Seat occupancy sensing with analog sensors
US11685531B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 29, 2020 |
| Grant date | Jun 27, 2023 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 29, 2040 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60R2022/4891
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
At least one analog load sensor, such as a force sensitive resistor is situated between upper and lower seat structures to generate a signal correlating with weight placed upon the seat. A vehicle has multiple seats fitted with sensors. Weight related information is communicated to a processor and an optional display, along with seatbelt latch sensor outputs to communicate to an operator if any seats are occupied without seatbelt latched. A weight force threshold for each seat is adjustable in one embodiment to customize the system to accommodate occupants of different weights and non-occupant loads of different weights. Loading information for the vehicle, such as total weight of occupants and/or objects on the seats and location of these loads upon the vehicle can be calculated and utilized to ensure that gross vehicle weight rating and load center of gravity and related parameters are within acceptable ranges.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.