Abstract: A method and system for modeling an inflatable supplemental restraint device for a vehicle includes operating a simulation system according to a first step in which the restraint device is modeled in a fully inflated configuration using a finite element model. The modeled airbag is then deflated and flattened. The flattened airbag is subjected to simulated folding using a finite element model. Inputs drawn from the results of successive portions of the simulation are used in the later modeling steps.

Abstract: A deployable running board mounted on an automotive vehicle to be laterally extendable so as to engage the ground during a rollover event to increase the rollover resistance of the vehicle. The running boards are connected to a pair of deployment members spaced longitudinally on the vehicle to provide a rapid extension of the running board. Each deployment member includes a telescopic piston that is slidably mounted within a cylinder and that compresses a spring between the piston and the cylinder. A latching mechanism secures the piston in a retracted stated until a rollover event is detected. Releasing the latching mechanism allows the piston to telescope laterally to move the attached running board outwardly of the vehicle to provide a pivot point that increases the static stability factor of the vehicle. The engagement of the extended running board also provides a resistance to the continued motion of the vehicle.

Abstract: A side impact airbag system is disclosed that is stored behind cover panels provided on the A-hinge pillar, rocker, and C-body lock pillar. The airbag is stored in a receptacle until it is inflated by an inflator. The inflator inflates the airbag that is connected between fore-and-aft spaced anchoring points. When the airbag is in a deployed position, it is located between a seat and door of the vehicle. The deployment height of the airbag is controlled by tethering side shield panels that are secured between the airbag and the vehicle. The tethering side shield panels are not inflated by the inflator but are pulled to a taut condition as a result of the deployment of the airbag.

Abstract: A deployable running board mounted on an automotive vehicle to be laterally extendable so as to engage the ground during a rollover event to increase the rollover resistance of the vehicle. The running boards are connected to a pair of deployment members spaced longitudinally on the vehicle to provide a rapid extension of the running board. Each deployment member includes a telescopic piston that is slidably mounted within a cylinder and that compresses a spring between the piston and the cylinder. A latching mechanism secures the piston in a retracted stated until a rollover event is detected. Releasing the latching mechanism allows the piston to telescope laterally to move the attached running board outwardly of the vehicle to provide a pivot point that increases the static stability factor of the vehicle. The engagement of the extended running board also provides a resistance to the continued motion of the vehicle.

Abstract: An extendible rail and bumper apparatus is mountable within the base frame lower rails of an automotive frame to provide an improved crash force absorbing bumper apparatus for deployment on either the front or rear bumpers of an automobile. The extendible rail member is mounted for telescopic movement through slidable guide members. A front plate is formed with wedge members positioned next to the extendible rail member. The actuation mechanism includes an electric motor that rotates a threaded rod having a conical member mounted thereon for translational movement thereon. The conical member engages a pair of outwardly projectable tabs that are driven outwardly into engagement with the wedge members when the extendible rail is fully extended. If required to absorb impact energy, the outwardly projected tabs push the wedge members into engagement with the front plate to transfer the energy into the base frame rail apparatus of the vehicle.

Abstract: An extendible rail and bumper apparatus is mountable within the base frame lower rails of an automotive frame to provide an improved crash force absorbing bumper apparatus for deployment on either the front or rear bumpers of an automobile. The extendible rail member is mounted for telescopic movement through slidable guide members. A front plate is formed with wedge members positioned next to the extendible rail member. The actuation mechanism includes an electric motor that rotates a threaded rod having a conical member mounted thereon for translational movement thereon. The conical member engages a pair of outwardly projectable tabs that are driven outwardly into engagement with the wedge members when the extendible rail is fully extended. If required to absorb impact energy, the outwardly projected tabs push the wedge members into engagement with the front plate to transfer the energy into the base frame rail apparatus of the vehicle.

Abstract: A method and system for modeling an inflatable supplemental restraint device for a vehicle includes operating a simulation system according to a first step in which the restraint device is modeled in a fully inflated configuration using a finite element model. The modeled airbag is then deflated and flattened. The flattened airbag is subjected to simulated folding using a finite element model. Inputs drawn from the results of successive portions of the simulation are used in the later modeling steps.

Abstract: A side impact airbag system is disclosed that is stored behind cover panels provided on the A-hinge pillar, rocker, and C-body lock pillar. The airbag is stored in a receptacle until it is inflated by an inflator. The inflator inflates the airbag that is connected between fore-and-aft spaced anchoring points. When the airbag is in a deployed position, it is located between a seat and door of the vehicle. The deployment height of the airbag is controlled by tethering side shield panels that are secured between the airbag and the vehicle. The tethering side shield panels are not inflated by the inflator but are pulled to a taut condition as a result of the deployment of the airbag.