Abstract: Apparatus for use in passenger inflatable air-bag safety systems for preventing activation of an activator inflator from causing premature activation of any inflator not yet activated by system programming. The apparatus includes structure for isolating the pressure releasing construction from shock waves created when an inflator is activated and takes the form of mechanical barriers that isolate each inflator release structure from exposure to shock waves.

Abstract: An apparatus (10) for helping to protect an occupant of a vehicle, includes an inflatable protection device (16) and an inflator (14) for, upon actuation, providing inflation fluid to inflate the inflatable device. The apparatus (10) further comprises means (42, 44) for supporting the inflator (14) on a vehicle portion (12) for movement in a first direction (I) relative to the vehicle portion in response to actuation of the inflator. Damping means (50) is connected between the inflator (14) and the vehicle portion (12) for damping movement of the inflator in the first direction (I) relative to the vehicle portion. The damping means (50) comprises a member (52) having an opening (68, 78, 88, 98). The member (52) is crushable in response to movement of the inflator (14) in the first direction (I) to close the opening (68, 78, 88, 98) in the member.

Abstract: A vehicle passenger safety system for use where independent power is required. The system includes as cooperating elements: an independent source of power; a passenger restraining belt; an inflatable bag stored in the belt; crash event sensors; belt orientating structure; a source of inflating gas; and, in the preferred embodiment programmed electronics that control functioning of the safety system and prolong the service life of the independent power source.