Abstract: An axle assembly includes a housing, a first shaft rotatably positioned in the housing, and a second shaft rotatably positioned in the housing. A power transfer mechanism is also positioned in the housing and operable to selectively transmit rotary power between the first and second shafts. An actuator having a linearly moveable member is operable to drivingly engage the moveable member with the power transfer mechanism to cause power transmission between the first and second shafts. A sensor circuit is positioned within the housing and operable to output a signal indicative of the linear position of the moveable member. The sensor circuit includes first and second Hall effect devices electrically connected such that only two electrical terminals extend through the housing.

Abstract: An axle assembly includes a housing having first and second shafts rotatably positioned in the housing. A power transfer mechanism is also positioned in the housing and selectively operable to transmit rotary power between the first and second shafts. An actuator is operable to move a linearly moveable member of the power transfer mechanism. A sensor circuit is positioned within the housing and operable to output a signal having a frequency that varies in accordance with the position of the linearly moveable member, thereby indicating an operating state of the power transfer mechanism.

Abstract: A power transmitting device including a housing having an input shaft, at least one output shaft and a gear set positioned in the housing. The gear set transmits rotary power between the input shaft and the output shaft. An electrical actuator includes a linearly moveable member and is operable to drivingly engage the moveable member with the gear set. A sensor is positioned within the housing and operable to output a signal indicative of the linear position of the moveable member.

Abstract: A vehicle seat assembly includes a sensor assembly that is used to provide data for an occupant classification system. The data is used to determine such characteristics as seat occupant weight and position. These characteristics are used to control deployment of a safety restraint mechanism such as an airbag. The sensor assembly is part of a mat that is placed on top of a foam cushion used to form a seat bottom. Fasteners are used to permanently attach the mat to the foam to restrict lateral and vertical movement of the mat relative to the foam.