Abstract: Several force sensor assemblies are disposed within a vehicle seat to determine seat loading and assist in safety device activation. Each force sensor assembly has a sealed body filled with a liquid or a gel. A pressure transducer, together with a supporting integrated circuit, is positioned to respond to the pressure of the liquid or gel. Loads are applied to the pressure transducer through the gel by a piston riding within the body. Compressive loads are thereby transformed into a pressure on the sensor and its support electronics, resulting in a low cost, accurate, and durable sensor. The sensor functions well for relatively low loads of less than a few hundred pounds.

Abstract: An electro-mechanical accelerometer is disclosed for use in a vehicle to selectively actuate a vehicular safety device such as, for example, an airbag when a deceleration force greater than a predetermined threshold level is sensed.

Abstract: An inflator for an air bag-type passenger restraint system for a motor vehicle includes two cup-shaped members which are joined to form chambers for a gas generator and activating devices for activating the gas generator. The two members are coupled by threads which do not increase the weight of the inflator. The inflator also includes a filter for filtering particulate matter from the gas generator.

Abstract: An inflator for an air bag-type passenger restraint system for a motor vehicle includes two cup-shaped members which are joined to form chambers for a gas generator and activating devices for activating the gas generator. The two members are coupled by threads which do not increase the weight of the inflator. The inflator also includes a filter for filtering particulate matter from the gas generator.

Abstract: A passive two stage passenger side inflator is disposed in a module funnel coupled to an airbag. The two stage inflator provides a gentle onset during the initial deployment to help protect out-of-position passengers. The second rapid stage is ignited passively by hot gas communication from the first stage. The inflating gases from both stages flow through a module funnel into the airbag. Openings in the module funnel permit pressure relief venting of the airbag to further protect out-of-position passengers even if the bag has not yet unfolded. Preferably the module is mounted such that the funnel vent openings direct the vented gas into the instrument panel, thus minimizing the particulate released into the passenger compartment.

Abstract: An air bag system designed for mounting on a steering wheel or other member of a motor vehicle passenger compartment includes an air bag assembly, an open housing for the same and a cover. The air bag assembly while separated from its housing is disarmed to prevent accidental deployment. The air bag is armed during its installation in the housing. The housing and assembly are constructed so that the cover cannot be installed if the air bag assembly is missing or it has been installed improperly so that it is not armed. When the air bag assembly is removed from the housing, it is automatically disarmed.

Abstract: A mechanical sensor for a passenger restraint system includes several primers for activating a gas generating component, and a trigger for setting the primers off in response to a velocity change. The sensor also includes an inertial mass for sensing the change in velocity. The sensor and the restraint system coact to arm the sensor when the sensor is inserted into the system.

Abstract: Conventional ball-in-tube, gas-damped, crash sensors utilize a gold plated ball to bridge two contacts. When the ball senses acceleration (deceleration) in the longitudinal direction of a cylinder of sufficient magnitude and duration, it moves to where it bridges the contacts, completing the electrical circuit and initiating deployment of a safety restraint system. A switch activated by magnetic flux is combined with this type of gas-damped sensor to provide a solid and reliable contact duration and ensure the correct functioning of the sensor. The level of biasing force for crash zone crash sensors of this type has been increased to avoid late firing problems on marginal crashes.

Abstract: An inflator for an air bag-type passenger restraint system for a motor vehicle includes two cup-shaped members which are joined to form chambers for a gas generator and activating devices for activating the gas generator. The two members are coupled by threads which do not increase the weight of the inflator. The inflator also includes a filter for filtering particulate matter from the gas generator.

Abstract: A mechanical sensor for a passenger restraint system includes several primers are activating a gas generating component, and trigger means for setting the primers off in response to a velocity change. The sensor also includes an inertial mass for sensing the change in velocity. The sensor and the restraint system coact to arm the sensor when the sensor is inserted into the system.

Abstract: An accelerometer for a passenger restraint system in a motor vehicle includes a housing with tube for defining a path for an inertial element, and a biasing member for urging the inertial element toward a preselected position. A shock absorbent resilient ring is disposed between the tube and the housing and supports the tube.

Abstract: An accelerometer for a passenger restrain system in a motor vehicle includes a housing with a path for an inertial element, and spring members for urging the inertial element toward a preselected position. When the vehicle decelerates at a rate higher than a preset rate, the ball moves away from the preselected position and closes an electrical contact. A closed chamber may be used as a dampening element for the inertial element.

Abstract: The projectile fuze of this invention comprises a housing having a cavity which is substantially filled with a liquid. A body having an average specific gravity less than that of the fluid is accommodated in the cavity and is movable forwardly by buoyant forces which arise during projectile launch.