Airbag Wrapping Method Using Segmented Strips

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for wrapping inflatable airbags result in an unnecessarily large volume when mounted, and the process is complex and time-consuming.

Innovation Solution

A method involving folding and fastening the airbag to a module carrier with a wrapping that has multiple surface portions, where the outer ends are connected, especially welded, to create a compact and efficient wrapping configuration independent of the bolt length, allowing for quick implementation and reduced volume.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the folded airbag is surrounded with a strip and fastened to the module carrier by pulling the strip over the bolts, then the airbag can be securely mounted, but the airbag volume becomes unnecessarily large and the wrapping process becomes complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting securityVSAvoidairbag volume
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The wrapping is divided into multiple separate strips (first wrapping strip, second wrapping strip, third wrapping strip) that wrap around the airbag in different directions. This segmentation allows each strip to be optimized for its specific wrapping function, maintaining security while minimizing overall volume and avoiding the complexity of a single large strip.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If the strip is configured with sufficient length to pull over the bolt ends, then the airbag can be fastened securely, but the wrapping requires additional surface area and becomes more complex to implement

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefastening reliabilityVSAvoidwrapping complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Different wrapping strips are positioned and configured with specific properties suited to their local requirements. The first wrapping strip has a first end and second end with specific fastening arrangements, while the second and third strips are configured for their respective wrapping positions. This local optimization reduces overall complexity while maintaining fastening reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The wrapping strips are arranged in three-dimensional space around the airbag, with strips wrapping in different directions and positions. This spatial arrangement allows the wrapping to be secured without requiring excessive strip length, as the multi-dimensional configuration provides structural stability with minimal material.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Reliability

If a traditional wrapping method is used with strips pulled over bolts, then the airbag can be mounted, but the process is time-consuming and reduces productivity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting reliabilityVSAvoidwrapping speed
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The wrapping strips are pre-configured with fastening elements (such as adhesive layers, snap-fit components, or pre-attached fasteners) that allow for quick attachment to the module carrier and airbag. This preliminary preparation eliminates the time-consuming process of manually pulling and securing strips during assembly, significantly improving productivity while maintaining mounting reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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

The method achieves a compact and tightly packed airbag with a small folding and packing volume, eliminating the need for excessive wrapping material and simplifying the wrapping process, ensuring the airbag remains securely fastened without unnecessary expansion.

Implementation Method 1

connecting, especially welding, in portions the outer ends of the surface portions to the airbag

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectWelding: Welding

Data Source

PatentUS10053042B2Method of wrapping an inflatable airbag for protection of a person, wrapped inflatable airbag, wrapping for inflatable airbag, airbag module and vehicle safety system
Publication Date: 2018.08.21 DALPHI METAL ESPANA SA
  • US10053042B2 patent drawing
  • US10053042B2 patent drawing
  • US10053042B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention relates a method of wrapping an inflatable airbag (31) for the protection of a person, comprising the steps of:folding an airbag (31),fastening the folded airbag (31) to a module carrier,positioning the folded airbag (31) fastened to the module carrier relative to a wrapping (20) including plural surface portions (21) such that the respective outer ends (23) of the surface portions (21) project from the airbag (31),folding each of the outer ends (23) of the surface portions (21) toward the middle (M) of the wrapping (20) so that the folded airbag (31) is wrapped at least in portions, andconnecting, especially welding, the outer ends (23) of the surface portions (21) in portions to the airbag (31).