DE102016122592A1 - Airbag for protecting a vehicle occupant, airbag module and vehicle occupant restraint system with such a gas bag - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a gas bag (10) for protecting a vehicle occupant (100), in particular for protecting a vehicle occupant seated in a rear seat of a vehicle, comprising a flexible sheath (15) comprising finger - like projections (20a, 20b, 20c) flexible sheath (15) with the finger-like extensions (20a, 20b, 20c) defines a gas expansion space and the finger-like extensions (20a, 20b, 20c) are arranged to each other such that the gas bag (10) assumes a three-dimensional shape in an inflated state and the finger-like extensions (20a, 20b, 20c) in the inflated state at least partially delimit a free space (14), wherein at least two extensions (20a, 20b) are connected to each other at their extension ends (28) to form a connecting chamber (30).

Description

The invention relates to an inflatable airbag for protecting a vehicle occupant according to the preamble of claim 1. Furthermore, the invention relates to a gas bag module with such a gas bag. Finally, in the context of the invention, a vehicle occupant restraint system with an airbag or an airbag module is specified.

An airbag of the type mentioned is, for example WO 2012/044245 A1 known. The known gas bag is part of a protective device for the head of a person, wherein the protective device comprises the gas bag and an outer shell. The gas bag comprises a flexible sleeve with finger-like extensions that defines a closed gas expansion space and is embedded in an outer bag made of a gas-permeable material, wherein the individual fingers of the sleeve engage in receiving pockets of the outer bag. It is provided that the outer bag defines the shape of the protective device in the inflated state of the gas bag. In other words, the outer bag limits the expansion of the inner gas bag, in particular of the finger-like extensions of the inner gas bag. This ensures that the protective device assumes the desired shape in the inflated state. This form is formed in the known protective device, in particular in the manner of a bicycle helmet, so that the inflated airbag surrounds the head of the person like a helper.

A disadvantage of the known protective device is the relatively high effort that must be operated to produce the inner gas bag and the outer bag. The separation of functions of inflatable airbag and shaping outer bag leads to a relatively complex design of the protective device and increases the production cost. This ultimately leads to increased production costs.

In the protective device known from the prior art, it is necessary that all finger-like extensions must be completely inflated with gas in the case of operation. Unless the concept of WO 2012/044245 A1 Applies to vehicle occupant restraint systems, it is necessary to provide a gas generator which fills all the finger-like extensions of the inflatable airbag with gas, wherein the finger-like projections form a relatively large gas expansion space.

The object of the invention is to provide an inflatable airbag for the protection of a person who has a simple structure and can be produced at low production costs. Furthermore, the gas bag should be developed in such a way that it is designed, in particular, to protect a vehicle occupant seated on a rear seat of a vehicle. In particular, the gas bag should be developed such that an adaptivity of the gas bag is ensured in the vehicle longitudinal direction. In the vehicle longitudinal direction and / or vehicle transverse direction, the shaping or the inflation behavior of the gas bag should be controllable.

Furthermore, a further developed (inflatable) gas bag should be able to be filled with smaller and, in particular, lighter gas generators.

Furthermore, the object of the invention is to provide an airbag module and a vehicle occupant restraint system with an inflatable airbag according to the invention.

According to the invention this object is achieved with regard to the gas bag by the subject of claim 1, with regard to the gas bag module by the subject of claim 15 and with regard to the vehicle occupant restraint system by the subject of claim 16.

Thus, the invention is based on the idea of specifying an (inflatable) gas bag for protecting a vehicle occupant, in particular for protecting a vehicle occupant seated on a rear seat of a vehicle, with a flexible casing comprising finger-like extensions. The flexible sheath bounds with the finger-like extensions a closed gas expansion space.

The finger-like extensions are arranged relative to one another in such a way that the gas bag assumes a three-dimensional shape in an inflated state and the finger-like extensions, at least in sections, delimit a free space when inflated. Preferably, the shell for receiving impact energy under deformation, in particular reduction, the free space is deformable.

Overall, the entire gas bag can assume a three-dimensional shape, which is indicated by a curvature of the entire shell. Due to the free space formed when a person hits the inflated gas bag therefore absorption of the impact energy not only by displacement of the gas disposed within the gas bag, but also by deformation of the shell, wherein the free space on impact of a person deformed, in particular reduced, is , The three-dimensional shape of the shell contributes to the stability of the gas bag.

In particular, such a section of the airbag, in particular of the inflated airbag, which is not filled with gas, which is generated by means of a gas generator, is to be understood as free space. has been. In other words, the free space is preferably (largely) filled with ambient air.

At least two extensions of the gas bag are connected to each other at their extension ends to form a connecting chamber. The extension end of an extension is the portion of a finger-like extension which, in the functional case of the gas bag, is last reached by an inflowing gas. The extension end is filled in the activated state of the gas bag as the last with gas.

In a finger-like extension, the extension end is, in other words, the fingertip.

At least two extensions are fluidly connected to each other at their extension ends to form a connection chamber. That is, between the two extensions, i. between the respective extension ends, a gas exchange is possible. In other words, the two extensions are also connected to each other in the activation state of the gas bag. Since the connection chamber allows fluid communication between the two extensions, gas exchange between the two extensions is possible in both directions. This means that the connecting chamber allows a gas exchange from a first extension to a second extension and from a second extension to a first extension.

The connecting chamber is in the inflated state substantially a horizontal chamber. As a horizontal chamber is such a connecting chamber to designate, which has a substantially horizontal extent.

The connecting chamber, in particular the horizontal chamber, is preferably variably expandable. The connection chamber thus enables a length adaptivity of the connection chamber.

Due to the three-dimensional shape of the gas bag and due to the formation of a free space that does not have to be filled with gas from a gas generator, the gas bag volume or the gas expansion space is smaller than in conventional gas bags or airbags designed. Due to the three-dimensional shape, the gas bag essentially only forms the outer jacket of a conventional gas bag and absorbs the impact energy not only by gas displacement but also by gas bag deformation. In this way it is possible to use smaller gas generators, which also involves an advantageous weight saving.

Due to the trained connecting chamber, in particular the horizontal chamber, the gas bag is adapted in particular for occupant protection for the rear rows of seats. As a seated in a rear seat of a vehicle occupant is thus not only the vehicle occupant to designate a first known back seat, but each vehicle occupant who is behind a vehicle seat placed in front of him.

Due to different longitudinal seat positions of a front seat, the distances to a seated on a rear seat of a vehicle occupant are variable. The variable expansion of the connecting chamber, in particular of the connecting chamber formed as a horizontal chamber, ensures adaptability of the gas bag in the vehicle longitudinal direction. Depending on the seat longitudinal position and the vehicle occupant position (in the back seat), the connection chamber may form partially or completely. In other words, the connection chamber is partially or completely fillable.

The at least one connection chamber may be from both directions, i. from the direction of both finger-like extensions, be filled with gas and increases the stability with full expansion of the gas bag in the vehicle longitudinal direction. The formation of the connecting chamber can be done by sewing and / or welding and / or gluing the two extension ends or the respective two textile blanks of the extensions.

The connection chamber and the two finger-like projections connected to each other by the connection chamber may confine a side opening of the three-dimensional shape. A side opening is formed in particular when only the extension ends of the finger-like extensions are connected to one another. The longitudinal edges of these two adjacent extensions are preferably not interconnected. Due to this, a side opening of the three-dimensional shape is formed. The side opening serves to form an additional free space. The additional free space causes the shell in the inflated state in addition to the absorption of impact energy is deformable. The side opening may have a substantially rectangular or dome-shaped shape.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the gas bag may have two finger-like extension pairs, which are connected to each other at their extension ends by a connecting chamber. In other words, the gas bag can have two connecting chambers, which in the inflated state substantially each form a horizontal chamber. As a finger-like extension pair are preferably two juxtaposed finger-like extensions to designate.

The two finger-like extension pairs are preferably mirror-symmetrical to one another in relation to a longitudinal plane of the inflatable airbag. A longitudinal plane of the inflatable airbag preferably runs parallel to the vehicle longitudinal direction. In relation to such a longitudinal plane, the two finger-like extension pairs may be formed substantially mirror-symmetrically. There are minor deviations from the mirror symmetry due to low tolerances in the manufacturing process possible.

The preferably two-formed connecting chambers can therefore be designed mirror-symmetrically to one another in the inflated state of the gas bag. Preferably, the connecting chambers, in particular the horizontal chambers, extend in the inflated state and / or in extension to the thighs of the vehicle occupant.

In a further embodiment of the gas bag according to the invention, it is possible that at least two juxtaposed finger-like extensions along their side contour connected to each other, in particular sewn and / or glued and / or welded, are. These extensions connected to one another along their side contour are preferably not the extensions of a finger-like extension pair, which are connected to one another to form a connection chamber. The at least one connecting chamber is formed, in particular, by the fact that, in the case of an extension pair, no connection takes place along the side contour. In a continuation pair, only one connection is formed in the region of the extension ends. However, an extension of the extension pair may be connected to another extension which is not part of the extension pair. As a side contour of a finger-like extension, in particular the longitudinal contour recognizable in the inflated state is to be understood. This runs from a central portion of the airbag or from an upper airbag bubble down, i. in the direction of the vehicle floor.

At least one finger-like extension, preferably two finger-like extensions, has / have, in a production state of the cover, an extension end projecting angled from a first extension section. The projecting extension end can protrude at an angle of at least 45 °, in particular at an angle of at least 50 °, in particular at an angle of at least 60 °, in particular at an angle of at least 70 °, in particular at an angle of at least 80 °. Preferably, the protruding extension in relation to a first extension portion is formed at a maximum angle of 110 °, in particular at an angle of at most 100 °, in particular at an angle of at most 90 °.

In a lateral plan view of the gas bag, an L-shaped finger-like projection is formed by the angled projecting extension end.

If the gas bag has at least two connecting chambers, the gas bag preferably has at least two finger-like extensions with an appendage end projecting at an angle. Preferably, the finger-like extension, which is to be connected to the angled projecting extension end, a slightly angled protruding extension end. This facilitates the connection with the second finger-like extension.

In a production state, the finger-like extensions of the flexible sheath are preferably at least partially spaced from one another. Since the finger-like projections are connected to each other at least in sections, gaps between the finger-like extensions are closed and the shell or the gas bag is thus forced into a three-dimensional shape. Depending on the shape of the individual finger-like extensions or the textile cut-outs or textile cut-outs between the finger-like extensions, different geometries of the inflatable airbag can be generated.

The connection of the finger-like extensions, in particular of at least two juxtaposed finger-like extensions, can be done for example by sewing. In general, it is preferred if at least two finger-like extensions are directly connected to each other, so that the finger-like projections in the inflated state abut each other directly. By separating the compound, the state of manufacture of the gas bag can be seen. In this production state, it is preferably provided that the finger-like extensions of the shell are at least partially spaced from each other. In other words, a textile cutout is preferably provided between the individual fingers. This textile cutout can be formed by removing textile material. In the manufacture of the gas bag, the individual fingers are pulled together and connected directly to each other, whereby the shell bulges or curves or generally assumes a three-dimensional geometry. This is recognizable especially in the inflated state of the gas bag. In other words, it is possible that the three-dimensional shape of the inflated airbag is determined by connecting the finger-like extensions of the shell.

In particular, an enlarged textile cutout is provided in the region of the side opening of the three-dimensional shape to be produced. While the two extension ends to be joined are arranged relatively close to one another or have a relatively small textile cut-out, the textile cut-out of the later side opening is relatively large-scale. The later shape of the side opening can be determined by the textile section between the two finger-like extensions of the extension pair.

Preferably, it is provided that the sheath is formed by at least two textile blanks, which at their edges to form the closed gas expansion space firmly connected to each other, in particular sewn and / or glued and / or welded, are. The textile blanks preferably comprise a plurality of spaced-apart finger-like extension tabs, which form the finger-like extensions by the connection at their edges. The production of the gas bag by two textile blanks which are joined together at their edges, is particularly easy and allows a complex geometry or outer contour of the shell. For the sake of better readability, in the context of the present application both the (flat) extension tabs of the textile blanks which later, ie in a subsequent production stage, form the finger-like extensions of the envelope and the finger-like extensions of the envelope provide a gas expansion space in the form of chambers , referred to as "finger-like extensions" of the shell or the textile blank.

It is preferred if the textile blanks are of identical design, in particular with regard to their geometry or shaping. The textile blanks can be stacked flat and other edges at least partially connected to each other to form the flexible, preferably at least temporary gas-tight envelope.

The shell may assume a cup-shaped or hemispherical or trough-shaped or shell-shaped contour when inflated. Particularly preferred is a shell-shaped contour of the shell in the inflated state.

The shell may have an upper side and a lower side, wherein the upper side in the inflated state of the shell preferably occupies a larger area than the lower side. The top and bottom may each be concave or convexly curved. In particular, the top and the bottom may each be curved in the same direction.

In particular, when the upper side and the lower side are curved in the same way, the three-dimensional shape of the gas bag results in a larger area requirement for the upper side than for the lower side.

The finger-like extensions can form an outer jacket when inflated, at least partially surrounding the space. In addition, with the help of at least one connecting chamber, an additional free space, namely a lateral clearance created. In particular, the underside of the shell can limit the free space. The additional space also creates a lateral access to the open space. In particular, the underside of the shell thus provides the geometric shape of the free space.

In one embodiment of the invention, the gas bag comprises at least one control band, which is guided at least in sections through the free space.

A control band may be present in various embodiments. For example, as a cross-catching belt and / or as a tissue-catching band, in particular a diagonal tissue-catching band, and / or as a positioning strap band.

In a further embodiment of the invention, at least one transverse fishing band is formed in the free space, which is connected to at least one connecting chamber, in particular to two connecting chambers. A cross-catching belt ensures a maintenance of the dimensional stability of the gas bag. In particular during the inflation phase of the gas bag, the structure of the gas bag, in particular the three-dimensional shape of the gas bag, is maintained. In particular, at least one transverse trapping strip has the effect that the structure of the gas bag, in particular the three-dimensional shape of the gas bag, is maintained in the vehicle transverse direction and no widening of the three-dimensional shape takes place in the vehicle transverse direction.

Preferably, at least two transverse fishing bands are formed in the free space. Both cross-fishing bands are preferably connected in each case on one side to a first connecting chamber and in each case on a second side to the second connecting chamber. A first transverse fishing band can be formed, in particular in the connecting region of the first extension end, with the second extension end of two finger-like extensions, which are connected to one another by a connecting chamber. A second cross-fishing band may be formed, for example, in the transition region of a first extension section to the extension end of a finger-like extension. In the formation of the finger-like projection as the L-shape is the second Cross-catching belt preferably arranged at the level of the transition region of the two L-legs.

Preferably, the at least one cross-fishing band is mounted on the inside of the gas bag. The inner side is the side of the inflated gas bag, which faces the free space or which limits the free space. Preferably, the transverse fishing band is sewn and / or glued and / or welded to at least one connecting chamber, in particular to an inner side of the at least one connecting chamber.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the gas bag may comprise a tissue catching band, in particular a diagonal tissue-catching band, which limits the deflection of the inflated or partially inflated gas bag in the vehicle longitudinal direction.

A first catching band end of the tissue catching band may be fastened in the inflated state of the gas bag in the region of an end of the gas bag facing the vehicle occupant. On the other hand, a second tether end may be fastened in the region of the gas inflow opening or on a gas generator.

Preferably, the first tether end is attached to at least one extension end, in particular to a free-space facing side of an extension end.

The tissue capture tape may have a triangular shape in a longitudinal section. As a longitudinal section is such a section through the gas bag to understand, which is substantially parallel to the vehicle longitudinal axis. The longest side of the triangle indicates the direction of propagation of the tissue catching band in the activated state of the airbag. In essence, the tissue capture band, in particular the diagonal tissue capture band, extends from the region of the gas inflow opening or, starting from a gas generator to the gas bag, forwards and downwards. The front area of the airbag is to be understood as the area that faces the vehicle occupant and thus points away from a vehicle seat to which the airbag is fastened.

A tissue capture band, in particular a diagonal tissue capture band, limits the expansion of the gas bag in the vehicle longitudinal direction, so that the vehicle occupant attachment through the gas bag is minimized. Due to the described arrangement of the tissue-catching band, in particular of the diagonal tissue-catching band, a deeper positioning of the gas-bag in the vehicle Z-direction is possible. This deeper positioning is achieved due to an interaction of the tissue fascia, particularly the diagonal tissue fascia, with an upper airbag bladder. As a vehicle Z-direction is the third axis, which is formed both perpendicular to the vehicle longitudinal axis and perpendicular to the vehicle transverse axis. In other words, the vehicle-Z-direction is to be understood to mean the extent in vehicle height. The upper airbag bladder is to be understood as the central region of the airbag, from which the finger-like extensions are bent downwards. The tissue capture band, particularly the diagonal tissue capture band, extends mostly below the upper airbag bladder.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the gas bag may comprise a positioning strap fastened to a first positioning strap end on a textile blank. The textile blank is attached in the inflated state of the gas bag at the vehicle occupant facing end of the gas bag. In particular, the textile blank is attached to an open-sided (inside) side. The textile blank is a textile blank formed separately from the textile of the gas bag. In particular, the textile blank has the shape of a triangle, in particular an isosceles triangle. Preferably, the textile blank is sewn on the entire height with a gas bag seam. The end of the airbag facing the vehicle occupant may also be referred to as the front end or front section of the airbag. The textile blank is preferably on the inside, i. on the side facing the free space, attached.

A second positioning belt end may be connected to a front vehicle seat, in particular to the lower seat back of the front vehicle seat. As a front vehicle seat, not only a vehicle seat of the first row of vehicles or the first row of seats to understand, but any vehicle seat, which is arranged in front of a vehicle occupant sitting on a back seat of a vehicle. Since family vans and buses can have multiple rear seats or several rows of rear seats, the front vehicle seat is always to be understood as the vehicle seat, which is arranged in front of a relevant rear seat. The front vehicle seat may thus be a seat of a second vehicle row.

The second positioning belt end may in particular be connected to the lower seat back of the front vehicle seat. Preferably, the second Positionierungsgurtbandende is attached or attached at an attachment point to the lower seat back.

The positioning strap is used to control the deflection of the airbag in the vehicle longitudinal direction. This will be the Minimized occupant involvement. In addition, a deeper positioning of the gas bag in the vehicle Z direction, ie in the vehicle height, is possible. This also applies to variable seat back angles. With variable seat back angles, a static and dynamic compensation of the swiveling movement of the gas bag takes place upwards. Thus, an identical airbag positioning is ensured with variable seat back angles by the positioning Gurtband invention.

The deeper positioning of the gas bag may result from a generated tilting moment due to the interaction of the positioning strap with the at least one transverse fishing band.

The textile blank, in particular the triangular textile blank, distributes the belt forces occurring by attaching the positioning webbing to a wider connecting seam. In particular, the stresses at the seam are minimized. The textile blank is, as already mentioned, sewn on the entire height preferably with a gas bag seam. The gas bag seam is a front gas bag seam. The height of the textile blank, in particular of the triangular textile blank is determined by the longest side of the triangle. This longest side of the triangle is preferably sewn to a front airbag seam. The textile blank controls the airbag geometry. Preferably, the gas bag geometry is controlled specifically in the contact area of the gas bag with a vehicle occupant. The positioning belt, in particular the first Positionierungsgurtbandende is preferably sewn to the textile blank. Alternatively or additionally, it is possible that the first positioning Gurtbandende is welded to the fabric blank and / or glued.

Preferably, a controllable adjustment of the positioning Gurtbandlänge takes place at different Entfaltungsfreiräumen. These different development clearances are caused, for example, by the seat longitudinal position and / or by objects in the deployment area and / or by the OOP situation (out of position situation).

According to a sidelined aspect, the invention is based on the idea to provide an airbag module with a previously described airbag and a gas generator, which is connected to the airbag.

The gas generator may, for example, be arranged in a central gas distribution region of the envelope from which the finger-like extensions originate. In the inflated state, the central gas distribution area is, for example, the upper airbag bladder. This ensures that the gas generated in the gas generator is distributed quickly and uniformly over the finger-like extensions or the chambers formed by the finger-like extensions. This results in a uniform expansion of the gas bag, which is desired in many applications.

Alternatively, it is conceivable that the gas generator is arranged in an inlet section or inflow section of the gas bag. A second section of the inflatable gas envelope is connected to the inlet section or inflow section, this second section having the finger-like extensions. In this case, there is a first expansion of the gas bag in the introduction section or in the inflow section, wherein starting from this introduction section, the gas generated by the gas generator is conducted into the finger-like extensions. The introduction section or inflow section of the gas bag may be referred to as an upper gas bag bladder in the inflated state of the gas bag.

Another secondary aspect of the invention relates to a vehicle occupant restraint system with a previously described airbag or the gas bag module described above. Such a vehicle occupant restraint system is designed in particular as a restraint system for a vehicle occupant seated on a rear seat of a vehicle. Such a vehicle occupant restraint system can be integrated, for example, in motor vehicles, preferably in multi-lane motor vehicles, such as cars or buses.

This results in similar advantages as have already been described in connection with the gas bag according to the invention and / or the gas bag module according to the invention.

The invention is explained in more detail below on the basis of exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings.

• 1a einen erfindungsgemäßen aufgeblasenen Gassack in einer Seitenansicht;
• 1b einen erfindungsgemäßen aufgeblasenen Gassack gemäß 1b in einer Vorderansicht;
• 2 einen Textilzuschnitt für eine Hülle eines erfindungsgemäßen Gassacks gemäß 1a und 1b;
• 3a und 3b einen erfindungsgemäßen Gassack mit Querfangbändern;
• 4 einen erfindungsgemäßen Gassack mit einem Gewebefangband;
• 5 einen erfindungsgemäßen Gassack mit einem Positionierungsgurtband; und
• 6 einen erfindungsgemäßen Gassack in einem montierten Zustand.

Show:

• 1a an inflated airbag according to the invention in a side view;
• 1b an inflated gas bag according to the invention 1b in a front view;
• 2 a textile blank for a shell of a gas bag according to the invention 1a and 1b ;
• 3a and 3b an airbag according to the invention with cross-catching bands;
• 4 an airbag according to the invention with a tissue capture tape;
• 5 an airbag according to the invention with a positioning Gurtband; and
• 6 an airbag according to the invention in an assembled state.

The same reference numbers are used below for identical and equivalent components.

The attached figures each show an inflatable airbag 10 which serves to protect a vehicle occupant seated in a rear seat of a vehicle. The illustrated gas bags 10 are designed as integrated in a vehicle gas bags.

In 1a is an inflated gas bag 10 illustrated, which serves to protect a seated in a rear seat of a vehicle occupant. The gas bag 10 has a flexible shell 15 on, in the example shown several finger-like extensions 20a . 20b and 20c having. The extensions 20a . 20b and 20c limit a closed gas expansion space. The gas expansion space is formed of a plurality of gas expansion space sections. The finger-like processes 20a . 20b and 20c are arranged to each other such that the gas bag 10 assumes a three-dimensional shape in the illustrated inflated state and the finger-like projections 20a . 20b and 20c in this inflated state, at least in sections, a free space 14 limit.

The flexible shell 15 is to absorb impact energy under deformation, in particular reduction, of the free space 14 deformable. The three-dimensional shape of the inflated gas bag 10 roughly corresponds to a three-dimensional shell shape. A free space opening 16 is formed in the direction of the legs of the vehicle occupant (not shown). Also visible is an upper airbag bladder 25 from each of the individual finger-like extensions 20a . 20b and 20c out. All extensions 20a . 20b and 20c are with the upper airbag bubble 25 fluid connect. That is, the finger-like appendages 20a . 20b and 20c starting from the upper airbag bladder 25 be filled with gas.

The two extensions 20a and 20b are at their extension ends 28 forming a connection chamber 30 connected with each other. The connection chamber 30 is in the illustrated inflated state of the gas bag 10 formed substantially as a horizontal chamber. The two finger-like processes 20a and 20b as well as the connection chamber 30 limit a side opening 18 the three-dimensional shape. Through the side opening 18 is a side access to the open space 14 possible. Preferably, this configuration is a connection chamber 30 both left and right of the longitudinal plane L (please refer 1b ) educated. The longitudinal plane L is formed substantially parallel to the vehicle longitudinal direction.

The connection chamber 30 allows gas exchange between the two finger-like extensions 20a and 20b , The two finger-like processes 20a and 20b form an extension pair 35 , In the example shown, the longitudinal edges 21 of the extensions 20a and 20b not connected. Due to the connection chamber 30 can be in the area of the two openings 18 additional deformation, in particular reduction, of the additional free space formed thereby takes place, so that a recording of impact energy takes place in the state of use.

As in 1b is indicated, the gas bag points 10 two extension pairs 35 on. In the illustrated front view, the viewing direction of a seated on a rear seat vehicle occupant is shown. It can be seen that several finger-like extensions, namely the extensions 20b and 20c interconnected, namely sewn together. This connection concerns the complete longitudinal edges. In other words, the finger-like extensions 20b and 20c along its side contour 22 sewn together.

The two indicated finger-like extension pairs 35 are in relation to a longitudinal plane L the inflated gas bag 10 formed mirror-symmetrical to each other.

As in 1a is shown, the extension has 20b in the illustrated side view substantially an L-shape. The horizontal thigh 29 the L-shape forms the connecting chamber 30 , The horizontal thigh 29 is as one of the first extension section 27 angled arranged extension section 29 educated.

In 2 is a shell 15 represented, consisting of two superimposed textile blanks 60 is formed. The stacked textile blanks 60 are at their edges 61 partially sewn together. The seam is dashed through the line 62 shown. The finger-like processes 20a . 20b and 20c are in the illustrated manufacturing state of the flexible sheath 15 through textile cutouts 65 . 65 ' separated from each other. The textile section 65 ' represents the later side opening 18 the inflated gas bag 10 dar. The textile cutouts 65 be by connecting the extensions 20c and 20b closed. The textile cut-outs 65 ' on the other hand, they are not closed. The textile blank 60 is in relation to the axis of symmetry S formed axisymmetric.

The finger-like processes 20b in the illustrated manufacturing state of the shell 15 in each case a first extension section 27 on, of which a continuation end 29 angled protrudes. With the help of the angled protruding extension end 29 will be like in 1a illustrated connection chamber 30 educated. For this purpose, the angled projecting extension end 29 with the end section 26 of the extension 20a connected. The connection is made such that the finger-like extension 20b with the finger-like extension 20a fluidly connected. Thus, there is no seam along the end edges 23 educated.

In the 3a and 3b is another embodiment of a gas bag according to the invention 10 shown. The shell shape 15 corresponds to the in 1a and 1b illustrated form. In addition, it is shown in the partially transparent representation that the gas bag 10 Cross-tethers 40a . 40b and 40c includes. In 3b is the gas bag 10 shown from below. That means that towards the open space 14 is looked.

In the open space 14 is a first cross-catcher 40a shown. This cross trap is in the transition region of the two extensions 20a and 20b educated. The cross-catcher 40a is on the inside 11 ie on the side of the gas bag 10 in the direction of the open space 14 points, trained. The cross-catcher 40a is with the connection chamber 30 and / or with the extensions 20a connected, in particular glued and / or sewn. Also shown is a second transverse fishing band 40b , This connects in particular the two connecting chambers 30 together. The second cross-catcher 40b is especially in the transition region of the extension 20b formed, the transition between the vertical and the horizontal leg of the extension 20b represents.

Furthermore, a third cross-catching band 40c educated. This connects the two extensions 20a at the far end 51 of the gas bag 10 together. The crossbands 40a . 40b and 40c are arranged in the vehicle transverse direction. The crossbands 40a . 40b and 40c serve the dimensional stability of the gas bag 10 ,

During the filling phase, the structure of the gas bag 10 due to the cross-straps 40a . 40b and 40c maintained. It is therefore no further expansion of the shell 15 possible in vehicle transverse direction.

In 4 on the other hand, it becomes a tissue catcher 70 shown. This is designed in particular as a diagonal tissue capture tape. The tissue catcher 70 limits the deflection of the inflated or partially inflated airbag 10 in vehicle longitudinal direction F _L , In other words, the connection of the vehicle occupant seated in a rear seat of a vehicle becomes 100 minimized. The tether 70 has a triangular contour, with the longest edge 75 the maximum deflection of the tissue catcher 70 certainly.

A first Fangbandende 71 of the tissue catcher 70 is in the inflated state of the gas bag 10 on to the vehicle occupants 100 pointing end 50 namely at the front end 50 of the gas bag 10 attached. The second Fangbandende 72 is on the other hand in the area of the gas inlet opening 76 attached. It is also possible that the tissue catching band 70 on the gas generator and / or on the front seat 110 is attached.

Preferably, the first tether end 71 on at least one extension end, in particular on a side facing the free space 11 attached to an extension end. The diagonal tissue catcher 70 extends in the illustrated inflated state of the gas bag 10 from the area of the gas generator to the front end 50 , The tissue catcher 70 causes a limitation of the gas bag deflection in the vehicle longitudinal direction F _L , In addition, a deeper positioning of the gas bag 10 in the vehicle Z direction or in connection with the vehicle height F _H through interaction of the tissue capture tape 70 with the upper airbag bladder 25 possible. In the example shown it can also be seen that the connecting chamber 30 , which is formed substantially as a horizontal chamber, in the region of the thighs of the vehicle occupant 100 unfolded or inflated.

In 5 is a positioning harness 80 shown. This is at a first positioning belt end 81 on a textile blank 90 attached. A second positioning belt end 82 is preferably on the other hand at the front of the vehicle 110 attached. For better clarity, the positioning strap 80 and the textile blank highlighted. In principle, the positioning strap run 80 and the textile blank 90 in the open space 14 of the gas bag 10 , In 6 this positioning is shown in more detail.

The textile blank 90 itself is in the inflated state of the gas bag 10 at the vehicle occupant facing front end 50 appropriate. In particular, the textile blank is 90 at one to the free space 14 facing inside 11 appropriate.

As in 6 is shown, the textile blank 90 the shape of a triangle. The textile blank 90 in triangular form is especially on entire height H with a gas bag seam 13 sutured. This gas bag seam 13 is for example in 1b shown. The gas bag seam 13 is the front airbag seam or at the front end 50 centrally formed airbag seam. In particular, the textile blank is 90 when sewing the textile blank 60 (please refer 2 ) between the two finger-like extensions 20c first placed and then to form the two juxtaposed finger-like extensions 20c when forming the gas bag seam 13 sewn on. Although the textile blank 90 and the positioning webbing 80 in the open space 14 and partially run between gas bag layers, these are in 6 highlighted for clarity.

The positioning strap 80 is preferably with the textile blank 90 sutured. As in 6 is the second positioning belt webbing end 82 with the lower backrest 115 of the front seat 110 connected. With the help of the positioning strap 80 is thus also the deflection in the vehicle longitudinal direction F _L of the gas bag 10 controlled. It also takes place in this context, a minimization of Inassenanschusses. Even with variable seatback angle, an identical airbag positioning due to the use of a positioning strap 80 ensured. The overall lower positioning of the gas bag 10 also results from the generated tilting moment due to the interaction of positioning strap 80 with the cross-straps 40a . 40b and 40c ,

In the gas bag 10 like this one in 6 is shown, in addition, a tissue catching band 70 like this one in 4 is shown, be formed.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

10

airbag

11

inside

13

Airbag seam

14

free space

15

shell

16

Clearance opening

18

side opening

20a, 20b, 20c

projections

21

longitudinal edge

22

side contour

23

end edge

25

upper airbag bubble

26

end

27

first extension section

28

Extension end

29

angled protruding extension end

30

connecting chamber

35

Extension pair

40a, 40b, 40c

Cross tether

50

front end airbag

51

rear end airbag

60

fabric cut

61

edge

62

seam

65, 65 '

textile cutout

70

Fabric tether

71

first tether end

72

second tether end

75

longest edge

76

Gas inlet opening

80

Positionierungsgurtband

81

first positioning belt end

82

second positioning goods band end

90

fabric cut

100

inmate

110

front seat

115

lower seat back

L

longitudinal plane

F _L

Vehicle longitudinal direction

F _H

vehicle height

H

Height triangle

S

axis of symmetry

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• WO 2012/044245 A1 [0002, 0004]

Claims (16)

A gas bag (10) for protecting a vehicle occupant (100), in particular for protecting a vehicle occupant seated in a rear seat of a vehicle, comprising a flexible sheath (15) comprising finger-like extensions (20a, 20b, 20c), the flexible sheath (15 ) with the finger-like extensions (20a, 20b, 20c) delimits a gas expansion space and the finger-like projections (20a, 20b, 20c) are arranged relative to one another such that the gas bag (10) assumes a three-dimensional shape in an inflated state and the finger-like extensions ( 20a, 20b, 20c) in the inflated state at least partially delimit a free space (14), at least two extensions (20a, 20b) being connected to one another at their extension ends (28) to form a connecting chamber (30). Airbag (10) after Claim 1 , characterized in that the connecting chamber (30) in the inflated state is substantially a horizontal chamber, which is preferably variably expandable. Airbag (10) after Claim 1 or 2 characterized in that the connecting chamber (30) and the two finger-like extensions (20a, 20b) interconnected to form the connecting chamber (30) define a side opening (18) of the three-dimensional shape. Airbag (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by two finger-like extension pairs (35) which are connected to each other at their extension ends (28) to form a connecting chamber (30). Airbag (10) after Claim 4 , characterized in that the two finger-like extension pairs (35) in relation to a longitudinal plane (L) of the gas bag (10) in the inflated state are mirror-symmetrical to each other. Airbag (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least two finger-like extensions (20b, 20c) arranged side by side along their side contour (22) connected to each other, in particular sewn and / or glued and / or welded, are. Airbag (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one finger-like extension (20b), preferably two finger-like extensions (20b), in a production state of the shell (15) an angled from a first extension portion (27) projecting extension end ( 29). Airbag (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the free space (14) at least one cross-fishing band (40a, 40b, 40c) is formed, which is connected to at least one connecting chamber (30), in particular with two connecting chambers (30) is. Airbag (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a tissue-catching band (70), in particular a diagonal tissue-catching band, which limits the deflection of the inflated or partially inflated airbag (10) in the vehicle longitudinal direction (F _L ). Airbag (10) after Claim 9 Characterized in that a first tether end (71) of the fabric tether (70) in the inflated state of the gas bag (10) in the region of the side facing the vehicle occupant end (50) of the gas bag (10) and / or a second tether end (72) in the region the gas inlet opening (76) or is attached to a gas generator. Airbag (10) after Claim 10 , characterized in that the first catching band end (71) is fastened to at least one extension end, in particular to a side (11) of the extension end (28) facing the free space (14). The gas bag (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a positioning strap (80) attached to a first Positionierungsgurtbandende (81) on a textile blank (90), wherein the textile blank (90) in the inflated state of the gas bag (10) in Area of the vehicle occupant facing end (51) of the gas bag (10) on a free space (14) facing side (11) is mounted. Airbag (10) after Claim 12 , characterized in that the textile blank (90) has the shape of a triangle, in particular an isosceles triangle, wherein preferably the textile blank (90) at the entire height (h) with a gas bag seam (13) is sewn. Airbag (10) after Claim 12 or 13 characterized in that a second positioning belt webbing end (92) is connected to a front vehicle seat (110), in particular to the lower seat back (115) of the front vehicle seat (110). Airbag module with an airbag (10) according to one of the preceding claims and a gas generator, which is connected to the inflatable airbag (10). Vehicle occupant restraint system, in particular restraint system for one on a back seat a vehicle occupant seated with a gas bag (10) according to one of Claims 1 to 14 or with a gas bag module after Claim 15 ,

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