David A Renfroe

Title: Innovations by David A. Renfroe

Introduction

David A. Renfroe is an accomplished inventor based in Fayetteville, AR (US). He holds a total of 8 patents that showcase his expertise in creating innovative safety mechanisms for seat belts. His work focuses on enhancing the reliability and performance of seat belt buckle assemblies, particularly during rapid acceleration or deceleration.

Latest Patents

One of Renfroe's latest inventions is the "Buckle for Preventing Inertial De-buckling." This seat belt buckle assembly is designed to resist unintentional opening during sudden movements. It features a female buckle that receives a male tongue plate, along with a pawl assembly, spring, and a load rate sensitive foam member. The design ensures that the pawl remains engaged under normal conditions while allowing for safe unlatching during gradual loading.

Another significant patent is the "Impact Resistant Seat Belt Buckle." This invention aims to prevent unintentional unlatching when subjected to rapid forces, such as during a crash. The buckle assembly includes a spring-loaded pawl that locks into a slot on the removable tongue plate. The material used for the pawl-loading spring is specifically chosen for its resistance to elastic deformation under high loading rates, ensuring the buckle remains secure during critical moments.

Career Highlights

Renfroe has contributed his expertise to the University of Arkansas, where he has been involved in research and development projects. His work in academia has allowed him to push the boundaries of safety technology in automotive applications.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Renfroe has collaborated with notable individuals such as Joe Partain and Russell Frieder. These partnerships have fostered innovation and have been instrumental in the development of his patented technologies.

Conclusion

David A. Renfroe's contributions to seat belt safety technology reflect his commitment to enhancing automotive safety. His innovative designs and patents demonstrate a significant impact on the industry, making vehicles safer for everyone.