US 7,125,044 B2 · Method and device for folding up air bag, and air bag

Abstract

An air bag is unfolded on a planar surface and is inflated with air. The air bag is loosely sandwiched between the upper and lower blades that are arranged in a radial configuration. Movable blocks progress toward the center to fold the upper and lower panels of the air bag against the central part of the air bag. The resulting central folded part of the air bag has a wave-like configuration, and the upper and lower panels are separated from each other. The ear-like portions of the air bag are wound around the central folded part of the air bag that is folded in a wave-like configuration. Then, the central part of the air bag is pressed downward to complete the folding process. Gas can be supplied smoothly from the inlet port to the periphery when the air bag is reinflated. The method for folding the air bag is simple, and the air bag can be inflated quickly.

Claims4

Dependent claims

An air bag comprising:

a lower surface on one side;
an inlet port on the lower surface into which gas is introduced;
and
an upper surface on an other side located opposite to the lower surface on the one side;
wherein the lower surface and the upper surface are folded so that portions of the upper surface and the lower surface are not engaged with each other, each in a wave-like configuration toward the inlet port;
wherein a plurality of ear parts are formed which spiral toward the inlet port;
wherein portions of the upper surface and the lower surface in the ear part are located opposite to each other, and
wherein the upper surface is further folded to form a front surface developing part at a center portion of the upper surface.

5 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Facts

Application

11/114,866Filed 26 Apr 2005 · division

Priority

10 Feb 2003

Published

US 2005/0209080 A122 Sep 2005

Granted

24 Oct 2006

Term ends

Not estimatedThe source records don’t support an estimate.

Classification4 codes

B60R 21/237
Inflatable members: characterised by the way they are folded
B60R 21/217
Arrangements for storing inflatable members in their non-use or deflated condition; Arrangement or mounting of air bag modules or components:…
B60R 2021/2375
Characterised by the way they are folded: folding devices
B60R
Vehicle fittings and parts

Method and device for folding up air bag, and air bag

Life of this patent

Method and device for folding up air bag, and air bag

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims4