Importance

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Abstract

A buckle and belt tension sensor are disclosed that optimize operation of the sensor without requiring significant modifications to the buckle and its operating mechanism. The sensor is mounted to a latch member having a body including tension responsive structure. The tension responsive structure can be at least one opening or gap in a sensor mounting portion of the body. In preferred forms, the tension responsive structure includes a split-body construction of the latch member body with the sensor mounted to extend between split portions thereof so as to enhance the capability of the sensor to detect tension in the seat belt. The split latch member body may be either of a single-piece or multiple-piece construction, although the multi-piece latch member is preferred for enhancing the response of the sensor to tension forces in the seat belt.

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First Claim