Airbag cover with multi-axis deployment

摘要

Enhanced airbag covers and associated methods are disclosed. Each of the covers permits deployment of a compacted airbag cushion along multiple axes, thereby decreasing the relative momentum of the airbag and the vehicle occupant, and enhancing the ability of the cushion to protect vehicle occupants who are out of their nominal positions. Covers may include two frontal portions separated by a frontal seam that tears open to permit emergence of the cushion between the frontal portions. In addition, each cover may have a peripheral skirt that opens to permit emergence of the compacted cushion along additional axes. The peripheral skirt may have peripheral seams and connecting seams that facilitate opening of the skirt portion. The peripheral and connecting seams may be configured such that the peripheral skirt opens consistently, regardless of whether the frontal seam has separated.