Patent ID: 6336653
Filing Date: 2002-01-08
Classification: B60R

Abstract:
An inflatable tubular bolster for a vehicle comprising:(a) an inflatable braided tube of continuous high-strength fibers having a first end and a second end, said tube located beneath a dashboard of said vehicle; (b) a first piece of webbing connecting the first end of the braided tube to the vehicle via an attachment means; (c) a second piece of webbing connecting the second end of the braided tube to the vehicle via an attachment means; (d) a gas generator fluidly connected to the braided tube via a gas conduit; and; (e) a crash sensor connected to said gas generator such that when an impact is detected said gas generator causes said inflatable braided tube to be inflated; wherein as said inflatable tube inflates, said tube is pulled out of a stowed position downward and rearward into a position below said dashboard such that it restrains forward and downward movement of an occupant.