Abstract: A weight measurement system for automatically calibrating weight sensors installed on a motor vehicle seat. The system performs a calibrate operation whenever a valid weight measurement window is found. A valid weight measurement window is defined by the seat being empty, an associated door being open and an associated seat buckle being unlatched. The system operates in a factory install mode to establish a reference zero set value and in a diagnostic mode to establish a temporary zero set value that reflects drift of the weight sensors. The temporary zero set value is used by a weight management program to control occupant restraint devices. The weight sensor has an integral body with two lands connected by an elastomeric beam. The elastomeric beam has a pair of opposed surfaces that define a region of minimum thickness and one or more regions of maximum thickness. A resistive strain gauge element is disposed on the region of minimum thickness.

Abstract: An air bag (20) having a face portion (22) and a rear portion (24) generally opposite the face portion which define a cushion inflatable in response to inflation gas. The rear portion is closed with the exception of two inflator receiving openings (28a,b) for receipt of an inflator (50). The body of the inflator is received through both openings.

Abstract: An air bag comprising: an upper panel (102) and a lower panel (104) both of woven material sewn together forming a generally circular structure and a tether unit or assembly (116, 118a, 118b, 130a, 130b) of the same material as one of the upper and lower panels for controlling the shape of the air bag as same is inflated by inflation gas and for absorbing a shock load created upon inflation. The tether assembly comprises a central portion (116) secured to the upper panel and only two tethers (118a, 188b) extending oppositely therefrom all of integral construction and being of sufficient strength such that each tether can separately withstand the shock load created upon inflation without being damaged. Fabric reinforcements (130a, 130b) are also provided to secure the tethers to the lower panel.