Safety belt system

Abstract

A seat belt assembly for a vehicle includes a seat belt and a base retractor coupled to the seat belt and configured to allow the seat belt to extend to a desired length. The base retractor includes a first end portion including a biasing device, a second end portion disposed opposite the first end portion and including a speed-based locking mechanism, and a third portion disposed opposite the second end portion. The third portion is disposed between the first end portion and the second end portion and includes a mandrel coupled to the seatbelt. The seat belt assembly also includes a pretensioner coupled to the base retractor and configured to tighten relaxation of the seat belt to ensure a proper position of the vehicle occupant. Further, the seatbelt assembly includes an electromagnet disposed within or near the base retractor and configured to adjust a rotational resistance applied to the mandrel based on a vehicle occupant's body type.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The information provided in this section is for the purpose of generally presenting the context of the present disclosure. The work of the presently named inventors, to the extent it is described in this section and in aspects of the description that may not qualify as prior art at the time of filing, is neither explicitly nor implicitly admitted to be prior art against the present disclosure.

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to a seat belt system for a vehicle. Background Art

[0003] Seat belts are an important safety feature in vehicles. Some seat belts are configured to retract and / or lock the seat belts during a vehicle collision. In a load-limiting seat belt, an occupant applies a load to the seat belt during a vehicle collision, which causes the torsion bar to twist / deform and pay out the seat belt webbing. The amount of seat belt webbing that is paid out is typically limited by the size of the torsion bar and corresponds to a set limit on the load applied to the occupant by the seat belt. A load-limiting seat belt restraint system is implemented by selecting one, two, or three specified load limits. In some examples, the seat belt system includes a "switch," typically based on the position of the seat track, that sets the load limit to one of two or three discrete values. Although many options exist with current technology, changing the load profile is no longer available once the configuration is set. Summary of the invention

[0004] In some examples, a seat belt assembly for a vehicle includes a seat belt configured to secure a vehicle occupant and disperse impact forces on the body of the vehicle occupant. In addition, the seat belt assembly includes a base retractor, which is coupled to the seat belt and configured to allow the seat belt to be stretched to a desired length. The base retractor includes a first end portion, a second end portion, and a third portion, the first end portion including a biasing device, the second end portion is arranged relative to the first end portion and includes a speed-based locking mechanism, and the third portion is arranged between the first end portion and the second end portion and includes a spindle coupled to the seat belt. In some examples, the seat belt assembly also includes a pretensioner, which is coupled to the base retractor and configured to tighten the slack of the seat belt to ensure the proper position of the vehicle occupant. In addition, the seat belt assembly includes an electromagnet, which is arranged in or near the base retractor and is configured to be able to adjust the rotational resistance applied to the spindle based on the body shape of the vehicle occupant. In some examples, the electromagnet is arranged between the third portion and the second end portion of the base retractor. In some examples, the electromagnet is at least partially disposed within a spindle of a third portion of the base retractor. In some examples, the electromagnet includes a winding base, a winding core, and a disk. In some examples, the seat belt assembly also includes a torsion bar coupled to the base retractor. In some examples, the seat belt assembly is a three-point seat belt assembly. Additionally, in some examples, the seat belt assembly may further include a plurality of gears coupled to the base retractor and configured to reduce a base load of the electromagnet. In some examples, the vehicle includes a seat belt assembly.

[0005] In some examples, a seat belt system for a vehicle seat includes a sensing system configured to determine the size of a vehicle occupant on the vehicle seat. The seat belt system also includes a seat belt assembly, the seat belt assembly including a seat belt configured to secure the vehicle occupant and disperse the impact force on the body of the vehicle occupant. The seat belt assembly also includes a base retractor, the base retractor is coupled to the seat belt and configured to allow the seat belt to stretch to a desired length. In addition, in some examples, the seat belt assembly also includes a pretensioner, the pretensioner is coupled to the base retractor and configured to tighten the slack of the seat belt to ensure the proper position of the vehicle occupant. In addition, the seat belt assembly may include an electromagnet, the electromagnet is coupled to the base retractor and configured to achieve continuous load levels based on the determined body size of the vehicle occupant. In some examples, the sensing system includes a plurality of weight sensing mechanisms to measure the weight of the vehicle occupant. In some examples, the sensing system includes a plurality of height sensing mechanisms to measure the height of the vehicle occupant. In addition, in some examples, the electromagnet includes a winding base, a winding core, and a disk. In some examples, the seat belt system further comprises a torsion bar coupled to the base retractor. Additionally, in some examples, the seat belt assembly is a three-point seat belt assembly. Additionally, in some examples, a vehicle comprises a seat belt system.

[0006] In some examples, a seat belt system for a vehicle includes a seat belt assembly, the seat belt assembly including a seat belt, a base retractor having a spindle coupled to the seat belt, and an electromagnet coupled to the base retractor. The seat belt system also includes a sensing system configured to measure one or more of a vehicle occupant weight and a vehicle occupant height. In addition, the seat belt system includes a vehicle processor for storing vehicle data, the vehicle data including one or more of the vehicle occupant weight and the vehicle occupant height. The seat belt system also includes a server, the server is communicatively coupled to the vehicle processor and configured to determine a desired load level of the electromagnet based on one or more of the vehicle occupant weight and the vehicle occupant height. In some examples, the controller is also configured to apply a desired load level of the electromagnet to the spindle. In some examples, the electromagnet includes a winding base, a winding core, and a disc. In addition, in some examples, the vehicle includes a seat belt system. In some examples, the seat belt assembly is a three-point seat belt assembly. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected configurations and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0008] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the exterior of a vehicle having a seat belt system according to the present disclosure;

[0009] Figure 2 A safety belt system according to the present disclosure Figure 1 A perspective view of the vehicle interior;

[0010] Figure 3 is an exploded front perspective view of a seat belt assembly of a seat belt system according to one example of the present disclosure;

[0011] Figure 4 According to an example of the present disclosure Figure 3 A front perspective view of an electromagnet of a seat belt assembly;

[0012] Figure 5 According to an example of the present disclosure Figure 4 A schematic diagram of an electromagnet is shown;

[0013] Figure 6 is an exploded front perspective view of a seat belt assembly of a seat belt system according to another example of the present disclosure;

[0014] Figure 7 is a front perspective view of an electromagnet of a seat belt assembly according to another example of the present disclosure

[0015] Figure 8 yes Figure 7A cross-sectional view of an electromagnet; and

[0016] Fig. 9 is a functional block diagram of one example of a seat belt system as described herein.

[0017] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] Example configurations will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. Example configurations are provided so that the present disclosure will be thorough and will fully convey the scope of the present disclosure to those of ordinary skill in the art. Specific details, such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the configurations of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that specific details need not be employed, that example configurations may be embodied in many different forms, and that the specific details and example configurations should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure.

[0019] The terms used herein are only used to describe the purpose of specific exemplary configurations and are not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular articles "a", "an" and "the" may also be intended to include plural forms unless the context clearly states otherwise. The terms "include", "comprise" and "have" are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of features, steps, operations, elements and / or parts, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, parts and / or their groups. The method steps, processes and operations described herein should not be interpreted as necessarily requiring them to be performed in the specific order discussed or shown, unless specifically identified as an execution order. Additional or alternative steps may be adopted.

[0020] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on another element or layer," "engaged to," "connected to," "attached to," or "coupled to" another element or layer, it may be directly on, directly engaged with, connected to, attached to, or coupled to another element or layer, or there may be intermediate elements or layers. Conversely, when an element is referred to as being "directly on another element or layer," "directly engaged to," "directly connected to," "directly attached to," or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there may be no intermediate elements or layers. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a similar manner (e.g., "between" versus "directly between," "adjacent" versus "directly adjacent," etc.). As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more associated listed items.

[0021] The terms "first", "second", "third", etc. may be used in this article to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or parts. These elements, components, regions, layers and / or parts should not be limited by these terms. These terms may only be used to distinguish an element, component, region, layer or part from another region, layer or part. Unless the context clearly indicates, terms such as "first", "second" and other numerical terms do not imply an order or sequence. Therefore, without departing from the teaching of the example configuration, the first element, component, region, layer or part discussed below may be referred to as a second element, component, region, layer or part.

[0022] In this application, including the definitions below, the term "module" may be replaced with the term "circuit". The term "module" may refer to, be a part of, or include an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC); a digital, analog, or mixed analog / digital discrete circuit; a digital, analog, or mixed analog / digital integrated circuit; a combinational logic circuit; a field programmable gate array (FPGA); a processor (shared, dedicated, or group) that executes code; a processor (shared, dedicated, or group) that stores code executed by a memory; other suitable hardware components that provide the described functionality; or a combination of some or all of the above, such as in a system on a chip.

[0023] The term "code" as used above may include software, firmware and / or microcode, and may refer to a program, a routine, a function, a class and / or an object. The term "shared processor" covers a single processor that executes some or all codes from multiple modules. The term "group processor" covers a processor that executes some or all codes from one or more modules in combination with an additional processor. The term "shared memory" covers a single memory that stores some or all codes from multiple modules. The term "group memory" includes a memory that stores some or all codes from one or more modules in combination with an additional memory. The term "memory" may be a subset of the term "computer-readable medium". The term "computer-readable medium" does not include transient electrical signals and electromagnetic signals propagated through the medium, and therefore can be considered to be tangible and non-transient memory. Non-limiting examples of non-temporary memory include tangible computer-readable media, which include non-volatile memory, magnetic memory, and optical memory.

[0024] The apparatus and methods described in this application may be implemented in part or in whole by one or more computer programs executed by one or more processors. The computer program includes processor executable instructions stored on at least one non-transitory tangible computer readable medium. The computer program may also include and / or rely on stored data.

[0025] Software applications (i.e., software resources) may refer to computer software that enables a computing device to perform tasks. Example applications include, but are not limited to, system diagnostic applications, system management applications, system maintenance applications, word processing applications, spreadsheet applications, messaging applications, media streaming applications, social networking applications, and gaming applications.

[0026] Non-transitory memory can be a physical device used to temporarily or permanently store programs (e.g., sequences of instructions) or data (e.g., program state information) for use by a computing device. Non-transitory memory can be volatile and / or non-volatile addressable semiconductor memory. Examples of non-volatile memory include, but are not limited to, flash memory and read-only memory (ROM) / programmable read-only memory (PROM) / erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM) / electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) (e.g., commonly used for firmware, such as bootloaders). Examples of volatile memory include, but are not limited to, random access memory (RAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), phase change memory (PCM), and disk or tape.

[0027] These computer programs (also referred to as programs, software, software applications, or code) include machine instructions for a programmable processor and may be implemented in high-level procedural and / or object-oriented programming languages ​​and / or assembly / machine languages. As used herein, the terms "machine-readable medium" and "computer-readable medium" refer to any computer program product, non-transitory computer-readable medium, memory, and / or device (e.g., disk, optical disk, processor, programmable logic device (PLD)) for providing machine instructions and / or data to a programmable device, including a machine-readable medium that receives machine instructions as a machine-readable signal. The term "machine-readable signal" refers to any signal for providing machine instructions and / or data to a programmable processor.

[0028] Various implementations of the systems and techniques described herein can be realized in digital electronic and / or optical circuits, integrated circuits, specially designed ASICs (application specific integrated circuits), computer hardware, firmware, software, and / or combinations thereof. These various implementations may include implementations in one or more computer programs executable and / or interpretable on a programmable system that includes at least one programmable processor, which may be special purpose or general purpose, coupled to receive data and instructions from a storage system, at least one input device, and at least one output device, and to send data and instructions to the storage system, at least one input device, and at least one output device.

[0029] The processes and logic flows described in this specification can be performed by one or more programmable processors (also referred to as data processing hardware), which execute one or more computer programs to perform functions by operating on input data and generating outputs. The processes and logic flows can also be performed by special logic circuits (e.g., FPGA (field programmable gate array) or ASIC (application-specific integrated circuit)). As an example, processors suitable for executing computer programs include both general-purpose and special-purpose microprocessors, and any one or more processors of any type of digital computer. Typically, the processor will receive instructions and data from a read-only memory or a random access memory or both. The basic elements of a computer are a processor for executing instructions and one or more memory devices for storing instructions and data. Typically, a computer will also include one or more mass storage devices (e.g., magnetic disks, magneto-optical disks, or optical disks) for storing data, or be operably coupled to receive data from it or transmit data to it or both. However, a computer does not need to have such a device. Computer-readable media suitable for storing computer program instructions and data include all forms of nonvolatile memory, media, and memory devices, including, for example, semiconductor memory devices, such as EPROM, EEPROM, and flash memory devices; magnetic disks, such as internal hard disks or removable disks; magneto-optical disks; and CD ROM and DVD-ROM disks. The processor and memory may be supplemented by, or incorporated in, special purpose logic circuitry.

[0030] To provide interaction with a user, one or more aspects of the present disclosure may be implemented on a computer having a display device (e.g., a CRT (cathode ray tube), LCD (liquid crystal display) monitor, or touch screen) for displaying information to the user and optionally a keyboard and pointing device (e.g., a mouse or trackball) through which the user can provide input to the computer. Other kinds of devices may also be used to provide interaction with the user; for example, the feedback provided to the user may be any form of sensory feedback, such as visual feedback, auditory feedback, or tactile feedback; and input from the user may be received in any form, including sound, voice, or tactile input. In addition, the computer may interact with the user by sending documents to and receiving documents from a device used by the user; for example, by sending a web page to a web browser on a user's client device in response to a request received from the web browser.

[0031] Now refer to Figures 1 to 9 In the illustrated example, a seat belt system for a vehicle 12 is shown generally at 10. The seat belt system 10 includes a seat belt assembly 14, a sensing system 100, a vehicle processor 200, a server 300, and a controller 400. Referring now to FIG. Figure 1In some examples, the vehicle 12 is implemented as an electric vehicle 12 (EV) and may include autonomous or semi-autonomous capabilities. Additionally or alternatively, the vehicle 12 may be a hybrid vehicle 12 that combines EV and internal combustion engine (ICE) components and capabilities. Furthermore, in some examples, the vehicle 12 may include fuel cell components and capabilities in addition to or in lieu of EV or ICE components and capabilities. Additionally, if desired, the vehicle 12 may include only an internal combustion engine, a fuel cell, or other power source.

[0032] Now refer to Figures 2 to 8 In the example shown, the vehicle 12 may include one or more seat belt assemblies 14 disposed within the vehicle. The seat belt assembly 14 includes a seat belt 16, a base retractor 18, a pretensioner 20, and an electromagnet 22. Figure 2 As best shown in FIG. 1 , the seat belt 16 is configured to secure a vehicle occupant and distribute impact forces across the vehicle occupant's body. The seat belt 16 is movable between an unfastened position and a fastened position (eg, Figure 2 ). In some examples, the safety belt 16 is a three-point safety belt 16, however, it can also be implemented as a five-point safety belt 16 and various other configurations. In the example where the safety belt 16 is a three-point safety belt 16, the safety belt 16 includes a lap belt portion 24, a shoulder belt portion 26, and a locking tongue portion 28, wherein the lap belt portion 24 is configured to be disposed on the waist and abdomen of the user when the safety belt 16 is in the buckled position, the shoulder belt portion 26 is configured to be disposed on the shoulder of the user in the buckled position, and the locking tongue portion 28 is configured to be inserted into the buckle 30 in the buckled position. The buckle 30 also includes at least one user-activated button to release the safety belt 16 from the buckled position. In some examples, the safety belt 16 is constructed of a mesh polyester material, however, it can also be implemented in various other configurations. In addition, the safety belt 16 must have a length that allows the safety belt 16 to secure occupants of various sizes.

[0033] Still reference Figures 2 to 8 In the example shown, the base retractor 18 is coupled to the seat belt 16 and is configured to allow the seat belt 16 to be extended to a desired length. More specifically, the base retractor 18 is coupled to the shoulder strap 26 of the seat belt 16. Figure 3As best shown in FIG. 1 , the base retractor 18 includes a first end portion 32 including a biasing device, a second end portion 34 disposed opposite the first end portion 32 and including a speed-based locking mechanism, and a third portion 36 disposed between the first end portion 32 and the second end portion 34 and including a spindle 38 coupled to the shoulder belt portion 26 of the safety belt 16. In some examples, the spindle 38 of the third portion 36 is fixedly coupled to the shoulder belt portion 26 of the safety belt 16 and is configured to rotate to reel the safety belt 16 onto or off the spindle 38. In some examples, the spindle 38 is generally cylindrical and may also define one or more holes therethrough. In some examples, the third portion 36 may also include various coupling portions configured to couple to the first end portion 32 and the second end portion 34.

[0034] The first end 32 may include a biasing member coupled to the spindle 38 of the third portion 36. In some examples, the biasing member is a coil spring configured to wind and unwind according to the rotation of the spindle 38. However, various biasing devices have been implemented. In addition, in some examples, when the user moves the seat belt 16 to the buckled position, the biasing device is tensioned so that when the tongue of the seat belt 16 is released from the buckle, the tension in the biasing device allows the seat belt 16 to automatically move to the unbuckled position. In addition, the tension provided by the biasing device allows the spindle 38 to release a sufficient length of the seat belt 16 according to the size of the occupant and does not allow the seat belt 16 to have additional slack in the buckled position. In addition, the first end 32 may also include a housing for the biasing device to prevent debris or other contaminants from interfering with the biasing device. In some examples, the housing may also define a plurality of holes configured to allow the first end portion 32 to be fixed to the third portion 36 and / or additional components.

[0035] Still reference Figure 3In the example shown in , the second end portion 34 is disposed on the opposite side of the third portion 36 from the first end portion 32. The second end portion 34 may also include a speed-based locking mechanism. In some examples, the speed-based locking mechanism includes a sprocket mechanism, an arm, and a free-rolling ball. The sprocket mechanism is fixedly coupled to the spindle 38 so that the rotation of the spindle 38 corresponds to the rotation of the sprocket mechanism. During normal vehicle operation, the arm remains in a non-contact position that allows the sprocket mechanism to rotate. However, during rapid vehicle deceleration, the ball moves so that the ball forces the arm into a contact position, which prevents the rotation of the spindle 38 mechanism and thus prevents the spindle 38 from rotating. Thus, the spindle 38 is prevented from allowing any further slack of the seat belt 16. Once the rapid vehicle deceleration ends and normal vehicle operation is resumed, the ball moves back, allowing the arm to move to the non-contact position, thereby allowing the spindle 38 to be relaxed. However, various other configurations are also implemented. In addition, it can also be implemented that the sprocket mechanism can be an electronic mechanism that similarly senses the rapid deceleration of the vehicle 12 and prevents the spindle 38 from moving. Additionally, a speed-based locking mechanism may be disposed at least partially within the housing to prevent debris or other contaminants from contacting the components.

[0036] Still reference Figure 3 In the example shown, the seat belt assembly 14 may also include a pretensioner 20. The pretensioner 20 is configured to retract some of the length of the seat belt 16 in the event of a collision. This retraction quickly restrains the occupant and reduces the amount of forward movement they have in a moderate or severe frontal collision. In addition, the length of the seat belt 16 retracted by the pretensioner 20 secures the vehicle occupant in position for additional safety features, such as airbags. In some examples, the pretensioner 20 is an electronic pretensioner 20, however, it can also be implemented that the pretensioner 20 can be a mechanical pretensioner 20 or a component having both an electronic pretensioner 20 and a mechanical pretensioner 20. In some examples, in operation, during a vehicle collision, a vehicle sensor can trigger an explosive pyrotechnic charge, which in turn moves a hidden piston. The spindle 38 is rotated by the movement of the piston, and the length of the seat belt 16 is reduced, which eliminates any slack and tightens the seat belt 16. In some examples, the electronic pretensioner 20 may employ a crash sensor, a computer module, and a pyrotechnic gas generator that is actuated in conjunction with air bag deployment. However, various other configurations are also implemented.

[0037] Reference now Figures 3 to 6In the example shown, the seat belt assembly 14 also includes an electromagnet 22. The electromagnet 22 as described herein uses only energy to generate resistance during a restraint event. This eliminates the need for constant extraction of high power. Different materials, wire sizes and housings can be used to achieve the desired electromagnetic resistance. In some examples, the electromagnet 22 is configured to be able to adjust the rotational resistance applied to the spindle 38 based on the body size of the vehicle occupant. In some examples, the electromagnet 22 is configured to achieve a continuous load of rotational resistance on the spindle 38 to prevent the spindle 38 from moving. The electromagnet 22 can use a physical or electronic linkage, a torsion bar as described in more detail below, or a gear system 46 as described in more detail below. In some examples, the electromagnet 22 is at least partially disposed in the spindle 38 of the third portion 36 of the base retractor 18.

[0038] Still reference Figure 3-5 In the example shown in , the electromagnet 22 is disposed in or near the base retractor 18. Further, in some examples, the electromagnet 22 is disposed between the third portion 36 and the first end 32 of the base retractor 18. Also, in some examples, the electromagnet 22 is at least partially disposed in the spindle 38 of the third portion 36 of the base retractor 18. However, it may also be implemented that the electromagnet 22 may be disposed near or adjacent to the spindle 38.

[0039] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As best shown in , the electromagnet 22 includes a winding base 40, a winding core 42, and a disk 44. The winding base 40 includes a north pole (N pole) and a south pole (S pole) coupled to either side of the disk 44. The winding core 42 is disposed between the N pole and the S pole of the winding base 40 and is configured to support a wire for supplying current wound thereon. In some examples, the current supplied to the wire causes the disk 44 to rotate, which provides rotational resistance to the spindle 38. However, various other configurations have been implemented.

[0040] In some examples, the seat belt assembly 14 also includes a torsion bar. When present, the torsion bar is coupled to the base retractor 18. The torsion bar is configured to apply a pre-specified baseline load to the spindle 38. In this way, by incorporating a base level torsion bar into the system, the required resistance force of the electromagnet 122 can be reduced. Specifically, in some examples, the torsion bar is a small cylindrical rod of relatively soft metal disposed in the spindle 38. When a vehicle collision event occurs, the continuous load on the seat belt 16 will cause the torsion bar to twist and rotate and prevent the seat belt 16 from moving. In doing so, the torsion of the torsion bar will dissipate some of the energy of the collision and reduce the resistance force load required to prevent the spindle 38 from rotating through the electromagnet 22.

[0041] In addition, in Figure 6 In some examples of the illustrated examples, the seat belt assembly 14 also includes a gear system 46. The gear system 46 is coupled to the base retractor 18 and is configured to reduce the base resistance force load required by the electromagnet 22. In the illustrated example, the gear system 46 includes a plurality of gears coupled to each other that mechanically reduce the load required to prevent the spindle 38 from moving. For example, the gear system 46 can be implemented in a load limiter 47 and / or can be described as a meshing gear 49. In the illustrated example, the load limiter 47 is disposed between the electromagnet 22 and the spindle 38 and can include an internal gear device that inhibits the rotation of the spindle 38. In addition, the gear system 46 can include two or more gears 49 that mesh with each other and inhibit the rotation of the spindle 38. For example, a first gear 49 can be fixed to rotate with the spindle 38, and a second gear 49 can mesh with the first gear 49 and be rotatably supported by the housing of the retractor 18 near the spindle 38. Alternatively, one of the gears 49 may be supported by the winding base 40 and may mesh with another gear 49 that is rotatably supported by the housing of the retractor 18 (if the load limiter 47 is not used) or by the housing of the load limiter 47. The use of the load limiter 47 and / or the gear 49 reduces the load required to limit the rotation of the spindle 38 by the electromagnet 22, thereby reducing the power consumed by the electromagnet 22 during operation.

[0042] Reference now Figure 7 and Figure 8 In some examples, the electromagnet 122 is similar to that described above and as Figure 3-6 The electromagnet 22 is shown such that the electromagnet 122 is configured to adjust the rotational resistance applied to the spindle 138 based on the size of the vehicle occupant. Figure 8In the example shown, the electromagnet 122 is completely contained within the mandrel 138. In the example shown, the electromagnet 122 includes a cylindrical winding core 142 having an N pole and an S pole. In addition, in some examples, the wire is wound on the winding core 142 in the length direction and activated by a variable current source to change the rotation resistance. The electromagnet 122 can be mechanically coupled to the mandrel 138 so that when the electromagnet 122 is energized, the rotation of the electromagnet 122 limits the rotation of the mandrel 138. That is, when the seat belt 16 is forced (i.e., during a vehicle impact event), when the mandrel 138 is rotated by the seat belt 16, the electromagnet 122 can be energized and rotated in the opposite direction to counteract these forces. Alternatively, the electromagnet 122 can be disposed within the mandrel 138 and frictionally connected to the mandrel 138 so that the outer diameter of the electromagnet 122 is frictionally engaged with the inner diameter of the mandrel 138. Thus, if the electromagnet 122 rotates in a direction opposite to the spindle 138 when forced by the seat belt 16 , the rotation of the electromagnet 122 will limit the rotation of the spindle 138 due to the frictional engagement between the electromagnet 122 and the spindle 138 .

[0043] Refer again Figures 1 to 9 In the example shown, the seat belt system 10 also includes a sensing system 100 that is configured to sense the body size of a vehicle occupant on a vehicle seat. In some examples, the sensing system 100 is configured to measure and / or sense the biometrics (i.e., measurable physical characteristics) of a vehicle occupant on each vehicle seat in the vehicle 12. In order to measure the physical characteristics, the sensing system 100 may include various sensors. In some examples, the sensing system 100 includes one or more weight sensing mechanisms or weight sensors 101 to measure the weight of the vehicle occupant. In addition, the sensing system 100 includes one or more height sensing mechanisms or height sensors 103 to measure the height of the vehicle occupant. Furthermore, in some examples, the sensing system 100 may include multiple cameras to provide visual information about the vehicle occupant. In some examples, the sensing system 100 also includes a sensing mechanism for providing information related to the vehicle seat position data 210. The vehicle seat position sensing mechanism may include a camera for visual information related to the seat position, or may include an internal sensor that automatically senses the vehicle seat position continuously or at any time when the vehicle seat position may change. As Figure 2 As shown, the height sensor 103 is a camera capable of sensing the height of a vehicle occupant and the position of a vehicle seat.

[0044] Still reference Figure 1-9In the example shown in , the sensing system 100 is coupled to a vehicle processor 200, and the vehicle processor 200 is configured to collect and / or store vehicle data 202 of the vehicle 12. It may also be implemented that the vehicle processor 200 may transmit any or all of the vehicle data 202 to the controller 400 and / or the server 300 for further processing and / or evaluation. It may also be implemented that the vehicle processor 200, the controller 400, and / or the server 300 may be continuously and / or periodically updated so that the vehicle data 202 is updated in real time. Although not specifically shown, the processor 200 may include or contain storage hardware that stores data received from the sensing system 100.

[0045] The vehicle data 202 may include a vehicle occupant weight 204, a vehicle occupant height 206, visual data 208, vehicle seat position data 210, and collision detection data 212. However, any other data measured and / or sensed by the vehicle 12 may also be stored in the vehicle processor 200. The vehicle occupant weight 204 generally relates to any data sensed by the sensing system 100 relating to the load of an occupant to be secured by the seat belt assembly 14. Additionally, the vehicle occupant height 206 generally relates to any data sensed by the sensing system 100 relating to the height of an occupant to be secured by the seat belt assembly 14. In some examples, the visual data 208 generally relates to any clothing items, such as a hat that may affect the measured vehicle occupant height 206 data, additional items placed on the vehicle seat or vehicle occupant that may affect the measured vehicle occupant weight 204, or a vehicle occupant posture that may affect the vehicle occupant height 206 or other information related to the vehicle occupant. Additionally, the vehicle seat position data 210 generally relates to any data related to the position of a vehicle seat, including, but not limited to, a seat back position and / or a seat base position.

[0046] The collision detection data 212 generally relates to data related to whether a collision event has occurred with the vehicle 12. In some examples, the collision detection data 212 includes vehicle speed, vehicle acceleration, vehicle position, etc. Additionally, in some examples, the collision detection data 212 includes data regarding whether a collision is imminent and the location of the collision relative to the vehicle 12. More specifically, the collision detection data 212 may include data collected from vehicle cameras or sensors inside or outside the vehicle 12.

[0047] Further references Figure 1-9, the server 300 is configured as a network and / or cloud-based system that communicates with one or both of the vehicle processor 200 and the controller 400. In addition, in some examples, the server 300 is configured to determine the desired load level of the electromagnet 22, 122 based on one or more of the vehicle occupant weight 204, the vehicle occupant height 206, and the visual data 208. In some examples, the server 300 applies an algorithm using the vehicle occupant height 206 and / or the vehicle occupant weight 204 to determine the desired load level of the electromagnet 22, 122. The desired load level of the electromagnet 22, 122 can be determined when the user activates (such as buckling the seat belt 16), or can be determined continuously. In some examples, the desired load level of the electromagnet 22, 122 is based on the biometrics of the vehicle occupant and any vehicle occupant preferences in the cloud-based profile stored on the server 300. In addition, it can be implemented that the server 300 can store any vehicle data 202 related to the vehicle occupant as encrypted information to protect the privacy of the vehicle occupant. The vehicle data 202 and / or occupant preferences may be continuously updated by the user and / or the server 300 .

[0048] For example, when a vehicle occupant is seated and the vehicle 12 is activated, the sensing system 100 may activate and transmit the vehicle occupant weight 204, the vehicle occupant height 206, and the visual data 208 to the server 300. The server 300 may then determine the desired load level of the electromagnet 22, 122 to counteract the force applied to the retractor 18 in the event that the vehicle 12 experiences an impact event. In some examples, if the first vehicle occupant weight 204 is greater than the second vehicle occupant height 204, the server 300 may determine that the desired load level of the electromagnet 22, 122 and the load applied by the electromagnet 22, 122 will be higher for the seat belt assembly 14 corresponding to the first vehicle occupant. Additionally, in some examples, if the first vehicle occupant height 206 is greater than the second vehicle occupant height 206, the server 300 may determine that the desired load level of the electromagnet 22, 122 will be higher for the seat belt assembly 14 corresponding to the first vehicle occupant. Additionally, in some examples, visual cues may also factor into the desired load level of the electromagnet 22 , 122 , including, but not limited to, items of clothing (such as a hat) that may affect the measured vehicle occupant height 206 data, additional items placed on the vehicle seat or vehicle occupant that may affect the measured vehicle occupant weight 204 , or vehicle occupant posture that may affect the vehicle data 202 and / or the desired load level of the electromagnet 22 , 122 .

[0049] In some examples, the server 300 is further configured to determine whether an impact is imminent and determine a desired load level to be applied based on the impact detection data 212 (e.g., impact direction). For example, if the server 300 determines that a collision is imminent based on vehicle camera data showing another vehicle rapidly approaching the vehicle 12 from behind, the server 300 can determine the desired amount of resistive force to be applied to the spindle 38 via the electromagnet 22, 122 in anticipation of the collision to provide optimal positioning and safety for the vehicle occupants.

[0050] In addition, the controller 400 is a local vehicle controller installed in the vehicle, connected to one or more of the vehicle processor 200 and the server 300. In some examples, the controller 400 is a seat belt assembly controller, so that the controller 400 is only configured to control the functions of the seat belt assembly 100. However, it can also be implemented that the controller 400 can be configured to control additional vehicle functions, including but not limited to vehicle speed limit or airbag functions. In addition, the controller 400 is configured to apply the desired load level of the electromagnet 22, 122 to the electromagnet 22, 122. More specifically, the controller 400 applies the desired load level of the electromagnet 22, 122 to each seat belt 16 assembly of the vehicle 12. In some examples, the load applied to each seat belt 16 assembly of the vehicle 12 is different and customized for a specific vehicle occupant based on specific biometrics and / or occupant profile information. In some examples, the controller 400 is configured to apply a DC current to the electromagnet 22, 122 to limit the movement of the spindle 38. The DC current source can be powered by an auxiliary power module, a vehicle battery, or other power source (not shown).

[0051] Reference now Fig. 91. The exemplary functional block diagram shown in FIG. 1 shows an exemplary functional block diagram. In some examples, when activated, the sensing system 100 senses the vehicle occupant weight 204 at step 500, senses the vehicle seat position at step 502, and senses the collision detection data 212 at step 504, and sends the data to the vehicle processor 200. At step 506, the vehicle processor 200 may also receive information related to a cloud-based profile for one or more occupants stored on the server 300. The vehicle occupant weight 204, the vehicle seat position data 210, the collision detection data 212, and the information related to the saved vehicle occupant profile are sent to the server 300. The server 300 is then configured to determine the desired load limit to be applied to the spindle 38 of the base retractor at step 508. In some examples, the server 300 may use a force lookup table or other application to make the determination. Once the desired load limit is determined, the controller 400 is configured to apply the load by switching the DC current source at step 510. At step 512, the DC current source may be powered from the auxiliary power module. Finally, at step 514 , a DC current source is sent to the electromagnets 22 , 122 to limit / prevent movement of the spindle 38 .

[0052] Current seat belt restraint systems are designed to balance between anthropomorphic test devices (ATDs) of various sizes to meet performance targets due to mechanical limitations, which is an undesirable restraint system for each occupant. For example, ATDs of various sizes include occupants of various sizes, including adults (5th percentile females, 50th percentile males, 95th percentile males) and child occupants. The seat belt system 100 using electromagnets 22, 122 described herein can achieve a customizable and continuous load restriction system customized for each occupant's size. Compared with current technology, the use of electromagnets 22, 122 achieves a more dynamic, customizable system. Using electromagnets 22, 122 to apply resistance allows load to be dynamically adjusted to produce constant loads, gradually rise, gradually decline, and multiple other load curves. This also enables the seat belt assembly 14 to adapt to them based on the biometrics of each occupant. The seat belt system 10 described herein helps improve the vehicle safety level by personalizing the load based on the occupant's biometrics, and allows easier fine-tuning in the seat belt system 10.

[0053] Many embodiments have been described. However, it should be understood that various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, other embodiments are within the scope of the appended claims.

[0054] The foregoing description is provided for the purpose of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present disclosure. The individual elements or features of a particular configuration are generally not limited to that particular configuration, but are interchangeable where applicable and can be used in a selected configuration, even if not specifically shown or described. It can also be varied in many ways. Such variations should not be considered as departing from the present disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A safety belt assembly for a vehicle, comprising: a seat belt configured to secure a vehicle occupant and to distribute impact forces across the body of the vehicle occupant; a base retractor coupled to the seat belt and configured to allow the seat belt to be extended to a desired length, the base retractor comprising: a first end portion, the first end portion comprising a biasing device; a second end portion disposed opposite the first end portion and comprising a speed-based locking mechanism; and a third portion disposed between the first end portion and the second end portion and comprising a spindle coupled to the seat belt; a pretensioner coupled to the base retractor and configured to take up slack in the seat belt to ensure proper positioning of the vehicle occupant; and An electromagnet is disposed within or adjacent to the base retractor and is configured to adjust the rotational resistance applied to the spindle based on the size of a vehicle occupant. 2 . The seat belt assembly of claim 1 , wherein the electromagnet is disposed between the third portion and the second end portion of the base retractor.

3. The seat belt assembly of claim 1, wherein the electromagnet is at least partially disposed within the spindle of the third portion of the base retractor.

4. The seat belt assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The electromagnet includes a winding base, a winding core and a disk.

5. The seat belt assembly of claim 1 further comprising a torsion bar coupled to the base retractor.

6. The seat belt assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The seat belt assembly is a three-point seat belt assembly.

7. The seat belt assembly of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of gears coupled to the base retractor and configured to reduce a base load of the electromagnet.

8. The seat belt assembly of claim 1 further comprising a sensing system configured to determine a size of a vehicle occupant in the vehicle seat.

9. The seat belt assembly according to claim 8, further comprising: a vehicle processor configured to store one or more of the vehicle occupant weight and the vehicle occupant height; and a server communicatively coupled to the vehicle processor and configured to determine a desired load level for the electromagnet based on one or more of the vehicle occupant weight and the vehicle occupant height.

10. A vehicle comprising the seat belt assembly according to claim 1.

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