Abstract: An apparatus (10) for controlling actuation of at least one actuatable protection device (18, 20, 22, 24) includes a controller (26) having a first sensor input effective to receive a first sensor signal (64, 66, 70) having a value indicative of a first condition of an occupant of the vehicle seat (14, 16). The apparatus (10) also includes a second sensor input effective to receive a second sensor signal (82, 84, 86, 88, 94) having a value indicative of a second condition of the occupant of the vehicle seat (14, 16). The controller (26) is operative to determine a default value for the value of the first sensor signal (64, 66, 70) upon determining that the value of the first sensor signal is either outside an expected range of values or is absent. The controller (26) is operative to provide a control signal (136, 174, 176) to control actuation of at least one actuatable protection device (18, 20, 22, 24).

Abstract: A vehicle rollover sensor (10) includes an optical transmitter (80) for providing a light beam (86) extending in a first direction (36) and an optical receiver (90) for receiving the light beam. A movable member (40) when in a first orientation enables the light beam (86) from the optical transmitter (80) to be directed to the optical receiver (90). The movable member (40) when in a second orientation prevents at least a part of the light beam (86) from being directed to the optical receiver (90). The movable member (40) is supported on the vehicle for movement between the first and second orientations in a direction transverse to the first direction (36), in response to rolling movement of the vehicle of a predetermined amount relative to the first direction. An inertia mass (60) is connected with the movable member (40) to maintain the movable member in a predetermined orientation relative to the ground surface on which the vehicle is disposed.