Patent ID: 6126214
Filing Date: 2000-10-03
Classification: B60R

Abstract:
In a bumper having a bumper frame, a fluid bladder secured to said bumper frame such that at least a portion of said fluid bladder extends exteriorly of said bumper frame, said fluid bladder having a fluid disposed therein, a fluid flow port extending from an interior of said fluid bladder to exteriorly of said fluid bladder, and a seal assembly mounted to said bumper, said seal assembly having a seal member which is disposed in a closed position to sealingly engage said fluid flow port to seal said fluid within said fluid bladder, said seal assembly further having a bias member for urging said seal member into said closed position to sealing engage said fluid flow port to seal said fluid within said fluid bladder until an impact of a predetermined magnitude urges said seal member to move from said closed position to an open position, in which fluid is released from within said fluid bladder, the improvement comprising:a latch member extending adjacent of said seal assembly and securing said seal member in said open position when said seal member is disposed in said open position, such that said seal member is disengaged from sealingly engaging said fluid flow port to release said fluid from within said fluid bladder, and wherein said latch member is selectively operable for releasing said seal assembly to return to said closed position, sealing engaging said fluid flow port.