| abstract |
An device for use in an electro-pyrotechnic initiator comprises a header, a foil resistive strip, a substrate, and a current source. The substrate is mounted on the header. The foil resistive strip is mounted on the substrate. The energy source is connected to the resistive strip. When current flows through the resistive strip, the resistive strip generates enough heat to spark autoignition of a pyrotechnic material. The pyrotechnic material is in direct contact with the resistive strip. For an energy input of up to 115 microjoules, the resistive strip can cause autoignition in less than 25 microseconds. In a second embodiment, an electro-pyrotechnic initiator for use in a "smart" airbag system comprises a header, a foil resistive strip, a substrate, a current source connected to the resistive strip, and a control circuit. The control circuit is designed such that it will cause current to flow through the resistive strip when the circuit receives an appropriate signal. A ceramic capacitor can be used as an energy source for the resistive strip. |