Importance

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Abstract

A multi-level energy absorption retractor is provided with a torsion type of energy absorption which is achieved automatically without the use of an independent sensing mechanism and an electrical control to start energy dissipation and/or to shift from one amount of energy absorption to another amount of energy absorption at the time of an accident. First and second torsion elements, preferably formed in a single torsion bar, are utilized with automatic twisting of the first torsion element for an initial predetermined amount of spool rotation and energy absorption and then automatically transitioning to twist the second torsion element for energy absorption at the second level. Preferably, a coupling device sequentially couples the first torsion element for energy absorption at the first level, and then, automatically after a predetermined amount of spool rotation couples the second torsion element for energy absorption at the second level.

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First Claim