Seat sensor apparatus for occupant presence detection
US7891260B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 5, 2009 |
| Grant date | Feb 22, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 22, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60N2230/10
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An occupant presence sensor apparatus disposed in a seat includes first and second substantially non-compliant force translation plates generally parallel to the seating surface of the seat, an elastomeric mat disposed between the first and second force translation plates, and a switch mechanism disposed between the first and second force translation plates within an opening formed in the elastomeric mat. The elastomeric mat includes a distributed array of hollow protuberances that extend toward and contact the force translation plates, and the mat has a stiffness that normally provides a clearance between the switch mechanism and one of the force translation plates. When an occupant of specified or higher weight sits on the seating surface, the protuberances collapse and the force translation plates activate the switch mechanism.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.