WO2002060728A1

WO2002060728A1 - Gas generator

Info

Publication number: WO2002060728A1
Application number: PCT/JP2002/000651
Authority: WO
Inventors: Junya Maruyama; Yasushi Matsumura; Dairi Kubo; Kenjiro Ikeda
Original assignee: Nippon Kayaku Kabushiki-Kaisha
Priority date: 2001-01-29
Filing date: 2002-01-29
Publication date: 2002-08-08

Abstract

A gas generator capable of operating a vehicle occupant arresting device, comprising gas generating agent (6), a first container (1) for storing the gas generating agent (6), an ignitor (4) having a second container (5) for storing igniting powder (7) and a closing body (19) for closing the opening of the second container (5), and a holder (3) for disposing the second container (5) at a specified position in the first container (1) and holding the ignitor (4) such as a squib and the first container (1), wherein a rotation prevention means (B) for preventing the first container (1) from being rotated relative to the holder (3) is provided between the first container (1) and the holder (3).

Description

Specification

Gas generator technical field

The present invention relates to a gas generator for operating a vehicle occupant restraint device such as a seat belt pretensioner of an automobile. Background art

A seat belt pretensioner is known as a device for protecting an occupant from an impact caused by a car collision. The pretensioner is activated by gas introduced from a gas generator so as to secure the occupant to a seat by a seat belt, and protects the occupant.

Examples of the gas generator include a gas generating agent, a first container that stores the gas generating agent, an igniter such as a squib, and a holder that holds the igniter and the first container. There is something. The igniter includes a second container that stores the ignition charge and a closing body that closes an opening of the second container. The holder holds the igniter and the first container so as to arrange the second container 5 at a predetermined position in the first container i. .

In order to seal the gas generating agent in the first container, the first container and the holder are joined so that the inside of the first container is closed. One of the joining methods is caulking.

The joining structure of the first container and the holder by caulking will be described. As an example of the first container, there is a container having a cylindrical portion, a bottom portion closing one end of the cylindrical portion, and a flange provided at an opening at the other end of the cylindrical portion. The flange is a ring-shaped flange projecting outward in the radial direction. The holder is a caulking element for holding the flange. have. The caulking element is a ring-shaped caulking element protruding in a direction substantially perpendicular to a direction in which the flange protrudes from the holder.

A flange of the first container is inserted into the caulking element of the holder, and the caulking element is bent and caulked so as to overlap the flange. '

However, the swaged portion of this type of gas generator is formed by pressing the ring-shaped flange of the first container against the holder substantially uniformly in the circumferential direction. Therefore, when an unexpected force or a shape defect occurs in the caulked portion, slipping is likely to occur, and the first container may rotate with respect to the holder.

When the first container rotates with respect to the holder, the seal member between the second container and the holder may be damaged. If the seal member breaks, leakage will occur.

In the case of a gas generator attached to the pretensioner module based on the first container, the mounting position of the igniter and the connector may be out of order.

The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and has as its object to reduce the rotation of the first container with respect to the holder without slipping the manufacturing process or increasing the number of parts. An object of the present invention is to provide a gas generator that can prevent such a problem. Disclosure of the invention

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides a gas generating agent, a first container that stores the gas generating agent, a second container that stores an igniting agent, and a closing body that closes an opening of the second container. And an igniter having the first container and the second container. „^, _M

PCT / JP02 / 00651

And a holder for holding the igniter and the first container.

Further, rotation preventing means for preventing the first container from rotating with respect to the holder is provided between the first container 1 and the holder 13.

The rotation preventing means includes a convex portion provided on at least one of the first container and the holder, and a concave portion provided on the other of the first container and the holder so as to engage with the convex portion. Anti-rotation means. Other anti-rotation means include a non-slip agent or an adhesive that bonds the first container and the holder and is in close contact with the holder.

In addition, there is a gas generator further comprising a separator arranged so as to surround the igniter so as to divide the inside of the first container into a gas generating agent storage space and an igniter storage space.

In this case, the holder holds the first container, the igniter, and the separator. Further, since the holder holds a part of the separator and a part of the first container in an overlapping manner, the rotation preventing means for preventing the first container from rotating with respect to the holder is provided. A holding part for holding the separator of the holder and the first container, between the separator and the holder, and between the separator and the first container. Brief description of drawings,

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a gas generator according to an example of a first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of a cross-section of a swaged portion of a first container and a holder. Fig. 3 is an enlarged view of the cross section of the other caulking part of the first container and the holder, and Fig. 4 is an enlarged view of the cross section of another caulking part of the first container and the holder. FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of a cross section of still another caulking portion of the first container and the holder, and FIG. 6 is a gas diagram according to an example of the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a generator, FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of a cross section of a caulked portion of a first container and a holder, and FIG. 8 is a gas diagram according to an example of a third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a generator, FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a gas generator according to an example of a fourth embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a gas generator according to an example of the fifth embodiment. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a gas generator according to an example of the sixth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a sectional view schematically illustrating a gas generator according to an example of the seventh embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a torque test result. BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Hereinafter, an example of an embodiment of a gas generator of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[First Embodiment Example 3

FIG. 1 is a view showing a cross section of the gas generator according to the first embodiment, and FIG. 2 is a view showing the swaging of the flange U at the open end of the first container 1 and the first swaging element 25 of the holder 13. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing details of a part A.

A gas generator 101 shown in FIG. 1 includes a gas generating agent 6, a first container 1 for storing the gas generating agent 6, a second container 5 for storing an igniting agent 7, and an opening of the second container 5. An electric igniter such as a squib 4 having a closing body 19 for closing the squib 4, a metal cover-2 arranged so as to surround a tip of the electric igniter such as the squib 4, and the second container 5 as the first container The squib 4 includes a holder 3 for holding the first container 1 and the closing member 19 of the electric igniter at a predetermined position, for example, at the center.

Further, the gas generator 101 includes a rotation preventing means B for preventing the first container 1 from rotating with respect to the holder 3 and the first container 1 and the holder 13. Have between.

An example of an electric igniter is Squib 4. The squib 4 includes two electrode pins 8 and 9, a bridge wire 10 at the tip of the electrode pins 8 and 9, an ignition ball 11 covering a portion of the bridge wire 10, and an ignition agent around the ignition ball 11. 7, a second container 5 for storing the igniting agent 7, and a plug 19 for closing the opening of the second container 5. An example of the second container 5 is a cylindrical body having a bottom, which has a cup-like shape. At the circular opening of the second container 5, a ring-shaped projection 21 that fits into a mounting groove 22 of a plug 19 described later is provided inside.

Examples of the plug 19 include a first and second small-diameter portion 1919b, a large-diameter portion 19c sandwiched between the first and second small-diameter portions 19a and 19b, and the first large-diameter portion 19c from the large-diameter portion 19c. And a cylindrical body having first and second tapered portions 19d and 19e connected to the second small diameter portions 19a and 19b.

A mounting groove 22 into which the ring-shaped protrusion 21 of the second container 5 is fitted is formed around the distal end side of the first small diameter portion 19a. When the first small diameter portion 19a is inserted into the opening of the second container 5 and the projection 21 of the second container 5 fits into the mounting groove 22, the opening of the second container 5 is closed, The second container 5 is closed.

As a material of the plug 19, for example, resin such as polybutylene terephthalate, polyethylene terephthalate, nylon 6, nylon 66, polyphenylene sulfide, polyphenylene oxide, or the like is made to contain glass fiber or the like. Things. .

The resin containing the glass fiber or the like is injected into the mold, and the plug 19 is formed.

The self-electrode pins 8 and 9 are formed integrally with the plug 19 and penetrate the plug 19. The electrode pins 8 and 9 are connected to the axial center in the plug 19. Are arranged in parallel. Each of the electrode pins 8 and 9 has a shape that curves in the large diameter portion 19c of the plug 19. Examples of a material for these electrode pins 8 and 9 include conductive materials such as stainless steel and iron-nickel alloy. Each of the electrode pins 8 and 9 is hermetically fixed to a resin plug 19 and is electrically insulated by the plug 19.

Further, a bridge wire 10 is welded to the tip of each of the electrode pins 8 and 9 in the second container 5 by welding or the like. The ignition ball 1 U covers the tip side of each of the electrode pins 8 and 9 and the bridge 10, and is in contact with the ignition powder 7 in the second container 5.

The squib 4 is held at a predetermined position in the first container 1 by a holder 3. Then, when the electrodes 8 and 9 are energized, the ignition agent 7 ignites and the gas generating agent 6 ignites.

The metal cover 2 has a shape that substantially matches the contour of the second container 5 of the squib 4 and the first tapered portion 19d of the plug 19 so as to closely cover the first small diameter portion 19a and the first tapered portion 19d. It is a power body having. Examples of the material of the metal cover 2 include metal materials such as iron, stainless steel, and aluminum. The bottom cover 15 of the metal cover 2 is provided with a fire hole 16 opening into the i-th container 1. An example of the first container 1 is a cylindrical body having a bottom 12 such as Shape. The material of the first container 1 is a metal material such as stainless steel and aluminum. The first container 1 is provided with a gas generating agent 6 that generates gas by combustion. The diameter of the opening side of the first container 1 is larger than the diameter of the bottom 12, and the first container 1 has a step portion la. At the open end of the first container 1,

A flange 14 projecting outward in the radial direction of one container 1 is integrally formed along the outer periphery.

Also, on the surface of the bottom 12, a plurality of grooves 13 not communicating with the inside are formed. I have. The grooves 13 are arranged radially from the center of the bottom 12 of the first container 1 and cut into the bottom 12 of the first container 1 with a predetermined depth. Then, in the groove 13, the bottom 12 ruptures due to an increase in the internal pressure of the first container 1, and a gas discharge hole is formed. As a result, the inside of the first container 1 communicates with the outside.

A cylindrical body in which the holder 13 has a first cylindrical portion 3a having a large diameter and a second cylindrical portion 3b having a small diameter, and the first cylindrical portion 3a and the second cylindrical portion 3b are integrally connected. Is mentioned. The connecting portion forms a step.

In the second cylindrical portion 3b of the holder, a ring-shaped pedestal 3c for mounting the squib 4 is formed on the inner wall. A connector mounting member 20 is provided in the first cylindrical portion 3a. The inside of the first cylindrical portion 3a and the inside of the second cylindrical portion 3b communicate with each other through a central hole of the ring-shaped pedestal 3c.

On the outer wall of the holder 3, a ring-shaped first caulking element 25 projecting from the first cylindrical portion 3a toward the second cylindrical portion 3b is provided along the outer periphery at a boundary between the first cylindrical portion 3a and the second cylindrical portion 3b. And are provided integrally. The first caulking element 25 is for holding the first container 1. A ring-shaped second caulking element 26 protruding toward the squib 4 at the end of the second cylindrical portion 3b is physically provided. The second caulking element 26 is for holding the squib 4.

Examples of the material of the holder 3 include a metal material such as stainless steel and aluminum, and a composite material of a resin and a metal material such as Kojiro Plastic. In particular, the first force, the swaging element 25 and the second swaging element 26 are preferably formed of a metal material.

The metal cover 2 and the second container 5 of the squib 4 are arranged inside the first container 1. The first chamber 1, the metal cover 2, the second cylindrical portion 3b of the holder 3, and the second caulking element 26 form a combustion chamber for the gas generating agent 6. A ring-shaped seal member 28 such as a ring is mounted on the ring-shaped pedestal 3c, and then the squib 4 is mounted. Two electrode pins 8, 9 protrude from the center hole of the ring-shaped pedestal 3c toward the connector mounting member 20 in the first cylindrical portion 3a.

The open end 17 of the metal cover 2 that covers the second container 5 and the like is in contact with the first tapered portion 19d of the stopper 19. The second caulking element 26 is bent and caulked so as to overlap the open end 17 of the metal cover 2. Thereby, the metal cover 2 and the squib 4 are held by the holder 13.

The second cylindrical portion 3 b of the holder 3 holding the squib 4 is inserted into the opening of the first container 1. The flange 14 at the open end of the first container 1 is inserted along the inner peripheral surface of the ring-shaped first caulking element 25 of the holder 3. The flange 14 at the open end of the first container 1 is bent and caulked so that the first caulking element 25 overlaps the surface of the flange 14 while being in contact with the first cylindrical portion 3a of the holder 3. Accordingly, the first container 1 is held in the holder 3 [the gas generating agent 6 is sealed in the first container 1].

In addition, as a means for the holder 13 to hold the first container 1 and the squib 4, in addition to the caulking, adhesion, crimping, embedding, or the like can be adopted. -In addition, the gas generator shown in the first embodiment has a rotation preventing means B for preventing the first container 1 from rotating with respect to the holder 3, which is a feature of the present invention. However, before describing the anti-rotation means B in detail, refer to FIG. 1 to see how the first container 1 rotates with respect to the holder 3 without the anti-rotation means B. I will explain it.

In the caulking portion A due to the first caulking element 25, when an unexpected force or a shape defect occurs, slip is likely to occur. When slip occurs, the circle The first container 1 which is a cylindrical body rotates with the center axis of the cylinder being substantially the center axis Z of rotation and the circumferential direction being substantially the rotation direction R. If the first container 1 rotates with respect to the holder 13, as described above, the sealing member between the first container 1 and the holder 13 may be damaged, causing problems such as leakage. Occurs. Therefore, the anti-rotation means B as shown in FIG. 2 was provided.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing details of the caulking portion A by the first caulking element 25. FIG. In the figure, the center axis Z and the rotation direction R of the rotation of the first container 1 in the case where the rotation preventing means B is not provided are abstractly shown on the right side for reference.

In FIG. 2, the rotation preventing means B is composed of a convex portion 30a 'provided between the i-th container 1 and the holder 3, and a concave portion 30b engaged with the convex portion 30a.

20 pin-shaped protrusions 30a are formed at equal intervals on the inner peripheral surface of the ring-shaped first caulking element 25 of the holder 3. The height of the protruding portion is preferably 0.5 thigh. The number, height or arrangement of the pin-shaped protrusions 30a can be arbitrarily changed as long as rotation can be prevented.

The same material as that of the holder 13 may be used as the material of the protrusion 30a. In the first embodiment, the pin-shaped projection 30a and the holder 13 are integrally formed. However, the projection 30a and the holder 3 may be separate bodies. In this case, a concave portion is provided in advance at a position where the convex portion of the holder 3 is to be formed, and a convex portion 30a is formed by inserting a pin into the concave portion. The length of the pin needs to be longer than the depth of the recess so that a part of the pin can protrude from the holder 13.

The convex portion 30a is a direction perpendicular to the direction R in which the first container 1 slides and rotates, and protrudes in a direction parallel to the central axis Z of rotation. In other words, it protrudes in the thickness direction of the ring-shaped flange 14 of the i-th container 1.

When the first caulking element 25 is caulked, the convex 咅! It protrudes in the direction in which force is applied. When the caulking force is applied, the portion of the first container 1 that is in contact with the convex portion 30a is pressed by the flange 14 to form a concave portion 30b. Therefore, the joining surface formed by caulking is an uneven surface in which the convex portion 30a and the concave portion 30b are engaged. As a result, the first container 1 is prevented from slipping and rotating with respect to the holder 13.

(Manufacturing)

The gas generator 101 is manufactured according to the following procedure.

First, a plug 19 integrally formed with each of the electrode pins 8, 9 is formed by insert molding using a resin material. Subsequently, the electrode wire 10 is welded to the tip of each of the electrode pins 8 and 9. This electrode wire 10 is covered with an ignition ball 11. The plug 19 is fitted in the second container 5 in which the ignition agent 7 is stored. Thus, the squib 4 is formed.

Next, a seal member 28 such as a ring is attached to the pedestal 3c of the holder. Further, the squib 4 is mounted on the pedestal 3c.

Subsequently, the metal cover 2 is attached to the squib 4 so that the bottom of the second container 5 of the squib 4 and the bottom 15 of the metal cover 2 are in close contact with each other. At this time, the metal igniter hole 16 is closed. The open end 17 of the metal cover 2 is in contact with the first taper part i9d of the plug.

The second caulking element 26 of the holder 13 is bent and caulked so as to overlap the open end 17 of the metal cover. At this time, the plug 19 and the opening-side end 17 of the metal force bar 2 are pressed against the holder 13 by a caulking force. The sealing member 28 such as an O-ring interposed between the plug 19 and the holder 13 is deformed. As a result, the space between the holder 13 and the plug 19 is sealed, and the squib 4 is held by the holder 3.

Next, the gas generating agent 6 is filled in the first container 1. Until the flange 14 of the first container 1 contacts the first cylindrical portion 3a of the holder, the second volume of the squib 4 The container 5 is inserted into the first container 1.

The first swaging element 25 of the holder 13 is bent and swaged so as to overlap the flange 14. Thereby, the first container 1 is held by the holder 3, and the gas generator is assembled.

At this time, the convex portion 30a is pressed toward the flange 14 of the first container 1 by a caulking force. Then, a portion of the flange 14 at which the convex portion 30a contacts is dented, and a concave portion 30b is formed. Therefore, the joining surface formed by caulking becomes a concave-convex surface in which the convex portion 30a and the concave portion 30b are engaged. As a result, the first container is prevented from sliding and rotating with respect to the _{holder ff}

Thus, in the first embodiment, the rotation preventing means B is provided only by caulking the first caulking element 25. As a result, a separate manufacturing process is not required to manufacture the anti-rotation means, and there is no need to make significant changes in the manufacturing process. Also, since the number of parts does not increase, the cost of parts can be reduced. .

(Operation) Next, an operation process of the gas generator 101 shown in the first embodiment will be described. '

The electrode pins 8 and 9 of the squib 4 are energized and the bridge wire 10 generates heat. The ignition wire 11 is ignited by the heat of the bridge line 10, and the ignition charge 7 is subsequently ignited. The flame caused by the ignition of the igniting agent 7 breaks the second container 5 and squirts into the first container 1 through the igniter 16 of the metal cover 2. The flame ignites the gas generating agent 6 and generates a large amount of gas. This large amount of gas raises the pressure in the first container 1,. Then, the groove 13 at the bottom of the first container 1 is broken, and a gas discharge hole is opened. Through this gas discharge hole, a large amount of generated gas is introduced into a vehicle occupant restraint device such as a seat belt pretensioner. This high-pressure gas causes vehicle occupant restraint such as seat belt pretensioners. A bundling device fastens the seat belt.

The embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the above embodiments, but may be modified as follows, for example.

1) FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the details of the caulking portion A by the first caulking element 25. In the figure, the center axis Z and the rotation direction R of the rotation of the first container 1 in the case where the rotation preventing means B 'is not provided are abstractly shown on the right side for reference. In FIG. 3, the anti-rotation means B comprises a convex portion 31a provided between the first container 1 and the holder 3, and a concave portion 31b engaged with the convex portion 31a.

A pin-shaped convex portion 31 a is provided on the surface of the flange 14 of the first container 1, the surface overlapping with the caulking element 25. 20 pin-shaped protrusions 31a are formed at equal intervals. The height of the protruding part is preferably 0.5 mm. The number, height or arrangement of the pin-shaped protrusions 31a can be arbitrarily changed within a range where rotation can be prevented.

The same material as that of the first container 1 may be used as the material of the convex portion 31a. In the present embodiment, the pin-shaped projection 31a and the first container 1 are integrally formed.

The convex portion 31a projects in a direction perpendicular to the direction R in which the first container 1 slides and rotates, and parallel to the central axis Z of rotation. In other words, the ring-shaped flange 14 of the first container 1 protrudes in the thickness direction. The convex portion 31a protrudes in a direction in which a caulking force is applied when the first caulking element 25 is caulked. When a caulking force is applied, a portion of the first caulking element 25 that is in contact with the convex portion 31a is pressed and dented to form a concave portion 31b. Accordingly, the joining surface formed by caulking is a concave-convex surface in which the convex portion 31a and the concave portion 31b are engaged. As a result, the first container 1 is prevented from slipping and rotating with respect to the holder 13. 2) FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the details of the caulking portion A by the first caulking element 25. In the figure, the center axis Z and the rotation direction R of the rotation of the first container 1 in the case where the rotation preventing means B is not provided are abstractly shown on the right side for reference. In FIG. 4, instead of the convex and concave parts for forming the rotation preventing means B, a non-slip which is in close contact with the flange 14 of the first container 1 and the first caulking element 25 of the holder 3 at the same time as joining. An agent 32 and an adhesive 33 are provided. The anti-slip agent 32 and the adhesive 33 may be used alone or in combination.

As the anti-slip agent 32 and the adhesive 33, general anti-slip agents and adhesives can be used. For example, the adhesive 33 may be a cyanoacrylate adhesive. Further, as the cyanoacrylate-based adhesive, for example, α-cyanoacrylic acid 1h described in JP-A-6-100838 can be mentioned.

It is preferable to select the anti-slip agent 32 and the adhesive 33 according to the material of the holder 13 and the first container 1.

When the anti-slip agent 32 and the adhesive 33 are used, it is possible to reduce a change in a manufacturing process for manufacturing the gas generator.

3) The anti-rotation means B is a projection 30a, 31a projecting in a direction perpendicular to the direction R in which the first 'container 1 slides and rotates and parallel to the center axis Z of rotation, in other words. However, the present invention is not limited to the protrusions 30a and 31a protruding in the thickness direction of the ring-shaped flange 14 of the first container 1 and the recesses 30b and 31b engaging with them. The protrusions and recesses 35 as shown in FIG. 5 may be used.

FIG. 5 (a) is a diagram showing details of the caulked portion A by the first caulking element 25, and FIG. 5 (b) is a cross-sectional view taken along the line CC of FIG. 5 (a). In FIG. 5 (a), on the right side, for reference, the central axis Z and the rotation direction R of the rotation of the first container 1 without the rotation preventing means B are abstractly shown. In FIG. 5, the rotation preventing means B is composed of a convex portion 34 provided between the first container 1 and the holder 3 and a concave portion 35 engaged with the convex portion 34. ,

The convex portion 34 is a direction perpendicular to the direction R in which the first container 1 slides and rotates, and protrudes in a direction perpendicular to the center axis Z of rotation (that is, a radial direction, for example, the X and Y directions). . Specifically, the protrusion 34 projects in the radial direction of the first container 1, that is, in the radial direction of the ring-shaped flange 14.

The recess 35 is recessed in a direction perpendicular to the direction R in which the first container 1 slides and rotates, and perpendicular to the center axis Z of rotation (ie, in a radial direction, for example) (,, direction). . Specifically, the recess 35 is recessed in the radial direction of the ring-shaped flange 14 of the first container 1.

The recess 35 is formed by cutting out a part of the ring-shaped flange 14 protruding in the radial direction. The convex portion 34 is provided at the base of the first caulking element 25 of the holder 3 so as to engage with the concave portion 35.

The same material as that of the holder 13 may be used as the material of the protrusion 34. In the present embodiment, the projection 34 and the holder 3 are formed integrally.

The number, height or depth arrangement of the convex portions 34 and concave portions 35 can be arbitrarily changed as long as rotation can be prevented.

4) Incidentally, any of the projections 30a and 3134 may be provided only on the holder 13. Any of the projections 30a, 31a, and 34 may be provided only in the first container. Alternatively, any of the protrusions 30a, 31a, and 34 may be provided on both the holder 13 and the first container.

Correspondingly, any of the recesses 30b, 31b, 35 described above is provided on one or both of the first container and the holder 3 so as to engage with the projections 30a, 31a, 34. Can be Further, the positions where the convex portions and the concave portions are provided are not limited to the flange 14 of the first container 1 and the first caulking element of the holder 13. A protrusion projecting in a direction perpendicular to the sliding rotation direction R of the holder 13 and a recess engaging with the protrusion are provided at any part where the first container 1 and the holder 3 come into contact. You may. In addition, the anti-rotation means including the projections and the depressions, the anti-rotation means for the adhesive, and the anti-slip agent can be used in appropriate combination.

[Second embodiment example]

Next, an example of the second embodiment of the gas generator of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7. FIG. FIG. 6 is a sectional view showing a second embodiment 102 of the gas generator of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing details of a caulking portion A between the flange 14 of the first container i and the first caulking element 25 of the holder 13. 6 is different from that of FIG. 1 in that a separator 23 is used instead of the second cylindrical portion 3b of the metal cover 2 and the holder 3 and the second caulking element 26. Other points are the same as those in FIG. 1, and thus the same reference numerals are given and the detailed description is omitted.

The holder 18 has a cylindrical portion 18a, a shelf 18b, and a caulking element 25. The shelf 18b is provided at an end of the cylindrical portion 18a on the first container 1 side. The shelf 18b is a ring-shaped member that projects radially inward from the inner peripheral surface, and forms a pedestal 3c of the squib 4. '

The caulking element 25 is provided on the outer wall of the cylindrical portion 18a along the outer periphery of the end on the first container 1 side. The caulking element 25 is a ring-shaped member protruding from the cylindrical portion 18a toward the first container 1, and is integrated with the cylindrical portion 18a. The caulking element 25 is for holding the first container 1 and the separator 23. The holder 18 holds a part of the separator 23 and a part of the first container in an overlapping manner so that I have.

The separator 23 is disposed so as to surround the squib 4 so as to divide the inside of the first container 1 into a gas generating agent storage space and an igniter storage space. The separator 23 is provided with a cup having a dog I that substantially matches the contour from the second container 5 of the squib 4 to the large-diameter portion 19c of the stopper 19 so as to cover the squib 4 in close contact therewith. Body. '

The separator 23 has a circular bottom portion 23a, a small-diameter second cylindrical portion 23b, a taper portion 23c, a large-diameter first cylindrical portion 23d, and a flange 24. At the open end of the separator 23, the flange 24 projects radially outward. ■.,

The bottom surface 23a of the separator 23 and the inner peripheral surface of the second cylindrical portion 23b substantially match the contours of the second container 5 of the squib 4 and the first small diameter portion 19a of the plug 19, and the tapered portion 23c The peripheral surface substantially matches the contour of the first tapered portion 19d of the squib 4, and the inner peripheral surface of the large diameter portion 23d substantially matches the contour of the large diameter portion 19c of the plug 19. Further, since the separator 23 closes the gas generating agent 6 in the first container 1, the first cylindrical portion 23 d of the separator 23 is formed along the inner peripheral surface of the large-diameter portion lb of the first container 1. The flange 24 of the separator 23 overlaps the flange 14 of the first container 1. A seal member 29 is disposed between the flange 14 of the first container 1 and the flange 24 of the separator 23. The sealing member 29 allows the

The gas generating agent 6 in one container 1 is more airtightly closed by the separator 23, so that deterioration due to moisture or the like can be prevented. ′ In a dog state in which the flange 24 of the separator 23 overlaps the flange 14 of the first container 1, the first caulking element 25 of the holder 13 is bent and caulked so as to overlap the flange 14. As a result, the first container 〖is held by the holder 13, and the squib 4 and the separator 23 are also held by the holder 3. Is done. '

As shown in FIG. 7, the anti-rotation means B comprises a convex portion 36a provided between the first container 1 and the self-holding member 18, and a concave portion 36b engaged with the convex portion 36a. Have been. .

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing details of the caulking portion A by the first caulking element 25. In the figure, the center axis Z and the rotation direction R of the rotation of the first container 1 in the absence of the rotation preventing means B are abstractly shown on the right side for reference.

A pin-shaped convex portion 36 a is provided on the surface of the flange 14 of the first container 1, the surface overlapping with the caulking element 25. 20 pin-shaped protrusions 36a are formed at equal intervals. The height of the protruding portion is preferably 0.5 thigh. The number, height or arrangement of the pin-shaped protrusions 36a can be arbitrarily changed within a range where rotation can be prevented.

The same material as that of the first container 1 may be used as a material of the convex portion 36a. In the present embodiment, the pin-shaped protrusion 36a and the i-th container 1 are integrally formed. However, the projection 36a and the first container 1 may be separate bodies. In this case, a concave portion is provided in advance at a position where the convex portion of the first container 1 is to be formed, and a pin is inserted into the concave portion to form the convex portion 36a. The length of the pin needs to be longer than the depth of the recess so that a part of the pin can protrude from the first container 1.

The protrusion 36a is a direction perpendicular to the direction R in which the first container 1 slides and rotates, and protrudes in a direction parallel to the central axis Z of rotation. In other words, the ring-shaped flange 14 of the first container 1 protrudes in the thickness direction. The convex portion 36a protrudes in a direction in which a caulking force is applied when the first caulking element 25 is caulked. When a caulking force is applied, a portion of the first caulking element 25 that is in contact with the convex portion 36a is pressed and dented, so that a concave portion 36b is formed. Therefore, the joining surface formed by caulking becomes an uneven surface where the convex portion 36a and the concave portion 36b are engaged. You. As a result, the first container 1 is prevented from slipping and rotating with respect to the holder 13.

(Manufacturing)

An assembling procedure of the gas generator 102 shown in the second embodiment will be described.

シール A seal member 28 such as a ring is attached to the pedestal 3c of the holder 18. Further, the squib 4 is mounted on the pedestal 3c. Subsequently, the separator 23 is attached to the squib 4 so that the bottom of the second container 5 of the squib 4 and the bottom 23a of the separator 23 are in close contact with each other. At this time, the flange 24 of the separator 23 is inserted into the ring-shaped caulking element 25 and contacts the holder 118. The tapered portion 2'3c of the separator comes into contact with the first tapered portion 19d of the plug.

Next, the gas generating agent 6 is filled in the i-th container i. The second container 5 of the squeeze 4 enters the first container 1 until the flange 14 of the first container 1 is inserted into the ring-shaped caulking element 25 and abuts against the flange 24 of the separator 23. Entered. At this time, a seal member 29 is arranged between the flange 24 of the separator 23 and the flange 14 of the first container 1 in advance.

The caulking element 25 of the holder 18 is bent and caulked so as to overlap the flange 14. Thus, the first container 1, the squib 4, and the separator 23 are held by the holder 13, and the gas generator is assembled. At this time, the plug 19 and the flange 24 of the separator 23 are pressed against the holder 118 by a caulking force. A sealing member 28 such as an O-ring interposed between the plug 19 and the holder 18 is deformed. As a result, the space between the holder 18 and the plug 19 is sealed, and the squib 4 is held by the holder 18.

Further, the convex portion 36a is pressed by the caulking force to the fourth caulking element of the holder 18. Pressed towards 25. Then, a portion of the first caulking element 25 where the convex portion 36a contacts is dented, and a concave portion 36b is formed. The engagement between the convex portion 36a and the concave portion 36b prevents the first container 1 from rotating with respect to the holder 118.

Thus, in the second embodiment, the rotation preventing means B is provided only by caulking the caulking element 25. As a result, a separate manufacturing process is not required to manufacture the rotation preventing means, and there is no need to make a significant change in the manufacturing process. In addition, since the number of parts does not increase, the cost of parts can be reduced.

The embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the above embodiments, and may be modified as follows, for example.

1) Regarding the anti-rotation means provided between the first container 1 and the holder 18, the same changes as described in FIGS. 2 to 5 and the other are the same as those described in the example of the third embodiment. Various changes are possible.

2) In addition, as a rotation preventing means for preventing the first container from rotating with respect to the holder 1 1δ, a flange between the flange 14 of the first container 1 and the caulking element 25 of the holder 18 and a flange of the separator 23 are provided. At least two portions between the flange 24 of the first container 1 and the flange 24 of the separator 23 between the holder 24 and the holder 18 may be provided with a non-slip agent or an adhesive.

For example, a non-slip agent or an adhesive is provided between the flange 24 of the separator 23 and the holder 18 and between the flange 14 of the first container 1 and the flange 24 of the separator 23.

Such a rotation preventing means prevents the first container 1 and the separator 23 from rotating with respect to the rudder 18.

It is preferable that the anti-slip agent and the adhesive be in close contact with the first container 1, the separator 23, and the holder 118 at the same time. As such an anti-slip agent and an adhesive, a general anti-slip agent and an adhesive can be used, but it is preferable to select the anti-slip agent and the adhesive depending on the material of the holder 13 and the first container 1.

3) Further, the anti-rotation means composed of the convex and concave portions, the anti-slip agent or the adhesive as the anti-rotation means may cause the first container 1 and the separator 23 to rotate with respect to the holder 118. May be appropriately combined so as to prevent

[Examples of the third and fourth embodiments]

In addition, the gas generators 101 and 102 shown in FIGS. 1 to 7 described above are entirely made of metal, and the caulking element 25 makes the first container 1 the holders 3 and 18. Attached to.

However, the means for attaching the first container 1 to the holders 3, 18 is not limited to this. For example, as in the gas generators shown in Fig. 8 and Fig. 9, when the entire holder is made of a durable material such as reinforced plastic, the first container is Attached to ^)

FIG. 8 and FIG. 9 are cross-sectional views showing an embodiment of the gas generator of the present invention in which the entire holder 1 is formed of resin such as Kojiro plastic. In FIGS. 8 and 9, the same points as those in FIGS. 1 to 7 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted. · In this case, a plurality of convex portions 31a and 36a for forming the rotation preventing means B as shown in FIG. 3 or FIG. 7 are provided on the flange 14 of the first container 1 in advance. Then, after the flange 14 of the first container 1 is inserted into a mold for forming the holders 13 and 18, the resin is poured into the mold. Then, holders 3 and 18 integrated with the flange 14 of the first container 1 are formed. In the case of such resin molding, the resin enters between the plurality of convex portions 31a and 36a. Then, the resin is wound around the convex portion 31a, and the concave portion 31b engaging with the convex portion 31a is formed simultaneously with the molding of the holder. As a result, a means for preventing rotation of the first container with respect to the holder is formed.

Further, a plurality of recesses 30b and 35 for forming the rotation preventing means B as shown in FIGS. 2 and 5 may be provided in the flange 14 of the first container 1 in advance.

In the case of such resin mold molding, the resin enters the recesses P30b and P35. Then, the convex portions 30a and 34 in which the resin is engaged with the concave portions 30b and 35 are formed at the same time when the holder is formed. As a result, means for preventing rotation of the first container with respect to the holder 1 is formed.

In addition, regarding the rotation preventing means composed of the convex portion and the concave portion, the same changes as described in FIGS. 2, 3, and 5 and other changes similar to those described in the example of the first embodiment are performed. It is possible. , [Fifth, sixth and seventh embodiments]

In some cases, the holder is made of a composite material of a resin material such as reinforced plastic and a metal material. 10 to 12 are cross-sectional views showing an embodiment of the gas generator of the present invention in which the holder 1 is made of a composite material of a resin and a metal material. 10 to 12, the same points as those in FIGS. 1 to 7 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

(Fifth embodiment example)

The holder 27 shown in FIG. 10 includes a resin member 37 and a metal reinforcing member 38. The resin member 37 has a cylindrical portion 37a and a shelf portion 37b. The shelf 37b is a ring-shaped member that protrudes radially inward from the inner peripheral surface at one end of the cylindrical portion 37a. The cross section of the resin member 37 is L-shaped. The metal reinforcing member 38 has first and second cylindrical portions 38 38b, a shelf 38c, and first and second caulking elements 25 and 26. The first cylindrical portion 38a has a larger diameter than the second cylinder 38b. The shelf 38c is a ring-shaped member that protrudes radially inward from the inner peripheral surface at one end of the first cylindrical portion 38a, and forms a pedestal for the squib 4. The first and second cylindrical portions 38a and 38b are continuous with each other via the shelf 38c.

Focusing on the first cylindrical portion 38a and the shelf 38c of the metal reinforcing member 38, and looking at the cross section of the metal reinforcing member 38, the cross section is L-shaped. The inner diameter of the first cylindrical portion 38a of the metal reinforcing member 38 substantially matches the outer diameter of the cylindrical portion 37a of the resin member 37, and the inner diameter of the shelf 38c of the metal reinforcing member 38 is the shelf 37b of the resin member 37. Approximately coincides with the inner diameter of

The resin member 37 is inserted into a first cylindrical portion 38a of the metal reinforcing member. The first cylindrical portion 38a of the metal reinforcing member closely covers the cylindrical portion 37a of the resin member 37, and The shelf 38c of the reinforcing member closely covers the shelf 37b of the resin member 37.

The metal reinforcing member 38 is fixed to the resin member 37 by bonding, crimping, screwing, screwing, or the like.

The first caulking element 25 is provided integrally on the outer wall of the metal reinforcing member 38 along the outer periphery of the boundary between the first and second cylindrical portions 38a and 38b. 2 A ring-shaped member protruding toward the cylinder 38b. The first caulking element 25 is for holding the first container 1. A ring-shaped second caulking element 26 projecting toward the squib 4 is provided at the tip of the second cylinder 38b. The second caulking element 26 is for holding the squib 4.

In the caulking portion A formed by the first caulking element 25 of the metal reinforcing member 38, the anti-rotation means B comprising the convex portion and the concave portion as described above, Provide anti-rotation means B such as adhesive and adhesive.

(Sixth embodiment example)

The holder 39 shown in FIG. U includes a resin member 40 and a metal reinforcing member 41. The resin member 40 has a cylindrical portion 40a and a shelf 40b. The shelf 40b is a ring-shaped member that protrudes radially inward from the inner peripheral surface on one end side of the cylindrical portion 40a, and forms a pedestal for the squib 4. The cross section of the resin member 40 is L-shaped.

The metal reinforcing member 41 has a cylindrical portion 41a and a caulking element 25. The inner diameter of the cylindrical portion 41a of the metal reinforcing member 41 substantially matches the outer diameter of the cylindrical portion 40a of the resin member 40. The resin member 40 is inserted into the cylindrical portion 41a of the metal reinforcing member, and the cylindrical portion 41a of the metal reinforcing member closely covers the cylindrical portion 40a of the resin member.

The metal reinforcing member 41 is fixed to the resin member 40 by bonding, crimping, screwing, screwing, or the like.

The caulking element 25 is provided integrally on the outer wall of the metal reinforcing member 41 along the outer periphery of the end on the first container 1 side, and has a ring shape protruding from the cylindrical portion 41a toward the first container 1. It is a member. The caulking element 25 is for holding the first container i, the squib 4, and the separator 23.

The caulking portion A formed by the caulking element 25 of the metal reinforcing member 41 is provided with the anti-rotation means B composed of the convex portion and the concave portion as described above, and the anti-rotation means B such as an anti-slip agent and a bonding agent. . .

(Seventh embodiment example)

A holder 42 shown in FIG. 12 includes a resin member 43 and a metal reinforcing member 44. The resin member 43 has a cylindrical portion 43a and a shelf 43b. The shelf 43b projects radially inward from the inner peripheral surface at one end of the cylindrical portion 43a. Ring-shaped member. The cross section of the resin member 43 is L-shaped. The metal reinforcing member 44 has a cylindrical portion 44a, a shelf portion 44b, and a caulking element 25. The shelf 44b is a ring-shaped member that protrudes radially inward from the inner peripheral surface at one end of the cylindrical portion 44a, and forms a pedestal for the squib 4.

The cross section of the metal reinforcing member 44 is substantially L-shaped. The inner diameter of the cylindrical portion 44a of the metal reinforcing member 44 substantially matches the outer diameter of the cylindrical portion 43a of the resin member 43, and the inner diameter of the shelf 44b of the metal reinforcing member 44 is the inner diameter of the shelf 43b of the resin member 43. Approximately matches.

The resin member 43 is inserted into the cylindrical portion 4 # of the metal reinforcing member. The cylindrical portion 44a of the metal reinforcing member closely covers the cylindrical portion 43a of the resin member, and the shelf 44b of the metal reinforcing member closely covers the shelf 43b of the resin member 43. The metal reinforcing member 44 is fixed to the resin member 43 by bonding, crimping, screwing, screwing, or the like.

The caulking element 25 is integrally provided on the outer wall of the metal reinforcing member 44 along the outer periphery of the end on the first container 1 side, and has a ring shape protruding from the cylindrical portion 44a toward the first container 1. It is a member. The caulking element 25 is for holding the first container 1, the squib 4, and the separator 23.

The caulking portion A formed by the caulking element 25 of the metal reinforcing member 44 is provided with the anti-rotation means B comprising the above-mentioned convex and concave portions and the anti-rotation means B such as an anti-slip agent or a bonding agent. '

Further, in each of the examples of the above-described embodiments, only the squib and the holder 1 are described as being composed of different members. However, the squib and the holder are integrated by the same member. You may.

[Evaluation test of caulking strength] Next, in order to evaluate the swaging strength between the first container 1 and the holder, a torque test using the gas generator according to the present invention was performed. The torque test was frustrated as follows.

First container 1 is fixed in place in the pretensioner module

. Attach a torque wrench to the holder. The load can be easily released by the torque wrench. Then, when the holder rotates with respect to the pretensioner module, the needle of the torque wrench swings, and the load of the torque wrench at the time of rotation is indicated. The caulking bow between the first container 1 and the holder 1 is evaluated based on this load.

In the following Examples and Comparative Examples, the same squib, gas generating agent and O-ring were used. Then, an aluminum holder and an aluminum first container I were used.

(Example 1)

The gas generator 101 shown in FIG. 1 was used. As the rotation preventing means B, a convex portion 30a and a concave portion 30b are provided between the first caulking element 25 of the holder 3 and the flange 14 of the first container 1. As shown in FIG. 2, the protrusion 30a is provided on the first caulking element 25, and the recess 30b is provided on the flange 14 of the first container 1.

(Example 2)

The gas generator 101 shown in FIG. 1 was used. As the rotation preventing means B, a convex portion 31a and a concave portion 31b are provided between the first caulking element 25 of the holder 13 and the flange 14 of the first container 1. As shown in FIG. 3, the convex portion 31a is provided on the flange of the first container 1, and the concave portion 31b is provided on the first caulking element 25.

(Example 3)

The gas generator 101 shown in FIG. 1 was used. As anti-rotation means B As shown in FIG. 4, the adhesive after uniformly caulking the first caulking element 25 of the holder 13 and the flange 14 of the No. 1 container 1 is provided with an adhesive (“Aron Alpha” (Shear)). Noacrylate instant adhesive (manufactured by Toa Gosei Co., Ltd.)) was provided.

(Example )

The gas generator 101 shown in FIG. 1 was used. A convex portion 34 and a concave portion 35 are provided between the first caulking element 25 of the holder 3 and the flange 14 of the first container 1 ′ as the rotation preventing means Β. As shown in FIG. 5, a radially projecting projection 34 was provided on the first caulking element 25, and a radially projecting recess 35 was provided on the flange 14 of the first container 1.

(Example 5)

The gas generator 102 shown in FIG. 6 was used. An adhesive as the anti-rotation means 剤 and an anti-rotation means から composed of a convex portion and a concave portion were used.

The adhesive as the rotation preventing means 設け was provided between the separator 23 and the first container 1. "Aron Alpha" '(cyanoacrylate-based instant adhesive Toa Gosei Co., Ltd.) was used as the adhesive.

The rotation preventing means から composed of the convex portion and the concave portion was provided in a gap after the caulking element 25 of the holder 18 and the flange 14 of the first container 1 were caulked. The convex portion was provided on the fastening element 25, and the concave portion was provided on the flange 14 of the first container 1.

(Comparative example)

A gas generator having no rotation preventing means, the same type of gas generator as the first illustrated gas generator was used.

(Test results) .

The results of the torque test using the above gas generators are shown in Table 1 in FIG.

From the above test results, the gas generator with the anti-rotation means 、 It can also be seen that the first container 1 is less likely to rotate with respect to the holder than the gas generator without the rotation preventing means B. That is, it is understood that the rotation preventing means B is effective. ;

The most effective means for preventing rotation is the gas generator of the fourth embodiment. A radially protruding projection 34 and a radially recessed recess 35 into which the projection 34 can be fitted are provided between the i-caulking element 25 of the holder and the flange 14 of the first container 1. It can be seen that the above configuration is the most preferred configuration.

[Summary]

In any of the gas generators shown in the above embodiments, the rotation preventing means prevents the rotation of the first container with respect to the holder, so that the sealing member between the first container and the holder is used. Will not be damaged.

As a result, the following effects are obtained. Water and the like do not enter the first container. No leaks occur. The performance of the gas generator can be guaranteed over a long service life. When the gas generator is mounted on a vehicle occupant restraint device such as a seat belt pretensioner, the mounting position of the connector can be maintained at a normal position. Industrial applicability

The gas generator of the present invention is most suitable as a gas generator for operating a vehicle occupant restraint device such as an automobile seat belt pretensioner. In particular, it is most suitable as a gas generator that can prevent rotation due to slippage at the joint of the first container with respect to the holder without significantly changing the manufacturing process or increasing the number of parts.

Claims

The scope of the claims

1. A gas generator for operating a vehicle occupant restraint system, comprising: a gas generating agent;

An igniter comprising: a first container for storing the gas generating agent; a second container for storing the igniting agent; and a closing body for closing an opening of the second container.

The first container is arranged at a predetermined position in the first container, and the igniter and a holder for holding the first container are provided.

Furthermore, the gas generator in which rotation preventing means for preventing the first container from rotating with respect to the holder is provided between the first container and the holder.

2. The rotation preventing means is a protrusion provided on at least one of the first container and the holder, and a recess provided on the other of the one so as to engage with the protrusion. Gas generator as described in paragraph 1

3. The gas generator according to claim 2, wherein the recess is a recess formed by joining the first container and the holder.

4. The gas generator according to claim 1, wherein the rotation preventing means is a non-slip agent or an adhesive which simultaneously joins the first container and the holder together.

5. The gas generator according to claim 1, wherein the first container and the holder are joined by caulking.

6 · A gas generator for operating the vehicle occupant restraint device, comprising a gas generating agent,

A first container containing the gas generating agent, An igniter having a second container for accommodating the ignition charge and a closing body for closing an opening of the second container;

A separator arranged so as to surround the igniter so as to divide the inside of the first container into a gas generating agent storage space and an igniter storage space;

A holder for holding the first container, the igniter, and the separator, while disposing the first container at a predetermined position in the first container;

The holder holds a part of the separator and a part of the first container in an overlapping manner,

Further, rotation preventing means for preventing the first container from rotating with respect to the holder is provided between the separator of the holder and the holding portion of the first container, between the separator and the holder, and A gas generator installed between the separator and the first container.