Airbag module for a vehicle occupant safety system, vehicle occupant safety system, and vehicle comprising such an airbag module

Abstract

The invention relates to an airbag module (1) for a vehicle occupant safety system, said airbag module comprising a gas generator (20) and a module housing (10) that accommodates the gas generator (20), wherein the gas generator (20) is directly interlockingly attached to the module housing (10) or is fixed, preferably interlockingly, between a retaining part (30), that is directly interlockingly attached to the module housing (10), and the module housing (20). The invention also relates to a vehicle occupant safety system and to a vehicle comprising such an airbag module.

Description

[0001] Gasbag module for a vehicle occupant safety system as well as vehicle occupant safety system and vehicle with such a gasbag module

[0002] The invention relates to a gas bag module for a vehicle occupant safety system. Furthermore, the invention relates to a vehicle occupant safety system and a vehicle with such a gas bag module.

[0003] To protect vehicle occupants in the event of a collision, gas bags, also known as airbags, are commonly used. These are concealed in gas bag modules installed inside the vehicle. The gas bag modules typically comprise a module housing that houses a gas generator. The module housing is connected to a gas bag, which is filled with gas once the gas generator is triggered. This typically occurs within a few milliseconds.

[0004] In practice, gas generators are fixed to the module housings of airbag modules using a carrier plate. The carrier plate is screwed to the airbag module. This process of mounting the gas generator on the module housing is comparatively complex and time-consuming. In addition, additional components are required, namely connecting elements in the form of screws and the carrier plate. This leads to comparatively high assembly and manufacturing costs. A further disadvantage arises from the fact that, in airbag modules known from practice, the different materials used for additional connecting elements make the recyclability of the airbag module more difficult. Against this background, the object of the invention is to provide a vehicle module for a vehicle occupant safety system that enables simplified and cost-effective assembly.Furthermore, it is an object of the invention to provide a vehicle occupant safety system and a vehicle with such a gas bag.

[0005] This object is achieved with regard to the gas bag module by the subject matter of patent claim 1, with regard to the vehicle occupant safety system by the subject matter of patent claim 16 and with regard to the vehicle by the subject matter of patent claim 17.

[0006] Specifically, the invention is based on the idea of ​​providing an airbag module for a vehicle occupant safety system comprising a gas generator and a module housing that accommodates the gas generator. The gas generator is directly attached to the module housing in a form-fitting manner. Alternatively, the gas generator can be fixed, preferably in a form-fitting manner, between a holding part that is directly attached to the module housing in a form-fitting manner and the module housing.

[0007] In general, the gas bag module can also have a gas bag that is directly connected to the module housing. It is also possible to provide a tubular extension or fabric shell between the module housing and the gas bag. The fabric shell can be injected into the module housing at one longitudinal end, creating a firm, particularly integral, connection between the module housing and the fabric shell. The fabric shell can be sewn to the gas bag at its free end. It is also possible, however, to connect the gas bag directly to the module housing, for example, by means of a material bond.

[0008] The invention provides an alternative connection option for fastening the gas generator to the module housing. In particular, it is advantageous to choose a direct, form-fitting fastening. This requires no additional parts between the gas generator and the module housing. Rather, the gas generator can be connected directly to the module housing, with the connection to the module housing being form-fitting. However, with regard to the assembly process, it is sometimes advantageous to provide a holding part between the gas generator and the module housing that is directly connected to the module housing in a form-fitting manner and, together with the module housing, forms a form-fitting contour into which the gas generator is inserted.The gas generator can therefore either be positively attached directly to the module housing or engage positively in a combination of a module housing and a holding part, whereby the holding part is directly coupled to the module housing in a positively locking manner.

[0009] In both cases, the advantage of the invention is that the assembly of the gas bag module is significantly simplified. In particular, additional components are hardly required, and fasteners can be dispensed with. The positive connection is also typically faster to establish than, for example, a screw connection. This reduces assembly times. This design is also advantageous from a sustainability perspective because it reduces the number of different materials in the gas bag module. This allows the gas bag module to be easily and quickly disassembled into individual materials at the end of its service life.

[0010] The variant with an additional retaining part, however, increases flexibility. In particular, different gas generators can be combined using the same retaining part and the same module housing. This allows different gas generators to be attached to the module housing as needed.

[0011] In the context of the present application, a direct form-fitting connection is defined as any connection in which a direct form-fitting connection is achieved between two connection partners, in particular without intermediate elements that are independent of both connection partners.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment of the gas bag module according to the invention, the gas bag module or the retaining part has molded-on pins that penetrate fastening openings of the gas generator and each have a plastically deformed retaining head. The pins can, in particular, be formed integrally with the module housing and / or the retaining part. This reduces the variety of parts and improves recyclability. The plastically deformed retaining head provides a positive-locking fixation of the gas generator to the module housing or a positive-locking fixation of the retaining part to the module housing, so that the gas generator fixed between the retaining part and the module housing is indirectly connected to the module housing in a positive-locking manner.

[0013] It is particularly advantageous if the gas generator is located on the inside of the module housing. The advantage of positioning the gas generator on the inside of the module housing is that any recoil forces caused by escaping gas when the gas generator is triggered can be directly absorbed by the module housing. If the gas generator is connected to the module housing via pins that are molded directly onto the module housing, no high forces act on the pin retaining heads. Instead, the high recoil forces are dissipated against the module housing via an enlarged surface, namely the inner surface. Additional reinforcements are therefore no longer required.

[0014] In this respect, it is expedient if the pins of the module housing protrude into a gas flow chamber defined by the module housing. The gas flow chamber is defined in particular by the inside of the module housing. To install the gas generator, it is placed onto the pins via the gas flow chamber. The pins can then be plastically deformed to form a plastically deformed retaining head that creates a positive connection between the module housing and the gas generator. For this purpose, the retaining head preferably has a diameter that is larger than the diameter of the gas generator's fastening opening. When the gas generator is triggered, the recoil forces act against the module housing and not against the retaining heads. This increases the stability of the airbag module.

[0015] Alternatively, when using a holding part, it can be provided that the pins of the holding part protrude beyond an outer side of the module housing. Since the gas bag module is fixed between the holding part and the module housing and the holding part is additionally fastened directly to the module housing in a form-fitting manner, the pins protruding beyond the outer side of the module housing also ensure that the gas generator rests against an inner side of the module housing. The holding part can then span the gas generator and its pins can reach through the fastening openings in the gas generator. In addition, the pins preferably also reach through corresponding openings in the module housing, so that the pins ultimately protrude beyond the outer side of the module housing. The holding heads can be formed there by plastic deformation in order to create a form-fitting connection between the holding part and the module housing.

[0016] In embodiments of the invention, the gas generator is generally arranged in a receiving opening of the module housing, which is defined by an opening edge. The receiving opening can, in particular, be circular in shape to accommodate a round gas generator.

[0017] It is also advantageous if a cylindrical or truncated cone-shaped extension extends from the receiving opening, into which at least a portion of the gas generator is fitted. Such an extension facilitates assembly. A truncated cone-shaped extension, in particular, also serves a centering function. Furthermore, the stability of the gas generator in the module housing is improved. The module housing itself is also reinforced so that recoil forces can be better absorbed when the gas generator is triggered.

[0018] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, two oppositely arranged form-fitting strips can be formed on the module housing, in particular on a housing base. The form-fitting strips can each comprise a free leg aligned essentially parallel to the housing base. A retaining flange of the gas generator can be fixed between the free leg and the housing base. In this variant, a direct form-fitting connection is created between the gas generator and the module housing through the form-fitting strips, which in this respect can essentially form a type of bayonet lock. During assembly, the gas generator can be inserted into the receiving opening and locked behind the form-fitting strips by rotation. This creates the form-fitting connection between the gas generator and the module housing. With this variant, assembly is particularly simple and reliable.

[0019] The form-fitting strips preferably extend in sections in an arcuate manner around an opening edge of the receiving opening. In this respect, it is advantageous for establishing the form-fitting connection by fixing the retaining flange between the free leg and the housing base if the length, in particular the arc length, of the retaining flange is at most the length, in particular the arc length, of an opening edge of the receiving opening between the form-fitting strips. This applies in particular if the form-fitting strips extend in an arcuate manner around a circular receiving opening. Sections of the opening edge of the receiving opening between the two form-fitting strips can be free, i.e., have no form-fitting strips. The size of the free regions of the opening edge is preferably at least as large as the size of the retaining flange or the multiple retaining flanges of the gas generator.This ensures that the gas generator with its holding flange or its multiple holding flanges can be lowered onto the edge of the receiving opening and can only be guided under the free legs of the form-fitting strips by turning.

[0020] While it is preferred for simple assembly and secure fixation if the module housing has only two oppositely arranged form-locking strips, it is also conceivable to provide several form-locking strips at the receiving opening, in which case a corresponding number of retaining flanges should be provided on the gas generator so that each form-locking strip positively secures a retaining flange to the module housing.

[0021] Additionally, the free legs of the form-locking strips can each have a snap element that interacts with the fastening opening of the retaining flange to prevent rotation of the gas generator relative to the module housing. This variant has several advantages. On the one hand, the gas generator is also secured in the direction of rotation, thus preventing independent rotation, which could ultimately lead to a loss of the form fit. On the other hand, the snap connection between the snap element and the fastening opening also provides process control. When the snap element snaps into the fastening opening, it is ensured that the gas generator has reached the predetermined end position.

[0022] In a further variant of the gas bag module according to the invention, the gas generator has outwardly projecting spring elements for direct clamping to the module housing. The spring elements can protrude beyond the opening edge of the receiving opening such that the opening edge is fixed between the retaining flange and the spring elements. In this variant, the direct positive connection between the gas generator and the module housing is thus achieved by spring elements formed on the gas generator and interacting with the retaining flange such that a positive connection of the opening edge of the receiving opening is achieved between the spring elements and the retaining flange.

[0023] The spring elements are preferably designed so that the gas generator can be inserted into the receiving opening of the module housing, causing the spring elements to deflect inward upon contact with the opening edge. Once the spring elements have passed the opening edge, they are pushed outward due to their inherent spring force, thus engaging behind the opening edge.

[0024] Preferably, the distance between the spring elements and the retaining flange of the gas generator is dimensioned such that the edge of the opening is positively secured directly between the retaining flange and the spring element. In this respect, it is also preferred that a plurality of spring elements are provided distributed over the circumference of the gas generator, which, in their relaxed state, protrude outwards beyond the outer circumference of the gas generator. The tips of the spring elements lie on an imaginary circular line whose diameter is larger than the diameter of the receiving opening. This variant of directly positively securing the gas generator to the module housing by means of the spring elements is also characterized by particularly simple assembly. With this variant, the gas generator simply needs to be clipped into the receiving opening, where it is automatically positively secured.

[0025] In a further embodiment of the invention, the holding part can be formed by a spring clip. The gas generator can be fixed between the module housing and the spring clip. The holding part, specifically the spring clip, is preferably connected directly to the module housing. For example, the module housing can have corresponding through-openings into which the spring clip engages in a form-fitting manner. The spring clip can then, for example, overlap the holding flange of the gas generator and press it against the module housing. In this respect, the gas generator can be fixed between the module housing and the spring clip, with this fixation preferably being a form-fitting arrangement.

[0026] In specific embodiments of this variant, the spring clip is U-shaped and extends over the retaining flange of the gas generator. The U-shaped contour offers additional stabilization of the spring clip and facilitates installation in the module housing. Alternatively or additionally, it is possible for the spring clip to engage through retaining eyes of the gas generator. The retaining eyes can be formed in particular on the retaining flange so that the spring clip, on the one hand, fixes the retaining flange of the gas generator to the module housing and, on the other hand, forms a positive connection with the gas generator by the spring clip engaging through the retaining eyes of the gas generator. The directly positive connection between the spring clip and the gas generator complements the positive connection achieved by arranging the retaining flange between the spring clip and the module housing.

[0027] A secondary aspect of the invention relates to a vehicle occupant safety system having a previously described gas bag module. Furthermore, within the scope of the present application, a vehicle having a previously described gas bag module or a previously described vehicle occupant safety system is disclosed and claimed.

[0028] The present application also describes an airbag module for a vehicle occupant safety system comprising a gas generator and a module housing that accommodates the gas generator. The gas generator has a connecting plate with openings for receiving connecting means, in particular rivets and / or bolts. Each opening is arranged congruently with a through-channel in the module housing, with a connecting means extending through each opening and through-channel, forming retaining heads at its longitudinal ends that positively connect the connecting plate and the module housing. This airbag module is characterized by particularly high stability with regard to the connection between the module housing and the gas generator.

[0029] In a preferred variant of this gas bag module, the connecting plate is arranged at right angles to an outer cylinder wall of the gas generator. It is also advantageous if the openings for receiving the connecting means are arranged in holding sections of the connecting plate that are bent at right angles. In this respect, it can be provided that the gas generator is fixed to the module housing by connecting means inserted laterally. The gas generator is preferably inserted into a housing base of the module housing. The connecting means can then be guided from a housing wall, which preferably protrudes from the housing base, to the connecting plate. Access via the housing wall has the advantage that the module housing usually has a lot of material in this area, so that the connecting means can be easily and securely fixed in the module housing. This also contributes considerably to the stability of the connection to the gas generator.In addition, the housing wall is easily accessible, which offers advantages during assembly. The fasteners, which are preferably rivets and / or bolts, can also be easily removed, thus ensuring the recyclability of the gas bag module.

[0030] It is also conceivable to provide an airbag module for a vehicle occupant safety system which has a gas generator and a module housing, wherein the module housing accommodates the gas generator and the gas generator has a multi-part, in particular two-part, holding part in which the gas generator, in particular a holding flange of the gas generator, is positively fixed. The holding part, in turn, can be snap-connected to the module housing. In this respect, it is not absolutely necessary for the gas generator to be positively fixed between the holding part and the module housing. Rather, it is also conceivable for the positive connection with regard to the gas generator to exist only between the gas generator and the holding part, but for the holding part to then be directly coupled to the module housing in a positively locking manner, for example via a snap-connection. This also results in assembly advantages in certain environments.

[0031] The invention will be explained in more detail below using exemplary embodiments with reference to the attached schematic drawings.

[0032] Fig. 1 is a perspective bottom view of an airbag module according to the invention in an intermediate manufacturing step, wherein the gas generator is plugged onto pins of the module housing;

[0033] Fig. 2 is a perspective bottom view of the gas bag module according to Fig. 1 , in a later manufacturing step, wherein the pins of the module housing are plastically deformed in order to provide a direct positive connection by means of holding heads for the gas generator;

[0034] Fig. 3 is a sectional view through the positive connection produced by means of a pin of the holding module according to Fig. 2; Fig. 4 is a perspective longitudinal sectional view through an airbag module according to the invention according to a further preferred embodiment in an intermediate manufacturing step, wherein the pins are arranged on an inner side of the module housing;

[0035] Fig. 5 is a perspective longitudinal sectional view of the gas bag module according to Fig. 4, wherein the pins are plastically deformed to form holding heads for fixing the gas generator;

[0036] Fig. 6 is a longitudinal sectional view of a gas bag module according to a further preferred embodiment, wherein the connection of the gas generator to the module housing is formed via a holding plate with pins projecting outwards beyond the module housing;

[0037] Fig. 7 is a perspective view of a positive connection between a gas generator and a module housing, which is designed in the manner of a bayonet closure;

[0038] Fig. 8 is a bottom view of a gas bag module according to the invention according to a further preferred embodiment, wherein the module housing has form-fitting strips for engaging around holding flanges of a gas generator, and wherein the gas generator is shown in a release position;

[0039] Fig. 9 shows the bottom view of the gas bag module according to Fig. 8, wherein the gas generator is shown in a fixing position;

[0040] Fig. 10 is a perspective sectional view through a detail of an airbag module according to the invention according to a further preferred embodiment, wherein the gas generator has outwardly projecting spring elements which together with a retaining flange form a form-fitting contour for the direct form-fitting connection of the gas generator to the module housing;

[0041] Fig. 11 is a top view of the gas bag module according to Fig. 10; Fig. 12 is a perspective bottom view of a gas bag module according to the invention according to a further preferred embodiment, wherein a spring clip is positively connected to the module housing, which holds the gas generator to the module housing;

[0042] Fig. 13 is a perspective view of the spring clip according to Fig. 12;

[0043] Fig. 14 is a bottom view of a gas bag module according to the invention according to a further preferred embodiment, wherein a spring clip is provided as a holding part which passes through fastening eyelets of the gas generator;

[0044] Fig. 15 is a perspective detailed view of the gas bag module according to Fig. 14;

[0045] Fig. 16 is a perspective bottom view of a gas bag module according to a variant disclosed here, in which the gas bag module is fixed to the module housing via rivet bolts, wherein the rivet bolts are inserted via a housing wall;

[0046] Fig. 17 is a perspective view of the gas generator according to Fig. 16;

[0047] Fig. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the gas bag module according to Fig. 16; and

[0048] Fig. 19 is a perspective longitudinal sectional view of a gas bag module according to a variant disclosed here, in which the gas generator is accommodated in a multi-part holding part which is snap-connected to the module housing.

[0049] The gas bag module 1 shown in Figs. 1 and 2 comprises a module housing 10 with a housing base 10a and a housing wall 10b. The housing wall 10b is formed integrally with the housing base 10a. Overall, the housing base 10a and the housing wall 10b form a substantially shell-like structure.

[0050] The housing base 10a has a recess 16 visible from the outside and a raised portion visible from a gas flow chamber 13. The gas generator 20 is arranged in the raised portion. Specifically, it can be provided that the gas generator 20 is arranged in a receiving opening 14. In the exemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 1 and 2, the gas generator 20 is inserted into the receiving opening 14, in particular from the outside of the module housing 10. The gas generator 20 is designed as a round gas generator and essentially has a gas generator housing with a cylindrical contour. The gas generator housing is equipped with a holding flange 22, which secures it to the module housing 10. In this exemplary embodiment, the holding flange 22 has an essentially square outer contour, preferably with rounded corners.

[0051] To attach the gas generator 20 to the module housing 10, pins 11 are formed on the module housing 10, in particular on the housing base 10a, preferably on its externally visible recess 16. The pins 11 protrude outward from the housing base 10a. In particular, four pins 11 are provided, which are arranged substantially uniformly around the receiving opening 14.

[0052] The retaining flange 22 of the gas generator 20 includes corresponding fastening openings 21. In particular, four fastening openings 21 are provided in each corner of the retaining flange 22. The gas generator 20 is inserted into the receiving opening 14 such that the pins 11 of the module housing 10 extend through the fastening openings 21.

[0053] In this context, Fig. 1 shows an intermediate step in the production of the airbag module 1, in which the gas generator 20 is inserted into the module housing 10 and the pins 11 of the module housing 10 protrude through the fastening openings 21. In this intermediate step, the position of the gas generator 20 is already largely determined. However, in order to achieve the direct form-fitting fixation of the gas generator 20 to the module housing 10, it is provided that in a further production step the sections of the pins 11 of the module housing 10 that project beyond the holding flange 22 are plastically deformed in order to thus each form a holding head 32 of the module housing 10. The plastic deformation is preferably carried out by a thermal process, in particular by ultrasonic welding. In this process, the protruding part of the pin 11 is heated to such an extent that the protruding part of the pin 11 is deformed and thereby forms the holding head 12.The holding head 12 has, as Figs. 2 and 3 clearly show, a cross-sectional diameter that is larger than the cross-sectional diameter of the fastening opening 21. In this way, the holding flange 22 and thus the entire gas generator 20 is directly fastened to the module housing 10 in a form-fitting manner. The direct form-fitting fastening of the gas generator 20 to the module housing 10 is particularly clearly visible in Fig. 3. In particular, it can be seen that the module housing 10 has an opening edge 14a on the housing base 10a, which delimits the receiving opening 14. The pins 11 of the module housing 10 are arranged on an outer side of the opening edge 14a. The holding flange 22 of the gas generator 20 sits on this outer side, with the pins 11 each extending through the fastening openings 21. The section of the pin 11 which projects beyond the retaining flange 22 is formed into the retaining head 12, resulting in a positive connection.In particular, the holding flange 22 is held in a form-fitting manner between the opening edge 14a and the holding head 12.

[0054] In the embodiment shown in Figs. 1-3, the retaining flange 22 is mounted on an outer side of the module housing 10, in particular the housing base 10a. This has the advantage that the gas generator 20 can be connected to the module housing 10 after the gas bag of the gas bag module 1 has been tightly connected to the gas flow chamber 13 on an opposite side. In such a case, access to the housing base 10a from the inside is difficult, so that fastening the gas generator 20 from the outside is recommended. The disadvantage, however, is that when the gas generator 20 is triggered, a comparatively high force is to be expected on the retaining heads 12 due to the resulting recoil forces. The retaining heads 12 should therefore be designed to be correspondingly stable.

[0055] In this respect, an alternative embodiment provides for the gas generator to be mounted from the inside of the module housing 10. This is expedient if the connection between the gas generator 20 and the module housing 10 is made before the gas bag is attached to the module housing 10. Such a variant is illustrated as an example in Figs. 4 and 5.

[0056] 4 and 5, the module housing 10 is designed essentially analogously to the module housing 10 according to Figs. 1-3. The gas generator 20 is also designed analogously to the embodiment according to Fig. 1-3 as a round gas generator with a holding flange 22, wherein the holding flange 22 can in particular have a substantially square outer contour. The holding flange 22 comprises four fastening openings 21, which can be arranged in the corners of the holding flange 22. In contrast to the embodiment according to Figs. 1-3, the module housing 10 has pins 11 that protrude into the gas flow chamber 13. The pins 11 are therefore directed inwards. The pins 11 penetrate the fastening openings 21 (Fig. 4), wherein each of the projecting sections is formed into a holding head 12 (Fig. 5). The pins 11 with the holding heads 12 thus form a direct, positive-locking fastening of the gas generator 20 to the module housing 10.

[0057] In order to further secure the gas generator 20 and at the same time ensure effective transmission of the recoil force of the gas generator 20 into the module housing 10, the exemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 4 and 5 provides for an extension 14b extending outward from the receiving opening 14. The extension 14b is preferably frustoconical in shape, so that when the gas generator 20 is inserted, it is simultaneously centered in the receiving opening 14. This considerably simplifies assembly. The extension 14b originates from the opening edge 14a and extends essentially outward. The length of the extension 14b preferably corresponds to the height of the recess or the elevation of the housing base 10a projecting into the gas flow chamber 13.

[0058] Fig. 6 shows a further embodiment of a gas bag module 1 which, with regard to the shape of the module housing 10 and the gas generator 20, essentially corresponds to the embodiment according to Figs. 4 and 5. However, instead of the pins 11 formed on the module housing 10, an additional holding part 30 is provided which has its own pins 31. The holding part 30 can, for example, be formed by a metal plate which has an opening through which an upper section of the gas generator 20 can pass. Alternatively, the holding part 30 can also be formed by a plastic plate. The gas generator 20 can, for example, have a holding flange 22 which has a round outer contour. An angular outer contour, in particular a square outer contour, of the holding flange 22 is also possible.

[0059] The holding part 30 is preferably guided over the gas generator 20, with the pins 31 of the holding part 30 passing through openings in the housing base 10a of the module housing 10. The pins 31 of the holding part 30 preferably protrude outward beyond the housing base 10a (Fig. 6). In a further manufacturing step, which is not shown in the drawings, the projecting sections of the pins 31 are plastically deformed to form holding heads 12. In this way, the holding part 30 is immediately or directly connected to the module housing 10 in a form-fitting manner. At the same time, a form-fitting connection between the gas generator 20 and the module housing 10 is achieved by the form-fitting embedding of the holding flange 22 of the gas generator 20 between the holding part 30 and the module housing 10.

[0060] As can also be clearly seen in Fig. 6, the module housing 10 has the extension 14b, which extends from the receiving opening 14 or is formed at the opening edge 14a. The extension 14b has a truncated cone-shaped contour, with the gas generator 20 also comprising a truncated cone-shaped outer contour in its lower section. The gas generator 20 can thus be inserted into the receiving opening 14 in a self-centering manner.

[0061] In the embodiment according to Fig. 7, a bayonet locking contour with two form-fitting strips 15 is arranged on the housing base 10a of the module housing 10. The form-fitting strips 15 essentially have an L-shaped cross-sectional profile, with a free leg 15a of the L-shaped cross-sectional profile being aligned parallel to the housing base 10a or to the opening edge 14a. Between the opening edge 14a and the form-fitting strip 15, specifically its free leg 15a, a gap is thus formed, into which a retaining flange 22 of the gas generator 20 can be inserted. As can be clearly seen in Fig. 7, two oppositely arranged form-fitting strips 15 are preferably provided. The form-fitting strips 15 can in particular be arranged point-symmetrically to one another. An insertion space 32 is provided between the form-fitting strips 15 along the curvature of the receiving opening 14.The insertion space 32 has a length along the receiving opening 14, i.e. an arc length, which is greater than the arc length of a holding flange 22 of the gas generator 20.

[0062] The gas generator 20 preferably comprises two retaining flanges 22, which extend opposite one another from the outer wall of the gas generator 20. The gas generator 20 can thus be lowered into the receiving opening 14 in a predetermined position, wherein the retaining flanges 22 are inserted into the oppositely arranged and complementary insertion spaces 32. In doing so, the retaining flanges 22 preferably come into contact with the housing base 10a, in particular the opening edge 14a. The retaining flanges 22 have a height that is preferably at most the height of the gap between the opening edge 14a and the form-fitting strip 15. By rotating the gas generator 20 relative to the housing base 10a, preferably by 90°, the retaining flanges 22 are displaced into the gap between the housing base 10a and the form-fitting strip 15. This creates a direct, positive connection between the gas generator 20 and the module housing 10, as shown in the locked state in Fig.7. In order to prevent the gas generator 20 from being unscrewed, snap elements 15b can additionally be provided in the form-fitting strips 15 or the underlying sections of the housing base 10a, which interact with corresponding counter-elements 25 in the holding flanges 22 to fix the final position of the gas generator 20 screwed into the bayonet locking contour.

[0063] A further variant for a direct form-fitting connection, in particular in the manner of a bayonet lock, between the gas generator 20 and the module housing 10 is shown in Figs. 8 and 9. Figs. 8 and 9 show a module housing 10 in a bottom view, wherein the housing base 10a is visible from the outside. It can be seen that the housing base 10a has a recess 16, visible from the outside, in which the receiving opening 14 is arranged. The recess 16 has two opposite recess flanks 17, on which form-fitting strips 15 are arranged. The form-fitting strips 15 preferably extend parallel to the housing base 10a, in particular parallel to the plateau 18 formed by the recess 16 or elevation. Each form-fitting strip 15 extends from the housing wall 10b to slightly beyond a longitudinal center plane LE of the module housing 10.The two form-locking strips 15 each extend from opposite sides of the housing wall 10b. Approximately at the height of the longitudinal center plane LE, each form-locking strip has a snap-in element 15b, which can form a snap-in connection with a corresponding counter-element 25 on the gas generator 20.

[0064] In the embodiment shown in Figs. 8 and 9, the gas generator 20 is also designed as a round gas generator. Two retaining flanges 22 are provided extending from the cylindrical generator housing, each arranged radially opposite the other on the generator housing. Each retaining flange 22 comprises a counter-element 25 in the form of a bore. The corresponding snap-in element 15b on the form-fitting strip 15 can be formed by a projection that engages the bore formed by the counter-element 25 to fix the final position of the gas generator 20.

[0065] In the embodiment according to Figs. 8 and 9, the gas generator 20 is preferably inserted into the receiving opening 14 from the outside, with the gas generator 20 being guided into the receiving opening 14 in such a way that the retaining flanges 22 are guided past the form-fitting strips 15. This is shown in Fig. 8.

[0066] As soon as the retaining flanges 22 rest against the plateau 18, the gas generator 20 can be rotated so that the retaining flanges 22 slide under the form-fitting strips. As soon as the counter-element 25 is arranged at the level of the snap-in element 15b of the form-fitting strip 15, the snap-in element 15b engages in the counter-element 25, which is preferably designed as a bore, so that the final position of the gas generator 20, as shown in Fig. 9, is maintained. In this exemplary embodiment, the form-fitting strips 15 on the module housing 10 also create a direct form-fitting connection between the gas generator 20 and the module housing 10.

[0067] Another exemplary embodiment of a gas bag module 1 for a gas generator 20 that is directly and positively attached to the module housing 10 is shown in Figs. 10 and 11. In this exemplary embodiment, the direct, positive attachment is achieved via spring elements 23 that are formed on the gas generator 20 and extend within the gas flow chamber 13, in order to positively fix the opening edge 14a of the module housing 10 between the spring elements 23 and the retaining flange 22 of the gas generator 20.

[0068] Specifically, the gas generator 20, which is preferably designed as a round gas generator, has a plurality of spring elements 23. The spring elements 23 can, in particular, be arranged at regular intervals around the circumference of the cylindrical generator housing. Each spring element 23 is essentially formed as a snap spring protruding in an arc from the outer contour of the generator housing. Each snap spring or spring element 23 has a free end 23a which, due to the resilient properties of the spring element 23, is arranged at a distance from the cylindrical outer surface of the generator housing when the spring element 23 is at rest. In order to insert the gas generator 20 into the receiving opening 14, the free end 23a can, however, rest flush against the outer wall of the gas generator 20. The gas generator 20 can thus be pushed into the receiving opening.As soon as the spring element 23 has passed through the receiving opening 14, the spring element 23 relaxes, and the free end 23a comes into position above the opening edge 14a. The distance between the free end 23a and a retaining flange 22 of the gas generator 20 is preferably dimensioned such that it substantially corresponds to the wall thickness of the housing base 14a of the module housing 10, in particular the opening edge 14a. In this way, as Fig. 10 clearly shows, the gas generator 20 is directly attached to the module housing 10 in a form-fitting manner, with the opening edge 14a being fixed between the free ends 23a of the spring elements 23 and the retaining flange 22.

[0069] In the embodiment according to Figs. 10 and 11, preferably six spring elements 23a are provided. The retaining flange 22 is preferably designed as an annular retaining flange 22. In addition, anti-rotation hooks 26 are formed on the retaining flange 22, which engage in corresponding positioning openings 19 of the housing base 10a. In particular, two anti-rotation hooks 26 can be formed on the gas generator 20, wherein the anti-rotation hooks 26 are preferably formed radially opposite one another. It is particularly preferred if the anti-rotation hooks 26 are arranged directly below a spring element 23. By the anti-rotation hooks 26 engaging in the positioning openings 19 of the module housing 10, rotation of the gas generator 20 in the receiving opening 14 is prevented.

[0070] Fig. 12 shows a gas bag module 1 with a module housing 10 and a gas generator 20, wherein the gas generator 20 is positively fastened to the module housing 10 via a holding part 30 in the form of a spring clip 33. The module housing 10 comprises a housing wall 10b and a housing base 10a, wherein the housing base 10a and the housing wall 10b essentially form a shell-like shape that delimits a gas flow chamber 13. Viewed from an outside, the module housing 10 also comprises a recess 16 that forms a raised portion extending from the gas flow chamber 13. The receiving opening 14 in the housing base 10a, into which receiving opening the gas generator 20 is inserted, is formed in the recess 16. The gas generator 20 is designed essentially analogously to the exemplary embodiment according to Figs. 1-3. In particular, the gas generator 20 comprises a substantially cylindrical generator housing and a holding flange 22, which may have a square outer contour.

[0071] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 12, the recess 16 is provided with two opposing recess flanks 17, between which support struts 17a extend. The support struts 17a are formed integrally with the module housing 10 and can essentially form an extension of the housing wall 10b that delimits the recess 17.

[0072] A spring clip 33 is provided as the holding part 30, which is shown in detail in Fig. 13. The spring clip 33 is essentially U-shaped and has two fixing ends 34. The fixing ends 34 are each widened outwardly in order to hold the spring clip 33 in a form-fitting manner on the module housing 10. The widening of the fixing ends 34 preferably occurs only after the spring clip 33 has been inserted into the module housing. In Fig. 13, the widening of the fixing ends 34 is shown merely for illustrative purposes.

[0073] The spring clip 33 further has a wave-shaped underside 35. In particular, the legs of the U-shaped spring clip 33 can have a wave-shaped structure on their underside.

[0074] To attach the gas generator 20 to the module housing 10, in particular in the recess 17, the gas generator 20 is inserted into the receiving opening 14 so that its holding flange 22 lies in the recess 16 and, in particular, rests against the housing base 10a from below. The spring clip 33 is pushed through the through-openings 17b of the holding struts 17a until the fixing ends 34 protrude on an outer side of one of the holding struts 17a. The fixing ends 34a are then reshaped so that they assume the shape shown in Fig. 13. In this way, a positive fixation is achieved, since the spring clip 33 can no longer be pulled out of the through-openings 17b. The spring clip 33 is preferably arranged such that its wave-shaped underside 35 rests against the holding flange 22 of the gas generator. The gas generator 20 is thus positively fixed between the spring clip 33 and the module housing 10.A similar variant of a gas generator is shown in Fig. 14 and 15. In this embodiment, a spring clip is also provided, which fixes the gas generator 20 to the module housing 10 in a form-fitting manner. The spring clip is U-shaped and extends through openings 17b in retaining struts 17a. In this specific embodiment, the retaining struts 17a do not connect the recess flanks 17 of the recess 16, but are merely designed as ribs on the outside of the housing base 10a. However, it is also possible for the retaining struts 17a to connect the recess flanks 17 to one another, analogous to the embodiment according to Fig. 12 and 13. The spring clip 33 according to Fig. 14 and 15 preferably rests on the retaining flange 22 of the gas generator 20. In addition, however, it is provided that retaining eyes 24 are formed on the retaining flange 22, through which the spring clip 33 extends.In this way, an additional positive connection is formed between the gas generator 20 and the spring clip 33. Similar to the embodiment shown in Figs. 12 and 13, the spring clip 33 has two fixing ends 34, which are plastically deformed to secure the spring clip 33 to the module housing 10.

[0075] The gas bag module 1 according to Figs. 16-18 comprises a module housing 10 and a gas generator 20. The module housing 10 has a housing base 10a, which forms a recess 16 visible from the outside. Within the gas flow chamber 13, however, this recess 16 forms a raised portion. A receiving opening 14 is arranged in a plateau 18 of the recess 16, into which the gas generator 20 is inserted, preferably from the outside.

[0076] In the embodiment according to Figs. 16-18, the housing wall 10b is extended into the area of ​​the recess 16, so that the housing wall 10b delimits the recess 16 between the two recess flanks 17. Starting from the two sides of the housing wall 10b, bolt channels 17c are formed in the recess 16. Two bolt channels 17c are arranged opposite one another. Each bolt channel 17c comprises a through-channel through which a bolt and / or a screw can be passed.

[0077] The gas generator comprises a holding flange 22, which comprises a connecting plate 27 and holding sections 28 bent therefrom at right angles. In particular, four holding sections 28 are provided, with two holding sections 28 being arranged opposite one another. The holding sections 28 each comprise a fastening opening 21. The holding sections 28 with the fastening openings 21 can preferably be positioned such that the holding sections 28 bear directly against the longitudinal ends of the bolt channels 17c, so that the through-channels in the bolt channels 17c are aligned with the fastening openings 21. Bolts 36 or screws are guided through the bolt channels 17c and the fastening openings 21, thus establishing a firm connection between the holding flange 25 and the module housing 10. Fig. 17 shows the gas generator 20 with the holding flange 22, which comprises the holding plate 27 with holding sections 28.

[0078] In the cross-sectional view according to Fig. 18, it can be seen that the bolts 36 can each be designed as hollow bolts or as hollow rivets. The bolts are guided through the bolt channels 17c and the fastening openings 21, with the bolts projecting beyond the bolt channel 17c and the fastening opening 21 on both sides. The projecting ends of the bolts 36 are preferably plastically deformed in order to form a positive connection between the retaining flange 22 and the module housing 10.

[0079] The gas bag module 1 according to Fig. 19 comprises a module housing 10, which is designed essentially analogously to the exemplary embodiment according to Figs. 1-3. In particular, a housing base 10a is provided with a recess 16 visible from the outside, wherein the recess 16 forms an elevation when viewed from a gas flow chamber 13. The recess 16 forms a plateau 18 with two recess flanks 17 delimiting the recess 16. Openings are preferably provided in the plateau 18, through which locking elements can pass, thus creating a positive connection.

[0080] Such locking elements can, for example, be molded onto a two-part holding part 30. Specifically, the embodiment according to Fig. 19 shows a holding part 30 consisting of two molded parts 37. Each molded part 37 has a slot-like groove or recess that allows the holding flange 22 of the gas generator 20 to be inserted into the respective molded part 37. The molded parts 37 are consequently pushed over the holding flange 22 and then lie flush against the gas generator 20. In this respect, a positive connection is achieved between the gas generator 20 and the holding part 30, in particular the two molded parts 37.

[0081] Each molded part 37 has two locking elements on its underside that can engage with the corresponding openings in the housing base 10a of the module housing. The locking elements lock behind the respective opening, thus forming a positive connection between the holding part 30 and the module housing 10.

[0082] Reference symbol

[0083] I Gasbag module 30 holding part

[0084] 31 Pin of the holding part 30

[0085] 10 module housing 32 installation space

[0086] 10a Case back 33 Spring clip

[0087] 10b Housing wall 34 Fixing

[0088] II Pin of the module housing 10 35 wave-shaped bottom

[0089] 12 Retaining head of the module housing 10 36 bolts

[0090] 13 Gas flow chamber 37 Molded part

[0091] 14 Receiving opening

[0092] 14a Opening edge LE Longitudinal center plane

[0093] 14b Process

[0094] 15 Form-fitting strip

[0095] 15a free leg

[0096] 15b Snap element

[0097] 16 Deepening

[0098] 17 recess flank

[0099] 17a Support struts

[0100] 17b Passage opening

[0101] 17c bolt channel

[0102] 18 Plateau

[0103] 19 Positioning opening

[0104] 20 gas generator

[0105] 21 Mounting hole

[0106] 22 retaining flange

[0107] 23 Spring element

[0108] 23a free end

[0109] 24 retaining eyelet

[0110] 25 Counter element

[0111] 26 anti-rotation hooks

[0112] 27 Connecting plate

[0113] 28 stopping section

[0114] 29 Generator housing

Claims

Patent claims 1. Gas bag module (1) for a vehicle occupant safety system with a gas generator (20) and a module housing (10) which accommodates the gas generator (20), wherein the gas generator (20) is directly fastened to the module housing (10) in a form-fitting manner or is fixed, preferably in a form-fitting manner, between a holding part (30) which is directly fastened to the module housing (10) in a form-fitting manner and the module housing (20).

2. Gas bag module (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the module housing (10) or the holding part (30) has molded-on pins (11, 31) which pass through the fastening openings (21) of the gas generator (20) and each have a plastically deformed holding head (12).

3. Gas bag module (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the gas generator (20) rests against an inner side of the module housing (10).

4. Gas bag module (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pins (11) of the module housing (10) protrude into a gas flow space (13) delimited by the module housing (10).

5. Gas bag module (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the pins (31) of the holding part (30) protrude beyond an outer side of the module housing (10).

6. Gas bag module (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the gas generator (20) is arranged in a receiving opening (14) of the module housing (10), which is delimited by an opening edge (14a).

7. Gas bag module (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a cylindrical or frustoconical extension (14b) extends from the receiving opening (14a), into which at least a portion of the gas generator (20) is fitted.

8. Gas bag module (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that on the module housing (10), in particular on a housing base (10a), two mutually oppositely arranged form-fitting strips (15) are formed, each comprising a free leg (15a) aligned substantially parallel to the housing base (10a), wherein in each case a holding flange (22) of the gas generator (20) is fixed between the free leg (15a) and the housing base (10a).

9. Gas bag module (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that the form-fitting strips (15) extend in sections in an arcuate manner around an opening edge (14a) of the receiving opening (14).

10. Gas bag module (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that the length, in particular arc length, of the holding flange (22) is at most the length, in particular arc length, of the opening edge (14a) of the receiving opening (14) between the form-fitting strips (15). 1 1. Gas bag module (1) according to one of claims 8 to 10, characterized in that the free legs (15a) of the form-fitting strips (15) each have a snap element (15b) which engages with the locking recess (25) of the retaining flange (22) cooperates to prevent rotation of the gas generator (20) relative to the module housing (10).

12. Gas bag module (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the gas generator (2) has outwardly projecting spring elements (23) for direct clamping connection to the module housing (10), which protrude beyond the opening edge (14a) of the receiving opening (14) in such a way that the opening edge (14a) is fixed between a holding flange (22) and the spring elements (23).

13. Gas bag module (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the holding part (30) is formed by a spring clip (33) and the gas generator (20) is fixed between the module housing (10) and the spring clip (33).

14. Gas bag module (1) according to claim 13, characterized in that the spring clip (33) is U-shaped and extends over the holding flange (22) of the gas generator (20).

15. Gas bag module (1) according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that the spring clip (33) passes through retaining eyelets (24) of the gas generator (20).

16. Vehicle occupant safety system with a gas bag module (1) according to one of the preceding claims.

17. Vehicle with a gas bag module (1) or a vehicle occupant safety system according to one of the preceding claims.

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