| abstract |
The present invention provides an airbelt inflator ( 10 ) designed primarily for supplying and directing gas from the combustion of gas generant materials into a vehicle airbelt. Inflator ( 10 ) includes a substantially cylindrical inflator body ( 12 ), having a first end ( 11 ) and a second end ( 13 ). A unique booster cup ( 22 ) is positioned within inflator body ( 12 ), and is preferably press fit with initiator body ( 15 ), suspending cup ( 22 ) within inflator body ( 12 ). Cup ( 22 ) facilitates consistent burn of the main propellant, imparting repeatable bag performance. A cylindrical mesh filter ( 38 ) is positioned in inflator body ( 12 ). A nozzle ( 36 ) is preferably positioned adjacent a disc ( 30 ). A variety of different nozzles giving inflator ( 10 ) varying gas output characteristics can be utilized with inflator ( 10 ), for example thrusting inflators or thrust-neutral inflators, depending on the operating requirements of the airbelt system. Booster cup ( 22 ) is sized such that it extends into inflator body ( 12 ), and abuts filter ( 38 ), thereby serving as a stand off or locator for filter ( 38 ), and providing a relatively snug packing arrangement for propellant tablets ( 28 ). |