System Description

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 Lexus RX 350. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

DESCRIPTION OF OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM
1. GENERAL DESCRIPTION.
  1. In the occupant classification system, the occupant classification ECU calculates the weight of the occupant based on a signal from the occupant classification sensors. This system recognizes the occupant as a child if it detects a weight of less than 36 kg (79.37 lb), and disables the front passenger airbag and side airbag (front passenger side).
  2. This system is mainly comprised of 4 occupant classification sensors that detect the load on the front passenger seat. The occupant classification ECU controls the system, and the passenger airbag ON/OFF indicator indicates the ON/OFF condition of the front passenger airbag and side airbag (front passenger side).
2. OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION SENSOR.
  
  Fig 1: Description For Occupant Classification System
  Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
  1. The occupant classification sensors are installed on the 4 brackets connecting the seat rail and seat frame. Accordingly, when load is applied to the front passenger seat by an occupant sitting in it, the occupant classification sensors register a distortion.
3. DESCRIPTION FOR PASSENGER AIRBAG ON/OFF INDICATOR.
  1. The passenger airbag ON/OFF indicator is installed on the center cluster integration switch assembly (without LEXUS navigation system) or multi-display assembly (with LEXUS navigation system). This indicator informs the driver whether the occupant classification ECU puts the front passenger airbag assembly into an active state or inactive state.
  2. If a malfunction occurs in the occupant classification system, "OFF" indication of the passenger airbag ON/OFF indicator and the SRS warning light come on.
    
    Fig 2: Identifying Passenger Airbag ON/OFF Indicator
    Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002