A new type of inflator that may be used to inflate an airbag is disclosed.
The inflator will have a longitudinal axis, a first chamber, and a
filter. The filter may be positioned outside of the first chamber. A
first quantity of gas generant is positioned within the first chamber. A
first strainer having a plurality of gas flow holes is also positioned
within the first chamber. The first quantity of gas generant is located
exterior of the strainer. Upon combustion of the first quantity of gas
generant produces a first quantity of gas that flows towards the
longitudinal axis while passing through the gas flow holes, enters the
filter, and then flows away from the longitudinal axis while passing
through the filter.