/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/24016885/STK093_Google_04.jpg)
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/24808816/Starfield__The_Settled_Systems___Supra_Et_Ultra_____Starfield__The_Settled_Systems___Supra_Et_Ultra_2023_7_25_94252.263_1440p_streamshot.png)
A new patent has been granted for Apple’s creative seatbelt design strategy for the anticipated Apple Car. Apple is looking to replace the current red seatbelt release button with buttons that light up and provide information. While the details of the Apple Car are still unknown, the patent, titled “Restraint with Indicator Area,” details Apple’s ideas for improving seatbelts.
To use the seatbelts in the Apple Car, a connector must be inserted into the buckle, which will still have a snap release button. However, Apple intends to make aesthetic improvements to the buckle. As passengers enter the Apple Car, buckles with red, bright lights will appear. Once the belt is tightened, the red light extinguishes and the buckle changes to its standard color to blend in with the building.
The purpose of the illuminated buckle button is to make it easier for users to locate the seatbelt, especially when it is unclear which seatbelt to use or which buckle to fasten. Carmaker Skoda has already implemented a similar idea, albeit with a different strategy. According to Apple’s patent, a system of unknown pores in the material that allows light to pass through could be used to hide red light until it is needed.
The patent states, “The description herein relates to a safety restraint that uses light emitted through a series of very small holes through an otherwise opaque surface to provide users with information about the operation of the safety restraint.” does.” “For example, many seat belt buckles have red colored release buttons so that the user can easily identify the button’s location and function.”
These tiny holes allow light to pass through part of the restraint, but are not readily visible to the naked eye. These holes, located in an otherwise opaque part of the restraint, may be empty or filled with a translucent material.
apple car belt design details
As a result, the seat belts and buckles glow red when they need to be seen, and return to the same color as the seat once the buckle is unbuckled. In addition, some images show the word “PUSH” written on the seat belt. This, however, is not mentioned in the patent language. It is not yet known whether this wording will be printed on the buckle release mechanism or whether it will light up when the seatbelt is pulled closer to the buckle.
In either scenario, the goal is to direct the consumer to press the release button or seatbelt tongue into the buckle. Given the context of the action, the use of the word ‘push’ can be interpreted as slightly patronizing. Although it’s reassuring to know that the seatbelt is securely fastened, current seatbelts already make a noticeable click when buckled.
Perhaps Apple has taken haptic feedback into account when designing the product. It is interesting to note that this recently granted patent is Apple’s second foray into automotive lighting. A patent for ‘Lighting system of vehicle seats’, which explored the idea of illuminated seat adjustments, was awarded to the company in 2019.
A new patent has been granted for Apple’s creative seatbelt design strategy for the anticipated Apple Car. Apple is looking to replace the current red seatbelt release button with buttons that light up and provide information. While the details of the Apple Car are still unknown, the patent, titled “Restraint with Indicator Area,” details Apple’s ideas for improving seatbelts.
To use the seatbelts in the Apple Car, a connector must be inserted into the buckle, which will still have a snap release button. However, Apple intends to make aesthetic improvements to the buckle. As passengers enter the Apple Car, buckles with red, bright lights will appear. Once the belt is tightened, the red light extinguishes and the buckle changes to its standard color to blend in with the building.
The purpose of the illuminated buckle button is to make it easier for users to locate the seatbelt, especially when it is unclear which seatbelt to use or which buckle to fasten. Carmaker Skoda has already implemented a similar idea, albeit with a different strategy. According to Apple’s patent, a system of unknown pores in the material that allows light to pass through could be used to hide red light until it is needed.
The patent states, “The description herein relates to a safety restraint that uses light emitted through a series of very small holes through an otherwise opaque surface to provide users with information about the operation of the safety restraint.” does.” “For example, many seat belt buckles have red colored release buttons so that the user can easily identify the button’s location and function.”
These tiny holes allow light to pass through part of the restraint, but are not readily visible to the naked eye. These holes, located in an otherwise opaque part of the restraint, may be empty or filled with a translucent material.
apple car belt design details
As a result, the seat belts and buckles glow red when they need to be seen, and return to the same color as the seat once the buckle is unbuckled. In addition, some images show the word “PUSH” written on the seat belt. This, however, is not mentioned in the patent language. It is not yet known whether this wording will be printed on the buckle release mechanism or whether it will light up when the seatbelt is pulled closer to the buckle.
In either scenario, the goal is to direct the consumer to press the release button or seatbelt tongue into the buckle. Given the context of the action, the use of the word ‘push’ can be interpreted as slightly patronizing. Although it’s reassuring to know that the seatbelt is securely fastened, current seatbelts already make a noticeable click when buckled.
Perhaps Apple has taken haptic feedback into account when designing the product. It is interesting to note that this recently granted patent is Apple’s second foray into automotive lighting. A patent for ‘Lighting system of vehicle seats’, which explored the idea of illuminated seat adjustments, was awarded to the company in 2019.
