초록 ▼

A hybrid inflator apparatus (10) for inflating a vehicle occupant protection device comprises a container (12). A gas (30) is stored in the container (12) under pressure. A body (80) of ignitable material is stored within the apparatus (10), also under pressure. An igniter (50, 60) ignites the body

A hybrid inflator apparatus (10) for inflating a vehicle occupant protection device comprises a container (12). A gas (30) is stored in the container (12) under pressure. A body (80) of ignitable material is stored within the apparatus (10), also under pressure. An igniter (50, 60) ignites the body (80) of ignitable material. The body (80) of ignitable material consists essentially of a solid organic polymer which is self-combustible at the pressure under which it is stored. Preferably, the organic polymer is self-extinguishing at atmospheric pressure and is formed, for instance by extrusion or molding, into a shape comprising at least one passage extending through the body. A preferred organic polymer is a cured glycidyl azide polymer (GAP). The stored gas (30) preferably comprises an inert gas which may be mixed with a small amount of oxygen.

대표청구항 ▼

[ Having described the invention, the following is claimed:] [1.] A hybrid inflator apparatus for inflating a vehicle occupant protection device, said apparatus comprising:a) a container for storing gas;b) a gas stored in said container at an elevated pressure, said gas being predominantly an inert

[ Having described the invention, the following is claimed:] [1.] A hybrid inflator apparatus for inflating a vehicle occupant protection device, said apparatus comprising:a) a container for storing gas;b) a gas stored in said container at an elevated pressure, said gas being predominantly an inert gas;c) a body of ignitable material within said apparatus for heating said stored gas;d) an elevated pressure environment for said body of ignitable material; ande) an igniter for igniting said body of ignitable material;said body of ignitable material consisting essentially of a solid organic polymer which is self-combustible at elevated pressure and is self-extinguishing at atmosphere pressure.