Automated Seatbelt Release Device for Collision Escape
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing seatbelt systems often trap occupants during vehicle collisions, making it difficult for them to escape and for rescue personnel to free them, as they become impossible to release, especially in critical situations like fires or water submersion.
Innovation Solution
An automated seatbelt release device equipped with collision detection sensors, a control unit, and a signal receiver/transmitter system that automatically or manually releases the seatbelt after impact, utilizing a motor and solenoid to disengage the lock, potentially within 15 seconds of a collision, and can be programmed for delayed response.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If seatbelt locking mechanism is made stronger to ensure safety during collision, then safety reliability is improved, but ease of release after collision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by automatically releasing the seatbelt locking mechanism shortly after collision detection. The control unit receives collision signals from sensors and automatically activates the release mechanism without requiring manual intervention, thus preliminarily preparing the release function before the occupant needs to escape.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies self-service by using the vehicle's existing collision detection sensors and control units to automatically trigger seatbelt release. The seatbelt system serves itself by integrating with the vehicle's safety systems, eliminating the need for separate manual release operations after collision.
2Device complexity
If manual release operation is required for seatbelt, then device complexity is reduced, but loss of time during emergency escape increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit is programmed to automatically release seatbelts within a predetermined time range after collision detection (e.g., 1-5 seconds), performing the release action preliminarily before the occupant needs to escape, thus eliminating manual operation time during critical emergency moments.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring collision sensor signals and automatically triggering the release mechanism based on detected collision parameters. The control unit receives feedback from sensors about collision severity and timing, and responds by activating the release mechanism at the optimal moment.
3Ease of operation
If automated release system is implemented, then ease of operation after collision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the seatbelt release function with the vehicle's existing collision detection and control systems. By integrating with already-present sensors and control units, the system achieves automated release without adding completely separate electronic subsystems, thus reducing overall complexity while maintaining automatic operation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit serves multiple functions: it manages collision detection, determines release timing, and activates the release mechanism. By making the control unit universal and multi-functional, the system avoids adding dedicated separate components for each function, thereby reducing overall system complexity while achieving automated release.
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
Facilitates quick and safe escape for occupants and simplifies rescue operations by automatically releasing seatbelts after a collision, potentially saving lives by reducing the time needed to free trapped individuals.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing a motor and solenoid to disengage the lock
Implementation Method 2
equipped with collision detection sensors, a control unit, and a signal receiver/transmitter system that automatically or manually releases the seatbelt after impact
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle safety release system effecting an automated release and having, inter alia, a seatbelt, an integrated circuit (control unit), a power source, a transmitter, and a collision detection sensor, is contemplated. The safety release system also contemplates a manual release built to work in tandem with the system's automated release. The safety release system may be operated by both a manual input and the input from one or more collision detection sensors. When a push button is depressed a signal is sent to the control unit to release the seatbelt. Aspects of embodiments of the invention also contemplate access to the seatbelt's base latch to enable removal, if needed.