초록 ▼

The present invention relates to an apparatus (2) for helping to protect a vehicle occupant in the event of sudden vehicle deceleration. The apparatus (2) comprises an inflatable vehicle occupant restraint (4) and an inflator (10, 110) having a chamber (42, 142). A stored inflation fluid (44, 144) f

The present invention relates to an apparatus (2) for helping to protect a vehicle occupant in the event of sudden vehicle deceleration. The apparatus (2) comprises an inflatable vehicle occupant restraint (4) and an inflator (10, 110) having a chamber (42, 142). A stored inflation fluid (44, 144) for inflating the restraint (4) is disposed in the chamber (42, 142). A device for controlling flow of the inflation fluid (44, 144) from the chamber (42, 142) to the restraint (4) is provided. The device includes a member (40, 200) which has a first mechanical strength when no electric current is applied to the member and a second mechanical strength lower than the first mechanical strength when electric current is applied to the member.

대표청구항 ▼

[ Having described the invention, the following is, claimed:] [1.] An apparatus for helping to protect a vehicle occupant, said apparatus comprising:an inflatable vehicle occupant restraint;an inflator having a chamber;a stored inflation fluid, for inflating said restraint, disposed in said chamber;

[ Having described the invention, the following is, claimed:] [1.] An apparatus for helping to protect a vehicle occupant, said apparatus comprising:an inflatable vehicle occupant restraint;an inflator having a chamber;a stored inflation fluid, for inflating said restraint, disposed in said chamber; andmeans for controlling flow of said inflation fluid from said chamber to said restraint including a member which has a first mechanical strength when no electric current is applied to said member and a second mechanical strength lower than said first mechanical strength when electric current is applied to said member.