Abstract: A strain sensor includes a metal plate, a first glass layer on the metal plate, a second glass layer provided on the first glass layer and having a color different from that of the first glass layer, an electrode on the second glass layer, a strain-sensitive resistor on the second glass layer, a circuit pattern on the second glass layer for connecting the electrode to the strain-sensitive resistor, and an overcoat glass layer for covering the strain-sensitive resistor and the circuit pattern. The strain sensor allows the layers to be identified while being manufactured, hence being controlled easily in its manufacturing processes.

Abstract: A sensor for a vehicle belt retractor includes a housing, an excitation mass, a locking mechanism which locks the belt retractor, and a lever arm connected to the housing. The lever arm is in contact with the excitation mass and engages the locking mechanism when the excitation mass moves relative to the housing. The sensor further includes a damper that restricts vertical displacement of the excitation mass relative to the housing.

Abstract: A radial movement capacitive torque sensor includes a pair of concentric capacitor plate rings lying in a common plane, a capacitor plate ring facing the pair of concentric capacitor plate rings, and a paddle assembly disposed between the pair of concentric capacitor plate rings and the capacitor plate ring. The paddle assembly includes a first rotor having a circular opening and having at least one pair of spaced apart bearings mounted thereon, a second rotor having a circular opening and having at least one pivot point located thereon, and at least one paddle having a dielectric head, a curved neck and a body. The curved neck is disposed between a corresponding one of said at least one pair of spaced bearings, and the body is pivotally coupled to a corresponding one of said at least one pivot point.