U.S. Industries, Inc.

Other

Gordon A Ellens

The specification discloses a seat belt assembly having a plastic encapsulated, molded in place steel strap and a method for fabricating by vinyl dip-molding. Fabrication of the assembly includes forming an elongated, flattened structural member having a hole for connecting the structural member to a vehicle, securing a spacing block over the hole of the structural member and dip molding a resilient coating generally over the entire assembly. The coating is cut on three sides of the blocks to form a moveable, cupped flap permitting removal of the spacing block and exposing the hole so a coupling means can pass through the hole thereby connecting the seat belt assembly to the vehicle. After connection, the flap is returned to its original position encapsulating the structural member so the hole and coupling means are covered.

Method for fabricating a seat belt assembly connection

The specification discloses an elongated metal strap with wiring along its length all molded in place and encapsulated in a plastic material. The strap is anchored to the vehicle and the free end includes either a belt buckle or a latch. Preferably, the strap includes a longitudinal channel and the wiring is located within the channel.

Seat belt assembly

The specification discloses a seat belt assembly having a plastic encapsulated, molded in place steel strap and a method for fabricating by vinyl dip-molding. Fabrication of the assembly includes forming an elongated, flattened structural member having a hole for connecting the structural member to a vehicle, securing a spacing block over the hole of the structural member and dip molding a resilient coating generally over the entire assembly. The coating is cut on three sides of the blocks to form a moveable, cupped flap permitting removal of the spacing block and exposing the hole so a coupling means can pass through the hole thereby connecting the seat belt assembly to the vehicle. After connection, the flap is returned to its original postion encapsulating the structural member so the hole and coupling means are covered.

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Grand Rapids, MI, United States of America

Gordon A Ellens