초록 ▼

The present invention relates to a system for filling an empty flexible container such as an airbag with gas essentially instantaneously when the system or vehicle utilizing such system is subjected to sufficient deceleration forces, such as experienced during a collision. The gas-filled container f

The present invention relates to a system for filling an empty flexible container such as an airbag with gas essentially instantaneously when the system or vehicle utilizing such system is subjected to sufficient deceleration forces, such as experienced during a collision. The gas-filled container functions as a force absorbing cushion which protects occupants in the vehicle against injuries. The system includes pressure vessels filled with gas under high pressure, one or more conduits connecting the pressure vessels with the flexible container, provisions for opening the connection between the pressure vessels and the flexible container upon sensing retardation or deceleration forces that exceed some threshold value, a container holding or mixing device, and a retardation meter. The pressure vessels are each sealed by a closure device and each has a respective connection conduit which joins the pressure vessels to the flexible container. One pressure vessel contains oxygen and an inert gas. The other pressure vessel contains inert gas and hydrogen. The inert gas is helium, argon and/or nitrogen.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [21.] A method of filling an empty flexible container with gas essentially instantaneously when subjected to powerful retardation forces, wherein the gas-filled container functions as a force absorbing cushion for protection against injury, wherein the method comprises:providi

[ What is claimed is:] [21.] A method of filling an empty flexible container with gas essentially instantaneously when subjected to powerful retardation forces, wherein the gas-filled container functions as a force absorbing cushion for protection against injury, wherein the method comprises:providing an apparatus which includes a first and a second pressure receptacle which are sealed with the aid of a closure means and which contain gas under high pressure, a first conduit which extends from said first receptacle to said container, a second conduit which extends from said second receptacle to said container, and an ignition device, wherein said first receptacle comprises hydrogen and one or more inert gases selected from the group consisting of helium, argon, and nitrogen, and said second receptacle comprises oxygen and one or more inert gases selected from the group consisting of helium, argon, and nitrogen;passing said gases from said first and said second receptacle into said container; andigniting said gases when at least 10% of the total gas volume in said first and said second receptacle has passed into said container.