Airbag hinge

Abstract

The invention relates to an airbag hinge (100a, 100b) for connecting an airbag flap (208a, 208b, 208c) of an airbag unit (200) to a fastening section (196, 204), said hinge having: a hinge textile (10, 10a, 10b) extending along a textile plane (E); a first material region (102a), which is associated with the fastening section (196, 204) and is connected to a first portion (12a) of the hinge textile; and a second material region (102b), which is associated with the airbag flap (208a, 208b) and is connected to a second portion of the hinge textile (12b), wherein the second material region (102b) can be swiveled relative to the first material region (102a) to open the airbag flap (208a, 208b). The hinge textile (10, 10a, 10b) has textile threads (14) which protrude from the textile plane (E) along one or more fixing thread portions (16), the fixing thread portions (16) being embedded in the first material region (102a) and / or second material region (102b).

Description

[0001] Airbag hinge

[0002] The invention relates to an airbag hinge for connecting an airbag flap of an airbag unit with a mounting section, with a hinge textile extending within a textile plane, a first material area that is assigned to the mounting section and connected to a first section of the hinge textile, and a second material area that is assigned to the airbag flap and connected to a second section of the hinge textile, wherein the second material area is pivotable relative to the first material area for opening the airbag flap.

[0003] Furthermore, the invention relates to an airbag unit comprising at least one airbag hinge, an airbag module containing an airbag, and an airbag housing comprising an airbag deployment channel and an airbag flap. The invention also relates to a hinge textile for an airbag hinge, comprising multiple textile threads.

[0004] Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for manufacturing an airbag hinge that connects an airbag flap of an airbag unit with a mounting section, comprising the steps of: providing a hinge textile comprising textile threads, connecting a first section of the hinge textile to a first material area which is associated with the mounting section, and connecting a second section of the hinge textile to a second material area which is associated with the airbag flap.

[0005] Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for manufacturing a hinge textile with multiple textile threads. Airbag hinges comprising hinge textiles are known in the prior art and are used in the instrument panel of motor vehicles for the passenger airbag. To connect the hinge textiles to the airbag housing, the hinge textile is preferably overmolded with plastic injection molding in the material area of ​​the airbag housing.

[0006] From European patent EP 4 151 473 A1, a textile surface element of an airbag is known, which is attached by a first area to the inside of an airbag deployment channel and by a second area to the underside of an airbag flap. The connection between the first and second areas forms a joint, the joint comprising threads of the basic structure of the surface element and additional stop threads. The stop threads have a different, in particular higher, tensile strength compared to the sacrificial threads of the basic structure of the textile surface element. The stop threads and the sacrificial threads are arranged not only in the area of ​​the joint, but distributed throughout the entire surface of the textile surface element.

[0007] Furthermore, EP 2 727 775 A1 discloses an airbag cover with at least one flap, which is bounded in the cover material and / or at the edge of the material by predetermined breaking lines forming the flap edges and a hinge edge. After the airbag is deployed, the airbag flap tears at the predetermined breaking lines and pivots around the hinge without tearing off at the hinge. The cover material, in particular the lid in the area of ​​the hinge, forms at least one fold or crease extending along the hinge.

[0008] Furthermore, German patent application DE 10 2008 042 657 A1 discloses an airbag cover comprising a first connecting section connectable to the airbag cover, a second connecting section connectable to a support part surrounding the airbag cover, and a hinge section arranged between the first and second connecting sections. The hinge section has a first thread system and a second thread system, wherein the threads of the first thread system reach their elongation at break with less elongation of the hinge section than the threads of the second thread system. At least in the hinge area, the threads of the first thread system are attached to the threads of the second thread system multiple times.

[0009] When the airbag is triggered, the forces acting in the direction of pull are gradually reduced until the threads of the thread system, which would tear if the textile hinge were stretched too far, are fully extended.

[0010] A common problem in the airbag application described above is the attachment and embedding of the hinge fabric within the material of the airbag housing or the support structure surrounding the airbag flap. Under the enormous forces generated during the airbag deployment process, the hinge fabric can detach from the airbag housing or support structure, particularly at low and / or high temperatures. This detachment can impair the function of the airbag hinge, especially the safety-critical retraction of the airbag cover, and can cause parts or fragments to fly into the vehicle's interior, potentially injuring the driver or passenger.

[0011] The object underlying the invention is to at least partially overcome the problems known in the prior art in this context.

[0012] The problem is solved by an airbag hinge of the type mentioned above, wherein the hinge textile has textile threads which protrude from the textile plane along one or more fixing thread sections, wherein the fixing thread sections protruding from the textile plane are embedded in the first material area and / or second material area.

[0013] Because the hinge fabric of the airbag hinge has textile threads that protrude from the plane of the fabric along one or more fixing thread sections, and these fixing thread sections are embedded in the first and / or second material area, a secure connection between the hinge fabric and the material of the mounting section is ensured. This reduces, and in particular minimizes, the risk of the hinge fabric detaching from the material of the mounting section when the airbag is deployed.

[0014] The airbag unit can be installed in a vehicle, particularly behind the instrument panel for the passenger airbag, or on the dashboard on the passenger side. In one design variant, the mounting section can be the airbag deployment channel of an airbag housing, which structurally also includes the airbag flap. In other words, the airbag hinge, more precisely its first section, is connected to the airbag deployment channel in this variant, such that the fixing thread sections are embedded within it, i.e., surrounded by the plastic that forms the airbag deployment channel. The first section of material is therefore part of the airbag deployment channel.

[0015] It is possible that the airbag flap is not a structural part of the airbag housing, but rather of the instrument panel (dashboard) of the vehicle, with a section of the instrument panel forming the airbag flap. In this design, the airbag deployment channel is mounted behind the instrument panel, so that the section of the instrument panel forming the airbag flap, when the airbag deployment channel is installed, covers it and thus the airbag itself, and can therefore be functionally considered part of the airbag housing. However, because the airbag deployment channel is separable from the airbag flap, the airbag hinge is not attached to the airbag deployment channel, but rather to the supporting structure that forms, or at least partially forms, and / or supports the instrument panel. Thus, in one design variant, the mounting section can be part of a supporting structure that forms, at least partially forms, and / or supports the instrument panel.In other words, in this variant, the airbag hinge, or more precisely its first section, is connected to the support structure in such a way that the fixing thread sections are embedded within it, i.e., surrounded by the plastic that forms the support structure. The first material section is therefore part of the support structure, specifically part of the instrument panel or dashboard.

[0016] The connection between the fixing thread sections protruding from the textile plane and the first and / or second material layer is resistant to tensile forces, which occur particularly when the airbag is deployed and the airbag flap opens. A predetermined breaking line may be located on the side of the airbag housing facing the vehicle interior, especially on or within the airbag cover. When the airbag is deployed, the airbag housing, particularly the airbag cover, opens along this predetermined breaking line, allowing the airbag to at least partially exit the housing. Similarly, a trim panel covering the airbag flap, which is part of the instrument panel or dashboard, may have a corresponding predetermined breaking line along which the panel tears open when the airbag is deployed, releasing the airbag.In an alternative variant, the airbag flap can be materially independent of the airbag housing and the support structure, so that there is only a predetermined breaking line along the trim covering the airbag flap.

[0017] The airbag flap can be designed as an H-shaped or a U-shaped airbag flap. An H-shaped airbag flap is a double flap, consisting of two individual flaps, each with an airbag hinge, while a U-shaped airbag flap is a single flap with only one airbag hinge. The textile threads can comprise textile fibers. The joining of several textile fibers can form one textile thread or multiple textile threads.

[0018] The inner wall of the airbag deployment channel can be arranged, at least partially, parallel to the airbag flap. The inner wall of the airbag deployment channel can be angled relative to the airbag flap, in particular perpendicular. The textile plane can have a first and a second textile plane region. The first and second textile plane regions can be oriented parallel or obliquely to each other. The airbag hinge has a hinge function. The fixing thread sections protruding from the textile plane can be overmolded using an injection molding process. The first textile plane region can run parallel to the inner wall of the airbag deployment channel, and the second textile plane region can run parallel to the airbag flap. In this arrangement, the first and second textile plane regions are thus at an angle to each other.If the fastening section is part of the support structure, the first textile layer can run parallel to an outer surface of the support structure, and the second textile layer can run parallel to the airbag flap. In this arrangement, the first and second textile layers lie essentially in the same plane, so that the hinge textile extends flat into the support structure.

[0019] The airbag flap can be made of injection-molded material, particularly plastic injection molding. The airbag deployment channel can also be made of injection-molded material, particularly plastic injection molding. The airbag housing can be made of injection-molded material, particularly plastic injection molding. Likewise, the support structure can be made of injection-molded material, particularly plastic injection molding. In the injection molding process, the injection molding material is injected under pressure using an injection mold. During the injection molding process, the injection molding material hardens through cooling or a cross-linking reaction, transitioning from a liquid to a solid state.

[0020] The fixing thread sections protruding from the plane of the textile are located, at least partially, outside the plane of the textile. There may be one or more further first material areas that are associated with the fastening section, in particular the airbag deployment channel or the support structure, and are connected to one or more further sections of the hinge textile.

[0021] There can also be one or more further second material areas assigned to the airbag flap and connected to one or more further sections of the hinge textile. The hinge textile can comprise a woven fabric and / or non-woven fabric and / or knitted fabric, in particular a woven fabric. The hinge textile can comprise natural fibers and / or synthetic fibers. The hinge textile can comprise non-woven fabric and / or nonwoven material and / or felt and / or sewn knit fabric and / or braid and / or knitted fabric. All or only a proportion of the fixing thread sections can be embedded. The hinge textile can be welded to the airbag flap and / or to the mounting section, in particular the airbag deployment channel or the support structure. In an advantageous embodiment of the airbag hinge according to the invention, the fixing thread sections projecting from the plane of the textile comprise first fixing thread sections which are embedded in the first material area.The first fixing thread sections protrude from the plane of the textile. All or only a portion of the first fixing thread sections may be embedded. The first section of the hinge textile may include the first fixing thread sections. The first fixing thread sections may be overmolded, at least partially, within the first material area using injection molding. There may be first fixing thread sections of a first and second length. The first fixing thread sections of a first and second length have a

[0022] Mixing ratio. The first fixing thread sections can be embedded in several material areas. If the fastening section is the airbag deployment channel, the first fixing thread sections can be referred to as channel fixing thread sections.

[0023] In a further advantageous embodiment of the airbag hinge according to the invention, the fixing thread sections projecting from the plane of the textile comprise second fixing thread sections embedded in the second material region. The second fixing thread sections can be referred to as flap fixing thread sections. The second fixing thread sections project from the plane of the textile. Fixing thread sections can comprise both first and second fixing thread sections. The fixing thread sections projecting from the plane of the textile in a section of the hinge textile that is connected to a material region associated with the airbag flap comprise second fixing thread sections. The second section of the hinge textile can include the second fixing thread sections. The second fixing thread sections can be overmolded, at least partially, in the second material region by injection molding.There can be two sets of fixing threads of varying lengths. These sets of fixing threads have a mixture ratio. The sets of fixing threads can be embedded in multiple material regions.

[0024] The airbag hinge according to the invention is further advantageously developed in that the fixing thread sections projecting from the plane of the textile form at least one row of fixing thread sections. In the area where the fixing thread sections projecting from the plane of the textile are embedded in the first or second material region, the fixing thread sections projecting from the plane of the textile form a row of fixing thread sections. The row of fixing thread sections is embedded in the first material region and / or the second material region. The fixing thread sections projecting from the plane of the textile can form a first row of fixing thread sections and a second row of fixing thread sections. The first row of fixing thread sections can be embedded in the first material region. The second row of fixing thread sections can be embedded in the second material region.

[0025] Furthermore, the airbag hinge according to the invention is advantageously further developed by the fact that a pivot axis is located between the first material area and the second material area, and the at least one row of fixing thread sections preferably extends parallel to the pivot axis. The pivot axis relates to the pivoting movement of the airbag flap relative to the mounting section, in particular the airbag deployment channel. When the airbag flap opens, the second material area pivots relative to the first material area along the pivot axis. When the airbag flap opens, the airbag flap pivots relative to the mounting section, in particular to the airbag deployment channel, about the pivot axis. When the airbag flap opens, the position of the pivot axis relative to the airbag flap and / or the mounting section, in particular the airbag deployment channel, is changed. The row of fixing thread sections can extend obliquely to the pivot axis.

[0026] The airbag hinge according to the invention is further advantageously developed in that the fixing thread sections projecting from the plane of the textile are located beyond the pivot axis. The fixing thread sections projecting from the plane of the textile are arranged at a distance of at least 4 mm, preferably at least 8 mm, and particularly preferably at least 12 mm from the pivot axis.

[0027] In an advantageous embodiment of the airbag hinge according to the invention, the fixing thread sections protruding from the plane of the textile form one or more fixing loops. These fixing loops have a three-dimensional structure. Because the fixing thread sections protruding from the plane of the textile form one or more fixing loops, a firm, and in particular resistant, connection is created between the hinge textile and the first and / or second material area. The connection between the fixing loops and the first and / or second material area is resistant to tensile forces, which occur particularly when the airbag is deployed and the airbag flap opens. The fixing loop can be designed as an anchor loop, a knot, a loop, or an open thread end. The open thread end can be formed by tufting.Tufting encompasses the production of textile surfaces with at least one pile layer. Tufting can include sewing and knitting. The knot can be located at one end of one or more tack thread segments protruding from the plane of the textile. The knot can be designed as a connecting knot. A loop can, in particular, comprise tack loops connected in a ring.

[0028] In a further development of the airbag hinge according to the invention, the textile threads along a hinge section comprise hinge thread sections projecting from the plane of the textile, which enable the second material area to pivot relative to the first material area to open the airbag flap. The textile threads can comprise both hinge thread sections projecting from the plane of the textile and first fixing thread sections. The hinge thread sections projecting from the plane of the textile protrude at least 1 mm, preferably at least 2 mm, and particularly preferably at least 3 mm from the plane of the textile.The hinge thread sections protruding from the textile plane form a thread reserve or material reservoir.

[0029] When the airbag is deployed, the airbag flap opens. As the flap opens, the distance between it and the airbag deployment channel increases. Because the hinge fabric has sections of hinge thread protruding from the plane of the fabric, these threads are prevented from tearing when the airbag is deployed. Furthermore, these protruding thread sections ensure that the airbag flap pivots safely relative to the airbag deployment channel.

[0030] In a further preferred embodiment of the airbag hinge according to the invention, the hinge thread sections projecting from the plane of the textile are not embedded in the first material region and / or not embedded in the second material region in the region of the pivot axis. In the region of one or more rows of fixing thread sections, fixing thread sections projecting from the plane of the textile may be embedded in the first material region and / or in the second material region. The hinge thread sections projecting from the plane of the textile are not embedded in the first material region. The hinge thread sections projecting from the plane of the textile are not embedded in the second material region.

[0031] The hinge thread sections protruding from the textile plane are not embedded in the airbag deployment channel. The hinge thread sections protruding from the textile plane are not embedded in the airbag flap.

[0032] The airbag hinge according to the invention is further advantageously developed in that the hinge thread sections projecting from the plane of the textile form at least one row of hinge thread sections. The hinge thread sections projecting from the plane of the textile are not embedded in the first material region and / or not in the second material region in the area of ​​the hinge thread section row. Along the at least one row of hinge thread sections, the second material region can be pivoted relative to the first material region to open the airbag flap.

[0033] In an advantageous embodiment of the airbag hinge according to the invention, the hinge thread section row extends parallel to the pivot axis. Alternatively, the hinge thread section row can also run inclined or obliquely relative to the pivot axis. The hinge thread section row can extend along the pivot axis. In a further preferred embodiment of the airbag hinge according to the invention, the hinge thread sections projecting from the plane of the textile extend along the pivot axis. The hinge thread sections project out of the plane of the textile along the pivot axis. Because the hinge thread sections projecting from the plane of the textile extend along the pivot axis, safe pivoting of the airbag flap relative to the airbag deployment channel is enabled.

[0034] In a preferred embodiment of the airbag hinge according to the invention, the hinge thread sections projecting from the plane of the textile form one or more hinge loops projecting from the plane of the textile. The one or more hinge loops can be designed as anchor loops and / or knots and / or loops. The knots can be located at one or more ends of one or more hinge thread sections projecting from the plane of the textile. The knots can be designed as connecting knots. The loops can, in particular, comprise ring-shaped connected loops. The hinge loops are not embedded in the first material region. The hinge loops are not embedded in the second material region. The hinge loops are not embedded in the airbag deployment channel. The hinge loops are not embedded in the airbag flap.

[0035] In an advantageous embodiment of the airbag hinge according to the invention, the one or more fixing loops and the one or more hinge loops have different or identical loop lengths. The loop length of the fixing loops can be at least 1.2 times, preferably at least 1.5 times, and particularly preferably at least 2.0 times the loop length of the hinge loops. The loop length of the hinge loops can be at least 1.2 times, preferably at least 1.5 times, and particularly preferably at least 2.0 times the loop length of the fixing loops. The loop length of the fixing loops can be at least 1 mm, preferably at least 2 mm, and particularly preferably at least 3 mm. The loop length of the hinge loops can be at least 1 mm, preferably at least 2 mm, and particularly preferably at least 3 mm.In an advantageous embodiment of the airbag hinge according to the invention, the one or more fixing loops and the one or more hinge loops have a different number of loops or a matching number of loops.

[0036] In a further preferred embodiment of the airbag hinge according to the invention, the hinge thread sections protruding from the plane of the textile form at least one fold. The hinge thread sections protruding from the plane of the textile can be folded once or multiple times. The fold can be a zigzag fold and / or a wrap fold and / or a window fold, in particular an altar fold, and / or a parallel center fold.

[0037] In a preferred embodiment of the airbag hinge according to the invention, the fixing thread sections and the hinge thread sections projecting from the plane of the textile protrude from the textile plane on different sides of the hinge textile. The fixing thread sections projecting from the plane of the textile are located, at least partially, outside the plane of the textile. The hinge thread sections projecting from the plane of the textile are located, at least partially, outside the plane of the textile.

[0038] As already mentioned, the first section of the hinge textile can comprise first fixing thread sections projecting from the plane of the textile, and the second section of the hinge textile can comprise second fixing thread sections projecting from the plane of the textile. Preferably, the first fixing thread sections and the second fixing thread sections project from the plane of the textile on the same side of the hinge textile.

[0039] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the airbag hinge according to the invention, the at least one row of fixing thread sections and the at least one row of hinge thread sections run parallel to each other. The at least one row of fixing thread sections and the at least one row of hinge thread sections can be spaced apart from each other. The at least one row of fixing thread sections can have a distance of at least 4 mm, preferably at least 8 mm, and particularly preferably at least 12 mm from the row of hinge thread sections.

[0040] In a further embodiment of the airbag hinge according to the invention, the thread density of the hinge textile in a first textile area between the fixing thread sections projecting from the textile plane and the hinge thread sections projecting from the textile plane is increased compared to the thread density of the hinge textile outside this textile area. Alternatively or additionally, the thread density of the hinge textile in a second textile area, which extends along the textile plane at a distance of 0.5 cm to 5 cm from the fixing thread sections, particularly in the direction away from the hinge thread sections, can be increased compared to the thread density of the hinge textile outside the second textile area. Ideally, the thread density within the second textile area increases in the direction of the fixing thread sections. The thread density can be determined by the spacing of the base threads, particularly weft threads, running perpendicular to the textile threads.The increased thread density makes the connection between the mounting section and the airbag flap more resistant to tensile forces, which occur particularly when the airbag deploys and the airbag flap opens. Furthermore, the thread density can influence the penetration of the plastic through the hinge fabric, thus defining different penetration zones in which the plastic penetrates the hinge fabric to varying degrees. The higher the density, the less effectively the plastic penetrates the hinge fabric, and vice versa.

[0041] The airbag hinge can have weft threads in the first textile area between the fixing thread sections projecting from the textile plane and the hinge thread sections projecting from the textile plane, and outside the first textile area. Furthermore, the airbag hinge can have weft threads in the second textile area. All weft threads lie within the textile plane. The thread density of the weft threads in the first and / or second textile area is higher than the thread density of the weft threads outside the textile area. The thread density, in particular, includes a thread count and describes the number of threads per centimeter. The thread density outside the first and / or second textile area is at least 2 threads / cm, preferably at least 4 threads / cm, and particularly preferably 6 threads / cm. The thread density in the first and / or second textile area is at least 3 threads / cm, preferably at least 5 threads / cm, and particularly preferably 8 threads / cm.The weft threads can consist of natural fibers and / or synthetic threads. The weft threads can be made from a mixture of natural fibers and synthetic threads. The natural fibers can include cotton.

[0042] The airbag hinge according to the invention is further advantageously developed in that the hinge textile has sacrificial threads which are designed to break when the airbag is deployed. All sacrificial threads lie in the plane of the textile. When the airbag is deployed, the tensile force on the sacrificial threads increases and the distance between the airbag flap and the airbag deployment channel is increased. The tensile strength of the sacrificial threads may be reduced compared to the tensile strength of the fixing thread sections that protrude from the plane of the textile. The tensile strength of the sacrificial threads may also be reduced compared to the tensile strength of the textile threads.

[0043] The airbag hinge may contain weft threads. The tensile strength of the sacrificial threads may be reduced compared to the tensile strength of the weft threads. The tensile strength of the sacrificial threads may be increased compared to the tensile strength of the weft threads. Due to the reduced tensile strength of the sacrificial threads, they may break when the airbag is deployed. The tensile strength may be, in particular, a tensile strength. The tensile strength of a single sacrificial thread may be a maximum of 30 cN / tex, particularly preferably a maximum of 25 cN / tex. The total tensile strength of all sacrificial threads in the hinge fabric may be between 50 N / 5cm and 2,000 N / 5cm, particularly preferably between 100 N / 5cm and 1,000 N / 5cm. The sacrificial threads do not include any fixing loops and / or hinge loops. The sacrificial threads may consist of or comprise natural fibers and / or synthetic threads.The sacrificial threads can be made from a mixture of natural and synthetic fibers. The natural fibers can include or be cotton. In a further development of the airbag hinge according to the invention, the hinge textile has stop threads which are designed to hold the airbag flap at the mounting section, in particular at the airbag deployment channel, upon deployment of the airbag. When the airbag is deployed, the tensile force on the stop threads increases, and the distance between the airbag flap and the airbag deployment channel is increased. The tensile strength of the stop threads can correspond to the tensile strength of the fixing thread sections protruding from the plane of the textile. The total tensile strength of all stop threads in the hinge textile can be between 1,000 N / 5 cm and 8,000 N / 5 cm, and is particularly preferably between 2,000 N / 5 cm and 6,000 N / 5 cm. At least a portion of the textile threads can form stop threads.Due to the increased tensile strength of the stop threads, the airbag flap can pivot safely relative to the mounting section when the airbag is deployed. The stop threads may include fixing loops and / or hinge loops. The stop threads may be made of or contain synthetic fibers and / or natural fibers. Natural fibers may include or contain cotton.

[0044] In an advantageous embodiment of the airbag hinge according to the invention, the sacrificial threads have a lower tensile strength than the stop threads. The tensile strength of the stop threads is increased compared to the tensile strength of the sacrificial threads. The airbag hinge may include weft threads. The tensile strength of the stop threads may be increased compared to the tensile strength of the weft threads. Because the sacrificial threads have a lower tensile strength than the stop threads, they break when the airbag is deployed. The sacrificial threads are shorter than the stop threads. If the stop threads include fixing loops and / or hinge loops, they are longer than the sacrificial threads, because the sacrificial threads do not include fixing loops and / or hinge loops. The fact that the sacrificial threads break when the airbag is deployed ensures that the airbag flap can pivot safely relative to the mounting section.Because the sacrificial threads break when the airbag is deployed, the distance between the airbag flap and the mounting section increases when the airbag flap pivots relative to the mounting section. In an advantageous embodiment, the airbag hinge according to the invention comprises one or more weft threads, wherein the one or more weft threads in the area of ​​the fixing loops and / or hinge loops exhibit increased friction. The weft threads in the area of ​​the fixing loops and / or hinge loops have increased friction compared to weft threads outside the area of ​​the fixing loops and / or hinge loops. The weft threads in the area of ​​the fixing loops lie in the plane of the textile. The fixing loops project at least partially out of the plane of the textile in the area of ​​the fixing loops. The weft threads in the area of ​​the hinge loops lie in the plane of the textile.The hinge loops protrude at least partially from the plane of the fabric in the area of ​​the hinge loops. At least one weft insertion with a weft thread featuring increased friction may be provided within the area of ​​the fixing loops and / or hinge loops. One to three weft insertions may be provided in front of and / or behind the area of ​​the fixing loops and / or hinge loops.

[0045] During loop formation, fixing loops and / or hinge loops can be created by pulling the sacrificial threads of the hinge fabric forward and backward. Fixing loops and / or hinge loops can also be formed by not pulling back, or only minimally pulling back, the stop threads when pulling back the sacrificial threads of the hinge fabric. The friction between the sacrificial threads and the weft threads with increased friction is higher than the friction between the sacrificial threads and weft threads without increased friction. The tensile strength of the weft threads with increased friction may be higher than that of the sacrificial threads. Conversely, the tensile strength of the weft threads with increased friction may be lower than that of the sacrificial threads. During loop formation, free thread material can be created when the sacrificial threads are pulled back by the stop threads.The weft threads with increased friction serve to reduce the amount of free thread material generated when the sacrificial threads are retracted by the stop threads during loop formation. If the hinge fabric incorporates weft threads with increased friction, larger and more uniform loop shapes can be formed for the fixing loops and / or hinge loops than if the hinge fabric does not have weft threads with increased friction. The weft threads with increased friction can consist of an adhesive-coated yarn. The yarn core of the adhesive-coated yarn can comprise synthetic and / or mineral materials. Mineral materials can include, for example, glass or fiberglass. Synthetic materials can include, for example, polyester, Kevlar, polyamide, and / or nylon. The adhesive coating the yarn can comprise ethylene vinyl acetate, polyamide, polyester, polyolefin, and / or polyurethane.The adhesive coating the yarn can be a hot melt adhesive, a silicone adhesive, and / or a contact adhesive, particularly a solvent-based adhesive. Weft threads with increased friction can be made from yarn with a rough surface and / or textured yarn. Yarn with a rough surface can include synthetic yarn, semi-synthetic yarn, and / or natural fiber yarn. Weft threads with increased friction can include spliced ​​yarn and / or ribbon yarn. The friction of the weft threads can be based on surface roughness. The weft threads with increased friction can include adhesive threads. The weft threads with increased friction can be coated with polymers, particularly polyvinyl chloride. The weft threads with increased friction can include coated man-made fibers. The weft threads with increased friction can include coated ribbons, natural fibers, and / or glass fiber.The weft threads with increased friction can include uncoated ribbons, natural fibers and / or fiberglass.

[0046] The problem underlying the invention is further solved by an airbag unit of the type mentioned above, wherein the airbag hinge is designed according to one of the embodiments described above. The airbag hinge, the airbag module, and the airbag housing are installed in a vehicle. The airbag hinge and / or the airbag module and / or the airbag housing can be located on the passenger side of the vehicle. In the event of a vehicle accident, in particular a vehicle impact, the airbag is triggered. Upon triggering the airbag, the airbag is inflated by the airbag module. The airbag deployment channel can comprise injection molding. The airbag flap can comprise injection molding. The injection molding can comprise plastic injection molding. The airbag module can be connected to the airbag housing by frictional, positive, and / or material-bonded connection. The airbag flap can, at least in some areas, run obliquely to the airbag deployment channel.The airbag flap can run perpendicular to the airbag deployment channel, at least in some areas. The airbag flap can also run parallel to the airbag deployment channel, at least in some areas.

[0047] The airbag unit according to the invention is advantageously further developed in that the airbag housing comprises or is made of a plastic injection molding material. In the injection molding process, the plastic injection molding material is injected under pressure using an injection mold. During the injection molding process, the plastic injection molding material hardens by cooling or a cross-linking reaction, whereby the plastic injection molding material transitions from a liquid to a solid state. The airbag housing can comprise plastic and / or metal and / or at least one composite material.

[0048] The problem underlying the invention is further solved by a hinge textile of the type mentioned at the outset, wherein the textile threads comprise at least one row of fixing thread sections with fixing thread sections of the textile threads projecting from a textile plane of the hinge textile, and at least one row of hinge thread sections spaced apart from the at least one row of fixing thread sections with hinge thread sections of the textile threads projecting from the textile plane. The hinge textile can comprise a first section which can be connected to a first material area associated with a fastening section, in particular an airbag firing channel of an airbag housing, and the hinge textile can comprise a second section which can be connected to a second material area associated with an airbag flap of an airbag housing.The fixing thread sections protruding from the plane of the textile are arranged along at least one row of fixing thread sections. The hinge thread sections protruding from the plane of the textile are arranged along at least one row.

[0049] A series of hinge thread sections is arranged. The hinge textile can comprise or be a woven fabric and / or non-woven fabric and / or knitted fabric. The hinge textile can comprise natural fibers and / or synthetic fibers. The hinge textile can comprise non-woven fabric and / or nonwoven material and / or felt and / or sewn knit fabric and / or braid and / or knitted fabric. The at least one row of fixing thread sections and the at least one row of hinge thread sections are spaced at least 4 mm, preferably at least 8 mm, and particularly preferably at least 12 mm apart. The at least one row of fixing thread sections and the at least one row of hinge thread sections can run parallel to each other. The fixing thread sections projecting from the plane of the textile are located, at least partially, outside the plane of the textile. The projecting hinge thread sections are located, at least partially, outside the plane of the textile.The fixing thread sections protruding from the plane of the textile protrude at least 0.5 mm, preferably at least 1 mm, and particularly preferably at least 2 mm from the plane of the textile. The hinge thread sections protruding from the plane of the textile protrude at least 0.5 mm, preferably at least 1 mm, and particularly preferably at least 2 mm from the plane of the textile.

[0050] In a preferred embodiment of the hinge textile according to the invention, the fixing thread sections and the hinge thread sections projecting from the textile plane protrude from the textile plane on different sides of the hinge textile. The fixing thread sections projecting from the textile plane are located, at least partially, outside the textile plane. The hinge thread sections projecting from the textile plane are located, at least partially, outside the textile plane. The first section of the hinge textile can include fixing thread sections projecting from the textile plane. The fixing thread sections of the first section projecting from the textile plane are located, at least partially, in a first fixing thread plane. The second section of the hinge textile can include fixing thread sections projecting from the textile plane.The fixing thread sections of the second section that protrude from the plane of the textile are located, at least partially, in a second fixing thread plane. The first and second fixing planes can be congruent or different, and in particular, they can run obliquely to each other.

[0051] The problem underlying the invention is further solved by a method for manufacturing an airbag hinge of the type mentioned above, wherein connecting the first section of the hinge textile to the first material area comprises embedding fixing thread sections of the textile threads projecting from a textile plane of the hinge textile in the first material area, and / or connecting the second section of the hinge textile to the second material area comprises embedding fixing thread sections of the textile threads projecting from a textile plane of the hinge textile in the second material area. The inventive method for manufacturing an airbag hinge preferably produces an airbag hinge according to one of the embodiments described above.

[0052] Regarding the advantages and modifications of the inventive method for manufacturing an airbag hinge, reference is made to the advantages and modifications of the inventive airbag hinge. The fixing thread sections protruding from a textile plane can form fixing loops. Embedding fixing thread sections of the textile threads protruding from a textile plane of the hinge textile in the first material area can include overmolding the protruding fixing thread sections of the textile threads with injection-molded plastic. Embedding fixing thread sections of the textile threads protruding from a textile plane of the hinge textile in the second material area can include overmolding the protruding fixing thread sections of the textile threads with injection-molded plastic. Injection-molded plastic material is injected under pressure from an injection mold.In the injection molding process, the injection-molded plastic material hardens through cooling or a cross-linking reaction, transitioning from a liquid to a solid state. The hinge textile can be produced using a gripper loom. A gripper loom can comprise at least one reed, in particular at least one loom reed. A gripper loom can comprise one or more shafts. A gripper loom can comprise at least one gripper. The fixing thread sections protruding from the plane of the textile enable the airbag flap to pivot securely relative to the mounting section.

[0053] In an advantageous embodiment of the inventive method, providing the hinge textile comprising textile threads includes generating fixing thread sections projecting from a textile plane of the hinge textile. The hinge textile can be produced with one or more fixing loops of the textile threads projecting from the textile plane. The fixing loops can be formed by drawing the sacrificial threads of the hinge textile forward and backward in the gripper weaving machine. The fixing loops can be formed by not drawing the stop threads back, or only drawing them back minimally, when drawing back the sacrificial threads of the hinge textile, so that the stop threads form fixing loops. Because the stop threads are not drawn back, or only drawn back minimally, free, or unstretched, loop material is formed. The threads can be drawn back by actively reversing the respective warp beam.When the hinged fabric is retracted, the sacrificial threads are retracted in particular, so that they do not form fixing loops. The sacrificial threads can be placed on one or more different warp beams than the stop threads. In this case, one or more of the warp beams of the sacrificial threads can be retracted, while one or more of the warp beams of the stop threads rotate in the opposite direction to the rotation of the sacrificial threads. The resulting free, or loose, thread material of the stop threads forms a loop, for example, a fixing loop, with the free thread material. The fixing loops have a three-dimensional structure. The fixing loop can be formed as an anchor loop and / or a knot and / or a loop. The knot can be located at one end of one or more fixing thread segments protruding from the plane of the fabric.The knot can be designed as a connecting knot. A loop can, in particular, comprise ring-shaped, connected fixing loops.

[0054] The problem underlying the invention is further solved by a method for producing a hinge textile of the type mentioned at the outset, comprising the steps of: generating at least one row of fixing thread sections with fixing thread sections of the textile threads projecting from the plane of the textile, and generating at least one row of hinge thread sections spaced apart from the at least one row of fixing thread sections with hinge thread sections of the textile threads projecting from the plane of the textile. The method according to the invention for producing a hinge textile preferably produces a hinge textile according to one of the embodiments described above. With regard to the advantages and modifications of the method according to the invention for producing a hinge textile, reference is therefore made to the advantages and modifications of the hinge textile according to the invention.The at least one row of fixing thread sections can be spaced at least 4 mm, preferably at least 8 mm, particularly preferably at least 12 mm away from the row of hinge thread sections.

[0055] Further features, advantages, properties, and effects of the invention are explained below with reference to an exemplary embodiment and the accompanying figures. Reference numerals in the various figures denote identical or at least functionally equivalent components, parts of components, spatial regions, sections, surfaces, directions, and the like. Where a specific feature is described above or below in connection with a particular embodiment, it is hereby clarified that this feature may also be part of another described embodiment, unless expressly stated otherwise or technically excluded.

[0056] It should be noted that, within the context of this description, the terms "exhibit," "comprise," or "include" in no way exclude the presence of other characteristics. Furthermore, the use of the indefinite article for an object does not preclude its plural form.

[0057] This shows:

[0058] Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of an airbag unit according to the invention in a schematic and perspective sectional view;

[0059] Fig. 2 shows a further embodiment of an airbag unit according to the invention in a schematic and perspective sectional view;

[0060] Fig. 2a shows a further embodiment of an airbag unit according to the invention in a schematic sectional view;

[0061] Fig. 3 shows a top view of an airbag housing of an airbag unit according to the invention with an H-flap in a perspective view;

[0062] Fig. 3a shows a top view of an airbag housing of an airbag unit according to the invention with a U-shaped flap in a perspective view; Fig. 4 shows an embodiment of an airbag hinge according to the invention in a schematic perspective view;

[0063] Fig. 5 shows an embodiment of an airbag hinge according to the invention in a schematic side view;

[0064] Fig. 6 shows an embodiment of a hinge textile according to the invention in a schematic top view;

[0065] Fig. 7 shows a further embodiment of a hinge textile according to the invention in a schematic top view; and Fig. 8 shows a further embodiment of a hinge textile according to the invention in a schematic top view.

[0066] Fig. 1 shows an airbag unit 200 located on the passenger side of a motor vehicle, which is connected to the motor vehicle. The vehicle interior 300 includes a trim panel 302, which conceals the airbag unit 200 from the vehicle interior 300. The trim panel 302 essentially forms the instrument panel of the vehicle. The airbag unit 200 comprises an airbag housing 202, an airbag module 210 containing an airbag 212, a protective layer 214, a first airbag hinge 100a, and a second airbag hinge 100b. The airbag housing 202 comprises an airbag deployment channel 204 and an airbag cover 206 comprising a first airbag flap 208a and a second airbag flap 208b. The surface of the airbag cover 206 facing the vehicle interior 300 rests against the inner surface of the trim panel 302 facing away from the vehicle interior 300.

[0067] The housing of the airbag module 210 is predominantly made of metal. The airbag module 210 includes a sensor designed to detect a vehicle impact. The airbag 212 is made of plastic. The protective layer 214 comprises a fabric or non-woven material. The first airbag hinge 100a and the second airbag hinge 100b each have a hinge action. The airbag housing 202 is made of an injection-molded plastic material.

[0068] Upon impact of the vehicle, the airbag 212 is inflated by the airbag module 210, and the protective layer 214 is destroyed by the inflated airbag 212. During inflation, the airbag 212 presses against the inner surface of the first airbag flap 208a and the second airbag flap 208b, the surface facing away from the vehicle interior 300. The first airbag flap 208a and the second airbag flap 208b are opened by the inflated airbag 212 due to the hinge action of the airbag hinge 100a, and the second airbag flap 208b are opened due to the hinge action of the airbag hinge 100b, causing the first airbag flap 208a and the second airbag flap 208b to pivot. By opening and pivoting the first airbag flap 208a and the second airbag flap 208b, the area of ​​the trim 302 covering the first airbag flap 208a and the second airbag flap 208b opens and an area of ​​the inflated airbag 212 protrudes from the trim 302.

[0069] Fig. 2 shows a portion of an airbag unit 200 concealed by a body panel 302 of the motor vehicle. The airbag unit 200 comprises an airbag housing 202, an airbag module 210 containing an airbag 212, a protective layer 214, and an airbag hinge 100a. The airbag housing 202 includes an airbag deployment channel 204 and an airbag cover 206 comprising an airbag flap 208a.

[0070] The surface of the airbag cover 206 facing the vehicle interior 300 runs parallel to the inner surface of the trim panel 302 facing away from the vehicle interior 300. The airbag deployment channel 204 is arranged perpendicularly to the airbag flap 208a.

[0071] The airbag 212 comprises an inflatable air sack made of plastic. The protective layer 214 comprises a plastic fabric or a non-woven material.

[0072] Fig. 2a shows another embodiment of an airbag unit 200. It differs from the embodiment in Figures 1 and 2, in particular, in that it has only one airbag flap 208c (U-shaped flap) and consequently only one airbag hinge 100a. Furthermore, the airbag flap 208c is structurally separated from the airbag housing 202, of which only the airbag deployment channel 204 is shown here. The airbag housing 202, with its airbag deployment channel 204, is mounted at the rear to a support structure 196, which acts as an airbag cover facing the vehicle interior 300 and, from the perspective of the vehicle interior 300, simultaneously forms the instrument panel (or dashboard) of the vehicle. A section of the instrument panel, more precisely a section of the support structure 196, forms the airbag flap 208c, in that the section is limited by a predetermined breaking line in the form of a reduction in the wall thickness of the support structure 196.The support structure 196 tears open along the predetermined breaking line 208 when the unfolding airbag 212 explosively pushes the sub-area, more precisely the airbag flap 208c, outwards.

[0073] Another significant difference is that, in the embodiment shown in Figure 2a, the airbag hinge 100a is not connected to the airbag deployment channel 204, but rather to the support structure 196, more precisely to that part of the support structure 196 located beyond the airbag flap 208c. Thus, part of the support structure 196 forms a mounting section for the airbag hinge 100a. The airbag hinge 100a comprises

[0074] - a hinge textile extending within a textile plane E 10,

[0075] - a first material area 102a, which is assigned to the fastening section, more precisely a material area of ​​the fastening section of the support structure 196, and which is connected to a first section 12a of the hinge textile 10; and

[0076] - a second material area 102b, which is assigned to the airbag flap 208c, more precisely a material area of ​​the airbag flap 208c, and which is connected to a second section 12b of the hinge textile 10.

[0077] The second material area 102b is pivotable relative to the first material area 102a about a pivot axis that extends along the predetermined breaking line 208 between the airbag flap 208c and the fastening section of the support structure 196 in order to open the airbag flap 208c.

[0078] The hinge textile 10 has textile threads 14 which protrude from the textile plane E along fixing thread sections 16, the fixing thread sections 16 being embedded in the first material area 102a and in the second material area 102b. More precisely, first fixing thread sections 16, 18 are embedded in the plastic of the first material area 102a, i.e., in the support structure 196, and second fixing thread sections 16, 20 are embedded in the plastic of the second material area 102b, i.e., in the airbag flap 208c, the plastics being identical in this embodiment. This embedding is achieved by injection molding the hinge textile 10 with the plastic on the side of the textile plane E from which the fixing thread sections 16, 18, 20 protrude. The fixing thread sections 16, 18, 20 form fixing loops.The hinge textile 10 itself is therefore not embedded, although this would be possible section by section, at least insofar as a hinge area would remain free.

[0079] Furthermore, Figure 2a shows that the hinge textile 10, in the area between the airbag flap 208c and the mounting section of the support structure 196, has hinge thread sections 26 in the form of hinge loops 30 that protrude from the textile plane E, but on the side facing away from the fixing thread sections 16, 18, 20. Figure 2a shows only one such hinge loop 30, while the other hinge loops 30 are located behind the hinge loop 30 shown.

[0080] Fig. 3 shows an airbag housing 202. The airbag housing 202 includes an airbag cover 206. The airbag cover 206 includes predetermined breaking lines 208, a first airbag flap 208a and a second airbag flap 208b.

[0081] The airbag housing 202 is made of an injection-molded plastic material.

[0082] When the airbag 212 is deployed, the material of the airbag cover 206 tears or breaks along the predetermined breaking lines 208, and the first airbag flap 208a and the second airbag flap 208b open such that the first airbag flap 208a pivots on a pivot axis 104a and the second airbag flap 208b pivots on a second pivot axis 104b. When the first airbag flap 208a and second airbag flap 208b open, a portion of the inflated airbag 212 leaves the airbag housing 202.

[0083] Fig. 3a shows an airbag housing 202 belonging to Fig. 2a, which has an airbag cover 206 with predetermined breaking lines 208 and is formed only from an airbag flap 208c. The airbag housing 202 is also made of an injection-molded plastic material. Fig. 4 shows a first airbag hinge 100a and a second airbag hinge 100b, as well as a first hinge fabric 10a and a second hinge fabric 10b. The first airbag hinge 100a and the second airbag hinge 100b each comprise a first material area 102a and a second material area 102b. The first airbag hinge 100a comprises a pivot axis 104a, and the second airbag hinge 100b comprises a pivot axis 104b. The first material area 102a is assigned to the airbag deployment channel 204 of the airbag unit 200, which here forms the mounting section for the airbag hinge. The second material area 102b is assigned to the first airbag flap 208a or the second airbag flap 208b.The first hinge textile 10a or second hinge textile 10b comprises a first section 12a and a second section 12b, textile threads 14 and hinge sections 15.

[0084] The first hinge textile 10a and the second hinge textile 10b are each connected to the first material area 102a in the first section 12a and to the second material area 102b in the second section 12b. The textile threads 14 comprise fixing thread sections 16 and hinge thread sections 26. The fixing thread sections 16 projecting from the textile plane E are embedded in the material of the airbag housing 202. The fixing thread sections 16 embedded in the first material area 102a are first fixing thread sections or channel fixing thread sections 18. The fixing thread sections 16 embedded in the second material area 102b are second fixing thread sections or flap fixing thread sections 20. The fixing thread sections 16 are arranged along a row of fixing thread sections 22. The fixing thread sections 16 are formed as fixing loops 24.

[0085] The hinge thread sections 26 have textile threads 14 protruding from the textile plane E, which are not embedded in the material of the airbag housing 202. The hinge thread sections 26 are arranged along a row 28 of hinge thread sections. The hinge thread sections 26 are designed as hinge loops 30. A predetermined breaking line 208 runs between the first airbag flap 208a and the second airbag flap 208b. The side of the first airbag flap 208a and the second airbag flap 208b facing the vehicle interior 300 is covered by a trim panel 302 located in the vehicle interior 300. The airbag module 210, comprising the airbag 212, is covered by the airbag housing 202 in such a way that it is enclosed laterally by the inner wall of the airbag firing channel 204 and is concealed towards the vehicle interior 302 by the first airbag flap 208a and second airbag flap 208b.

[0086] The airbag housing 202, the airbag deployment channel 204, the first airbag flap 208a, and the second airbag flap 208b are manufactured using plastic injection molding. The textile threads 14 comprise natural fibers. The fixing thread sections 16, which protrude from the textile plane E, are overmolded in the plastic injection molding process such that they are embedded in the plastic injection molding material of the airbag housing 202. The fixing thread sections 16 protrude between 0.5 mm and 8 mm from the textile plane E. The hinge thread sections 26 protrude between 0.5 mm and 8 mm from the textile plane E. The fixing loops 24 have a three-dimensional structure. The hinge loops 30 have a three-dimensional structure. Along the predetermined breaking line 208, the plastic injection molding material of the airbag housing 202 has a reduced thickness compared to the plastic injection molding material of the airbag housing 202 outside the area of ​​the predetermined breaking line 208.

[0087] When the airbag 212 is deployed, it is inflated by the airbag module 210. The inflated airbag 212 presses against the inner surface of the first airbag flap 208a and the second airbag flap 208b. The predetermined breaking line 208 tears, and the first airbag flap 208a pivots along the pivot axis 104a, and the second airbag flap 208b also pivots along the pivot axis 104b. The inflated airbag 212 protrudes partially from the airbag housing 202 between the open first airbag flap 208a and the open second airbag flap 208b.

[0088] Fig. 5 shows an airbag unit 200, a first airbag hinge 100a with a hinge action, a second airbag hinge 100b with a hinge action, and a first hinge textile 10a and a second hinge textile 10b. The airbag unit 200 comprises an airbag 212 and an airbag housing 202 with an airbag deployment channel 204, an airbag cover 206 comprising predetermined breaking lines 208, a first airbag flap 208a, and a second airbag flap 208b. The first hinge textile 10a and the second hinge textile 10b each comprise sacrificial threads 32, stop threads 34, and hinge thread sections 26 designed as hinge loops 30, which protrude from the plane of the textile.

[0089] In the closed state Z1, the first airbag flap 208a and the second airbag flap 208b are oriented perpendicular to the airbag deployment channel 204. The hinge loops 30 protrude from the textile plane E without tension.

[0090] In the first opened state Z2, the airbag 212 is partially inflated. The partially inflated airbag 212 presses against the inner surface of the first airbag flap 208a and second airbag flap 208b facing the airbag 212, and the predetermined breaking lines 208 tear. Due to the hinge action of the first airbag hinge 100a, the first airbag flap 208a pivots in a direction away from the airbag 212, and the second airbag flap 208b pivots in a direction away from the airbag 212 due to the hinge action of the second airbag hinge 100b. The airbag 212 protrudes partially beyond the airbag cover 206. The first airbag flap 208a and the second airbag flap 208b pivot in such a way that an opening forms between them. The portion of the hinge loops 30 protruding from the textile plane E is shortened due to the pivoting of the first airbag flap 208a and the second airbag flap 208b.The sacrificial threads 32 are under increased tension relative to the closed state Z1.

[0091] In a second open state Z3, the airbag 212 is fully inflated. The fully inflated airbag 212 pushes the first airbag flap 208a and second airbag flap 208b open in such a way that they continue to pivot in a direction away from the airbag 212. The sacrificial threads 32 are broken, and the portion of the hinge loops 30 that protrudes from the textile plane E in the closed state Z1 and the first open state Z2 is shortened to such an extent that the hinge loops 30 lie completely within the textile plane E. A larger area of ​​the airbag 212 protrudes beyond the airbag cover 206 relative to the first open state Z2.

[0092] Fig. 6 shows a hinge textile 10. The hinge textile 10 comprises interwoven sacrificial threads 32, stop threads 34, weft threads 36, and weft threads with increased friction 37. The stop threads 34 are formed in some areas as fixing loops 24 and in others as hinge loops 30. The fixing loops 24 project out of the textile plane E towards the upper surface 0 of the fabric. The hinge loops 30 project out of the textile plane E towards the lower surface U of the fabric. The sacrificial threads 32 and stop threads 34 run parallel to each other. The weft threads 36 run perpendicular to the sacrificial threads 32 and stop threads 34. The sacrificial threads 32 have reduced tensile strength compared to the stop threads 34, weft threads 36, and weft threads with increased friction 37. The sacrificial threads 32, stop threads 34, weft threads 36, and weft threads with increased friction 37 are made of synthetic fibers.

[0093] Fig. 7 shows a hinge textile 10 in a first process step V1 and a second process step V2. The hinge textile 10 comprises sacrificial threads 32, stop threads 34, weft threads 36 and weft threads with increased friction 37.

[0094] In the first process step V1, the sacrificial threads 32, stop threads 34, weft threads 36, and weft threads with increased friction 37 are interwoven. During interweaving, the hinge textile 10 is advanced in a machine direction M, and weft threads 38 are omitted in certain areas.

[0095] In process step V2, the hinge textile 10 is retracted in the machine direction M. This retraction creates 38 hinge loops 30 in the area of ​​the released weft threads. The hinge loops 30 protrude from the textile plane E towards the underside of the fabric U.

[0096] The weft threads 36 and the weft threads with increased friction 37 run parallel to each other. The weft threads 36 and the weft threads with increased friction 37 run perpendicular to the sacrificial threads 32 and the stop threads 34. The sacrificial threads 32 have reduced tensile strength compared to the stop threads 34, weft threads 36, and the weft threads with increased friction 37. The sacrificial threads 32, stop threads 34, weft threads 36, and weft threads with increased friction 37 are made of natural fibers. The sacrificial threads 32 and stop threads 34 run parallel to each other. Fig. 8 shows a hinge textile 10. The hinge textile 10 comprises interwoven sacrificial threads 32, stop threads 34, weft threads 36, and weft threads with increased friction 37. The stop threads 34 are formed in some areas as fixing loops 24 and in others as hinge loops 30. The sacrificial threads 32 and stop threads 34 run parallel to each other.The weft threads 36 run perpendicular to the sacrificial threads 32 and stop threads 34. The weft threads with increased friction 37 run perpendicular to the sacrificial threads 32 and stop threads 34. The weft threads 36 run parallel to the weft threads with increased friction 37. The sacrificial threads 32 have reduced tensile strength compared to the stop threads 34. The thread density of the weft threads 36 and the weft threads with increased friction 37 is higher in textile area T than the thread density of the weft threads 36 and the weft threads with increased friction 37 outside textile area T. Thus, the thread density of the hinge textile 10 is also higher in textile area T than the thread density of the hinge textile 10 outside textile area T.

[0097] More precisely, the thread density of the hinge textile 10 in a first textile area T1 between the fixing thread sections 16 and the hinge thread sections 26 is increased compared to the thread density of the hinge textile 10 outside the first textile area T1. Furthermore, the thread density of the hinge textile 10 in a second textile area T2, which extends along the textile plane E at a distance of 0.5 cm to 5 cm from the fixing thread sections 16, is increased compared to the thread density of the hinge textile 10 outside the second textile area T2.

[0098] It should be noted that the foregoing description is given merely as an example for illustrative purposes and in no way limits the scope of protection of the invention. Features of the invention that are indicated as "may," "exemplary," "preferred," "optional," "ideal," "advantageous," "if applicable," or "suitable" are to be considered purely optional and likewise do not limit the scope of protection, which is exclusively defined by the claims. Insofar as the foregoing description mentions elements, components, process steps, values, or information that have known, obvious, or foreseeable equivalents, these equivalents are also encompassed by the invention.Likewise, the invention includes any changes, alterations or modifications of embodiments which involve the replacement, addition, modification or omission of elements, components, process steps, values ​​or information, as long as the basic idea of ​​the invention is retained, regardless of whether the change, alteration or modification leads to an improvement or deterioration of an embodiment.

[0099] Although the foregoing description of the invention mentions a multitude of physical, intangible, or process-related features relating to one or more specific embodiments, these features can also be used in isolation from the specific embodiment, at least insofar as they do not necessarily require the presence of further features. Conversely, these features mentioned in relation to one or more specific embodiments can be combined arbitrarily with one another and with further disclosed or undisclosed features of illustrated or unillustrated embodiments, at least insofar as the features do not mutually exclude each other or lead to technical incompatibilities.

[0100] Reference sign

[0101] 10, 10a, 10b Hinge textile

[0102] 12a, 12b Sections of the hinge textile

[0103] 14 textile threads

[0104] 15 hinge sections

[0105] 16 fixing thread sections

[0106] 18 channel fixing thread sections

[0107] 20 flap fixing thread sections

[0108] 22 rows of fixing thread sections

[0109] 24 fixing loops

[0110] 26 Hinge thread section

[0111] 28 hinge thread section row

[0112] 30 hinge loops, 32 sacrificial threads

[0113] 34 stopper threads

[0114] 36 weft threads

[0115] 37 weft threads with increased friction

[0116] 38 dropped weft threads

[0117] 100a, 100b Airbag hinge

[0118] 102a, 102b Material areas

[0119] 104, 104a, 104b Swivel axes

[0120] 196 Support structure

[0121] 200 airbag units

[0122] 202 Airbag housings

[0123] 204 Airbag firing channel

[0124] 206 Airbag cover

[0125] 208 Break line

[0126] 208a, 208b, 208c Airbag flap

[0127] 210 Airbag module

[0128] 212 Airbag

[0129] 214 Protective position

[0130] 300 vehicle interior

[0131] 302 Trim

[0132] E Textile level

[0133] S side cut

[0134] U fabric underside

[0135] 0 Tissue top

[0136] Z1 closed state

[0137] Z2 first opened state

[0138] Z3 second open state

[0139] V1 first process step

[0140] V2 second process step

[0141] M Machine direction

[0142] T Textile sector

Claims

Claims 1. Airbag hinge (100a, 100b) for connecting an airbag flap (208a, 208b, 208c) of an airbag unit (200) with a mounting section (196, 204), with - a hinge textile (10, 10a, 10b) extending within a textile plane (E); - a first material area (102a) that is assigned to the fastening section (196, 204) and that is connected to a first section (12a) of the hinge textile (10, 10a, 10b); and - a second material area (102b) which is assigned to the airbag flap (208a, 208b, 208c) and is connected to a second section (12b) of the hinge textile (10, 10a, 10b); wherein the second material area (102b) is pivotable relative to the first material area (102a) to open the airbag flap (208a, 208b, 208c); characterized in that the hinge textile (10, 10a, 10b) has textile threads (14) which project out of the textile plane (E) along one or more fixing thread sections (16), wherein the fixing thread sections (16) projecting out of the textile plane (E) are embedded in the first material area (102a) and / or second material area (102b).

2. Airbag hinge (100a, 100b) according to claim 1 , characterized in that the fastening section (196, 204) is part of a support structure (196) forming, at least co-forming and / or supporting an instrument panel (302).

3. Airbag hinge (100a, 100b) according to claim 1 , characterized in that the fastening section (196, 204) is an airbag firing channel (204) of an airbag housing (202) which also includes the airbag flap (208a, 208b).

4. Airbag hinge (100a, 100b) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fixing thread sections (16) projecting from the textile plane (E) comprise first fixing thread sections (18) which are embedded in the first material area (102a).

5. Airbag hinge (100a, 100b) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fixing thread sections (16) projecting from the textile plane (E) comprise second fixing thread sections (20) which are embedded in the second material area (102b).

6. Airbag hinge (100a, 100b) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fixing thread sections (16) projecting from the textile plane (E) form at least one fixing thread section row (22).

7. Airbag hinge (100a, 100b) according to claim 6, characterized in that a pivot axis (104) is located between the first material area (102a) and the second material area (102b) and the at least one fixing thread section row (22) preferably extends parallel to the pivot axis (104, 104a, 104b).

8. Airbag hinge (100a, 100b) according to claim 7, characterized in that the fixing thread sections (16) projecting from the textile plane (E) are located beyond the pivot axis (104, 104a, 104b).

9. Airbag hinge (100a, 100b) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fixing thread sections (16) projecting from the textile plane (E) form one or more fixing loops (24) projecting from the textile plane (E).

10. Airbag hinge (100a, 100b) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the textile threads (14) along a hinge section (15) comprise hinge thread sections (26) projecting from the textile plane (E), which prevent pivoting of the second material area (102b) to enable the opening of the airbag flap (208a, 208b) relative to the first material area (102a).

11. Airbag hinge (100a, 100b) according to claim 10, characterized in that the hinge thread sections (26) projecting from the textile plane (E) in the area of ​​the pivot axis (104, 104a, 104b) are not embedded in the first material area (102a) and / or not in the second material area (102b).

12. Airbag hinge (100a, 100b) according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that the hinge thread sections (26) projecting from the textile plane (E) form at least one hinge thread section row (28).

13. Airbag hinge (100a, 100b) at least according to claims 7 and 12, characterized in that the hinge thread section row (28) extends parallel to the pivot axis (104, 104a, 104b).

14. Airbag hinge (100a, 100b) according to one of claims 10 to 13, characterized in that the hinge thread sections (26) projecting from the textile plane (E) extend along the pivot axis (104, 104a, 104b).

15. Airbag hinge (100a, 100b) according to one of claims 10 to 14, characterized in that the hinge thread sections (26) projecting from the textile plane (E) form one or more hinge loops (30) projecting from the textile plane (E).

16. Airbag hinge (100a, 100b) according to claim 9 and 15, characterized in that the one or more fixing loops (24) and the one or more hinge loops (30) have different or identical loop lengths and / or a different or identical number of loops.

17. Airbag hinge (100a, 100b) according to one of claims 10 to 16, characterized in that the hinge thread sections (26) projecting from the textile plane (E) form at least one fold.

18. Airbag hinge (100a, 100b) according to one of claims 10 to 17, characterized in that the fixing thread sections (16) and the hinge thread sections (26) projecting from the textile plane (E) project from different sides of the hinge textile (10, 10a, 10b) from the textile plane (E).

19. Airbag hinge (100a, 100b) at least according to claims 4 and 5, characterized in that the first fixing thread sections (18) and the second fixing thread sections (20) protrude from the textile plane (E) on the same side of the hinge textile (10, 10a, 10b).

20. Airbag hinge (100a, 100b) according to one of claims 6 to 8 and claim 12 or 13, characterized in that the at least one fixing thread section row (22) and the at least one hinge thread section row (28) run parallel to each other.

21. Airbag hinge (100a, 100b) according to one of claims 10 to 18 or 20, characterized in that the thread density of the hinge textile (10, 10a, 10b) in a first textile area (T1) between the fixing thread sections (16) projecting from the textile plane (E) and the hinge thread sections (26) projecting from the textile plane (E) is increased compared to the thread density of the hinge textile (10, 10a, 10b) outside the first textile area (T1).

22. Airbag hinge (100a, 100b) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the thread density of the hinge textile (10, 10a, 10b) in a second textile area (T2), which extends along the textile plane (E) at a distance of 0.5 cm to 5 cm from the fixing thread sections (16), is increased compared to the thread density of the hinge textile (10, 10a, 10b) outside the second textile area (T2).

23. Airbag hinge (100a, 100b) according to claim 22, characterized in that the thread density within the second textile area (T2) increases in the direction of the fixing thread sections (16).

24. Airbag hinge (100a, 100b) according to claim 21, 22 or 23, characterized in that the thread density is determined by the distance between the base threads (36, 37) running perpendicular to the textile threads (14).

25. Airbag hinge (100a, 100b) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the hinge textile (10, 10a, 10b) has sacrificial threads (32) which are designed to break when the airbag (212) of the airbag unit (200) is triggered, and that the hinge textile (10, 10a, 10b) has stop threads (34) which are designed to hold the airbag flap (208a, 208b, 208c) on the fastening section (196, 204), in particular on the airbag launch channel, when the airbag (212) is triggered, wherein the sacrificial threads (32) have a lower tensile strength than the stop threads (34).

26. Airbag hinge (100a, 100b) according to claim 25, characterized in that at least a part of the textile threads (14) form the stop threads (34).

27. Airbag hinge (100a, 100b) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by one or more weft threads (37), wherein the one or more weft threads (37) have an increased frictional effect in the area of ​​the fixing thread sections (16).

28. Airbag hinge (100a, 100b) at least according to claim 10, characterized by one or more weft threads (37), wherein the one or more weft threads (37) have an increased frictional effect in the area of ​​the hinge thread sections (26).

29. Airbag unit (200) comprising at least one airbag hinge (100a, 100b), an airbag module (210) comprising an airbag (212), and an airbag housing (202) comprising an airbag firing channel (204) and an airbag flap (208a, 208b), characterized in that the airbag hinge (100a, 100b) is designed according to one of the preceding claims.

30. Airbag unit (200) according to claim 29, characterized in that the airbag housing (202) comprises or is made of a plastic injection molding material.

31. Hinge textile (10, 10a, 10b) for an airbag hinge (100a, 100b), comprising several textile threads (14) characterized in that the textile threads (14) have at least one row of fixing thread sections (22) with fixing thread sections (16) of the textile threads (14) projecting from a textile plane (E) of the hinge textile (10, 10a, 10b) and at least one row of hinge thread sections (28) spaced apart from the at least one row of fixing thread sections (22) with hinge thread sections (26) of the textile threads (14) projecting from the textile plane (E).

32. Hinge textile (10, 10a, 10b) according to claim 31, characterized in that the fixing thread sections (16) and the hinge thread sections (26) projecting from the textile plane (E) project from different sides of the hinge textile (10, 10a, 10b) from the textile plane (E).

33. Method for manufacturing an airbag hinge (100a, 100b) that connects an airbag flap (208a, 208b, 208c) of an airbag unit (200) with a fastening section (196, 204), in particular an airbag hinge (100a, 100b) according to any one of claims 1 to 28, comprising the steps: Providing a hinge textile (10, 10a, 10b) comprising textile threads (14); connecting a first section (12a) of the hinge textile (10, 10a, 10b) to a first material area (102a) which is associated with the fastening section (196, 204); and Connecting a second section (12b) of the hinge textile (10, 10a, 10b) with a second material area (102b) which is associated with the airbag flap (208a, 208b, 208c); characterized in that the connecting of the first section (12a) of the hinge textile (10, 10a, 10b) with the first material area (102a) comprises embedding fixing thread sections (16, 18) of the textile threads (14) projecting from a textile plane (E) of the hinge textile (10, 10a, 10b) in the first material area (102a); and / or the joining of the second section (12b) of the hinge textile (10, 10a, 10b) with the second material area (102b) includes embedding fixing thread sections (16, 20) of the textile threads (14) protruding from a textile plane (E) of the hinge textile (10, 10a, 10b) in the second material area (102b).

34. Method according to claim 33, characterized in that the provision of the hinge textile (10, 10a, 10b) comprising the textile threads (14) generates the comprising fixing thread sections (16, 18, 20) protruding from a textile plane (E) of the hinge textile (10, 10a, 10b).

35. Method for producing a hinge textile (10, 10a, 10b) with several textile threads (14), in particular a hinge textile (10, 10a, 10b) according to claim 31 or 32, characterized by the steps: Generating at least one row of fixing thread sections (22) with fixing thread sections (1) of the textile threads (14) projecting from the textile plane (E); and generating at least one row of hinge thread sections (28) spaced apart from the at least one row of fixing thread sections (22) with hinge thread sections (26) of the textile threads (14) projecting from the textile plane (E).

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