Passenger seat device having occupant detector embedded in seat of automotive vehicle
US8669492B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 9, 2007 |
| Grant date | Mar 11, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 5, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60N2210/12
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A passenger seat device includes a seat heater embedded in a seat and a detector electrode embedded underneath the seat heater. Electric power is supplied to the seat heater from an on-board battery through seat heater switches. Alternating voltage or current is supplied to the detector electrode. The detector electrode potential relative to the ground is lowered when the seat is occupied by a passenger. The changes in the potential of the detector electrode is detected by an occupant detector including a microcomputer. The detection is performed when the seat heater is brought to a floating state to suppress an amount of capacitance formed between the seat heater and the detector electrode. Thus, a sensitivity of the occupant detector is improved. The detector electrode may be eliminated, and the occupant conditions may be detected based on a potential of the seat heater to which alternating current or voltage is supplied.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.