ES2363087T3 - BELT REMOVAL DEVICE. - Google Patents

Abstract

Belt retractor (10) comprising: a retraction shaft (20) on which a belt is wound to retain the occupant of a vehicle so that it can be picked up and extracted therefrom, a motor (44) , and a clutch (100) mechanically intercalated between the motor (44) and the retraction axis (20), which transmits the motor rotation (44) to the retraction axis (20) by rotating it, stops the transmission of the rotation generated in the side of the retraction axis and prevents the rotation from being transmitted to the rotor (44), wherein the clutch (100) includes: a cogwheel (116) provided coaxially with respect to the retraction axis (20), which rotates due to the turn the engine is transmitting (44); a rotor (124) provided coaxially with respect to the sprocket (116); a blocking bar (154) provided in the rotor (124) held in a position disengaged with the retraction axis (20) and when said rotor (124) rotates in a first direction around an axis, the blocking bar (154 ) engages with the retraction shaft (20) to which the rotation of the rotor (124) is transmitted, and when said rotor (124) rotates in a second direction around the axis, the locking bar (154) is forced to stay in the disengaged position; a ring (176) disposed sideways in the axial direction of the rotor (124) and which holds the sprocket (116) and the locking bar (154) in predetermined assembly positions; and a spring hook (182) provided between the gearwheel (116) and the rotor (124) along a peripheral direction as it is created entirely with the ring (176), and, thanks to the elastic force of the spring hook ( 182), the ring (176) is attached to the rotor (124) and the rotation of the cogwheel (116) is transmitted to said rotor (124), and when a load greater than or equal to the same (124) is applied to it (124). a predetermined value, thanks to said load the spring hook (182) stops the transmission of the rotation, and allows the toothed wheel (116) and the rotor (124) to rotate relatively empty, and the gearwheel (116) includes a part receiving the load in the peripheral direction (120) that receives, along a peripheral direction, the load applied by the spring hook (182).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a belt retractor, and in particular, to a belt retractor that can pick up said belt by rotating a retraction shaft by means of a motor.

BACKGROUND OF THE TECHNIQUE

A seat belt device for the occupant retention of a vehicle is equipped with a belt retractor. Among the belt retractors, are those equipped with a tension reducer whose function is to mitigate or eliminate a feeling of excessive constriction while the belt is placed, or a pretensioning mechanism that, when collecting a predetermined amount of a belt on the retraction axis when the vehicle is in a state of rapid deceleration or other similar situation, eliminates the effect of slight slack known as "slack" (loosening) or other similar effect and increases the retention force exerted by the belt on the body of the occupant of the vehicle and holds it even more securely. In addition, a motorized retractor is known whose structure performs the respective functions described above by means of an engine (as examples, refer to patent documents 1 and 2).

This type of motorized retractor, for example, can not only present the functions of a tension reducer and a pretensioner as previously described, but it is also possible that it contributes to the collection and removal of the belt at usual moments of placement thereof and the like, which is extremely advantageous.

In particular, in recent years, a structure has been conceived in which, in a motorized retractor like the one described above, a front monitoring device such as a distance sensor or other similar device detects the distance between another vehicle or obstacle frontal, and when said distance is less than a certain value, a motor is driven, whose turning force rotates the retraction axis in the retraction direction. In such a motorized retractor, in order to prevent the rotation of the side of the retraction axis from being transmitted to the motor, there is a clutch inserted between the motor output shaft and the retraction axis, and thanks to said clutch the rotation is transmitted only from the output shaft side of the motor to the retraction shaft.

In such a motorized retractor, compactibility and weight reduction, lower manufacturing costs, and the like are required. Also, the clutch described above requires compactness and weight reduction, an improvement in ease of assembly, and the like.

Patent document 1: Japanese patent application pending (JP-A) No. 2001-130376

Patent document 2: Japanese patent application pending (JP-A) No. 2001-347923

In EP 1 382 498 A2 a belt retractor is revealed for an elongated belt-shaped seat belt used to place it on the body of the occupant of a vehicle.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

In view of the circumstances described above, the present invention provides a belt retractor with which it is not only possible to transmit only the rotation of the motor side to a retraction axis thanks to a clutch, but also, it is possible to achieve the compactibility and weight reduction of said clutch, and also the ease of assembly is improved.

MEANS TO SOLVE THE PROBLEMS

The present invention provides a belt retractor according to claim 1. Other embodiments of the belt retractor of the present invention are described in dependent claims 2 to 9.

The belt retractor includes: a retraction shaft on which a belt is wound to retain the occupant of a vehicle so that it can be picked up and removed from it, an engine, and a clutch mechanically intercalated between the engine and the retraction axis, which transmits the rotation of the motor to the retraction axis by rotating it, stops the transmission of the rotation generated on the side of the retraction axis and prevents the rotation from being transmitted to the motor, where the clutch includes: a wheel toothed provided coaxially with respect to the retraction axis, which rotates due to the rotation that the motor is transmitting; a rotor provided coaxially with respect to the sprocket; a blocking bar provided in the rotor which is held in a position disengaged with the retraction axis, and when the rotor rotates in a first direction around an axis, the blocking bar engages with the retraction axis and transmits the Rotation of the rotor, and when the rotor rotates in a second direction around the axis, the locking bar is forced to remain in the disengaged position; and a spring hook provided between the gearwheel and the rotor along a peripheral direction, which transmits the rotation of the gearwheel to the rotor, and when said rotor is applied a load greater than or equal to a predetermined value, thanks at said load the spring hook stops the transmission of the rotation and allows the gearwheel and the rotor to rotate relatively in a vacuum, and the gearwheel has a receiving part of the load in the peripheral direction it receives, along a peripheral direction, the load applied by the spring hook.

The belt retractor has a clutch that transmits the rotation of the motor to the retraction axis. Said clutch has a cogwheel which rotates due to the rotation that the engine is transmitting, and a rotor coaxially provided with respect to the cogwheel. Between the cogwheel and the rotor along its peripheral direction there is a spring hook, thanks to which the rotation of the cogwheel is transmitted to the rotor.

In addition, the locking bar, located on the rotor, when engaged with the retraction axis, transmits the rotation of the rotor in a direction around the axis (ie, the first direction). The locking bar is usually held in the disengaged position with the retraction axis. Therefore, the rotor and the retraction axis can normally rotate with each other, preventing the rotation generated on the side of said retraction axis from being transmitted to the motor.

Due to this structure, when the occupant of the seat of a vehicle pulls the belt accommodated in the present belt retractor, the belt is removed while the retraction axis rotates. The belt can be adapted to the body thanks to the fact that the occupant of the vehicle surrounds it with said belt removed and, for example, fastens it through a tongue plate provided therein with a buckle device.

When the engine rotates, the clutch sprocket is rotated in the first direction. The spring hook transmits the rotation of the cogwheel to the rotor, turning it in the same direction. When the rotor rotates in said first direction, the locking bar provided in the rotor engages with the retraction shaft. In this way, the rotation of the rotor in the first direction is transmitted through the locking bar to the retraction axis, making it rotate in the same direction.

In the situation where the retraction axis and the rotor are connected by the locking bar as previously described, when, for example, a load greater than or equal to a value is applied to the retraction axis from the belt By default, the same load is applied to the rotor through the locking bar. When a load greater than or equal to a predetermined value is applied to the rotor, thanks to said load the spring hook stops the transmission of the rotation between the gearwheel and the rotor, and allows both to rotate relatively empty (which is known as "Load limiting mechanism"). In this way, it is possible to prevent the retraction axis, which is connected to the rotor through the locking bar, from turning in the first direction by a force greater than necessary due to the motor driving force.

On the other hand, when the engine turns upside down, the clutch sprocket is rotated in the other direction around the axle (i.e. the second direction). The spring hook transmits the rotation of the cogwheel to the rotor, turning it in the second direction. When the rotor rotates in this same direction, the locking bar provided in the rotor is forced to remain in the disengaged position with the retraction axis. In this way, the rotor and the retraction axis are able to rotate in a relative manner again, so it is possible that said retraction axis rotates freely.

In the clutch of this belt retractor, the toothed wheel has a receiving part of the load in the peripheral direction. At the time of transmitting the turning force between the gearwheel and the rotor, the load, which is applied from the spring hook to the gearwheel, is applied along the peripheral direction of the gearwheel through the part Receiver of the load in peripheral direction. Therefore, in the clutch, it is not necessary to predict a load applied by the spring hook along the radial direction of the sprocket, at the previously mentioned moment of transmission of the turning force, nor to increase the stiffness of said wheel toothed In this way, the cogwheel can be molded to be thin wall or resin or the like, and it is possible to pretend to achieve compactness and weight reduction of the clutch.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the belt retractor includes: a retraction shaft on which a belt is wound to retain the occupant of a vehicle so that it can be picked up and extracted therefrom, a engine, and a clutch mechanically intercalated between the engine and the retraction shaft, which transmits the rotation of the engine to the retraction axis by rotating it in the direction of retraction of the belt, stops the transmission of the rotation generated on the side of the retraction axis and prevents the rotation from being transmitted to the engine, where the clutch includes: a box; a toothed wheel coaxially provided with respect to the retraction axis, which rotates due to the rotation that the motor is transmitting; a rotor provided coaxially with respect to the sprocket and having outer teeth in an outer peripheral part; a slider held in the box by the frictional force that can be moved relative to the rotor within a predetermined range; a locking bar provided on the rotor, which is always forced in the direction of gearing with the retraction axis, and held by the slider in a position disengaged with said retraction axis, which moves to separate from said slider when the rotor rotates in the direction of retraction of the belt, releasing the fastener, engages with the retraction axis due to the inductive force, transmits the rotation of the rotor to the retraction axis, and allows the relative rotation of the retraction axis in the direction of retraction of the belt with respect to the rotor, and when the rotor rotates in the direction of removal of the belt, said locking bar moves to approach the slider which forces it to remain in the disengaged position; and a spring hook, configured in the form of an elastic plate, provided between the sprocket and the rotor along a peripheral direction, which has two end parts, distal and proximal, that engage with the outer teeth of the rotor and the cogwheel, respectively, and transmits the rotation of the cogwheel to the rotor, and when a load greater than or equal to a predetermined value is applied to the rotor, the spring hook deforms elastically due to the load, removes the distal end portion of the outer teeth, and allows the toothed wheel and the rotor to rotate relatively in a vacuum and the toothed wheel has a receiving part of the load in the peripheral direction that receives, along a peripheral direction, the load applied by the spring hook.

The belt retractor of this exemplary embodiment has a clutch that transmits the rotation of the motor to the retraction axis. Said clutch has a cogwheel which rotates due to the rotation that the motor is transmitting to it, and a rotor provided coaxially with respect to the cogwheel and having outer teeth in its outer peripheral part. The spring hook, which is configured in the form of an elastic plate, is located along the peripheral direction of the sprocket and the rotor and between both components. This spring hook can be structured in such a way that its distal and proximal (base) end portions engage with the outer teeth of the rotor and the load receiving part in the peripheral direction of the gearwheel, respectively, so that through said Spring hook transmits the rotation of the cogwheel to the rotor.

In addition, the rotor is provided with the locking bar which, when engaged with the retraction axis, transmits the rotation of the rotor in the direction of retraction of the belt. The locking bar is always forced in the gear direction with the retraction axis, and normally held by the slider in the disengaged position with said retraction axis. Therefore, the rotor and the retraction axis can normally rotate with each other, preventing the rotation generated on the side of said retraction axis from being transmitted to the motor.

Due to this structure, when the occupant of a vehicle seat removes the belt accommodated in the present belt retractor, the belt is removed while the retraction axis rotates in the direction of belt removal. The belt can be adapted to the body thanks to the fact that the occupant of the vehicle surrounds it with said belt removed and, for example, fastens it through a tongue plate provided therein with a buckle device.

For example, if the vehicle in motion is facing a frontal obstacle and the interval between the vehicle and the obstacle (the distance between the two) is within a predetermined range, the engine rotates, causing the sprocket of the Clutch rotate in the direction of belt retraction. The rotation of the cogwheel is transmitted to the proximal end part of the spring hook from the receiving part of the load in the peripheral direction, and is transmitted from the distal end part of this spring hook to the outer teeth of the rotor, rotating it in the belt retraction direction. At this time, since the frictional force holds the slider in the case, the rotor moves relative to said slider within a predetermined range, and the locking bar provided in the rotor moves to separate from the slider. The locking bar engages with the retraction axis due to the inductive force, and through said blocking bar the rotation of the rotor is transmitted in the direction of retraction of the belt to the retraction axis, making it rotate in the same direction. In this way, the belt is collected on the retraction axis, eliminating the effect of slight slack, known as "slack", of the belt when it is placed, and the retention force exerted by said belt on the body of the body can be increased. vehicle occupant

In the state in which the "slack" effect is eliminated as described above, the body of the vehicle occupant becomes an obstacle so the belt cannot basically be picked up on the retraction axis. Therefore, from the belt a load greater than or equal to a predetermined value is applied to the retraction axis, and as a result, the same load is applied to the rotor through the locking bar. When a load greater than or equal to a predetermined value is applied to the rotor, the spring hook deforms elastically due to the load, removes its distal end portion of the outer teeth of the rotor, and allows the toothed wheel and the rotor to rotate relatively in vacuum (what is known as "load limiting mechanism"). In this way, the retraction axis, which is connected to the rotor through the locking bar, can be prevented from rotating in the direction of retraction of the belt by a force greater than necessary due to the driving force of the motor , and the belt can be prevented from joining the body of the vehicle occupant by a force greater than necessary.

In this situation, the locking bar allows the relative rotation of the retraction axis in the direction of retraction of the belt with respect to the rotor. Therefore, if in the previously mentioned state in which the “slack” effect is eliminated, a situation arises in which, for example, it is inevitable that the vehicle collides, it is also possible to force the rotation of the retraction axis in the direction of retraction of the belt by a different pretensioner or similar device. In this case, the retention force exerted by the belt on the body of the occupant of the vehicle can be further increased, being able to minimize the injuries that said occupant could suffer in the event of a collision.

On the other hand, in case the collision risk described above is avoided, the engine turns upside down, and the clutch sprocket is rotated in the direction of belt removal. The spring hook transmits the rotation of the cogwheel to the outer teeth of the rotor, making it rotate in the same direction. Since the frictional force holds the slider in the case, the rotor moves relative to said slider within a predetermined range, and the locking bar provided in the rotor moves to approximate the slider. Consequently, the slider forces the locking bar to be held again in the disengaged position with the retraction axis. In this way, the rotor and the retraction axis are able to rotate in a relative manner again, allowing the free rotation of said retraction axis.

In the clutch of this belt retractor, the toothed wheel has a receiving part of the load in the peripheral direction. At the time of transmitting the turning force between the gearwheel and the rotor, the load, which is applied from the spring hook to the gearwheel, is applied along the peripheral direction of said gearwheel through the part Receiver of the load in peripheral direction. Therefore, it is not necessary to predict a load applied by the spring hook along the radial direction of the sprocket, at the previously mentioned moment of transmission of the turning force, nor to increase the stiffness of said sprocket.

In addition, when a load greater than or equal to a predetermined value is applied to the rotor, the spring hook deforms elastically, so it removes its distal end portion of the outer teeth of the rotor, and stops the transmission of rotation between the sprocket. and the rotor. That is, the operation of the "load limiting mechanism" described above is carried out between the rotor and the spring hook. In this case, too, the load along the radial direction does not apply to the sprocket. Therefore, from this point also, it is not necessary to increase its rigidity.

Thus, in the clutch of this belt retractor, the sprocket can be molded to be thin-walled or made of resin or the like, and it is possible to achieve compactness and weight reduction of the clutch.

Another example of embodiment of the present invention is a belt retractor that includes a retraction axis on which a belt is wound to retain the occupant of a vehicle so that it can be picked up and extracted therefrom, a motor , and a clutch mechanically intercalated between the motor and the retraction axis, which transmits the rotation of the motor to the retraction axis, turning it, stops the transmission of the rotation generated on the side of the retraction axis and prevents the rotation from being transmitted to the engine, where the clutch includes: a cogwheel provided coaxially with respect to the retraction axis, which rotates due to the rotation that the engine is transmitting; a rotor provided coaxially with respect to the sprocket; a blocking bar provided in the rotor which is held in a position disengaged with the retraction axis, and when the rotor rotates in a first direction around an axis, the blocking bar engages with the retraction axis and transmits the Rotation of the rotor, and when the rotor rotates in a second direction around the axis, the locking bar is forced to remain in the disengaged position; and a ring with a cover part disposed sideways in the axial direction of the rotor and which holds the gearwheel and the locking bar in predetermined assembly positions, and a spring hook created entirely with the cover part provided between the gearwheel and the rotor and which transmits the rotation of the cogwheel to the rotor, and when said rotor is applied a load greater than or equal to a predetermined value, thanks to said load the spring hook stops the transmission of the rotation and allows both to rotate relatively empty, and the elastic force of the spring hook holds the ring to the rotor.

The belt retractor of this embodiment has a clutch that transmits the rotation of the motor to the retraction axis. Said clutch has a cogwheel which rotates due to the rotation that the engine is transmitting, and a rotor coaxially provided with respect to the cogwheel. The cover part of the ring is arranged on one side in the axial direction of the rotor, and the spring hook is created entirely with said cover part. This spring hook is located between the cogwheel and the rotor, and thanks to it the rotation of the cogwheel is transmitted to the rotor.

The locking bar, located on the rotor, when engaged with the retraction axis, transmits the rotation of the rotor in a direction around the axis (that is, the first direction). The locking bar is usually held in the disengaged position with the retraction axis. Therefore, the rotor and the retraction axis can normally rotate with each other, preventing the rotation generated on the side of said retraction axis from being transmitted to the motor.

Due to this structure, when the occupant of the seat of a vehicle pulls the belt accommodated in the present belt retractor, the belt is removed while the retraction axis rotates. The belt can be adapted to the body thanks to the fact that the occupant of the vehicle surrounds it with said belt removed and, for example, fastens it through a tongue plate provided therein with a buckle device.

In addition, when the engine rotates, the clutch sprocket is rotated in the first direction. The spring hook transmits the rotation of the cogwheel to the rotor, turning it in the same direction. When the rotor rotates in this first direction, the locking bar provided in the rotor engages with the retraction shaft. In this way, the rotation of the rotor in the first direction is transmitted through the locking bar to the retraction axis, making it rotate in the same direction.

In the situation where the retraction axis and the rotor are connected by the locking bar as previously described, when, for example, a load greater than or equal to a value is applied to the retraction axis from the belt By default, the same load is applied to the rotor through the locking bar. When a load greater than or equal to a predetermined value is applied to the rotor, thanks to said load, the spring hook of the ring stops the transmission of the rotation between the gearwheel and the rotor, and allows both to rotate relatively empty ("limiting mechanism of load ”). In this way, it is possible to prevent the retraction axis, which is connected to the rotor through the locking bar, from turning in the first direction by a force greater than necessary due to the motor driving force.

On the other hand, when the engine turns upside down, the clutch sprocket is rotated in the other direction around the axle (i.e. the second direction). The spring hook of the ring transmits the rotation of the cogwheel to the rotor, turning it in the second direction. When the rotor rotates in this same direction, the locking bar provided in the rotor is forced to remain in the disengaged position with the retraction axis. In this way, the rotor and the retraction axis are able to rotate in a relative manner again, allowing the free rotation of said retraction axis.

In the clutch of this belt retractor, the ring has the entire cover part, which keeps the cogwheel and the locking bar in predetermined assembly positions, and the spring hook so that it can perform the function of the “limiting mechanism of load ”previously described. Also, the ring is structured so that the elastic force of the spring hook holds it to the rotor. That is to say, the respective structural members described above of this clutch can be held in full temporarily (sub-assembled), because the cogwheel and the locking bar are assembled in predetermined assembly positions since the elastic force of the Spring hook attaches the ring to the rotor. In this way, the ease of assembly is greatly improved at the time of assembling the respective structural members previously described from the clutch to the belt retractor or other similar device.

Another embodiment of the present invention is a belt retractor that includes: a retraction shaft on which a belt is wound to retain the occupant of a vehicle so that it can be picked up and removed therefrom, a motor, and a clutch mechanically intercalated between the motor and the retraction axis, which transmits the rotation of the motor to the retraction axis by rotating it in the direction of retraction of the belt, stops the transmission of the rotation generated on the side of the retraction axis and prevents that the turn is transmitted to the engine, where the clutch includes: a box; a toothed wheel coaxially provided with respect to the retraction axis, which rotates due to the rotation that the motor is transmitting; a rotor provided coaxially with respect to the sprocket; a slider held in the box by the frictional force that can be moved relative to the rotor within a predetermined range; a locking bar provided in the rotor, which is always forced in the direction of gearing with the retraction axis, and held by the slider in a position disengaged with said retraction axis, which moves when the rotor rotates in the direction of retraction of the belt to separate from the slider, releasing the fastener, engages with the retraction axis due to the inductive force, transmits the rotation of the rotor to the retraction axis, and allows the relative rotation of the retraction axis in the direction of retraction of the belt with respect to the rotor, and when the rotor rotates in the direction of removal of the belt, said locking bar moves to approach the slider which forces it to remain in the disengaged position; and a ring with a cover part disposed sideways in the axial direction of the rotor and which keeps the sprocket, the slider and the locking bar in predetermined assembly positions, and a spring hook created entirely with the cover part provided between the cogwheel and the rotor and which transmits the rotation of the cogwheel to the rotor, and when said rotor is applied a load greater than or equal to a predetermined value, thanks to said load the spring hook stops the transmission of the rotation and it allows the toothed wheel and the rotor to rotate relatively empty, and the elastic force of the spring hook holds the ring to the rotor.

The belt retractor of this embodiment has a clutch that transmits the rotation of the motor to the retraction axis. Said clutch has a cogwheel which rotates due to the rotation that the engine is transmitting, and a rotor coaxially provided with respect to the cogwheel. The cover part of the ring is arranged on one side in the axial direction of the rotor, and the spring hook is created entirely with said cover part. This spring hook is located between the cogwheel and the rotor, and thanks to it the rotation of the cogwheel is transmitted to the rotor.

In addition, the rotor is provided with the locking bar which, when engaged with the retraction axis, transmits the rotation of the rotor in the direction of retraction of the belt. The locking bar is always forced in the gear direction with the retraction axis, and normally held by the slider in the disengaged position with said retraction axis. Therefore, the rotor and the retraction axis can normally rotate with each other, preventing the rotation generated on the side of said retraction axis from being transmitted to the motor.

Due to this structure, when the occupant of a vehicle seat removes the belt accommodated in the present belt retractor, the belt is removed while the retraction axis rotates in the direction of belt removal. The belt can be adapted to the body thanks to the fact that the occupant of the vehicle surrounds it with said belt removed and, for example, fastens it through a tongue plate provided therein with a buckle device.

For example, if the vehicle in motion is facing a frontal obstacle and the interval between the vehicle and the obstacle (the distance between the two) is within a predetermined range, the engine rotates, causing the sprocket of the Clutch rotate in the direction of belt retraction. The ring spring hook transmits the rotation of the sprocket to the rotor, rotating it in said direction of belt retraction. At this time, since the frictional force holds the slider in the case, the rotor moves relative to said slider within a predetermined range, and the locking bar provided in the rotor moves to separate from the slider. The locking bar engages with the retraction axis due to the inductive force, and through said blocking bar the rotation of the rotor is transmitted in the direction of retraction of the belt to the retraction axis, making it rotate in the same direction. In this way, the belt is collected on the retraction axis, eliminating the effect of slight slack, known as "slack", of the belt when it is placed, and the retention force exerted by said belt on the body of the body can be increased. vehicle occupant

In the aforementioned state in which the "slack" effect is eliminated, the body of the vehicle occupant becomes an obstacle so that the belt basically cannot be picked up on the retraction axis. Therefore, from the belt a load greater than or equal to a predetermined value is applied to the retraction axis, and as a result, the same load is applied to the rotor through the locking bar. When a load greater than or equal to a predetermined value is applied to the rotor, thanks to said load the spring hook of the ring stops the transmission of the turning force between the sprocket and the rotor, and allows both to rotate relatively empty ( "Load limiting mechanism"). In this way, the retraction axis, which is connected to the rotor through the locking bar, can be prevented from rotating in the direction of retraction of the belt by a force greater than necessary due to the driving force of the motor , and the belt can be prevented from joining the body of the vehicle occupant by a force greater than necessary.

In this situation, the locking bar allows the relative rotation of the retraction axis in the direction of retraction of the belt with respect to the rotor. Therefore, if in the previously mentioned state in which the “slack” effect is eliminated, a situation arises in which, for example, it is inevitable that the vehicle collides, it is also possible to force the rotation of the retraction axis in the direction of retraction of the belt by a different pretensioner or similar device. In this way, the retention force exerted by the belt on the body of the occupant of the vehicle can be further increased, being able to minimize the injuries that said occupant could suffer in the event of a collision.

On the other hand, in case the collision risk described above is avoided, the engine turns upside down, and the clutch sprocket is rotated in the direction of belt removal. The ring spring hook transmits the rotation of the cogwheel to the rotor, turning it in the same direction. Since the frictional force holds the slider in the case, the rotor moves relative to said slider within a predetermined range, and the locking bar provided in the rotor moves to approximate the slider. Consequently, the slider forces the locking bar to be held again in the disengaged position with the retraction axis. In this way, the rotor and the retraction axis are able to rotate in a relative manner again, allowing the free rotation of said retraction axis.

In the clutch of this belt retractor, the ring has the cover part, which holds the sprocket, the slider and the locking bar in predetermined assembly positions, and the spring hook so that it can perform the function of “mechanism load limiter ”previously described. Also, the ring is structured so that the elastic force of the spring hook holds it to the rotor. That is to say, the respective structural members described above of this clutch can be held in full temporarily (sub-assembled), because the cogwheel, the slider and the locking bar are assembled in predetermined assembly positions since the Elastic force of the spring hook holds the ring to the rotor. In this way, the ease of assembly is greatly improved at the time of assembling the respective structural members previously described from the clutch to the belt retractor or other similar device.

EFFECT OF THE INVENTION

As described above, with the belt retractor related to the present invention, not only the rotation of one side of the motor can only be transmitted to the retraction axis thanks to a clutch, but also, it is possible to achieve compactness and reducing the weight of said clutch, and improving the ease of assembly.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view showing the structures of the main parts of a clutch which is a structural member of a belt retractor related to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view showing the structures of the main parts of the clutch related to the present embodiment.

Fig. 3 is a sectional view showing a partial clutch structure related to the present embodiment.

Figure 4A is a side view showing the clutch structure related to the present embodiment, and illustrating a state in which a locking bar is attached to a slider.

Figure 4B is a side view showing the clutch structure related to the present embodiment, and illustrating a state in which the locking bar is engaged with a ratchet.

Figure 5A is a side view showing the clutch structure related to the present embodiment, and illustrating a state in which a cogwheel and a rotor are connected by spring hooks.

Figure 5B is a side view showing the clutch structure related to the present embodiment, and illustrating a state in which the gearwheel and rotor rotate relatively empty.

Fig. 6A is a side view showing the clutch structure related to the present embodiment, and illustrating a state in which the locking bar is engaged with the ratchet.

Figure 6B is a side view showing the clutch structure related to the present embodiment, and illustrating a state in which the locking bar allows the relative rotation, in the direction of retraction of the belt, of the ratchet with respect to the rotor.

Fig. 7A is a side view showing the clutch structure related to the present embodiment, and illustrating a state in which the locking bar is engaged with the ratchet.

Figure 7B is a side view showing the clutch structure related to the present embodiment, and illustrating a state in which the locking bar is attached to the slider.

Figure 8 is a schematic perspective view showing the structures of the peripheral members that include a motor which is a structural member of the belt retractor related to the present embodiment.

Fig. 9 is a schematic perspective view showing the total structure of the belt retractor related to the present embodiment.

Fig. 10 is a perspective view showing the structures of the main parts of the belt retractor related to the present embodiment.

Figure 11 is a perspective view showing the total structure of the belt retractor related to the present embodiment.

BEST WAYS TO CARRY OUT THE INVENTION

The total structure of a belt retractor (10) related to an embodiment of the present invention is shown in a perspective view of Figure 11. Also, the perspective view of Figure 10 and the schematic perspective view of Figure. 9 show, respectively, the structures of the main parts and the total structure of the belt retractor (10).

The belt retractor (10) consists of a frame (12) consisting of a substantially plate-shaped back plate (14), and a pair of support plates (16 and 18) that extend entirely from both ends in cross direction of the back plate (14). Said rear plate (14) is coupled to the body of the vehicle as it is fixed to it by means of securing means not illustrated as bolts or other similar means.

The retraction shaft (20), manufactured by injected cast iron or other similar technique, is rotatably arranged between the pair of support plates (16 and 18) of the frame (12). Said retraction shaft (20) has, as a whole, a substantially coil-shaped configuration, and has a proximal end portion of the belt connected and fixed (not shown), which is substantially in the form of an elongated belt. When the retraction axis (20) is rotated in a direction around its axis (hereinafter, this direction will be referred to as "retraction direction"), the belt is collected from its proximal end side forming layers on the outer peripheral part of said retraction axis (20). On the other hand, when the distal end of the belt is pulled, it is removed while turning the retraction axis (20) (hereinafter, the direction of rotation of the retraction axis (20) at the time when the one that the belt is removed will be called the “removal direction”).

One end of the retraction shaft (20) passes through the support plate (18) protruding outside the frame (12). On the side of said support plate (18) there is a locking mechanism (not shown) structured to include an acceleration sensor, and which is connected to a locking plate (22), which extends between both support plates (16 and 18), and a torsion bar (24) provided in the axially central part of the retraction shaft (20). When the vehicle decelerates rapidly or performs another similar action, due to the intervention of the locking mechanism, rotation in the direction of removal of the retraction axis (20) is prevented while the locking plate (22) retains one end of the torsion bar (24) and the energy generated is absorbed.

On the other hand, the other end of the retraction shaft (20) crosses the support plate (16) protruding slightly outside the frame (12). A connecting screw (21), in the form of a hexagonal abutment, is connected coaxially and integrally with the other end side of the retraction axis (20).

In addition, on the outer side of the support plate (16) there is a clutch housing (101) which is the integral clutch housing (100) related to the present embodiment. This clutch housing (101) is shaped as a metal case or other similar material (for example, aluminum alloy or similar), and has an opening to the opposite side of the support plate (16) (then explain the directions in the clutch housing (101) taking into account that this opening is the upper side). On the open side of the clutch housing (101) there is a clutch cover (102) of iron foil or similar as a coating. The clutch housing (101) and the clutch cover (102) are fixed entirely with screws (104) to the support plate (16).

In the central part of the seat wall of the clutch housing (101) there is a round through hole (106), created coaxially to the retraction shaft (20), which is pierced by the connecting screw (21). Also, the region on the periphery of this through hole (106) protrudes, rounded and slightly, towards the opposite side of the support plate (16) (the open side of the clutch housing (101)), where creates an annular sliding surface (108). In the part of the hollow edge of the through hole (106) there is a support part of the bushing (110) configured in the form of a cylindrical tube and protruding towards the opposite side of the support plate (16). Said bearing part of the bushing (110) supports a bushing (112) (see Figures 1 and 2) in an annular shape of resin or other similar material.

Inside the clutch housing (101) there is a clutch gear part (28) that has a worm gear (34) whose axis is arranged orthogonal to the retraction axis (20), and whose end parts are held in the clutch housing (101) by means of bushings (36, 37). The distal end portion of the worm gear (34) is adapted to protrude outside the clutch housing (101). Furthermore, in a bearing part of the clutch housing (101) that supports the distal end portion of the worm gear (34), a steel ball (38) is placed in contact with said distal end part of the Worm gear (34), and which is also screwed by an adjustment screw (40). As the distal end portion of this adjustment screw (40) pushes the steel ball (38), it forces it to press the distal end of the worm gear (34) thereby restricting the displacement in the axial direction of it (34) (fits the lace). It should be noted that the steel ball (38) can have a structure that is an integral part of the distal end part of the adjustment screw (40) (a structure in which the distal end part of said adjustment screw (40) is shaped ball shaped).

The upper side of the worm gear (34) is provided with a main body part of the clutch (114) that structures the clutch (100) related to the present embodiment.

Here, the schematic perspective views of Figures 1 and 2 show the structure of said main clutch body part (114).

As these figures show, the main body part of the clutch (114) has a cogwheel (116), annular in resin or other similar material, provided with teeth arranged in a helical wheel

(118) in its outer peripheral part, and is coaxially located with respect to the retraction axis (20). The teeth of the worm wheel (118) are articulated with the worm gear (34) previously mentioned. In addition, the gearwheel (116) is constituted by a plurality (six in the present embodiment) of receiving parts of the load in peripheral direction (120) arranged at regular intervals along its inner peripheral direction. Said receiving parts of the load in peripheral direction (120) correspond to spring hooks (182) of a ring

(176) which will be described later. Also, the toothed wheel (116) has on its terminal surface a plurality (six in the present embodiment) of concave stop portions (122) on one side in axial direction (the side indicated by the direction of arrow A of the figures 1 and 2) at regular intervals along its peripheral direction. Said concave stop portions (122) correspond to stop hooks (180) of the ring (176) which will be described later.

On the inner side of the gearwheel (116), and coaxially disposed thereto, there is a rotor (124) in the form of a metal disk or other similar material (for example, zinc alloy and aluminum or the like). Said rotor (124) has a main body part (126), formed in the form of a cylindrical tube with a seating area, from which a flange part (128) protrudes in the radial direction on one side in axial direction (the side indicated by the direction of arrow B of figures 1 and 2).

In the outer peripheral part of the main body part (126), and along its peripheral direction, there is a plurality of outer teeth (130) arranged at regular intervals. The cross-sectional configurations of the respective outer teeth (130) are trapezoidal, the side walls being one of its sides (the side indicated by the direction of arrow C of Figures 1 and 2) along the peripheral direction of the main body part (126) inclined with respect to the peripheral direction thereof (126), and the side walls of its other side (the side indicated by the direction of arrow D of Figures 1 and 2) a along the peripheral direction of said main body part (126) parallel along the radial direction thereof (126). The reciprocal outer teeth (130) correspond to spring hooks (182) of the ring (176) which will be explained later.

In the central part of the seat wall of the main body part (126) an adaptation part (132) is arranged coaxially substantially in the form of a cylindrical tube. On the one hand in axial direction of said adaptation part (132) an annular mandrel (pivot) part (133) (the side indicated by the direction of arrow A of Figures 1 and 2) which is supported coaxially protrudes rotating in a round hole (135) created in the clutch cover (102), through the rotating support part (175) of a support (170) which will be described later. In addition, the aforementioned bushing (112) is rotatably engaged on the other side in the axial direction of the adaptation part (132) (the side indicated by the direction of arrow B of Figures 1 and 2), said being other side in axial direction thereof (132) rotatably supported in the clutch housing

(101) through this hub (112). In this way, the main body part (126) (the rotor (124)) can rotate around its own axis.

Inside the adaptation part (132) of the main body part (126) a ratchet is accommodated

(134) of iron sheet, or the like, substantially annular. The outer peripheral part of said ratchet (134) is provided with outer teeth (136) called ratchet teeth. Likewise, in the axially central part of the ratchet (134) there is a through hole (138), of hexagonal configuration in cross section, and in the state in which the aforementioned connecting screw (21) passes through it, both components (134 and 21) are connected entirely around its axis. In this way, both the ratchet (134) and the retraction shaft (20) rotate integrally through the connecting screw (21).

It must be taken into account that the ratchet (134) rests slidably on the hub (112) mentioned above on one of its sides in the axial direction (the side indicated by the direction of arrow B of Figures 1 and 2) . Furthermore, on the other side in the axial direction (the side indicated by the direction of the arrow A of Figures 1 and 2) of the ratchet (134), a washer (140), of resin or other similar material, is attached, which is it slides on the annular seat wall of the adaptation part (132), thus restricting the displacement along the axial direction of the ratchet (138).

On the other hand, on the seat wall of the main body part (126) on the outer side in the radial direction of the adaptation part (132) there are a pair of curved guide holes (142) along the peripheral direction of said main body part (126). Each of the guide holes (142) slidably coupled a resin slider (144) or other similar material with a substantially shoe shape that bends along the peripheral direction of the main body part (126). The inner peripheral surface of the main body part (126) and the outer peripheral surface of the adaptation part (132) support both sliders

(144) that can be moved relative to the main body part (126) (the rotor (124)) within a predetermined range along the guide holes (142).

On the one hand (the side indicated by the direction of arrow A of figures 1 and 2) of each slider (144), a sliding part (146) protrudes, as shown in figure 3, on the clutch cover (102). Also, on the side of each slider (144) opposite the sliding piece (146) there is a retainer (148) which is a narrow metal part with spring properties slightly bent in a "V" shape (slightly bent on its part central). In the central part in the longitudinal direction of the retainer (148) there is a connecting part

(150) that fits with a joint hole (152) formed in the slider (144) such that said retainer

(148)

 it is fully connected to it (144), and both end parts in the longitudinal direction of the retainer

(148)

they are pushed respectively against the sliding surface (108) of the clutch housing (101) previously described so that they deform elastically in a predetermined amount.

Accordingly, the sliding part (146) of the slider (144) is pushed against the clutch cover

(102) due to the elastic force of the retainer (148), and a predetermined frictional force acts on the movement of the slider (144) along the guide hole (142) (the relative movement with respect to the rotor (124)) . Therefore, when the rotor (124) rotates, due to the frictional force applied on the sliding parts (146) and both end parts in the longitudinal direction of the retainers (148), the sliders (144) are temporarily held in the housing (the clutch housing (101) and the clutch cover (102)), and move relative to the rotor (124) within predetermined ranges along the guide holes (142).

In addition, each slider (144) has in a terminal part in the direction of curvature (the terminal part of the side indicated by the direction of arrow C of Figures 1 and 2) corresponding pressure / clamping pieces (145) , respectively, with a pair of locking bars (154).

Both locking bars (154) of iron sheet, or the like, gradually "V", are located on one end side in the direction of curvature of each slider (144), and have annular receiving parts of the shaft ( 156) rotatably supported by cylindrical solid support shafts (158) protruding from the seat wall of the main body part (126). On the side of each receiving part of the shaft (156) opposite the slider (144) a connecting piece (160) (the side indicated by the direction of arrow C of Figures 1 and 2) stands out. Because these connecting parts (160) rotate together with the receiving parts of the shaft (156) around the support shafts (158), their distal end parts pass through the hollow parts (162) created in the adaptation part ( 132) of the rotor (124), and are articulated with the outer teeth (136) of the ratchet (134) previously described. Said connecting pieces (160) are always forced in the direction of engagement with the outer teeth (136) (the ratchet (134)) by the inductive forces of torsional coil springs (164) supported by cylindrical solid support shafts (166). ) protruding from the seat wall of the main body part (126) of the rotor (124).

On the side of the slider (144), a disconnecting part (168) corresponding to the aforementioned pressure / clamping piece (145) (the side indicated by the direction of arrow D of figures 1 and 2) of each part stands out axis receiver (156). The terminal surface portion, facing the slider (144), of each disconnect piece (168) has been created to be inclined with respect to the direction of movement (the directions of the arrows C and D of Figures 1 and 2 ) of the slider (144).

As shown in Figures 4 (A) and 4 (B), because the rotor (124) moves relative to the sliders (144), the locking bars (154) move approaching or moving away from said sliders

(144)

 within a predetermined range. In the state in which the locking bar (154) is near the slider

(144)

(shown in Figure 4 (A)), the disconnecting part (168) of said locking bar (154) is located on the inner side (the ratchet side (134)) of the pressure / clamping part ( 145) of the slider (144). In this way, the locking bar (154) is held in a disengaged position against the inductive force of the helical torsion spring (164). In this situation, the connecting piece (160) of the locking bar (154) is separated from the ratchet (134).

On the other hand, in the state in which the locking bar (154) is separated from the slider (144) (the one shown in Figure 4 (B)), the clamping of the disconnecting part (168) of the locking bar (154) exerted by the pressure / clamping part (145) of the slider (144). In this situation, the inductive force of the helical torsion spring (164) moves the connecting piece (160) of the locking bar (154) towards the ratchet (134) (gear position), its distal end part being articulated with the outer teeth (136).

It should be noted that, in the main clutch body (114) related to the present embodiment, the slider (144) is usually located near the locking bar (154). Accordingly, since the disconnecting part (168) is normally supported by the pressure / clamping part (145) of the slider (144), the locking bar (154) is held in the disengaged position (the state shown in the figure 4 (A)).

On the opposite side of the rotor (124), seen from the sliders (144), there is an annular support (170) of resin or other similar material (the side indicated by the direction of arrow A of Figures 1 and 2). Said support (170) has an annular main body part (172) with a pair of fastening hooks (174) in its outer peripheral part. The main body part (172) and the pair of fastening hooks (174) restrict the displacement in axial direction of the locking rods (154) and the helical torsion springs (164), respectively, with respect to the axes corresponding support (158 and 166) (the rotor (124)).

The mandrel part (133) of the rotor (124) passes through a round hole (173) created in the central part of the main body part (172). On the edge of the hollow edge of the round hole (173) is the pivoting support part (175), which protrudes slightly in the form of a cylindrical tube towards the opposite side of the rotor (124) (the side of the cover of clutch (102)), and which rotatably supports the mandrel part (133) of the rotor (124) in said round hole (135) of the clutch cover (102) by means of the rotating support part (175 ).

On the outer side in the radial direction of the support (170) to one of the sides in the axial direction (the side indicated by the direction of the arrow A of Figures 1 and 2) of the rotor (124) is located the ring (176) of metal (for example, stainless steel or other material like that) with spring properties having a cover part

(178) cancel. The plurality (six in the present embodiment) of stop hooks (180), which protrude towards the outer side in a radial direction, are created entirely with the outer peripheral part of the cover part (178). These stop hooks (180) fit the concave stop portions (122) of the gearwheel (116) described above. In this way, the ring (176) is completely connected with said gearwheel

(116) in its peripheral direction.

The plurality (six in the present embodiment) of spring hooks (182), formed in the form of narrow plates with elasticity (spring property), are created entirely with the outer peripheral part of the cover part (178) at regular intervals at along its peripheral direction. The proximal end part of each spring hook (182) is completely connected to the cover part (178). The intermediate part in the longitudinal direction of each spring hook (182) is slightly bent towards the inner side in the radial direction of the cover part (178), and the distal end part of each spring hook (182) is bent towards the outer side in its radial direction (178) in order to be fully curved along the peripheral direction of said cover part (178).

As shown in Figure 5 (A), these spring hooks (182) are arranged along the peripheral direction of the rotor (124) and the toothed wheel (116) between the outer teeth (130) of said rotor (124) and the inner peripheral surface of said gearwheel (116), and due to its own elastic forces its inner peripheral parts exert pressure against the outer teeth (130) of the rotor (124). In this way, the ring (176) is fully supported with the rotor (124).

The outer side part of each spring hook (182) is respectively engaged with the inner peripheral surface of the gearwheel (116) which is held in the rotor (124) by the respective spring hooks (182). In this state, the stop hooks (180) of the ring (176) and the flange part (128) of the rotor

(124) restrict the axial direction of the gearwheel (116). Furthermore, in this situation, the cover part (178) of the ring (176) prevents the sliders (144), the locking bars (154), the torsion coil springs (164), and the support (170) from being exit the rotor (124), said structural members being maintained in predetermined assembly positions.

The distal end portions of the respective spring hooks (182) are introduced into the depressed parts of the outer teeth (130) and rest on their side walls (130) (those located at the sides that are parallel along the direction radial of the main body part (126)). The proximal end portions of the spring hooks (182) rest on the receiving parts of the load in the peripheral direction (120) of the gearwheel (116) described above. In this way, thanks to the respective spring hooks (182) the gearwheel (116) and the rotor (124) are completely connected with respect to their peripheral directions (relative rotation is restricted), and, when the gearwheel (116 ) rotates, both (116 and 124) basically rotate integrally.

In this case, the turning force of the gearwheel (116) in the retraction direction (the direction of the arrow C of Figure 5 (B)) is transmitted to the proximal end portions of the spring hooks (182) a through the receiving parts of the load in peripheral direction (120), and is transmitted from the distal end portions of said spring hooks (182) to the outer teeth (130) of the rotor (124). The sprocket (116) receives, via the receiving parts of the load in the peripheral direction (120) and along the peripheral direction, the load applied by the spring hooks (182). That is, the direction in which the sprocket (116) receives the load of the spring hooks (182) is that which is along its direction of rotation.

As described above, the spring hook (182) is a metal part with spring properties. Therefore, if the rotational force of the gearwheel (116) with respect to the rotor (124) is large enough that the distal end portions of the respective spring hooks (182) leave the depressed parts of the teeth outside (130) against the elastic forces (inducing forces) of said spring hooks (182), the connection around the axis between the gearwheel (116) and the rotor (124) due to them (182) is released. In this way, the relative rotation between the sprocket (116) and the rotor (124) is possible (see Figure 5 (B)).

In addition, the rotational force of the gearwheel (116) in the extraction direction (the opposite direction to that of arrow C in Figure 5 (B)) is transmitted to the stop hooks (180) of the ring (176) ) through the concave stop portions (122), and transmitted from the distal end portions of the spring hooks (182) of the ring

(176) to the outer teeth (130) of the rotor (124).

On the other hand, on the side of the ring (176) opposite the rotor (124) there is an annular spacer (184) of resin or other similar material (the side indicated by the direction of arrow A of Figures 1 and 2). The spacer (184) is immobilized between the ring (176) and the clutch cover (102), and cannot rotate about its axis relative to the ring (176). Said spacer (184) prevents the metal ring (176) from sliding directly against the clutch cover (102), and softens the relative rotation of the ring (176) (the main body part of the clutch (114)) with respect to the clutch cover (102).

Thanks to such a clutch structure (100), and due to the rotation of the worm gear (34) of the clutch gear part (28), the toothed wheel (116) of the main clutch body part (114) ) turn. This part of the main clutch body (114) and the clutch gear part (28) are integrally assembled in the single housing (the clutch housing (101) and the clutch cover (102)), being fully structured as a unit

On the other hand, as shown in Figure 9, on one side of the clutch cover (102) there is a spring end (42) that houses, inside, a spiral spring (not shown). The end part of the outer side in the helical direction of this spiral spring is anchored on the main body of the case, and the end part of the inner side in the helical direction is anchored on the distal end of the connecting screw (21) that crosses the main body part of the clutch (114), so that the spiral spring induces the retraction axis (20) to move in the retraction direction.

On the other hand, between the support plates (16 and 18) below the retraction axis (20) there is a motor (44) and a motor gear part (46) (see Figure 10) whose structures are shown in the schematic perspective view of figure 8.

Both the engine (44) and the gear part of the engine (46) consist of a frame (48). Said motor (44) is coupled to one side of the frame (48), and the gear part of the motor (46) is located on the other side thereof (48). The distal end side (outlet side) of a rotating shaft (50) of the motor (44) is, in a state in which it is facing the frame (48), fixed to one side of said frame (48), and the distal end (exit side) of the rotating shaft (50) protrudes from the other side thereof (48) (the side of the motor gear part (46)). In addition, the rear end side of the motor (44) has a base plate (54) attached to which electrical harnesses (52) that drive the motor are connected. The connected parts of these electric harnesses (52) are adjusted by crimping terminal structures to a power terminal (56) located in the main body part of the motor (44). It should be noted that there may also be a structure in which the connected parts of the electric harnesses (52) and the power terminal (56) are coupled by means of welding or other similar process.

The motor (44) is wrapped by the motor cover (58) which is provided with coupling parts (60) which, when engaged and engaged with receiving projections of coupling (62) of the frame (48), the motor cover ( 58) is fixed to said frame (48).

Also, the motor cover (58) is provided with a first concave part (64) in which a convex part (66) that is located in the base plate (54) can be fitted in correspondence with said first concave part (64 ). In addition, the motor (44) has a second concave part (68), in which the convex part (66) can be fitted, in line with said convex part (66) of the base plate (54).

The motor (44) is positioned with respect to the base plate (54) thanks to the fact that the convex part (66) fits into the second concave part (68), and the base plate (54) is placed in the motor cover (58) because said convex part (66) fits into the first concave part (64). In addition, the assembled position of the motor (44) around the axis with respect to the frame (48) is exactly defined since the coupling parts (60) are engaged and engaged with the receiving projections of coupling (62) and the motor cover (58) is coupled and fixed to the frame (48).

Likewise, the electric harnesses (52) that drive the motor are removed from the rear end of the motor cover (58) towards the rear plate (14) of the frame (12) which is facing the output side of the motor ( 44). In addition, rubber covers (70) waterproof these parts removed from the electric harnesses

(52)

 of the engine cover (58).

On the other hand, the distal end of the rotating shaft (50) of the motor (44), which protrudes on the other side (the side of the motor gear part (46)) of the frame (48), has a pinion attached (72) structuring a plurality of cylindrical gears of the motor gear part (46). In addition, in said motor gear part

(46)

 there are a pair of gears (74 and 76), which are respectively cylindrical gears with external teeth that structure means of transmission of driving force, arranged in a reciprocal coupling state. Both gears (74 and 76) are arranged in states in which their axes are parallel to the rotating shaft (50) of the motor (44). The gear (74) articulates with the pinion (72), and the other gear (76), which is the final cylindrical gear, is removably connected to an end portion of the worm gear (34) which protrudes outside the clutch housing (101) of the clutch gear part (28) described above. Due to this structure, when the motor (44) is driven, the driving force is transmitted through the pinion (72) and both gears (74 and 76), causing the worm gear (34) to rotate.

Also, the pinion (72) and gears (74 and 76) are wrapped by a gear cover (78) that is coupled to the frame (48). Said gear cover (78) has coupling parts (80) with which it is fixed to the frame (48) by engaging and engaging with the receiving coupling parts (82) thereof (48).

In this way, the motor (44) and the gear part of the motor (46) are assembled entirely to the single frame (48), being fully structured as a unit.

The motor (44) and the gear part of the motor (46) having the previously described structure, are removably coupled, by means of screws (86) and through a mounting bracket (84) provided integrally with the frame (48), to the clutch housing (101) (i.e. the frame (12)) that houses the main body part of the clutch (114) and the clutch gear part (28). In the state in which the frame

(48) is coupled to the clutch housing (101) (the frame (12)), the rotating shaft (50) of the engine (44) is orthogonal to the retraction shaft (20), and its output side is in a state facing the opposite side of the back plate (14) of the frame (12), being between both support plates (16 and 18), and located directly below the retraction axis (20).

Also, in the engine (44) and the engine gear part (46) with the structure described above, the gear (76) that acts as the final cylindrical gear of said engine gear part (46) is connected to the clutch ( 26) and to the worm gear (34) of the clutch gear part (28) in order to be able to separate. In addition, as the mounting bracket (84) is removably coupled to the clutch housing

(101) by means of screws (86), these can be unscrewed and, therefore, remove said mounting bracket (84) from the clutch housing (101), whereby the motor (44) and the gear part from the engine (46) they can, while in assembled states, be separated independently from the clutch housing (101) (the frame (12)).

Furthermore, the engine (44) described above is structured to be driven, for example, on the basis of a detection signal from a front monitoring device or the like.

Next, the operation of the present embodiment will be described.

As shown in Figure 4 (A), in the previously described structure of the belt retractor (10), the sliders (144) of the main body part of the clutch (114) are usually located near the locking bars ( 154). Accordingly, the disconnecting parts (168) of the locking bars (154) are normally supported by the pressure / clamping parts (145) of the sliders (144), and the connecting parts (160) of said locking bars. Locks (154) are separated from the outer teeth (136) of the ratchet (134). Therefore, this ratchet (134) (the retraction shaft (20)) can rotate relative to the rotor (124).

When the occupant of the seat of a vehicle removes the belt accommodated in the present belt retractor (10), the belt is removed while the retraction shaft (20) rotates in the direction of removal. The belt can be adapted to the body because the occupant of the vehicle surrounds it with said belt and, for example, fastens it through a tongue plate provided therein with a buckle device.

For example, if the vehicle in motion is faced with a frontal obstacle and the interval between the vehicle and the obstacle (the distance between the two) is within a predetermined range, the engine start-up starts (44 ), causing the rotating shaft (50) to rotate rapidly (suddenly).

When the rotating shaft (50) of the motor (44) is rotated, its turning force is transmitted to the cogwheel

(116)

of the main body part of the clutch (114) through the pinion (72), the gears (74 and 76) of the engine gear part (46), and the worm gear (34) of the part of clutch gear (28), causing the sprocket (116) to rotate rapidly in the retraction direction. The rotation of the cogwheel

(116)

in this retraction direction it is transmitted to the proximal end portions of the spring hooks (182) of the ring (176) through the receiving parts of the load in the peripheral direction (120), and is transmitted from the distal end portions of said spring hooks (182) to the outer teeth (130) of the rotor (124) by rotating it rapidly in the same direction.

At this time, the frictional force that holds the sliders (144) in the housing (the clutch housing (101) and the clutch cover (102)) is applied to the sliding parts (146) and the retainers (148). ). Therefore, the rotor (124) moves relative to the sliders (144) within a predetermined range, and the locking bars (154) supported on the rotor (124) are separated from said sliders (144).

The clamping of the disconnecting parts (168) carried out by the pressure / clamping parts (145) is released, and the connecting parts (160) of the locking bars (154) move towards the ratchet (134) thanks to the inductive forces of the helical torsion springs (164), and the distal end portions of said connecting pieces (160) are articulated with the outer teeth (136) of the ratchet (134) (refer to arrow E of Figure 4 (B)). In this way, the locking bars (154) transmit the rotation of the rotor (124) in the direction of retraction to the ratchet (134), making it rotate rapidly in the same direction. The retraction axis (20) rotates rapidly in the retraction direction together with the ratchet (134) since the latter (134) is fully connected to the first (20).

In this way, the belt is collected on the retraction shaft (20), its slight slack effect, "slack" is eliminated, and its retention force on the body of the vehicle occupant is improved, and even if, subsequently, the occupant brakes the vehicle quickly (sudden braking) and the vehicle is in a state of rapid deceleration, the belt reliably holds the body of the occupant of the vehicle.

In the state in which the "slack" effect is eliminated as described above, the body of the vehicle occupant becomes an obstacle so that the belt cannot basically be picked up on the retraction axis (20). consequently, from the belt a load greater than or equal to a predetermined value is applied to the retraction axis (20), and as a result, said load is applied to the rotor (124) through the ratchet (134) and the bars of lock (154) When a load greater than or equal to a predetermined value is applied to the rotor (124), as shown in Figures 5 (A) and 5 (B), the spring hooks (182) are elastically deformed and they remove their respective distal end portions of the depressed parts of the outer teeth (130) of the rotor (124), allowing the toothed wheel (116) and the rotor (124) to rotate relatively empty (ie, a "limiting mechanism of load ”, see arrow F in Figure 5 (B)).

In this way, the retraction axis (20), which is connected to the rotor (124) through the ratchet (134) and the locking bars (154), can be prevented from rotating in the direction of retraction by force greater than necessary due to the driving force of the engine (44), and the belt can be prevented from being attached to the body of the vehicle occupant by a force greater than necessary.

The outer teeth (136) of the ratchet (134) are ratchet teeth. Therefore, in this state, as shown in Figures 6 (A) and 6 (B), when the ratchet (134) (the retraction axis (20)) begins to rotate relative to the rotor (124) in the direction of retraction (see arrow H of figure 6 (B)), as the outer teeth (136) of the ratchet (134) quickly raise the locking bars (154) (see arrow G of figure 6 (B)) , the relative rotation of the ratchet (134) (the retraction axis (20)) with respect to the rotor (124) in the retraction direction is allowed. Thus, if in the previously mentioned state in which the “slack” effect is eliminated, a situation arises in which, for example, it is inevitable that the vehicle collides, it is also possible to force the rotation of the retraction axis ( 20) in the direction of retraction by a different pretensioning device or similar device. In this case, the retention force exerted by the belt on the body of the occupant of the vehicle can be further increased, being able to minimize the injuries that said occupant could suffer in the event of a collision.

On the other hand, in case the collision risk described above is avoided, the rotating shaft (50) of the motor (44) turns upside down. The turning force of the retraction shaft (50) is transmitted to the gearwheel (116) of the main clutch body part (114) through the pinion (72), the gears (74 and 76) of the part of motor gear (46), and worm gear (34) of the clutch gear part (28), making the gearwheel

(116) Turn quickly in the extraction direction (see arrow D in Figure 7 (A)).

The rotation of the gearwheel (116) in this removal direction is transmitted to the stop hooks

(180) of the ring (176) through the concave stop portions (122) of said gearwheel (116), and is transmitted from the distal end portions of the spring hooks (182) of the ring (176) to the teeth external (130) of the rotor (124) by rotating it quickly in the same direction.

At this time, as the friction force applied to the sliding parts (146) and the retainers

(148) holds the sliders (144) in the housing (the clutch housing (101) and the clutch cover (102)), the rotor (124) moves relative to said sliders (144) within a range predetermined, and the locking bars (154) supported on the rotor (124) approximate them (144).

As the pressure / clamping parts (145) of the sliders (144) exert pressure on the inclined end surfaces of the disconnecting parts (168) of the locking bars (154), said disconnecting parts (168) move ( see arrow J of Figure 7 (B)) towards the side of the ratchet (134) against the inductive forces of the torsion coil springs (164), and the connecting parts (160) of the locking bars

(154)

they are separated from the outer teeth (136) of the ratchet (134). When the locking bars (154) subsequently approach the sliders (144), the disconnecting parts (168) of said blocking bars

(154)

 they are introduced into the inner sides (sides of the ratchet (134)) of the pressure / clamping parts (145) of the sliders (144), and the locking bars (154) are held in the disengaged position (the state shown in Figure 7 (B)). In this way, the rotor (124) and the ratchet (134) are able to rotate relatively again, allowing the free rotation of said retraction axis (20).

The sprocket (116) of the clutch main body part (114) of the clutch (100) of the belt retractor (10) is provided with load-receiving parts in the peripheral direction (120). At the moment when the turning force is transmitted in the direction of retraction from the gearwheel (116) to the rotor (124), the load applied to the gearwheel (116) by the spring hooks (182) is applied to the along its peripheral direction (116) through these receiving parts of the load in peripheral direction (120). Therefore, it is not necessary to predict a load applied by the spring hooks (182) along the radial direction of the gearwheel (116), at the previously mentioned moment of transmission of the turning force, nor to increase the rigidity of the same (116).

In addition, when a load greater than or equal to a predetermined value is applied to the rotor (124), in the present clutch (100), due to the elastic deformation of the spring hooks (182), its distal end portions are removed from the outer teeth of the rotor, and the transmission of the rotation between the gearwheel (116) and said rotor (124) stops. That is, the operation of the "load limiting mechanism" mentioned above is carried out between the rotor (124) and the spring hooks (182). In this case, likewise, the load is not applied to the sprocket (116) along the radial direction. Thus, from this point also, it is not necessary to increase the stiffness of said gearwheel (116). In this clutch (110), the gearwheel (116) can be molded to be thin wall or resin or the like, and it is possible to achieve compactness and weight reduction (100).

In addition, in the clutch (100) of the belt retractor (10), the ring (176) of the main body part of the clutch (114) integrally has the cover part (178), which holds the sprocket (116) , sliders (144), locking bars (154), helical torsion springs (164) and support (170) in predetermined assembly positions, and spring hooks (182) so that they can perform the function of “ load limiting mechanism ”previously cited. Also, the ring (176) is a structure that is held integrally with the rotor (124) thanks to the elastic forces of the spring hooks (182). That is to say, in the main body part of the clutch (114), the respective structural members described above of the clutch can be held in full temporarily (sub-assembled) since the toothed wheel (116), the sliders (144), the locking bars (154), the helical torsion springs (164) and the support (170) are assembled in predetermined assembly positions and the ring (176) is held in the rotor (124) by the elastic forces of the hooks spring (182). In this way, the ease of assembly is greatly improved at the time of assembling the main body part of the clutch (114) to the housing (the clutch housing (101) and the clutch cover (102)), and the like, and also improves the production capacity of the belt retractor (10).

In addition, in the clutch (100) of the belt retractor (10), as described above, the frictional force fastens the sliders (144) of the main body part of the clutch (114) to the case (the case clutch (101) and clutch cover (102)). In this way, a simple structure is obtained thanks to which the sliders (144) and the locking bars (154) move in a relative manner, and the locking bars (154) move towards the geared or disengaged positions with the ratchet (134) for this relative movement. Therefore, compared to a structure, such as that of a conventional clutch, which moves a ratchet retainer using a large and heavy inertial disc, the overall structure of the clutch (100) can be made much smaller (and in particular thinner ) and the total structure of the belt retractor (10) can be compacted.

In addition, in the clutch (100) of the belt retractor (10), the main body part of the clutch (114) is not a structure supported in the retraction shaft (20) but in the case (the clutch housing (101) ) and clutch cover (102)). That is, in the main body part of the clutch (114), the mandrel part (133) located on one side in the axial direction of the adaptation part (132) of the rotor (124) is rotatably supported in a round hole (135) of the clutch cover (102) through the rotating support part (175) of the support (170), and the other side in axial direction of said adaptation part (132) is supported by rotating way in the clutch housing (101) by the hub (112). Namely, it is rotatably supported in the housing (the clutch housing (101) and the clutch cover (102)). Thus, when the belt retractor (10) is in a different state from that (the moment of rapid deceleration of the vehicle or other similar situation) in which the rotor

(124) and the ratchet (134) (the retraction axis (20)) are connected by the locking bars (154), the retraction axis (20) can rotate independently of the main body part of the clutch (114) . In this way, smooth rotation of the retraction shaft (20) is guaranteed, and the ability to remove and collect the belt in periods of normal use is improved.

As previously described, with the belt retractor (10) related to the present embodiment, it is not only possible to transmit only the rotation of the motor side (44) to the retraction axis (20) thanks to the clutch (100), It is also possible to achieve compactness and weight reduction of said clutch (100), and also the ease of assembly is improved.

It should be noted that, with the above-described embodiment, a structure is obtained in which the clutch (100) transmits the rotation of the rotating shaft (50) of the motor (44) to the retraction axis (20), making it rotate in the direction of belt retraction. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and can be structured such that a clutch transmits the rotation of the rotating shaft (50) of the motor (44) to the retraction axis

(20) by rotating it in the direction of belt removal.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

According to the present invention, since it is possible to achieve the compactness and reduction of clutch weight of a belt retractor and the ease of assembly is improved, it can be used as a structural member with which it can be compacted, reduce weight and reduce the manufacturing costs of a motorized retractor which provides a tension reducing mechanism and a pretensioner mechanism.

DESCRIPTION OF THE REFERENCE NUMBERS

10 Belt retractor 20 Retraction shaft 44 Engine 100 Clutch 101 Clutch housing (case) 102 Clutch cover (case) 116 Cogwheel 124 Rotor 144 Slider 154 Locking bar 176 Ring 178 Cover part 182 Spring hook

Claims (9)

1. Belt retractor (10) comprising: a retraction shaft (20) on which a belt is wound to retain the occupant of a vehicle so that it can be picked up and extracted therefrom, a motor ( 44), and a clutch (100) mechanically intercalated between the engine (44) and the retraction shaft (20), which transmits the rotation of the engine (44) to the retraction shaft (20) by rotating it, stops the transmission of the rotation generated on the side of the retraction axis and prevents the rotation from being transmitted to the rotor (44), where the clutch (100) includes: a cogwheel (116) provided coaxially with respect to the retraction axis (20), which rotates due to the rotation that the engine is transmitting (44); a rotor (124) provided coaxially with respect to the sprocket (116); a blocking bar (154) provided in the rotor (124) held in a position disengaged with the retraction axis (20) and when said rotor (124) rotates in a first direction around an axis, the blocking bar (154 ) engages with the retraction shaft (20) to which the rotation of the rotor (124) is transmitted, and when said rotor (124) rotates in a second direction around the axis, the locking bar (154) is forced to stay in the disengaged position; a ring (176) disposed sideways in the axial direction of the rotor (124) and which holds the sprocket (116) and the locking bar (154) in predetermined assembly positions; and a spring hook (182) provided between the gearwheel (116) and the rotor (124) along a peripheral direction as it is created entirely with the ring (176), and, thanks to the elastic force of the spring hook (182), the ring (176) is attached to the rotor (124) and the rotation of the gearwheel (116) is transmitted to said rotor (124), and when a load greater than or equal to a predetermined value is applied to it (124), thanks to said load, the spring hook (182) stops the transmission of the rotation, and allows the toothed wheel (116) and the rotor (124) to rotate relatively in a vacuum, and the gearwheel (116) includes a part receiving the load in the peripheral direction (120) that receives, along a peripheral direction, the load applied by the spring hook (182).

2.

 The belt retractor (10) of claim 1, wherein the first and second directions are the retraction and removal of the belt, respectively.

3.

 The belt retractor (10) of claim 1, wherein the rotor (124) includes outer teeth (130) in its outer peripheral part, and as a distal end portion of the spring hook (182) is engaged with the outer teeth ( 130) of the rotor (124) and a proximal end part engages with the gearwheel (116), the spring hook (182) transmits the rotation of said gearwheel (116) to the rotor (124).

Four.

 The belt retractor (10) of claim 3, wherein the spring hook (182) is configured in the form of an elastic plate, and when a load greater than or equal to a predetermined value is applied to the rotor (124), said hook Spring (182) elastically deforms due to said load, removes the distal end of the outer teeth (130) from the rotor (124) and allows the toothed wheel (116) and the rotor (124) to rotate relatively empty.

5.

 The belt retractor (10) of claim 1, wherein the clutch (100) further comprises: a box (101); and a slider (144) that can be moved relative to the rotor (124) within a predetermined range being subject to the housing (101) by the frictional force, and said slider (144) keeps the locking bar

(154) in the disengaged position.

6.

 The belt retractor (10) of claim 5, wherein the locking bar (154) is always forced in the gear direction with the retraction shaft (20) and when the rotor (124) rotates in the first direction, the locking bar (154) moves away from the slider (144), releasing the fastener, and engages with the retraction shaft (20) due to the inductive force, and when the rotor (124) rotates in the second direction, the locking bar (154) moves closer to the slider (144) which forces it to remain in the disengaged position.

7.

 The belt retractor (10) of claim 1, wherein the rotation of the gearwheel (116) is transmitted to the rotor (124) because a proximal end portion of the spring hook (182) rests on the receiving part of the peripheral direction load (120) of said gearwheel (116).

8.

 The belt retractor (10) of claim 5, wherein the clutch (100) further comprises: a spring (164) forcing the locking bar (154) in a gear direction with the retraction shaft (20) , and a support (170) that restricts the displacement in axial direction of the locking bar (154) with respect to the rotor (44), and the ring (176) keeps the sprocket (116), the slider (144) , the locking bar (154), the spring (164), and the support (170) in predetermined assembly positions.

9. The belt retractor (10) of claim 1, wherein the sprocket (116) is made of resin.