Seat back with seat belt webbing retention member with releasably coupled end portions

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a "seat back having a seat belt webbing retaining member with releasably connected ends". A seat back for a vehicle includes a center line. A first upper seat belt webbing contact portion is provided to a first side of the center line. A first seat belt webbing retaining member is provided to the first side. The first seat belt webbing retaining member has a middle end, a side end further away from the center line than the middle end, and a middle portion between the middle end and the side end. The middle end or the side end of the first seat belt webbing retaining member is fixed to the seat back, while the other of the middle end or the side end is releasably connected to the seat back. The middle portion is provided above the first upper seat belt webbing contact portion, thereby forming a gap, which is configured to retain the first webbing section of the seat belt assembly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to a seat back for a vehicle seat assembly for retaining portions of a seat belt assembly on the seat back and allowing the seat belt assembly to be positioned to properly fit all occupants, even very large and very small occupants. Background Art

[0002] High-performance vehicles sometimes include a seat assembly with a seat back through which portions of a safety belt assembly pass. The safety belt assembly is sometimes a four-point or five-point harness, among other types. However, the seat back does not allow the safety belt assembly to properly fit very large or very small occupants of the seat assembly. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a seat back for a vehicle includes: a center line; a first upper safety belt webbing contact portion, which is arranged to a first side of the center line; and a first safety belt webbing retaining member, which is arranged to the first side of the center line, the first safety belt webbing retaining member having a middle end, a side end further away from the center line than the middle end, and a middle portion between the middle end and the side end; wherein the middle end or the side end of the first safety belt webbing retaining member is fixed, and the other of the middle end or the side end is releasably connected; and wherein the middle portion is arranged above the first upper safety belt webbing contact portion to form a gap, which is configured to retain the first webbing section of the safety belt assembly.

[0004] Embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention may include any one or combination of the following features:

[0005] a second upper seatbelt webbing contact portion disposed to a second side of the centerline;

[0006] a second seatbelt webbing retaining member having a medial end, a lateral end further from the centerline than the medial end, and a medial portion between the medial end and the lateral end;

[0007] The intermediate end or the side end of the second seat belt webbing retaining member is fixed, and the other of the intermediate end or the side end is releasably coupled;

[0008] the intermediate portion of the second belt webbing retaining member being disposed above the second upper belt webbing contacting portion thereby forming a gap configured to retain the second upper belt webbing;

[0009] the intermediate end of the first seatbelt webbing retaining member being fixed, while the side ends of the first seatbelt webbing retaining member are releasably coupled;

[0010] the intermediate end of the second seatbelt webbing retaining member being fixed, while the side ends of the second seatbelt webbing retaining member are releasably coupled;

[0011] an upper back support section configured to support an occupant's upper back, the upper back support section including a top portion;

[0012] a headrest disposed above the top portion of the upper back support section;

[0013] an extension that raises the headrest above the upper back support section;

[0014] the intermediate end of the first seatbelt webbing retaining member and the intermediate end of the second seatbelt webbing retaining member being attached to the extension portion;

[0015] The extension portion comprises a first member and a second member;

[0016] the intermediate end of the first seatbelt webbing retaining member being attached to the first member of the extension portion;

[0017] the intermediate end of the second seatbelt webbing retaining member being attached to the second member of the extension portion;

[0018] The side ends of the first seatbelt webbing retaining members are releasably coupled by magnetic attraction;

[0019] The side ends of the second seatbelt webbing retaining members are releasably coupled by magnetic attraction;

[0020] The upper back support section includes an occupant-facing surface;

[0021] the side end of the first seatbelt webbing retaining member being releasably coupled rearwardly of the occupant-facing surface of the upper back support section;

[0022] the side end of the second seatbelt webbing retaining member being releasably coupled rearwardly of the occupant-facing surface of the upper back support section;

[0023] the intermediate end of the first seatbelt webbing retaining member extending from the first member of the extension portion generally parallel to the first upper seatbelt webbing contacting portion;

[0024] the intermediate end of the second seatbelt webbing retaining member extending from the second member of the extension portion generally parallel to the second upper seatbelt webbing contacting portion;

[0025] when releasably coupled, the side ends of the first seatbelt webbing retaining members are positioned vertically or substantially vertically;

[0026] when releasably coupled, the side ends of the second seatbelt webbing retaining members are positioned vertically or substantially vertically;

[0027] a headrest and webbing retainer support member attached adjacent a rearward-facing surface of the upper back support section, the headrest and webbing retainer support member being symmetrical about the midline;

[0028] the headrest and webbing retainer support member comprising: a headrest attachment portion to which the headrest is attached; the extension portion extending from the headrest attachment portion toward the upper back support section; a first upper seatbelt webbing contact portion extending laterally and downwardly from the first member of the extension portion; a second upper seatbelt webbing contact portion extending laterally and downwardly from the second member of the extension portion; a first attachment section extending downwardly from the first upper seatbelt webbing contact portion; and a second attachment section extending downwardly from the second upper seatbelt webbing contact portion;

[0029] the side end of the first seatbelt webbing retaining member being releasably coupled to the first attachment section of the headrest and webbing retainer support member;

[0030] the side end of the second seatbelt webbing retaining member being releasably coupled to the headrest and the second attachment section of the webbing retainer support member;

[0031] The first attachment section comprises a magnet;

[0032] The second attachment section comprises a magnet;

[0033] The side end of the first seat belt webbing retaining member comprises a metal piece;

[0034] The side end of the second seat belt webbing retaining member comprises a metal piece;

[0035] the side end of the first seatbelt webbing retaining member is releasably coupled to the first attachment section because the metal piece of the side end of the first seatbelt webbing retaining member is magnetically attracted to the magnet of the first attachment section; and

[0036] • The side end of the second belt webbing retaining member is releasably coupled to the second attachment section because the metal piece of the side end of the second belt webbing retaining member is magnetically attracted to the magnet of the second attachment section.

[0037] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a method of utilizing a seat belt assembly and a seat assembly in a vehicle comprises: providing a vehicle, the vehicle including a seat assembly having a seat back according to the first aspect of the present invention; releasing a releasably connected middle end or side end of the first seat belt webbing retaining member; placing the first webbing section of the seat belt assembly between the first upper seat belt webbing contact portion and the first seat belt webbing retaining member so that the first webbing section contacts the first upper seat belt webbing contact portion; and reconnecting the releasably connected middle end or side end of the first seat belt webbing retaining member previously released.

[0038] Embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention may include any one or combination of the following features:

[0039] releasing the releasably coupled intermediate or lateral end of the second seatbelt webbing retaining member;

[0040] placing the second webbing section of the seatbelt assembly between the second upper seatbelt webbing contact portion and the second seatbelt webbing retaining member such that the second webbing section contacts the second upper seatbelt webbing contact portion;

[0041] reconnecting the releasably coupled intermediate or lateral end of the second seat belt webbing retaining member that was previously released;

[0042] releasing the releasably coupled side end of the first seatbelt webbing retaining member;

[0043] releasing the releasably coupled side end of the second seatbelt webbing retaining member;

[0044] reconnecting the side ends of the first seatbelt webbing retaining members;

[0045] reconnecting the side end of the second seatbelt webbing retaining member;

[0046] Positioning the first webbing section of the seat belt assembly away from the centerline to the side of the extension;

[0047] Positioning the second webbing section of the seat belt assembly away from the centerline to the side of the extension;

[0048] Positioning the first webbing section of the seat belt assembly away from the centerline to the side of the first member of the extension portion;

[0049] Positioning the second webbing section of the seat belt assembly away from the centerline to the side of the second member of the extension;

[0050] overcoming the magnetic attraction of the first seatbelt webbing retaining member releasably coupled thereto;

[0051] overcoming the magnetic attraction of the second seatbelt webbing retaining member that is releasably coupled;

[0052] securing the seat belt assembly above the occupant of the seat assembly;

[0053] Positioning the first webbing section on the first upper seatbelt webbing contact portion to accommodate the height of the occupant;

[0054] positioning the second webbing section on the second upper seatbelt webbing contact portion to accommodate the height of the occupant;

[0055] releasing the releasably coupled side end of the first seatbelt webbing retaining member from the first attachment section of the headrest and webbing retainer support member;

[0056] releasing the releasably coupled side end of the second seatbelt webbing retaining member from the headrest and the second attachment section of the webbing retainer support member;

[0057] reconnecting the releasably coupled side end of the first seatbelt webbing retaining member to the first attachment section of the headrest and webbing retainer support member;

[0058] reconnecting the releasably coupled side end of the second seatbelt webbing retaining member to the second attachment section of the headrest and webbing retainer support member;

[0059] overcoming the magnetic attraction between the metal piece at the side end of the first seatbelt webbing retaining member and the magnet of the first attachment section; and

[0060] Overcoming the magnetic attraction between the metal piece at the side end of the second seatbelt webbing retaining member and the magnet of the second attachment section.

[0061] These and other aspects, objects and features of the present invention will be understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art after studying the following specification, claims and drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0062] In the attached figure:

[0063] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle interior showing a first seat assembly having a seat back and a seat belt assembly;

[0064] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 a front view of the first seat assembly illustrating a gap between the first belt webbing retaining member and the first upper belt webbing contacting portion for retaining the first webbing segment of the belt assembly;

[0065] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 a side view of the first seat assembly showing a side end of the first belt webbing retaining member in a coupled position relative to the first attachment section of the first upper belt webbing contact portion;

[0066] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 a side view of the first seat assembly showing a side end of the second belt webbing retaining member in a coupled position relative to the second attachment section of the second upper belt webbing contact portion;

[0067] Figure 5 is Figure 1 a front view of a headrest and webbing retainer support member utilized on a seat back showing an extension portion extending downwardly from a headrest attachment portion;

[0068] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 a side view of a headrest and webbing retainer support member showing a side end of a first seatbelt webbing retaining member having a metal piece;

[0069] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 a side view of a headrest and webbing retainer support member showing a side end of a second seatbelt webbing retaining member having a metal piece;

[0070] Figure 8 yes Figure 5 a rear view of the headrest and webbing retainer support member showing the first and second members of the extension portion;

[0071] Figure 9 It occupies Figure 1 a front view of an occupant of the first seat assembly (dashed lines) and the first and second belt webbing retaining members are not retaining the first or second webbing segments, respectively;

[0072] Figure 10 yes Figure 1a side view of the seat back showing the first belt webbing retaining member in the released position and the first webbing segment moved in a direction into the gap below the first belt webbing retaining member;

[0073] Figure 11 yes Figure 1 a side view of the seat back showing the first webbing segment in the gap, the first webbing segment being retained between the first belt webbing retaining member, which is again in the coupled position, and the first upper belt webbing contact portion;

[0074] Figure 12 yes Figure 1 a side view of the seat back showing the second belt webbing retaining member in the released position and the second webbing segment moved in a direction into the gap below the second belt webbing retaining member;

[0075] Figure 13 yes Figure 1 a side view of the seat back showing the second webbing segment in the gap, the second webbing segment being retained between the first belt webbing retaining member, which is again in the coupled position, and the second upper belt webbing contact portion;

[0076] Figure 14 It occupies Figure 1 a front view of an occupant (dashed lines) of the first seat assembly, with first and second belt webbing retaining members retaining the first and second webbing segments, respectively; and

[0077] Figure 15 yes Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a front view of the first seat assembly without an occupant, and the first and second belt webbing retaining members still retain the first and second webbing sections, respectively. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0078] For the purposes of this description, the terms "inward," "outward," "forward," "backward," "above," "below," "downward," "upward," and their derivatives shall be used interchangeably. Figure 1 The present disclosure is oriented as described herein. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure may adopt various alternative orientations unless expressly indicated to the contrary. It should also be understood that the specific devices and processes shown in the drawings and described in the following specification are merely exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Accordingly, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics related to the embodiments disclosed herein should not be considered limiting unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

[0079] refer to Figure 1The vehicle 10 includes an interior 12 and a first row of seats 14 disposed in the interior 12, the first row of seats 14 including a first seat assembly 16 and a second seat assembly 18. The vehicle 10 also includes a seat belt assembly 20, which can be a racing seat belt (four-point, five-point, or six-point) or a typical three-point seat belt. The seat belt assembly 20 shown is a four-point racing seat belt. The seat belt assembly 20 is configured to restrain an occupant 22 of the first seat assembly 16 (see, e.g., FIG. 1 ). Figure 9 ). The safety belt assembly 20 includes a first webbing segment 24. The first webbing segment 24 may be a segment of the safety belt assembly 20 that is configured to contact an outboard shoulder 26 of an occupant 22 of the first seat assembly 16 (see again Figure 9 The illustrated embodiment of the seat belt assembly 20 also includes a second webbing segment 28. The second webbing segment 28 may be a segment of the seat belt assembly 20 that is configured to contact an inboard shoulder 30 of the occupant 22 of the first seat assembly 16 (see again Figure 9 While four-point, five-point, and six-point racing harness type seat belt assemblies utilize the first webbing section 24 and the second webbing section 28, a typical three-point seat belt assembly will utilize only the first webbing section 24. The first seat assembly 16 includes a seat 32 and a seat back 34 that is pivotally coupled to or in pivotal relationship with the seat 32.

[0080] refer to Figures 2 to 7 The seat back 34 includes a centerline 36, which may be vertical, dividing the seat back 34 into at least generally symmetrical sides, a first side 38 and a second side 40, which may be outboard and inboard, respectively. The seat back 34 includes a headrest 44, an upper back support section 46, and a main back support section 48 below the upper back support section 46. The upper back support section 46 is the portion of the seat back 34 that supports the upper back 49 of the occupant 22 (see FIG. Figure 9 ). The upper back support portion 46 is the uppermost portion of the seat back 34 excluding the headrest 44 and is configured to support the occupant 22. The main back support section 48 is the portion of the seat back 34 located below the upper back support section 46. The upper back support section 46 includes a top portion 50, an occupant-facing surface 52, and a rearward-facing surface 54 (see, e.g., FIG. Figure 3 ). The occupant-facing surface 52 faces generally forward and contacts the occupant 22 when the occupant 22 occupies the first seat assembly 16. The rearward-facing surface 54 faces generally rearward and does not contact the occupant 22 when the occupant 22 occupies the first seat assembly 16. The headrest 44 is disposed above the top portion 50 of the upper back support 46 and supports the head 56 of the occupant 22 during use (see Figure 9). In the illustrated embodiment, the seat back 34 also includes a headrest and webbing retainer support member 58 that is attached to the upper back support section 46 near the rearward-facing surface 54 of the upper back support section 46. The headrest and webbing retainer support member 58 is symmetrical about the midline 36. The headrest and webbing retainer support member 58 includes a headrest attachment portion 60 to which the headrest 44 is attached. The headrest attachment portion 60 is generally in the shape of an inverted U with a plurality of apertures 62 (see FIG. 1 for details). Figures 5 to 8 ), through which fasteners (not shown) may be inserted to attach the headrest 44 to the headrest and webbing retainer support member 58 .

[0081] The seat back 34 also includes a first upper belt webbing contact portion 64 disposed to the first side 38 of the centerline 36 and a second upper belt webbing contact portion 66 disposed to the second side 40 of the centerline 36. As discussed further below, the first upper belt webbing contact portion 64 supports and contacts the first webbing segment 24 of the seat belt assembly 20 from below, while the second upper belt webbing contact portion 66 supports and contacts the second webbing segment 28 of the seat belt assembly 20 from below, if included (such as with a four-point racing harness).

[0082] The seat back 34 also includes a first belt webbing retention member 68. As discussed further below, when the occupant 22 is not using the seat belt assembly 20, the first belt webbing retention member 68 retains the first webbing segment 24 proximate the seat back 34, such as in an area of the seat back 34 where the occupant 22's outboard shoulders 26 are located when the occupant 22 occupies the first seat assembly 16. The first belt webbing retention member 68 has a medial end 70, lateral ends 72, and a medial portion 74. The lateral ends 72 are located further from the centerline 36 than the medial end 70. The medial portion 74 is disposed between the medial end 70 and the lateral ends 72. In the illustrated embodiment, the medial end 70 of the first belt webbing retention member 68 is fixed, i.e., attached, to the seat back 34, while the lateral ends 72 of the first belt webbing retention member 68 are releasably coupled to the seat back 34. However, it should be understood that the side ends 72 of the first belt webbing retaining member 68 can be attached to the seat back 34 while the middle end 70 is releasably coupled to the seat back 34, and that the first belt webbing retaining member 68 can perform the function of holding the first webbing segment 24 close to the seat back 34 when the occupant 22 is not using it. The middle portion 74 of the first belt webbing retaining member 68 is positioned above the first upper belt webbing contact portion 64. Regardless of which of the side ends 72 or the middle end 70 is releasably coupled, the middle portion 74 forms a gap 76 above the first upper belt webbing contact portion 64. As discussed further below, when the occupant 22 is utilizing the seat belt assembly 20 (see Figure 14 ) and when the occupant 22 no longer utilizes the seat belt assembly 20 (see Figure 15 ), the first webbing section 24 can be kept in the gap 76.

[0083] The seat back 34 also includes a second belt webbing retention member 78. As discussed further below, when the occupant 22 is not using the seat belt assembly 20, the second belt webbing retention member 78 retains the second webbing segment 28 proximate the seat back 34, such as in an area of the seat back 34 where the occupant 22's inboard shoulder 30 is located when the occupant 22 occupies the first seat assembly 16. The second belt webbing retention member 78 has a medial end 80, lateral ends 82, and a medial portion 84. The lateral ends 82 are further from the centerline 36 than the medial end 80. The medial portion 84 is disposed between the medial end 80 and the lateral ends 82. In the illustrated embodiment, the medial end 80 of the second belt webbing retention member 78 is fixed, i.e., attached, to the seat back 34, while the lateral ends 82 of the second belt webbing retention member 78 are releasably coupled to the seat back 34. 8. However, it should be understood that the side ends 82 of the second belt webbing retaining member 78 can be attached to the seat back 34 while the middle end 80 is releasably coupled to the seat back 34, and that the second belt webbing retaining member 78 can perform the function of holding the second webbing section 28 close to the seat back 34 when the occupant 22 is not using it. The middle portion 84 of the second belt webbing retaining member 78 is positioned above the second upper belt webbing contact portion 66. Regardless of which of the side ends 82 or the middle end 80 is releasably coupled, the middle portion 84 forms a gap 86 above the second upper belt webbing contact portion 66. As discussed further below, when the occupant 22 is utilizing the seat belt assembly 20 (see Figure 14 ) and when the occupant 22 no longer utilizes the seat belt assembly 20 (see Figure 15 ), the second webbing section 28 remains in the gap 86.

[0084] The seat back 34 also includes an extension portion 88 that elevates the headrest 44 above the upper back support section 46. In the illustrated embodiment, the extension portion 88 includes a first member 90 disposed to the first side 38 of the centerline 36 of the seat back 34 and a second member 92 disposed to the second side 40 of the centerline 36. In the illustrated embodiment, the extension portion 88 is part of the headrest and webbing retainer support member 58. Thus, the extension portion 88, specifically its first and second members 90, 92, extends from the headrest attachment portion 60 toward the upper back support section 46. The first and second members 90, 92 are adjacent to the headrest attachment portion 60. The first upper seatbelt webbing contact portion 64 (in this embodiment, part of the headrest and webbing retainer support member 58) is adjacent to the first member 90 and extends downwardly and obliquely therefrom, away from the centerline 36. The second upper seatbelt webbing contacting portion 66 (which, in this embodiment, is part of the headrest and webbing retainer support member 58 ) is adjacent to the second member 92 and extends obliquely downwardly therefrom, away from the centerline 36 .

[0085] In the illustrated embodiment of the seat back 34, in which the intermediate ends 70, 80 are attached and the side ends 72, 82 are unattached, the intermediate end 70 of the first belt webbing retaining member 68 and the intermediate end 80 of the second belt webbing retaining member 78 are attached to the extension portion 88. More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the intermediate end 70 of the first belt webbing retaining member 68 is attached to the first member 90 of the extension portion 88. Similarly, the intermediate end 80 of the second belt webbing retaining member 78 is attached to the second member 92 of the extension portion 88. The intermediate end 70 of the first belt webbing retaining member 68 extends from the first member 90 of the extension portion 88 generally parallel to the first upper belt webbing contact portion 64 and generally orthogonal to the first member 90. Similarly, the intermediate end 80 of the second belt webbing retaining member 78 extends from the second member 92 of the extension portion 88 generally parallel to the second upper belt webbing contact portion 66 and generally orthogonal to the second member 92.

[0086] If through Figure 2 (Showing a front view of the seat back 34) and Figure 3 and Figure 4 (showing a side view of the seat back 34), the side end 72 of the first seat belt webbing retaining member 68 is releasably coupled to the rear of the occupant-facing surface 52 of the upper back support section 46. Similarly, the side end 82 of the second seat belt webbing retaining member 78 is releasably coupled to the rear of the occupant-facing surface 52 of the upper back support section 46. More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the headrest and webbing retainer support member 58 includes a first attachment section 94 (see, e.g., FIG. Figure 3 ) and a second attachment section 96 (see e.g. Figure 4). A first attachment section 94 extends generally downward from and abuts the first upper belt webbing contact portion 64. A second attachment section 96 extends generally downward from and abuts the second upper belt webbing contact portion 66. The side end 72 of the first belt webbing retaining member 68 is releasably coupled to the first attachment section 94 of the headrest and webbing retainer support member 58. Similarly, the side end 82 of the second belt webbing retaining member 78 is releasably coupled to the second attachment section 96 of the headrest and webbing retainer support member 58.

[0087] The first and second belt webbing retaining members 68, 78 may be releasably coupled in any number of ways, including but not limited to via snaps, buttons, straps, and clips. Preferably, the first and second belt webbing retaining members 68, 78 are releasably coupled to the first and second attachment sections 94, 96, respectively, by magnetic attraction. In the illustrated embodiment, the first attachment section 94 includes a magnet 98, which may be molded into the first attachment section 94 (see, in particular, FIG. Figure 5 94 ). Likewise, the second attachment section 96 includes a magnet 100, which can be molded into the second attachment section 96. The side end 72 of the first belt webbing retaining member 68 includes a metal piece 102 positioned to magnetically mate with the magnet 98. Likewise, the side end 82 of the second belt webbing retaining member 78 includes a metal piece 104 positioned to magnetically mate with the magnet 100. The side end 72 of the first belt webbing retaining member 68 is releasably coupled to the first attachment section 94 by a magnetic attraction force because the metal piece 102 of the side end 72 of the first belt webbing retaining member 68 is magnetically attracted to the magnet 98 of the first attachment section 94, and the magnetic attraction force can be overcome using a force provided by the occupant 22, as discussed further below. The side end 82 of the second belt webbing retaining member 78 is releasably coupled to the second attachment section 96 by magnetic attraction because the metal piece 104 of the side end 82 of the second belt webbing retaining member 78 is magnetically attracted to the magnet 100 of the second attachment section 96, and the magnetic attraction force can be overcome using the force provided by the occupant 22, as further discussed below.

[0088] The side ends 72 of the first seat belt webbing retaining member 68 can be positioned generally vertically as shown, or vertically when releasably coupled. Similarly, the side ends 82 of the second seat belt webbing retaining member 78 can be positioned generally vertically as shown, or vertically when releasably coupled. Both the first seat belt webbing retaining member 68 and the second seat belt webbing retaining member 78 can be made from a rigid but also flexible strip of material, such as a 2 mm thick ABS or nylon strip covered with fabric or leather. The second seat assembly 18 can be identical to the first seat assembly 16 described above.

[0089] Now refer to Figures 9 to 14 , the first seat assembly 16 described above can be used in a novel method of utilizing a seat belt assembly 20 with the first seat assembly 16 in a vehicle 10. The method includes providing the vehicle 10 with the first seat assembly 16 and the seat belt assembly 20 as described above. When the occupant 22 enters the interior 12 of the vehicle 10, or when the occupant 22 has just installed the seat belt assembly 20, the first seat belt webbing retention member 68 may not retain the first webbing section 24 of the seat belt assembly 20 in the gap 76. Instead, the first webbing section 24 may be inconveniently located near the floor 106 of the vehicle 10 (see FIG. 1 ). Figure 1 ) or behind the seat back 34. This is Figure 9 The scene shown in .

[0090] The method also includes releasing the releasably coupled intermediate end 70 or the lateral end 72 of the first belt webbing retaining member 68, whichever of the intermediate end 70 or the lateral end 72 is releasably coupled and not secured. If the lateral end 72 of the first belt webbing retaining member 68 is releasably coupled, then the method step will consist of releasing the releasably coupled lateral end 72 of the first belt webbing retaining member 68. For example, in the illustrated embodiment (see in particular Figure 3 ), the side end 72 of the first seat belt webbing retaining member 68 is releasably coupled to the first attachment section 94 and is thus in the coupled position 108. The occupant 22 can then lift upward on the first seat belt webbing retaining member 68 (or apply some other force), thereby ultimately overcoming the magnetic attraction of the metal piece 102 releasably coupling the side end 72 to the magnet 98 of the first attachment section 94 and thereby releasing the releasably coupled side end 72 to the released position 110, as shown. Figure 10 As shown in .

[0091] The method also includes placing the first webbing segment 24 of the seatbelt assembly 20 between the first upper belt webbing contact portion 64 and the first belt webbing retaining member 68. The first webbing segment 24 now contacts the first upper belt webbing contact portion 64. More specifically, the first webbing segment 24 moves in direction 112 between the side end 72 of the first belt webbing retaining member 68 and the first attachment segment 94 and into the gap 76 between the first belt webbing retaining member 68 and the first upper belt webbing contact portion 64. The first webbing segment 24 is positioned to the side of the extension portion 88, specifically to the side of the first member 90 thereof, in a direction away from the centerline 36.

[0092] The method also includes reconnecting the previously released releasably coupled intermediate end 70 or side end 72 of the first belt webbing retaining member 68. If the side end 72 of the first belt webbing retaining member 68 is releasably coupled, the method step will consist of reconnecting the side end 72 of the first belt webbing retaining member 68. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the side end 72 of the first belt webbing retaining member 68 is reconnected to the first attachment section 94 and is again in the releasably coupled position 108. Now, the first webbing section 24 of the belt assembly 20 is retained in the gap 76 and does not fall to the floor 106 of the vehicle 10 (see in particular FIG. Figure 11 Even when the occupant 22 is not utilizing the safety belt assembly 20 , the first webbing section 24 remains in a convenient position suspended from the first seat assembly 16 .

[0093] Where the vehicle 10 includes the second webbing segment 28 and the second belt webbing retaining member 78, the method may further include releasing the releasably coupled medial end 80 or lateral end 82 of the second belt webbing retaining member 78, regardless of which of the medial end 80 or lateral end 82 is releasably coupled and not secured. If the lateral end 82 of the second belt webbing retaining member 78 is releasably coupled, then the method step will consist of releasing the releasably coupled lateral end 82 of the second belt webbing retaining member 78. For example, in the illustrated embodiment (see in particular Figure 4 ), the side end 82 of the second belt webbing retaining member 78 is releasably coupled to the second attachment section 96 and is thus in the coupled position 114. The occupant 22 can then lift upward on the second belt webbing retaining member 78 (or apply some other force), thereby ultimately overcoming the magnetic attraction of the magnet 100 releasably coupling the metal piece 104 of the side end 82 to the second attachment section 96 and thereby releasing the releasably coupled side end 82 to the released position 116, as shown. Figure 12 As shown in .

[0094] The method also includes positioning the second webbing segment 28 of the seatbelt assembly 20 between the second upper belt webbing contact portion 66 and the second belt webbing retaining member 78. The second webbing segment 28 now contacts the second upper belt webbing contact portion 66. More specifically, the second webbing segment 28 moves in direction 118 between the side end 82 of the second belt webbing retaining member 78 and the second attachment segment 96 and into the gap 86 between the second belt webbing retaining member 78 and the second upper belt webbing contact portion 66. The second webbing segment 28 is positioned to the side of the extension portion 88, specifically, to the side of the second member 92 thereof, in a direction away from the centerline 36.

[0095] The method also includes reconnecting the previously released releasably coupled intermediate end 80 or lateral end 82 of the second belt webbing retaining member 78. If the lateral end 82 of the second belt webbing retaining member 78 is releasably coupled, the method step will consist of reconnecting the lateral end 82 of the second belt webbing retaining member 78. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the lateral end 82 of the second belt webbing retaining member 78 is reconnected to the second attachment section 96 and is again in the releasably coupled position 114. Now, the second webbing section 28 of the belt assembly 20 is retained in the gap 86 and does not fall to the floor 106 of the vehicle 10 (see in particular FIG. Figure 13 Even when the occupant 22 is not utilizing the safety belt assembly 20 , the second webbing section 28 remains in a convenient position suspended from the first seat assembly 16 .

[0096] The method may also include securing the seat belt assembly 20 above the occupant 22 of the first seat assembly 16. Figure 14 As shown in FIG, an occupant 22 occupies the first seat assembly 16. The safety belt assembly 20 secures the occupant 22 in the first seat assembly 16. The first and second webbing sections 24, 28 are retained to the seat back 34 within gaps 76 and 86, respectively.

[0097] The method may also include positioning the first webbing segment 24 on the first upper belt webbing contact portion 64 to accommodate the height of the occupant 22. The method may also include positioning the second webbing segment 28 on the second upper belt webbing contact portion 66 to accommodate the height of the occupant 22. Conventional belt webbing through-holes are holes that pass through the seat back and have a small width, and therefore may not properly accommodate very short or very tall occupants. However, because the first webbing segment 24 can be positioned anywhere on the downwardly angled first upper belt webbing contact portion 64 between the first member 90 of the extension portion 88 and the location where the side end 72 of the first belt webbing retaining member 68 releasably couples to the first attachment segment 94, the first webbing segment 24 can be positioned to accommodate any occupant 22 height. Of course, the same principles apply to the second webbing segment 28.

[0098] Now refer to Figure 15When the occupant 22 no longer needs to use the seat belt assembly 20 and leaves the first seat assembly 16, the first webbing section 24 and the second webbing section 28 remain above the first upper seat belt webbing contact portion 64 and the second upper seat belt webbing contact portion 66, respectively. This positioning facilitates the next use of the seat belt assembly 20 by the occupant 22. The side end 72 of the first seat belt webbing retaining member 68 is in the coupled position 108, preventing the first webbing section 24 from leaving the gap 76 and falling toward the floor 106. Similarly, the side end 82 of the second seat belt webbing retaining member 78 is in the coupled position 114, preventing the second webbing section 28 from leaving the gap 86 and falling toward the floor 106.

[0099] It will be understood that changes and modifications can be made to the foregoing constructions without departing from the inventive concepts, and it will be further understood that these concepts are intended to be covered by the appended claims unless the language of the claims expressly dictates otherwise.

[0100] According to the present invention, a seat back for a vehicle is provided, the seat back having: a center line; a first upper safety belt webbing contact portion, which is arranged to a first side of the center line; and a first safety belt webbing retaining member, which is arranged to the first side of the center line, the first safety belt webbing retaining member having a middle end, a side end further away from the center line than the middle end, and a middle portion between the middle end and the side end; wherein the middle end or the side end of the first safety belt webbing retaining member is fixed, and the other of the middle end or the side end is releasably connected; and wherein the middle portion is arranged above the first upper safety belt webbing contact portion to form a gap, which is configured to retain the first webbing section of the safety belt assembly.

[0101] According to one embodiment, the above invention is also characterized by a second upper safety belt webbing contact portion, which is arranged to a second side of the center line; and a second safety belt webbing retaining member, which has a middle end, a side end further away from the center line than the middle end, and a middle portion between the middle end and the side end; wherein the middle end or the side end of the second safety belt webbing retaining member is fixed, and the other of the middle end or the side end is releasably connected; and wherein the middle portion of the second safety belt webbing retaining member is arranged above the second upper safety belt webbing contact portion, thereby forming a gap, and the gap is configured to retain the second upper safety belt webbing.

[0102] According to one embodiment, the middle end of the first belt webbing retaining member is fixed, while the side ends of the first belt webbing retaining member are releasably coupled; and wherein the middle end of the second belt webbing retaining member is fixed, while the side ends of the second belt webbing retaining member are releasably coupled.

[0103] According to one embodiment, the above invention is further characterized in that an upper back support section, which is configured to support the upper back of an occupant, includes a top portion; a headrest, which is arranged above the top portion of the upper back support section; and an extension portion, which raises the headrest above the upper back support section; wherein the middle end of the first safety belt webbing retaining member and the middle end of the second safety belt webbing retaining member are attached to the extension portion.

[0104] According to one embodiment, the above invention is further characterized in that the extension portion includes a first member and a second member; wherein the intermediate end of the first safety belt webbing retaining member is attached to the first member of the extension portion; and wherein the intermediate end of the second safety belt webbing retaining member is attached to the second member of the extension portion.

[0105] According to one embodiment, the side ends of the first seatbelt webbing retaining member are releasably coupled by magnetic attraction; and wherein the side ends of the second seatbelt webbing retaining member are releasably coupled by magnetic attraction.

[0106] According to one embodiment, the above invention is also characterized in that the upper back support section includes a passenger-facing surface; wherein the side end of the first safety belt webbing retaining member is releasably connected to the rear of the passenger-facing surface of the upper back support section; and wherein the side end of the second safety belt webbing retaining member is releasably connected to the rear of the passenger-facing surface of the upper back support section.

[0107] According to one embodiment, the middle end of the first safety belt webbing retaining member extends from the first member of the extension portion approximately parallel to the first upper safety belt webbing contact portion; wherein the middle end of the second safety belt webbing retaining member extends from the second member of the extension portion approximately parallel to the second upper safety belt webbing contact portion; wherein, when releasably coupled, the side ends of the first safety belt webbing retaining member are positioned vertically or approximately vertically; and wherein, when releasably coupled, the side ends of the second safety belt webbing retaining member are positioned vertically or approximately vertically.

[0108] According to one embodiment, the above invention is further characterized in that a headrest and webbing retainer support member is attached to the rear surface of the upper back support section adjacent to the headrest, the headrest and webbing retainer support member being symmetrical about the midline; the headrest and webbing retainer support member comprising: a headrest attachment portion to which the headrest is attached; an extension portion extending from the headrest attachment portion toward the upper back support section; a first upper safety belt webbing contact portion extending laterally and downwardly from the first member of the extension portion; and a second upper safety belt webbing contact portion. a webbing contact portion extending laterally and downwardly from the second member of the extension portion; a first attachment section extending downwardly from the first upper seat belt webbing contact portion; and a second attachment section extending downwardly from the second upper seat belt webbing contact portion; wherein the side ends of the first seat belt webbing retaining member are releasably coupled to the first attachment section of the headrest and webbing retainer support member; and wherein the side ends of the second seat belt webbing retaining member are releasably coupled to the second attachment section of the headrest and webbing retainer support member.

[0109] According to one embodiment, the above invention is also characterized in that the first attachment section includes a magnet; the second attachment section includes a magnet; the side end of the first safety belt webbing retaining member includes a metal piece; and the side end of the second safety belt webbing retaining member includes a metal piece; wherein the side end of the first safety belt webbing retaining member can be releasably connected to the first attachment section because the metal piece of the side end of the first safety belt webbing retaining member is magnetically attracted to the magnet of the first attachment section; and wherein the side end of the second safety belt webbing retaining member can be releasably connected to the second attachment section because the metal piece of the side end of the second safety belt webbing retaining member is magnetically attracted to the magnet of the second attachment section.

[0110] According to the present invention, a method of utilizing a seat belt assembly and a seat assembly in a vehicle, the method comprising: providing a vehicle, the vehicle comprising: a seat assembly including a seat back, the seat back comprising: a center line; a first upper seat belt webbing contact portion, which is disposed to a first side of the center line; and a first seat belt webbing retaining member having a middle end, a side end further away from the center line than the middle end, and a middle portion between the middle end and the side end; wherein the middle end or the side end of the first seat belt webbing retaining member is fixed to the seat back, and the other of the middle end or the side end is releasably connected to the seat back; and wherein the middle portion is disposed above the first upper seatbelt webbing contact portion, thereby forming a gap configured to retain a first upper seatbelt webbing; a seatbelt assembly having a first webbing section, the first webbing section configured to restrain an occupant of the seat assembly; releasing a releasably coupled middle or side end of the first seatbelt webbing retaining member; placing the first webbing section of the seatbelt assembly between the first upper seatbelt webbing contact portion and the first seatbelt webbing retaining member so that the first webbing section contacts the first upper seatbelt webbing contact portion; and reconnecting the previously released releasably coupled middle or side end of the first seatbelt webbing retaining member.

[0111] According to one embodiment, the above invention is also characterized in that the seat back of the vehicle further includes: a second upper safety belt webbing contact portion, which is arranged to a second side of the center line; and a second safety belt webbing retaining member, which has a middle end, a side end further away from the center line than the middle end, and a middle portion between the middle end and the side end; wherein the middle end or the side end of the second safety belt webbing retaining member is fixed, and the other of the middle end or the side end is releasably connected to the seat back; and wherein the middle portion is arranged at the second upper safety belt webbing contact portion and a second belt webbing retaining member having a second webbing portion that is releasably coupled to the belt assembly and the second belt webbing retaining member.

[0112] According to one embodiment, the middle end of the first belt webbing retaining member is fixed and the side ends of the first belt webbing retaining member are releasably coupled to the seat back; and wherein the middle end of the second belt webbing retaining member is fixed and the side ends of the second belt webbing retaining member are releasably coupled to the seat back; wherein releasing the releasably coupled middle end or side end of the first belt webbing retaining member consists of releasing the releasably coupled side ends of the first belt webbing retaining member; wherein releasing the releasably coupled middle end or side end of the second belt webbing retaining member consists of releasing the releasably coupled side ends of the second belt webbing retaining member; wherein reconnecting the released middle end or side end of the first belt webbing retaining member consists of reconnecting the side ends of the first belt webbing retaining member; and wherein reconnecting the released middle end or side end of the second belt webbing retaining member consists of reconnecting the side ends of the second belt webbing retaining member.

[0113] According to one embodiment, the above invention is further characterized in that the seat back of the vehicle further includes: an upper back support section, which is configured to support the upper back of the occupant, the upper back support section including a top portion; a headrest, which is disposed above the top portion of the upper back support section; and an extension portion attached to the headrest, the extension portion raising the headrest above the upper back support section; wherein the intermediate end of the first safety belt webbing retaining member and the intermediate end of the second safety belt webbing retaining member are attached to the extension portion; wherein positioning the first webbing section of the safety belt assembly between the first upper safety belt webbing contact portion and the first safety belt webbing retaining member includes positioning the first webbing section of the safety belt assembly away from the centerline on the side of the extension portion; and wherein positioning the second webbing section of the safety belt assembly between the second upper safety belt webbing contact portion and the second safety belt webbing retaining member includes positioning the second webbing section of the safety belt assembly away from the centerline on the side of the extension portion.

[0114] According to one embodiment, the above invention is also characterized in that the extension portion includes a first member and a second member; wherein the middle end of the first safety belt webbing retaining member is attached to the first member of the extension portion; wherein the middle end of the second safety belt webbing retaining member is attached to the second member of the extension portion; wherein placing the first webbing segment of the safety belt assembly between the first upper safety belt webbing contact portion and the first safety belt webbing retaining member includes placing the first webbing segment of the safety belt assembly away from the center line on the side of the first member of the extension portion; and wherein placing the second webbing segment of the safety belt assembly between the second upper safety belt webbing contact portion and the second safety belt webbing retaining member includes placing the second webbing segment of the safety belt assembly away from the center line on the side of the second member of the extension portion.

[0115] According to one embodiment, the side ends of the first safety belt webbing retaining member are releasably coupled by a magnetic attraction; wherein, the side ends of the second safety belt webbing retaining member are releasably coupled by a magnetic attraction; wherein releasing the releasably coupled side ends of the first safety belt webbing retaining member includes overcoming the magnetic attraction with which the first safety belt webbing retaining member is releasably coupled; and wherein releasing the releasably coupled side ends of the second safety belt webbing retaining member includes overcoming the magnetic attraction with which the second safety belt webbing retaining member is releasably coupled.

[0116] According to one embodiment, the above invention is further characterized in that the safety belt assembly is secured above the occupant of the seat assembly.

[0117] According to one embodiment, the first upper seat belt webbing contact portion is inclined downwardly away from the center line; wherein the second upper seat belt webbing contact portion is inclined downwardly away from the center line; the method further comprises: positioning the first webbing section on the first upper seat belt webbing contact portion to accommodate the height of the occupant; and positioning the second webbing section on the second upper seat belt webbing contact portion to accommodate the height of the occupant.

[0118] According to one embodiment, the above invention is also characterized in that the seat back further includes a headrest and a webbing holder support member, which are attached near the rear surface of the upper back support section, and the headrest and webbing holder support member are symmetrical about the center line; the headrest and webbing holder support member include: a headrest attachment portion, the headrest is attached to the headrest attachment portion; the extension portion, which extends from the headrest attachment portion toward the upper back support section; the first member, which is provided to a first side of the center line of the seat back; and the second member, which is provided to the seat back a second side of the centerline of the vehicle; a first upper seat belt webbing contact portion extending laterally and downwardly from the first member of the extension portion; a second upper seat belt webbing contact portion extending laterally and downwardly from the second member of the extension portion; a first attachment section extending downwardly from the first upper seat belt webbing contact portion; and a second attachment section extending downwardly from the second upper seat belt webbing contact portion; wherein the side ends of the first seat belt webbing retaining member are releasably coupled to the first attachment section of the headrest and webbing retainer support member; and and wherein the side end of the second safety belt webbing retaining member is releasably coupled to the second attachment section of the headrest and webbing retainer support member; wherein releasing the releasably coupled side end of the first safety belt webbing retaining member comprises releasing the releasably coupled side end of the first safety belt webbing retaining member from the first attachment section of the headrest and webbing retainer support member; wherein releasing the releasably attached side end of the second safety belt webbing retaining member comprises releasing the second safety belt webbing retaining member from the second attachment section of the headrest and webbing retainer support member. said releasably attached side end of a webbing retaining member; wherein reconnecting said releasably attached side end of said first safety belt webbing retaining member comprises reconnecting said releasably attached side end of said first safety belt webbing retaining member to said first attachment section of said headrest and webbing retainer support member; and wherein reconnecting said releasably attached side end of said second safety belt webbing retaining member comprises reconnecting said releasably attached side end of said second safety belt webbing retaining member to said second attachment section of said headrest and webbing retainer support member.

[0119] According to one embodiment, the first attachment section includes a magnet; wherein the second attachment section includes a magnet; wherein the side end of the first safety belt webbing retaining member includes a metal piece; and wherein the side end of the second safety belt webbing retaining member includes a metal piece; wherein the side end of the first safety belt webbing retaining member is releasably coupled to the first attachment section because the metal piece of the side end of the first safety belt webbing retaining member is magnetically attracted to the magnet of the first attachment section; and wherein the side end of the second safety belt webbing retaining member is releasably coupled to the second attachment section because the metal piece of the side end of the second safety belt webbing retaining member is magnetically attracted to the magnet of the first attachment section; and wherein The metal piece is magnetically attracted to the magnet of the second attachment section; wherein releasing the releasably connected side end of the first safety belt webbing retaining member from the first attachment section of the headrest and webbing retainer support member includes overcoming the magnetic attraction force between the metal piece of the side end of the first safety belt webbing retaining member and the magnet of the first attachment section; and wherein releasing the releasably attached side end of the second safety belt webbing retaining member from the second attachment section of the headrest and webbing retainer support member includes overcoming the magnetic attraction force between the metal piece of the side end of the second safety belt webbing retaining member and the magnet of the second attachment section.

Claims

1. A seat back for a vehicle, comprising: midline; an upper back support section configured to support an upper back of an occupant and having a rearward-facing surface; A headrest and webbing retainer support member attached adjacent the rearward-facing surface of the upper back support section, the headrest and webbing retainer support member comprising: a headrest attachment portion; an extension portion extending between the headrest attachment portion and the upper back support section; a first upper seatbelt webbing contact portion disposed to a first side of the centerline and extending laterally and downwardly from the extension portion; a first attachment section extending downwardly from the first upper seatbelt webbing contact portion; a first seatbelt webbing retaining member disposed to a first side of the centerline, the first seatbelt webbing retaining member having a middle end, a side end further from the centerline than the middle end, and a middle portion between the middle end and the side end; a headrest attached to the headrest and the headrest attachment portion of the webbing retainer support member, the extension portion raising the headrest above the upper back support portion; wherein the intermediate end or the side end of the first seat belt webbing retaining member is fixed, and the other of the intermediate end or the side end is releasably coupled to the headrest and the first attachment section of the webbing retainer support member; and The intermediate portion is disposed above the first upper seat belt webbing contact portion to form a gap configured to retain a first webbing segment of the seat belt assembly.

2. The seat back according to claim 1, further comprising: a second upper seatbelt webbing contact portion disposed to a second side of the centerline and extending laterally and downwardly from the extension portion; a second attachment section extending downwardly from the second upper seatbelt webbing contact portion; and a second seatbelt webbing retaining member having a medial end, lateral ends further from the centerline than the medial end, and a medial portion between the medial end and the lateral ends; wherein the intermediate end or the side end of the second seat belt webbing retaining member is fixed, and the other of the intermediate end or the side end is releasably coupled to a second attachment section; and wherein the intermediate portion of the second belt webbing retaining member is disposed above the second upper belt webbing contacting portion, thereby forming a gap configured to retain the second upper belt webbing.

3. The seat back according to claim 2, in, The intermediate end of the first seatbelt webbing retaining member is fixed, while the side ends of the first seatbelt webbing retaining member are releasably coupled; and wherein the middle end of the second seatbelt webbing retaining member is fixed and the side ends of the second seatbelt webbing retaining member are releasably coupled.

4. The seat back according to claim 2, wherein: The upper back support section includes a top portion; a headrest disposed above the top portion of the upper back support section; and The intermediate end of the first and second belt webbing retaining members are attached to the extension portion.

5. The seat back according to claim 2, The extension portion includes a first member and a second member; in, the intermediate end of the first seatbelt webbing retaining member being attached to the first member of the extension portion; and wherein the intermediate end of the second seat belt webbing retaining member is attached to the second member of the extension portion.

6. The seat back according to claim 2, The upper back support section includes an occupant-facing surface; in, The side end of the first seatbelt webbing retaining member is releasably coupled rearwardly of the occupant-facing surface of the upper back support section; and wherein the side end of the second seat belt webbing retaining member is releasably coupled to rearward of the occupant-facing surface of the upper back support section.

7. The seat back according to claim 5, in, the intermediate end of the first seatbelt webbing retaining member extending from the first member of the extension portion generally parallel to the first upper seatbelt webbing contact portion; wherein the intermediate end of the second seatbelt webbing retaining member extends from the second member of the extension portion substantially parallel to the second upper seatbelt webbing contact portion; wherein, when releasably coupled, the side ends of the first seatbelt webbing retaining members are positioned vertically or substantially vertically; and Wherein, when releasably coupled, the side ends of the second seat belt webbing retaining member are positioned vertically or substantially vertically.

8. The seat back according to claim 5, wherein: said headrest and webbing retainer support member being symmetrical about said midline; the second upper seatbelt webbing contact portion extending laterally and downwardly from the second member of the extension portion; and wherein said side end of said first seatbelt webbing retaining member is releasably coupled to said first attachment section of said headrest and webbing retainer support member; and wherein the side end of the second seat belt webbing retaining member is releasably coupled to the headrest and the second attachment section of the webbing retainer support member.

9. The seat back according to any one of claims 2 to 8, in, The side ends of the first seatbelt webbing retaining member are releasably coupled by magnetic attraction; and Wherein, the side ends of the second seat belt webbing retaining member are releasably coupled by magnetic attraction.

10. The seat back according to claim 8, the first attachment section comprising a magnet; the second attachment section comprising a magnet; The side end of the first seatbelt webbing retaining member comprises a metal piece; and The side end of the second seat belt webbing retaining member includes a metal piece; in, the side end of the first seatbelt webbing retaining member being releasably coupled to the first attachment section because the metal piece of the side end of the first seatbelt webbing retaining member is magnetically attracted to the magnet of the first attachment section; and wherein the side end of the second belt webbing retaining member is releasably coupled to the second attachment section because the metal piece of the side end of the second belt webbing retaining member is magnetically attracted to the magnet of the second attachment section.

11. A vehicle comprising the seat back according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. A method of utilizing a seat belt assembly and a seat assembly in a vehicle, comprising: A vehicle is provided, the vehicle comprising: a seat assembly, the seat assembly comprising a seat back according to any one of claims 1 to 10; a seat belt assembly having a first webbing section configured to restrain an occupant of the seat assembly; releasing the releasably coupled intermediate or side end of the first seatbelt webbing retaining member; placing the first webbing section of the seat belt assembly between the first upper seat belt webbing contact portion and the first seat belt webbing retaining member such that the first webbing section contacts the first upper seat belt webbing contact portion; as well as Reconnecting the releasably coupled intermediate or side end of the previously released first seat belt webbing retaining member.

13. The method according to claim 12, The seat back of the vehicle further comprises: a second upper seatbelt webbing contact portion disposed to a second side of the centerline and extending laterally and downwardly from the extension portion; a second attachment section extending downwardly from the second upper seatbelt webbing contact portion; and a second seatbelt webbing retaining member having a middle end, a lateral end further from the centerline than the middle end, and a middle portion between the middle end and the lateral end; wherein the intermediate end or the side end of the second seat belt webbing retaining member is fixed, and the other of the intermediate end or the side end is releasably coupled to a second attachment section; and wherein the intermediate portion is disposed above the second upper seat belt webbing contact portion to form a gap, the gap being configured to retain the second upper seat belt webbing; The seat belt assembly of the vehicle further includes a second webbing segment; The method further comprises: releasing the releasably coupled intermediate or side end of the second seatbelt webbing retaining member; placing the second webbing section of the seat belt assembly between the second upper seat belt webbing contact portion and the second seat belt webbing retaining member such that the second webbing section contacts the second upper seat belt webbing contact portion; and Reconnecting the releasably coupled intermediate or side end of the previously released second seat belt webbing retaining member.

14. The method of claim 13, further comprising: The seat belt assembly is secured above an occupant of the seat assembly.

15. The method according to claim 14, in, the first upper seat belt webbing contact portion being angled downwardly away from the centerline; wherein the second upper seat belt webbing contact portion is inclined downward away from the center line; The method further comprises: positioning the first webbing section on the first upper seatbelt webbing contact portion to accommodate the height of the occupant; and The second webbing section is positioned on the second upper seatbelt webbing contact portion to accommodate the height of the occupant.

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