Abstract: An impact sensor for a vehicle crash restraint system features mounting thereof in a region behind the vehicle bumper area which first experiences the effect of a crash and the utilization of both the energy of an over-center spring and the inertial force of a decelerating mass for the generation of energy in a firing pin to initiate an explosive primer thereby to provide a faster reaction to a crash, which reaction is rapidly transmitted by a pyrotechnic transmission line to an inflator located in the vehicle passenger compartment for inflating an inflatable crash bag.

Abstract: A pyrotechnic system for transmitting an initiation stimulus through a bulkhead in which a pressure seal is to be maintained includes an ordnance transfer line for initiating illuminating charge of pyrotechnic material such as certain metal-oxidizer mixes which have a high reaction temperature and high emissivity. The radiation energy produced is transmitted through a sealed window which serves as a focussing lens to irradiate a booster charge. The booster charge, in turn, may be made to initiate a transfer line, serve as an igniter or pressure cartridge. Only deflagrating materials are used in the system.A safe and arm mechanism is obtained by incorporating a mechanical shutter which blocks the radiation from the illuminating charge to the booster charge when in the "SAFE" position and allows the radiation to be transmitted when in the ARM position.

Abstract: A tandem arrangement of a flare and a booster rocket motor is held together by a hollow coupler having hinged spring-loaded wall segments resembling barrel staves that are released on launch to function as a braking device, similar to a drogue parachute. The coupler also contains the main parachute which is released when the rocket motor is separated from the flare. The spring loading on the coupler wall segments controls the parachute drag area as a function of air speed enabling a relatively constant deceleration rate to be realized during the transition from high speed to the final descent velocity.

Abstract: The acceptor charge is initiated from the side and the donor charge is contained in a full circle swivel assembly. This allows the initiator to be used where little head clearance is available and use, also, of the initiator to transmit a shock wave through a solid barrier or bulkhead to a relatively movable body.

Abstract: A self-contained inflatable passive restraint system for passenger vehicles includes a support housing structure that provides support for the inflatable cushion or crash bag which is folded thereon when in an undeployed state and contains all of the components, including collision responsive sensor means, required for inflation of the crash bag responsively to the occurrence of a collision. A plastic cover over the support housing structure and crash bag provides an environmental seal therefor.

Abstract: A consumable sealed plastic cup containing ignition pellets is assembled into end cap at the forward end of a solid fuel rocket motor with sufficient clearance to allow leak test gas to bypass it and thereby expose the port seals of the through bulkhead initiators for leak checking.