Patent ID: 7448646
Filing Date: 2008-11-11
Classification: B60R

Abstract:
1. An airbag assembly for a vehicle, comprising: an airbag that is deployable and inflatable for providing a cushioning surface upon deployment; an inflator being connected to the airbag, the inflator for generating gases that cause inflation of the airbag; a housing substantially enclosing the airbag and the inflator, the housing having a vent hole for venting gases generated by the inflator; an airbag tether having at least a first and a second end, wherein the first end is attached to the airbag; a venting member being moveable with respect to the housing and being configured to cover and uncover the vent hole, the venting member having the second end of the airbag tether connected thereto; and an actuator coupled to the venting member, the venting member moving away from the vent hole upon inflation of the airbag during a first stage of an airbag deployment event, thereby uncovering the vent hole for the passage of gases through the vent hole, the actuator being configured to cause release of the second end of the airbag tether from the venting member during an adaptive venting stage, wherein the airbag is in a substantially full deployment condition.