Abstract: A multi-electrode capacitive sensor is introduced to measure a spatial distribution of impedances to ground. The sensor can be used to identify the location of the highest impedance on the seating surface and can be a two-electrode sensor with a first electrode covering a central zone of a seat cushion and a second electrode with two galvanically connected electrode members, wherein each electrode member covers one side region of the seat cushion such that the first antenna electrode is arranged between the two electrode members of the second antenna electrode, or a two-electrode sensor with a left and right design. By measuring the difference of the impedance to ground between the two zones the system can get a simplified picture of the impedance distribution on the seating surface. This information can be used to distinguish between grounded structures such as (ISOFIX) child restraint systems and human occupants.

Abstract: A multi-electrode capacitive sensor is introduced to measure a spatial distribution of impedances to ground. The sensor can be used to identify the location of the highest impedance on the seating surface and can be a two-electrode sensor with a first electrode covering a central zone of a seat cushion and a second electrode with two galvanically connected electrode members, wherein each electrode member covers one side region of the seat cushion such that the first antenna electrode is arranged between the two electrode members of the second antenna electrode, or a two-electrode sensor with a left and right design. By measuring the difference of the impedance to ground between the two zones the system can get a simplified picture of the impedance distribution on the seating surface. This information can be used to distinguish between grounded structures such as (ISOFIX) child restraint systems and human occupants.

Abstract: In addition to the loading mode of a capacitive sensing device of a seat occupancy detection and classification system, a second measurement mode is introduced, which allows a discrimination of objects (CRS or human) with and without grounding condition. Depending on the value of the new measurement, the data is allocated to different groups which are subject to different thresholds in the loading mode. This means that if the new measurement indicates a grounding condition of the object, a higher threshold in the loading mode will be applied. In this way CRS with grounding condition will be classified by means of the higher threshold, resulting in a robustness increase. Typical human sitting positions do not show a grounding condition and will be classified by the lower threshold.

Abstract: A capacitive sensor member of a seat occupant classification device for use in seats, in particular in vehicle seats. The capacitive sensor member includes at least one electrically conductive sense electrode that has an optimized shape for use in vehicle seats equipped with child restraint system anchorages. A capacitive seat occupant classification system is provided that includes the capacitive sensor member.

Abstract: A vehicle seat occupancy classification system having at least one weight-responsive sensor, including a supporting plate, a collecting plate, a hinge member mechanically connecting the supporting plate and the collecting plate, at least one elastic spring member, and a position sensor that is configured to determine a gap dimension between the supporting plate and the collecting plate. The occupancy seat classification system includes an evaluation unit that is configured to receive the output signal from the position sensor and to provide a seat occupant classification based on a level of the received output signal and at least a first pre-determined threshold value of the output signal.