초록 ▼

A multi-level output inflator for inflating an airbag in the event of a vehicle crash, comprising a housing, a wall section disposed in the housing to define separate primary and secondary combustion chambers therein. A primary initiator and primary propellant are disposed within the primary combust

A multi-level output inflator for inflating an airbag in the event of a vehicle crash, comprising a housing, a wall section disposed in the housing to define separate primary and secondary combustion chambers therein. A primary initiator and primary propellant are disposed within the primary combustion chamber, and a secondary initiator and secondary propellant are disposed with the secondary combustion chamber. The housing comprises a primary nozzle in communication with the primary combustion chamber, and a secondary nozzle in communication with the secondary combustion chamber. The primary and secondary initiators may be fired separately, simultaneously, or in a timed sequence to inflate the air bag at different rates and levels depending on the nature of the vehicle crash. A method of assembling the components of the inflator is also described and covered.

대표청구항 ▼

1. A multi-level output inflator for inflating an air bag in the event of a vehicle crash, comprising:a housing; a wall section disposed in said housing to define a primary combustion chamber and a secondary combustion chamber therein that are separate from each other; a primary initiator and primar

1. A multi-level output inflator for inflating an air bag in the event of a vehicle crash, comprising:a housing; a wall section disposed in said housing to define a primary combustion chamber and a secondary combustion chamber therein that are separate from each other; a primary initiator and primary propellant disposed within said primary combustion chamber; a secondary initiator and secondary propellant disposed within said secondary combustion chamber; a primary nozzle in said housing in communication with said primary combustion chamber for directing combustion gas from said primary combustion chamber to the air bag; and a secondary nozzle in said housing in communication with said secondary combustion chamber for directing combustion gas from said secondary combustion chamber to the air bag independently of said primary nozzle and said primary combustion chamber; whereby said primary initiator and said secondary initiator are fired separately, simultaneously or in a timed sequence to inflate the air bag at different rates and levels depending on the nature of the vehicle crash; said wall section being a center section of generally cylindrical shape which defines a substantially cylindrical secondary combustion chamber surrounded by an annular primary combustion chamber, an upper portion of said center section extending outwardly and upwardly.