Sensor, Occupant Detection: Description

Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC

An Occupant Detection Sensor (ODS) is standard equipment in this vehicle. There may be up to three sensors in the vehicle, depending on seating configuration. There is one ODS located directly below the passenger side seat cushion trim cover in every seating configuration. In models equipped with an optional passenger bench seat, there is another ODS located directly below the center seating position of the seat cushion trim cover. In models that are equipped with a diesel engine, there is another ODS located directly below the driver side seat cushion trim cover. The two passenger sensors provide information to the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) used for control of the passenger belt alert feature. The driver sensor provides information to the ORC used for control of the Electronic Parking Brake (EPB).

Each ODS consists of a flexible clear plastic sensor mat (1) containing several resistive membrane, force sensing resistor cells that is secured by an adhesive strip (3) to the top surface of the seat cushion foam. The adhesive patch on the ODS is a one time only material and cannot be reactivated or reused if removed.

A short, two-conductor pigtail wire and connector (5) connect the sensor to the vehicle electrical system through a dedicated take out and connector of the seat wire harness. A hot melt adhesive block (4) encapsulates and protects the connections between the electrical conductors in the tail of the sensor mat and the pigtail wires as well as a diagnostic resistor.

The ODS cannot be adjusted or repaired, and must be replaced if damaged or ineffective.