Bag folding system
AssigneeAutomated Solutions, LLC
InventorsWilliam F. Baker, Robert A. Rhinefrank, Larry P. Hulsey
Life of this patent
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Abstract
An automated system is disclosed for folding vehicle air bags so that a small folded bag profile in a desirable bag deployment pattern results. A machine having a holding fixture for receiving the retainer of an air bag assembly, and a plurality of upright members. A flattened bag with pleated sides is supported above the upright members, and sequentially inserted between the upright members forming undulating folds. The upright members are removed while retaining the undulating folds. The folds are then compressed, sharpening the folds and forming a compact package. The machine also includes an inserter assembly which inserts the folded bag into the retainer.
Claims31
A method of automatically folding a flattened air bag having pleated sides, and an end coupled to a retainer, said method comprising the steps of:
- forming undulating folds in said flattened bag by inserting said bag sequentially between a series of upright members;
- removing said upright members;
- compressing said folds;
- and
- inserting said folded bag into said retainer.
An apparatus for automatically folding an air bag having pleated sides, and a bottom end coupled to a container, said apparatus comprising:
- a holding fixture for receiving said container;
- a platform spaced apart from said holding fixture for supporting said bag;
- means for forming undulating folds along said bag;
- means for compressing said undulating folds;
- and
- an inserter assembly for inserting said folded bag into said container.
An apparatus for automatically folding a flattened air bag having a bottom end coupled to a retainer, said apparatus comprising:
- a base;
- a holding fixture carried by said base;
- a platform for supporting said air bag, carried by said base, spaced apart from said holding receptacle;
- a lower accordion fold assembly carried by said base between said platform and said holding receptacle, said lower accordion fold assembly moveable between a raised position and a lowered position;
- an upper accordion fold assembly carried by said base and moveable between a forward and a rearward position for interacting with said lower accordion fold assembly to form undulating folds in said air bag;
- compression means for compressing said undulating folds of said air bag;
- and
- an inserter assembly carried by said base for inserting said bag into said retainer.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.