DE202005020687U1 - Airbag module for motor vehicle has second flow outlet opening connected to gas outlet opening of gas generator in such way that gas flowing from this outlet opening is directly at least partially into outer chamber - Google Patents

Abstract

The airbag module for a motor vehicle has a cover separating an outer chamber from an inner chamber, a gas inlet opening (3), and a first flow outlet opening (4) in the airbag (1) from which gas reaches the outer chamber through an opening section of the cover. The airbag module has a second flow outlet opening which is connected to the gas outlet opening of a gas generator in such a way that the gas flowing from this outlet opening is directly at least partially into the outer chamber.

Description

The The invention relates to an airbag module for a motor vehicle according to the preamble of claim 1.

One such airbag module comprises at least one cover for receiving a gas bag, wherein the cover an outer space of the airbag module of an interior of the airbag module separates, an airbag, the Protection of an occupant by an inflation opening with gas is inflatable, wherein the gas bag through an openable Area of the cover in the outside space the module is deployable and has a first outflow opening of the airbag module, in an inflated state of the airbag in the interior of the airbag module is arranged that emerges from the first outflow opening Gas through the opened openable Passing area in the outer space. Furthermore, such an airbag module comprises a gas generator, with which the gas for inflating the airbag can be generated, wherein this exits from at least one gas outlet opening of the gas generator and through the injection opening gets into the gas bag. The openable The area of the cover can be opened, for example, by the gas bag, by deploying along a main deployment direction of the airbag against the openable Area presses. At the cover can tear be provided, along which the openable area of the cover rip can.

Of the Invention is based on the object, the inflation of a Airbag module of the type mentioned to improve.

This Problem is solved by an airbag module with the features of the claim 1 solved.

After that the airbag module has a second outflow opening, which is gas-conducting in this way with the gas outlet the gas generator is connectable, that the effluent gas through the gas outlet opening at least partially directed to the exterior becomes.

hereby the inflation behavior of the airbag module can be advantageous to specific Situations are adjusted. For example, in an oop situation (Out-of-position situation) that is, a person to be protected by the gas bag is e.g. along a main deployment direction of the airbag insufficient from Gas bag spaced, early the second outflow opening (or a plurality of such outflow openings) open so that the gas bag, the smaller distance between person and gas bag accordingly, less inflated to the Person not to hurt.

Farther As a result, through the first outflow opening (or a plurality such openings) caused reduction of a building up in the gas bag during inflation Gas pressure advantageously supported. The arrangement of such (permanently open) first outflow openings in the interior of the airbag module allows due to the inflation high internal pressure in the airbag module good ventilation of the airbag.

On Reason for adjusting the retention performance Such an airbag module by means of the time of opening the second outflow opening (this Time represents an easily controllable parameter used to control the second outflow opening Software dar), such an airbag module across vehicle fleets on easiest way to adapt and use. this is also valid for one changing engine in each vehicle and for the adjustment to different legal requirements and consumer tests.

In a particularly preferred variant of the invention, the airbag module a second outflow opening, the one movable at least between two different positions Element is assigned, by its movement between the two Positions the second outflow opening in such a way gas-conducting with the gas outlet opening the gas generator is connectable, that the effluent gas through the gas outlet opening at least partially in the outdoor area is directed.

Preferably is the gas outlet the gas generator in such a manner gas-conductively connectable to the second outflow opening, that through the gas outlet outflowing Gas completely is passed into the outer space surrounding the airbag module. Consequently Inflation of the airbag, for example, completely prevented in the event of an oop situation become.

In an embodiment The invention provides that the second outflow opening in such Interior of the airbag module is arranged so that the gas through the openable Area through to the outside space arrives. A risk of injury to a person exists here not because of the openable Area is covered by the unfolding gas bag. In addition exists For example, in a driver's airbag design freedom with respect to a Driver remote side of the steering column or the steering wheel, there these at a discharge of gas through an openable area of a cover open in the direction of a driver the airbag module is not flow optimized or heat-resistant must become.

In Another variant of the invention, the gas bag for draining from gas to a third outflow opening, which is arranged in a deployed airbag in the outer space of the airbag module. Such third outflow openings are advantageous as they provide reliable venting of the stagnant, i.e., already unfolded airbag, allow.

Preferably is the third outlet opening in inflated state of the airbag at a the airbag module facing Side, i. a side facing away from the driver of the airbag, arranged, so that the air flowing out of the gas bag Gases are not direct or un-whirled towards the driver or through the gas bag to be protected Person are addressed.

Prefers is another third outflow opening provided, which serves to vent gas and a deployed airbag in the exterior of the Airbag module is arranged. In this case, the further third outflow opening is preferably located in the inflated state of the airbag transverse to the main deployment direction the airbag of the third outflow opening opposite, so that for example in a symmetrically constructed driver's airbag one possible symmetrical gas discharge behavior is effected and the gas bag (spatially) be vented evenly can.

Prefers the movable element is movably mounted in the airbag module, that it runs in a direction parallel to the main deployment direction of the airbag Movement direction is displaced.

Farther Preferably, the movable element is designed such that it in a parallel to the injection opening extending movement direction is displaceable and / or rotatable.

In According to a variant of the invention, the airbag module has a chamber, surrounding the gas generator of the airbag module. The chamber serves on the one hand for the protection of the airbag and on the other hand can be opened (closable) outflow openings (for Introducing gas into the exterior) or outflow opening (for Introducing gas into the gas bag) or by movements of components of the chamber form such outflow openings.

In an embodiment According to the invention, the movable element is at least through the gas generator formed, wherein preferably the gas generator in such a way at the chamber is determined that by a movement of the gas generator along the Movement direction, the second outflow opening is opened.

Preferably the gas generator is designed such that the movement of the gas generator along the direction of movement by a pressure generated during the outflow of gases is effected.

Prefers the chamber surrounding the gas generator is at least by a first and a second chamber member is formed, wherein one of the two chamber elements is connected to the gas generator, and wherein the two chamber elements a Recording for form the gas generator and movable along the direction of movement are mounted to each other so that they move along the direction of movement the gas generator can be moved away from each other, whereby the second outflow opening, for example in the form of a gap surrounding the gas generator at the chamber, that is, between two facing each other along the direction of movement circumferential edges the two chamber elements, is formed.

Preferably are the two chamber elements over along the direction of movement along extends extending guide elements movably mounted to each other. Such guide elements can, for example one piece be connected to one of the two chamber elements and along the direction of movement from this chamber element or another component of the chamber protrude. The other chamber member may then have recesses (e.g., through holes), in the these guide elements engage, allowing this other chamber element along the direction of movement movable on the guide elements is stored, that is, the guide elements glide through the recesses.

In A variant of the invention is provided that the gas bag the first chamber element is fixed, while the gas generator to the second chamber element is fixed. In a driver's airbag is the first chamber element, on which the gas bag is attached, along the main deployment direction of the airbag between the second Chamber element and arranged to be protected by the gas bag driver.

Especially Preferably, the gas generator is so on the second chamber element attached this by moving the gas generator along the direction of movement of the gas generator from the first chamber element is spaced, being along the direction of movement between the two chamber elements, the second outflow opening, for example in shape a gap surrounding the gas generator transverse to the direction of movement, formed. That is, the second outflow port is moved by this apart opened the two chamber elements.

In A variant of the invention is a releasable locking element provided for fixing the gas generator with respect to inflation opening serves. This can when inflating the airbag, the gas generator in its initial Fix position and can be controlled by an electronic control unit, so that depends from a specific accident situation at a given time an unlocking of the locking element can take place. Of the Gas generator, due to the pressure generated during the outflow of gas presses against the locking element, moves to a Loosen or Unlock the locking element, following the pressure, along the direction of movement of the injection opening of the airbag away in another position along the direction of movement of the initial Position is spaced.

Preferably the locking element is designed such that it is for fixing of the gas generator with respect the injection opening the airbag with the guide elements can be brought into engagement (the locking element can, for example, a form-fitting manner the guide elements snap in).

Especially Preferably, the locking element is set up and provided by a linear movement along a direction transverse to the direction of movement the gas generator extending unlocking at least partially except Engagement with the guide elements to be brought. Preferably, the locking element in this case along the Entriegelungsrichtung longitudinally extended, the unlocking along the direction of movement piercing slots on which the guide elements engage to lock the inflator. These can do this slots widening along the unlocking direction, wherein the guide elements along the direction of movement in a widened region of these slots can be inserted and have indentations into which the locking element, and although with border areas, which the oblong holes at their respective narrow ones Areas bordered, can intervene such that the guide elements Press along the direction of movement against these edge areas and are therefore set along the direction of movement.

One narrower and one opposite to the direction of unlocking widened area of a long hole can through a bottleneck or Narrowing of the elongated hole transverse to the direction of unlocking each other be divided. This is advantageous, since in this way a guide element with its ring-shaped circumferential notch can be pressed into the narrow area and held there by the bottleneck. Moving a in a narrow area guide element along the Unlocking in a widened area of a slot thus presupposes a predefinable minimum force and decreases the risk of unintentional unlocking the locking element.

In A variant of the invention is a motion generating device provided that the linear movement of the locking element to release of the locking element generated. In this case, this movement generating device prefers a piston, along the unlocking presses against the locking element, wherein the guide elements from the narrow areas of the oblong holes in the widened areas these slots be shifted so that they transversely to the direction of unlocking, i. can slide along the direction of movement in the oblong holes. At the locking elements can along the movement direction spacers be formed so that the locking element when sliding along the guide elements not completely except Engagement with the guide elements device. There is thus a maximum possible Distance between the two chamber elements along the direction of movement.

In an alternative variant of the invention is the second outlet opening or a plurality of such second outflow openings on a gas generator formed surrounding chamber, wherein the gas generator with respect to the Injection opening one fixed position (with the exception of compensatory movements the by a vibratory Storage of the gas generator possible are).

Preferably in this case, the movable element is movable in this chamber stored, that the second outflow opening by means of the movable element can be closed or opened.

In a variant of the invention it is provided that the chamber of Gas generator has a cylindrical wall, at the second Outflow opening formed is. Here, this cylindrical wall can cross the gas generator circulate to the main deployment direction of the airbag module airbag. In this case, the gas outlet opening of the gas generator (or a plurality of such gas outlet openings) of the second outflow opening (or. a corresponding plurality of such second outflow openings) transverse to the main deployment direction of the airbag, so that the gas first transverse to the main deployment direction from the chamber surrounding the gas generator flow out can.

Preferably, the movable member has a cylindrical ring with a recess, wherein the ring is mounted so displaceable on the wall of the chamber, that the recess by a displacement of the ring along the wall with the second outflow opening can be brought into coincidence. In this case, the recess of the ring may have the shape and size of the second outflow opening. With a plurality of second outflow openings, which may be formed along the cylindrical wall, the cylindrical ring has a corresponding plurality of recesses, which can be brought into coincidence by displacing the ring along the wall with these second outflow openings. Under a displacement of the ring is in this case understood a rotation of a cylindrical ring about its cylinder axis, ie, the cylindrical ring can rest against the wall and be rotated against the wall. However, translation of the ring is also possible (also in combination with a rotation).

The Recess (or the recesses) of the ring are so on the ring formed that the ring with respect the wall of the chamber is rotatable or slidable, in which the ring the second outlet opening (or the plurality of second outflow openings) Completely closes. Likewise the recesses be arranged on the ring in such a way that in a certain Position of the ring with respect to the wall all second outflow openings the wall opened are.

Especially Preferably, the ring for displacing the ring along the Direction of movement a recess with a transverse to the direction of movement extended edge (in a cylindrical wall rotates the Movement direction, the cylindrical wall preferably transversely to the main deployment direction of the airbag, i.e., transverse to the cylindrical axis of the cylindrical wall). In a variant of the invention, this recess is as a the ring interrupting gap formed (open ring), which is transverse extends to the direction of movement.

Preferably presses a piston of a motion generating device along the direction of movement against the edge of the recess, leaving the ring through the piston from an initial one Position in which the second outflow opening is closed, in another position is pushed, in which the second outflow opening is opened. By This advantageous tangential force is the ring only slightly deformed. To reinforce the Ring, the recess can be formed only partially on the ring i.e., not completely cut through the ring perpendicular to the direction of movement. In In this case, further preference is a narrow, the ring across provided for the direction of movement by cutting another recess, formed in the direction of movement behind the edge of the recess is and along this edge, i.e., transverse to the direction of movement, runs. presses now the piston of the movement generating device along the direction of movement against the edge of the recess, the ring is due to the further recess not pushed along the direction of movement, but pulled, what a further minimization of a caused by the piston action Deformation of the ring conditionally.

by virtue of the above minimization of the deformation of the ring can this be particularly easily formed (low wall thickness). Farther may be the recess of the ring used to open the second outlet opening the second outflow opening in Cover can be brought, as a result of minimizing the deformation of the Ringes turn out to be particularly large. The recess (or the recesses) can therefore be about half of one take the wall of the chamber facing surface of the ring.

In Another variant of the invention provides that the Gas generator surrounding chamber has a closable discharge opening, by the gas generated or released by the gas generator to inflate the gas bag can get into the gas bag. Prefers is the outflow opening (es This can also be a plurality of outflow openings act) on one of the injection opening the airbag facing outflow area arranged the chamber.

Especially Preferably, the movable element of the airbag module has a valve plate with an opening on, wherein the valve plate so movable on the wall of the Chamber is stored that the opening by a displacement (rotation) of the valve plate along the Ausströmbereiches with the outflow opening in Cover can be brought. At a plurality of at the outflow area trained outflow openings is at the valve plate a corresponding plurality of openings provided with the outflow openings Can be brought into cover by moving or twisting the valve plate are, causing the outflow openings opened the chamber can be.

Farther is the opening or are the openings formed on the valve plate, that the valve plate through Turn the valve plate with respect to the outflow area by a predeterminable angle all outflow openings the outflow area the chamber closes.

In a variant of the invention, it is provided that the valve plate is fixed to a peripheral, the airbag or the inflation opening of the airbag facing edge of the ring. That is, the movable element can be considered a flatter unilaterally open cylinder, wherein the ring forms the cylinder wall, and wherein the one bottom of this cylinder is formed by the (circular) valve plate.

Preferably is the opening the valve plate with respect to such the recess of the ring arranged that the outflow opening through the valve plate is closed when the second outlet opening of Wall of the chamber is open, wherein further preferably the outflow opening open is when the second outflow opening through the ring is closed. The same applies to a plurality of openings the valve plate or discharge openings the chamber and a plurality of second outflow openings of the chamber or recesses of the ring.

The additionally provided controllable outflow openings the chamber are advantageous because not just an additional flow For pressure relief of the airbag is made possible, but the way the gases in the gas bag can be completely blocked, so that a further reduction of the occupant load under oop conditions is possible.

With Advantage can the first, second and third outflow openings combined with each other and be coordinated with each other. This is replaced by the first and third outflow openings in the gas bag, the standard outlet openings, with which a gas bag usually Is provided. The coordination of the area of the first outflow openings with respect to the third outflow openings, i.e. the vote of the relationship of these two surfaces to each other, is done in such a way that the so-called in-positionperformance (The gas bag can unfold freely and unhindered) the one known standard gas bag corresponds.

While the first and third outflow openings permanently open are, are the second outflow openings switchable or controllable. That is, the opening of these second outflow openings is time-dependent after ignition the gas generator (example, by a pyrotechnic movement generating device). At an early opening of this second outflow openings the mass flow of the gas generator is below a gas bag connection (For example, by clamping a the inflation of the Gas bag circumferential edge area on a generator support) blown off and thus the degree of filling of the airbag, while at the same time by additional first and third outflow openings a more effective retention performance ("Softer" gas bag) for lighter Inmates (5% female). At a later opening of the switchable or controllable second outflow openings will the retention performance of serious inmates (50% and 95% man) improved. The unfolding The airbag can by a better rectangular detection of the acceleration values (Delay) a vehicle occupant in an accident situation triggering the airbag module supports be (early retention by fast airbag deployment). Overall, by the selectively selectable Time of opening the additional Outflow surface (second discharge openings) optimal damping dependent on the airbag be adjusted by the occupant. The determination of the opening time can be based on an occupant sensor (size, weight, position) and a Sensation crash-dependent Data (delay, Speed) automatically.

at oop situations, it is possible through very early opening of the switchable second outflow openings In addition, to minimize the pressure in the air bag module (i.e. the occupant acting load when shooting through the gas bag on to reduce.

in the Contrary to known airbag modules are in the airbag module Do not pass gases through openings a generator carrier further down, i. along the steering axis in the steering wheel body but along the steering axis and the main deployment direction of the airbag in the direction of the openable Area of the cover of the airbag module deflected. The exit The gases thus occur along the airbag through the openable area the cover. As in an oop situation, the airbag module near body parts of an occupant are sufficiently covered by the gas bag are Injuries from the stream be called Gases excluded. additionally be through the openable by the flow path described above Area of coverage does not affect adjacent assemblies. Additional measures on the steering wheel for warranty the outflow are therefore not necessary. At the same time it is prevented that e.g. hands damaged on the steering wheel be, as would be possible, for example, in an outflow through the steering wheel.

Further Advantages and features of the invention will become apparent from the following Description of the figures of exemplary embodiments become clear.

It demonstrate:

1 a plan view of a spread airbag with first and third outflow openings and an injection port,

2 2 is a schematic partially sectioned view of an airbag module according to the invention with first, second and third outflow openings,

3 a perspective view of an airbag module with closed second outlet openings,

4 a schematic sectional view of the in the 3 shown airbag module with open second outflow openings,

5 an exploded view of the in the 3 respectively. 4 shown airbag module,

6 a schematic view of the in the 5 shown airbag module (in an assembled state),

7 a pyrotechnic motion generating device with a detonator and a piston,

8th an exploded perspective view of a modification of the in 3 to 6 shown airbag module,

9 a perspective view of another modification of an airbag module according to the invention with second outflow openings, which are open to the outflow of gases,

10 a perspective view of the in the 9 shown airbag module with closed second outlet openings,

11 an exploded perspective view of the in the 9 and 10 shown airbag module,

12 a further variant of an airbag module according to the invention with a movably mounted gas generator and an opened second outflow opening,

13 a perspective view of the in the 12 shown airbag module with a closed second outlet opening,

14 an exploded perspective view of the in the 12 and 13 shown airbag module,

15 a detail of in the 14 shown airbag module,

16 a perspective view of a chamber with controllable outflow openings, which surrounds a gas generator of a variant of the airbag module according to the invention,

17 the in the 16 shown chamber with open outflow openings,

eighteen an exploded perspective view of the in the 16 and 17 shown airbag module.

1 shows a gas bag 1 , which is designed for use as a driver's bag (driver's airbag). The gas bag 1 is spread along an extent plane coincident with the paper plane and is made of two circular gas bag layers whose peripheral edges are sewn together, glued, woven or welded to form the gas bag.

The gas bag 1 has a page 2 on, in an inflated state of the gas bag 1 one in the 1 not shown airbag module 6 facing, or a driver, by the inflated airbag 1 is to be protected, facing away.

On the side 2 of the gas bag 1 is in the middle an injection opening 3 provided in the form of a circular opening through which gas for inflating the airbag 1 in the gas bag 1 can be initiated.

The gas bag 1 has two first outflow openings 4 , which are located on two opposite edge regions of the injection opening 3 are formed and along the injection opening 3 extend longitudinally. These two first outflow openings 4 are so adjacent to the injection opening 3 arranged that they are in the inflated state of the airbag 1 in an interior I of the airbag module 6 are arranged.

Furthermore, the gas bag 1 third outflow openings 5 on, each to the center of the circular injection opening 3 have a distance which is greater than the distance of the first outflow openings 4 to the center of the injection opening 3 , This distance is formed so large that the third outflow openings 5 in an inflated state of the airbag 1 outside the interior I of the airbag module 6 , in which the outer space A surrounding the airbag module are arranged.

2 shows in connection with 3 to 7 a partially sectioned view of the airbag module 6 which is a cover 7 which has a receptacle for the gas bag 1 of the airbag module 6 as well as for a gas generator 8th and one the gas generator 8th surrounding chamber 9 of the airbag module 6 forms.

The cover 7 of the airbag module 6 separates the interior I from the exterior A of the airbag module 6 from. At the cover 7 of the airbag module 6 is still an openable area 10 intended, which, for example, tears along predefined tears when the gas bag 1 as a result of getting in the gas bag 1 uplifting gas pressure along a main deployment direction of the airbag from the interior I forth against the openable area 10 the cover 7 of the airbag module 6 suppressed. Under the interior I while the space is understood, the gas bag 8th in its deflated state. Along the main deployment direction H of the airbag 1 the interior I is through the unopened cover 7 limited.

2 shows the airbag module 6 After getting the gas bag 1 (in 2 shown in section) through the openable area 10 the cover 7 through into the outer space A of the airbag module 6 has spread, with the third outflow openings 5 of the gas bag 1 are arranged in the outer space A and the second outflow openings 4 in the interior I of the airbag module 6 are arranged. The flow path in the 2 schematically indicated by corresponding arrows.

While through the third outlet opening 5 that in the gas bag 1 gas can flow directly into the outer space A, the gas through the second outlet opening 4 first in the interior I and from there along the airbag 1 through the openable area 10 introduced into the exterior space A.

The the gas generator 8th surrounding chamber 9 is through a cap-shaped diffuser 11 , a generator carrier 12 , a floor plate 13 and a carrier 14 for the vibratory mounted gas generator 8th educated. The diffuser 11 is cap-shaped and protrudes along the main deployment direction H through the injection port 3 in the (inflated) airbag 1 into it, one being the injection opening 3 of the gas bag 1 circumferential edge region along the Hauptentfaltungsrichtung H of the airbag between a peripheral edge region 11a of the diffuser 11 and a peripheral edge area 12a , the one central, the blowing mouth 3 facing opening 12b of the generator carrier 12 rotates, is arranged and between these two along the main deployment direction H facing edge regions 11a . 12a is trapped (gas bag clamping).

The diffuser 11 and the generator carrier 12 are about four fasteners 11b which extends longitudinally along the main deployment direction H from the edge region 11a of the diffuser 11 stand out (the four fasteners 11b are along the annular edge area 11a equidistant to the respective nearest neighbor along the edge area 11a ) Are arranged. These four fasteners 11b are through appropriate holes 12b on the edge 12a of the generator carrier 12 are formed, guided so that free end portions of these fasteners 11b from one of the diffuser 11 opposite side of the edge area 12a of the generator carrier 12 protrude. These protruding free end sections are still in corresponding (continuous) holes 13a the bottom plate 13 introduced, with the holes 13a in cylindrical attachment areas 13b the bottom plate 13 are formed, which (as well as the holes 13a ) with the fasteners 11b and the main deployment direction H are aligned.

The bottom plate 13 has a central circular gas generator recess 13c along the main deployment direction H of the central opening 12c of the generator carrier 12 and the injection port 3 of the gas bag 1 is opposite.

In this gas generator recess 13c the bottom plate 13 is the essentially cylindrical gas generator 8th along the main deployment direction H introduced. The gas generator 8th is over one of the gas generator 8th transversely to the main deployment direction H protruding flange 8a that the gas generator 8th runs transversely to the main deployment direction H, vibratory with a trough-shaped carrier 14 connected. An oscillatory connection of the gas generator 8th over the flange 8a to the carrier 14 is not mandatory. Furthermore, the flange 8a even as a carrier 14 be shaped so that wearer 14 and gas generator 8th are directly connected.

The carrier 14 is at free ends of the end portions of the fasteners 11b passing through the holes 13a the bottom plate 13 are guided, fixed and closes the chamber 9 of the gas generator 8th at one of the diffuser 11 along the main unfolding direction H opposite side.

The generator carrier 12 also has a perpendicular to the central opening 12c of the generator carrier 12 oriented cylindrical wall 15 on top of the central opening 12c of the generator carrier 12 transversely to the main deployment direction H annularly rotates. On this wall 15 of the generator carrier 12 are a plurality of second outflow openings 15a formed by means of a movable member in the form of a cylindrical ring 16 can be closed or opened.

For this purpose, the cylindrical ring 16 formed such that it at one of the gas generator 8th facing inside of the cylindrical wall 15 is applied and along a direction transverse to the main deployment direction H extending direction of movement B, the cylindrical wall 15 runs transversely to the main deployment direction H, is displaceable between two positions, ie, the cylindrical ring 16 can zusammenzus around his with the main deployment direction rotating cylinder axis are rotated.

At the ring 16 are recesses 16a from the shape of the outflow openings 15a the wall 15 provided so along the cylindrical ring 16 are arranged so that they are completely in coincidence with the second outflow openings 15a the wall 15 can be brought. In the case of brought to cover second outflow openings 15a or recesses 16a are the second outflow openings 15a fully open, so through the gas generator 8th provided gases through the second outflow openings 15a in the interior I and from there into the outer space A of the airbag module 6 can reach. By turning or moving the ring 16 can the recesses 16a of the ring 16 out of coincidence with the second outflow openings 15a the wall 15 of the generator carrier 12 to be brought. In this case, the second outflow openings 15a completely through the ring 16 locked.

So that the cylindrical ring 16 for opening the initially closed outflow openings 15a along the direction of movement B can be moved to the bottom plate 13 a motion generating device 17 according to 7 provided in the form of a pyrotechnic actuator.

The motion generation device 17 according to 7 a detonator eighteen on, which can be controlled by means of an electronic control unit, that is, ignited and in a pressure chamber 19 in the bottom plate 13 is designed to generate an overpressure, one movable in the pressure chamber 19 mounted, longitudinally extended piston 20 along the direction of movement B from the pressure chamber 19 can squeeze out.

To transmit the piston movement is the piston 20 along the direction of movement B in a recess 21 of the ring 16 arranged the ring 16 along the direction of movement B interrupts, the piston 20 is arranged such that it passes through one in the pressure chamber 19 provided overpressure along the direction of movement B against a transversely to the direction of movement B extending edge 22 the recess 21 of the ring 16 presses, allowing this to open the second outflow openings 15a along the direction of movement B against the wall 15 is turned. At the recess 21 It can also be a recess 16a of the ring 16 act.

Advantageous with respect to the arrangement of the piston 20 in the recess 21 of the ring 16 is that the piston 20 along the direction of movement B between the piston 20 facing edge 22 the recess 21 and one the edge 22 along the direction of movement B opposite further edge of the recess 21 is arranged, in such a way that it is tangential to the ring 16 against the edge facing him 22 of the ring 16 can press. As a result, deformations are reduced, which can occur when such a piston 20 radially spaced from the ring 16 against a protruding from the ring area for rotating the ring against the wall 15 suppressed. That is, by the above-described arrangement of the piston 20 can the ring 16 manufactured material and weight optimized.

So the ring 16 safely along the wall 15 of the generator carrier 12 through the piston 20 can be moved to the generator carrier 12 and / or the bottom plate 13 Guiding means provided, which the cylindrical ring 16 along the direction of movement B lead. The bottom plate 13 has such a guide means, in the form of a gas generator recess 13c circumferential step, along the one of the bottom plate 13 facing edge of the ring 16 can slide.

8th shows a modification of the in 5 shown airbag module 6 , unlike the 5 the ring 16 not along the direction of movement B through the recess 21 is interrupted. The recess 21 of the ring 16 is here at the bottom plate 13 facing edge of the ring 16 formed, in such a way that also a transverse to the direction of movement B edge 22 the recess 21 is formed, against which the piston 20 to move the ring 16 can press. However, in the case of 8th illustrated modification of the airbag module 6 the ring 16 not like in the 5 through the piston 20 pushed along the direction of movement B, but by the against the edge 22 pushing pistons 20 pulled, because in the direction of movement B in front of the edge 22 the recess 21 of the ring 16 one parallel to the edge 22 extending further recess 23 is formed in the form of a gap, which forms the ring 16 interrupts. This will make the ring 16 through the along the direction of movement B against the edge 22 pushing pistons 20 not pushed along the direction of movement B, but by the against the edge 22 pushing pistons 20 pulled along the direction of movement B. This is advantageous, as this one through the piston 20 caused deformation of the ring 16 can be effectively reduced.

9 shows in connection with 10 and 11 another variation of the in the 5 respectively. 8th shown airbag module 6 , unlike the 5 respectively. 8th a recess 21 on the ring 16 is provided, which is the ring 16 does not interrupt, ie, the ring 16 is self-contained, so that the piston 20 who is moving the ring 16 against the edge 22 this recess 21 pushes the ring 16 along the direction of movement B pushes. So the ring 16 in this case less strongly by the piston 20 when moving against the wall 15 is deformed, it has perpendicular to the direction of movement B a substantially U-shaped cross-section or a comparable profiling.

12 shows in connection with 13 and 14 an alternative variant of an airbag module 6 , unlike the 5 . 8th and 11 the movable element is not through a ring 16 is formed, but by the gas generator 8th itself, which is slidable along the main deployment direction H between two positions. In contrast to the 5 . 8th and 11 can do this on a base plate 13 be waived. The the gas generator 8th surrounding chamber 9 is formed in this case by at least a first and a second chamber element, namely the generator carrier 12 as the first chamber element, along the main deployment direction H the trough-shaped carrier 14 as opposed to the second chamber element, on which a central Gasgeneratorausnehmung 14a is formed, through which a free end portion of the gas generator 8th protruding along the main deployment direction H, wherein the gas generator 8th one the gas generator 8th revolving and from the gas generator 8th protruding flange 8a over which the gas generator 8th at one the gas generator recess 14a is stored along the main deployment direction H of an injection opening, not shown 3 of the gas bag 1 of the airbag module 6 is opposite and facing this.

The carrier 14 has a peripheral edge area 14c on, the generator carrier 12 is facing along the main deployment direction H and at this to the formation of the gas generator 8th surrounding chamber 9 can be present.

On the central opening 12c of the generator carrier 12 sits the cap-shaped diffuser 11 wherein, as described above, between the diffuser 11 and the generator carrier 12 the gas bag 1 with his the blowing hole 3 encircling edge area is clamped. From the diffuser 11 stand, as described above, fasteners 11b starting with the fasteners 11b aligned holes 12b of the generator carrier 12 and with these holes 12b aligned holes 14b of the carrier 14 as well as with the holes 14b of the carrier 14 aligned oblong holes 24a a locking element 24 are guided and extending along the main deployment direction H longitudinally formed nuts 25 are bolted.

The nuts 25 are formed so that they are in one with the fastening means 11b screwed state along the main deployment direction H in the slots 24a of the locking element 24 and those with the fasteners 11b aligned holes 14b of the carrier 14 are introduced so that the carrier 14 along the main deployment direction H on the nuts 25 along the main deployment direction H can slide. That is, the nuts 25 form guide elements for the gas generator 8th and the carrier 14 (Second chamber element), thereby by a during inflation of the airbag 1 acting pressure along a direction opposite to the main deployment direction H extending movement direction B by the guide elements 25 can be performed.

To the gas generator 8th in its initial position, in this position, the second outflow opening is closed when inflating the airbag 1 to fix, is the locking element 24 provided, that with the guide elements 25 is engageable that the gas generator 8th with the carrier 14 along the direction of movement B against the locking element 24 can push (due to the pressure) while in its initial position with respect to the injection opening 3 is held, that is, over the flange 8a of the gas generator 8th with the gas generator 8th connected carriers 14 lies with his the generator carrier 12 facing edge area 14c on the generator carrier 12 on, so that along the main deployment direction H between the carrier 14 and the generator carrier 12 no gas or only comparatively minor amounts of gas from the gas generator 8th surrounding chamber 9 can escape (so it is not necessary that the edge area 14c of the carrier 14 sealing on the generator support 12 applied).

By means of a (further) movement generating device 26 in a pressure chamber by means of a detonator 27 provides an overpressure, which is a piston 28 along a direction transverse to the direction B of the gas generator 8th oriented unlocking direction E from the pressure chamber of the movement generating device 26 pushes out, the locking element 24 unlocked.

The piston 28 the movement generating device 26 is this with respect to the locking element 24 arranged that this linear along the unlocking direction E by the piston 28 is moved. As a result, the locking element gets 24 out of engagement with notches 25a the guide elements 25 so that the gas generator 8th as a result of the pressure exerted during inflation of the gas bag 1 acts along the direction of movement B of the injection port 3 of the gas bag 1 is spaced. This removes the with the gas generator 8th connected carriers 12 , and its edge area 14c , from the generator carrier 12 so that between the edge area 14c of the Trä gers 14 and the generator carrier 12 a the gas generator 8th circumferential gap is formed, the second outflow opening 15a forms. This position of the gas generator 8th or the carrier 14 is in the 12 shown. In contrast, shows 13 the initial position of the gas generator 8th or the carrier 14 with one to the generator carrier 12 adjacent edge area 14c of the carrier 14 , This corresponds to a sealed second outflow opening 15a ,

15 shows a detail of the in the 12 to 14 shown airbag module 6 , The principle according to which the substantially annular locking element 24 that the wearer 14 along the main deployment direction H, with the guide elements 25 can be brought into engagement.

For this purpose, the locking element 24 the oblong holes 24a on, which extend along the unlocking direction E, wherein the slots A widen along the unlocking direction E and, accordingly, each a narrow range 24c have along the unlocking E a widened area 24b a long hole 24a and by means of a narrowing of this widened area 24b is divided.

The notches 25a the guide elements 25 are annular and rotate around the guide elements 25 transverse to the direction B. The outer diameter of the notches 25a the guide elements 25 is just so big that the guide elements 25 with their notches 25a in the narrow areas 24c the long holes 24a can be pressed and by the constrictions between the narrow areas 24c and the widened areas 24b in the narrow areas 24c engage. In this position, the guide elements 25 now no longer be moved along the direction of movement B. In the event that the second outlet opening 15a should be opened, ie, the carrier 14 or the gas generator 8th should along the direction of movement B from the generator carrier 12 to be moved away becomes the detonator 27 the movement generating device 26 ignited and the piston 28 thereby along the unlocking direction E against the locking element 24 pressed so that the narrow areas 24c the long holes 24a from the notches 25a the guide elements 25 pressed and the widened areas 24b to the guide elements 25 be relocated. Thus, the locking element gets 24 out of engagement with notches 25a the guide elements 25 because the outer diameter of the guide elements 25 spaced apart from the notches 25a smaller than the diameter of the expanded areas 24b the long holes 24a , That is, the locking element 24 can now together with the carrier 14 and the inflator attached thereto 8th along the direction of movement B on the guide elements 25 slide.

16 shows in connection with 17 and eighteen a perspective, fragmentary view and exploded view of an airbag module 6 , whose generator carrier 12 in contrast to the embodiments of the generator carrier shown above 12 no permanently opened central opening 12c but a plurality of radially arranged outflow openings 29 , through the gas from the chamber 9 of the airbag module 26 through the injection opening 3 in the gas bag 1 can get. These are these outflow openings 29 along the main deployment direction H of the airbag 1 the injection opening 3 facing and lie this along the main deployment direction H opposite.

The outflow openings 29 can be designed in such a way that the gas used to inflate the airbag 1 through these outflow openings 29 passes through, through the special design of the outflow openings 29 is swirled, leaving the diffuser 11 is dispensable. That is, in the 16 to eighteen illustrated airbag module 6 only has a clamping ring 30 on, at which the generator carrier 12 facing edge area 11a is formed (see 5 ), the one the blowing 3 circumferential edge region of the gas bag 1 against the generator carrier 12 pushes and the gas bag 1 thus on the generator carrier 12 sets.

From the clamping ring 30 stand along the main deployment direction H, the fasteners 11b from, according to the above-described embodiments of the airbag module 6 ,

For closing the outflow openings 29 of the generator carrier 12 is on the ring 16 in contrast to 2 to 11 a valve plate 32 formed having a plurality of openings 32a having, with the outflow openings 29 the outflow area 31 of the generator carrier 12 can be brought into cover. For this purpose, the valve plate 32 with the ring attached 16 (Ring 16 and valve plate 32 may be integrally formed) are rotated along a transverse to the main deployment direction H extending movement direction B, ie, the valve plate 32 can be a perpendicular to the valve plate 32 standing axis, which coincides with the main deployment direction H, are rotated, the openings 32a the valve plate 32 with the outflow openings 29 the outflow area 31 can be brought to cover - the outflow 29 are open - or the outflow openings 29 by means of the valve plate 32 are completely lockable. As the valve plate 32 With the ring 16 coupled, the valve plate can 32 about in the 2 to 11 illustrated movement generating device 17 be moved along the direction of movement B. The outflow openings 29 are so at the outflow area 31 of the generator carrier 12 formed that at through the valve plate 32 closed outflow openings 29 the second outflow openings 15a the cylindrical wall 15 of the generator carrier 12 are open and that the outflow openings 15a through the ring 16 are closed when the outflow openings 29 are open, ie, with the on the valve plate 32 trained openings 32a to be in cover.

Of course, it is also possible to combine the embodiments described above. The gas generator 8th can, for example, according to 14 be formed movable along the direction of movement B, wherein additionally the central opening 12c of the generator carrier 12 through a discharge area 31 with corresponding outflow openings 29 according to the eighteen can be equipped, so that in the 14 illustrated central opening 12c of the generator carrier 12 by means of a valve plate 32 is closable. For this purpose, a respective movement generating device according to the 7 intended.

Claims (40)

Airbag module for a motor vehicle, comprising - a cover ( 7 ), for receiving a gas bag ( 1 ), which has an outer space (A) of the airbag module ( 6 ) of an interior (I) of the airbag module ( 6 ) separates, - an airbag ( 1 ) for protecting an occupant through an injection opening ( 3 ) is inflatable with gas and through an openable area ( 10 ) of the cover ( 7 ) through into the outer space (A) of the airbag module ( 6 ) is unfoldable, - a first outflow opening ( 4 ) of the airbag ( 1 ), which in an inflated state of the airbag ( 1 ) in the interior (I) of the airbag module ( 6 ) is arranged, that from the first outflow opening ( 4 ) escaping gas through the openable area ( 10 ) of the cover ( 7 ) passes through into the outer space (A), and - a gas generator ( 8th ), with which the gas for inflating the airbag ( 1 ) is generated from at least one gas outlet opening of the gas generator ( 8th ) and through the injection opening ( 3 ) in the gas bag ( 1 ), characterized in that the airbag module ( 6 ) a second outflow opening ( 15a ), which in such a gas-conducting manner with the gas outlet opening of the gas generator ( 8th ) is connectable, that the effluent gas through the gas outlet opening at least partially into the outer space (A) is passed. Airbag module according to claim 1, characterized in that the airbag module ( 6 ) a second outflow opening ( 15a ) having an element movable at least between two different positions ( 8th . 14 ; 16 ) is assigned by the movement between the two positions, the second outflow opening ( 15a ) gas-conducting with the gas outlet opening of the gas generator ( 8th ) is connectable, that the effluent gas through the gas outlet opening at least partially into the outer space (A) is passed. Airbag module according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the gas outlet opening of the gas generator ( 8th ) in such a way with the second outflow opening ( 15a ) is gas-conductively connectable, that the effluent gas through the gas outlet opening is passed completely into the outer space (A). Airbag module according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the second outflow opening ( 15a ) is arranged such that from the second outflow opening ( 15a ) escaping gas in the interior I and from there through the openable area ( 10 ) passes through into the outer space (A). Airbag module according to claim 4, characterized in that the second outflow opening ( 15a ) is arranged such that from the second outflow opening ( 15a ) escaping gas directly into the interior I outside the airbag ( 1 ) and from there through the openable area ( 10 ) passes through into the outer space (A). Airbag module according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the gas bag ( 1 ) for discharging gas, a third outflow opening ( 5 ), which in an unfolded gas bag ( 1 ) in the outer space (A) of the airbag module ( 6 ) is arranged. Airbag module according to claim 6, characterized in that the third outflow opening ( 5 ) in the inflated state of the airbag ( 1 ) on one of the airbag module ( 6 ) facing side ( 2 ) of the airbag ( 1 ) is arranged. Airbag module according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that the gas bag ( 1 ) for discharging gas another third outflow opening ( 5 ), which in an unfolded gas bag ( 1 ) in the outer space (A) of the airbag module ( 6 ) is arranged. Airbag module according to claim 6 and 8, characterized in that the further third outflow opening ( 5 ) of the third outflow opening ( 5 ) in the inflated state of the airbag ( 1 ) transverse to a main deployment direction (H) of the airbag ( 1 ) is opposite. Airbag module according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the movable element ( 8th . 14 ; 16 ) in a direction parallel to a main deployment direction (H) of the airbag ( 1 ) extending movement direction (B) is displaceable. Airbag module according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the movable element ( 8th . 14 ; 16 ) in a parallel to the injection opening ( 3 ) extending movement direction (B) is displaceable and / or rotatable. Airbag module according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a chamber ( 9 ) is provided, which the gas generator ( 8th ) surrounds. Airbag module according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the movable element, the gas generator ( 8th ). Airbag module according to claim 10 or 11 and claim 12 or 13, characterized in that the gas generator ( 8th ) so with the chamber ( 9 ) is connected by a movement of the gas generator ( 8th ) along the direction of movement (B), the second outflow opening ( 15a ) is released. Airbag module according to claim 14, characterized in that the gas generator ( 8th ) is designed such that the movement of the gas generator ( 8th ) along the direction of movement (B) by a pressure generated during the outflow of the gas. Airbag module according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that the chamber ( 9 ) of at least a first and a second chamber element ( 12 . 14 ) is formed, which are movably mounted to each other along the direction of movement (B). Airbag module according to claim 16, characterized in that the two chamber elements ( 12 . 14 ) along along the direction of movement (B) longitudinally extending guide elements ( 25 ) are movably mounted to each other. Airbag module according to claim 16 or 17, characterized in that the gas bag ( 1 ) on the first chamber element ( 12 ). Airbag module according to one of claims 16 to 18, characterized in that the gas generator ( 8th ) with the second chamber element ( 14 ) connected is. Airbag module according to one of claims 16 to 19, characterized in that the gas generator ( 8th ) in such a way with the second chamber element ( 14 ) is connected to it by a movement of the gas generator ( 8th ) along the direction of movement (B) of the first chamber element ( 12 ) is spaced, so that along the direction of movement (B) between the two chamber elements ( 12 . 14 ) the second outflow opening ( 15a ) trains. Airbag module according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a releasable locking element ( 24 ) for setting the gas generator ( 8th ). Airbag module according to claim 17 or one of claims 18 to 21 as far as dependent on claim 17, characterized in that the locking element ( 24 ) is designed such that it is for fixing the gas generator ( 8th ) with the guide elements ( 25 ) is engageable. Airbag module according to claim 10 or 11 and claim 22, characterized in that the locking element ( 24 ) is at least partially disengaged from the guide elements by a linear movement along a direction of unlocking (E) running transversely to the direction of movement (B). 25 ) can be brought. Airbag module according to claim 23, characterized in that the locking element ( 24 ) along the unlocking (E) longitudinally extending slots ( 24a ) into which the guide elements ( 25 ) for setting the gas generator ( 8th ) with respect to the injection opening ( 3 ) intervene. Airbag module according to claim 23 or 24, characterized by a movement generating device ( 26 ) for generating the linear movement of the locking element ( 24 ). Airbag module according to claim 25, characterized in that the movement-generating device ( 26 ) a piston ( 28 ), which for releasing the locking element ( 24 ) along the unlocking direction (E) against the locking element (FIG. 24 ) presses. Airbag module according to one of claims 1 to 11 and claim 12, characterized in that the second outflow opening ( 15a ) at the chamber ( 9 ) is trained. Airbag module according to claim 27, characterized in that the movable element is movable on the chamber ( 9 ) is mounted, that the second outflow opening ( 15a ) is closable with the movable element. Airbag module according to claim 27 or 28, characterized in that the chamber ( 9 ) a zy lindrische wall ( 15 ), in which the second outflow opening ( 15a ) is arranged. Airbag module according to claim 29, characterized in that the movable element comprises a cylindrical ring ( 16 ) with a recess ( 16a ), wherein the ring ( 16 ) so displaceable on the wall ( 15 ) the chamber ( 9 ) is arranged, that the recess ( 16a ) by moving the ring ( 16 ) along the wall ( 15 ) with the second outflow opening ( 15a ) can be brought into cover. Airbag module according to claim 30, characterized in that the ring ( 16 ) for moving the ring ( 16 ) along the direction of movement (B) has a recess ( 21 ) with a transverse to the direction of movement (B) oriented edge ( 22 ) having. Airbag module according to claim 31, characterized in that the recess ( 21 ) as a the ring ( 16 ) interrupting gap is formed, which extends transversely to the direction of movement (B). Airbag module according to claim 31, characterized in that along the edge ( 22 ) of the recess ( 21 ) a further recess ( 23 ) in the form of a ring ( 16 ) interrupting gap extends. Airbag module according to one of claims 26 to 32, characterized in that the movable element ( 16 ) by means of a motion generating device ( 17 ) is movable. Airbag module according to claim 33, characterized in that the movement-generating device ( 17 ) a piston ( 20 ), which is used to move the ring ( 16 ) along the direction of movement (B) against the edge ( 22 ) of the recess ( 21 ) presses. Airbag module according to one of claims 26 to 34, characterized in that the chamber ( 9 ) a closable outflow opening ( 29 ), by the gas for inflating the airbag ( 1 ) in the gas bag ( 1 ) can get. Airbag module according to claim 35, characterized in that the outflow opening ( 29 ) on one of the gas bag ( 1 ) facing outflow area ( 31 ) the chamber ( 9 ) is arranged. Airbag module according to one of claims 26 to 36, characterized in that the movable element is a valve plate ( 32 ) with an opening ( 32a ), wherein the valve plate ( 32 ), so displaceable on the wall ( 15 ) the chamber ( 9 ) is arranged that the opening ( 32a ) by moving the valve plate ( 32 ) along the outflow area ( 31 ) with the outflow opening ( 29 ) can be brought into cover. Airbag module according to one of claims 29 to 34 and claim 37, characterized in that the valve plate ( 32 ) on a circumferential, the gas bag ( 1 ) facing edge of the ring ( 16 ). Airbag module according to claim 39, characterized in that the opening ( 32a ) of the valve plate ( 32 ) with respect to the recess ( 16a ) of the ring ( 16 ) is arranged, that the outflow opening ( 29 ) through the valve plate ( 32 ) is closed when the second outflow opening ( 25a ) is open, and that the outflow opening ( 29 ) is open when the second outflow opening ( 15a ) through the ring ( 16 ) is closed.