Integrated Barrier Wheelchair Restraint System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wheelchair securement systems for transit vehicles require complex and labor-intensive installation, often limiting seating configurations due to sidewall-mounted shoulder belts and protruding belt retractors that encroach on passenger space and pose tripping hazards.
Innovation Solution
A 'drop-in' wheelchair securement system with an integrated shoulder belt assembly that extends from the barrier, eliminating the need for sidewall mounting and incorporating retractable lap belts and telescoping shoulder belts to reduce installation complexity and passenger encroachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If shoulder belts are mounted to the sidewall of the transit vehicle, then the shoulder belt assembly can be installed, but substantial labor is required and installation becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the shoulder belt assembly with the barrier structure into a single integrated unit. The barrier serves dual functions as both a physical divider and a mounting structure for the shoulder belts, eliminating the need for separate sidewall mounting operations and reducing overall installation complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The barrier is designed to perform multiple functions: it acts as a physical partition, a structural support element, and an integrated mounting platform for the shoulder belt assembly. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components and installation steps required
2Ease of operation
If belt retractors are attached to the outside of the barrier legs, then the restraints are accessible, but they encroach on passenger space and present tripping hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The retractable belt mechanisms are nested within the barrier structure itself rather than being mounted on the exterior. The retractor housings are integrated into the barrier legs or frame, allowing the belts to be stored and accessed without protruding into the passenger area, thus eliminating tripping hazards while maintaining accessibility
3Reliability
If sidewall mounting is required for shoulder belts, then the restraint system can function, but the number of possible seating configurations is limited
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the shoulder belt mounting function into the barrier structure itself, the system becomes adaptable to various seating configurations. The barrier can be positioned wherever needed in the vehicle interior without being constrained by the need for specific sidewall mounting locations, allowing greater flexibility in seat arrangement and vehicle layout design
Data Source
AI summary
The embodiment described and claimed herein are improved barrier-type wheelchair securement systems. In particular, one embodiment of a barrier includes an integral shoulder belt assembly, two integral wheelchair restraint assemblies, and two integral lap belt assemblies. The wheelchair restraint and lap belt assemblies comprise retractors which can be mounted external or internal to the barrier. The integral shoulder belt assembly could be connected to a vertical telescoping member which is movable from a first position, wherein the telescoping member is housed inside of the barrier, to a second position, wherein the shoulder belt assembly is disposed at a proper height for a wheelchair passenger. Alternatively, the shoulder belt assembly could be rigidly mounted to the barrier in a fixed position, or could be adjustable to accommodate passengers of varying size.