The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Feb. 10, 2004
Filed:
Aug. 20, 2001
Matthew J. Knox, Romulus, MI (US);
Joshua Forwerck, Troy, MI (US);
Autoliv ASP, Inc., Ogden, UT (US);
Abstract
A microstrain sensor is provided for measuring deformation, and indirectly, other parameters such as acceleration, temperature, pressure, and force. Rather than providing several discreet resistance paths, the microstrain sensor utilizes input and output conductors connected to a single piece of film through which current travels to indicate resistance. The film provides superior resistance to external effects, such as temperature gradients, that decrease the accuracy of the sensor's readings. Such sensors may be easily adapted for use in situations in which opposing stresses are present, such as dually constrained members, by disposing separate or unitary film sections on opposite sides of a zero stress point, such as a central plane of a fixed-guided beam. Such sensors may be utilized in many different applications, including automotive safety systems. The automotive safety system may utilize sensors to measure weight-in-seat, frame deformation, acceleration, seat belt tension, and other parameters in order to properly control safety elements of the vehicle such as seat belts and airbag systems. Such a sensor may be installed in a seat belt buckle to indicate the lath/unlatch characteristic of the seat belt, as well as the tension in the belt.