Patent ID: 6481659
Filing Date: 2002-11-19
Classification: B60R

Abstract:
A variable load limiting restraint retractor for a seat restraint system in a vehicle comprising:a housing for operative connection to vehicle structure; a take-up spool operatively connected to said housing and connected to a belt of a seat restraint system for winding and unwinding the belt; a rotatable shaft operatively connected to said take-up spool and said housing, said take-up spool being mounted on said shaft; and a load limiting assembly including a rotatable piston operatively connected to said shaft for rotation with said shaft and for translating in a linear manner when an impact of the vehicle is sensed, a fluid cooperating with said piston, and an electrical coil for applying a magnetic field to said fluid to change a viscosity of said fluid for variably limiting load on the belt when the seat restraint system is in a buckled position.