Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide methods and apparatus for controlling seats and for monitoring behavior of power-actuated seats. Certain embodiments permit seat occupancy data, e.g., whether the seat is occupied or a weight-dependent characteristic of the occupant of the seat, to be collected by moving a part of the seat with an actuator. This seat occupancy data may then be used to control other aspects of the seat operation, e.g., set an operational limit of the actuator or reduce auxiliary power to other systems associated with the seat if the seat is unoccupied. For example, part of the seat may be moved with a first actuator, including detecting a control parameter at which the part of the seat begins moving. This control parameter may be correlated to an actuator limit.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide methods and apparatus for controlling seats and for monitoring behavior of power-actuated seats. Certain embodiments permit seat occupancy data, e.g., whether the seat is occupied or a weight-dependent characteristic of the occupant of the seat, to be collected by moving a part of the seat with an actuator. This seat occupancy data may then be used to control other aspects of the seat operation, e.g., set an operational limit of the actuator or reduce auxiliary power to other systems associated with the seat if the seat is unoccupied. For example, part of the seat may be moved with a first actuator, including detecting a control parameter at which the part of the seat begins moving. This control parameter may be correlated to an actuator limit.