Tracy Sparks

US Patent:

60625996, May 16, 2000

Filed:

May 12, 1998

Appl. No.:

9/076770

Inventors:

William C. Forbes - Rochester Hills MI
Tracy S. Sparks - Lapeer MI
Jack L. Blumenthal - Los Angeles CA

Assignee:

TRW Vehicle Safety Systems Inc. - Lyndhurst OH

International Classification:

B60R 2126

US Classification:

280737

Abstract:

An apparatus (10) for inflating an inflatable vehicle occupant protection device includes a container (12) having a chamber (14), and inflation fluid (16) under pressure in the chamber for inflating the inflatable device. The apparatus (10) includes an outlet opening (70) in the container (12) for directing inflation fluid (16) from the chamber (14) to the inflatable device. The apparatus (10) also includes an initiator (110) for, when ignited, producing combustion products (130). The apparatus (10) further includes a support member (30) for supporting the initiator means (110) adjacent to the chamber (14). An inlet opening (58) in the container (12) spaced apart from the outlet opening (70) directs combustion products (130) from the initiator (110) into the chamber (14). The apparatus (10) includes a single, one-piece burst disc (80) having a first portion (82) blocking the inlet opening (58) and a second portion (90) blocking the outlet opening (70). The first portion (82) of the burst disc (80) ruptures upon ignition of the initiator (110).