Inertial sensor for motor vehicle safety appts. - has resistive tracks coupled to diagnostic circuit to control trigger of external device e.g. inflatable cushion

摘要

An inertial sensor, e.g. a Rolamit sensor, has a roller (24) that ties on a curved surface with a strip contact layer (44) of a flexible material, such as a beryllium-nickel alloy. The strip is fixed in position by welds it either end (48, 56). In the nomial position the roller ties against a stop (2). A contact strip (96) projects through a slot in the base. When the retardation of the vehicle is sufficient the roller moves along the surface to engage the strip and complete a circuit to cause the triggering of air-bag inflation. USE - Resistive element senses movement of roller.