Gunter Maierhofer

Title: Innovations of Gunter Maierhofer in Safety Belt Technology

Introduction

Gunter Maierhofer, an esteemed inventor based in Ulm, Germany, has made significant contributions to safety belt technology through his innovative designs. With two patents to his name, he has demonstrated a commitment to enhancing automotive safety mechanisms.

Latest Patents

Maierhofer's latest inventions include two notable patents addressing the functionality and reliability of safety belt tensioners. The first patent, titled "Drive Unit for a Safety Belt Tensioner," describes a drive unit that activates in response to an acceleration sensor. This system features a drive that is rotationally fixedly coupled to the belt winding reel, ensuring swift tensioning in critical situations. The unit is housed within a drive chamber formed by two parallel plates coated with specialized materials, and incorporates a drive band connected to a drive shaft.

The second patent, "Drive for a Belt Tensioner," further elaborates on the mechanics of safety belt tensioners. It details a drive chamber situated between two plates, where a drive band is secured to a drive shaft. This innovative design allows the drive band to form a loop that can be propelled by expanding gas from a gas outlet, facilitating the winding of the drive band and the activation of the drive shaft.

Career Highlights

Gunter Maierhofer works with Takata-Petri (Ulm) GmbH, a company renowned for its advancements in automotive safety systems. His inventive spirit and technical acumen have positioned him as a pivotal figure in the development of safety belt mechanisms.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Maierhofer has collaborated with talented colleagues, including Dieter Beck and Gerhard Klingauf. Together, they have shared insights and innovations, striving to improve the safety features available in vehicles today.

Conclusion

Gunter Maierhofer's contributions to safety belt technology through his patented inventions have showcased his dedication to automotive safety. As the industry evolves, his innovations continue to play an essential role in protecting lives on the road.