Abstract: A vehicle airbag assembly, method of deployment and manufacture. The airbag assembly includes at least one inflatable portion and at least one non-inflatable portion. At least one mass is operably attached to the non-inflatable portion. Upon inflation of the inflatable portion, the mass provides a substantial taughtness to the non-inflatable portion. The deployment method includes providing at least one inflatable portion and at least one non-inflatable portion. The airbag assembly is operably attached to the vehicle. A mass operably attached to the non-inflatable portion is provided. The inflatable portion is inflated. The non-inflatable portion of the airbag is extended substantially taught upon inflation of the inflatable portion with the mass. The manufacturing method includes forming at least one inflatable portion and at least one non-inflatable portion. At least one mass is operably attached to the non-inflatable portion.

Abstract: A door assembly includes an inner panel, an outer panel fixedly attached to the inner panel, and a load transfer element disposed within an interstitial space formed between the inner and outer panels. The load transfer element includes a main body defining a longitudinal axis extending from the inner panel to the outer panel and first and second reaction surfaces disposed on the main body. The first reaction surface is formed proximate the inner panel while the second reaction surface is formed generally opposite the first reaction surface and proximate the outer panel. The second reaction surface is operable to receive a load from the outer panel and to transmit the load through the main body to the first reaction surface and the door inner panel. The load transfer element is further configured to activate an air bag sensor when the load exceeds a predetermined magnitude.

Abstract: A door assembly includes an inner panel, an outer panel fixedly attached to the inner panel, and a load transfer element disposed within an interstitial space formed between the inner and outer panels. The load transfer element includes a main body defining a longitudinal axis extending from the inner panel to the outer panel and first and second reaction surfaces disposed on the main body. The first reaction surface is formed proximate the inner panel while the second reaction surface is formed generally opposite the first reaction surface and proximate the outer panel. The second reaction surface is operable to receive a load from the outer panel and to transmit the load through the main body to the first reaction surface and the door inner panel. The load transfer element is further configured to activate an air bag sensor when the load exceeds a predetermined magnitude.

Abstract: A surgical needle is provided including a body portion defining first and second longitudinal ends, the body portion includes a central portion having a first cross-sectional area and end portions adjacent the central portion having a smaller second cross-sectional area. A tissue penetrating portion is provided adjacent at least one end portion. Transition portions are provided intermediate the central portion and the end portions and taper from the first cross-sectional area to the second cross-sectional area. Suture attachment structure is formed in the central portion and a suture is attached to the suture attachment structure. A method of suturing is also provided wherein the surgical needle may be passed through tough tissue while minimizing bending of the surgical needle.