Webbing Payout Measurement Using Optical Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current occupant detection and classification systems face inefficiencies and high costs in measuring seatbelt webbing payout length, which is crucial for accurate occupant classification and adjusting safety devices.
Innovation Solution
The system employs an image sensor to capture images of the occupant and seatbelt webbing, using infrared markings to determine the payout length, allowing for precise classification and adjustment of safety devices, such as airbag deployment characteristics and seatbelt position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If indirect measurement methods (spindle diameter, webbing thickness, film spool effect) are used to determine seatbelt payout length, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces indirect mechanical measurement methods with direct optical imaging technology. The imaging device captures images of the seatbelt webbing and uses image processing to directly measure payout length, eliminating the need for complex mechanical inference systems while improving measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a visual copy (image) of the seatbelt webbing and its markings. By capturing and analyzing the image of the webbing with its length indicators, the system directly measures the actual payout length without relying on indirect mechanical parameters, thereby improving measurement precision.
2Ease of manufacture
If present indirect measurement mechanisms are implemented, then ease of manufacture is improved, but measurement precision and reliability worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes mechanical measurement mechanisms with an optical imaging system. The imaging device and image processing approach are more reliable for directly capturing webbing payout length, improving occupant classification reliability while maintaining ease of manufacture through standardized imaging technology.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an imaging device as an intermediary between the seatbelt webbing and the measurement system. This intermediary captures visual information of the webbing and its markings, providing reliable measurement data for occupant classification without requiring complex mechanical measurement mechanisms.
3Measurement precision
If direct measurement of webbing payout length is implemented, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses optical imaging technology to directly measure webbing payout length, replacing complex mechanical measurement systems. The imaging device captures images and software processes them to determine precise payout length, achieving high measurement precision with simpler electronic and software components rather than complex mechanical systems.
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
This method provides a cost-effective and accurate means of determining seatbelt webbing payout length, enabling improved occupant classification and adjustment of safety devices to better accommodate vehicle occupants, enhancing safety and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The webbing may have markings indicating a payout length. The image sensor may then read the markings to determine an absolute payout length.
Data Source
AI summary
An image is received from an image sensor including an occupant's head and a webbing. A center line of the occupant is determined. A webbing payout length is determined based on the center line. A safety device is adjusted based at least in part on the webbing payout length.