US20010054323A1 - Sensor apparatus - Google Patents
Sensor apparatus Download PDFInfo
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- US20010054323A1 US20010054323A1 US09/811,877 US81187701A US2001054323A1 US 20010054323 A1 US20010054323 A1 US 20010054323A1 US 81187701 A US81187701 A US 81187701A US 2001054323 A1 US2001054323 A1 US 2001054323A1
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- Prior art keywords
- sensor
- slot
- controller
- vehicle
- seat belt
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- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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Images
Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01G—WEIGHING
- G01G19/00—Weighing apparatus or methods adapted for special purposes not provided for in the preceding groups
- G01G19/40—Weighing apparatus or methods adapted for special purposes not provided for in the preceding groups with provisions for indicating, recording, or computing price or other quantities dependent on the weight
- G01G19/413—Weighing apparatus or methods adapted for special purposes not provided for in the preceding groups with provisions for indicating, recording, or computing price or other quantities dependent on the weight using electromechanical or electronic computing means
- G01G19/414—Weighing apparatus or methods adapted for special purposes not provided for in the preceding groups with provisions for indicating, recording, or computing price or other quantities dependent on the weight using electromechanical or electronic computing means using electronic computing means only
- G01G19/4142—Weighing apparatus or methods adapted for special purposes not provided for in the preceding groups with provisions for indicating, recording, or computing price or other quantities dependent on the weight using electromechanical or electronic computing means using electronic computing means only for controlling activation of safety devices, e.g. airbag systems
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60N—SEATS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES; VEHICLE PASSENGER ACCOMMODATION NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60N2/00—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles
- B60N2/002—Seats provided with an occupancy detection means mounted therein or thereon
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60R21/00—Arrangements or fittings on vehicles for protecting or preventing injuries to occupants or pedestrians in case of accidents or other traffic risks
- B60R21/01—Electrical circuits for triggering passive safety arrangements, e.g. airbags, safety belt tighteners, in case of vehicle accidents or impending vehicle accidents
- B60R21/015—Electrical circuits for triggering passive safety arrangements, e.g. airbags, safety belt tighteners, in case of vehicle accidents or impending vehicle accidents including means for detecting the presence or position of passengers, passenger seats or child seats, and the related safety parameters therefor, e.g. speed or timing of airbag inflation in relation to occupant position or seat belt use
- B60R21/01512—Passenger detection systems
- B60R21/01544—Passenger detection systems detecting seat belt parameters, e.g. length, tension or height-adjustment
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60R22/00—Safety belts or body harnesses in vehicles
- B60R22/18—Anchoring devices
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a sensor apparatus.
- a sensor apparatus in conjunction with an inflatable vehicle occupant protection device for helping to protect an occupant of a vehicle.
- the sensor apparatus provides information to a controller that controls the inflation of the inflatable vehicle occupant protection device in accordance with conditions sensed by the sensor apparatus.
- an apparatus in accordance with the present invention, includes a member that has a first slot extending through the member within the periphery of the member.
- the first slot has opposed spaced surfaces that define a gap that has a width measured from one of the opposed surfaces to the other of the opposed surfaces.
- the member includes first and second portions positioned on opposite sides of the first slot.
- the apparatus also includes a sensor that has a first end connected to the first portion on one side of the first slot and an opposite second end connected to the second portion on an opposite side of the first slot such that the sensor extends across the first slot.
- the apparatus further includes means for fixedly connecting the second portion to inhibit movement of the second portion of the member relative to the first portion. The first portion moves relative to the second portion when a force is applied to the first portion, which causes the width of the gap to change.
- the sensor provides a signal in response to the change in the gap width.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a sensor apparatus in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 2 is a schematic view of the apparatus of FIG. 1;
- FIG. 3 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the apparatus of FIG. 1;
- FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration of the apparatus of FIG. 1 depicting preferred uses of the apparatus in a vehicle;
- FIG. 5 is an enlarged schematic view of a portion of the vehicle illustrated in FIG. 4 depicting a preferred use of the apparatus of FIG. 1;
- FIG. 6 is an enlarged schematic view of another portion of the vehicle illustrated in FIG. 4 depicting another preferred use of the apparatus of FIG. 1;
- FIG. 7 is a schematic view of a sensor apparatus in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 8 is a schematic view of the sensor apparatus of FIG. 7 with parts in different positions;
- FIGS. 9 - 12 are schematic views illustrating alternative configurations of the sensor apparatus of FIG. 7;
- FIG. 13 is an enlarged schematic view of a portion of the vehicle illustrated in FIG. 4 depicting a preferred use of the apparatus of FIG. 7;
- FIG. 14 is an enlarged schematic view of another portion of the vehicle illustrated in FIG. 4 depicting another preferred use of the apparatus of FIG. 7.
- the present invention relates to a sensor apparatus 10 .
- the apparatus 10 comprises a member 14 , a sensor 16 connected to the member, and means, such as a fastener 20 , for fixedly connecting a portion of the member to a structure 22 .
- a fastener 20 for fixedly connecting a portion of the member to a structure 22 .
- any suitable means such as a weld or an adhesive, may be used to fixedly connect the portion of the member 14 to the structure 22 .
- the member 14 is illustrated as having a generally rectangular overall shape.
- the rectangular shape of the member 14 is for illustrative purposes only, and it should be understood that the member 14 may have alternative shapes in order to accommodate particular application in which use of the apparatus 10 is desired.
- the member 14 includes a first slot 30 that extends through the member within a periphery 32 of the member.
- the first slot 30 (FIG. 3) includes opposed spaced surfaces 34 and opposite ends 36 .
- the surfaces 34 extend generally parallel to each other and define a gap 40 .
- the gap 40 has a width measured from one of the opposed surfaces 34 to the other.
- the first slot 30 helps to define first and second portions 42 and 44 , respectively, of the member 14 on opposite sides of the first slot.
- the second portion 44 of the member 14 is further defined by a second slot 50 (FIGS. 1 - 3 ) that is spaced apart from the first slot 30 within the periphery 32 of the member.
- the second slot 50 (FIG. 3) includes opposed spaced surfaces 52 and first and second opposite end portions 54 and 56 , respectively.
- the first and second end portions 54 and 56 extend parallel to the first slot 30 and have respective terminal ends 60 and 62 that are vertically aligned with respective ends 36 of the first slot.
- the member 14 is constructed of a single piece of material, such as metal.
- the first and second portions 42 and 44 could be constructed of two or more separate pieces of material. This is illustrated in FIG. 2 a .
- the first and second portions 42 and 44 are fixedly joined by means 48 , such as welding or adhesives, adjacent or near the ends of the first and second slots 30 and 50 .
- a first middle portion 70 of the second slot 50 extends from the first end portion 54 in a direction perpendicular to the first end portion and away from the first slot 30 .
- the first middle portion 70 extends from the first end portion 54 at a location opposite the terminal end 60 of the first end portion.
- a second middle portion 72 of the second slot 50 extends from the second end portion 56 in a direction perpendicular to the first end portion and away from the first slot 30 .
- the second middle portion 72 extends from the second end portion 56 at a location opposite the terminal end 62 of the second end portion.
- the second middle portion 72 is parallel to and spaced from the first middle portion 70 .
- An arc-shaped portion 74 of the second slot 50 extends along an arc-shaped path from the first middle portion 70 to the second middle portion 72 . As illustrated in FIG. 3, the radius of the arc-shaped portion 74 is equal to approximately one-half of the length of the first slot 30 .
- the member 14 (FIGS. 1 - 3 ) also includes an aperture 80 that extends through the second portion 44 of the member.
- the aperture 80 has a circular shape and is partially surrounded by the arc-shaped portion 74 of the second slot 50 .
- the arc-shaped portion 74 and the aperture 80 may be concentric.
- the fastener 20 (FIGS. 1 and 2) is extendable through the aperture 80 to connect the second portion 44 fixedly to the structure 22 .
- the fastener 20 and a washer 86 cooperate to connect the second portion 44 of the member 14 to the structure 22 .
- the washer 86 is positioned between a head portion 82 of the fastener and a surface 84 of the second portion 44 of the member 14 .
- the washer 86 has a diameter large enough to overlie and extend across the second slot 50 . This helps to prevent to second portion 44 from bending relative to the first portion 42 , tearing away from the first portion, or otherwise failing under high tension loads.
- the member 14 also includes means 90 for connecting the first portion 42 of the member to an object 12 .
- the means 90 comprises an aperture 92 and the object 12 comprises a flexible elongated member 94 .
- the flexible elongated member 94 extends through the aperture 92 , is folded over and connected to itself by means 96 , such as stitching, so as to connect the flexible elongated member to the first portion 42 of the member 14 .
- the means 90 and the object 12 may have alternative configurations.
- the means 90 may comprise any suitable connector, such as a hook, ring, fastener, weld, or adhesive, and the object 12 may comprise any desired article.
- the sensor 16 has a first end 100 connected to the first portion 42 of the member 14 and an opposite second end 102 connected to the second portion 44 of the member.
- the first and second ends 100 and 102 are connected to the member 14 on opposite sides of the first slot 30 such that the sensor 16 extends across the first slot.
- the first and second ends 100 and 102 of the sensor 16 are preferably connected to the member 14 by spot welds 104 to connect the sensor fixedly and rigidly to the member.
- the sensor 16 may, however, be connected to the member 14 by alternative methods, such as by fasteners or adhesive bonding.
- the senor 16 preferably comprises a strain gauge device 110 (FIG. 2) in the form of known electrical resistance wire strain gauges.
- the wire strain gauges are preferably wired in a Wheatstone bridge circuit, in a known manner, in order to cancel out the effects of temperature on the wire strain gauges.
- the strain gauge device 110 is encapsulated in a protective material 112 (FIGS. 1 and 2), such as plastic or polyurethane, in order to isolate and protect the gauge from environmental conditions.
- the sensor 16 includes leads 114 that protrude from the protective material 112 . In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the sensor 16 includes four leads 114 . This is because the strain gauge is wired in a Wheatstone bridge circuit. Two of the leads 114 are used to apply a voltage across the bridge, and the other two leads are used to measure voltage potential across the bridge indicative of the amount of strain sensed by the strain gauge.
- the width of the gap 40 increases a given distance depending upon the magnitude of the force applied to the member 14 . Also, as the first and second portions 42 and 44 move away from each other across the gap 40 , the first and second portions may move towards each other across the second slot 50 at or near a location, indicated generally at 58 , positioned opposite the first slot 30 . If the magnitude of the force is large enough, the first and second portions 42 and 44 may even move into abutting engagement with each other at the location 58 on the second slot.
- the sensor 16 As the first and second portions 42 and 44 move away from each other, the sensor 16 is stretched a distance equal to the distance that the width of the gap 40 increases.
- the distance that the width of the gap 40 increases and the sensor 16 is stretched is extremely small, and may be as little as a few millionths of an inch or less.
- the strain gauge 110 FIG. 2
- the electrical resistance of the gauge changes in proportion to the change in gap width.
- the change in resistance of the strain gauge results in a change in voltage potential measured across the bridge circuit.
- the change in resistance being proportional to the change in the width of the gap 40 caused by the force applied to the member 14 , is also proportional to the amount of tension on the member 14 acting to move the first and second portions 42 and 44 apart.
- the change in voltage potential measured across the bridge can be used to calculate the amount of tension on the member 14 .
- the tension may be calculated by known means, such as a microcomputer, and used for a desired purpose, such as for providing data to a controller.
- the apparatus 10 has been described in an application where a force causes the first and second portions 42 and 44 of the member 14 to move away from each other across the gap 40 . It will be recognized by those skilled in the art, however, that the apparatus 10 may also be used in an application where a force causes the first and second portions 42 and 44 to move towards each other across the gap 40 .
- the apparatus 10 may be used to sense compression. In such an instance, the width of the gap 40 would decrease as the first and second portions 42 and 44 move towards each other.
- the sensor 16 and thus the strain gauge 110 , would be compressed a distance generally equal to the distance the gap width decreases. This would cause the resistance of the strain gauge 110 to change in proportion to the distance that the gap width decreases. This change in resistance would cause a change in voltage potential measured across the bridge, which could be used to calculate the compressive force acting on the member 14 . Compressing the gap 40 may also help to increase the load carrying capability of the member 14 .
- FIGS. 4 - 6 depict first and second apparatuses 10 a and 10 b, respectively, incorporated in a vehicle 130 .
- the vehicle 130 (FIG. 4) includes a seat 132 and a restraint system comprising a seat belt 142 for restraining a vehicle occupant 144 , in the seat.
- a restraint system comprising a seat belt 142 for restraining a vehicle occupant 144 , in the seat.
- an alternative object such as a child safety seat (not shown in FIGS. 4 - 6 ), may also be supported by the vehicle seat 132 and restrained by the restraint system.
- a length of the seat belt 142 is extensible about the vehicle occupant 144 .
- One end of the seat belt 142 is anchored to the vehicle body 150 at an anchor point 152 located on one side of the seat 132 .
- the opposite end of the seat belt 142 is attached to a retractor 154 , which is usually secured to the vehicle body 150 on the same side of the seat 132 as the anchor point 152 .
- the seat belt 142 passes through a tongue assembly 160 and a D-ring 162 that is located above the retractor 154 and the anchor point 152 .
- the seat belt is wound on the retractor 154 , as known in the art.
- the tongue assembly 160 is moved across the seat 132 and connected with a buckle 164 .
- the buckle 164 is connected to the vehicle body 150 , on a side of the seat 132 opposite the anchor point 152 , by an anchor plate 166 .
- An inflatable vehicle occupant protection device such as an air bag 170
- an air bag 170 is stored in a folded condition in a portion of the vehicle 130 , such as a steering wheel (not shown) on the driver side of the vehicle or an instrument panel 172 of the vehicle on the passenger side of the vehicle.
- an inflator 174 is actuated and provides inflation fluid for inflating the inflatable occupant protection device.
- the inflation fluid is directed into the air bag and inflates the air bag from the folded condition to an inflated condition in which the air bag extends into an occupant compartment 176 .
- the inflated air bag 170 helps protect the occupant 144 from a forceful impact with parts of the vehicle 130 .
- An electronic controller 180 such as a microcomputer, is operatively connected to a vehicle crash sensor 182 (shown schematically in FIG. 4), which senses the occurrence of a vehicle crash.
- the controller 180 is also connected to the first and second apparatuses 10 a and 10 b and the inflator 174 .
- the controller 180 determines that a crash is occurring for which inflation of the air bag 170 is necessary to help protect the occupant 144 of the seat 132 , the controller actuates the inflator 174 . This actuation of the inflator 174 is done in accordance with information provided to the controller by the first and second apparatuses 10 a and 10 b.
- the first apparatus 10 a is incorporated into the anchor plate 166 for the seat belt 142 .
- the apparatus 10 a illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5 is similar to the apparatus 10 illustrated in FIGS. 1 - 3 . Accordingly, numerals similar to those of FIGS. 1 - 3 will be utilized in FIGS. 4 and 5 to identify similar components, the suffix letter “a” being associated with the numerals of FIGS. 4 and 5 to avoid confusion.
- the apparatus 10 a (FIGS. 4 and 5) is identical to the apparatus 10 (FIGS. 1 - 3 ), except that the apparatus 10 a (FIGS. 4 and 5) is used to sense tension in the seat belt 142 of a vehicle 130 .
- the member 14 a of the apparatus 10 a is the anchor plate 166 for connecting the seat belt 142 to the vehicle body 150 .
- the seat belt 142 extends through the aperture 92 a to connect the seat belt to the anchor plate 166 .
- the fastener 20 a fixedly connects the second portion 44 a of the member 14 a , i.e., the anchor plate 166 , to the vehicle body 150 .
- a force is applied to the first portion 42 a of the anchor plate 166 in the direction and of the magnitude of the tension.
- the force causes the first portion 42 a of the anchor plate 166 to move relative to the second portion 44 a of the anchor plate because the second portion is fixedly connected to the vehicle body 150 by the fastener 20 a .
- the anchor plate 166 is oriented such that the force causes the first and second portions 42 a and 44 a move away from each other across the gap 40 a .
- the width of the gap 40 a increases a given distance depending upon the magnitude of the force applied to the anchor plate 166 by the seat belt 142 .
- the sensor 16 a is stretched a distance equal to the distance that the width of the gap 40 a increases.
- the controller 180 calculates the amount of tension on the anchor plate 166 , and thus the seat belt 142 , based upon the signal received from the sensor 16 a.
- the inclusion of the apparatus 10 a in the anchor plate 166 provides for the sensing of a relatively low amount of tension in the seat belt 142 , under 100 pounds, while maintaining a high tensile strength in the anchor plate.
- the anchor plate 166 is preferably able to withstand tensions greater than three thousand pounds.
- This combination of high resolution tension sensing capability and high tensile strength is due to the incorporation of the first and second slots 30 a and 50 a .
- the first and second slots 30 a and 50 a allow the first and second portions 42 a and 44 a to move relative to each other to provide high resolution tension sensing, while maintaining the one-piece construction of the anchor plate 166 , which provides a high tensile strength.
- placing the sensor 16 a on the anchor plate 166 near the floor of the vehicle facilitates covering the sensor with a protective device, such as a boot, to help keep dirt, etc. out of the gap 40 a.
- the second apparatus 10 b is incorporated into the seat frame 190 of the vehicle seat 132 .
- the apparatus 10 b illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 6 is similar to the apparatus 10 illustrated in FIGS. 1 - 3 . Accordingly, numerals similar to those of FIGS. 1 - 3 will be utilized in FIGS. 4 and 6 to identify similar components, the suffix letter “b” being associated with the numerals of FIG. 4 and 6 to avoid confusion.
- the apparatus 10 b (FIGS. 4 and 6) is identical to the apparatus 10 (FIGS. 1 - 3 ), except that the apparatus 10 b (FIGS. 4 and 6) is used to sense the weight of an object in the vehicle seat 132 .
- the member 14 b of the apparatus 10 b is incorporated into a portion 192 of the seat frame 190 of the vehicle seat 132 .
- the seat frame 190 is connected to the vehicle body 150 by fasteners 194 , such as bolts.
- the fastener 20 b fixedly connects the second portion 44 b of the member 14 b , i.e., the seat frame 190 , to the vehicle body 150 .
- the weight of the occupant applies a force to the first portion 42 b (FIG. 6) of the seat frame 190 .
- the force causes the first portion 42 b of the seat frame 190 to move relative to the second portion 44 b of the seat frame because the second portion is fixedly connected to the vehicle body 150 by the fastener 20 b .
- the apparatus 10 b is oriented relative to the seat 132 such that the force causes the first and second portions 42 b and 44 b move away from each other across the gap 40 b.
- the width of the gap 40 b increases a given distance depending upon the magnitude of the force applied to the seat frame 190 by the weight of the occupant 144 (FIG. 4). Also, as the first and second portions 42 b and 44 b (FIGS. 4 and 6) move away from each other, the sensor 16 b , and thus the strain gauge device 110 , is stretched a distance equal to the distance that the width of the gap 40 b increases. As the sensor 16 b is stretched, the controller 180 (FIG. 4) calculates the weight of the occupant 144 on the seat 132 based upon the signal received from the sensor 16 b.
- the controller 180 controls the amount of inflation fluid directed into the air bag 170 by the inflator 174 .
- the controller determines the amount of inflation fluid directed into the air bag 170 based on the amount of tension on the seat belt 142 sensed by the apparatus 10 a and the amount of weight supported by the seat frame 190 sensed by the apparatus 10 b.
- the occupant 144 During operation of the vehicle, the occupant 144 usually has the tongue 160 connected with the buckle 164 .
- the amount of tension in the seat belt 142 will be relatively low when the seat belt is used to restrain an occupant 144 seated in the vehicle seat 132 . This is because the occupant 144 will typically adjust the seat belt 142 to fit comfortably, rather than tightly, around the occupant's body. If high tension is present, the tension in the seat belt 142 pulls down on the occupant 144 , causing the apparatus 10 b to be subjected to the weight of the occupant 144 along with the downward force resulting from the tension in the seat belt 142 . The output signal from the apparatus 10 b thus indicates a sensed weight of the occupant 144 , which may be greater than the actual weight of the occupant.
- the apparatus 10 a senses the tension in the seat belt 142 and provides an output signal to the controller 180 indicating the tension in the seat belt.
- the apparatus 10 b senses the sensed weight of the occupant 144 on the vehicle seat 132 and provides an output signal to the controller 180 indicating the sensed weight on the seat.
- the controller 180 determines a computed weight of the occupant 144 as a function of both the sensed weight and the tension in the seat belt 142 .
- the computed weight approximates the actual weight of the occupant 144 .
- the computed weight may, however, differ slightly from the actual weight of the occupant 144 .
- the controller 180 controls the amount of inflation fluid directed to the air bag 170 by the inflator 174 based on the computed weight of the occupant 144 in the seat 132 . If the computed weight is below a predetermined value or is zero, the controller 180 disables the inflator 174 to prevent inflation fluid from being directed to the air bag 170 . Alternatively, if the computed weight is below the predetermined value, the controller 180 may cause the inflator 174 to direct a minimal amount of inflation fluid to the air bag 170 .
- the controller 180 may have a look-up table that stores a plurality of sensed weight values, a plurality of seat belt tension values, and a plurality of computed weight values corresponding to combinations of the sensed weight values and the seat belt tension values.
- the computed weight values stored in the look-up table would be empirically determined.
- the controller 180 would select a predetermined computed weight value from the look-up table by matching the sensed values from the apparatuses 10 a and 10 b against the values of sensed weight and seat belt tension stored in the table.
- the controller 180 could determine the computed weight by performing a computation based on a predetermined functional relationship between the sensed weight and the amount of tension in the seat belt 142 . In either case, the computed weight determined by the controller 180 more closely approximates the actual weight of the occupant 144 than does the sensed weight indicated by the apparatus 10 b . This is because the effect of the tension in the seat belt 142 is considered in determining the computed weight.
- the apparatus 10 a and the apparatus 10 b may also be used to sense the presence of a low weight object, such as a child safety seat (not shown), in the seat. If a child safety seat is located in the vehicle seat 132 , the tongue 160 is connected with the buckle 164 to secure the child safety seat to the seat 132 . Typically, the seat belt 142 is pulled as tight as possible to secure the child safety seat to the seat 132 . This differs from the instance in which an occupant 144 is seated in the seat 132 and the seat belt 142 is fitted comfortably or loosely around the occupant.
- the tension in the seat belt 142 pulls down on the child safety seat and causes the weight sensing apparatus 10 b to be subjected to the weight of the child safety seat with the child in it and the downward force resulting from the tension in the seat belt.
- the output signal from the weight sensing apparatus 10 b thus indicates a sensed weight of the child safety seat with the child in it, which is greater than the actual weight of the child safety seat and the child.
- the sensed weight will be significantly greater than the actual weight because of the large tension load placed on the seat belt 142 .
- the tension sensing apparatus 10 a senses the tension in the seat belt 142 .
- the controller 180 determines a computed weight of the object using the look-up table or calculation method described above.
- the computed weight will approximate the actual combined weight of the object.
- the computed weight may, however, differ slightly from the actual weight of the object.
- the controller 180 disables the inflator 174 to prevent inflation of the air bag 170 .
- the controller 180 may cause the inflator 174 to direct a minimal amount of inflation fluid to the air bag 170 .
- the controller 180 may infer the presence of a child safety seat based only on whether the tension on the seat belt 142 is above the predetermined level.
- FIG. 7 A second embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 7.
- the second embodiment of the invention is similar to the first embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 1 - 3 . Accordingly, numerals similar to those of FIGS. 1 - 3 will be utilized in FIG. 7 to identify similar components, the suffix letter “c” being associated with the numerals of FIG. 7 to avoid confusion.
- the apparatus 10 c (FIG. 7) of the second embodiment is identical to the apparatus 10 (FIGS. 1 - 3 ), except that the sensor 16 c (FIG. 7) of the second embodiment is different than the sensor 16 (FIGS. 1 - 3 ) of the first embodiment.
- the senor 16 c comprises a switch 200 .
- the switch 200 is preferably a mechanical switch or micro-switch of a suitable configuration, such as a sliding contact switch.
- the switch 200 is encapsulated in a protective material 112 c , such as plastic or polyurethane, in order to isolate and protect the switch from environmental conditions.
- the switch 200 includes a pair of contacts 202 and a contactor 204 .
- the sensor 16 c includes a pair of leads 114 c that protrude from the protective material 112 c .
- the leads 114 c are electrically connected to the contacts 202 .
- the switch 200 is actuatable from a first, unactuated condition, illustrated in FIG. 7, to a second, actuated condition, illustrated in FIG. 8.
- the contactor 204 engages the contacts 202 , which establishes electrical continuity between the leads 114 c .
- the contactor 204 is spaced away from the contacts 202 , which breaks electrical continuity between the leads 114 c.
- the sensor 16 c When a force is applied to the first portion 42 c of the member 14 c and the first portion 42 c of the member 14 c moves relative to the second portion 44 c , the sensor 16 c is stretched or compressed, depending upon the direction of the force. As the sensor 16 c is stretched or compressed, the contactor 204 moves relative to the contacts 202 . Depending upon the configuration of the switch 200 , the contactor 204 may move either toward or away from the contacts 202 when the sensor 16 c is stretched or compressed. Also, the switch 200 may be configured normally opened in the unactuated condition or a normally closed in the unactuated condition. These configurations are illustrated in FIGS. 9 - 12 .
- FIG. 9 illustrates the switch 200 having a normally opened configuration for sensing tension. Tension forces are indicated generally by the arrows in FIG. 9.
- the switch 200 is illustrated in the unactuated condition.
- the switch 200 is configured such that the contactor 204 moves towards the contacts 202 when the sensor 16 c is stretched and the contactor moves away from the contacts when the sensor is compressed.
- the switch 200 is placed in the actuated condition (not shown), wherein the contacts 202 are closed by the contactor 204 and continuity is established between the leads 114 c .
- the contactor 204 moves away from the contacts 202 , thus opening the contacts and breaking continuity between the leads 114 c.
- FIG. 10 illustrates the switch 200 having a normally closed configuration for sensing tension. Tension forces are indicated generally by the arrows in FIG. 10.
- the switch 200 is illustrated in the unactuated condition.
- the switch 200 is configured such that the contactor 204 moves away from the contacts 202 when the sensor 16 c is stretched and the contactor moves towards the contacts when the sensor is compressed.
- the switch 200 is placed in the actuated condition (not shown), wherein the contacts 202 are opened by the contactor 204 and continuity between the leads 114 c is broken.
- the contactor 204 moves towards the contacts 202 , thus closing the contacts and establishing continuity between the leads 114 c.
- FIG. 11 illustrates the switch 200 having a normally opened configuration for sensing compression. Compressive forces are indicated generally by the arrows in FIG. 11.
- the switch 200 is illustrated in the unactuated condition.
- the switch 200 is configured such that the contactor 204 moves towards the contacts 202 when the sensor 16 c is compressed and the contactor moves away from the contacts when the sensor is tensioned.
- the switch 200 is placed in the actuated condition (not shown), wherein the contacts 202 are closed by the contactor 204 and continuity is established between the leads 114 c .
- the contactor 204 moves away from the contacts 202 , thus opening the contacts and breaking continuity between the leads 114 c.
- FIG. 12 illustrates the switch 200 having a normally closed configuration for sensing compression. Compressive forces are indicated generally by the arrows in FIG. 12.
- the switch 200 is illustrated in the unactuated condition.
- the switch 200 is configured such that the contactor 204 moves away from the contacts 202 when the sensor 16 c is compressed and the contactor moves towards the contacts when the sensor is tensioned.
- the switch 200 is placed in the actuated condition (not shown), wherein the contacts 202 are opened by the contactor 204 and continuity between the leads 114 c is broken.
- the contactor 204 moves towards the contacts 202 , thus closing the contacts and establishing continuity between the leads 114 c.
- the sensor 16 c can be incorporated into an electrical circuit (not shown) for the purpose of providing indication of the condition of the switch 200 .
- the actuated and unactuated conditions of the switch 200 can be measured by applying an electrical signal to the leads 114 c to test for continuity across the contacts 202 .
- the actuated and unactuated conditions of the switch 200 can be sensed by a known device, such as a microcomputer, and used for a desired purpose, such as for providing data to a controller.
- third and fourth apparatuses 10 d and 10 e are incorporated in a vehicle 130 as illustrated in FIG. 4.
- the third apparatus 10 d is installed in the vehicle in a manner identical to the first apparatus 10 a of the first embodiment.
- the fourth apparatus 10 e is installed in the vehicle in a manner identical to the second apparatus 10 b of the first embodiment.
- the apparatuses 10 d and 10 e include a sensor in accordance with the second embodiment, i.e., including a switch 200 (FIGS. 7 and 8), whereas the apparatuses 10 a and 10 b include a sensor in accordance with the first embodiment, i.e., including a tension sensing device 110 (FIGS. 1 - 3 ).
- the third apparatus 10 d is incorporated into the anchor plate 166 for the seat belt 142 .
- the apparatus 10 d is illustrated in FIG. 13.
- the apparatus 10 d is similar to the apparatus 10 a illustrated in FIG. 5. Accordingly, numerals similar to those of FIG. 5 will be utilized in FIG. 13 to identify similar components, the suffix letter “d” being associated with the numerals of FIG. 13 to avoid confusion.
- the apparatus 10 d (FIG. 13) is identical to the apparatus 10 a (FIG. 5), except that the sensor 16 d (FIG. 13) includes a switch 200 d in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention to sense tension in the seat belt 142 d of a vehicle 130 d.
- the member 14 d of the apparatus 10 d is the anchor plate 166 d for connecting the seat belt 142 d to the vehicle body 150 d .
- the seat belt 142 d extends through the aperture 92 d to connect the seat belt to the anchor plate 166 d .
- the fastener 20 d fixedly connects the second portion 44 d of the member 14 d , i.e., the anchor plate 166 d , to the vehicle body 150 d.
- the switch 200 d in the sensor 16 d of FIG. 13 has a normally opened configuration for sensing a predetermined amount of tension in the seat belt 142 d .
- a force is applied to the first portion 42 d of the anchor plate 166 d in the direction and of the magnitude of the tension.
- the force causes the first portion 42 d of the anchor plate 166 d to move relative to the second portion 44 d of the anchor plate because the second portion is fixedly connected to the vehicle body 150 d by the fastener 20 d .
- the anchor plate 166 d is oriented such that the force causes the first and second portions 42 d and 44 d move away from each other across the gap 40 d.
- the width of the gap 40 d increases a given distance depending upon the magnitude of the force applied to the anchor plate 166 d by the seat belt 142 d . Also, as the first and second portions 42 d and 44 d move away from each other, the sensor 16 d is stretched a distance equal to the distance that the width of the gap 40 d increases. As the sensor 16 d is stretched, tension on the sensor 16 d increases. When the tension on the sensor 16 d reaches the predetermined amount, the switch 200 is actuated.
- the inclusion of the apparatus 10 d in the anchor plate 166 d provides for the sensing of a relatively low predetermined amount of tension in the seat belt 142 d , preferably less than 30 pounds, while maintaining a high tensile strength in the anchor plate.
- the anchor plate 166 d is preferably able to withstand tension loads of greater than three thousand pounds. This combination of high resolution tension sensing capability and high tensile strength is due to the incorporation of the first and second slots 30 d and 50 d .
- the first and second slots 30 d and 50 d allow the first and second portions 42 d and 44 d to move relative to each other to provide high resolution tension sensing, while maintaining the one-piece construction of the anchor plate 166 d , which provides a high tensile strength. Also, placing the sensor 16 d on the anchor plate 166 d near the floor of the vehicle facilitates covering the sensor with a protective device, such as a boot, to help keep dirt, etc. out of the gap 40 d.
- the fourth apparatus 10 e is incorporated into the seat frame 190 of the vehicle seat 132 .
- the apparatus 10 e is illustrated in FIG. 14.
- the apparatus 10 e is similar to the apparatus 10 b illustrated in FIG. 6. Accordingly, numerals similar to those of FIG. 6 will be utilized in FIG. 13 to identify similar components, the suffix letter “e” being associated with the numerals of FIG. 13 to avoid confusion.
- the apparatus 10 e (FIG. 13) is identical to the apparatus 10 b (FIG. 6), except that the sensor 16 e (FIG. 13) includes a switch 200 e in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention to sense the weight of an object on the vehicle seat 132 e.
- the member 14 e of the apparatus 10 e is incorporated into a portion 192 e of the seat frame 190 e of the vehicle seat 132 e .
- the seat frame 190 e is connected to the vehicle body 150 e by fasteners 194 e , such as bolts.
- the fastener 20 e fixedly connects the second portion 44 e of the member 14 e , i.e., the seat frame 190 e , to the vehicle body 150 e.
- the weight of the occupant applies a force to the first portion 42 e of the seat frame 190 e .
- the force causes the first portion 42 e of the seat frame 190 e to move relative to the second portion 44 e of the seat frame because the second portion is fixedly connected to the vehicle body 150 e by the fastener 20 e .
- the apparatus 10 e is oriented relative to the seat 132 e such that the force causes the first and second portions 42 e and 44 e move away from each other across the gap 40 e.
- the width of the gap 40 e increases a given distance depending upon the magnitude of the force applied to the seat frame 190 e by the weight of the occupant. Also, as the first and second portions 42 e and 44 e move away from each other, the sensor 16 e , and thus the switch 200 e , is stretched a distance equal to the distance that the width of the gap 40 e increases. As the sensor 16 e is stretched, tension on the sensor increases. When the tension on the sensor 16 e reaches the predetermined amount, the switch 200 e is actuated.
- the controller 180 (FIG. 4) controls the amount of inflation fluid directed into the air bag 170 by the inflator 174 .
- the third apparatus 10 d senses when a predetermined amount of tension is on the seat belt 142 and the fourth apparatus 10 e senses when a predetermined amount of weight is on the vehicle seat 132 .
- the controller 180 determines the amount of inflation fluid directed into the air bag 170 based upon the presence of the predetermined amount of weight on the seat 132 and the presence of the predetermined amount of tension on the seat belt 142 .
- the occupant 144 During operation of the vehicle, the occupant 144 usually has the tongue 160 connected with the buckle 164 .
- the amount of tension in the seat belt 142 will be relatively low when the seat belt is used to restrain an occupant 144 seated in the vehicle seat 132 . This is because the occupant 144 will typically adjust the seat belt 142 to fit comfortably, rather than tightly, around the occupant's body. If high tension is present, the tension in the seat belt 142 pulls down on the occupant 144 , causing the apparatus 10 e to be subjected to the weight of the occupant 144 along with the downward force resulting from the tension in the seat belt 142 . The apparatus 10 e is, thus, subjected to a sensed weight of the occupant 144 , which may be greater, although probably only slightly greater, than the actual weight of the occupant.
- the apparatus 10 d is subjected to the tension in the seat belt 142 and provides an output signal to the controller 180 indicative of whether the tension in the seat belt reaches a predetermined level.
- the apparatus 10 e is subjected to the sensed weight of the occupant 144 on the vehicle seat 132 and provides an output signal to the controller 180 indicative of whether the sensed weight on the seat reaches a predetermined level.
- the controller 180 controls the amount of inflation fluid directed to the air bag 170 by the inflator 174 based on whether the sensed weight of the occupant 144 in the seat 132 is above the predetermined value. If the weight of the occupant 144 is below the predetermined value, the controller 180 disables the inflator 174 to prevent inflation fluid from being directed to the air bag 170 . Alternatively, if the weight of the occupant 144 is below the predetermined value, the controller 180 may cause the inflator 174 to direct a minimal amount of inflation fluid to the air bag 170 .
- the apparatus 10 d and the apparatus 10 e may also be used to sense the presence of a low weight object, such as a child safety seat (not shown), in the seat. If a child safety seat is located in the vehicle seat 132 , the tongue 160 is connected with the buckle 164 to secure the child safety seat to the seat 132 . Typically, the seat belt 142 is pulled as tight as possible to secure the child safety seat to the seat 132 . This differs from the instance where an occupant 144 is seated in the seat and the seat belt 142 is fitted comfortably or loosely around the occupant.
- the tension in the seat belt 142 pulls down on the child safety seat and causes the weight sensing apparatus 10 e to be subjected to the weight of the child safety seat with the child in it and the downward force resulting from the tension in the seat belt.
- the output signal from the weight sensing apparatus 10 e is thus subjected to a sensed weight of the child safety seat with the child in it, which is greater than the actual weight of the child safety seat and the child.
- the sensed weight will be significantly greater than the actual weight because of the large tension load placed on the seat belt 142 .
- the tension sensing apparatus 10 d senses whether tension on the seat belt 142 reaches a predetermined level.
- the controller 180 disables the inflator 174 to prevent inflation of the air bag 170 .
- the controller 180 may cause the inflator 174 to direct a minimal amount of inflation fluid to the air bag 170 .
- the controller 180 may infer the presence of a child safety seat based only on whether the tension on the seat belt 142 is above the predetermined level.
- a sensor 10 b of the first embodiment i.e. including a sensor 16 b (FIG. 6)
- a sensor 10 d of the second embodiment i.e. including a switch 200 (FIGS. 7 and 8)
- a switch 200 i.e. including a switch 200
- the apparatus 10 has been illustrated as being configured for sensing seat belt tension and for sensing weight in a vehicle seat.
- the apparatus 10 could, however, be used in other automotive applications or even in non-automotive applications.
- Such improvements, changes and modifications within the skill of the art are intended to be covered by the appended claims.
Abstract
Description
- This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/602,181, filed Jun. 22, 2000.
- The present invention relates to a sensor apparatus.
- It is known to use a sensor apparatus in conjunction with an inflatable vehicle occupant protection device for helping to protect an occupant of a vehicle. The sensor apparatus provides information to a controller that controls the inflation of the inflatable vehicle occupant protection device in accordance with conditions sensed by the sensor apparatus.
- In accordance with the present invention, an apparatus includes a member that has a first slot extending through the member within the periphery of the member. The first slot has opposed spaced surfaces that define a gap that has a width measured from one of the opposed surfaces to the other of the opposed surfaces. The member includes first and second portions positioned on opposite sides of the first slot. The apparatus also includes a sensor that has a first end connected to the first portion on one side of the first slot and an opposite second end connected to the second portion on an opposite side of the first slot such that the sensor extends across the first slot. The apparatus further includes means for fixedly connecting the second portion to inhibit movement of the second portion of the member relative to the first portion. The first portion moves relative to the second portion when a force is applied to the first portion, which causes the width of the gap to change. The sensor provides a signal in response to the change in the gap width.
- The foregoing and other features of the present invention will become apparent to one skilled in the art to which the present invention relates upon consideration of the following description of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a sensor apparatus in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention;
- FIG. 2 is a schematic view of the apparatus of FIG. 1;
- FIG. 3 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the apparatus of FIG. 1;
- FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration of the apparatus of FIG. 1 depicting preferred uses of the apparatus in a vehicle;
- FIG. 5 is an enlarged schematic view of a portion of the vehicle illustrated in FIG. 4 depicting a preferred use of the apparatus of FIG. 1;
- FIG. 6 is an enlarged schematic view of another portion of the vehicle illustrated in FIG. 4 depicting another preferred use of the apparatus of FIG. 1;
- FIG. 7 is a schematic view of a sensor apparatus in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention;
- FIG. 8 is a schematic view of the sensor apparatus of FIG. 7 with parts in different positions;
- FIGS.9-12 are schematic views illustrating alternative configurations of the sensor apparatus of FIG. 7;
- FIG. 13 is an enlarged schematic view of a portion of the vehicle illustrated in FIG. 4 depicting a preferred use of the apparatus of FIG. 7; and
- FIG. 14 is an enlarged schematic view of another portion of the vehicle illustrated in FIG. 4 depicting another preferred use of the apparatus of FIG. 7.
- The present invention relates to a
sensor apparatus 10. As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, theapparatus 10 comprises amember 14, asensor 16 connected to the member, and means, such as afastener 20, for fixedly connecting a portion of the member to astructure 22. Those skilled in the art, however, will recognize that any suitable means, such as a weld or an adhesive, may be used to fixedly connect the portion of themember 14 to thestructure 22. - In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the
member 14 is illustrated as having a generally rectangular overall shape. The rectangular shape of themember 14, however, is for illustrative purposes only, and it should be understood that themember 14 may have alternative shapes in order to accommodate particular application in which use of theapparatus 10 is desired. - The
member 14 includes afirst slot 30 that extends through the member within aperiphery 32 of the member. The first slot 30 (FIG. 3) includes opposedspaced surfaces 34 andopposite ends 36. Thesurfaces 34 extend generally parallel to each other and define agap 40. Thegap 40 has a width measured from one of theopposed surfaces 34 to the other. - The
first slot 30 helps to define first andsecond portions member 14 on opposite sides of the first slot. Thesecond portion 44 of themember 14 is further defined by a second slot 50 (FIGS. 1-3) that is spaced apart from thefirst slot 30 within theperiphery 32 of the member. The second slot 50 (FIG. 3) includes opposedspaced surfaces 52 and first and secondopposite end portions second end portions first slot 30 and haverespective terminal ends respective ends 36 of the first slot. - Preferably, the
member 14 is constructed of a single piece of material, such as metal. Those skilled in the art, however, will recognize that themember 14 may have alternative constructions. For example, the first andsecond portions second portions means 48, such as welding or adhesives, adjacent or near the ends of the first andsecond slots - A
first middle portion 70 of thesecond slot 50 extends from thefirst end portion 54 in a direction perpendicular to the first end portion and away from thefirst slot 30. Thefirst middle portion 70 extends from thefirst end portion 54 at a location opposite theterminal end 60 of the first end portion. - A
second middle portion 72 of thesecond slot 50 extends from thesecond end portion 56 in a direction perpendicular to the first end portion and away from thefirst slot 30. Thesecond middle portion 72 extends from thesecond end portion 56 at a location opposite theterminal end 62 of the second end portion. Thesecond middle portion 72 is parallel to and spaced from thefirst middle portion 70. - An arc-
shaped portion 74 of thesecond slot 50 extends along an arc-shaped path from thefirst middle portion 70 to thesecond middle portion 72. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the radius of the arc-shaped portion 74 is equal to approximately one-half of the length of thefirst slot 30. - The member14 (FIGS. 1-3) also includes an
aperture 80 that extends through thesecond portion 44 of the member. Theaperture 80 has a circular shape and is partially surrounded by the arc-shaped portion 74 of thesecond slot 50. The arc-shaped portion 74 and theaperture 80 may be concentric. The fastener 20 (FIGS. 1 and 2) is extendable through theaperture 80 to connect thesecond portion 44 fixedly to thestructure 22. - The
fastener 20 and awasher 86 cooperate to connect thesecond portion 44 of themember 14 to thestructure 22. Thewasher 86 is positioned between ahead portion 82 of the fastener and asurface 84 of thesecond portion 44 of themember 14. Thewasher 86 has a diameter large enough to overlie and extend across thesecond slot 50. This helps to prevent tosecond portion 44 from bending relative to thefirst portion 42, tearing away from the first portion, or otherwise failing under high tension loads. - The
member 14 also includes means 90 for connecting thefirst portion 42 of the member to anobject 12. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, themeans 90 comprises anaperture 92 and theobject 12 comprises a flexibleelongated member 94. The flexibleelongated member 94 extends through theaperture 92, is folded over and connected to itself by means 96, such as stitching, so as to connect the flexible elongated member to thefirst portion 42 of themember 14. It will be recognized by those skilled in the art that themeans 90 and theobject 12 may have alternative configurations. For example, themeans 90 may comprise any suitable connector, such as a hook, ring, fastener, weld, or adhesive, and theobject 12 may comprise any desired article. - The
sensor 16 has afirst end 100 connected to thefirst portion 42 of themember 14 and an oppositesecond end 102 connected to thesecond portion 44 of the member. The first and second ends 100 and 102 are connected to themember 14 on opposite sides of thefirst slot 30 such that thesensor 16 extends across the first slot. The first and second ends 100 and 102 of thesensor 16 are preferably connected to themember 14 byspot welds 104 to connect the sensor fixedly and rigidly to the member. Thesensor 16 may, however, be connected to themember 14 by alternative methods, such as by fasteners or adhesive bonding. - In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS.1-3, the
sensor 16 preferably comprises a strain gauge device 110 (FIG. 2) in the form of known electrical resistance wire strain gauges. The wire strain gauges are preferably wired in a Wheatstone bridge circuit, in a known manner, in order to cancel out the effects of temperature on the wire strain gauges. - The
strain gauge device 110 is encapsulated in a protective material 112 (FIGS. 1 and 2), such as plastic or polyurethane, in order to isolate and protect the gauge from environmental conditions. Thesensor 16 includesleads 114 that protrude from theprotective material 112. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, thesensor 16 includes four leads 114. This is because the strain gauge is wired in a Wheatstone bridge circuit. Two of theleads 114 are used to apply a voltage across the bridge, and the other two leads are used to measure voltage potential across the bridge indicative of the amount of strain sensed by the strain gauge. - When a force is applied to the
first portion 42 of themember 14, such as by theobject 12, the force causes thefirst portion 42 of themember 14 to move relative to thesecond portion 44. This is because thesecond portion 44 is fixedly connected to thestructure 22 by thefastener 20, whereas thefirst portion 42 is not fixedly connected directly to the structure. Themember 14 is oriented such that the force causes the first andsecond portions - If the force acts to move the first and
second portions gap 40, the width of thegap 40 increases a given distance depending upon the magnitude of the force applied to themember 14. Also, as the first andsecond portions gap 40, the first and second portions may move towards each other across thesecond slot 50 at or near a location, indicated generally at 58, positioned opposite thefirst slot 30. If the magnitude of the force is large enough, the first andsecond portions location 58 on the second slot. - As the first and
second portions sensor 16 is stretched a distance equal to the distance that the width of thegap 40 increases. The distance that the width of thegap 40 increases and thesensor 16 is stretched is extremely small, and may be as little as a few millionths of an inch or less. As thesensor 16 is stretched and the strain gauge 110 (FIG. 2) is stretched, the electrical resistance of the gauge changes in proportion to the change in gap width. - The change in resistance of the strain gauge results in a change in voltage potential measured across the bridge circuit. The change in resistance, being proportional to the change in the width of the
gap 40 caused by the force applied to themember 14, is also proportional to the amount of tension on themember 14 acting to move the first andsecond portions member 14. The tension may be calculated by known means, such as a microcomputer, and used for a desired purpose, such as for providing data to a controller. - The
apparatus 10 has been described in an application where a force causes the first andsecond portions member 14 to move away from each other across thegap 40. It will be recognized by those skilled in the art, however, that theapparatus 10 may also be used in an application where a force causes the first andsecond portions gap 40. For example, theapparatus 10 may be used to sense compression. In such an instance, the width of thegap 40 would decrease as the first andsecond portions sensor 16, and thus thestrain gauge 110, would be compressed a distance generally equal to the distance the gap width decreases. This would cause the resistance of thestrain gauge 110 to change in proportion to the distance that the gap width decreases. This change in resistance would cause a change in voltage potential measured across the bridge, which could be used to calculate the compressive force acting on themember 14. Compressing thegap 40 may also help to increase the load carrying capability of themember 14. - Illustrative of preferred uses of the first embodiment of the present invention, FIGS.4-6 depict first and
second apparatuses vehicle 130. The vehicle 130 (FIG. 4) includes aseat 132 and a restraint system comprising aseat belt 142 for restraining avehicle occupant 144, in the seat. It will be recognized by those skilled in the art, however, that an alternative object, such as a child safety seat (not shown in FIGS. 4-6), may also be supported by thevehicle seat 132 and restrained by the restraint system. - A length of the
seat belt 142 is extensible about thevehicle occupant 144. One end of theseat belt 142 is anchored to thevehicle body 150 at ananchor point 152 located on one side of theseat 132. The opposite end of theseat belt 142 is attached to aretractor 154, which is usually secured to thevehicle body 150 on the same side of theseat 132 as theanchor point 152. - As shown in FIG. 4, intermediate its ends, the
seat belt 142 passes through atongue assembly 160 and a D-ring 162 that is located above theretractor 154 and theanchor point 152. When theseat belt 142 is not in use, the seat belt is wound on theretractor 154, as known in the art. To use theseat belt 142, thetongue assembly 160 is moved across theseat 132 and connected with abuckle 164. Thebuckle 164 is connected to thevehicle body 150, on a side of theseat 132 opposite theanchor point 152, by ananchor plate 166. - An inflatable vehicle occupant protection device, such as an
air bag 170, is stored in a folded condition in a portion of thevehicle 130, such as a steering wheel (not shown) on the driver side of the vehicle or aninstrument panel 172 of the vehicle on the passenger side of the vehicle. When thevehicle 130 experiences a crash in which it is desirable to inflate the air bag, aninflator 174 is actuated and provides inflation fluid for inflating the inflatable occupant protection device. The inflation fluid is directed into the air bag and inflates the air bag from the folded condition to an inflated condition in which the air bag extends into anoccupant compartment 176. Theinflated air bag 170 helps protect theoccupant 144 from a forceful impact with parts of thevehicle 130. - An
electronic controller 180, such as a microcomputer, is operatively connected to a vehicle crash sensor 182 (shown schematically in FIG. 4), which senses the occurrence of a vehicle crash. Thecontroller 180 is also connected to the first andsecond apparatuses inflator 174. Once thecontroller 180 determines that a crash is occurring for which inflation of theair bag 170 is necessary to help protect theoccupant 144 of theseat 132, the controller actuates theinflator 174. This actuation of theinflator 174 is done in accordance with information provided to the controller by the first andsecond apparatuses - As illustrated in FIG. 4, the
first apparatus 10 a is incorporated into theanchor plate 166 for theseat belt 142. Theapparatus 10 a illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5 is similar to theapparatus 10 illustrated in FIGS. 1-3. Accordingly, numerals similar to those of FIGS. 1-3 will be utilized in FIGS. 4 and 5 to identify similar components, the suffix letter “a” being associated with the numerals of FIGS. 4 and 5 to avoid confusion. Theapparatus 10 a (FIGS. 4 and 5) is identical to the apparatus 10 (FIGS. 1-3), except that theapparatus 10 a (FIGS. 4 and 5) is used to sense tension in theseat belt 142 of avehicle 130. - As illustrated in FIG. 5, the
member 14 a of theapparatus 10 a is theanchor plate 166 for connecting theseat belt 142 to thevehicle body 150. Theseat belt 142 extends through theaperture 92 a to connect the seat belt to theanchor plate 166. Thefastener 20 a fixedly connects thesecond portion 44 a of themember 14 a, i.e., theanchor plate 166, to thevehicle body 150. - When the
seat belt 142 is tensioned, a force is applied to thefirst portion 42 a of theanchor plate 166 in the direction and of the magnitude of the tension. The force causes thefirst portion 42 a of theanchor plate 166 to move relative to thesecond portion 44 a of the anchor plate because the second portion is fixedly connected to thevehicle body 150 by thefastener 20 a. Theanchor plate 166 is oriented such that the force causes the first andsecond portions gap 40 a. - As the first and
second portions gap 40 a increases a given distance depending upon the magnitude of the force applied to theanchor plate 166 by theseat belt 142. Also, as the first andsecond portions strain gauge device 110, is stretched a distance equal to the distance that the width of thegap 40 a increases. As the sensor 16 a is stretched, the controller 180 (FIG. 4) calculates the amount of tension on theanchor plate 166, and thus theseat belt 142, based upon the signal received from the sensor 16 a. - Advantageously, the inclusion of the
apparatus 10 a in theanchor plate 166 provides for the sensing of a relatively low amount of tension in theseat belt 142, under 100 pounds, while maintaining a high tensile strength in the anchor plate. Theanchor plate 166 is preferably able to withstand tensions greater than three thousand pounds. This combination of high resolution tension sensing capability and high tensile strength is due to the incorporation of the first andsecond slots second slots second portions anchor plate 166, which provides a high tensile strength. Also, placing the sensor 16 a on theanchor plate 166 near the floor of the vehicle facilitates covering the sensor with a protective device, such as a boot, to help keep dirt, etc. out of thegap 40 a. - As illustrated in FIG. 4, the
second apparatus 10 b is incorporated into theseat frame 190 of thevehicle seat 132. Theapparatus 10 b illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 6 is similar to theapparatus 10 illustrated in FIGS. 1-3. Accordingly, numerals similar to those of FIGS. 1-3 will be utilized in FIGS. 4 and 6 to identify similar components, the suffix letter “b” being associated with the numerals of FIG. 4 and 6 to avoid confusion. Theapparatus 10 b (FIGS. 4 and 6) is identical to the apparatus 10 (FIGS. 1-3), except that theapparatus 10 b (FIGS. 4 and 6) is used to sense the weight of an object in thevehicle seat 132. - As illustrated in FIG. 6, the
member 14 b of theapparatus 10 b is incorporated into aportion 192 of theseat frame 190 of thevehicle seat 132. Theseat frame 190 is connected to thevehicle body 150 byfasteners 194, such as bolts. Thefastener 20 b fixedly connects thesecond portion 44 b of themember 14 b, i.e., theseat frame 190, to thevehicle body 150. - When the occupant144 (FIG. 4) is seated in the
seat 132, the weight of the occupant applies a force to thefirst portion 42 b (FIG. 6) of theseat frame 190. The force causes thefirst portion 42 b of theseat frame 190 to move relative to thesecond portion 44 b of the seat frame because the second portion is fixedly connected to thevehicle body 150 by thefastener 20 b. Theapparatus 10 b is oriented relative to theseat 132 such that the force causes the first andsecond portions gap 40 b. - As the first and
second portions gap 40 b increases a given distance depending upon the magnitude of the force applied to theseat frame 190 by the weight of the occupant 144 (FIG. 4). Also, as the first andsecond portions sensor 16 b, and thus thestrain gauge device 110, is stretched a distance equal to the distance that the width of thegap 40 b increases. As thesensor 16 b is stretched, the controller 180 (FIG. 4) calculates the weight of theoccupant 144 on theseat 132 based upon the signal received from thesensor 16 b. - The
controller 180 controls the amount of inflation fluid directed into theair bag 170 by theinflator 174. The controller determines the amount of inflation fluid directed into theair bag 170 based on the amount of tension on theseat belt 142 sensed by theapparatus 10 a and the amount of weight supported by theseat frame 190 sensed by theapparatus 10 b. - During operation of the vehicle, the
occupant 144 usually has thetongue 160 connected with thebuckle 164. Typically, the amount of tension in theseat belt 142 will be relatively low when the seat belt is used to restrain anoccupant 144 seated in thevehicle seat 132. This is because theoccupant 144 will typically adjust theseat belt 142 to fit comfortably, rather than tightly, around the occupant's body. If high tension is present, the tension in theseat belt 142 pulls down on theoccupant 144, causing theapparatus 10 b to be subjected to the weight of theoccupant 144 along with the downward force resulting from the tension in theseat belt 142. The output signal from theapparatus 10 b thus indicates a sensed weight of theoccupant 144, which may be greater than the actual weight of the occupant. - The
apparatus 10 a senses the tension in theseat belt 142 and provides an output signal to thecontroller 180 indicating the tension in the seat belt. Theapparatus 10 b senses the sensed weight of theoccupant 144 on thevehicle seat 132 and provides an output signal to thecontroller 180 indicating the sensed weight on the seat. Thecontroller 180 determines a computed weight of theoccupant 144 as a function of both the sensed weight and the tension in theseat belt 142. The computed weight approximates the actual weight of theoccupant 144. The computed weight may, however, differ slightly from the actual weight of theoccupant 144. - The
controller 180 controls the amount of inflation fluid directed to theair bag 170 by the inflator 174 based on the computed weight of theoccupant 144 in theseat 132. If the computed weight is below a predetermined value or is zero, thecontroller 180 disables the inflator 174 to prevent inflation fluid from being directed to theair bag 170. Alternatively, if the computed weight is below the predetermined value, thecontroller 180 may cause the inflator 174 to direct a minimal amount of inflation fluid to theair bag 170. - The
controller 180 may have a look-up table that stores a plurality of sensed weight values, a plurality of seat belt tension values, and a plurality of computed weight values corresponding to combinations of the sensed weight values and the seat belt tension values. The computed weight values stored in the look-up table would be empirically determined. Thecontroller 180 would select a predetermined computed weight value from the look-up table by matching the sensed values from theapparatuses - Alternatively, the
controller 180 could determine the computed weight by performing a computation based on a predetermined functional relationship between the sensed weight and the amount of tension in theseat belt 142. In either case, the computed weight determined by thecontroller 180 more closely approximates the actual weight of theoccupant 144 than does the sensed weight indicated by theapparatus 10 b. This is because the effect of the tension in theseat belt 142 is considered in determining the computed weight. - If the present invention is used in a restraint system for restraining a
passenger 144 in avehicle seat 132 on a passenger side of thevehicle 130, theapparatus 10 a and theapparatus 10 b may also be used to sense the presence of a low weight object, such as a child safety seat (not shown), in the seat. If a child safety seat is located in thevehicle seat 132, thetongue 160 is connected with thebuckle 164 to secure the child safety seat to theseat 132. Typically, theseat belt 142 is pulled as tight as possible to secure the child safety seat to theseat 132. This differs from the instance in which anoccupant 144 is seated in theseat 132 and theseat belt 142 is fitted comfortably or loosely around the occupant. - The tension in the
seat belt 142 pulls down on the child safety seat and causes theweight sensing apparatus 10 b to be subjected to the weight of the child safety seat with the child in it and the downward force resulting from the tension in the seat belt. The output signal from theweight sensing apparatus 10 b thus indicates a sensed weight of the child safety seat with the child in it, which is greater than the actual weight of the child safety seat and the child. The sensed weight will be significantly greater than the actual weight because of the large tension load placed on theseat belt 142. - The
tension sensing apparatus 10 a senses the tension in theseat belt 142. Thecontroller 180 determines a computed weight of the object using the look-up table or calculation method described above. The computed weight will approximate the actual combined weight of the object. The computed weight may, however, differ slightly from the actual weight of the object. - If the tension in the
seat belt 142 is above a predetermined value and the computed weight is below a predetermined value, thecontroller 180 disables the inflator 174 to prevent inflation of theair bag 170. Alternatively, thecontroller 180 may cause the inflator 174 to direct a minimal amount of inflation fluid to theair bag 170. As a further alternative, thecontroller 180 may infer the presence of a child safety seat based only on whether the tension on theseat belt 142 is above the predetermined level. - A second embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 7. The second embodiment of the invention is similar to the first embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS.1-3. Accordingly, numerals similar to those of FIGS. 1-3 will be utilized in FIG. 7 to identify similar components, the suffix letter “c” being associated with the numerals of FIG. 7 to avoid confusion. The
apparatus 10 c (FIG. 7) of the second embodiment is identical to the apparatus 10 (FIGS. 1-3), except that thesensor 16 c (FIG. 7) of the second embodiment is different than the sensor 16 (FIGS. 1-3) of the first embodiment. - In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7, the
sensor 16 c comprises aswitch 200. Theswitch 200 is preferably a mechanical switch or micro-switch of a suitable configuration, such as a sliding contact switch. Theswitch 200 is encapsulated in aprotective material 112 c, such as plastic or polyurethane, in order to isolate and protect the switch from environmental conditions. - As illustrated in FIG. 7, the
switch 200 includes a pair ofcontacts 202 and acontactor 204. Thesensor 16 c includes a pair ofleads 114 c that protrude from theprotective material 112 c. The leads 114 c are electrically connected to thecontacts 202. Theswitch 200 is actuatable from a first, unactuated condition, illustrated in FIG. 7, to a second, actuated condition, illustrated in FIG. 8. When theswitch 200 is in the actuated condition (FIG. 8), thecontactor 204 engages thecontacts 202, which establishes electrical continuity between theleads 114 c. When theswitch 200 is in the unactuated condition (FIG. 7), thecontactor 204 is spaced away from thecontacts 202, which breaks electrical continuity between theleads 114 c. - When a force is applied to the
first portion 42 c of themember 14 c and thefirst portion 42 c of themember 14 c moves relative to thesecond portion 44 c, thesensor 16 c is stretched or compressed, depending upon the direction of the force. As thesensor 16 c is stretched or compressed, thecontactor 204 moves relative to thecontacts 202. Depending upon the configuration of theswitch 200, thecontactor 204 may move either toward or away from thecontacts 202 when thesensor 16 c is stretched or compressed. Also, theswitch 200 may be configured normally opened in the unactuated condition or a normally closed in the unactuated condition. These configurations are illustrated in FIGS. 9-12. - FIG. 9 illustrates the
switch 200 having a normally opened configuration for sensing tension. Tension forces are indicated generally by the arrows in FIG. 9. Theswitch 200 is illustrated in the unactuated condition. Theswitch 200 is configured such that thecontactor 204 moves towards thecontacts 202 when thesensor 16 c is stretched and the contactor moves away from the contacts when the sensor is compressed. When the tension on themember 14 c reaches a predetermined level, theswitch 200 is placed in the actuated condition (not shown), wherein thecontacts 202 are closed by thecontactor 204 and continuity is established between theleads 114 c. When the tension on themember 14 c is reduced below the predetermined level or the member is compressed, thecontactor 204 moves away from thecontacts 202, thus opening the contacts and breaking continuity between theleads 114 c. - FIG. 10 illustrates the
switch 200 having a normally closed configuration for sensing tension. Tension forces are indicated generally by the arrows in FIG. 10. Theswitch 200 is illustrated in the unactuated condition. Theswitch 200 is configured such that thecontactor 204 moves away from thecontacts 202 when thesensor 16 c is stretched and the contactor moves towards the contacts when the sensor is compressed. When the tension on themember 14 c reaches a predetermined level, theswitch 200 is placed in the actuated condition (not shown), wherein thecontacts 202 are opened by thecontactor 204 and continuity between theleads 114 c is broken. When the tension on themember 14 c is reduced below the predetermined level or the member is compressed, thecontactor 204 moves towards thecontacts 202, thus closing the contacts and establishing continuity between theleads 114 c. - FIG. 11 illustrates the
switch 200 having a normally opened configuration for sensing compression. Compressive forces are indicated generally by the arrows in FIG. 11. Theswitch 200 is illustrated in the unactuated condition. Theswitch 200 is configured such that thecontactor 204 moves towards thecontacts 202 when thesensor 16 c is compressed and the contactor moves away from the contacts when the sensor is tensioned. When the compression on themember 14 c reaches a predetermined level, theswitch 200 is placed in the actuated condition (not shown), wherein thecontacts 202 are closed by thecontactor 204 and continuity is established between theleads 114 c. When the compression on themember 14 c is reduced below the predetermined level or the member is tensioned, thecontactor 204 moves away from thecontacts 202, thus opening the contacts and breaking continuity between theleads 114 c. - FIG. 12 illustrates the
switch 200 having a normally closed configuration for sensing compression. Compressive forces are indicated generally by the arrows in FIG. 12. Theswitch 200 is illustrated in the unactuated condition. Theswitch 200 is configured such that thecontactor 204 moves away from thecontacts 202 when thesensor 16 c is compressed and the contactor moves towards the contacts when the sensor is tensioned. When the compression on themember 14 c reaches a predetermined level, theswitch 200 is placed in the actuated condition (not shown), wherein thecontacts 202 are opened by thecontactor 204 and continuity between theleads 114 c is broken. When the compression on themember 14 c is reduced below the predetermined level or the member is tensioned, thecontactor 204 moves towards thecontacts 202, thus closing the contacts and establishing continuity between theleads 114 c. - The
sensor 16 c can be incorporated into an electrical circuit (not shown) for the purpose of providing indication of the condition of theswitch 200. The actuated and unactuated conditions of theswitch 200 can be measured by applying an electrical signal to theleads 114 c to test for continuity across thecontacts 202. Thus, the actuated and unactuated conditions of theswitch 200 can be sensed by a known device, such as a microcomputer, and used for a desired purpose, such as for providing data to a controller. - Illustrative of preferred uses of the second embodiment of the present invention, third and
fourth apparatuses vehicle 130 as illustrated in FIG. 4. Thethird apparatus 10 d is installed in the vehicle in a manner identical to thefirst apparatus 10 a of the first embodiment. Thefourth apparatus 10 e is installed in the vehicle in a manner identical to thesecond apparatus 10 b of the first embodiment. Theapparatuses apparatuses - As illustrated in FIG. 4, the
third apparatus 10 d is incorporated into theanchor plate 166 for theseat belt 142. Theapparatus 10 d is illustrated in FIG. 13. Theapparatus 10 d is similar to theapparatus 10 a illustrated in FIG. 5. Accordingly, numerals similar to those of FIG. 5 will be utilized in FIG. 13 to identify similar components, the suffix letter “d” being associated with the numerals of FIG. 13 to avoid confusion. Theapparatus 10 d (FIG. 13) is identical to theapparatus 10 a (FIG. 5), except that thesensor 16 d (FIG. 13) includes aswitch 200 d in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention to sense tension in theseat belt 142 d of a vehicle 130 d. - As illustrated in FIG. 13, the
member 14 d of theapparatus 10 d is theanchor plate 166 d for connecting theseat belt 142 d to thevehicle body 150 d. Theseat belt 142 d extends through theaperture 92 d to connect the seat belt to theanchor plate 166 d. Thefastener 20 d fixedly connects thesecond portion 44 d of themember 14 d, i.e., theanchor plate 166 d, to thevehicle body 150 d. - The
switch 200 d in thesensor 16 d of FIG. 13 has a normally opened configuration for sensing a predetermined amount of tension in theseat belt 142 d. When theseat belt 142 d is tensioned, a force is applied to thefirst portion 42 d of theanchor plate 166 d in the direction and of the magnitude of the tension. The force causes thefirst portion 42 d of theanchor plate 166 d to move relative to thesecond portion 44 d of the anchor plate because the second portion is fixedly connected to thevehicle body 150 d by thefastener 20 d. Theanchor plate 166 d is oriented such that the force causes the first andsecond portions gap 40 d. - As the first and
second portions gap 40 d increases a given distance depending upon the magnitude of the force applied to theanchor plate 166 d by theseat belt 142 d. Also, as the first andsecond portions sensor 16 d is stretched a distance equal to the distance that the width of thegap 40 d increases. As thesensor 16 d is stretched, tension on thesensor 16 d increases. When the tension on thesensor 16 d reaches the predetermined amount, theswitch 200 is actuated. - Advantageously, the inclusion of the
apparatus 10 d in theanchor plate 166 d provides for the sensing of a relatively low predetermined amount of tension in theseat belt 142 d, preferably less than 30 pounds, while maintaining a high tensile strength in the anchor plate. Theanchor plate 166 d is preferably able to withstand tension loads of greater than three thousand pounds. This combination of high resolution tension sensing capability and high tensile strength is due to the incorporation of the first andsecond slots second slots second portions anchor plate 166 d, which provides a high tensile strength. Also, placing thesensor 16 d on theanchor plate 166 d near the floor of the vehicle facilitates covering the sensor with a protective device, such as a boot, to help keep dirt, etc. out of thegap 40 d. - As illustrated in FIG. 4, the
fourth apparatus 10 e is incorporated into theseat frame 190 of thevehicle seat 132. Theapparatus 10 e is illustrated in FIG. 14. Theapparatus 10 e is similar to theapparatus 10 b illustrated in FIG. 6. Accordingly, numerals similar to those of FIG. 6 will be utilized in FIG. 13 to identify similar components, the suffix letter “e” being associated with the numerals of FIG. 13 to avoid confusion. Theapparatus 10 e (FIG. 13) is identical to theapparatus 10 b (FIG. 6), except that thesensor 16e (FIG. 13) includes aswitch 200 e in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention to sense the weight of an object on thevehicle seat 132 e. - As illustrated in FIG. 14, the
member 14 e of theapparatus 10 e is incorporated into aportion 192 e of theseat frame 190 e of thevehicle seat 132 e. Theseat frame 190 e is connected to thevehicle body 150 e byfasteners 194 e, such as bolts. Thefastener 20 e fixedly connects thesecond portion 44 e of themember 14 e, i.e., theseat frame 190 e, to thevehicle body 150 e. - When the occupant (not shown in FIG. 14) is seated in the
seat 132 e, the weight of the occupant applies a force to thefirst portion 42 e of theseat frame 190 e. The force causes thefirst portion 42 e of theseat frame 190 e to move relative to thesecond portion 44 e of the seat frame because the second portion is fixedly connected to thevehicle body 150 e by thefastener 20 e. Theapparatus 10 e is oriented relative to theseat 132 e such that the force causes the first andsecond portions gap 40 e. - As the first and
second portions gap 40 e increases a given distance depending upon the magnitude of the force applied to theseat frame 190 e by the weight of the occupant. Also, as the first andsecond portions sensor 16 e, and thus theswitch 200 e, is stretched a distance equal to the distance that the width of thegap 40 e increases. As thesensor 16 e is stretched, tension on the sensor increases. When the tension on thesensor 16 e reaches the predetermined amount, theswitch 200 e is actuated. - In accordance with the preferred uses of the second embodiment of the present invention, the controller180 (FIG. 4) controls the amount of inflation fluid directed into the
air bag 170 by theinflator 174. Thethird apparatus 10 d senses when a predetermined amount of tension is on theseat belt 142 and thefourth apparatus 10 e senses when a predetermined amount of weight is on thevehicle seat 132. Thecontroller 180 determines the amount of inflation fluid directed into theair bag 170 based upon the presence of the predetermined amount of weight on theseat 132 and the presence of the predetermined amount of tension on theseat belt 142. - During operation of the vehicle, the
occupant 144 usually has thetongue 160 connected with thebuckle 164. Typically, the amount of tension in theseat belt 142 will be relatively low when the seat belt is used to restrain anoccupant 144 seated in thevehicle seat 132. This is because theoccupant 144 will typically adjust theseat belt 142 to fit comfortably, rather than tightly, around the occupant's body. If high tension is present, the tension in theseat belt 142 pulls down on theoccupant 144, causing theapparatus 10 e to be subjected to the weight of theoccupant 144 along with the downward force resulting from the tension in theseat belt 142. Theapparatus 10 e is, thus, subjected to a sensed weight of theoccupant 144, which may be greater, although probably only slightly greater, than the actual weight of the occupant. - The
apparatus 10 d is subjected to the tension in theseat belt 142 and provides an output signal to thecontroller 180 indicative of whether the tension in the seat belt reaches a predetermined level. Theapparatus 10 e is subjected to the sensed weight of theoccupant 144 on thevehicle seat 132 and provides an output signal to thecontroller 180 indicative of whether the sensed weight on the seat reaches a predetermined level. - The
controller 180 controls the amount of inflation fluid directed to theair bag 170 by the inflator 174 based on whether the sensed weight of theoccupant 144 in theseat 132 is above the predetermined value. If the weight of theoccupant 144 is below the predetermined value, thecontroller 180 disables the inflator 174 to prevent inflation fluid from being directed to theair bag 170. Alternatively, if the weight of theoccupant 144 is below the predetermined value, thecontroller 180 may cause the inflator 174 to direct a minimal amount of inflation fluid to theair bag 170. - If the present invention is used in a restraint system for restraining a
passenger 144 in avehicle seat 132 on a passenger side of thevehicle 130, theapparatus 10 d and theapparatus 10 e may also be used to sense the presence of a low weight object, such as a child safety seat (not shown), in the seat. If a child safety seat is located in thevehicle seat 132, thetongue 160 is connected with thebuckle 164 to secure the child safety seat to theseat 132. Typically, theseat belt 142 is pulled as tight as possible to secure the child safety seat to theseat 132. This differs from the instance where anoccupant 144 is seated in the seat and theseat belt 142 is fitted comfortably or loosely around the occupant. - The tension in the
seat belt 142 pulls down on the child safety seat and causes theweight sensing apparatus 10 e to be subjected to the weight of the child safety seat with the child in it and the downward force resulting from the tension in the seat belt. The output signal from theweight sensing apparatus 10 e is thus subjected to a sensed weight of the child safety seat with the child in it, which is greater than the actual weight of the child safety seat and the child. The sensed weight will be significantly greater than the actual weight because of the large tension load placed on theseat belt 142. Thetension sensing apparatus 10 d senses whether tension on theseat belt 142 reaches a predetermined level. - If the tension in the
seat belt 142 is above the predetermined value and the weight on theseat 132 is below the predetermined value, thecontroller 180 disables the inflator 174 to prevent inflation of theair bag 170. Alternatively, thecontroller 180 may cause the inflator 174 to direct a minimal amount of inflation fluid to theair bag 170. As a further alternative, thecontroller 180 may infer the presence of a child safety seat based only on whether the tension on theseat belt 142 is above the predetermined level. - Those skilled in the art will recognize that the apparatuses of the first and second embodiments may be used together. For example, referring to FIG. 4, a
sensor 10 b of the first embodiment, i.e. including asensor 16 b (FIG. 6), may be used to sense the amount weight in a vehicle seat while asensor 10 d of the second embodiment, i.e. including a switch 200 (FIGS. 7 and 8), may be used to determine when tension in a vehicle seat belt reaches a predetermined level. - From the above description of the invention, those skilled in the art will perceive improvements, changes and modifications. For example, the
apparatus 10 has been illustrated as being configured for sensing seat belt tension and for sensing weight in a vehicle seat. Theapparatus 10 could, however, be used in other automotive applications or even in non-automotive applications. Such improvements, changes and modifications within the skill of the art are intended to be covered by the appended claims.
Claims (29)
Priority Applications (1)
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US09/811,877 US6405607B2 (en) | 2000-06-22 | 2001-03-19 | Vehicle seat belt tension and seat weight apparatus |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
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US60218100A | 2000-06-22 | 2000-06-22 | |
US09/811,877 US6405607B2 (en) | 2000-06-22 | 2001-03-19 | Vehicle seat belt tension and seat weight apparatus |
Related Parent Applications (1)
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US60218100A Continuation-In-Part | 2000-06-22 | 2000-06-22 |
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US20010054323A1 true US20010054323A1 (en) | 2001-12-27 |
US6405607B2 US6405607B2 (en) | 2002-06-18 |
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US09/811,877 Expired - Fee Related US6405607B2 (en) | 2000-06-22 | 2001-03-19 | Vehicle seat belt tension and seat weight apparatus |
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Owner name: JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, NEW YORK Free format text: THE US GUARANTEE AND COLLATERAL AGREEMENT;ASSIGNOR:TRW VEHICLE SAFETY SYSTEMS, INC.;REEL/FRAME:013964/0290 Effective date: 20030228 |
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Free format text: PATENT EXPIRED DUE TO NONPAYMENT OF MAINTENANCE FEES UNDER 37 CFR 1.362 |
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