초록 ▼

An apparatus (10) includes an inflator structure (12), a rupturable closure member (48), and an initiator assembly (14). The inflator structure (12) defines a chamber (15) storing inflation fluid (16) at an elevated storage pressure. The closure member (48) is fixed and sealed to the inflator struct

An apparatus (10) includes an inflator structure (12), a rupturable closure member (48), and an initiator assembly (14). The inflator structure (12) defines a chamber (15) storing inflation fluid (16) at an elevated storage pressure. The closure member (48) is fixed and sealed to the inflator structure (12) to block the inflation fluid from flowing outward from the chamber (15), and is subjected to the storage pressure. The initiator assembly (14) includes pyrotechnic material (88) and a support structure (82, 84) which is mounted on the inflator structure. The support structure (82, 84) adjoins the closure member (48) in a load bearing relationship so as to transmit a storage pressure force from the closure member (48) to the inflator structure (12). When the pyrotechnic material (88) is ignited, it produces combustion products that rupture the support structure (82, 84). The closure member (48) has a specified strength which is low enough for the closure member (48) to be ruptured by the storage pressure independently of the combustion products when the support structure (82, 84) has been ruptured by the combustion products.

대표청구항 ▼

[ Having described the invention, the following is claimed:] [1.] Apparatus comprising:an inflator structure defining a chamber storing inflation fluid at an elevated storage pressure;a rupturable closure member which is fixed and sealed to said inflator structure to block said fluid from flowing ou

[ Having described the invention, the following is claimed:] [1.] Apparatus comprising:an inflator structure defining a chamber storing inflation fluid at an elevated storage pressure;a rupturable closure member which is fixed and sealed to said inflator structure to block said fluid from flowing outward from said chamber, said closure member being subjected to said storage pressure; andan initiator assembly comprising a support structure mounted on said inflator structure separately from said closure member, said support structure adjoining said closure member in a load-bearing relationship so as to transmit a storage pressure force from said closure member to said inflator structure;said initiator assembly further comprising pyrotechnic material which, when ignited, produces combustion products that rupture said support structure;said closure member having a specified strength which is low enough for said closure member to be ruptured by said storage pressure independently of said combustion products when said support structure has been ruptured by said combustion products.