Vehicle occupant weight estimation apparatus having fluid-filled seat bladder
US5987370A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 3, 1997 |
| Grant date | Nov 16, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 3, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60N2210/44
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An improved weight estimation apparatus includes a closed elastomeric bladder filled with fluid and installed in the foam cushion of a vehicle seat bottom, with at least one pressure sensor installed in a closed exit port of the bladder. A temperature sensor disposed in proximity to the bladder provides a temperature signal, and a controller estimates the weight of the occupant based on the temperature and pressure signals. The pressure sensor is preferably configured to sense the gage pressure--that is, the differential pressure between the fluid and atmospheric pressure--at the center of gravity of the fluid in order to provide a stable output independent of changing atmospheric pressure and changing orientation of the bladder due to vehicle pitch and roll.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.