Abstract: An apparatus and a method for producing inflation gas for use in inflating a vehicle occupant restraint are provided wherein a filter housed within a chamber of the apparatus effects gas redirection and particulate removal from at least a portion of the hot gas released from a gas generating material-containing first chamber of the apparatus, forming a hot gas having a significantly reduced particulate content. The apparatus includes a diffuser having one or more controlling orifices and exit ports to provide for the passage of inflation gas therethrough into the vehicle occupant restraint. There is at least an approximately 180.degree. cumulative change in gas direction between contacting the filter and the passage of the inflation gas into the diffuser.

Abstract: A filter assembly, as well as a treatment system and an inflator module assembly including such a filter assembly are provided. The filter assembly is mounted within the module diffuser housing, external the side or end of an inflator from which gas is emitted and is effective in the treatment of the gaseous emission. Such treatment can include the filtration of particulate from the gaseous emission as well as redirecting the flow of such emission in a desired manner.

Abstract: An apparatus and method suitable for use in inflating a vehicle occupant restraint are provided. The apparatus stores a gas generating material in a first chamber and stores a supply of gas under pressure in a second chamber. When ignited, the gas generating material produces a hot gas which contains particulate material. To effect particulate removal, housed within the container and extending about the gas exit nozzle of the first chamber is a filter structure. The filter structure forms inner and outer mixing zones within the second chamber wherein portions of the stored gas mix with the appropriately generated and/or treated gas, forming inflation gas. The inflation gas in turn is passed through a diffuser and into the vehicle occupant restraint.