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Method and apparatus for deployment of an air bag

DC
  • US 9,376,076 B2
  • Filed: 09/10/2001
  • Issued: 06/28/2016
  • Est. Priority Date: 11/15/2000
  • Status: Expired due to Term
First Claim
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1. A restraint system for a vehicle, comprising:

  • an airbag module having an inflator with a pair of initiators;

    an airbag module controller for providing a sequential firing of both said pair of initiators such that there will be no unfired initiator left in said airbag module;

    a plurality of sensors for providing input signals to said airbag module controller, said airbag module controller providing activation signals to said pair of initiators; and

    an airbag module suppression system, said airbag module suppression system instructs said airbag module controller to suppress said airbag module;

    wherein said airbag module controller is a sensing and diagnostic module, said sensing and diagnostic module generating a first signal and a second signal, said first signal activating one of said pair of initiators and said second signal activating the other one of said pair of initiators, said second signal being delayed a pre-determined time after said first signal; and

    wherein said airbag module suppression system is a passive occupant detection system comprising a means for detecting a vehicle occupant, said passive occupant detection system instructs said airbag module controller to suppress said airbag module when a predetermined condition has been met;

    wherein said sensing and diagnostic module receives a third signal indicative of the proper attachment and usage of a seatbelt, a fourth signal indicative of the approximate size by weight of the vehicle occupant, a fifth signal indicative of whether a seatbelt is fully extended or extended above a predetermined length and a sixth signal indicative of a threshold impact.

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