Single boundary layer optimized recalled airbag inflator container
AssigneeCaptive Technologies, LLC
InventorJOHN DAVID KELLER
Life of this patent
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Abstract
Embodiments described herein include layered mesh containers and methods for using the containers to safely transport and dispose of airbag inflators having ammonium-nitrate-based propellant. For example, a container with at least two single-layer sidewalls is provided that can hold multiple airbag inflators and withstand up to 4 moles of matter being deployed from an inflator having ammonium-nitrate-based propellant. The container can contain the inflator and any shrapnel associated with the explosion while also venting gases expelled as a result of the explosion. Various container designs are provided, along with methods for using these containers.
Claims20
A method for transporting airbag inflators that have ammonium-nitrate-based propellant, comprising:
- placing the inflators into a perforated steel container including:
- six sides, including two single-layer perforated steel sidewalls, the two single-layer perforated steel sidewalls having openings with a maximum width between 1.3 millimeters and 75 millimeters and a thickness between 1.4 millimeters and 9 millimeters, wherein the six sides define a container volume of less than 50 cubic feet;
- and
- an access door for opening one of the sides for adding or removing the airbag inflators;
- and
- transporting the perforated steel container.
A perforated steel container for transporting airbag inflators with ammonium-nitrate-based propellant, comprising:
- six sides, including two single-layer perforated steel sidewalls, the two single-layer perforated steel sidewalls having openings with a maximum width between 1.3 millimeters and 75 millimeters and a thickness between 1.4 millimeters and 9 millimeters, wherein the six sides define a container volume of less than 50 cubic feet,
- wherein the six sides define a breathable containment space that holds the airbag inflators and can withstand an inflator detonation of at least 4 moles of material;
- and
- a hinged door for adding and removing the airbag inflators to the breathable containment space.
A method of transporting airbag inflators containing ammonium-nitrate-based propellant, including:
- placing the airbag inflators in a container, the container including:
- six sides, including two single-layer perforated steel sidewalls, the two single-layer perforated steel sidewalls having openings with a maximum width between 1.3 millimeters and 75 millimeters and a thickness between 1.4 millimeters and 9 millimeters, wherein the six sides define a container volume of less than 50 cubic feet,
- wherein the six sides define a breathable containment space that holds the airbag inflators and can withstand an inflator detonation of at least 4 moles of material;
- and
- a hinged door for adding and removing the airbag inflators to the breathable containment space;
- and
- locking the hinged door from opening;
- and
- transporting the container to a disposal facility.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.