Occupant Classification Sensor (OCS) System

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 Ford Mustang. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The occupant classification sensor (OCS) system is found only on the front passenger seat. The front passenger seat OCS system is comprised of a silicone gel-filled bladder mounted in the seat cushion, a pressure sensor that is mounted to the seat frame and an occupant classification system module (OCSM) which is also mounted to the seat frame. Pressure is applied to the OCS system bladder when the weight of any occupant or object in the front passenger seat is sensed. The pressure is then transferred through a tube, is sensed by the OCS system pressure sensor, then electronically communicated to the OCSM system. Based on preprogrammed set points (Empty, Below Threshold, Indeterminate and/or Above Threshold), the OCSM will inform the restraints control module (RCM) of the necessary information via a dedicated high-speed controller area network (HS-CAN). The RCM uses this information in determining if the passenger air bag module is to be deployed in the event of a deployable collision. The RCM may also use this information to illuminate/not illuminate the passenger air bag deactivation (PAD) indicator.

When an OCS system fault is present, the OCSM communicates the fault information to the RCM. Upon receiving the fault information from the OCSM, the RCM will illuminate the air bag warning indicator or the air bag warning chime will be activated (if an air bag warning indicator fault is present). The supplemental restraint system (SRS) then defaults the passenger air bag module to ON (activated) regardless of the size of the occupant in the front outboard passenger seat.

The OCS system is also used for operation of the passenger Belt-Minder®. For information on the passenger Belt-Minder® feature, refer to SAFETY BELT SYSTEM . To deactivate or reactivate the passenger Belt-Minder® feature, refer to INSTRUMENT CLUSTER (IC), MESSAGE CENTER, AND WARNING CHIMES or the Owner's Literature.

The OCSM components (seat cushion foam pad, bladder with pressure sensor and OCSM) are calibrated to each other and are serviced as an assembly. OCS system components are not to be installed separately .

The OCSM also interprets a variable voltage signal provided by the safety belt tension sensor to identify the presence of a properly fastened child safety seat in the front outboard passenger seat. The OCSM then communicates with the RCM, automatically deactivating the passenger air bag module. Refer to Safety Belt Tension Sensor .