Apparatus and method for vehicle occupant protection in roadway departure
US9533643B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 4, 2014 |
| Grant date | Jan 3, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 4, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60R2021/01272
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method and apparatus are disclosed for vehicle occupant protection in unintentional roadway departure by a vehicle having at least one vehicle seat with a seat cushion mounted on a seat frame, the height of which is adjustable through a motor operated height adjustment device. Vehicle travel is monitored using a remote sensor and/or a vehicle dynamics sensor. The remote sensor detects edges of the road. The vehicle dynamics sensor determines vehicle dynamics parameters. Road edge signals and/or vehicle dynamics signals are processed to determine whether the vehicle is about to leave the road. Operation of the height adjustment device to move a seat cushion towards a crash-position is triggered in response to an off-road signal indicating that the vehicle is about to leave the road.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.