A dual stage hybrid inflation device includes a first stage gas source
including a liquefied gas stored in a first stage pressure vessel and a
second stage gas source including a gas generator having a gas output
directed into the first stage pressure vessel. The gas generator is
isolated from the first stage pressure vessel by a frangible diaphragm
that ruptures when the pressure in the gas generator exceeds the pressure
in the first stage pressure vessel by a predetermined amount. The gas
generator is also isolated from the first stage pressure vessel by an
eroding nozzle that temporarily restricts the flow of gas from the gas
generator to the first stage pressure vessel after the frangible
diaphragm ruptures. The eroding nozzle initially restricts the flow of
gas from the gas generator to the first stage pressure vessel to prevent
a sudden pressure drop in the gas generator that would cause the
pyrotechnic gas generating material to self extinguish. The nozzle then
erodes away to allow an unrestricted flow of combustion products from the
gas generator to the first stage pressure vessel.