초록 ▼

An occupant restraint system composed of a compact air cushion module containing a rotating vent ring which creates a variable venting system for inflation of an air cushion. The rotating vent ring moves to open one or more vents of different flow areas which allows inflation gas to vent to the atmo

An occupant restraint system composed of a compact air cushion module containing a rotating vent ring which creates a variable venting system for inflation of an air cushion. The rotating vent ring moves to open one or more vents of different flow areas which allows inflation gas to vent to the atmosphere thereby controlling the pressure with which the inflatable air cushion fills. The rotating vent ring has a neutral or non-rotated position wherein the venting is minimized such that the inflatable air cushion fills with a maximum pressure. The rotating vent ring is rotated to a variety of positions in response to one or more changing environmental conditions within the vehicle. Such conditions may include occupant position, seat belt usage, occupant weight, ambient temperature or any other relevant environmental factor.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A compact variable venting air cushion module for a motor vehicle comprising:a generally cylindrical inflator for providing inflation gas, said inflator having an annular flange extending therefrom;an inflatable air cushion having a mouth for receiving inflation gas from

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A compact variable venting air cushion module for a motor vehicle comprising:a generally cylindrical inflator for providing inflation gas, said inflator having an annular flange extending therefrom;an inflatable air cushion having a mouth for receiving inflation gas from said inflator;a base plate for mounting said module to said vehicle;said flange, said base plate, and said air cushion having a first set of coordinated vent apertures which are aligned, and a second set of coordinated vent apertures which are aligned;a rotatably mounted vent ring being rotatable from a first relatively rotated position to a second relatively rotated position, said vent ring having venting apertures which align with said first set of coordinated vent apertures when said vent ring is in said first relatively rotated position thereby providing a first venting area, said venting apertures aligning with said second set of coordinated vent apertures when said vent ring is in said second relatively rotated position thereby providing a second venting area;fasteners for connecting said air cushion, said base plate, said vent ring, and said inflator relative to one another; anda device for providing rotational movement of said vent ring, said device selectively rotating said vent ring from said first relatively rotated position to said second relatively rotated position.