US20050183606A1 - Gas generator - Google Patents
Gas generator Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20050183606A1 US20050183606A1 US10/510,240 US51024004A US2005183606A1 US 20050183606 A1 US20050183606 A1 US 20050183606A1 US 51024004 A US51024004 A US 51024004A US 2005183606 A1 US2005183606 A1 US 2005183606A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- holder
- hole
- pass
- resin
- gas generator
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F42—AMMUNITION; BLASTING
- F42B—EXPLOSIVE CHARGES, e.g. FOR BLASTING, FIREWORKS, AMMUNITION
- F42B3/00—Blasting cartridges, i.e. case and explosive
- F42B3/10—Initiators therefor
- F42B3/103—Mounting initiator heads in initiators; Sealing-plugs
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F42—AMMUNITION; BLASTING
- F42B—EXPLOSIVE CHARGES, e.g. FOR BLASTING, FIREWORKS, AMMUNITION
- F42B3/00—Blasting cartridges, i.e. case and explosive
- F42B3/04—Blasting cartridges, i.e. case and explosive for producing gas under pressure
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60R22/00—Safety belts or body harnesses in vehicles
- B60R22/34—Belt retractors, e.g. reels
- B60R22/46—Reels with means to tension the belt in an emergency by forced winding up
- B60R22/4628—Reels with means to tension the belt in an emergency by forced winding up characterised by fluid actuators, e.g. pyrotechnic gas generators
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a gas generator and, more particularly, to a gas generator suitable to actuate a restraint system for a vehicle occupant such as a seat belt pretensioner for a vehicle.
- the seat belt pretensioner is known as one of the safety components for protecting an occupant from impact in the event of a vehicle crash.
- This seat belt pretensioner is driven by a large quantity of gas generated from a gas generator with high temperature and high pressure, to protect an occupant.
- This gas generator includes a squib and a gas generant, and ignites and burns the gas generant by igniting the squib in the event of a crash, to thereby quickly generate gas.
- the gas generator 101 of FIG. 8 comprises a cup member 103 containing a gas generant 102 , a squib 105 having a shell 105 g containing an ignition agent 105 a , and a holder 106 to which the squib 105 and the cup member 103 are fitted to encapsulate the gas generant 102 .
- the squib 105 two standing conductive pins 105 d are integrally formed with a body 105 b made of a resin for the purpose of receiving signals from a non-illustrated sensor and applying electric current thereto.
- a bridgewire 105 f bridges between the tip portions of the conductive pins 105 d , and an fuse head 105 c covering the bridgewire 105 f is disposed in contact with the ignition agent 105 a .
- the holder 106 is assembled to the seat belt pretensioner, and made of materials such as iron, aluminium and the like so that the gas generator may not be scattered by the inner pressure when it is actuated.
- the cup member 103 is formed with a step portion, and its diameter broadens toward a base portion thereof. Also, the squib 105 is caulked in the holder 106 with an O-ring 110 to prevent external moisture from entering.
- the holder 106 is further provided with a shorting clip 108 fitted thereto for short-circuiting between the conductive pins 105 d of the squib 105 so as to prevent from improper actuation due to static electricity and the like before actual installation in a vehicle.
- this gas generator 101 When this gas generator 101 receives a signal from the non-illustrated sensor, the fuse head 105 c in the squib 105 ignites at first, and the ignition agent 105 a ignites. And then, by the flame of the ignition agent 105 a , the gas generant 102 is ignited and burned. Thereby, this gas generator 101 generates gas quickly.
- the pressure in the seat belt pretensioner may extremely increase when the gas generator is actuated in case that a vehicle fire occurs, in case that a failure occurs in the operation of the seat belt pretensioner, or the like case.
- a gas generator of the present invention comprises, at least, a cup member containing a gas generant which burns to generate gas, and a holder provided with an ignition device that has at least one conductive pin and ignites the gas generant.
- the holder is provided with one or more through holes through which the conductive pins pass, and one or more non-through holes through which the conductive pins do not pass. With respect to a rupture pressure from said gas generant side to the holder, when a pressure occurs toward an outside of the gas generator, the rupture pressure of the through hole through which the conductive pin passes is adjusted to be higher than the rupture pressure of the non-through hole through which the conductive pin does not pass.
- the non-through hole through which the conductive pin does not pass is not the hole into which the conductive pin should be inserted.
- the non-through hole is a hole provided in a part of the holder so as to open toward the outside of the holder and can be ruptured by a high pressure (hereinafter, the non-through hole means the same above.)
- the gas generator of the present invention is characterized in that a rupture open area of the non-through hole through which the conductive pin does not pass is equal to or larger than a rupture open area of the through hole through which the conductive pin passes.
- the holder made of a resin is formed integrally with the ignition device.
- the base portion of the non-through hole through which the conductive pin does not pass is made of the resin.
- the holder is insert molded by the resin with a reinforcement member which is made of a rigid material having a higher strength than the resin.
- the reinforcement member which is the rigid body is insert molded in the holder made of the resin, it is possible to increase the strength of the holder and to inhibit the deformation of the holder during fixing the cup member to the holder by, e.g., crimping.
- the reinforcement member is provided with one or more through holes through which the conductive pins pass and one or more non-through holes through which the conductive pin do not pass.
- the reinforcement member having the rigid body is provided with the holes, and the rupture open area is substantially equal to the area of the hole formed through the reinforcement member. Thereby, the rupture open area can be surely regulated.
- a depth of the non-through hole through which the conductive pin does not pass is within a range of 60 to 90% of a length of the holder from one end to the other end thereof inclusive of the non-through hole through which the conductive pin does not pass and the base portion of the non-through hole.
- the gas generator itself and heavy objects such as the conductive pin portions and the like do not scatter toward the outside of the seat belt pretensioner, because the non-through hole through which the conductive pin does not pass is firstly ruptured and then the pressure is released to the outside through the ruptured non-through hole.
- a relationship among a minimum thickness of the base portion of a connector attachment hole of the holder, a diameter of the base portion of the connector attachment hole, the thickness of the base portion of the non-through hole through which the conductive pin does not pass, and a diameter of an inscribed circle in the non-through hole satisfies the following relationship: “the thickness of the base portion of the non-through hole through which the conductive pin does not pass ⁇ (the diameter of the inscribed circle in the non-through hole ⁇ the minimum thickness of the base portion of the connector attachment hole)/the diameter of the base portion of the connector attachment hole”.
- the gas generator itself and heavy objects such as the conductive pin portions and the like do not scatter toward the outside of the seat belt pretensioner, because the non-through hole through which the conductive pin does not pass is firstly ruptured and then the pressure is released to the outside through the ruptured non-through hole.
- FIG. 1 is a schematic cross sectional view showing an exemplary embodiment of a gas generator according to the present invention as viewed from the A′′ direction along the A-A′ line of FIG. 3 .
- FIG. 2 is a schematic cross sectional view showing the exemplary embodiment of the gas generator according to the present invention as viewed from the B′′ direction along the B-B′ line of FIG. 3 .
- FIG. 3 is a schematic outline as viewed from the above in an axial direction of the exemplary embodiment of the gas generator according to the present invention.
- FIG. 4 is a schematic outline as viewed from the above in the axial direction of the exemplary embodiment of the gas generator according to the present invention.
- FIG. 5 is a schematic cross sectional view showing another exemplary embodiment of the gas generator according to the present invention as viewed from the A′′ direction along the A-A′ line of FIG. 4 .
- FIG. 6 is a schematic cross sectional view showing the another exemplary embodiment of the gas generator according to the present invention as viewed from the B′′ direction along the B-B′ line of FIG. 4 .
- FIG. 7 is a schematic external view showing a reinforcement member for use in the exemplary embodiment of the gas generator in accordance with the present invention.
- FIG. 8 is a schematic cross sectional view showing a conventional gas generator.
- FIG. 1 is a view of the gas generator 1 according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention as viewed from the A′′ direction along the A-A′ line of FIG. 3 , which is a view as viewed from the above in the axial direction thereof.
- FIG. 2 is a view as viewed from the B′′ side along the B-B′ line of FIG. 3 in the same manner.
- the gas generator 1 comprises a cup member 3 and a holder 6 .
- the cup member 3 has a cylinder shape with a base, and contains the gas generant 2 which generates gas by burning.
- the holder 6 is integrally formed with an ignition unit 4 serving as an ignition device for igniting the gas generant 2 by an electrification and fitted into the cup member 3 in order that the ignition unit 4 is located within the gas generant 2 .
- the ignition unit 4 integrally formed with the holder 6 comprises a shell 4 b containing an ignition agent 4 a , two conductive pins 4 d , a bridgewire 4 e connected between the tip ends of the two conductive pins 4 d on the side of the ignition agent 4 a , and an fuse head 4 c formed to enclose the bridgewire 4 e and disposed in contact with the ignition agent 4 a.
- the holder 6 is substantially in the form of a cylinder with a base. There is a stepped portion between the holder 6 and an axial member 17 .
- the axial member 17 has a diameter reduced from a diameter of the holder 6 to protrude toward the gas generant 2 side, and has a substantially partially conical portion.
- the holder 6 is formed with a connector attachment hole 18 opening toward on the side opposite to the axial member 17 .
- the tip end of the axial member 17 is fitted into the shell 4 b .
- an O-ring reception groove 6 a is formed on the periphery of the holder 6 .
- An O-ring 7 is placed as a seal member in the O-ring reception groove 6 a along the inner peripheral surface of the cup member 3 to maintain the sealing performance between the holder 6 and the cup member 3 .
- a crimping stepped portion 6 b reduced in diameter is formed on the periphery of the holder 6 at the edge on the connector attachment hole 18 side.
- the holder 6 is formed with non-through holes 6 e through which the conductive pins 4 d do not pass.
- a base portion 6 f of the non-through holes 6 e are formed in the holder 6 .
- the base portion 6 f is made of a resin.
- an inner cylinder 8 located along the inside of the cup member 3 is fitted into an inner cylinder reception groove 6 c formed on the holder 6 .
- This holder 6 can be formed by injecting a resin or the similar resin mixed with glass fibers, a carbon additive and/or the like into a non-illustrated mold.
- resins such as polybutylene terephthalate, polyethylene terephthalate, nylon 6, nylon 66, polyphenylene sulfide, polyphenylene oxide, polyethylene imide, polyether imide, polyether ether ketone, polyether sulfone.
- the holder 6 is integrally provided with the respective conductive pins 4 d of the ignition unit 4 .
- the respective conductive pins 4 d are integrated with the resin of the holder 6 by disposing them inside the mold when the resin is injected into the above mold.
- the two conductive pins 4 d are arranged in parallel with the axis of the gas generator 1 , and pass through the holder 6 in the axial direction. Also, the respective conductive pins 4 d are curved in the holder 6 and projected into the connector attachment hole 18 of the holder 6 and into the shell 4 b .
- the respective conductive pins 4 d are made of a conductive material such as a stainless steel, an iron-nickel alloy or the like.
- the respective conductive pins 4 d are electrically isolated from each other by the resin of the holder 6 .
- the bridgewire 4 e is deposited onto the respective conductive pins 4 d in the shell 4 b by welding and the like process, and the fuse head 4 c is formed to enclose the tip ends of the respective conductive pins 4 d and the bridgewire 4 e .
- the fuse head 4 c is in contact with the ignition agent 4 a in the shell 4 b .
- the holder 6 is integrally provided with the ignition unit 4 comprising the shell 4 b , the ignition agent 4 a , the respective conductive pins 4 d and the like.
- the respective conductive pins 4 d projected into the connector attachment hole 18 are provided with a non-illustrated shorting clip for short circuiting between the respective conductive pins 4 d in order to prevent improper actuation of the ignition unit 4 .
- the short circuiting is released when installed in the seat belt pretensioner and the like.
- the cup member 3 of the gas generator 1 is made of a metallic material such as a stainless steel, aluminium, iron and the like in the form of a cup, and contains the gas generant 2 which generates gas by burning.
- a scored section 3 e of a base portion of the cup member 3 is provided with a several scores. When a pressure in the cup member 3 rises, the several scores are ruptured in the pressure lower than the rupture pressure of the non-through hole through which the conductive pin 4 d does not pass. Thereby, a gas discharge opening is formed and the inside of the cup member 3 is communicated with the outside.
- the holder 6 is fitted into the cup member 3 .
- cup member 3 is fixed to the holder 6 by a portion 3 b crimped on the crimping stepped portion 6 b at the opening edge of the cup member 3 .
- the cup member 3 it is possible for the cup member 3 to be provided with a scored section in a side cylinder of the cup member. And gas is discharged from the side cylinder of the cup member 3 .
- a depth L (mm) of the non-through hole 6 e through which the conductive pin 4 d does not pass is preferably within a range of 60 to 90% of a length M (mm).
- the length M (mm) is a length of the holder 6 from one end to the other end thereof inclusive of the non-through hole 6 e through which the conductive pin 4 d does not pass and a base portion 6 f of the non-through hole 6 e .
- a relationship among a minimum thickness T (mm) of a base portion of a connector attachment hole 18 of the holder 6 , a diameter Y(mm) of the base portion of the connector attachment hole 18 , the thickness t(mm) of a base portion 6 f of the non-through hole 6 e through which the conductive pin 4 d does not pass and a diameter y(mm) of an inscribed circle in the non-through hole 6 e preferably satisfies the following relationship: “the thickness t(mm) of the base portion of said non-through hole 6 e through which the conductive pin 4 d does not pass ⁇ the diameter y (mm) of the inscribed circle in the non-through hole 6 e ⁇ the minimum thickness T(mm) of the base portion of the connector attachment hole 18 ⁇ /the diameter Y(mm) of the base portion of the connector attachment hole 18 ”.
- the relationship satisfies the following relationship: “the thickness t (mm) of the base portion of the non-through hole 6 e through which the conductive pin 4 d does not pass ⁇ 0.7 ⁇ the diameter y (mm) of the inscribed circle in the non-through hole 6 e ⁇ the minimum thickness T(mm) of the base portion of the connector attachment hole 18 ⁇ /the diameter Y(mm) of the base portion of the connector attachment hole 18 ”.
- a desired shape is insert molded by injecting a resin or the similar resin mixed with glass fibers, a carbon additive and/or the like into a non-illustrated mold in which the conductive pins 4 d are placed in advance.
- the resin such as polybutylene terephthalate, polyethylene terephthalate, nylon 6, nylon 66, polypropylene sulfide, polypropylene oxide, polyethylene imide, polyether imide, polyether ether ketone, polyether sulfone.
- the conductive pins 4 d of the ignition unit are insert molded in the holder 6 without any gap.
- holes 6 d through which the conductive pins 4 d pass located in the holder 6 as well as the holes 6 d described below) are completely occupied by the conductive pins 4 d without any gap.
- the tip ends of the respective conductive pins 4 d projected from the axial member 17 of the holder 6 are connected with the bridgewire 4 e , and the bridgewire 4 e is enclosed by the fuse head 4 c .
- the axial member 17 of the holder 6 is fitted into the shell 4 b containing the ignition agent 4 a , so that the ignition unit 4 is integrated with the holder 6 .
- the O-ring 7 is disposed in the O-ring reception groove 6 a of the holder 6 .
- the inner cylinder 8 is fitted onto the inner cylinder reception grooves 6 c formed in the holder 6 .
- the gas generant 2 as measured in advance is loaded into the cylindrical portion 8 with the holder 6 as the bottom.
- the holder 6 is fitted into the cup member 3 through the opening thereof, which is then crimped in the radially inward direction (toward the crimping stepped portion 6 b ) to form a crimped edge 3 b so that the cup member 3 is fixed to the holder 6 by the engagement between the crimped edge 3 b and the crimping stepped portion 6 b .
- the O-ring 7 disposed in the O-ring reception groove 6 a is elastically deformed between the O-ring reception groove 6 a and the inner surface of the cup member 3 during the fitting insertion into the cup member 3 , providing the sealing performance therebetween.
- a shorting clip is fitted between the respective conductive pins 4 d projected into the connector attachment hole 18 of the holder 6 , for preventing improper actuation of the ignition unit 4 , to complete the gas generator 1 .
- the operation of the gas generator 1 of the present invention will be explained.
- current is passed between the conductive pins 4 d of the ignition unit 4 to generate Joule heat in the bridgewire 4 e , instantly followed by ignition of the fuse head 4 c with the Joule heat and then ignition of the ignition agent 4 a .
- the elevation of the pressure in the shell 4 b causes the rupture of the shell 4 b to blow out the flame of the ignition agent 4 a by which the gas generant 2 starts burning to discharge gas.
- the pressure inside the cup member 3 causes the rupture of the scores of the scored section 3 e formed in the bottom surface of the cup member 3 to introduce the gas into a seat belt pretensioner and the like not shown in the figure.
- the seat belt pretensioner and the like is actuated by the high pressure gas to fasten a seat belt.
- the seat belt pretensioner and the like is actuated by the high pressure gas to fasten a seat belt.
- FIG. 5 is a view of the gas generator 21 according to the present invention as viewed from the A′′ direction along the A-A′ line of FIG. 4 , which is a view as viewed from the above in the axial direction thereof.
- FIG. 6 is a view as viewed from the B′′ direction along the B-B′ line of FIG. 4 in the same manner.
- the gas generator 21 as illustrated in FIG. 4 to FIG. 6 differs from the gas generator 1 as illustrated in FIG. 1 to FIG. 3 in that a reinforcement member 26 is insert molded in the holder 6 , and in that the rupture open area of the non-through holes 6 e through which the conductive pins 4 d do not pass is small.
- the other structure is same as that of the gas generator 1 as illustrated in FIG. 1 to FIG. 3 , and therefore detailed explanation is omitted while making use of the same references.
- FIG. 7 is an external view showing a reinforcement member 26 for use in the gas generator 21 of the present invention.
- the reinforcement member 26 substantially in the form of a cup or dish is integrally insert molded inside the holder 6 made of a resin.
- This type of holder 6 can be easily manufactured by disposing the reinforcement member 26 together with the conductive pins 4 d inside a metal mold when a resin is injected into the mold, as has been discussed above.
- This reinforcement member 26 is made of a metallic material such as a stainless steel or SPCC (JIS G 3141), or a reinforced plastic made of a thermosetting resin or the like.
- the reinforcement member 26 is partially exposed from the holder 6 at the outer periphery thereof to form a crimping stepped portion 26 b onto which the opening edge of the cup member 3 is crimped to form a crimped edge 3 b . Also, the bottom portion of the reinforcement member 26 is formed with holes 6 h through which the conductive pins 4 d pass and non-through holes 6 g through which the conductive pins 4 d do not pass.
- the non-through holes 6 g through which the conductive pins 4 d do not pass which is formed in the bottom portion of this reinforcement member 26 , serves to form through holes in a base portion 6 f of the non-through hole of the holder 6 , thereby releasing the pressure inside the gas generator therethrough when an unexpected high pressure arises in the cup member 3 . Then, the pressure inside the gas generator can be released from the gas generator through the non-through holes 6 e through which the conductive pins 4 d do not pass, so that it is possible to preserve the through holes 6 d through which the conductive pins 4 d pass without the rupture thereof.
- the reinforcement member 26 made of a rigid material having a higher strength than the resin as described above is located to provide the area, to which a force (crimping force) is applied during crimping the cup member 3 , i.e., the crimping stepped portion 26 b , it is possible to inhibit the deformation of the holder 6 due to the crimping force by the reinforcement member 26 . It is also possible to inhibit the deformation of the holder 6 due to the thermal expansion of the resin by the reinforcement member 26 .
- the generation of a gap due to the crimping force, the thermal expansion or the like can be effectively avoided.
- the accuracy of the crimping process for attaching the cup member 3 to the holder 6 in the manufacture of the gas generator 21 need not be so high as required of the gas generator 1 , resulting in the facilitation of the manufacturing process.
- the reinforcement member 26 the holder 6 is more surely prevented from rupturing or generating flying fragments when the gas generator 21 is actuated, as compared with the similar case without the reinforcement member 26 .
- gas generator 1 and the gas generator 21 as have been discussed above are provided with ignition device integrated with the holder, the gas generator of the present invention is not limited thereto and can be implemented, for example, with a holder and ignition device (an ignition device) provided as separate components.
- the rupture pressure of the through holes 6 d through which the conductive pins 4 d pass is the pressure required for releasing these pins out of the holder 6 after rupturing, in a high pressure, rupturing the vicinity of the through holes 6 d through which the conductive pins 4 d pass.
- the rupture pressure means the pressure required for releasing the connected conductive pins 4 d out of the holder 6 after rupturing, in a high pressure, the vicinity of the through holes 6 d through which the conductive pins 4 d pass.
- the rupture pressure of the non-through holes 6 e through which the conductive pins 4 d do not pass is the pressure required for rupturing a base portion of the non-through hole 6 e of the holder 6 . Accordingly, the thicker the base portion 6 f of the non-through hole 6 e is, the higher the rupture pressure becomes, so that the adjustment is possible. Alternatively, depending upon the case, it is possible to provide a notched section (scores) and the like in the base portion 6 f of the non-through hole 6 e to reduce the rupture pressure.
- the rupture open area is represented by the project area, as viewed from the above in the axial direction of the gas generator, of a hole which is formed at the through holes 6 d through which the conductive pins 4 d pass after the conductive pins 4 d fly off from the holder 6 or a hole which is formed at the non-through holes 6 e through which the conductive pins 4 d do not pass after the base portion 6 f of the non-through hole 6 e is ruptured. Accordingly, the rupture open area of the through holes 6 d through which the conductive pins 4 d pass is indicated by “C” in FIG.
- the rupture open area of the non-through holes 6 e through which the conductive pins 4 d do not pass is indicated by “D” in FIG. 3 and is substantially equivalent to the area of the base portion 6 f of the non-through 6 e .
- the rupture open area of the non-through holes 6 e through which the conductive pins 4 d do not pass is indicated by “E” in FIG. 4 and is substantially equivalent to the overlapping area of the base portion 6 f of the non-through hole 6 e of the holder 6 and the open area F of the hole 6 g opened through the reinforcement member 26 (in FIG. 4 , a circle plotted by broken line corresponds to the open area F of the hole 6 g opened through the reinforcement member 26 ).
- the rupture pressure of the non-through holes 6 e through which the conductive pins 4 d do not pass the pressure inside the gas generator is released to the outside from the through hole formed in the non-through holes 6 e through which the conductive pins 4 d do not pass when an unexpected high pressure arises, and as a result the through holes 6 d through which the conductive pins 4 d pass can be preserved without rupture.
- the gas generator is actuated in a high temperature condition such as a vehicle fire, this is effective in the case where the resin of the holder 6 is a thermoplastic resin to quickly decrease the strength if the temperature rises beyond the glass transition point.
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Air Bags (AREA)
- Automotive Seat Belt Assembly (AREA)
- Feeding, Discharge, Calcimining, Fusing, And Gas-Generation Devices (AREA)
Abstract
A gas generator including, at least, a cup member containing a gas generant that burns to generate gas, and a holder provided with an ignition device that has at least one conductive pin and ignites the gas generant. The holder is provided with one or more through holes through which the conductive pins pass and one or more non-through holes through which the conductive pins do not pass. And, with respect to a rupture pressure from a gas generant side to the holder, when a pressure occurs toward an outside of the gas generator, the rupture pressure of the through hole through which the conductive pin passes is adjusted to be higher than the rupture pressure of the non-through hole through which the conductive pin does not pass.
Description
- The present invention relates to a gas generator and, more particularly, to a gas generator suitable to actuate a restraint system for a vehicle occupant such as a seat belt pretensioner for a vehicle.
- The seat belt pretensioner is known as one of the safety components for protecting an occupant from impact in the event of a vehicle crash. This seat belt pretensioner is driven by a large quantity of gas generated from a gas generator with high temperature and high pressure, to protect an occupant. This gas generator includes a squib and a gas generant, and ignites and burns the gas generant by igniting the squib in the event of a crash, to thereby quickly generate gas.
- One example of the prior art gas generators is illustrated in
FIG. 8 . Thegas generator 101 ofFIG. 8 comprises acup member 103 containing agas generant 102, asquib 105 having ashell 105 g containing anignition agent 105 a, and aholder 106 to which thesquib 105 and thecup member 103 are fitted to encapsulate thegas generant 102. In this case, in thesquib 105, two standingconductive pins 105 d are integrally formed with abody 105 b made of a resin for the purpose of receiving signals from a non-illustrated sensor and applying electric current thereto. Abridgewire 105 f bridges between the tip portions of theconductive pins 105 d, and anfuse head 105 c covering thebridgewire 105 f is disposed in contact with theignition agent 105 a. Theholder 106 is assembled to the seat belt pretensioner, and made of materials such as iron, aluminium and the like so that the gas generator may not be scattered by the inner pressure when it is actuated. Thecup member 103 is formed with a step portion, and its diameter broadens toward a base portion thereof. Also, thesquib 105 is caulked in theholder 106 with an O-ring 110 to prevent external moisture from entering. And, theholder 106 is further provided with a shortingclip 108 fitted thereto for short-circuiting between theconductive pins 105 d of thesquib 105 so as to prevent from improper actuation due to static electricity and the like before actual installation in a vehicle. - When this
gas generator 101 receives a signal from the non-illustrated sensor, thefuse head 105 c in thesquib 105 ignites at first, and theignition agent 105 a ignites. And then, by the flame of theignition agent 105 a, the gas generant 102 is ignited and burned. Thereby, thisgas generator 101 generates gas quickly. - However, it can be assumed that the pressure in the seat belt pretensioner may extremely increase when the gas generator is actuated in case that a vehicle fire occurs, in case that a failure occurs in the operation of the seat belt pretensioner, or the like case. In order to deal with such a situation, it is required to design the structure of the gas generator such that it can withstand high pressures. If a gas generator does not have a sufficient withstand pressure structure, the gas generator may be ruptured. And the gas generator itself, the conductive pins or other heavy objects may become scattering objects then rush out of pretensioner.
- It is an object of the present invention to provide a gas generator which can prevent the heavy objects such as conductive pins from scattering to the outside even when actuated under a high pressure or a high temperature.
- A gas generator of the present invention comprises, at least, a cup member containing a gas generant which burns to generate gas, and a holder provided with an ignition device that has at least one conductive pin and ignites the gas generant. The holder is provided with one or more through holes through which the conductive pins pass, and one or more non-through holes through which the conductive pins do not pass. With respect to a rupture pressure from said gas generant side to the holder, when a pressure occurs toward an outside of the gas generator, the rupture pressure of the through hole through which the conductive pin passes is adjusted to be higher than the rupture pressure of the non-through hole through which the conductive pin does not pass.
- By this configuration, even if a pressure becomes high inside of the seat belt pretensioner because of an activation of the gas generator in case that a vehicle fire occurs or in case that a failure occurs in the operation of the seat belt etc., the gas generator itself and heavy objects such as the conductive pin portions and the like will not scatter toward the outside of the seat belt pretensioner because the non-through hole through which the conductive pin does not pass will be firstly ruptured and then the pressure will be released to the outside through the ruptured non-through hole. Here, the non-through hole through which the conductive pin does not pass is not the hole into which the conductive pin should be inserted. The non-through hole is a hole provided in a part of the holder so as to open toward the outside of the holder and can be ruptured by a high pressure (hereinafter, the non-through hole means the same above.)
- Also, the gas generator of the present invention is characterized in that a rupture open area of the non-through hole through which the conductive pin does not pass is equal to or larger than a rupture open area of the through hole through which the conductive pin passes.
- By this configuration, it is possible to adjust the rupture pressure of the through hole through which the conductive pin passes to be higher than the rupture pressure of the non-through hole through which the conductive pin does not pass.
- Furthermore, in the gas generator of the present invention, the holder made of a resin is formed integrally with the ignition device.
- Since the holder and the ignition device are integrated with each other, it is possible to reduce the parts count and the production cost.
- Still further, in the gas generator of the present invention, the base portion of the non-through hole through which the conductive pin does not pass is made of the resin.
- By this configuration, it is possible to easily form the base portion of the non-through hole through which the conductive pin does not pass and, in addition, to adjust the thickness, the diameter, and the like thereof.
- Still further, in the gas generator of the present invention, the holder is insert molded by the resin with a reinforcement member which is made of a rigid material having a higher strength than the resin.
- Since the reinforcement member which is the rigid body is insert molded in the holder made of the resin, it is possible to increase the strength of the holder and to inhibit the deformation of the holder during fixing the cup member to the holder by, e.g., crimping.
- Still further, in the gas generator of the present invention, the reinforcement member is provided with one or more through holes through which the conductive pins pass and one or more non-through holes through which the conductive pin do not pass.
- The reinforcement member having the rigid body is provided with the holes, and the rupture open area is substantially equal to the area of the hole formed through the reinforcement member. Thereby, the rupture open area can be surely regulated.
- Still further, in the gas generator of the present invention, a depth of the non-through hole through which the conductive pin does not pass is within a range of 60 to 90% of a length of the holder from one end to the other end thereof inclusive of the non-through hole through which the conductive pin does not pass and the base portion of the non-through hole.
- By this configuration, the gas generator itself and heavy objects such as the conductive pin portions and the like do not scatter toward the outside of the seat belt pretensioner, because the non-through hole through which the conductive pin does not pass is firstly ruptured and then the pressure is released to the outside through the ruptured non-through hole.
- Still further, in the gas generator of the present invention, a relationship among a minimum thickness of the base portion of a connector attachment hole of the holder, a diameter of the base portion of the connector attachment hole, the thickness of the base portion of the non-through hole through which the conductive pin does not pass, and a diameter of an inscribed circle in the non-through hole, satisfies the following relationship:
“the thickness of the base portion of the non-through hole through which the conductive pin does not pass<(the diameter of the inscribed circle in the non-through hole×the minimum thickness of the base portion of the connector attachment hole)/the diameter of the base portion of the connector attachment hole”. - By this configuration, the gas generator itself and heavy objects such as the conductive pin portions and the like do not scatter toward the outside of the seat belt pretensioner, because the non-through hole through which the conductive pin does not pass is firstly ruptured and then the pressure is released to the outside through the ruptured non-through hole.
-
FIG. 1 is a schematic cross sectional view showing an exemplary embodiment of a gas generator according to the present invention as viewed from the A″ direction along the A-A′ line ofFIG. 3 . -
FIG. 2 is a schematic cross sectional view showing the exemplary embodiment of the gas generator according to the present invention as viewed from the B″ direction along the B-B′ line ofFIG. 3 . -
FIG. 3 is a schematic outline as viewed from the above in an axial direction of the exemplary embodiment of the gas generator according to the present invention. -
FIG. 4 is a schematic outline as viewed from the above in the axial direction of the exemplary embodiment of the gas generator according to the present invention. -
FIG. 5 is a schematic cross sectional view showing another exemplary embodiment of the gas generator according to the present invention as viewed from the A″ direction along the A-A′ line ofFIG. 4 . -
FIG. 6 is a schematic cross sectional view showing the another exemplary embodiment of the gas generator according to the present invention as viewed from the B″ direction along the B-B′ line ofFIG. 4 . -
FIG. 7 is a schematic external view showing a reinforcement member for use in the exemplary embodiment of the gas generator in accordance with the present invention. -
FIG. 8 is a schematic cross sectional view showing a conventional gas generator. - In the following, an exemplary embodiment of a gas generator of the present invention will be explained in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
- The gas generator 1 as illustrated in
FIG. 1 toFIG. 3 serves to actuate a restraint system for a vehicle occupant such as a seat belt pretensioner for the vehicle, and quickly generate gas by igniting a squib and burning agas generant 2.FIG. 1 is a view of the gas generator 1 according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention as viewed from the A″ direction along the A-A′ line ofFIG. 3 , which is a view as viewed from the above in the axial direction thereof.FIG. 2 is a view as viewed from the B″ side along the B-B′ line ofFIG. 3 in the same manner. - The gas generator 1 comprises a
cup member 3 and aholder 6. Thecup member 3 has a cylinder shape with a base, and contains thegas generant 2 which generates gas by burning. Theholder 6 is integrally formed with anignition unit 4 serving as an ignition device for igniting thegas generant 2 by an electrification and fitted into thecup member 3 in order that theignition unit 4 is located within thegas generant 2. - The
ignition unit 4 integrally formed with theholder 6 comprises ashell 4 b containing anignition agent 4 a, twoconductive pins 4 d, abridgewire 4 e connected between the tip ends of the twoconductive pins 4 d on the side of theignition agent 4 a, and anfuse head 4 c formed to enclose thebridgewire 4 e and disposed in contact with theignition agent 4 a. - The
holder 6 is substantially in the form of a cylinder with a base. There is a stepped portion between theholder 6 and anaxial member 17. Theaxial member 17 has a diameter reduced from a diameter of theholder 6 to protrude toward thegas generant 2 side, and has a substantially partially conical portion. Theholder 6 is formed with aconnector attachment hole 18 opening toward on the side opposite to theaxial member 17. The tip end of theaxial member 17 is fitted into theshell 4 b. Also, an O-ring reception groove 6 a is formed on the periphery of theholder 6. An O-ring 7 is placed as a seal member in the O-ring reception groove 6 a along the inner peripheral surface of thecup member 3 to maintain the sealing performance between theholder 6 and thecup member 3. Also, a crimping steppedportion 6 b reduced in diameter is formed on the periphery of theholder 6 at the edge on theconnector attachment hole 18 side. Furthermore, theholder 6 is formed withnon-through holes 6 e through which theconductive pins 4 d do not pass. Abase portion 6 f of thenon-through holes 6 e are formed in theholder 6. Thebase portion 6 f is made of a resin. In addition, aninner cylinder 8 located along the inside of thecup member 3 is fitted into an innercylinder reception groove 6 c formed on theholder 6. - This
holder 6 can be formed by injecting a resin or the similar resin mixed with glass fibers, a carbon additive and/or the like into a non-illustrated mold. There can be used resins such as polybutylene terephthalate, polyethylene terephthalate,nylon 6, nylon 66, polyphenylene sulfide, polyphenylene oxide, polyethylene imide, polyether imide, polyether ether ketone, polyether sulfone. - In addition, the
holder 6 is integrally provided with the respectiveconductive pins 4 d of theignition unit 4. The respectiveconductive pins 4 d are integrated with the resin of theholder 6 by disposing them inside the mold when the resin is injected into the above mold. - In case of two
conductive pins 4 d, the twoconductive pins 4 d are arranged in parallel with the axis of the gas generator 1, and pass through theholder 6 in the axial direction. Also, the respectiveconductive pins 4 d are curved in theholder 6 and projected into theconnector attachment hole 18 of theholder 6 and into theshell 4 b. The respectiveconductive pins 4 d are made of a conductive material such as a stainless steel, an iron-nickel alloy or the like. The respectiveconductive pins 4 d are electrically isolated from each other by the resin of theholder 6. Furthermore, thebridgewire 4 e is deposited onto the respectiveconductive pins 4 d in theshell 4 b by welding and the like process, and thefuse head 4 c is formed to enclose the tip ends of the respectiveconductive pins 4 d and thebridgewire 4 e. Thefuse head 4 c is in contact with theignition agent 4 a in theshell 4 b. As has been discussed above, theholder 6 is integrally provided with theignition unit 4 comprising theshell 4 b, theignition agent 4 a, the respectiveconductive pins 4 d and the like. In addition, the respectiveconductive pins 4 d projected into theconnector attachment hole 18 are provided with a non-illustrated shorting clip for short circuiting between the respectiveconductive pins 4 d in order to prevent improper actuation of theignition unit 4. The short circuiting is released when installed in the seat belt pretensioner and the like. - The
cup member 3 of the gas generator 1 is made of a metallic material such as a stainless steel, aluminium, iron and the like in the form of a cup, and contains thegas generant 2 which generates gas by burning. A scoredsection 3 e of a base portion of thecup member 3 is provided with a several scores. When a pressure in thecup member 3 rises, the several scores are ruptured in the pressure lower than the rupture pressure of the non-through hole through which theconductive pin 4 d does not pass. Thereby, a gas discharge opening is formed and the inside of thecup member 3 is communicated with the outside. Theholder 6 is fitted into thecup member 3. And thecup member 3 is fixed to theholder 6 by aportion 3 b crimped on the crimping steppedportion 6 b at the opening edge of thecup member 3. Alternatively, it is possible for thecup member 3 to be provided with a scored section in a side cylinder of the cup member. And gas is discharged from the side cylinder of thecup member 3. - Also, as illustrated in
FIG. 2 , in the gas generator, a depth L (mm) of thenon-through hole 6 e through which theconductive pin 4 d does not pass is preferably within a range of 60 to 90% of a length M (mm). The length M (mm) is a length of theholder 6 from one end to the other end thereof inclusive of thenon-through hole 6 e through which theconductive pin 4 d does not pass and abase portion 6 f of thenon-through hole 6 e. Also, as illustrated inFIG. 2 , a relationship among a minimum thickness T (mm) of a base portion of aconnector attachment hole 18 of theholder 6, a diameter Y(mm) of the base portion of theconnector attachment hole 18, the thickness t(mm) of abase portion 6 f of thenon-through hole 6 e through which theconductive pin 4 d does not pass and a diameter y(mm) of an inscribed circle in thenon-through hole 6 e, preferably satisfies the following relationship: “the thickness t(mm) of the base portion of saidnon-through hole 6 e through which theconductive pin 4 d does not pass<{the diameter y (mm) of the inscribed circle in thenon-through hole 6 e×the minimum thickness T(mm) of the base portion of the connector attachment hole 18}/the diameter Y(mm) of the base portion of theconnector attachment hole 18”. And more preferably, the relationship satisfies the following relationship: “the thickness t (mm) of the base portion of thenon-through hole 6 e through which theconductive pin 4 d does not pass<0.7×{the diameter y (mm) of the inscribed circle in thenon-through hole 6 e×the minimum thickness T(mm) of the base portion of the connector attachment hole 18}/the diameter Y(mm) of the base portion of theconnector attachment hole 18”. - Next, the method of manufacturing the gas generator 1 will be explained.
- At first, the method of molding the
holder 6 integrated with theignition unit 4 will be explained. First, a desired shape is insert molded by injecting a resin or the similar resin mixed with glass fibers, a carbon additive and/or the like into a non-illustrated mold in which theconductive pins 4 d are placed in advance. There is the resin such as polybutylene terephthalate, polyethylene terephthalate,nylon 6, nylon 66, polypropylene sulfide, polypropylene oxide, polyethylene imide, polyether imide, polyether ether ketone, polyether sulfone. At this time, theconductive pins 4 d of the ignition unit are insert molded in theholder 6 without any gap. In this structure, holes 6 d through which theconductive pins 4 d pass (located in theholder 6 as well as theholes 6 d described below) are completely occupied by theconductive pins 4 d without any gap. - Next, the tip ends of the respective
conductive pins 4 d projected from theaxial member 17 of theholder 6 are connected with thebridgewire 4 e, and thebridgewire 4 e is enclosed by thefuse head 4 c. Theaxial member 17 of theholder 6 is fitted into theshell 4 b containing theignition agent 4 a, so that theignition unit 4 is integrated with theholder 6. Further, the O-ring 7 is disposed in the O-ring reception groove 6 a of theholder 6. Also, theinner cylinder 8 is fitted onto the innercylinder reception grooves 6 c formed in theholder 6. - Next, after the
gas generant 2 as measured in advance is loaded into thecylindrical portion 8 with theholder 6 as the bottom. Theholder 6 is fitted into thecup member 3 through the opening thereof, which is then crimped in the radially inward direction (toward the crimping steppedportion 6 b) to form acrimped edge 3 b so that thecup member 3 is fixed to theholder 6 by the engagement between thecrimped edge 3 b and the crimping steppedportion 6 b. At this time, the O-ring 7 disposed in the O-ring reception groove 6 a is elastically deformed between the O-ring reception groove 6 a and the inner surface of thecup member 3 during the fitting insertion into thecup member 3, providing the sealing performance therebetween. Next, a shorting clip, not shown in the figure, is fitted between the respectiveconductive pins 4 d projected into theconnector attachment hole 18 of theholder 6, for preventing improper actuation of theignition unit 4, to complete the gas generator 1. - In the following, the operation of the gas generator 1 of the present invention will be explained. In the operation of the gas generator 1, current is passed between the
conductive pins 4 d of theignition unit 4 to generate Joule heat in thebridgewire 4 e, instantly followed by ignition of thefuse head 4 c with the Joule heat and then ignition of theignition agent 4 a. The elevation of the pressure in theshell 4 b causes the rupture of theshell 4 b to blow out the flame of theignition agent 4 a by which thegas generant 2 starts burning to discharge gas. In the course of time, the pressure inside thecup member 3 causes the rupture of the scores of the scoredsection 3 e formed in the bottom surface of thecup member 3 to introduce the gas into a seat belt pretensioner and the like not shown in the figure. Then, the seat belt pretensioner and the like is actuated by the high pressure gas to fasten a seat belt. Alternatively, it is possible to provide a scored section in the side cylinder of thecup member 3 and discharge the gas from the side cylinder of thecup member 3. - Next, another embodiment of the gas generator of the present invention will be explained in conjunction with
FIG. 5 andFIG. 6 .FIG. 5 is a view of thegas generator 21 according to the present invention as viewed from the A″ direction along the A-A′ line ofFIG. 4 , which is a view as viewed from the above in the axial direction thereof.FIG. 6 is a view as viewed from the B″ direction along the B-B′ line ofFIG. 4 in the same manner. - The
gas generator 21 as illustrated inFIG. 4 toFIG. 6 differs from the gas generator 1 as illustrated inFIG. 1 toFIG. 3 in that areinforcement member 26 is insert molded in theholder 6, and in that the rupture open area of thenon-through holes 6 e through which theconductive pins 4 d do not pass is small. The other structure is same as that of the gas generator 1 as illustrated inFIG. 1 toFIG. 3 , and therefore detailed explanation is omitted while making use of the same references. -
FIG. 7 is an external view showing areinforcement member 26 for use in thegas generator 21 of the present invention. In thegas generator 21, thereinforcement member 26 substantially in the form of a cup or dish is integrally insert molded inside theholder 6 made of a resin. This type ofholder 6 can be easily manufactured by disposing thereinforcement member 26 together with theconductive pins 4 d inside a metal mold when a resin is injected into the mold, as has been discussed above. Thisreinforcement member 26 is made of a metallic material such as a stainless steel or SPCC (JIS G 3141), or a reinforced plastic made of a thermosetting resin or the like. Thereinforcement member 26 is partially exposed from theholder 6 at the outer periphery thereof to form a crimping steppedportion 26 b onto which the opening edge of thecup member 3 is crimped to form acrimped edge 3 b. Also, the bottom portion of thereinforcement member 26 is formed withholes 6 h through which theconductive pins 4 d pass andnon-through holes 6 g through which theconductive pins 4 d do not pass. Thenon-through holes 6 g through which theconductive pins 4 d do not pass, which is formed in the bottom portion of thisreinforcement member 26, serves to form through holes in abase portion 6 f of the non-through hole of theholder 6, thereby releasing the pressure inside the gas generator therethrough when an unexpected high pressure arises in thecup member 3. Then, the pressure inside the gas generator can be released from the gas generator through thenon-through holes 6 e through which theconductive pins 4 d do not pass, so that it is possible to preserve the throughholes 6 d through which theconductive pins 4 d pass without the rupture thereof. - In the above structure of the
gas generator 21, while moisture is prevented by the O-ring 7 from entering the inside of the gas gnerator containing thegas generant 2, since thereinforcement member 26 made of a rigid material having a higher strength than the resin as described above is located to provide the area, to which a force (crimping force) is applied during crimping thecup member 3, i.e., the crimping steppedportion 26 b, it is possible to inhibit the deformation of theholder 6 due to the crimping force by thereinforcement member 26. It is also possible to inhibit the deformation of theholder 6 due to the thermal expansion of the resin by thereinforcement member 26. Accordingly, the generation of a gap due to the crimping force, the thermal expansion or the like can be effectively avoided. Also, the accuracy of the crimping process for attaching thecup member 3 to theholder 6 in the manufacture of thegas generator 21 need not be so high as required of the gas generator 1, resulting in the facilitation of the manufacturing process. Furthermore, by virtue of thereinforcement member 26, theholder 6 is more surely prevented from rupturing or generating flying fragments when thegas generator 21 is actuated, as compared with the similar case without thereinforcement member 26. - While the gas generator 1 and the
gas generator 21 as have been discussed above are provided with ignition device integrated with the holder, the gas generator of the present invention is not limited thereto and can be implemented, for example, with a holder and ignition device (an ignition device) provided as separate components. - Next, the rupture pressure and the rupture open area in accordance with the
gas generators 1 and 21 of the present invention will be explained. - The rupture pressure of the through
holes 6 d through which theconductive pins 4 d pass is the pressure required for releasing these pins out of theholder 6 after rupturing, in a high pressure, rupturing the vicinity of the throughholes 6 d through which theconductive pins 4 d pass. Incidentally, for example, in the case where the twoconductive pins 4 d are tightly connected in the gas generator, the rupture pressure means the pressure required for releasing the connectedconductive pins 4 d out of theholder 6 after rupturing, in a high pressure, the vicinity of the throughholes 6 d through which theconductive pins 4 d pass. - The rupture pressure of the
non-through holes 6 e through which theconductive pins 4 d do not pass is the pressure required for rupturing a base portion of thenon-through hole 6 e of theholder 6. Accordingly, the thicker thebase portion 6 f of thenon-through hole 6 e is, the higher the rupture pressure becomes, so that the adjustment is possible. Alternatively, depending upon the case, it is possible to provide a notched section (scores) and the like in thebase portion 6 f of thenon-through hole 6 e to reduce the rupture pressure. - In this case, gas is introduced into a seat belt pretensioner or the like, during the usual operation of the gas generator, by rupturing the scored section of the
cup member 3. Accordingly, in the case of the usual operation, there is not a rupture in the vicinity of the throughholes 6 d through which theconductive pins 4 d pass and in the vicinity of thenon-through holes 6 e through which theconductive pins 4 d do not pass. From this fact, the respective rupture pressures inclusive of the rupture pressure of the scored section of the cup member satisfy: (the rupture pressure of the scored section of the cup member)<(the rupture pressure of the non-through holes through which the conductive pins do not pass)<(the rupture pressure of the through holes through which the conductive pins pass). - Next, the rupture open area will be explained. The rupture open area is represented by the project area, as viewed from the above in the axial direction of the gas generator, of a hole which is formed at the through
holes 6 d through which theconductive pins 4 d pass after theconductive pins 4 d fly off from theholder 6 or a hole which is formed at thenon-through holes 6 e through which theconductive pins 4 d do not pass after thebase portion 6 f of thenon-through hole 6 e is ruptured. Accordingly, the rupture open area of the throughholes 6 d through which theconductive pins 4 d pass is indicated by “C” inFIG. 3 and is substantially equivalent to the project area of theconductive pins 4 d as viewed from the above in the axial direction of the gas generator. On the other hand, the rupture open area of thenon-through holes 6 e through which theconductive pins 4 d do not pass is indicated by “D” inFIG. 3 and is substantially equivalent to the area of thebase portion 6 f of the non-through 6 e. The rupture open area of thenon-through holes 6 e through which theconductive pins 4 d do not pass is indicated by “E” inFIG. 4 and is substantially equivalent to the overlapping area of thebase portion 6 f of thenon-through hole 6 e of theholder 6 and the open area F of thehole 6 g opened through the reinforcement member 26 (inFIG. 4 , a circle plotted by broken line corresponds to the open area F of thehole 6 g opened through the reinforcement member 26). - As thus described, by setting at a low value the rupture pressure of the
non-through holes 6 e through which theconductive pins 4 d do not pass, the pressure inside the gas generator is released to the outside from the through hole formed in thenon-through holes 6 e through which theconductive pins 4 d do not pass when an unexpected high pressure arises, and as a result the throughholes 6 d through which theconductive pins 4 d pass can be preserved without rupture. Particularly, when the gas generator is actuated in a high temperature condition such as a vehicle fire, this is effective in the case where the resin of theholder 6 is a thermoplastic resin to quickly decrease the strength if the temperature rises beyond the glass transition point. In the case of the conventional techniques, only the throughholes 6 d through which theconductive pins 4 d pass are formed, and the vicinity of theconductive pins 4 d is made of a resin. Therefore, it is likely that theconductive pins 4 d fly off under such a situation. - Particularly, in the case where the ignition device is integrated with the
holder 6 in a resin, this structure can be easily adjusted and formed while the rupture open area is surely regulated by insert molding thereinforcement member 26 in the inside. This is effective particularly in the case of actuation at a high temperature, for example, when a vehicle fire occurs. - In accordance with the gas generator of the present invention, heavy objects such as conductive pins are prevented from flying off to the outside even when actuated in a high pressure and at a high temperature, while it is possible to manufacture the corresponding structure with ease.
Claims (13)
1-8. (canceled)
9. A gas generator comprising:
a cup member containing a gas generant that burns to generate gas; and
a holder provided with an ignition device that has at least one conductive pin and ignites said gas generant,
wherein:
said holder comprises one or more through holes through which said conductive pins pass and one or more non-through holes through which said conductive pins do not pass; and
with respect to a rupture pressure from said gas generant side to said holder, when a pressure occurs toward an outside of said gas generator, said rupture pressure of said through hole through which said conductive pin passes is adjusted to be higher than said rupture pressure of said non-through hole through which said conductive pin does not pass.
10. The gas generator as claimed in claim 9 , wherein a rupture open area of said non-through hole through which said conductive pin does not pass is equal to or larger than a rupture open area of said thorough hole through which said conductive pin passes.
11. The gas generator as claimed in claim 9 , wherein said holder is formed integrally with said ignition device by a resin.
12. The gas generator as claimed in claim 10 , wherein said holder is formed integrally with said ignition device by a resin.
13. The gas generator as claimed in claim 9 , wherein:
said holder is formed integrally with said ignition device by a resin; and
a base portion of said non-through hole through which said conductive pin does not pass is made of said resin.
14. The gas generator as claimed in claim 10 , wherein:
said holder is formed integrally with said ignition device by a resin; and
a base portion of said non-through hole through which said conductive pin does not pass is made of said resin.
15. The gas generator as claimed in claim 9 , wherein:
said holder is formed integrally with said ignition device by a resin;
a base portion of said non-through hole through which said conductive pin does not pass is made of said resin; and
said holder is insert molded by said resin with a reinforcement member made of a rigid material having a higher strength than said resin.
16. The gas generator as claimed in claim 10 , wherein:
said holder is formed integrally with said ignition device by a resin;
a base portion of said non-through hole through which said conductive pin does not pass is made of said resin; and
said holder is insert molded by said resin with a reinforcement member made of a rigid material having a higher strength than said resin.
17. The gas generator as claimed in claim 9 , wherein:
said holder is formed integrally with said ignition device by a resin;
a base portion of said non-through hole through which said conductive pin does not pass is made of said resin;
said holder is insert molded by said resin with a reinforcement member made of a rigid material having a higher strength than said resin; and
said reinforcement member is provided with one or more through holes through which said conductive pins pass and one or more non-through holes through which said conductive pins do not pass.
18. The gas generator as claimed in claim 10 , wherein:
said holder is formed integrally with said ignition device by a resin;
a base portion of said non-through hole through which said conductive pin does not pass is made of said resin;
said holder is insert molded by said resin with a reinforcement member made of a rigid material having a higher strength than said resin; and
said reinforcement member is provided with one or more through holes through which said conductive pins pass and one or more non-through holes through which said conductive pins do not pass.
19. The gas generator as claimed in claim 9 , wherein a depth of said non-through hole through which said conductive pin does not pass is within a range of 60 to 90% of a length of said holder from one end to the other end thereof inclusive of said non-through hole through which said conductive pin does not pass and said base portion of said non-through hole.
20. The gas generator as claimed in claim 9 , wherein a relationship among a minimum thickness of said base portion of a connector attachment hole of said holder, a diameter of said base portion of said connector attachment hole, said thickness of said base portion of said non-through hole through which said conductive pin does not pass, and a diameter of an inscribed circle in said non-through hole, satisfies a following relationship that:
said thickness of said base portion of said non-through hole through which said conductive pin does not pass<{said diameter of said inscribed circle in said non-through hole×said minimum thickness of said base portion of said connector attachment hole}/said diameter of said base portion of said connector attachment hole.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
JP2002-112782 | 2002-04-16 | ||
JP2002112782 | 2002-04-16 | ||
PCT/JP2003/004820 WO2003087705A1 (en) | 2002-04-16 | 2003-04-16 | Gas generator |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20050183606A1 true US20050183606A1 (en) | 2005-08-25 |
Family
ID=29243333
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/510,240 Abandoned US20050183606A1 (en) | 2002-04-16 | 2003-04-16 | Gas generator |
Country Status (6)
Country | Link |
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US (1) | US20050183606A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP1498686A1 (en) |
JP (1) | JP4148902B2 (en) |
CN (1) | CN100347513C (en) |
AU (1) | AU2003235178A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2003087705A1 (en) |
Cited By (4)
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US20060208474A1 (en) * | 2003-12-24 | 2006-09-21 | Nippon Kayaku Kabushiki Kaisha | Gas producer |
US20080143089A1 (en) * | 2005-01-21 | 2008-06-19 | Nippon Dayaku Dabushiki Kaisha | Gas Generator and Method of Manufacturing the Same |
US20090179408A1 (en) * | 2008-01-14 | 2009-07-16 | Autoliv Asp, Inc. | Pyrotechnic cup |
DE102009023593B4 (en) | 2009-06-02 | 2024-03-07 | Zf Airbag Germany Gmbh | Gas generator with igniter assembly, having a buffer structure |
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JP4887095B2 (en) * | 2006-08-10 | 2012-02-29 | 株式会社ダイセル | Gas generator and manufacturing method thereof |
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- 2003-04-16 EP EP03719116A patent/EP1498686A1/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2003-04-16 JP JP2003584607A patent/JP4148902B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2003-04-16 WO PCT/JP2003/004820 patent/WO2003087705A1/en active Application Filing
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---|---|---|---|---|
US20060208474A1 (en) * | 2003-12-24 | 2006-09-21 | Nippon Kayaku Kabushiki Kaisha | Gas producer |
US20080143089A1 (en) * | 2005-01-21 | 2008-06-19 | Nippon Dayaku Dabushiki Kaisha | Gas Generator and Method of Manufacturing the Same |
US7850201B2 (en) | 2005-01-21 | 2010-12-14 | Nippon Kayaku Kabushiki Kaisha | Gas generator and method of manufacturing the same |
US20090179408A1 (en) * | 2008-01-14 | 2009-07-16 | Autoliv Asp, Inc. | Pyrotechnic cup |
US7845278B2 (en) * | 2008-01-14 | 2010-12-07 | Autoliv Asp, Inc. | Pyrotechnic cup |
DE102009023593B4 (en) | 2009-06-02 | 2024-03-07 | Zf Airbag Germany Gmbh | Gas generator with igniter assembly, having a buffer structure |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
CN100347513C (en) | 2007-11-07 |
JPWO2003087705A1 (en) | 2005-08-18 |
EP1498686A1 (en) | 2005-01-19 |
AU2003235178A1 (en) | 2003-10-27 |
WO2003087705A1 (en) | 2003-10-23 |
JP4148902B2 (en) | 2008-09-10 |
CN1646875A (en) | 2005-07-27 |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: NIPPON KAYAKU KABUSHIKI-KAISHA, JAPAN Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:KUBO, DAIRI;TANAKA, KOJI;REEL/FRAME:016074/0555 Effective date: 20040927 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |