Webbing Height Adjustment Device Using Magnetic Positioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional webbing height adjustment devices for three-point seat belt systems are complex, offer limited adjustment range, non-continuous adjustment, and complicated operation, failing to accommodate occupants with different builds effectively.

Innovation Solution

A webbing height adjustment device comprising a top ring member, a locking assembly, and a positioning member, which allows continuous adjustment of the webbing height by using a moveable locking assembly and magnetic attraction for easy operation and automatic locking, enabling the webbing to be securely positioned close to the occupant's shoulder.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a conventional webbing height adjustment device is used, then the webbing height can be adjusted, but the structure becomes complex and the adjustment range is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewebbing height adjustment capabilityVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The adjustment device is divided into independent functional modules: a locking assembly with slider and frame, a positioning member with magnetic elements, and a guide structure. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall structure while maintaining adjustment capability across different height ranges

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The locking assembly serves multiple functions: it locks the webbing at adjusted positions, guides the slider movement, and works with the magnetic positioning member to maintain tension. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby reducing structural complexity while preserving adaptability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a conventional webbing height adjustment device is used, then the webbing height can be adjusted, but the adjustment is non-continuous and the operation is complicated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewebbing height adjustment capabilityVSAvoidoperation simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The slider is designed to move dynamically along the guide structure, allowing continuous adjustment of webbing height rather than being restricted to fixed discrete positions. The magnetic positioning member provides continuous tension control throughout the adjustment range, enabling smooth and intuitive operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The magnetic positioning member automatically maintains tension on the webbing during adjustment without requiring manual intervention. The slider self-locks into position through the interaction between the locking assembly and guide structure, eliminating the need for complex locking mechanisms or multi-step operations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Ease of operation

If the locking assembly is made moveable for easy adjustment, then the operation becomes simple, but the webbing may become unlocked and unsafe

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustment simplicityVSAvoidwebbing locking reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The magnetic positioning member replaces complex mechanical locking mechanisms with magnetic attraction forces. This allows the locking assembly to remain moveable for easy adjustment while the magnetic force continuously secures the webbing at the desired position, maintaining both operability and reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The magnetic positioning member provides continuous feedback through magnetic attraction, automatically adjusting to maintain optimal tension on the webbing. This feedback mechanism ensures the webbing remains securely locked at any adjusted position without requiring complex mechanical interlocks or manual verification

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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 device provides a simplified, cost-effective, and intuitive method for adjusting the webbing height continuously, ensuring secure positioning and easy operation, while occupying minimal space when not in use.

Implementation Method 1

The positioning member is disposed on the top ring member, is clutched with the locking assembly, and has a positioning element and at least one combining portion. The at least one combining portion is disposed on the positioning element and selectively and magnetically attracts the locking assembly for positioning.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic attraction: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentEP3594074B1Webbing height adjustment device
Publication Date: 2021.04.28 WANG LIANG HSIUNG
  • EP3594074B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3594074B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3594074B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A webbing height adjustment device (1A) has a top ring member (10), a locking assembly (20A), and a positioning member (30A). The locking assembly (20A) is moveably disposed outside the top ring member (10). The positioning member (30A) is disposed on the side surface of the top ring member (10), is clutched with the locking assembly (20A), and has a positioning element (31) and at least one combining portion (32). The positioning element (31) is disposed on the top ring member (10). The at least one combining portion (32) is disposed on the positioning element (31) and selectively and magnetically attracts the locking assembly (20A) for positioning. The webbing height adjustment device is easy to operate and automatically locks a webbing (2). The webbing height adjustment device (1A) can be adjusted continuously and occupies little space when not in use.