Land vehicles – Wheeled – Attachment
Patent
1997-10-14
1999-08-24
English, Peter C.
Land vehicles
Wheeled
Attachment
280732, B60R 2120
Patent
active
059415584
ABSTRACT:
An apparatus for deploying an air bag through an automotive dash panel includes an air bag door integrally formed in the panel and defined by a frangible edge of reduced cross section. A dispenser supports the air bag behind the door. A metal reaction plate is positioned between the air bag and the door. When the air bag inflates it forces the reaction plate to bend around a horizontal hinge line. As the reaction plate rotates it concentrates inflation force along a lower portion of the frangible door edge. This helps predictably separate the door from the dash panel by tearing along the lower door edge and allowing the tear to propagate up two side edges. In one embodiment, the tear also propagates across an upper edge to completely separate the door from the panel. At least one, and preferably two or three tethers limit how far the door can travel during air bag inflation. A stop member may be included to limit reaction plate bending. After deployment, the reaction plate remains in a position that prevents the door from returning to its original position.
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Batchelder Bruce A.
Gallagher Michael J.
Gray John D.
Labrie Craig B.
Rhodes, Jr. Richard D.
English Peter C.
Textron Automotive Company Inc.
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