Intelligent Seat Belt Retractor Mode Switching Lever
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing seat belt retractors face challenges in implementing multiple functions such as automatic locking, block out, and emergency locking due to complex structures and noise issues, while also needing to differentiate occupant types for tailored safety responses.
Innovation Solution
An intelligent retractor design featuring a mode switching lever, flywheel, locking unit, and noise removal unit that allows for single-unit implementation of various functions, including occupant identification, with a simplified structure to reduce size and weight, and minimize noise from vibrations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple functions (automatic locking, block out, emergency locking) are implemented in a single retractor, then functional integration is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking unit is designed as a universal mechanism that can perform multiple functions (automatic locking, block out, emergency locking) through a single integrated structure. The unit uses a flywheel, locking lever, and ball member combination that can respond to different operating conditions (webbing extension, vehicle tilt, impact) to achieve various safety functions without requiring separate dedicated mechanisms for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple locking functions are merged into a single locking unit that combines the flywheel, locking lever, and ball member into one integrated assembly. This merging allows the retractor to achieve automatic locking, block out, and emergency locking capabilities through a unified mechanism rather than separate independent systems, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining functional versatility.
2Reliability
If a locking mechanism with ball member is used, then locking function is improved, but noise from rattling increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention converts the potentially harmful rattling noise into a beneficial indicator function. The ball member's rattling sound, which was previously a harmful byproduct, is utilized to provide acoustic feedback to the user about the locking state. When the ball member engages with the locking lever, it produces a distinct clicking sound that confirms the locking action has occurred, transforming noise pollution into useful operational feedback.
3Volume of moving object
If retractor size is reduced, then compactness is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The retractor is segmented into distinct functional modules: the spool for webbing winding, the flywheel for energy storage and mode switching, the locking unit for securing operations, and the noise removal unit for vibration control. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured and assembled separately with standardized tolerances, reducing the cumulative precision requirements that would arise from attempting to manufacture the entire compact unit as a single integrated piece.
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
Enables efficient implementation of multiple safety functions, reduces noise, and adjusts safety responses based on occupant type by using a single retractor, enhancing safety and reducing complexity and weight.
Implementation Method 1
a flywheel which is provided at one side of the spool and rotates along with the rotation of the spool
Implementation Method 2
a locking unit which fixes the flywheel when a predetermined condition for preventing an extension of the webbing is satisfied
Data Source
AI summary
An intelligent retractor having a mode switching lever includes: a spool around which webbing is wound; a flywheel which is provided at one side of the spool and rotates along with the rotation of the spool; a locking unit which fixes the flywheel when a predetermined condition for preventing an extension of the webbing is satisfied; and a mode switching lever which rotates in a state in which the webbing is extended by a predetermined length or greater, and operates the locking unit so that the locking unit fixes the flywheel.