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Abstract

The present invention discloses embodiments of an apparatus, systems and related methods for side-facing occupant protection in an aircraft during an abrupt stop—such as in a forward-facing crash event. Embodiments of the present invention disclose a three point air belt that provide superior passenger comfort and retractability, due to inventive construction, by providing enhanced flexibility of the three-point air belt, and more specifically, the shoulder harness portion. The present invention first includes a new airbag material which contributes to the enhanced flexibility, namely, a polyester textile structure treated with a phosphate-phosphonate compound. In further embodiments the material is the coated in a polyurethane mixture. The present invention also includes a new method of compacting the airbag such that it may be disposed in a shoulder harness while remaining substantially unobtrusive and comfortable to a passenger. The invention also includes a new containment material, namely a tubular webbing, to further enhance the flexibility of the shoulder harness over the prior art which generally comprises leather or leather-approximations. The result of the invention also provides enhanced retractability over the prior art, such that the three-point harness may be more easily stowed relative to the prior art.

First Claim