Seat belt tension measurement device using a bend sensor

摘要

A vehicle seat belt tension measurement apparatus comprises a seat belt deflecting device that forces a seat belt to travel a circuitous path. As seat belt tension increases the deflecting device is displaced. A bend sensor having an output signal responsive to a change in the radius of curvature thereof is secured to the deflecting device at a point subject to flexure as a result of increased seat belt tension. An air bag control system processor operatively coupled to the bend sensor inhibits the deployment of the air bag upon detection of a predetermined seat belt tension.