Thomas H Booth

US Patent:

6364343, Apr 2, 2002

Filed:

Jul 21, 2000

Appl. No.:

09/620258

Inventors:

Gary M Slota - Macomb Township MI
Gerald F Burke - Livonia MI
Thomas C Booth - Roseville MI
Dennis F Stedman - Ortonville MI

Assignee:

DaimlerChrysler Corporation - Auburn Hills MI

International Classification:

B60R 2116

US Classification:

2807282, 2807302

Abstract:

A bracket is provided for assembling an airbag unit and interior vehicle components into a vehicle. The bracket efficiently utilizes the limited interior vehicle space to package all necessary components. To achieve this end, the bracket attaches to a frame member. Within the bracket is a cavity for securely holding an airbag igniter unit. The airbag igniter unit is attached, via a hose, to an airbag. The airbag is partially fit into a recess formed in the bracket. The bracket also maintains a mounting face, to which an interior grab handle can be secured. The bracket allows for the existence of an airbag subassembly which includes, the bracket, an airbag operatively attached to an airbag igniter unit, and an interior grab handle. Such a subassembly will improve overall vehicle assembly efficiency by reducing the amount of steps required in assembly, thus making the assembly process easier.