JPS5967974A - Emergency locking reel for safety belt - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) [Summary] This bulletin contains application data before electronic filing, so abstract data is not recorded.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to an inertial type emergency locking reel used in a towing system for a safety belt, and more specifically, to an emergency locking reel used in a towing device for an automobile safety belt. However, the use is not necessarily limited to such a use. Although it will be convenient to describe the invention below with particular reference to automotive safety belt traction devices, the emergency locking reel of the invention may be used in other applications as well.

Emergency locking reels of the type described are generally complex in construction and must be manufactured to close tolerances in order to function satisfactorily. Yet another disadvantage of this emergency locking reel is that the sensitivity of the automatic locking reel mechanism is affected by the rotational position of the reel spindle around which the belt is wound. Changes in sensitivity are detrimental to its operation. and therefore have negative consequences for the safety of the towing device.If the vehicle involved decelerates rapidly, the sensing device performs the function of triggering a locking action.On the other hand, if the reel spindle e.g. , when the belt is suddenly rotated in the unwinding direction by pulling it sharply, the inertial device performs the function of triggering a locking action.

The inertial device is generally spring loaded to a rest position where its relationship to other parts of the mechanism fails to prevent rotation of the IJ-le spindle. However, the force of the spring is influenced by the rotational position of the reel spindle, so that changing the spring load changes the sensitivity of the reel's inertial device to trigger a locking action. It is an object of the present invention to provide an emergency locking reel of the type described above whose sensitivity is not significantly influenced by the rotational position of the reel spindle.

Another object of the invention is that the main parts are arranged symmetrically about a plane containing the axis of the spindle so that the reel can be used to rotate in either direction to unwind the belt. To provide an emergency locking reel.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an emergency locking reel in which a sensor responsive to vehicle deceleration can be easily mounted at any one of a variety of positions according to the arrangement of the reel mounted on the vehicle. It is to be.

Another object of the invention is to provide an emergency locking reel that is simple in construction and in which critical parts are positioned in correct relative positions with minimal manufacturing tolerance requirements. That is, the general assembly is streamlined to be easier to manufacture and thus lower manufacturing costs.

Yet another object of the invention is to provide an emergency locking reel that is simplified and has fastening means for wrapping the end of the belt around it (clamping it to a rotating spool).

In one aspect of the invention, a frame, a spindle rotatably mounted to the frame, and locking means for preventing rotation of the spindle in one direction relative to the frame;
a detent connected to the spindle for rotation therewith to actuate the locking means; and a detent separate from the locking means to cause the spindle to rotate within a limited range relative to it in response to changes in relative position with the detent. an actuated inertia plate and a spring means acting on the inertia plate to elastically resist the relative position of the detent and the inertia plate, the force of the spring means acting on the inertia plate when the spindle suddenly rotates in one direction. is defeated, changing the relative position of the detent and the inertia plate, and the locking means acts to prevent further rotation of the spindle in one direction.

In the emergency locking reel described above, the inertia plate allows all other parts to move relative to at least the parts important to the locking function of the reel. In particular, the inertia plate is preferably made separate from the ratchet teeth that are commonly associated with the sensing device in such reels, whereas in prior art emergency locking reels it is uncommon for the ratchet teeth to include or include an inertia plate. It didn't seem like it. One feature of one embodiment of the invention is that the inertia plate and ratchet teeth are spring loaded in a special relationship such that the spring action acting therebetween is substantially unaffected by the rotational position of the reel spindle. It is that you are.

Another aspect of the invention includes a frame, a spindle rotatably mounted to the frame, and locking means for preventing rotation of the spindle in one direction relative to the frame.
A locking ring forming part of the locking means and fixed to the frame so as not to move relative to each other, having an aperture concentric with the spindle and a plurality of regularly spaced teeth around the aperture of the locking ring. Provided is an emergency locking reel for a safety belt, characterized in that each tooth projects inwardly toward the axis of the spindle and has a substantially symmetrical shape with respect to a plane containing the axis of the spindle. do.

Still another aspect of the invention includes a frame, a spindle rotatably mounted on the frame, a locking means for preventing the spindle from rotating in one direction relative to the frame, and a locking means fixed to the frame and locking means for preventing rotation of the spindle in one direction relative to the frame. a housing containing a locking means; a vehicle deceleration sensor for actuating the locking means; and a vehicle deceleration sensor having a partially spherical member; characterized in that the member can be fixed in the cavity at any one of a range of possible positions relative to the housing, said arbitrary position being selected according to the intended positioning of the housing (relative to the vehicle on which the reel is installed); To provide an emergency locking reel for safety belts.

Still other aspects of the invention include a frame, a spindle rotatably mounted to the frame, a locking ring secured to the frame for movement relative thereto, and a locking ring rotatable with the spindle and engaged with the locking ring. an end having a pawl for preventing the spindle from rotating in one direction relative to the frame; a vehicle deceleration response sensor for actuating the pawl; and an integral part attached to the frame and made of plastic material for bearing the spindle. An emergency locking reel for a safety belt includes a plate, positioning means for positioning a locking ring relative to a spindle, and second locking means for positioning a sensor relative to a spindle. do.

In yet another aspect of the invention, the frame has two spaced end walls, the spindle is received between the end walls and forms part of a spool around which the belt is wound, and the retaining spring is located at the end. an end plate positioned on the exterior of one of the end walls and connected to a spindle to drive the spool in the belt winding direction; an end plate mounted on the outside of the other end wall and interposed between the end wall and the locking ring; 33. An emergency locking reel as claimed in claim 32, wherein the locking ring is also secured to the other end wall.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The essential features and other optional features of the invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, that the accompanying drawings are merely illustrative of embodiments of the invention and are not intended to limit the invention to the specific type and arrangement of features (whether essential or optional) illustrated. do not have.

A typical reel assembly applying the principles of the present invention is the first
The reel assembly shown in Figures 1 and 2 includes a metal frame 1 which can be fixed in place on a motor vehicle and an end wall 2 forming a support for a rotatable spool 3. There is. In use, a web strap (not shown) forming part of the safety belt is wound around a spool 3 which is rotated in the belt winding direction by means of a suitable return spring 4. A reel locking mechanism is provided at one end of the assembly and a housing 5 molded from plastic or other suitable material is positioned to surround this mechanism. A second housing 6 is arranged to surround the return spring 4, which is provided at the end of the frame 1 opposite to that at which the reel locking mechanism is provided. In the preferred construction shown, The spool 3 includes a spindle 8 which is a composite structure having a metal core 9 and a body 10 (FIG. 14) made of plastic or other plastic material. In the illustrated example, the core 9 consists of two flat strips 11 secured together in surface-to-surface engagement.
The spindle body 10, on the other hand, is a cylindrical part molded around the core 9. End quarter 12 of core 9
(FIG. 2) projects beyond one end of the spindle body 10 for purposes described below. It will be appreciated that the core 9 could be made of one metal strip instead of two strips as described above, and could also be made of a rod or rod rather than a strip.

Each end wall 2 of the frame l has an opening 13 through which the spindle 8 projects and forms a base from which the spindle 8 is rotatably supported. As shown, a rotatable support in each end wall 2 is arranged in an opening 13 in the respective end wall and a respective cylindrical portion 15 of the spindle body 10 made of, for example, plastic material. ．．
Preferably, a bearing collar 14 rotatably receives the bearing collar 16 . In the illustrated construction, each bearing collar forms an integral part of each end plate 17,18 of the assembly.

Each end plate 17,18 is molded of plastic material and is adapted to contact the outer surface of the respective end wall as shown.

According to the structure shown, the reel locking mechanism is provided on the outside of one end wall 2 and the spindle return spring 4 is provided on the outside of the other end wall 2.

The reel locking mechanism having this characteristic structure includes an internal tooth locking ring 19 which is shaped so as not to move relative to the frame 1, and a locking pawl 20 (seventh locking pawl) which rotates together with the spindle 8.
(Fig. 7), which pawl extends radially outward from the spindle 80 into the locking position (Fig. 11) or into the inward releasing position (Fig. 7).
exercise to occupy the area. In the outer position, the toothed portion 21 of the locking pawl 20 engages with the teeth 22 of the locking ring 19;
In the inner position, the toothed portion 21 engages the teeth 22 of the locking ring.
The pawl 20 is therefore free to rotate within the space enclosed by the locking ring 19. Spring means, described below, normally bias the pawls 20 into the inward position.

It is generally convenient for the locking ring 19 to be made of a metal plate having a circular opening which is arranged concentrically with the spindle 8 when it is secured. For example, the ring 9 can be secured by tightening as shown at 23 in FIG. It is fixed directly to the intervening but adjacent end wall 2. Preferably, the teeth 22 are formed around the ring opening and each tooth 22 is symmetrical about a plane passing through the axis of the spindle 8. For purposes of illustration, such a plane is shown in FIG. 1 by line 24, with point 25 representing the axis of the spindle.

The plane 24 therefore bisects each tooth 22, and if the ring 19 has an even number of teeth 22, the plane 24 is common to the two teeth 22 positioned on either side of the spindle axis a25. The respective teeth 22 are then convergent in the direction of the axis 25 and inclined at approximately the same angle to the respective plane 24. A ring 19 with such teeth 22 can therefore be used in the illustrated reel assembly regardless of which direction of rotation of the spool 3 is the unwinding direction. In the arrangement shown in FIG. 7, the spool 3 unwinds the belt in a counterclockwise direction, and the pawl teeth 22 counteract against the sides 26 of the teeth 22 to prevent rotation of the spool. If the rewinding direction is clockwise, the pawl 20 will reverse and the pawl will recoil against the side surface 27 of the tooth 22.

The ability of the locking ring 19 to rotate in either direction greatly reduces the cost of manufacturing the reel assembly.

As shown in detail in FIG.
is positioned within the opening of. Both the pawl 20 and the locking ring 19 are thus spaced apart from the outer surface of the adjacent end wall 2 of the frame only by the intermediate end plate 17, so that the engagement between the pawl 2o and the ring 19 The resulting force is substantially applied to the frame 1. Preferably, the body 10 of the spindle 8 does not extend much beyond the outer surface 17 of the end plate 17, but as previously discussed, the end quarter 12 of the core 9 extends the body 10 at that end of the spindle 8. It stands out beyond. The claw 20 is, for example, a plate-like member made of metal, and has an opening 28 from which the end quarter 12 of the core projects (FIG. 2). The aperture 28 allows limited relative movement between the pawl 20 and the spindle 8 as previously discussed.

In the preferred construction shown, the pawls 20 are activated so that the inertial device and the deceleration sensing device occupy a more outward locking position. In the construction shown, both devices act on the pawl 20 via a ratchet wheel 29, which is connected to the spindle 8 for rotation therewith and is fitted with a suitable coupling having the functions described below.
It is connected to the pawl 20 via a screw (FIGS. 6 to 11).

A ratchet wheel 29 is mounted on the exposed end quadrant 12 of the spindle core 9 in close proximity to the pawl 20, as shown in detail in FIG.

Ratchet wheel 29 is generally in the form of a circular disc having a series of ratchet teeth 31 formed around its outer periphery (FIG. 6). The radical 29 may be drivingly connected to the spindle 8 in any suitable manner, but is preferably movably connected to allow limited relative movement between the wheel 29 and the spindle 8.

In the illustrated drive connection, the ratchet wheel 29, described below, is mounted non-rotationally on the end quarter 12 of the spindle core with a cylindrical portion 32 of the end cap 33 (FIG. 2).
is rotatably mounted on the

Rotation of the ratchet wheel 290 relative to the spindle 8 is limited by the interaction of the wheel 29 and the pawl 20, as described above, so that movement occurs by connecting the pawl 20 and the spindle 8.

That is, the ratchet wheel 29 is attached to the pawl 20 with reference numeral 30.
Although the connection is made so as not to rotate relative to each other at the point shown in , the pawl 20 is designed to rotate only within a limited range relative to the spindle 8, and this is why it can be applied to move the ratchet wheel 29 from scratch. be.

The connection between the ratchet wheel 29 and the spindle 8 also includes resilient means for rotating the wheel 29 relative to the spindle 8 in one direction, which is the unwinding direction of the spool 3. In the illustrated construction, the resilient means has an inner end portion 35 secured to the end cap 33, and an outer end 35 of the resilient means is spaced radially outwardly of the spindle axis 25 (FIG. 5). Ratchet wheel 29 at the opened part
It includes a spring arm 34 acting on the spring arm 34. Although the elasticity of spring arm 340 creates some relative rotation between spindle 8 and ratchet wheel 29 for purposes described below, under normal conditions arm 34
The driving force is transmitted from the spindle 8 to the ratchet wheel 29 in both directions of rotation.

As shown in detail in FIGS. 7, 9 and 11, the portion of the end quarter 12 of the spindle located within the pawl opening 28 is generally rectangular in cross-section; It can also be non-circular. The opening 28 is shaped relative to the shape of the end quarter 12 such that the spindle 8 can rotate to a limited extent relative to the pawl 20. In the illustrated construction, the aperture 28 has one edge (hereinafter referred to as the trailing edge) shaped to form two spaced apart ridges 37,38. The portions each engage a wide surface 39 of the core 9 in the vicinity of a longitudinal edge 40,41 of the core 9. The opposite line or leading edge of the aperture 28 is a recess 4 extending over most of its length.
2, the unrecessed portion 43 is spaced from the adjacent wide surface 44 of the spindle core 9 when the ridge 40.41 engages the core 9. Two further opposite edges 45.46 of the opening 28 are located relatively close to the respective longitudinal edges 40.41 of the spindle core 9, so that the spindle core 9 It is almost enclosed between the parts. A joint 30 between ratchet wheel 29 and pawl 20 is positioned radially outwardly of spindle axis 250 and cooperates with spindle core 9 to prevent pawl 20 from rotating relative to ratchet wheel 29 about this axis 25. Hold. However, the joint 30 creates some degree of relative movement between these two parts, as will be discussed below. In the version shown, the coupling 30 has a pin 4 extending laterally from one side of the ratchet wheel 290.
7, which pin is slidably positioned within a radial slot 48 formed in the periphery of pawl 200. nail 20
is allowed to move a limited distance in the radial direction relative to the ratchet wheel 29 (FIGS. 7 and 11).
.

When the spool 3 is at rest, the pawls 20 are in an inwardly released position (FIG. 7), in which the trailing edge ridge 37.
38 engages an adjacent wide surface 39 of the spindle core 9. When the spindle 8 rotates in the unwinding direction, the rotational force is transmitted from the ratchet wheel 29 to the pawl 20 through the joint 30, and the rear edge of the pawl opening 28 is on the rear side. It remains pressed against the spindle core 9 due to the action of the spring arm 34. If the ratchet wheel 290 is prevented from rotating, such as by the action of a sensing device, the pawl 20 will also stop rotating, but the spindle 8 will continue to rotate in the unwinding direction because the tension is maintained on the belt strap. Therefore, the spindle 8 is connected to the spring arm 24
0 action (・Rotate to reduce stress on the arm (Figure 10).

Such relative movement between spindle 8 and pawl 20 is caused by the flexibility of spring arm 34. That is, the spring arm 34 is deflected to over-move the spindle 8 in the unwinding direction. When this automatic movement begins, the spindle core 9 leaves engagement with the ridge 38 on the trailing edge of the pawl opening 28 opposite the recess 42 on the leading edge. However, on the opposite side of the spindle axis 250, the core 9 has a trailing edge ridge 3
7 to force the pawl 20 radially outwardly into an outer locking position, in which the pawl engages the locking ring 19 and prevents further rotation of the spindle 8 in the unwinding direction. to prevent

When the unwinding rotational force is removed from the spindle 8, the spindle 8 is driven by the return spring 4 in the winding direction. When unwinding begins, the spindle core 9, ratchet wheel 29 and pawl 20 return to their initial relative positions due to the action of the stressed spring arm 340 acting on the ratchet wheel 29.

The combinatorial sensing device described above operates on the floating ball principle, which is well known in the art. Such a device 49 is shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 and includes a metal sphere or ball 50 positioned within a cup 51 having a rounded base 52; so that it occupies a stationary position on the base 51, which is the lowest position of the base 51. The cup 51 is an assembled body.
Can be attached to the housing or formed integrally with it.

However, in the illustrated preferred construction, cup 51
is separately formed and has a partially spherical outer surface 53 that engages a substantially complementary surface of the member to which the nozzle is secured. This arrangement allows the cup 51 to be mounted to the housing with its open mouth 54 facing upwards, regardless of the position in which the reel assembly is mounted relative to the vehicle.

In the specifically illustrated configuration, sensor cup 51 is located between housing end plate 17 and end cover 55. A spherical cavity 5 provided in the end plate 17 and the cover 55, respectively.
6.57 is approximately complementary to the spherical surface 53 of the cup 51 and is formed around a common center. Thus, the cup 51 can be placed neatly within the space formed by the cavities 56, 57 and the open mouth 54 can be positioned in any desired configuration. Once a particular relative position relative to cup 51 is selected, end plate 17 can be attached to cover 55 by induction welding or other suitable means. Alternatively, a bottle (not shown) made of plastic material is projected through the relevant housing part and secured to this housing part and to the cup 51 by spin welding. In this regard, the end plate 17, the cover 55 and the cup may each be made of plastic or otherwise molded. When the vehicle suddenly decelerates, the ball 50 moves from its resting position due to its relatively high inertia and the resulting Lifted by the rounded base 52 of the cup 51 (13th
figure). This lifting motion is used to initiate the reel locking action, and in the arrangement shown, this lifting is pivoted to the housing and responds to the movement of the ball, e.g., by directly engaging the ball 50. Placed lever 5
8. The distal portion 59 of the lever 58 is positioned around the ratchet wheel 29 and has ratchet teeth 3.
1 and thereby lift the sensor ball, the ratchet wheel 290 is movable to stop rotation.

In this regard, ball 50 engages lever 58 between its pivoted end 6o and distal end 59.

As shown in FIG. 13, lever 58 is arranged to stop rotation of ratchet wheel 29 in the counterclockwise direction, which is the rewind direction of the reel in the assembly shown. If the spindle 8 is rotating in the unwinding direction at that time, the pawl 20 is held so as not to rotate in the state shown in FIG.
rotates relative to pawl 20 thereby pushing pawl 20 into the reel locking position shown in FIG.

In the particular construction shown, the lever 58 projects between two spaced rods 61 which act as guides for the lever 58 during movement between the positions shown in FIGS. 1 and 13. act. Bar 61 near pivot end 60 of the lever also acts as a support for lever 58 as it engages ratchet tooth 31 and is pushed back. That is, the end quarter 59 of the lever 58 is pushed back into pressure contact with the acute angle surface of the rod 61 mentioned above.

Such an arrangement supports the lever 58 near where it engages the ratchet wheel 29 and thus allows the lever 58 to be of relatively lightweight construction. Therefore, the sensitivity of the deciding mechanism is improved.

One feature of the particular construction illustrated is that housing part 17
．． 18.55 are approximately symmetrical about the plane containing the spindle axis 25. The end cover 62 surrounding the return spring 4 can also be symmetrical about the same plane indicated by line 63 in FIG. As for the housing parts 17.55, these parts correspond to each spherical cavity 5.
6.57 is arranged so that the center around which it is formed is approximately located on the plane 63. That is, the portion of the housing housing sensor 49 also lies in plane 63.
It is symmetrical around the center. As shown in FIG. 1, the plane 63 preferably passes approximately through the center of the sensor ball when the sensor ball 50 is in the rest position also shown in FIG. Housing parts 17.18 regardless of the working direction of the reel (i.e. unwinding direction)
．． 55.62 can be used. For this purpose, the housing part 17.55 has two separate supports 75 for the pivoting end 60 of the sensor reel, each of these supports 75 being selected according to the direction of action of the reel. .The frame 1 can also be used in either working direction, thus saving manufacturing costs.

The inertial device for the assembly described above includes a member separate from both the pawl 20 and the ratchet wheel 29, which member includes a disc-shaped plate 6 made of metal or other suitable material.
4 (FIGS. 2, 5 and 8) is preferred. The inertia plate 64 can be rotatably attached to a boss portion 65 of the ratchet wheel 29, and this boss portion projects in the axial direction from the side of the wheel 29 opposite to the pawl 20 side (FIG. 2). A detent 66 is associated with the inertia plate 64 so that in response to a change in relative position between the inertia plate 64 and the ratchet wheel 29, the operative position (FIG. 8) changes from the non-operative position (FIG. 5) to either direction. Try to occupy your position. In the operative position, the detent 66 engages one of the bars 61 to stop the rotation of the ratchet wheel 290 in the unwinding direction, thereby activating the pawl 20 as described above. In the inactive position, the detent 66 is held apart from the rod 61.

In connection with the above, a plurality of rods 61 are arranged in a circle concentric with the spindle axis 25. As shown in detail in FIG. 1, each bar 61 extends across the valley between each pair of locking ring teeth 22 and is wedged between the opposing sides of those teeth 22. Furthermore, each bar 61 projects beyond the outer surface of locking ring 19 for engagement by a detent 66 positioned outwardly beyond surface 67 as shown in FIGS. 3 and 6. exposed. Accordingly, the rod 61 is supported by the locking ring 19 and the detents 66 form two sets of fixed teeth that are offset from each other.

The rods 61 are preferably formed integrally with the end plate 17 as shown in FIG. You can prevent it from bending. The rod 61 serves as a locating means for the locking ring 19 so that the end plate 17 and the ring 19
It is a convenient means for accurately assembling the That is, the concentricity of the circle of the shaft 61 and the spindle 8 is due to the fact that the spindle bearing 14 is also an integral part of the end plate 17.
determined during molding.

According to the particular construction illustrated, the detent 66 has one end 7
0 is a lever pivotally connected to a pin 71 that projects laterally from the side of the ratchet wheel 29 near the inertia plate 64. The pivot pin 71 is positioned relatively close to the periphery of the ratchet wheel 29 so that the detent 6
6 is inserted outwardly to engage the distal end 72 of the pin with one of the rods 61. The illustrated construction also includes detents 6
6 is positioned in a pocket 73 provided on the side and periphery of the inertia plate 640, and this pocket
Detent 6 depending on the relative rotational position of 9 and inertia plate 64
The shape is such that it affects the pivot movement of 6.

The ratchet wheel 29 as shown drives the inertia plate 64 in the unwinding direction in conjunction with a spring 74 which maintains the ratchet wheel and the inertia plate in a normal relationship (FIG. 5), but under the circumstances described below. Under this, the ratchet wheel 29 is allowed to move relatively over in the unwinding direction.

In the normal rotational relationship shown in FIG.
7 to rotate the detent about its axis to the inactive position. However, ratchet wheel 2
When the detent 9 is moved over in the unwinding direction, the detent 66 is carried away from the edge 76 of the pocket and then pivoted outwardly into engagement with the rod 61 in cooperation with the inertia plate 640 section. It will be done.

In the version shown, the above-mentioned cooperation takes place via a fulcrum lobe 78 projecting from the periphery of the inertia plate 73, which lobe is inserted into a substantially complementary recess 73 in the adjacent edge of the detent 66'. positioned.

This lobe 78 is positioned radially outwardly and adjacent to the pivot pin 710.

Inertia plate 64 is preferably made of metal and is relatively heavier than ratchet wheel 29. Therefore, if the spindle 8 is suddenly moved in the unwinding direction, the movement of the ratchet wheel 29 will be delayed by the large inertia of the inertia plate 64. Spring 74 is stressed to retard the movement of the inertia plate. As a result, the detent 66 is forced outwardly to engage one of the rods 61 and stop the ratchet wheel 29, as previously described. The pawl 2° is therefore also activated as described above, and the pawl 20 locks the spindle 8 against further rotation in the unwinding direction.

The spring 74 acting between the ratchet wheel 29 and the inertia plate 64 is preferably a coil compression spring near the outer periphery of both the ratchet plate 29 and the inertia plate 64. In the illustrated construction, the spring 74 is integrally formed with the outer end 36 of the spring arm 34, although this is not required.
4, its axis extends substantially in the inner circumferential direction of the ratchet wheel 29. The compression spring 74 is the ratchet wheel 2
9 and the facing surface 81 of the inertia plate 64, and is compressed when the ratchet wheel 29 moves over in the unwinding direction. As previously mentioned, the outer end portion 36 of the spring arm 34 is fixed to the ratchet wheel 29 against relative movement, so that spindle 80 rotational force is transmitted to the ratchet wheel 29.

In the illustrated arrangement, spring 74 extends from abutment 80 to inertia plate 8.
1 is held by a protruding dog nail 123.

The dog nail 123 and the abutting portion 80 are positioned within a recess 124 provided around the inertia plate 64, and the surface 81 is located within the recess 12.
Form one edge of 4. - When the inertia plate 64 and the ratchet wheel 29 are in the normal position as shown in FIG. Surface 76.7 with 66
It is preferable to maintain an appropriately engaged state between 7 and 7. In this position, the detent 66 is attached to its pivot pin 71.
Inward rotation about the center is restricted by engagement of the circumferential surface 126 of the inertia plate 640.

When the spindle 8 rotates in the rewinding direction rather than abruptly,
The rotational movement of the spindle 80 is transmitted to the ratchet wheel 29 via the spring arm 34. Ratchet wheel 2
9 then transfers this movement to the inertia plate 44 via the coil spring 74.
to communicate. Since the rotational force is relatively gentle, the coil spring 74 remains uncompressed and therefore the inertia plate 64
The interaction between the detent 6-6 and the detent 66 maintains the detent 6-6 in its inactive position (FIG. 5). Pawl 20 also rotates in the desired direction by connection with ratchet wheel 29, which connection causes biasing spring 34.74 to move pawl 20 inward to its released position (FIG. 1).

If the spindle 8 rotates rapidly, the spring arm 34
pushes the ratchet wheel 29 in the desired direction, but since the inertia plate 64 has a strong resistance to rotational torque, the inertia plate reacts against the coil spring 74 and temporarily compresses the spring 74. Since the spring 74 applies pressure a, the ratchet wheel 29
is over-moved and the detent 66 is activated as previously described (FIG. 8). Therefore, the ratchet wheel 29 stops, but the spindle 8 continues to rotate in the unwinding direction, thereby causing the pawl 20 to act again as described above (FIG. 11).
Stressing the spring arm 34 and thus stressing the spring arm 34
applies a return force to the ratchet wheel 29 (FIG. 10).

Thus, when the unwinding force is removed, the spindle 8 is rotated in the unwinding direction by the return spring 4, but at the same time the spring arm 34 functions to return the ratchet wheel 29 to its initial rest position relative to the spindle 8. conduct. As a result, the ratchet wheel 29 carries the pawl 20 and thus together with it over-moves the spindle 8 in the unwinding direction.
occupies the inner release position described above. The spring arm 34 therefore indirectly exerts a biasing force, which forces the pawl 2° into its inwardly released position.

Accordingly, the biasing spring 34 described above has the advantage of simplicity and also the advantage of maintaining a substantially constant biasing force on the pawl 20 regardless of its rotational position. In this regard, the spring 34 does not act directly on the pawl 20, but via the ratchet wheel 29 on the pawl 20. Furthermore, nail 2
0 and the ratchet wheel 29 at the joint 30 under normal operating conditions, the pawl 20 does not apply a rotational moment to the ratchet wheel 29 in a manner that resists the biasing force of the spring. They interact so that they are not affected by changes in rotational position.

A further feature of the structure described above, in particular, is that the required strength is obtained by relatively simple means with a minimum number of metal parts. It is also advantageous to use one molding to form the spindle bearing 14, the locking ring positioning rod 61 and the sensor positioning cavity 56. With this arrangement, bearing 14 and ring 19 are made coaxial, so that their critical relationship is not dependent on the precise manufacturing of the other components. The same molding automatically provides a correct relationship between the sensor device and the other components of the mechanism when forming at least part of the spherical seat for the sensor camp 51. Furthermore, this one-time molding helps the combination form an effective environmental seal and, if desired, the seal can be attached to the adjacent end wall 2 of the frame by a snap fit.

To further simplify manufacturing, the end key 33, which rotatably mounts the ratchet wheel 29, can be connected to the assembly by a snap fit. Two spaced legs 82 of cap 33 may extend axially on either side of spindle core 9 and into cavities 83 at adjacent ends of spindle body 10, as shown in FIG. - a detent 84 at the end of each leg 82 snaps into engagement behind the spindle body 100 surface 85, the detent 84 being provided within the cavity 83 to thereby secure the spindle 8 and end cap 33; and are held in a combined state. cap.

A flange 86 provided at the outer end of the cap 33 overlaps a portion of the inertia plate 64 to hold the plate 64 in combination with the cap 33 and to hold the ratchet wheel 29 and pawl 20 in combination. The flange 86 extends one laterally as shown to rest on the pivoted end quarter 70 of the detent 66 and thus also serves to hold the detent 66 in place on the outer surface of the Q pawl 20. Assembly is further simplified by providing laterally extending ears 81 on the spindle core 9 to hold the pawls 88 in the correct axial position (FIG. 1). A window 89 in ratchet wheel 29 defines a gap for ear 87. Ears 90 on end cap 33 are located behind ratchet wheel 29 to secure ratchet wheel 29 in its axial position (FIG. 3).

The belt strip is preferably secured to the spindle 8 in the manner shown in FIG. 14 and there is no need to sew to create a loop at the end of the strap. In this preferred arrangement, axially extending slots 91 are provided on each side of the spool 3 to allow straps 92 to pass therethrough. The open mouth 93 of the slot 91 is enlarged on one side of the spool 30 as shown, with both faces 94 of the enlarged mouth 93 branching outwardly, preferably at a distance from the spindle axis 25. The strap 92 is passed through the slot 91 from the side opposite the enlarged opening 93 and the strap retainer 95 is attached to the distal end portion 96 of the strap 92 so as to cooperate with the bifurcated surface 94 to prevent the strap 92 from being removed from the spool 3. do.

In the particular construction shown, the retainer 95 has two longitudinal jaw portions 97 which are rod-shaped and opposed and separated by a groove 98 extending along the entire length of the retainer 95. are connected to each other along adjacent trailing edges and are movable toward and away from each other.Joe portions 970 and opposing outer surfaces 99 diverge from the leading edge so that the front portion of the retainer 95 is free of slots. It has a cross-sectional shape that generally complements the cross-sectional shape of the enlarged mouth 93. The base of the groove 980 is enlarged, as indicated at 101 in FIG. 14, to accommodate the distal end 102 of the strap 92.

In use, the end quarter 96 of the strap 92 is positioned between the jaw portions 97 and the adjacent intermediate portion 103 is then folded over the retainer 95 so that the outer surface 94 and trailing edge 104 of the jaw portion 97 of the retainer 95 are folded. overlap with. That is, the strap portion 103 (effectively wrapping around the retainer 95) is then extended beyond the front edge 100 of the retainer 95 and inserted into the slot 91 and into the opposite opening 1 of the slot 910.
Pass out 05. Strap 92 is pushed into retainer 95 into the enlarged mouth 93 of the slot and tightened a portion of strap 92 between each pair of opposing ramps 94 and 99 to tighten jaw portion 97 to end quarter 96 of the strump. Apply pressure.

A spool body forming a guide for the strap is attached to the outside of the spindle 8 to hold the wound strap in a neat coiled shape. The spool body has a sleeve 106 at each end portion having a laterally extending flange 107 and a hole 108 that fits snugly into the outer surface of the spindle body 10.
can be provided. Slot 91 is sleeve 106
and the spindle 8. The relative rotation between the sleeve 106 and the spindle 8 is controlled by the sleeve 106.
This is prevented in any suitable manner, such as by cooperating opposite longitudinal surfaces 109, 110 on spindle 8 and spindle 8, respectively.

It is clear that the sleeve 106 and the spindle body 10 do not have to be made separately (they could be made as a single component).

The spool return spring 4 may be a watch mainspring, and may be fastened to one fixed part of the assembly and the rotatable spindle 8 in any suitable manner so as to act between these components. The inner end of the spring 4 is located within a slot (not shown) provided in the adjacent end quarter of the spindle 8, and the outer end is located within a generally cylindrical circumference formed integrally with the adjacent end plate 18 of the assembly. It is fixed to the shaped wall 111. For example, the outer end of the spring can be positioned within a pocket formed in the surrounding wall 111 and having an opening therebetween to prevent easy withdrawal of the end of the spring. That is, the end of the spring must be moved in the axial direction of the spindle 8 in order to move in and out of this pocket.

The end covers 58, 62 are each made of plastic material and can be secured to the assembly by snap fit or other suitable means. The same goes for the end plates 17,18.

In the example shown in FIGS. 16 to 21, the end plate 18 is held in pressure contact with the adjacent end wall 2 of the frame by a plurality of fingers 112 integrally formed therewith. are openings 113 (17th
and Fig. 18). These fingers 112 are located near the outer periphery of the end plate 18 and are spaced apart from each other around the outer periphery. Each finger 112 has at its distal end a gutter lip 114 which engages the inner surface 115 of the end wall 2 as shown in FIG. It is held in place by pressure. However, the wall opening 1
13 is a dimension such that a gap exists on the opposite side of the finger piece 112 from the lip-like projection 114. The end cover 62 is provided with a plurality of integral proximal fingers 116, each of which enters one of the gaps and connects adjacent fingers 112 of the end plate as shown in FIG. It is kept from separating from the adjacent end wall 2 of the frame.

The end cover 62 is preferably held against separation from the end plate 18 by snapping engagement between at least some of the latch fingers 116 and respective cooperating portions of the end plate 18. . For example, as shown in FIGS. 17 and 21, each finger 116 extends through a flexible stirrup member 117 integrally formed with the end plate and behind an end surface 119 of the member. Hook and stopper rib 1 that engages smoothly
It has 18. The stirrup member 117 must be able to bend so that it can overlap the fingers 116 and then withdraw the fingers 116 and thereby separate the cover 62 and end plate 18. Obviously, there are many other ways to retain the end cover 62 as desired.

As shown in FIGS. 16, 19 and 21, at least one metal reinforcing strap 120 is extended between and engaged with the two end covers 55, 62 to strengthen the assembly. can do. An opening 121 provided at one end of the strap 120 engages with a lug 122 formed integrally with the end cover 62, and the other end of the end cover and the end cover 55 can be arbitrarily connected. .

From the above description, it is clear that the traction assembly has many valuable advantages from a functional and manufacturing economic standpoint. The towing assembly is particularly suitable for mass production methods.

The arrangement of the ratchet wheel, inertia plate and biasing spring is particularly advantageous since a relatively constant spring force acts between the ratchet wheel and the inertia plate no matter what rotational position the spindle is in. In this arrangement, the center of gravity of the inertia plate passes approximately through the spindle axis and has almost no effect on the rotational moment exerted by the return lever on the inertia plate.

It is also important that the detent lever can be made of plastic or other materials for easy and accurate manufacture. Precise construction of the outer or toothed end of the detent lever allows the lever to be accurately guided in the locking ring, thereby minimizing or eliminating the possibility that the pawl will not properly engage the locking ring. In this regard, the toothed end of the detent lever can be relatively quickly adapted to accurately and securely engage the locking ring.

Various substitutions, modifications, and additions may be made to the structure and arrangement of the parts described above without departing from the principles of the invention as set forth in the claims.

[Brief explanation of the drawing]

FIG. 1 is a partial cross-sectional end view of one type of reel assembly employing one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG.
A cross-sectional view taken along the -■ line, Figure 3 is the ■- of Figure 2.
Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line ■-IV in Figure 1, Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line ■-IV in Figure 1, and Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line ■-IV in Figure 1.
6 is an exploded view of some of the components of the mechanism shown in FIGS. 1 and 2; FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view taken along line V-V in the figure; 8 is a sectional view showing the relative positions of the various components of the mechanism when the mechanism is placed in the relationship shown in FIG.
Figures are similar to Figure 5, but showing the components in a position to initiate the reel locking action; Figure 9 is similar to Figure 7, but in a state corresponding to that shown in Figure 7; Figure 1 showing
Figure 0 is similar to Figure 8, but shows the reel spindle advanced beyond the position shown in Figure 8; Figure 11 is similar to Figure 8;
Although it is similar to the figure, it shows the position selected under the condition of Figure 10, Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along the ■ - cutting line in Figure 1, and Figure 13 is a reel locking position. FIG. 1 is a diagram of the vehicle deceleration sensor shown in FIG. 1 showing the sensor activated to initiate its action; FIG. 14 is a sectional view taken along line xv-xv in FIG. 2; FIG. 14 is an exploded view of the components shown in FIG. 14 showing the spool in cross section, FIG. 16 is an exploded view of the reel assembly seen from the opposite end from FIG. 1, and FIG. 17 is an exploded view of the components shown in FIG. 16. A sectional view taken along the line XV II-XV II, Figure 18 is xv in Figure 17.
19 is a sectional view taken along the line XIX-XIX in FIG. 16, and FIG.
is a sectional view taken along the line xx-xx in FIG. 16, and FIG. 21 is a sectional view taken along the line XXI-XIX in FIG. 19. 1...Frame 8...Spindle 20...
Pawl 25... Spindle axis 34... Spring means 64... Inertia plate 66... Detent 7
8... Lobe 79... Concavity. Patent applicant Repco Ltd. Engraving of the drawings (no changes to the contents) Chichip, "Q/4 F'/!q// Procedures Amendment Book Showa" and February 2015 Patent Office - L Kanwaka Kazu Sugi Indication of Fudono 1 case 'Showa' and '77- No. 2, Title of the invention '4 Belt 1)] Tsuda-4↓'-) No) 11- Rule 6 amendment Relationship with the case Patent applicant address 791 I/Futsu lj: U, 1-4, Agent procedure amendment (method) % formula % 1, Indication of the case 1988 Patent Application No. 78874 Emergency locking reel 3 for safety belts, relationship with the case of the person making the amendment Applicant Address Name Revco Limited 4, Agent 5 Date of amendment order October 25, 1983 (Date of dispatch) 6th amendment Target j+−〇−〇

Claims (1)

[Claims] 1. A frame, a spindle rotatably attached to the frame, a locking means that acts to prevent the spindle from rotating in one direction relative to the frame, and a locking means attached to the spindle together with the spindle. a detent rotatably connected to actuate the locking means; an inertia plate separate from the locking means and mounted on the spindle for limited rotation relative thereto; and a detent that is resilient to changes in relative position. spring means acting on the inertia plate to resist the movement of the inertia plate, the detent being actuated in response to a change in the relative position of the inertia plate;
The sudden rotation of the spindle in said one direction overcomes the force of the spring means and causes the locking means to change relative position so as to act to prevent further rotation of the spindle in one direction. An emergency locking reel for safety belts. 2° a detent support is mounted on the spindle for rotation therewith, the detent allowing the support to rotate therewith and to allow the detent to move relative to the support between an operative position and an inactive position; The detent is mounted so that the detent can be moved into and out of the active position in reaction to the inertia plate and the support depending on the direction of relative rotation between the inertia plate and the support. Emergency locking reel in range 1. 3. The locking means includes a toothed locking ring fixed to the frame so as to prevent relative movement, and a pawl that rotates with the spindle, and a moving means is provided between the pawl and the spindle so that the spindle rotates relative to the pawl. The pawl is movable between an operative position in which the pawl engages the locking ring to actuate the locking means and a non-operative position in which the pawl does not engage the locking ring. Emergency locking reel as specified in Section 1 or Section 2. 4. The emergency locking reel of claim 3 as dependent on claim 2, wherein the emergency locking reel is moved into the operative position in response to rotation of the spindle in one direction relative to the support. 5. The support and the claw are connected so as not to rotate relative to each other,
5. The emergency locking reel of claim 4, wherein the spindle is moved into and out of an operative position in response to relative rotation of the spindles. 6. An emergency locking reel according to claim 4 or 5, wherein elastic means act between the spindle and the support to resist relative rotation of the spindle in one direction. 7. The elastic means act on a surface near the axis of the spindle and extend outwardly from said axis, and the end quarter remote from the axis of the spring arm acts on a surface of the support.
Emergency locking reel. 8. The spring means comprises a coiled compression spring acting between the opposing surfaces of the support and the inertial plate, the coiled spring being connected at one end to the end quarter of the spindle arm. Emergency locking reel. 9. An emergency locking reel according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein rotation in either direction of the inertia plate relative to the spindle is limited by engagement of a detent therewith. 10 A detent is pivotally mounted on the support and the spindle is moved in one direction relative to the inertia plate, and in response to engagement of the inertia plate, the detent is pivoted away from the axis of the spindle about the pivot point and inserted outwardly. An emergency locking reel as claimed in any claim dependent thereon, wherein the detent is moved into an operative position in which it engages a fixed stop surface. 11. Lobes are provided in the inertia plate and engage in recesses in the detent, and the pivotal position of the detent relative to the support is determined by the rotational position of the inertia plate relative to the support.
Item 0 emergency locking reel. 12. A cap member is removably connected to one end of the spindle on a detent pivot to hold the detent to the assembly, and a spring arm is provided between the cap member and the support to support the spindle. 12. An emergency locking reel as claimed in claim 10 or claim 11, operative to resiliently resist rotation in one direction relative to the body. 13 A patent claim in which the support is a ratchet wheel having a series of teeth around the periphery, and the vehicle deceleration response sensor engages one tooth of the ratchet wheel to prevent rotation of the ratchet tooth, thereby causing rotation of the pawl. range 2nd
or any one emergency locking reel subordinate thereto. 14 A frame, a spindle rotatably attached to the frame, a locking means that acts to prevent the spindle from rotating in one direction relative to the frame, and a locking means forming a part of the locking means and attached to the frame. a locking ring fixedly fixed against movement relative thereto and having an aperture therethrough coaxial with the spindle, and a plurality of regularly spaced teeth around the aperture, each tooth oriented toward the axis of the spindle. An emergency locking reel characterized in that it projects inward and is symmetrical about a plane that includes the spindle axis. 15. The locking means includes a locking ring fixed to the frame so as not to move relative thereto, the ring having a through opening coaxial with the spindle and having a plurality of regularly spaced teeth around the opening; An emergency lock according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein each tooth projects inwardly toward the axis of the spindle and is substantially symmetrical about a plane containing the axis of the spindle. reel. 16 Each tooth has two inclined surfaces converging towards the spindle axis such that one surface forms a locking surface if the reel is unwound in one direction and one surface forms a locking surface if the reel is unwound in the opposite direction. The other surface forms a locking surface, and the locking means further includes a pawl that rotates with the spindle and engages the locking surface to render the locking means inoperative. Paragraph 15 Emergency locking reel 01
7. The emergency locking reel of claim 14, 15 or 16, wherein the housing fixed to the frame accommodates the locking means and is symmetrical about a plane containing the axis of the spindle. 18. A vehicle deceleration response sensor for activating a locking step, the housing including a receptacle for the sensor;
18. The emergency locking reel of claim 17, wherein said receptacle is symmetrical about said axis of the housing. 19. The sensor comprises a ball housed in said part of the sensor, the ball being movable relative to said housing part from a rest position to an operative position in which the sensor acts on a locking means, the plane of symmetry of the housing being such that the ball is at rest; 19. The emergency locking reel of claim 18 which passes approximately through the center of the ball when in position. 20. The sensor includes a lever pivotally mounted to the housing in response to movement of the ball between rest and actuation positions, the lever being actuated to actuate the locking means when pivoted to a position corresponding to the actuation position. The emergency locking reel according to claim 18 or 19. 21, the housing includes two support means for the lever;
Emergency locking reel 22 according to claim 20, in which the respective support means are used according to the direction of rotation in which the reel is unwound, the lever engaging one ratchet tooth when in the operative position so that the ratchet tooth together with the spindle ``The emergency lock of claim 20 or 21, wherein the locking means prevents rotation in one direction and the locking means acts in response to rotation of the spindle in one direction relative to the ratchet wheel. Reel. 23, a locking bar extending across the valley between each pair of adjacent locking ring teeth, each locking bar extending generally in the axial direction of the spindle such that a portion of each adjacent tooth extends beyond the locking bar; radially projecting position, with a portion of each locking bar projecting beyond the end face of the locking ring and engaging a portion of the locking bar upon actuation of the detent to actuate the locking means. Claim 15 or any one of the emergency locking reels dependent thereon. 24. Each locking bar is integrally formed with an end plate of a housing containing locking means and secured to the frame. Emergency locking IJ-Rule 0 of Paragraph 23 25 A frame, a spindle rotatably mounted on the frame, locking means operative to prevent rotation of the spindle in one direction relative to the frame, and a frame. a housing secured to the housing and housing the locking means;
a vehicle deceleration response sensor operative to actuate a locking means and having a partially spherical member; a spherical cavity disposed in the housing substantially complementary to the spherical portion of the partially spherical member; An emergency locking sole capable of being fixed in a cavity in one of relatively possible positions, the position being selected according to the desired position of the housing relative to the vehicle in which the housing is installed and used. . 26, further comprising: a frame (a housing secured thereto and containing a locking means; a vehicle deceleration response sensor having a partially spherical member operative to actuate the locking means; and a spherical portion of the partially spherical member; a spherical cavity provided within the housing substantially complementary to the housing, the hemispherical member being capable of securing within the cavity at any one of a range of positions relative to the housing, the position being suitable for mounting and use of the housing; The emergency lock stop according to any one of claims 1 to 16, 23 and 24 is selected according to the desired position of the housing relative to the vehicle. a spherical member and a spherical cavity disposed within the housing substantially complementary to the spherical portion of the hemispherical member, the hemispherical member being secured within the cavity in any one of a range of possible positions relative to the housing; of the first emergency locking lino'028 hemispherical member according to any one of claims 18 to 20, wherein the position is selected according to the desired position of the housing relative to the vehicle in which the housing is installed and used. 28. An emergency locking reel as claimed in claim 25, 26 or 27, wherein in each section the center forming the spherical portion of the member lies in a plane which also includes the axis of the spindle. 29. An emergency locking reel according to any one of claims 25 to 28, wherein the housing and the hemispherical member are made of plastic material, and the hemispherical member is fixed to the housing by induction welding. a frame; a spindle rotatably mounted on the frame; a locking ring fixed to the frame so as not to move relative thereto; a pawl that acts to prevent rotation in the direction; a vehicle deceleration response sensor that acts to act on the pawl; and an end plate that is attached to the frame and is made of a plastic material and has a bearing for the spindle as an integral part. 31. An emergency locking reel for a safety belt, which includes positioning means for positioning the locking ring relative to the spindle, and means for positioning the sensor relative to the spindle. 31. Locking means a pawl fixed to the frame so as not to move relative to the frame and engaged with a locking ring to prevent rotation of the spindle in one direction relative to the frame; an end plate molded from a plastic material is attached to the frame, a bearing for the spindle, a means for positioning the locking ring relative to the spindle, and a second positioning means for positioning the sensor relative to the spindle. and an end plate having means as an integral part. 32 An end plate molded from a plastic material is attached to the frame so as not to move relative thereto, and includes a bearing for the spindle, a locking means for positioning the locking ring relative to the spindle, and a sensor for positioning the sensor relative to the spindle. An emergency locking reel according to any one of claims 18 to 24, comprising a second positioning means as an integral part. 33. A locking means is rotatable with the spindle and a locking ring secured against movement relative to the frame and engages the locking ring thereby preventing rotation of the spindle in one direction relative to the frame. an end plate molded from a plastic material is attached to the frame and includes a bearing for the spindle, a positioning means for positioning the locking ring relative to the spindle, and a second positioning means for positioning the sensor relative to the spindle. 29. An emergency locking reel as claimed in any one of claims 25 to 28, comprising means as an integral part. 34. The locating means for the locking ring comprises a series of rods projecting outwardly from the end plate in the axial direction of the spindle, each rod engaging between adjacent teeth of each pair of the locking ring. The emergency locking reel according to claim 30, 31 or 33. 35, the frame having two spaced apart end walls, the belt being received between the end walls and forming part of the spool around which the return spring is positioned outside one of the end walls and extending from the spindle; The spool is driven in the belt winding direction, and the end plate is fixed to the outside of the other end wall and interposed between this end wall and the locking ring, and the locking ring is also attached to the other end wall. 35. An emergency locking reel as claimed in any one of claims 30 to 34, which is secured to the end wall of the. 36. A further end plate of plastic material is attached to one end wall and an end cover of plastic material having as an integral part a further bearing for the spindle is attached to each end. The emergency locking reel of claim 35, which is attached to a plate. 37. said further end plate snappingly engages one end wall and an end cover at the same end of the reel snappingly engages said further end plate and said end plate and one end wall; 37. The emergency locking reel of claim 36, wherein the reel cooperates with the wall to releasably retain the end plates and end walls from separation. 38. A frame, a spool rotatably attached to the frame, a locking means that acts to prevent the spool from rotating in one direction relative to the frame, and a spool provided penetrating on both sides of the spool. a belt-receiving slot with an open mouth on one side of the spool widening transversely to the axis of the spool; an elongated retainer having a cross-sectional shape substantially complementary to the cross-sectional shape of the widened mouth; and an inner edge of the retainer. a groove extending over the entire length of the holder and having a belt clamping jaw formed thereon on each side, such that the belt is secured to the spool when the end quarter of the belt is positioned between the jaws; The belt portion near the end 4 minutes is bent over the holder, passes across the rear edge of the holder, passes over the front edge of the holder, and surrounds the holder, and the portion near the end of the belt folds over the inner edge. The belt extends through the slot and exits the mouth on the opposite side of the enlarged mouth, and the tension of the belt pulls the retainer tightly into the open mouth, thereby tightening the jaws to the belt and holding the portion near the end of the belt. An emergency locking reel for a safety belt, characterized in that it can be tightened between opposing surfaces of a body and a spool. 39. Opposing surfaces of the enlarged mouth converge toward the spindle axis and each jaw has a correspondingly sloped outer surface, whereby the retainer is wedged within the enlarged mouth. 40. The emergency locking reel of claim 38 or 39, wherein the width of the groove widens at the base opposite its inner edge to accommodate the end of the belt. 41, the spool comprising a spindle comprising a metal core and a plastic body molded around the core; and a belt guide having a cylindrical portion and a flange at each end of the cylindrical portion; Claim 3, which is non-rotatably accommodated in the hole of
Emergency locking reel of Section 8, Section 39 or Section 40. 42, an emergency locking reel as described with particular reference to the accompanying drawings.