Airbag Module Inflatable Element Fixation via Gas Source Segregation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing airbag modules face challenges in easily and reliably fixing the inflatable element used to control the exit cross-section of the ventilation opening, which affects the airbag's functionality and assembly process.
Innovation Solution
The airbag module incorporates a gas source that is separate from the gas generator, with the inflatable element attached to a module component near the gas source, using existing components for fixation, allowing the inflatable element to be securely fastened and control the ventilation opening's cross-section effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the inflatable element is fixed using additional dedicated fastening components, then the reliability of fixation is improved, but the device complexity and assembly difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the universality principle by making the module component serve multiple functions: it both fixes the airbag in position and provides a mounting surface for the inflatable element. This eliminates the need for separate dedicated fastening components, reducing device complexity while maintaining fixation reliability through the integrated dual-function design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the function of fixing the airbag with the function of fastening the inflatable element into a single module component. By combining these two fixation functions into one integrated component, the patent reduces the number of parts and simplifies assembly while ensuring reliable fixation for both elements.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the inflatable element is fixed to a module component that moves with the gas bag during inflation, then the fixation is maintained during deployment, but the positioning precision and control accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the module components into two distinct groups: moving components that attach to the gas bag and enable deployment, and stationary components that provide stable mounting positions for the inflatable element. This segmentation allows the inflatable element to be fixed to a stationary module component, maintaining positioning precision while the gas bag and its attachments move independently during inflation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces stationary module components as intermediaries between the inflatable element and the moving gas bag system. These intermediary components remain fixed in position during inflation, providing a stable reference frame for mounting the inflatable element, while allowing the gas bag and its attachments to move freely for deployment.
3Measurement precision
If a separate gas source is used for the inflatable element instead of the gas generator, then the control precision of the ventilation opening is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the gas source for the inflatable element from the main gas generator system, creating a separate, dedicated gas supply. This extraction allows independent control of the inflatable element's operation, improving control precision for the ventilation opening while using existing separate component placements to minimize overall system complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enables easy assembly and reliable fixation of the inflatable element, allowing for precise control of the ventilation opening's cross-section, enhancing the airbag's performance and safety features.
Implementation Method 1
the gas source can, for example, be pyrotechnically ignited (sensor-controlled) and then releases a gas with which the inflatable element is filled
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6B
AI summary
The invention relates to an airbag module for a motor vehicle, comprising an air bag which can be inflated by means of a gas generator in order to protect a person, a ventilation opening through which gas originating from the airbag module can escape, and a device for controlling the outlet cross-section of the ventilation opening, which device comprises at least one cover part by which the ventilation opening can be covered in order to at least partially close same, and which device further comprises an actuating mechanism which cooperates with the cover part in order to vary the outlet cross-section of the ventilation opening, wherein the actuating mechanism has a gas source and an element that can be inflated by means of the gas source and cooperates with the cover part during inflation such that it effects a change in the outlet cross-section of the ventilation opening. According to the invention, the inflatable element (5) is fastened in the vicinity of the gas source (6) to a module component (3, 4, 14, 15) which is used to secure the air bag (2) to the airbag module and/or to accommodate the air bag (2) in the airbag module.