Seatbelt locking mechanism to prevent counterfeit seatbelt locks

Abstract

A seat belt locking assembly 100 is provided to prevent improper locking of the seat belt, to improve the visibility of seat belt components, and to warn of the seat belt locking process. The assembly 100 comprises a tongue 102, a buckle 103 with a channel 104, at least one groove 106 on the tongue 102 or the channel 104, and at least one rib section 108 on the tongue 102 or the channel 104. The groove 106 is designed to align with the rib section 108 when the tongue 102 is folded into the buckle 103, thus preventing improper locking. Furthermore, the dimensions of the groove and rib vary for different seats and vehicles, allowing for unique combinations.Furthermore, the arrangement 100 includes a proximity sensor 110 in the tongue 102, which activates a light 112 on the B-pillar 114 when it is nearby, in order to improve visibility in low-light conditions. The light 112 is deactivated when the seat belt is engaged.

Description

DISCLOSURE AREA

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to safety systems for vehicles and in particular to an improved seat belt locking arrangement to prevent the use of counterfeit alarm stoppers and to increase the safety of the occupants. BACKGROUND

[0002] Seat belts are widely recognized as one of the most effective safety devices in vehicles, as they significantly reduce the risk of injury and death in a collision. Despite numerous campaigns and regulations urging the use of seat belts, a considerable portion of the population still neglects to fasten them while driving or riding in a vehicle. This persistent problem continues to be a major concern for road safety authorities and car manufacturers. Failure to wear seat belts not only endangers individual occupants but also contributes to a higher number of fatalities in road accidents worldwide. Furthermore, the effectiveness of seat belts is compromised when they are not fastened correctly or when counterfeit devices are used to bypass safety systems.

[0003] A significant portion of the population continues to use counterfeit seatbelt alarm stoppers to disable seatbelt warnings, thereby increasing the risk of accidents and resulting injuries. These fake devices, often marketed as comfort enhancers, trick the vehicle's safety system into thinking the seatbelt is fastened when it is not. This dangerous practice not only negates the intended safety benefits of seatbelts but also gives occupants a false sense of security. The prevalence of such counterfeit devices on the market poses a major challenge to automotive safety efforts and undermines the progress made in occupant protection over the years.

[0004] The lack of a direct means of detecting counterfeit seatbelt buckles and warning occupants further exacerbates the problem. Conventional seatbelt systems rely on simple mechanical or electronic sensors that can be easily fooled by counterfeit devices. Therefore, it is difficult for vehicle safety systems to distinguish between genuine seatbelt use and the use of counterfeit buckles or alarm stoppers. As a result, occupants may unknowingly endanger themselves by using counterfeit devices, believing they are still protected by the vehicle's safety systems. The inability to detect and prevent the use of such devices represents a critical gap in current automotive safety technology.

[0005] Furthermore, there is no direct way to see the seatbelt tongue in the dark, which can make it difficult to locate and fasten the seatbelts, especially at night or in dimly lit environments. This problem not only causes inconvenience but can also discourage the proper use of seatbelts, particularly in situations where visibility is limited. The difficulty of finding and correctly fastening the seatbelt in the dark can lead occupants to either forgo wearing seatbelts altogether or to fasten them incorrectly, both of which significantly compromise safety.

[0006] Traditional approaches to addressing these problems include increased public awareness campaigns, stricter enforcement of seatbelt laws, and improvements to seatbelt design for comfort and ease of use. Some vehicle manufacturers have introduced more advanced seatbelt reminder systems that use weight sensors in the seats to detect occupants and issue audible and visual warnings if the seatbelts are not fastened. However, existing systems can still be circumvented by determined individuals using counterfeit devices or simply by ignoring the warnings.

[0007] A prior art document (CN107856634A) proposes a device for anti-fraud in motor vehicle seat belts that employs a three-stage identification procedure to prevent the insertion of non-authentic buckles into a socket. The prior art system includes mechanical and electronic verification steps to authenticate the seat belt buckle before the alarm is deactivated. However, the prior art is complex and involves multiple mechanical and electronic components, as the three-stage identification procedure for authenticating the seat belt buckle adds further complexity to the manufacturing and maintenance of the system. This complexity can lead to increased production costs, potential sources of error, and problems with user acceptance.Furthermore, the system's complexity can complicate implementation in various vehicle models and make retrofitting in existing vehicles more difficult. Additionally, the current state of the art does not address the issue of visibility in poor lighting conditions.

[0008] Therefore, the aforementioned problems with the locking mechanism of seat belts must be solved. GOALS

[0009] A primary purpose of this disclosure is to provide a seat belt locking arrangement that prevents the use of counterfeit components in the seat belt locking mechanism and increases vehicle safety by ensuring the engagement of a tongue in a corresponding belt buckle.

[0010] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide grooves and corresponding sections in the tongue and a channel of the belt buckle, which prevent the use of a false belt buckle or false tongue, thereby increasing the effectiveness of seat belt systems.

[0011] Another purpose of the present disclosure is to improve the visibility of the seat belt tongue or buckle in poor visibility conditions, in order to increase user comfort and promote the use of the seat belt.

[0012] Another purpose of the present disclosure is to provide a warning system that alerts users when the seat belt is not properly fastened, thereby promoting the consistent use of seat belts.

[0013] Another objective of the present disclosure is to create a seat belt fastening system with unique configurations for different seats and vehicles in order to prevent misuse and ensure a proper fit. SUMMARY

[0014] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a seat belt locking arrangement is provided which prevents counterfeit seat belt locking. The seat belt locking arrangement comprises a tongue and a buckle configured to engage with the tongue to lock the seat belt. The buckle includes a channel. At least one groove is arranged on the tongue or the channel. At least one rib section is arranged on the tongue or the channel. The at least one groove is configured to align with the at least one rib section when the tongue is inserted into the buckle, thereby preventing counterfeit seat belt locking by inserting a counterfeit tongue into the buckle.

[0015] The seatbelt locking mechanism also includes various configurations of grooves and rib sections distributed between the tongue and the channel. In one configuration, two grooves are located on the tongue and two rib sections on the channel. Alternatively, the two rib sections can be located on the tongue and the two grooves on the channel. In another configuration, one groove and one rib section are located on the tongue, while another groove and another rib section are located in the channel, or vice versa.

[0016] The seat belt locking mechanism is configured to prevent the tongue of one seat from engaging with the buckle of another seat in the same vehicle by varying the dimensions of the grooves and rib sections on the tongue and channel for different seats. Furthermore, the dimensions of the grooves and rib sections for one or more seats in a first vehicle differ from those of one or more seats in a second vehicle, thus ensuring vehicle-specific seat belt compatibility.

[0017] To improve visibility and user comfort, the seat belt locking mechanism includes a light mounted on one of the vehicle's B-pillars. The light is configured to illuminate when the tongue is near the light, ensuring the buckle is visible even in poor visibility conditions. The light deactivates when the tongue is folded in the buckle, thus serving as a warning light.

[0018] The seat belt assembly also includes a proximity sensor located in the tongue. The proximity sensor is configured to activate the light by coupling with the light when the tongue is near the light, and to deactivate the light by decoupling when the tongue is engaged in the buckle.

[0019] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method for locking a seat belt is provided. The method comprises assembling a seat belt locking assembly with a tongue and a buckle having a channel. At least one groove is arranged on the tongue or the channel, and at least one rib section is arranged on the tongue or the channel. The method comprises inserting the tongue into the buckle, thereby aligning the groove with the rib section, and engaging the seat belt when the groove and the rib section are aligned.

[0020] The method further comprises detecting the proximity of the tongue to a light mounted on a vehicle's B-pillar using a proximity sensor on the tongue. When the tongue is near the light, the proximity sensor activates the light by establishing a connection between the sensor and the light.

[0021] The procedure also includes deactivating the light when the tongue is fixed in the channel by decoupling the proximity sensor from the light.

[0022] The seat belt locking mechanism of this disclosure offers several advantages. The mechanism effectively prevents the use of counterfeit seat belt components and enhances vehicle safety. The unique groove and rib design, tailored to each seat and vehicle, ensures a proper fit and prevents misuse. The presence light improves visibility in low-light conditions and encourages seat belt use. The proximity warning system reminds users to fasten their seat belts correctly.

[0023] The preceding sections were given as a general introduction and are not intended to limit the scope of the following claims. The described embodiments, along with further advantages, are best understood by reference to the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. Figure 1 is a schematic representation of a safety belt locking arrangement with a tongue having two rib sections and a belt buckle with two grooves according to the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 2 is a schematic representation of a safety belt locking arrangement with a tongue having two grooves and a belt buckle with two rib sections according to the present disclosure. Fig. 3 and Fig. Figure 4 shows schematic representations of a safety belt locking arrangement comprising a tongue with a rib section and a groove and a belt buckle with a rib section and a groove according to the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 5 is a schematic representation of a seat belt locking arrangement with a light on a B-pillar according to the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 6 is a flowchart showing a method for locking seat belts in accordance with the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0024] Aspects of the present invention are best understood by reference to the description contained herein. All aspects described herein will be better appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction with the following descriptions. However, it should be understood that the following descriptions, while indicating preferred aspects and numerous specific details thereof, are given for illustrative purposes only and should not be treated as limitations. Changes and modifications may be made within the scope described herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, and the present invention includes all such modifications.

[0025] The present disclosure provides a seat belt locking arrangement for preventing tampering with the seat belt locking mechanism. The seat belt locking arrangement comprises a tongue and a buckle. The buckle is configured to engage with the tongue to lock the seat belt. The buckle is provided with a channel. The seat belt locking arrangement further comprises at least one groove arranged on the tongue and / or the channel, and at least one rib section arranged on the tongue and / or the channel. The at least one groove is configured to align with the at least one rib section when the tongue is inserted into the buckle, thereby preventing tampering with the seat belt locking mechanism by inserting a counterfeit tongue into the buckle.The components of the seatbelt locking assembly work together to create a unique locking mechanism that can only be engaged when a specific tongue is inserted into a corresponding buckle. The groove and rib section alignment is specific to each genuine tongue and buckle pair, making it extremely difficult for counterfeit tongues to engage correctly. This unique groove and rib arrangement acts as a physical barrier against unauthorized or counterfeit components. Accordingly, the seatbelt locking assembly ensures that only genuine seatbelt components can be used, significantly reducing the risk of accidents caused by faulty or counterfeit equipment.It should be noted that genuine seat belt components are original, manufacturer-approved parts configured to meet safety standards and ensure optimal performance in the seat belt locking assembly.

[0026] The seat belt locking assembly also includes a light that illuminates the tongue and buckle and provides a warning until the seat belt is engaged. Accordingly, the seat belt locking assembly serves as a visual indicator and warning signal for proper engagement, helping users confirm that the seat belt is securely fastened. The tongue of the seat belt locking assembly includes a proximity sensor configured to activate the light when the tongue is near it and deactivate it when the tongue is engaged in the buckle.Furthermore, the shape and size of the groove and rib section are adapted to different vehicle models or seating positions, further increasing safety by preventing seat belts from being used from one seat to another and from one vehicle to another, where they may not be compatible.

[0027] The present disclosure also provides a method for locking seat belts using the seat arrangement.

[0028] In the Fig. Figures 1-4 show a seat belt locking assembly 100 configured to prevent the use of counterfeit seat belt tongues or buckles. The seat belt locking assembly 100 comprises a tongue 102 and a buckle 103. The buckle 103 is configured to engage with the tongue 102 to lock the seat belt. The tongue 102 is attached to a seat belt. The buckle 103 is mounted on or near a seat frame. The buckle 103 includes a channel 104. The buckle 103 further comprises a spring, a push button, a locking component, a cantilever, and other associated parts (not shown in the figures) known from the prior art. When the tongue 102 is inserted into the belt buckle 103, the tongue 102 presses against the locking component, which then engages and securely locks the tongue 102 to the belt buckle 103.Channel 104 is designed such that the tongue 102 is guided within the buckle 103. The spring maintains tension on the locking component, ensuring that the locking component remains engaged with the tongue 102 until it is released. Pressing the push button moves the lever, which releases the locking component by compressing the spring, allowing the tongue 102 to be withdrawn from the buckle 103 and the seat belt to be released. It should be noted that this disclosure encompasses any tongue and buckle configuration that meets the described functional requirements, including, but not limited to, variations in structure, material, and construction, as long as the tongue and buckle work together to securely lock and unlock as described below. All such modifications and equivalents are said to fall within the scope of this disclosure.

[0029] To assemble counterfeit seat belts, the seat belt locking assembly 100 also includes at least one groove 106 and at least one rib section 108. The at least one groove 106 is arranged either on the tongue 102 or the channel 104. Similarly, the at least one rib section 108 is arranged either on the tongue 102 or the channel 104. The groove 106 is designed to align with the rib section 108 when the tongue 102 is inserted into the buckle 103. The alignment of the groove 106 with the rib section 108 prevents counterfeit seat belt locking by preventing the insertion of a counterfeit tongue into the buckle 103.

[0030] The groove 106 and the rib section 108 are arranged in various configurations between the tongue 102 and the channel 104. In one embodiment, as shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, two grooves 106A, 106B are arranged on the tongue 102 and two rib sections 108A, 108B are arranged on the channel 104. The two grooves 106A, 106B comprise a first groove 106A and a second groove 106B. The two rib sections 108A, 108B comprise a first rib section 108A and a second rib section 108B. In some embodiments, the first groove 106A and the second groove 106B are arranged on an insertion section 105A of the tongue 102 at left and right sections, respectively. Similarly, the first rib section 108A and the second rib section 108B are positioned on the left and right sections of the channel 104, respectively. The first groove 106A is designed to align with the first rib section 108A. The second groove 106B is designed to align with the second rib section 108B.It should be noted that the terms “first” and “second” are used to clearly distinguish between each groove-rib pair (106A with 108A and 106B with 108B).

[0031] In another embodiment, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the two rib sections 108A, 108B on the tongue 102 and the two grooves 106A, 106B (in Fig. (2 not visible) are arranged on the channel 104. In some embodiments, the first rib section 108A and the second rib section 108B are arranged on the insertion section 105A of the tongue 102 at the left and right side sections, respectively. Similarly, the first groove 106A and the second groove 106B are positioned on the channel 104 at the left and right sections, respectively.

[0032] In another embodiment, a groove and a rib section are arranged on the tongue 102 and another groove and another rib section on the channel 104, and vice versa. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the first groove 106A and the second rib section 108B are located on the tongue 102. In some embodiments, the first groove 106A is arranged on a left-hand section of the insertion section 105A of the tongue 102. The second rib section 108B is arranged on a right-hand section of the insertion section 105A of the tongue 102. The second groove 106B and the first rib section 108A are located on the channel 104. In some embodiments, the second groove 106B is arranged on a right-hand section of the channel 104. The first rib section 108A is arranged on a left-hand section of the channel 104.

[0033] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the first groove 106A and the second rib section 108B are arranged on the channel 104. The second groove 106B and the first rib section 108A are positioned on the tongue 102. In some embodiments, the second groove 106B is arranged on the right-hand section of the insertion section 105A of the tongue 102. The first rib section 108A is arranged on the left-hand side section of the insertion section 105A of the tongue 102. In some embodiments, the first groove 106A is arranged on the left-hand section of the channel 104. The second rib section 108B is located on the right-hand section of the channel 104.

[0034] In some embodiments, the two grooves 106A, 106B can have the same size and shape. In some embodiments, the two grooves 106A, 106B can have different sizes and shapes. In some embodiments, the two rib sections 108A, 108B can have the same size and shape. In some embodiments, the two rib sections 108A, 108B can have different sizes and shapes. A person skilled in the art can determine the size and shape of the two grooves 106A, 106B and the two rib sections 108A, 108B without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0035] In some embodiments, the dimension of the at least one groove 106 on at least one of the tongues 102 or the channel 104 and the at least one rib section 108 on at least one of the tongues 102 or the channel 104 for a first seat differs from the dimension of the at least one groove 106 on at least one of the tongues 102 or the channel 104 and the at least one rib section 108 on at least one of the tongues 102 or the channel 104 for a second seat, thereby preventing the tongue 102 of one seat from engaging with the belt buckle 103 of another seat in the same vehicle. It should be noted that the dimension refers to the size and shape of the groove 106 and the rib section 108.

[0036] In some embodiments, the dimension of the at least one groove 106 on at least one tongue 102 or channel 104 and the at least one rib section 108 on at least one tongue 102 or channel 104 for one or more seats of a first vehicle differs from the dimension of the at least one groove 106 on at least one tongue 102 or channel 104 and the at least one rib section 108 on at least one tongue 102 or channel 104 for one or more seats of a second vehicle. Accordingly, the present disclosure provides a unique seat belt locking arrangement for each vehicle and each vehicle type.

[0037] With reference to the Fig. 1-4 shows Fig. 5 The seat belt locking assembly 100 with a light 112 on the B-pillar of the vehicle. The seat belt assembly also includes the light 112, which is mounted on the B-pillar 114 of the vehicle. The light 112 is configured to be activated and illuminate when the tongue 102 is near the light 112, thereby improving the visibility of the belt buckle 103 and / or the tongue 102 in poor visibility conditions. Once the tongue 102 is bent in the belt buckle 103, the light 112 is deactivated. As in, for example, Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the seat belt assembly also includes a proximity sensor 110, which is located in the tongue 102. In some embodiments, the proximity sensor 110 is located in a supporting section 105B of the tongue 102. A person skilled in the art can determine a suitable location for positioning the proximity sensor 110 in the tongue 102. The proximity sensor 110 is configured to activate the light 112 by establishing a pairing with it. Once the tongue 102 is bent in the belt buckle 103, the proximity sensor 110 releases the pairing with the light 112, resulting in the deactivation of the light 112. In some embodiments, the pairing between the proximity sensor 110 and the light 112 is established via wireless communication, including, but not limited to, infrared, Bluetooth, or radio frequency technology. In some embodiments, the light 112 is activated so that it illuminates in one of the following modes, e.g.B. flashing, strobe, pulsating, and dimming. When light 112 is activated, it ensures better visibility of the user, especially in poor lighting conditions. Light 112 not only makes it easier for the user to locate and fasten the seat belt, but also serves as a warning system. As soon as the tongue 102 is bent in the buckle 103, the light is deactivated or switched off.

[0038] With reference to the Fig. 1-5 shows Fig.Figure 6 shows a flowchart illustrating a method for locking seat belts according to the present disclosure. The method begins with step 602, where the seat belt locking assembly 100 is provided. The seat belt locking assembly 100 comprises the tongue 102 and the belt buckle 103 with the channel 104. At least one groove 106 is arranged either on the tongue 102 or the channel 104, and at least one rib section 108 is arranged either on the tongue or the channel.

[0039] In step 604, the tongue 102 is bent into the buckle 103 so that the groove 106 can align with the rib section 108. The groove 106 and the rib section 108 are configured to align with each other in a unique way, making it impossible to insert a counterfeit tongue into the buckle 103.

[0040] In step 606, the procedure involves locking the seat belt when the groove 106 and the rib section 108 are aligned. This ensures that only one specific tongue can be engaged in the belt buckle.

[0041] The method further comprises detecting, using the proximity sensor 110 arranged on the tongue 102, the proximity of the tongue 102 to the light 112 arranged on the B-pillar 114 of the vehicle, activating the light 112 to illuminate by establishing a pairing between the proximity sensor 110 and the light 112 when the tongue 102 is near the light 112, and deactivating the light 112 when the tongue 102 is fixed in the channel 104 by disconnecting the proximity sensor 110 from the light 112.

[0042] The Seat Belt Locking System 100 offers numerous advantages over conventional systems. By preventing the use of counterfeit buckles, it significantly increases the safety of vehicle occupants. The unique configuration of grooves and ribs for each seat and vehicle eliminates the possibility of using seat belts from one vehicle in another, thus ensuring a correct fit and optimal safety performance. The integrated lighting system improves usability in low-light conditions and encourages consistent seat belt use.

[0043] The seat belt locking assembly 100 is not limited to use in private vehicles. It can also be used in commercial vehicles, buses, aircraft, and other means of transport where occupant safety is paramount.

[0044] The embodiments of the present invention disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not limiting. Other embodiments are possible, and modifications to the embodiments may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. As such, these embodiments are merely an illustration of the inventive concepts contained herein. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] CN 107856634A

[0007]

Claims

[1] Seat belt locking assembly (100) which prevents counterfeit seat belt locking, comprising: a tongue (102); a seat belt buckle (103) configured to engage with the tongue (102) to lock the seat belt, the seat belt buckle (103) comprising a channel (104); at least one groove (106) arranged on the tongue (102) or the canal (104); and at least one rib segment (108) which is arranged on the tongue (102) or the canal (104), wherein the at least one groove (106) is configured to align with the at least one rib section (108) when the tongue (102) is inserted into the belt buckle (103), thereby preventing a false seat belt locking by inserting a false tongue into the belt buckle (103). [2] Seat belt locking arrangement (100) according to claim 1, wherein the at least one groove (106) and the at least one rib section (108) between the tongue (102) and the channel (104) are distributed in one of the following configurations: two grooves (106A, 106B) are arranged on the tongue (102) and two rib sections (108A, 108B) are arranged on the canal (104); the two rib sections (108A, 108B) are arranged on the tongue (102) and the two grooves (106A, 106B) on the canal (104); and a groove (106A) and a rib section (108B) on the tongue (102) and another groove (106B) and another rib section (108A) in the canal (104) and vice versa. [3] Seat belt locking arrangement according to claim 1, wherein a dimension of the at least one groove (106) on at least one of the tongue (102) or channel (104) and of the at least one rib section (108) on at least one of the tongue (102) or channel (104) for a first seat differs from a dimension of the at least one groove (106) on at least one of the tongue (102) or channel (104) and of the at least one rib section (108) on at least one of the tongue (102) or channel (104) for a second seat, thereby preventing the tongue (102) of one seat from engaging in the seat belt buckle (103) of another seat in an identical vehicle. [4] Seat belt locking arrangement according to claim 1, wherein a dimension of the at least one groove (106) on at least one of the tongue (102) or the channel (104); and of the at least one rib section (108) on at least one of the tongue (102) or the channel (104) for one or more seats of a first vehicle differs from a dimension of the at least one groove (106) on at least one of the tongue (102) or the channel (104); and of the at least one rib section (108) on at least one of the tongue (102) or the channel (104) for one or more seats of a second vehicle. [5] The seat belt locking arrangement according to claim 1 further comprises: a light (112) positioned on a B-pillar (114) of a vehicle, wherein the light (112) is configured to be activated to illuminate when the tongue (102) is near the light (112) to ensure visibility of the belt buckle in poor visibility conditions, and to be deactivated when the tongue (102) is fastened in the belt buckle (103). [6] The seat belt locking arrangement according to claim 5 further comprises a proximity sensor (110) positioned in the tongue (102) and configured to activate the light (112) by coupling with the light (112) and to deactivate the light (112) when the tongue (102) is bent in the belt buckle (103) by disengaging the coupling with the light (112). [7] Method for locking a safety belt, comprising: Assembling a seat belt locking arrangement (100) comprising a tongue (102) and a belt buckle (103) with a channel (104), wherein at least one groove (106) is arranged on at least the tongue (102) or the channel (104); and at least one rib section (108) is arranged on at least the tongue (102) or the channel (104); Inserting the tongue (!02) into the belt buckle (103), wherein the at least one groove (106) aligns with the at least one rib section (108); and A seat belt engages when the at least one groove (106) and the at least one rib section (108) are aligned with each other. [8] Method according to claim 7, wherein the at least one groove (106) and the at least one rib section (108) between the tongue (102) and the channel (104) are distributed in one of the following configurations: two grooves (106A, 106B) are arranged on the tongue (102) and two rib sections (108A, 108B) are arranged on the canal (104); the two rib sections (108A, 108B) are arranged on the tongue (102) and the two grooves (106A, 106B) on the canal (104); and a groove (106A) and a rib section (108B) on the tongue (102) and another groove (106B) and another rib section (108A) in the canal (106) and vice versa. [9] The method of claim 7, further comprising: Detecting, using a proximity sensor (110) arranged on the tongue (102), the proximity of the tongue (102) to a light (112) arranged on a B-pillar (114) of a vehicle; and Activating the light (112) for illumination by establishing a pairing between the proximity sensor (110) and the light (112) when the tongue (102) is near the light (112). [10] Method according to claim 9, further comprising deactivating the light (112) when the tongue (102) is fixed in the channel (104) by disconnecting the proximity sensor (110) from the light (112).

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