Abstract: The present invention is an improved prepreg layer, multilayer composition based on the improved prepreg layer, and article made from the multilayer composite.The prepreg layer of the present invention comprises an array of at least one adjacent, coplanar fibrous element. Each element has a longitudinal axis and each element comprises a plurality of unidirectional coplanar fibers embedded in a polymeric matrix. The fibers are at an oblique angle to the longitudinal axis of the element. The fibers are up to eight inches, preferably from one to eight inches, and more preferably two to six inches long. The adjacent elements are connected by the polymer matrix. Typically, the elements are in strip or sheet form with the longitudinal axis corresponding to long dimension of the strip or sheet. Alternately, the prepreg layer can be a fabric layer, where the fibers are woven or knit and the fibers are at an oblique angle to the longitudinal axis.

Abstract: Vehicle safety belt with two shoulder belt parts anchored behind the upper back rest area on the one hand and in the area at the bottom of the seat on the other and with a lap belt part releasable by means of a belt buckle and tongue, said belt lap part being anchored in the area at the bottom of the seat on each side of the occupant, characterized in that the lap belt (3,4) and the shoulder belts (1,2) are fastened to each other above their lower anchoring points (7 to 10; 41, 42) by guide members (6,6'; 40) disposed in the area of the line of contact (39) between seat cushion (36) and back rest (30). Both shoulder belt parts (1,2) have a single upper anchoring point (11) and all belt parts (1 to 4) are formed by one continuous finite belt.

Abstract: A safety belt retractor comprises a housing containing first and second tandem spools for storing, respectively, lap and shoulder belts in helical wrap. Each of the spools is secured to a ratchet wheel engageable by a pawl located in the housing between the spools. Pawl support openings formed in opposite sidewalls of the housing enable the pawl to float while pivoting. In an equilibrium position, clearance between one end of the floating pawl and the first ratchet wheel is less than the clearance between the opposite end of the pawl and the second ratchet wheel. In response to acceleration of the vehicle carrying the retractor housing, a pendulum-type inertia device pivots the pawl from equilibrium into engagement with the first ratchet wheel. During pay out of the belts, with one end pivoting on the first ratchet wheel, the floating pawl is guided into contact with the second ratchet wheel by a cam surface defining one of the sidewall openings to positively lock the two spools.