US Patent:
20060012155, Jan 19, 2006
Inventors:
Leonard Shaner - New Baltimore MI, US
James Bederka - Northville MI, US
David Zhao - Northville MI, US
Jason Sobick - Royal Oak MI, US
Michael Stiyer - Grosse Pointe Farms MI, US
Assignee:
FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC - Dearborn MI
International Classification:
B60R 21/20
Abstract:
A side airbag apparatus for a vehicle is provided. The airbag apparatus includes an airbag that has a generally wedge shaped rear aspect when deployed. The generally wedge shaped rear aspect narrows from an upper region to a lower region. This configuration inhibits loading on the thorax of an occupant of the vehicle seated adjacent the deployed airbag. The airbag apparatus also includes an inflator, which cooperates with the airbag to supply gas thereto. Because the airbag is specifically configured to inhibit loading on an occupant's thorax, the inflator can be configured to inflate the airbag with a pressure greater than typical side airbags.