Abstract: A computer system that creates a deal space graphical user interface which is particular to each negotiation and displays on a 2-dimensional graph the degree of satisfaction for each side for all possible deal structures is provided. The deal space system provided shows how to simultaneously alter agreement terms to increase overall satisfaction for each side, making it easy for a user to see win-win tradeoffs.

Abstract: An inflator for an air bag-type passenger restraint system for a motor vehicle includes two cup-shaped members which are joined to form chambers for a gas generator and activating devices for activating the gas generator. The two members are coupled by threads which do not increase the weight of the inflator. The inflator also includes a filter for filtering particulate matter from the gas generator.

Abstract: An inflator for an air bag-type passenger restraint system for a motor vehicle includes two cup-shaped members which are joined to form chambers for a gas generator and activating devices for activating the gas generator. The two members are coupled by threads which do not increase the weight of the inflator. The inflator also includes a filter for filtering particulate matter from the gas generator.

Abstract: A passive two stage passenger side inflator is disposed in a module funnel coupled to an airbag. The two stage inflator provides a gentle onset during the initial deployment to help protect out-of-position passengers. The second rapid stage is ignited passively by hot gas communication from the first stage. The inflating gases from both stages flow through a module funnel into the airbag. Openings in the module funnel permit pressure relief venting of the airbag to further protect out-of-position passengers even if the bag has not yet unfolded. Preferably the module is mounted such that the funnel vent openings direct the vented gas into the instrument panel, thus minimizing the particulate released into the passenger compartment.

Abstract: A retrofit steering wheel assembly having an air bag assembly comprises an armature including a casting and an insert in the casting for coupling with a steering wheel column, with different inserts being used for different columns peculiar to different model vehicles. An inflator adapter is coupled with the casting and adapted to mount an inflator and has a hole to receive a pin of an air bag module, the adapter defining with the casting an opening through which surfaces of the inflator are adapted to travel to mount the inflator and arm a sensor. A biased arm closes the hole and is adapted to be moved to an open position at which the pin is adapted to penetrate the hole only when the inflator is properly mounted. An inflator having a radially extending lug adapted to engage the biased arm to move the arm to permit the pin to penetrate the hole to anchor the inflator in its properly mounted position.

Abstract: A mechanical sensor for a passenger restraint system includes several primers for activating a gas generating component, and a trigger for setting the primers off in response to a velocity change. The sensor also includes an inertial mass for sensing the change in velocity. The sensor and the restraint system coact to arm the sensor when the sensor is inserted into the system.

Abstract: An inflator for an air bag-type passenger restraint system for a motor vehicle includes two cup-shaped members which are joined to form chambers for a gas generator and activating devices for activating the gas generator. The two members are coupled by threads which do not increase the weight of the inflator. The inflator also includes a filter for filtering particulate matter from the gas generator.

Abstract: A mechanical sensor for a passenger restraint system includes several primers are activating a gas generating component, and trigger means for setting the primers off in response to a velocity change. The sensor also includes an inertial mass for sensing the change in velocity. The sensor and the restraint system coact to arm the sensor when the sensor is inserted into the system.

Abstract: An accelerometer for a passenger restraint system in a motor vehicle includes a housing with tube for defining a path for an inertial element, and a biasing member for urging the inertial element toward a preselected position. A shock absorbent resilient ring is disposed between the tube and the housing and supports the tube.

Abstract: An accelerometer for a passenger restrain system in a motor vehicle includes a housing with a path for an inertial element, and a coil spring member for urging the inertial element toward a preselected position. When the vehicle decelerates at a rate higher than a preset rate, the ball moves away from the preselected position and closes an electrical contact.

Abstract: An air bag assembly is disclosed with an inflator assembly for generating gases with particulate byproducts, and a bag assembly with a gas permeable portion. The gas permeable portion vents gases from the bag at a preselected rate to eliminate injuries from secondary collisions of a passenger with the bag. The permeable portion also filters the gases to protect the passenger from the particulate by products.