Adaptive load-limiting seat belt buckle presenter
US7997620B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 10, 2010 |
| Grant date | Aug 16, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 10, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60R2022/288
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An adaptive load-limiting seat belt buckle presenter includes a plow assembly movable within a tube and connected to the buckle by cables. Movement of the plow assembly presents the buckle at various positions relative to the occupant. The plow assembly has a plurality of plow elements that engage with the tube to plow troughs in the tube when an occupant restraining load moves the plow assembly within the tube. A plow actuator mechanism selects a number of the plurality of plow elements to be engaged or not engaged with the tube to thereby adapt the load-limiting capability of the presenter. A controller and various sensors cooperate to operate an adjusting motor for translating the plow assembly within the tube to present the buckle at a desired position and to also operate a rotary actuator to select the number of plow elements that will be engaged or not engaged.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.