Seat assembly, seatbelt security system, and method

A seat assembly comprises a seat. The seatbelt securing system further comprises a seatbelt coupled to the seat. The seatbelt comprises a first strap and a second strap. The seatbelt further comprises a latch configured to selectively secure the first strap relative to the second strap. The latch further comprises a latch sensor configured to provide a secured indication in response to detection that the latch properly secures the first strap of the seatbelt to the second strap of the seatbelt and provide an unsecured indication in response to detection that the latch does not properly secure the first strap of the seatbelt to the second strap of the seatbelt. The latch further comprises a latch indicator to provide a warning in response to the unsecured indication.

FIELD

This disclosure relates generally to vehicles, and more particularly to seatbelt systems for securing passengers to a seat.

BACKGROUND

Seatbelts promote the safety of passengers while traveling in a vehicle. Seatbelts apply a restraining force to counteract an ejecting force which would otherwise unsettle the occupant of the seat. The restraining force maintains the occupant in position on the seat to reduce the chance of injury in the presence of an ejecting force. Generally, seatbelts are releasably secured by a latch. For the seatbelt to function in the intended manner, the latch must be properly secured at the time an ejecting force is applied to the occupant. Assuring the latch of a seatbelt is properly secured, particularly in the case of a mass transportation vehicle, may be difficult, labor intensive, and time consuming.

SUMMARY

The subject matter of the present application has been developed in response to the present state of the art, and, in response to the problems and disadvantages associated with conventional methods for determining whether a seatbelt latch is properly secured. Accordingly, the subject matter of the present application has been developed to improve seatbelt security that overcomes at least some of the above-discussed shortcomings of prior art techniques.

Described herein is a seat assembly comprising a seat. The seatbelt security system further comprises a seatbelt coupled to the seat. The seatbelt comprises a first strap and a second strap. The seatbelt further comprises a latch to selectively secure the first strap relative to the second strap. The latch further comprises a latch sensor configured to provide a secured indication in response to detection that the latch properly secures the first strap of the seatbelt to the second strap of the seatbelt and provide an unsecured indication in response to detection that the latch does not properly secure the first strap of the seatbelt to the second strap of the seatbelt. The latch further comprises a latch indicator to provide a warning in response to the unsecured indication. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 1 of the present disclosure.

The seat assembly further comprises an occupancy sensor configured to provide an occupied indication in response to the seat being occupied and to provide an unoccupied indication in response to the seat being unoccupied. The indicator on the latch is configured to prevent a warning in response to the unsecured indication when the occupancy sensor provides the unoccupied indication. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 2 of the present disclosure, wherein example 2 also includes the subject matter according to example 1, above.

The seat assembly further comprises a proximal indicator positioned to spatially correspond with the seatbelt, the proximal indicator configured to produce at least one of a light, a sound, or a vibration in response to the unsecured indication. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 3 of the present disclosure, wherein example 3 also includes the subject matter according to any one of examples 1 or 2, above.

The seat assembly wherein the proximal indicator comprises a display screen configured to provide a visual warning in response to receiving the unsecured indication. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 4 of the present disclosure, wherein example 4 also includes the subject matter according to any one of examples 1-3, above.

The visual warning comprises an indication of a status of the seatbelt. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 5 of the present disclosure, wherein example 5 also includes the subject matter according to any one of examples 1-4, above.

The visual warning comprises instructions describing how to properly secure the seatbelt. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 6 of the present disclosure, wherein example 6 also includes the subject matter according to any one of examples 1-5, above.

The display screen is configured to interrupt a current display object to communicate warning to the user of the seatbelt. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 7 of the present disclosure, wherein example 7 also includes the subject matter according to any one of examples 1-6, above.

The indicator on the latch comprises at least one of a light source capable of illumination in response to the unsecured indication, a vibration device capable of producing vibrational feedback in response to the unsecured indication, and a speaker capable of producing audio stimulus in response to the unsecured indication. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 8 of the present disclosure, wherein example 8 also includes the subject matter according to any one of examples 1-7, above.

The latch sensor communicates with a computing device to generate at least one of the secured indication and the unsecured indication. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 9 of the present disclosure, wherein example 9 also includes the subject matter according to any one of examples 1-8, above.

The latch indicator is in communication with the computing device to provide the warning in response to the unsecured indication. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 10 of the present disclosure, wherein example 10 also includes the subject matter according to any one of examples 1-9, above.

Further described herein is a seatbelt security system that comprises a seat assembly. The seat assembly comprises a seat. The seat assembly further comprises a seatbelt coupled to the seat. The seatbelt comprises a first strap and a second strap. The seatbelt further comprises a latch to selectively secure the first strap relative to the second strap. The latch comprises a latch sensor configured to detect that the first strap is properly secured to the second strap via the latch and detect that the first strap is not properly secured to the second strap via the latch. The seat assembly further comprises a proximal indicator spatially proximate the seat. The proximal indicator is configured to provide a proximal warning. The seatbelt security system further includes a computing device configured to provide an unsecured indication in response to detection by the latch sensor that the first strap of the seatbelt is not properly secured to the second strap of the seatbelt via the latch. The seatbelt security system further includes a remote indicator positioned to provide a remote warning at a location separate from the seat assembly in response to the unsecured indication. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 11 of the present disclosure.

The seatbelt security system wherein the seat assembly further comprises an occupancy sensor configured to provide an occupied indication in response to the seat assembly being occupied and to provide an unoccupied indication in response to the seat assembly being unoccupied. The proximal indicator is configured to prevent a warning in response to the unsecured indication when the occupancy sensor provides the unoccupied indication. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 12 of the present disclosure, wherein example 12 also includes the subject matter of example 11, above.

The seatbelt security system wherein the computing device is further in communication with the remote indicator. The computing device is configured to activate and deactivate at least one of the latch sensor210, the proximal indicator222, and the remote indicator in response to at least one of a manual input from a crew member, a turbulence status, a cruise status, and a travel transition indication. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 13 of the present disclosure, wherein example 13 also includes the subject matter according to any one of examples 11 or 12, above.

The latch further comprises a latch indicator coupled to the latch. The computing device activates the latch indicator to provide a warning at the latch in response to the unsecured indication. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 14 of the present disclosure, wherein example 14 also includes the subject matter according to any one of examples 11-13, above.

The remote indicator comprises at least one of a central display and a mobile device. The computing device activates the at least one of the central display and a mobile device to provide the remote warning in response to the unsecured indication. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 15 of the present disclosure, wherein example 15 also includes the subject matter according to any one of examples 11-14, above.

Further described herein is a method for seatbelt security comprising determining an occupancy of a seat based on a signal from an occupancy sensor. The method further comprises requesting a status of a seatbelt latch in response to a determination that the seat is occupied. The method further comprises receiving a latch signal from a latch sensor in response to the request. The method further comprising, in response to the latch signal indicating that the seatbelt latch is unsecured, providing at least one of a proximal warning spatially proximate the seat and a remote warning spatially remote from the seat. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 16 of the present disclosure.

At least one of the proximal warning and the remote warning is provided further in response to at least one of receiving a manual input to activate a secure seatbelt mode and receiving a detection of at least one travel transition. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 17 of the present disclosure, wherein example 17 also includes the subject matter according to example 16, above.

Providing the proximal warning comprises generating the proximal warning at at least one of a latch indicator and a proximal indicator. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 18 of the present disclosure, wherein example 18 also includes the subject matter according to any one of examples 16 or 17, above.

Providing the remote warning comprises activating a central display spatially remote from the seat to display the remote warning. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 19 of the present disclosure, wherein example 19 also includes the subject matter according to any one of examples 16-18, above.

Providing the at least one of the proximal warning and the remote warning comprises activating a mobile device to display a warning. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 20 of the present disclosure, wherein example 20 also includes the subject matter according to any one of examples 16-19, above.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Described below are embodiments that relate to a seatbelt security system. The seatbelt security system can provide an efficient, passenger-centric, way to improve the effectiveness and security of a seatbelt on a vehicle. The seatbelt security system described herein monitors a status of a seatbelt based on manual or automatic parameters. For example, the system may be turned on or off by an operator, crew, driver, passenger, and pilot. The system may also be turned on or off by a computing device operated by a set of automatic parameters such as a scheduled or routine event, dynamic detection of a travel transition, such as take-off, landing, parking, acceleration, and braking, and/or detection of a travel condition such as turbulence, wet or snowy roadways, an accident, and the like.

Embodiments of the seatbelt security system detect such conditions as may affect a person on a vehicle in a way that might be mitigated or aided by proper use of a seatbelt. The system can determine if the person is occupying their seat and if the seatbelt for that seat is properly engaged. A seatbelt is properly engaged if the latch of the seatbelt couples two strap portions of the seatbelt together in a manner which allows the seatbelt to restrain the occupant as intended during an event. Conversely, a seatbelt is not properly engaged if the latch of the seatbelt is uncoupled or is coupled in a manner which will not allow the seatbelt to restrain the occupant as intended during an event. It may be difficult for an occupant or staff to determine if the seatbelt is properly engaged. In part, embodiments described herein simplify, streamline, and make more accurate the process of checking seatbelts for proper engagement.

If the seatbelt is not properly engaged, a warning may be sent to the person to indicate that the seatbelt may not be properly engaged. In some situations, the person to whom the warning is communicated may be asleep, distracted, under stress, or otherwise prevented from receiving the warning. In some embodiments described below, the seatbelt security system provides the warning in one of more of several different types. For example, the warning may be communicated with a flashed light on the latch of the seatbelt. Additionally or alternatively, the warning may be communicated with a vibration of the latch of the seatbelt or other haptic measures. The warning may be communicated through a display positioned near the person such as an entertainment or information display, an overhead panel, a floorboard, a seatback in front of the person, or the like.

In some embodiments, a warning is also or alternatively communicated to staff such as an operator, crew, driver, pilot, etc. regarding the state of the person's seatbelt. With that warning, the staff can then act to remedy the situation to improve the safety of the person. For example, the staff may approach the person to calm the person or point out that the seatbelt is not secure or assist the person in securing the seatbelt. The warning may be communicated to the staff via central display, a mobile device carried by the staff, or an indicator in proximate the person. The warning may identify a seat location of the person for more rapid response in lieu of checking the seatbelt of every person on a vehicle. Given the relatively short window for a given situation in which the staff may be able to respond, embodiments described below can improve the safety of people on the vehicle and can improve the ability of the staff to quickly identify and address situations with seatbelts that may be dangerous if left unresolved. Further detail is described below with reference to the various figures.

FIG. 1is a schematic block diagram of a vehicle110that includes a latch sensor210, an occupancy sensor206, a computing device214, and an indicator102, according to one or more examples of the present disclosure. In the example ofFIG. 1, the latch sensor210is a sensor configured to detect a status of a seatbelt latch and communicate a latch signal to the computing device214. The occupancy sensor206provides an occupied signal to the computing device in response to detection that a seat is occupied and provides an unoccupied signal to the computing device in response to detection that the seat is unoccupied. Based on the signals received from the latch sensor210and the occupancy sensor206, the computing device214communicates information to an indicator102to cause the indicator102to indicate a warning. The indicator102may be a latch indicator, a proximal indicator, and/or a remote indicator as herein described.

Even though one latch sensor210, one occupancy sensor206, one computing device214, and one indicator102are depicted inFIG. 1, one of skill in the art will recognize, in light of this disclosure, that any number of each component may be included in the vehicle110.

In the illustrated example ofFIG. 1, the latch sensor210, the occupancy sensor206, the computing device214, and the indicator102are incorporated into a vehicle110. However, in other examples, some or all of the occupancy sensor206, the computing device214, and the indicator102may be separate from the vehicle110. For example, the computing device214may be separate from the vehicle110as described further below.

In certain embodiments, the vehicle110includes a plurality of computing devices214each communicatively coupled to one or more other computing devices214. According to certain examples, the computing devices214of multiple vehicles110may be communicatively coupled together. The computing device214can include one or more processors and memory that cooperatively perform the corresponding functions described herein.

The vehicle110may be an aircraft. The aircraft may be any of various airplanes, such as commercial airplanes, private airplanes, fighter jets, propeller airplanes, and/or the like. The vehicle110may alternatively be a ship, a bus, a train, an automobile, a shuttle, a rollercoaster car or other amusement-style ride, or the like.

In some embodiments, the vehicle110includes multiple sensors for detecting and sampling data regarding operation of the vehicle110, data about the vehicle's external environment, and/or the like. The vehicle110may also include multiple sensors for detecting and sampling data about the vehicle's interior environment, such as occupants, occupied seats, latch states, and the like. In certain embodiments, the vehicle's sensors include sensors for detecting an amount of pressure or force that is applied to the vehicle's brakes; sensors for detecting the vehicle's acceleration and/or deceleration; sensors for detecting an amount of thrust applied and/or output by the vehicle's engines or drive system, sensors for detecting approaching turbulence or travel conditions, an approaching destination, and/or the like.

In certain embodiments, the computing device214may be communicatively coupled to the sensors of the vehicle110, to a central computing system of the vehicle110, and/or to the sensors or central computing systems of other vehicles. In this manner, sensor data, for instance, may be transmitted from the vehicle110to a central computing system of the vehicle110and/or to one or more other vehicles over a data network such as a secure wireless communication network.

FIG. 2Ais a schematic block diagram of a seatbelt security system104that can be used with a vehicle, such as the vehicle110ofFIG. 1. In the illustrated embodiment, the seatbelt security system104includes a seat assembly202. The seat assembly202includes a seat203, a seatbelt204, an occupancy sensor206, and a proximal indicator222. The seat203may be a passenger seat, a driver seat, a cargo lockdown platform, or other securing devices on a vehicle. The seatbelt204may include a first strap406, a second strap408(see, e.g.,FIG. 5), and a latch208. The first strap406and the second strap208can be coupled together via the latch208. One of the first strap406and the second strap408may be longer or shorter than the other. Alternatively, the first strap406and the second strap408may be approximately the same length. In some embodiments, the entirety of the latch208is coupled to just one of the first strap406or the second strap408. However, in other embodiments, separable portions of the latch208may be coupled to corresponding ones of the first strap406and the second strap408to couple the two straps together. The latch208may be a lever latch, a button latch, a slide latch, a harness, restraint bar, a cuff, a shackle, or the like.

In the illustrated embodiment, the latch208includes a latch sensor210. The latch sensor210monitors the state of the latch208. The latch sensor210may be an electrical sensor, an optical sensor, a mechanical sensor, a magnetic sensor, or the like. In some embodiments, the latch sensor210detects a coupling of the first strap406and the second strap408of the seatbelt204via the latch208. The latch sensor210may be capable of distinguishing between a secure coupling and an unsecure coupling. The latch sensor210may also provide an indication of the state of the latch208in the form of a signal or other communication.

In some embodiments, the latch208further includes a latch indicator212. The latch indicator212provides a warning, notification, or indication of the state of the latch208. In some embodiments, the warning, notification, or indication is at least one of a visual, audio, or tactile stimulus. For example, the latch indicator212may provide a light, a sound, and/or a movement, such as a vibration. The latch indicator212may provide the indication in response to a detection, by the latch sensor210, that the latch208is not coupled or is not securely coupled.

The occupancy sensor206of the seat assembly202detects the presence of a person or occupant on the seat203. The occupancy sensor206may be disposed in the seat203or positioned near the seat203to detect the presence of an occupant on the seat203. For example, the occupancy sensor206may be disposed on or in a surface the seat203, in an overhead panel, on a seatback of a seat positioned in front of the seat203, a wall or floor near the seat203, or the like.

The occupancy sensor206provides an occupied indication in response to the seat203being occupied. The occupied indication may be a signal sent to or through one or more components of the seatbelt security system104, such as the computing device214, the latch sensor210, and/or the latch indicator212. For example, the occupied indication from the occupancy sensor206may be sent directly to the latch sensor210or the latch indicator212of the latch208. The latch sensor210or the latch indicator212may produce the indication of the status of the latch208in response to a determination that the seat assembly202is occupied based on the indication from the occupancy sensor206.

The indication from the occupancy sensor206may default to an occupied or unoccupied state. For example, from a safety perspective, the occupancy sensor206may default to generate an occupied indication unless it is actively determined or confirmed that no occupant is in the seat203. Additionally, the latch sensor210, the latch indicator212, or the computing device214may default to an occupied status for the seat203. In this manner, if the occupancy sensor206malfunctions or otherwise fails to provide an indication as to the occupancy of the seat assembly202, the occupant and/or staff will be notified if the latch208is unsecured.

The In some embodiments, the computing device214is located on a vehicle (for example, the vehicle110ofFIG. 1) corresponding to the seat assembly202. The computing device214may also be located at a central control location, such as an airport, bus station, sea port, transit center, or the like. While the computing device214is shown and described as containing multiple localized components, in other examples, one or more of the components of the computing device214may be remote from each other. In other words, the computing device214may be embodied as a single device or embodied as a collection of devices at one or more locations connected over a communication network.

In the illustrated embodiment, the computing device214includes a data module216, a parameter module218, and a transmission module220. The data module216, in one embodiment, is configured to receive data from the latch sensor210and the occupancy sensor206. In certain embodiments, data from the latch sensor210and the occupancy sensor206are sampled based on manual input from a staff member or external system, a schedule or other internal input or parameter stored in the parameter module218, or other triggers or inputs.

The data module216may also be connected to other sensors of a vehicle or sensors remote to the vehicle, in addition to the latch sensor210and the occupancy sensor206. For example, the data module216may request and/or receive data from sensors for measuring or detecting an amount of force or pressure applied to brakes of a vehicle, such as while the vehicle110is slowing. In some embodiments, the sensors include sensors for detecting the acceleration, deceleration, speed, velocity, roughness, turbulence, and/or the like of a vehicle during some travel transition. In further embodiments, the sensors include sensors for determining or detecting an amount of thrust, for example, forward, reverse, or turning force, applied to the vehicle's engines or turning systems. Said sensors may provide a travel transition indication which indicates these or other transitions or changes during travel. This may include currently detected parameters and predicted or expected parameters.

The data module216may receive data from other systems of a vehicle, from a central transit hub, from other vehicles, or the like. The data received by the data module216may be data corresponding to a schedule, a proximity or time to a location or transition in travel. For example, the data module216may receive a prediction of a travel condition such as turbulence, cruise status, traffic jam, rough water, winds, slippery roads, or the like. The data module216may provide indications based on the data received at the data module216from these sensors, predictive systems, or other sources. In some embodiments, the data module216receives data corresponding to a turbulence status. A turbulence status may include an automated prediction of turbulence, an automated detection of current turbulence, a manual input indicating future turbulence, and a manual input indicating current turbulence.

In some embodiments, the data module216performs an operation on the data received at the data module216. For example, the data module216may receive data in a first format and may convert the data to a second format. The operation may include a process which receives the data and normalizes, formats, organizes, or otherwise converts the data to a useable format. For instance, the sampled data may be aggregated, categorized by data source/sensor, structured using a structured language (e.g., XML), and/or the like prior to the data being sent to the airport computing system. The data module216may operate one or more lookup tables, access one or more databases, correlate the data to specific objects based on a programmed logic, instructions, or the like.

In one embodiment, the one or more parameters that the parameter module218determines, using the data received by the data module216, include parameters relating to when and if an unsecured indication should be provided. For example, the parameter module218may determine a timeframe for impact of a weather condition on the vehicle and generate a parameter based on this timeframe. In another example, the parameter module218may determine a time to arrival at a location and determine a parameter based on this timing. In an additional example, the parameter module218may determine how a condition will affect the vehicle and establish a threshold for generating a warning to an occupant of the seat203, or staff corresponding to the vehicle, based on the impact to the occupant or the vehicle. In some embodiments, the parameter generated by the parameter module218is based on one or more characteristics of the vehicle. In other embodiments, the parameter is generated based on dynamic or changing variable. The parameters may be saved to the computing device214, shared across a network to other vehicles or systems, or dynamically adjusted based on other criteria.

The transmission module220transmits the indicator, the one or more determined parameters, and/or other data to the latch indicator212, a proximal indicator222, a remote indicator224, another vehicle, a central transit control or storage location, or other recipient. In certain embodiments, the transmission module220transmits the determined parameters over a data network. In further embodiments, the data module216may be located on a vehicle that detects data via sensors or other instruments and may receive data from the various sensors. Additionally, or alternatively, the parameter module220may determine the one or more parameters, and may share the determined parameters directly with other recipients over, for example, a peer-to-peer network, a mesh network, an ad-hoc network, and/or other wireless network.

In some embodiments, the data module216also receives manual input from staff corresponding with the vehicle110. The manual input may include a command to initiate the latch indicator212. The manual input may also include one or more variables, which the parameter module218may incorporate into the calculation of the one or more parameters and/or otherwise enhance with the one or more parameters. For example, the pilot of an aircraft may input a detected turbulence event, or a driver may input a road condition. The transmission module220may also transmit the subjective data from staff to other staff within a range of influence of the event, in addition to the calculated parameters.

The computing device214may receive an update of new data. The update may include data for the data module216, the parameter module218, and/or the transmission module220. For example, the update of new data may include improved notice times for sending a warning corresponding to a detected event. In another example, the computing device214may be updated with new safety protocols or requirements. It is recognized that while some embodiments of the seatbelt security system104described herein include the computing device214, other embodiments the seatbelt security system104may operate without a computing device or other computer processing components.

The proximal indicator222of the seat assembly202is similar to the latch indicator212. The proximal indicator222may be in lieu of or in conjunction with the latch indicator212. For example, the proximal indicator222may be activated simultaneously with the latch indicator212. The proximal indicator222may also be activated after a time delay following activation of the latch indicator212. In this manner, in one example, the occupant of the seat203is notified via the latch indicator212and, if the latch208is not coupled within a certain time, the proximal indicator222may be activated as an additional warning to the occupant. Alternatively, the proximal indicator222may be initially activated with the latch indicator212being activated later in an analogous manner.

As presented above, with reference to the latch indicator212, the proximal indicator222may produce a visual, audio, or tactile warning of the status of the latch208. The proximal indicator222is an indicator that is positioned near the seat203, so as to be identified as corresponding to the seat203, or positioned in a general vicinity of the seat203. For example, in an aircraft, the proximal indicator222may be located on an overhead panel directly above the seat203. In this manner, the proximal indicator222may alert the occupant of the seat203as well as staff, such as flight crew, that the latch208of the corresponding seat assembly202is not secured. In some embodiments, the proximal indicator222is positioned to be perceived by the staff and is less visible or readily perceived by the occupant of the seat assembly202.

The proximal indicator222may identify the corresponding seat203by the position of the proximal indicator222relative to the seat203. In some embodiments, the proximal indicator222includes other identifying features to identify the seat203to which the proximal indicator222corresponds. For example, the proximal indicator222may have a seat number or position visual or audio cue identifying the seat203. In some embodiments, the proximal indicator222corresponds to a general region or area of a vehicle which corresponds to the seat203. For example, the proximal indicator222may identify a row or other group of seats203in which a latch208is unsecured. This may allow a staff or group of occupants to be notified of an unsecured latch208in a particular area without the need for individual latch indicators212corresponding to individual seats203.

The remote indicator224of the seatbelt security system104includes a central display226and/or a mobile device228. The remote indicator224is an indicator that is remote relative to the seat assembly202. The remote indicator224may include an indicator in a staff area such as a cockpit, a driver display, staff quarters or staging area, a central transit location such as an airport, bus stop, port, or the like. For example, on an aircraft, the central display226may include a central panel on which the flight crew can view the status of the seatbelt204for each seat203or a corresponding portion of the aircraft. The central display226may be a display capable of showing a state of the seatbelt204. The central display226may identify a specific seat203.

The central display226may be reactive to crew input to execute a corresponding action. For example, the central display226may display an alert or indication of an unsecure seatbelt204and allow the flight crew to tap, click, scroll, or otherwise supply an input to filter down to an area of the aircraft or the specific seat203. The central display226may also facilitate other actions. For example, the central display226may allow the flight crew to initiate a warning at the seat assembly202, such as a warning to the latch indicator212to alert the occupant of the seat assembly202. In another example, the central display226allows the flight crew to communicate with the seat occupant through voice communication or other stimulus. The communication may be automated, such as a pre-recorded message or displaying a prepared message on an entertainment or other display screen. The communication may also be a direct line of communication with the flight crew to speak with the seat occupant. In some embodiments, the central display226may be linked with other regions or displays of the vehicle.

The mobile device228of the remote indicator224may provide the above-described functionality of the central display226. In some embodiments, the mobile device228includes a smart phone, a tablet computer, a wearable device, or the like. The mobile device228may provide information to the staff regarding a state of the latch208. The mobile device228may facilitate input from the staff to execute an operation in response to the input. In some examples, the mobile device228may correspond to a member of the staff. In another example, the mobile device228may correspond to the vehicle or a portion of the vehicle. The mobile device228may receive data from the transmission module220or another source.

In some embodiments, the seatbelt security system104facilitates the communication of various signals and warnings to and from the various components of the seatbelt security system104. For example, a passenger list and seating assignment information may be sent from a central server to a vehicle (e.g., the computing device214on the vehicle). In turn, the information may be relayed to one or more mobile devices such as a smart watch, phone, tablet, or other mobile device. The computing devices214may include corresponding display devices capable of displaying indications, warnings, and the like.

FIG. 2Bis a schematic block diagram of the latch208ofFIG. 2A. In the illustrated embodiment, the latch indicator212of the latch208includes at least one of a light source213, a vibration device215, and a speaker217. The light source213may be positioned on the latch208to emit light from a surface, or multiple surfaces, of the latch208. The light source213may have one or more characteristics including light patterns, intensities, colors, and the like. For example, the light source213may provide a flashing pattern, a dimming and brightening intensity, and one or more distinct colors. In some embodiments, the one or more characteristics of the light corresponds to a status of the latch208, occupancy of the seat203, a state of a vehicle, or other considerations. For example, a color of the light produced by the light source213may indicate an urgency to time until an expected travel transition or event such as a descent, landing, docking, up-anchor, parking, etc.

Similar to the light source213, the vibration device215may provide a stimulus to the occupant of the seat203to prompt the occupant to properly secure the latch208. The vibration device215may provide vibrations in various patterns and intensities to communicate at least one of a specific condition, timing, and urgency to an occupant of the seat203.

Like the light source213and the vibration device215, the speaker217may be incorporated into the latch208to provide an auditory feedback to the occupant of the seat203. The auditory feedback may include a beeping, a constant or variable tone, a spoken message, or other signals with various patterns, intensities, messages, tones, and the like.

In some embodiments, one or more of the light source213, the vibration device215, and the speaker217may be incorporated together to be activated simultaneously, in stages, or in response to specific occupant needs, specific travel transitions or events, or other conditions.

FIG. 3is a perspective view of a seatback display300that incorporate one or more of the features of the seatbelt security system104ofFIG. 2A. For example, in one embodiment, the seatback display300is one example of the proximal indicator222of the seatbelt security system104. In the illustrated embodiment, the seatback display300is integrated into a seatback306of a seat308. The seatback306is disposed on a rear portion of the seat308and faces a seat rearwardly adjacent the seat308. The seatback display300includes display screen302that is positioned for viewing by a user occupying the seat rearwardly adjacent the seat308.

The display screen302may receive an indication from at least one component (e.g., the computing device214) of the seatbelt security system104that the seatbelt204, of the user positioned to view the display screen302, is not secured. The display screen302may pause a current display object to communicate a warning to the user. The current display object may be an advertisement, a map, a screen saver, an entertainment or information program, or other visual media. In some embodiments, the display screen302may be activated from a deactivated state in response to receipt of the indication that the corresponding seatbelt is unsecured. In some embodiments, the display screen302may adjust a brightness, flash the display, or otherwise attract the attention of the user.

In response to the indication that the seatbelt of the user is not secure, the display screen302may present a warning which communicates, to the user, that the seatbelt is not properly secured. The warning may include instructions describing how to properly secure the seatbelt. The warning may include instructions describing how to request help securing the seatbelt. For example, the warning may instruct a user to operate a staff call feature.

In the illustrated embodiment, the seatback display300may also include a seatback indicator304disposed in the seatback306of the seat308. The seatback indicator304is one example of a proximal indicator222described above and illustrated inFIG. 2A. The seatback indicator304may be a visual or audio indicator, such as a light or speaker, to attract the attention of the user and/or the staff. In some embodiments, the seatback indicator304is activated in response to a determination that the corresponding seatbelt is not properly secured. The seatback indicator304may be activated in response to a detection that the corresponding seat is occupied, and the corresponding seatbelt is not secured. The seatback indicator304may be activated in conjunction with the display screen302and/or other indicators. In some embodiments, the seatback indicator304and the display screen302communicate other alerts such as the need to secure a tray, position a seatback in an upright position, deactivate an electronic device, or the like.

FIG. 4is a perspective view of a seat assembly202of a seatbelt security system104, according to one or more examples of the present disclosure. In the illustrated embodiment, the seat assembly202includes an occupancy sensor206disposed in a sit pad402of the seat assembly202. The sit pad402also includes a sit pad proximal indicator222a. The sit pad proximal indicator222ais positioned in the sit pad402of the seat assembly202to communicate, to the occupant of the seat203, a warning that the seatbelt204is not properly secured. As described herein, the sit pad proximal indicator222amay produce a visual, audio, or tactile warning to the occupant. While the sit pad proximal indicator222ais shown at a specific location in the sit pad402of the seat assembly202, one or more sit pad proximal indicators222amay be positioned at any location on or within the sit pad402. While a single sit pad proximal indicator222ais shown, multiple sit pad proximal indicators222amay also be incorporated into the sit pad402of the seat assembly202.

The seat assembly202may include a back pad proximal indicator222bdisposed in the seat assembly202on or in a back pad403of the seat assembly202. In other words, the back pad proximal indicator222bmay be disposed on a surface of the back pad403of the seat assembly202or beneath the surface of the back pad403of the seat assembly202. The back pad proximal indicator222bmay be positioned along a height of the seat assembly202to contact an average occupant at a location on the occupant that is likely to draw the attention of the occupant. While a single back pad proximal indicator222bis shown, multiple back pad proximal indicators222bmay also be incorporated into the back pad403of the seat assembly202.

The seat assembly202can also include an overhead proximal indicator222c. The illustrated embodiment of the overhead proximal indicator222cis one embodiment of the proximal indicator222ofFIG. 2A. The overhead proximal indicator222cmay be disposed on an overhead portion of a vehicle such as an overhead panel, console, ceiling, headliner, or the like. The overhead proximal indicator222cmay be positioned directly over or to spatially correspond to the seat assembly202. The overhead proximal indicator222cmay be positioned to be visible to one or both of the occupant of the seat203or the staff.

The seat assembly202may also include a wall proximal indicator222d. The wall proximal indicator222dis another embodiment of the proximal indicator222ofFIG. 2A. The wall proximal indicator222dmay be disposed to spatially correspond with the seat203. The wall proximal indicator222dmay correspond to the seat203or a group of seats. The wall proximal indicator222dmay be located near a window404or other structure. In some embodiments, one or more of the various proximal indicators of the seat assembly may interface with other systems or structures. For example, the wall proximal indicator222dmay generate a visual stimulus by opening the window404. In another example, the wall proximal indicator222dor other proximal indicator222may turn on a reading light, sound an individual seatbelt chime, vibrate the seat203, or the like.

In the illustrated embodiment, the seat assembly202may additionally include an armrest proximal indicator222edisposed in or on an armrest420of the seat assembly202. The seat assembly202may further includes a floor proximal indicator222fdisposed on the floor in a proximity of the seat203. The armrest proximal indicator222eand the floor proximal indicator222fillustrate other embodiments of the proximal indicator222. While various examples of proximal indicators222a-fare described herein, other proximal indicators222may be located or arranged to provide a stimulus to an occupant of the seat203to communicate a warning that the seatbelt204is not properly secured.

FIG. 5is a perspective view of a seatbelt204of the seat assembly104ofFIG. 4. The seatbelt204corresponding with the seat203of the seat assembly202to help secure an occupant of the seat203. The seatbelt204includes a latch208with a latch sensor210and a latch indicator212. In the illustrated embodiment, the latch sensor210is disposed in the latch208and aligned with the latch indicator212. The latch sensor210may be integrated with the latch indicator212. The latch sensor210may also be separate from the latch indicator212. The latch indicator212may be coupled to the latch208to communicate a vibration to the latch208in response to a determination that the latch208of the seatbelt204is not properly secured. The latch indicator212may include a visual component disposed at a first side of the latch208to be visible when positioned on the user or setting on the seat. The latch indicator212may also include a second visual component disposed on a second side of the latch208to be visible when the latch208is upside down on the seat assembly202or user. In some embodiments, the latch indicator212is a tactile component to provide a vibration, thump, or other tactile stimulus to a user. The tactile component of the latch indicator212may be positioned external or internal to the latch208. The latch indicator212may also include an audio indicator to provide a sound in response to a determination that the latch208is not properly secured. Any one or a combination of the visual, audio, and tactile components may be included in the latch indicator212.

In the illustrated embodiment, the latch208couples a first strap406of the seatbelt204to a second strap408of the seatbelt204. The latch208may include a receiver portion coupled to one of the first strap406and the second strap408and an insert coupled to the other of the first strap406and the second strap408. In some embodiments, the latch sensor210is disposed in the receiver, in the insert, or in both the receiver and the insert of the latch208. Similarly, the latch indicator212may be disposed in the receiver, in the insert, or in both the receiver and the insert of the latch208.

FIG. 6is a schematic flow diagram of one embodiment of a method500for dynamically providing seatbelt security using the systems and assemblies shown inFIGS. 1-5. The method500begins and determines502, by a computing device214, an occupancy of a seat assembly202based on a signal from an occupancy sensor206. In some embodiments, the determination of occupancy is made at the occupancy sensor206. Alternatively, the signal from the occupancy sensor206is provided to a computing device214. The computing device214may intake the signal from the occupancy sensor206and interpret the signal to determine the occupancy of the seat203. The signal may be a binary occupied/unoccupied signal, or the signal may describe a pressure metric or pattern to distinguish between an occupant and an inanimate object, for example, a pillow or luggage. The computing device214may correlate a time component to the signal from the occupancy sensor206. For example, the computing device214may determine that the seat203is occupied only after a period of time had elapsed without a detectable vacancy in the seat203.

The method500, in certain embodiments, requests504, by the computing device214, a status of a seatbelt latch208in response to a determination that the seat assembly202is occupied based on the signal from the occupancy sensor206. In some embodiments, the computing device214determines that the seat203is occupied in response to the signal from the occupancy sensor206being within an expected range based on average loads or metrics specific to the occupant of the seat203. In response to the computing device214determining that the seat203is occupied, the computing device214may ping or otherwise prompt a response from a latch sensor210. In some embodiments, the status of the seatbelt latch208is stored in a database on, or in communication with, the computing device214. The computing device214may query the latch sensor210or other device or component to prompt the status of the seatbelt latch208be provided, or made accessible, to the computing device214.

As described above, the request may be prompted by an input from the occupancy sensor206and may also include inputs from an automated or manual system detecting a travel transition. For example, the travel transition may include a take-off, landing, turbulence, rough water, crossing, turning, stop, braking, acceleration, or similar detected, planned, anticipated, or manually indicated event.

The method500, in one embodiment, receives506a latch signal in response to the request. As mentioned above, the latch signal may be provided directly from the latch sensor210or from another component or system in communication with the latch sensor210. The latch signal may be provided over an, at least partially, wired or wireless connection. In some examples, the latch signal may be provided continuously to the computing device214or another component. Alternatively, the latch signal may be provided in response to the request from the computing device214.

The method500, in one embodiment, in response the latch signal indicating the seatbelt latch208is unsecured, providing508at least one of a proximal warning spatially proximate the seat203and a remote warning spatially remote from the seat203. In some embodiments, the remote warning indicates a status of the seatbelt latch208and identifies the seat203from a plurality of seats. The computing device214may determine a type of warning to provide based on any one or more of a plurality of variables. For example, the computing device214may determine that a timeframe is relatively short in which to respond and secure the seatbelt204and thus activate both the proximal warning and the remote warning. The computing device214may select the warning based on a look-up table, logic parameters, or the like. The selection of the warnings may be based on an identified need or ability of an occupant of the seat203or may be based on a selection made by a pilot, driver, staff, safety specialist, controller, or other staff or by the occupant itself.

For example, the seat203may be a seat on an aircraft, train, ship, bus, or other common carrier. The driver or staff may receive a warning which indicates which seat to check. This may drastically reduce the time needed to identify and remedy an unsecured seatbelt204. The shortened time may allow the staff to return to a safe position and/or decrease the chance of injury or stress to both staff and occupant.