Airbag Module Guide Tongue for Deployment Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing head protection airbag modules face challenges in precisely aligning the airbag package for optimal deployment, leading to inconsistencies in the direction and reproducibility of airbag deployment.
Innovation Solution
A guide element with a guide tongue is integrated into the airbag module, extending tangentially from the inflator holder, which helps align the airbag folds near the inflator, allowing for precise control over the initial deployment phase by subdividing the airbag package into inflator-side and main portions, and is mechanically fixed between the holder and inflator for stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the airbag package is fixed using conventional methods (fastening clips or tape), then the airbag can be secured to the holder, but the alignment precision and reproducibility of deployment direction are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The guide element is segmented into a body portion and a guide tongue portion, where the body portion attaches to the holder and the guide tongue extends into the airbag package to provide precise alignment guidance during deployment
Solution Approach 2:
The guide element acts as an intermediary component between the holder and the airbag package, providing a mechanical reference surface that ensures precise alignment and controlled deployment direction without requiring complex fixing mechanisms
2Reliability
If the airbag package is tightly secured to ensure stability, then deployment reliability improves, but the ability to control the initial deployment phase and alignment is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The guide element provides localized guidance at the critical initial deployment phase through the guide tongue extending into the airbag package, while allowing the rest of the airbag to deploy freely, thus achieving both reliability and controllability
Data Source
AI summary
A head protection airbag module comprising a tubular inflator, a holder for the inflator and an airbag which is in fluid communication with the inflator and is folded to form a package, characterized by a guide element for the airbag which is arranged on the holder and includes a guide tongue extending into the airbag package.