JP6779666B2 - How to fold the airbag device and airbag - Google Patents

How to fold the airbag device and airbag Download PDF

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JP6779666B2
JP6779666B2 JP2016107313A JP2016107313A JP6779666B2 JP 6779666 B2 JP6779666 B2 JP 6779666B2 JP 2016107313 A JP2016107313 A JP 2016107313A JP 2016107313 A JP2016107313 A JP 2016107313A JP 6779666 B2 JP6779666 B2 JP 6779666B2
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folding
airbag
folded
end side
occupant
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和茂 橋本
和茂 橋本
梅原 寿一
寿一 梅原
智有 斉藤
智有 斉藤
恭平 米山
恭平 米山
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Nihon Plast Co Ltd
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本発明は、乗員の下肢部と車体との間に展開するエアバッグを備えたエアバッグ装置及びエアバッグの折り畳み方法に関する。 The present invention relates to an airbag device including an airbag deployed between the lower limbs of an occupant and a vehicle body, and a method of folding the airbag.

従来、自動車の座席に着席した乗員の膝などに対向してエアバッグを展開する膝保護用エアバッグ装置であるいわゆるニーエアバッグ装置が知られている。このニーエアバッグ装置は、例えば、インストルメントパネルの、助手席前方のグローブボックスの下方、あるいは、運転席前方のステアリングホイールの下方などに配置され、ケース体の内側に、袋状のエアバッグを小さく折り畳んで収納している。そして、制御装置が車両の前方衝突などの衝撃を検出した際に、エアバッグにインフレータからガスを供給し、エアバッグをケース体から突出させ、さらにこのエアバッグをインストルメントパネルの下方のダッシュパネルと乗員の膝部との間に膨張展開させて、乗員の下肢部を拘束して保護するようになっている。 Conventionally, a so-called knee airbag device, which is a knee-protecting airbag device that deploys an airbag facing the knees of an occupant seated in an automobile seat, is known. This knee airbag device is arranged, for example, below the glove box in front of the passenger seat or below the steering wheel in front of the driver's seat on the instrument panel, and a bag-shaped airbag is placed inside the case body. It is folded into a small size and stored. Then, when the control device detects an impact such as a frontal collision of the vehicle, gas is supplied to the airbag from the inflator, the airbag is projected from the case body, and this airbag is further displayed on the dash panel below the instrument panel. It is designed to inflate and deploy between the occupant's knees and the occupant's lower limbs to restrain and protect them.

このようなエアバッグ装置において、展開先端側を折り込み、左右両側を内側へとロール状に折り畳んだエアバッグを、さらに先端側からインフレータ側である基端側へと車体側となる面側にロール状に折り畳むことで、エアバッグの膨張展開速度を向上させた構成が知られている(例えば、特許文献1参照。)。 In such an airbag device, the airbag is folded inward on both the left and right sides in a roll shape, and then rolled from the tip side to the base end side, which is the inflator side, to the surface side, which is the vehicle body side. It is known that the airbag is folded into a shape to improve the expansion / deployment speed of the airbag (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

特開2009−101758号公報 (第7−10頁、図3及び図4)Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2009-101758 (pages 7-10, FIGS. 3 and 4)

上述のようなニーエアバッグ装置において、エアバッグ本体部を乗員の下肢部とダッシュパネルとの間の狭い隙間に上方に向かって確実に展開させることが求められる。 In the knee airbag device as described above, it is required to reliably deploy the airbag main body upward in a narrow gap between the lower limbs of the occupant and the dash panel.

本発明は、このような点に鑑みなされたもので、乗員の下肢部と車体との間にエアバッグを確実に展開させることが可能なエアバッグ装置及びエアバッグの折り畳み方法を提供することを目的とする。 The present invention has been made in view of such a point, and provides an airbag device capable of reliably deploying an airbag between the lower limbs of an occupant and a vehicle body, and a method for folding the airbag. The purpose.

請求項1記載のエアバッグ装置は、乗員の前方に位置する車体に設けられた容器部と、袋状に形成されこの容器部に収納されたエアバッグと、このエアバッグにガスを供給するインフレータとを具備し、このインフレータからのガスにより前記容器部から前記エアバッグの先端側を突出させて前記乗員の下肢部と前記車体との間に展開させるエアバッグ装置であって、前記エアバッグは、折り畳まれた状態で、先端側から基端側に向かって折り畳まれた第1の折畳部と、この第1の折畳部を基端側に向かって開口するコ字状に包むように折り畳まれて基端側の上部に重ねられる第2の折畳部と、少なくとも一部がこの第2の折畳部の開口側に対向して位置するように折り畳まれた第3の折畳部とを備え、前記容器部は、前記第2の折畳部の開口とは反対側の位置に配置された蓋部と、前記エアバッグの展開により開裂して前記蓋部を乗員側に展開可能とする弱部と、を備えたものである。 The airbag device according to claim 1 includes a container portion provided on a vehicle body located in front of an occupant, an airbag formed in a bag shape and stored in the container portion, and an inflator that supplies gas to the airbag. The airbag device is an airbag device that projects the tip end side of the airbag from the container portion by the gas from the inflator and deploys the airbag between the lower limbs of the occupant and the vehicle body. In the folded state, the first folded portion folded from the tip side toward the base end side and the first folded portion are folded so as to wrap in a U shape that opens toward the base end side. A second folded portion that is overlapped with the upper part on the base end side, and a third folded portion that is folded so that at least a part thereof faces the opening side of the second folded portion. wherein the container portion, deployable and front Symbol lid positioned on the opposite side position to the opening of the second folding portion, the lid portion is cleaved by deployment of the airbag on the passenger side It is equipped with a weak part .

請求項2記載のエアバッグ装置は、請求項1記載のエアバッグ装置において、第1の折畳部は、先端側が車体側となる面側へと基端側に向かってロール状に折り畳まれた状態となっているものである。 The airbag device according to claim 2 is the airbag device according to claim 1. In the airbag device according to claim 1, the first folded portion is folded in a roll shape toward the surface side where the tip side is the vehicle body side and toward the base end side. It is in a state.

請求項3記載のエアバッグ装置は、請求項1または2記載のエアバッグ装置において、第3の折畳部は、第2の折畳部を先端側に向かって開口するコ字状に包むように折り畳まれたものである。 The airbag device according to claim 3 is the airbag device according to claim 1 or 2, so that the third folding portion wraps the second folding portion in a U shape that opens toward the tip side. It is folded.

請求項4記載のエアバッグ装置は、請求項1ないし3いずれか一記載のエアバッグ装置において、容器部は、エアバッグを収納する容器部本体と、この容器部本体の一端部にて乗員の下肢部に対向して位置し蓋部により閉塞される開口部と、をさらに備え、部は、前記開口部の上縁部に対応する位置にあるものである。 The airbag device according to claim 4 is the airbag device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the container portion is a container portion main body for accommodating an airbag and an occupant at one end of the container portion main body. further and an opening which is closed by a cover portion located opposite the lower extremity, the weak portion is to a position corresponding to the upper edge of the front Symbol opening.

請求項5記載のエアバッグ装置は、請求項1ないし4いずれか一記載のエアバッグ装置において、エアバッグは、展開状態での車体と乗員の下肢部との間の厚みが基端側よりも先端側で大きくなっているものである。 The airbag device according to claim 5 is the airbag device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the thickness of the airbag between the vehicle body and the lower limbs of the occupant in the deployed state is larger than that on the proximal end side. It is larger on the tip side.

請求項6記載のエアバッグの折り畳み方法は、袋状に形成され蓋部を備える容器部に収納されるとともにインフレータからのガスにより膨張して前記容器部の弱部を開裂させることで前記蓋部を乗員側に押し広げ、前記容器部から先端側が突出して乗員の下肢部と車体との間に展開するエアバッグの折り畳み方法であって、先端側を基端側に向かって折り畳んで第1の折畳部を形成する第1の折り畳み工程と、前記第1の折畳部を基端側に向かいかつ前記蓋部とは反対側に開口するコ字状に包むように前記第1の折畳部の周辺を折り畳み基端側の上側に重ねて第2の折畳部を形成する第2の折り畳み工程と、少なくとも一部が前記第2の折畳部の開口側に対向して位置するように前記第2の折畳部の周辺を折り畳んで第3の折畳部を形成する第3の折り畳み工程とを具備したものである。 Folding method of the airbag according to claim 6, the lid portion by being formed in a bag shape by inflation with a gas from the inflator while being accommodated in the container portion comprising a lid portion cleaves the weak portion of the container portion This is a method of folding an airbag in which the tip side protrudes from the container portion and expands between the occupant's lower limbs and the vehicle body, and the tip side is folded toward the base end side. The first folding step of forming the folding portion and the first folding portion so as to wrap the first folding portion in a U shape that opens toward the base end side and opposite to the lid portion. A second folding step of forming a second folding portion by overlapping the periphery of the lid on the upper side of the folding base end side, and at least a part of the second folding portion is located so as to face the opening side of the second folding portion. It is provided with a third folding step of folding the periphery of the second folding portion to form a third folding portion.

請求項7記載のエアバッグの折り畳み方法は、請求項6記載のエアバッグの折り畳み方法において、第1の折畳部は、先端側が車体側となる面側へと基端側に向かってロール状に折り畳まれた状態となっているものである。 The method for folding the airbag according to claim 7 is the method for folding the airbag according to claim 6, wherein the first folding portion is rolled toward the surface side where the tip side is the vehicle body side and toward the base end side. It is in a folded state.

請求項8記載のエアバッグの折り畳み方法は、請求項6または7記載のエアバッグの折り畳み方法において、第3の折り畳み工程は、第2の折畳部を先端側に向かって開口するコ字状に包むように前記第2の折畳部の周辺を折り畳んで第3の折畳部を形成するものである。 The method for folding the airbag according to claim 8 is the method for folding the airbag according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the third folding step is a U-shape that opens the second folding portion toward the tip side. The third folded portion is formed by folding the periphery of the second folded portion so as to wrap it around the second folded portion.

請求項1記載のエアバッグ装置によれば、乗員の下肢部を保護可能なエアバッグ装置について、エアバッグの先端側を基端側に向かって折り畳んで第1の折畳部を形成し、この第1の折畳部を基端側に向かいかつ容器部の蓋部とは反対側に開口するコ字状に包むように折り畳み基端側の上側に重ねて第2の折畳部を形成し、少なくとも一部がこの第2の折畳部の開口側に対向して位置するように折り畳んで第3の折畳部を形成することで、インフレータから供給されたガスにより、まず第3の折畳部が迅速に膨張展開することにより、第2の折畳部とともに第1の折畳部を安定して容器部から押し出した後、続いて第2の折畳部が膨張展開することで第1の折畳部を上方へと押し上げ、続いて第1の折畳部が展開することで乗員の下肢部と車体との間の狭い隙間にエアバッグを確実に展開させることができる。 According to the airbag device according to claim 1, the air bag device capable of protecting the lower limbs of an occupant is formed by folding the tip end side of the airbag toward the proximal end side to form a first folded portion. first the second folding portion overlapping the upper side of the mat seen proximal side folding wrap in a U-shape opening on the opposite side of the lid portion of Ikatsu container portion suited to the proximal end side of the folded portion By forming and folding so that at least a part thereof faces the opening side of the second folding portion to form the third folding portion, the gas supplied from the inflator first causes the third folding portion. By rapidly expanding and expanding the folded portion of the above, the first folded portion is stably pushed out from the container portion together with the second folded portion, and then the second folded portion expands and expands. By pushing up the first folded portion upward and then deploying the first folded portion, the airbag can be reliably deployed in the narrow gap between the lower limbs of the occupant and the vehicle body.

請求項2記載のエアバッグ装置によれば、請求項1記載のエアバッグ装置の効果に加えて、先端側が車体側となる面側へと基端側に向かって第1の折畳部をロール状に折り畳むことにより、第2の折畳部が膨張展開することで押し上げられた第1の折畳部が車体に沿って解けるように展開するので、乗員の下肢部と車体との間の狭い隙間にエアバッグをより確実に展開させることができる。 According to the airbag device according to claim 2, in addition to the effect of the airbag device according to claim 1, the first folding portion is rolled toward the surface side where the tip side is the vehicle body side and toward the base end side. By folding in a shape, the second folded portion expands and unfolds so that the first folded portion pushed up can be unfolded along the vehicle body, so that the space between the lower limbs of the occupant and the vehicle body is narrow. The airbag can be deployed more reliably in the gap.

請求項3記載のエアバッグ装置によれば、請求項1または2記載のエアバッグ装置の効果に加えて、第3の折畳部を、第2の折畳部を先端側に向かって開口するコ字状に包むように折り畳むことにより、この第3の折畳部による第2の折畳部の包み量や第3の折畳部の大きさを変えることで第1及び第2の折畳部を押し上げる角度を制御でき、乗員の下肢部と車体との間にエアバッグをより確実に展開させることが可能になる。 According to the airbag device according to claim 3, in addition to the effect of the airbag device according to claim 1 or 2, the third folding portion is opened toward the tip side of the second folding portion. By folding so as to wrap it in a U-shape, the amount of wrapping of the second folding portion by the third folding portion and the size of the third folding portion are changed to change the first and second folding portions. The angle at which the airbag is pushed up can be controlled, and the airbag can be more reliably deployed between the lower limbs of the occupant and the vehicle body.

請求項4記載のエアバッグ装置によれば、請求項1ないし3いずれか一記載のエアバッグ装置の効果に加えて、容器部の開口部を閉塞する蓋部の開口部の上縁部に対応する位置に、エアバッグの展開により開裂する弱部を設けることで、エアバッグの展開時に弱部が開裂した蓋部が開口部に対して下方へと展開するので、エアバッグの上方への展開を蓋部により妨げにくく、乗員の下肢部と車体との間にエアバッグをより確実に展開させることが可能となる。 According to the airbag device according to claim 4, in addition to the effect of the airbag device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, the upper edge portion of the opening of the lid that closes the opening of the container portion is supported. By providing a weak portion that opens when the airbag is deployed at the position where the airbag is deployed, the lid portion that has been cleaved when the airbag is deployed expands downward with respect to the opening, so that the airbag expands upward. It is difficult for the lid to interfere with the airbag, and the airbag can be more reliably deployed between the occupant's lower limbs and the vehicle body.

請求項5記載のエアバッグ装置によれば、請求項1ないし4いずれか一記載のエアバッグ装置の効果に加えて、エアバッグの展開状態での車体と乗員の下肢部との間の厚みを基端側よりも先端側で大きくしたので、乗員の下肢部と車体との間にエアバッグを確実に展開させつつ、最もエネルギを吸収したい下肢部の膝部でのストロークを確保できる。 According to the airbag device according to claim 5, in addition to the effect of the airbag device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, the thickness between the vehicle body and the lower limbs of the occupant in the deployed state of the airbag is determined. Since the size is larger on the tip side than on the base end side, it is possible to secure a stroke at the knee of the lower limb that wants to absorb the most energy while reliably deploying the airbag between the lower limbs of the occupant and the vehicle body.

請求項6記載のエアバッグの折り畳み方法によれば、エアバッグの先端側を基端側に向かって折り畳んで第1の折畳部を形成する第1の折り畳み工程と、この第1の折畳部を基端側に向かいかつ容器部の蓋部とは反対側に開口するコ字状に包むように第1の折畳部の周辺を折り畳み基端側の上側に重ねて第2の折畳部を形成する第2の折り畳み工程と、少なくとも一部がこの第2の折畳部の開口側に対向して位置するように第2の折畳部の周辺を折り畳んで第3の折畳部を形成する第3の折り畳み工程とを備えることで、インフレータから供給されたガスにより、まず第3の折畳部が迅速に膨張展開することにより、第2の折畳部とともに第1の折畳部を安定して容器部から押し出した後、続いて第2の折畳部が膨張展開することで第1の折畳部を上方へと押し上げ、続いて第1の折畳部が展開することで乗員の下肢部と車体との間の狭い隙間にエアバッグを確実に展開させることができる。 According to the folding method of the airbag according to claim 6, the first folding step of folding the tip end side of the airbag toward the proximal end side to form the first folding portion, and the first folding. part of unsuitable proximally Ikatsu container portion second overlapping the first upper peripheral folding tatami seen proximal end side of the folded portion so as to wrap in a U-shape opening on the opposite side of the lid portion of the The second folding step of forming the folding portion and the third folding by folding the periphery of the second folding portion so that at least a part of the folding portion is located opposite to the opening side of the second folding portion. By providing a third folding step for forming the tatami mat portion, the gas supplied from the inflator causes the third folding portion to rapidly expand and expand, so that the first folding portion together with the second folding portion is provided. After the folded portion is stably pushed out from the container portion, the second folded portion is subsequently expanded and expanded to push up the first folded portion upward, and then the first folded portion is expanded. By doing so, the airbag can be reliably deployed in the narrow gap between the lower limbs of the occupant and the vehicle body.

請求項7記載のエアバッグの折り畳み方法によれば、請求項6記載のエアバッグの折り畳み方法の効果に加えて、第1の折り畳み工程にて、第1の折畳部を、先端側が車体側となる面側へと基端側に向かってロール状に折り畳むことにより、第2の折畳部が膨張展開することで押し上げられた第1の折畳部が車体に沿って解けるように展開するので、乗員の下肢部と車体との間の狭い隙間にエアバッグをより確実に展開させることができる。 According to the method of folding the airbag according to claim 7, in addition to the effect of the method of folding the airbag according to claim 6, in the first folding step, the first folding portion is placed on the vehicle body side at the tip side. By folding in a roll shape toward the surface side to be the base end side, the second folded portion expands and unfolds so that the first folded portion pushed up can be unwound along the vehicle body. Therefore, the airbag can be more reliably deployed in the narrow gap between the lower limbs of the occupant and the vehicle body.

請求項8記載のエアバッグの折り畳み方法によれば、請求項6または7記載のエアバッグの折り畳み方法の効果に加えて、第3の折り畳み工程にて、第3の折畳部を、第2の折畳部を先端側に向かって開口するコ字状に覆うように折り畳むことにより、この第3の折畳部による第2の折畳部の包み量や第3の折畳部の大きさを変えることで第1及び第2の折畳部を押し上げる角度を制御でき、乗員の下肢部と車体との間にエアバッグをより確実に展開させることが可能になる。 According to the method of folding the airbag according to claim 8, in addition to the effect of the method of folding the airbag according to claim 6 or 7, in the third folding step, the third folding portion is formed into a second. By folding the folded portion so as to cover it in a U-shape that opens toward the tip side, the amount of wrapping of the second folded portion by the third folded portion and the size of the third folded portion. By changing the above, the angle at which the first and second folding portions are pushed up can be controlled, and the airbag can be more reliably deployed between the lower limbs of the occupant and the vehicle body.

本発明の一実施の形態のエアバッグ装置を示す車体に取り付けた状態の断面の説明図である。It is explanatory drawing of the cross section of the state attached to the vehicle body which shows the airbag device of one Embodiment of this invention. 同上エアバッグ装置のエアバッグの図1に続く展開過程を示す説明図である。It is explanatory drawing which shows the deployment process following FIG. 1 of the airbag of the above-mentioned airbag device. 同上エアバッグの図2に続く展開過程を示す説明図である。It is explanatory drawing which shows the unfolding process following FIG. 2 of the above-mentioned airbag. 同上エアバッグの図3に続く展開過程を示す説明図である。It is explanatory drawing which shows the unfolding process following FIG. 3 of the above-mentioned airbag. 同上エアバッグの図4に続く展開過程を示す説明図である。It is explanatory drawing which shows the unfolding process following FIG. 4 of the above-mentioned airbag. 同上エアバッグの展開状態を示す説明図である。It is explanatory drawing which shows the deployed state of the airbag as above. (a)は同上エアバッグの折り畳み工程を示す平面図、(b)は(a)の断面図である。(A) is a plan view showing a folding process of the same airbag, and (b) is a cross-sectional view of (a). (a)は同上エアバッグの折り畳み工程の図7(a)に続く第1の折り畳み工程を示す平面図、(b)は(a)の断面図である。(A) is a plan view showing a first folding step following FIG. 7 (a) of the same airbag folding step, and (b) is a cross-sectional view of (a). (a)は同上エアバッグの折り畳み工程の図8(a)に続く第2の折り畳み工程の一部を示す平面図、(b)は(a)の断面図である。(A) is a plan view showing a part of a second folding step following FIG. 8 (a) of the same airbag folding step, and (b) is a cross-sectional view of (a). (a)は同上エアバッグの折り畳み工程の図9(a)に続く第2の折り畳み工程の一部を示す平面図、(b)は(a)の断面図である。(A) is a plan view showing a part of a second folding step following FIG. 9 (a) of the same airbag folding step, and (b) is a cross-sectional view of (a). (a)は同上エアバッグの折り畳み工程の図10(a)に続く第2の折り畳み工程の一部を示す平面図、(b)は(a)の断面図である。(A) is a plan view showing a part of a second folding step following FIG. 10 (a) of the same airbag folding step, and (b) is a cross-sectional view of (a). (a)は同上エアバッグの折り畳み工程の図11(a)に続く第3の折り畳み工程を示す平面図、(b)は(a)の断面図である。(A) is a plan view showing a third folding step following FIG. 11 (a) of the same airbag folding step, and (b) is a cross-sectional view of (a).

以下、本発明の一実施の形態のエアバッグ装置及びエアバッグの折り畳み方法の構成を、図面を参照して説明する。 Hereinafter, the configuration of the airbag device and the method of folding the airbag according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

図1において、10はエアバッグで、このエアバッグ10を備えたエアバッグ装置11は、被取付部材としての車両である自動車の室内部としての車室12に面した車体としての取付面部であるパネル14に配置されている。そして、このエアバッグ装置11は、ニーエアバッグ装置すなわち膝保護用エアバッグ装置とも呼ばれるもので、前面衝突などの衝撃を受けた際に、図6に示すように、乗員の足元すなわち膝A1を含む下肢部Aに対向して展開し、乗員の膝A1を含む下肢部Aを拘束して乗員を保護するようになっている。なお、以下、前後方向などの方向は、車体の直進方向を基準とし、すなわち、図1に示すように、車両の前方(矢印F方向)がエアバッグ10の基端側となり、車両の後方(矢印R方向)がエアバッグ10の先端側及び乗員側となり、また、車両を基準として上方及び下方を説明する。さらに、車両の左右方向である幅方向が、図7(a)などに示すように、エアバッグ10の両側方向すなわち左右方向である幅方向(矢印W方向)となる。 In FIG. 1, reference numeral 10 denotes an airbag, and the airbag device 11 provided with the airbag 10 is a mounting surface portion as a vehicle body facing the passenger compartment 12 as an interior portion of an automobile as a vehicle to be mounted. It is located on panel 14. The airbag device 11 is also called a knee airbag device, that is, an airbag device for protecting the knee. When an impact such as a frontal collision is received, as shown in FIG. 6, the foot of the occupant, that is, the knee A1 is moved. It is deployed so as to face the lower limb part A including the lower limb part A, and restrains the lower limb part A including the occupant's knee A1 to protect the occupant. Hereinafter, the directions such as the front-rear direction are based on the straight-ahead direction of the vehicle body, that is, as shown in FIG. 1, the front side of the vehicle (direction of arrow F) is the base end side of the airbag 10 and the rear side of the vehicle ( (Arrow R direction) is the tip side and the occupant side of the airbag 10, and the upper and lower sides will be described with reference to the vehicle. Further, as shown in FIG. 7A and the like, the width direction which is the left-right direction of the vehicle is the width direction (arrow W direction) which is both sides of the airbag 10, that is, the left-right direction.

そして、この車体は、図1ないし図6に示すように、車室12内に乗員が着座可能な両側一対の座席を備えているとともに、これら座席の前方には、フロントガラスとインストルメントパネル(図示せず)とが配置されている。さらに、このインストルメントパネルの下方の下部あるいは中段部には、インストルメントパネルを構成するダッシュパネルなどとも呼ばれるパネル14が配置され、このパネル14に、各座席に対向して、エアバッグ装置11が取り付けられている。また、図示しない一方の座席は、運転席であり、インストルメントパネルとパネル14との間には、ステアリングホイールが配置されている。また他方の座席は、助手席であり、インストルメントパネルとパネル14との間には、グローブボックスなどが配置されている。なお、上記のエアバッグ装置11の他に、この車室12には、ステアリングホイール、インストルメントパネル、座席の側部、ルーフサイドレールなどに、図示しないエアバッグ装置が備えられている。 As shown in FIGS. 1 to 6, this vehicle body is provided with a pair of seats on both sides on which passengers can sit in the passenger compartment 12, and in front of these seats, a windshield and an instrument panel ( (Not shown) and are arranged. Further, a panel 14 called a dash panel or the like constituting the instrument panel is arranged in the lower lower part or the middle part below the instrument panel, and the airbag device 11 is placed on the panel 14 facing each seat. It is installed. Further, one seat (not shown) is a driver's seat, and a steering wheel is arranged between the instrument panel and the panel 14. The other seat is a passenger seat, and a glove box or the like is arranged between the instrument panel and the panel 14. In addition to the above-mentioned airbag device 11, the passenger compartment 12 is provided with an airbag device (not shown) on the steering wheel, the instrument panel, the side of the seat, the roof side rail, and the like.

そして、エアバッグ装置11は、容器部としてのケース体21と、このケース体21に取り付けられるインフレータ22、リテーナ24、及びエアバッグ10などを備えている。そして、ケース体21は、ハウジングなどとも呼ばれるもので、後面を開口部21aとした略箱状をなす容器部本体としての本体部21bと、この本体部21bと別体でパネル14に対して一体的に設けられた蓋部21cとを備え、本体部21bの内側が、エアバッグ収納部28となっている。また、開口部21aは、両側方向を長手方向とする四角形状で、乗員の下肢部Aの下部(膝部A1よりも下方)に対向して後方に向かって開口されている。また、本体部21bの前面には、図示しない複数の取付孔が形成されている。 The airbag device 11 includes a case body 21 as a container portion, an inflator 22, a retainer 24, an airbag 10 and the like attached to the case body 21. The case body 21 is also called a housing, and is integrated with the panel 14 separately from the main body 21b as a container main body having a substantially box-like rear surface with an opening 21a and the main body 21b. The inside of the main body 21b is the airbag storage 28. Further, the opening 21a has a quadrangular shape with both sides in the longitudinal direction, and is opened rearward toward the lower part of the occupant's lower limb A (below the knee A1). Further, a plurality of mounting holes (not shown) are formed on the front surface of the main body portion 21b.

蓋部21cは、リッドなどとも呼ばれるカバー体であり、例えば合成樹脂にて一体に形成され、例えばパネル14と面一な平板状に形成されている。この蓋部21cは、1枚の合成樹脂により、あるいは複数枚の合成樹脂が重ねられて形成されている。また、この蓋部21cは、開口部21aを閉塞するように本体部21bに取り付けられているとともに、この開口部21aの上縁部に対応する位置、すなわち蓋部21cの上縁部にて反乗員側(背面側)に、エアバッグ10の展開圧力によって破断可能な弱部であるテアライン21dが溝状に設けられている。したがって、この蓋部21cは、開口部21aの下縁部側の位置をヒンジ部として乗員側である後方に向かって下方に開くように構成されている。 The lid portion 21c is a cover body also called a lid or the like, and is integrally formed of, for example, a synthetic resin, and is formed in a flat plate shape flush with, for example, the panel 14. The lid portion 21c is formed of one synthetic resin or a plurality of synthetic resins stacked on top of each other. Further, the lid portion 21c is attached to the main body portion 21b so as to close the opening portion 21a, and at a position corresponding to the upper edge portion of the opening portion 21a, that is, at the upper edge portion of the lid portion 21c. On the occupant side (rear side), a tear line 21d, which is a weak part that can be broken by the unfolding pressure of the airbag 10, is provided in a groove shape. Therefore, the lid portion 21c is configured to open downward toward the rear on the occupant side with the position on the lower edge portion side of the opening 21a as the hinge portion.

インフレータ22は、略円柱状をなすインフレータ本体部22aを備え、このインフレータ本体部22aの一端部近傍にガス噴射部が設けられているとともに、他端部に接続部が設けられている。そして、このインフレータ22は、接続部に接続される図示しないハーネスを介して制御装置に接続され、このハーネスを介して制御装置から供給される起動信号に基づき、ガス噴射部からガスを噴射する。 The inflator 22 includes an inflator main body 22a having a substantially cylindrical shape, and a gas injection portion is provided near one end of the inflator main body 22a, and a connection portion is provided at the other end. Then, the inflator 22 is connected to the control device via a harness (not shown) connected to the connection portion, and injects gas from the gas injection unit based on the start signal supplied from the control device via the harness.

リテーナ24は、ケース体21の本体部21b(取付孔)に対して取付ボルト24aを介して取り付けられている。 The retainer 24 is attached to the main body 21b (mounting hole) of the case body 21 via a mounting bolt 24a.

また、エアバッグ10は、1枚の基布を縫い合わせあるいは複数枚の基布を縫い合わせて袋状に形成され、所定の形状に折り畳まれてケース体21のエアバッグ収納部28に収納されている。そして、本実施の形態では、エアバッグ10は、袋状の外殻を構成するエアバッグ本体部30と、このエアバッグ本体部30の内側に配置される隔壁部としての例えば第1ないし第3の隔壁31,32,33と、エアバッグ本体部30の内側に配置される図示しない単数、あるいは複数の補強布とが互いに縫製などにより接合されて構成されている。 Further, the airbag 10 is formed into a bag shape by sewing one base cloth or sewing a plurality of base cloths, and is folded into a predetermined shape and stored in the airbag storage portion 28 of the case body 21. .. Then, in the present embodiment, the airbag 10 has an airbag main body 30 constituting a bag-shaped outer shell and, for example, first to third partition walls arranged inside the airbag main body 30. The partition walls 31, 32, 33 and a single or a plurality of reinforcing cloths (not shown) arranged inside the airbag main body 30 are joined to each other by sewing or the like.

そして、エアバッグ本体部30は、所定の形状に切断した1枚、あるいは複数枚の基布が適宜の位置で縫製などにより接合されて、展開状態でパネル14側に位置する第1の面部としての上側面部35と展開状態で乗員の下肢部A側に位置する第2の面部としての下側面部36とが構成され、前端側の基端部38にインフレータ22が挿入される図示しない開口が設けられ、内部を気室39とした袋状に構成されている。また、このエアバッグ本体部30は、基端部38側が最も幅寸法が小さく、先端部40に向かって幅寸法が大きくなるように構成されている。そして、このエアバッグ本体部30は、基端部38を含みこの基端部38の近傍に、エアバッグ収納部28に取り付けられる基部41が形成され、この基部41の先端側に、折り畳まれた状態でエアバッグ収納部28に収納され展開状態で開口部21aから乗員側である後側へケース体21から突出する乗員拘束部である保護部42が形成されている。 Then, the airbag main body 30 is used as a first surface portion located on the panel 14 side in the unfolded state by joining one or a plurality of base fabrics cut into a predetermined shape by sewing or the like at appropriate positions. An opening (not shown) in which an upper side surface portion 35 and a lower side surface portion 36 as a second surface portion located on the lower limb portion A side of the occupant in the deployed state are configured, and the inflator 22 is inserted into the base end portion 38 on the front end side. Is provided, and the inside is configured in a bag shape with an air chamber 39. Further, the airbag main body 30 is configured such that the width dimension is the smallest on the base end portion 38 side and the width dimension increases toward the tip end portion 40. The airbag main body 30 includes the base end 38, and a base 41 to be attached to the airbag storage portion 28 is formed in the vicinity of the base end 38, and the airbag main body 30 is folded to the tip end side of the base 41. A protective portion 42, which is a occupant restraint portion that is stored in the airbag storage portion 28 in the state and protrudes from the case body 21 from the opening 21a to the rear side that is the occupant side in the deployed state, is formed.

また、隔壁31,32,33は、それぞれ帯状の基布で構成され、第1の隔壁31の先端部40側に第2の隔壁32が配置され、第2の隔壁32の先端部40側に第3の隔壁33が配置されている。そして、これら第1の隔壁31、第2の隔壁32、及び第3の隔壁33により、本実施の形態では、エアバッグ本体部30の内部の気室39が、基部側気室44、第1の中間気室45、第2の中間気室46、及び先端部側気室47の4個の気室に区画されている。そして、第1の隔壁31、第2の隔壁32、及び第3の隔壁33は、エアバッグ本体部30の少なくとも気室39の幅方向の全長を区画する長さ寸法を有し、外縁部がエアバッグ本体部30に対して縫製などにより接合されている。また、各隔壁31,32,33には、それぞれ所定の間隔で、ガスが流通可能な通気部としての孔部である図示しない流通部が形成されている。そして、これら隔壁31,32,33により区画形成された4個の気室44,45,46,47については、互いに隣接する気室44,45,46,47が各隔壁31,32,33で両側方向すなわち幅方向の全幅に亘って区画され、それぞれ流通部のみで連通するように構成されている。また、エアバッグ10が展開した状態では、基部側気室44から第1の中間気室45、第2の中間気室46、及び先端部側気室47へと、換言すれば基端部38側から先端部40側へと、体積が大きくなるように設定されている。このため、エアバッグ10(エアバッグ本体部30)は、展開状態でのパネル14と乗員の下肢部Aとの間の厚み(前後ストローク)が基端側よりも先端側で大きくなっている。また、基部41は、基部側気室44に構成され、この基部側気室44の基部41に、インフレータ22が配置されるガス導入部が設定されている。 Further, the partition walls 31, 32, and 33 are each composed of a strip-shaped base cloth, the second partition wall 32 is arranged on the tip portion 40 side of the first partition wall 31, and the partition wall 32 is arranged on the tip portion 40 side of the second partition wall 32. A third partition 33 is arranged. Then, due to the first partition wall 31, the second partition wall 32, and the third partition wall 33, in the present embodiment, the air chamber 39 inside the airbag main body 30 is replaced with the base side air chamber 44, the first partition wall 33. It is divided into four air chambers: an intermediate air chamber 45, a second intermediate air chamber 46, and a distal air chamber 47. The first partition wall 31, the second partition wall 32, and the third partition wall 33 have a length dimension for partitioning the entire length of the airbag main body 30 in the width direction of at least the air chamber 39, and the outer edge portion thereof. It is joined to the airbag body 30 by sewing or the like. Further, the partition walls 31, 32, and 33 are formed with circulation portions (not shown), which are holes as ventilation portions through which gas can flow, at predetermined intervals. As for the four air chambers 44, 45, 46, 47 partitioned by these partition walls 31, 32, 33, the air chambers 44, 45, 46, 47 adjacent to each other are in the partition walls 31, 32, 33, respectively. It is partitioned over the entire width in both sides, that is, in the width direction, and each is configured to communicate only with the distribution section. Further, when the airbag 10 is deployed, the base side air chamber 44 is changed to the first intermediate air chamber 45, the second intermediate air chamber 46, and the distal end side air chamber 47, in other words, the base end portion 38. The volume is set to increase from the side to the tip 40 side. Therefore, the thickness (front-rear stroke) between the panel 14 and the occupant's lower limbs A in the deployed state of the airbag 10 (airbag main body 30) is larger on the tip side than on the base end side. Further, the base 41 is configured in the base side air chamber 44, and a gas introduction portion in which the inflator 22 is arranged is set in the base 41 of the base side air chamber 44.

また、エアバッグ10のガス導入部の部分には、このエアバッグ本体部30を構成する基布(及び補強布)を貫通して、例えばリテーナ24の取付ボルト24aを挿通するための図示しない取付孔が形成されている。 Further, an attachment (not shown) for inserting, for example, the attachment bolt 24a of the retainer 24 through the base cloth (and the reinforcing cloth) constituting the airbag main body 30 through the gas introduction portion of the airbag 10. A hole is formed.

次に、このエアバッグ10の折り畳み方法を説明する。 Next, a method of folding the airbag 10 will be described.

まず、エアバッグ10、インフレータ22、及びリテーナ24などを組み合わせて、組立体を構成する。この工程は、まず、インフレータ22をリテーナ24の内側に挿入して固定する。そして、インフレータ22を取り付けたリテーナ24を、基端部38の開口からエアバッグ10の内側のガス導入部に挿入し、リテーナ24の取付ボルト24aを取付孔から引き出す。 First, the airbag 10, the inflator 22, the retainer 24, and the like are combined to form an assembly. In this step, the inflator 22 is first inserted and fixed inside the retainer 24. Then, the retainer 24 to which the inflator 22 is attached is inserted into the gas introduction portion inside the airbag 10 through the opening of the base end portion 38, and the attachment bolt 24a of the retainer 24 is pulled out from the attachment hole.

次いで、平面化工程として、図7(a)及び図7(b)に示すように、エアバッグ10を平面状に広げて、上側面部35が上側、下側面部36が下側となるように形を整えた平板状態とする。 Next, as a flattening step, as shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, the airbag 10 is spread out in a plane so that the upper side surface portion 35 is on the upper side and the lower side surface portion 36 is on the lower side. It is in a flat plate state with a regular shape.

次いで、この平板状態から、第1の折り畳み工程として、図8(a)及び図8(b)に示すように、エアバッグ10の保護部42の先端側(先端部40)を基端側である基部41(基端部38)に向かってロール状に折り畳んで第1の折畳部51を形成する。このとき、保護部42の先端側は、展開状態でパネル14(図1)側となる面である上側面部35へと、すなわち上側へと巻き込むように折り畳む。 Next, from this flat plate state, as a first folding step, as shown in FIGS. 8 (a) and 8 (b), the tip end side (tip portion 40) of the protective portion 42 of the airbag 10 is placed on the base end side. The first folded portion 51 is formed by folding in a roll shape toward a certain base portion 41 (base end portion 38). At this time, the tip end side of the protective portion 42 is folded so as to be wound around the upper side surface portion 35, which is the surface on the panel 14 (FIG. 1) side in the unfolded state, that is, upward.

この後、第2の折り畳み工程の一部として、図9(a)及び図9(b)に示すように、エアバッグ10の保護部42の第1の折畳部51を含む部分を基部41(基端部38)に向かって上側面部35に重ねるように谷折りして重ね部52を形成する。 After that, as a part of the second folding step, as shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, the portion of the protective portion 42 of the airbag 10 including the first folding portion 51 is included in the base 41. The overlapping portion 52 is formed by valley folding so as to overlap the upper side surface portion 35 toward (base end portion 38).

さらに、第2の折り畳み工程の一部として、図10(a)及び図10(b)に示すように、重ね部52のうち、第1の折畳部51を含む先端部分を重ね部52に重ねるように谷折りして折り返す。 Further, as a part of the second folding step, as shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, the tip portion of the overlapping portion 52 including the first folding portion 51 is attached to the overlapping portion 52. Fold it in a valley so that it overlaps.

次いで、第2の折り畳み工程の一部として、図11(a)及び図11(b)に示すように、重ね部52のうち、第1の折畳部51を含まない余剰部分を、この第1の折畳部51の上側を覆うように屈曲させて第1の折畳部51に重ねることで、重ね部52によって第2の折畳部53を形成する。すなわち、第2の折畳部53は、第1の折畳部51の周辺のエアバッグ本体部30(保護部42)を折り畳んで形成される。このとき、第2の折畳部53は、第1の折畳部51を基端側に向かって開口するコ字状に包むように形成される。したがって、この第2の折畳部53は、第1の折畳部51を上下でくわえるいわばアリゲータ状に折り畳まれる。 Next, as a part of the second folding step, as shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B, the surplus portion of the overlapping portion 52 that does not include the first folding portion 51 is subjected to the second folding portion. The second folding portion 53 is formed by the overlapping portion 52 by bending so as to cover the upper side of the folding portion 51 of 1 and superimposing it on the first folding portion 51. That is, the second folding portion 53 is formed by folding the airbag main body portion 30 (protecting portion 42) around the first folding portion 51. At this time, the second folded portion 53 is formed so as to wrap the first folded portion 51 in a U shape that opens toward the base end side. Therefore, the second folding portion 53 is folded in a so-called alligator shape in which the first folding portion 51 is held up and down.

そして、第3の折り畳み工程として、図12(a)及び図12(b)に示すように、第1の折畳部51を包む第2の折畳部53よりも基部41(基端部38)側の部分、すなわちこの第2の折畳部53の周辺のエアバッグ本体部30(保護部42及び基部41)を折り畳んで、第2の折畳部53を包む第3の折畳部54を形成する。このとき、第3の折畳部54は、第1の折畳部51を包む第2の折畳部53よりも基部41(基端部38)側の部分にて上側面部35と下側面部36とをそれぞれタック状に摘んだタック部54a,54bを第2の折畳部53の上側及び下側に重ねて形成する。したがって、この第3の折畳部54は、第1の折畳部51を包む第2の折畳部53を上下でくわえるようにいわばアリゲータ状に折り畳まれる。この結果、この第3の折畳部54は、一部であるタック部54aがこの第2の折畳部53の開口側である前側(基部41(基端部38)側)に対向して位置し、第2の折畳部53を、この第2の折畳部53の開口側である前側に対して反対方向である後側、すなわち展開先端側に向かって開口するコ字状に包むように形成される。すなわち、この第3の折畳部54は、上下のタック部54a,54bに分岐されるように形成される。このため、上側のタック部54aは、上側から後側へと屈曲するように形成され、下側のタック部54bは、後側に向かって直線状に延びるように形成される。 Then, as a third folding step, as shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B, the base 41 (base end 38) is more than the second folding 53 that wraps the first folding 51. ) Side portion, that is, the airbag main body portion 30 (protection portion 42 and base portion 41) around the second folding portion 53 is folded, and the third folding portion 54 wrapping the second folding portion 53. To form. At this time, the third folded portion 54 is a portion closer to the base portion 41 (base end portion 38) than the second folded portion 53 that encloses the first folded portion 51, and the upper side surface portion 35 and the lower side surface. The tack portions 54a and 54b obtained by picking the portions 36 in a tack shape are formed so as to be overlapped on the upper side and the lower side of the second folded portion 53, respectively. Therefore, the third folding portion 54 is folded in a so-called alligator shape so as to hold the second folding portion 53 that encloses the first folding portion 51 up and down. As a result, in the third folded portion 54, the tack portion 54a, which is a part of the third folded portion 54, faces the front side (base 41 (base end 38) side) which is the opening side of the second folded portion 53. The second folded portion 53 is wrapped in a U shape that opens toward the rear side, that is, the unfolding tip side, which is opposite to the front side which is the opening side of the second folded portion 53. It is formed like a tatami mat. That is, the third folded portion 54 is formed so as to be branched into upper and lower tack portions 54a and 54b. Therefore, the upper tack portion 54a is formed so as to bend from the upper side to the rear side, and the lower tack portion 54b is formed so as to extend linearly toward the rear side.

なお、エアバッグ本体部30の幅方向の大きさがケース体21の開口部21aに対して大きい場合には、エアバッグ本体部30の幅方向両端をZ字状、あるいはロール状に折り畳む。 When the size of the airbag main body 30 in the width direction is larger than that of the opening 21a of the case body 21, both ends of the airbag main body 30 in the width direction are folded into a Z shape or a roll shape.

そして、必要に応じてエアバッグ10に図示しないラッピングを被せ、図1に示すように、エアバッグ10を所定の形状に折り畳んだ状態で保持した組立体を、開口部21aを介してケース体21の本体部21bに挿入し、ケース体21の取付孔にリテーナ24の取付ボルト24aを貫通させ、ケース体21の外側から取付ボルト24aにナットを螺合して、組立体すなわちエアバッグ10、インフレータ22、及びリテーナ24などをケース体21に固定する。次いで、蓋部21cが開口部21aすなわちエアバッグ10を覆うようにして、ケース体21の本体部21bに蓋部21cを取り付けることにより、エアバッグ装置11が構成される。 Then, if necessary, the airbag 10 is covered with a wrapping (not shown), and as shown in FIG. 1, an assembly in which the airbag 10 is folded into a predetermined shape is held, and the case body 21 is held through the opening 21a. Insert the mounting bolt 24a of the retainer 24 through the mounting hole of the case body 21 and screw the nut into the mounting bolt 24a from the outside of the case body 21, so that the assembly, that is, the airbag 10, the inflator 22, retainer 24, etc. are fixed to the case body 21. Next, the airbag device 11 is configured by attaching the lid 21c to the main body 21b of the case body 21 so that the lid 21c covers the opening 21a, that is, the airbag 10.

そして、ケース体21を、適宜の取付具を用いて車体の取付部材に固定し、蓋部21cがパネル14と面一になるようにエアバッグ装置11を車体に取り付けるとともに、インフレータ22に接続したハーネスを制御装置に電気的に連結し、図1に示すように、エアバッグ装置11が車体に設置される。 Then, the case body 21 was fixed to the vehicle body mounting member using an appropriate mounting tool, and the airbag device 11 was attached to the vehicle body so that the lid 21c was flush with the panel 14, and was connected to the inflator 22. The harness is electrically connected to the control device, and the airbag device 11 is installed on the vehicle body as shown in FIG.

次に、このエアバッグ装置11の動作を説明する。 Next, the operation of the airbag device 11 will be described.

図1に示す状態から、制御装置が自動車の正面衝突などの衝撃を検出すると、この制御装置はハーネスを通じて起動信号である電力を供給し、インフレータ22を作動させる。そして、インフレータ22からエアバッグ10内にガスが供給されると、エアバッグ10は、ケース体21の内側で膨張し、まず、ラッピングを破断し、次いで、第3の折畳部54のタック部54a,54bを膨張させ、第1の折畳部51を包む第2の折畳部53を後方へと移動させて図2に示すように蓋部21cを後方へと押し込んでテアライン21dで破断させる。より詳細には、まず、インフレータ22から供給されるガスは、リテーナ24で拡散されつつ、エアバッグ10の基部41のガス供給部に供給される。すると、まず、エアバッグ10の基部41が膨張展開を開始するが、特に、このガス供給部に直接的に連通し、かつ、ガスの流路が直線的、すなわちロールや蛇腹となっていない、第3の折畳部54の下側のタック部54bや上側のタック部54aに迅速にガスが供給され、第3の折畳部54が展開することで第2の折畳部53を後方へと移動させ、テアライン21dを開裂させて蓋部21cを、その下縁部をヒンジ部として車室12側に回動させるように展開させる。この結果、図3に示すように、第1の折畳部51を包む第2の折畳部53が車室12内に安定して押し出される。 When the control device detects an impact such as a head-on collision of an automobile from the state shown in FIG. 1, the control device supplies electric power as a start signal through a harness to operate the inflator 22. Then, when gas is supplied from the inflator 22 into the airbag 10, the airbag 10 expands inside the case body 21, first breaking the wrapping, and then the tack portion of the third folding portion 54. The 54a and 54b are expanded, the second folding portion 53 that encloses the first folding portion 51 is moved rearward, and the lid portion 21c is pushed rearward as shown in FIG. 2 to break at the tear line 21d. .. More specifically, first, the gas supplied from the inflator 22 is supplied to the gas supply unit of the base 41 of the airbag 10 while being diffused by the retainer 24. Then, first, the base 41 of the airbag 10 starts to expand and expand, but in particular, it directly communicates with this gas supply part and the gas flow path is linear, that is, it is not a roll or a bellows. Gas is quickly supplied to the lower tack portion 54b and the upper tack portion 54a of the third folding portion 54, and the third folding portion 54 expands to move the second folding portion 53 backward. The tear line 21d is cleaved and the lid portion 21c is expanded so as to rotate toward the passenger compartment 12 side with the lower edge portion as a hinge portion. As a result, as shown in FIG. 3, the second folding portion 53 that encloses the first folding portion 51 is stably pushed out into the vehicle interior 12.

このとき、第3の折畳部54に続いて第2の折畳部53にガスが供給されることで、第1の折畳部51をコ字状に包む第2の折畳部53が膨張展開し、第2の折畳部53が第1の折畳部51を上方へと、パネル14に向かって前方上側へと押し上げる。 At this time, gas is supplied to the second folding portion 53 following the third folding portion 54, so that the second folding portion 53 that wraps the first folding portion 51 in a U shape is formed. As it expands and unfolds, the second folding portion 53 pushes the first folding portion 51 upward and forward and upward toward the panel 14.

そして、図4及び図5に示すように、第2の折畳部53が膨張展開するとともに、第2の折畳部53に続いて第1の折畳部51にガスが供給されることで、この第1の折畳部51がパネル14に沿って転がるように上方に向かって解けながら展開し、パネル14と乗員の下肢部Aとの間に効率よく入り込み、下肢部Aを膝A1の部分を含んで覆い、乗員の下方への滑り込みを防止して保護する。このとき、保護部42は、第1の隔壁31、第2の隔壁32、及び第3の隔壁33により区画されているため、まず、他の部分より下側に位置する基部側気室44が展開し、次いで、基部側気室44の上側に位置して第1の中間気室45が展開し、さらに、この第1の中間気室45の上側に位置して第2の中間気室46が展開し、さらに、他の部分より上側に位置して先端部側気室47が展開する。そして、先端部側気室47の部分が、慣性で前方に移動してくる乗員の膝A1に対向して膨張展開し、乗員の膝A1を拘束して保護するとともに、結果的に乗員の腰部の移動を抑制して、乗員の車体に対する相対的な移動を効果的に抑制し、パネル14や車室12に進入してくる床面などに直接当接することなどを抑制して保護する。そして、エアバッグ10は、最終的に、図6に示す形状に膨張展開する。 Then, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the second folding portion 53 expands and expands, and gas is supplied to the first folding portion 51 following the second folding portion 53. , The first folding portion 51 unfolds upward so as to roll along the panel 14, efficiently enters between the panel 14 and the lower limb part A of the occupant, and the lower limb part A is placed on the knee A1. Cover the area including the part to prevent and protect the occupant from slipping downward. At this time, since the protective portion 42 is partitioned by the first partition wall 31, the second partition wall 32, and the third partition wall 33, first, the base side air chamber 44 located below the other portions is formed. Expanded, then the first septal chamber 45 is deployed above the base side air chamber 44, and further located above the first septum 45, the second septum 46 Expands, and the tip side air chamber 47 expands further above the other part. Then, the portion of the tip side air chamber 47 expands and expands toward the occupant's knee A1 moving forward due to inertia, restraining and protecting the occupant's knee A1, and as a result, the occupant's waist. It suppresses the movement of the occupant, effectively suppresses the relative movement of the occupant with respect to the vehicle body, and suppresses and protects the panel 14 and the floor surface entering the passenger compartment 12 directly. Finally, the airbag 10 expands and expands into the shape shown in FIG.

このように、本実施の形態によれば、乗員の膝A1を含む下肢部Aを保護可能なエアバッグ装置11について、エアバッグ10の先端側を基端側に向かって折り畳んで第1の折畳部51を形成し、この第1の折畳部51を基端側に向かって開口するコ字状に包むように第1の折畳部51の周辺を折り畳んで第2の折畳部53を形成し、少なくとも一部がこの第2の折畳部53の開口側に対向して位置するように第2の折畳部53の周辺を折り畳んで第3の折畳部54を形成することで、インフレータ22から供給されたガスにより、まず第3の折畳部54が迅速に膨張展開することにより、第2の折畳部53とともに第1の折畳部51を安定してケース体21から車室12に押し出した後、続いて第2の折畳部53が膨張展開することで第1の折畳部51を車室12にて上方へと押し上げ、続いて第1の折畳部51が展開することで乗員の下肢部Aとパネル14との間の狭い隙間にエアバッグ10を確実に展開させることができ、乗員の下肢部Aを確実に保護する好ましい特性を実現できる。 As described above, according to the present embodiment, the air bag device 11 capable of protecting the lower limbs A including the occupant's knee A1 is first folded by folding the tip end side of the air bag 10 toward the base end side. The tatami mat 51 is formed, and the periphery of the first tatami mat 51 is folded so as to wrap the first tatami mat 51 in a U shape that opens toward the base end side to form the second tatami mat 53. By forming the third folding portion 54 by folding the periphery of the second folding portion 53 so that at least a part of the second folding portion 53 is located opposite to the opening side of the second folding portion 53. , The gas supplied from the inflator 22 causes the third folding portion 54 to rapidly expand and expand, so that the first folding portion 51 together with the second folding portion 53 is stably expanded from the case body 21. After pushing out to the passenger compartment 12, the second folding portion 53 expands and expands to push up the first folding portion 51 upward in the passenger compartment 12, and then the first folding portion 51. The air bag 10 can be reliably deployed in the narrow gap between the occupant's lower limb A and the panel 14, and a preferable characteristic of reliably protecting the occupant's lower limb A can be realized.

また、第1の折畳部51を、エアバッグ10の先端側をパネル14側となる上側面部35側へと基端側に向かってロール状に折り畳むことにより、第2の折畳部53が膨張展開することで押し上げられた第1の折畳部51がパネル14に沿って解けるように展開するので、乗員の下肢部Aとパネル14との間の狭い隙間にエアバッグ10をより確実に展開させることができる。 Further, by folding the first folding portion 51 toward the upper side surface portion 35 side, which is the panel 14 side, from the tip end side of the airbag 10 in a roll shape toward the base end side, the second folding portion 53 The first folding portion 51 pushed up by the expansion and deployment expands so that it can be unwound along the panel 14, so that the airbag 10 is more secure in the narrow gap between the occupant's lower limb A and the panel 14. Can be expanded to.

さらに、第3の折畳部54を、第2の折畳部53を先端側に向かって開口するコ字状に包むように折り畳むことにより、この第3の折畳部54による第2の折畳部53の包み量(アリゲータ量)や第3の折畳部54の大きさを変えることで第3の折畳部54の展開するタイミングや第1及び第2の折畳部51,53を押し上げる力を変えることができる。この結果、第1及び第2の折畳部51,53を押し上げる角度を制御でき、乗員の下肢部Aとパネル14との間にエアバッグ10をより確実に展開させることが可能になるとともに、エアバッグ10の取り付け位置(ケース体21の位置)が異なる車種、すなわち必要となるエアバッグ10の上方への展開角度が異なる車種などに対しても、第3の折畳部54の形状を変えるのみで容易に対応できる。 Further, by folding the third folding portion 54 so as to wrap the second folding portion 53 in a U-shape that opens toward the tip side, the second folding portion 54 is used for the second folding. By changing the wrapping amount (alligator amount) of the part 53 and the size of the third folding part 54, the unfolding timing of the third folding part 54 and the first and second folding parts 51 and 53 are pushed up. You can change the power. As a result, the angles at which the first and second folding portions 51 and 53 are pushed up can be controlled, and the airbag 10 can be more reliably deployed between the lower limb portion A of the occupant and the panel 14. The shape of the third folding portion 54 is changed even for a vehicle model in which the mounting position of the airbag 10 (position of the case body 21) is different, that is, a vehicle model in which the required upward deployment angle of the airbag 10 is different. It can be easily dealt with only by.

また、ケース体21の開口部21aを閉塞する蓋部21cの開口部21aの上縁部に対応する位置に、エアバッグ10の展開により開裂するテアライン21dを設けることで、エアバッグ10の展開時にテアライン21dが開裂した蓋部21cが開口部21aに対して下方へと展開するので、エアバッグ10の上方への展開を蓋部21cにより妨げにくいだけでなく、蓋部21cによってエアバッグ10を上方に向かってガイドする効果も有し、乗員の下肢部Aとパネル14との間にエアバッグ10をより確実に展開させることが可能となる。 Further, by providing a tear line 21d that is torn by the deployment of the airbag 10 at a position corresponding to the upper edge of the opening 21a of the lid portion 21c that closes the opening 21a of the case body 21, the airbag 10 is deployed when the airbag 10 is deployed. Since the lid portion 21c in which the tear line 21d is dissociated expands downward with respect to the opening 21a, not only is it difficult for the lid portion 21c to prevent the airbag 10 from expanding upward, but also the airbag 10 is expanded upward by the lid portion 21c. It also has the effect of guiding toward, and makes it possible to more reliably deploy the airbag 10 between the lower limb portion A of the occupant and the panel 14.

さらに、エアバッグ10の展開状態でのパネル14と乗員の下肢部Aとの間の厚みを基端側(下側)よりも先端側(上側)で大きくしたので、乗員の下肢部Aとパネル14との間にエアバッグ10を確実に展開させつつ、最もエネルギを吸収したい下肢部Aの膝部A1でのストロークを確保できる。換言すれば、下肢部Aの膝部A1でのストロークを確保するように基端側(下側)よりも先端側(上側)で厚みを大きくしたエアバッグ10であっても、乗員の下肢部Aとパネル14との狭い隙間に確実に展開させることができる。 Further, since the thickness between the panel 14 and the occupant's lower limb A in the deployed state of the airbag 10 is made larger on the tip side (upper side) than on the proximal end side (lower side), the occupant's lower limb A and the panel While reliably deploying the airbag 10 between 14 and 14, it is possible to secure a stroke at the knee portion A1 of the lower limb portion A that wants to absorb the most energy. In other words, even if the airbag 10 is thicker on the tip side (upper side) than on the base end side (lower side) so as to secure the stroke of the lower limb part A at the knee part A1, the lower limb part of the occupant It can be reliably deployed in the narrow gap between A and the panel 14.

また、エアバッグ10の折り畳み方法により展開挙動を制御できるため、エアバッグ10あるいはエアバッグ装置11の構成を複雑にしたりエアバッグ10の形状を変えたりする必要がなく、エアバッグ装置11の製造コストを低減できる。 Further, since the deployment behavior can be controlled by the folding method of the airbag 10, there is no need to complicate the configuration of the airbag 10 or the airbag device 11 or change the shape of the airbag 10, and the manufacturing cost of the airbag device 11 is not required. Can be reduced.

さらに、保護部42は、各隔壁31,32,33により4個の気室44,45,46,47に区画したため、各気室44,45,46,47を順次膨張展開させる挙動を実現できる。 Further, since the protection unit 42 is divided into four air chambers 44, 45, 46, 47 by the partition walls 31, 32, 33, it is possible to realize the behavior of sequentially expanding and expanding each air chamber 44, 45, 46, 47. ..

このようにして、エアバッグ10が、低い位置に設けられた狭い空間のエアバッグ収納部28からパネル14と下肢部Aとの間に迅速に安定して膨張展開し、車両の座席に着席した乗員の下肢部Aを効果的に保護できるエアバッグ装置11を提供できる。 In this way, the airbag 10 quickly and stably expands and expands between the panel 14 and the lower limb A from the airbag storage 28 in a narrow space provided at a low position, and is seated in the vehicle seat. It is possible to provide an airbag device 11 that can effectively protect the lower limbs A of an occupant.

なお、上記の実施の形態では、第1の折畳部51をロール状に形成したが、この構成に限定されるものではなく、例えば蛇腹状などに折り畳むことなどもできる。 In the above embodiment, the first folded portion 51 is formed in a roll shape, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration, and the first folded portion 51 can be folded into a bellows shape, for example.

同様に、第3の折畳部54をアリゲータ状に形成したが、この構成に限定されるものではなく、例えば蛇腹状に折り畳むことなどもできる。 Similarly, the third folding portion 54 is formed in an alligator shape, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration, and for example, it can be folded in a bellows shape.

また、気室39は、4つの気室44〜47に分割したが、3つ以下としてもよいし、5つ以上としてもよい。 Further, the air chamber 39 is divided into four air chambers 44 to 47, but the number may be three or less, or five or more.

本発明は、例えば自動車などの車両のニーエアバッグ装置及びそのエアバッグの折り畳み方法として好適に用いることができる。 The present invention can be suitably used as a knee airbag device for a vehicle such as an automobile and a method for folding the airbag.

10 エアバッグ
11 エアバッグ装置
14 車体としてのパネル
21 容器部としてのケース体
21a 開口部
21b 容器部本体である本体部
21c 蓋部
21d 弱部であるテアライン
22 インフレータ
51 第1の折畳部
53 第2の折畳部
54 第3の折畳部
A 下肢部
10 airbags
11 Airbag device
14 Panel as a car body
21 Case body as a container
21a opening
21b Main body of the container
21c lid
21d Weak part, tear line
22 Inflator
51 First folding part
53 Second folding part
54 Third folding part A Lower limb part

Claims (8)

乗員の前方に位置する車体に設けられた容器部と、袋状に形成されこの容器部に収納されたエアバッグと、このエアバッグにガスを供給するインフレータとを具備し、このインフレータからのガスにより前記容器部から前記エアバッグの先端側を突出させて前記乗員の下肢部と前記車体との間に展開させるエアバッグ装置であって、
前記エアバッグは、折り畳まれた状態で、
先端側から基端側に向かって折り畳まれた第1の折畳部と、
この第1の折畳部を基端側に向かって開口するコ字状に包むように折り畳まれて基端側の上部に重ねられる第2の折畳部と、
少なくとも一部がこの第2の折畳部の開口側に対向して位置するように折り畳まれた第3の折畳部とを備え、
前記容器部は、前記第2の折畳部の開口とは反対側の位置に配置された蓋部と、前記エアバッグの展開により開裂して前記蓋部を乗員側に展開可能とする弱部と、を備えた
ことを特徴とするエアバッグ装置。
A container portion provided on the vehicle body located in front of the occupant, an airbag formed in a bag shape and stored in the container portion, and an inflator for supplying gas to the airbag are provided, and gas from the inflator is provided. An airbag device that projects the tip end side of the airbag from the container portion and deploys it between the lower limb portion of the occupant and the vehicle body.
The airbag is in the folded state.
The first folding part folded from the tip side to the base end side,
A second folding portion that is folded so as to wrap the first folding portion in a U shape that opens toward the base end side and is overlapped on the upper portion of the base end side.
It is provided with a third folding portion that is folded so that at least a part thereof faces the opening side of the second folding portion.
Weak to deployable said container portion has a front Symbol lid positioned on the opposite side position to the opening of the second folding portion, the lid portion is cleaved by deployment of the airbag on the passenger side An airbag device characterized by having a part and .
第1の折畳部は、先端側が車体側となる面側へと基端側に向かってロール状に折り畳まれた状態となっている
ことを特徴とする請求項1記載のエアバッグ装置。
The airbag device according to claim 1, wherein the first folded portion is in a state of being folded in a roll shape toward the surface side where the tip end side is the vehicle body side and toward the base end side.
第3の折畳部は、第2の折畳部を先端側に向かって開口するコ字状に包むように折り畳まれた状態となっている
ことを特徴とする請求項1または2記載のエアバッグ装置。
The airbag according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the third folded portion is in a state of being folded so as to wrap the second folded portion in a U shape that opens toward the tip side. apparatus.
容器部は、
エアバッグを収納する容器部本体と、
この容器部本体の一端部にて乗員の下肢部に対向して位置し蓋部により閉塞される開口部と、をさらに備え、
部は、前記開口部の上縁部に対応する位置にある
ことを特徴とする請求項1ないし3いずれか一記載のエアバッグ装置。
The container part
The main body of the container that stores the airbag and
An opening located at one end of the main body of the container facing the lower limbs of the occupant and closed by the lid is further provided.
Weak section, before Symbol airbag apparatus of claims 1, characterized in that a position corresponding to the upper edge of the opening 3 any one described.
エアバッグは、展開状態での車体と乗員の下肢部との間の厚みが基端側よりも先端側で大きくなっている
ことを特徴とする請求項1ないし4いずれか一記載のエアバッグ装置。
The airbag device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the thickness of the airbag between the vehicle body and the lower limbs of the occupant in the deployed state is larger on the tip side than on the base end side. ..
袋状に形成され蓋部を備える容器部に収納されるとともにインフレータからのガスにより膨張して前記容器部の弱部を開裂させることで前記蓋部を乗員側に押し広げ、前記容器部から先端側が突出して乗員の下肢部と車体との間に展開するエアバッグの折り畳み方法であって、
先端側を基端側に向かって折り畳んで第1の折畳部を形成する第1の折り畳み工程と、
前記第1の折畳部を基端側に向かいかつ前記蓋部とは反対側に開口するコ字状に包むように前記第1の折畳部の周辺を折り畳み基端側の上側に重ねて第2の折畳部を形成する第2の折り畳み工程と、
少なくとも一部が前記第2の折畳部の開口側に対向して位置するように前記第2の折畳部の周辺を折り畳んで第3の折畳部を形成する第3の折り畳み工程と
を具備したことを特徴とするエアバッグの折り畳み方法。
Is formed in a bag shape by inflation with a gas from the inflator while being accommodated in the container portion comprising a lid push the said lid by cleaving the weak portion of the container portion on the occupant side, the tip from the container portion It is a method of folding an airbag that projects from the side and deploys between the occupant's lower limbs and the vehicle body.
The first folding step of folding the tip side toward the base end side to form the first folding portion, and
The periphery of the first folded portion is folded and overlapped on the upper side of the base end side so as to wrap the first folded portion toward the base end side and open in a U shape opposite to the lid portion. The second folding step of forming the second folding part, and
A third folding step of folding the periphery of the second folding portion so that at least a part of the second folding portion is located facing the opening side of the second folding portion to form a third folding portion. A method of folding an airbag, which is characterized by being equipped.
第1の折畳部は、先端側が車体側となる面側へと基端側に向かってロール状に折り畳まれた状態となっている
ことを特徴とする請求項6記載のエアバッグの折り畳み方法。
The method for folding an airbag according to claim 6, wherein the first folded portion is in a state of being folded in a roll shape toward the surface side where the tip end side is the vehicle body side and toward the base end side. ..
第3の折り畳み工程は、第2の折畳部を先端側に向かって開口するコ字状に包むように前記第2の折畳部の周辺を折り畳んで第3の折畳部を形成する
ことを特徴とする請求項6または7記載のエアバッグの折り畳み方法。
In the third folding step, the periphery of the second folding portion is folded so as to wrap the second folding portion in a U shape that opens toward the tip side to form the third folding portion. The method for folding an airbag according to claim 6 or 7.
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