An apparatus (10) includes a frame structure (32) defining a deployment opening (40), an inflatable vehicle occupant protection device (14) aligned with the deployment opening (40), and a deployment structure (24) extending across the deployment opening (40). The deployment structure (24) has first and second locking portions (70, 72) in releasably interlocked engagement with the frame structure (32) at locations spaced apart across the deployment opening (40). The deployment structure (24) is configured to undergo non-rupturing deflection under the influence of inflation fluid pressure forces applied by the protection device (14). Such non-rupturing deflection of the deployment structure (24) moves the first locking portion (70) partially out of interlocked engagement with the frame structure (32), and moves the second locking portion (72) fully out of interlocked engagement with the frame structure (32).

Claims

12 · 2 independent · depth 4

12 granted claims

›1.independentApparatus comprising: a frame structure defining a deployment opening; an inflatable vehicle occupant protection device aligned with said deployment o…+8

›2.↳ 1Apparatus as defined in claim 1 wherein said first and second locking portions of said deployment structure are received in first and second slots in …d2

›3.↳ 1Apparatus as defined in claim 1 wherein said deployment structure includes a deployment door and a hinge defining a pivotal axis for said door, said d…d2+2

›6.↳ 1Apparatus as defined in claim 1 wherein said deployment structure further has a deflectable release portion extending across said deployment opening f…d2+3

›10.independentApparatus comprising: a frame structure defining a deployment opening; an inflatable vehicle occupant protection device aligned with said deployment o…+2

Classifications

3 codes

USPC · US Patent Classification

280/728.3280/731280/732

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1.5 y

554 days filing → grant

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Examiner

Christopher P. Ellis

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