Patent ID: 7497465
Filing Date: 2009-03-03
Classification: B60R

Abstract:
1. A capacitance type sensor comprising: a first electrode arranged inside any one of a seating portion and a backrest portion of a seat in a vehicle; a second electrode arranged adjacent to the first electrode inside any one of the seating portion and the backrest portion of the seat, whichever the first electrode is arranged, and forming an electric field together with the first electrode therebetween in a wetness determination mode in which a wet condition of the seat is determined; and a third electrode that forms an electric field together with the first and the second electrodes therebetween in an occupant determination mode in which an occupant in the seat is determined, wherein the second electrode is substantially co-planar with the first electrode and is arranged immediately around the first electrode on at least one of an inner side and an outer side thereof, the first electrode and the second electrode separated only by an air gap.