Dual spring tension reducer

Abstract

A dual tension safety belt retracting device comprising: a frame (10), a spool (70b) rotatably mounted on the frame, for storing safety belt webbing (84). The device including first and second ratchet wheels (74b, 76b) and an outer tube (112), extending into and connecting the first and second ratchet wheels. An inner shaft (130) extends through and is rotatably disposed in the outer tube (112); a main, high torque (140) rewind spring is provided to apply a rewind bias to the inner shaft (130). A low torque, rewind spring (158) connects the outer tube (112) to a control ratchet wheel (154); a cap (170 interconnects the control ratchet wheel (154) to the inner shaft (130). A control pawl (200) for engaging the control ratchet wheel (154), is rotatably mounted relative to the frame (26), and movable between a first position disengaged from the control ratchet wheel (154) and a second position in engagement with the control ratchet wheel (154) wherein when the control pawl is in its second position it is effective to block out the main rewind spring from exerting a bias on the safety belt webbing. The control pawl (200) being move between the first and second position under control of selected mechanisms.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.