Patents Assigned to Autoliv ASP, Inc.
  • Airbag vent tube
    Publication number: 20080252052
    Abstract: An airbag module comprising a housing with an inflatable airbag cushion disposed therein and at least one vent tube attached to the inflatable airbag cushion, wherein during inflatable airbag cushion deployment with an obstruction, the at least one vent tube remains open, and during inflatable airbag cushion deployment without an obstruction, the at least one vent tube at least partially closes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2007
    Publication date: October 16, 2008
    Applicant: Autoliv ASP, Inc.
    Inventors: David W. Schneider, Changsoo Choi
  • AIRBAG CUSHION WITH VENT TUBE
    Publication number: 20080252053
    Abstract: An airbag module comprising a housing with an inflatable airbag cushion disposed therein and at least one vent tube attached to the inflatable airbag cushion, wherein during inflatable airbag cushion deployment with an obstruction, the at least one vent tube remains open, and during inflatable airbag cushion deployment without an obstruction, the at least one vent tube at least partially closes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2008
    Publication date: October 16, 2008
    Applicant: AUTOLIV ASP, INC.
    Inventors: David W. Schneider, Changsoo Choi
  • METHODS OF MANUFACTURING MONOLITHIC GENERANT GRAINS
    Publication number: 20080236711
    Abstract: Methods for making a pressed monolithic gas generant for an inflatable restraint device (for example, an airbag system for a vehicle) are provided. The methods include admixing a gas generant material with a ballistic performance modifier to form a mixture. The mixture is granulated. Then, a pressed monolithic gas generant grain is formed by applying pressure to the granulated mixture, where the grain has an actual density of at least about 95% of the maximum theoretical density. The pressure may be applied in a controlled manner to both side of the gas generant material in a die cavity, and removing formed grain from die cavity while maintaining some pressure to both sides of the grain, thereby further improving various pyrotechnic properties.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2007
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Applicant: Autoliv ASP, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger Bradford, Thomas Cronin, Ivan Mendenhall, Brett Hussey
  • Inflator second stage combustion control
    Publication number: 20080211215
    Abstract: A new type of airbag inflator that may be used in an airbag system is disclosed. The inflator will generally include a housing and two initiators. Accordingly, the inflator is a “dual-stage” inflator. The two stages are disposed within the housing. The second initiator is disposed within a second stage generant cup. A cap is also used to engage the second stage cup. The cap maintains seated engagement with the second stage cup, even during deployment of the second stage. The second stage will also include one or more perforations, which constitute openings through which gas may flow. When the second initiator is in the unactuated state, these perforations will be isolated from the generant by the cap. Actuation of the second initiator unseals the one or more perforations but does not unseat the cap from the cup, due to constraints put in place to prevent such unseating.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2008
    Publication date: September 4, 2008
    Applicant: Autoliv ASP, Inc.
    Inventors: Isaac Hoffman, Kirk Rasmussen, Bradley W. Smith
  • Airbag tether release mechanism
    Patent number: 7419184
    Abstract: Disclosed are embodiments of an airbag tether release mechanism for use with airbag inflation systems. In one embodiment, the mechanism includes an initiator positioned within a housing. The initiator is configured such that it provides an inherent seal to prevent the external release of pyrotechnic residues upon deployment. The device may also include a cutter operatively connected with the initiator such that deployment of the initiator actuates the cutter and a tether restraint structure configured to secure a tether until the tether is released by actuation of the cutter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2008
    Assignee: Autoliv ASP, Inc.
    Inventors: David J. Green, Michael P. Jordan, Brent A. Parks
  • OCCUPANT RESTRAINT SYSTEM
    Publication number: 20080203716
    Abstract: A tether release mechanism for a restraining element of a restraint protection system includes a base, a retention device and an actuator. The retention device is coupled to the base for movement between a locked position and a release position. The restraining element is secured relative to the base in the locked position and is movable relative to the base in the release position. The retention device includes a portion for releasably engaging the restraining element. The actuator is operatively associated with the retention device and is operative for at least initiating movement of the retention device from the locked position to the release position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2007
    Publication date: August 28, 2008
    Applicant: AUTOLIV ASP, INC.
    Inventors: Brent PARKS, David GREEN, Mark ENDERS
  • Vehicular radar sensor with distributed antenna
    Patent number: 7414569
    Abstract: The radar sensor system includes a radar module, a plurality of antenna units, and a signal carrier. The plurality of antenna units are in communication with the radar module and distributed across a sensing region. The antennas may be connected in a series configuration and, further, may form a loop configuration with the radar module. As such, the radar module may include a centralized signal processor unit configured to receive analog signals from each antenna unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2008
    Assignee: Autoliv ASP, Inc.
    Inventor: Bernard Guy De Mersseman
  • Modular torsion bar
    Patent number: 7410113
    Abstract: A seatbelt retractor is disclosed. The seatbelt retractor has a frame, a spindle, a seatbelt webbing and torsion bar. The frame is attached to a structure of a road vehicle. The spindle is rotatably supported by the frame. The seatbelt webbing is wound about the spindle for retraction there to and protraction there from. The torsion bar is fixedly coupled to the spindle for rotation therewith, the torsion bar has a first torsion portion mechanically coupled or press-fitted into a second torsion portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2008
    Assignee: Autoliv ASP, Inc.
    Inventors: Gerald Keller, Lloyd Snyder
  • Airbag cushion construction
    Patent number: 7407186
    Abstract: Disclosed are embodiments of methods and apparatus relating to automotive airbags. In one embodiment of the invention, an airbag cushion is provided having four primary panels. A front panel is provided having a substantially rectangular front face. Two substantially triangular side faces are positioned opposite from one another in the inflated airbag cushion, both of which are connected with the front panel. A rear panel including an upper rear face and a lower rear face is also provided. The upper rear face is connected to a first side of both the first and second side faces and the lower rear face is connected to a second side of both the first and second side faces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Assignee: Autoliv ASP, Inc.
    Inventors: Larry D. Rose, Ronald B. Casper, Trudy Lewis
  • Fuel saving sensor system
    Patent number: 7404784
    Abstract: The system includes an engine, a sensor, and a controller. The engine provides a driving motion for the vehicle. The sensor unit is configured to determine a range of a leading vehicle. The controller is in communication with the engine and the sensor unit, such that the controller may shut down the engine based on the range of the lead vehicle as determined by the sensor unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2008
    Assignee: Autoliv ASP, Inc.
    Inventor: Bernard De Mersseman
  • Ultrasonic welded initiator and connector socket
    Patent number: 7401810
    Abstract: The present invention provides an airbag inflator assembled, in part, using ultrasonic welding. The inflator includes a housing adapted to receive an initiator assembly and an adaptor socket to connect the inflator to the electronic systems of the vehicle. The initiator and the adaptor socket are welded together at a point of interface through the housing of the inflator using an ultrasound welding process. Joint seals are provided that allow the production of a gas-tight seal upon completion of assembly of the airbag inflator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Assignee: Autoliv ASP, Inc.
    Inventors: Dario G. Brisighella, Jr., Bradley W. Smith, Kelly Ellis, Kirk Rasmussen, Matt Cox
  • Tongue interlocking detachable anchorage
    Patent number: 7401389
    Abstract: Disclosed are interlocking safety restraint mechanisms and safety restraint systems incorporating such mechanisms. Embodiments of the safety restraint mechanisms include a first locking mechanism adapted to receive and lock into place a buckle tongue and a second locking mechanism adapted to receive and lock into place an anchor tongue. The interlocking safety restraint mechanism is configured to automatically release the buckle tongue upon insertion of the anchor tongue and is further configured to automatically release the anchor tongue upon insertion of the buckle tongue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Assignee: Autoliv ASP, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas H. Zelmer
  • Multiple chambered airbag system
    Patent number: 7396043
    Abstract: Disclosed are methods and systems relating to automotive airbags. Embodiments of the disclosed invention include multiple inflatable chambers. The chambers may be configured to inflate sequentially such that one or more side chambers may inflate before a center chamber is inflated. Embodiments of the invention may employ separate inflators to inflate the side and center chambers such that the side chamber inflator is deployed prior to the center chamber inflator or, alternatively, a single inflator may be employed with vent openings between the side and center chambers to allow for fluid communication of the inflation gas therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2008
    Assignee: Autoliv ASP, Inc.
    Inventors: Changsoo Choi, David W. Schneider
  • Airbag cushion with integrated inflator
    Patent number: 7396040
    Abstract: An airbag module has a rigid cushion with an integrated inflator. The cushion has a rear cushion panel and the inflator may have a front inflator plate attached to the rear cushion panel. A rear inflator plate is optionally provided and may be positioned within the cushion or outside the cushion. A pyrotechnic may be disposed within the space between the front inflator plate and the rear cushion panel and/or the rear inflator plate. An initiator may be seated in the rear inflator plate and/or the rear cushion panel to initiate combustion of the pyrotechnic. Instead of the front inflator plate, the inflator may have an expanse of tape that secures the pyrotechnic and/or the initiator to the interior of the cushion. The pyrotechnic may be sealed by the tape or by a foil pouch. The initiator may be secured by the tape or by a rear inflator plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2008
    Assignee: Autoliv ASP, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark L. Enders, Bradley W. Smith, Michael P. Jordan, Earl H. Nelson, Guy R. Letendre, Blake L. Cheal
  • STEERING WHEEL WITH REDUCED VIBRATION TRANSMISSION
    Publication number: 20080134832
    Abstract: A steering wheel for a vehicle includes a rim defining a perimeter of the steering wheel and a weighted cable positioned proximate to and at least partially surrounding the rim. The weighted cable increases the polar moment of inertia of the steering wheel and, in so doing, minimizes vibration of the steering wheel caused by operation and movement of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2006
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Applicant: Autoliv ASP, INC.
    Inventors: Richard L. MATSU, Patrick E. PATERCSAK
  • Rollover protection for motor vehicles
    Patent number: 7384067
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a new type of safety system that is designed to protect a vehicle occupant during a rollover crash. The safety system will generally include a vehicle seat and a sensor. The sensor is designed to sense the occurrence of a rollover crash. The safety system also includes a support member that has an undeployed mode and a deployed mode. The support member converts from the undeployed mode into the deployed mode when a signal is received from the sensor indicating a rollover. The support member will generally be housed within the vehicle seat when the support member is in the undeployed mode. The support member is also anchored to the floor pan of the vehicle. When the support member is deployed into the deployed mode, the support member is disposed in effective engagement with the vehicle roof to limit movement of the roof toward the vehicle seat during rollover conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2008
    Assignee: Autoliv ASP, Inc.
    Inventors: Brent A. Parks, Heath Knight-Newbury, David Parkinson
  • Lower side piller passenger inflatable safety restraint assembly
    Patent number: 7380815
    Abstract: An inflatable safety restraint assembly for a vehicle having a front instrument panel and a side pillar. The inflatable safety restraint assembly includes an inflator device and a gas flow control structure connected in gas flow communication to the inflator device to receive inflation gas supplied by the inflator device. The inflatable safety restraint assembly also includes an airbag cushion that is connected in gas flow communication to the gas flow control structure. Upon activation of the inflator device, initial deployment of the airbag cushion occurs from a lower portion of the side pillar. The initial deployment of the airbag cushion occurs in a cross-vehicle direction toward a longitudinal centerline of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Assignee: Autoliv ASP, Inc.
    Inventors: Larry D. Rose, Jesse R. Crookston
  • Pressure sensor port
    Patent number: 7380458
    Abstract: A pressure sensor port having reduced potential for blockage of a sensor by debris in a fluid. The pressure sensor includes a housing forming the sensor port. The sensor port defines an internal passage connecting an exterior aperture to an interior aperture. The exterior aperture communicates the fluid to the internal passage and includes a longitudinal rib. The interior aperture is aligned with a pressure transducer within the housing and the fluid in the internal passage to engage the pressure sensor. The longitudinal rib includes a first end proximal to the exterior aperture. The longitudinal rib is slightly off-center within the exterior aperture, defining at least first and second aperture sections having different cross-sectional areas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Assignee: Autoliv ASP, Inc.
    Inventors: Ram Date, Ryan Muschong, William M Leach
  • Pyrotechnic relief valve
    Patent number: 7373944
    Abstract: A relief valve and related systems and methods are disclosed for use in fluid distribution lines. The relief valve comprises a body defining a cavity and comprising at least first and second openings in fluid communication with the cavity. A connector piece is connected to the body at the first opening to connect the valve to a fluid distribution line. A rupture disc is disposed within and obstructs the first opening. When it is desired that fluid from the fluid distribution line be vented from the system, the rupture disc is punctured and thereby allows for fluid communication through the first opening of the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Assignee: Autoliv ASP, Inc.
    Inventors: Bradley W. Smith, Matthew A. Cox
  • Inflator second stage combustion control
    Patent number: 7374204
    Abstract: A new type of airbag inflator that may be used in an airbag system is disclosed. The inflator will generally include a housing and two initiators. Accordingly, the inflator is a “dual-stage” inflator. The two stages are disposed within the housing. The second initiator is disposed within a second stage generant cup. A cap is also used to engage the second stage cup. The cap maintains seated engagement with the second stage cup, even during deployment of the second stage. The second stage will also include one or more perforations, which constitute openings through which gas may flow. When the second initiator is in the unactuated state, these perforations will be isolated from the generant by the cap. Actuation of the second initiator unseals the one or more perforations but does not unseat the cap from the cup, due to constraints put in place to prevent such unseating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Assignee: Autoliv ASP, Inc.
    Inventors: Isaac Hoffman, Kirk Rassmussen, Bradley Smith