Abstract: An apparatus (10) for inflating an inflatable vehicle occupant protection device, such as an air bag (12), comprises a pressure vessel (14) having a closure wall (50) and a means (52) for forming a first opening in the closure wall (50). The pressure vessel (14) defines a chamber (18) containing a source for inflation. A breakaway section (72) of the closure wall (50) has an inner surface (140) which defines the first opening (136). The breakaway section (72) breaks away when a predetermined pressure level in the chamber (18) is reached. When the breakaway section (72) breaks away, a second opening (138) in the closure wall (50) is formed. Means (60, 48, 32) are provided for directing the inflation fluid from the second opening (138) into the vehicle occupant protection device (12).

Abstract: An inflator assembly for inflating an inflatable vehicle occupant restraint includes a container defining a chamber with a rupturable wall. The chamber contains a first ignitable material and gas. The gas is directed from the container to the inflatable vehicle occupant restraint when the rupturable wall of the chamber is ruptured. The assembly further includes an initiator for rupturing the rupturable wall of the chamber and for igniting the first ignitable material inside the chamber. The initiator includes a second ignitable material. The second ignitable material produces a pressure wave and emits products of combustion when it is ignited by the initiator. The rupturable wall of the chamber is located in the path of the pressure wave and is ruptured by the pressure wave. The first ignitable material inside the chamber is located in the path of the products of combustion emitted by the second ignitable material and is ignited by the products of combustion.