Motorized Retractor Assembly for Selective Webbing Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automatic connector assemblies in vehicles face challenges in ensuring sufficient webbing length for securing restraint systems without inducing retraction, and existing automatic locking retractor (ALR) modes hinder the installation process by preventing further webbing withdrawal once locked, and the constant retraction mechanism can inhibit installation if more webbing is needed.
Innovation Solution
A system with a retractor assembly that includes a spool, rotation sensor, and motor, which selectively activates an auto locking retractor mode to prevent spool rotation when a predetermined webbing length is unwound, allowing for extended webbing to secure the restraint system and then retracts it when installed, using sensors and user interfaces to manage the locking and retraction process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If the automatic locking retractor mode is activated to prevent spool rotation when a predetermined webbing length is unwound, then the webbing length for securing the restraint system is sufficient, but the installation process is hindered by preventing further webbing withdrawal
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between two operational modes: an installation mode where the spool is free to rotate and webbing can be freely withdrawn, and a locking mode where the spool rotation is prevented. This dynamic transition allows the system to provide sufficient webbing length during installation while preventing excessive withdrawal, thereby resolving the contradiction between webbing length control and installation ease.
2Reliability
If the automatic locking retractor mode is activated to automatically arrest the retractor, then webbing retraction is controlled, but the constant retraction mechanism inhibits installation if more webbing is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs a dynamic operational mode that transitions from a constant retraction state to a paused state during installation. When installation mode is activated, the automatic retraction mechanism is temporarily suspended, allowing installers to retrieve additional webbing length as needed. After installation completion, the system returns to normal retraction control. This dynamic behavior ensures both reliable webbing control and installation flexibility.
3Length of moving object
If the motor is configured to selectively activate auto locking retractor mode, then webbing length is controlled, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The motor serves multiple functions: it drives spool rotation during webbing payout, acts as a brake to prevent spool rotation in locking mode, and can be controlled through various interfaces (voice commands, user interface, vehicle sensors). This multi-functionality allows the system to achieve precise webbing length control without adding separate dedicated components for each function, thereby managing system complexity while maintaining control capability.
Data Source
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AI summary
A system for securing a restraint system includes a retractor enclosing a spool, a sensor coupled to the spool, and a motor coupled to the spool and configured to rotate the spool about a spool rotation axis. The system also includes webbing configured to be wound and unwound from around the spool. An automatic locking retractor mode is enabled and disabled to selectively and automatically lock the retractor to prevent rotation of the spool when a predetermined length of the webbing is unwound from the spool.