CURTAIN AIRBAG WITH PACKAGE HOLDING STRUCTURE

Abstract

A device for protecting a vehicle occupant includes a curtain airbag in a packed state, in which the curtain airbag is rolled and / or folded along a roof rail for installation in a vehicle. The curtain airbag is configured to inflate and deploy along a side structure of the vehicle body. The curtain airbag has a channel for receiving a package retaining structure, which is configured to enforce a predetermined configuration of the curtain airbag in the packed state.

Description

Related registration

[0001] The present application claims priority from the US patent application filed on August 22, 2023, with serial number 18 / 453,625, which is hereby incorporated in its entirety by reference. Technical field

[0002] The invention relates to a device for protecting a vehicle occupant. In particular, the invention relates to a device comprising a curtain airbag and a structure for maintaining a small package size. background

[0003] It is known to provide an inflatable vehicle occupant protection device, such as an airbag, to protect a vehicle occupant. Airbags are deployable depending on the occurrence of an event for which occupant protection is desired, such as a collision with the vehicle, a rollover, or a combination thereof. One particular type of airbag is an inflatable curtain airbag ("curtain airbag") that inflates from the roof of the vehicle between a vehicle occupant and the side structure of the vehicle. A known curtain airbag is inflated from a deflated and stowed state, running along the roof rails of the vehicle, at or near the junction of the vehicle's side structure and roof. The curtain airbag is concealed by the vehicle's headliner and trim panels.

[0004] Curtain airbags can have various constructions. For example, a curtain airbag may have a cut-and-stitch construction, in which overlapping panels are cut and joined together by sewing to form seams that define inflatable chambers between the panels, as well as non-inflatable areas outside the chambers. Alternatively, a curtain airbag may have a one-piece woven (OPW) construction, in which the woven airbag structure has sections or layers that are woven separately and simultaneously to define inflatable chambers, with sections interwoven to define single-layer seams and non-inflatable areas of the OPW curtain airbag. OPW curtain airbags may have seams added after the bag has been woven.

[0005] When an event is detected that would trigger airbag deployment, such as a vehicle collision, a sensor sends a signal to the gas generator. Upon receiving the signal from the sensor, the gas generator is activated and supplies the airbag with inflation fluid in the usual manner. The inflating airbag exerts a force that breaks, tears, shifts, or otherwise opens the concealing structure (e.g., headliner, trim panels, upholstery, etc.), and the airbag inflates to a fully inflated and deployed state. In this inflated and deployed state, the airbag helps protect the vehicle occupant from impacts, for example, against parts of the vehicle.

[0006] Curtain airbags are typically positioned in their stowed state by rolling and / or folding. However, rolling is usually the primary method used to position curtain airbags in a packed state, ready for installation in the vehicle. To assist with rolling / folding, a tool, such as an elongated rod or bar, is attached either to the top of the curtain airbag or within a sleeve formed in the airbag. The curtain airbag is then rolled / folded with the tool so that the rolled / folded shape of the curtain airbag follows that of the tool. Covers or sleeves can then be fitted around the rolled / folded curtain airbag to hold it in the rolled / folded position. The tool can then be removed, leaving the curtain airbag in its packed state.

[0007] The "packaged state" refers to the curtain airbag in its ready-to-install condition, regardless of whether it is rolled, folded, or a combination of both. In its packaged state, the curtain airbag may also have additional features and / or structures such as packaging sleeves and / or covers, installation and / or fastening structures (fasteners, clamps, brackets, etc.), and inflation components such as gas generators, filling hoses, diffusers, etc. Together, the curtain airbag and these additional components form what is known as an airbag package or curtain airbag package, which in turn represents a ready-to-install component of the vehicle safety system.

[0008] When configuring a curtain airbag for a specific vehicle architecture, care is taken to ensure that the curtain airbag package fits within the limited space of the vehicle body. This limited space is typically defined by the vehicle's sheet metal structures (e.g., pillars (A, B, C, D pillars, etc.), the roof, and roof rails) as well as the interior trim components that will conceal the packaged curtain airbag after installation (e.g., headliner, pillar trim panels, and door trim panels). In turn, the space provided by these structures dictates the form factor that the curtain airbag package can assume. Because space is limited, it can be essential that the curtain airbag package be as small as possible. While the required length of the curtain airbag is more or less fixed, as it must cover the necessary portion of the vehicle's length, its transverse dimensions can be controlled to some extent.

[0009] For other types of airbags, such as front and knee airbags, methods like compression sleeves and thermoforming can be used to control the package size. These methods are not ideal for curtain airbags. Curtain airbag packages are large and long, making them unsuitable for thermoforming ovens. Furthermore, thermoforming is a relatively expensive option for curtain airbags. Thus, while it is a possible option for packaging curtain airbags, the cost and effort involved can make it impractical. As for compression sleeves, these often deform over time and are frequently no longer able to provide the necessary size reduction. Additionally, sleeves cannot force a specific shape and instead conform to the shape the rolled or folded airbag had when the sleeve was applied. Summary

[0010] A device for protecting a vehicle occupant comprises a curtain airbag in a packed state, in which the curtain airbag is rolled and / or folded for installation along a roof rail in a vehicle. The curtain airbag has a channel feature for receiving a package retention structure configured to enforce a predetermined configuration of the curtain airbag in a packed state.

[0011] According to one aspect, a device for protecting a vehicle occupant comprises an airbag module with a curtain airbag in a packaged state, in which the curtain airbag is installed in a rolled and / or folded configuration along a roof rail in a vehicle. The curtain airbag may be configured to inflate and deploy along a side structure of the vehicle body. The device may also include a package retaining structure that is integrated into the curtain airbag while it is in its packaged state. The package retaining structure may be configured to twist the rolled and / or folded configuration of the curtain airbag from the inside to force a specific shape of the airbag module.

[0012] According to another aspect, the curtain airbag may have a channel for receiving the package holding structure.

[0013] According to another aspect, the channel may be located along a lower edge section of the curtain airbag.

[0014] According to another aspect, the channel may have an opening to accommodate the packet holding structure.

[0015] According to another aspect, the opening may be located at a front end of the curtain airbag.

[0016] According to another aspect, the airbag may have an extension of the lower edge section that protrudes forward from a front edge section of the airbag, the extension including an opening that provides access to the channel.

[0017] According to another aspect, the opening may have an outwardly tapered configuration and be angled upwards with respect to a length of the channel.

[0018] According to another aspect, the extension may have a passage for receiving a tool for attaching the extension in order to form a resistance against the displacement of the lower edge section of the airbag as a result of the installation of the package holding structure in the channel.

[0019] According to another aspect, the extension may have a passage for receiving a tool for attaching the extension in order to form a resistance against displacement of the lower edge section of the airbag as a result of removing a folding bar from the airbag module.

[0020] According to another aspect, the opening in the extension can be kept closed by at least one of the following methods: sewing, ultrasonic welding, hot gluing, or adhesives to hold the package holding structure in the channel.

[0021] According to another aspect, the opening in the extension can have overlapping areas that form curved tabs to simplify the separation of the overlapping areas, so that the package holding structure can be installed in the channel.

[0022] According to another aspect, the device may also have encasing structures configured to wrap around the curtain airbag in the rolled and / or folded state to hold the curtain airbag in the packed state and to limit expansion of the curtain airbag in the packed state.

[0023] According to another aspect, due to the limitation of the expansion of the curtain airbag in the packaged state by the encasing structures, the package holding structure can be configured in such a way that it passes through a form of the channel as well as partial areas of the curtain airbag rolled and / or folded around the package holding structure and the channel.

[0024] According to another aspect, the rolled and / or folded curtain airbag can define an interior space to accommodate the package retaining structure. The package retaining structure can be configured to have an outer perimeter approximately equal to the perimeter of the interior space, so that the rolled and / or folded airbag conforms to the shape of the package retaining structure after its installation.

[0025] According to another aspect, the enveloping structure can be configured to have a length longer than an outer perimeter of the rolled and / or folded curtain airbag, with the rolled and / or folded curtain airbag being configured to unroll and / or unfold in order to extend into engagement with the enveloping structure.

[0026] According to another aspect, the curtain airbag can be a one-piece woven curtain airbag or a cut and sewn curtain airbag.

[0027] According to another aspect, the device can be incorporated as a component of a vehicle safety system. The vehicle safety system can also include a gas generator for inflating the curtain airbag and a control unit for activating the gas generator following a vehicle collision. Brief description of the drawings

[0028] The foregoing and other features of the invention will become clear to a person skilled in the art upon consideration of the following description of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, which show the following: Fig. 1 A schematic view showing a packaged state of an airbag module of a vehicle safety system in the installed state in a vehicle; Fig. 2 a top view showing an embodiment of a curtain airbag that can be used in the airbag module of the vehicle safety system; Fig. 3 an enlarged view of a section of the curtain airbag Fig. 2; Fig. 4A-4D a method by which the curtain airbag is fitted in a packaged state during the assembly of the airbag module; Fig. 5A a cross-sectional view generally along line 5A-5A in Fig. 4B; Fig. 5B a cross-sectional view generally along line 5B-5B in Fig. 4C; Fig. 5C an enlarged view of a sub-area of ​​the generally at line 5C in Fig. 4C illustrated airbag module; Fig. 5D a cross-sectional view generally along the 5D-5D line in Fig. 4D; Fig. 5E a cross-sectional view generally along line 5E-5E in Fig. 4D; Fig. 6 a diagram illustrating a procedure for attaching the curtain airbag in its packaged state; Fig. 7 A schematic view illustrating the dimensional properties used in the design of the airbag module. Description

[0029] Referring to the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 A vehicle safety system 10 includes an airbag module 20 for the protection of a vehicle occupant 12. The airbag module 20 has an inflatable vehicle occupant protection device in the form of a curtain airbag 14.

[0030] The curtain airbag 14 can be made of any suitable material, such as nylon (e.g., 6-ply nylon fabric), and can be manufactured in any suitable manner. For example, the curtain airbag 14 can have a one-piece woven (OPW) construction, in which the airbag is woven as a single piece of material, with two-layer sections forming overlapping panels 22 and single-layer sections defining connections or seams 30, 36. Alternatively, the curtain airbag 14 can have separate overlapping panels 22 that are joined together by known means such as sewing, ultrasonic welding, hot melt bonding, or adhesives to form the connections / seams 30, 36 of the curtain airbag 14. The curtain airbag 14 can be uncoated, coated with a material such as a gas-impermeable urethane, or laminated with a material such as a gas-impermeable film.The curtain airbag 14 can therefore have a gas-tight or essentially gas-tight construction. Experts will recognize that alternative materials such as polyester yarn and alternative coatings such as silicone can also be used in the manufacture of the curtain airbag 14.

[0031] The curtain airbag 14 from the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 is only one of several embodiments that can be implemented in the vehicle safety system 10. Airbag configurations can vary considerably from vehicle to vehicle depending on a multitude of factors, such as the vehicle's architecture and the desired degree or extent of airbag coverage. The curtain airbag 14 from the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 exhibits several features that are typical of most, if not all, curtain airbags. A circumferential connection 30 defines an inflatable volume 32 of the curtain airbag, which is subdivided into inflatable chambers 34 by internal connections 36 within the circumferential connection. A gas generator outlet 40 is configured to house a gas generator 50 (see Fig. 2) so that inflation medium can be directed from the gas generator into the inflatable volume 32.

[0032] A series of mounting tabs 42, each of which may have one or more mounting openings 44, are spaced along an upper edge 68 of the curtain airbag 14 and allow the airbag and airbag module 20 to be connected to the vehicle 12. The airbag module is typically connected to the vehicle at or near the transition of a side structure 16 of the vehicle to the vehicle roof 18, above the vehicle doors and side windows (not shown). The airbag module 20 may, for example, be attached to a roof rail of the vehicle 12. When inflated, the curtain airbag 14 is positioned between the side structure 16 and the vehicle occupants and extends the length of the vehicle 12 to incorporate a package retention structure into the duct 100, as described below.

[0033] When installed, from Fig. Figure 2 shows that the airbag module 20 includes the curtain airbag 14 in a packaged state together with the gas generator 50, which is attached in a known manner to the gas generator outlet 40, for example by means of a clamp (not shown). The gas generator 50 can be of any known type, e.g., with stored gas, solid propellant, enriched, or hybrid propellant. The gas generator 50 is operatively connected, for example, via connecting lines to an airbag control unit 52, which is configured to actuate the gas generator upon detection of an event for which occupant protection is desired, e.g., a collision or a rollover.

[0034] The airbag module 20 contains the curtain airbag 14 in a deflated, flattened, rolled, and / or folded state. This can be achieved, for example, by folding a lower edge section of the curtain airbag 14 (as in Fig. (1 shown) is rolled and / or folded upwards towards an upper edge of the airbag. This places the curtain airbag 14 into the packed state, with the airbag module 20 ready for installation. "Packed" or "packed" means that the curtain airbag 14 is held rolled and / or folded in its stowed state, so that the airbag module 20 can be installed as a unit in the vehicle 12.

[0035] In its packaged state, the rolled / folded state of the curtain airbag 14 can be maintained by encasing structures such as adhesive tape, straps, sleeves, retaining bands, or sheaths that are tearable to release the airbag for deployment as a result of inflation. Exemplary encasing structures 60 are shown in Fig. Figure 1 shows the enveloping structures 60. These structures are normally formed separately from the curtain airbag 14 and attached during assembly. However, the enveloping structures 60 could also be formed as integral parts of the curtain airbag 14.

[0036] The encasing structures 60 can have various constructions. For example, the encasing structures 60 can be OPW fabric structures that are slid over the rolled curtain airbag 14 and positioned along its length. Alternatively, the encasing structures 60 can be wrapped around the rolled curtain airbag 14 as adhesive tape and secured via its adhesive backing. Another example is that the encasing structures 60 can be fabric structures, such as strips that are cut and sewn to form loops. Finally, the encasing structures 60 can be non-woven fabric structures, such as strips that are cut and attached using adhesives or welds to form loops.

[0037] In its installed state, the airbag module 20 is secured to the vehicle body 12 via the mounting tabs 40, e.g., by (not shown) fasteners that are installed through the openings 42 in the mounting tabs. Since the airbag module 20 has a curtain airbag 14, the structure to which the module is attached is located at or near the transition between a roof 18 of the vehicle 12 and a side structure 16 of the vehicle. Examples of structures to which the airbag module 20 can be attached include the side structure 16, the roof 18, or parts thereof, such as a roof rail or a pillar (A, B, C, D, etc.).

[0038] When installed, the airbag module 20 is concealed behind trim panels such as the headliner, roof rail trim, or pillar trim. Often, the available space between the trim and the vehicle body is limited, making the size of the packaged airbag 14 crucial. Accordingly, the airbag module has features that contribute to creating and maintaining a desired packaged configuration of the airbag module 20, or at least parts thereof. "Packed configuration" means that the airbag 14 and / or the airbag module 20 have features that contribute to creating and maintaining a desired shape and dimensions of the airbag module 20, or a part thereof.

[0039] The curtain airbag 14 has features configured to contribute to the packaging of the airbag in such a way that the airbag or parts thereof retain a desired packaged configuration. In particular, the curtain airbag 14 has a channel 100 for receiving a package retention structure 120 (see in particular Fig. 1, Fig. 4C and Fig. 4D), which is configured to contribute to the creation and maintenance of a desired packaged configuration of the curtain airbag. In the embodiment from Fig. 2 The channel 100 is formed along a lower edge section 64 of the curtain airbag 14 at a front edge section 62 of the airbag. The position and extent of the channel 100 coincide with a part of the curtain airbag 14 for which maintaining a small package size is essential. For example, the position and extent of the channel 100 may coincide with a part of the airbag module 20 that, when installed, is positioned behind a trim panel of an A-pillar, where the available space may be limited.

[0040] As in the Fig. 2 and Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the channel 100 is defined by a connection 102 of the superimposed sections 22 of the curtain airbag 14. The connection 102 generally has a rectangular shape, thus creating the channel 100 as an enclosing element for the superimposed sections of the sections 22. An opening 104 of the channel 100 provides access to the interior of the channel, allowing the package retaining structure to be inserted. In the exemplary embodiment of the Fig. 1-3 the opening 104 is formed in an extension 106 of the curtain airbag 14, which runs in front of the leading edge 70 of the curtain airbag 14.

[0041] How best to Fig. As can be seen in Figure 3, the opening 104 is defined by parts of the connection 102 that extend slightly upwards at an angle to the length of the curtain airbag 14. The parts of the connection 102 defining the opening 104 can also taper outwards, diverging slightly, as shown. Curved tabs 110 formed at the opening 104 allow the airbag panels 22 to be separated to facilitate access to the channel 100. The extension 106 also has an opening 112 for easier use of folding rod(s) when packing the curtain airbag 14.

[0042] The position and extent of channel 100 can vary depending on where along the length of the airbag module 20 the package size is to be controlled. For example, it might be desirable to control the package size over the entire length of the airbag module 20 such that channel 100 can be configured to extend over the length of the curtain airbag 14. Alternatively, it might be desirable to control the package size of the airbag module 20 along a rear portion of the curtain airbag 14 such that channel 100 can be configured to extend over the rear portion of the curtain airbag 14, for example, intersecting the rear edge section 66 of the curtain airbag.As another example, it might be desirable to control the packet size of the airbag module 20 along more than one part of the curtain airbag 14 such that there could be multiple channels 100, each having a packet holding structure 120, or alternatively a single channel and a single packet holding structure 120, where the channel and / or the structure are configured to control the packet size only in those parts of the airbag module.

[0043] The way in which the channel 100 and the package holding structure 120 control the package size of the curtain airbag 14 is best understood when explained in conjunction with the procedure or process by which the curtain airbag 14 is fitted in its packaged state. This procedure / process is described in Fig. 6 shown and can be used in conjunction with the Fig. 4A-4D and Fig. 5A-5E will be described.

[0044] Referring to Fig. Section 6 describes a procedure or method 200 for attaching the curtain airbag 14 in its packaged state, including step 202 of attaching the folding rod 150. For this purpose, with reference to Fig. 4A, the curtain airbag is laid flat, for example on an assembly table, and a folding / rolling aid, such as a folding rod 150, is positioned on top of the curtain airbag 14, for example at or along the lower edge section 64 of the curtain airbag. In step 204, the curtain airbag 14 is rolled / folded around the folding rod 150, as generally described by the one marked A in Fig. The curved arrow designated 4A indicates this. The folding rod 150 ensures that the curtain airbag 14 is rolled uniformly, evenly, and tightly around the rod. The dimensions of the folding rod 150, which can, for example, have a rectangular cross-section, can be selected so that the rolled / folded curtain airbag 14 assumes a desired dimensional configuration.

[0045] After the rolling / folding process is complete, the curtain airbag 14 remains in the position shown in the text. Fig. The condition shown in Figure 4B is that the folding rod 150 is positioned in the center of the rolled / folded airbag. The folding rod 150 is held firmly in this position due to the tight roll / fold of the curtain airbag 14. At this stage, the covering structures 60 are applied, as shown in step 206. The state of the curtain airbag 14 and the covering structures 60 after completion of step 206 is shown in Figure 4B. Fig. 5A shown. It should be noted that the covering structure does not fit tightly around the rolled curtain airbag 14, and thus a gap 152 forms between the outer surface 154 of the rolled airbag and the covering structure 60.

[0046] In step 208, the folding bar 150 is reset, i.e., rotated in the rolling direction, as generally indicated by the B in Fig. The arrow designated 5B indicates this. As a result of this resetting, the rigidity of the rolled curtain airbag 14 is loosened to such an extent that the outer surface 154 expands in engagement with the encasing structures 60, as shown in Fig. Figure 5B shows that in the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the folding rod 150 is reset by a quarter turn, i.e., by 90 degrees. However, depending on the desired configuration of the packed curtain airbag 14, the resetting of the folding rod 150 can be up to two full turns or more.

[0047] Due to the loosening of the rolled curtain airbag 14 and the associated expansion of the outer surface 154 when the folding rod 150 is reset, a gap 156 is created (see Fig. 5B) around the folding rod. In step 210, the folding rod 150 is removed from the rolled curtain airbag 14, the loosened airbag roll and the resulting gap 156 allowing for easy and trouble-free removal. After the folding rod is removed, the rolled curtain airbag 14 may tend to shift telescopically, meaning that one or more inner windings of the rolled / folded airbag may be pulled out due to friction with the folding rod. Such shifting can destroy the roll / fold of the curtain airbag 14.

[0048] To prevent displacement, the opening 112 of the extension 106 is positioned axially behind the end of the rolled / folded curtain airbag, in front of the leading edge of the curtain airbag 14, due to its expansion. As such, a tool 114, such as a hook, can be inserted through the opening 112 and used to secure the extension 106. This is shown in the detail of the Fig. 5C is shown. The tool 114 can, for example, be a bracket attached to the assembly table. The lower edge section 64 of the curtain airbag 14, which is located at the innermost part of the roll / fold, i.e., at the transition to the folding bar 150, connects to the part of the curtain airbag that engages directly with the folding bar by the hook 114. For this reason, when the folding bar 150 is moved away from the end of the curtain airbag 14 opposite the extension 106, as generally shown by the one with B in Fig. The arrow marked 4C indicates the curtain airbag against being pushed out of the roll / fold.

[0049] The wrapping structures 60 and / or the folding rod 150 can be configured to facilitate the use of the package holding structure 120. After rolling the curtain airbag 14 around the folding rod 150 and applying the wrapping structures 60, the resulting structure is in Fig. Figure 5A shows that, as illustrated, the generally rectangular (in cross-section) curtain airbag 14 assumes a generally rounded rectangular shape when rolled up. This shape is due to the wrapping structures 60, which hold the curtain airbag 14 wrapped around the rectangular folding bar 150. However, once the folding bar 150 is removed, the curtain airbag 14 and the wrapping structures 60 revert to a round configuration due to the tendency of the curtain airbag and the wrapping structures to enter a state of minimal stress. This is shown in Figure 5A. Fig. Illustrated in 5D.

[0050] Referring to step 210, once the folding bar 150 has been removed, the package holding structure 120 is installed, as generally indicated by the arrow marked D in Fig. 4C indicated. The package retaining structure 120 can be configured to form a tight and secure fit within the channel 100. For this reason, there is a risk that the rolled / folded curtain airbag 14 may telescopically shift or otherwise be displaced in the direction in which the package retaining structure 120 is inserted. Advantageously, the hook 114 can secure the extension 106 against such displacement by anchoring the lower edge section 64 of the curtain airbag 14.

[0051] The package holding structure 120 and the channel 100 are configured such that, after installation of the package holding structure, the space 158 in the middle of the rolled curtain airbag 14 (see Fig. 5E) is completely or substantially filled by its structure. For this reason, the rolled curtain airbag 14 assumes the shape of the package retaining structure 120, which is rectangular in the exemplary embodiment. Since the rolled curtain airbag 14 is constrained by the encasing structures 60, both the airbag and the encasing structures follow or adapt to the cross-sectional shape of the package retaining structure 120. The package retaining structure 120 thus enforces the substantially rectangular configuration of the Fig. 5E shown, rolled curtain airbags 14 and thus facilitates installation in the vehicle within the required installation space.

[0052] After installation in the curtain airbag 14, the package retaining structure 120 becomes a component of the airbag module 20, which is installed in the vehicle 12. The package retaining structure 120 thus remains installed in the channel 100, so that the shape of the packaged curtain airbag 14 / airbag module 20 is maintained even after the module is installed in the vehicle 12. Maintaining the shape of the curtain airbag 14 / airbag module 20 is essential so that the trim parts that cover and conceal the airbag module 20 can be installed.

[0053] The package retaining structure 120 can have various material constructions. Due to its intended use—to be permanently installed in the curtain airbag 14 in order to maintain the shape of the packaged airbag / airbag module 20—the package retaining structure 120 is configured to be both strong and lightweight so that it can fulfill its shape-retaining purpose without contributing a significant portion of the energy required to deploy the airbag. The package retaining structure can, for example, be made of a plastic / polymer material such as nylon, polyester, PET, PVC, HDPE, etc.

[0054] The curtain airbag 14, in particular the parts forming the channel 100 and the extension 106, has features that maintain the position of the package retaining structure 120 in the channel 100 after installation. First, the opening 104 is angled with respect to the length of the channel 100 and is configured such that installing the package retaining structure 120 requires moving the extension 106 to accommodate it. The tapered configuration of the connection 102 at the opening 104 simplifies the installation of the package retaining structure 120; however, the angled configuration of the opening must still be overcome. Once the package retaining structure 120 is installed, the angled opening prevents it from being unintentionally removed from the channel 100.For an even more secure hold, a seam, ultrasonic welding, hot gluing or adhesives can be applied to the extension 106 over the opening 104 to seal the package holding structure 120 inside, as generally specified for line 116.

[0055] The dimensions of the package holding structure 120 and the channel 100 are calculated based on a desired dimension or dimensions of the curtain airbag 14 in its packaged state. An example of this is shown in Fig. 7 shown. Referring to Fig. 7. The curtain airbag 14 is rolled with a roll stiffness corresponding to an exemplary installation of the curtain airbag. In this rolled configuration, the rolled curtain airbag 14 has an inner dimension or inner diameter ID and an outer dimension or outer diameter OD. In this description, the term "diameter" is used to describe the dimensions of the curtain airbag 14 because the rolled / folded airbag is considered in an ideal circular roll configuration, which simplifies the calculations of the circumference / perimeter and other determinations described herein. Persons skilled in the art will recognize that this approach is not affected by the fact that the curtain airbag 14 can be twisted, and probably will be, when / while it is placed into the packaged state.A "circumference" dimension of a twisted, non-circular roll is simply better described as a "perimeter" dimension of the roll, which remains equal to the calculated circumference of the circular roll. This is because the enclosing structures 60 fix the roll, limiting its extension despite any twists to the roll's shape. Thus, although the ID / OD values ​​are calculated taking this circular configuration into account, Fig. 7. The validity / accuracy of these values ​​is determined / described even when the possibility / probability of a non-circular configuration in practice is considered. The table below illustrates calculations performed in the dimensioning of the package holding structure 120, with dimensions in millimeters (mm): Gerollter Vorhangairbag Pakethaltestruktur Paket Y Abmessungen OD ID C ID W H P Gewebe Halter gesamt 30 18 ≈56 2 26 ≈56 12 2 14

[0056] Fig. Figure 7 illustrates the rolled curtain airbag 14 with reference to an X, Y, and Z axis. The equality of these axes is not particularly important, although, for simplicity, they may correspond to the typical XYZ axis definitions for a vehicle, namely that the X axis corresponds to the vehicle length, the Y axis to the vehicle width, and the Z axis to the vehicle height. For a given vehicle configuration, the desired thickness of the packed curtain airbag might be 14 mm in the Y-axis dimension. Referring to the embodiment illustrated in the preceding table, as well as to Fig. 7. The OD in the rolled state is 30 mm and the ID is 18 mm. This results in a rolled fabric thickness, generally at T in Fig. 7 marked, of 6 mm. Thus, in order to achieve the desired package thickness of 14 mm in the Y direction, the thickness of the package holding structure is 2 mm, so that the rolled fabric thickness T of 6 mm on each side of the package holding structure, plus the thickness of 2 mm of the structure itself, results in a total of 14 mm.

[0057] Since the ID of the rolled curtain airbag is set at 18 mm, it is known that the circumference of the ID (C ID ) ≈56 mm, and that this circumference should be approximately equal to the perimeter (P) of the package holding structure 120. If the ID circumference C IDIf the perimeter of the package retaining structure 120 is configured to match or be approximately equal to it, then, after insertion into channel 100, the package retaining structure will cause the ID of the curtain airbag 14 to conform to the cross-sectional shape of the package retaining structure. Using simple mathematics, a package retaining structure that is 2 mm wide (W) and 26 mm high (H) has a perimeter of 56 mm. Thus, the 2 x 26 mm package retaining structure fits precisely into the ID of the rolled curtain airbag 14 and causes it to conform to its shape, resulting in the desired package thickness of 14 mm.

[0058] To ensure that the desired dimensions of the airbag module 20 result from the installation of the package holding structure 120, the dimensions of the channel 100 can also be configured to match the ID circumference C IDof the rolled curtain airbag 14, or are approximately the same. This provides a channel 100 for receiving the package holding structure 120 in such a way that its installation in the rolled curtain airbag 14 does not impair the rolled structure, e.g., by preventing displacement. Equally important is that the dimensioning of the channel 100 in this way also ensures that the installation of the airbag module 20 (e.g., according to method 200 from Fig. 6) proceeds as planned. Since channel 100 is configured for a good / tight fit with the package retaining structure 120, and since the fit between the package retaining structure and the ID of the rolled curtain airbag 14 is configured to be equally good / tight, any looseness or play in the rolled curtain airbag around the package retaining structure after installation in the channel will indicate an error.

[0059] Of course, the perimeter of the packet holding structure 120 cannot be configured to be exactly the same as the ID scope C. ID A certain tolerance must be applied to the seat between channel 100 and the ID of the rolled curtain airbag 14 to allow installation and assembly of the airbag module 20. Adding a tolerance configured to allow the airbag module 20 to be mounted while still creating the desired resulting cross-sectional shape is possible.

[0060] In the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the package retaining structure 120 is designed as an elongated part, such as a rod, with a substantially rectangular cross-section. The edges / corners of the package retaining structure 120 can be chamfered or rounded to reduce sharp edges that could cut or damage the airbag material, particularly in a tight-fitting configuration. Furthermore, to facilitate insertion of the package retaining structure 120 into the channel in these tight-fitting configurations, the package retaining structure can have a tapered or rounded end section 122 that allows the structure to be inserted into the channel.

[0061] The cross-sectional views of the Fig. Figures 5D-5E illustrate how the package holding structure 120 works together with the channel 100 to form the packaged curtain airbag 14 / airbag module 20. Fig. Figure 5D shows the curtain airbag 14 in its rolled / folded state, with the wrapping structure 60 securing the airbag in the rigid shape achieved by the folding rod 150, which has since been removed. Without any structure to define the shape of the wrapped curtain airbag 14 / airbag module 20, it can assume any shape determined by the properties of the rolled / folded structure and / or applied external forces. For example, the shape of the wrapped curtain airbag 14 / airbag module 20 has a substantially circular cross-section.

[0062] In the rolled / folded state, the lower edge section 64 of the curtain airbag 14, and thus the channel 100, is positioned at the innermost section of the roll / fold. The cross-sectional dimensions of the channel 100 are configured such that the package retaining structure 120 fits just inside the channel. Consequently, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 5E, the installation of the package holding structure 120 twists the rolled / folded state of the curtain airbag 14 / airbag module 20, which means that the channel 100 and the surrounding curtain airbag / surrounding airbag module must adapt to the shape of the package holding structure.

[0063] Since the encasing structures 60 limit and maintain the overall diameter of the packaged curtain airbag 14 / airbag module 20, when the channel 100 corresponds to the cross-sectional shape of the package retaining structure 120, the rolled / folded curtain airbag connects. In the Fig.In the illustrated embodiment 5E, the package retaining structure 120 has a generally rectangular cross-section, and the channel 100, the curtain airbag 14, and the airbag module 20 conform to this shape. Consequently, the packaged curtain airbag 14 and the airbag module 20 are formed by the channel 100 and the package retaining structure 120, and this shape is maintained throughout the entire installation and after the installation of the airbag module.

[0064] It can be seen from this that the shape of the packaged curtain airbag 14 and the airbag module 20 can be controlled by the configurations of the channel 100 and the package holding structure 120. Not only can the shape be controlled, as shown in the cross-sectional dimensions of the exemplary embodiment, but also the directional extension of the packaged curtain airbag 14 and the airbag module 20. For example, the packaged curtain airbag 14 and the airbag module 20 could be made to follow a curved path by designing the package holding structure 120 with a curved configuration. Designing the channel 100 with a corresponding curved configuration could help to maintain the shape of the packaged curtain airbag 14 / airbag module 20.As another example, the packaged curtain airbag 14 and the airbag module 20 could be designed with a twist or angle shape by forming the package holding structure 120 with twisted or angled segments.

[0065] From the foregoing description of the invention, those skilled in the art will recognize improvements, modifications, and adaptations. Such improvements, modifications, and adaptations within the scope of skilled craftsmanship are to be covered by the accompanying claims.

Claims

Device for protecting a vehicle occupant, comprising: an airbag module comprising a curtain airbag in a packaged state, wherein the curtain airbag is installed in a rolled and / or folded configuration along a roof rail in a vehicle, the curtain airbag being configured to inflate and deploy along a side structure of the vehicle body; a package retaining structure being installed inside the curtain airbag while it is in the packaged state, the package retaining structure being designed to twist the rolled and / or folded configuration of the curtain airbag from the inside to force a shape of the airbag module. Device according to claim 1, wherein the curtain airbag comprises a channel for receiving the package holding structure. Device according to claim 2, wherein the channel is located along a lower edge section of the curtain airbag. Device according to claim 3, wherein the channel has an opening for receiving the package holding structure. Device according to claim 4, wherein the opening is located at a front end of the curtain airbag. Device according to claim 3, wherein the airbag comprises an extension of the lower edge section that projects forward from a front edge section of the airbag, the extension comprising an opening that provides access to the channel. Device according to claim 6, wherein the opening has an outwardly tapered configuration and is angled upwards with respect to a length of the channel. Device according to claim 6, wherein the extension comprises a passage for receiving a tool for attaching the extension in order to form a resistance against displacement of the lower edge section of the airbag as a result of the installation of the package holding structure in the channel. Device according to claim 6, wherein the extension comprises a passage for receiving a tool for attaching the extension in order to form a resistance against displacement of the lower edge section of the airbag as a result of the removal of a folding rod from the airbag module. Device according to claim 6, wherein the opening in the extension is kept closed by at least one of the following methods: sewing, ultrasonic welding, hot gluing or adhesives to hold the package holding structure in the channel. Device according to claim 6, wherein the opening in the extension comprises superimposed parts forming curved tabs to facilitate the separation of the superimposed parts so that the package holding structure can be installed in the channel. Device according to claim 1, further comprising enclosing structures configured to extend around the curtain airbag in the rolled and / or folded state to hold the curtain airbag in the packed state and to limit expansion of the curtain airbag in the packed state. Device according to claim 12, wherein, due to the enclosing structures that limit expansion of the curtain airbag in the packaged state, the package holding structure is configured to enforce a shape of the channel and of parts of the curtain airbag folded and / or rolled around the package holding structure and the channel. Device according to claim 12, wherein the rolled and / or folded curtain airbag defines an interior space for receiving the package holding structure, wherein the package holding structure is configured to have an outer perimeter approximately equal to a perimeter of the interior space, so that the rolled and / or folded airbag conforms to the shape of the package holding structure after the package holding structure is installed. Device according to claim 12, wherein the enveloping structure is configured with a length that is longer than an outer perimeter of the rolled and / or folded curtain airbag, wherein the rolled and / or folded curtain airbag is configured to unroll and / or unfold in order to expand in engagement with the enveloping structure. Device according to claim 1, wherein the curtain airbag is a one-piece woven curtain airbag or a cut and sewn curtain airbag. Vehicle safety system comprising: the device according to claim 1; a gas generator for inflating the curtain airbag; and a control system for actuating the gas generator as a result of a vehicle impact condition.

Images