Memory Buckle Assembly with Mechanical Strap Length Preset
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing safety belt buckle assemblies require manual adjustment of strap length each time of use, lacking a mechanism to preset a desired length for convenience and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A memory buckle assembly with a rigid housing containing an adjustable stop button and memory button configurator assembly, allowing users to manually set and recall a preferred strap length, enabling automatic retraction and secure positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual adjustment of strap length is required each time of use, then the buckle assembly can accommodate different user needs, but the operation time and effort increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a memory mechanism that stores the previously set strap length position. When the strap is retracted, it automatically stops at the stored position, eliminating the need for manual adjustment each time. This preliminary action of storing the desired position resolves the contradiction by maintaining adaptability while drastically reducing adjustment time.
2Loss of time
If a memory mechanism is added to preset strap length, then adjustment time is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The memory mechanism is designed to automatically store the strap position without requiring user intervention. The system serves itself by detecting when the strap reaches its fully retracted state and automatically memorizing that position, then using this stored information to stop at the correct position during subsequent retraction operations, thereby reducing adjustment time without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex electronic memory systems with a mechanical solution. A memory cam and follower mechanism physically stores and retrieves the strap position information through mechanical interaction, achieving the memory function through simple mechanical components rather than complex electronics, thus minimizing the increase in device complexity.
3Ease of operation
If automated retraction with memory stop is implemented, then user convenience is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The buckle assembly is divided into distinct functional modules: the retraction mechanism, the memory storage mechanism, and the stop mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently using standard processes, and facilitates assembly from pre-manufactured subcomponents, thereby controlling manufacturing costs while achieving automated retraction with memory stop for improved user convenience.
Data Source
AI summary
A memory buckle assembly for use with an occupant restraint system includes a left inside case plate and a right inside case plate arranged within a rigid housing. The memory buckle assembly further includes an adjustable stop button and an adjustable memory button, operably mounted on the rigid housing, and configured to engage with a stop button configurator assembly and a memory button configurator assembly operably positioned between the left inside case plate and the right inside case plate within the rigid housing. The memory button configurator assembly is configurable using the adjustable memory button for enabling retention of a preset expanded position of the strap. The stop button configurator assembly is operably coupled to the memory button configurator assembly utilizing a spool gear and a memory gear to enable the expansion and retraction of the strap assisted by manual adjustments of the adjustable stop button.