PASSENGER RESTRAINT PAWL AND RATCHET ASSEMBLY WITH POSITIVE ENGAGEMENT

摘要

A passenger restraint system is provided for use in vehicles such as ride vehicles used in theme and amusement park rides. The restraint system includes a passenger restraint such as a lap bar, a belt, or an over-the-shoulder restraint includes a locking mechanism for selectively latching the restraint in a desired position. The locking mechanism includes a ratchet connected to the passenger restraint and mounted so as to rotate with movement of the passenger restraint. The locking mechanism also includes a pawl, which is a two piece assembly that includes: (1) a pivotally mounted upper portion; and (2) a pawl arm extending outward from the upper portion. In some embodiments, a first end of the pawl arm is pivotally coupled with the upper portion, and a second end of the pawl arm, distal to the second end, includes a tooth for engaging teeth on a surface of the ratchet.

主权项

1. A restraint apparatus for use in vehicles such as ride vehicles used in theme and amusement park rides, comprising:
a passenger restraint; and a locking mechanism, comprising:
a ratchet wheel connected to the passenger restraint and mounted to rotate with movement of the passenger restraint; anda pawl comprising a pivotally mounted upper portion and a pawl arm extending outward from the upper portion, wherein a first end of the pawl arm is pivotally coupled with the upper portion and wherein a second end of the pawl arm, distal to the first end, includes a tooth for engaging a plurality of teeth on a surface of the ratchet wheel.