Marcie M Miller

US Patent:

20180059279, Mar 1, 2018

Filed:

Dec 21, 2016

Appl. No.:

15/387183

Inventors:

Marcie M. Miller - Chandler AZ, US
Roderick E. Kronschnabel - Chandler AZ, US
Matthew J. Schneider - Chandler AZ, US
Rene J. Sanchez - Chandler AZ, US
Christopher L. Ross - Phoenix AZ, US
Ryan R. Carnaghi - Chandler AZ, US
Keith A. Swesey - Prescott AZ, US
Kevin Edwards - Chandler AZ, US
Steven W. Whitehorn - Gilbert AZ, US
Cecilia Yancy - Gilbert AZ, US
Thomas V. Moss - Chandler AZ, US

International Classification:

G01V 3/08

Abstract:

A capacitive proximity sensor may include a proximity sensing capacitor to provide a voltage output based on a voltage input, the capacitor including a ground plane and an electrode loop capacitively coupled to the ground plane. The proximity sensor may include a processor to detect an object proximity based on a change in the voltage output. This proximity sensor provides automated detection of a person, and thereby reduces the need for a vehicle occupant or child caregiver to activate a sensor by pressing a button. The use of a capacitance-based proximity sensor reduces issues associated with fabric, clothing, or other materials separating the proximity sensor from a person.