Seatbelt Track Assembly With Spring Load Limiting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current seatbelt systems face challenges in effectively managing occupant loads during vehicle impacts, as existing load limiting mechanisms may not adequately control the resistive forces exerted on occupants, potentially leading to excessive loads and inadequate energy absorption.
Innovation Solution
A seatbelt assembly that includes a track system with a first and second plate, a webbing guide, and a spring mechanism between the plates, where the spring compresses to absorb energy and limit occupant loads during impacts, allowing the webbing guide to move and reset, thereby controlling the load on the occupant.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a traditional torsion bar load limiting mechanism is used, then the structure is simple, but the ability to adequately control and absorb impact energy is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The load limiting mechanism is segmented into multiple independent elements: a telescoping tube assembly with inner and outer tubes, a yield mechanism with controlled failure points, and a rebound mechanism with spring elements. This segmentation allows each component to handle specific aspects of energy absorption and control, improving overall energy management while maintaining reasonable complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism transitions from a static torsion bar to a dynamic telescoping system where the inner tube moves relative to the outer tube during impact. The yield mechanism provides dynamic load control through controlled deformation, and the rebound mechanism dynamically adjusts to post-impact conditions, enhancing energy absorption capability.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the spring compresses to limit occupant loads, then occupant protection is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The spring rebound mechanism is integrated within the telescoping tube assembly, with the spring housed inside the inner tube. The yield mechanism, track system, and webbing guide are combined into a unified structure where components work together synergistically. This merging reduces the number of separate assemblies and simplifies the overall device while maintaining the necessary functionality for occupant protection.
3Loss of energy
If a telescoping tube mechanism with yield and rebound features is implemented, then energy absorption and load control are enhanced, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The telescoping tube assembly is segmented into standardized inner and outer tube components that can be manufactured independently using conventional tube forming and joining processes. The yield mechanism is segmented into discrete elements with controlled failure points that can be produced through standard metal forming. This segmentation enables each component to be manufactured using established industrial processes, reducing overall manufacturing complexity despite the enhanced functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The yield mechanism utilizes parameter changes in material properties, specifically controlled plastic deformation at predetermined locations. By adjusting material composition, heat treatment, or geometric parameters of the yield elements, the mechanism achieves predictable energy absorption characteristics without requiring complex manufacturing processes. The spring elements similarly rely on material parameter optimization rather than complex manufacturing.
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
The solution effectively limits occupant loads during impacts by compressing the spring mechanism, which absorbs energy and resets, ensuring the seatbelt webbing manages forces safely and efficiently, thereby enhancing occupant protection.
Implementation Method 1
a spring mechanism between the plates, where the spring compresses to absorb energy and limit occupant loads during impacts
Implementation Method 2
allowing the webbing guide to move and reset, thereby controlling the load on the occupant
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly includes a track. The assembly includes a first plate slidably engaged with the track. The assembly includes a second plate spaced from the first plate and coupled to the first plate. The second plate is releasably lockable to the track. The assembly includes a webbing guide supported by the first plate. The assembly includes a seatbelt webbing extending through the webbing guide. The assembly includes a spring coupled between the first plate to the second plate.