Patent · US Expired

Variable time venting algorithm

US6789818B2 · kind B2 · utility

17Cited by
3References
10Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateMar 17, 2003
Grant dateSep 14, 2004
Priority date
Expiry dateMar 17, 2023

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
  • CPC primaryB60R2021/01218
  • WIPO fieldTransport
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

An algorithm for evaluating information from sensors interacting with strips that are extended during activation of the airbag determines whether the airbag has contacted an out-of-position occupant. In one embodiment, each strip includes an alternating pattern that generates a frequency in a sensor through which the strip passes during deployment. The frequency generated is based upon the speed with which the strip passes by the sensor and, in turn, the speed of deployment of the airbag. A controller evaluates the frequency and the changes in frequency from the sensor during deployment. Depending upon the specific configuration of the system and the specific vehicle, a decrease in the speed of deployment of the airbag may be indicated by a decrease in the frequency of the signal. A decrease in speed of deployment may indicate that the airbag is in contact with an occupant.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.