Patent ID: 7784819
Filing Date: 2010-08-31
Classification: B60R

Abstract:
1. An airbag system, comprising: an airbag housing having a cavity configured to store an airbag, the cavity having an aperture providing an outlet for the airbag during deployment; and a cover releasably attached over the aperture via an attachment mechanism having an initial attachment strength, wherein the attachment mechanism is at least partially formed from at least one of a shape memory alloy, a shape memory polymer, an electro active polymer, a piezo electric, a magnetorheological elastomer, or an electrorheological elastomer; wherein the initial attachment strength is configured to reduce to a release attachment strength in response to receipt of a release signal at the attachment mechanism; wherein the release signal is provided in response to one of a preliminary impact condition, an impact condition, an occupant environment condition, or a manual input; and wherein the attachment mechanism is configured to increase substantially from the release attachment strength to the initial attachment strength in response to a triggering event.