Abstract: A multi-stage inflatable bag for vehicular airbag safety systems in which multiple stages are used to control its inflation and deflation characteristics. The described multi-stage bag is inflated at a predetermined and controlled rate by port means that exhaust gas from a first inflatable bag into a second inflatable bag.

Abstract: A locomotion simulator has two independently controlled movable footpads. Each footpad is positioned dynamically in three-dimensions. The top of each footpad has a controlled rotational motion, and the assembly having the two footpads is rotated under control. In operation, a user, whose feet are tracked in position and angle, walks or runs on the simulator and the footpads are controlled to simulate ground contact. Controlled rotation and translation movements permit simulation of turning, climbing, and decending.

Abstract: A gas generator assembly has an igniter post having a substantially tubular body. The body has a plurality of holes passing from the interior to the exterior of the body for igniting. A preformed head on one end of the body has a diameter larger than that of the body. A transverse wall closes off the tubular body opposite the head end. A ductile rim having a diameter comparable to the body diameter, is extendable through an opening in the combustion chamber wall after pellet loading the rim is flared outwardly to lock the post to the assembly, and thereby form an additional head on the igniter post.

Abstract: A gas generator for a passive airbag restraint has a housing including a combustion chamber and a gas passage end, the chamber containing a solid gas generating fuel. A diffuser plate having a plurality of orifices is located in the gas passage to direct a gas generated by the combustion of the solid fuel to an airbag. The diffuser plate is shaped preferably by bending or folding, to have a greater surface area than the cross-sectional area of the gas passage. The greater surface area allows for an increased number of orifices to maximize port area to increase gas flow therethrough.

Abstract: An airbag gas generator has a housing within which a solid gas generating composition is located. The housing has an opening through which a gas formed during fuel combustion exits the housing. A gas distribution cap is fitted to an outlet end of the housing, the cap having a projecting lip at a forward end thereof. The housing has a corresponding recess in the outlet end for accepting the lip therein. The cap further has a plurality of longitudinal slots through which the gas is distributed, the slots defining flexible wall segments which deform during insertion of the cap into the outlet end prior to engagement of the lip with the recess for locking the cap to the housing. Utilizing the present invention, threaded or welded joints are avoided and a light weight, low cost assembly is achieved.