SAFETY CUSHION APPARATUS FOR USE IN BELT-TYPE RESTRAINT SYSTEMS FOR PROTECTING VEHICLE OCCUPANTS, AND BELT-TYPE RESTRAINT SYSTEMS PROVIDED WITH SUCH APPARATUS

摘要

The apparatus includes an inflatable cushion (42) that is longitudinally folded to a compact, strap-like configuration conforming to the shape of the belt restraint (14), a flat, slim inflator (48) being enclosed within and surrounded by the folded cushion (42). The folded cushion (42) is releasably enclosed within an outer cover (36) to which it is attached, the outer cover (36) being attached to the underside of the belt restraint (14) and fastened over the folded cushion by a long zipper (45, 46). The means (38) for attaching the cover (36) to the belt restraint (14), and the zipper (45, 46) comprise hook and loop fastening material. The inflator (48) is actuatable by a crash impact sensor mounted on the vehicle, and is operable to generate an innocuous gas for inflating the cushion, the covering being automatically opened upon such inflation of the cushion.