Leigh Anne Robertson

US Patent:

6666477, Dec 23, 2003

Filed:

Aug 24, 2000

Appl. No.:

09/645716

Inventors:

James M. Robertson - Spartanburg SC
Leigh A. Robertson - Spartanburg SC

Assignee:

Milliken Company - Spartanburg SC

International Classification:

B60R 2116

US Classification:

2807431, 2807281, 2807302

Abstract:

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, an inflatable restraint system for use in a transportation vehicle having a dash panel and space for an operator and a passenger is provided. The restraint system includes at least one gas generator housed within the dash panel and an inflatable cushion in fluid communication with the gas generator. The inflatable cushion which may be formed from a single blank of material includes an impact portion for contact with the passenger during a frontal collision and a neck portion which extends away from the impact portion towards the gas generator. The impact portion of the inflatable cushion has a seam free contact surface for contact with the passenger during a collision event and a rear surface which opposes the dash panel upon inflation. The impact portion and the neck portion are adjoined and enclosed by a plurality of substantially straight seams. The inflatable protective cushion is characterized by a substantially arcuate inflated profile such that the impact portion of the cushion extends in curved relation at least partially around the dash panel during a collision event.