Abstract: An airbag folding engine comprises a frame for removably mounting any one of a number of different airbag folding devices. The airbag folding engine includes a driver system adapted to be removably connected to the airbag folding device mounted on the frame. The driver system, which may be pneumatic, hydraulic, electrical or the like, provides the power to operate the airbag folding device. A control system mounted on the airbag folding engine controls the operation of the airbag folding device. A visual display provides a visual indication of the operation of the airbag folding device. Screw jacks may be mounted on the frame for varying the height of the airbag folding engine. An apparatus for folding an airbag which is adapted to be removably mounted on the airbag folding engine is also provided. The apparatus includes a plate which mounts on the airbag folding engine and an airbag folding mechanism mounted on the plate for folding one of a number of types of airbags.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for folding an airbag. The apparatus includes tables for supporting the airbag. A securement mechanism is associated with the tables and secures the airbag in position relative to the tables. A carriage is provided and is movable towards and away from the tables. A clamping mechanism is associated with the carriage and clamps a first portion of the airbag to the tables. First and second sets of folding blades are also associated with the carriage. The first and second sets of folding blades grasp second and third portions of the airbag and create first folds in the airbag to form a partially folded airbag. An engagement mechanism engages the partially folded airbag to maintain the first folds in the partially folded airbag. The securement mechanism further rotates the engaged partially folded airbag about a vertical axis.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for automatically folding an airbag is provided whereupon an airbag is positioned securely over receiving tooling, and a plurality of portions of the airbag are automatically manipulated in a plurality of directions, respectively, to place the airbag in a folded condition. The apparatus includes a processor to automatically operate means for manipulating the airbag. The apparatuses for manipulating the airbag preferably include an apparatus for fanfolding a portion of an airbag, an apparatus for folding over a portion of an airbag, and at least one hold-down mechanism to receive portions of an airbag. The various apparatuses for manipulating the airbag can be variously combined in accordance with the present invention to automatically prepare airbags of various types in various folding patterns.