Retractable door handles

Abstract

This disclosure provides a "deployable door handle". A door handle is provided, comprising: a deployable handle body located on a door; keyboard contacts on the outer side of the handle body; an actuator configured to deploy the handle to an deployed position; a plurality of proximity sensors located on the handle body and generating an activation field; and a controller that processes signals generated by the sensors to determine input commands for controlling the actuator and to determine keyboard input. The controller can sense ice on the handle and determine the ice thickness, and can control the actuator based on the ice thickness to break the ice.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates generally to electric doors, and more specifically to electric doors that sense door control inputs by proximity sensing. Background Technology

[0002] Motor vehicles include various door assemblies for allowing access to the vehicle, such as passenger doors that allow access to the passenger compartment. Doors typically include a door handle and a latch assembly that locks the door in a closed position and can be operated by a user to unlock the door to allow it to open. The door can pivot between an open position and a closed position or slide on a track. Some doors are equipped with motors to provide electric door opening assistance. Upon receiving user input, the motor actuates the door to the open or closed position. Some doors also employ deployable handles. Door controls that will provide enhanced functionality are desired. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to one aspect of the present invention, a vehicle door handle is provided. The vehicle door handle includes: an extendable handle body; an actuator configured to extend the handle body to an extended position; at least one proximity sensor located on the handle body and generating an activation field; and a controller that processes at least one signal generated by the sensor to determine an input command and controls the actuator to extend the handle based on the input command.

[0004] Embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention may include any or a combination of the following features:

[0005] • The at least one proximity sensor includes a plurality of proximity sensors;

[0006] The controller also determines keyboard input based on the signals generated by the sensors;

[0007] • The keyboard input includes an input sequence for unfolding the handle body sensed by the plurality of sensors;

[0008] • The door handle includes multiple keyboard contact surfaces on the outer side of the handle body;

[0009] The controller also determines swipe gesture commands and closes or opens the door based on the swipe gesture commands;

[0010] • The handle body has an inner side and an outer side, wherein the swipe gesture command is input on the outer side;

[0011] The controller also determines that the handle on the inside of the handle body is pulled when the handle body is unfolded, and controls the door actuator to open the door in response to the handle pull;

[0012] • The plurality of proximity sensors include a plurality of capacitive sensors;

[0013] The handle body is flush-mounted in the door when in the retracted position and extends outward from the door to the extended position; and

[0014] • The handle body pivots between the retracted position and the extended position.

[0015] According to another aspect of the present invention, a vehicle door handle is provided. The vehicle door handle includes: a deployable handle body located on a door; keyboard contacts on the outer side of the handle body; an actuator configured to deploy the handle to an deployed position; a plurality of proximity sensors located on the handle body and generating an activation field; and a controller that processes signals generated by the sensors to determine input commands for controlling the actuator and to determine keyboard input.

[0016] Embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention may include any one or a combination of the following features:

[0017] The controller also determines the keyboard input based on the signals generated by the plurality of proximity sensors;

[0018] • The keyboard input includes an input sequence for unfolding the handle body sensed by the plurality of sensors;

[0019] The controller also determines swipe gesture commands and closes or opens the door based on the swipe gesture;

[0020] The handle body has an inner side and an outer side, wherein the keyboard input is input on the outer side;

[0021] The controller also determines that the handle on the inside of the handle body is pulled when the handle body is unfolded, and controls the door actuator to open the door in response to the handle pull;

[0022] • The plurality of proximity sensors include a plurality of capacitive sensors;

[0023] The handle body is flush-mounted in the door when in the retracted position and extends outward from the door to the extended position; and the handle body pivots between the retracted position and the extended position.

[0024] Upon studying the following specification, claims, and drawings, those skilled in the art will understand and appreciate these and other aspects, objectives, and features of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0025] In the attached diagram:

[0026] Figure 1 This is a side perspective view of a motor vehicle according to one embodiment, the motor vehicle having a door equipped with a deployable door handle having a proximity sensing input control.

[0027] Figure 2 This is a top view of the vehicle, further showing the two foremost power doors in the open position;

[0028] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A magnified view of part II further shows the deployable door handle in its flush-retracted position and gesture input commands;

[0029] Figure 4A This is a schematic top cross-sectional view of an extendable door handle according to one embodiment, shown in a flush-retracted position and employing a direct-drive motor assembly.

[0030] Figure 4B It is shown as being in the extended position. Figure 4A A schematic top cross-sectional view of an expandable door handle;

[0031] Figure 4C This is a schematic top cross-sectional view of a deployable door handle in an extended position, according to another embodiment, and employing a worm gear and motor assembly;

[0032] Figure 5 This is a block diagram showing the controls for processing proximity sensors associated with door handles and controlling the door and handle actuators;

[0033] Figure 6 This is a flowchart showing the door handle presenter opening procedure;

[0034] Figure 7 This is a flowchart showing the door handle presenter closing procedure;

[0035] Figure 8A This is a flowchart illustrating the ice handling procedure for a door handle used to sense and break up ice;

[0036] Figure 8B This further demonstrates Figure 8A A flowchart of the door handle ice removal procedure;

[0037] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating a subroutine for sensing the thickness of ice on a door handle, according to one embodiment; and

[0038] Figure 10This is a signal diagram illustrating an example of a capacitive sensor signal processed to determine the presence and thickness of ice. Detailed Implementation

[0039] For the purposes of this description, the terms “upper,” “lower,” “right,” “left,” “rear,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” “inner,” “outer,” and their derivatives should be used in accordance with… Figure 1 The invention is associated with the intended orientation. However, it should be understood that the invention may take various alternative orientations unless explicitly stated otherwise. It should also be understood that the specific apparatus and processes shown in the drawings and described in the following description are merely exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept defined in the appended claims. Therefore, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein should not be considered limiting unless expressly stated otherwise in the claims.

[0040] Now for reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 According to one embodiment, a wheeled motor vehicle 10 is generally shown, having multiple variable-speed electric doors equipped with deployable door handles having proximity sensor-based controls. The vehicle 10 includes doors 16 disposed on opposite sides of the vehicle 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the vehicle 10 has front and rear doors on a first side or driver's side to allow the driver and passenger to enter and exit the seating compartment from the first side, and front and rear doors on an opposite second side or passenger side to allow the passenger to enter the seating compartment from the second side. Each door 12 includes a door panel 14 pivotally connected to the frame or body 26 of the vehicle 10. The connection between each door panel 14 and the body 26 may include one or more hinge assemblies 18 that allow the door 12 to swing about the hinge assembly 18 between a closed position and an open position. While the door 12 is a pivot door in the illustrated embodiment, it should be understood that one or more of the doors 12 may otherwise move between open and closed positions, such as sliding doors.

[0041] Each door 12 also includes an extendable door handle 16 located on the outer side of the door panel 14. The door handle 16 has an extendable handle body, shown and described herein as a flush-mounted handle body in a retracted position, which pivots and extends outward to the extendable position, allowing a user to grip and engage the handle 16. The door handle 16 has a first contact surface on a first side or inner side, enabling a user to contact the door handle in the extendable position to input door control commands, which may include door open commands, door close commands, and door open speed commands. The door handle 16 has a second contact surface, shown as having five keypad contacts on a second side or outer side, enabling a user to input door handle commands (such as keypad input to extend the handle body) and gesture commands (such as swipe commands to open or close the door). It should be understood that the door handle 16 may have other shapes, sizes, and configurations.

[0042] The door handle 16 has a handle actuator configured to extend the handle body outward to an extended outward position and return it to a retracted position inward. The handle actuator may include an electric motor located within the door 12, which may drive the handle body directly between the extended and retracted positions or via a worm gear and wheel. The door handle actuator may actuate the handle 16 based on user input, such as keyboard input.

[0043] Door 12 includes a door actuator, such as an electric motor 20, shown located near hinge assembly 18. Motor 20 can be actuated in a first direction to open the door to an open position. Motor 20 can also be actuated in the opposite second direction to close the door to a closed position. The door actuator can operate at multiple speeds in response to sensing a user's hand touching a first contact surface on the inside of the handle to input a door speed control command, or the user approaching a second contact surface on the outside of the handle to input a swipe gesture command. For example, door panel 14 can open at a first slow speed, or a second medium or normal speed faster than the first speed, or a third fast speed faster than the second speed, depending on the amount of contact area sensed by a proximity sensor device on the first contact surface of the door handle or the speed of the swipe gesture approaching the second contact surface. Activation can also close the door at one or more speeds.

[0044] The door 12 may also include a latch assembly 22 configured to engage a latch mechanism 24 on the body 26 when the door panel 14 is in the closed position. The latch assembly 22 may be electronically controlled to lock and unlock the door 12 based on user input sensed by a proximity sensor device. For example, a swipe gesture command may be detected or sensed when a user's hand touches a first contact surface on the inside of the unfolded door handle 16 or a second contact surface on the outer surface of the retracted door handle 16, and the vehicle key fob 82 ( Figure 3 When a door latch assembly 22 is sensed to be extremely close to the corresponding door 12 (e.g., within one meter), the latch assembly 22 can unlock. When the door is closed, the latch assembly 22 will lock onto the latch mechanism 24 on the body 26 to keep the door 12 locked in the closed position. It should be understood that various latch configurations can be used. It should also be understood that the door latch assembly 22 can be controlled in other ways by a key fob or by user input controls provided on the vehicle 10.

[0045] refer to Figures 3 to 4B The door 12 and door handle 16 are shown in further detail in both the flush-folded and outwardly extended positions. The door handle 16 is shown located on the outer surface of the door panel 14, and when in such a position… Figure 3 and Figure 4A When in the flush-folded position, the door handle is flush-mounted within the door panel 14. For example, a user can input a gesture swipe command by swiping their hand 17 across a capacitive sensor arranged in the handle body from left to right to open the door or from right to left to close it. This gesture swipe command can occur when the handle body is in the folded or extended position. The handle motor 72 can be activated to move the handle 16 from the folded position to the extended position. Figure 4A The flush-up position shown pivots to Figure 4B The outwardly extended unfolded position is shown, where the vehicle rearward portion of handle 16 extends outward from the door. Handle 16 has a handle body 36 configured to have a first side or inner side 44A and a second side or outer side 44B exposed to a user located outside the vehicle 10. The outer side 44B of handle 16 includes a plurality of keypad inputs 70A-70E that allow the user to sequentially input keypad inputs to unfold handle 16 and unlock and lock the door. Thus, when handle 16 is in the flush-mounted retracted position, the user can enter a series of codes on the keypad to unfold handle 16 and unlock or lock the door latch assembly 22 on door 12. Keypad inputs 70A-70E may be positioned flush with a surface or may have a contoured touch pad.

[0046] refer to Figure 4A and Figure 4B Door handle 16 is typically shown as a retractable handle, which can be opened from... Figure 4A The flush-folded position shown is unfolded to Figure 4BThe extended position is shown, in which the handle 16 pivots outward to allow a user to grip the handle 16 on the inner side 44A, enabling the user to apply handle pull force and input a door command signal to unlock the door 12, actuate the door to the open position at a selected speed, and actuate the door to the closed position. The extendable door handle 16 pivots about the hinge assembly 50. The hinge assembly 50 can be configured to provide over-center pivoting rotation of the door handle 16. When the handle motor 72 is activated to extend the handle, the hinge assembly 50 causes the vehicle rearward portion of the handle 16 to pivot outward to the extended position, extending outward at an angle ranging from 15 degrees to 60 degrees (15°–60°).

[0047] The hinge assembly 50 includes a first link 52, one end of which is pivotally connected to one end of a second link 54 via a first pivot pin 62. The opposite end of the first link 52 is connected to a second pivot pin 60. The opposite end of the second link 54 is connected to a third link 56 via a third pivot pin 58. The opposite end of the third link 56 is connected to a fourth pivot pin 66. According to one embodiment, the handle motor 70 is... Figure 4A and Figure 4B The diagram shows a direct-drive motor for actuating the door handle between the retracted and extended positions. In this embodiment, the handle motor 72 is connected to a first pivot pin 62, which is connected to levers 52 and 54. The motor 72 can push lever 52 to pivot the handle body 36 toward the retracted position and can pull lever 62 to move the handle body 36 toward the extended position.

[0048] according to Figure 4C In another embodiment shown, the handle motor 72 may be configured with a worm gear 76 that engages a wheel 78, which is in turn connected to a first pivot pin 62. Thus, the motor 72 rotates the worm gear 76 to rotate the wheel 78, thereby moving the lever 52 back and forth to cause the handle body 36 to move between a retracted position and an extended position. It should also be understood that the handle 16 can be otherwise configured to move between the retracted and extended positions using an actuator. Furthermore, the handle can be manually activated to the extended position by the user applying an inward force to the leftmost end of the handle body.

[0049] The door handle 16 includes a proximity sensor device 32 located on the door handle body 36 and configured to sense a user's hand engaging with the door handle 16 on a first contact surface 30A on the inner side 44A and a second contact surface 30B on the outer side 44B. The proximity sensor device 32 has one or more proximity sensors configured to sense the user's immediate proximity (e.g., within one millimeter) or contact with the first contact surface 30A on the inner side 44A and the second contact surface 30B on the outer side 44B of the door handle 16. In the illustrated embodiment, the proximity sensor device 32 includes five proximity sensors 32A-32E, shown as evenly spaced along the length of the handle body 36 of the door handle 16, for generating corresponding sensing activation fields 42A-42E. Sensing activation fields 42A-42E operate as sensing fields and are shown extending on the inner side 44A of the handle 16, overlapping each other and fully covering the first contact surface 30A, and further extending as narrow fields on the outer side 44B of the handle 16. These narrow fields do not overlap each other and do not cover the second contact surface 30B, which has keyboard contact surfaces for five individual keys. Each of the proximity sensors 32A-32E generates a sensing activation field 42A-42E and generates a signal in response to sensed interference with the corresponding sensing activation field. The signal generated by each proximity sensor 32A-32E is processed by a controller to detect the presence of a user (e.g., the user's hand or one or more fingers) within the sensing activation field and to generate a signal amplitude based on the amount of interference or contact with the contact surfaces 30 on the inner side 44A or outer side 44B of the sensing activation field. For example, when a user's hand or finger lightly touches the inside 44A of the door handle 16, a relatively small amplitude signal is generated, while if the user's hand pulls the inside 44A of the door handle 16 on the contact surface 30, the signal amplitude generated by each sensor is larger.

[0050] Proximity sensors 32A-32E are located within the housing of the handle body 36 of the door handle 16, immediately adjacent to the first contact surface 30A. The first contact surface 30, particularly on the inner side 44A of the door handle 16, is preferably made of a material (such as a polymer material) that does not interfere with the sensing activation fields 42A-42E. The inner side 44A of the handle may have a rough surface or grip pattern for enhanced grip. Each of the proximity sensors 32A-32E is located on a printed circuit board 34, which may include other circuitry. The printed circuit board 34 includes a controller or control circuitry that may include a microprocessor electrically connected to the proximity sensors 32A-32E and capable of processing signals generated by each of the sensors 32A-32E. It should be understood that each of the proximity sensors 32A-32E is located on the side of the printed circuit board 34 facing the first contact surface 30A on the inner side 44A of the door handle 16. A ground layer 37 is disposed on the opposite side of the printed circuit board 34, and thus on the side of the circuit board 34 generally facing the outer side 44B of the door handle 16. The ground layer 37 is made of a conductive material that is grounded to electrically grounded. The ground layer 37 provides a beamforming shield located between the sensors 32A-32E and the outer side 44B to generate a narrower sensing field for each sensor on the outer side 44B of the handle body 36. The ground layer 37 has a hole that allows a portion of the sensing activation field to extend through it to the outer side 44B, and prevents a portion of the sensing activation field 42A-42E generated by each of the sensors 32A-32E from extending toward the outer side 44B of the door handle 16, while allowing the sensing activation field 42A-42E to extend toward the inner side 44A where the first contact surface 30A of the door handle 16 is located.

[0051] In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of proximity sensors 32A-32E comprise a linear array of five sensors; however, it should be understood that one or more proximity sensors may be employed in the proximity sensor array. Additionally, it should be understood that, according to one embodiment, the proximity sensor array 32A-32E is configured to sense the proximity of an object located on or near the first contact surface 30A on the inner side 44A of the door handle 16 and on or near the second contact surface 30B on the outer side of the door handle 16. However, it should be understood that, according to other embodiments, the array of proximity sensors 32A-32E may be positioned on different sides of the door handle 16. It should also be understood that, according to other embodiments, the power door 12 may be implemented on any side door of the vehicle 10 or on another door of the vehicle, such as a tailgate or interior door handle.

[0052] According to one embodiment, proximity sensors 32A-32E are shown and described herein as capacitive sensors. Each capacitive sensor includes at least one capacitive sensor providing a sensing activation field 42A-42E, which is used as a sensing field to sense contact or proximity (e.g., within one millimeter) of an object, such as a user's or operator's hand (e.g., palm and / or fingers), relative to one or more proximity sensors 32A-32E. The capacitive sensors can operate as capacitive switches, capable of unfolding handles and unlocking door latches, and can operate as switch inputs to control variable speeds of door motors used for opening and closing doors, and can be used to detect keyboard input and gesture input. In this embodiment, the sensing activation field of each proximity sensor is a capacitive field, and the user's hand (including the palm, thumb, and other fingers) has conductivity and dielectric properties that cause changes or disturbances in the sensing activation field, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. However, those skilled in the art will understand that other or alternative types of proximity sensors can be used, such as, but not limited to, inductive sensors, optical sensors, temperature sensors, resistive sensors, etc., or combinations thereof. An exemplary proximity sensor was used on April 9, 2009. The Touch Sensor Design Guidelines, 10620D-AT42-04 / 09, are described in their entirety and are incorporated herein by reference.

[0053] According to one embodiment, each capacitive sensor may be configured with circuitry printed with conductive ink on a substrate, and typically includes a driving electrode and a receiving electrode, each having interdigitated fingers for generating a capacitive field. It should be understood that each of the proximity sensors 32A-32E may be formed in other ways. Each capacitive sensor may have a driving electrode and a receiving electrode, the driving electrode typically receiving a square wave driving pulse applied at a voltage, and the receiving electrode having an output for generating an output voltage. It should be understood that the electrodes may be arranged in various configurations to generate a capacitive field as a sensing activation field.

[0054] In one embodiment, a voltage input, as a square wave pulse, is applied to the driving electrode of each proximity sensor, the square wave pulse having a charge pulse period sufficient to charge the receiving electrode to the desired voltage. The receiving electrode thus serves as a measuring electrode. When a user or operator (such as a user's hand or thumb or other finger) enters a sensing activation field associated with one of the sensors, interference with the activation field caused by the hand or finger is detected and a signal is generated. According to various embodiments, each signal is processed by a controller to determine whether user input is detected and whether a door actuator is controlled to control the door opening speed at high, medium, or low speed, whether the door is closed, whether keypad input for unfolding a handle or locking or unlocking the door is detected, and whether a swipe gesture command to open or close the door is detected. Interference in each sensing activation field is detected by processing the charge pulse signal associated with the corresponding signal channel. When a user's hand or finger enters a sensing activation field, interference in each sensing activation field is processed via a separate signal channel.

[0055] The sensing activation fields 42A-42E generated by each individual proximity sensor in Figures 4A to 4C The sensors are shown as slightly overlapping on the inner side of the first contact surface 30A; however, it should be understood that the sensing activation fields can be smaller or larger, and may overlap more or less depending on the sensitivity of each sensing activation field. By employing multiple sensing activation fields on the inner side of the handle 16 adjacent to the first contact surface 30A, the size and shape of the handle and the amount of grip contact with the first contact surface 30A can be determined based on the sensed signals. The amplitude of each signal can vary based on the size of the hand and the amount of contact on the first contact surface 30A where the sensing activation fields are located. Additionally, the amount of contact on the first contact surface 30A extending across the entire inner surface of the handle 16 can be determined by processing the signals generated using all five capacitive sensors. The sum of two or more of the five signals or the average of the signals generated by the capacitive sensors can be processed to determine the contact area on the first contact surface 30A and the user input command. Therefore, one or all of the proximity sensors 32A-32E can sense the size of the contact area where the user's hand engages on the first contact surface 30A.

[0056] An initial signal level can be established when a hand makes initial or close contact with the first contact surface 30A on the inner side 44A of the door handle 16. This initial signal level can be used to unlock the door 12, particularly when a user with a key fob is detected close to the door. According to one embodiment, the initial level is established when the user inputs a door unlock command. However, the initial signal level can be input under other contact forces. Once unlocked, the door can be controlled to open using actuator assistance based on the user input applied by the hand contacting the first contact surface 30A of the door handle 16. When a first-sized contact area larger than the initial contact is sensed, the actuator can actuate the door to open at a first speed. When a second-sized contact area larger than the initial contact is sensed, the actuator can be controlled to actuate the door to open at a greater second speed. When a third-sized contact area larger than the initial contact is sensed, the actuator can be further controlled to actuate the door to open at a third speed. Therefore, the user can grasp the handle 16 and unlock the door, allowing it to leave the vehicle body and open. Then, by continuing to apply a desired amount of force to the first contact surface 30A while gripping the handle 16, the hand can be flattened, increasing the contact area applied to the contact surface 30 on the inside of the handle. The sensed change in contact area is used to control the speed at which the door is opened using the actuator. A first contact area is achieved by gently pulling the door, while a faster door opening speed is achieved by pulling the door with greater force, resulting in greater contact with the contact surface 30 of the handle 16. Even greater force is achieved by pulling the door with even more force, resulting in an even faster door opening speed due to the further enhanced contact surface. Additionally, by repeatedly pulling the door handle at least twice, the door input command for closing the door can be determined.

[0057] According to one embodiment, the second contact surface 30B on the outer side 44B of the door handle 16 consists of a single keyboard contact for keyboard input, enabling a person to input an input sequence to unfold the handle to an extended position and lock and unlock the door. When the user does not have a key fob, using the keyboard to unfold the handle and lock and unlock (one or more) the door(s) functions normally. According to one embodiment, a user-selectable input keyboard is shown arranged horizontally on the driver's side door. Each input pad defines an area where a user can touch or be adjacent to the input pad with their finger to input an input selection. Each input pad may include illuminated characters, which are backlit and display numeric characters corresponding to the input entry. The characters may include numeric characters 1 and 2 (1-2) for the first input pad, numeric characters 3 and 4 (3-4) for the second input pad, numeric characters 5 and 6 (5-6) for the third input pad, numeric characters 7 and 8 (7-8) for the fourth input pad, and numeric characters 9 and 0 (9-0) for the fifth input pad. It should be understood that other characters such as letters or symbols may be used as input keyboard identifiers. Each input key in the input keyboard is aligned with one of the proximity sensors, which transmit signals to a second contact surface 30B on the outer side 44B of the handle 16 and sense the contact or proximity of the user's finger with the corresponding key (e.g., within 1 mm) and define a binary switch output (on or off) indicating the user's selection of the corresponding input key.

[0058] Illumination for each character on the corresponding input pad can be achieved by using a light source 39, such as one or more LEDs (e.g., RGB LEDs). The light source 39 is optically connected to a light tube 40 extending through an opening 38 in the grounding layer 37. In this way, the light generated by the light source 39 illuminates each numeric character on the outside of the keyboard. The light source can generate colored light, including red and green light, to serve as a status indicator.

[0059] Users can advantageously input codes as input sequences into the keyboard to unfold the handle and lock and unlock the door by inputting a sequence of input characters (e.g., numbers) programmed via keyboard input marked with identifier characters. In the locked state, the latch assembly 22 is locked, preventing it from being unlocked and opened. When the user interacts with a sensing activation field extending inwards from the keyboard, a signal associated with the corresponding proximity sensor is generated. It should be understood that the signal generated by the proximity sensor due to interaction with the activation field sensed on the outer surface 44B of the door can have a significantly smaller amplitude compared to the signal generated when the user interacts with the first contact surface 30A on the inner side 44A of the handle 16 with a similar touch event, due to the reduced size and shape of the corresponding activation field. Therefore, the controller can also determine keyboard input based on the lower amplitude and individual activation of one key at a time, rather than detecting multiple signals of an object sensing the first contact surface 30A when the hand interacts with multiple fields at once.

[0060] Users can advantageously input gesture commands (such as a swipe of a hand or finger across the linear capacitive sensor array from left to right or right to left) as commands to open or close door 12. The swipe motion can be input when handle 16 is in its extended or flush-folded position. According to one embodiment, a left-to-right swipe motion can be used as a door-opening command, while a right-to-left swipe motion can be used as a door-closing command. The swipe motion is detected by sequentially detecting signals from each sensor across the linear array within a predetermined time period. The speed of the swipe motion can control the speed at which the door opens.

[0061] refer to Figure 5A controller 80, according to one embodiment, is shown for determining various user input commands, sensing ice on the handle, and controlling various actuators. The controller 80 may include a microprocessor 40 and a memory 46. It should be understood that the controller 80 may include analog and / or digital circuitry. The controller 80 receives signals from each of the capacitive sensors 32A-32E associated with the door handle. The controller 80 can process the signals to determine keyboard inputs (such as touch input, grip or pull input, swipe motion, or other gesture input commands) and can also determine ice buildup and the thickness of the ice buildup on the handle body. The controller 80 also receives input from a key fob 82 and can determine the distance between the key fob and each door. A temperature sensor 95 can input the handle temperature or the exterior temperature of the vehicle to the controller 80. Additionally, the controller 80 can communicate with a Bluetooth-enabled device 84 (such as a user's phone) and can determine the distance between the Bluetooth-enabled device and the door or vehicle, as well as the relative position of the Bluetooth-enabled device. Furthermore, the controller 80 receives indications of the handle motor position and motor current at frame 86 and can also receive ride-sharing information 88 and vehicle speed 90. The controller 80 processes the input signals according to one or more control programs (such as programs 98, 100, 150, and 200) that can be executed by the microprocessor 44. According to one embodiment, a lookup table 300 stored in memory 96 can store values ​​for controlling the handle motor to break up detected ice based on ice thickness and ice temperature.

[0062] The controller 80 can control various control devices, such as: a handle presenter motor 72 to move the handle between a retracted position and an extended position; and a handle lighting device 92 to illuminate the handle body and control the color of the light. Additionally, the controller 80 can provide control signals to the door actuator 20 to open and close the door and the speed at which the door opens and closes. Furthermore, the controller 80 can provide control output signals to the door latch assembly 22 and can output Bluetooth enable and web text output 94.

[0063] refer to Figure 6The diagram illustrates a door handle presenter opening procedure 100 according to one embodiment. Procedure 100 begins at step 102 and proceeds to step 104 to determine: whether a user input code has been entered or typed on the keypad; and whether a key fob or an authorized Bluetooth-enabled device (such as a telephone) is within three feet of the door handle and the user's hand has been held above the keypad for three seconds; or whether the key fob has been in front of the door handle for more than ten seconds. If yes, proceed to determination step 106 to determine whether a latch override has been received. If no, at step 110, the latch handle is presented in an extended, unfolded position, and a handle light flashes green. Next, at step 112, if a swipe-to-open gesture command is detected on the outside of the presented, unfolded handle, or if a handle pull is detected on the inside of the handle, procedure 100 opens the door. Proceeding to determination step 114, procedure 100 determines whether a swipe-to-close gesture command has been detected. If no, return to step 118. If a swipe to close gesture command is detected, program 100 closes the door at step 116 and then returns to step 102.

[0064] If a latch override is received in step 106, the procedure 100 proceeds to step 108 to flash the handlebar lights on all handlebars and image the interior and exterior of the vehicle, and sends the images to the ride-sharing customer who attempted to enter the vehicle after the latch override has been performed, and informs the ride-sharing service or base station to reschedule the ride and charge the customer who overridden the latch, and then returns to step 118.

[0065] If, in decision step 104, no password is entered, no key fob / phone is within three feet of the door handle, and the hand is held above the keypad for three seconds, and the keypad is not in front of the door handle for more than ten seconds, then procedure 100 proceeds to decision step 120. At decision step 120, procedure 100 determines whether the key fob is within three feet of the door handle and whether a swipe-to-open gesture command is immediately performed, or whether an autonomous vehicle (AV) trip code has been sent within the last three seconds while the phone is within five feet of the vehicle, then procedure 100 proceeds to decision step 122 to determine whether a latch override has been received. If a latch override has been received, procedure 122 proceeds to step 108. If no latch override has been received, procedure 100 proceeds to step 124 to open the door, or, in the case of autonomous vehicle operation, only presents the handles on the door the customer will be entering, and then proceeds to step 114.

[0066] If, in determination step 120, there is neither a key fob within three feet of the door and a swipe-to-open command action is immediately detected, nor is an autonomous vehicle trip code sent within the last three seconds and the phone is within five feet of the vehicle, procedure 100 proceeds to determination step 126 to determine whether the autonomous vehicle is at the base station. If so, all handles extending to the unfolded position are presented when an authorized Bluetooth-enabled device approaches, so that all handles are in the open position, and then the process returns to step 114.

[0067] refer to Figure 7 The diagram illustrates a handle presenter closing procedure 150 according to one embodiment. Procedure 150 begins at step 152 and proceeds to step 154 ​​to determine whether the handle has been in the open position for more than five seconds; or whether a closing gesture command has been used to swipe the door; or whether the vehicle has begun to move; or whether a key fob / Bluetooth enabled device with a coded key on a person has moved more than two feet away from the vehicle. If so, the handle is closed at step 156, and the procedure returns to step 158. Otherwise, procedure 100 returns to step 152.

[0068] The deployable door handle 16 employs a door actuator in the form of an electric motor 72 to deploy and retract the handle body, and also uses the door actuator to break up ice formed on the handle body, particularly when the handle body is in the retracted position. Ice formation on the handle body is determined by using one or more of capacitive sensors 32A-32E to sense the ice and ice thickness on the handle body. According to one embodiment, the average value of the capacitive sensors 32A-32E can be used to sense the presence and thickness of ice. According to another embodiment, the maximum value of the capacitive sensors can be used to determine the ice and ice thickness. Based on known data, the amplitude of the capacitive signal can be compared with a known range of values ​​indicating ice formation on the handle, and the amplitude within this range can indicate the ice thickness. In the case of an electrically grounded ice path, the grounding ice condition can be detected based on known values.

[0069] When ice formation is detected on the handle body, the handle actuator can be activated to break the ice from the handle by, for example, by creating a hammering action. The hammering action can be achieved by cyclically rotating the electric motor 72 in opposite opening and closing directions. The motor current and torque, generated using a pulse-width modulation signal input to the motor 72, can be controlled to create the hammering action. For a handle actuator with gears such as a worm gear, the cycling of the motor between the opening and closing directions can create backlash within the gear mechanism, which can further aid in breaking the ice. Given a high-torque motor, the motor can operate at 100% pulse-width modulation for a limited time period (such as 5 seconds) to use gear backlash for forward or reverse motion to create a hammering action, thereby breaking the ice. This is compared, according to one example, to a motor that typically operates in other ways at 20% pulse-width modulation. The handle actuator is controlled to create a hammering action to break the ice based on the detected ice thickness. For thicker ice, the motor torque and hammering action are increased to break the ice, while for thinner ice, the hammering action and torque can be decreased. Therefore, the motor can be controlled to break up the ice based on the amount of ice thickness detected on the handle.

[0070] Alternatively, the motor can be controlled based on the handlebar temperature or another external temperature that approximates the handlebar temperature, as the intensity of ice can vary with temperature. The temperature of the handlebar or the external environment can be measured using external vehicle sensors or temperature sensors located on or near the handlebar. Generally, the absolute intensity of ice increases as the temperature decreases. Therefore, the motor drive current can be increased at lower temperatures. The amount of motor current or torque required to break the ice can be stored in a lookup table based on the ice thickness and temperature, and can be used to control the motor to break the ice. Alternatively, an algorithm can be used to calculate the motor current or torque for a given temperature and ice thickness.

[0071] refer to Figure 8A and Figure 8BThe diagram illustrates a door handle ice-handling procedure 200 according to one embodiment. Procedure 200 begins at step 202 and proceeds to step 204 to acquire one or more capacitive sensor signals sensed by a proximity sensor. Next, procedure 200 proceeds to a decision step 206 to determine whether the capacitive sensor signal is outside the no-inactivity gap range; if not, it returns to step 202. If the capacitive sensor signal is determined to be outside the no-inactivity gap range, procedure 200 proceeds to a decision step 208 to determine whether a user touch pattern is detected. If a user touch pattern is detected, procedure 200 proceeds to step 210 to process the user touch input and then returns to step 202. If no user touch pattern is detected, procedure 200 proceeds to a decision step 212 to determine whether the signal is stable; if not, it proceeds to step 214 to detect possible user activity or condensation conditions and then returns to step 202. If the signal is stable, procedure 200 proceeds to a decision step 216 to determine whether the signal is detected as being within the ice range; if not, it returns to step 202. If the signal is within the ice range, program 200 proceeds to step 218 to obtain the handle temperature, which may include a handle temperature indicating the external handle temperature, such as that detected by a temperature sensor on or near the handle. Next, at determination step 220, program 200 determines whether the temperature is less than 32℉; if not, it returns to step 202. If the temperature is determined to be less than 32℉, program 200 proceeds to step 222 to determine the thickness of the ice accumulated on the handle based on the capacitive sensor signal and the baseline signal. Next, program 200 calculates the motor pulse width modulation (PWM) according to a lookup table based on the sensed temperature and ice thickness, or according to an algorithm that calculates the ice thickness based on the temperature and ice thickness. Next, at determination step 226, program 200 determines whether the pulse width modulation is greater than a predetermined value (such as 100%); if so, it proceeds to step 228 to set the motor burst to approximately five times the normal maximum torque for a period of less than five seconds. The increased motor burst generates increased torque in an attempt to break the ice based on its thickness. If the pulse width modulation (PWM) is not greater than 100%, program 200 proceeds to step 230 to activate the motor under PWM for five seconds, then stops the motor for five seconds at step 232, and then acquires the capacitive sensor signal at step 234. Next, at determination step 236, program 200 determines whether the signal is within the ice range. If so, it determines the ice thickness based on the signal and the baseline, and then returns to step 224. Otherwise, program 200 returns to step 202.

[0072] refer to Figure 9The diagram illustrates a subroutine 250 for determining the ice thickness on a handle according to one embodiment. Program 250 begins at step 252 to initiate an ice thickness detection subroutine, then proceeds to a determination step 254 to determine if a signal is higher than a sensor gap value. If the signal is higher than the sensor gap value, program 250 proceeds to step 256 to calculate the ice thickness based on the signal minus a baseline using a lookup table or an integral formula. If the signal is not higher than the sensor gap value, program 250 proceeds to step 258 to calculate the ice thickness based on the baseline minus the signal value using a lookup table or inverse integration. Program 250 then terminates at step 260. It should be understood that subroutine 250 continuously determines the ice thickness used in program 200 to control the motor to break up the ice on the handle.

[0073] refer to Figure 10 Examples of capacitive sensor signals under various conditions are shown. Signal 300 shows a capacitive signal during a precipitation event, the amplitude of which changes due to the movement of water flowing on or near the handle. Signal 302 shows condensation forming on the handle with a relatively high amplitude. Signal 304 shows a stable signal generated using a capacitive sensor when ice forms on the handle and the handle is not grounded. The amplitude of signal 304 can be within the ice range R. T The internal variation depends on the ice thickness. The ice thickness can be determined using a controller by processing the signal amplitude as described herein. In one embodiment, the ice thickness is determined based on the signal amplitude, wherein the signal increases with increasing ice thickness. Signal 306 indicates a gap handle stabilization signal when there is no movement on the handle and is shown as being within the no-movement gap range R. C Signal 308 shows the signal detected when ice buildup is present on the handle, which grounds the signal. The amplitude of signal 308 can vary within the grounded ice range RTG, depending on the ice thickness. In this case, the ice forms an electrical grounding path that grounds the capacitive signal. Signal 310 shows the signal generated when condensation forms on the grounded handle. When the signal is within the ice range RTG... T Or ground ice range R TG Inside, the controller 80 can advantageously determine the presence and thickness of ice on the handle in icy conditions, and can also determine the ice formed on the grounded handle by using a lookup table or algorithm, and can control the handle motor 72 to break the ice based on the sensed ice thickness.

[0074] Controller 80 can monitor one or more capacitive sensor signals and determine whether ice has formed on the handle based on the signal amplitude within an ice range, such as signal 304 (when ice does not ground the signal) or signal 308 (when ice does ground the signal). The ice thickness can be determined based on the amplitude of signal 304 or signal 308. When the signal is grounded, controller 80 can detect a ground signal (such as signal 308), where grounding affects the capacitive signal. Therefore, ice can be detected by monitoring the amplitude of the capacitive signal, and the ice thickness can be determined when the ice is within a certain ice range, and the ice thickness can be used to control the motor to break up the ice.

[0075] Therefore, it should be understood that the door handle 16 advantageously employs an expandable handle body with a proximity sensor, which is used to input gesture commands to control the actuator to expand the handle. The sensor can be multifunctional and can be used to input keyboard input, gesture commands, and door control commands. Additionally, the controller can determine the presence and thickness of ice and can control the actuator to advantageously remove the ice. Thus, the electric door opening aid provides enhanced door opening functionality.

[0076] It should be understood that changes and modifications can be made to the foregoing structure without departing from the concept of the invention, and it should be further understood that such concepts are intended to be covered by the following claims unless otherwise expressly stated in their language.

[0077] According to the present invention, a door handle is provided, the door handle having: an expandable handle body; an actuator configured to expand the handle body to an expanded position; at least one proximity sensor located on the handle body and generating an activation field; and a controller that processes at least one signal generated by the sensor to determine an input command and controls the actuator to expand the handle based on the input command.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the at least one proximity sensor includes a plurality of proximity sensors.

[0079] According to one embodiment, the controller also determines keyboard input based on the signal generated by the sensor.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the keyboard input includes an input sequence for unfolding the handle body sensed by the plurality of sensors.

[0081] According to one embodiment, the invention is further characterized by a plurality of keyboard contact surfaces on the outer side of the handle body.

[0082] According to one embodiment, the controller also determines a swipe gesture command and closes or opens the door based on the swipe gesture command.

[0083] According to one embodiment, the handle body has an inner side and an outer side, wherein the swipe gesture command is input on the outer side.

[0084] According to one embodiment, the controller also determines a handle pull on the inside of the handle body when the handle body is unfolded and controls the door actuator to open the door in response to the handle pull.

[0085] According to one embodiment, the plurality of proximity sensors include a plurality of capacitive sensors.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the handle body is flush-mounted in the door and extends outward from the door to the extended position when in the retracted position.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the handle body pivots between the retracted position and the extended position.

[0088] According to the present invention, a vehicle door handle is provided, the door handle having: an expandable handle body located on a door; keyboard contacts on the outer side of the handle body; an actuator configured to expand the handle to an expanded position; a plurality of proximity sensors located on the handle body and generating an activation field; and a controller that processes signals generated by the sensors to determine input commands for controlling the actuator and to determine keyboard input.

[0089] According to one embodiment, the controller also determines the keyboard input based on the signals generated by the plurality of proximity sensors.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the keyboard input includes an input sequence for unfolding the handle body sensed by the plurality of sensors.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the controller also determines a swipe gesture command and closes or opens the door based on the swipe gesture.

[0092] According to one embodiment, the handle body has an inner side and an outer side, wherein the keyboard input is input on the outer side.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the controller also determines a handle pull on the inside of the handle body when the handle body is unfolded and controls the door actuator to open the door in response to the handle pull.

[0094] According to one embodiment, the plurality of proximity sensors include a plurality of capacitive sensors.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the handle body is flush-mounted in the door and extends outward from the door to the extended position when in the retracted position.

[0096] According to one embodiment, the handle body pivots between the retracted position and the extended position.

Claims

1. A car door handle, comprising: The handle body can be unfolded, and it has an inner side and an outer side; An actuator configured to unfold the handle body to an unfolded position; Multiple proximity sensors are located on the handle body and generate an activation field; as well as A controller that processes signals generated by the plurality of sensors to determine an input command and controls the actuator to unfold the handle based on the input command; the controller determines keyboard input based on signals generated by the same plurality of sensors; and the controller also determines handle pull on the inside of the handle body based on signals generated by the same plurality of sensors when the handle body is unfolded and controls the door actuator to open the door in response to the handle pull.

2. The door handle of claim 1, wherein the keyboard input comprises an input sequence for unfolding the handle body sensed by the plurality of sensors.

3. The door handle as claimed in claim 2, further comprising a plurality of keyboard contact surfaces on the outer side of the handle body.

4. The door handle of claim 1, wherein the controller further determines a swipe gesture command and closes or opens the door based on the swipe gesture command.

5. The door handle as claimed in claim 4, wherein the swipe gesture command is input on the outside.

6. The door handle of claim 1, wherein the plurality of proximity sensors comprises a plurality of capacitive sensors.

7. The door handle of claim 1, wherein the handle body is flush-mounted in the door and extends outward from the door to the extended position when in the retracted position.

8. The door handle of claim 7, wherein the handle body pivots between the retracted position and the extended position.

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