Automotive weight sensor for occupant classification system
AssigneeIntelligent Mechantronic Systems, Inc.
InventorsSergey Krivtsov, Otman Basir
Life of this patent
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Abstract
An occupant weight sensing system includes a loading rod, which replaces a seat height adjuster pivot bolt and extends away from a seat height adjuster link. A sensing element is mounted at the opposing end of the loading rod. When force is applied the loading rod acts as a cantilever to transfer radial force to the sensing element. A plurality of strain gages are arranged down the center of the sensing element to provide a measurement of strain on the sensing element. The loading rod flexes to transfer any excessive force to a seat bracket. The sensing element has a low sensitivity to axial forces to avoid requiring additional mechanical components to protect the sensing element.
Claims20
An occupant weight sensing system comprising:
- a seat having a seat height-adjuster link;
- a loading rod located within a housing and attached to the seat height-adjuster link;
- a sensing element located between the loading rod and the housing;
- and
- a plurality of strain gages mounted on the sensing element on an opposing face from the loading rod.
An occupant weight sensing system comprising:
- a seat;
- a loading rod;
- a link connecting the seat to the loading road, and bearing on the loading rod in a first direction;
- and
- a plurality of strain gages mounted on a second surface perpendicular to the first direction.
A method of sensing occupant weight comprising:
- a) connecting a loading rod located within a housing to a seat height-adjuster link;
- b) applying a radial force to the loading rod when an occupant occupies a vehicle seat associated with the seat height-adjuster link;
- and
- c) measuring strain with a plurality of strain gages mounted on a sensing element located between the loading rod and the housing.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.