Deployable Airbag Panel Assembly Without Windshield Reaction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current airbag systems in vehicles often rely on windshields as reaction surfaces during inflation, limiting design flexibility for windshield positioning and angle, as airbags inflate and deploy, potentially causing design constraints.
Innovation Solution
A deployable panel assembly that includes a rotatable panel connected to the dash, a translatable member, and a pyrotechnically activated actuator, which guides the airbag's inflation direction and acts as a reaction surface, allowing the airbag to be positioned vehicle-rearward of the windshield without using the windshield as a reaction surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the airbag uses the windshield as a reaction surface during inflation, then the airbag deployment is supported, but the windshield positioning and angle become constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The reaction surface function is segmented from the windshield and assigned to a separate deployable panel. This allows the windshield to be positioned independently without being constrained by airbag inflation requirements, while the dedicated panel provides the necessary reaction surface for reliable airbag deployment.
Solution Approach 2:
A deployable panel acts as an intermediary between the airbag and the windshield. This intermediate structure provides the reaction surface for airbag inflation without requiring the windshield to serve this function, thereby decoupling the windshield positioning constraints from the airbag deployment requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a dedicated reaction surface structure is added for the airbag, then the windshield design freedom is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reaction surface panel is designed to be deployable rather than fixed. It remains stowed during normal operation and only deploys when needed for airbag inflation. This dynamic approach provides the necessary function temporarily without permanently increasing structural complexity or occupying space.
Solution Approach 2:
The deployable panel is nested within the existing vehicle structure when not in use. The panel can be stored within the dashboard or surrounding structures, only extending outward when the airbag needs to inflate. This nesting approach minimizes the impact on device complexity and interior space.
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 reduces design constraints on windshield positioning and angle by providing a dedicated reaction surface for the airbag, enhancing the airbag's deployment efficiency and flexibility within the vehicle's interior.
Implementation Method 1
The actuator may be pyrotechnically activated
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly includes a dash and a deployable panel. The deployable panel has a proximal end rotatably connected to the dash. The deployable panel is rotatable about the proximal end from an undeployed position to a deployed position. The proximal end is engaged with the dash in the deployed position and the deployable panel has a distal end spaced above the dash in the deployed position. A member is supported by the dash and translatable upwardly from an undeployed position to a deployed position. The deployable panel abuts the member in the deployed position. The member is rigid relative to the panel in the deployed position. An airbag is supported by the dash and is inflatable to an inflated position. The airbag abuts the panel in the inflated position. The deployable panel is between the airbag and the member.