External tether airbag

An airbag (100) comprising:

• an inflatable airbag cushion (102) having panels of material joined to create the inflatable airbag cushion including a neck portion (12) for receiving inflation gas at an inflation inlet (11) and a generally opposed front face portion (14), the inflatable airbag cushion inflates upon deployment during an accident from a stowed uninflated condition providing a safety barrier for an occupant;
• an externally attached guide panel (20) of material having first (22) and second (24) ends wherein a) the first end location is secured to the airbag and b) the second end is connected at the neck portion of the airbag cushion or c) the second end is affixed in close proximity to the neck of the cushion near the inflation inlet or d) the second end of the guide panel is secured at a housing;
• and
• wherein the externally attached guide panel is only attached at the first and second ends and upon inflation of the airbag cushion the externally attached guide panel tightens between the first and second ends directing the airbag deployment towards a seat-belted occupant wherein the airbag cushion further includes a pair of sides, a first side and a second opposite side wherein the externally attached guide panel is connected to one of the first or second opposite sides at the first and second ends having a length L1 to control deployment along the first or the second side wherein the airbag cushion will contact the occupant prior to the externally attached guide panel being fully taut while pulling on one side of the airbag cushion toward a vehicle door or window.