JP7780919B2 - Airbag device - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an airbag device.

Airbag devices that are installed in vehicles such as automobiles and inflate and deploy in the event of a vehicle collision to protect occupants include passenger airbag devices that inflate and deploy in front of the occupant seated in the passenger seat in the event of a frontal collision, thereby catching and protecting the occupant as they move forward.

Patent Document 1 discloses a passenger-side airbag device. This airbag device is equipped with a flow rectifying fabric, which causes inflation gas to interfere with the flow rectifying fabric and split into gas flowing toward the front of the vehicle and gas flowing toward the rear of the vehicle. By setting the opening area of the flow rectifying fabric toward the front end of the vehicle larger than that toward the rear end of the vehicle, the upper portion of the airbag, which is inflated by the inflation gas flowing toward the front of the vehicle, protrudes from the instrument panel and moves quickly rearward along the windshield, allowing the occupant-side surface of the airbag to quickly become vertically aligned. The occupant-side surface of the airbag then moves toward the rear of the vehicle while remaining vertically aligned, allowing it to inflate and deploy without partially protruding.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-046563

The airbag disclosed in Patent Document 1 has a tuck fold portion positioned on the front side of the vehicle and a roll fold portion positioned on the rear side of the vehicle. However, the inertial force generated by a vehicle collision causes the roll fold portion to move forward of the vehicle and press against the tuck fold portion, making it difficult for gas to enter the tuck fold portion. Conversely, gas may enter the roll fold portion, causing the roll fold portion to inflate and deploy first, which could result in the airbag inflating and deploying first on the occupant side, contrary to the intended purpose.

The present invention was made in consideration of the above-mentioned current situation, and aims to provide an airbag device that reliably inflates and deploys a folded airbag from the front side of the vehicle, resulting in stable deployment behavior.

One aspect of the present invention is an airbag device that is provided in front of a seated occupant and inflates and deploys toward the occupant, comprising: an inflator that generates gas from gas outlets; an airbag that has a first folded portion folded into a roll shape and at least one second folded portion that is folded into a tuck or accordion-like shape and is positioned adjacent to the vehicle front of the first folded portion, and that inflates and deploys with gas generated by the inflator; a fixing member to which the inflator and the airbag are fixed; a sandwiching member that surrounds the side of the inflator and is attached to the fixing member with the airbag sandwiched therebetween; and a first airflow straightening member that is provided within the airbag and whose relative movement with respect to the sandwiching member is restricted rearward of the vehicle rear end of the sandwiching member when the airbag inflates and deploys, wherein the first airflow straightening member is provided from behind the vehicle rearward of the vehicle rear end of the sandwiching member to at least above the vehicle front end of the inflator.

Another aspect of the present invention is an airbag device that is provided in front of a seated occupant and inflates and deploys toward the occupant, the airbag including an inflator that generates gas from gas outlets, a first folded portion folded into a roll shape, and at least one second folded portion that is folded into a tuck or accordion-like shape and is positioned adjacent to the front of the first folded portion, and that inflates and deploys with gas generated by the inflator, a fixing member to which the inflator and the airbag are fixed, a sandwiching member that surrounds the side of the inflator and is attached to the fixing member with the airbag sandwiched therebetween, a first airflow straightening member that is provided within the airbag and covers at least a portion of the upper surface of the inflator, and a second airflow straightening member that covers the first airflow straightening member and the inflator when the airbag is in a folded state and has an opening at least in the fore-and-aft direction of the vehicle, and in the folded state of the airbag, a portion of the first airflow straightening member is located on the vehicle rearward opening side of the second airflow straightening member relative to the inflator.

This invention provides an airbag device that reliably inflates and deploys a folded airbag from the front side of the vehicle, resulting in stable deployment behavior.

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional schematic view of an airbag device according to a first embodiment in an initial state when viewed from the vehicle width direction. FIG. 2 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the airbag device shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is a perspective view that schematically shows a sandwiching member and an inflator that are part of the configuration of the airbag device according to the first embodiment. 4A is a see-through perspective view that schematically shows the first flow rectifying member in addition to the configuration of FIG. 3, and FIG. 4B is a top view that schematically shows only the first flow rectifying member in an open state. FIG. 5 is a see-through perspective view schematically illustrating FIG. 4A together with a second flow guide member. FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the airbag device according to the first embodiment before inflation and deployment, as viewed from the vehicle width direction. FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the airbag device according to the first embodiment in the middle of inflation and deployment, as viewed from the vehicle width direction. FIG. 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the airbag device according to the first embodiment in the middle of inflation and deployment, as viewed from the vehicle width direction. FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the airbag device according to the first embodiment in the middle of inflation and deployment, as viewed from the vehicle width direction. FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the airbag device according to the first embodiment after inflation and deployment, as viewed from the vehicle width direction. FIG. 11 is a perspective view schematically showing a sandwiching member, an inflator, and a first rectifying member, which are part of the configuration of the airbag device according to the second embodiment. FIG. 12 is a perspective view schematically showing a state in which the first rectifying member shown in FIG. 11 is torn and split when gas is generated. FIG. 13A is a perspective view schematically showing a sandwiching member, an inflator, and a first rectifying member, which are part of the configuration of an airbag device according to embodiment 3, and FIG. 13B is a top view schematically showing only the first rectifying member in an open state. FIG. 14 is a see-through perspective view that schematically shows a sandwiching member, an inflator, a first rectifying member, and a part of an airbag, which are part of the configuration of an airbag device according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 15A is a perspective view schematically showing a sandwiching member, an inflator, and a first rectifying member, which are part of the configuration of an airbag device according to embodiment 5, and FIG. 15B is a top view schematically showing only the first rectifying member in an open state. FIG. 16A is a perspective view schematically showing a sandwiching member, an inflator, and a first rectifying member, which are part of the configuration of an airbag device according to embodiment 6, and FIG. 16B is a top view schematically showing only the first rectifying member in an open state. FIG. 17A is a perspective view schematically showing a sandwiching member, an inflator, and a first rectifying member, which are part of the configuration of an airbag device according to embodiment 7, and FIG. 17B is a top view schematically showing only the first rectifying member in an open state. FIG. 18A is a perspective view schematically showing a sandwiching member, an inflator, and a first rectifying member, which are part of the configuration of an airbag device according to embodiment 8, and FIG. 18B is a top view schematically showing only the first rectifying member in an open state. FIG. 19A is a perspective view schematically showing a clamping member, an inflator, and a first rectifying member, which are part of the configuration of an airbag device according to embodiment 9, and FIG. 19B is a top view schematically showing only the first rectifying member in an open state. Figure 20A is a see-through perspective view that schematically shows a clamping member, an inflator, and a first rectifying member, which are part of the configuration of an airbag device of embodiment 10, and Figure 20B is a top view that schematically shows only the first rectifying member in an open state.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An embodiment of an airbag device according to the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings.
In this specification, unless otherwise specified, directions are based on the vehicle. In addition, arrow F, arrow R, and arrow U shown in each figure indicate the front, rear, and upper sides of the vehicle, respectively.

(Embodiment 1)
First, the initial state of the airbag device according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5. FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional schematic view of the initial state of the airbag device according to the first embodiment when viewed from the vehicle width direction. FIG. 2 is an enlarged cross-sectional schematic view of the airbag device shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a perspective view schematically showing a sandwiching member and an inflator, which are part of the configuration of the airbag device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4A is a see-through perspective view schematically showing FIG. 3 with a first airflow rectifying member added thereto, and FIG. 4B is a top view schematically showing only the first airflow rectifying member in an open state. FIG. 5 is a see-through perspective view schematically showing FIG. 4A with a second airflow rectifying member added thereto.

1 and 2 , the airbag device 100 according to the first embodiment is a passenger seat airbag device, and includes an inflator (gas generator) 10 that generates gas and is disposed so as to cover an opening in the upper surface of an instrument panel AA located in front of the passenger seat, a folded, bag-shaped airbag 20, a fixing member 30 to which the inflator 10 and the airbag 20 are fixed, and a sandwiching member 40 that surrounds the side of the inflator 10 and is attached to the fixing member 30 with the airbag 20 sandwiched therebetween. The airbag device also includes a first airflow straightening member 50 that is disposed within the airbag 20 and extends from a position rearward of the rear end of the sandwiching member 40 to at least a position above the front end of the inflator 10, and a second airflow straightening member 60 that covers the first airflow straightening member 50 and the inflator 10. The airbag 20 is housed within an outer bag 80.
A cover 70 is provided to cover the airbag 20 housed in the outer bag 80 and fixed to the fixing member. In this specification, the term "initial state" refers to the state before the inflator is activated, i.e., before the airbag is inflated and deployed. The airbag device of the present invention is preferably used as a passenger seat airbag device, but may also be used as a driver seat airbag device. The airbag device of the present invention does not necessarily have to include the outer bag 80.

The inflator 10 is activated during a frontal collision of the vehicle. First, when a collision detection sensor installed in the vehicle detects a frontal collision of the vehicle, the ECU (Electronic Control Unit) calculates the signal sent from the collision detection sensor and determines the level of the collision. If the determined level of the collision corresponds to the level at which the airbag 20 should be inflated, the inflator 10 is activated, and gas is generated by a chemical reaction caused by the combustion of the internal explosive. The generated gas is released into the airbag 20 through gas outlet holes (not shown) in the inflator 10. Note that the type of inflator 10 is not particularly limited, and examples that can be used include pyrotechnic inflators that use gas generated by burning a gas generating agent, stored inflators that use compressed gas, and hybrid inflators that use a mixture of gas generated by burning a gas generating agent and compressed gas. It is preferable that the inflator 10 have multiple gas outlet holes provided around the entire side of the inflator 10. If the inflator has a circular shape when viewed from above, it is preferable that gas be emitted from the side of the inflator in all directions over 360° when viewed from above. Furthermore, the gas ejection holes do not have to be evenly spaced around the entire circumference of the side of the inflator; for example, a relatively large number of gas ejection holes may be provided on the front side of the vehicle, and a relatively small number of gas ejection holes may be provided on the rear side of the vehicle.

The airbag 20 is a bag-shaped body that, before the inflator 10 is activated, is folded and stored within a fixing member 30 located inside the upper surface of the instrument panel AA. When the inflator 10 is activated, gas generated by the inflator 10 fills the interior of the airbag 20, causing the airbag 20 to unfold and inflate. As a result, the airbag 20 pushes open the lid portion 71 provided on the cover 70 and inflates and deploys within the vehicle cabin.

When folded, the airbag 20 has a first folded portion 21 folded into a roll shape and at least one second folded portion 22 folded in a tuck or accordion-like shape and positioned adjacent to the first folded portion 21 on the front side of the vehicle.

The airbag 20 can be made of a fabric woven with threads such as nylon 66 or polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The surface of the airbag 20 may also be coated with an inorganic material such as silicone to improve heat resistance and airtightness.

The fixing member 30 is attached to the outer wall portion 72 of the cover 70, which protrudes inward (toward the vehicle body) of the instrument panel AA, by means of multiple hooks 30a and 30b provided on the inner wall portion 33.

A metal annular clamping member 40 with a mounting hole 43 for the inflator 10 is positioned on the inside of the underside of the airbag 20.

Figure 3 shows the clamping member 40 and the inflator 10. The clamping member 40 has a mounting hole 43 on its bottom surface 44, so that the inflator 10 fits into the mounting hole 43. Side surfaces 45 rise from the outer periphery of the bottom surface 44 of the clamping member 40, and each side surface 45 surrounds the side of the inflator 10.

As shown in FIG. 2, a bolt 41 is provided on the bottom surface 44 of the clamping member, extending in the direction opposite to the direction in which the side surface 45 rises. The bolt 41 passes through the first rectifying member 50, the second rectifying member 60, the airbag 20, the fixing portion 31 of the fixing member 30, and the flange portion 10a of the inflator 10, and is fastened with a nut 42, thereby fixing each to the fixing portion 31 of the fixing member 30.

Figure 4A shows the first rectifying member 50, which is provided from behind the rear end of the clamping member 40 to at least above the vehicle at point 10F, which is the front end of the inflator 10.

4A has a portion that is located rearward of the vehicle rear end (region 40R) of the sandwiching member 40. The first airflow straightening member 50 is further bent to cover the upper surface of the inflator 10 and is provided above the vehicle at point 10F, which is the vehicle front end of the upper surface of the inflator 10.
It can also be said that the first airflow straightening member 50 covers an area (area shown as area 40F in Fig. 3) including point 10F, which is the vehicle front end of the inflator 10. Furthermore, the first airflow straightening member 50 shown in Fig. 4A is provided further forward of point 10F, which is the vehicle front end of the upper surface of the inflator 10.

The rear end of the sandwiching member 40 is the region indicated by the region 40R surrounded by a dotted line in Fig. 3. As shown in Fig. 4A, the first airflow straightening member 50 is located rearward of the region 40R.
4A covers the entire upper surface of the inflator 10. Note that the first flow straightening member 50 covering the entire upper surface of the inflator 10 also includes a case where a small hole such as the upper surface through-hole 53 is formed in the first flow straightening member 50 as shown in FIG.

Furthermore, the region in which the first straightening member 50 is provided is a region that includes point 10F, which is the vehicle front end of the upper surface of the inflator 10, and point 10R, which is the vehicle rear end of the upper surface of the inflator 10, and can also be said to be a region that is provided from behind the vehicle rear end of the sandwiching member 40 (region 40R), through point 10R, which is the vehicle rear end of the upper surface of the inflator 10, to point 10F, which is the vehicle front end of the upper surface of the inflator 10.

In the airbag device of the present invention, the first rectifying member is provided from behind the rear end of the clamping member to at least above the front end of the inflator. It is preferable that the first rectifying member cover as wide an area as possible of the top surface of the inflator as possible to prevent the flow of gas toward the rear of the vehicle when gas is generated from the inflator, and it is preferable that the first rectifying member cover the entire top surface of the inflator.

In the airbag device of the present invention, the first rectifying member is located rearward of the rear end of the clamping member toward the front of the vehicle. Because the first rectifying member is located rearward of the rear end of the clamping member, gas generated from the inflator and rectified upward by the side surface 45 of the clamping member is obstructed from flowing rearward beyond the first rectifying member. Furthermore, if the first rectifying member is located from rearward of the rear end of the clamping member to at least above the front end of the inflator, the flow of gas is obstructed in the region from the rear end of the clamping member to the front end of the inflator. Therefore, in the early stages of gas generation, the flow of gas is not obstructed by the first rectifying member, and gas is more likely to flow forward beyond the front end of the inflator.

In the airbag device of the present invention, gas enters the second folded portion located at the front of the vehicle first, making it easier for the second folded portion to deploy first. This allows the folded airbag to reliably inflate and deploy from the front of the vehicle, resulting in an airbag device with stable deployment behavior. The airbag deployment behavior of the airbag device of the present invention will be explained in detail later.

When the airbag is inflated and deployed, the first rectifying member 50 is restricted from moving relative to the sandwiching member 40 rearward of the rear end (region 40R) of the sandwiching member 40. Restricting relative movement means that the first rectifying member 50 cannot move freely rearward of the rear end (region 40R) of the sandwiching member 40 and maintains a position rearward of the rear end (region 40R) of the sandwiching member 40. In this configuration, when gas is generated from the inflator 10, the first rectifying member 50 is located rearward of the rear end (region 40R) of the sandwiching member 40, at least in the initial stage of gas generation. Therefore, when gas is generated from the inflator 10, the flow of gas toward the rear of the vehicle is obstructed, and gas is more likely to flow toward the front of the vehicle in the initial stage of gas generation. The initial stage of gas generation refers to the stage from when the second folded portion 22 expands due to gas flow into the second folded portion 22 until gas begins to flow into the first folded portion 21.

As shown in FIG. 4B , the first airflow rectifying member 50 has a bolt through hole 51a and a bolt through hole 51b. The bolt through hole 51a is a through hole provided on the bottom surface of the clamping member 40 and is inserted over the bolt 41a on the rear side of the vehicle. The bolt through hole 51b is a through hole provided on the bottom surface of the clamping member 40 and is inserted over the bolt 41b on the front side of the vehicle. As shown in FIG. 4A , the position of the first airflow rectifying member 50 is fixed by inserting the bolts 41a, 41b on the first airflow rectifying member 50 into the bolt through holes 51a, 51b, respectively, on the bottom surface 44 of the clamping member 40. As a result, the relative movement of the first airflow rectifying member 50 with respect to the clamping member 40 is restricted at the vehicle rear end (region 40R) of the clamping member 40.

In the airbag device of the present invention, the first airflow straightening member is preferably fixed to the fixing member by being sandwiched between the sandwiching member and the fixing member at least on the vehicle rear side. In the airbag device 100 of the first embodiment, the first airflow straightening member 50 is fixed by being sandwiched between the sandwiching member 40 and the fixing member 30 by inserting the bolt through-hole 51a of the first airflow straightening member 50 into the bolt 41a on the vehicle rear side provided on the bottom surface of the sandwiching member 40. By fixing in this manner, relative movement of the first airflow straightening member 50 to the sandwiching member 40 at a position rearward of the vehicle rear end (region 40R) of the sandwiching member 40 when the airbag is inflated and deployed is restricted.

As shown in FIG. 4B, the first rectifying member 50 has an inflator through-hole 52 through which the inflator 10 passes. The first rectifying member 50 also has an upper surface through-hole 53 that opens a portion of the part where the first rectifying member 50 covers the upper surface of the inflator 10. The upper surface through-hole 53 can be used as a hole for aligning with the second rectifying member 60, which will be described later.

In the airbag device of the present invention, when the airbag is in a folded state, it is preferable that one end of the first rectifying member be disposed as a free end on the vehicle front side of the inflator. In the airbag device of the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4A , one end 54 of the first rectifying member 50 is a free end on the vehicle front side of the inflator 10. A free end is a portion that is not fixed to another member and can be turned up by gas. If one end of the first rectifying member is a free end on the vehicle front side, when gas is generated from the inflator, the flow of gas on the vehicle front side is not obstructed by the first rectifying member, making it easier for gas to flow toward the vehicle front in the early stages of gas generation.

In the airbag device of the present invention, when the airbag is in a folded state, it is preferable that a portion of the first airflow straightening member reaches, on the front side of the vehicle, the fold that is located furthest forward among the second folds. If a portion of the first airflow straightening member reaches the fold that is located furthest forward among the second folds, it is possible to guide the flow of gas so that it flows into the fold first. Furthermore, the first airflow straightening member is pressed against the second fold in its folded state until the second fold begins to unfold, and therefore does not turn up. Therefore, before the second fold begins to unfold, the first airflow straightening member acts to prevent gas from flowing toward the rear of the vehicle, and it is possible to guide the flow of gas so that the second fold deploys before the first fold.

The first rectifying member is preferably a cloth-like material that is not too rigid and can be turned up by gas, and the same material as the cloth that makes up the airbag can be used. Furthermore, the thickness of the first rectifying member is preferably 0.25 mm or more and 0.5 mm or less. If the thickness of the first rectifying member is too thin, the first rectifying member may be damaged in unintended locations due to gas pressure. Furthermore, if the thickness of the first rectifying member is too thick, it will be difficult to turn up, and the first rectifying member may obstruct the flow of gas at the front of the vehicle.

In the airbag device of the present invention, the second airflow guide member preferably has an opening at least in the front-rear direction of the vehicle, and preferably covers the first airflow guide member and the inflator when the airbag is in a folded state.
The airbag device of the present invention does not necessarily have to include the second airflow rectifying member.

Figure 5 shows a second airflow straightening member 60 with openings in the front-to-rear direction of the vehicle. The second airflow straightening member 60 is a cylindrical member overall, with a vehicle front opening 62 at the front of the vehicle and a vehicle rear opening 61 at the rear of the vehicle. Note that while it is preferable for the airbag device of the present invention to include a second airflow straightening member, it is not necessary for it to be included.

The second airflow straightening member 60 covers the first airflow straightening member 50 and the inflator 10. In other words, the first airflow straightening member 50 and the inflator 10 are disposed inside the second airflow straightening member 60 (the area surrounded by the second airflow straightening member 60). Furthermore, when the airbag is in a folded state, a portion of the first airflow straightening member 50 is positioned between the vehicle rearward opening 61 of the second airflow straightening member 60 and the inflator 10. Specifically, a portion of the first airflow straightening member 50 is positioned between the vehicle rearward opening 61 of the second airflow straightening member 60 and the inflator 10, rearward of the vehicle rear end (area 40R) of the clamping member 40.

When gas is generated from the inflator 10, the gas flows out from the vehicle front side opening 62 or the vehicle rear side opening 61 of the second flow straightening member 60. Since the outflow of gas from portions of the second flow straightening member 60 other than the vehicle front side opening 62 and the vehicle rear side opening 61 is suppressed, the second flow straightening member 60 restricts the flow direction of the gas to a specific direction.
The second airflow straightening member may be appropriately provided with vent holes to allow gas to flow out from locations other than the vehicle front opening and the vehicle rear opening. Two vent holes 63 are shown in Figure 5. The number and locations of the vent holes are not particularly limited, and when multiple vent holes are provided, the vent holes may be the same or different sizes.

In the airbag device of the present invention, as described above, in the early stages of gas generation, the action of the first flow straightening member inhibits the flow of gas toward the rear of the vehicle when gas is generated from the inflator. Therefore, in the early stages of gas generation, the outflow of gas from the vehicle rearward opening of the second flow straightening member is inhibited. On the other hand, in the early stages of gas generation, gas flows more easily toward the front of the vehicle, so gas flows out from the vehicle frontward opening of the second flow straightening member and flows into the second fold located in the front of the vehicle.

As the second fold progresses in deployment due to gas flowing into it, the first rectifying member's ability to obstruct the flow of gas toward the rear of the vehicle weakens. As a result, gas begins to flow out of the opening in the second rectifying member toward the rear of the vehicle.

Next, the operation of the airbag device according to embodiment 1, particularly its behavior during inflation and deployment, will be described using Figures 6 to 10. Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the airbag device according to embodiment 1 before inflation and deployment, as viewed from the vehicle width direction. Figures 7, 8, and 9 are schematic cross-sectional views of the airbag device according to embodiment 1 during inflation and deployment, as viewed from the vehicle width direction. Figure 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the airbag device according to embodiment 1 after inflation and deployment, as viewed from the vehicle width direction. In Figures 7, 8, and 9, the flow of gas is indicated by arrows.

As shown in Figure 6, before inflation and deployment, the airbag device 100 is positioned to cover the opening on the top surface of the instrument panel AA and is installed below the windshield BB. One end of the first airflow straightening member is positioned at a position (encircled by dotted line E) that overlaps with the folded portion 22a located furthest forward of the vehicle.

Figure 7 shows the deployment behavior of the airbag in the early stages of gas generation. When the inflator 10 is activated, the flow of gas is obstructed at the rear of the vehicle by the action of the first flow straightening member 50. As a result, gas is less likely to flow out through the vehicle rearward opening 61 of the second flow straightening member 60. On the other hand, because the first flow straightening member 50 has a free end at the front of the vehicle, the flow of gas at the front of the vehicle is not obstructed by the first flow straightening member 50. As a result, gas is more likely to flow toward the front of the vehicle in the early stages of gas generation. The gas flows out through the vehicle frontward opening 62 of the second flow straightening member 60 and flows into the second folded portion 22 of the airbag 20. Then, the second folded portion 22, which is tucked or folded like an accordion, is deployed.

Figure 8 shows the deployment behavior of the airbag when gas has begun to flow into the second fold. At this stage, the second fold 22 of the airbag 20 has already deployed considerably. Because the first airflow straightening member 50 still blocks the flow of gas on the vehicle rear side of the first airflow straightening member 50, gas does not flow into the vehicle rear opening 61 of the second airflow straightening member 60. Therefore, the first fold 21 of the airbag 20 does not deploy at this stage. The first airflow straightening member 50 is further turned up by gas pressure on the vehicle front side, and one end 54 of the first airflow straightening member 50 (position surrounded by dotted line E) approaches the vehicle rear opening 61 of the second airflow straightening member 60. As the one end 54 of the first airflow straightening member 50 moves further toward the vehicle rear from this state, gas begins to flow into the vehicle rear opening 61 of the second airflow straightening member 60, and deployment of the first fold 21 of the airbag 20 begins.

Figure 9 shows the deployment behavior of the airbag when gas has begun to flow into the first fold. Gas flows into the first fold 21, which is folded into a roll, causing the roll to unfold and the airbag 20 to begin to inflate and deploy.

Figure 10 shows the state of the airbag after it has been inflated and deployed. After inflation and deployment, the shape of the airbag 20 itself is the same as that of conventional airbags. However, in the airbag device 100, in the early stages of gas generation, gas is prevented from flowing into the first folded portion 21, which is a rolled fold, and gas flows into the second folded portion 22, which is a tucked fold. This ensures that the airbag 20 inflates and deploys from the front of the vehicle, resulting in stable inflation behavior.

As described above, in the airbag device of the present invention, the second folded portion can be deployed first, followed by the first folded portion after a time lag. Unlike a technology that guides gas flow so that gas always tends to flow toward the front of the vehicle, the airbag device of the present invention employs a technology that guides gas toward the rear of the vehicle as the deployment of the first folded portion progresses, thereby accelerating the deployment of the second folded portion.
In other words, in the airbag device of the present invention, even if the inertial force generated by a vehicle collision causes the roll fold portion to move forward of the vehicle and press against the tuck fold portion or the accordion fold portion, by inducing the flow of gas toward the front of the vehicle, the tuck fold portion or the accordion fold portion can be deployed before the roll fold portion is deployed.

Next, we will explain airbag devices according to other embodiments. The airbag devices according to these other embodiments differ mainly in the shape of the first airflow straightening member, so we will explain the first airflow straightening member and other components that differ from the airbag device according to embodiment 1.

(Embodiment 2)
Fig. 11 is a see-through perspective view that schematically shows a sandwiching member, an inflator, and a first rectifying member that are part of the configuration of the airbag device according to embodiment 2. Fig. 12 is a perspective view that schematically shows a state in which the first rectifying member shown in Fig. 11 is torn and split when gas is generated.

In the airbag device of embodiment 2, when the airbag inflates and deploys, the relative movement of the first airflow straightening member with respect to the clamping member is restricted at the front of the vehicle at the front end of the clamping member, and the gas generated by the inflator causes the first airflow straightening member to split into a rearward first airflow straightening member main body and a forward first airflow straightening member remainder at a location forward of the front end of the inflator, so that the first airflow straightening member main body moves away from above the vehicle at the front end of the inflator to the rearward side of the vehicle when the airbag inflates and deploys.

With this configuration, when the airbag inflates and deploys, the gas generated by the inflator causes the first rectifying member to split at a location further forward than the front end of the inflator. A free end is then created at the location where the split occurs.

In the first airflow straightening member 150 shown in Figure 11, one end 54 of the first airflow straightening member is fixed to the bolt 41b on the front side of the vehicle of the clamping member 40. Therefore, when the airbag is in a folded state, relative movement of the first airflow straightening member with respect to the clamping member is restricted rearward of the rear end of the clamping member and forward of the front end of the clamping member.

The first rectifying member 150 has a tearing section 155. The tearing section 155 is a section that is expected to tear due to the gas generated by the inflator 10, and is therefore weaker than other sections. Measures to weaken the strength include providing a slit like a perforation in the tearing section, thinning the thickness of the fabric or resin that makes up the first rectifying member along the tearing section, loosely sewing the tearing section so that it will come undone under pressure, or joining the tearing section with a weak adhesive. Figure 11 shows an embodiment in which the tearing section 155 is provided by a perforation.

12 shows the state in which the first rectifying member 150 is torn at the rupture portion by gas generated by the inflator and separated. When the first rectifying member 150 is torn at the rupture portion 155 shown in FIG. 11 , the first rectifying member 150 separates into a main body 151 and a remaining portion 152. One end 154 of the main body 151 is a free end. This state is the same as the state of the first rectifying member 50 and its one end 54 in embodiment 1. Therefore, similar to when the first rectifying member 50 in embodiment 1 is used, gas tends to flow toward the front of the vehicle in the early stages of gas generation. Since the main body 151 of the first rectifying member is restricted from moving relative to the sandwiching member 40 at a position rearward of the rear end (region 40R) of the sandwiching member 40, the main body 151 of the first rectifying member can inhibit the flow of gas toward the rear of the vehicle.

By tearing the first straightening member at the front of the vehicle, the flow of gas toward the rear of the vehicle is obstructed, allowing gas to flow toward the front of the vehicle. Therefore, it is preferable to position the tearing portion as far forward as possible. For example, it is preferable to position it further forward than the front end of the inflator.

(Embodiment 3)
FIG. 13A is a perspective view schematically showing a sandwiching member, an inflator, and a first rectifying member, which are part of the configuration of an airbag device according to embodiment 3, and FIG. 13B is a top view schematically showing only the first rectifying member in an open state.

The first airflow straightening member 250 shown in FIG. 13B has a bolt through hole 51a. On the other hand, the first airflow straightening member 50 shown in FIG. 4B does not have the bolt through hole 51b or inflator through hole 52. As shown in FIG. 13A, the position of the first airflow straightening member 250 is fixed by inserting a bolt 41a provided on the bottom surface 44 of the clamping member 40 into the bolt through hole 51a of the first airflow straightening member 250. As a result, the relative movement of the first airflow straightening member 250 with respect to the clamping member 40 is restricted on a side of the vehicle rearward of the vehicle rear end (region 40R) of the clamping member 40. This configuration can also be said to be a configuration in which the first airflow straightening member 250 is sandwiched and fixed between the clamping member 40 and the fixing member only on the vehicle rearward side. In this configuration, there are fewer locations for fixing the position of the first airflow straightening member 250, so if the first airflow straightening member 250 tears around the bolt through-hole 51a due to gas generation from the inflator, it is possible that the fixed position of the first airflow straightening member 250 will not be maintained. From this perspective, it is more preferable to fix the first airflow straightening member 50 to the sandwiching member 40 on both the rear and front sides of the vehicle, as in the first airflow straightening member 50 shown in FIG. 4B.

(Embodiment 4)
FIG. 14 is a see-through perspective view that schematically shows a sandwiching member, an inflator, a first rectifying member, and a part of an airbag, which are part of the configuration of an airbag device according to the fourth embodiment.

In the airbag device according to the fourth embodiment, the first airflow rectifying member is fixed to the airbag rearward of the rear end of the clamping member.

The first airflow rectifying member 350 shown in Fig. 14 is fixed to the airbag 20. Fig. 14 shows a state in which the first airflow rectifying member 350 is fixed by being sewn to the airbag 20 with a sewing thread 355 at a position rearward of the vehicle rear end (region 40R) of the sandwiching member 40. The first airflow rectifying member 350 is not fixed to the sandwiching member 40.
The method for fixing the first airflow rectifying member to the airbag is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include sewing, bonding, welding, and combinations thereof, with sewing being preferred.
The bolt 41a on the vehicle rear side of the clamping member 40 penetrates the airbag 20, and the airbag 20 is fixed to the clamping member 40. Because the clamping member 40 and the airbag 20 are fixed, the relative movement of the first airflow rectifying member 350 with respect to the clamping member 40 is restricted at a position rearward of the vehicle rear end of the clamping member 40. Even in this configuration, the first airflow rectifying member can obstruct the flow of gas toward the rear of the vehicle, as in the airbag device according to the first embodiment.

(Embodiments 5 to 8)
Fig. 15A is a see-through perspective view schematically showing a sandwiching member, an inflator, and a first rectifying member which are parts of the configuration of an airbag device according to embodiment 5, and Fig. 15B is a top view schematically showing only the first rectifying member in an open state. Fig. 16A is a see-through perspective view schematically showing a sandwiching member, an inflator, and a first rectifying member which are parts of the configuration of an airbag device according to embodiment 6, and Fig. 16B is a top view schematically showing only the first rectifying member in an open state. Fig. 17A is a see-through perspective view schematically showing a sandwiching member, an inflator, and a first rectifying member which are parts of the configuration of an airbag device according to embodiment 7, and Fig. 17B is a top view schematically showing only the first rectifying member in an open state. Fig. 18A is a see-through perspective view schematically showing a sandwiching member, an inflator, and a first rectifying member which are parts of the configuration of an airbag device according to embodiment 8, and Fig. 18B is a top view schematically showing only the first rectifying member in an open state.

In the airbag devices according to embodiments 5 to 8, the position, number, or size of the upper surface through-holes provided in the first airflow straightening member differs from that of the first airflow straightening member provided in the airbag device according to embodiment 1.

The first airflow straightening member 450 according to embodiment 5 shown in Figures 15A and 15B has two upper surface through holes (453a, 453b). The upper surface through hole 453a is provided above the center of the upper surface of the inflator 10, and the upper surface through hole 453b is provided at the vehicle rear end of the first airflow straightening member 450. The upper surface through hole 453b provided at the vehicle rear end of the first airflow straightening member 450 is larger than the upper surface through hole 453a provided above the center of the upper surface of the inflator 10.

The first airflow straightening member 550 according to embodiment 6 shown in Figures 16A and 16B has two upper surface through holes (553a, 553b). The upper surface through hole 553a is provided above the center of the upper surface of the inflator 10, and the upper surface through hole 553b is provided at the vehicle rear end of the first airflow straightening member 550. The upper surface through hole 553b provided at the vehicle rear end of the first airflow straightening member 550 is the same size as the upper surface through hole 553a provided above the center of the upper surface of the inflator 10.

The first airflow straightening member 650 according to embodiment 7 shown in Figures 17A and 17B has three upper surface through-holes (653a, 653b, 653c). The upper surface through-hole 653a is provided above the center of the upper surface of the inflator 10. The upper surface through-holes 653b and 653c are provided at the vehicle rear end of the first airflow straightening member 650. The upper surface through-holes 653b and 653c provided at the vehicle rear end of the first airflow straightening member 650 are circular, and the upper surface through-hole 653a provided above the center of the upper surface of the inflator 10 is oval.

The first airflow straightening member 750 according to embodiment 8 shown in Figures 18A and 18B has three upper surface through holes (753a, 753b, 753c). The upper surface through hole 753a is provided above the center of the upper surface of the inflator 10. The upper surface through holes 753b and 753c are each provided at the vehicle rear end of the first airflow straightening member 750. The sizes of the upper surface through holes 753b and 753c are larger than the upper surface through holes 653b and 653c of the first airflow straightening member 650 according to embodiment 7.

In embodiments 5 to 8, gas can flow out from the upper surface through-holes provided at the vehicle rear end of the first straightening member. As shown in FIG. 8, when the second folded portion 22 expands and the first folded portion 21 is lifted, gas can flow out from the upper surface through-holes (453, etc.) provided at the vehicle rear end of the first straightening member (450, etc.), and can then flow into the first folded portion 21 via the vehicle rear-side opening 61 of the second straightening member 60.

(Embodiments 9 and 10)
Fig. 19A is a see-through perspective view schematically showing a sandwiching member, an inflator, and a first rectifying member which are part of the configuration of an airbag device according to embodiment 9, Fig. 19B is a top view schematically showing only the first rectifying member in an open state, Fig. 20A is a see-through perspective view schematically showing a sandwiching member, an inflator, and a first rectifying member which are part of the configuration of an airbag device according to embodiment 10, and Fig. 20B is a top view schematically showing only the first rectifying member in an open state.

The airbag devices according to embodiments 9 and 10 differ from the first rectifying member provided in the airbag device according to embodiment 1 in that the first rectifying member covers only a portion of the upper surface of the inflator, not the entire upper surface of the inflator. Even in these cases, the first rectifying member is provided from behind the rear end of the clamping member to at least above the front end of the inflator. Even if the first rectifying member does not cover the entire upper surface of the inflator, if the first rectifying member is provided in that area, the flow of gas toward the rear of the vehicle is obstructed.

Furthermore, in order to effectively obstruct the flow of gas toward the rear of the vehicle, it is preferable that the first rectifying member cover an area that includes the front end of the inflator's top surface, the center of the inflator's top surface, and the rear end of the inflator's top surface. Note that even if a top surface through-hole is provided in the first rectifying member that covers an area that includes the front end of the inflator's top surface, the center of the inflator's top surface, and the rear end of the inflator's top surface, this is still considered to be the case when the first rectifying member covers the above areas.

Figure 19A shows point 10F, which is the front end of the vehicle on the top surface of the inflator 10, point 10C, which is the center of the top surface of the inflator 10, and point 10R, which is the rear end of the top surface of the inflator 10, and shows the region 40C that includes all of these.

In the first rectifying member 850 according to embodiment 9 shown in Figures 19A and 19B, the portion of the first rectifying member 850 that covers part of the upper surface of the inflator 10 has a substantially rectangular shape. The first rectifying member 850 can be said to have a T-shape overall.

In the first airflow rectifying member 950 according to embodiment 10 shown in Figures 20A and 20B, the shape of the portion of the first airflow rectifying member 950 that covers part of the upper surface of the inflator 10 is a combination of a generally rectangular shape and a shape that widens toward the rear of the vehicle of the sandwiching member.

When gas is generated from the inflator, the shape of the first rectifying member 950 shown in Figures 20A and 20B hinders the flow of gas toward the rear of the vehicle more than the shape of the first rectifying member 850 shown in Figures 19A and 19B.

In embodiments 9 and 10, gas can flow out from the portion of the upper surface of the inflator that is not covered by the first flow straightening member. As shown in Figure 8, when the second folded portion 22 is inflated and the first folded portion 21 is lifted, the first flow straightening member (850, etc.) allows gas to flow out from the portion of the upper surface of the inflator that is not covered, and the gas can flow into the first folded portion 21 through the vehicle rearward opening 61 of the second flow straightening member 60.

(Another embodiment of the airbag device of the present invention)
Another aspect of the airbag device of the present invention includes a first straightening member provided within the airbag and covering at least a portion of the upper surface of the inflator, and a second straightening member that covers the first straightening member and the inflator when the airbag is in a folded state and has an opening at least in the fore-and-aft direction of the vehicle, and in the folded state of the airbag, a portion of the first straightening member is on the opening side of the second straightening member toward the rear of the vehicle relative to the inflator.
Any of the above-described first to tenth embodiments of the airbag device of the present invention is included in another aspect of the airbag device of the present invention.

Another aspect of the airbag device of the present invention includes a first airflow straightening member and a second airflow straightening member, wherein the first airflow straightening member covers at least a portion of an upper surface of the inflator, and a portion of the first airflow straightening member is located on the vehicle rearward opening side of the second airflow straightening member with respect to the inflator.
Because the first rectifying member, which is located on the vehicle rearward opening side of the second rectifying member relative to the inflator, obstructs the flow of gas, the gas generated from the inflator cannot quickly reach the vehicle rearward opening of the second rectifying member. As a result, the gas tends to flow toward the front of the vehicle in the early stages of gas generation. As a result, the gas tends to enter the second folded portion located at the front of the vehicle first, making it more likely that the second folded portion will deploy first.
When the second folded portion inflates to create a space inside the airbag, the folded second airflow straightening member inflates and pushes up the rolled first folded portion, which flips the first airflow straightening member over, allowing gas to flow into the airbag from the opening on the rear side of the vehicle in the second airflow straightening member, and gas also flows into the first folded portion, causing the airbag to begin to inflate and deploy.
This action allows the folded airbag to be reliably inflated and deployed from the front side of the vehicle, resulting in an airbag device that can achieve stable deployment behavior.

In another aspect of the airbag device of the present invention, the second airflow straightening member may cover at least a portion of the first airflow straightening member when the airbag is in a folded state. For example, a portion of the first airflow straightening member may protrude from the rearward opening of the second airflow straightening member. In this case, the portion of the first airflow straightening member protruding from the rearward opening of the second airflow straightening member is on the rearward opening side of the second airflow straightening member relative to the inflator, but this portion is not located between the rearward opening of the second airflow straightening member and the inflator. Even in this example, the first airflow straightening member can prevent gas generated by the inflator from flowing out of the rearward opening of the second airflow straightening member, thereby achieving the effects of the airbag device of the present invention.

10: Inflator 10a: Flange portion of inflator 10C: Center point on the top surface of the inflator 10F: Point on the top surface of the inflator that is the front end of the vehicle 10R: Point on the top surface of the inflator that is the rear end of the vehicle 20: Airbag 21: First folded portion 22: Second folded portion 22a: Folded portion located furthest forward of the vehicle 30: Fixing members 30a, 30b: Hook 31: Fixing portion 33 of fixing member: Inner wall portion 40: Clamping member 40 F: Region 40R including the point that will be the front end of the inflator; Region 41 of the rear end of the clamping member; Bolt 41a; Bolt 41b on the rear side of the vehicle; Bolt 42 on the front side of the vehicle; Nut 43; Inflator mounting hole 44; Bottom 45 of the clamping member; Side surfaces 50, 150, 250, 350, 450, 550, 650, 750, 850, 950 of the clamping member; First straightening member 51a; Bolt through-hole (rear side of the vehicle)
51b: Bolt through hole (front side of vehicle)
52: Inflator through-holes 53, 453a, 453b, 553a, 553b, 653a, 653b, 653c, 753a, 753b, 753c: Upper surface through-hole 60: Second airflow straightening member 61: Vehicle rear side opening of second airflow straightening member 62: Vehicle front side opening of second airflow straightening member 63: Vent hole 70: Cover 71: Lid portion 72: Outer peripheral wall portion 80: Outer bag 100: Airbag device 151: First airflow straightening member main body 152 after cleavage: Remaining portion of first airflow straightening member after cleavage 154: One end of first airflow straightening member main body 155: Cleaving portion (perforation)
355: Sewing thread AA: Instrument panel BB: Windshield

Claims (13)

An airbag device that is provided in front of a seated occupant and inflates and deploys toward the occupant,
an inflator that generates gas from a gas ejection hole;
an airbag that has a first folded portion folded in a roll shape and at least one second folded portion that is folded in a tuck or bellows shape and is disposed adjacent to the first folded portion on a front side of the vehicle, and that is inflated and deployed by gas generated by the inflator;
a fixing member to which the inflator and the airbag are fixed;
a sandwiching member that surrounds a side surface of the inflator and is attached to the fixing member with the airbag sandwiched therebetween;
a first rectifying member that is provided in the airbag and whose relative movement with respect to the clamping member is restricted at a position rearward of the vehicle rear end of the clamping member when the airbag is inflated and deployed,
the first airflow straightening member is provided from a position rearward of the vehicle rear end of the sandwiching member to at least a position above the vehicle front end of the inflator ,
a second airflow rectifying member that covers the first airflow rectifying member and the inflator when the airbag is in a folded state and has an opening at least in the front-rear direction of the vehicle;
The airbag device according to claim 1, wherein, when the airbag is in a folded state, a portion of the first airflow straightening member is positioned between the vehicle rear side opening of the second airflow straightening member and the inflator . An airbag device that is provided in front of a seated occupant and inflates and deploys toward the occupant,
an inflator that generates gas from a gas ejection hole;
an airbag that has a first folded portion folded in a roll shape and at least one second folded portion that is folded in a tuck or bellows shape and is disposed adjacent to the first folded portion on a front side of the vehicle, and that is inflated and deployed by gas generated by the inflator;
a fixing member to which the inflator and the airbag are fixed;
a sandwiching member that surrounds a side surface of the inflator and is attached to the fixing member with the airbag sandwiched therebetween;
a first rectifying member that is provided in the airbag and whose relative movement with respect to the clamping member is restricted at a position rearward of the vehicle rear end of the clamping member when the airbag is inflated and deployed,
the first airflow straightening member is provided from a position rearward of the vehicle rear end of the sandwiching member to at least a position above the vehicle front end of the inflator,
The airbag device according to claim 1, wherein the first airflow rectifying member is fixed to the fixing member by being sandwiched between the sandwiching member and the fixing member at least on the rear side of the vehicle. An airbag device that is provided in front of a seated occupant and inflates and deploys toward the occupant,
an inflator that generates gas from a gas ejection hole;
an airbag that has a first folded portion folded in a roll shape and at least one second folded portion that is folded in a tuck or bellows shape and is disposed adjacent to the first folded portion on a front side of the vehicle, and that is inflated and deployed by gas generated by the inflator;
a fixing member to which the inflator and the airbag are fixed;
a sandwiching member that surrounds a side surface of the inflator and is attached to the fixing member with the airbag sandwiched therebetween;
a first rectifying member that is provided in the airbag and whose relative movement with respect to the clamping member is restricted at a position rearward of the vehicle rear end of the clamping member when the airbag is inflated and deployed,
the first airflow straightening member is provided from a position rearward of the vehicle rear end of the sandwiching member to at least a position above the vehicle front end of the inflator,
The airbag device according to claim 1, wherein the first airflow rectifying member is fixed to the airbag rearward of the rear end of the sandwiching member. An airbag device that is provided in front of a seated occupant and inflates and deploys toward the occupant,
an inflator that generates gas from a gas ejection hole;
an airbag that has a first folded portion folded in a roll shape and at least one second folded portion that is folded in a tuck or bellows shape and is disposed adjacent to the first folded portion on a front side of the vehicle, and that is inflated and deployed by gas generated by the inflator;
a fixing member to which the inflator and the airbag are fixed;
a sandwiching member that surrounds a side surface of the inflator and is attached to the fixing member with the airbag sandwiched therebetween;
a first rectifying member that is provided in the airbag and whose relative movement with respect to the clamping member is restricted at a position rearward of the vehicle rear end of the clamping member when the airbag is inflated and deployed,
the first airflow straightening member is provided from a position rearward of the vehicle rear end of the sandwiching member to at least a position above the vehicle front end of the inflator,
2. The airbag device according to claim 1, wherein, in a folded state of the airbag, one end of the first airflow straightening member is disposed as a free end on a vehicle front side of the inflator. An airbag device that is provided in front of a seated occupant and inflates and deploys toward the occupant,
an inflator that generates gas from a gas ejection hole;
an airbag that has a first folded portion folded in a roll shape and at least one second folded portion that is folded in a tuck or bellows shape and is disposed adjacent to the first folded portion on a front side of the vehicle, and that is inflated and deployed by gas generated by the inflator;
a fixing member to which the inflator and the airbag are fixed;
a sandwiching member that surrounds a side surface of the inflator and is attached to the fixing member with the airbag sandwiched therebetween;
a first rectifying member that is provided in the airbag and whose relative movement with respect to the clamping member is restricted at a position rearward of the vehicle rear end of the clamping member when the airbag is inflated and deployed,
the first airflow straightening member is provided from a position rearward of the vehicle rear end of the sandwiching member to at least a position above the vehicle front end of the inflator,
an airbag device, wherein, in a folded state of the airbag, a portion of the first airflow straightening member reaches, on the front side of the vehicle, a folded portion of the second folded portion that is located furthest forward of the vehicle; An airbag device that is provided in front of a seated occupant and inflates and deploys toward the occupant,
an inflator that generates gas from a gas ejection hole;
an airbag that has a first folded portion folded in a roll shape and at least one second folded portion that is folded in a tuck or bellows shape and is disposed adjacent to the first folded portion on a front side of the vehicle, and that is inflated and deployed by gas generated by the inflator;
a fixing member to which the inflator and the airbag are fixed;
a sandwiching member that surrounds a side surface of the inflator and is attached to the fixing member with the airbag sandwiched therebetween;
a first rectifying member that is provided in the airbag and whose relative movement with respect to the clamping member is restricted at a position rearward of the vehicle rear end of the clamping member when the airbag is inflated and deployed,
the first airflow straightening member is provided from a position rearward of the vehicle rear end of the sandwiching member to at least a position above the vehicle front end of the inflator,
When the airbag is inflated and deployed, the first airflow straightening member is restricted from moving relative to the clamping member at a vehicle front end of the clamping member,
the inflator is split into a first airflow straightening member main body on the vehicle rear side and a first airflow straightening member remaining portion on the vehicle front side at a location on the vehicle front side of the vehicle front end of the inflator by gas generated by the inflator,
The airbag device according to claim 1, wherein the first airflow straightening member body moves away from a vehicle upper portion of a front end of the inflator toward a vehicle rear portion when the airbag is inflated and deployed. a second airflow rectifying member that covers the first airflow rectifying member and the inflator when the airbag is in a folded state and has an opening at least in the front-rear direction of the vehicle;
7. The airbag device according to claim 2 , wherein a portion of the first airflow straightening member is positioned between the vehicle rear side opening of the second airflow straightening member and the inflator when the airbag is in a folded state. An airbag device that is provided in front of a seated occupant and inflates and deploys toward the occupant,
an inflator that generates gas from a gas ejection hole;
an airbag that has a first folded portion folded in a roll shape and at least one second folded portion that is folded in a tuck or bellows shape and is disposed adjacent to the first folded portion on a front side of the vehicle, and that is inflated and deployed by gas generated by the inflator;
a fixing member to which the inflator and the airbag are fixed;
a sandwiching member that surrounds a side surface of the inflator and is attached to the fixing member with the airbag sandwiched therebetween;
a first rectifying member provided in the airbag and covering at least a portion of an upper surface of the inflator;
a second airflow rectifying member that covers the first airflow rectifying member and the inflator when the airbag is in a folded state and has an opening at least in the front-rear direction of the vehicle,
2. The airbag device according to claim 1, wherein, in a folded state of the airbag, a portion of the first airflow rectifying member is located on a vehicle rearward opening side of the second airflow rectifying member with respect to the inflator. The airbag device according to any one of claims 1 and 3 to 8 , wherein the first airflow rectifying member is fixed to the fixing member by being sandwiched between the sandwiching member and the fixing member at least on the vehicle rear side. The airbag device according to any one of claims 1 and 4 to 8 , wherein the first airflow straightening member is fixed to the airbag rearward of the vehicle rear end of the sandwiching member. 11. The airbag device according to claim 1, wherein one end of the first airflow straightening member is disposed as a free end on a vehicle front side of the inflator when the airbag is in a folded state. 12. The airbag device according to claim 1, wherein, in a folded state of the airbag, a portion of the first airflow straightening member reaches, on a vehicle front side, a folded portion of the second folded portion that is located furthest forward of the vehicle. When the airbag is inflated and deployed, the first airflow straightening member is restricted from moving relative to the clamping member at a vehicle front end of the clamping member,
the inflator is split into a first airflow straightening member main body on the vehicle rear side and a first airflow straightening member remaining portion on the vehicle front side at a location on the vehicle front side of the vehicle front end of the inflator by gas generated by the inflator,
11. The airbag device according to claim 1, wherein the first airflow straightening member body moves away from the vehicle upper side of the vehicle front end of the inflator toward the vehicle rear side when the airbag is inflated and deployed.