Morton International, Inc.

Autoliv Asp, Incorporated

Wesley L Hatt

Linda M Rink

David J Green

Karl K Rink

Christopher Hock

Brian H Fulmer

Donald J Cunningham

David W Lindsey

Todd S Parker

Scott A Jackson

Steven R Pripps

Charles W Armstrong, Iii

A method and apparatus for igniting a pyrotechnic gas generator, or inflator, such as those used in automotive airbag systems is disclosed. The ignition system uses a flammable gas to ignite the pyrotechnic gas generant. The flammable gas can be stored either throughout interior free space in the inflator or it can be maintained in a separate sealed container either separately or jointly with the pyrotechnic gas generant. The method and apparatus offer both cost savings and a reduction in delay time over conventional pyrotechnic ignition systems.

Flammable gas initiated pyrotechnic inflator

A process for treating particulate-containing gas of a vehicular safety restraint inflator and improvements in inflatable vehicular safety restraint systems are provided. The invention makes use of an element having at least one layer of an expanded metal.

Treatment of inflatable restraint system inflator particulate-containing

A pyrotechnic inflator for an air bag includes a housing for containing gas generating material for inflating an air bag. The housing has a wall formed of rigid, porous material and serves both as a filter for entrapping contaminants from the gas that is generated within as the gas passes outward through the wall into the air bag and cools the gas by absorbing heat therefrom. Gas generating material and an ignition train is hermetically sealed in a bag or packet inside the porous housing which serves triple duty as a solid pyrotechnic container, a gas filter and a gas cooler.

Pyrotechnic inflator for an air bag

Growing community of inventors

Centerville, UT, United States of America

Wesley L Hatt