摘要 |
A vortex valve inflator (20) for an inflatable restraint system is disclosed. Upon gas being released from a pressurized vessel (25), the gas travels through a vortex valve (24) to regulate the volume of gas flowing through the valve from the pressure vessel into an inflatable vehicle occupant restraint. The vortex valve achieves this flow regulation without the need for any moving parts. When inflated, the inflatable restraint (201) restrains an occupant of a vehicle during a collision. By controlling the gas flow into the air bag at the appropriate times, the valve achieves the desired bag energy absorbing characteristics for each unique crash condition.
|