US20100109295A1 - Gas generating system - Google Patents
Gas generating system Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20100109295A1 US20100109295A1 US12/655,768 US65576810A US2010109295A1 US 20100109295 A1 US20100109295 A1 US 20100109295A1 US 65576810 A US65576810 A US 65576810A US 2010109295 A1 US2010109295 A1 US 2010109295A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- generating system
- canceled
- gas generating
- gas
- inner housing
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 239000007789 gas Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 250
- 238000002485 combustion reaction Methods 0.000 claims description 47
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 claims description 18
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 claims description 17
- 230000004913 activation Effects 0.000 claims description 14
- 230000002776 aggregation Effects 0.000 abstract description 35
- 238000004220 aggregation Methods 0.000 abstract description 35
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 abstract description 13
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 abstract description 13
- 239000000047 product Substances 0.000 description 20
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 description 15
- LNUFLCYMSVYYNW-ZPJMAFJPSA-N [(2r,3r,4s,5r,6r)-2-[(2r,3r,4s,5r,6r)-6-[(2r,3r,4s,5r,6r)-6-[(2r,3r,4s,5r,6r)-6-[[(3s,5s,8r,9s,10s,13r,14s,17r)-10,13-dimethyl-17-[(2r)-6-methylheptan-2-yl]-2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,11,12,14,15,16,17-tetradecahydro-1h-cyclopenta[a]phenanthren-3-yl]oxy]-4,5-disulfo Chemical compound O([C@@H]1[C@@H](COS(O)(=O)=O)O[C@@H]([C@@H]([C@H]1OS(O)(=O)=O)OS(O)(=O)=O)O[C@@H]1[C@@H](COS(O)(=O)=O)O[C@@H]([C@@H]([C@H]1OS(O)(=O)=O)OS(O)(=O)=O)O[C@@H]1[C@@H](COS(O)(=O)=O)O[C@H]([C@@H]([C@H]1OS(O)(=O)=O)OS(O)(=O)=O)O[C@@H]1C[C@@H]2CC[C@H]3[C@@H]4CC[C@@H]([C@]4(CC[C@@H]3[C@@]2(C)CC1)C)[C@H](C)CCCC(C)C)[C@H]1O[C@H](COS(O)(=O)=O)[C@@H](OS(O)(=O)=O)[C@H](OS(O)(=O)=O)[C@H]1OS(O)(=O)=O LNUFLCYMSVYYNW-ZPJMAFJPSA-N 0.000 description 10
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 9
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 7
- 230000008859 change Effects 0.000 description 6
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 5
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 5
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 description 5
- IJGRMHOSHXDMSA-UHFFFAOYSA-N Atomic nitrogen Chemical compound N#N IJGRMHOSHXDMSA-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 4
- 239000011888 foil Substances 0.000 description 4
- 229910001092 metal group alloy Inorganic materials 0.000 description 4
- 230000002093 peripheral effect Effects 0.000 description 4
- 229910000975 Carbon steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 3
- 239000010962 carbon steel Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000001816 cooling Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000007800 oxidant agent Substances 0.000 description 3
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000005482 strain hardening Methods 0.000 description 3
- PAWQVTBBRAZDMG-UHFFFAOYSA-N 2-(3-bromo-2-fluorophenyl)acetic acid Chemical compound OC(=O)CC1=CC=CC(Br)=C1F PAWQVTBBRAZDMG-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- XEEYBQQBJWHFJM-UHFFFAOYSA-N Iron Chemical compound [Fe] XEEYBQQBJWHFJM-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 229910000831 Steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 230000004888 barrier function Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000000567 combustion gas Substances 0.000 description 2
- 150000001875 compounds Chemical class 0.000 description 2
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000004744 fabric Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000000446 fuel Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229910052757 nitrogen Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 238000004806 packaging method and process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000011236 particulate material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000003380 propellant Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000012265 solid product Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000010935 stainless steel Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229910001220 stainless steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 239000010959 steel Substances 0.000 description 2
- 150000003536 tetrazoles Chemical class 0.000 description 2
- 150000003852 triazoles Chemical class 0.000 description 2
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000002411 adverse Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000004931 aggregating effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229910052782 aluminium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N aluminium Chemical compound [Al] XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- -1 amine salt Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005266 casting Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000005465 channeling Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000004927 clay Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000002788 crimping Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000003247 decreasing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000009826 distribution Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005553 drilling Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000001914 filtration Methods 0.000 description 1
- 231100001261 hazardous Toxicity 0.000 description 1
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229910052742 iron Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 description 1
- DRLFMBDRBRZALE-UHFFFAOYSA-N melatonin Chemical compound COC1=CC=C2NC=C(CCNC(C)=O)C2=C1 DRLFMBDRBRZALE-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000010445 mica Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910052618 mica group Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229910052755 nonmetal Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 238000005192 partition Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229920000642 polymer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 238000004080 punching Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000002994 raw material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000009467 reduction Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000004044 response Effects 0.000 description 1
- 150000003839 salts Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 239000002893 slag Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000004381 surface treatment Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000003466 welding Methods 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60R21/00—Arrangements or fittings on vehicles for protecting or preventing injuries to occupants or pedestrians in case of accidents or other traffic risks
- B60R21/02—Occupant safety arrangements or fittings, e.g. crash pads
- B60R21/16—Inflatable occupant restraints or confinements designed to inflate upon impact or impending impact, e.g. air bags
- B60R21/26—Inflatable occupant restraints or confinements designed to inflate upon impact or impending impact, e.g. air bags characterised by the inflation fluid source or means to control inflation fluid flow
- B60R21/264—Inflatable occupant restraints or confinements designed to inflate upon impact or impending impact, e.g. air bags characterised by the inflation fluid source or means to control inflation fluid flow using instantaneous generation of gas, e.g. pyrotechnic
- B60R21/2644—Inflatable occupant restraints or confinements designed to inflate upon impact or impending impact, e.g. air bags characterised by the inflation fluid source or means to control inflation fluid flow using instantaneous generation of gas, e.g. pyrotechnic using only solid reacting substances, e.g. pellets, powder
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C06—EXPLOSIVES; MATCHES
- C06D—MEANS FOR GENERATING SMOKE OR MIST; GAS-ATTACK COMPOSITIONS; GENERATION OF GAS FOR BLASTING OR PROPULSION (CHEMICAL PART)
- C06D5/00—Generation of pressure gas, e.g. for blasting cartridges, starting cartridges, rockets
- C06D5/06—Generation of pressure gas, e.g. for blasting cartridges, starting cartridges, rockets by reaction of two or more solids
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F42—AMMUNITION; BLASTING
- F42B—EXPLOSIVE CHARGES, e.g. FOR BLASTING, FIREWORKS, AMMUNITION
- F42B3/00—Blasting cartridges, i.e. case and explosive
- F42B3/04—Blasting cartridges, i.e. case and explosive for producing gas under pressure
Definitions
- the present invention relates generally to gas generating systems and, more particularly, to filterless gas generating systems for use in applications such as inflatable occupant restraint systems in motor vehicles.
- a typical gas generating system includes cylindrical steel or aluminum housing having a diameter and length related to the vehicle application and characteristics of a gas generant composition contained therein. Because inhalation by a vehicle occupant of particulates generated by gas generant combustion during airbag activation can be hazardous, it is desirable to remove particulate material, or slag, produced during combustion of the gas generant.
- the gas generating system is generally provided with an internal or external filter comprising one or more layers of steel screen of varying mesh and wire diameter. Gas produced upon combustion of the gas generant passes through the filter before exiting the gas generating system.
- the particulates are substantially removed as the gas passes through the filter.
- heat from combustion gases is transferred to the material of the filter as the gases flow through the filter.
- the filter acts to cool the combustion gases prior to dispersal into an associated airbag.
- inclusion of the filter in the gas generating system increases the complexity, weight, and expense of the gas generating system.
- a gas generating system construction which removes particulates and cools the generated gases without the need for a filter is desirable.
- Variations in the filter components and in the arrangement of the filter material can also unpredictably and adversely affect gas flow through the filter, thereby contributing to ballistic variability of the gas generating system and making the system response less predictable.
- the above-referenced concerns may be mitigated or obviated by providing a gas generating system for use in an inflatable vehicle occupant protection system, a system that may if desired be filterless.
- the gas generating system includes a baffle system having a plurality of flow orifices defining a flow path for generated gases through an interior of the gas generating system, and a plurality of particulate aggregation surfaces positioned along the flow path of the gases for changing a flow direction of gases impinging on the aggregation surfaces.
- Each aggregation surface is oriented such that a difference between a flow direction of the gases prior to impinging on the aggregation surface and a flow direction of the gases after impinging on the aggregation surface is at least approximately 90°, wherein particulates in gases impinging on the aggregation surfaces aggregate or collect on the surfaces.
- the gas generating system includes an outer housing including a combustion chamber, a baffle system, and may also include a high gas-yield, low solids-producing gas generant composition positioned in the combustion chamber.
- the baffle system includes a plurality of flow orifices defining a flow path for gases generated by combustion of the gas generant composition, the flow path extending between the combustion chamber and an exterior of the gas generating system, and a plurality of particulate aggregation surfaces positioned along the flow path of the gases for changing a flow direction of gases impinging on the aggregation surfaces, wherein particulates in gases impinging on the aggregation surfaces aggregate on the surfaces.
- the present inflator includes an end closure that is cold-worked or otherwise compressed within an outer housing, the end closure containing a body bore groove, and the housing or outer tube containing a flange pressed within the groove, thereby providing a body bore seal in a metal to metal contact.
- the present invention includes an inflator housing having a first end and a second end, the housing coupled to an end closure at the first end in a metal-to-metal seal.
- FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional side view of a first embodiment of a gas generating system in accordance with the present invention
- FIG. 1A is an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 1 showing projected gas flow paths and projected particulate aggregation surfaces therealong;
- FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional side view of a second embodiment of a gas generating system in accordance with the present invention
- FIG. 2A is an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 2 showing projected gas flow paths and projected particulate aggregation surfaces therealong;
- FIG. 3 is a schematic view of an exemplary gas generating system as employed in a vehicle occupant protection system, in accordance with the present invention.
- FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional side view of a first embodiment of a gas generating system in accordance with the present invention, wherein an annular flange or flare is shown as formed about the periphery of the outer housing prior to compressing within a recessed portion or groove formed within an end closure within the outer housing.
- the present invention broadly comprises a gas generating system that is fabricated without the wire mesh filter required in earlier designs for removing particulate materials from a stream of inflation gas.
- the design utilizes a tortuous path gas flow concept to cool the gas and to retain solids in the device in order to minimize flame and particulates from exiting the device.
- Selection of suitable gas generant compositions capable of combusting to produce inflation gas without an undue quantity of particulates further obviates the need for a filter. Obviating the need for a filter enables the gas generating system to be simpler, lighter, less expensive, and easier to manufacture.
- FIG. 1 shows one embodiment of a gas generating system 10 in accordance with the present invention.
- Gas generating system 10 is generally constructed of components made from a durable metal such as carbon steel or iron, but may also include components made from tough and impact-resistant polymers, for example.
- a durable metal such as carbon steel or iron
- tough and impact-resistant polymers for example.
- U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,035,757, 6,062,143, 6,347,566, U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 2001/0045735, WO 01/08936, and WO 01/08937 exemplify typical designs for the various inflator components, and are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, but not by way of limitation.
- gas generating system 10 includes a substantially cylindrical outer housing 12 having a first end 12 a , a second end 12 b opposite the first end, and a wall 12 c extending between the ends to define a housing interior cavity.
- Outer housing 12 is made from a metal or metal alloy and may be a cast, stamped, deep-drawn, extruded, or otherwise metal-formed.
- a nozzle 12 d is formed at housing second end 12 b containing one or more gas exit orifices 12 e for enabling fluid communication between an interior of the housing and an associated inflatable device (for example, an airbag or a safety belt pretensioner incorporated into a vehicle occupant protection system.)
- an associated inflatable device for example, an airbag or a safety belt pretensioner incorporated into a vehicle occupant protection system.
- gas exit orifice(s) 12 e are then provided in outer housing second end 12 b by drilling, punching, or other suitable means.
- the gas generating system is a micro gas generator with outer housing 12 having an outer diameter of approximately 20 mm, usable in, for example, a side seat inflator or a safety belt pretensioner.
- outer housing 12 having an outer diameter of approximately 20 mm, usable in, for example, a side seat inflator or a safety belt pretensioner.
- the characteristics of the embodiments described herein may be incorporated into gas generating systems of many alternative sizes, usable for a variety of different applications.
- the gas exit orifices may be incorporated into a gas exit manifold which is formed separately from the outer housing and then welded or otherwise suitably fixed to the outer housing during assembly of the gas generating system.
- a small quantity of a filter material may be incorporated into the outer housing second end proximate the gas exit orifices to filter combustion products from the inflation fluid prior to gas distribution.
- Any suitable metallic mesh filter or woven wire cloth may be used, many examples of which are known and obtainable from commercially available sources (for example, Wayne Wire Cloth Products, Inc. of Bloomfield Hills, Mich.)
- an end closure 14 is cold-worked or otherwise metal-formed within outer housing first end 12 a .
- End closure 14 has formed therealong a peripheral shoulder 14 a , a central orifice 14 b , and a peripheral cavity or recessed portion 14 c .
- an annular flange or protrusion 14 d of housing first end 12 a (shown as a dotted line in a pre-cold-worked state in FIG. 4 , and also shown as compressed within the groove 14 c ), is drawn through a die to cold-work and thereby compress the flange within the groove 14 c .
- the diameter of the inflator may be effectively reduced by eliminating the need for a typical seal such as an o-ring at the end closure and outer housing interface within groove 14 c , and also by compressing the annular flange 14 d within groove 14 c .
- the volume of the annular flange or protruding portion 14 d is at least approximately or substantially equal to the volume defined by the groove 12 c . Accordingly, a flush metal-to-metal contact is formed at the interface of groove 14 c and flange 14 d once the substantially assembled inflator is drawn and compressed through a die having a smaller diameter than the outer diameter of the annular flange 14 d prior to cold-working.
- the housing 12 is compressed to provide sufficient strength in accordance with customer specifications while simplifying the manufacturing process by reducing surface treatment or assembly of additional parts such as an o-ring.
- the portion 14 d of outer housing first end 12 a is pressed into peripheral cavity 14 c to secure the end closure to outer housing 12 and at the same time provide hermetic sealing of the inflator.
- the cold-work technique of fitting and sealing the end closure 14 within the housing end 12 a results in the ability to substantially reduce the diameter of the inflator to less than one inch outer diameter, while yet retaining the structural and other design requirements surrounding the shorting clip or ignition assembly, as determined by the customer.
- One embodiment exhibits an outer diameter of approximately 20 millimeters, thereby decreasing the packaging size and also increasing the design flexibility with regard to the particular application, as a side inflator within a seat for example.
- Peripheral shoulder 14 a is configured so that an end portion a wall 16 b of an ignition cup 16 (described in greater detail below) having a predetermined outer diameter may be positioned to abut shoulder 14 a .
- End closure 14 may be stamped, extruded, die cast, or otherwise metal formed and may be made from carbon steel or stainless steel, for example.
- an O-ring or seal (not shown) may be seated along an outer edge of end closure 14 to seal the interface between the end closure 14 and housing wall 12 c.
- an ignition cup 16 is positioned adjacent end closure 14 , and is nested within outer housing 12 for a portion of the housing length.
- Ignition cup 16 has a base portion 16 a and an annular wall 16 b extending from the base portion to abut end closure 14 .
- Base portion 16 a and wall 16 b define a cavity 16 c for containing a pyrotechnic compound 18 (for example, a known booster composition) therein.
- At least one ignition gas exit orifice 16 e is formed in ignition cup 16 for release of ignition compound combustion products when ignition compound 18 is ignited.
- An annular recess is formed in base portion 16 a and is dimensioned so that an end portion of an annular inner housing 22 (described below) having a predetermined inner diameter may be positioned within the recess to aid in locating and securing inner housing 22 within outer housing 12 .
- Ignition cup 16 may be stamped, extruded, die cast, or otherwise metal formed and may be made from carbon steel or stainless steel, for example.
- a rupturable, fluid-tight seal (not shown) is positioned across ignition cup orifice 16 e to fluidly isolate cavity 16 c from a main combustion chamber 22 a formed downstream of ignition cup 16 , prior to activation of the gas generating system.
- the seal is secured to a face of ignition cup base portion 16 a and forms a fluid-tight barrier between cavity 16 c and main combustion chamber 22 a .
- Various known disks, foils, films, tapes, or other suitable materials may be used to form the seal.
- a quantity of a pyrotechnic compound 18 is contained within cavity 16 c .
- pyrotechnic compound 18 is a known or suitable ignition or booster compound, whose combustion ignites a second, main gas generant charge 28 positioned in combustion chamber 22 a .
- pyrotechnic compound 18 in cavity 16 c comprises the main gas generant charge for the gas generating system.
- This alternative embodiment may be used in applications in which a relatively small amount of inflation gas (and, therefore, a correspondingly smaller amount of gas generant) is needed.
- One or more autoignition tablets may be placed in cavity 16 c , allowing ignition of pyrotechnic compound 18 upon external heating in a manner well-known in the art.
- an igniter assembly 20 is positioned and secured within end closure central orifice 14 b so as to enable operative communication between cavity 16 c containing ignition compound 18 and an igniter 20 a incorporated into the igniter assembly, for igniting ignition compound 18 upon activation of the gas generating system.
- Igniter assembly 20 may be secured in central orifice 14 b using any one of several known methods, for example, by welding, crimping, using an interference fit, or by adhesive application.
- An igniter assembly suitable for the application described herein may be obtained from any of a variety of known sources, for example Primex Technologies, Inc. of Redmond, Wash. or Aerospace Propulsion Products by, of The Netherlands.
- the recess in ignition cup 16 is adapted to accommodate a first end portion of an inner housing 22 therealong.
- inner housing 22 in combination with center plate 26 and bulkhead 30 (described below) define a main combustion chamber 22 a containing a main gas generant composition 28 (described in greater detail below.)
- Inner housing 22 is spaced apart from outer housing wall 12 c to form an annular gas flow passage 23 extending between inner housing 22 and outer housing 12 .
- Inner housing 22 includes at least one and preferably a plurality of gas exit apertures 22 b formed therealong to enable fluid communication between combustion chamber 22 a and gas flow passage 23 .
- combustion chamber 22 a fluidly communicates with ignition cup cavity 16 c by way of ignition cup orifice 16 e.
- inner housing 22 telescopes or tapers down from a first, relatively larger inner diameter enclosing center plate 26 (described below) and combustion chamber 22 a , to a second, relatively narrower inner diameter proximate outer housing second end 12 b .
- the width of gas flow passage 23 (defined as half of the difference between an inner diameter of outer housing 12 and an outer diameter of inner housing 22 , where inner housing is positioned coaxially with outer housing 12 ) may vary along the length of inner housing 22 .
- the width of gas flow passage 23 varies along the length of inner housing 22 from between a low-end value of approximately 0.5 mm. to a high-end value of approximately 3 mm.
- a second end of inner housing 22 includes an end portion which is rolled inwardly to form an annular orifice.
- Inner housing 22 also has at least one second orifice 30 d formed along the relatively narrow diameter portion of the inner housing to enable fluid communication between gas flow passage 23 and an interior of a baffle member 34 (described in greater detail below).
- a second end portion of inner housing 122 is formed without the reduction in diameter and is seated along a recess formed in a baffle element 40 (described below), thereby positioning and securing inner housing 122 radially inwardly from outer housing 12 .
- the width of gas flow passage 23 is substantially constant along the length of inner housing 122 . In a particular embodiment, the width of gas flow passage 23 is approximately 1 mm. along the length of inner housing 22 .
- Inner housings 22 and 122 may be extruded, deep drawn, or otherwise metal-formed from a metal or metal alloy.
- center plate 26 is press fit or otherwise suitably secured within housing 12 .
- center plate 26 is dimensioned so as to form an interference fit with inner housing 22 and is positioned to abut base portion 16 a of ignition cup 16 .
- At least one orifice 26 a is provided in center plate 26 to enable fluid communication between gas exit orifice 16 e in ignition cup 16 and gas generant combustion chamber 22 a formed in inner housing 22 .
- Center plate 26 is made from a metal or metal alloy and may be a cast, stamped, drawn, extruded, or otherwise metal-formed.
- a rupturable, fluid-tight seal may be positioned across orifice(s) 26 a to fluidly isolate booster cavity 16 c from combustion chamber 22 a prior to activation of the gas generating system.
- the seal is secured to a face of center plate 26 and forms a fluid-tight barrier between ignition cup cavity 16 c and combustion chamber 22 a .
- Various known disks, foils, films, tapes, or other suitable materials may be used to form the seal.
- gas generant composition 28 is positioned within combustion chambers 22 a . It has been found that the gas generator embodiments described herein operate most favorably with a high gas-yield, low solids-producing gas generant composition, such as a “smokeless” gas generant composition. Such gas generant compositions are exemplified by, but not limited to, compositions and processes described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,210,505, and 5,872,329, each incorporated by reference herein.
- the term “smokeless” should be generally understood to mean such propellants as are capable of combustion yielding at least about 85% gaseous products, and preferably about 90% gaseous products, based on a total product mass; and, as a corollary, no more than about 15% solid products and, preferably, about 10% solid products, based on a total product mass.
- U.S. Pat. No. 6,210,505 discloses various high nitrogen nonazide gas compositions comprising a nonmetal salt of triazole or tetrazole fuel, phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) as a primary oxidizer, a metallic second oxidizer, and an inert component such as clay or mica.
- PSAN phase stabilized ammonium nitrate
- U.S. Pat. No. 5,872,329 discloses various high nitrogen nonazide gas compositions comprising an amine salt of triazole or tetrazole fuel, and phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN
- a bulkhead or divider 30 is press-fit, roll-crimped, or otherwise suitably secured within inner housing 12 along the reduced-diameter portion of the inner housing, so as to maintain the divider in position within the housing when the divider is subjected to gas pressures acting on either side of the divider.
- Bulkhead 30 partitions inner housing 22 to define a chamber 30 a within inner housing proximate the outer housing second end.
- the portion of inner housing enclosing chamber 30 a includes apertures 30 d formed therein to enable fluid communication between gas flow passage 23 and chamber 30 a .
- Divider 30 may be formed by stamping, casting, or any other suitable process from a metal or metal alloy.
- a baffle member 34 is provided for channeling a flow of gas entering inner housing 22 from gas flow passage 23 into gas exit nozzle 12 d .
- Baffle member 34 includes an annular base portion 34 a and an annular sleeve 34 b extending from the base portion into inner housing 22 to define a baffle member interior in fluid communication with the gas flow passage 23 .
- the baffle member interior is also in fluid communication with an interior of nozzle 12 d .
- Base portion 34 a is positioned and secured between a second end portion of inner housing 22 and outer housing gas exit nozzle 12 d to secure the baffle member within housing 12 .
- a rupturable, fluid-tight seal may be positioned across an end portion of annular sleeve portion 34 b to fluidly isolate inner housing end chamber 30 a from outer housing gas exit nozzle 16 d .
- Various known disks, foils, films, tapes, or other suitable materials may be used to form the seal.
- a baffle member 40 in an alternative embodiment (shown in FIG. 2 ), includes a substantially circular base portion 40 a abutting inner housing 22 , and a substantially cylindrical wall 40 b extending from base portion 40 a .
- Wall 40 b is in fluid communication with gas flow passage 23 .
- Base portion 40 a and wall 40 b combine to define a baffle chamber 40 c for receiving therein combustion products from combustion of inflation gas generant 28 in combustion chamber 22 a , in a manner described below.
- Baffle chamber 40 c is also in fluid communication with nozzle 12 .
- a gas-tight seal is effected between baffle member base portion 40 a and inner housing 22 , thereby preventing leakage of gas from combustion chamber 22 a toward gas exit nozzle 12 d without transiting annular gas flow passage 23 .
- a recess is formed in baffle member base portion 40 a for receiving therealong the second end portion of inner housing 22 , for positioning and securing the inner housing second end within the gas generating system.
- At least one (and preferably a plurality) of orifices 40 d is formed in wall 40 b for enabling flow of combustion products received from gas flow passage 23 . In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2 , several orifices 40 d are spaced apart approximately 90° along a periphery of wall 40 b .
- a rupturable, fluid-tight seal may positioned across an entrance to gas exit nozzle 12 d to fluidly isolate baffle chamber 40 c from outer housing gas exit nozzle 12 d .
- Various known disks, foils, films, tapes, or other suitable materials may be used to form the seal.
- Particulates (especially the heavier particulates) suspended in the generated gases will have greater momentum and dynamic inertia than the gases in which they are suspended, and do not change direction as readily as the gases. Thus, the particulates will tend to collide with and aggregate upon surfaces along the gas flow path. It is also desirable to provide sufficient aggregation surface area at or near the portions of the gas generator interior where the particulates are likely to aggregate, in order to accommodate the aggregation of particulates. In addition, the more numerous the changes in direction in the gas flow, the more opportunities are provided for aggregation of the particulates.
- each aggregation surfaces of the plurality of aggregation surfaces is substantially perpendicular to the flow direction of the gases impinging on the respective aggregation surface.
- FIG. 1A shows a projected gas flow path (indicated by arrows A) through the gas generating system when combustion of the gas generant begins.
- orifices 22 b , 30 d , and the opening into annular sleeve 34 b define a flow path for generated gases through an interior of the gas generating system to nozzle gas exit orifices 12 e .
- the arrangement of the various gas generating system components described above provides a plurality of particulate aggregation surfaces positioned along the flow path of the gases for changing a flow direction of gases impinging on the surfaces, so that particulates in gases impinging on the aggregation surfaces will collect or aggregate on the surfaces.
- an electrical activation signal is sent to igniter 20 a .
- Combustion products from the igniter expand into ignition cup cavity 16 c , igniting booster compound 18 positioned in cavity 16 c .
- Products from the combustion of booster compound 18 proceed out of cavity 16 c through ignition cup orifice 16 e and into combustion chamber 22 a , igniting main gas generant 28 .
- the main gas generant 28 When the main gas generant 28 has been fully ignited by the booster composition, the main gas generant begins to change phase from a solid to a liquid, then to a gas.
- Gases and other combustion products generated by combustion of gas generant 28 are forced radially outward at a relatively high velocity toward gas exit apertures 22 b by the internal pressure in inner housing 22 . Gases then flow through multiple orifices 22 b in inner housing 22 into gas flow passage 23 , charging the gas flow passage with a pressure which is slightly lower than the pressure within the inner housing 22 . As the main gas generant burns, both P 1 (internal housing pressure) and P 2 (gas flow passage pressure) increase at the same rate and gases flow through the gas flow passage 23 . Products from combustion of gas generant 28 proceed through inner housing gas exit apertures 22 b into annular gas flow passage 23 and along passage 23 toward the downstream end of inner housing 22 .
- particulates passing through orifices 22 b impact along inner surfaces of outer housing 12 prior to the gases changing direction as they flow along passage 23 toward orifices 30 d . Impinging of the gases upon the inner surfaces of outer housing 12 at a relatively high velocity causes the particulates to stick to or aggregate on the inner surfaces of outer housing 12 .
- gases deflecting off of annular sleeve 34 b are forced toward divider 30 in order to reach the hollow center portion of the sleeve leading to nozzle gas exit orifices 12 e .
- particulates in the gases may also impact divider 30 and adhere thereto.
- gases proceeding toward nozzle orifices 12 e may impact an inner end surface 12 f of the nozzle, causing particulates to adhere thereto prior to exiting of the generated gas from orifices 12 e.
- a series of aggregation surfaces is positioned between the combustion chamber and exit apertures of the gas generating system to impart abrupt changes in velocity to the gas stream, thereby causing particulates suspended in the gas stream to impact the aggregation surfaces so as to adhere thereto. It is believed that a system of aggregation surfaces as described herein acts to trap most of the particulates produced during combustion of the gas generant, without the filter needed in other designs.
- any burst seals positioned therein rupture, permitting gases to flow into the sleeve portion 34 b , proceeding out of the gas generating system through nozzle 12 d.
- Operation of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 2 and 2A is substantially identical to that described for the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 1A , with gases from gas flow passage 23 proceeding along the path defined by arrows B, flowing through openings 40 b into baffle chamber 40 c , then into nozzle 12 d , exiting the gas generating system through gas exit orifices 12 e . While a portion of the combustion products proceed through inner housing second end apertures 30 d into chamber 30 a , a portion of the combustion products also enter a portion 170 of the gas flow passage defined by an intersection or abutment of end portions of inner baffle member 40 and outer housing 12 , forcing the flow direction of the gases to change abruptly as the gases flow back toward baffle member apertures 40 d . Movement of the gases into passage portion 170 at a relatively high velocity causes the particulates to stick to or aggregate on surfaces with passage portion 170 .
- an embodiment of the gas generating system 10 described above may also be incorporated into any of a variety of vehicle occupant protection system elements.
- the 20 mm diameter version of the gas generating system previously described is incorporated into a safety belt assembly 150 for pretensioning the safety belt.
- FIG. 3 shows a schematic diagram of one exemplary embodiment of an exemplary safety belt assembly 150 .
- Safety belt assembly 150 includes a safety belt housing 152 and a safety belt 100 extending from housing 152 .
- a safety belt retractor mechanism 154 (for example, a spring-loaded mechanism) may be coupled to an end portion of the belt.
- a safety belt pretensioner 156 may be coupled to belt retractor mechanism 154 to actuate the retractor mechanism in the event of a collision.
- Typical seat belt retractor mechanisms which may be used in conjunction with the safety belt embodiments of the present invention are described in U.S. Pat. Nos.
- Safety belt assembly 150 may also include (or be in communication with) a crash event sensor 158 (for example, an inertia sensor or an accelerometer) operates in conjunction with a crash sensor algorithm that signals actuation of belt pretensioner 156 via, for example, activation of igniter 20 a (not shown in FIG. 3 ) incorporated into the gas generating system.
- a crash event sensor 158 for example, an inertia sensor or an accelerometer
- a crash sensor algorithm that signals actuation of belt pretensioner 156 via, for example, activation of igniter 20 a (not shown in FIG. 3 ) incorporated into the gas generating system.
- U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,505,790 and 6,419,177 previously incorporated herein by reference, provide illustrative examples of pretensioners actuated in such a manner.
- safety belt assembly 150 may also be incorporated into a broader, more comprehensive vehicle occupant restraint system 180 including additional elements such as an airbag system 200 .
- Airbag system 200 includes at least one airbag 202 and a gas generating system 201 coupled to airbag 202 so as to enable fluid communication with an interior of the airbag.
- Airbag system 200 may also include (or be in communication with) a crash event sensor 210 .
- Crash event sensor 210 operates in conjunction with a known crash sensor algorithm that signals actuation of airbag system 200 via, for example, activation of airbag gas generating system 10 in the event of a collision.
- safety belt assembly 150 airbag system 200 , and more broadly, vehicle occupant protection system 180 exemplify but do not limit uses of gas generating systems contemplated in accordance with the present invention.
- a gas generating system incorporating a plurality of particulate aggregation surfaces and a high gas-yield, low solids-producing gas generant composition as described herein may be used in the airbag system or in other vehicle occupant protection system elements requiring a gas generating system for operation.
Abstract
A gas generating system for use in an inflatable vehicle occupant protection system is provided wherein an end closure is coupled to an outer housing at a first end, in a metal-to-metal seal. The gas generating system may also include a baffle system having a plurality of flow orifices defining a flow path for generated gases through an interior of the gas generating system, and a plurality of particulate aggregation surfaces positioned along the flow path of the gases for changing a flow direction of gases impinging on the aggregation surfaces. Each aggregation surface of the plurality of aggregation surfaces is oriented such that a difference between a flow direction of the gases prior to impinging on the aggregation surface and a flow direction of the gases after impinging on the aggregation surface is at least approximately 90°, wherein particulates in gases impinging on the aggregation surfaces aggregate on the surfaces.
Description
- This application claims the benefit of provisional application Ser. No. 60/686,906, filed on Jun. 2, 2005.
- The present invention relates generally to gas generating systems and, more particularly, to filterless gas generating systems for use in applications such as inflatable occupant restraint systems in motor vehicles.
- Installation of inflatable occupant protection systems as standard equipment in all new vehicles has intensified the search for smaller, lighter and less expensive protection systems. Accordingly, since the inflation gas generator used in such protection systems tends to be the heaviest and most expensive component, there is a need for a lighter, more compact, and less expensive gas generating system.
- A typical gas generating system includes cylindrical steel or aluminum housing having a diameter and length related to the vehicle application and characteristics of a gas generant composition contained therein. Because inhalation by a vehicle occupant of particulates generated by gas generant combustion during airbag activation can be hazardous, it is desirable to remove particulate material, or slag, produced during combustion of the gas generant. Thus, the gas generating system is generally provided with an internal or external filter comprising one or more layers of steel screen of varying mesh and wire diameter. Gas produced upon combustion of the gas generant passes through the filter before exiting the gas generating system. In a conventional system, the particulates are substantially removed as the gas passes through the filter. In addition, heat from combustion gases is transferred to the material of the filter as the gases flow through the filter. Thus, as well as filtering particulates from the gases, the filter acts to cool the combustion gases prior to dispersal into an associated airbag. However, inclusion of the filter in the gas generating system increases the complexity, weight, and expense of the gas generating system. Thus, a gas generating system construction which removes particulates and cools the generated gases without the need for a filter is desirable.
- Variations in the filter components and in the arrangement of the filter material can also unpredictably and adversely affect gas flow through the filter, thereby contributing to ballistic variability of the gas generating system and making the system response less predictable.
- Yet another concern involves reducing the size of the inflator thereby reducing the packaging size and providing greater design flexibility in various applications or uses. Furthermore, reducing the size of the inflator reduces the raw material requirements, and may also advantageously reduce the manufacturing complexity, thereby reducing overall manufacturing costs.
- Other ongoing concerns with gas generating systems include the ability to achieve any one of a variety of ballistic profiles by varying as few of the physical parameters of the gas generating system as possible and/or by varying these physical parameters as economically as possible.
- The above-referenced concerns may be mitigated or obviated by providing a gas generating system for use in an inflatable vehicle occupant protection system, a system that may if desired be filterless. In one aspect, the gas generating system includes a baffle system having a plurality of flow orifices defining a flow path for generated gases through an interior of the gas generating system, and a plurality of particulate aggregation surfaces positioned along the flow path of the gases for changing a flow direction of gases impinging on the aggregation surfaces. Each aggregation surface is oriented such that a difference between a flow direction of the gases prior to impinging on the aggregation surface and a flow direction of the gases after impinging on the aggregation surface is at least approximately 90°, wherein particulates in gases impinging on the aggregation surfaces aggregate or collect on the surfaces.
- In another aspect of the invention, the gas generating system includes an outer housing including a combustion chamber, a baffle system, and may also include a high gas-yield, low solids-producing gas generant composition positioned in the combustion chamber. The baffle system includes a plurality of flow orifices defining a flow path for gases generated by combustion of the gas generant composition, the flow path extending between the combustion chamber and an exterior of the gas generating system, and a plurality of particulate aggregation surfaces positioned along the flow path of the gases for changing a flow direction of gases impinging on the aggregation surfaces, wherein particulates in gases impinging on the aggregation surfaces aggregate on the surfaces.
- In yet another aspect of the present invention, the present inflator includes an end closure that is cold-worked or otherwise compressed within an outer housing, the end closure containing a body bore groove, and the housing or outer tube containing a flange pressed within the groove, thereby providing a body bore seal in a metal to metal contact. Stated another way, the present invention includes an inflator housing having a first end and a second end, the housing coupled to an end closure at the first end in a metal-to-metal seal.
- In the drawings illustrating embodiments of the present invention:
-
FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional side view of a first embodiment of a gas generating system in accordance with the present invention; -
FIG. 1A is an enlarged view of a portion ofFIG. 1 showing projected gas flow paths and projected particulate aggregation surfaces therealong; -
FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional side view of a second embodiment of a gas generating system in accordance with the present invention; -
FIG. 2A is an enlarged view of a portion ofFIG. 2 showing projected gas flow paths and projected particulate aggregation surfaces therealong; and -
FIG. 3 is a schematic view of an exemplary gas generating system as employed in a vehicle occupant protection system, in accordance with the present invention. -
FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional side view of a first embodiment of a gas generating system in accordance with the present invention, wherein an annular flange or flare is shown as formed about the periphery of the outer housing prior to compressing within a recessed portion or groove formed within an end closure within the outer housing. - The present invention broadly comprises a gas generating system that is fabricated without the wire mesh filter required in earlier designs for removing particulate materials from a stream of inflation gas. The design utilizes a tortuous path gas flow concept to cool the gas and to retain solids in the device in order to minimize flame and particulates from exiting the device. Selection of suitable gas generant compositions capable of combusting to produce inflation gas without an undue quantity of particulates further obviates the need for a filter. Obviating the need for a filter enables the gas generating system to be simpler, lighter, less expensive, and easier to manufacture.
-
FIG. 1 shows one embodiment of a gas generatingsystem 10 in accordance with the present invention.Gas generating system 10 is generally constructed of components made from a durable metal such as carbon steel or iron, but may also include components made from tough and impact-resistant polymers, for example. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate various methods of construction for the various components of the inflator. U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,035,757, 6,062,143, 6,347,566, U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 2001/0045735, WO 01/08936, and WO 01/08937 exemplify typical designs for the various inflator components, and are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, but not by way of limitation. - Referring to
FIG. 1 ,gas generating system 10 includes a substantially cylindricalouter housing 12 having a first end 12 a, a second end 12 b opposite the first end, and a wall 12 c extending between the ends to define a housing interior cavity.Outer housing 12 is made from a metal or metal alloy and may be a cast, stamped, deep-drawn, extruded, or otherwise metal-formed. A nozzle 12 d is formed at housing second end 12 b containing one or moregas exit orifices 12 e for enabling fluid communication between an interior of the housing and an associated inflatable device (for example, an airbag or a safety belt pretensioner incorporated into a vehicle occupant protection system.) In the embodiment shown inFIG. 1 ,outer housing 12 and nozzle 12 d are deep drawn as a single piece. Gas exit orifice(s) 12 e are then provided in outer housing second end 12 b by drilling, punching, or other suitable means. - In a particular embodiment, the gas generating system is a micro gas generator with
outer housing 12 having an outer diameter of approximately 20 mm, usable in, for example, a side seat inflator or a safety belt pretensioner. However, the characteristics of the embodiments described herein may be incorporated into gas generating systems of many alternative sizes, usable for a variety of different applications. - In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the gas exit orifices may be incorporated into a gas exit manifold which is formed separately from the outer housing and then welded or otherwise suitably fixed to the outer housing during assembly of the gas generating system.
- In another alternative embodiment (not shown), a small quantity of a filter material may be incorporated into the outer housing second end proximate the gas exit orifices to filter combustion products from the inflation fluid prior to gas distribution. Any suitable metallic mesh filter or woven wire cloth may be used, many examples of which are known and obtainable from commercially available sources (for example, Wayne Wire Cloth Products, Inc. of Bloomfield Hills, Mich.)
- In accordance with the present invention, and as exemplified in
FIG. 4 , anend closure 14 is cold-worked or otherwise metal-formed within outer housing first end 12 a.End closure 14 has formed therealong aperipheral shoulder 14 a, a central orifice 14 b, and a peripheral cavity or recessed portion 14 c. In accordance with the present invention, an annular flange or protrusion 14 d of housing first end 12 a (shown as a dotted line in a pre-cold-worked state inFIG. 4 , and also shown as compressed within the groove 14 c), is drawn through a die to cold-work and thereby compress the flange within the groove 14 c. Other known metal-forming methods may also be employed. The diameter of the inflator may be effectively reduced by eliminating the need for a typical seal such as an o-ring at the end closure and outer housing interface within groove 14 c, and also by compressing the annular flange 14 d within groove 14 c. It will be appreciated that the volume of the annular flange or protruding portion 14 d is at least approximately or substantially equal to the volume defined by the groove 12 c. Accordingly, a flush metal-to-metal contact is formed at the interface of groove 14 c and flange 14 d once the substantially assembled inflator is drawn and compressed through a die having a smaller diameter than the outer diameter of the annular flange 14 d prior to cold-working. By cold-working the outer tube orhousing 12 to fit within groove 14 c, thehousing 12 is compressed to provide sufficient strength in accordance with customer specifications while simplifying the manufacturing process by reducing surface treatment or assembly of additional parts such as an o-ring. As shown in the embodiment shown inFIG. 1 , the portion 14 d of outer housing first end 12 a is pressed into peripheral cavity 14 c to secure the end closure toouter housing 12 and at the same time provide hermetic sealing of the inflator. - The cold-work technique of fitting and sealing the
end closure 14 within the housing end 12 a results in the ability to substantially reduce the diameter of the inflator to less than one inch outer diameter, while yet retaining the structural and other design requirements surrounding the shorting clip or ignition assembly, as determined by the customer. One embodiment exhibits an outer diameter of approximately 20 millimeters, thereby decreasing the packaging size and also increasing the design flexibility with regard to the particular application, as a side inflator within a seat for example. -
Peripheral shoulder 14 a is configured so that an end portion a wall 16 b of an ignition cup 16 (described in greater detail below) having a predetermined outer diameter may be positioned to abutshoulder 14 a.End closure 14 may be stamped, extruded, die cast, or otherwise metal formed and may be made from carbon steel or stainless steel, for example. Although not required, if desired, an O-ring or seal (not shown) may be seated along an outer edge ofend closure 14 to seal the interface between theend closure 14 and housing wall 12 c. - Referring again to
FIG. 1 , anignition cup 16 is positionedadjacent end closure 14, and is nested withinouter housing 12 for a portion of the housing length.Ignition cup 16 has a base portion 16 a and an annular wall 16 b extending from the base portion toabut end closure 14. Base portion 16 a and wall 16 b define a cavity 16 c for containing a pyrotechnic compound 18 (for example, a known booster composition) therein. At least one ignitiongas exit orifice 16 e is formed inignition cup 16 for release of ignition compound combustion products whenignition compound 18 is ignited. An annular recess is formed in base portion 16 a and is dimensioned so that an end portion of an annular inner housing 22 (described below) having a predetermined inner diameter may be positioned within the recess to aid in locating and securinginner housing 22 withinouter housing 12.Ignition cup 16 may be stamped, extruded, die cast, or otherwise metal formed and may be made from carbon steel or stainless steel, for example. - In the embodiment shown in
FIG. 1 , a rupturable, fluid-tight seal (not shown) is positioned acrossignition cup orifice 16 e to fluidly isolate cavity 16 c from amain combustion chamber 22 a formed downstream ofignition cup 16, prior to activation of the gas generating system. The seal is secured to a face of ignition cup base portion 16 a and forms a fluid-tight barrier between cavity 16 c andmain combustion chamber 22 a. Various known disks, foils, films, tapes, or other suitable materials may be used to form the seal. - Referring again to
FIG. 1 , a quantity of apyrotechnic compound 18 is contained within cavity 16 c. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 1 ,pyrotechnic compound 18 is a known or suitable ignition or booster compound, whose combustion ignites a second, maingas generant charge 28 positioned incombustion chamber 22 a. In an alternative embodiment,pyrotechnic compound 18 in cavity 16 c comprises the main gas generant charge for the gas generating system. This alternative embodiment may be used in applications in which a relatively small amount of inflation gas (and, therefore, a correspondingly smaller amount of gas generant) is needed. One or more autoignition tablets (not shown) may be placed in cavity 16 c, allowing ignition ofpyrotechnic compound 18 upon external heating in a manner well-known in the art. - Referring again to
FIG. 1 , anigniter assembly 20 is positioned and secured within end closure central orifice 14 b so as to enable operative communication between cavity 16 c containingignition compound 18 and an igniter 20 a incorporated into the igniter assembly, for ignitingignition compound 18 upon activation of the gas generating system.Igniter assembly 20 may be secured in central orifice 14 b using any one of several known methods, for example, by welding, crimping, using an interference fit, or by adhesive application. An igniter assembly suitable for the application described herein may be obtained from any of a variety of known sources, for example Primex Technologies, Inc. of Redmond, Wash. or Aerospace Propulsion Products by, of The Netherlands. - The recess in
ignition cup 16 is adapted to accommodate a first end portion of aninner housing 22 therealong. In the embodiment of the gas generating system shown inFIG. 1 ,inner housing 22, in combination withcenter plate 26 and bulkhead 30 (described below) define amain combustion chamber 22 a containing a main gas generant composition 28 (described in greater detail below.)Inner housing 22 is spaced apart from outer housing wall 12 c to form an annulargas flow passage 23 extending betweeninner housing 22 andouter housing 12.Inner housing 22 includes at least one and preferably a plurality of gas exit apertures 22 b formed therealong to enable fluid communication betweencombustion chamber 22 a andgas flow passage 23. Upon activation of the gas generating system,combustion chamber 22 a fluidly communicates with ignition cup cavity 16 c by way ofignition cup orifice 16 e. - In the embodiment shown in
FIG. 1 ,inner housing 22 telescopes or tapers down from a first, relatively larger inner diameter enclosing center plate 26 (described below) andcombustion chamber 22 a, to a second, relatively narrower inner diameter proximate outer housing second end 12 b. Thus, the width of gas flow passage 23 (defined as half of the difference between an inner diameter ofouter housing 12 and an outer diameter ofinner housing 22, where inner housing is positioned coaxially with outer housing 12) may vary along the length ofinner housing 22. In a particular embodiment, the width ofgas flow passage 23 varies along the length ofinner housing 22 from between a low-end value of approximately 0.5 mm. to a high-end value of approximately 3 mm. A second end ofinner housing 22 includes an end portion which is rolled inwardly to form an annular orifice. -
Inner housing 22 also has at least onesecond orifice 30 d formed along the relatively narrow diameter portion of the inner housing to enable fluid communication betweengas flow passage 23 and an interior of a baffle member 34 (described in greater detail below). - In an
alternative embodiment 110 of the gas generating system (shown inFIG. 2 ), a second end portion ofinner housing 122 is formed without the reduction in diameter and is seated along a recess formed in a baffle element 40 (described below), thereby positioning and securinginner housing 122 radially inwardly fromouter housing 12. Thus, in this embodiment, the width ofgas flow passage 23 is substantially constant along the length ofinner housing 122. In a particular embodiment, the width ofgas flow passage 23 is approximately 1 mm. along the length ofinner housing 22. -
Inner housings - Referring to
FIG. 1 , aperforate center plate 26 is press fit or otherwise suitably secured withinhousing 12. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 1 ,center plate 26 is dimensioned so as to form an interference fit withinner housing 22 and is positioned to abut base portion 16 a ofignition cup 16. At least one orifice 26 a is provided incenter plate 26 to enable fluid communication betweengas exit orifice 16 e inignition cup 16 and gas generantcombustion chamber 22 a formed ininner housing 22.Center plate 26 is made from a metal or metal alloy and may be a cast, stamped, drawn, extruded, or otherwise metal-formed. A rupturable, fluid-tight seal (not shown) may be positioned across orifice(s) 26 a to fluidly isolate booster cavity 16 c fromcombustion chamber 22 a prior to activation of the gas generating system. The seal is secured to a face ofcenter plate 26 and forms a fluid-tight barrier between ignition cup cavity 16 c andcombustion chamber 22 a. Various known disks, foils, films, tapes, or other suitable materials may be used to form the seal. - Referring again to
FIG. 1 ,gas generant composition 28 is positioned withincombustion chambers 22 a. It has been found that the gas generator embodiments described herein operate most favorably with a high gas-yield, low solids-producing gas generant composition, such as a “smokeless” gas generant composition. Such gas generant compositions are exemplified by, but not limited to, compositions and processes described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,210,505, and 5,872,329, each incorporated by reference herein. As used herein, the term “smokeless” should be generally understood to mean such propellants as are capable of combustion yielding at least about 85% gaseous products, and preferably about 90% gaseous products, based on a total product mass; and, as a corollary, no more than about 15% solid products and, preferably, about 10% solid products, based on a total product mass. U.S. Pat. No. 6,210,505 discloses various high nitrogen nonazide gas compositions comprising a nonmetal salt of triazole or tetrazole fuel, phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) as a primary oxidizer, a metallic second oxidizer, and an inert component such as clay or mica. U.S. Pat. No. 5,872,329 discloses various high nitrogen nonazide gas compositions comprising an amine salt of triazole or tetrazole fuel, and phase stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) as an oxidizer. - In the embodiment shown in
FIG. 1 , a bulkhead ordivider 30 is press-fit, roll-crimped, or otherwise suitably secured withininner housing 12 along the reduced-diameter portion of the inner housing, so as to maintain the divider in position within the housing when the divider is subjected to gas pressures acting on either side of the divider.Bulkhead 30 partitionsinner housing 22 to define achamber 30 a within inner housing proximate the outer housing second end. The portion of innerhousing enclosing chamber 30 a includesapertures 30 d formed therein to enable fluid communication betweengas flow passage 23 andchamber 30 a. A gas tight seal is effected betweendivider 30 andinner housing 22, thereby preventing leakage of gas fromcombustion chamber 22 a toward gas exit nozzle 12 d without transiting annulargas flow passage 23, as described below.Divider 30 may be formed by stamping, casting, or any other suitable process from a metal or metal alloy. - Referring again to
FIG. 1 , abaffle member 34 is provided for channeling a flow of gas enteringinner housing 22 fromgas flow passage 23 into gas exit nozzle 12 d.Baffle member 34 includes anannular base portion 34 a and an annular sleeve 34 b extending from the base portion intoinner housing 22 to define a baffle member interior in fluid communication with thegas flow passage 23. The baffle member interior is also in fluid communication with an interior of nozzle 12 d.Base portion 34 a is positioned and secured between a second end portion ofinner housing 22 and outer housing gas exit nozzle 12 d to secure the baffle member withinhousing 12. A rupturable, fluid-tight seal (not shown) may be positioned across an end portion of annular sleeve portion 34 b to fluidly isolate innerhousing end chamber 30 a from outer housing gas exit nozzle 16 d. Various known disks, foils, films, tapes, or other suitable materials may be used to form the seal. - In an alternative embodiment (shown in
FIG. 2 ), abaffle member 40 includes a substantiallycircular base portion 40 a abuttinginner housing 22, and a substantially cylindrical wall 40 b extending frombase portion 40 a. Wall 40 b is in fluid communication withgas flow passage 23.Base portion 40 a and wall 40 b combine to define abaffle chamber 40 c for receiving therein combustion products from combustion ofinflation gas generant 28 incombustion chamber 22 a, in a manner described below.Baffle chamber 40 c is also in fluid communication withnozzle 12. A gas-tight seal is effected between bafflemember base portion 40 a andinner housing 22, thereby preventing leakage of gas fromcombustion chamber 22 a toward gas exit nozzle 12 d without transiting annulargas flow passage 23. A recess is formed in bafflemember base portion 40 a for receiving therealong the second end portion ofinner housing 22, for positioning and securing the inner housing second end within the gas generating system. At least one (and preferably a plurality) of orifices 40 d is formed in wall 40 b for enabling flow of combustion products received fromgas flow passage 23. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 2 , several orifices 40 d are spaced apart approximately 90° along a periphery of wall 40 b. A rupturable, fluid-tight seal (not shown) may positioned across an entrance to gas exit nozzle 12 d to fluidly isolatebaffle chamber 40 c from outer housing gas exit nozzle 12 d. Various known disks, foils, films, tapes, or other suitable materials may be used to form the seal. - Particulates (especially the heavier particulates) suspended in the generated gases will have greater momentum and dynamic inertia than the gases in which they are suspended, and do not change direction as readily as the gases. Thus, the particulates will tend to collide with and aggregate upon surfaces along the gas flow path. It is also desirable to provide sufficient aggregation surface area at or near the portions of the gas generator interior where the particulates are likely to aggregate, in order to accommodate the aggregation of particulates. In addition, the more numerous the changes in direction in the gas flow, the more opportunities are provided for aggregation of the particulates.
- It is believed that the particulates are most likely to aggregate upon surfaces on which they impinge with a relatively high velocity and/or on surfaces which produce a relatively severe change in direction of the gas flow. In one embodiment, this is achieved by providing aggregation surfaces oriented such that a difference between a flow direction of the gases prior to impinging on an aggregation surface and a flow direction of the gases after impinging on the aggregation surface is at least approximately 90°. In a particular embodiment of the present invention, each aggregation surfaces of the plurality of aggregation surfaces is substantially perpendicular to the flow direction of the gases impinging on the respective aggregation surface. Thus, at least a portion of the particulates striking the aggregation surfaces adhere to the surfaces, or aggregate on the surfaces, rather than changing direction with the remainder of the gas flow.
- To maximize the probability of aggregating the particulates along the internal surfaces of the gas generator, it is desirable to maximize the number of collisions with the internal surfaces (and thus, the number of changes in direction of the gases), the velocity at which the particulates impact the internal surfaces, and the severity of changes of direction (more severe changes in gas flow direction of making it more likely that the particulates will temporarily stop, or that their velocity will be drastically reduced when they impinge upon an aggregation surface).
-
FIG. 1A shows a projected gas flow path (indicated by arrows A) through the gas generating system when combustion of the gas generant begins. Referring toFIG. 1 , it may be seen thatorifices 22 b, 30 d, and the opening into annular sleeve 34 b define a flow path for generated gases through an interior of the gas generating system to nozzlegas exit orifices 12 e. In addition, the arrangement of the various gas generating system components described above provides a plurality of particulate aggregation surfaces positioned along the flow path of the gases for changing a flow direction of gases impinging on the surfaces, so that particulates in gases impinging on the aggregation surfaces will collect or aggregate on the surfaces. - In operation of the embodiment shown in
FIGS. 1 and 1A , upon receipt of a signal from a crash sensor, an electrical activation signal is sent to igniter 20 a. Combustion products from the igniter expand into ignition cup cavity 16 c, ignitingbooster compound 18 positioned in cavity 16 c. Products from the combustion ofbooster compound 18 proceed out of cavity 16 c throughignition cup orifice 16 e and intocombustion chamber 22 a, ignitingmain gas generant 28. When themain gas generant 28 has been fully ignited by the booster composition, the main gas generant begins to change phase from a solid to a liquid, then to a gas. - Gases and other combustion products generated by combustion of
gas generant 28 are forced radially outward at a relatively high velocity toward gas exit apertures 22 b by the internal pressure ininner housing 22. Gases then flow through multiple orifices 22 b ininner housing 22 intogas flow passage 23, charging the gas flow passage with a pressure which is slightly lower than the pressure within theinner housing 22. As the main gas generant burns, both P1 (internal housing pressure) and P2 (gas flow passage pressure) increase at the same rate and gases flow through thegas flow passage 23. Products from combustion ofgas generant 28 proceed through inner housing gas exit apertures 22 b into annulargas flow passage 23 and alongpassage 23 toward the downstream end ofinner housing 22. While a portion of the combustion products exitinner housing 22 via exit apertures 22 b, a portion of the combustion products also impinge on inner surfaces ofinner housing 22, forcing the flow direction of the gases to change abruptly as they flow along the inner surfaces of the inner housing toward one of exit apertures 22 b. Impinging of the gases upon the inner surfaces ofinner housing 22 at a relatively high velocity causes the particulates to stick to or aggregate on the inner surfaces ofinner housing 22. - Similarly, particulates passing through orifices 22 b impact along inner surfaces of
outer housing 12 prior to the gases changing direction as they flow alongpassage 23 towardorifices 30 d. Impinging of the gases upon the inner surfaces ofouter housing 12 at a relatively high velocity causes the particulates to stick to or aggregate on the inner surfaces ofouter housing 12. - While a portion of the combustion products proceed through inner housing
second end apertures 30 d intochamber 30 a, a portion of the combustion products also enter aportion 70 of the gas flow passage defined by an intersection or abutment of end portions ofinner housing 22 andouter housing 12, forcing the flow direction of the gases to change abruptly as the gases flow back toward inner housingsecond end apertures 30 d. Movement of the gases intopassage portion 70 at a relatively high velocity causes the particulates to stick to or aggregate on surfaces withpassage portion 70. - Gases proceed through inner housing
second end apertures 30 d intochamber 30 a. Particulates remaining in the gas stream upon enteringapertures 30 d may impact along an exterior surface of annular sleeve 34 b located substantially opposite orifice(s) 30 d formed alonginner housing 22, causing the particulates to stick to or aggregate on the exterior surface of the annular sleeve. - As seen in
FIG. 1A , gases deflecting off of annular sleeve 34 b are forced towarddivider 30 in order to reach the hollow center portion of the sleeve leading to nozzlegas exit orifices 12 e. Thus, particulates in the gases may also impactdivider 30 and adhere thereto. Finally, gases proceeding towardnozzle orifices 12 e may impact aninner end surface 12 f of the nozzle, causing particulates to adhere thereto prior to exiting of the generated gas fromorifices 12 e. - As seen from the above description, a series of aggregation surfaces is positioned between the combustion chamber and exit apertures of the gas generating system to impart abrupt changes in velocity to the gas stream, thereby causing particulates suspended in the gas stream to impact the aggregation surfaces so as to adhere thereto. It is believed that a system of aggregation surfaces as described herein acts to trap most of the particulates produced during combustion of the gas generant, without the filter needed in other designs.
- When the internal pressure in
chamber 30 a reaches a predetermined value, any burst seals positioned therein rupture, permitting gases to flow into the sleeve portion 34 b, proceeding out of the gas generating system through nozzle 12 d. - Operation of the embodiment shown in
FIGS. 2 and 2A is substantially identical to that described for the embodiment shown inFIGS. 1 and 1A , with gases fromgas flow passage 23 proceeding along the path defined by arrows B, flowing through openings 40 b intobaffle chamber 40 c, then into nozzle 12 d, exiting the gas generating system throughgas exit orifices 12 e. While a portion of the combustion products proceed through inner housingsecond end apertures 30 d intochamber 30 a, a portion of the combustion products also enter aportion 170 of the gas flow passage defined by an intersection or abutment of end portions ofinner baffle member 40 andouter housing 12, forcing the flow direction of the gases to change abruptly as the gases flow back toward baffle member apertures 40 d. Movement of the gases intopassage portion 170 at a relatively high velocity causes the particulates to stick to or aggregate on surfaces withpassage portion 170. - In the process of the gases flowing out of the propellant body, into the
gas flow passage 23, into the baffle member, then out of the gas exit nozzle 12 d, all of the metal parts contacted by the gases and the tortuous path that the gases flow through provide cooling of the gases. This provides sufficient cooling of the gases so that no additional components (such as a heat sink device or a filter) are required. In addition, because additional cooling devices are not required, the gases provided by the consumed gas generant have an efficiency greater than those produced by existing gas generator system designs. - Referring now to
FIG. 3 , an embodiment of thegas generating system 10 described above may also be incorporated into any of a variety of vehicle occupant protection system elements. In one example, the 20 mm diameter version of the gas generating system previously described is incorporated into asafety belt assembly 150 for pretensioning the safety belt. -
FIG. 3 shows a schematic diagram of one exemplary embodiment of an exemplarysafety belt assembly 150.Safety belt assembly 150 includes a safety belt housing 152 and asafety belt 100 extending from housing 152. A safety belt retractor mechanism 154 (for example, a spring-loaded mechanism) may be coupled to an end portion of the belt. In addition, asafety belt pretensioner 156 may be coupled tobelt retractor mechanism 154 to actuate the retractor mechanism in the event of a collision. Typical seat belt retractor mechanisms which may be used in conjunction with the safety belt embodiments of the present invention are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,743,480, 5,553,803, 5,667,161, 5,451,008, 4,558,832 and 4,597,546, incorporated herein by reference. Illustrative examples of typical gas-actuated pretensioners with which the safety belt embodiments of the present invention may be combined are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,505,790 and 6,419,177, incorporated herein by reference. -
Safety belt assembly 150 may also include (or be in communication with) a crash event sensor 158 (for example, an inertia sensor or an accelerometer) operates in conjunction with a crash sensor algorithm that signals actuation ofbelt pretensioner 156 via, for example, activation of igniter 20 a (not shown inFIG. 3 ) incorporated into the gas generating system. U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,505,790 and 6,419,177, previously incorporated herein by reference, provide illustrative examples of pretensioners actuated in such a manner. - Referring again to
FIG. 3 ,safety belt assembly 150 may also be incorporated into a broader, more comprehensive vehicleoccupant restraint system 180 including additional elements such as anairbag system 200.Airbag system 200 includes at least oneairbag 202 and agas generating system 201 coupled toairbag 202 so as to enable fluid communication with an interior of the airbag.Airbag system 200 may also include (or be in communication with) acrash event sensor 210.Crash event sensor 210 operates in conjunction with a known crash sensor algorithm that signals actuation ofairbag system 200 via, for example, activation of airbaggas generating system 10 in the event of a collision. - It should be appreciated that
safety belt assembly 150,airbag system 200, and more broadly, vehicleoccupant protection system 180 exemplify but do not limit uses of gas generating systems contemplated in accordance with the present invention. In addition, it should be appreciated that a gas generating system incorporating a plurality of particulate aggregation surfaces and a high gas-yield, low solids-producing gas generant composition as described herein may be used in the airbag system or in other vehicle occupant protection system elements requiring a gas generating system for operation. - In yet another aspect of the invention, a method of manufacturing an inflator may be described as follows:
-
- 1. Providing an outer housing having a first end and a second end, and a periphery.
- 2. Forming an outer protrusion, or annular flange, about the periphery at the first end.
- 3. Providing an end closure having a recessed portion, or a groove.
- 4. Inserting the end closure within the outer housing at the first end, thereby laterally aligning the outer protrusion and the recessed portion; and
- 5. Compressing the outer protrusion within the recessed portion. Compressing includes cold-working or otherwise metal-forming the coupling of the protrusion and recessed portion.
- An inflator and a vehicle occupant protection system containing an inflator formed by the method described above are also included. The text describing the
end closure 14 coupled to the first end 12 a ofhousing 12, given above, is incorporated herein by reference, to fully inform the reader of the details of this method. - It will be understood that the foregoing description of the present invention is for illustrative purposes only, and that the various structural and operational features herein disclosed are susceptible to a number of modifications, none of which departs from the spirit and scope of the present invention. The preceding description, therefore, is not meant to limit the scope of the invention. Rather, the scope of the invention is to be determined only by the appended claims and their equivalents.
Claims (47)
1. (canceled)
2. (canceled)
3. (canceled)
4. (canceled)
5. (canceled)
6. (canceled)
7. (canceled)
8. (canceled)
9. (canceled)
10. (canceled)
11. (canceled)
12. (canceled)
13. (canceled)
14. (canceled)
15. (canceled)
16. (canceled)
17. (canceled)
18. (canceled)
19. (canceled)
20. (canceled)
21. (canceled)
22. (canceled)
23. (canceled)
24. (canceled)
25. (canceled)
26. (canceled)
27. (canceled)
28. (canceled)
29. (canceled)
30. (canceled)
31. A gas generating system comprising:
an outer housing;
an inner housing positioned within the outer housing; and
a baffle member contacting a portion of the inner housing to secure the portion in a position within the outer housing.
32. The gas generating system of claim 31 wherein the inner housing has a chamber formed therein, and wherein the baffle member includes a base portion extending into the chamber and contacting a portion of the inner housing to secure the portion in the position.
33. The gas generating system of claim 31 wherein the inner housing has a wall, the baffle member has a recess formed therealong, and wherein the wall contacts the recess along at least a portion thereof to secure the portion in the position.
34. The gas generating system of claim 31 wherein the baffle member abuts the outer housing.
35. The gas generating system of claim 31 wherein the inner housing is spaced apart from the outer housing so as to form a gas flow passage therebetween.
36. The gas generating system of claim 35 further comprising at least one opening formed in the inner housing to enable fluid communication between an interior of the inner housing and the gas flow passage after activation of the gas generating system; and
at least one opening formed in the baffle member to enable fluid communication between an interior of the baffle member and the gas flow passage after activation of the gas generating system.
37. The gas generating system of claim 36 wherein a portion of the flow passage extends downstream of the at least one opening formed in the baffle member in a direction of gas flow from the at least one opening formed in the inner housing, to define a cavity for receiving gases therein.
38. The gas generating system of claim 36 further comprising at least one gas exit opening enabling fluid communication between an interior of the outer housing and an exterior of the outer housing after activation of the gas generating system.
39. The gas generating system of claim 38 wherein the at least one gas exit opening is formed in a diffuser coupled to the outer housing.
40. The gas generating system of claim 31 wherein the inner housing defines a combustion chamber of the gas generating system, the baffle member is positioned so as to provide fluid communication with the combustion chamber after activation of the gas generating system, and the baffle member contacts the portion of the inner housing so as to form a gas-tight seal therebetween.
41. A vehicle occupant protection system including a gas generating system in accordance with claim 31 .
42. A gas generating system comprising:
an outer housing;
an inner housing positioned within the outer housing; and
a baffle member coupled to the inner housing and the outer housing so as to secure the baffle member in a position within the outer housing.
43. A vehicle occupant protection system including a gas generating system in accordance with claim 42 .
44. A gas generating system comprising:
an outer housing; and
a baffle member positioned within the outer housing and spaced apart from the outer housing so as to form a gas flow passage therebetween,
the baffle member having at least one opening formed therein to enable fluid flow from a combustion chamber of the gas generating system into an interior of the baffle member after activation of the gas generating system,
wherein a portion of the flow passage extends downstream of the at least one opening formed in the baffle member in a direction of gas flow from the combustion chamber to the at least one opening, to define a cavity for receiving gases therein.
45. The gas generating system of claim 44 further comprising an inner housing positioned within the outer housing and contacting a portion of the inner housing to secure a portion of the inner housing in a position within the outer housing.
46. The gas generating system of claim 45 wherein the inner housing defines a chamber and includes at least one opening formed therein to enable fluid communication between the inner housing interior and the at least one opening formed in the baffle member after activation of the gas generating system.
47. A vehicle occupant protection system including a gas generating system in accordance with claim 44 .
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/655,768 US20100109295A1 (en) | 2005-06-02 | 2010-01-07 | Gas generating system |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US68690605P | 2005-06-02 | 2005-06-02 | |
US11/445,859 US7654565B2 (en) | 2005-06-02 | 2006-06-01 | Gas generating system |
US12/655,768 US20100109295A1 (en) | 2005-06-02 | 2010-01-07 | Gas generating system |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/445,859 Continuation US7654565B2 (en) | 2005-06-02 | 2006-06-01 | Gas generating system |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20100109295A1 true US20100109295A1 (en) | 2010-05-06 |
Family
ID=37482355
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/445,859 Expired - Fee Related US7654565B2 (en) | 2005-06-02 | 2006-06-01 | Gas generating system |
US12/655,768 Abandoned US20100109295A1 (en) | 2005-06-02 | 2010-01-07 | Gas generating system |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/445,859 Expired - Fee Related US7654565B2 (en) | 2005-06-02 | 2006-06-01 | Gas generating system |
Country Status (4)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US7654565B2 (en) |
JP (1) | JP2008546513A (en) |
DE (1) | DE112006001455T5 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2006130848A2 (en) |
Cited By (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20100201179A1 (en) * | 2007-07-06 | 2010-08-12 | Yoshihiro Yokote | Pretensioner and process for manufacturing the same |
US20110187088A1 (en) * | 2010-02-03 | 2011-08-04 | Teppei Hanano | Gas generator and assembling method of the same |
CN103625413A (en) * | 2012-08-28 | 2014-03-12 | 比亚迪股份有限公司 | Gas generating agent and preparing method thereof |
US9051224B2 (en) * | 2006-04-21 | 2015-06-09 | Tk Holdings Inc. | Gas generating system |
CN105555395A (en) * | 2013-10-11 | 2016-05-04 | 株式会社大赛璐 | Gas generator |
CN105984420A (en) * | 2015-01-29 | 2016-10-05 | 湖北航天化学技术研究所 | Gas generator and assembling method thereof |
Families Citing this family (37)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US7306856B2 (en) * | 2000-07-17 | 2007-12-11 | Fujifilm Corporation | Light-emitting element and iridium complex |
JP4280161B2 (en) * | 2003-12-22 | 2009-06-17 | ダイセル化学工業株式会社 | Gas generator for airbag |
US7293798B2 (en) * | 2004-04-05 | 2007-11-13 | Automotive Systems Laboratory, Inc. | Pyrotechnic linear inflator |
US7390019B2 (en) * | 2004-06-10 | 2008-06-24 | Daicel Chemical Industries, Ltd. | Inflator for airbag |
US7814838B2 (en) | 2004-06-28 | 2010-10-19 | Automotive Systems, Laboratory, Inc. | Gas generating system |
US7762585B2 (en) | 2005-06-30 | 2010-07-27 | Automotive Systems Laboratory, Inc. | Gas generator |
FR2890022B1 (en) * | 2005-09-01 | 2007-10-12 | Livbag Soc Par Actions Simplif | PYROTECHNIC GAS GENERATOR COMPRISING MEANS FOR TEMPORARILY STORING A PART OF GASES |
US7806954B2 (en) | 2005-11-01 | 2010-10-05 | Automotive Systems Laboratory Inc. | Gas generator |
US7802812B2 (en) * | 2005-11-16 | 2010-09-28 | Tk Holdings, Inc. | Gas generating system |
DE102006002435A1 (en) * | 2006-01-12 | 2007-07-26 | Takata-Petri Ag | Method for producing a gas generator and gas generator produced by the method |
FR2907893B1 (en) * | 2006-10-26 | 2009-01-30 | Seva Technologies | GAS GENERATOR WITH PRIMARY AND SECONDARY ROOMS. |
JP4953983B2 (en) * | 2007-08-23 | 2012-06-13 | 株式会社ダイセル | Tubular parts |
US7823918B2 (en) * | 2007-08-28 | 2010-11-02 | Delphi Technologies, Inc. | Inflators and method for manufacturing inflators |
US7950691B1 (en) | 2007-10-31 | 2011-05-31 | Tk Holdings, Inc. | Inflator body with adapter form end |
US20090114109A1 (en) * | 2007-11-01 | 2009-05-07 | Arc Automotive Inc. | Stamped and molded igniter body for airbag inflators |
JP2009286150A (en) * | 2008-05-27 | 2009-12-10 | Toyoda Gosei Co Ltd | Airbag device |
DE102008050763A1 (en) * | 2008-10-08 | 2010-04-29 | Takata-Petri Ag | Gas generator for an airbag module |
JP5260348B2 (en) * | 2009-02-12 | 2013-08-14 | 株式会社ダイセル | Gas generator |
JP5436036B2 (en) * | 2009-05-12 | 2014-03-05 | 株式会社ダイセル | Gas generator |
FR2959006A1 (en) * | 2010-04-20 | 2011-10-21 | Livbag | GENERATOR OF GAS WITH TWO PYROTECHNIC LOADS |
US9994188B1 (en) | 2011-05-27 | 2018-06-12 | Joyson Safety Systems Acquisition Llc | Gas generating system |
US8702125B1 (en) * | 2013-01-18 | 2014-04-22 | Autoliv Asp, Inc. | Multi-strainer emission treatment for inflatable restraint system inflators |
JP5965334B2 (en) * | 2013-02-18 | 2016-08-03 | 株式会社ダイセル | Gas generator |
JP6374811B2 (en) * | 2014-05-16 | 2018-08-15 | 株式会社ダイセル | Gas generator |
JP6261458B2 (en) | 2014-06-23 | 2018-01-17 | 株式会社ダイセル | Gas generator |
JP6265855B2 (en) * | 2014-07-24 | 2018-01-24 | 日本化薬株式会社 | Gas generator |
JP6351439B2 (en) * | 2014-08-27 | 2018-07-04 | 日本化薬株式会社 | Gas generator |
JP6422327B2 (en) * | 2014-12-18 | 2018-11-14 | 日本化薬株式会社 | Gas generator |
JP6399959B2 (en) * | 2015-04-06 | 2018-10-03 | 日本化薬株式会社 | Gas generator |
JP6412463B2 (en) * | 2015-05-27 | 2018-10-24 | 日本化薬株式会社 | Gas generator |
JP6675255B2 (en) * | 2016-04-12 | 2020-04-01 | 株式会社ダイセル | Gas generator |
JP6619293B2 (en) * | 2016-05-23 | 2019-12-11 | 株式会社ダイセル | Gas generator |
JP6633985B2 (en) * | 2016-07-20 | 2020-01-22 | 株式会社ダイセル | Gas generator |
JP6650365B2 (en) * | 2016-07-26 | 2020-02-19 | 株式会社ダイセル | Gas generator |
US10202096B2 (en) | 2016-12-13 | 2019-02-12 | Autoliv Asp, Inc. | Thrust vector tuning of inflator devices |
JP2020504002A (en) * | 2016-12-28 | 2020-02-06 | キー セーフティー システムズ、 インコーポレイテッドKey Safety Systems, Inc. | Inflator |
DE102017108798A1 (en) * | 2017-04-25 | 2018-10-25 | Trw Airbag Systems Gmbh | GAS GENERATOR, GASSACK MODULE, VEHICLE SAFETY SYSTEM, AND METHOD FOR CLEANING A PYROTECHNICALLY GENERATED GAS |
Citations (53)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US1939700A (en) * | 1932-06-17 | 1933-12-19 | Clarence F Hofstetter | Muzzle attachment for guns |
US2891525A (en) * | 1955-08-01 | 1959-06-23 | Thompson Ramo Wooldridge Inc | Tappet barrel |
US2959127A (en) * | 1956-02-16 | 1960-11-08 | Fed Lab Inc | Gas grenade |
US3404598A (en) * | 1966-12-30 | 1968-10-08 | Aai Corp | Cup-sealed actuator with obturating groove anchoring and sealing arrangement |
US3794347A (en) * | 1972-05-18 | 1974-02-26 | Gen Motors Corp | Occupant restraint system |
US3877882A (en) * | 1972-07-27 | 1975-04-15 | Talley Industries | Gas generating device |
US3880447A (en) * | 1973-05-16 | 1975-04-29 | Rocket Research Corp | Crash restraint inflator for steering wheel assembly |
US3958949A (en) * | 1973-06-26 | 1976-05-25 | Societe Nationale Des Poudres Et Explosifs | Gas generator with a combustion chamber laterally surrounded by a cooling chamber |
US3985076A (en) * | 1973-11-19 | 1976-10-12 | Thiokol Corporation | Gas generator |
US3985949A (en) * | 1973-11-01 | 1976-10-12 | John T. Thompson | Cable with turn back protector |
US4001750A (en) * | 1975-09-02 | 1977-01-04 | S & C Electric Company | Corrosion resistant means in exhaust control device for circuit interrupting devices |
US4012189A (en) * | 1974-12-07 | 1977-03-15 | Interliz Anstalt | Hot gas generator |
US4215631A (en) * | 1971-02-25 | 1980-08-05 | The United States Of America As Represented By The Secretary Of The Navy | Sealed pyrotechnic delay |
US4276065A (en) * | 1979-03-14 | 1981-06-30 | Edo Corporation | Reusable disc filter with spacing bosses for high temperature gasses |
US4530516A (en) * | 1984-07-09 | 1985-07-23 | Morton Thiokol Inc. | Aluminum inflator with steel center-tie |
US4588043A (en) * | 1983-03-28 | 1986-05-13 | Finn Charles A | Sound suppressor for a firearm |
US4611374A (en) * | 1984-04-20 | 1986-09-16 | United Technologies Automotive, Inc. | Method for manufacturing a check valve contained within a tube |
US4718346A (en) * | 1985-06-20 | 1988-01-12 | Nobel Kemi Ab | Explosive charge for the explosive welding of large diameter pipes, and a method for its manufacture |
US4722551A (en) * | 1987-03-19 | 1988-02-02 | Morton Thiokol, Inc. | Initiator and method for the incorporation thereof in an inflator |
US4730558A (en) * | 1984-11-02 | 1988-03-15 | Dynamit Novel Aktiengesellschaft | Electronic delayed-action explosive detonator |
US4762067A (en) * | 1987-11-13 | 1988-08-09 | Halliburton Company | Downhole perforating method and apparatus using secondary explosive detonators |
US4865359A (en) * | 1987-06-18 | 1989-09-12 | Brown & Root, Inc. | Press fit pipe joint and method |
US4886293A (en) * | 1988-08-09 | 1989-12-12 | Daimler-Benz Ag | Gas producer for filling a gas cushion restraining device |
US4950458A (en) * | 1989-06-22 | 1990-08-21 | Morton International, Inc. | Passenger automotive restraint generator |
US5028070A (en) * | 1989-03-25 | 1991-07-02 | Dynamit Nobel A.G. | Gas generator for an airbag with a protective cover |
US5048862A (en) * | 1989-06-22 | 1991-09-17 | Dynamit Nobel Aktiengesellschaft | Gas generator for an airbag |
US5100171A (en) * | 1990-10-29 | 1992-03-31 | Trw Vehicle Safety Systems Inc. | Filter assembly for airbag inflator |
US5183268A (en) * | 1991-04-30 | 1993-02-02 | Fmc Corporation | Metal-to-metal wellhead seal for rough casing |
US5533751A (en) * | 1995-02-22 | 1996-07-09 | Morton International, Inc. | Hybrid inflator with elongated housing and center discharge |
US5553889A (en) * | 1994-03-18 | 1996-09-10 | Oea, Inc. | Hybrid inflator with rapid pressurization-based flow initiation assembly |
US20020053789A1 (en) * | 1998-06-01 | 2002-05-09 | Osamu Fujimoto | Air bag gas inflator |
US20020190510A1 (en) * | 2000-10-19 | 2002-12-19 | Masayuki Yamazaki | Hybrid inflator |
US20030001369A1 (en) * | 2001-04-04 | 2003-01-02 | Yasunori Iwai | Method of reducing nitrogen oxide in hybrid inflator |
US20030127840A1 (en) * | 2000-06-08 | 2003-07-10 | Yoshihiro Nakashima | Gas generator for air bag and air bag device |
US20030155757A1 (en) * | 2002-02-20 | 2003-08-21 | Larsen Alan R. | Flexible airbag inflator |
US20030201628A1 (en) * | 2002-04-26 | 2003-10-30 | Breed Automotive Technologies, Inc. | Front passenger air bag pocket baffle |
US20040016480A1 (en) * | 2002-04-04 | 2004-01-29 | Williams Graylon K. | Nonazide gas generant compositions |
US20040046373A1 (en) * | 2002-09-09 | 2004-03-11 | Chung Shan Institute Of Science & Technology | Dual stage airbag inflator |
US20040100079A1 (en) * | 2000-11-22 | 2004-05-27 | Masayuki Yamazaki | Hybrid inflator |
US20040201208A1 (en) * | 2003-04-08 | 2004-10-14 | Longhurst Nyle K. | Pyrotechnic inflator for a vehicular airbag system |
US6805384B1 (en) * | 2002-08-14 | 2004-10-19 | Chatleff Controls, Inc. | Sealing mechanism |
US20050001414A1 (en) * | 2002-12-09 | 2005-01-06 | Naoki Matsuda | Gas generator for air bag |
US6860510B2 (en) * | 2001-08-21 | 2005-03-01 | Daicel Chemical Industries, Ltd. | Multistage inflating-type hybrid inflator |
US20050046180A1 (en) * | 2003-09-02 | 2005-03-03 | Tombler Thomas W. | Apparatus and method for actuating or maintaining a seal by differential pressure |
US20050067794A1 (en) * | 2003-09-30 | 2005-03-31 | Philippe Gambier | Thermoplastic seal and method |
US20050082804A1 (en) * | 2003-10-17 | 2005-04-21 | Khandhadia Paresh S. | Filterless airbag module |
US20050110253A1 (en) * | 2003-09-17 | 2005-05-26 | Khandhadia Paresh S. | Pyrotechnic stored gas inflator |
US20050134031A1 (en) * | 2003-12-17 | 2005-06-23 | Mccormick David M. | Inflator |
US20050161925A1 (en) * | 2004-01-27 | 2005-07-28 | Blackburn Jeffery S. | Inflator and method of assembly |
US20050194772A1 (en) * | 2004-02-25 | 2005-09-08 | Kenji Numoto | Gas generator for an air bag |
US20050225064A1 (en) * | 2002-02-06 | 2005-10-13 | Nippon Kayaku Kabushiki-Kaisha | Gas generator |
US20050230949A1 (en) * | 2004-04-19 | 2005-10-20 | Blackburn Jeffery S | Gas generating system |
US20050263993A1 (en) * | 2004-05-28 | 2005-12-01 | Blackburn Jeffery S | Inflator and method of assembly |
Family Cites Families (89)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US2891528A (en) * | 1957-06-06 | 1959-06-23 | Gen Motors Corp | Idle air valve |
DE4019877A1 (en) | 1990-06-22 | 1992-01-09 | Bayern Chemie Gmbh Flugchemie | Gas generator for vehicle airbag - with delay channel to retard pressure increase on detonation |
DE4023045A1 (en) | 1990-07-09 | 1992-01-16 | Swf Auto Electric Gmbh | WIPER SYSTEM FOR MOTOR VEHICLES |
JPH0478639A (en) * | 1990-07-16 | 1992-03-12 | Asahi Chem Ind Co Ltd | Air bag inflator |
EP0476886B1 (en) * | 1990-09-06 | 1994-11-17 | Nippon Oil And Fats Company, Limited | Gas generating device |
US6379627B1 (en) * | 1991-12-09 | 2002-04-30 | Automotive Systems Laboratory, Inc. | Gas generator |
JPH05286405A (en) * | 1992-04-15 | 1993-11-02 | Daicel Chem Ind Ltd | Gas generator for air bag |
US5509686A (en) * | 1992-05-04 | 1996-04-23 | General Motors Corporation | Inflatable restraint system with gas augmentation |
US5611566A (en) * | 1992-08-20 | 1997-03-18 | Temic Bayern-Chemie Airbag Gmbh | Gas generator for a safety system for protecting occupants in motor vehicles |
US5443286A (en) * | 1992-10-09 | 1995-08-22 | Morton International, Inc. | Gas generator for vehicle occupant restraint system |
US5470105A (en) | 1992-12-18 | 1995-11-28 | Morton International, Inc. | Diffuser device and incorporation thereof in an inflatable restraint system |
US5318323A (en) * | 1993-03-31 | 1994-06-07 | Pietz John F | Non-clogging gas filtering device |
US5333656A (en) * | 1993-05-26 | 1994-08-02 | Mackal Glenn H | Auto inflator having dissolvable element under low pressure |
US5350193A (en) * | 1993-06-22 | 1994-09-27 | Nippon Koki Co., Ltd. | Air bag inflation gas generator |
US5294244A (en) * | 1993-07-27 | 1994-03-15 | Trw Vehicle Safety Systems Inc. | Thermal reclamation method for the recovery of metals from air bag inflators |
AU660126B2 (en) * | 1993-08-30 | 1995-06-08 | Morton International, Inc. | Unitary filter for pyrotechnic airbag inflator |
US5406889A (en) * | 1993-09-03 | 1995-04-18 | Morton International, Inc. | Direct laser ignition of ignition products |
US5551724A (en) * | 1993-09-14 | 1996-09-03 | Morton International, Inc. | Treatment of inflatable restraint system inflator particulate-containing gas with expanded metal |
US5360232A (en) * | 1993-09-14 | 1994-11-01 | Morton International, Inc. | Filtration in hybrid inflators |
US5648634A (en) * | 1993-10-20 | 1997-07-15 | Quantic Industries, Inc. | Electrical initiator |
US5441705A (en) * | 1994-03-14 | 1995-08-15 | Morton International, Inc. | Combined reaction can and inflator with extruded generant |
US5466420B1 (en) | 1994-07-26 | 1998-10-06 | Morton Int Inc | Air bag inflator |
US5516147A (en) | 1994-10-12 | 1996-05-14 | Morton International, Inc. | Stamped metal toroidal hybrid gas generator with sliding piston |
EP0728633A1 (en) | 1995-02-22 | 1996-08-28 | Morton International, Inc. | Hybrid inflator with elongated housing and center discharge |
US5564743A (en) | 1995-03-22 | 1996-10-15 | Morton International, Inc. | Multiple stage air bag inflator system |
US5799973A (en) * | 1995-04-22 | 1998-09-01 | Temic Bayern-Chemie Airbag Gmbh | Pyrotechnic gas generator with two separate combustion chambers |
US5609360A (en) * | 1995-05-22 | 1997-03-11 | Trw Vehicle Safety Systems Inc. | Air bag inflator |
WO1996041733A1 (en) | 1995-06-09 | 1996-12-27 | Minnesota Mining And Manufacturing Company | Airbag filter assembly and method of assembly thereof |
US5582427A (en) | 1995-06-28 | 1996-12-10 | Morton International, Inc. | Dual-wall pyrotechnic air bag inflator with tortuous gas flow |
US5628528A (en) * | 1995-07-06 | 1997-05-13 | Automotive Systems Laboratory, Inc. | Dual chamber nonazide gas generator |
US5562304A (en) | 1995-07-07 | 1996-10-08 | Trw Vehicle Safety Systems Inc. | Air bag inflator having a corrugated filter wall |
US5662722A (en) * | 1995-08-01 | 1997-09-02 | Innovative Engineering Solutions, Inc. | Air and gas mixing apparatus with removable baffle plates |
US5622380A (en) * | 1995-09-21 | 1997-04-22 | Automotive Systems Laboratory, Inc. | Variable nonazide gas generator having multiple propellant chambers |
US5624133A (en) * | 1995-10-26 | 1997-04-29 | Trw Inc. | Prefilter for gas generating air bag inflator |
US5613703A (en) * | 1995-11-01 | 1997-03-25 | Trw Vehicle Safety Systems Inc. | Apparatus for inflating an inflatable vehicle occupant protection device |
US5630619A (en) * | 1996-02-28 | 1997-05-20 | Morton International, Inc. | Hybrid adaptive inflator for airbags |
US5829785A (en) | 1996-03-26 | 1998-11-03 | Morton International, Inc. | Internal structure for a two-walled inflator |
US5941562A (en) * | 1996-04-15 | 1999-08-24 | Autoliv Asp | Adaptive output inflator having a selectable oxidant composition |
US6306232B1 (en) * | 1996-07-29 | 2001-10-23 | Automotive Systems Laboratory, Inc. | Thermally stable nonazide automotive airbag propellants |
US5851027A (en) * | 1996-09-09 | 1998-12-22 | Bendix-Atlantic Inflator Company | Variable output driver side hybrid inflator |
US5725245A (en) * | 1996-09-17 | 1998-03-10 | United Technologies Corporation | Diffuser plate for an airbag gas generator |
US5813695A (en) | 1996-09-17 | 1998-09-29 | United Technologies Corporation | Igniter post for airbag gas generator |
US6074502A (en) * | 1996-11-08 | 2000-06-13 | Automotive Systems Laboratory, Inc. | Smokeless gas generant compositions |
US5872329A (en) * | 1996-11-08 | 1999-02-16 | Automotive Systems Laboratory, Inc. | Nonazide gas generant compositions |
US5860672A (en) * | 1996-11-25 | 1999-01-19 | Morton International, Inc. | Airbag baffle mount |
US5890735A (en) * | 1997-01-13 | 1999-04-06 | Morton International Inc. | Hybrid inflator with diffuser end translating initiator boss |
JP3638415B2 (en) | 1997-01-20 | 2005-04-13 | 日本電熱計器株式会社 | Gas atmosphere soldering equipment |
US5829784A (en) * | 1997-02-13 | 1998-11-03 | General Dynamics Armament Systems, Inc. | Airbag inflator for vehicle occupant restraint apparatus |
US5934705A (en) * | 1997-03-06 | 1999-08-10 | Automotive Systems Laboratory, Inc. | Two chamber inflator body |
US5845935A (en) | 1997-03-07 | 1998-12-08 | Morton International, Inc. | Side airbag module |
US6095561A (en) * | 1997-03-07 | 2000-08-01 | Automotive Systems Laboratory, Inc. | Multi-chamber inflator |
US6474684B1 (en) | 1997-04-24 | 2002-11-05 | Talley Defense Systems, Inc. | Dual stage inflator |
US6068292A (en) * | 1997-11-25 | 2000-05-30 | Oea, Inc. | Controlling gas flow in a hybrid inflator |
US6032979C1 (en) * | 1998-02-18 | 2001-10-16 | Autoliv Asp Inc | Adaptive output inflator |
US6019389A (en) * | 1998-03-31 | 2000-02-01 | Trw Vehicle Safety Systems Inc. | Air bag inflator |
US6851705B2 (en) * | 1998-06-19 | 2005-02-08 | Autoliv Asp, Inc. | Dual output inflator with independent gas storage vessels |
US6095556A (en) * | 1998-07-20 | 2000-08-01 | Autoliv Asp, Inc. | Inflator disk actuator backer plate |
US6095559A (en) * | 1998-07-23 | 2000-08-01 | Autoliv Asp, Inc. | Chemical cooling of airbag inflation gases |
US6106000A (en) * | 1998-10-02 | 2000-08-22 | Stewart; David A. | Universal type add on air bag inflator |
DE60026969T2 (en) * | 1999-02-05 | 2006-12-21 | Nippon Kayaku K.K. | GAS GENERATOR |
KR100417766B1 (en) | 1999-04-28 | 2004-02-05 | 니뽄 가야쿠 가부시키가이샤 | Gas generator |
JP2003535003A (en) * | 1999-07-02 | 2003-11-25 | オートモーティブ システムズ ラボラトリー インコーポレーテッド | Gas generating composition containing silicone coating |
US6709012B1 (en) * | 1999-07-28 | 2004-03-23 | Nippon Kayaku Kabushiki-Kaisha | Gas generator |
EP1122134B1 (en) | 2000-02-01 | 2005-02-16 | Delphi Automotive Systems Sungwoo Co., Ltd. | Side airbag system and method for manufacturing the same |
US6244623B1 (en) * | 2000-02-02 | 2001-06-12 | Autoliv Asp, Inc. | Flow-open inflator |
JP4587584B2 (en) * | 2000-03-28 | 2010-11-24 | ダイセル化学工業株式会社 | Hybrid inflator |
JP2002012125A (en) | 2000-06-29 | 2002-01-15 | Takata Corp | Air bag inflator and manufacturing method for it |
DE60225248T2 (en) * | 2001-01-26 | 2009-03-12 | Automotive Systems Laboratory Inc., Farmington Hills | Two-chamber gas generator |
US6481747B1 (en) * | 2001-07-23 | 2002-11-19 | Trw Inc. | Cool, low effluent pyrotechnic inflator |
US6776434B2 (en) * | 2001-11-06 | 2004-08-17 | Key Safety Systems, Inc. | Driver side airbag with a baffle |
US6948737B2 (en) | 2001-12-26 | 2005-09-27 | Daicel Chemical Industries, Ltd. | Gas generator for air bag |
EP1478554A4 (en) * | 2002-02-26 | 2007-03-21 | Automotive Systems Lab | Airbelt inflator |
US6846014B2 (en) * | 2002-03-18 | 2005-01-25 | Autoliv Asp, Inc. | Inflatable surface including a plurality of nozzles |
DE10240639B3 (en) * | 2002-09-03 | 2004-02-12 | Trw Airbag Systems Gmbh & Co. Kg | Vehicle airbag gas generator with long cylindrical casing, has external igniter units producing gas which flows into distribution chambers in cylinder |
US6976704B2 (en) * | 2003-01-30 | 2005-12-20 | Autoliv Asp, Inc. | Adaptive output airbag inflation device |
US7506891B2 (en) * | 2003-04-17 | 2009-03-24 | Automotive Systems Laboratory Inc. | Belt and side impact inflator |
US6908104B2 (en) * | 2003-08-27 | 2005-06-21 | Key Safety Systems, Inc. | Pyrotechnic side impact inflator |
US7267365B2 (en) | 2004-03-10 | 2007-09-11 | Automotive Systems Laboratory, Inc. | Inflator |
US7125042B2 (en) * | 2004-03-25 | 2006-10-24 | Automotive Systems Laboratory, Inc. | Inflator using reversing axial flow |
US7343862B2 (en) | 2004-05-27 | 2008-03-18 | Automotive Systems Laboratory, Inc. | Gas generating system |
US7667045B2 (en) * | 2004-06-02 | 2010-02-23 | Automotive Systems Laboratory, Inc. | Gas generant and synthesis |
US7390019B2 (en) * | 2004-06-10 | 2008-06-24 | Daicel Chemical Industries, Ltd. | Inflator for airbag |
US7814838B2 (en) * | 2004-06-28 | 2010-10-19 | Automotive Systems, Laboratory, Inc. | Gas generating system |
US7237801B2 (en) * | 2004-08-31 | 2007-07-03 | Automotive Systems Laboratory, Inc. | Gas generating system |
WO2006044516A2 (en) | 2004-10-14 | 2006-04-27 | Automotive Systems Laboratory, Inc. | Gas generator |
JP2008528356A (en) * | 2005-01-20 | 2008-07-31 | オートモーティブ システムズ ラボラトリィ、 インク. | Flexible gas generator |
US7537240B2 (en) | 2005-02-22 | 2009-05-26 | Automotive Systems Laboratory, Inc. | Gas generating system |
US7762585B2 (en) * | 2005-06-30 | 2010-07-27 | Automotive Systems Laboratory, Inc. | Gas generator |
JP4926659B2 (en) * | 2006-11-07 | 2012-05-09 | 株式会社ダイセル | Gas generator |
-
2006
- 2006-06-01 US US11/445,859 patent/US7654565B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2006-06-02 WO PCT/US2006/021537 patent/WO2006130848A2/en active Application Filing
- 2006-06-02 JP JP2008514919A patent/JP2008546513A/en active Pending
- 2006-06-02 DE DE112006001455T patent/DE112006001455T5/en not_active Withdrawn
-
2010
- 2010-01-07 US US12/655,768 patent/US20100109295A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (56)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US1939700A (en) * | 1932-06-17 | 1933-12-19 | Clarence F Hofstetter | Muzzle attachment for guns |
US2891525A (en) * | 1955-08-01 | 1959-06-23 | Thompson Ramo Wooldridge Inc | Tappet barrel |
US2959127A (en) * | 1956-02-16 | 1960-11-08 | Fed Lab Inc | Gas grenade |
US3404598A (en) * | 1966-12-30 | 1968-10-08 | Aai Corp | Cup-sealed actuator with obturating groove anchoring and sealing arrangement |
US4215631A (en) * | 1971-02-25 | 1980-08-05 | The United States Of America As Represented By The Secretary Of The Navy | Sealed pyrotechnic delay |
US3794347A (en) * | 1972-05-18 | 1974-02-26 | Gen Motors Corp | Occupant restraint system |
US3877882A (en) * | 1972-07-27 | 1975-04-15 | Talley Industries | Gas generating device |
US3880447A (en) * | 1973-05-16 | 1975-04-29 | Rocket Research Corp | Crash restraint inflator for steering wheel assembly |
US3958949A (en) * | 1973-06-26 | 1976-05-25 | Societe Nationale Des Poudres Et Explosifs | Gas generator with a combustion chamber laterally surrounded by a cooling chamber |
US3985949A (en) * | 1973-11-01 | 1976-10-12 | John T. Thompson | Cable with turn back protector |
US3985076A (en) * | 1973-11-19 | 1976-10-12 | Thiokol Corporation | Gas generator |
US4012189A (en) * | 1974-12-07 | 1977-03-15 | Interliz Anstalt | Hot gas generator |
US4001750A (en) * | 1975-09-02 | 1977-01-04 | S & C Electric Company | Corrosion resistant means in exhaust control device for circuit interrupting devices |
US4276065A (en) * | 1979-03-14 | 1981-06-30 | Edo Corporation | Reusable disc filter with spacing bosses for high temperature gasses |
US4588043A (en) * | 1983-03-28 | 1986-05-13 | Finn Charles A | Sound suppressor for a firearm |
US4611374A (en) * | 1984-04-20 | 1986-09-16 | United Technologies Automotive, Inc. | Method for manufacturing a check valve contained within a tube |
US4530516A (en) * | 1984-07-09 | 1985-07-23 | Morton Thiokol Inc. | Aluminum inflator with steel center-tie |
US4730558A (en) * | 1984-11-02 | 1988-03-15 | Dynamit Novel Aktiengesellschaft | Electronic delayed-action explosive detonator |
US4718346A (en) * | 1985-06-20 | 1988-01-12 | Nobel Kemi Ab | Explosive charge for the explosive welding of large diameter pipes, and a method for its manufacture |
US4722551A (en) * | 1987-03-19 | 1988-02-02 | Morton Thiokol, Inc. | Initiator and method for the incorporation thereof in an inflator |
US4865359A (en) * | 1987-06-18 | 1989-09-12 | Brown & Root, Inc. | Press fit pipe joint and method |
US4762067A (en) * | 1987-11-13 | 1988-08-09 | Halliburton Company | Downhole perforating method and apparatus using secondary explosive detonators |
US4886293A (en) * | 1988-08-09 | 1989-12-12 | Daimler-Benz Ag | Gas producer for filling a gas cushion restraining device |
US5028070A (en) * | 1989-03-25 | 1991-07-02 | Dynamit Nobel A.G. | Gas generator for an airbag with a protective cover |
US4950458A (en) * | 1989-06-22 | 1990-08-21 | Morton International, Inc. | Passenger automotive restraint generator |
US5048862A (en) * | 1989-06-22 | 1991-09-17 | Dynamit Nobel Aktiengesellschaft | Gas generator for an airbag |
US5100171A (en) * | 1990-10-29 | 1992-03-31 | Trw Vehicle Safety Systems Inc. | Filter assembly for airbag inflator |
US5183268A (en) * | 1991-04-30 | 1993-02-02 | Fmc Corporation | Metal-to-metal wellhead seal for rough casing |
US5553889A (en) * | 1994-03-18 | 1996-09-10 | Oea, Inc. | Hybrid inflator with rapid pressurization-based flow initiation assembly |
US5533751A (en) * | 1995-02-22 | 1996-07-09 | Morton International, Inc. | Hybrid inflator with elongated housing and center discharge |
US20020053789A1 (en) * | 1998-06-01 | 2002-05-09 | Osamu Fujimoto | Air bag gas inflator |
US20030127840A1 (en) * | 2000-06-08 | 2003-07-10 | Yoshihiro Nakashima | Gas generator for air bag and air bag device |
US20020190510A1 (en) * | 2000-10-19 | 2002-12-19 | Masayuki Yamazaki | Hybrid inflator |
US6799776B2 (en) * | 2000-10-19 | 2004-10-05 | Daicel Chemical Industries, Ltd. | Hybrid inflator |
US20040100079A1 (en) * | 2000-11-22 | 2004-05-27 | Masayuki Yamazaki | Hybrid inflator |
US20030001369A1 (en) * | 2001-04-04 | 2003-01-02 | Yasunori Iwai | Method of reducing nitrogen oxide in hybrid inflator |
US6860510B2 (en) * | 2001-08-21 | 2005-03-01 | Daicel Chemical Industries, Ltd. | Multistage inflating-type hybrid inflator |
US20050225064A1 (en) * | 2002-02-06 | 2005-10-13 | Nippon Kayaku Kabushiki-Kaisha | Gas generator |
US20030155757A1 (en) * | 2002-02-20 | 2003-08-21 | Larsen Alan R. | Flexible airbag inflator |
US20040016480A1 (en) * | 2002-04-04 | 2004-01-29 | Williams Graylon K. | Nonazide gas generant compositions |
US20030201628A1 (en) * | 2002-04-26 | 2003-10-30 | Breed Automotive Technologies, Inc. | Front passenger air bag pocket baffle |
US6805384B1 (en) * | 2002-08-14 | 2004-10-19 | Chatleff Controls, Inc. | Sealing mechanism |
US20050017509A1 (en) * | 2002-08-14 | 2005-01-27 | Wiser Herman D. | Sealing mechanism |
US20040046373A1 (en) * | 2002-09-09 | 2004-03-11 | Chung Shan Institute Of Science & Technology | Dual stage airbag inflator |
US20050001414A1 (en) * | 2002-12-09 | 2005-01-06 | Naoki Matsuda | Gas generator for air bag |
US20040201208A1 (en) * | 2003-04-08 | 2004-10-14 | Longhurst Nyle K. | Pyrotechnic inflator for a vehicular airbag system |
US20050046180A1 (en) * | 2003-09-02 | 2005-03-03 | Tombler Thomas W. | Apparatus and method for actuating or maintaining a seal by differential pressure |
US20050110253A1 (en) * | 2003-09-17 | 2005-05-26 | Khandhadia Paresh S. | Pyrotechnic stored gas inflator |
US7431335B2 (en) * | 2003-09-17 | 2008-10-07 | Automotive Systems Laboratory, Inc. | Pyrotechnic stored gas inflator |
US20050067794A1 (en) * | 2003-09-30 | 2005-03-31 | Philippe Gambier | Thermoplastic seal and method |
US20050082804A1 (en) * | 2003-10-17 | 2005-04-21 | Khandhadia Paresh S. | Filterless airbag module |
US20050134031A1 (en) * | 2003-12-17 | 2005-06-23 | Mccormick David M. | Inflator |
US20050161925A1 (en) * | 2004-01-27 | 2005-07-28 | Blackburn Jeffery S. | Inflator and method of assembly |
US20050194772A1 (en) * | 2004-02-25 | 2005-09-08 | Kenji Numoto | Gas generator for an air bag |
US20050230949A1 (en) * | 2004-04-19 | 2005-10-20 | Blackburn Jeffery S | Gas generating system |
US20050263993A1 (en) * | 2004-05-28 | 2005-12-01 | Blackburn Jeffery S | Inflator and method of assembly |
Cited By (10)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US9051224B2 (en) * | 2006-04-21 | 2015-06-09 | Tk Holdings Inc. | Gas generating system |
US20100201179A1 (en) * | 2007-07-06 | 2010-08-12 | Yoshihiro Yokote | Pretensioner and process for manufacturing the same |
US8366151B2 (en) * | 2007-07-06 | 2013-02-05 | Autoliv Development As | Pretensioner and process for manufacturing the same |
US20110187088A1 (en) * | 2010-02-03 | 2011-08-04 | Teppei Hanano | Gas generator and assembling method of the same |
US8302992B2 (en) * | 2010-02-03 | 2012-11-06 | Daicel Chemical Industries, Ltd. | Gas generator and assembling method of the same |
CN103625413A (en) * | 2012-08-28 | 2014-03-12 | 比亚迪股份有限公司 | Gas generating agent and preparing method thereof |
CN105555395A (en) * | 2013-10-11 | 2016-05-04 | 株式会社大赛璐 | Gas generator |
US20160214564A1 (en) * | 2013-10-11 | 2016-07-28 | Daicel Corporation | Gas generator |
US9994189B2 (en) * | 2013-10-11 | 2018-06-12 | Daicel Corporation | Gas generator |
CN105984420A (en) * | 2015-01-29 | 2016-10-05 | 湖北航天化学技术研究所 | Gas generator and assembling method thereof |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2006130848A3 (en) | 2009-04-16 |
US7654565B2 (en) | 2010-02-02 |
US20060273564A1 (en) | 2006-12-07 |
DE112006001455T5 (en) | 2008-04-30 |
WO2006130848A2 (en) | 2006-12-07 |
JP2008546513A (en) | 2008-12-25 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US7654565B2 (en) | Gas generating system | |
US7073820B2 (en) | Inflator | |
US7806954B2 (en) | Gas generator | |
US7762585B2 (en) | Gas generator | |
US7267365B2 (en) | Inflator | |
US8376400B2 (en) | Gas generating system | |
US7178830B2 (en) | Gas Generator | |
US7568728B2 (en) | Inflator device having modular construction and radial inflation gas flow | |
EP0778181A2 (en) | Igniter for gas bag inflator | |
US20080150260A1 (en) | Gas generating system | |
US7520530B2 (en) | Gas generator for air bag | |
US8496266B2 (en) | Gas generating system | |
WO1993021039A1 (en) | Gas generator for air bags with circumferentially disposed blades | |
US8240709B1 (en) | Multi-chamber gas generating system | |
US8393641B1 (en) | Gas generator | |
US8820783B1 (en) | Gas generating system | |
US7302893B2 (en) | Gas generator with alignment mechanism | |
US7802812B2 (en) | Gas generating system | |
US9550471B1 (en) | Gas generating system movable divider | |
US20030155755A1 (en) | Rupturable plate for inflator | |
US8820245B1 (en) | Gas generating system | |
US9994188B1 (en) | Gas generating system | |
US8282127B1 (en) | Gas generating system | |
JP2008201404A (en) | Gas generating system | |
EP1454804A1 (en) | Burst plate for inflator |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |