 from melting by controlling the temperature of the housing 1 after the gas generator 100 has been actuated by the temperature rise suppression element 7 to, for example, 250 °C or less.

[0057] If the binder imparts flexibility to the temperature rise suppression element 7, the continuous contact of the temperature rise suppression element 7 with the housing 1 is improved, thus reducing the likelihood of the temperature rise suppression element 7 detaching from the housing 1. Therefore, the temperature rise suppression element 7 is prevented from detaching due to vibrations generated during vehicle operation or transport of the gas generator 100, and it is also prevented from detaching due to a temperature difference within the housing 1 before and after the gas generator 100 is operated.Even if the housing 1 is deformed by the pressure of the combustion gas, the temperature rise suppression element 7 is deformed by the deformation of the housing 1 due to its flexibility, thus preventing damage to the temperature rise suppression element 7. This flexibility also prevents damage to the temperature rise suppression element 7 from external impacts. Consequently, the temperature rise of the housing 1 after the gas generator 100 is activated can be effectively suppressed. By improving the continuous contact performance of the temperature rise suppression element 7 with the housing 1, the required quantity of the temperature rise suppression element 7 can be reduced. This allows for a more compact gas generator 100.In this respect, the temperature rise suppression element 7 can be formed in separate layers of binder and endothermic agent, so that the temperature rise suppression element 7 can be arranged such that the binder side is in contact with the housing 1, and furthermore a layer of binder is formed on top of the temperature rise suppression element 7 (on the endothermic agent); however, in order to give the temperature rise suppression element 7 as a whole uniform flexibility, it is preferable that the endothermic agent and the binder are mixed and arranged on the outer surface S22 of the upper plate section 22 of the housing 1. Actions and effects

[0058] As described above, the gas generator 100 according to the first embodiment includes the gas-generating means 110 and 120, which produce gas by combustion, the metal housing 1 in which the gas-generating means are housed, and the ignition device 4, which ignites the gas-generating means by actuation. A gas discharge opening 11 is formed on the housing 1, through which the gas produced by combustion of the gas-generating means is emitted to the outside of the housing 1. The gas generator 100 further includes the temperature rise suppression element 7, which is provided in contact with the outer surface S1 to cover at least a portion of the outer surface S1 of the housing 1 (in this example, the outer surface S22). The temperature rise suppression element 7 includes the endothermic agent and the binder.When the temperature of the housing 1 rises due to the combustion of the gas-generating agent, the endothermic agent absorbs the heat of the housing 1 by undergoing a chemical change or a change of state due to the heat of the housing 1. The binder is present together with the endothermic agent in such a way that the temperature rise suppression element 7 exhibits flexibility and is preferably used in a state in which it is integrated with the endothermic agent by being mixed with it.

[0059] According to this gas generator 100, the endothermic agent contained in the temperature rise suppression element 7 actively extracts thermal energy from the housing 1 through a change of state or a chemical change when the housing 1 rises due to the combustion of the gas-generating agent. As a result, the temperature rise of the housing 1 after activation of the gas generator 100 can be appropriately suppressed. Furthermore, if the temperature rise suppression element 7 is made flexible by the binding agent, it can be provided with improved, continuous contact within the housing 1. Consequently, the temperature rise suppression element 7 is prevented from detaching from the housing 1 for a longer period, and the temperature rise of the housing 1 can be suppressed more efficiently.According to this gas generator 100, it is possible to reduce the thermal impact on components arranged around the housing 1 (in this example, the airbag 200) after the gas generator 100 has been activated. This is suitable for cases where heat-sensitive components (resin components) are arranged around the housing 1.

[0060] Furthermore, in the gas generator 100 according to the present embodiment, the housing 1 encloses the peripheral wall section 12 in a tubular form, in which the gas discharge opening 11 is formed, wherein the upper plate section 22 closes one end section of the peripheral wall section 12, and wherein the bottom plate section 32 closes the other end section of the peripheral wall section 12, in which the gas discharge opening 11 is formed at a position in which the distance d1 between the gas discharge opening 11 and the upper plate section 22 is shorter than the distance between the gas discharge opening 11 and the bottom plate section 32 in the axial direction of the housing 1. In the gas generator 100, the temperature rise suppression element 7 is provided on the outer surface S22 of the upper plate section 22, which is located closer to the gas discharge opening 11 than to the bottom plate section 32 in the housing 1.According to this configuration, when the heat absorption by the temperature rise suppression element 7 acts on the upper plate section 22, it is possible to effectively suppress a temperature rise in the upper plate section 22 of the housing 1. As a result, it is possible to further reduce the thermal influence on the component (in this example, the airbag 200) facing the upper plate section 22 of the housing 1. In this respect, the airbag module arrangement 1000 according to the present embodiment includes the gas generator 100 and the airbag 200, which is arranged in a folded state and configured to be expanded and inflated by the gas emitted from the gas discharge opening 11, with the gas generator 100 being arranged such that the upper plate section 22 of the housing 1 and the airbag 200 face each other in a folded state.Therefore, according to the gas generator 100 of the present embodiment, it is possible to reduce the thermal influence on the airbag 200, which is a component that is arranged facing the upper plate section 22 of the housing 1.

[0061] It should be noted that in the technology according to the present disclosure, the temperature rise suppression element is not limited to being provided in a specific section of the housing; however, the temperature rise suppression element is preferably provided in a section to which the heat generated by the combustion of the gas-generating agent is likely to be transferred, or in a section near components arranged around the temperature rise suppression element if the components need to avoid the thermal influence.For example, it is preferable that the temperature rise suppression element be provided in contact with an outer surface of a section of the housing that abuts the filter to which the high-temperature combustion residue adheres (at least one of the first or the second closure section), or with an outer surface of a section of the housing that adjoins the combustion chamber in which the gas-generating agent is combusted (i.e., a section that defines the combustion chamber). Modified examples

[0062] A gas generator and an airbag module arrangement according to a modified example of the first embodiment are described below. The description of the modified example mainly highlights the differences from the gas generator 100, which is described with reference to the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 was described, and detailed descriptions of points similar to those of the gas generator 100 are omitted. First modified example

[0063] Fig. Figure 3 is a partially enlarged view of a gas generator 100A according to a first modified example of the first embodiment. Fig. Figure 3 illustrates an environment of the upper plate section 22, which is a section of a housing 1A according to the first modified example, in which the temperature rise suppression element 7 is provided. As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 3, the gas generator 100A according to the first modified example differs from the gas generator 100 described above in that the outer surface S22, which forms a contact section with the temperature rise suppression element 7 in the outer surface S1 of the housing 1A, is designed to have recesses and projections. The recesses and projections are formed, for example, by roughening the surface of the housing 1. The entire outer surface S22 of the outer surface S1 of the housing 1A may have recesses and projections, or a portion of the outer surface S22 may have recesses and projections.

[0064] In the gas generator 100A according to the first modified example, the outer surface S22 of the outer surface S1 of the housing 1A, which forms a contact section with the temperature rise suppression element 7, is designed to have recesses and projections. This increases the contact area between the temperature rise suppression element 7 and the outer surface S22 compared to a flat surface. This improves the efficiency of heat transfer from the housing 1 to the temperature rise suppression element 7. Consequently, heat absorption by the temperature rise suppression element 7 is enhanced, and the temperature rise of the housing 1 can be suppressed more efficiently. Second modified example

[0065] Fig. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state of an airbag module assembly 1000B including a gas generator 100B according to a second modified example of the first embodiment prior to actuation. Fig. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state of the gas generator 100B according to the second modified example of the first embodiment before actuation. Fig. 4 and Fig. Figure 5 illustrates a cross-section along the central axis A1 of the housing 1.

[0066] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 5, an inner tubular element 5B according to the second modified example is formed in a tubular shape with a bottom, wherein one end (upper end) is closed and the other end (lower end) is open, and has a lower end that is welded to the collar 42 of the ignition device 4 in order to be mounted on the bottom plate section 32.

[0067] In the second modified example, a structure for suppressing a temperature rise on the side of the base plate section 32 of the housing 1 is illustrated. More precisely, in the gas generator 100B according to the second modified example, the temperature rise suppression element 7 is provided in contact only with the outer surface S32 of the base plate section 32 of the housing 1. The entire area of ​​the outer surface S32 of the base plate section 32, with the exception of the mounting hole 32a, is covered with the film-like temperature rise suppression element 7. In particular, the temperature rise suppression element 7 makes airtight contact with the outer surface S32 over the entire area of ​​the base plate section 32, which is a section of the housing 1 in which the temperature rise suppression element 7 is located.

[0068] The gas generator 100B according to the second modified example includes a label sheet 8. The label sheet 8 is a sheet-like element on which predetermined information is displayed and is attached to the temperature rise suppressor element 7 such that the temperature rise suppressor element 7 is inserted between the label sheet 8 and the housing 1. The label sheet 8 is attached to the temperature rise suppressor element 7 in a state in which one surface (attachment surface 8a) of the two surfaces of the label sheet 8 faces and contacts the temperature rise suppressor element 7. The predetermined information is displayed on the other surface (display surface 8b) of the label sheet 8.

[0069] For example, information relating to the gas generator 100B is displayed as predetermined information on the display surface 8b of the label sheet 8. Examples of information relating to the gas generator 100B include handling precautions, manufacturer information, a model number, and an administrative barcode. However, the information displayed on the label sheet according to this disclosure is not limited to that described above.

[0070] There are no particular restrictions on the material of the label sheet 8. For example, a heat-resistant resin material such as a polyester film can be used. The label sheet 8 can be attached, for example, by adhering the temperature rise suppression element 7 to the base plate section 32. That is, the temperature rise suppression element 7 can be inserted as a bonding adhesive (bonding layer) between the housing 1 and the label sheet 8. It should be noted that the bonding adhesive can be applied separately to the mounting surface 8a, and the label sheet 8 can then be attached to the temperature rise suppression element 7. The method for displaying the predetermined information on the display surface 8b of the label sheet 8 is not subject to any particular restrictions. For example, the predetermined information can be written on the display surface 8b by printing or marking.

[0071] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 4, in the airbag module assembly 1000B, the base plate section 32 of the housing 1 is exposed to the outside of the module housing 300. In the gas generator 100B according to the second modified example, the label sheet 8 is attached to the outer surface S32 of the base plate section 32 of the housing 1 via the temperature rise suppression element 7 so that it is visible from the outside when the label sheet 8 is installed in the airbag module assembly 1000B. However, the position at which the label sheet 8 is attached is not limited to the base plate section 32.

[0072] In the second modified example of the gas generator 100B, the temperature rise of the base plate section 32 after activation of the gas generator 100B can be suppressed by inserting the temperature rise suppression element 7 between the label sheet 8 and the base plate section 32 of the housing 1. Since the temperature rise of the base plate section 32, to which the label sheet 8 is attached, is suppressed by the temperature rise suppression element 7, the temperature rise of the label sheet 8 after activation of the gas generator 100B can also be suppressed. Consequently, it is possible to prevent the visibility of the content displayed on the label sheet 8 from being impaired by discoloration, denaturation, burning, or similar damage to the label sheet 8 caused by high temperatures after activation of the gas generator 100B.This means it is possible to reduce the thermal influence on the label sheet 8 after actuation of the gas generator 100B. Second embodiment

[0073] A gas generator and an airbag module arrangement according to a second embodiment are described below. The description of the second embodiment mainly highlights the differences from the gas generator 100 according to the first embodiment, which are described with reference to Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 was described, and detailed descriptions of points similar to those of the gas generator 100 are omitted.

[0074] Fig. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state of an airbag module assembly 1000C including a gas generator 100C according to the first embodiment before actuation. Fig. Figure 6 illustrates a cross-section perpendicular to the central axis A1 of a housing 1C. It should be noted that in Fig. Figure 6 shows an inner tubular element 5C of the gas generator 100C, the filter 6, the gas generating means and the like, which are not illustrated. Fig. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state of the gas generator 100C for an airbag according to the first embodiment before actuation. Fig. Figure 7 illustrates a cross-section along the central axis A1 of the housing 1C.

[0075] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 6, the airbag module assembly 1000C includes the gas generator 100C, the airbag 200, and a module housing 600 that accommodates the gas generator 100C and the airbag 200. The airbag module assembly 1000C is, for example, a front airbag device installed in a vehicle passenger seat (specifically, in the passenger seat dashboard). However, the airbag module assembly 1000C can also be used in a front airbag device for a driver's seat or a side airbag device.

[0076] The module housing 600 is a box that contains the gas generator 100C and the airbag 200. The module housing 600 includes an airbag cover 700 and a mounting bracket 800. The airbag cover 700 includes a rectangular, frame-shaped side section 701, which forms a side surface of the module housing 600, and a front surface section 702, which closes an end section of the side section 701 and forms a front surface of the module housing 600. The airbag cover 700 is installed such that the front section 702 forms, for example, part of a vehicle's dashboard. The bracket 800 is attached to a structure (not shown) in the vehicle and engages in the side wall section 701 of the airbag cover 700 to form, together with the airbag cover 700, a receiving space for the gas generator 100C and the airbag 200.The gas generator 100C is arranged in the module housing 600 such that the peripheral wall section 12 of the housing 1C faces the side of the front surface section 702. The airbag 200 is arranged in a folded state between the peripheral wall section 12 of the gas generator 100 and the front surface section 702 of the module housing 600.

[0077] The airbag module assembly 1000C is installed in the vehicle such that the front surface section 702 of the airbag cover 700 faces an occupant (in this example, an occupant in the front passenger seat) who is to be protected by the airbag 200. When the gas generator 100C is activated, the front surface section 702 tears due to the pressure exerted by the expansion of the airbag 200, and the airbag 200 springs out of the module housing 600 and inflates in front of the occupant. Thus, the occupant is protected from the impact.

[0078] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 7, the gas generator 100C according to the second embodiment is designed in a long tubular (cylindrical) shape and includes the ignition device 4, the inner tubular element 5C, the filter 6, the first gas-generating means 110, the second gas-generating means 120, a metal housing 1C in which these components are housed, the temperature rise suppression element 7 provided on the outer surface S1 of the housing 1C, and a partition element 9. The gas generator 100C according to the present embodiment is configured as a pyrotechnic gas generator that uses only one gas-generating means as a gas source, but can also be configured as a hybrid gas generator that uses one gas-generating means and pressurized gas as gas sources.

[0079] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 7, the housing 1C according to the second embodiment is formed in a tubular shape with a bottom, wherein one end section (upper end section) is closed and the other end section (lower end section) is open. The housing 1C encloses the peripheral wall section 12 in a tubular shape, wherein the upper plate section 14 closes one end section (upper section) of the peripheral wall section 12 and wherein a fastening section 15 extends radially inward from the other end section (lower section) of the peripheral wall section 12. In the gas generator 100C according to the second embodiment, the ignition device 4 is attached to the lower end section of the peripheral wall section 12 by squeezing the fastening section 15 in such a way that the ignition device 4 is fitted into the lower end section of the peripheral wall section 12.The inner tubular element 5C is formed in a tubular shape with both end sections open and is mounted on the housing 1C by fitting the collar 42 of the ignition device 4 into the lower end section in a press fit, where the upper section rests against the upper plate section 14 of the housing 1C. The inner tubular element 5C includes a first section 53 with an outer diameter, which has an upper end section, and a second section 54 with an outer diameter, which has a lower section. The first section 53 has a smaller outer diameter than the second section 54. The first section 53 and the second section 54 are connected by a stepped section 55 extending radially.The connecting bores 52 are formed in the first section 53 with an outer diameter. In the filter 6, the upper end surface 61 rests against and is supported by the upper plate section 14, and the lower end surface 62 rests against and is supported by the step section 55. The partition element 9 is an element that defines the interior of the inner tubular element 5C in the axial direction. The interior of the inner tubular element 5C is divided by the partition element 9 into a first combustion chamber 56, which is surrounded by the second section 54 with an outer diameter, and a second combustion chamber 57, which is surrounded by the first section 53 with an outer diameter. A plurality of through-openings 91 are formed in the partition element 9 so that the first combustion chamber 56 and the second combustion chamber 57 can communicate with each other. The first gas-generating means 110 is arranged in the first combustion chamber 56.The second gas generating device 120 is arranged in the second combustion chamber 57.

[0080] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 6, in the airbag module assembly 1000C, the gas generator 100C is arranged such that the peripheral wall section 12 of the housing 1C faces the airbag 200 in a folded state. More precisely, half a circumferential section of the peripheral wall section 12 faces the airbag 200 in the circumferential direction. Here, a section of the peripheral wall section 12 that faces the airbag 200 in the airbag module assembly 1000C is referred to as a facing section 121. In the gas generator 100C according to the second embodiment, the gas discharge openings 11 are formed only in the facing section 121 of the peripheral wall section 12. However, the present disclosure is not limited to this configuration. For example, when the airbag module arrangement 1000C is used in a side airbag device, the gas discharge openings 11 can be formed along the entire circumference of the peripheral wall section 12.

[0081] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 6, in the second embodiment of the gas generator 100C, the temperature rise suppression element 7 is in contact only with the outer surface S12 of the facing section 121, which is a section of the housing 1C facing the airbag 200. The temperature rise suppression element 7 is positioned such that it covers the entire area of ​​the facing section 121 except for the gas discharge openings 11. In particular, the temperature rise suppression element 7 makes airtight contact with the outer surface S12 over the entire area of ​​the facing section 121, which is a section of the housing 1C in which the temperature rise suppression element 7 is located.

[0082] In the second embodiment, when the igniter 41 is actuated, a combustion product of an ignition agent is released into the first combustion chamber 56. The first gas-generating device 110, located in the first combustion chamber 56, is combusted, and the combustion gas is produced. The combustion gas of the first gas-generating device 110 is released through the through-openings 91 of the partition element 9 into the second combustion chamber 57. The combustion gas of the first gas-generating device 110 then comes into contact with the second gas-generating device 120, and the second gas-generating device 120 is ignited. The combustion of the second gas-generating device 120 produces a combustion gas with high temperature and high pressure in the second combustion chamber 57. The combustion gas passes through the connecting bores 52 and the filter 6 to be cooled and filtered, and then passes through the gap 13 to be released out of the gas discharge openings 11 to the outside of the gas generator 100C.The combustion gas from the second gas-generating device 120 is released on the outside of the gas generator 100C and then flows into the airbag 200 in the module housing 600. When the airbag 200 is expanded by the gas supply, the front section 702 of the airbag cover 700 is torn by the expansion pressure, and the airbag 200 springs out of the module housing 600 and inflates in front of the occupant. As a result, a cushion forms between the occupant and a rigid structure, and the occupant is protected from the impact.

[0083] In the airbag module arrangement 1000C according to the second embodiment, the gas generator 100C is arranged such that the facing section 121 of the peripheral wall section 12 and the airbag 200 are in a folded state facing each other. Therefore, the airbag 200, which has contracted after inflation, is in a state where it easily comes into contact with the facing section 121 of the housing 1C. Furthermore, in the gas generator 100C according to the present embodiment, the temperature rise suppression element 7 is provided in contact with the outer surface S12 of the facing section 121 of the housing 1C. Therefore, the temperature rise in the housing 1C is suppressed at the facing section 121, which is in contact with the temperature rise suppression element 7.This prevents the temperature of the facing section 121 of the airbag module assembly 1000C, which faces the airbag 200, from becoming excessively high. Consequently, in the present embodiment, it is possible to reduce the thermal impact on the airbag 200, which is a component located facing the facing section 121 of the housing 1C.

[0084] As described above, in the gas generator 100C according to the second embodiment, it is possible to reduce the thermal influence on the components arranged around the peripheral wall section 12 by providing the temperature rise suppression element 7 on the outer surface S12 of the surface section 12 of the housing 1C. It should be noted that the temperature rise suppression element 7 can be provided in such a way that it is in contact with the entire peripheral wall section 12. Miscellaneous

[0085] While the embodiments of the technology have been described above according to the present disclosure, each aspect disclosed in the present patent specification can be combined with all other features disclosed in the present patent specification. Reference symbol list 1 case 4 Ignition device 7 Temperature rise suppression element 8 sheets of labels 11 Gas vent 12 peripheral wall section 22 Upper plate section (example of first closure section) 32 Base plate section (example of second closure section) 100 gas generator 110 First gas production device (example of a gas production device) 120 Second gas production device (example of a gas production device) 200 airbag 1000 airbag module arrangement QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] JP 2002-326553 A

[0004]

Claims

[1] Gas generator comprising: a gas-generating device that produces gas through combustion; a housing made of metal, wherein the housing contains the gas-generating means, and wherein the housing has a gas discharge opening formed therein, through which the gas generated by combustion of the gas-generating means is emitted to an outside of the housing; an ignition device configured to ignite the gas-generating means by actuation; and a temperature rise suppression element that is provided in contact with an outer surface of the housing to cover at least part of the outer surface, wherein The temperature rise suppression element comprises: an endothermic agent that absorbs heat from the casing by undergoing a chemical change or a change of state due to the heat from the casing when the temperature of the casing increases as a result of the combustion of the gas-generating agent; and a binder that is present together with the endothermic agent so that the temperature rise suppression element has flexibility. [2] The gas generator according to claim 1, wherein the binder is mixed in the endothermic agent. [3] The gas generator according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the endothermic agent comprises at least one type selected from the group consisting of a fatty acid polycarbonate, magnesium carbonate, fumaric acid and terephthalic acid. [4] The gas generator according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the binder comprises a compound having a hydroxyl group or a carbonyl group. [5] The gas generator according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein a content ratio of the endothermic agent in the temperature rise suppression element is 70% or more and 95% or less, and a binder content ratio in the temperature rise suppression element is 5% or more and 30% or less. [6] The gas generator according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the housing comprises: a peripheral wall section having a tubular shape, in which the gas vent opening is formed; a first closure section that closes one end section of the peripheral wall section; and a second closure section that closes the other end section of the peripheral wall section. the gas vent opening is formed at a position where the distance between the gas vent opening and the first closure section is shorter than the distance between the gas vent opening and the second closure section in an axial direction of the housing, and The temperature rise suppression element is formed on an outer surface of the first closure section. [7] The gas generator according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the housing has a peripheral wall section which has a tubular shape, wherein the gas discharge opening is formed in the peripheral wall section, and The temperature rise suppression element is provided on an outer surface of the peripheral wall section. [8] The gas generator according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein a contact section of the outer surface of the housing with the temperature rise suppression element is designed to have recesses and projections. [9] The gas generator according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a label sheet which displays predetermined information, wherein the label sheet is attached to the temperature rise suppression element such that the temperature rise suppression element is arranged between the label sheet and the housing. [10] Airbag module arrangement comprising: the gas generator according to claim 6; and an airbag arranged in a folded state, wherein the airbag is designed to be expanded and inflated by the gas emitted from the gas discharge port, wherein The gas generator is arranged so that the first closure section and the airbag are facing each other in a folded state. [11] Airbag module arrangement comprising: the gas generator according to claim 7; and an airbag arranged in a folded state, wherein the airbag is designed to be expanded and inflated by the gas emitted from the gas discharge port, wherein the gas generator is arranged such that the peripheral wall section and the airbag are facing each other in a folded state, and The temperature rise suppression element is provided on an outer surface of a section of the peripheral wall section facing the airbag.

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