Abstract: A method of calibrating an occupant classification sensor (16) includes receiving a calibration signal originating from an on-board vehicle calibration device (24). A calibration task is performed that includes the initialization of an occupant classification sensor (16). A baseline is generated for the occupant classification sensor (16) in response to the calibration signal. Performance confirmation of the calibration task is indicated.

Abstract: Multi-layer polyelectrolyte membranes are described wherein at least one of the layers contains at least one acrylic resin or vinyl resin having at least one ionic or ionizable group, and at least one additional polymer. The polymer has small or large domain sizes with respect to the acrylic resin or vinyl resin that is present in one or more layers. The polymer preferably has improved conductivity when formed into a film. The membranes are useful in batteries, fuel cells, and the like.

Abstract: A polymer or blend is described which contains at least one acrylic resin or vinyl resin having at least one ionic or ionizable group, and at least one additional polymer. The polymer has small domain sizes with respect to the acrylic resin or vinyl resin. The polymer preferably has improved conductivity when formed into a film. Preferably, the polymers are useful in a variety of applications including in the formation of a membrane which is useful in batteries and fuel cells and the like. Methods of making the polymer blends are also described.

Abstract: A device (20) for an automotive vehicle (10) is provided to indicate the buckled and unbuckled status of a seatbelt (24). The device (20) has a self-powered wireless switch assembly (22) that is coupled to the seatbelt (24). It provides power to power a wireless transmitter (44) to transmit a wireless signal (45) corresponding to the buckled and unbuckled state of the seatbelt (24). The self-powered wireless switch assembly (22) harvests energy from the mechanical action of the seatbelt (24). The device (20) transmits a wireless signal (45) indicating the seatbelt (24) status. The receiver (18) located in the automotive vehicle (10) receives the wireless signal (45). The wireless signal (45) is processed by a safety information system (12) and then visually and audibly displayed by an indicator (16) to alert the driver of the seatbelt (24) status.

Abstract: This polymeric composition comprises a blend of polymers comprising: (a) a semi-crystalline fluorinated polymer, (b) an acrylic polymer, and is characterized in that it additionally comprises: (c) from 0.01 to 20% by weight, with respect to the total weight of the semi-crystalline fluorinated polymer and of the acrylic polymer, of a nucleating agent in the form of particles having a melting point greater than that of the semi-crystalline fluorinated polymer. These compositions result in formulations in the form of dry powders or of powders in suspension in water or in a latent solvent for the semi-crystalline fluorinated polymer. Applied to a substrate, these formulations give, by baking, glossy and stable coatings comprising spherulites with a size of less than 5 ?m.

Abstract: A non-perfluoropolymer is described which contains at least one acrylic resin or vinyl resin having at least one ionic or ionizable group and optionally at least one additional polymer. Preferably, the polymers are useful in a variety of applications including in the formation of a membrane which is useful in batteries and fuel cells and the like. Methods of making the polymer blends are also described.