Abstract: Apparatus, methods, and systems for retaining an airbag cushion to an airbag housing. Some embodiments may comprise an airbag housing comprising an outer surface, an airbag coupling ring configured to fit over the outer surface of the airbag housing, and an airbag cushion positioned in between the airbag housing and the airbag coupling ring such that the airbag cushion is pinched between the airbag coupling ring and the outer surface of the airbag housing so as to retain the airbag cushion to the airbag housing during deployment of the airbag cushion.

Abstract: Apparatus, methods, and systems for retaining an airbag cushion to an airbag housing. Some embodiments may comprise an airbag housing comprising an outer surface, an airbag coupling ring configured to fit over the outer surface of the airbag housing, and an airbag cushion positioned in between the airbag housing and the airbag coupling ring such that the airbag cushion is pinched between the airbag coupling ring and the outer surface of the airbag housing so as to retain the airbag cushion to the airbag housing during deployment of the airbag cushion.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods, and systems relating to flat panel airbag cushions that may be particularly useful in connection with passenger-side airbag systems. Some embodiments may comprise a first panel and a second panel having a larger cross-sectional area than the first panel in an unfolded state. The second panel may comprise a first set of pleats and a second set of pleats configured such that, upon inflation of the airbag cushion, the first set of pleats and the second set of pleats unfold to define a three-dimensional airbag cushion. The second panel may be sewn or otherwise attached to the first panel about a periphery of the two panels.

Abstract: An airbag can include a first cushion portion that defines a first inflatable chamber and a second cushion portion that defines a second inflatable chamber. An inflator generates inflation gas to inflate the inflatable chambers. The first inflatable chamber is in fluid communication with the inflator to receive inflation gas to expand the first cushion portion. The second inflatable chamber is in fluid communication with a fill tube or other conduit, which is in fluid communication with the inflator to receive inflation gas to expand the second cushion portion. The fill tube is configured to be disposed between a portion of the first cushion portion and a portion of a vehicle, such that expansion of the first cushion portion as the first inflatable chamber inflates causes the fill tube to be closed. The fill tube is pinched closed against the vehicle portion by expansion of the first cushion portion.

Abstract: An electrical switch for a vehicle steering wheel assembly is provided. The electrical switch includes a pressure actuated cable having a compressible semi-conductive material between a plurality of conductors therein. The electrical switch further includes a mechanical actuator configured to compress the pressure actuated cable such that an electrical path is formed through the plurality of conductors to activate a component of the vehicle.

Abstract: An electrical switch for a vehicle steering wheel assembly is provided. The electrical switch includes a pressure actuated cable having a compressible semi-conductive material between a plurality of conductors therein. The electrical switch further includes a mechanical actuator configured to compress the pressure actuated cable such that an electrical path is formed through the plurality of conductors to activate a component of the vehicle.

Abstract: A seat mounting structure is disclosed for reducing injury to vehicle occupants in side impact collisions. The seat mounting structure may include an inflation module, a linkage system, a sensor system, and a side airbag. The inflation module may include an inflatable structure and inflator or a piston device. The linkage system attaches the seat mounting structure to a seat and may help guide the movement of the seat. The sensor system may include a radar sensor and an optical sensor to help the sensor system anticipate an impending side impact. The seat mounting structure mitigates injury to the occupant by moving the occupant vertically up and laterally toward a centerline of the vehicle, thus increasing the space between the sidewall of the vehicle and the occupant. Additionally, the inflation module may comprise an inflatable structure that stiffens a floor structure of the vehicle upon inflation.