Patent ID: 6138067
Filing Date: 2000-10-24
Classification: B60N,B60R,G01G,G01L

Abstract:
A system for estimating the weight of an occupant of a seat in a motor vehicle, the seat having a foam cushion bottom, the apparatus comprising:a pressure sensor disposed in the foam cushion bottom so as to be responsive to the weight of the occupant, the sensor providing a pressure signal output;a temperature sensor for sensing a temperature in proximity to said pressure sensor, and providing a temperature signal output; anda controller for estimating the weight of the occupant based on the pressure signal output, the temperature signal output, and a calibrated value corresponding to a pressure signal output when the seat is vacant, the controller including means for adjusting the calibrated value downward in response a pressure signal output that remains lower than the calibrated value for at least a predetermined time, the adjustment being determined as a predetermined fraction of a difference between the pressure signal output and the calibrated value.