Autoliv Asp, Incorporated

Autoliv Aspinc.

Paul Harrington

Brian K Hamilton

Charles B Kafadar

A gas generating apparatus for outputting a gas is provided. In one embodiment, the apparatus is an inflator having a propellant for supplying inflation gas(es) to an inflatable located in a vehicle. A confining member is located adjacent to the propellant. A number of spaced holes are provided in the confining member, either before or after activation of the propellant. Inflation gas is received through the spaced holes for subsequent passage to the inflatable. In that regard, the inflation gas first passes through a chamber defined in a timing member that has metering orifices. Such orifices regulate the flow of the inflation gas to the inflatable. The confining member is able to withstand significant pressures without rupturing. Each of the confining member and the timing member is preferably made of a non-metallic material. The propellant includes a fuel-rich material and an oxidizer material, preferably ammonium nitrate.

Growing community of inventors

Watkins, CO, United States of America

Paul Harrington