Retractor Belt Floor Switch for Wheelchair Securement Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing systems for securing wheelchairs or objects during transportation in vehicles require manual verification by the driver, which is time-consuming and prone to human error, necessitating a more efficient method to ensure stable positioning.
Innovation Solution
A compressible actuator integrated with a switch is used in conjunction with a retractor belt system, where the actuator is mounted between a guide roller and a take-up/release roller, and activates when the belt is securely loaded, providing a hidden and protected mechanism to inform the driver of proper securing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual verification by the driver is used to check wheelchair positioning, then the driver can directly observe the retractor belt status, but the verification process becomes time-consuming and prone to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-verification through the switch detecting mechanism. When the retractor belt is properly tensioned, it automatically actuates the switch to provide verification, eliminating the need for manual driver inspection and reducing both time loss and potential human error.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch provides automatic feedback to the driver about the wheelchair positioning status. When the retractor belt is correctly positioned and tensioned, the switch activates to indicate proper securing, giving the driver immediate information without requiring manual verification.
2Ease of operation
If the retractor belt system components are mounted on top of the floor for easy access, then maintenance and operation are simpler, but the components become exposed to unintentional damage from operations on the floor
Solution Approach 1:
The switch is embedded within the floor structure, nested between the guide roller and take-up/release roller. This nesting approach protects the switch from external damage while maintaining its functional connection to the retractor belt system, as the switch is housed within the floor rather than exposed on top.
Solution Approach 2:
The compressible actuator serves as an intermediary element that transmits the tensioning force from the retractor belt to the switch. This mediator allows the switch to be positioned protectively within the floor while still receiving the mechanical signal from the belt tensioning operation.
3Device complexity
If the switch is positioned close to the fixed end of the plate for compact design, then the structure is more compact, but the notch cannot properly actuate the switch when the plate is compressed
Solution Approach 1:
The switch actuation mechanism utilizes vertical displacement in the third dimension. When the plate is compressed, the notch moves vertically downward to engage the switch, rather than requiring horizontal movement. This dimensional approach allows reliable actuation while maintaining compact overall structure.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution simplifies the verification process, reducing the driver's workload and enhancing safety by providing a reliable indication of secure wheelchair or object positioning without exposing the mechanical components to damage.
Implementation Method 1
a compressible actuator 4 which is arranged to actuate a switch 5 when placed in the compressed loaded position
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A vehicle comprising a floor (1) which is equipped with at least one retractor belt (3) for securing an objects' position on top of the floor (1), wherein the retractor belt (3) is guided over a compressible actuator (4) that is provided with an unloaded position and a compressed loaded position, and arranged to actuate a switch (5) when placed in the compressed loaded position. In a preferred embodiment a first part (3') of the at least one retractor belt (3) is arranged above the floor (1) and a second part (3'') of the at least one retractor belt (3) is arranged within the floor (1), and the second part (3'') of the at least one retractor belt (3) is guided over the compressible actuator (4).