Abstract: A seat belt retractor comprises a spool or shaft onto which a seat belt may be retracted. A first relatively weak spring is provided which tends to wind the belt onto the spool or reel. A second stronger spring is also provided which tends to wind the belt onto the reel but the second spring is only activated selectively, for example when the buckle is released. Thus the strong spring does not, in normal circumstances, pull the belt tightly across the chest of a person wearing it.

Abstract: A locking element or latch is embodied from a metal plate and comprises a first pair of articulation tabs, a second pair of tabs to receive strains, these tabs being received in corresponding openings formed in the flanges of the base. The retaining member of the latch is guided in displacement in an L-shaped cutout and is associated with a floating contact with a rocker articulated on an ejector. A push button comprises engagement surfaces cooperating selectively with the locking member and ejector and ramps to assist the lifting of the latch. A single spring serves to actuate, and place under tension, all of the moving parts of the buckle.