Patent ID: 7891260
Filing Date: 2011-02-22
Classification: B60N,B60R,H01H

Abstract:
1. Sensor apparatus for detecting presence or absence of an occupant on a seating surface of a seat, comprising: first and second substantially non-compliant force translation plates disposed in said seat in an orientation that is generally parallel to said seating surface; an elastomeric mat disposed between said first and second force translation plates, said elastomeric mat including at least one distributed array of protuberances that extend toward and contact one of said first and second force translation plates, where said protuberances collapse due to occupant weight when the occupant sits on the seating surface; an opening in a central portion of said elastomeric mat; and a switch mechanism disposed in the opening of said elastomeric mat, and affixed to one of said first and second force translation plates, said switch mechanism having a first state indicating absence of the occupant when the protuberances of said elastomeric mat are not collapsed, and a second state indicating presence of the occupant when the protuberances of said elastomeric mat are collapsed.