Vehicle occupant classification system and method
US6609054B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | May 10, 2001 |
| Grant date | Aug 19, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 10, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06V40/10
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A vehicle occupant classification system classifies a vehicle occupant based on data from an array of sensors using a combination of weight estimation, pattern recognition, and evaluation of statistical characteristics. This occupant classification can then be used to make an airbag deployment state decision. The major modules of this system can include a calibration unit, a weight estimation module, a pattern module, and a decision-making module. The calibration unit can perform a calibration process to normalize sensor deflections using a known deflection force in order to compensate for variations in sensors and the effects of the seat trim and foam. The weight estimation module can perform a weight estimation process that uses calibration data from the calibration process and sensor data from the sensors to translate sensor deflection due to a vehicle occupant into a displacement value. The pattern module can look for traits in the pattern of sensor deflections that are common for objects other than people. Finally, the decision-making module can make a deployment state decision for the airbag by looking at displacement trends to evaluate occupant weight and movement, and by ev…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.