Patent ID: 6588179
Filing Date: 2003-07-08
Classification: B60R

Abstract:
A method for compacting an inflatable air bag cushion within an air bag module cover element having a base portion and a wall portion extending away from the base portion, the air bag cushion having an interior, a mouth opening and a closed end in opposed relation to the mouth opening and wherein the air bag cushion is attached to a base plate disposed in surrounding relation to the mouth opening, the method comprising:fastening the base plate at a moveable balding fixture; extending a ram cylinder through an opening in the holding fixture and into the air bag cushion; applying a vacuum force within the air bag cushion through the ram cylinder such that the air bag cushion is collected around the ram cylinder when the ram cylinder is disposed in extended relation within the air bag cushion; passing a moveable containment tunnel in substantially surrounding relation over at least a portion of the air bag cushion; and conveying the holding fixture and ram cylinder through the moveable containment tunnel and towards the base portion of the cover element such that the air bag cushion is pressed together irregularly within a region disposed around the ram cylinder and bounded by the wall portion of the cover element.