Abstract: A filter assembly usable in a gas generating system. The filter assembly includes a plurality of wrappable filter layer layers, each layer comprising at least one region of a material substantially impermeable to a flow of gases therethrough, and at least one region of a gas-permeable material coupled to the at least one region of substantially gas-impermeable material along an edge portion thereof. Each region of gas-permeable material in one filter layer is spaced apart from and opposite a region of substantially gas-impermeable material in an adjacent filter layer. The structures of the wrappable filter layers enable a tortuous gas flow path to be integrated into the filter media. A gas generating system, an airbag module, and a vehicle occupant protection system incorporating one or more wrappable filter layers are also described.

Abstract: An inflator (10) having an inflator body (12) with a plurality of elongate chambers (16, 18, 20, 22) and bores (17, 19, 21) formed therein. In a preferred embodiment, the bores (17, 19, 21) are formed in ends (12a, 12b) of the inflator body (12) and positioned co-radially with adjacent chambers, fluidly connecting the same and providing for a reversing axial flow in the inflator (10) for inflation gas.

Abstract: A seatbelt pretensioner mechanism (10) for use with a seatbelt retractor (11). The retractor (11) has a spool (16) configured for winding a seatbelt webbing thereon. The pretensioner mechanism (10) is housed inside the retractor spool (16). The pretensioner mechanism (10) includes a movable actuator member (22) slidably coupled to the retractor spool (16), and a stationary member (20) secured to the retractor (11) along a path of slidable movement of the movable member (22). Helical splines (23) extend along a portion of the spool (16), and complementary helical splines (25) extend along a first portion of the movable member (22) for slidingly engaging the splines (23) on the spool (16). Helical splines (29) also extend along a second portion of the movable member (22), and complementary helical splines (28) extend along a portion of the stationary member (20) for slidingly engaging the splines (29) on the second portion of the movable member (22).