Airbag Module Segmented Chambers for Side Impact Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current center side impact airbags (CSIAB) provide some reduction in lateral travel of the occupant's head and body but increase in overall cushion geometry and volume, leading to higher costs and package size, while failing to effectively reduce neck rotation without significant shape changes.
Innovation Solution
The airbag module includes a first inflatable chamber to absorb torso energy and a second inflatable chamber positioned laterally to absorb head energy, with the second chamber pivoting relative to a vertical or horizontal axis to provide head support, reducing neck rotation without increasing the overall cushion shape or size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the overall cushion geometry and volume are increased to meet safety requirements, then the protective capability is improved, but the package volume and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The airbag cushion is divided into multiple independent inflatable chambers (first chamber for torso, second chamber for head) that can be inflated separately. This segmentation allows each chamber to be optimized for its specific protective function without requiring the entire cushion to be larger, thereby maintaining compact overall volume while providing targeted protection for different body regions.
Solution Approach 2:
The second inflatable chamber is configured to pivot relative to a vertical or horizontal axis, adding rotational movement capability. This dimensional change allows the head support chamber to dynamically adjust its position to better support the head and reduce neck rotation during side impacts, enhancing protective capability without increasing the cushion's base volume.
2Reliability
If the cushion geometry is changed to reduce lateral travel of head and body, then the protective capability is improved, but the overall cushion shape increases
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the cushion into distinct chambers for torso and head protection, each chamber can be shaped and positioned to address specific protective needs without altering the overall cushion envelope. The first chamber absorbs torso energy while the second chamber provides head support, achieving comprehensive protection within the original shape constraints.
Solution Approach 2:
The second inflatable chamber is designed to pivot relative to vertical or horizontal axes, providing dynamic adjustment capability. This allows the head support chamber to rotate and reposition itself during deployment to optimize head and neck protection, enhancing protective capability without requiring a larger or more complex fixed shape.
3Reliability
If a second inflatable chamber is added to support the head, then the energy absorption capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The first and second inflatable chambers are fluidly connected, allowing them to share the same inflation system and gas supply. This merging of the inflation mechanism reduces the complexity that would otherwise result from having completely separate systems for each chamber, while still providing differentiated protection for torso and head regions.
Solution Approach 2:
The second inflatable chamber is positioned within or adjacent to the first chamber, with the passage for fluid connection located above, below, or adjacent to the second chamber. This nested arrangement allows both chambers to occupy space efficiently and share structural support, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining dual-functionality for torso and head protection.
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 configuration effectively reduces neck rotation and head excursion during side impacts, maintaining a compact airbag size and minimizing the need for increased package volume or cost, while ensuring effective energy absorption and occupant protection.
Implementation Method 1
The first inflatable chamber is in a position to absorb energy resulting from relative movement of the torso of the occupant in a direction lateral to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle
Data Source
AI summary
An airbag module for protecting an occupant of a vehicle seat. The module includes an inflatable cushion and an inflator. The cushion is configured to inflate into a position inboard of the vehicle seat and includes a first inflatable chamber fluidly connected to a second inflatable chamber. The cushion is configured to inflate into a position in which the first inflatable chamber is in a position to absorb energy resulting from relative movement of the torso of the occupant in a direction lateral to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle. The second inflatable chamber is configured to inflate into a position to absorb energy resulting from relative movement of the head of the occupant.