Load limiter for strain gauge occupant classification sensor

• US 20060054766A1
• Filed: 09/13/2004
• Published: 03/16/2006
• Est. Priority Date: 09/13/2004
• Status: Active Grant

• Current Assignee: FCA US LLC (Stellantis NV)
• Original Assignee: Chrysler LLC (Stellantis NV)
• Inventors: Sulkowski, Michael, Al-Khairy, Issam
• Granted Patent: US 7,297,880 B2
• Time in Patent Office: Days
• US Class Current: 248/346.10
• CPC Class Codes: B60R 2021/01006 Mounting of electrical components in vehicles
• CPC Class Codes: B60R 21/01516 using force or pressure sensing means
• CPC Class Codes: G01G 19/4142 for controlling activation of safety devices, e.g. airbag systems electrical circuits for triggering safety arrangements in case of vehicle accidents B60R21/015

Abstract

An over-travel protection device for mounting an occupant classification sensor having a deflecting member, the sensor being mounted between first and second seat mounting portions, is described. The device has a sensor plate positioned adjacent the occupant classification sensor and a spacer having a land. The spacer is positioned adjacent to the occupant classification sensor. A compliant element is located between the sensor plate and the second seat mounting portion. The land is spaced from the first mounting portion until the deflecting member deflects a predetermined amount, causing the land to abut the first seat mounting portion and thereby preventing further displacement of the deflecting member.

Claims

1. An over-travel protection device for mounting an occupant classification sensor having a deflecting member, the sensor being mounted between first and second seat mounting portions, said device comprising:

a sensor plate positioned adjacent the occupant classification sensor;

a spacer having a land, said spacer being positioned adjacent to the occupant classification sensor; and

a compliant element located between said sensor plate and the second seat mounting portion, said land being spaced from the first mounting portion until the deflecting member deflects a predetermined amount, causing the land to abut the first seat mounting portion and thereby preventing further displacement of the deflecting member.

2. The device of claim 1 wherein said first seat mounting portion comprises a seat rail and said second seat mounting portion comprises a seat riser.

3. The device of claim 1 further comprising a washer, said washer forming a second land spaced from the first mounting portion until the deflecting member deflects a predetermined amount in a negative direction, causing the second land to abut the first seat mounting portion and thereby preventing further displacement of the deflecting member.

4. The device of claim 3 further comprising a fastener for securing said spacer, washer, and the occupant classification sensor to the second seat mounting portion.

5. The device of claim 4 wherein said sensor plate has a clearance hole disposed therein, said clearance hole allowing said fastener to enter therein.

6. The device of claim 3 wherein said first and second lands abut an orifice periphery of said first seat mounting portion to prevent further displacement of the deflecting member.