APPARATUS FOR USE IN INFLATING AN AIR BAG AND METHOD OF MAKING THE APPARATUS

摘要

An apparatus (10) for use in inflating an inflatable vehicle occupant restraint (12) comprises a container (15) for containing inflation fluid. The container (15) has an inner surface (26) which defines an opening extending into the container. A plug (40) is located in the opening. The plug (40) includes a first passage for inflation fluid to flow from the container (15) into an inflatable vehicle occupant restraint (12). The plug (40) includes a second passage through which pressurized inflation fluid is directed into the container (15). The second passage has a first portion (190) and a second portion (192) communicating with the first portion. The first portion (190) communicates with a fill hole (194) located on a flat outer surface portion (199) of the plug (40) and the second portion (192) communicates with a chamber (18) in the container (15). A ball (195) of a check valve (196) seals the first and second portions (190, 192) of the second passage to prevent inflation fluid from flowing out of the container (15) after the container has been filled with pressurized inflation fluid. A closure member (198) is then friction welded to the flat outer surface portion (199) and over the fill hole (194) to provide a hermetic seal between the closure member and the flat outer surface portion.