JP2004338557A - Airbag device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an airbag device capable of responding to frequent collision prediction for protecting an obstacle and a vehicle itself, and quickly developing an airbag. <P>SOLUTION: The airbag 1 stored developably in a front part of the vehicle is constituted so as to be repeatedly developed and returned to a storing state. Electric fans 3 and 3a are used to develop the airbag 1. For securing the rising time of the electric fans 3 and 3a, this is previously driven from a prediction level having low collision possibility. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a vehicle airbag device.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Various techniques have been proposed as techniques for protecting an occupant from collision of a vehicle with an obstacle or the like. A typical example is an airbag that is deployed in a vehicle cabin at the time of a vehicle collision. In addition, a technique has been proposed in which a collision between a vehicle and an obstacle is predicted in advance to protect occupants. For example, Patent Literature 1 proposes a technique in which when a vehicle and an obstacle are predicted, the seat belt is wound up to increase the restraining force of the occupant on the seat, thereby preventing the occupant from being injured in the passenger compartment. I have.
[0003]
On the other hand, as a technique for improving the safety of a vehicle at the time of a collision, a technique for protecting not only an occupant but also an obstacle or the vehicle itself has been proposed. For example, Patent Literature 2 proposes a technique for protecting an obstacle in the event of a collision by predicting a collision between the obstacle and a vehicle by deploying an airbag outside the vehicle. Such a technique is a technique that is attracting attention because of the importance of protecting an obstacle.
[0004]
[Patent Document 1] JP-A-2000-142321
[Patent Document 2] JP-A-6-239198
[0005]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
Here, in order to sufficiently protect obstacles and the vehicle itself, it is desirable to predict the collision if there is a danger, regardless of whether or not the collision actually occurs. In order to improve the protection performance, it is desirable that the sensitivity of the collision prediction is high. However, if the sensitivity of collision prediction is increased, erroneous prediction of collision occurs frequently, and the frequency of deploying the airbag increases accordingly. In this regard, once the airbag is deployed, it is necessary to return the airbag to its original stored state, but it is not expected that the conventional airbag device will be used many times. Further, in order to protect the obstacle and the vehicle itself, the airbag needs to be quickly deployed and must be prepared to be deployed at any time.
[0006]
Therefore, a first object of the present invention is to provide an airbag device capable of responding to frequent collision prediction and protecting the obstacle and the vehicle itself, and capable of rapidly deploying the airbag. is there.
[0007]
A second object of the present invention is to provide an airbag device capable of coping with frequent collision prediction and protecting the airbag at any time in order to protect obstacles and the vehicle itself. To provide.
[0008]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to achieve the first object of the present invention, according to the first present invention, an airbag that is stored so as to be deployable in front of a vehicle and the airbag in a stored state can be repeatedly deployed, An airbag device comprising: a deploying unit that deploys the airbag when a collision with an obstacle is predicted; and a return unit that returns the deployed airbag to a storage state. Includes an electric fan that blows gas into the airbag, and predicts a collision with the obstacle, based on a prediction of a first-level collision that does not require deployment of the airbag and a deployment of the airbag. A second-level collision prediction that is necessary, wherein the electric fan is driven from the first-level collision prediction stage.
[0009]
According to the airbag device of the first aspect of the present invention, the airbag can be used repeatedly by providing the deployment means and the return means. Therefore, in order to protect obstacles and the vehicle itself, it is possible to cope with frequent mispredictions of collisions. Here, the deployment means of the first aspect of the present invention includes an electric fan that blows out gas into the airbag. As described above, by using the electric fan, the gas can be repeatedly ejected to the airbag, and the airbag can be repeatedly deployed.
[0010]
On the other hand, the electric fan generally takes a little time to start up until a sufficient air volume is obtained, and the deployment of the airbag may be slightly delayed. Therefore, in the present invention, the case where the airbag actually needs to be deployed is prepared by driving the electric fan from the stage of the first-level collision prediction where the airbag does not need to be deployed. This allows the airbag to be deployed quickly.
[0011]
In the first aspect of the present invention, the deployment of the airbag may be allowed at the stage of predicting the second-level collision. By doing so, even if the electric fan is driven from the stage of predicting the first-level collision, it is possible to eliminate the inconvenience of the airbag being slightly expanded.
[0012]
Further, in the first aspect of the present invention, there is further provided switching means for switching a jet destination of gas jetted from the electric fan between the inside of the airbag and the outside of the airbag. It is also possible to switch the jetting destination to the outside of the airbag at the stage of predicting the collision, and to switch the jetting destination to the inside of the airbag at the stage of predicting the second-level collision. By doing so, in the stage of predicting the first-level collision, gas from the electric fan is released to the outside of the airbag, and no resistance is applied to the electric fan, so that the initial rotational speed of the electric fan is improved. Therefore, in the stage of predicting the second level collision, the airbag can be deployed more quickly.
[0013]
In this case, the electric fan further comprises a storage means for storing gas ejected from the electric fan to the outside of the airbag, wherein the storage means stores the stored gas when the second-level collision is predicted. Can be jetted into the airbag. By doing so, the gas ejected to the outside of the airbag can be effectively utilized, and the airbag can be deployed more quickly.
[0014]
According to the second aspect of the present invention, in order to achieve the first object of the present invention, it is possible to repeatedly deploy an airbag stored in a deployable manner in front of a vehicle and the airbag in a stored state. An airbag device comprising: a deployment unit that deploys the airbag when a collision with an obstacle is predicted; and a return unit that returns the deployed airbag to a storage state. The deploying means includes an electric fan for ejecting gas into the airbag, and an introducing means for introducing gas from the electric fan of electrical components mounted on the vehicle into the airbag. An airbag device is provided.
[0015]
According to the airbag device of the second aspect of the present invention, the airbag can be repeatedly used by providing the deploying means and the return means. Therefore, in order to protect obstacles and the vehicle itself, it is possible to cope with frequent mispredictions of collisions. Here, the deployment means of the second aspect of the present invention includes an electric fan that blows gas into the airbag. As described above, by using the electric fan, the gas can be repeatedly ejected to the airbag, and the airbag can be repeatedly deployed.
[0016]
On the other hand, the electric fan generally takes a little time to start up until a sufficient air volume is obtained, and the deployment of the airbag may be slightly delayed. Therefore, in the second aspect of the present invention, the deploying means includes an introducing means for introducing gas from an electric fan of electric equipment mounted on the vehicle into the airbag. By utilizing the electric fan of the electric component, a larger air volume can be obtained, and the airbag can be quickly deployed.
[0017]
According to the third aspect of the present invention, in order to achieve the second object of the present invention, it is possible to repeatedly deploy an airbag stored in a deployable state in front of a vehicle and the airbag in a stored state. An airbag device comprising: a deployment unit that deploys the airbag when a collision with an obstacle is predicted; and a return unit that returns the deployed airbag to a storage state. The deploying means includes a storage means for storing gas ejected into the airbag when collision with an obstacle is predicted, and a gas supply means for supplying gas to the storage means, An airbag device is provided, wherein the supply unit starts supplying gas to the storage unit when the vehicle is started.
[0018]
According to the airbag device of the third aspect of the present invention, the airbag can be repeatedly used by providing the deploying means and the return means. Therefore, in order to protect obstacles and the vehicle itself, it is possible to cope with frequent mispredictions of collisions. Here, the deployment means of the third invention includes the storage means and the gas supply means, and the gas supply means repeatedly supplies and accumulates gas to the storage means so that the airbag can be deployed repeatedly. .
[0019]
On the other hand, during the operation of the vehicle, it is necessary that gas is always stored in the storage means so that the airbag can be deployed at any time. In this regard, according to the third aspect of the present invention, the supply and accumulation of gas to the accumulation means are started when the vehicle is started, so that the gas is always accumulated in the accumulation means during operation of the vehicle, and the airbag is deployed at any time. Be prepared to be able to.
[0020]
In the third aspect of the present invention, it is possible to further include an output unit that outputs a traveling prohibition instruction of the vehicle to the control unit of the vehicle when the gas is not sufficiently accumulated in the accumulation unit. . This prohibits the vehicle from running in a state where there is a possibility that the airbag cannot be deployed properly, and can enhance safety.
[0021]
In the third aspect of the present invention, the gas supply means may start supplying gas to the storage means when the airbag returns to a stored state after the airbag is deployed. In this way, even if the airbag is once deployed and the gas in the storage means is exhausted, it is replenished immediately and can be prepared for the next deployment of the airbag.
[0022]
In the third aspect of the present invention, the gas supply unit may change a pressure of gas stored in the storage unit according to a vehicle speed of the vehicle. For example, when the vehicle speed is high, quickness of deployment of the airbag is more required, but when the vehicle speed is high, the speed of deployment of the airbag can be improved by increasing the gas pressure to a high pressure. .
[0023]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
[0024]
<First embodiment>
1A and 1B are external views of a vehicle to which an airbag device according to a first embodiment of the present invention is applied, wherein FIG. 1A shows a stored state of the airbag, and FIG. 1B shows a deployed state of the airbag. In the case of the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1A, a storage portion 2 of an airbag 1 having a rectangular cylindrical shape is provided in front of the vehicle, particularly at the center of the bumper. It is stored in the storage unit 2 in a folded state. It should be noted that a door that can be opened and closed is provided in front of the storage unit 2, and the opening of the storage unit 2 is closed with this door so that the airbag 1 is not exposed to the outside when the airbag 1 is stored. Good.
[0025]
When the collision prediction sensor 108 predicts a collision with an obstacle present in front of the vehicle while the vehicle is running in the mode of FIG. 1A, the airbag 1 is turned on as shown in FIG. Deploy forward. Thus, the obstacle is prevented from directly contacting the vehicle body, and the obstacle and the vehicle itself can be protected. In the present embodiment, the shape of the airbag 1 when deployed is a rod extending in the vehicle width direction, but various shapes and sizes can be adopted.
[0026]
2 (a) to 2 (c) are explanatory views of the operation of the blower / vacuum apparatus for deploying the airbag 1 and returning to the stored state. A tube 5 to which a valve 6 is connected in the middle is connected to the rear end of the storage section 2. An electric fan 3 including a motor 3a for a blower / vacuum device and a fan 3b rotated by a rotational force of the motor 3a is disposed at a rear end of the tube 5. When the airbag 1 is deployed from the storage state shown in FIG. 2A, the motor 3a is rotated forward and the fan 3b is rotated forward. As a result, air is blown from the fan 3b into the airbag 1, and the airbag 1 is deployed as shown in FIG.
[0027]
On the other hand, when returning the deployed airbag 1 to the stowed state, the motor 3a is rotated in the reverse direction and the fan 3b is rotated in the reverse direction. As a result, the air filled in the airbag 1 is discharged to the outside by the fan 3b, and the airbag 1 is sucked into the storage section 2 while being squeezed as shown in FIG. 2 (d), and eventually returns to the storage state. When returning the airbag 1, one end of the tether may be attached to the airbag 1, and the tether may be wound up from the other end to assist in returning the airbag 1 to the storage state. .
[0028]
In the present embodiment, by using the electric fan 3 as described above, air can be repeatedly blown out to the airbag 1 and the airbag 1 can be repeatedly deployed. Here, the electric fan generally takes a little time to start up until a sufficient air volume is obtained, and the deployment of the airbag 1 may be slightly delayed. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the electric fan 3 is preliminarily driven in accordance with the level of the collision prediction based on the detection result of the collision prediction sensor 108 to improve the situation. Hereinafter, this point will be described.
First, as the level of collision prediction, in the present embodiment, a first level where the airbag 1 does not need to be deployed and a second level where the airbag 1 needs to be deployed are assumed. The first level is a case where an obstacle is detected by the collision prediction sensor 108, but the possibility of a collision is extremely low due to the relationship between the moving speed of the obstacle and the vehicle speed, and the second level is a case where the possibility of a collision is low. Is higher.
[0029]
In the present embodiment, the case where the electric fan 3 is driven at the stage where the collision prediction level based on the detection result of the collision prediction sensor 108 is the first level and the collision prediction level reaches the second level is provided. As a result, when the collision prediction level reaches the second level at which the deployment of the airbag 1 is required, since the electric fan 3 has already been driven, the delay in starting up is eliminated, and the deployment of the airbag 1 is quick. Becomes possible.
[0030]
On the other hand, when the electric fan 3 is driven to eject air at the first level stage, the airbag 1 may start to expand, causing inconvenience such as slight inflation. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the deployment of the airbag 1 is allowed at the second level. Specifically, a valve 6 that can be controlled to open and close is provided, and the destination of air ejection by the electric fan 3 is switched between inside and outside of the airbag 1. At the first level, by closing this, air from the electric fan 3 is blown out of the airbag 1 to prevent air from entering the airbag 1. By doing so, further, in the first level stage, the air from the electric fan 3 escapes to the outside of the airbag 1 and no resistance is applied to the electric fan 3, so that the initial rotational speed of the electric fan 3 is improved. Therefore, in the second level, the airbag 1 can be deployed more quickly.
[0031]
Further, in the present embodiment, a storage device 4 for storing air ejected from the electric fan 3 to the outside of the airbag 1 is further provided, and when the second-level collision prediction stage is reached, the storage device 4 is provided. The accumulated air is blown into the airbag 1. By doing so, the air jetted out of the airbag 1 is effectively used, and the airbag 1 is deployed more quickly.
[0032]
The storage device 4 includes a chamber 4a for storing air from the electric fan 3, a valve 4b that can be opened and closed to switch the flow and cutoff of air from the electric fan 3 to the chamber 4a, and a valve 4b from the chamber 4a to the airbag 1. A valve 4c that can be controlled to open and close to switch between air flow and cutoff. Hereinafter, a series of operations will be described with reference to FIGS.
[0033]
FIG. 2A shows an initial state (the stored state of the airbag 1), in which the valves 6 and 4c are closed and only the valve 4b is open. The electric fan 3 is stopped. Next, when the collision prediction level based on the detection result of the collision prediction sensor 108 becomes the first level, the electric fan 3 is driven and air is blown out as shown in FIG. Since this air is shut off by the valve 6, it does not enter the airbag 1, but passes through the valve 4b and is jetted to the chamber 4a. In the chamber section 4a, air is gradually accumulated and compressed.
[0034]
Next, when the collision prediction level based on the detection result of the collision prediction sensor 108 becomes the second level, the valves 6 and 4c are opened while the driving of the electric fan 3 is continued, as shown in FIG. Valve 4b is closed. As a result, the air from the electric fan 3 is jetted into the airbag 1 and the air accumulated in the chamber 4a is also jetted into the airbag 1. As a result, the airbag 1 can be deployed more quickly.
[0035]
When the airbag 1 is returned to the retracted state after the deployment of the airbag 1, the valves 4b and 4c are closed while the valve 6 is open as shown in FIG. The air in the airbag 1 is sucked by the fan 3. After the storage of the airbag 1 is completed, the operation returns to the state of FIG.
[0036]
Next, FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a control unit of the airbag device of the present embodiment. The CPU 101 is a processor that controls the entire airbag device, and particularly executes processing described later. A ROM (Read Only Memory) 102 is a memory that stores fixed data as well as programs for respective processes described below. A RAM (random access memory) 103 has a work area for a program processed by the CPU 101 and stores variable data and the like. It goes without saying that other storage means may be employed as the ROM 102 and the RAM 103.
[0037]
The motor drive circuit 104 is a drive circuit that rotationally drives the blower / vacuum motor 3a and the motor group 105 that switches between opening and closing the valves 4b, 4c, and 6 in accordance with instructions from the CPU 101.
[0038]
The interface 107 relays input or output of information between the CPU 101 and each device described below, and one or more interfaces 107 are provided according to the type of each device. In the present embodiment, information is input and output between the CPU 101 and the main control unit that controls the entire vehicle via the interface 107.
[0039]
The collision prediction sensor 108 may have various configurations. For example, the collision prediction sensor 108 emits an ultrasonic wave, a laser beam, a radio wave, or the like toward the front of the vehicle and receives the reflected wave or the reflected light, so that the collision prediction sensor 108 exists in front of the vehicle. The distance, size, moving speed, etc. of the obstacle to be detected are detected.
[0040]
The airbag return operation switch 109 is provided to be operable by an operator such as an occupant, and is a switch for instructing a return of the deployed airbag 1 to a stored state. FIG. 4 illustrates an example of the configuration, and is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an instrument panel unit of a vehicle. In the figure, when the door 106 on the right side of the handle is opened, a push button type airbag return operation switch 109 appears.
[0041]
Next, the processing of the CPU 101 in the airbag device having the above configuration will be described. FIG. 5A is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing of the airbag 1 based on collision prediction. In S1, a collision prediction process is performed. Here, the possibility of collision and its level are determined based on the detection result of the collision prediction sensor 108. In S2, as a result of the processing in S1, if a collision is predicted, the process proceeds to S4; otherwise, the process proceeds to S3. In S3, if the motor 3a of the electric fan 3 is being driven, this is stopped and the process returns to S1.
[0042]
In S4, it is determined whether or not the collision prediction level is the first level. If the level is the first level, the process proceeds to S5, in which the motor 3a is rotationally driven, and the process returns to S1. The operation of the blower / vacuum apparatus described with reference to FIG. 2 is in the state of FIG. 2B, and air is accumulated in the chamber 4a. If it is determined in S4 that the collision prediction level is not the first level, it is determined that the collision prediction level is the second level, and the process proceeds to S6.
[0043]
In S6, the motor 3a is driven to rotate, and the valves 6 and 4c are opened, and the valve 4b is switched. The operation of the blower / vacuum apparatus described with reference to FIG. 2 is in the state of FIG. 2C, and the air is blown out from the electric fan 3 into the airbag 1 and the air in the chamber 4a is also inside the airbag 1. And the airbag 1 is deployed. Since the collision prediction level usually reaches the second level after passing through the first level, the driving of the motor 3a driven in S5 is maintained in S6.
[0044]
In S7, the storing process of the airbag 1 is performed. In this embodiment, the return of the airbag 1 to the storage state is started on condition that the operation switch 109 is operated. Therefore, an operator such as an occupant can instruct to return the airbag 1 to the storage state after confirming the safety of the surroundings, such as confirming that there is no entrapment of foreign matter or the like in the airbag 1, Safety at the time of return can be further improved. However, the apparatus may determine the return timing and perform the automatic return.
[0045]
FIG. 5B is a flowchart illustrating an example of the storing process of the airbag 1. In S11, it is determined whether or not the operation switch 109 has been pressed. If the button has been pressed, the process proceeds to S12; otherwise, the operation waits. In S12, the valve 6 is switched to the open state, and the valves 4b and 4c are switched to the closed state. In S13, the blower / vacuum motor 3a is driven to rotate, and the air in the airbag 1 is sucked to return the airbag 1 to the stored state. The operation of the blower / vacuum apparatus described with reference to FIG. 2 is as shown in FIG. After a lapse of time sufficient for the return of the airbag 1, the driving of the motor 3a is stopped. Thus, the process ends.
[0046]
Returning to FIG. 5, in S8, the valves 6, 4b and 4c are switched to the initial state of FIG. Thereafter, the process ends.
[0047]
As described above, the airbag device of the present embodiment allows the airbag 1 to be used repeatedly, and can cope with frequent collision prediction in order to protect obstacles and the vehicle itself. . When the collision prediction level reaches the second level at which the deployment of the airbag 1 is actually required by driving the electric fan 3 from the first level stage at which the deployment of the airbag 1 is not required. , And the airbag 1 can be quickly deployed.
[0048]
Further, by switching the valve 6, even if the electric fan 3 is driven from the stage of predicting the first level collision, the inconvenience such as the airbag 1 being slightly inflated without entering the air into the airbag 1 can be solved. In addition, at the first level collision prediction stage, the air from the electric fan 3 is stored in the storage device 4, and when it reaches the second level, it is blown into the airbag 1, so that the air blown out of the airbag 1 And the airbag 1 can be deployed more quickly.
[0049]
<Second embodiment>
In the present embodiment, another configuration example of the blower / vacuum apparatus will be described. In brief, in the present embodiment, the electric fan is used to deploy the airbag 1 and return the storage state, but when the airbag 1 is deployed, assistance is obtained from the electric fan of the electrical components mounted on the vehicle. Examples of such electrical components include an air conditioner and a ventilation fan. FIG. 6 is an operation explanatory diagram of the blower / vacuum apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention. In the figure, the same components as those of the blower / vacuum apparatus according to the above-described first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and only different components will be described.
[0050]
FIG. 6A shows an initial state (a stored state of the airbag 1), in which an introduction pipe 7 for introducing air from an electric fan (not shown) provided in the air conditioner 9 into the airbag 1 is provided. I have. The valve 8 that can be opened and closed is opened when air from the electric fan of the air conditioner 9 is introduced into the airbag 1, and closed otherwise. It is closed in the initial state of FIG.
[0051]
Then, when a collision is predicted based on the detection result of the collision prediction sensor 108, as shown in FIG. 6B, the electric fan 3 is driven to blow air into the airbag 1 and the valve 8 is turned on. When opened, air from the electric fan of the air conditioner 9 is also introduced into the airbag 1. By doing so, even if it takes some time for the electric fan 3 to rise, the air from the electric fan of the air conditioner 9 is introduced into the airbag 1, so that a larger air volume can be obtained by the energization of the airbag. The bag 1 can be deployed quickly. Further, a smaller electric fan 3 can be used than in the case where the electric fan 3 is used alone, and the cost can be reduced.
[0052]
When the electric fan of the air conditioner 9 is not in the driving state, the air conditioner 9 may be forcibly driven. If the electric fan is not fully opened, it may be forcibly opened. The operation instruction to the air conditioner 9 may be given by the CPU 101, or may be given via the main control unit of the vehicle in the case of a configuration controlled by the main control unit of the vehicle.
[0053]
Finally, when returning to the retracted state after the deployment of the airbag 1, the valve 8 is closed as shown in FIG. 6C and the motor 3 a is rotated in reverse to suck the air in the airbag 1 by the electric fan 3. I do. Thereby, the airbag 1 is stored.
[0054]
Next, FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing of the airbag 1 based on collision prediction according to the second embodiment of the present invention. In S21, a collision prediction process is performed. Here, the possibility of collision is determined based on the detection result of the collision prediction sensor 108. In S22, as a result of the processing in S21, if a collision is predicted, the process proceeds to S23, and if not, the process returns to S21.
[0055]
In S23, the motor 3a is rotationally driven to eject air from the electric fan 3 into the airbag 1, and the valve 8 is opened to introduce air from the electric fan of the air conditioner 9 into the airbag 1. The electric fan of the air conditioner 9 is forcibly driven at full open. The operation of the blower / vacuum apparatus described with reference to FIG. 6 is in the state of FIG. 6B, and the airbag 1 is deployed.
[0056]
After the deployment of the airbag 1, the process proceeds to S24, where the airbag is stored. If the air conditioner 9 has been forcibly driven, this is canceled. In the airbag storing process, for example, the same process as in FIG. 5B described above is performed, and the valve 8 is closed in S12. The operation of the blower / vacuum apparatus described with reference to FIG. 6 is as shown in FIG. Thus, the process ends.
[0057]
As described above, the airbag device of the present embodiment allows the airbag 1 to be used repeatedly, and can cope with frequent collision prediction in order to protect obstacles and the vehicle itself. . Further, by utilizing the electric fan of the air conditioner 9 which is an electric component of the vehicle, a larger air volume can be obtained, and the airbag 1 can be quickly deployed.
[0058]
<Third embodiment>
In the present embodiment, still another configuration example of the blower / vacuum apparatus will be described. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram of the operation of the blower / vacuum apparatus according to the third embodiment of the present invention. In the figure, the same components as those of the blower / vacuum apparatus according to the above-described first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and only different components will be described.
[0059]
In the case of the present embodiment, an air storage device 10 is used to blow air into the airbag 1. The storage device 10 includes a chamber 10a in which air is compressed and stored. A pressure sensor 10d is provided on the inner wall of the chamber 10a, and measures the atmospheric pressure in the chamber 10a. The pressure sensor 10d is used for detecting whether or not compressed air is sufficiently accumulated in the chamber 10a.
[0060]
One end of the chamber 10a is connected to a pump 11 for supplying air through a valve 10b that can be controlled to open and close. The other end of the chamber section 10a is connected to the storage section 2 via a valve 10c and a pipe 12 that can be opened and closed. The tube 12 allows air to flow with the electric fan 3 via a valve 13 that can be controlled to open and close. In the case of the present embodiment, the electric fan 3 is not used for deploying the airbag 1 but for returning to the stored state. Hereinafter, a series of operations will be described with reference to FIGS.
[0061]
FIG. 8A shows the stored state of the airbag 1 and the valves 10b, 10c and 13 are all closed. The pump 11 is also stopped. Next, when air is accumulated in the chamber 10a, as shown in FIG. 8B, only the valve 10b is opened and the pump 11 is operated to supply air into the chamber 10a. As a result, air is accumulated in the chamber 10a and is compressed. When the detection result of the pressure sensor 10d reaches a predetermined atmospheric pressure, the valve 10b is closed to stop the pump 11, and returns to the state shown in FIG. 8A to wait for the deployment of the airbag 1.
[0062]
When the airbag 1 is deployed, only the valve 10c is opened as shown in FIG. As a result, the compressed air stored in the chamber 10a is jetted into the airbag 1, and the airbag 1 is deployed. When the airbag 1 is returned to the retracted state after deployment, only the valve 13 is opened, and the electric fan 3 is driven to rotate to suck the air in the airbag 1. After the storage of the airbag 1 is completed, the flow returns to the state of FIG. The block diagram of the control unit in the case of the present embodiment has a configuration in which a motor (not shown) for driving the pump 11 is connected to the motor drive circuit 104 and the pressure sensor 10d is connected to the interface 107 in FIG. Others are the same.
[0063]
Next, processing in the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 9A is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process at the time of starting the engine of the vehicle according to the present embodiment. In the case of the present embodiment, in order to deploy the airbag 1, it is necessary to store compressed air in the chamber 10a in advance. In the present embodiment, this accumulation processing is performed when the vehicle is started, particularly when the engine is started. For example, when the ignition key is turned, this processing is started by a command from the main control unit of the vehicle.
[0064]
In S31, as shown in FIG. 8B, only the valve 10b is opened and the other valves 10c and 13 are closed. In S32, a command to prohibit running of the vehicle is output to the main control unit of the vehicle via the interface 107. When the vehicle is started, the compressed air may not be accumulated in the chamber 10a or may not be sufficiently accumulated. Therefore, if the vehicle travels as it is, the airbag 1 may not be properly deployed.
[0065]
For this reason, in the present embodiment, the running of the vehicle is prohibited until the compressed air is sufficiently accumulated in the chamber 10a. By storing the compressed air in the chamber 10a when the vehicle is started in this way, the compressed air is always prepared during the operation of the vehicle, and the airbag 1 can be deployed at any time.
[0066]
Next, in S33, the pump 11 is driven to supply air to the chamber 10a. In S34, the detection result of the pressure sensor 10d is acquired, and it is determined whether or not the compressed air is sufficiently accumulated in the chamber 10a. If it has not been accumulated (if the pressure has not reached the predetermined pressure), the process waits. If it has been accumulated (if the pressure has reached the predetermined pressure), the flow proceeds to S35.
[0067]
In S35, the valve 10b is closed. In S36, the pump 11 is stopped. As a result of these processes, the state shown in FIG. 8A is reached in which compressed air is accumulated in the chamber section 10a. In S37, the travel inhibition release is output to the main control unit of the vehicle via the interface 107. This allows the vehicle to run.
[0068]
Next, an example of processing of the airbag 1 based on collision prediction in the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 9B is a flowchart thereof. In S41, a collision prediction process is performed. Here, the possibility of collision is determined based on the detection result of the collision prediction sensor 108. In S42, as a result of the processing in S41, if a collision is predicted, the process proceeds to S43; otherwise, the process returns to S41.
[0069]
In S43, only the valve 10c is opened. As a result, the compressed air stored in the chamber 10a is jetted into the airbag 1. The operation of the blower / vacuum apparatus described with reference to FIG. 8 is in the state of FIG. 8C, and the airbag 1 is deployed. After the deployment of the airbag 1, the process proceeds to S44, where the airbag is stored. FIG. 10A is a flowchart illustrating an example of the airbag storing process.
[0070]
The processing in FIG. 10A is the same as the processing in FIG. 5B described above, and in S51, it is determined whether the operation switch 109 has been pressed. If the button has been pressed, the process proceeds to S52; otherwise, the operation waits. In S52, only the valve 13 is opened and the valves 10b and 10c are switched to the closed state. In S53, the motor 3a is driven to rotate, and the air in the airbag 1 is sucked to return the airbag 1 to the retracted state. The operation of the blower / vacuum apparatus described with reference to FIG. 8 is in the state of FIG. After a lapse of time sufficient for the return of the airbag 1, the driving of the motor 3a is stopped. Thus, the process ends.
[0071]
Next, in S45, a travel prohibition instruction is output to the main control unit of the vehicle via the interface 107. After the airbag 1 is deployed, no compressed air is accumulated in the chamber portion 10a. Therefore, if the airbag 1 travels as it is and it becomes necessary to deploy the airbag 1, it cannot be deployed properly. For this reason, in the present embodiment, by prohibiting the vehicle from running after the airbag 1 is stored in this way, the vehicle is prohibited from running in a state where the airbag 1 may not be able to be deployed properly, and safety is reduced. Can be enhanced.
[0072]
In S46, a process of refilling the chamber portion 10a with the compressed air is performed. In the present embodiment, after the airbag 1 is deployed, the supply of air to the chamber 10a is started when the airbag 1 is returned to the stored state, so that the airbag 1 is deployed once and the compressed air in the chamber 10a is expanded. Is replenished as soon as the airbag 1 runs out, and can be prepared for the next deployment of the airbag 1.
[0073]
The process of S46 is the same as the process at the time of engine start described with reference to FIG. 9A, but the travel prohibition instruction output process of S32 and the travel prohibition release output process of S37 are unnecessary and therefore unnecessary. Returning to FIG. 9B, in step S47, a travel prohibition release is output to the main control unit of the vehicle via the interface 107. This enables traveling. Thus, the process ends.
[0074]
As described above, the airbag device of the present embodiment allows the airbag 1 to be used repeatedly, and can cope with frequent collision prediction in order to protect obstacles and the vehicle itself. . Further, in the present embodiment, supply and accumulation of air to the chamber portion 10a are started when the vehicle is started, so that air is always accumulated in the chamber 10a during operation of the vehicle, and the airbag 1 can be deployed at any time. It becomes possible to prepare.
[0075]
In this embodiment, the pump 11 is used to supply air into the chamber 10a. However, for example, instead of this, a gas cylinder having a capacity capable of supplying air into the chamber 10a multiple times may be used. May be used.
[0076]
Further, in the present embodiment, the electric fan 3 is used for returning the storage state of the airbag 1, but the electric fan 3, the valve 13, and the like can be omitted by using a pump capable of sucking air as the pump 11. it can. When such a pump is used, when returning the airbag 1 to the storage state, both the valves 10b and 10c are opened, and the air in the airbag 1 may be sucked by the pump.
[0077]
In the present embodiment, the pressure of the compressed air filled in the chamber 10a may be changed by the pump 11 according to the vehicle speed. For example, when the vehicle speed is high, the quickness of deployment of the airbag 1 is more required. When the vehicle speed is high, the pressure of the compressed air in the chamber 10a is set to a high pressure, so that the airbag 1 is deployed. Speed can be improved. FIG. 10B is a flowchart illustrating an example of such processing. This process is appropriately performed when the vehicle is running.
[0078]
In S61, the vehicle speed is obtained from the main control unit of the vehicle via the interface 107, and the pressure of the compressed air stored in the chamber 10a is obtained from the pressure sensor 10d. In S62, it is determined whether or not the pressure of the compressed air needs to be increased based on the vehicle speed and the pressure of the compressed air acquired in S61.
[0079]
If it is necessary, the process proceeds to S63; otherwise, the process ends. In S63, a process of increasing the pressure of the compressed air in the chamber 10a is performed. Here, only the valve 10b is opened to drive the pump 11 at a higher output than usual to supply air into the chamber 10a. When the pressure detected by the pressure sensor 10d reaches a predetermined pressure, the valve 10b is closed and the pump 11 is stopped. Thus, the process ends.
[0080]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the first and second airbag devices of the present invention, in order to protect obstacles and the vehicle itself, it is possible to cope with frequent collision prediction and to quickly operate the airbag. Can be expanded.
[0081]
According to the airbag device of the third aspect of the present invention, in order to protect obstacles and the vehicle itself, it is possible to cope with frequent collision prediction and to prepare the airbag so that it can be deployed at any time. be able to.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is an external view of a vehicle to which an airbag device according to a first embodiment of the present invention is applied, wherein (a) shows a stored state of the airbag and (b) shows a deployed state of the airbag. .
FIGS. 2A to 2D are explanatory views of the operation of a blower / vacuum apparatus that expands an airbag 1 and returns the airbag 1 to a stored state.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a control unit of the airbag device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of an instrument panel unit of the vehicle.
5A is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process of the airbag 1 based on a collision prediction, and FIG. 5B is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process of storing the airbag 1;
FIG. 6 is an operation explanatory view of a blower / vacuum apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing of the airbag 1 based on collision prediction according to the second embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 8 is an operation explanatory view of a blower / vacuum apparatus according to a third embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 9A is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process at the time of starting an engine of a vehicle according to a third embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 9B is an airbag based on collision prediction according to the third embodiment of the present invention. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process 1;
FIG. 10A is a flowchart illustrating an example of an airbag storing process according to a third embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 10B is a flowchart illustrating an example of a pressure changing process.
[Explanation of symbols]
1 airbag
2 Storage
3 Electric fan
3a motor
3b fan
4 Storage device
4a Chamber section
4b valve
4c valve
5 tubes
6 valves
7 tubes
8 valves
9 air conditioner
10 Storage device
10a Chamber section
10b valve
10c valve
10d pressure sensor
11 pump
12 tubes
13 valves
106 door
108 Collision Prediction Sensor
109 Airbag return operation switch

Claims (9)

An airbag retractably stored in front of the vehicle,
Deployment means for repeatedly deploying the airbag in a stored state, and for deploying the airbag when a collision with an obstacle is predicted;
Return means for returning the deployed airbag to a stored state, the airbag device comprising:
The deployment means includes an electric fan that ejects gas into the airbag,
Predicting a collision with the obstacle includes predicting a first-level collision that does not require deployment of the airbag, and predicting a second-level collision that requires deployment of the airbag,
The airbag device, wherein the electric fan is driven from a stage of predicting the first level collision. The airbag device according to claim 1, wherein the deployment of the airbag is permitted at the stage of predicting the second level collision. Furthermore,
Switching means for switching a jet destination of gas ejected from the electric fan between the inside of the airbag and the outside of the airbag,
The switching means,
In the stage of prediction of the first level collision, the ejection destination is switched to outside the airbag, and in the stage of prediction of the second level collision, the ejection destination is switched to the inside of the airbag. The airbag device according to claim 1, wherein Furthermore,
A storage unit that stores gas ejected from the electric fan to the outside of the airbag,
4. The airbag apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the storage means ejects the stored gas into the airbag when the second-level collision is predicted. An airbag retractably stored in front of the vehicle,
Deployment means for repeatedly deploying the airbag in a stored state, and for deploying the airbag when a collision with an obstacle is predicted;
Return means for returning the deployed airbag to a stored state, the airbag device comprising:
The deployment means,
An electric fan that blows out gas into the airbag,
Introducing means for introducing gas from an electric fan of electrical components mounted on the vehicle into the airbag,
An airbag device comprising: An airbag retractably stored in front of the vehicle,
Deployment means for repeatedly deploying the airbag in a stored state, and for deploying the airbag when a collision with an obstacle is predicted;
Return means for returning the deployed airbag to a stored state, the airbag device comprising:
The deployment means,
Accumulating means for accumulating gas ejected into the airbag when collision with an obstacle is predicted;
Gas supply means for supplying gas to the storage means,
Including
The airbag device, wherein the gas supply unit starts supplying gas to the storage unit when the vehicle is started. Furthermore,
7. The air according to claim 6, further comprising an output unit that outputs an instruction to prohibit the running of the vehicle to the control unit of the vehicle when the gas is not sufficiently stored in the storage unit. Bag device. The gas supply means,
8. The airbag device according to claim 7, wherein after the airbag is deployed, when the airbag returns to the storage state, supply of gas to the storage unit is started. The gas supply means,
The airbag device according to claim 6, wherein a pressure of gas stored in the storage unit is changed according to a vehicle speed of the vehicle.

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