Description:BACKGROUND
Field of Invention
[001] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a seatbelt in vehicles and particularly to a seatbelt interlock system and a seatbelt interlock method in vehicles.
Description of Related Art
[002] Generally, seatbelts are a critical component of vehicle safety, reducing the risk of injury or fatality during accidents. However, improper seatbelt usage, such as partial fastening, incorrect deployment, or misuse through dummy clips, remains a significant challenge for the vehicle safety. Additionally, ensuring that the seatbelts are properly fastened and deployed before vehicle operation is essential for maximizing passenger safety. Despite advancements in vehicle safety technologies, there is still a need for systems that can reliably monitor and enforce proper seatbelt usage.
[003] Existing seatbelt systems primarily focus on detecting whether the seatbelt is latched, often using basic sensors embedded in the seatbelt buckle. Some of the existing seatbelt systems provide visual or audio alerts to remind users to fasten their seatbelts. However, the existing seatbelt systems have significant limitations. Firstly, they do not verify whether the seatbelt is properly deployed or positioned, nor do they detect misuse, such as the use of dummy clips to bypass safety mechanisms. Secondly, most systems fail to prevent vehicle operation if the seatbelt is improperly fastened or unlatched during driving. These drawbacks leave critical gaps in ensuring passenger safety, particularly in scenarios where users intentionally or unintentionally misuse seatbelts.
[004] There is thus a need for an improved and advanced seatbelt interlock system that can administer the aforementioned limitations in a more efficient manner.
SUMMARY
[005] Embodiments in accordance with the present invention provide a seatbelt interlock system in a vehicle. The seatbelt interlock system comprising a seatbelt length sensor configured to measure a length of a seatbelt. The seatbelt interlock system further comprising a seatbelt lock sensor configured to detect a latched condition of the seatbelt. The seatbelt interlock system further comprising a seatbelt lock sensor configured to detect a latched condition of the seatbelt. The seatbelt interlock system further comprising an electronic control unit (ECU). The electronic control unit (ECU) is configured to control a starter lock mechanism to prevent vehicle ignition based on at least one of: the measured length of the seatbelt, the detected latched condition, or the occupancy of the seat, and provide real-time feedback to a user via a user interface.
[006] Embodiments in accordance with the present invention further provide a seatbelt interlock method in a vehicle. The method comprising steps of measuring a length of a seatbelt using a seatbelt length sensor; detecting a latched condition of the seatbelt using a seatbelt lock sensor; detecting an occupancy of a seat using a seat occupancy sensor; controlling a starter lock mechanism for preventing vehicle ignition based on at least one of: the measured length of the seatbelt, the detected latched condition, or the occupancy of the seat; and providing real-time feedback to a user to a user via a user interface.
[007] Embodiments of the present invention may provide a number of advantages depending on their particular configuration. First, embodiments of the present application may provide a seatbelt interlock system in a vehicle.
[008] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide a seatbelt interlock system that ensures safety and security of passengers.
[009] These and other advantages will be apparent from the present application of the embodiments described herein.
[0010] The preceding is a simplified summary to provide an understanding of some embodiments of the present invention. This summary is neither an extensive nor exhaustive overview of the present invention and its various embodiments. The summary presents selected concepts of the embodiments of the present invention in a simplified form as an introduction to the more detailed description presented below. As will be appreciated, other embodiments of the present invention are possible utilizing, alone or in combination, one or more of the features set forth above or described in detail below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] The above and still further features and advantages of embodiments of the present invention will become apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description of embodiments thereof, especially when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, and wherein:
[0012] FIG. 1A illustrates a block diagram of a seatbelt interlock system, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0013] FIG. 1B illustrates a right side view of a seat installed with the seatbelt interlock system, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0014] FIG. 1C illustrates a left side view of the seat installed with the seatbelt interlock system, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0015] FIG. 1D illustrates an under side view of the seat installed with the seatbelt interlock system, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0016] FIG. 1E illustrates an rear side view of the seat installed with the seatbelt interlock system, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0017] FIG. 1F illustrates a bottom view of the seat installed with the seatbelt interlock system, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0018] FIG. 1G illustrates an isometric view of the seat installed with the seatbelt interlock system, according to an embodiment of the present invention; and
[0019] FIG. 2 depicts a flowchart of a method for seatbelt interlock, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0020] The headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not meant to be used to limit the scope of the description or the claims. As used throughout this application, the word "may" is used in a permissive sense (i.e., meaning having the potential to), rather than the mandatory sense (i.e., meaning must). Similarly, the words “include”, “including”, and “includes” mean including but not limited to. To facilitate understanding, like reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate like elements common to the figures. Optional portions of the figures may be illustrated using dashed or dotted lines, unless the context of usage indicates otherwise.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0021] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the scope of the invention as defined in the claims.
[0022] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising", "comprises”, and the like (which are synonymous with "including", "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of", “consists essentially of", and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of", "consists of”, the like.
[0023] As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.
[0024] The following detailed description illustrates embodiments of the present disclosure and ways in which they can be implemented. Although some modes of carrying out the present disclosure have been disclosed, those skilled in the art would recognize that other embodiments for carrying out or practicing the present disclosure are also possible.
[0025] FIG. 1A illustrates a block diagram of a seatbelt interlock system 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. As depicted in the figure, the seatbelt interlock system 100 may comprise a seatbelt length sensor 102, which may be configured to measure a length of a seatbelt; a seatbelt lock sensor 104, which may be configured to detect a latched condition of the seatbelt; and a seat occupancy sensor 106, which may be configured to detect an occupancy of a seat. Additionally, the seatbelt interlock system 100 may comprise an electronic control unit (ECU) 108, which may be configured to control a starter lock mechanism 110 to prevent vehicle ignition based on at least one of the measured length of the seatbelt, the detected latched condition, or the detected seat occupancy. The ECU 108 may be further configured to provide real-time feedback to a user via a user interface 112. In an embodiment, the ECU 108 may be powered by a power supply 114 to ensure continuous operation.
[0026] According to the embodiments of the present invention, the seatbelt interlock system 100 may be configured to provide advanced functionalities, such as detecting improper seatbelt deployment, preventing vehicle ignition under unsafe conditions, and the like. Furthermore, the seatbelt interlock system 100 may be configured to monitor and verify the seatbelt status, detect improper deployment, and provide feedback to the user through visual or audio alerts to enhance overall vehicle safety. The term "vehicle" may refer to a motorized transportation apparatus that may be designed to carry passengers or goods, including but not limited to cars, trucks, buses, and other road vehicles. The vehicle may be equipped with the seatbelt interlock system 100 to enhance passenger safety by ensuring that the seatbelt is properly used before and during vehicle operation.
[0027] According to the embodiments of the present invention, the seatbelt length sensor 102 may be configured to detect improper deployment, such as when the seatbelt may not be fully extended or positioned correctly. The term "seatbelt" may refer to a safety restraint that may be designed to secure the user in the seat of a vehicle, reducing the risk of injury during sudden stops or collisions. The term "length" may refer to a measurement of the seatbelt material that may be extended from its retractor. The seatbelt length sensor 102 may be configured to detect the length of the seatbelt that may be pulled out, providing data on how much of the seatbelt may be in use. By measuring the length, the seatbelt interlock system 100 may be able to verify whether the seatbelt may be appropriately adjusted for the user and detect potential misuse or unsafe conditions.
[0028] In an embodiment of the present invention, the seatbelt length sensor 102 may comprise at least one of a rotary encoder or a potentiometer. The term "rotary encoder" may refer to a sensor that may be configured to convert a rotational position or a movement of a shaft or axle into an electrical signal. The rotary encoder may be used in the seatbelt length sensor 102 to measure a rotational movement of the seatbelt retractor, which may correspond to the length of the seatbelt extended or retracted. The rotary encoder may be configured to provide precise and continuous data on the angular displacement of the seatbelt retractor, which may then be processed to calculate the length of the seatbelt in use.
[0029] Similarly, the term "potentiometer" may refer to a variable resistor that may be configured to measure changes in resistance to determine a position or a movement of the seatbelt. The potentiometer may be used in the seatbelt length sensor 102 to detect a linear or an angular displacement of the seatbelt retractor, which may correspond to the length of the seatbelt extended. In an embodiment, the rotary encoder and potentiometer may provide an analog signal that may vary with the position of the retractor, allowing the seatbelt length sensor 102 to calculate the length of the seatbelt in use. In another embodiment, they may provide a digital signal, enabling the seatbelt length sensor 102 to determine the seatbelt extension electronically. The potentiometer may be related to the seatbelt, as the displacement it measures may be directly influenced by the seatbelt being pulled or retracted.
[0030] A technical effect of the aforementioned features may be the ability to provide an accurate and reliable measurement of the seatbelt length using different sensing technologies. By including at least one of the rotary encoder or potentiometer, the seatbelt length sensor 102 may be configured to allow flexibility in design, enabling adaptation to various vehicle configurations. This may ensure that the seatbelt interlock system 100 may be able to monitor the proper deployment of the seatbelt effectively, enhancing passenger safety by detecting improper usage or unsafe conditions.
[0031] According to the embodiments of the present invention, the seatbelt lock sensor 104 may be configured to generate a signal indicative of either a latched or unlatched condition of the seatbelt. This may ensure that the seatbelt is securely fastened before the vehicle may be operated. The term "latched condition" may refer to a state in which the seatbelt may be securely fastened into the seatbelt buckle. The seatbelt lock sensor 104 may operate by detecting a mechanical engagement of the seatbelt buckle with a seatbelt latch. The purpose of the seatbelt lock sensor 104 may be to verify that the seatbelt is latched correctly, as an unlatched or improperly latched seatbelt may not provide the intended safety benefits. This may be essential for ensuring compliance with safety regulations and preventing misuse, such as bypassing the seatbelt system with dummy clips or failing to fasten the seatbelt altogether. The seatbelt lock sensor 104 may contribute to the overall functionality of the seatbelt interlock system 100 by ensuring that the vehicle may operate only when the seatbelt may be securely latched. In an embodiment of the present invention, the seatbelt lock sensor 104 may be configured to transmit any one of the following signals to the ECU 108 via a micro-switch embedded in the seatbelt buckle: an electrical signal that may be generated by the seatbelt lock sensor 104 when the seatbelt buckle may be securely fastened, and Unlatched signal: An electrical signal that may be generated by the seatbelt lock sensor 104 when the seatbelt buckle may not be securely fastened or may be disengaged.
[0032] The term "micro-switch" may refer to a small, highly sensitive electrical switch that may be embedded in the seatbelt buckle to detect the mechanical engagement or disengagement of the seatbelt latch. The micro-switch may generate a latched or unlatched signal, which may be transmitted to the ECU 108 for further processing. A technical effect of this feature may be to ensure that the ECU 108 may receive accurate and real-time data regarding the seatbelt status, enabling the seatbelt interlock system 100 to enforce safety measures, such as triggering alerts or preventing vehicle operation when the seatbelt may not be properly latched.
[0033] According to the embodiments of the present invention, the seat occupancy sensor 106 generates a signal indicative of the occupancy status of the seat of the vehicle. The term "user seat" refers to a driver seat in the vehicle that may be monitored by the seat occupancy sensor 106. Moreover, the purpose of the seat occupancy sensor 106 may be to ensure that the seatbelt interlock system 100 operates only when the seat may be occupied. That prevents unnecessary alerts or restrictions when the seat may be unoccupied. Additionally, the seat occupancy sensor 106 enable to detect scenarios where the seatbelt may be fastened without presence of the user, such as when a dummy clip may be used to bypass the seatbelt interlock system 100. By detecting seat occupancy, the seatbelt interlock system 100 can enforce proper seatbelt usage and enhance a passenger safety.
[0034] In another embodiment of the present invention, the seat occupancy sensor 106 comprises at least one of: a pressure pad, an ultrasonic sensor. In this regard, the term "pressure pad" refers to a type of sensor that detects the presence of the user in the seat by measuring weight or pressure applied to a seat surface. The pressure pad may be used in the seat occupancy sensor 106 to determine whether the seat may be occupied based on a force exerted on the pad. The pressure pad generates a signal when a threshold weight may be detected, indicating the presence of the user. The term "ultrasonic sensor" refers to a type of sensor that uses sound waves to detect the presence of the user in the seat. The ultrasonic sensor emits ultrasonic waves and measures reflected waves to determine whether an object, such as a person, may be present in the seat. The ultrasonic sensor may be used in the seat occupancy sensor 106 as an alternative or complementary technology to the pressure pad for detecting seat occupancy. A technical effect of the aforementioned clause may be to ensure an accurate detection of the seat occupancy, preventing false alerts or unnecessary restrictions when the seat may be unoccupied. Additionally, different sensing technologies are suited to different vehicle designs and environmental conditions. For example, a pressure pad may be effective in detecting weight-based occupancy, while an ultrasonic sensor can detect the presence of an occupant without requiring direct contact.
[0035] According to the embodiments of the present invention, the term "electronic control unit" refers to a central processing unit within the seatbelt interlock system 100 that may be responsible for receiving, analyzing, and processing data from various sensors and components of the seatbelt interlock system 100. In another embodiment of the present invention, the ECU 108 may be operatively coupled to the at least one of: the seatbelt length sensor 102, the seatbelt lock sensor 104, the seat occupancy sensor 106. In this regard, the ECU 108 may be connected to and interacts with the seatbelt length sensor 102, the seatbelt lock sensor 104, and the seat occupancy sensor 106. The operative coupling allows the ECU 108 to receive data from said sensors, process the information, and make decisions based on the detected conditions. The ECU 108 acts as the central processing unit of the seatbelt interlock system 100, integrating data from the said sensors to ensure proper seatbelt usage and vehicle safety. The ECU 108 may be operatively coupled to the sensors through electrical or data communication interfaces, such as wired connections or communication protocols like CAN (Controller Area Network) and the like. The purpose of the operative coupling between the ECU 108 and the seatbelt length sensor 102, the seatbelt lock sensor 104, and the seat occupancy sensor 106 may be to enable the ECU 108 to monitor and analyze the status of the seatbelt interlock system 100 and seat occupancy in real time. A technical effect of the aforementioned clause may be to ensure that the seatbelt interlock system 100 may be able to detect unsafe conditions, such as improper seatbelt usage or misuse, and take appropriate actions, such as preventing vehicle ignition or alerting the user.
[0036] In another embodiment of the present invention, the ECU 108 may be powered by a power supply 114. In this regard, the term "power supply" refers to a source of electrical energy that provides power to the electronic control unit (ECU) 108 for its operation. The power supply 114 ensures that the ECU 108 has a stable and continuous flow of electricity to process data from the seatbelt length sensor 102, the seatbelt lock sensor 104, and the seat occupancy sensor 106, as well as to control the starter lock mechanism 110 and provide real-time feedback to the user via the user interface 112. The power supply 114 may include components such as a vehicle battery (for example, a 12V battery) or an auxiliary power source, which are designed to meet the energy requirements of the ECU 108 and other components (such as the said sensors) of the seatbelt interlock system 100. A technical effect of the aforementioned clause may be to provide a stable and consistent energy source to the ECU 108. Additionally, it enables ECU 108 to operate reliably and continuously by being powered by the power supply 114. The power supply 114 ensures that the ECU 108 can process data from the sensors, control the starter lock mechanism 110, and provide real-time feedback to the user without interruptions.
[0037] In an embodiment of the present invention, the ECU 108 further comprises a voltage regulator to ensure a stable operation of the ECU 108. In this regard, the term "voltage regulator" refers to a component within the electronic control unit (ECU) 108 that maintains a consistent and stable voltage level for the ECU 108 and its associated components. The voltage regulator ensures that fluctuations in the power supply 114, such as those caused by variations in the vehicle's battery output or electrical load, do not disrupt the operation of the ECU 108. By stabilizing the voltage, the voltage regulator prevents potential malfunctions or errors in the ECU 108, which could otherwise affect the processing of data from the seatbelt length sensor 102, the seatbelt lock sensor 104, and the seat occupancy sensor 106. The term "stable operation" refers to a reliable and uninterrupted functioning of the ECU 108, which may be critical for the proper operation of the seatbelt interlock system 100. A technical effect of the aforementioned feature may be to ensure that the ECU 108 operates reliably and without interruptions under varying electrical conditions, due to the inclusion of the voltage regulator. The voltage regulator ensures that the ECU 108 receives a stable and consistent voltage supply 114, which prevents malfunctions or errors caused by power fluctuations.
[0038] In an embodiment of the present invention, the ECU 108 may further be configured to monitor status of the seatbelt during vehicle operation. In this regard, the electronic control unit (ECU) 108 continuously assess a condition of the seatbelt while the vehicle may be in motion. The status of the seatbelt includes whether the seatbelt may be latched, unlatched, or improperly deployed. This monitoring ensures that the seatbelt remains in a safe and secure state throughout the operation of the vehicle. The purpose of monitoring the status of the seatbelt during vehicle operation may be to enhance passenger safety by ensuring compliance with seatbelt usage requirements. Continuous monitoring allows the ECU 108 to detect unsafe conditions, such as an unlatched seatbelt or improper seatbelt deployment, which could compromise the safety of the user. By identifying said conditions in real time, the ECU 108 can trigger appropriate alerts or actions, such as visual or audio warnings, to prompt the user to address the issue. A technical effect of the aforementioned clause may be to ensure that by monitoring the status of the seatbelt in real time, the ECU 108 can detect unsafe conditions and provide immediate real-time feedback to the user, thereby reducing the risk of injury in the event of an accident. This functionality enhances the overall safety and reliability of the seatbelt interlock system 100 by ensuring that the seatbelt remains properly fastened throughout a journey.
[0039] According to the embodiments of the present invention, the term "starter lock mechanism" refers to a component of the seatbelt interlock system 100 that prevents the vehicle's ignition system from starting when unsafe conditions are detected. The starter lock mechanism 110 may be controlled by the ECU 108, which determines whether to activate the starter lock mechanism 110 based on data related to the measured length of the seatbelt, the latched condition, and the occupancy of the seat received from the seatbelt length sensor 102, the seatbelt lock sensor 104, and the seat occupancy sensor 106, respectively. Said parameters are used by the ECU 108 to decide whether to allow or prevent the vehicle ignition. The term "real-time feedback" refers to an immediate communication of status of the seatbelt interlock system 100 or alerts to the user via the user interface 112. The real-time feedback may be provided by the ECU 108 to inform the user of any safety violations, such as an unlatched seatbelt or improper seatbelt deployment, or to confirm that the seatbelt interlock system 100 may be functioning correctly. The term "user" refers to an individual operating the vehicle, typically a driver, whose actions and presence are monitored by the seatbelt interlock system 100. The term "user interface" refers to a hardware and a software component of the seatbelt interlock system 100 that enable communication between the seatbelt interlock system and the user. The user interface 112 may be configured to display or communicate the real-time feedback from the electronic control unit (ECU) 108 to the user. The real-time feedback may include visual alerts, such as indicator lights or messages on a display screen, or audio alerts, such as warning sounds, to inform the user of the seatbelt interlock system's 100 status or any safety violations, such as an unlatched seatbelt or improper seatbelt deployment.
[0040] In an embodiment of the present invention, the real-time feedback comprises at least one of: a visual alert, an audio alert. In this regard, the term "visual alert" refers to a type of real-time feedback that may be provided to the user through a visual indication, such as a warning light, an icon, or a message displayed on a screen or a dashboard. The visual alert may be generated by the electronic control unit (ECU) 108 when the seatbelt interlock system 100 detects an unsafe condition, such as an unlatched seatbelt, an improper seatbelt deployment, or an unoccupied seat with a fastened seatbelt. Additionally, the visual alert provides the user with a critical information to ensure compliance with the seatbelt interlock system 100. The term "audio alert" refers to a type of real-time feedback that may be provided to the user through an audible signal, such as a beep, a chime, a spoken warning, and the like. The audio alert may be generated by the ECU 108 when the seatbelt interlock system 100 detects the unsafe condition, similar to the conditions that trigger the visual alert. Additionally, the audio alert provides the user with an immediate and attention-grabbing feedback to address any safety violations. A technical effect of the aforementioned feature may be to ensure that the user is immediately informed of any unsafe conditions, such as the unlatched seatbelt or improper seatbelt deployment, and can take corrective actions to comply with safety requirements. Additionally, by integrating said alerts with the ECU 108 and the user interface 112, the seatbelt interlock system 100 improves user awareness and compliance, ultimately enhancing passenger safety and reducing the risk of injury during the vehicle operation.
[0041] In some embodiments of the present invention, the seatbelt interlock system 100 further comprises an emergency override button configured to override the operation of the ECU 108. In this regard, the term "emergency override button" refers to a control feature included in the seatbelt interlock system 100 that may be configured to temporarily disable or override the operation of the electronic control unit (ECU) 108. The emergency override button may be designed to provide the user with the ability to bypass the seatbelt interlock system 100 in specific situations, such as emergencies and the like, where a normal operation of the ECU 108 may hinder immediate action or the vehicle operation. The emergency override button ensures that the user retains control over the system in critical scenarios, allowing for flexibility and safety in exceptional circumstances. The emergency override button prevents the ECU 108 from processing data from the said sensors and enforcing seatbelt usage. A technical effect of the aforementioned feature may be to provide the user with a mechanism to override the operation of the ECU 108 in emergency situations. By incorporating the emergency override button, the seatbelt interlock system 100 ensures that the user can respond to critical situations without being restricted by the seatbelt interlock system's 100 normal operation.
[0042] In an embodiment of the present invention, the seatbelt interlock system 100 may further comprise an anti-bypass feature to prevent misuse of a dummy clip. In this regard, the term "anti-bypass feature" refers to a feature integrated into the seatbelt interlock system 100 that may be designed to prevent attempts to circumvent the proper functioning of the seatbelt interlock system 100. The anti-bypass feature specifically addresses methods of misuse, such as the use of unauthorized devices or techniques to simulate the presence of a latched seatbelt without actual compliance. The anti-bypass feature ensures that the seatbelt interlock system 100 can reliably enforce seatbelt usage by detecting and countering such bypass attempts. The term "dummy clip" refers to an unauthorized device that mimics the functionality of a seatbelt latch by engaging the seatbelt lock sensor 104 without the actual use of the seatbelt. The dummy clip poses a safety risk by allowing the vehicle to operate without the user being properly secured by the seatbelt. A technical effect of the aforementioned claim may be to ensure compliance with the seatbelt usage requirements by preventing the misuse of a dummy clip. The anti-bypass feature enhances the reliability and effectiveness of the seatbelt interlock system 100 by detecting and countering attempts to circumvent the system's enforcement mechanisms.
[0043] In an embodiment of the present invention, the seatbelt interlock method further comprises at least one: reducing speed of a vehicle, activating emergency brake lights in case the seatbelt may be unbuckled during driving. In this regard, the term "speed" refers to the rate at which the vehicle may be traveling, typically measured in units such as kilometers per hour (km/h) or miles per hour (mph). The speed of the vehicle may be a parameter monitored by the electronic control unit (ECU) 108 to determine whether corrective actions, such as reducing the speed of the vehicle, need to be taken in response to an unbuckled seatbelt during driving. Moreover, reducing the speed of the vehicle may be a safety measure designed to mitigate risks associated with the user not being properly secured by the seatbelt. The ECU 108 processes data from the vehicle's speed sensors to monitor and control the speed. The speed of the vehicle may be related to the status of the seatbelt, as the ECU 108 uses data from the seatbelt lock sensor 104 to determine whether the seatbelt may be unbuckled during driving. If the seatbelt may be unbuckled, the ECU 108 may initiate a reduction in the speed of the vehicle to enhance safety. The term "emergency brake lights" refers to a visual safety feature of the vehicle that may be activated to signal to other drivers that the vehicle may be decelerating rapidly or may be in an emergency situation. The emergency brake lights are activated by the ECU 108 when the seatbelt may be unbuckled during driving, as a means of alerting surrounding vehicles to the potential hazard. The activation of the emergency brake lights enhances road safety by providing a clear and immediate warning to other drivers. A technical effect of the aforementioned feature may be to enhance vehicle and road safety by implementing corrective actions when the seatbelt may be unbuckled during driving. By reducing the speed of the vehicle, the seatbelt interlock method minimizes the risk of injury to the user in the event of an accident. Simultaneously, the activation of the emergency brake lights provides a visual warning to surrounding vehicles, reducing the likelihood of collisions caused by sudden deceleration.
[0044] FIG. 1B illustrates a right side view of the seat installed with the seatbelt interlock system 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention. In an embodiment of the present invention, the seatbelt length sensor 102 may be arranged on a right side of the seat.
[0045] FIG. 1C illustrates a left side view of the seat installed with the seatbelt interlock system 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0046] FIG. 1D illustrates an under side view of the seat installed with the seatbelt interlock system 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention. In an embodiment of the present invention, the seat occupancy sensor 106 may be arranged on an under side of the seat.
[0047] FIG. 1E illustrates an rear side view of the seat installed with the seatbelt interlock system 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention. In an embodiment of the present invention, the seatbelt lock sensor 104 may be arranged on a left side of the seat.
[0048] FIG. 1F illustrates a bottom view of the seat installed with the seatbelt interlock system 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0049] FIG. 1G illustrates an isometric view of the seat installed with the seatbelt interlock system 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0050] FIG. 2 depicts a flowchart of a method 200 for seatbelt interlock using the seatbelt interlock system 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0051] As shown, at step 202, the length of the seatbelt may be measured using the seatbelt length sensor 102.
[0052] At step 204, the latched condition of the seatbelt may be detected using the seatbelt lock sensor 104.
[0053] At step 206, the starter lock mechanism 110 may be controlled for preventing vehicle ignition based on at least one of: the measured length of the seatbelt, the detected latched condition, or the occupancy of the seat.
[0054] At step 208, the real-time feedback may be provided to the user via the user interface 112.
[0055] While the invention has been described in connection with what is presently considered to be the most practical and various embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the scope of the appended claims.
[0056] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined in the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements within substantial differences from the literal languages of the claims. , Claims:CLAIMS
I/We Claim:
1. A seatbelt interlock system (100) in a vehicle, the seatbelt interlock system (100) comprising:
a seatbelt length sensor (102) configured to measure a length of a seatbelt;
a seatbelt lock sensor (104) configured to detect a latched condition of the seatbelt;
a seat occupancy sensor (106) configured to detect an occupancy of a seat; and
an electronic control unit (ECU) (108) configured to:
control a starter lock mechanism (110) to prevent vehicle ignition based on at least one of: the measured length of the seatbelt, the detected latched condition, or the occupancy of the seat; and
provide real-time feedback to a user via a user interface (112).
2. The seatbelt interlock system (100) of claim 1, wherein the seatbelt length sensor (102) comprises at least one of: a rotary encoder, a potentiometer.
3. The seatbelt interlock system (100) of claim 1, wherein the seatbelt lock sensor (104) transmits any one of: a latched signal, an unlatched signal to the ECU (108) via a micro-switch embedded in a seatbelt buckle.
4. The seatbelt interlock system (100) of claim 1, wherein the seat occupancy sensor comprises at least one of: a pressure pad, an ultrasonic sensor.
5. The seatbelt interlock system (100) of claim 1, wherein the ECU (108) is further configured to monitor status of the seatbelt during vehicle operation.
6. The seatbelt interlock system (100) of claim 1, further comprising an emergency override button configured to override the operation of the ECU (108).
7. The seatbelt interlock system (100) of claim 1, further comprises an anti-bypass feature to prevent misuse of a dummy clip.
8. The seatbelt interlock system (100) of claim 1, wherein the ECU (108) is operatively coupled to the at least one of: the seatbelt length sensor, the seatbelt lock sensor, the seat occupancy sensor.
9. A seatbelt interlock method (200) in a vehicle, the method (200) comprising:
measuring a length of a seatbelt using a seatbelt length sensor (102);
detecting a latched condition of the seatbelt using a seatbelt lock sensor (104);
detecting an occupancy of a seat using a seat occupancy sensor (106);
controlling a starter lock mechanism (110) for preventing vehicle ignition based on at least one of: the measured length of the seatbelt, the detected latched condition, or the occupancy of the seat; and
providing real-time feedback to a user to a user via a user interface (112).
10. The seatbelt interlock method (200) of claim 9, further comprising at least one: reducing speed of a vehicle, and activating emergency brake lights in case the seatbelt is unbuckled during driving.
Date: March 11, 2025
Place: Noida

Nainsi Rastogi
Patent Agent (IN/PA-2372)
Agent for the Applicant