Patent ID: 6578867
Filing Date: 2003-06-17
Classification: B60R

Abstract:
An apparatus for protection of the foot, heel and lower leg of an occupant within a transportation vehicle including a flooring support surface, the apparatus comprising:an expansible element of substantially hollow construction configured for disposition across at least a portion of the flooring support surface at a location substantially below and in front of the occupant, the expansible element including a face portion facing outwardly away from the flooring support surface, an underside disposed in opposing relation to the face portion between the face portion and the flooring support surface, and an inflation gas inlet for introduction of inflating gas upon the occurrence of a collision event, the expansible element being of a deformable box construction of plastically deformable material_such that upon introduction of the inflating gas, the face portion is projected outwardly in the direction away from the flooring support surface and into contact with the feet of the occupant whereby energy is transmitted between the feet of the occupant and the expansible element.