Vehicle Seatbelt Arrangement with Upper Backrest Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing seatbelt arrangements, such as three-point seatbelts, may not provide adequate protection when the vehicle seat is inclined, as the seatbelt may not extend effectively over the backrest, and there is a need for improved connection points to ensure the seatbelt remains securely fastened during vehicle movement and varying backrest angles.
Innovation Solution
A seatbelt arrangement with a fourth connecting point configured as a buckle tongue and buckle, positioned at the upper portion of the backrest, which allows for direct connection to the seatbelt without intermediate members, along with detection means to alert the user to fasten the seatbelt when the backrest exceeds a certain inclination angle, and mechanisms to adjust seatbelt tension and disconnection during impacts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a three-point seatbelt arrangement is used, then the seatbelt provides basic protection for passengers, but it does not provide adequate protection when the vehicle seat is inclined
Solution Approach 1:
The seatbelt system is segmented into multiple independent connection points (first, second, third, and fourth connecting points) that can be selectively engaged. This allows the seatbelt to be configured in different paths depending on the seat inclination angle, providing adaptability while maintaining basic three-point functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
A fourth connecting point is added at the upper portion of the backrest, introducing a new spatial dimension for seatbelt attachment. This additional dimension allows the seatbelt to effectively restrain occupants in both upright and inclined seat positions by providing an alternative anchorage point higher on the backrest.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional connection points are added to improve protection, then the seatbelt becomes more adaptable to inclined seats, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fourth connecting point with buckle tongue and buckle assembly serves multiple functions: it provides an alternative anchorage for inclined seats, works in conjunction with the existing three points for enhanced restraint, and can be independently engaged or disengaged based on seating position requirements.
3Reliability
If a buckle tongue and buckle connection is used at the fourth connecting point, then the seatbelt can be securely fastened near the user's shoulder, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The buckle tongue is directly slidably connected to the seatbelt webbing, allowing the belt to feed through and engage the buckle automatically when pulled tight. This self-service mechanism reduces the need for manual manipulation while maintaining secure fastening near the shoulder.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a seatbelt arrangement for a vehicle which comprises a seatbelt and a plurality of connection points, wherein a fourth connecting point is placed at a first lateral side of a vehicle seat and at an upper portion of a backrest. The disclosure also relates to a vehicle comprising a seatbelt arrangement and also to corresponding methods.