Thomas R. Mooney is a notable inventor based in Rancho Palos Verdes, California. He has made significant contributions to the field of air bag technology, holding a total of 5 patents. His work focuses on enhancing the safety and efficiency of air bag inflators, which are crucial for vehicle safety.

Latest Patents

Among his latest patents, Mooney has developed an air bag inflator using a liquid monopropellant. This innovative design includes a gas generator that provides gases under pressure for an air bag. The system features a combustion chamber and an auxiliary chamber that contain a fluid gas-generating charge, which is auto-ignitable. The combustion chamber is designed with a burst portion that ruptures after ignition, allowing the generated gases to flow into the air bag. Additionally, a conduit interconnects the two chambers, acting as a flame suppressor in low pressure/high temperature regimes, while functioning as a nozzle in high pressure/low temperature conditions.

Another significant patent is for an inflator for vehicle air bags. This inflator consists of a casing with a chamber containing an oxidizer gas, and an exit port that is sealed by a burst disk. An exit tube extends into the chamber to provide a pathway for the generated gases to exit. A fuel cell, which holds a liquid fuel, is located at the opposite end of the casing. The design includes a piston driven by gases from an igniter, which pushes the liquid fuel into the chamber. An igniter channel connects hot gases from the igniter to the chamber where the liquid fuel and oxidizer gas mix, ensuring efficient combustion.

Career Highlights

Mooney is currently associated with Hi-Shear Technology Corporation, where he continues to innovate in the field of air bag technology. His work has been instrumental in advancing safety measures in vehicles, contributing to the overall reduction of injuries in accidents.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Mooney has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Gaybert B. Little and Guy Little. Their combined expertise has fostered advancements in air bag technology and safety systems.

Conclusion

Thomas R. Mooney's contributions to air bag technology exemplify his commitment to enhancing vehicle safety. His innovative patents and collaborations have made a significant impact in the automotive industry.

Profile summary based on public USPTO records.

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