Dual Depth Passenger Air Bag

A dual depth passenger air bag technology has been developed which provides two different deployed cushion shapes coupled with two inflation levels, but only uses two initiators, one for a single level inflator and one for a dual depth mechanism.

The developed dual depth air bag module design utilizes a seat position switch to help determine deployed output. The module deploys a shallow cushion depth for occupants in the forward portion of seat track travel and a deep cushion depth for occupants in the rearward portion of seat track travel. The mechanism controls the release of an air bag cushion tether and also enables the inflator to vent a portion of gas through the module housing.

This paper summarizes the development effort including initial sled and out-of-position testing. The final design was found to be a useful tool when balancing in-position restraint performance between otherwise competing in-position test conditions. The dual depth air bag technology was also noted to have the same challenges as conventional single depth dual level inflator technology with balancing regulated in-position high restraint capacity compliance test conditions with out-of-position performance.