Patent US1861149A successfully refreshed from Google Patents.
US5553889A
Expired / Lapsed
US
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Hybrid inflator with rapid pressurization-based flow initiation assembly
Assignee: Autoliv ASP Inc
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Filing: 1996-02-16
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Granted: 1996-09-10
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Expires: 2016-02-16
Abstract
Abstract A hybrid inflator for an automotive inflatable safety system is disclosed. In one embodiment, the inflator includes a stored gas housing and a gas generator housing. Propellant grains are contained within the gas generator and an appropriate pressurized medium is contained within the stored gas housing. Generally, the pressurized medium flows through the gas generator or an extension thereof when exiting the inflator to the air/safety bag to enhance the mixing of the pressurized medium with the propellant gases. Moreover, a rapid pressurization of a region proximate the main closure disk is used such that fluid pressure acts directly on the disk to open the same and initiate flow to the air/safety bag.
Inventors
- 👤 Brian K. Hamilton
- 👤 Brent A. Parks
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-10-25 10:48
CPC Classifications
C; C06; C06B; C06B25/00; C06B25/34; B; B60; B60R; B60R21/00; B60R21/02; B60R21/16; B60R21/26; B60R21/268; B60R21/272; C06B45/00; C06B45/04; C06B45/06; C06B45/10; C06D; C06D5/00; C06D5/06; C06D5/10
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 130
Claim 1
Independent Claim
141 words
A hybrid inflator for an automotive inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag, said inflator comprising: an inflator housing which contains a pressurized medium; a gas generator comprising a gas generator housing, a propellant contained within said gas generator housing, at least one gas generator inlet port which fluidly interconnects said gas generator housing and said inflator housing, and at least one gas generator outlet port which fluidly interconnects said gas generator housing and the air/safety bag; a propellant ignition assembly interconnected with said gas generator; and valve means, operatively associated with said at least one gas generator inlet port, for substantially inhibiting flow between said inflator housing and said gas generator housing through said at least one gas generator inlet port until a pressure within said inflator housing exceeds a pressure within said gas generator housing by a predetermined degree.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
141 words
A hybrid inflator for an automotive inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag, said inflator comprising: an inflator housing which contains a pressurized medium; a gas generator comprising a gas generator housing, a propellant contained within said gas generator housing, at least one gas generator inlet port which fluidly interconnects said gas generator housing and said inflator housing, and at least one gas generator outlet port which fluidly interconnects said gas generator housing and the air/safety bag; a propellant ignition assembly interconnected with said gas generator; and valve means, operatively associated with said at least one gas generator inlet port, for substantially inhibiting flow between said inflator housing and said gas generator housing through said at least one gas generator inlet port until a pressure within said inflator housing exceeds a pressure within said gas generator housing by a predetermined degree.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
21 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 1, wherein: said inflator housing has a wall thickness of no more than about 0.125".
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
14 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 1, wherein: said inflator housing is substantially toroidal.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
35 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 1, further comprising: a plurality of said gas generator inlet ports, wherein said valve means is operatively associated with each of said plurality of said gas generator inlet ports.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
43 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 1, wherein: said gas generator housing comprises first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, said propellant being within said first chamber, said second chamber being positioned between said at least one gas generator outlet and said first chamber.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
30 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 5, further comprising: an aspirator positioned between said first and second chambers, each said gas generator inlet port being associated with said second chamber.
Claim 8
Dependent Claim
33 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 6, wherein: said at least one gas generator inlet port and said valve means each are disposed radially outward from at least a portion of said aspirator.
Claim 9
Dependent Claim
41 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 6, wherein: said aspirator has a first discharge port, said first discharge port being positioned between said at least one gas generator outlet and at least a portion of each said gas generator inlet port.
Claim 10
Dependent Claim
80 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 5, wherein: said inflator housing is substantially toroidal and concentrically disposed about said gas generator housing, each said gas generator inlet port being associated with said second chamber and each comprising a first orientation, said first orientation comprising one part of said gas generator inlet port being at a first radial location and a second part of said gas generator inlet port being at a second radial location different from said first radial location.
Claim 11
Dependent Claim
26 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 5, further comprising: means for inducing a circulatory flow within said second chamber from a flow from said inflator housing.
Claim 12
Dependent Claim
61 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 5, further comprising: a closure disk between said at least one gas generator outlet and the air/safety bag; means for pressurizing said second chamber of said gas generator housing at a greater rate than said inflator housing after ignition of said propellant; and means for opening said closure disk and comprising said means for pressurizing.
Claim 13
Dependent Claim
63 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 5, wherein: each said gas generator inlet port is associated with said second chamber, said at least one gas generator outlet port is on an end of said second chamber, and each said gas generator inlet port is separated from said at least one gas generator outlet port by a distance of at least about 15 millimeters.
Claim 14
Dependent Claim
41 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 5, wherein: said first and second chambers are longitudinally aligned and interconnected by first and second ports, said first and second ports being skewed relative to a central, longitudinal axis of said gas generator housing.
Claim 15
Dependent Claim
26 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 5, further comprising: means for inducing a vortex flow within said second chamber from a flow from said first chamber.
Claim 16
Dependent Claim
66 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 1, wherein: said valve means is movable from a first position to a second position, said valve means being in said first position when operational and moving to said second position when said pressure within said inflator housing exceeds said pressure within said gas generator housing by a predetermined degree, said second position being radially inward of said first position.
Claim 17
Dependent Claim
120 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 1, wherein: said valve means comprises a pliable member positioned within said gas generator housing, wherein said pliable member is pressed into substantial abutting relationship with said gas generator housing and thereby blocks said at least one gas generator inlet port until said pressure in said inflator housing exceeds said pressure in said gas generator housing by said predetermined degree, and wherein said pliable member moves away from said gas generator housing after said pressure in said inflator housing exceeds said pressure in said gas generator housing by said predetermined degree, whereby a flow from said inflator housing into said gas generator housing through said at least one gas generator inlet port is established.
Claim 18
Dependent Claim
60 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 1, further comprising: a closure disk positioned between said at least one gas generator outlet and the air/safety bag; means for opening said closure disk to provide a flow path to the air/safety bag; and means for maintaining operability of said valve means for a predetermined time after an opening of said closure disk.
Claim 19
Dependent Claim
54 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 1, further comprising: a closure disk positioned between said at least one gas generator outlet and the air/safety bag; means for opening said closure disk to provide a flow path to the air/safety bag, said means for opening comprising a fluid pressure exerted directly on said closure disk.
Claim 20
Dependent Claim
156 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 1, wherein: said inflator housing is substantially toroidal and positioned about a central, longitudinal axis of said inflator; said gas generator extends along said axis and comprises first and second longitudinally aligned chambers, first and second propellant ports which fluidly interconnect said first and second chambers, and a closure disk associated with said at least one gas generator outlet, said propellant being contained within said first chamber, said second chamber being positioned between said closure disk and said first chamber, said first and second propellant ports being skewed relative to said axis, and each said gas generator inlet port being associated with said second chamber and comprising a first orientation, said first orientation comprising one part of said gas generator inlet port being at a first radial location and a second part of said gas generator inlet port being at a second radial location different from said first radial location.
Claim 21
Dependent Claim
49 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 19, further comprising: means for opening said closure disk to provide a flow path to the air/safety bag, said means for opening comprising means for pressurizing said second chamber at a greater rate than said stored gas housing after ignition of said propellant.
Claim 22
Dependent Claim
106 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 1, wherein: said inflator housing is substantially cylindrical; said gas generator housing is substantially cylindrical and concentrically contained within said inflator housing and comprises first and second longitudinally aligned chambers, and least one propellant port which fluidly interconnects said first and second chambers, and a closure disk associated with said at least one gas generator outlet, said propellant being contained within said first chamber, said second chamber being positioned between said closure disk and said first chamber, and each said gas generator inlet port being associated with said second chamber and displaced at least 15 millimeters from said closure disk.
Claim 23
Dependent Claim
48 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 21, further comprising: means for opening said closure disk to provide a flow path to the air/safety bag, said means for opening comprising means for pressurizing said second chamber at a greater rate than said inflator housing upon ignition of said propellant.
Claim 24
Independent Claim
225 words
A method for operating an inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag and an inflator comprising an inflator housing, a pressurized medium contained within said inflator housing, a main closure disk between said pressurized medium and the air/safety bag, and a gas generator fluidly interconnected with said inflator housing and comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, said first chamber containing a propellant, wherein said second chamber is positioned between said first chamber and said main closure disk, interfaces with said main closure disk, and is fluidly interconnectable with said inflator housing, said method comprising the steps of: generating propellant gases from said propellant; providing at least a portion of said propellant gases from said first chamber to said second chamber; substantially inhibiting a flow of said propellant gases from said second chamber into said inflator housing during a first portion of said generating step; opening said main closure disk using said substantially inhibiting step, said opening step comprising providing a flow path from said second chamber to said main closure disk and exerting a rupturing fluid pressure directly on said main closure disk through said flow path; allowing a flow from said inflator housing into said second chamber during a second portion of said generating step and after said substantially inhibiting step; and directing a flow to the air/safety bag after said opening step.
Claim 25
Independent Claim
225 words
A method for operating an inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag and an inflator comprising an inflator housing, a pressurized medium contained within said inflator housing, a main closure disk between said pressurized medium and the air/safety bag, and a gas generator fluidly interconnected with said inflator housing and comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, said first chamber containing a propellant, wherein said second chamber is positioned between said first chamber and said main closure disk, interfaces with said main closure disk, and is fluidly interconnectable with said inflator housing, said method comprising the steps of: generating propellant gases from said propellant; providing at least a portion of said propellant gases from said first chamber to said second chamber; substantially inhibiting a flow of said propellant gases from said second chamber into said inflator housing during a first portion of said generating step; opening said main closure disk using said substantially inhibiting step, said opening step comprising providing a flow path from said second chamber to said main closure disk and exerting a rupturing fluid pressure directly on said main closure disk through said flow path; allowing a flow from said inflator housing into said second chamber during a second portion of said generating step and after said substantially inhibiting step; and directing a flow to the air/safety bag after said opening step.
Claim 26
Dependent Claim
47 words
A method, as claimed in claim 23, wherein: said generating step comprises generating propellant gases with a toxicity, said method further comprising the step of mixing said propellant gases and said pressurized medium to reduce said toxicity of said propellant gases and to combust said propellant gases.
Claim 27
Dependent Claim
20 words
A method, as claimed in claim 23, wherein: said providing step comprises inducing a vortex flow within said second chamber.
Claim 28
Dependent Claim
30 words
A method, as claimed in claim 23, wherein: said providing step comprises introducing a flow from said first chamber into said second chamber with at least a peripheral velocity component.
Claim 29
Dependent Claim
17 words
A method, as claimed in claim 23, wherein: said substantially inhibiting step continues after said opening step.
Claim 30
Dependent Claim
29 words
A method, as claimed in claim 23, wherein: said substantially inhibiting step comprises blocking a flow path between said inflator housing and said gas generator with a first valve.
Claim 31
Dependent Claim
29 words
A method, as claimed in claim 28, wherein: said allowing step comprises moving said first valve out of said flow path between said inflator housing and said gas generator.
Claim 32
Dependent Claim
21 words
A method, as claimed in claim 29, wherein: said moving step comprises collapsing at least a portion of said first valve.
Claim 33
Dependent Claim
31 words
A method, as claimed in claim 29, wherein: said moving step comprises sensing a predetermined pressure differential between a pressure in said inflator housing and a pressure in said second chamber.
Claim 34
Dependent Claim
32 words
A method, as claimed in claim 23, wherein: said opening step comprises pressurizing said second chamber at a greater rate than said inflator housing with said propellant gases from said generating step.
Claim 35
Dependent Claim
31 words
A method, as claimed in claim 23, wherein: said allowing step is performed when a pressure within said inflator housing exceeds a pressure within said second chamber by a certain amount.
Claim 36
Dependent Claim
20 words
A method, as claimed in claim 23, wherein: said allowing step comprises inducing a circulatory flow within said second chamber.
Claim 37
Dependent Claim
30 words
A method, as claimed in claim 23, wherein: said allowing step comprises introducing said flow from said inflator housing into said second chamber with at least a peripheral velocity component.
Claim 38
Dependent Claim
47 words
A method, as claimed in claim 23, further comprising the step of: monitoring a pressure within said inflator housing and a pressure within said second chamber, wherein a termination of said substantially inhibiting step and a starting of said allowing step is based upon said monitoring step.
Claim 39
Dependent Claim
27 words
A method, as claimed in claim 23, further comprising the step of: providing a portion of said propellant gases from said first chamber to said inflator housing.
Claim 40
Dependent Claim
35 words
A method, as claimed in claim 23, further comprising the step of: maintaining a predetermined differential pressure between said inflator housing and said second chamber for a predetermined period of time after said directing step.
Claim 41
Dependent Claim
44 words
A method, as claimed in claim 23, further comprising the steps of: retaining a supply of said pressurized medium in said second chamber before said generating step; and reacting said pressurized medium in said second chamber with said propellant gases before said allowing step.
Claim 42
Independent Claim
246 words
A method for operating an inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag and an inflator comprising an inflator housing, a pressurized medium contained within said inflator housing, a main closure disk between said pressurized medium and the air/safety bag, and a gas generator fluidly interconnected with said inflator housing and containing a propellant, said gas generator comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, said first chamber containing said propellant, said second chamber being positioned between said first chamber and said main closure disk and being fluidly interconnectable with said inflator housing, said method comprising the steps of: combusting said propellant and generating propellant gases therefrom; providing a flow path from said gas generator to said main closure disk; providing at least a portion of said propellant gases from said first chamber to said second chamber; providing a portion of said propellant gases from said first chamber to said inflator housing; increasing a fluid pressure within a region defined at least in part by said main closure disk using said providing a flow path step, said increasing step comprising chemically reacting at least a portion of said propellant gases with said pressurized medium at least in said region, said second chamber comprising said region and thereby interfacing with said main closure disk; opening said main closure disk using said increasing step; and directing a flow to the air/safety bag after said opening step, said flow comprising a chemical mixture of said propellant gases and said pressurized medium.
Claim 43
Independent Claim
246 words
A method for operating an inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag and an inflator comprising an inflator housing, a pressurized medium contained within said inflator housing, a main closure disk between said pressurized medium and the air/safety bag, and a gas generator fluidly interconnected with said inflator housing and containing a propellant, said gas generator comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, said first chamber containing said propellant, said second chamber being positioned between said first chamber and said main closure disk and being fluidly interconnectable with said inflator housing, said method comprising the steps of: combusting said propellant and generating propellant gases therefrom; providing a flow path from said gas generator to said main closure disk; providing at least a portion of said propellant gases from said first chamber to said second chamber; providing a portion of said propellant gases from said first chamber to said inflator housing; increasing a fluid pressure within a region defined at least in part by said main closure disk using said providing a flow path step, said increasing step comprising chemically reacting at least a portion of said propellant gases with said pressurized medium at least in said region, said second chamber comprising said region and thereby interfacing with said main closure disk; opening said main closure disk using said increasing step; and directing a flow to the air/safety bag after said opening step, said flow comprising a chemical mixture of said propellant gases and said pressurized medium.
Claim 44
Dependent Claim
34 words
A method, as claimed in claim 40, wherein: said generating step comprises generating propellant gases with a toxicity, said chemically mixing step reducing said toxicity of said propellant gases and combusting said propellant gases.
Claim 45
Dependent Claim
81 words
A method, as claimed in claim 40, wherein: said gas generator comprises first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, said first chamber containing said propellant, said second chamber being positioned between said first chamber and said main closure disk, comprising said region and thereby interfacing with said main closure disk, and being fluidly interconnectable with said inflator housing, said method further comprising the step of: providing at least a portion of said propellant gases from said first chamber to said second chamber.
Claim 46
Dependent Claim
28 words
A method, as claimed in claim 42, wherein: said providing at least a portion of said propellant gases step comprises inducing a vortex flow within said second chamber.
Claim 47
Dependent Claim
38 words
A method, as claimed in claim 43, wherein: said providing at least a potion of said propellant gases step comprises introducing a flow from said first chamber into said second chamber with at least a peripheral velocity component.
Claim 48
Dependent Claim
62 words
A method, as claimed in claim 42, further comprising the steps of: substantially inhibiting a flow of said propellant gases from said second chamber into said inflator housing during a first portion of said generating step; and allowing a flow from said inflator housing into said second chamber during a second portion of said generating step and after said substantially inhibiting step.
Claim 49
Dependent Claim
17 words
A method, as claimed in claim 45, wherein: said substantially inhibiting step continues after said opening step.
Claim 50
Dependent Claim
29 words
A method, as claimed in claim 45, wherein: said substantially inhibiting step comprises blocking a flow path between said inflator housing and said gas generator with a valve assembly.
Claim 51
Dependent Claim
29 words
A method, as claimed in claim 47, wherein: said allowing step comprises moving said valve assembly out of said flow path between said inflator housing and said gas generator.
Claim 52
Dependent Claim
21 words
A method, as claimed in claim 48, wherein: said moving step comprises collapsing at least a portion of said valve assembly.
Claim 53
Dependent Claim
31 words
A method, as claimed in claim 48, wherein: said moving step comprises sensing a predetermined pressure differential between a pressure in said inflator housing and a pressure in said second chamber.
Claim 54
Dependent Claim
31 words
A method, as claimed in claim 48, wherein: said allowing step is performed when a pressure within said inflator housing exceeds a pressure within said second chamber by a certain amount.
Claim 55
Dependent Claim
24 words
A method, as claimed in claim 42, wherein: said opening step comprises pressurizing said second chamber at a greater rate than said inflator housing.
Claim 56
Dependent Claim
23 words
A method, as claimed in claim 42, further comprising the step of: introducing a flow from said inflator housing to said second chamber.
Claim 57
Dependent Claim
20 words
A method, as claimed in claim 53, wherein: said introducing step comprises inducing a vortex flow within said second chamber.
Claim 58
Dependent Claim
30 words
A method, as claimed in claim 53, wherein: said introducing step comprises introducing a flow from said inflator housing into said second chamber with at least a peripheral velocity component.
Claim 59
Dependent Claim
26 words
A method, as claimed in claim 42, further comprising the step of: monitoring a pressure within said inflator housing and a pressure within said second chamber.
Claim 60
Dependent Claim
38 words
A method, as claimed in claim 42, further comprising the step of: maintaining at least a certain differential pressure between said inflator housing and said second chamber for a certain period of time after beginning said directing step.
Claim 61
Dependent Claim
27 words
A method, as claimed in claim 42, further comprising the steps of: retaining a supply of said pressurized medium in said second chamber before said generating step.
Claim 62
Dependent Claim
218 words
A hybrid inflator for an automotive inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag, said inflator comprising: an inflator housing which contains a pressurized medium; a gas generator interconnected with said inflator housing and comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, a propellant contained within said first chamber, at least one gas generator inlet port which fluidly interconnects said second chamber and said inflator housing, and at least one gas generator outlet port; a main closure disk positioned between all said gas generator outlet ports and the air/safety bag, wherein there is a flow path from said at least one gas generator outlet port to said main closure disk; a propellant ignition assembly associated with said gas generator, wherein ignition of said propellant generates propellant gases; means for opening said main closure disk to initiate flow to the air/safety bag, said means for opening comprising means for conducting said propellant gases through said flow path to act directly on said main closure disk and means for combusting said propellant gases within said second chamber, said propellant gases acting directly on said main closure disk; and means for pressurizing said second chamber of said gas generator housing at a greater rate than said inflator housing after ignition of said propellant, wherein said means for opening comprises said means for pressurizing.
Claim 63
Dependent Claim
218 words
A hybrid inflator for an automotive inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag, said inflator comprising: an inflator housing which contains a pressurized medium; a gas generator interconnected with said inflator housing and comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, a propellant contained within said first chamber, at least one gas generator inlet port which fluidly interconnects said second chamber and said inflator housing, and at least one gas generator outlet port; a main closure disk positioned between all said gas generator outlet ports and the air/safety bag, wherein there is a flow path from said at least one gas generator outlet port to said main closure disk; a propellant ignition assembly associated with said gas generator, wherein ignition of said propellant generates propellant gases; means for opening said main closure disk to initiate flow to the air/safety bag, said means for opening comprising means for conducting said propellant gases through said flow path to act directly on said main closure disk and means for combusting said propellant gases within said second chamber, said propellant gases acting directly on said main closure disk; and means for pressurizing said second chamber of said gas generator housing at a greater rate than said inflator housing after ignition of said propellant, wherein said means for opening comprises said means for pressurizing.
Claim 64
Dependent Claim
37 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 59, wherein: said pressurized medium comprises said means for combusting and consists essentially of first and second components, said first component being oxygen and said second component being an inert fluid.
Claim 65
Dependent Claim
33 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 59, further comprising: an aspirator positioned between said first and second chambers, wherein propellant gases from said first chamber flow into said second chamber through said aspirator.
Claim 66
Dependent Claim
28 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 61, wherein: said at least one gas generator inlet port is disposed radially outward from at least a portion of said aspirator.
Claim 67
Dependent Claim
42 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 61, wherein: said aspirator has a first discharge port, said first discharge port being positioned between said at least one gas generator outlet port and at least a portion of each said gas generator inlet port.
Claim 68
Dependent Claim
87 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 59, wherein: said inflator housing is substantially toroidal and concentrically disposed about said gas generator housing, each said gas generator inlet port comprising a first orientation, said first orientation being one part of said gas generator inlet port being at a first radial location relative to a central longitudinal axis of said inflator and a second part of said gas generator inlet port being at a second radial location relative to said central longitudinal axis different from said first radial location.
Claim 69
Dependent Claim
30 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 59, further comprising: means for inducing a vortex flow within said second chamber at least in part from a flow from said inflator housing.
Claim 70
Dependent Claim
51 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 59, wherein: said at least one gas generator outlet port is on an end of said second chamber and each said gas generator inlet port is separated from said at least one gas generator outlet port by a distance of at least about 15 millimeters.
Claim 71
Dependent Claim
51 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 59, wherein: said at least one gas generator outlet port is on an end of said second chamber and each said gas generator inlet port is separated from said at least one gas generator outlet port by a distance of at least about 50 millimeters.
Claim 72
Dependent Claim
43 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 59, wherein: said first and second chambers are longitudinally aligned and interconnected by at least first and second ports, said first and second ports being skewed relative to a central, longitudinal axis of said gas generator housing.
Claim 73
Dependent Claim
30 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 59, further comprising: means for inducing a vortex flow within said second chamber at least in part from a flow from said first chamber.
Claim 74
Dependent Claim
61 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 59, further comprising: valve means, operatively associated with said at least one gas generator inlet port, for substantially inhibiting flow between said inflator housing and said second chamber through said at least one gas generator inlet port until a pressure within said inflator housing exceeds a pressure within said second chamber by a predetermined degree.
Claim 75
Dependent Claim
35 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 70, further comprising: a plurality of said gas generator inlet ports, wherein said valve means is operatively associated with each of said plurality of said gas generator inlet ports.
Claim 76
Dependent Claim
66 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 70, wherein: said valve means is movable from a first position to a second position, said valve means being in said first position when operational and moving to said second position when said pressure within said inflator housing exceeds said pressure within said gas generator housing by a predetermined degree, said second position being radially inward of said first position.
Claim 77
Dependent Claim
120 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 70, wherein: said valve means comprises a pliable member positioned within said gas generator housing, wherein said pliable member is pressed into substantial abutting relationship with said gas generator housing and thereby blocks said at least one gas generator inlet port until said pressure in said inflator housing exceeds said pressure in said gas generator housing by said predetermined degree, and wherein said pliable member moves away from said gas generator housing after said pressure in said inflator housing exceeds said pressure in said gas generator housing by said predetermined degree, whereby a flow from said inflator housing into said gas generator housing through said at least one gas generator inlet port is established.
Claim 78
Dependent Claim
28 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 70, further comprising: means for maintaining operability of said valve means for a predetermined time after an opening of said closure disk.
Claim 79
Dependent Claim
25 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 59, wherein: at least about 30% of a pressure within second chamber is based upon said means for combusting.
Claim 80
Dependent Claim
24 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 59, wherein: about 50% of a pressure within said second chamber is based upon said means for combusting.
Claim 81
Dependent Claim
17 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 59, further comprising: means for enhancing turbulence within said second chamber.
Claim 82
Independent Claim
206 words
A method for operating an inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag and an inflator comprising an inflator housing, a pressurized medium contained within said inflator housing, a main closure disk between said pressurized medium and the air/safety bag, and a gas generator fluidly interconnected with said inflator housing and comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, said first chamber containing a propellant, wherein said second chamber is positioned between said first chamber and said main closure disk, interfaces with said main closure disk, and is fluidly interconnectable with said inflator housing, said method comprising the steps of: generating propellant gases from said propellant; providing at least a portion of said propellant gases from said first chamber to said second chamber; substantially inhibiting a flow of said propellant gases from said second chamber into said inflator housing during a first portion of said generating step; opening said main closure disk using said substantially inhibiting step, wherein said substantially inhibiting step continues for a certain time after said opening step; allowing a flow from said inflator housing into said second chamber during a second portion of said generating step and after said substantially inhibiting step; and directing a flow to the air/safety bag after said opening step.
Claim 83
Independent Claim
206 words
A method for operating an inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag and an inflator comprising an inflator housing, a pressurized medium contained within said inflator housing, a main closure disk between said pressurized medium and the air/safety bag, and a gas generator fluidly interconnected with said inflator housing and comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, said first chamber containing a propellant, wherein said second chamber is positioned between said first chamber and said main closure disk, interfaces with said main closure disk, and is fluidly interconnectable with said inflator housing, said method comprising the steps of: generating propellant gases from said propellant; providing at least a portion of said propellant gases from said first chamber to said second chamber; substantially inhibiting a flow of said propellant gases from said second chamber into said inflator housing during a first portion of said generating step; opening said main closure disk using said substantially inhibiting step, wherein said substantially inhibiting step continues for a certain time after said opening step; allowing a flow from said inflator housing into said second chamber during a second portion of said generating step and after said substantially inhibiting step; and directing a flow to the air/safety bag after said opening step.
Claim 84
Independent Claim
250 words
A method for operating an inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag and an inflator comprising an inflator housing, a pressurized medium contained within said inflator housing, a main closure disk between said pressurized medium and the air/safety bag, and a gas generator fluidly interconnected with said inflator housing and comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, said first chamber containing a propellant, wherein said second chamber is positioned between said first chamber and said main closure disk, interfaces with said main closure disk, and is fluidly interconnectable with said inflator housing, said method comprising the steps of: generating propellant gases from said propellant; providing at least a portion of said propellant gases from said first chamber to said second chamber; substantially inhibiting a flow of said propellant gases from said second chamber into said inflator housing during a first portion of said generating step, wherein said substantially inhibiting step comprises blocking a flow path between said inflator housing and said gas generator with a first valve; opening said main closure disk using said substantially inhibiting step; allowing a flow from said inflator housing into said second chamber during a second portion of said generating step and after said substantially inhibiting step, wherein said allowing step comprises moving said first valve out of said flow path between said inflator housing and said gas generator, wherein said moving step comprises collapsing at least a portion of said first valve; and directing a flow to the air/safety bag after said opening step.
Claim 85
Independent Claim
250 words
A method for operating an inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag and an inflator comprising an inflator housing, a pressurized medium contained within said inflator housing, a main closure disk between said pressurized medium and the air/safety bag, and a gas generator fluidly interconnected with said inflator housing and comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, said first chamber containing a propellant, wherein said second chamber is positioned between said first chamber and said main closure disk, interfaces with said main closure disk, and is fluidly interconnectable with said inflator housing, said method comprising the steps of: generating propellant gases from said propellant; providing at least a portion of said propellant gases from said first chamber to said second chamber; substantially inhibiting a flow of said propellant gases from said second chamber into said inflator housing during a first portion of said generating step, wherein said substantially inhibiting step comprises blocking a flow path between said inflator housing and said gas generator with a first valve; opening said main closure disk using said substantially inhibiting step; allowing a flow from said inflator housing into said second chamber during a second portion of said generating step and after said substantially inhibiting step, wherein said allowing step comprises moving said first valve out of said flow path between said inflator housing and said gas generator, wherein said moving step comprises collapsing at least a portion of said first valve; and directing a flow to the air/safety bag after said opening step.
Claim 86
Independent Claim
260 words
A method for operating an inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag and an inflator comprising an inflator housing, a pressurized medium contained within said inflator housing, a main closure disk between said pressurized medium and the air/safety bag, and a gas generator fluidly interconnected with said inflator housing and comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, said first chamber containing a propellant, wherein said second chamber is positioned between said first chamber and said main closure disk, interfaces with said main closure disk, and is fluidly interconnectable with said inflator housing, said method comprising the steps of: generating propellant gases from said propellant; providing at least a portion of said propellant gases from said first chamber to said second chamber; substantially inhibiting a flow of said propellant gases from said second chamber into said inflator housing during a first portion of said generating step, wherein said substantially inhibiting step comprises blocking a flow path between said inflator housing and said gas generator with a first valve; opening said main closure disk using said substantially inhibiting step; allowing a flow from said inflator housing into said second chamber during a second portion of said generating step and after said substantially inhibiting step, wherein said allowing step comprises moving said first valve out of said flow path between said inflator housing and said gas generator, wherein said moving step comprises sensing a predetermined pressure differential between a pressure in said inflator housing and a pressure in said second chamber; and directing a flow to the air/safety bag after said opening step.
Claim 87
Independent Claim
260 words
A method for operating an inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag and an inflator comprising an inflator housing, a pressurized medium contained within said inflator housing, a main closure disk between said pressurized medium and the air/safety bag, and a gas generator fluidly interconnected with said inflator housing and comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, said first chamber containing a propellant, wherein said second chamber is positioned between said first chamber and said main closure disk, interfaces with said main closure disk, and is fluidly interconnectable with said inflator housing, said method comprising the steps of: generating propellant gases from said propellant; providing at least a portion of said propellant gases from said first chamber to said second chamber; substantially inhibiting a flow of said propellant gases from said second chamber into said inflator housing during a first portion of said generating step, wherein said substantially inhibiting step comprises blocking a flow path between said inflator housing and said gas generator with a first valve; opening said main closure disk using said substantially inhibiting step; allowing a flow from said inflator housing into said second chamber during a second portion of said generating step and after said substantially inhibiting step, wherein said allowing step comprises moving said first valve out of said flow path between said inflator housing and said gas generator, wherein said moving step comprises sensing a predetermined pressure differential between a pressure in said inflator housing and a pressure in said second chamber; and directing a flow to the air/safety bag after said opening step.
Claim 88
Independent Claim
216 words
A method for operating an inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag and an inflator comprising an inflator housing, a pressurized medium contained within said inflator housing, a main closure disk between said pressurized medium and the air/safety bag, and a gas generator fluidly interconnected with said inflator housing and comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, said first chamber containing a propellant, wherein said second chamber is positioned between said first chamber and said main closure disk, interfaces with said main closure disk, and is fluidly interconnectable with said inflator housing, said method comprising the steps of: generating propellant gases from said propellant; providing at least a portion of said propellant gases from said first chamber to said second chamber; substantially inhibiting a flow of said propellant gases from said second chamber into said inflator housing during a first portion of said generating step; opening said main closure disk using said substantially inhibiting step; allowing a flow from said inflator housing into said second chamber during a second portion of said generating step and after said substantially inhibiting step, wherein said allowing step is performed when a pressure within said inflator housing exceeds a pressure within said second chamber by a certain amount; and directing a flow to the air/safety bag after said opening step.
Claim 89
Independent Claim
216 words
A method for operating an inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag and an inflator comprising an inflator housing, a pressurized medium contained within said inflator housing, a main closure disk between said pressurized medium and the air/safety bag, and a gas generator fluidly interconnected with said inflator housing and comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, said first chamber containing a propellant, wherein said second chamber is positioned between said first chamber and said main closure disk, interfaces with said main closure disk, and is fluidly interconnectable with said inflator housing, said method comprising the steps of: generating propellant gases from said propellant; providing at least a portion of said propellant gases from said first chamber to said second chamber; substantially inhibiting a flow of said propellant gases from said second chamber into said inflator housing during a first portion of said generating step; opening said main closure disk using said substantially inhibiting step; allowing a flow from said inflator housing into said second chamber during a second portion of said generating step and after said substantially inhibiting step, wherein said allowing step is performed when a pressure within said inflator housing exceeds a pressure within said second chamber by a certain amount; and directing a flow to the air/safety bag after said opening step.
Claim 90
Independent Claim
273 words
A method for operating an inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag and an inflator comprising an inflator housing, a pressurized medium contained within said inflator housing, a main closure disk between said pressurized medium and the air/safety bag, and a gas generator fluidly interconnected with said inflator housing and containing a propellant, wherein said gas generator comprises first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, said first chamber containing said propellant, said second chamber being positioned between said first chamber and said main closure disk, interfacing with said main closure disk, and being fluidly interconnectable with said inflator housing, said method comprising the steps of: combusting said propellant and generating propellant gases therefrom; providing at least a portion of said propellant gases from said first chamber to said second chamber; increasing a fluid pressure within a region defined at least in part by said main closure disk, said second chamber comprising said region, said increasing step comprising chemically reacting at least a portion of said propellant gases with said pressurized medium at least in said region; substantially inhibiting a flow of said propellant gases from said second chamber into said inflator housing during a first portion of said generating step; allowing a flow from said inflator housing into said second chamber during a second portion of said generating step and after said substantially inhibiting step; opening said main closure disk using said increasing step, wherein said substantially inhibiting step continues for a certain time after said opening step; and directing a flow to the air/safety bag after said opening step, said flow comprising a chemical mixture of said propellant gases and said pressurized medium.
Claim 91
Independent Claim
273 words
A method for operating an inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag and an inflator comprising an inflator housing, a pressurized medium contained within said inflator housing, a main closure disk between said pressurized medium and the air/safety bag, and a gas generator fluidly interconnected with said inflator housing and containing a propellant, wherein said gas generator comprises first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, said first chamber containing said propellant, said second chamber being positioned between said first chamber and said main closure disk, interfacing with said main closure disk, and being fluidly interconnectable with said inflator housing, said method comprising the steps of: combusting said propellant and generating propellant gases therefrom; providing at least a portion of said propellant gases from said first chamber to said second chamber; increasing a fluid pressure within a region defined at least in part by said main closure disk, said second chamber comprising said region, said increasing step comprising chemically reacting at least a portion of said propellant gases with said pressurized medium at least in said region; substantially inhibiting a flow of said propellant gases from said second chamber into said inflator housing during a first portion of said generating step; allowing a flow from said inflator housing into said second chamber during a second portion of said generating step and after said substantially inhibiting step; opening said main closure disk using said increasing step, wherein said substantially inhibiting step continues for a certain time after said opening step; and directing a flow to the air/safety bag after said opening step, said flow comprising a chemical mixture of said propellant gases and said pressurized medium.
Claim 92
Independent Claim
317 words
A method for operating an inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag and an inflator comprising an inflator housing, a pressurized medium contained within said inflator housing, a main closure disk between said pressurized medium and the air/safety bag, and a gas generator fluidly interconnected with said inflator housing and containing a propellant, wherein said gas generator comprises first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, said first chamber containing said propellant, said second chamber being positioned between said first chamber and said main closure disk, interfacing with said main closure disk, and being fluidly interconnectable with said inflator housing, said method comprising the steps of: combusting said propellant and generating propellant gases therefrom; providing at least a portion of said propellant gases from said first chamber to said second chamber; increasing a fluid pressure within a region defined at least in part by said main closure disk, said second chamber comprising said region, said increasing step comprising chemically reacting at least a portion of said propellant gases with said pressurized medium at least in said region; substantially inhibiting a flow of said propellant gases from said second chamber into said inflator housing during a first portion of said generating step, wherein said substantially inhibiting step comprises blocking a flow path between said inflator housing and said gas generator with a valve assembly; allowing a flow from said inflator housing into said second chamber during a second portion of said generating step and after said substantially inhibiting step, wherein said allowing step comprises moving said valve assembly out of said flow path between said inflator housing and said gas generator, wherein said moving step comprises collapsing at least a portion of said valve assembly; opening said main closure disk using said increasing step; and directing a flow to the air/safety bag after said opening step, said flow comprising a chemical mixture of said propellant gases and said pressurized medium.
Claim 93
Independent Claim
317 words
A method for operating an inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag and an inflator comprising an inflator housing, a pressurized medium contained within said inflator housing, a main closure disk between said pressurized medium and the air/safety bag, and a gas generator fluidly interconnected with said inflator housing and containing a propellant, wherein said gas generator comprises first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, said first chamber containing said propellant, said second chamber being positioned between said first chamber and said main closure disk, interfacing with said main closure disk, and being fluidly interconnectable with said inflator housing, said method comprising the steps of: combusting said propellant and generating propellant gases therefrom; providing at least a portion of said propellant gases from said first chamber to said second chamber; increasing a fluid pressure within a region defined at least in part by said main closure disk, said second chamber comprising said region, said increasing step comprising chemically reacting at least a portion of said propellant gases with said pressurized medium at least in said region; substantially inhibiting a flow of said propellant gases from said second chamber into said inflator housing during a first portion of said generating step, wherein said substantially inhibiting step comprises blocking a flow path between said inflator housing and said gas generator with a valve assembly; allowing a flow from said inflator housing into said second chamber during a second portion of said generating step and after said substantially inhibiting step, wherein said allowing step comprises moving said valve assembly out of said flow path between said inflator housing and said gas generator, wherein said moving step comprises collapsing at least a portion of said valve assembly; opening said main closure disk using said increasing step; and directing a flow to the air/safety bag after said opening step, said flow comprising a chemical mixture of said propellant gases and said pressurized medium.
Claim 94
Independent Claim
327 words
A method for operating an inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag and an inflator comprising an inflator housing, a pressurized medium contained within said inflator housing, a main closure disk between said pressurized medium and the air/safety bag, and a gas generator fluidly interconnected with said inflator housing and containing a propellant, wherein said gas generator comprises first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, said first chamber containing said propellant, said second chamber being positioned between said first chamber and said main closure disk, interfacing with said main closure disk, and being fluidly interconnectable with said inflator housing, said method comprising the steps of: combusting said propellant and generating propellant gases therefrom; providing at least a portion of said propellant gases from said first chamber to said second chamber; increasing a fluid pressure within a region defined at least in part by said main closure disk, said second chamber comprising said region, said increasing step comprising chemically reacting at least a portion of said propellant gases with said pressurized medium at least in said region; substantially inhibiting a flow of said propellant gases from said second chamber into said inflator housing during a first portion of said generating step, wherein said substantially inhibiting step comprises blocking a flow path between said inflator housing and said gas generator with a valve assembly; allowing a flow from said inflator housing into said second chamber during a second portion of said generating step and after said substantially inhibiting step, wherein said allowing step comprises moving said valve assembly out of said flow path between said inflator housing and said gas generator, wherein said moving step comprises sensing a predetermined pressure differential between a pressure in said inflator housing and a pressure in said second chamber; opening said main closure disk using said increasing step; and directing a flow to the air/safety bag after said opening step, said flow comprising a chemical mixture of said propellant gases and said pressurized medium.
Claim 95
Independent Claim
327 words
A method for operating an inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag and an inflator comprising an inflator housing, a pressurized medium contained within said inflator housing, a main closure disk between said pressurized medium and the air/safety bag, and a gas generator fluidly interconnected with said inflator housing and containing a propellant, wherein said gas generator comprises first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, said first chamber containing said propellant, said second chamber being positioned between said first chamber and said main closure disk, interfacing with said main closure disk, and being fluidly interconnectable with said inflator housing, said method comprising the steps of: combusting said propellant and generating propellant gases therefrom; providing at least a portion of said propellant gases from said first chamber to said second chamber; increasing a fluid pressure within a region defined at least in part by said main closure disk, said second chamber comprising said region, said increasing step comprising chemically reacting at least a portion of said propellant gases with said pressurized medium at least in said region; substantially inhibiting a flow of said propellant gases from said second chamber into said inflator housing during a first portion of said generating step, wherein said substantially inhibiting step comprises blocking a flow path between said inflator housing and said gas generator with a valve assembly; allowing a flow from said inflator housing into said second chamber during a second portion of said generating step and after said substantially inhibiting step, wherein said allowing step comprises moving said valve assembly out of said flow path between said inflator housing and said gas generator, wherein said moving step comprises sensing a predetermined pressure differential between a pressure in said inflator housing and a pressure in said second chamber; opening said main closure disk using said increasing step; and directing a flow to the air/safety bag after said opening step, said flow comprising a chemical mixture of said propellant gases and said pressurized medium.
Claim 96
Independent Claim
327 words
A method for operating an inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag and an inflator comprising an inflator housing, a pressurized medium contained within said inflator housing, a main closure disk between said pressurized medium and the air/safety bag, and a gas generator fluidly interconnected with said inflator housing and containing a propellant, wherein said gas generator comprises first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, said first chamber containing said propellant, said second chamber being positioned between said first chamber and said main closure disk, interfacing with said main closure disk, and being fluidly interconnectable with said inflator housing, said method comprising the steps of: combusting said propellant and generating propellant gases therefrom; providing at least a portion of said propellant gases from said first chamber to said second chamber; increasing a fluid pressure within a region defined at least in part by said main closure disk, said second chamber comprising said region, said increasing step comprising chemically reacting at least a portion of said propellant gases with said pressurized medium at least in said region; substantially inhibiting a flow of said propellant gases from said second chamber into said inflator housing during a first portion of said generating step, wherein said substantially inhibiting step comprises blocking a flow path between said inflator housing and said gas generator with a valve assembly; allowing a flow from said inflator housing into said second chamber during a second portion of said generating step and after said substantially inhibiting step, wherein said allowing step comprises moving said valve assembly out of said flow path between said inflator housing and said gas generator, wherein said allowing step is performed when a pressure within said inflator housing exceeds a pressure within said second chamber by a certain amount; opening said main closure disk using said increasing step; and directing a flow to the air/safety bag after said opening step, said flow comprising a chemical mixture of said propellant gases and said pressurized medium.
Claim 97
Independent Claim
327 words
A method for operating an inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag and an inflator comprising an inflator housing, a pressurized medium contained within said inflator housing, a main closure disk between said pressurized medium and the air/safety bag, and a gas generator fluidly interconnected with said inflator housing and containing a propellant, wherein said gas generator comprises first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, said first chamber containing said propellant, said second chamber being positioned between said first chamber and said main closure disk, interfacing with said main closure disk, and being fluidly interconnectable with said inflator housing, said method comprising the steps of: combusting said propellant and generating propellant gases therefrom; providing at least a portion of said propellant gases from said first chamber to said second chamber; increasing a fluid pressure within a region defined at least in part by said main closure disk, said second chamber comprising said region, said increasing step comprising chemically reacting at least a portion of said propellant gases with said pressurized medium at least in said region; substantially inhibiting a flow of said propellant gases from said second chamber into said inflator housing during a first portion of said generating step, wherein said substantially inhibiting step comprises blocking a flow path between said inflator housing and said gas generator with a valve assembly; allowing a flow from said inflator housing into said second chamber during a second portion of said generating step and after said substantially inhibiting step, wherein said allowing step comprises moving said valve assembly out of said flow path between said inflator housing and said gas generator, wherein said allowing step is performed when a pressure within said inflator housing exceeds a pressure within said second chamber by a certain amount; opening said main closure disk using said increasing step; and directing a flow to the air/safety bag after said opening step, said flow comprising a chemical mixture of said propellant gases and said pressurized medium.
Claim 98
Dependent Claim
184 words
A hybrid inflator for an automotive inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag, said inflator comprising: an inflator housing which contains a pressurized medium; a gas generator interconnected with said inflator housing and comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, a propellant contained within said first chamber, at least one bleed port which fluidly interconnects said first chamber and said inflator housing, at least one gas generator inlet port which fluidly interconnects said second chamber and said inflator housing, and at least one gas generator outlet port; an aspirator positioned between said first and second chambers, wherein propellant gases from said first chamber flow into said second chamber through said aspirator; a main closure disk positioned between all said gas generator outlet ports and the air/safety bag; a propellant ignition assembly associated with said gas generator, wherein ignition of said propellant generates propellant gases; and means for opening said main closure disk to initiate flow to the air/safety bag, said means for opening comprising means for combusting said propellant gases within said second chamber, said propellant gases acting directly on said main closure disk.
Claim 99
Dependent Claim
184 words
A hybrid inflator for an automotive inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag, said inflator comprising: an inflator housing which contains a pressurized medium; a gas generator interconnected with said inflator housing and comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, a propellant contained within said first chamber, at least one bleed port which fluidly interconnects said first chamber and said inflator housing, at least one gas generator inlet port which fluidly interconnects said second chamber and said inflator housing, and at least one gas generator outlet port; an aspirator positioned between said first and second chambers, wherein propellant gases from said first chamber flow into said second chamber through said aspirator; a main closure disk positioned between all said gas generator outlet ports and the air/safety bag; a propellant ignition assembly associated with said gas generator, wherein ignition of said propellant generates propellant gases; and means for opening said main closure disk to initiate flow to the air/safety bag, said means for opening comprising means for combusting said propellant gases within said second chamber, said propellant gases acting directly on said main closure disk.
Claim 100
Dependent Claim
28 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 86, wherein: said at least one gas generator inlet port is disposed radially outward from at least a portion of said aspirator.
Claim 101
Dependent Claim
42 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 86, wherein: said aspirator has a first discharge port, said first discharge port being positioned between said at least one gas generator outlet port and at least a portion of each said gas generator inlet port.
Claim 102
Dependent Claim
241 words
A hybrid inflator for an automotive inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag, said inflator comprising: an inflator housing which contains a pressurized medium; a gas generator interconnected with said inflator housing and comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, a propellant contained within said first chamber, at least one bleed port which fluidly interconnects said first chamber and said inflator housing, at least one gas generator inlet port which fluidly interconnects said second chamber and said inflator housing, and at least one gas generator outlet port, wherein said inflator housing is substantially toroidal and concentrically disposed about said gas generator housing, each said gas generator inlet port comprising a first orientation, said first orientation being one part of said gas generator inlet port being at a first radial location relative to a central longitudinal axis of said inflator and a second part of said gas generator inlet port being at a second radial location relative to said central longitudinal axis and different from said first radial location; a main closure disk positioned between all said gas generator outlet ports and the air/safety bag; a propellant ignition assembly associated with said gas generator, wherein ignition of said propellant generates propellant gases; and means for opening said main closure disk to initiate flow to the air/safety bag, said means for opening comprising means for combusting said propellant gases within said second chamber, said propellant gases acting directly on said main closure disk.
Claim 103
Dependent Claim
241 words
A hybrid inflator for an automotive inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag, said inflator comprising: an inflator housing which contains a pressurized medium; a gas generator interconnected with said inflator housing and comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, a propellant contained within said first chamber, at least one bleed port which fluidly interconnects said first chamber and said inflator housing, at least one gas generator inlet port which fluidly interconnects said second chamber and said inflator housing, and at least one gas generator outlet port, wherein said inflator housing is substantially toroidal and concentrically disposed about said gas generator housing, each said gas generator inlet port comprising a first orientation, said first orientation being one part of said gas generator inlet port being at a first radial location relative to a central longitudinal axis of said inflator and a second part of said gas generator inlet port being at a second radial location relative to said central longitudinal axis and different from said first radial location; a main closure disk positioned between all said gas generator outlet ports and the air/safety bag; a propellant ignition assembly associated with said gas generator, wherein ignition of said propellant generates propellant gases; and means for opening said main closure disk to initiate flow to the air/safety bag, said means for opening comprising means for combusting said propellant gases within said second chamber, said propellant gases acting directly on said main closure disk.
Claim 104
Dependent Claim
196 words
A hybrid inflator for an automotive inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag, said inflator comprising: an inflator housing which contains a pressurized medium; a gas generator interconnected with said inflator housing and comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, a propellant contained within said first chamber, at least one bleed port which fluidly interconnects said first chamber and said inflator housing, at least one gas generator inlet port which fluidly interconnects said second chamber and said inflator housing, and at least one gas generator outlet port, wherein said first and second chambers are longitudinally aligned and interconnected by at least first and second ports, said first and second ports being skewed relative to a central, longitudinal axis of said gas generator housing; a main closure disk positioned between all said gas generator outlet ports and the air/safety bag; a propellant ignition assembly associated with said gas generator, wherein ignition of said propellant generates propellant gases; and means for opening said main closure disk to initiate flow to the air/safety bag, said means for opening comprising means for combusting said propellant gases within said second chamber, said propellant gases acting directly on said main closure disk.
Claim 105
Dependent Claim
196 words
A hybrid inflator for an automotive inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag, said inflator comprising: an inflator housing which contains a pressurized medium; a gas generator interconnected with said inflator housing and comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, a propellant contained within said first chamber, at least one bleed port which fluidly interconnects said first chamber and said inflator housing, at least one gas generator inlet port which fluidly interconnects said second chamber and said inflator housing, and at least one gas generator outlet port, wherein said first and second chambers are longitudinally aligned and interconnected by at least first and second ports, said first and second ports being skewed relative to a central, longitudinal axis of said gas generator housing; a main closure disk positioned between all said gas generator outlet ports and the air/safety bag; a propellant ignition assembly associated with said gas generator, wherein ignition of said propellant generates propellant gases; and means for opening said main closure disk to initiate flow to the air/safety bag, said means for opening comprising means for combusting said propellant gases within said second chamber, said propellant gases acting directly on said main closure disk.
Claim 106
Dependent Claim
212 words
A hybrid inflator for an automotive inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag, said inflator comprising: an inflator housing which contains a pressurized medium; a gas generator interconnected with said inflator housing and comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, a propellant contained within said first chamber, at least one bleed port which fluidly interconnects said first chamber and said inflator housing, at least one gas generator inlet port which fluidly interconnects said second chamber and said inflator housing, and at least one gas generator outlet port; valve means, operatively associated with said at least one gas generator inlet port, for substantially inhibiting flow between said inflator housing and said second chamber through said at least one gas generator inlet port until a pressure within said inflator housing exceeds a pressure within said second chamber by a predetermined degree; a main closure disk positioned between all said gas generator outlet ports and the air/safety bag; a propellant ignition assembly associated with said gas generator, wherein ignition of said propellant generates propellant gases; and means for opening said main closure disk to initiate flow to the air/safety bag, said means for opening comprising means for combusting said propellant gases within said second chamber, said propellant gases acting directly on said main closure disk.
Claim 107
Dependent Claim
212 words
A hybrid inflator for an automotive inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag, said inflator comprising: an inflator housing which contains a pressurized medium; a gas generator interconnected with said inflator housing and comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, a propellant contained within said first chamber, at least one bleed port which fluidly interconnects said first chamber and said inflator housing, at least one gas generator inlet port which fluidly interconnects said second chamber and said inflator housing, and at least one gas generator outlet port; valve means, operatively associated with said at least one gas generator inlet port, for substantially inhibiting flow between said inflator housing and said second chamber through said at least one gas generator inlet port until a pressure within said inflator housing exceeds a pressure within said second chamber by a predetermined degree; a main closure disk positioned between all said gas generator outlet ports and the air/safety bag; a propellant ignition assembly associated with said gas generator, wherein ignition of said propellant generates propellant gases; and means for opening said main closure disk to initiate flow to the air/safety bag, said means for opening comprising means for combusting said propellant gases within said second chamber, said propellant gases acting directly on said main closure disk.
Claim 108
Dependent Claim
35 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 91, further comprising: a plurality of said gas generator inlet ports, wherein said valve means is operatively associated with each of said plurality of said gas generator inlet ports.
Claim 109
Dependent Claim
66 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 91, wherein: said valve means is movable from a first position to a second position, said valve means being in said first position when operational and moving to said second position when said pressure within said inflator housing exceeds said pressure within said gas generator housing by a predetermined degree, said second position being radially inward of said first position.
Claim 110
Dependent Claim
120 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 91, wherein: said valve means comprises a pliable member positioned within said gas generator housing, wherein said pliable member is pressed into substantial abutting relationship with said gas generator housing and thereby blocks said at least one gas generator inlet port until said pressure in said inflator housing exceeds said pressure in said gas generator housing by said predetermined degree, and wherein said pliable member moves away from said gas generator housing after said pressure in said inflator housing exceeds said pressure in said gas generator housing by said predetermined degree, whereby a flow from said inflator housing into said gas generator housing through said at least one gas generator inlet port is established.
Claim 111
Dependent Claim
28 words
An inflator, as claimed in claim 91, further comprising: means for maintaining operability of said valve means for a predetermined time after an opening of said closure disk.
Claim 112
Dependent Claim
17 words
A method as claimed in claim 40, wherein: said opening step consists essentially of said increasing step.
Claim 113
Independent Claim
253 words
A method for operating an inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag and an inflator comprising an inflator housing, a pressurized medium contained within said inflator housing, a main closure disk between said pressurized medium and the air/safety bag, and a gas generator fluidly interconnected with said inflator housing and containing a propellant, wherein said gas generator comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, said first chamber containing said propellant, said second chamber being positioned between said first chamber and said main closure disk and being fluidly interconnectable with said inflator housing, said method comprising the steps of: combusting said propellant and generating propellant gases therefrom; providing a flow path from said gas generator to said main closure disk; providing at least a portion of said propellant gases from said first chamber to said second chamber, said providing at least a portion of said propellant gases step comprising inducing a vortex flow within said second chamber; increasing a fluid pressure within a region defined at least in part by said main closure disk using said providing a flow path step, said increasing step comprising chemically reacting at least a portion of said propellant gases with said pressurized medium at least in said region, wherein said second chamber comprises said region and thereby interfaces with said main closure disk; opening said main closure disk using said increasing step; and directing a flow to the air/safety bag after said opening step, said flow comprising a chemical mixture of said propellant gases and said pressurized medium.
Claim 114
Independent Claim
253 words
A method for operating an inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag and an inflator comprising an inflator housing, a pressurized medium contained within said inflator housing, a main closure disk between said pressurized medium and the air/safety bag, and a gas generator fluidly interconnected with said inflator housing and containing a propellant, wherein said gas generator comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, said first chamber containing said propellant, said second chamber being positioned between said first chamber and said main closure disk and being fluidly interconnectable with said inflator housing, said method comprising the steps of: combusting said propellant and generating propellant gases therefrom; providing a flow path from said gas generator to said main closure disk; providing at least a portion of said propellant gases from said first chamber to said second chamber, said providing at least a portion of said propellant gases step comprising inducing a vortex flow within said second chamber; increasing a fluid pressure within a region defined at least in part by said main closure disk using said providing a flow path step, said increasing step comprising chemically reacting at least a portion of said propellant gases with said pressurized medium at least in said region, wherein said second chamber comprises said region and thereby interfaces with said main closure disk; opening said main closure disk using said increasing step; and directing a flow to the air/safety bag after said opening step, said flow comprising a chemical mixture of said propellant gases and said pressurized medium.
Claim 115
Independent Claim
263 words
A method for operating an inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag and an inflator comprising an inflator housing, a pressurized medium contained within said inflator housing, a main closure disk between said pressurized medium and the air/safety bag, and a gas generator fluidly interconnected with said inflator housing and containing a propellant, wherein said gas generator comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, said first chamber containing said propellant, said second chamber being positioned between said first chamber and said main closure disk and being fluidly interconnectable with said inflator housing, said method comprising the steps of: combusting said propellant and generating propellant gases therefrom; providing a flow path from said gas generator to said main closure disk; providing at least a portion of said propellant gases from said first chamber to said second chamber, said providing at least a portion of said propellant gases step comprising inducing a flow from said first chamber into said second chamber with at least a peripheral velocity component; increasing a fluid pressure within a region defined at least in part by said main closure disk using said providing a flow path step, said increasing step comprising chemically reacting at least a portion of said propellant gases with said pressurized medium at least in said region, wherein said second chamber comprises said region and thereby interfaces with said main closure disk; opening said main closure disk using said increasing step; and directing a flow to the air/safety bag after said opening step, said flow comprising a chemical mixture of said propellant gases and said pressurized medium.
Claim 116
Independent Claim
263 words
A method for operating an inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag and an inflator comprising an inflator housing, a pressurized medium contained within said inflator housing, a main closure disk between said pressurized medium and the air/safety bag, and a gas generator fluidly interconnected with said inflator housing and containing a propellant, wherein said gas generator comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, said first chamber containing said propellant, said second chamber being positioned between said first chamber and said main closure disk and being fluidly interconnectable with said inflator housing, said method comprising the steps of: combusting said propellant and generating propellant gases therefrom; providing a flow path from said gas generator to said main closure disk; providing at least a portion of said propellant gases from said first chamber to said second chamber, said providing at least a portion of said propellant gases step comprising inducing a flow from said first chamber into said second chamber with at least a peripheral velocity component; increasing a fluid pressure within a region defined at least in part by said main closure disk using said providing a flow path step, said increasing step comprising chemically reacting at least a portion of said propellant gases with said pressurized medium at least in said region, wherein said second chamber comprises said region and thereby interfaces with said main closure disk; opening said main closure disk using said increasing step; and directing a flow to the air/safety bag after said opening step, said flow comprising a chemical mixture of said propellant gases and said pressurized medium.
Claim 117
Independent Claim
283 words
A method for operating an inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag and an inflator comprising an inflator housing, a pressurized medium contained within said inflator housing, a main closure disk between said pressurized medium and the air/safety bag, and a gas generator fluidly interconnected with said inflator housing and containing a propellant, wherein said gas generator comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, said first chamber containing said propellant, said second chamber being positioned between said first chamber and said main closure disk and being fluidly interconnectable with said inflator housing, said method comprising the steps of: combusting said propellant and generating propellant gases therefrom; providing a flow path from said gas generator to said main closure disk; providing at least a portion of said propellant gases from said first chamber to said second chamber; increasing a fluid pressure within a region defined at least in part by said main closure disk using said providing a flow path step, said increasing step comprising chemically reacting at least a portion of said propellant gases with said pressurized medium at least in said region, wherein said second chamber comprises said region and thereby interfaces with said main closure disk; substantially inhibiting a flow of said propellant gases from said second chamber into said inflator housing during a first portion of said generating step; and allowing a flow from said inflator housing into said second chamber during a second portion of said generating step and after said substantially inhibiting step; opening said main closure disk using said increasing step; and directing a flow to the air/safety bag after said opening step, said flow comprising a chemical mixture of said propellant gases and said pressurized medium.
Claim 118
Independent Claim
283 words
A method for operating an inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag and an inflator comprising an inflator housing, a pressurized medium contained within said inflator housing, a main closure disk between said pressurized medium and the air/safety bag, and a gas generator fluidly interconnected with said inflator housing and containing a propellant, wherein said gas generator comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, said first chamber containing said propellant, said second chamber being positioned between said first chamber and said main closure disk and being fluidly interconnectable with said inflator housing, said method comprising the steps of: combusting said propellant and generating propellant gases therefrom; providing a flow path from said gas generator to said main closure disk; providing at least a portion of said propellant gases from said first chamber to said second chamber; increasing a fluid pressure within a region defined at least in part by said main closure disk using said providing a flow path step, said increasing step comprising chemically reacting at least a portion of said propellant gases with said pressurized medium at least in said region, wherein said second chamber comprises said region and thereby interfaces with said main closure disk; substantially inhibiting a flow of said propellant gases from said second chamber into said inflator housing during a first portion of said generating step; and allowing a flow from said inflator housing into said second chamber during a second portion of said generating step and after said substantially inhibiting step; opening said main closure disk using said increasing step; and directing a flow to the air/safety bag after said opening step, said flow comprising a chemical mixture of said propellant gases and said pressurized medium.
Claim 119
Independent Claim
256 words
A method for operating an inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag and an inflator comprising an inflator housing, a pressurized medium contained within said inflator housing, a main closure disk between said pressurized medium and the air/safety bag, and a gas generator fluidly interconnected with said inflator housing and containing a propellant, wherein said gas generator comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, said first chamber containing said propellant, said second chamber being positioned between said first chamber and said main closure disk and being fluidly interconnectable with said inflator housing, said method comprising the steps of: combusting said propellant and generating propellant gases therefrom; providing a flow path from said gas generator to said main closure disk; providing at least a portion of said propellant gases from said first chamber to said second chamber; increasing a fluid pressure within a region defined at least in part by said main closure disk using said providing a flow path step, said increasing step comprising chemically reacting at least a portion of said propellant gases with said pressurized medium at least in said region, wherein said second chamber comprises said region and thereby interfaces with said main closure disk; opening said main closure disk using said increasing step; introducing a flow from said inflator housing to said second chamber, said introducing step comprising inducing a vortex flow within said second chamber; and directing a flow to the air/safety bag after said opening step, said flow comprising a chemical mixture of said propellant gases and said pressurized medium.
Claim 120
Independent Claim
256 words
A method for operating an inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag and an inflator comprising an inflator housing, a pressurized medium contained within said inflator housing, a main closure disk between said pressurized medium and the air/safety bag, and a gas generator fluidly interconnected with said inflator housing and containing a propellant, wherein said gas generator comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, said first chamber containing said propellant, said second chamber being positioned between said first chamber and said main closure disk and being fluidly interconnectable with said inflator housing, said method comprising the steps of: combusting said propellant and generating propellant gases therefrom; providing a flow path from said gas generator to said main closure disk; providing at least a portion of said propellant gases from said first chamber to said second chamber; increasing a fluid pressure within a region defined at least in part by said main closure disk using said providing a flow path step, said increasing step comprising chemically reacting at least a portion of said propellant gases with said pressurized medium at least in said region, wherein said second chamber comprises said region and thereby interfaces with said main closure disk; opening said main closure disk using said increasing step; introducing a flow from said inflator housing to said second chamber, said introducing step comprising inducing a vortex flow within said second chamber; and directing a flow to the air/safety bag after said opening step, said flow comprising a chemical mixture of said propellant gases and said pressurized medium.
Claim 121
Independent Claim
266 words
A method for operating an inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag and an inflator comprising an inflator housing, a pressurized medium contained within said inflator housing, a main closure disk between said pressurized medium and the air/safety bag, and a gas generator fluidly interconnected with said inflator housing and containing a propellant, wherein said gas generator comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, said first chamber containing said propellant, said second chamber being positioned between said first chamber and said main closure disk and being fluidly interconnectable with said inflator housing, said method comprising the steps of: combusting said propellant and generating propellant gases therefrom; providing a flow path from said gas generator to said main closure disk; providing at least a portion of said propellant gases from said first chamber to said second chamber; increasing a fluid pressure within a region defined at least in part by said main closure disk using said providing a flow path step, said increasing step comprising chemically reacting at least a portion of said propellant gases with said pressurized medium at least in said region, wherein said second chamber comprises said region and thereby interfaces with said main closure disk; opening said main closure disk using said increasing step; introducing a flow from said inflator housing to said second chamber, said introducing step comprising introducing a flow from said inflator housing into said second chamber with at least a peripheral velocity component; and directing a flow to the air/safety bag after said opening step, said flow comprising a chemical mixture of said propellant gases and said pressurized medium.
Claim 122
Independent Claim
266 words
A method for operating an inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag and an inflator comprising an inflator housing, a pressurized medium contained within said inflator housing, a main closure disk between said pressurized medium and the air/safety bag, and a gas generator fluidly interconnected with said inflator housing and containing a propellant, wherein said gas generator comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, said first chamber containing said propellant, said second chamber being positioned between said first chamber and said main closure disk and being fluidly interconnectable with said inflator housing, said method comprising the steps of: combusting said propellant and generating propellant gases therefrom; providing a flow path from said gas generator to said main closure disk; providing at least a portion of said propellant gases from said first chamber to said second chamber; increasing a fluid pressure within a region defined at least in part by said main closure disk using said providing a flow path step, said increasing step comprising chemically reacting at least a portion of said propellant gases with said pressurized medium at least in said region, wherein said second chamber comprises said region and thereby interfaces with said main closure disk; opening said main closure disk using said increasing step; introducing a flow from said inflator housing to said second chamber, said introducing step comprising introducing a flow from said inflator housing into said second chamber with at least a peripheral velocity component; and directing a flow to the air/safety bag after said opening step, said flow comprising a chemical mixture of said propellant gases and said pressurized medium.
Claim 123
Independent Claim
247 words
A method for operating an inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag and an inflator comprising an inflator housing, a pressurized medium contained within said inflator housing, a main closure disk between said pressurized medium and the air/safety bag, and a gas generator fluidly interconnected with said inflator housing and containing a propellant, wherein said gas generator comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, said first chamber containing said propellant, said second chamber being positioned between said first chamber and said main closure disk and being fluidly interconnectable with said inflator housing, said method comprising the steps of: combusting said propellant and generating propellant gases therefrom; providing a flow path from said gas generator to said main closure disk; providing at least a portion of said propellant gases from said first chamber to said second chamber; increasing a fluid pressure within a region defined at least in part by said main closure disk using said providing a flow path step, said increasing step comprising chemically reacting at least a portion of said propellant gases with said pressurized medium at least in said region, wherein said second chamber comprises said region and thereby interfaces with said main closure disk; opening said main closure disk using said increasing step; monitoring a pressure within said inflator housing and a pressure within said second chamber; and directing a flow to the air/safety bag after said opening step, said flow comprising a chemical mixture of said propellant gases and said pressurized medium.
Claim 124
Independent Claim
247 words
A method for operating an inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag and an inflator comprising an inflator housing, a pressurized medium contained within said inflator housing, a main closure disk between said pressurized medium and the air/safety bag, and a gas generator fluidly interconnected with said inflator housing and containing a propellant, wherein said gas generator comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, said first chamber containing said propellant, said second chamber being positioned between said first chamber and said main closure disk and being fluidly interconnectable with said inflator housing, said method comprising the steps of: combusting said propellant and generating propellant gases therefrom; providing a flow path from said gas generator to said main closure disk; providing at least a portion of said propellant gases from said first chamber to said second chamber; increasing a fluid pressure within a region defined at least in part by said main closure disk using said providing a flow path step, said increasing step comprising chemically reacting at least a portion of said propellant gases with said pressurized medium at least in said region, wherein said second chamber comprises said region and thereby interfaces with said main closure disk; opening said main closure disk using said increasing step; monitoring a pressure within said inflator housing and a pressure within said second chamber; and directing a flow to the air/safety bag after said opening step, said flow comprising a chemical mixture of said propellant gases and said pressurized medium.
Claim 125
Independent Claim
259 words
A method for operating an inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag and an inflator comprising an inflator housing, a pressurized medium contained within said inflator housing, a main closure disk between said pressurized medium and the air/safety bag, and a gas generator fluidly interconnected with said inflator housing and containing a propellant, wherein said gas generator comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, said first chamber containing said propellant, said second chamber being positioned between said first chamber and said main closure disk and being fluidly interconnectable with said inflator housing, said method comprising the steps of: combusting said propellant and generating propellant gases therefrom; providing a flow path from said gas generator to said main closure disk; providing at least a portion of said propellant gases from said first chamber to said second chamber; increasing a fluid pressure within a region defined at least in part by said main closure disk using said providing a flow path step, said increasing step comprising chemically reacting at least a portion of said propellant gases with said pressurized medium at least in said region, wherein said second chamber comprises said region and thereby interfaces with said main closure disk; opening said main closure disk using said increasing step; directing a flow to the air/safety bag after said opening step, said flow comprising a chemical mixture of said propellant gases and said pressurized medium; and maintaining at least a certain differential pressure between said inflator housing and said second chamber for a certain period of time after beginning said directing step.
Claim 126
Independent Claim
259 words
A method for operating an inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag and an inflator comprising an inflator housing, a pressurized medium contained within said inflator housing, a main closure disk between said pressurized medium and the air/safety bag, and a gas generator fluidly interconnected with said inflator housing and containing a propellant, wherein said gas generator comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, said first chamber containing said propellant, said second chamber being positioned between said first chamber and said main closure disk and being fluidly interconnectable with said inflator housing, said method comprising the steps of: combusting said propellant and generating propellant gases therefrom; providing a flow path from said gas generator to said main closure disk; providing at least a portion of said propellant gases from said first chamber to said second chamber; increasing a fluid pressure within a region defined at least in part by said main closure disk using said providing a flow path step, said increasing step comprising chemically reacting at least a portion of said propellant gases with said pressurized medium at least in said region, wherein said second chamber comprises said region and thereby interfaces with said main closure disk; opening said main closure disk using said increasing step; directing a flow to the air/safety bag after said opening step, said flow comprising a chemical mixture of said propellant gases and said pressurized medium; and maintaining at least a certain differential pressure between said inflator housing and said second chamber for a certain period of time after beginning said directing step.
Claim 127
Dependent Claim
205 words
A hybrid inflator for an automotive inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag, said inflator comprising: an inflator housing which contains a pressurized medium; a gas generator interconnected with said inflator housing and comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, a propellant contained within said first chamber, at least one gas generator inlet port which fluidly interconnects said second chamber and said inflator housing, and at least one gas generator outlet port; a main closure disk positioned between all said gas generator outlet ports and the air/safety bag, wherein there is a flow path from said at least one gas generator outlet port to said main closure disk; a propellant ignition assembly associated with said gas generator, wherein ignition of said propellant generates propellant gases; means for opening said main closure disk to initiate flow to the air/safety bag, said means for opening comprising means for conducting said propellant gases through said flow path to act directly on said main closure disk and means for combusting said propellant gases within said second chamber, said propellant gases acting directly on said main closure disk; and means for inducing a vortex flow within said second chamber at least in part from a flow from said inflator housing.
Claim 128
Dependent Claim
205 words
A hybrid inflator for an automotive inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag, said inflator comprising: an inflator housing which contains a pressurized medium; a gas generator interconnected with said inflator housing and comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, a propellant contained within said first chamber, at least one gas generator inlet port which fluidly interconnects said second chamber and said inflator housing, and at least one gas generator outlet port; a main closure disk positioned between all said gas generator outlet ports and the air/safety bag, wherein there is a flow path from said at least one gas generator outlet port to said main closure disk; a propellant ignition assembly associated with said gas generator, wherein ignition of said propellant generates propellant gases; means for opening said main closure disk to initiate flow to the air/safety bag, said means for opening comprising means for conducting said propellant gases through said flow path to act directly on said main closure disk and means for combusting said propellant gases within said second chamber, said propellant gases acting directly on said main closure disk; and means for inducing a vortex flow within said second chamber at least in part from a flow from said inflator housing.
Claim 129
Dependent Claim
205 words
A hybrid inflator for an automotive inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag, said inflator comprising: an inflator housing which contains a pressurized medium; a gas generator interconnected with said inflator housing and comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, a propellant contained within said first chamber, at least one gas generator inlet port which fluidly interconnects said second chamber and said inflator housing, and at least one gas generator outlet port; a main closure disk positioned between all said gas generator outlet ports and the air/safety bag, wherein there is a flow path from said at least one gas generator outlet port to said main closure disk; a propellant ignition assembly associated with said gas generator, wherein ignition of said propellant generates propellant gases; means for opening said main closure disk to initiate flow to the air/safety bag, said means for opening comprising means for conducting said propellant gases through said flow path to act directly on said main closure disk and means for combusting said propellant gases within said second chamber, said propellant gases acting directly on said main closure disk; and means for inducing a vortex flow within said second chamber at least in part form a flow from said first chamber.
Claim 130
Dependent Claim
205 words
A hybrid inflator for an automotive inflatable safety system comprising an air/safety bag, said inflator comprising: an inflator housing which contains a pressurized medium; a gas generator interconnected with said inflator housing and comprising first and second fluidly interconnected chambers, a propellant contained within said first chamber, at least one gas generator inlet port which fluidly interconnects said second chamber and said inflator housing, and at least one gas generator outlet port; a main closure disk positioned between all said gas generator outlet ports and the air/safety bag, wherein there is a flow path from said at least one gas generator outlet port to said main closure disk; a propellant ignition assembly associated with said gas generator, wherein ignition of said propellant generates propellant gases; means for opening said main closure disk to initiate flow to the air/safety bag, said means for opening comprising means for conducting said propellant gases through said flow path to act directly on said main closure disk and means for combusting said propellant gases within said second chamber, said propellant gases acting directly on said main closure disk; and means for inducing a vortex flow within said second chamber at least in part form a flow from said first chamber.
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USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 1999-09-10 | 2000-03-11 | 2000-09-10 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 2003-09-10 | 2004-03-11 | 2004-09-10 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 2007-09-10 | 2008-03-11 | 2008-09-10 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |