Safer, smarter and more comfortable seat belt

Abstract

This summary refers to the title: Safer, smarter, and more comfortable seat belt. The technical field encompasses vehicle safety, seat belts, vehicle interior temperature control, and the comfort experience of vehicle occupants. The objective is to provide smart, safe, and comfortable seat belt systems, even in a networked environment both within and beyond the vehicle. This is achieved, in part, by providing at least sectionally adjustable seat belt temperature control within an overall vehicle structure. The temperature of individual sections can be adjusted via actuators or automatic systems, and can also be integrated with other temperature control systems such as seat heaters, steering wheel heaters, air conditioning, etc.The text also addresses integration into seating systems and vehicles with multiple seats, including individual seats. Another aspect is that temperature control systems can be activated or deactivated under certain conditions, and also by means of associated sensors, to enhance safety or comfort. For example, activation can occur when the seat belt or buckle is closed. Deactivation can be initiated in the event of an accident, allowing a temperature-controlled seat belt to be safely cut with a seat belt cutter to facilitate escape. Further embodiments are described. Overall, the text covers design, process, and application claims.

Description

[0001] The comfort of a vehicle's occupants plays a significant role, especially in road vehicles like cars. Comfort is naturally important even in the mid-range and luxury segments. This also applies to the driver, who can concentrate better when comfortable. This sense of comfort creates a feeling of well-being, a sense of being secure and at ease within the vehicle, and an overall feeling of comfort that is relevant and influences customer satisfaction, willingness to recommend the brand, and ultimately, the purchase decision and brand loyalty.

[0002] The perception of comfort, especially in cars, has been continuously developed and improved over the last few decades. Against the backdrop of an environment with cold and changeable weather, heating systems were developed in the form of interior heaters, seat heaters (which further enhanced comfort), optional windshield heaters, optional steering wheel heaters, and, in the case of convertibles only, the well-known Airscarf system, which provides neck and top-of-head heating with a rear-facing fan.

[0003] It is likely that this development is not yet complete and that there are opportunities to further improve the comfort and perception of comfort of vehicle occupants, both objectively and subjectively, and thus further promote well-being, comfort, warmth, customer satisfaction and brand loyalty.

[0004] Seat belts have always been used to increase the safety of occupants. It can be assumed that further developments in this area will bring additional safety benefits.

[0005] The task is to provide a new type of seat belt and a newly designed vehicle, each offering versatile, comfortable, functional, and smart use, and capable of networking and operating within the vehicle's communication infrastructure. Furthermore, efficiency, energy efficiency, and the increased safety provided by seat belts within this networked infrastructure environment play a crucial role.

[0006] According to a first aspect of the invention, the problem is solved by: 1. A safety belt for an occupant of a vehicle is designed in such a way that it is heated, at least in sections, at least selectively, by means of at least one device ET.

[0007] This increases the comfort of the occupants. This, in turn, promotes concentration and leads to safer driving, thus improving safety. Furthermore, energy efficiency is increased because heat is delivered noticeably close to the occupant's body, minimizing losses, for example, from convection. Consequently, any additional heating system in the vehicle has to work less while maintaining the same level of comfort. This is particularly beneficial for electric vehicles with onboard energy storage, increasing efficiency and thus extending the operating range and achievable distance.

[0008] According to another aspect of the invention, at least one heat input to the belt is achieved by means of at least one electric Peltier element.

[0009] According to another aspect of the invention, a safety belt can have a plurality of sections on the safety belt which are heated.

[0010] According to a further aspect of the invention, a safety belt can have a plurality of sections, each of which can be selectively heated. At least one actuating element can enable individual adjustment by the occupant or a device for each section.

[0011] The comfort can be further increased by using multiple sections, and if these can be individually influenced by their temperature effect, an overall comfort experience can be set that positively influences driving safety and concentration.

[0012] According to a further aspect of the invention, a safety belt can thus be designed that can both electrically heat and electrically cool within an architectural setting. This can be selectively determined and influenced by occupants, e.g., via actuators. This can be achieved, for example, using electric Peltier elements, which are thermoelectric components.

[0013] According to a first aspect of the invention, the problem is solved by:

[0014] 2. A safety belt for an occupant of a vehicle is designed in such a way that it is coolable by means of at least one device ET, at least in sections, at least selectively.

[0015] This increases the comfort of the occupants. This, in turn, promotes concentration and leads to safer driving, thus improving safety. Furthermore, energy efficiency is increased because the cooling effect is noticeably close to the occupant's body, minimizing losses, for example, from convection. Consequently, a separate air conditioning or cooling system in the vehicle can operate less while maintaining the same level of comfort. This is particularly beneficial for electrically powered vehicles with onboard energy storage, increasing efficiency and thus extending their operating range and achievable distance.

[0016] According to another aspect of the invention, at least one cooling effect on the belt is achieved by means of at least one electric Peltier element.

[0017] According to another aspect of the invention, a safety belt can have a plurality of sections on the safety belt which are coolable.

[0018] According to a further aspect of the invention, a safety belt can have a plurality of sections, each of which can be selectively cooled. At least one actuating element can enable individual adjustment by the occupant or a device depending on the section.

[0019] The comfort can be further increased by using multiple sections, and if these are individually adjustable in terms of their temperature effect, an overall comfort experience can be set that positively influences driving safety and concentration.

[0020] According to a further aspect of the invention, a safety belt can thus be designed that can both electrically heat and electrically cool within an architectural setting. This can be selectively determined and influenced by occupants, e.g., via actuators.

[0021] The task is further solved by:

[0022] 3. Vehicle seat for a vehicle with at least one safety belt according to idea 1 and / or 2.

[0023] For the seat belt to function properly, it is crucial that the vehicle seat and seat belt work together effectively. Only then can the seat belt's function, for example, in restraining the occupant during deceleration, be effective and safely arranged. The same applies to comfort, which is perceived by the occupant as an integrated experience and for which the seating position is decisive.

[0024] Furthermore, according to another aspect of the invention, the vehicle seat can also be designed to be heated or cooled, so that an overall comfort experience is achieved for the occupant.

[0025] According to another aspect of the invention, at least parts of the invention are attached to or structurally fixed to the vehicle seat. This can apply, for example, to a seatbelt buckle, which enables the belt to be closed in such a way that it is in a closed state.

[0026] The task is further solved by:

[0027] 4. Vehicle with at least one safety belt according to idea 1-2 and / or with at least one vehicle seat according to idea 3.

[0028] The vehicle and its occupants are crucial for an overall sense of comfort. For example, wind-resistant windshields can significantly influence the wind chill and thus the perceived temperature and overall comfort.

[0029] For overall safety, the vehicle, with its structure and safety systems, is crucial. For example, side impact protection absorbs energy, and airbag systems can work together with the seatbelt and the vehicle seat to significantly enhance safety. Crumple zones can be lifesaving for occupants. The vehicle infrastructure is also important. For instance, sensors are activated during a crash, triggering specific safety systems such as airbags and seatbelt pretensioners. These systems can be coordinated within such a vehicle infrastructure, ideally working in a coordinated manner to maximize safety. This all occurs at the vehicle level.

[0030] The task is further solved by:

[0031] 5. Method for at least partially, at least selectively heating at least one seat belt for a vehicle occupant.

[0032] This ensures the solution, with all the described advantages, is also successful on the procedural side.

[0033] The task is further solved by:

[0034] 6. Method for at least partial, at least selective cooling of at least one seat belt for a vehicle occupant.

[0035] This ensures the solution, with all the described advantages, is also successful on the procedural side.

[0036] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0037] 7. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-6, wherein at least one safety belt can only be activated or is activated when closed.

[0038] For energy efficiency, it is important that seatbelt temperature control only occurs when it is effective for an occupant, for example, regarding heat transfer when the belt is in contact with the body or fastened. This applies similarly to comfort.

[0039] Therefore, in one aspect of the invention, the temperature control or the activation of a temperature control system can correlate with a belt-closed state. This can also function at a system level. Coordination via at least one bus system is possible. Activation can be implemented, for example, via at least one sensor. A sensor can be, for example, a belt-closed sensor, a belt buckle sensor, or a proximity sensor. Furthermore, there can be at least one sensor on the belt or belt system.

[0040] According to one aspect of the invention, a seatbelt buckle sensor can become effective, for example, by being pressed as an electrical button or switch, when the belt is closed or locked. The closed position of the belt is also essential for safety.

[0041] For energy efficiency, it is important that seatbelt temperature control only occurs when it is effective for an occupant, for example, regarding heat transfer when the belt is in contact with the body or fastened. This applies similarly to comfort.

[0042] Therefore, in one aspect of the invention, the non-temperature control or the deactivation of temperature control can correlate with a belt-open state. This can also function at a system level. Coordination via at least one bus system is possible.

[0043] Deactivation can be achieved, for example, via at least one sensor. A sensor could be, for instance, a seatbelt open sensor, a seatbelt buckle sensor, or a proximity sensor. Furthermore, it can be at least one sensor on the seatbelt or seatbelt system itself.

[0044] According to one aspect of the invention, a belt open sensor or a belt lock sensor can be effective, for example as an electrical button or switch, and cannot be pressed when the belt is open or not locked.

[0045] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0046] 8. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-7, wherein at least one safety belt can be activated or is activated during the activation of at least one heater.

[0047] At the vehicle level, a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, comprises one or more heaters or one or more heating systems that can be activated.

[0048] Temperature-controlled seatbelts are particularly effective in conjunction with other vehicle temperature control systems, such as heating and cooling, to enhance the overall comfort experience for the occupants. Therefore, coordinating these systems can be beneficial or even necessary for the overall comfort of the occupant(s).

[0049] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0050] 9. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-8, wherein at least one safety belt can be activated or is activated during the activation of at least one cooling or air conditioning system.

[0051] At the vehicle level, a vehicle, particularly a motor vehicle, comprises one or more cooling systems or climate control systems that can be activated. Temperature control of the seatbelt is particularly effective in conjunction with other temperature control systems in the vehicle, such as heating and cooling, in terms of the overall comfort experience for the occupants. Therefore, coordinating these systems can be beneficial or even necessary for the overall comfort experience of the occupant(s).

[0052] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0053] 10. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-9, wherein at least one safety belt can be activated or is activated during the activation of at least one vehicle interior heater.

[0054] For energy efficiency, it is important that seatbelt temperature control only occurs when it is effective for an occupant, for example, regarding heat transfer when the belt is in contact with the body or fastened. This applies similarly to comfort.

[0055] Therefore, in one aspect of the invention, the temperature control or activation of a temperature control system for the belt can correlate with that of another heating or air conditioning device. This can also function at the system level. Coordination via at least one bus system is possible.

[0056] Activation can be achieved, for example, via at least one sensor or at least one actuating element that an occupant can operate. A sensor could be, for example, a door opening sensor, a door angle sensor, a seat occupancy sensor, a seatbelt fastening sensor, a presence sensor, an interior temperature sensor, or at least one sensor on the seatbelt or seatbelt system.

[0057] For energy efficiency, it is important that seatbelt temperature control only occurs when it is effective for an occupant, for example, regarding heat transfer when the belt is in contact with the body or fastened. This applies similarly to comfort.

[0058] Therefore, in one aspect of the invention, the non-temperature control or the deactivation of a temperature control system can correlate with that of another heating or air conditioning unit. This can also function at a system level. Coordination via at least one bus system is possible.

[0059] Deactivation can be achieved, for example, via at least one sensor or at least one actuating element that an occupant can operate. A sensor could be, for example, a door opening sensor, a door angle sensor, a seat occupancy sensor, a seatbelt fastening sensor, an occupancy sensor, an interior temperature sensor, or at least one sensor on the seatbelt or seatbelt system.

[0060] A preferred embodiment consists of:

[0061] 11. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-10, wherein at least one safety belt can be activated or is activated during the activation of at least one seat heater.

[0062] One of the described heating devices or systems can be a seat heater. As described, a vehicle seat is crucial for the overall feeling of comfort, but also for occupant safety. This also applies to its heating or temperature control.

[0063] A preferred embodiment consists of:

[0064] 12. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-11, wherein at least one safety belt can be activated or is activated during the activation of at least one steering wheel heater.

[0065] One of the described heating devices or systems can be a steering wheel heater. The steering wheel is crucial for driving the vehicle and for safety. For safe driving, one or more hands must preferably be in contact with the steering wheel. A heater thus has a particularly positive effect on the occupant's overall comfort by warming the hands and limbs.

[0066] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0067] 13. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-12, wherein at least one safety belt can be deactivated or is deactivated in the course of a detected crash.

[0068] This ensures good safety. For example, it effectively prevents short circuits, overvoltages, fires caused by malfunctions, injuries, overheating, smoke, and the development of ignition sources or fires. From the occupants' perspective, this avoids discomfort, the opposite of comfort.

[0069] In one exemplary embodiment, an acceleration sensor mounted on the vehicle detects a crash situation or a crash itself. In response to this situation, it sends a signal to at least one device, which then, for example via a relay, de-energizes or disconnects the sections of the temperature-controlled seat belt. These signals can be transmitted as electrically modulated data in a bus system, which, for example, is implemented using cables.

[0070] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0071] 14. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-13, wherein at least one safety belt can be deactivated or is deactivated in the course of at least one airbag deployment.

[0072] This ensures good safety. For example, it effectively prevents short circuits, overvoltages, fires caused by malfunctions, injuries, overheating, smoke, and the development of ignition sources or fires. From the occupants' perspective, this avoids discomfort, the opposite of comfort.

[0073] In one exemplary embodiment, during airbag deployment, the temperature-controlled seat belt and its sections are switched without tension or electrical power, for example at a relay. Signals can be transmitted as electrically modulated data in a bus system, which is exemplary to be cable-based.

[0074] In this exemplary embodiment, the airbag deployment can be triggered by a signal from at least one vehicle-integrated sensor. This sensor can, for example, monitor vehicle acceleration, detect threshold exceedances, and output a signal. In this exemplary case, the signal is fed into a bus system, which makes this information available to at least one relay and the airbags. According to a further aspect of the invention, a device that switches the seat belt without tension or power can also be a device that interrupts at least one electrical line using pyrotechnics.

[0075] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0076] 15. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-14, wherein at least one safety belt can be deactivated or is deactivated during at least one activation of the belt tensioner.

[0077] This ensures good safety. For example, it effectively prevents short circuits, overvoltages, fires caused by malfunctions, injuries, overheating, smoke, and the development of ignition sources or fires. From the occupants' perspective, this avoids discomfort, the opposite of comfort.

[0078] In one exemplary embodiment, during at least one activation of the belt tensioner, the temperature-controlled seat belt and its sections are switched without tension or electrical power at, for example, a relay. Signals can be transmitted as electrically modulated data in a bus system, which is exemplary to be implemented using cables.

[0079] In this exemplary embodiment, the seatbelt pretensioner can be triggered by a signal from at least one vehicle-integrated sensor. This sensor can, for example, monitor vehicle acceleration, detect threshold exceedances, and output a signal. It can also function similarly to a crash sensor. In this exemplary case, the signal is fed into a bus system, which makes this information available to at least the relay.

[0080] In another embodiment, a threshold value can be set or is adjustable in such a way that the safety belt does not generally become power-free or tension-free with every belt tensioning release, but only with relevant releases, for example, when a certain threshold value is exceeded.

[0081] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0082] 16. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-15, wherein at least one safety belt can be activated or becomes activatable or is activated in the course of an activation of at least one seat occupancy sensor of this seat.

[0083] For energy efficiency, it is important that belt temperature control only occurs when it is effective with regard to an occupant, e.g., with regard to temperature input when the vehicle seat of the seat belt is occupied.

[0084] Therefore, in one aspect of the invention, the temperature control or activation of a temperature control system can correlate with at least the occupancy of a driver's seat associated with the seat belt. In this exemplary case, the seat occupancy can be detected by at least one seat occupancy sensor included in the driver's seat associated with the seat belt. Seat occupancy can be detected by exceeding a threshold, which in this exemplary case can be output as a signal to at least one device that can activate the temperature-controlled seat belt upon seat occupancy. Activation can, for example, mean that a relay supplies electrical power to temperature-controlled sections in the seat belt.

[0085] According to a further aspect of the invention, the temperature-controlled seat belt can be activated when a vehicle seat is occupied and the seat belt is fastened. In a preferred embodiment, the seat occupancy and the fastened seat belt information is used for this purpose from the seat belt assigned to the vehicle seat, or from the vehicle seat assigned to the seat belt.

[0086] In another embodiment, any combinations and multiple combinations are possible.

[0087] For energy efficiency, it is important that belt temperature control only occurs when it is effective with regard to an occupant, e.g., with regard to temperature input when the vehicle seat of the seat belt is occupied.

[0088] Therefore, in one aspect of the invention, the non-temperature control or the deactivation of temperature control can correlate with at least the absence of occupancy of a driver's seat associated with the seat belt. In this exemplary case, the absence of occupancy can be detected by at least one seat occupancy sensor included in the driver's seat associated with the seat belt. The absence of occupancy can be detected by exceeding a threshold, which in this exemplary case can be output as a signal to at least one device that can deactivate the temperature-controlled seat belt when the seat is occupied. This device could, for example, be an electrical relay. Deactivation here can exemplarily mean that a relay switches temperature-controlled sections of the seat belt without voltage or power.

[0089] According to a further aspect of the invention, the temperature-controlled seat belt can be deactivated or switched to power-free mode when the vehicle seat is unoccupied and the seat belt is not fastened. In a preferred embodiment, the unoccupied and unfastened seat belt information is used for this purpose by the seat belt that is assigned to the vehicle seat, or by the vehicle seat that is assigned to the seat belt.

[0090] In another embodiment, any combinations and multiple combinations are possible.

[0091] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0092] 17. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-16, wherein at least one heat output is at least tunable.

[0093] This promotes comfort and safety.

[0094] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0095] 18. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-17, wherein at least one heat emission via at least one actuating means is at least tunable.

[0096] This promotes comfort, ease of use, and safety.

[0097] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0098] 19. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-18, wherein at least one heat output is at least tunable by means of at least one central input system.

[0099] Another aspect of the invention is formed by: This promotes comfort, ease of use, and safety.

[0100] 21. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-19, wherein at least one heat emission is at least adjustable by means of at least one central room climate system.

[0101] This promotes comfort, ease of use, and safety. In particular, energy efficiency is improved, as already described, because heat transfer via the belt to the body is very efficient and no longer necessarily expended on the overall temperature or comfort perception of the room climate system.

[0102] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0103] 22. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-21, wherein at least one heat emission is at least controllable by means of at least one central room climate system.

[0104] As with the previous point, but ease of use and therefore overall comfort are improved even further.

[0105] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0106] 23. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-22, wherein at least one heat contribution is taken into account in at least the control of a room climate system.

[0107] This promotes comfort, ease of use, and safety. In particular, energy efficiency is improved, as already described, because heat transfer via the belt to the body is very efficient and no longer necessarily required to contribute to the overall temperature or comfort perception of the room climate system.

[0108] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0109] 24. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-23, wherein at least one heat contribution is taken into account in at least the control of a heating system.

[0110] This enhances comfort, ease of use, and safety. In particular, as already described, energy efficiency is improved because heat transfer via the belt directly to the body is highly efficient and no longer needs to be expended by the climate control system to contribute to the overall temperature and comfort perception.

[0111] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0112] 25. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-24, wherein at least one heat emission is at least controllable by means of at least one central indoor heating system.

[0113] In addition, there is a central control system, which improves comfort and overall convenience.

[0114] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0115] 26. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-25, wherein at least one heat emission by means of at least one central indoor heating system is at least controllable.

[0116] In addition, there is a central control system, which improves comfort and overall comfort, and can be supported by automatic functions.

[0117] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0118] 27. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-26, wherein at least one activation can take place or does take place in the course of activating a seatbelt closed sensor.

[0119] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0120] 28. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-27, wherein at least one belt is designed as a three-point belt.

[0121] This means that the solutions with the aforementioned advantages can be integrated across a wide range of vehicles, seats and belt systems, which has a positive impact on efficiency and cost-efficiency.

[0122] In another embodiment, alternative multi-point belts (2, 4, 5, 6, etc.) are also conceivable.

[0123] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0124] 29. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-28, wherein an electrical power supply can be or is provided by means of a closed suspension point.

[0125] This is a particularly practical solution. Here, the electrical potential of the vehicle chassis can be accessed via the suspension point or in the vicinity of the suspension point. This also allows for grounding.

[0126] Suspension points are structurally designed to withstand a crash. In a crash, such an area often remains functionally stable, meaning that if an electrical power supply is located here or via this point, safety is improved because a short circuit, fire, etc., caused by damage to the electrical power supply is less likely.

[0127] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0128] 30. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-29, wherein at least one belt is designed as a three-point belt, and wherein at least this belt is designed to be retractable, and wherein an electrical power supply to the lower permanently closed suspension point can be or is provided.

[0129] As in the previous point, the belt can also retract automatically. This eliminates the risk of entanglement when getting in and out of the vehicle, thus improving safety. Damage to the electrical wiring in the area of ​​the belt system would otherwise be possible, but this solution eliminates that risk, resulting in improved safety.

[0130] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0131] 31. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-30, with flexible heating elements.

[0132] This solution makes rolling up the garment easier, even with automatic assistance. Furthermore, it significantly improves comfort and ease of use in everyday situations. Rolling up the garment prevents injuries and damage, thus enhancing safety.

[0133] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0134] 32. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-31, with flexible heating elements.

[0135] 31. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-30, with flexible heating elements.

[0136] This solution makes rolling up the garment easier, even with automatic assistance. Furthermore, it significantly improves comfort and ease of use in everyday situations. Rolling up the garment prevents injuries and damage, thus enhancing safety.

[0137] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0138] 33. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-32, with rollable heating elements.

[0139] This solution makes rolling up the garment easier, even with automatic assistance. Furthermore, it significantly improves comfort and ease of use in everyday situations. Rolling up the garment prevents injuries and damage, thus enhancing safety.

[0140] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0141] 34. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-33, carried out with heat emission towards the body of a seated occupant.

[0142] This significantly improves energy efficiency. In one exemplary embodiment, this can be achieved, for instance, by using heat-reflecting foil in sections on the side of a heating section, or at least a heating element or Peltier element, facing away from the body (i.e., the occupant's body).

[0143] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0144] 35. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-34, at least partially padded.

[0145] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0146] 36. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-35, at least in a heated area, designed at least section by section in such a way that the safety belt can be cut with a belt cutter.

[0147] This improves safety. For example, after or during a rollover, seat belts can be cut by occupants, bystanders, and by rescue workers using standard portable seat belt cutters, thus enabling escape. This is particularly important in the event of a fire. In electric vehicles, this is also crucial in the event of fires or malfunctions of one of the vehicle's electrical energy storage systems.

[0148] According to one aspect of the invention, such areas with intended facilitated separability can be additionally identified, for example by means of color markings of certain areas or instructions.

[0149] In one exemplary embodiment, at least in such areas or sections, components, and in particular electrical cables or heating elements, are designed in such a way that the seat belt can be cut with minimal force, for example, using a standard seat belt cutter. For instance, electrical wiring can be avoided in these areas, and / or a single electrical conductor cross-section can be split into several easily cut, sometimes smaller, strands. It is also possible to keep sections essentially or completely free of cables.

[0150] According to a further aspect of the invention, a device, e.g., a circuit, can also be provided which, in the event of a short circuit, for example, caused by the cutting of electrical cables, reduces or switches off the electrical power in the belt, or de-energizes the belt. In one embodiment, this can be achieved by a current-based short-circuit detection or overcurrent detection (e.g., via a threshold value), which switches an electrical power supply via a relay.

[0151] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0152] 37. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-36, at least designed in such a way that heated sections of a safety belt are visible.

[0153] According to one aspect of the invention, such areas can be additionally identified, for example, by means of color coding of specific areas or instructions. This can, firstly, improve comfort because the occupant knows where the heated sections are located before putting on the garment. Consequently, a specific article of clothing can even be removed beforehand to further improve temperature effectiveness and comfort.

[0154] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0155] 38. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-37, designed with greater heat emission on one side of the belt towards the body of a seated occupant than on the side away from the body.

[0156] This improves energy efficiency. At least one temperature-changing section of the belt can be located on the inner side facing the occupant, so that the heat is transferred directly to the body from the inside, while heat loss to the environment is prevented by the insulating effect of the belt.

[0157] This also serves to improve safety because, in the event of deceleration, the additional mass of the heating element or the temperature-controlled section is directly absorbed by pressure forces on the belt, and the element cannot be thrown away from the occupant.

[0158] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0159] 39. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-38, with device for deactivation or with method for deactivation when a detected temperature is exceeded.

[0160] This serves to prevent injury or discomfort to occupants. For example, a sensor can be located in the area of ​​a seatbelt, which can detect at least an overtemperature or excessive temperature. In one exemplary embodiment, if a threshold is exceeded, a relay can be activated, which can de-energize at least sections of the seatbelt.

[0161] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0162] 40. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-39, with device for deactivation or with method for deactivation when at least one electrical power is exceeded.

[0163] This serves to prevent injury or discomfort to occupants. For example, electrical power can be measured (e.g., via voltage and current). If a threshold is exceeded, a relay can be activated in one exemplary embodiment, which can de-energize at least sections of the seatbelt. Alternatively, the entire seatbelt can be de-energized.

[0164] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0165] 41. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-40, comprising device for deactivation or method for reducing heat emission when a detected temperature is exceeded.

[0166] This serves to prevent injury or discomfort to occupants. For example, a temperature can be measured. In one exemplary embodiment, if a threshold is exceeded, a relay can be activated, which can switch at least sections of the belt to reduced electrical power. Alternatively, an entire belt can be switched to low power or power-free operation.

[0167] According to one aspect of the invention, temperature can also be measured without contact, for example, similar to a fever thermometer. Measurement via sensors, functionally similar to thermal imaging sensors or via at least one thermal imaging camera, is also possible in one embodiment.

[0168] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0169] 42. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-41, comprising device for deactivation or method for reducing heat emission at least when an electrical power is exceeded.

[0170] As previously described.

[0171] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0172] 43. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-42, characterized in that a belt comprises at least one temperature sensor.

[0173] In one exemplary embodiment, this could be a heat-sensitive electrical resistor.

[0174] In general, a sensor can also be located in the vicinity of a seat belt system or vehicle seat.

[0175] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0176] 44. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-43, with electrical power supply via at least one on-board network.

[0177] This is a simple and practical solution.

[0178] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0179] 45. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-44, with connection to at least one bus system.

[0180] For example, data, information, signals, etc., can be exchanged via such a bus system, including with sensors. This also allows for coordination.

[0181] The task is further solved by:

[0182] 46. ​​Vehicle at least according to idea 4 with multiple passenger seat belts or seats including belts, each with at least individual adjustment options.

[0183] Here, the comfort within a vehicle can be individually increased for multiple occupants.

[0184] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0185] 47. Vehicle at least according to idea 4 with several occupant belts or seats with belts, each with at least individual adjustment options, via assignable operating means.

[0186] Here, the comfort within a vehicle can be individually enhanced for multiple occupants, furthermore through individually assignable controls. This increases both individual and group satisfaction.

[0187] Another preferred embodiment consists of:

[0188] 48. Vehicle designed as an aircraft at least according to idea 4; 46; 47.

[0189] Another preferred embodiment consists of:

[0190] 49. Vehicle designed as a bus at least according to idea 4; 46; 47.

[0191] Another preferred embodiment consists of:

[0192] 50. Vehicle designed as a passenger car at least according to idea 4; 46; 47.

[0193] Another preferred embodiment consists of:

[0194] 51. Vehicle at least according to idea 4; 46; 47 trained as a truck.

[0195] Another preferred embodiment consists of:

[0196] 52. Vehicle designed as a watercraft at least according to idea 4; 46; 47.

[0197] Another preferred embodiment consists of:

[0198] 53. Vehicle designed at least according to idea 4; 46; 47 as a convertible.

[0199] Another preferred embodiment consists of:

[0200] 54. Vehicle designed at least according to idea 4; 46; 47 as a cabin scooter.

[0201] Another preferred embodiment consists of:

[0202] 55. Vehicle at least according to idea 4; 46; 47 with a lockable vehicle interior.

[0203] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0204] 58. Vehicle at least according to idea 4; 46; 47 with at least one enclosed vehicle interior.

[0205] The term "enclosed interior" here can mean, for example, that no excessive heat loss occurs with regard to energy efficiency, e.g., due to drafts from the outside environment. "Enclosed" in the sense of "lockable" can also mean, for example, that doors and windows are lockable. According to another aspect of the invention, "lockable" or "enclosed" or "closable" can also refer to accessibility via locks, which serve to improve security.

[0206] The task is further solved by:

[0207] 59. Device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-58, wherein at least one heating or cooling element is designed to be movable as if on a sled along at least one section of the safety belt.

[0208] This further enhances comfort. For example, occupants can move the slider along a section of the seatbelt and shift the temperature control to the area of ​​their body that best suits their comfort.

[0209] A sled with electrical temperature elements can be connected, for example, via cable.

[0210] The task is further solved by:

[0211] 60. Use of an apparatus or process according to at least one of ideas 1-58 or a combination thereof.

[0212] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0213] 61. Repair of at least one installation or restoration of the feasibility of at least one method according to at least one of Ideas 1-59 or a combination thereof.

[0214] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0215] 62. Wireless transmission of data to at least one device or to at least one method according to at least one of ideas 1-60 or a combination thereof.

[0216] For example, this makes it possible to monitor the health of components remotely.

[0217] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0218] 63. Processing of data relating to at least one establishment or to at least one procedure according to at least one of Ideas 1-61 or a combination thereof.

[0219] This allows for the evaluation of functionality, reliability, and usage, even remotely, in order to further increase comfort and safety.

[0220] The problem is further solved by and another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0221] 64. Wireless unlocking of an apparatus or process according to at least one of ideas 1-62 or a combination thereof.

[0222] This allows a function or reliability, usage, even remotely, to be activated in order to further increase comfort and safety.

[0223] The problem is further solved by and another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0224] 65. Wireless unlocking of an installation or process according to at least one of Ideas 1-63 or a combination thereof, including remotely.

[0225] This allows a function or reliability, usage, even remotely, to be activated in order to further increase comfort and safety.

[0226] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0227] 66. Wireless unlocking of a device or process according to at least one of Ideas 1-64 or a combination thereof via at least one mobile communication module.

[0228] Another aspect of the invention is formed by:

[0229] 67. Wireless unlocking of a device or method according to at least one of ideas 1-65 or a combination thereof via at least one mobile communication module of the vehicle.

[0230] A first aspect of the invention achieves the solution of the problem by means of a safety belt for an occupant of a vehicle, which is designed to be heated by means of at least one device, at least partially, at least selectively.

[0231] In an exemplary embodiment described here, electrical heating wires can be incorporated or woven into at least one section of the safety belt.

[0232] These components can, for example, be supplied with electrical power, at least selectively, via electrical cables that are also integrated into or woven into the belt structure. In this example, these electrical power supplies, in the case of this three-point seat belt, are to be routed via the lower, external mounting point to a vehicle structure where they are subsequently connected, or can be connected, to the vehicle's power bus for electrical power supply, i.e., to the vehicle's electrical system. At least one component, which is shown here as an example in a lower seat area, is electrically powered and connected to the vehicle's bus system.Via a central input terminal with control unit and / or touchscreen in the front of this vehicle, the operation of the heating elements can be selectively influenced by addressing this device via the bus system; in this exemplary case, at least with activation, deactivation and at least control of heat output.

[0233] Controlling multiple temperature zones is also possible in an exemplary embodiment.

[0234] Optionally, in another exemplary embodiment, such a heater can also be integrated into the room air conditioning or heating system, for example, via zone-specific temperature settings, e.g., at least in a cockpit area. In this exemplary case, the system also incorporates safety systems that can prevent overheating—in this case, by limiting the current—and, if necessary, disconnect the belt from the electrical power supply.

[0235] In this example, the belt heating elements are attached, or can be attached, at least to one chest area or to an area where clothing may be exposed, allowing the skin to cool down quickly if not covered by clothing. Furthermore, heating elements are also to be positioned in the front and side pelvic areas of this belt. Heat emission is encouraged on the side of the belt closest to the body, while on the side of the belt further away from the body, heat-reflecting foils are incorporated. These foils reflect the heat back towards the body, thus keeping the belt only slightly warm to the touch.

[0236] The three-point seatbelt is retractable, and the heating elements, in the form of heating wires, are flexible and soft, woven into the belt structure. The belt is optionally padded, even in the area of ​​the heating elements in this example design. The electrical power supply can be made dependent on seat occupancy, for example, via information exchange with seat sensors in the corresponding seat. This information flow occurs via a bus system.

[0237] In this exemplary embodiment, the belt in question can only be activated by heat if it has been closed using the associated belt system. Data communication with the sensor of a belt buckle of this safety belt can be achieved via at least one bus system.

[0238] In the event of an accident or crash, the seatbelt in this exemplary embodiment is disconnected from the electrical power supply, detected here, for example, via crash sensors using bus systems. The shutdown can be achieved, for example, via a relay that, when de-energized, keeps the electrical power supply disconnected, i.e., interrupted.

[0239] In an exemplary embodiment, formulations such as "permanent suspension point" may mean that the strap cannot be opened or closed at this point of the suspension point as intended.

Claims

A safety belt for an occupant of a vehicle is designed in such a way that it is heated by means of at least one device (ET), at least in sections, at least selectively. A safety belt for an occupant of a vehicle is designed in such a way that it is coolable by means of at least one device (ET), at least in sections, at least selectively. Vehicle seat for a vehicle with at least one safety belt according to at least one of claims 1 to 2 or a combination thereof. Vehicle with at least one safety belt according to at least one of claims 1 to 2 or a combination thereof and / or with at least one vehicle seat according to idea 3. Method for at least partially, at least selectively heating at least one seat belt for a vehicle occupant. Method for at least partial, at least selective cooling of at least one seat belt for a vehicle occupant. Device or method according to at least one of claims 1-6, wherein at least one safety belt can only be activated or is activated in the closed state. Device or method according to at least one of claims 1-7, wherein at least one safety belt can be activated or is activated during the activation of at least one heater. Device or method according to at least one of claims 1-8, wherein at least one safety belt can be activated or is activated during the activation of at least one cooling or air conditioning system. Device or method according to at least one of claims 1-9, wherein at least one safety belt can be deactivated or is deactivated in the course of a detected crash. Device or method according to at least one of claims 1-10, wherein at least one seat belt can be deactivated or is deactivated in the course of at least one airbag deployment. Device or method according to at least one of claims 1-11, wherein at least one safety belt can be activated or becomes activatable or is activated in the course of an activation of at least one seat occupancy sensor of this seat. Device or method according to at least one of claims 1-12, wherein at least one activation can or does occur during the activation of a seatbelt closed sensor. Device or method according to at least one of claims 1-13, at least in a heated area, designed at least sectionally such that the safety belt can be cut with a belt cutter. Device or method according to at least one of claims 1 - 14, designed with greater heat emission on one side of the belt towards the body of a seat occupant than on the side facing away from the body. Device or method according to at least one of claims 1-15, comprising device for deactivation or method for deactivation when a detected temperature is exceeded. Device or method according to at least one of claims 1-16, comprising device for deactivation or method for deactivation when at least one electrical power is exceeded. Device or method according to at least one of claims 1-17, comprising device for deactivation or method for reducing heat emission when a detected temperature is exceeded. Device or method according to at least one of claims 1-18, comprising device for deactivation or method for reducing heat emission at least when an electrical power is exceeded. Device or method according to at least one of claims 1 - 19, characterized in that a belt comprises at least one temperature sensor. Use of a device or method according to at least one of claims 1-20 or a combination thereof.