Yoke Steering Wheel Airbag Module with Adaptive Tether Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Yoke steering wheels pose a safety risk due to the open design, allowing occupants' heads to be positioned above the airbag module, which can lead to ineffective airbag deployment and reduced protection during collisions, especially in out-of-position scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic airbag module with a tether system that adjusts the airbag's trajectory and shape by anchoring one end to the cushion and the other to a triggered release device, allowing for two deployment configurations: a standard restraint and a U-shaped deployment to accommodate occupants in out-of-position conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a yoke steering wheel with open design is used, then ease of operation and modern aesthetic are improved, but occupant safety is worsened because heads can be positioned above the airbag module
Solution Approach 1:
The airbag deployment configuration is made dynamic and adaptive based on detected occupant position. The system transitions between a first deployment configuration (for in-position occupants) and a second deployment configuration (for out-of-position occupants), allowing the airbag module to adapt its protective function to the specific operational context of the yoke steering wheel design
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the deployment parameters of the airbag based on sensor detection of occupant position. When an out-of-position condition is detected, the control module modifies the deployment parameters to create a different cushion trajectory and shape, transforming the airbag from a standard deployment mode to a modified mode that accounts for the open yoke design
2Reliability
If airbag deployment is restricted for out-of-position occupants, then safety is improved by preventing ineffective deployment, but protection is worsened by limiting airbag expansion
Solution Approach 1:
The airbag cushion is provided with different local qualities through the tether system. The tether creates a specific depression or indentation in the airbag at the location corresponding to the yoke opening, while other portions of the airbag maintain their normal inflation characteristics. This localized modification ensures that the airbag provides appropriate protection for out-of-position occupants without compromising the overall protective function
Solution Approach 2:
The airbag deployment configuration is made dynamic and adaptive based on detected occupant position. The system transitions between a first deployment configuration (for in-position occupants) and a second deployment configuration (for out-of-position occupants), allowing the airbag module to adapt its protective function to the specific operational context of the yoke steering wheel design
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle steering system including a yoke type steering wheel. An airbag module located in the steering wheel and including an inflator and an airbag. The airbag is configured to inflate into two configurations. In the first configuration the airbag is fully inflated into a circular configuration and in the second configuration the airbag inflates into a u-shaped configuration. The u-shaped configuration is formed by a tether connected at a first end to the airbag and at a second end to a tether release device. The tether release device is configured to stay connected to the tether when the driver is determined to be in an out of position (OOP) condition.