Abstract: An occupant weight sensing system includes a loading rod, which replaces a seat height adjuster pivot bolt and extends away from a seat height adjuster link. A sensing element is mounted at the opposing end of the loading rod. When force is applied the loading rod acts as a cantilever to transfer radial force to the sensing element. A plurality of strain gages are arranged down the center of the sensing element to provide a measurement of strain on the sensing element. The loading rod flexes to transfer any excessive force to a seat bracket. The sensing element has a low sensitivity to axial forces to avoid requiring additional mechanical components to protect the sensing element.

Abstract: An inflator for an airbag includes a container defining and outer surface and an inner compartment. A plurality of igniters are disposed within the inner compartment and are operably associated with a gas-generating unit. Each gas-generating unit is formed by a pair of matched stamped housings. Bushing separate and secure the gas-generating units in place along the outer surface of the container. Each gas-generating unit defines an annular chamber filled with gas generating material. Each of the igniters within the container are independently ignitable and are mechanically isolated from each other to prevent actuation of one igniter in response to the actuation of an adjacent igniter. The igniters are independently actuated to control the magnitude of inflation force of the airbag.

Abstract: A vehicle occupant proximity sensor includes a transmitting electrode in a vehicle seat and an array of receiving electrodes mounted in a vehicle headliner above the vehicle seat. The sensor determines the capacitance at each of the receiving electrodes, which varies based upon the proximity of the occupant to each receiving electrode, thus producing an array of proximity information indicating in two dimensions the position of the occupant.

Abstract: A vehicle occupant proximity sensor includes a transmitting electrode in a vehicle seat and an array of receiving electrodes mounted in the vehicle seat. The sensor determines the capacitance at each of the receiving electrodes, which varies based upon the proximity of the occupant to each receiving electrode, thus producing an array of proximity information indicating in two dimensions the position of the occupant.