초록 ▼

A restraint assembly includes an inflator for generating inflation gas. The restraint assembly includes an upper cushion portion and an inflatable stiffening device extending generally longitudinally across a lower edge of the cushion portion for providing longitudinal tension and lateral stability

A restraint assembly includes an inflator for generating inflation gas. The restraint assembly includes an upper cushion portion and an inflatable stiffening device extending generally longitudinally across a lower edge of the cushion portion for providing longitudinal tension and lateral stability to the restraint assembly. Preferably, the stiffening device is tubular. Also preferably, the restraint assembly includes a tensioning device which at least partially surrounds the stiffening device and places longitudinal tension on the stiffening device when inflated. The tensioning device may take the form of a strap or cord that is spiral-wrapped around the stiffening device. The stiffening device preferably includes an inboard stiffening wall and an outboard stiffening wall. The tensioning device may preferably be zig-zag wrapped back and forth across the outboard wall of the stiffening device for preventing occupant interaction with the tensioning device on the inboard side of the stiffening device. For either of the zig-zag or spiral wraps, the stiffening device includes upper and lower edge portions and the tensioning device alternately passes through the upper and lower edge portions.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [3.] A side restraint assembly for use in a vehicle, the restraint assembly including an inflator for generating inflation gas, the restraint assembly characterized by an upper cushion portion and an inflatable stiffening device extending generally longitudinally across a lowe

[ What is claimed is:] [3.] A side restraint assembly for use in a vehicle, the restraint assembly including an inflator for generating inflation gas, the restraint assembly characterized by an upper cushion portion and an inflatable stiffening device extending generally longitudinally across a lower edge of the cushion portion for providing longitudinal tension and lateral stability to the restraint assembly; andthe stiffening device including upper and lower edge portions and wherein the restraint assembly includes a tensioning device, the tensioning device alternating passage through the upper and lower edge portions.