Modular Vehicle Restraint System with Asymmetrical Bars
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing restraint systems for vehicles face challenges in ease and speed of occupant ingress and egress, particularly for soldiers with gear, and are difficult to update or maintain, with uneven loading creating asymmetrical issues and potential ineffectiveness in containing occupants during events like crashes and severe driving conditions.
Innovation Solution
A modular restraint system with independently operable, adjustable restraint bars and secondary non-rigid members, including air bags and belt systems, that can be controlled manually or automatically via sensors and processors, allowing for hands-free operation and enhanced protection during events, with modular architecture for easy maintenance and adaptation to various occupant sizes and gear configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional symmetrical restraint systems are used, then the system structure is simple, but the system becomes cumbersome and potentially less effective for asymmetrical occupant gear configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The restraint system employs asymmetrical restraint bars and mounting configurations that can be positioned at different locations and orientations to match the asymmetrical distribution of occupant gear. The restraint bars can be independently adjusted to provide optimal restraint positioning for unevenly distributed loads, transforming the system from a fixed symmetrical design to an adaptable asymmetrical configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The restraint system is divided into multiple independent restraint bars that can be individually positioned and adjusted. Each restraint bar operates independently and can be configured to handle specific portions of the asymmetrical load, allowing the system to adapt to various gear configurations without requiring complete system redesign.
2Ease of repair
If integrated restraint systems are used, then the system provides comprehensive protection, but the system becomes difficult to maintain and update when components wear or break
Solution Approach 1:
The restraint system consists of modular restraint bars, mounting brackets, and connection mechanisms that can be independently removed and replaced. When one restraint bar or mounting component becomes worn or damaged, only that specific component needs to be replaced rather than the entire system, significantly reducing maintenance complexity and time while preserving the overall system reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The restraint system incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable components that can be dynamically modified based on maintenance needs or operational requirements. Mounting brackets and connection points allow for easy repositioning and replacement, enabling rapid updates to the system configuration without compromising the structural integrity and reliability during safety events.
3Ease of operation
If manual restraint systems are used, then the system structure is simple, but the ease and speed of occupant ingress and egress is reduced, particularly for occupants carrying gear
Solution Approach 1:
The restraint system incorporates automatic sensing and actuation mechanisms that detect when an occupant is present and automatically adjust the restraint bars to the appropriate position. Sensors detect occupant presence, gear configuration, and restraint bar position, then automatically control the actuation mechanisms to engage or disengage restraints without requiring manual manipulation by the occupant, significantly improving ease and speed of ingress and egress.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical operation with automated sensing and actuation systems. Electrical sensors and control mechanisms substitute for manual mechanical adjustment, allowing occupants to enter and exit quickly without having to manually position or adjust restraint components, while the underlying mechanical restraint structure remains robust and reliable.
4Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable restraint bars are used, then the system accommodates various occupant sizes and gear configurations, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The restraint bars are pre-configured with multiple fixed adjustment positions and mounting points that are optimized for different occupant sizes and gear configurations. Rather than requiring continuous manual adjustment during operation, the system provides predetermined adjustment positions that can be quickly selected to accommodate various occupants, reducing the complexity of adjustment mechanisms while maintaining high adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The restraint bars and mounting system are designed as universal components that can serve multiple functions and accommodate a wide range of occupant sizes and gear configurations through a single standardized interface. The same restraint bar can be positioned at multiple locations and oriented at different angles to suit different occupants, eliminating the need for multiple specialized components and simplifying the overall system architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
A restraint system is provided for a manned vehicle. The restraint system may optionally be automatically actuated; that is, hands-free to the seat occupant or occupants where the restraint system is vehicle-wide. The restraint system may comprise a first component including an upper restraint and at least one secondary restraint apparatus such as an airbag or a belt system. The restraint system may have a manual override so an occupant can exit when circumstances require, even if the automated parameters would otherwise keep the restraints locked.