摘要 |
An apparatus and method for measuring the weight of an occupant of a seat is described. The weight of the occupant can be determined by measuring the deflection of a portion of the seat. This may be accomplished through the use of a magnet and Hall-effect sensor, wherein deflection of a portion of the seat may cause a change in the distance between the magnet and the Hall-effect sensor. This change in distance may result in a change in intensity measured by the sensor, which can then be correlated to the weight of the occupant. Particular application may be made to measuring the weight of an occupant of an automobile, for purposes such as safety and ergonomics, and more readily to assist in the development of improved airbag deployment strategies.
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