Inflator device with fuel-rich monolithic grain and oxidant-enhanced combustion

摘要

The disclosure provides an inflator device (200) for a restraint device like an airbag. A fuel-rich gas generant grain (220) is located in actuating proximity to an initiator device (210). The grain (220) has at least one flow channel (222)through which a shock wave generated by the initiator device (210) passes. The shock wave opens a burst disc (250) between the inflator housing and downstream airbag (208) to permit gases to flow into the airbag. A chamber (240) storing pressurized gas (242) (having at least one oxidant, e.g., O2) is also disposed within the inflator device (200). Upon initiator actuation, the oxidant can react with combustion products of the initiator and the fuel-rich gas generant and flow into the airbag for rapid inflation. Methods of inflating airbags and airbag deployment are provided. Such inflators are particularly suitable for large volume (greater than 60 liter) airbags.