US20140197635A1 - Airbag clamp - Google Patents
Airbag clamp Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20140197635A1 US20140197635A1 US14/212,100 US201414212100A US2014197635A1 US 20140197635 A1 US20140197635 A1 US 20140197635A1 US 201414212100 A US201414212100 A US 201414212100A US 2014197635 A1 US2014197635 A1 US 2014197635A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- clamp
- engaging portion
- plate
- airbag
- plates
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Images
Classifications
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L19/00—Joints in which sealing surfaces are pressed together by means of a member, e.g. a swivel nut, screwed on or into one of the joint parts
- F16L19/06—Joints in which sealing surfaces are pressed together by means of a member, e.g. a swivel nut, screwed on or into one of the joint parts in which radial clamping is obtained by wedging action on non-deformed pipe ends
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60R21/00—Arrangements or fittings on vehicles for protecting or preventing injuries to occupants or pedestrians in case of accidents or other traffic risks
- B60R21/02—Occupant safety arrangements or fittings, e.g. crash pads
- B60R21/16—Inflatable occupant restraints or confinements designed to inflate upon impact or impending impact, e.g. air bags
- B60R21/20—Arrangements for storing inflatable members in their non-use or deflated condition; Arrangement or mounting of air bag modules or components
- B60R21/217—Inflation fluid source retainers, e.g. reaction canisters; Connection of bags, covers, diffusers or inflation fluid sources therewith or together
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16B—DEVICES FOR FASTENING OR SECURING CONSTRUCTIONAL ELEMENTS OR MACHINE PARTS TOGETHER, e.g. NAILS, BOLTS, CIRCLIPS, CLAMPS, CLIPS OR WEDGES; JOINTS OR JOINTING
- F16B2/00—Friction-grip releasable fastenings
- F16B2/02—Clamps, i.e. with gripping action effected by positive means other than the inherent resistance to deformation of the material of the fastening
- F16B2/06—Clamps, i.e. with gripping action effected by positive means other than the inherent resistance to deformation of the material of the fastening external, i.e. with contracting action
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60R21/00—Arrangements or fittings on vehicles for protecting or preventing injuries to occupants or pedestrians in case of accidents or other traffic risks
- B60R21/02—Occupant safety arrangements or fittings, e.g. crash pads
- B60R21/16—Inflatable occupant restraints or confinements designed to inflate upon impact or impending impact, e.g. air bags
- B60R21/26—Inflatable occupant restraints or confinements designed to inflate upon impact or impending impact, e.g. air bags characterised by the inflation fluid source or means to control inflation fluid flow
- B60R21/261—Inflatable occupant restraints or confinements designed to inflate upon impact or impending impact, e.g. air bags characterised by the inflation fluid source or means to control inflation fluid flow with means other than bag structure to diffuse or guide inflation fluid
- B60R2021/2612—Gas guiding means, e.g. ducts
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T24/00—Buckles, buttons, clasps, etc.
- Y10T24/14—Bale and package ties, hose clamps
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T24/00—Buckles, buttons, clasps, etc.
- Y10T24/14—Bale and package ties, hose clamps
- Y10T24/1412—Bale and package ties, hose clamps with tighteners
- Y10T24/1441—Tangential screw
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T24/00—Buckles, buttons, clasps, etc.
- Y10T24/14—Bale and package ties, hose clamps
- Y10T24/1412—Bale and package ties, hose clamps with tighteners
- Y10T24/1441—Tangential screw
- Y10T24/1443—Adjustable girth
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T24/00—Buckles, buttons, clasps, etc.
- Y10T24/14—Bale and package ties, hose clamps
- Y10T24/1457—Metal bands
- Y10T24/1459—Separate connections
- Y10T24/1461—One piece
- Y10T24/1463—Sheet metal
- Y10T24/1469—End-to-end integral with band connecting means
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T24/00—Buckles, buttons, clasps, etc.
- Y10T24/14—Bale and package ties, hose clamps
- Y10T24/1457—Metal bands
- Y10T24/1478—Circumferentially swagged band clamp
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T24/00—Buckles, buttons, clasps, etc.
- Y10T24/14—Bale and package ties, hose clamps
- Y10T24/1457—Metal bands
- Y10T24/148—End-to-end integral band end connection
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T24/00—Buckles, buttons, clasps, etc.
- Y10T24/44—Clasp, clip, support-clamp, or required component thereof
- Y10T24/44983—Clasp, clip, support-clamp, or required component thereof formed from single rigid piece of material
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T29/00—Metal working
- Y10T29/49—Method of mechanical manufacture
- Y10T29/49815—Disassembling
- Y10T29/49817—Disassembling with other than ancillary treating or assembling
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Air Bags (AREA)
Abstract
The present invention is directed to an apparatus and method for utilizing an airbag clamp for securing an airbag onto an inflating tube of an airbag system. An embodiment of the present invention includes a body, a first engaging portion, and a second engaging portion. The body may be capable of surrounding the device, wherein the body may include a first end and a second end that are capable of moving towards each other. The first engaging portion may be located at a first end, wherein the first engaging portion may include at least one plate. The second engaging portion may be located at the second end, wherein the second engaging portion may include at least one plate. The engaging portions may be capable of being fitted together and the plates may
Description
- This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/454,812, entitled “Airbag Clamp,” filed on May 22, 2009, which claims benefit from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/128,507, entitled “Airbag Clamp,” filed on May 22, 2008, which are both hereby incorporated in their entirety by reference.
- The present invention generally relates to a clamp and a method for securing a clamp to an airbag to an inflating device.
- Automobile safety regulations in the United States and globally have increased and remain an important concern for automobile manufacturers. In 1984, the U.S. government required all cars produced after Apr. 1, 1989 to have driver's side airbags. Dual front airbags were required in automobiles in 1998. Airbags consist of a flexible and inflatable envelope. Airbags are commonly used for cushioning against hard interior objects, such as steering wheels, in the event of a crash.
- In a vehicle equipped with an air bag system, the airbag is instantly inflated in the event of a collision to protect the occupant from injury. The airbag is typically inflated by pressurized gas from an inflating tube mounted within the vehicle. Typically, airbag systems are designed to inflate the airbag within 20 to 40 milliseconds after the initial impact. The pressurized gas supplied to inflate the airbag within such a short period of time produces forces tending to pull and separate the airbag from the inflating tube. If the airbag is separated from the inflating tube, the airbag may not inflate or only partially inflate and, as a result, fail to adequately prevent the occupant's impact with hard interior objects of the vehicle, such as a steering wheel, door or the like.
- To resist these forces, a clamping device of considerable strength must be provided to insure safety of the occupant. Ring clamps are typically used to secure the airbag to the inflating tube. These ring clamps are positioned around the inflating tube and the airbag to clamp the airbag to the inflating tube. However, these ring clamps are problematic for a number of reasons. First, during inflation of the airbag, these ring clamps tend to slip off of the inflating tube. Others have attempted to cure this problem by attaching a hook-like device to the inflating tube to prevent the ring clamp from sliding off of the inflating tube. However, this solution is costly and is only a preventive measure rather than curing the deficiencies of the clamps.
- Second, these ring clamps are locked in a closed position by crimping or otherwise locking the ring clamp. However, the crimping or locking occurs in the same direction of the load path. In other words, the ring clamp is locked in the same direction as the applied force, which is typically a direction parallel to the clamp's circumference.
- As a result, the residual clamp load of these clamps is miniscule in view of the initial compression load applied to these ring clamps.
-
FIG. 12 illustrates a prior art clamp tested by applying different initial clamp loads and determining the residual load. As shown inFIG. 12 , the residual clamp load is about 5% of the initial compression load. Therefore, these ring clamps are unreliable in maintaining connection of the airbag to the inflating tube, especially if the occupant contacts the airbag with a high amount of force. - As a result of the relatively low residual clamp load, manufacturers are forced to use expensive metal materials, such as high grade stainless steel. Mild steels, which typically cost less, were thought to be incapable of adequately resisting the forces caused by the nearly instantaneous inflation of the airbag. Therefore, these prior art ring clamps were relatively costly to manufacture.
- The installation of these ring clamps is also deficient. The compression load used in installing these clamps varies widely and cannot be consistently applied. In addition, automobile manufacturers are unable to effectively record and track the installation of the clamps.
- Therefore, a need exists for an improved clamp and method for installing clamps onto airbag inflating devices. While discussed in terms of use of clamps on airbag inflating devices, this is for illustration purpose only, and this invention should not be deemed as limited to the field of air bag systems. The clamps and methods for installing the clamps are applicable to many other fields as will be appreciated by a person of ordinary skill in the art.
- Objects and advantages together with the operation of the invention may be better understood by reference to the following detailed description taken in connection with the following illustrations, wherein:
-
FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a clamp in a relaxed state or open position in an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 2 illustrates a front view of the clamp ofFIG. 1 in the open position. -
FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of the clamp ofFIG. 2 . -
FIG. 4 illustrates a top view of the clamp ofFIG. 2 . -
FIG. 5 illustrates a front view of the clamp ofFIG. 1 secured in a compressed state or closed position. -
FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-sectional side view of the clamp ofFIG. 5 taken along line A-A. -
FIG. 7 illustrates a partial view of a device for closing and securing the clamp. -
FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of the device ofFIG. 7 for closing and securing the clamp. -
FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of the device ofFIG. 8 from a side opposite that shown inFIG. 8 . -
FIG. 10 illustrates a side view of the device ofFIG. 8 . -
FIG. 11 illustrates a front view of the device ofFIG. 8 . -
FIG. 12 illustrates the residual load of prior airbag clamps compared to the compression load. -
FIG. 13 illustrates the residual load of the clamp compared to the compression load. -
FIG. 14 illustrates a comparison of the separation forces of the clamp and a prior airbag clamp. - The present invention is directed to an apparatus and method for utilizing an airbag clamp for securing an airbag onto an inflating tube of an airbag system. An embodiment of the present invention includes a body, a first engaging portion, and a second engaging portion. The body may be capable of surrounding the device, wherein the body may include a first end and a second end that are capable of moving towards each other. The first engaging portion may be located at a first end, wherein the first engaging portion may include at least one plate. The second engaging portion may be located at the second end, wherein the second engaging portion may include at least one plate. The engaging portions may be capable of being fitted together and the plates may be capable of being fastened together to secure the clamp around the material and device.
- An embodiment of the present invention includes a method for clamping material to a device. A clamp having two ends may be placed over the material and the device, and then placing said clamp, material and device into an apparatus. The apparatus may then be utilized to move one end of the clamp towards the other end of the clamp into a closed position. The apparatus may also be utilized to secure the ends together around
- the material and the device. Once secured, the clamp, material and device may be removed from the apparatus.
-
FIGS. 1-6 illustrate aclamp 10 capable of securing an airbag (not shown) to an inflating orinjector tube 110 of the airbag system, as shown inFIGS. 7-11 . While theclamp 10 is being shown and described in terms of an airbag clamp and system, theclamp 10 as shown is only one embodiment of the present invention and should not be deemed as limiting theclamp 10 to the embodiment shown. For example, theclamp 10 may be of any appropriate shape or thickness without deviating from the spirit of the present invention, such as of a substantially circular shape and a relatively small thickness. However, a person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that theclamp 10 may be of may different shapes and have many different dimensions. - As discussed above, the
clamp 10 may be of any appropriate shape, such as substantially circular, as shown inFIGS. 1-7 , or of any other appropriate shape, such as rectangular, elliptical, square or the like, for example. Theclamp 10 may be made of any appropriate type of material including many different combinations or types of materials. For example, theclamp 10 may be made out of metal, such as stainless steel or a lower grade steel, such as a mild carbon based steel. Use of a mild steel may provide substantial cost savings. In addition, while theclamp 10 is shown as a single piece construction, it is to be understood that theclamp 10 could be made out of any number of appropriate pieces and secured together by any appropriate means, such as welding, adhesives or the like, for example. - Due to the strength of the
clamp 10, as will be described in more detail below, theclamp 10 may be used with materials that are more elastic than materials used with prior art airbag clamps. Advantageously, the increased elasticity (or flexibility) of the material of theclamp 10 may improve its ability to effectively clamp onto devices, such as aninjection tube 110 for an airbag, for example. - The
clamp 10 may include afirst end 12 and asecond end 14. Theclamp 10 may have a length, or circumference in a circular embodiment, that may be defined between thefirst end 12 and thesecond end 14. Theclamp 10 may further include a coating (not shown). The coating may cover any appropriate portion or amount of theclamp 10. The coating may substantially cover theentire clamp 10. The coating may also be of any appropriate color, such as similar color to the material of theclamp 10, or a color distinct from the material of theclamp 10, for example. - In an embodiment utilizing a coating having a color that is different from the material, any undesired manipulation or unauthorized servicing of the
clamp 10 may cause scratching, flaking or otherwise removing the coating from theclamp 10. Advantageously, where the coating color is distinct from the color of theclamp 10, any undesired manipulation or unauthorized servicing of theclamp 10 may be readily apparent. - The coating of the
clamp 10 may be of any type of appropriate coating known to a person of ordinary skill in the art. In an embodiment, the coating may be an organic coating having a color distinct from the inflating tube, the air bag and theclamp 10. In a preferred embodiment, the coating may be able to stretch with theclamp 10. For example, as thefirst end 12 and/or thesecond end 14 is stretched and moved to close and secure theclamp 10 around a device, the coating may remain consistent around theclamp 10. - The
clamp 10 may have a width W as best shown inFIG. 3 . The width W may be of any appropriate size or dimension. The width W may be determined based on any appropriate means, such as by the strength and size of the device in which theclamp 10 is to be used. In addition, the width W may be a function of the required clamping strength to be imparted with theclamp 10. The width W of theclamp 10 may be tuned to change the residual load of theclamp 10 as a function of the compression load of theclamp 10. Generally, increasing the width W of theclamp 10 may increase the residual clamp load as a function of the compression load. For a predetermined compression load, the greater the width W of theclamp 10 the lower the residual load. - The residual clamp load and the compression load may be determined or limited by the device in which the
clamp 10 will be used. For example, if theclamp 10 is used to clamp an airbag to an inflatingtube 110, then the inherent strength of the inflatingtube 110 may limit the compression load and/or residual clamp load that may be applied by theclamp 10 without damaging the inflatingtube 110. Therefore, an analysis of the device in which theclamp 10 will be used may be necessary before tuning the width W of theclamp 10. - As shown in
FIGS. 1-6 , theclamp 10 may also include anannular ring portion 16. Theannular ring portion 16 may terminate near thefirst end 12 and thesecond end 14. Theannular ring portion 16 may have any appropriate size and shape diameter, such as a diameter substantially similar in size and shape to the device in which theclamp 10 is to be attached. As shown inFIGS. 1 and 2 , the structure of theclamp 10 may permit a relatively large amount of travel or movement prior to being secured in the closed position. Accordingly, theclamp 10 may be easily connectable to adevice 110, such as an inflating tube of an airbag system prior to closing theclamp 10. - The
clamp 10 may include a first engagingportion 18 and a second engagingportion 20. The first engagingportion 18 and the second engagingportion 20 may be of any appropriate size or shape. In addition, the first engagingportion 18 and the second engagingportion 20 may be of a similar shape or size or of different shapes or sizes. The first engagingportion 18 and the second engagingportion 20 may also be positioned at any appropriate locations on theclamp 10. - As shown in
FIGS. 3 and 4 , the first engagingportion 18 and the second engagingportion 20 may be of a substantially similar shape and size so that the first or second engagingportions portion portion 18 may be slightly wider than the second engagingportion 20, so that the second engagingportion 20 may slide within the first engagingportion 18. While shown with the first engaging 18 portion being slightly larger than the second engagingportion 20, it is to be understood that the roles may be reversed so that the second engagingportion 20 is larger than the first engagingportion 18. - The first engaging
portion 18 and the second engagingportion 20 may be capable of securing theclamp 10 in a compressed state or closed position. In an embodiment, the first and second engagingportions annular ring portion 16 that may be bent to a direction substantially perpendicular to the circumference of theclamp 10. Alternatively, the first and second engagingportions clamp 10. - In an embodiment, the first engaging
portion 18 may includefirst plate 30 a and asecond plate 30 b. As best shown inFIG. 1 , theplates portion 18 may be of any appropriate shape, such as a general U-shape. Thefirst plate 30 a andsecond plate 30 b may be of any appropriate shape or size, such as a generally square, rectangular, semicircular shape or the like, for example. Thefirst plate 30 a and thesecond plate 30 b may be positioned at any appropriate location on theclamp 10, such as at thefirst end 12. Thefirst plate 30 a may be opposing thesecond plate 30 b. In such an embodiment, the second engagingportion 20 may include afirst plate 32 a and asecond plate 32 b. As best shown inFIG. 1 , theplates portion 20 may be of any appropriate shape, such as a general U-shape. Thefirst plate 32 a andsecond plate 32 b may be of any appropriate shape or size, such as a generally square, rectangular, semicircular shape or the like, for example. Thefirst plate 32 a and thesecond plate 32 b may be positioned at any appropriate location on theclamp 10, such as at thesecond end 14. Thefirst plate 32 a may be opposing thesecond plate 32 b. The first and second engagingportions clamp 10 from an open position to the closed position. - While the
plates FIGS. 1 , 2 and 5 as having substantially similar shapes and sizes, it is to be understood that each of theplates plates plates portion portion - As best shown in
FIG. 3 , thefirst plate 30 a andsecond plate 30 b of the first engagingportion 18 may be slightly more open than thefirst plate 32 a andsecond plate 32 b of the second engagingportion 20. While shown with theplates portion 18 being more open than theplates portion 20 it is to be understood that the roles may be reversed. In other words, theplates portion 20 may be slightly wider open than theplates portion 18. - In use, the relaxed state or open position may be any position in which the
clamp 10 may be removable from thedevice 110 that it may be clamping, such as the airbag to the injector tube, for example. The compressed state or closed position may be any position in which theclamp 10 is not removable from thedevice 110 in which it may be clamping. The first and second engagingportions - For example, the first and second engaging
portions clamp 10 to be easily removed from theinjector tube 110 of the airbag system. In such an example, theclamp 10 may be in the open position. To move theclamp 10 in such an example to the closed position, the first and second engagingportions clamp 10 tightens a predetermined amount on the inflatingtube 110 of the airbag system. In an airbag system, theclamp 10 at the closed position may have a diameter substantially equal to that of theinjector tube 110. -
FIGS. 1-4 illustrate an embodiment of theclamp 10 in the open position.FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate an embodiment of theclamp 10 in the closed position. In a preferred embodiment, a substantial portion of one of the first or second engagingportions portion FIGS. 5 and 6 . - The first engaging
portion 18 and the second engagingportion 20 may be moved such that theplates portion 18 abut theplates portion 20. In a preferred embodiment, one of the first or second engagingportions portion FIGS. 3 and 4 . - The
clamp 10 may be secured in the closed position by any appropriate means, such as by attaching theplates plates plates plates clamp 10. Securing theclamp 10 in the closed position by applying force in a direction substantially perpendicular to the load path may increase the residual clamp load. - In a preferred embodiment, the
plates portions plates plates plates portions portion 50 may be bent into or through a portion of the engagingportions portions - For example, the
plates portion 50 of theplate 30 a may be pushed through or at least partially into the piercedportion 50 of theplate 32 a. In one embodiment, the piercedportion 50 of theplate 30 a is pushed through theplates plates other plates portions portions clamp 10 in the closed position to effectively secure and clamp, for example, the airbag to the inflatingtube 110. While described in terms of theplates plates portion 50 of theplate 30 b may be pushed through or at least partially into the piercedportion 50 of theplate 32 b. - The pierced
portion 50 may be moved in any appropriate direction, such as being moved in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of the load path of theclamp 10. The load path typically occurs along length of theclamp 10. Therefore, the first and second engagingportions clamp 10 and the direction of the load path. The advantages of securing theclamp 10 at a closed position with forces perpendicular to the length of theclamp 10 and the load path are significant. -
FIG. 13 illustrates the residual clamp load as compared to compression load applied to theclamp 10 in an embodiment of the present invention. ComparingFIG. 13 FIG. 12 , theclamp 10 has a residual clamp load of more than seventeen times the amount. -
FIG. 14 illustrates the improvement of the separation force exhibited by theclamp 10 as compared to prior art airbag clamps. InFIG. 14 , the max load was set to 1000 lb to prevent damage to the test mandrel pins. Theclamp 10 did not separate in any of the tests below but gradually loosened to zero compression. On the other hand, the prior art clamp separated in each case. -
FIGS. 7-11 illustrate an embodiment of an assembly tool orapparatus 100 that may be utilized for attaching theclamp 10 to a device, such as an injector or inflatingtube 110, for example. Theapparatus 100 may be operated by any appropriate means, such by being manually operated, for example, but may preferably be actuated using a computer or processing device (not shown) such that the operation is automated. - The
clamp 10 may compress the airbag material onto the inflatingtube 110 using approximately 320° of surface area. Theclamp 10 may be tightened to a pre-load of any appropriate amount, such as approximately 750 lbs, thereby leaving a residual loan of approximately 400 lbs of clamping force of the airbag material to the inflatingtube 110. - The
apparatus 100 may include afirst arm 115, achuck 120, and asecond arm 130. Thefirst arm 115, thechuck 120 and thesecond arm 130 may be of any appropriate type, shape or size. Thefirst arm 115 may move to drive thechuck 120 against theclamp 10, as illustrated inFIG. 7 . Thechuck 120 may push one of the first or second engagingportions portion clamp 10 from the relaxed state or open position to the compressed state or closed position. The engagingportion chuck 120 may be held stationary by thesecond arm 130, as best shown inFIG. 7 . - The
chuck 120 may be connected to load cells (not shown) for measuring the amount of force applied to the first or second engagingportion portion second arm 130 to measure the force applied or realized by the lockingarm 130 as the engagingportion - The
apparatus 100 may also include alocking device 140, as illustrated inFIGS. 9 and 10 . Thelocking device 140 may secure the first and second engagingportions clamp 10 by any appropriate means. For example, thelocking device 140 may crimp the engagingportions portions clamp 10, as discussed above. Thelocking device 140 may utilize loading cells (not shown) or other sensing devices to determine the amount of force applied in crimping the engagingportions portions portion portions portion 50 may be moved by thelocking device 140. - The load cells may be connected to a database (not shown) and/or a processor (not shown) for recording the amount of force and the time the force occurred. In an embodiment, the
clamp 10 may have an identifier, such as a serial number, inscribed, such as laser inscribed on theclamp 10. Theclamp 10 may be identified in relation to the forces recorded by the database. The processor and/or the database may be used to control the amount of force applied to the engagingportion clamp 10. For example, use of the load cells, the processor and/or the database permits theapparatus 100 to apply a substantially similar force to each of the engagingportions clamps 10. - As discussed above, the
clamp 10 may be of any appropriate size, such that theclamp 10 may fit over both the airbag material and theinjector tube 110. Once in place over the material andtube 110, one of the first or second engagingportions other portion portions portions clamp 10 in position. The assembly tool orapparatus 100 may then be removed and theclamp 10 is secured and complete. - The
apparatus 100 may be of any appropriate type, such as a multi-directional tool for applying an axial load around the circumference of theclamp 10 and then shear or piece the engagingportions clamp 10 in place. The shears may be 90° to the load, thereby ensuring a solid one-piece locking clamp 10. In addition, the clamp force may be fully adjustable. - The
apparatus 100 may be incorporated into an assembly line where each of theclamps 10 is secured. For example, an airbag may be positioned over theinjector tube 110, the clamp may be aligned to secure the airbag to theinjector tube 110, and theclamp 10 may be moved from the open position to the closed position via theapparatus 100. Theclamp 10 may be locked in the closed position by thelocking device 140 of theapparatus 100. Theapparatus 100 may be connected to the processor and/or the database to control the forces applied to theclamp 10. The processor and/or the database may record the forces and time in which the forces occurred and link the information to theclamp 10. The resulting data may then be stored and analyzed. - While the present invention is described with reference to embodiments described herein, it should be clear that the present invention is not limited to such embodiments. Therefore, the description of the embodiments herein is merely illustrative of the present invention and will not limit the scope of the invention as claimed.
- The invention has been described above and, obviously, modifications and alternations will occur to others upon a reading and understanding of this specification. The claims as follows are intended to include all modifications and alterations insofar as they come within the scope of the claims or the equivalent thereof.
Claims (16)
1. A clamp for securing material to a device, the clamp comprising:
a body capable of surrounding the device, wherein said body includes a first end and a second end that are capable of moving towards each other;
a first engaging portion located at said first end, wherein said first engaging portion includes at least one plate;
a second engaging portion located at said second end, wherein said second engaging portion includes at least one plate;
wherein said engaging portions are capable of being fitted together; and
wherein said plates are capable of being fastened together to secure said clamp around the material and device.
2. The clamp of claim 1 , wherein said body is annular.
3. The clamp of claim 2 , wherein said engaging portions are fitted together by sliding said second engaging portion within said first engaging portion.
4. The clamp of claim 2 , wherein said plates are fastened together by piercing said plate of said first engaging portion into and through said plate of said second engaging portion.
5. The clamp of claim 2 , wherein said first engaging portion is wider than said second engaging portion.
6. The clamp of claim 5 , wherein said first engaging portion includes a first plate and a second plate.
7. The clamp of claim 6 , wherein said second engaging portion includes a first plate and a second plate.
8. The clamp of claim 4 further including a coating located on said clamp.
9. The clamp of claim 6 , wherein said first engaging portion is U-shaped.
10. A method for clamping material to a device, the method comprising the steps of:
placing a clamp having two ends over both the material and the device;
placing said clamp, material and device into an apparatus;
utilizing said apparatus to move one end of said clamp towards said other end into a closed position;
utilizing said apparatus to secure said ends together around the material and the device; and
removing said clamp, material and device from said apparatus.
11. The clamp of claim 10 , wherein the material is an airbag.
12. The clamp of claim 11 , wherein the device is an injector tube of an airbag system.
13. The clamp of claim 12 , wherein said clamp is secured by crimping said ends together.
14. The clamp of claim 12 , wherein said clamp is secured by piercing said ends together.
15. The clamp of claim 10 , further including the step of connecting said apparatus to a processor to control the forces applied to said clamp.
16. The clamp of claim 15 , wherein said processor records the forces and time in which the forces occurred and links the information to said clamp.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US14/212,100 US20140197635A1 (en) | 2008-05-22 | 2014-03-14 | Airbag clamp |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12850708P | 2008-05-22 | 2008-05-22 | |
US12/454,812 US8683658B2 (en) | 2008-05-22 | 2009-05-22 | Airbag clamp |
US14/212,100 US20140197635A1 (en) | 2008-05-22 | 2014-03-14 | Airbag clamp |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/454,812 Continuation US8683658B2 (en) | 2008-05-22 | 2009-05-22 | Airbag clamp |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20140197635A1 true US20140197635A1 (en) | 2014-07-17 |
Family
ID=41340435
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/454,812 Expired - Fee Related US8683658B2 (en) | 2008-05-22 | 2009-05-22 | Airbag clamp |
US14/212,100 Abandoned US20140197635A1 (en) | 2008-05-22 | 2014-03-14 | Airbag clamp |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/454,812 Expired - Fee Related US8683658B2 (en) | 2008-05-22 | 2009-05-22 | Airbag clamp |
Country Status (4)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US8683658B2 (en) |
EP (1) | EP2293962B1 (en) |
ES (1) | ES2471125T3 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2009142764A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
USD791558S1 (en) * | 2014-11-06 | 2017-07-11 | A. Raymond Et Cie | Staking collar |
Families Citing this family (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
ES2471125T3 (en) * | 2008-05-22 | 2014-06-25 | A. Raymond Et Cie. | Clamp for airbag |
WO2012106617A1 (en) * | 2011-02-03 | 2012-08-09 | A. Raymond Et Cie | Clamp forming apparatus and method |
CN105587935B (en) * | 2015-12-24 | 2017-11-28 | 乐清市东博机电有限公司 | A kind of manufacture method and application method of clip and the clip |
USD808889S1 (en) * | 2016-07-01 | 2018-01-30 | Jerome Puchkoff | Clamp |
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Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US20100101057A1 (en) | 2010-04-29 |
EP2293962B1 (en) | 2014-03-12 |
EP2293962A4 (en) | 2012-12-12 |
US8683658B2 (en) | 2014-04-01 |
ES2471125T3 (en) | 2014-06-25 |
EP2293962A1 (en) | 2011-03-16 |
WO2009142764A1 (en) | 2009-11-26 |
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Legal Events
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AS | Assignment |
Owner name: A. RAYMOND ET CIE, FRANCE Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:DANBY, MICHAEL RICHARD;HEMMINGWAY, TODD;MURPHY, PETER;SIGNING DATES FROM 20150301 TO 20150303;REEL/FRAME:035833/0312 |
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STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |