Anchor attachment detection sensors

An anchor attachment detection sensor for a vehicle including an anchor including an anchor attachment loop bar; a slide mount defining an opening, wherein the slide mount is positioned aft of the anchor attachment loop bar; a slide positioned in the opening of the slide mount, a plate secured to a first end of the slide, a spring, wherein the spring biases the plate against the anchor attachment loop bar; and a sensing device configured to transmit a control signal having a value, wherein the value of the control signal is based on a displacement of a portion of the slide.

INTRODUCTION

The present disclosure relates to anchor attachment detection sensors for detecting the coupling of child safety seat connectors to lower and upper anchors in child restraint systems.

Safety mechanisms have been incorporated into vehicles for preventing or reducing injury in case of a vehicle crash. Seatbelts, for example, assist in restraining passengers. Airbags, used in combination with seatbelts, provide cushioning and restraint of occupants. Child safety seats, including child restraint seats (CRS) and belt-positioning booster seats, position children within a passenger seat and may be used in conjunction with seatbelts, with lower anchors and tethers for children (LATCH) systems, with only lower anchors, or with a seatbelt and an upper anchor incorporated in vehicle passenger seats, for restraining children in a passenger seat. In addition, various warning indicators may warn the occupants if an occupant is detected but certain parameters have not been met, such as an unbuckled seatbelt.

It has been found, however, that the use of certain safety systems may be redundant or improper. In one example, the deployment of an airbag may generate forces that may be too high upon contact for children secured in a child safety seat or for children below a certain size and weight seated in a passenger seat. Accordingly, systems have been developed to manually and automatically deactivate airbags associated with a given seat. For example, a weight sensing system may be used to automatically deactivate an airbag by sensing and measuring the weight of an occupant in a given seat. If the weight is less than a threshold, the airbag(s) associated with that seat is deactivated. In some situations, however, the combination of a child and a child safety seat may result in a weight measurement that is above the threshold for deactivating the airbags associated with that seat where a manual deactivation is required. In another example is the failure to properly affix a child safety seat to the vehicle via either the vehicle seat belt or LATCH anchors. Yet a further example is the redundant use of a seat belt in combination with the use of the lower anchors of a LATCH system, which may or may not be acceptable based on child safety seat manufacturer and automaker instructions.

Thus, while current passenger restraint systems and safety systems achieve their intended purpose, there remains room for the development of a new and improved detection device and method for sensing a child safety seat secured in a passenger seat.

SUMMARY

According to several aspects, an anchor attachment detection sensor for a vehicle includes an anchor including an anchor attachment loop bar. The anchor attachment detection sensor further includes a slide mount defining an opening is positioned aft of the anchor attachment loop bar and a slide is positioned in the opening of the slide mount, wherein the slide includes a first end and a second end, a plate secured to the first end of the slide, wherein the plate is aft of the anchor attachment loop bar. The anchor attachment detection sensor further includes a spring, wherein the spring biases the plate against the anchor attachment loop bar. The anchor attachment detection sensor also includes a sensing device configured to transmit a control signal having a value, wherein the value of the control signal is based on a location of a portion of the slide.

In a further aspect of the present disclosure, the anchor attachment loop contains at least two anchor attachment loop side arms and the plate is located between the anchor attachment loop side arms.

In yet a further aspect of the present disclosure, the plate includes at least two recesses that slidably interface with the two anchor attachment loop side arms.

In yet a further aspect of the present disclosure, the slide is configured to move parallel to the anchor attachment loop side arms.

In another aspect of the present disclosure, the sensing device is adjacent to the slide and the slide includes a sensible element, wherein the sensing device is configured to detect the sensible element.

In another aspect of the present disclosure, the sensing device is selected from the group consisting of an optical sensor, a proximity sensor, radar, linear variable displacement sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, and a piezoelectric sensor.

In another aspect of the present disclosure, the slide includes a ferromagnetic sensible element and the sensing device is a metallic proximity sensor.

In a further aspect of the present disclosure, slide mount is at least one of a) attached fully supported by the anchor, b) attached to a cross member to which the anchor is attached, and c) attached to a bezel.

In yet a further aspect of the present disclosure, the anchor is secured to a cross member in the vehicle and the slide mount is affixed to the cross member.

In yet a further aspect of the present disclosure, the bezel surrounds the anchor and the slide mount is affixed to the bezel.

In yet a further aspect of the present disclosure, the plate defines a front face that includes a vibration isolation material.

In another aspect of the present disclosure, the spring is a helical spring and the spring defines a tunnel through which the slide passes.

In a further aspect of the present disclosure, the sensing device is connected to a microprocessor control system and the microprocessor control system is configured to execute an algorithm that determines if at least one of the following conditions is present: a) a child safety seat connector is located between the anchor attachment loop bar and the plate, b) nothing is between the anchor attachment loop bar and the plate, or c) a foreign object is located between the anchor attachment loop bar and the plate.

In yet a further aspect, the microprocessor control system is further configured to execute a second algorithm that determines a style of the child safety seat connector connected to the anchor attachment loop bar.

According to several aspects, an anchor attachment system for a vehicle, including a passenger seat and an anchor associated with the passenger seat including an anchor attachment loop bar. The anchor attachment system further includes a slide mount defining an opening, wherein the slide mount is affixed near the anchor and positioned aft of the anchor attachment loop bar and a slide positioned in the opening of the slide mount, wherein the slide includes a sensible device. The anchor attachment system also includes a plate secured to the first end of the slide, wherein the plate is aft of the anchor attachment loop bar. The anchor attachment system further includes a spring, wherein the spring biases the plate against the anchor attachment loop bar. The anchor attachment system yet further includes a sensing device configured to transmit a control signal having a value, wherein the value of the control signal is based on a location of the sensible element.

According to several aspects, a method of detecting the connection of a child safety seat connector to an anchor in a vehicle, includes transmitting a first control signal by a first sensing device, the first control signal having a first control signal value, wherein the first sensing device is configured to measure the displacement of a first plate, wherein the first plate is biased against a first anchor attachment loop bar of a first anchor, receiving the first control signal value with a microprocessor control system coupled to the first sensing device. The method further includes determining if the first control signal value is greater than an installation threshold with the microprocessor control system. If the first control signal value is greater than the installation threshold, determining if a first child safety seat connector is coupled to the first anchor attachment loop bar, if the first control signal is less than the installation threshold but not in a home range determining a foreign object is present between the first anchor attachment loop and the first plate, and if the first control signal value is in the home range, determining that nothing is between the first anchor attachment loop and the first plate.

In further aspects, prior to determining whether the first control signal value is greater than an installation threshold, determining that the first plate is no longer moving and again determining if the first control signal value is greater than the installation threshold.

In another aspect, if the microprocessor control system determines the first control signal value falls within a predetermined range above the installation threshold, the microprocessor control system determines the first child safety seat connector is coupled to the first anchor attachment loop bar.

In a further aspect, the predetermined range determines the style of child safety seat connector connected to the first anchor attachment loop bar.

In a further aspect, the method includes transmitting a second control signal by a second sensing device, the second control signal having a second control signal value, wherein the second sensing device is configured to measure a displacement of the second plate, wherein the second plate is biased against a second anchor attachment loop bar of a second anchor, and receiving the second control signal value with the microprocessor control system coupled to the second sensing device. The method also includes determining if the second control signal value is greater than an installation threshold with the microprocessor control system, if the second control signal value is greater than the installation threshold, determining if a second child safety seat connector is coupled to the second anchor attachment loop bar; and if a second child safety seat connector is coupled to the second anchor attachment loop bar further determining a lapsed time period between the coupling of the first child safety seat connector to the first attachment anchor and the coupling of the second child safety seat connector to the second attachment anchor, wherein if the lapsed time period is greater than a predetermined time period, the microprocessor control system indicates that each of the first child safety seat connector and the second child safety seat connector are using flexible ties and if the lapsed time period is less than a predetermined time period, the microprocessor control system indicates that each of the first child safety seat connector and the second child safety seat connector are using rigid ties.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Anchor attachment systems, such as Lower Anchor and Tether for Children (LATCH) systems, are utilized in vehicles as an alternative or as an additional mechanism to seatbelts for securing child safety seats, including child restraint seats and belt-positioning booster seats, into vehicle passenger seats. Lower anchor and tether systems are also referred to as, e.g., lower universal anchorage systems (LUAS), Universal Child Safety Seat System (UCSSS), CANFIX, or International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standard ISO13216. Lower anchor and tether for children systems generally include lower anchors and an upper anchor affixed to a vehicle and associated with a given passenger seat. The present disclosure is directed to a sensing device, which in aspects can be used with an existing LATCH system, that measures interactions with the sensing device to determine if, for example, a child safety seat is secured to the LATCH system or if a foreign object is present in the LATCH system.

Referring toFIG. 1A, a child safety seat10and LATCH system11are illustrated. In this illustration, the child safety seat10is an infant or convertible child safety seat10secured in the forward-facing direction. However, it should be appreciated that the child safety seat10may be secured in the rear facing direction or may instead be a belt-positioning booster seat. In the forward-facing position, the child safety seat10rests on the seat cushion13and seat back15of the passenger seat12.

The LATCH system11includes two lower anchors16(only one is illustrated), which are located near the intersection of the seat cushion13and the seat back15of the passenger seat12, and an upper anchor18located behind the passenger seat12. One or more ties20are provided to connect the child safety seat10to the lower anchors16. As illustrated, a tie20is connected to each side22of the child safety seat10and is in the form of a flexible strap. In alternative aspects, a single tie20may be passed through a tie routing path24provided in the child safety seat10, an aspect of which is illustrated inFIG. 1A, or the tie20is otherwise affixed to the child safety seat10. In further alternative aspects, the ties20are in the form of a rigid arms20a,20bas illustrated inFIG. 1B, which extend from the base29of the child safety seat10. Child safety seats10, including those illustrated inFIG. 1AandFIG. 1B, also include a tether26as illustrated inFIG. 1A. The tether26connects the upper portion of the child safety seat10to the upper anchor18. It should be appreciated that, in aspects, the ties20and tether26are formed from a flexible material upon which tension is applied by, e.g., threading the ties20or tether26through a buckle (not illustrated), gripping mechanism or otherwise securing the ties20or tether26to itself. Tension may also be applied using, e.g., an elastic member such as a spring. Alternatively, as noted above, the ties20, or tether26, is formed from a rigid material.

In aspects where the child safety seat10is positioned in the rear facing position (not illustrated), the lower anchors16are used to secure the child safety seat10into the passenger seat12. The tether26and upper anchor18may also be used in the rear facing position. In alternative aspects, such as when a child safety seat10is a child restraint seat in the forward-facing position or when the child safety seat10is a belt-positioning booster seat with a back, the child safety seat10may be secured to the passenger seat12using the seatbelt28associated with the passenger seat (seeFIG. 4) alone, or in combination with either the ties20, tether26, or both the ties20and tether26of the LATCH system11. In yet another alternative aspect, such as when the child safety seat10is a belt-positioning booster seat without a back, the child safety seat10may be secured to the passenger seat12using the seatbelt28associated with the passenger seat (seeFIG. 4) alone, or in combination with either the tie(s)20, of the LATCH system11. Note in case of the booster seat configurations, using the seat belt to attach the booster seat to the vehicle would also attach a child, if present, to the vehicle.

As previously noted, the lower anchor ties20a,20bare rigid in aspects, such as the aspect illustrated inFIG. 1B, and do not move or change in shape. In alternative aspects, the lower anchor ties20are flexible and may either move or change in shape. Similarly, in aspects, the upper anchor tether26is flexible. Alternatively, it is contemplated that the upper anchor tether26is rigid and does not move or change in shape. It should be appreciated that all rigid, all flexible, or combinations of all rigid and all flexible lower anchor ties20a,20band upper anchor tethers26may be used. For example, rigid lower anchor ties20aand20bmay be used in combination with a flexible upper anchor tether26, or flexible lower anchor ties20may be used in combination with a rigid upper anchor tether26.

The ties20and tether26of a child safety seat10are connected to the lower anchors16and upper anchors18using child safety seat connectors34, which are affixed to the ties20and the tether26.FIGS. 2A, 2B and 2Cillustrate various aspects of the child safety seat connectors34. Each child safety seat connector34includes a hook36. The variants inFIGS. 2A and 2Bhave a moving hook that are actuated with a button (not shown) and the variant illustrated inFIG. 2Cincludes a biased closure38, which closes the child safety seat connector34around the lower anchors16or upper anchor18to secure a tie20or tether26, respectively. In addition, a child safety seat connector34defines an opening40in which the anchor attachment loop bar60of either the lower anchor16or upper anchor18is received, as illustrated inFIG. 3and described further below.

Referring again toFIG. 1A, anchor attachment detection sensors30a,30b(collectively referred to as anchor attachment detection sensors30) are provided for at least one anchor16,18associated with a given passenger seat12.FIG. 1Aillustrates a lower anchor attachment detection sensor30aassociated with each lower anchor16and an upper anchor attachment detection sensor30bassociated with the upper anchor18. When the ties20are connected to the lower anchors16a,16b, each lower anchor attachment detection sensor30atransmits a control signal to a microprocessor control system (MCS)32indicating the ties20have been connected to each of the lower anchors16a,16b. Similarly, when the tether26is connected to the upper anchor18, the upper anchor attachment detection sensor30btransmits a control signal to the microprocessor control system32indicating the tether26has been connected to the upper anchor18. Each anchor attachment detection sensor30detects an interaction with the corresponding lower anchor16or upper anchor18. The interaction indicates 1) the connecting of a child safety seat connector34to the lower anchor16or upper anchor18, 2) the insertion of a foreign object into the anchor, as discussed further below, or 3) that nothing is attached to the anchor16,18.

The microprocessor control system32includes and is configured to execute a control algorithm, wherein the microprocessor control system32receives the control signals from the anchor attachment detection sensors30and is configured to execute the control algorithm to determine whether the child safety seat connectors34for the ties20, tether26, or both the ties20and tether26are connected to the lower anchors16and upper anchor18. In further aspects, the microprocessor control system32includes and is configured to execute a control algorithm that, from the control signals received from the anchor attachment detection sensors30, and optionally one or more external sensors, such as a camera, a RADAR, an in-seat pressure sensor, an in-seat weight sensor, determines the type of child safety seat or child safety seat connector34connecting the ties20or tether26to the lower anchors16or the upper anchors18, respectively. The microprocessor control system32, in aspects, includes one or more processors and memory modules for storing and implementing the control algorithm. The microprocessor control system32is coupled to the sensors through electrical wires, optical pathways, or wireless interfaces provided in the anchor attachment detection sensors30and microprocessor control system32, which are represented inFIG. 1Aas wires104a,104b.

In additional aspects, the microprocessor control system32optionally includes a control algorithm that receives the control signals from the anchor attachment detection sensors30of the lower anchors16and determines whether the ties20are rigid, as illustrated inFIG. 1B, or flexible, as illustrated inFIG. 1A, by measuring a lapsed time period between an interaction of a tie20with a first lower anchor16and the interaction the tie20(or of a second tie20) to a second lower anchor16. If the interactions detected by the lower anchor attachment detection sensors30occur simultaneously or within less than a few seconds, such as less than 10 seconds, or less than 5 seconds, or less than 2 seconds, the microprocessor control system32determines the ties20are rigid ties. If it takes more than a few seconds, such as more than 10 seconds, between interactions with the first lower anchor16and the second lower anchor16, the microprocessor control system32determines that the ties20are flexible.

Referring again toFIG. 1A, while a forward-facing infant or convertible child safety seat10is illustrated, the child safety seat10can be forward-facing, rear-facing or both forward- and rear-facing. Such seats also include their own safety harness, such as three point or five-point harnesses, for retaining the child within the child safety seat10, often referred to as child restraint seats. In addition, the child safety seat10may alternatively be a belt-positioning booster seat or a variation thereof, which usage depends on at least one of the age, weight, and height of the child. Child safety seats10, in further aspects, may also include transverse child beds allowing for a child to lay down, typically laterally across the vehicle seat. It should, therefore, be appreciated that depending on the configuration of the child safety seat10, user preference, and installation guidelines predicated by the manufacturer and automaker, one or more of the lower anchors16, upper anchor18, and seatbelt28(seeFIG. 4), may be used to secure the child safety seat10to the passenger seat12.

FIG. 4illustrates the positioning of lower anchors16a,16band upper anchors18in a vehicle interior14. The passenger seats12a,12b,12c,12d,12einclude a first passenger seat (often referred to as a driver's seat)12a, a second front passenger seat12b, and three rear passenger seats12c,12d,12e. Associated with each passenger seat12is a seatbelt28. In the aspect illustrated, a set of lower anchors16a,16bare associated with the passenger seats12c,12d,12e. A set of lower anchors16a,16bmay also be associated with the front passenger seat12b, as illustrated, and, in additional aspects not illustrated, the passenger seat12a. The lower anchors16a,16bare connected to a cross member44, such as a crossbeam44a, that forms a part of the vehicle frame, or a cross bar44bthat is integrated into a passenger seat12b. Further, an upper anchor18is associated with each rear passenger seat12c,12d,12eand located in the rear deck46. An upper anchor18may also be associated with the front passenger seat12band placed at either in the rear48(seeFIG. 1A) of the passenger seat12or integrated into the vehicle roof or floor. Similarly, if the rear passenger seats12c,12d,12eare captains' chairs or if the rear deck46is not present, the upper anchor18may be placed at either the rear48of the passenger seats12c,12d,12e, integrated into the roof, in the floor, or in other body structure (not illustrated). It should be further appreciated that, whileFIG. 4does not include lower anchors16and upper anchor18in passenger (driver) seat12a, lower anchors16and an upper anchor18may be included in the passenger seat12a. Further, while lower anchors16and upper anchors18are included in passenger seats12b,12c,12d,12e, lower anchors16and upper anchors18may be omitted in any of the passenger seats12b,12c,12d,12e, and are often omitted in passenger seat12d.

Turning now toFIG. 5, an aspect of a lower anchor16is illustrated. The lower anchor16includes two anchor legs50a,50b(collectively referred to as anchor legs50), which form T hooks52a,52b(collectively referred to as hooks52) that extend from either side of the lower anchor16. The hooks52a,52bare inserted into openings54(only one opening is illustrated) in the cross member44. In the illustrated aspect, opposing the hooks52a,52bis an anchor attachment loop56, which is accessible to passengers and to which the child safety seat10is coupled to. In additional, or alternative aspects, the anchor attachment loop56is attached to the cross member44by attachment bracket57. The attachment bracket57is configured as a bracket welded to the anchor attachment loop56and the cross member44or otherwise mechanically attached to the cross member44, and anchor attachment loop56. In aspects, the anchor attachment loop56includes two anchor attachment loop side arms58a,58b(collectively58) and an anchor attachment loop bar60extending between the anchor attachment loop side arms58a,58b. The anchor attachment loop bar60is received within the opening40defined by the child safety seat connector34as illustrated inFIG. 3. In other aspects, the anchor attachment loop56assumes other configurations, such as a circle or a rectangle.

In the illustrated aspect, the anchor legs50a,50bextend from the anchor attachment loop56and are optionally welded, or otherwise fastened together between the “j” hooks52a,52b. Further, the anchor attachment loop56includes an optional bridge62between the anchor legs50a,50b. In additional aspects, the lower anchor16is welded, or otherwise fastened by a mechanical fastener64, to the cross member44. The lower anchors16are stationary and do not pivot or rotate relative to the cross member44.

It should be appreciated that, the upper anchor18also includes an anchor attachment loop56, which is received in the opening40of a child safety seat connector34. In aspects, the upper anchor18exhibits the same features as the lower anchors16. Alternatively, the anchor attachment loop56of the upper anchor18may consist of just the anchor attachment loop bar60or may include only the anchor attachment loop bar60and the anchor attachment loop side arms58. Like the lower anchor16, the upper anchor18is affixed directly to a structural member (not illustrated) in the rear deck46, in the floor, in the ceiling, in the rear of a passenger seat12, or to structure in another location in front of or behind the passenger seat12with which it is associated.

FIG. 6AandFIG. 6Billustrate an aspect of an anchor attachment detection sensor30supported by a lower anchor16. It should be appreciated that the description herein applies to lower anchors16and lower anchor attachment detection sensors30aas well as the upper anchor18and the upper anchor attachment detection sensors30b; however, for convenience, reference is made further herein to the lower anchor16and to an anchor attachment detection sensor30. The anchor attachment detection sensor30includes a slide70, a slide mount72, a plate74carried by the slide, a spring76that biases the plate74against the anchor attachment loop bar60, and a sensing device78associated with the slide70, configured to detect a location of the plate74and slide70relative to the anchor attachment loop bar60, or linear displacement, of the plate74and slide70.

When a child safety seat connector34is coupled to the anchor16, the child safety seat connector34applies a force F against the plate74and slide70, pushing the slide70and plate74away from the anchor attachment loop bar60as illustrated by plate74′,74″. For reference, plate74is the plate location when biased against the anchor attachment loop bar60when a child safety seat connector34is not attached and nothing is present between the anchor attachment loop bar60and the plate74. The sensing device78detects the displacement of the slide70(and plate74). In aspects, the sensing device78is selected so as to detect an interaction with the anchor, such as displacement of the slide70and plate74′,74″ relative a fixed point, such as the anchor attachment loop bar60or other fixed point and the change in distance relative to the fixed point. The displacement is a linear displacement in direction D (seeFIGS. 6A and 6B) parallel to plane P. In aspects, the degree of displacement informs the microprocessor control system32of the type of child safety seat connector34being used.

In aspects, the anchor attachment detection sensor30is mounted onto and, in aspects, is fully supported by the lower anchor16. That is, it is not necessary to secure the anchor attachment detection sensor30to other structures associated with the passenger seat12, other than the wires104a,104b(see alsoFIGS. 1 and 6, herein after referred to as wires104a) that carry signals to the microprocessor control system32, and in aspects, the anchor attachment detection sensor30is not supported by any other structures associated with the passenger seat12. However, as described further herein, in alternative aspects, the anchor attachment detection sensor30may be mounted to other structures associated with the vehicle frame or passenger seat12, such as a bezel45or cross member44.

With further reference toFIGS. 6A and 6B, the slide70is mounted aft of the anchor attachment loop bar60relative to the child safety seat10. As referred to herein, “aft” may be understood as being positioned to the rear of the vehicle or behind the anchor attachment loop bar60relative to direction D. The slide70is held in place by the slide mount72, which is affixed to the anchor60in the aspect illustrated. In aspects, and with reference toFIG. 7A, the slide mount72defines an opening80in which the slide70is positioned. The slide70moves through the opening80back and forth relative to the anchor attachment loop bar60in a plane P, or in a plane parallel to a plane P as shown inFIG. 6b, defined by the anchor attachment loop56. In aspects, the slide70may also be supported by the sensing device78or by the plate74.

Reference is now made toFIG. 7A, which illustrates the slide mount72between anchor attachment loop side arms58a,58b. The slide mount72may be attached to anchor attachment loop side arms58a,58bor other nearby structure (as illustrated inFIGS. 7B and 7C). In such an arrangement, the slide70travels in a plane that is parallel to and at the same height as the plane P defined by the anchor attachment loop56. Reference is now made toFIG. 7B, which illustrates the slide mount72affixed to the cross member44. In such an arrangement, the slide70travels in a plane that is parallel to, yet below, the plane P defined by the anchor attachment loop56.FIG. 7Cillustrates yet another aspect, wherein the slide mount72is affixed to a bezel45. The bezel45surrounds the anchor attachment loop56and is coupled, in aspects, to a cross member44or other structure associated with the passenger seat12or vehicle frame.

Referring again toFIG. 6Ain addition toFIGS. 7A through 7C, plate74is mounted on a first end82of the slide70. Plate74contains lateral edges86a,86band longitudinal edges88a,88bas illustrated, inFIG. 8A. The plate74exhibits a first width W1that is wider than the width W2defined between the anchor attachment loop side arms58. To accommodate the anchor attachment loop side arms58, the plate74defines recesses84a,84b(hereinafter recesses84) at either lateral edge86a,86b(hereinafter lateral edges86) of the plate74that receive the anchor attachment loop side arms58and slidably interface with the two anchor attachment loop side arms58. As illustrated inFIG. 8Athe recesses84are generally positioned between the upper longitudinal edge88aand the lower longitudinal edge88b. In alternative embodiments, the positioning of the plate may move up or down, depending on which structure the slide mount72is affixed to, as illustrated inFIGS. 8B and 8C.FIG. 8Billustrates an example wherein, as illustrated inFIG. 7B, the slide mount72is affixed to a cross member44below the anchor attachment loop56, positioning the slide70below the anchor attachment loop56. In this example, the plate74is positioned relatively low and includes openings defined in the corners of upper longitudinal edge88aand lateral edges86.FIG. 8Cillustrates an example wherein, as illustrated inFIG. 7C, the slide mount72is affixed to a bezel45above the anchor attachment loop56, positioning the slide70above the anchor attachment loop56. In this example, the plate74is positioned relatively high and includes openings defined in the corners of lower longitudinal edge88band lateral edges86.

Due to the recesses84the plate74is slidable over the anchor attachment loop side arms58and, in further aspects, the plate rides on, and is supported by, the anchor attachment loop side arms58. It should be appreciated that allowing the plate74to ride over the anchor attachment loop side arms58prevents the slide70and plate74from pivoting or misaligning with the slide mount72which may distort sensor measurements. It should also be appreciated that the plate74can be configured so that it does not interact with anchor attachment loop side arms58if, for example, opening80is structurally sufficient to prevent slide70misalignment as slide70moves through opening80.

Referring again toFIGS. 6A and 6B, in the illustrated aspect, the front face90of the plate74is curved congruous to the interior face92of the anchor attachment loop bar60. In aspects, the curvature of the front face90reduces gaps between the front face90of the plate74and the interior face92of the anchor attachment loop bar60. In alternative aspects, the front face90of the plate74may be flat, without curvature. In aspects, the front face90of the plate74includes a vibration isolation material, including, e.g., cork, felt and synthetic rubber such as neoprene, nitrile, polyisoprene rubber, and polyurethane. In aspects, the vibration isolation material94is adhered to the plate74using an adhesive, such as a hot melt or pressure sensitive adhesive. It may also be heat staked or otherwise mechanically attached. A vibration isolation material may be understood as a material that reduces or mitigates the transfer of vibrations between the plate74and items contacting the front face90of the plate74.

A spring76is placed between the slide mount72and the plate74, biasing the plate74against the anchor attachment loop bar60. While a helical spring is illustrated, the spring76may assume alternative configurations, such as volute spring, a clockspring coil spring (similar to what is used in a seat belt retractor) or a leaf spring if enough travel can be obtained. In the aspect illustrated, the spring76defines a tunnel98in which the slide70is received and through which the slide70passes. However, the spring76may be located adjacent to the slide70, or additional springs (not illustrated) may be provided on either side of the slide70. In another aspect spring76may connect either the plate74or slide70(which is attached to plate74) to a portion of the mounting structure for the anchor attachment loop bar60.

As noted above, a sensing device78is associated with the slide70and is configured to measure an interaction with the anchor attachment sensor30. In aspects, the sensing device78is configured to measure travel of the slide70relative to the anchor attachment bar loop bar60. In the aspect illustrated, the sensing device78is affixed adjacent to the slide70near the second end100of the slide70opposing the first end82. Further, the slide70includes an attached sensible element102or, alternatively, the sensible element102is integrally formed in the slide70allowing the slide travel to be sensed by the sensing device78. Travel of the slide70displaces the sensible element102, which alters the control signals generated by the sensing device78of the anchor attachment sensor30and provided to the microprocessor control system32. In other aspects, the sensing device78is affixed directly to the slide70such as where sensible element102is located and movement of the slide70relative to the stationary surrounding structure, such as the anchor attachment bar60, alters the control signals generated by the sensing device78. A sensible element102can optionally be attached to stationary surrounding structure in this aspect.

In aspects, such as where the sensible element102is a ferromagnetic sensible element102and is formed from a ferromagnetic metallic material, the sensing device78is a metallic proximity sensor, such as a capacitive displacement sensor, Hall Effect sensor, inductive proximity sensor, eddy current sensor, or magnetic sensor. In additional aspects, the sensing device78includes a radar sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, an optical sensor, such as a photoelectric sensor, a photocell, a charged couple sensor, a passive thermal infrared sensor, a radar sensor, or an LED sensor where it can pick up the physical location of the sensible element102. In yet additional aspects, the sensing device78is at least one of a contact type sensor, such as a strain gauge, a spring gauge, pressure sensor, mechanical switch or piezo electric sensor where the sensing device physically interacts with the sensible element102. In further aspects, the sensing device78includes a linear potentiometer such as a linear variable displacement sensor, a linear variable differential transformer, or a linear encoder. As illustrated, the sensing device78is affixed to one of the anchor legs50b. In other embodiments, the sensing device78is affixed to the slide70, a bezel45, or a cross member44or other structure associated with the vehicle.

In aspects, additional sensing devices may be included. In one additional aspect, the additional sensing device79is a force sensor mounted to the front face90of the plate74for measuring changes in force applied to the plate74. The force sensor includes one or more of the following, a strain gauge load cell, a piezoelectric crystal, hydraulic load cell, pneumatic load cell, or other devices.

When the child safety seat connector34is coupled to the anchor attachment loop56, it presses against the plate74in direction D forcing the plate74and the slide70back in direction D, which causes variation of the control signal value. For example, in aspects the control signal values, which may be represented by e.g., voltage, current, resistance (ohm), time delay, frequency, etc., increase the further the plate74is pushed away from the anchor attachment loop bar60in direction D.FIG. 9Aillustrates an example of an increase in control signal value (Axis B) and distance traveled (Axis A) upon pushing the plate74back and away from the anchor attachment loop bar60. While the relationship, represented by line C, is illustrated as a mathematically linear relationship between distance on Axis A and control signal value on Axis B (wherein the values of distance and control signal increase as the axes depart from the origin), the relationship between distance and control signal value may exhibit other mathematical functions depending on the type of sensing device selected. Further, while an increasing relationship is illustrated, an inverse relationship may be exhibited, wherein the control signal value may be reduced with an increase in distance of the plate74and slide70from the anchor attachment loop bar60.

In aspects, predetermined threshold control signal values or value ranges are set for various positions of the plate74relative to the anchor attachment loop bar60. For example, an installation threshold control signal value may be set, wherein above this value the microprocessor control system32determines that a child safety seat connector34is coupled to an anchor attachment loop bar60or a foreign object is present and forcing the plate74away from the anchor attachment loop bar60. In another example, when the control signal values occur within a given predetermined range, the microprocessor control system32determines that either 1) the plate74is positioned against the anchor attachment loop bar60; or 2) the plate74is located in a position correlated to the connection of a child safety seat connector34to the anchor attachment loop56.

FIG. 9Billustrates a chart of increasing control signal value (SV), which correlates to an increasing distance from the anchor attachment loop bar60. A first predetermined control signal range, indicated on the line as “Home” H, represents the situation where the front face90of the plate74is positioned against the anchor attachment loop bar60, when a child safety seat connector34or foreign object is not present. When the microprocessor control system32receives a control signal and identifies that the control signal value is within this range, the microprocessor control system32indicates that the plate74is positioned against to the anchor attachment loop bar60without a child safety seat connector34coupled to the anchor16.

As the plate74is pushed away from the anchor attachment bar loop bar60, in the illustrated diagram, the control signal increases and may cross an “Installation Threshold” IT, as described above. When the microprocessor control system32receives a control signal value within the range indicated as “First Connector Style CC” CC, the microprocessor control system32indicates that there is a child safety seat connector34, such as in the form of child safety seat connector34illustrated inFIG. 2C, coupled to the anchor16. When the microprocessor control system32receives a control signal value within the range indicated as “Second Connector Style” SC, the microprocessor control system32indicates that there is a child safety seat connector34in the form of child safety seat connectors34illustrated inFIGS. 2A and 2Bcoupled to the anchor16.

If the control signal value of the sensing device78is greater than the range indicating that the plate74is in the “Home” H position adjacent to the anchor attachment loop bar60and falls outside of the additional predetermined ranges, such as the ranges noted above indicating a “First Connector Style” CC or a “Second Connector Style” SC is affixed to the anchor attachment loop bar60, then the microprocessor control system32identifies a foreign object is present between the plate74and the anchor attachment loop bar60. The microprocessor control system32may then take a ride action associated with the presence of a foreign object in the anchor attachment loop56including issuing a warning indicator, such as an auditory indicator, visual indicator, haptic indicator, or a combination of these indicators; performing a ride action, such as stopping a ride in progress or not initiating a ride; or both issuing a warning indicator and performing a ride action.

While only three control signal value ranges are described above, additional value ranges may be predetermined, such as for a child safety seat connector configuration that is not illustrated inFIGS. 2A through 2C. Further, it should be appreciated that sensor fault conditions may be detected. For example, if the sensing device78is configured to provide an increasing control signal value as the slide70is moved away from the attachment anchor loop bar60and the lower level for indicating the “Home” control signal value is set at a level greater than 0, then the microprocessor control system32will always detect a control signal value. With such a configuration, if the sensing device78stops functioning and stops transmitting a control signal, the microprocessor control system32will detect the control signal value as zero and indicate that the sensing device78is malfunctioning. Further, an upper threshold for the control signal value may be set, such as when the slide70is forced as far back as possible against the slide mount72. If the microprocessor control system32detects a control signal value greater than this level, the microprocessor control system32may indicate that the sensing device78is malfunctioning. In addition, if the microprocessor control system32detects a control signal value at this level for a certain period of time, the microprocessor control system32may indicate that the sensing device78is malfunctioning.

Accordingly, a method200is provided for herein for detecting, not only the placement of an object, such as a child safety seat connector34, between the plate74and an anchor attachment bar60but also for making a determination of the type of child safety seat connector34connected to the anchor attachment bar60or if a foreign object is placed between the anchor attachment loop bar60and plate74. Beginning at block202, the plate74is determined to be in the “Home” position, i.e., where the plate74is positioned against the anchor attachment loop bar60and the sensing device78is issuing a control signal to the microprocessor control system32, which the microprocessor control system32determines the value to be within the “Home” range.

In the next step at block204, the microprocessor control system32makes a determination as to whether the control signal issued by the sensing device78to the microprocessor control system32is greater than the Installation Threshold value (SEEFIG. 9B). If it is determined at block204that the control signal value is below the “Installation Threshold” IT of any child safety seat connector34, then a determination is made whether the plate74is at the “Home” position. In an additional aspect, if the control signal value is greater than the value of the “Home” range but less than the installation value, a determination may be made that a foreign object is placed between the plate74and the anchor attachment loop bar60.

If the microprocessor control system32determines at block204that the control signal is greater than the “Installation Threshold” IT, in aspects a determination may be made that a child safety seat connector34is coupled to the anchor attachment loop bar60. However, it is feasible that a foreign object may alternatively be present between the plate74and the anchor attachment loop bar60.

Further, it should be appreciated that upon securing a child safety seat connector34to an anchor16, it may be necessary to secure the child safety seat connector34to push the connector34in direction D (seeFIG. 6B) further away from the anchor attachment loop bar60than where the plate74rests when the child safety seat connector34is secured to the anchor attachment loop bar60. Thus, a determination of the type of child safety seat connector34being used may not be made based on, e.g., the largest control signal value received by the microprocessor control system32from the sensing device78, but rather by a control signal value measured after a given time period accommodating for the securing of a child safety seat connector34to the anchor attachment loop bar60.

With the above in mind, in further optional aspects, at block206the microprocessor control system32waits for a given time period after plate74motion has occurred or via a series of measurements over an amount of time, which confirms that the plate74has stopped moving, on the order of a few seconds to a minute, before determining and communicating the location of the plate74based on the control signal received from the sensing device78. After the time period expires, at block208, the microprocessor control system32determines whether the control signal value is greater than the “Installation Threshold” IT, if the control signal value is determined by the microprocessor control system32to be less than the “Installation Threshold” IT, then the process begins again at block202.

If the microprocessor control system32determines that the control signal value issued by the sensing device78is greater than the “Installation Threshold” IT at block208then a determination is made as to the type of child safety seat connector34is coupled to the anchor attachment loop bar60at block210or if a foreign object has been placed in the anchor attachment loop56.

For example, at block210, a determination is made by the microprocessor control system32as to whether the control signal value issued by the sensing device is in a range that indicates a “First Connector Style” CC, such as a child safety seat connector34illustrated inFIG. 2C, is attached to the anchor attachment loop bar60at block212or in the range that indicates a “Second Connector Style” SC, such as a child safety seat connector34illustrated inFIGS. 2A and 2Bis connected to the anchor attachment loop bar60at block214. In aspects, upon determining that a connector34is attached to the anchor attachment loop bar60, the microprocessor control system32disables an airbag112that is associated with the passenger seat12. While the airbag112is illustrated as being positioned forward of the passenger seat12and anchor16, airbags may additionally or alternatively be located in other positions, such as on either side of a passenger seat12. In another aspect, upon determining that a connector34is attached to the anchor attachment loop bar60, a signal can be sent to the microprocessor control system32that the child safety seat10is attached to the vehicle at this particular passenger seat12. In yet further aspects, upon determining that a connector34is attached to the anchor attachment loop bar60, additional or alternative ride actions may be taken, such as permitting a ride, communicating the presence of the child safety seat10to other control modules associated with a passenger seat12or vehicle, or the taking of personalized vehicle actions, such as the dimming of lights, the provision of particular music or sounds, limiting the types of music that may be played, dimly illuminating the child safety seat so a parent may observe a child secured in the child safety seat, etc.

If the control signal value falls outside of these ranges or any other programmed ranges after the plate74has stopped moving, then a determination is made by the microprocessor control system32that a foreign object is present in between the plate74and the anchor attachment loop bar60at block216. If the determination is made that a foreign object is present, the microprocessor control system32may issue a warning to the occupant or perform a ride action, such as ending a ride in progress or not beginning a new ride.

In additional aspects, as alluded to above, the method200also determines whether the ties20coupled to the child safety seat connectors34are flexible or rigid at block210. In such a method, a second anchor attachment sensor30is connected to a second anchor16associated with a given passenger seat12, wherein the second anchor attachment sensor30includes the same, or substantially the same, components as the anchor attachment sensor30described above. Thus, the second anchor attachment sensor30will include a second sensing device78which transmits a second control signal having a second value to the microprocessor control system32. At block210, the microprocessor control system32measures a lapsed time period between the receipt of the first control signal and second control signal indicating that a child safety seat connector34is coupled to each anchor16. If the lapsed time period is simultaneous or within less than a few seconds, such as less than a predetermined time period of 10 seconds or less, or 5 seconds or less, or 1 second or less, the microprocessor control system32determines the ties20are rigid. Otherwise, if it takes more than a few seconds, such as more than a predetermined time period of 5 seconds, the microprocessor control system32determines that the ties20are flexible.

In aspects, the method200is initiated at vehicle start, the opening of a door, or by the triggering of another sensor (not illustrated) such as a pressure sensor under the passenger seat12or an in-cabin sensor such as a camera. Further, the method200may be repeated at given intervals while the vehicle is in accessory mode or at given intervals while the vehicle engine is running or the vehicle is either moving or stationary.

An anchor attachment detection sensor of the present disclosure offers several advantages. These include the ability to detect the connection of a child safety seat connector to an anchor attachment loop of an anchor. The anchor attachment detection sensors are also relatively low profile compared to anchor attachment detection sensors affixed to other locations relative to the anchor. Further, the anchor attachment detection sensors may be easily interchanged by removing the anchor itself or replacing the sensor mechanism, without the need to replace other components in the passenger seat.