Dual door, column-free door system and control system therefor and method of operating a door system

Abstract

Dual door, column-free door systems and control systems thereof and methods of operating a door system are provided. A dual door, column-free door system for a motor vehicle having a motor vehicle body and a front door and a rear door includes an upper latching assembly for securing an upper portion of the front door and an upper portion of the rear door to an upper portion of the motor vehicle body, the upper latching assembly having an actuation set operable to control latching of the front door and the rear door to the vehicle body; a lower latching assembly for securing a lower portion of the front door and a lower portion of the rear door to a lower portion of the motor vehicle body, the lower latching assembly having an actuation set operable to control latching of the front door and the rear door to the vehicle body; and a control system coupled to the upper latching assembly and the lower latching assembly and configured to control the actuation sets.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of PCT application filed on December 22, 2020, with international application number PCT / CA2020 / 051786 and invention title "Dual-function latch assembly for a double-door pillarless door system and control system for controlling the latch assembly". The PCT application entered the Chinese national phase on June 21, 2022, with national application number 202080089051.X and priority date of December 23, 2019.

[0002] Cross-reference to related applications

[0003] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 62 / 952,854, filed December 23, 2019, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0004] This disclosure generally relates to a closing member system for motor vehicles, and more specifically, to a dual-function latch assembly for a two-door pillarless door system and a control system for controlling the latch assembly for securing the door of the door system relative to the vehicle body. Background Technology

[0005] This section provides background information relating to this disclosure, which is not necessarily prior art.

[0006] A typical motor vehicle is equipped with at least one pair of doors to provide access to the passenger compartment. Specifically, most vehicles include a driver-side swing door and a passenger-side swing door, which are pivotally supported from the vehicle body to move between a closed position and an open position. Each of these doors is equipped with a latch assembly having a latching mechanism that operates in a latched mode to hold the door in its closed position and in an unlocked mode to allow the door to move to its open position. The latch assembly is also equipped with a latch release mechanism that is selectively actuated (manually via a handle-operated release system and / or via a power-operated release system) to switch the latch mechanism to its unlocked mode.

[0007] Many vehicles are equipped with multiple side doors (i.e., front and rear doors) for access to the passenger compartment. Most commonly, when viewed from the front of vehicle 10, the front side door 12 and rear side door 14 are hinged near their front edges to be movable relative to the body 15, as best shown in Figure 1. The front door 12 is hinged to a front structural pillar (i.e., A-pillar 16), while the rear door 14 is hinged to an intermediate structural pillar (i.e., B-pillar 18) located between the front door 12 and the rear door 14. The latch assembly 20 associated with the front door 12 is arranged to latch using a front strike pin (not shown) fixed to the B-pillar 18. Similarly, the latch assembly 22 associated with the rear door 14 is arranged to latch using a rear strike pin 24 fixed to a rearwardly extending, vertically extending closing surface 25 of the opening 26.

[0008] In some vehicles, such as pickup trucks with extended cabs, the body is designed with enlarged door openings and no structural B-pillar. This "pillarless" two-door closure system typically includes a front swing door and a rear swing door. The front swing door is pivotally hinged along its front edge to the front vertical structural portion of the door opening (i.e., the A-pillar), and the rear swing door is pivotally hinged along its rear edge to the rear vertical structural portion of the door opening (i.e., the C-pillar). The absence of a central structural pillar (i.e., the B-pillar) requires one or both of the front and rear doors to be partially latched along at least one portion of the upper and lower portions of the enlarged entry opening, while the front door is directly latched to the rear door, or also partially latched along one portion of the upper and lower portions of the enlarged entry opening. For example, if the front door is latched to the rear door, the latch assembly in the rear door cannot be unlocked until the front door latch assembly has been released and the front door has swung to its open position.

[0009] Such latching assemblies may additionally include power locking / unlocking, power releasing, and / or power tightening. These "powered" features are provided by a closing latching assembly mounted to a closing panel or door, and this closing latching assembly is typically equipped with a ratchet and pawl-type latching mechanism controlled via at least one power-operated actuator. Typically, the closing panel is held in the closed position by releasably retaining a pin mounted to a structural part of the vehicle by holding the ratchet in the pin-capture position. When the pawl is in the ratchet-hold position, the ratchet is held in its pin-capture position by engaging the ratchet.

[0010] In latch assemblies that provide a power-release feature, the latch release mechanism is typically controlled by a power-operated release actuator. A single power-operated actuator or a separate power-operated actuator can be used in conjunction with both power-release and power-cinch features. The power-release feature is typically independent of the power-cinch feature and can also be used as part of a passive-entry feature.

[0011] Referring back to Figure 1, when a person approaches vehicle 10 and actuates (i.e., pulls) the exterior door handle 27 using an electronic key fob or by command to unlock via the key fob, the latch assembly (e.g., latch assembly 20 associated with front door 12 and / or latch assembly 22 associated with rear door 14) actuates a power release function to release the latch mechanism and unlock the latch assembly to open the door (e.g., front door 12 and / or rear door 14). However, this power release function may be more difficult to implement in pillarless door systems. Furthermore, because front door 14 itself or all doors (front door 12 and rear door 14) typically unlock simultaneously, security issues may arise since doors 12, 14 are also unlocked on opposite sides of vehicle 10.

[0012] In light of the above, there is still a need to develop alternative latching assemblies that address and overcome the limitations and drawbacks associated with known double-door pillarless door systems, and provide increased convenience and enhanced operational capabilities. Summary of the Invention

[0013] This section provides a general overview of the contents of this disclosure and is not a full disclosure of its entire scope or all its features, aspects and objectives.

[0014] One aspect of this disclosure provides a latching assembly for a closure system having a first closing member and a second closing member, each movable between an open position and a closed position. The latching assembly includes a main latching mechanism for the first closing member, the main latching mechanism having a main actuation group operable to control actuation of the first closing member. Furthermore, the latching assembly includes a secondary latching mechanism for the second closing member, the secondary latching mechanism having a secondary actuation group operable to control actuation of the second closing member. The main latching mechanism, the main actuation group, the secondary latching mechanism, and the secondary actuation group are all integrated into a housing. The latching assembly further includes a controller unit coupled to the main actuation group and the secondary actuation group, configured to determine which of the main actuation group and the secondary actuation group is actuated. The controller unit accordingly controls actuation of at least one of the main actuation group and the secondary actuation group.

[0015] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the controller unit can be configured and integrated into the housing.

[0016] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the controller unit is configured to control the actuation of the main actuation group and the auxiliary actuation group in a relationship that is independent of each other.

[0017] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the switching unit may be coupled to a controller unit, a main actuation group, and an auxiliary actuation group, wherein the controller unit is configured to control the switching unit to actuate and to control the actuation of at least one of the main actuation group and the auxiliary actuation group in an independent relationship with each other.

[0018] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the main actuation assembly of the main latching mechanism may include a main ratchet movable between a pin release position and a pin capture position, and a main pawl movable between a ratchet holding position for holding the main ratchet in its pin capture position and a ratchet release position for allowing the main ratchet to move to its pin release position, and the main actuation assembly is operable to move the main pawl between its ratchet holding position and its ratchet release position; and the auxiliary actuation assembly of the auxiliary latching mechanism may include an auxiliary ratchet movable between a pin release position and a pin capture position, and an auxiliary pawl movable between a ratchet holding position for holding the auxiliary ratchet in its pin capture position and a ratchet release position for allowing the auxiliary ratchet to move to its pin release position, and the auxiliary actuation assembly is operable to move the auxiliary pawl between its ratchet holding position and its ratchet release position.

[0019] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the first closing member may include a pair of front doors on opposite sides of the vehicle, and the second closing member may include a pair of rear doors on opposite sides of the vehicle, wherein the controller unit includes a first-side controller unit and a second-side controller unit. Each controller unit in the first-side controller unit and the second-side controller unit is configured to selectively actuate a primary actuation group and a secondary actuation group associated with the first closing member and the second closing member on the same side of the vehicle, without actuating the primary actuation group and the secondary actuation group associated with the first closing member and the second closing member on opposite sides of the vehicle.

[0020] According to another aspect of this disclosure, each of the first-side controller unit and the second-side controller unit is configured to selectively actuate a main actuation group and an auxiliary actuation group associated with the first and second closing members on the same side of the vehicle, such that each of the first and second closing members on the same side of the vehicle can be controlled independently of each other.

[0021] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a plurality of obstacle detection sensors may be configured to communicate with a first side controller unit and a second side controller unit and to detect objects and / or postures adjacent to the first and second closing members, wherein the first side controller unit is configured to adjust the control of actuation of at least one of the main actuation group and the auxiliary actuation group based on the detection of the object or posture, and the second side controller unit is configured to adjust the control of actuation of the other actuation group of the main actuation group and the auxiliary actuation group based on the detection of the object or posture.

[0022] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a first-side controller unit may be configured to operatively communicate with a separate first motor of each of the first and second closing members on the same side of the vehicle to control the actuation of the first motor, thereby preventing the corresponding first and second closing members from impacting a detected object, and a second-side controller unit may be configured to operatively communicate with a separate second motor of each of the first and second closing members on opposite sides of the vehicle to control the actuation of the second motor, thereby preventing the corresponding first and second closing members from impacting a detected object.

[0023] Another aspect of this disclosure provides a two-door pillarless door system for a motor vehicle, the motor vehicle having a first front door and a first rear door disposed on a first side of the motor vehicle, and a second front door and a second rear door disposed on a second side of the motor vehicle opposite to the first side. The door system includes a first side latch assembly including a first master latch mechanism for the first front door, the first master latch mechanism having a first master actuation group operable to control actuation of the first front door. The first side latch assembly also has a first auxiliary latch mechanism for the first rear door, the first auxiliary latch mechanism having a first auxiliary actuation group operable to control actuation of the first rear door. Furthermore, the first side latch assembly has a first side controller unit coupled to the first master actuation group and the first auxiliary actuation group, and the first side controller unit is configured to control actuation of at least one of the first master actuation group and the first auxiliary actuation group. The door system also includes a second side latch assembly having a second master latch mechanism for the second front door, the second master latch mechanism having a second master actuation group operable to control actuation of the second front door. Furthermore, the second side latch assembly includes a second auxiliary latch mechanism for the second rear door, the second auxiliary latch mechanism having a second auxiliary actuation group operable to control the actuation of the second rear door. The second side latch assembly further includes a second side controller unit that communicates with and is coupled to the first side controller unit and to the second main actuation group and the second auxiliary actuation group, and the second side controller unit is configured to control the actuation of at least one of the second main actuation group and the second auxiliary actuation group.

[0024] Another aspect of this disclosure provides a method for operating a two-door pillarless door system of a vehicle having a plurality of closing members. The method includes the steps of: receiving an opening command for at least one closing member from an input source selected from a handle switch, a body control module, or a key fob. The method continues with the step of: determining which of the primary and secondary actuation groups of at least one latching assembly is actuated. The next step of the method is: controlling the actuation of at least one of the primary and secondary actuation groups of the at least one latching assembly based on the determination of which of the primary and secondary actuation groups is actuated.

[0025] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a pillarless door system for a motor vehicle having a front door and a rear door, the pillarless door system comprising: an upper latch assembly including a first main latch mechanism for the front door and having a first main actuation group operable to control actuation of the front door, and an auxiliary latch mechanism for the rear door and having a first auxiliary actuation group operable to control actuation of the rear door; and a lower latch assembly including a second main latch mechanism for the front door and having a second main actuation group operable to control actuation of the front door, and a second auxiliary latch mechanism for the rear door and having a second auxiliary actuation group operable to control actuation of the rear door. The first main actuation group and the second main actuation group can operate together to control actuation of the front door, and the first auxiliary actuation group and the second auxiliary actuation group can operate together to control actuation of the rear door. In a related aspect, the first main actuation group and the second main actuation group, as well as the first auxiliary actuation group and the second auxiliary actuation group, are electrically actuated. In related aspects, the first main actuation group and the second main actuation group are controlled by the first controller unit, and the first auxiliary actuation group and the second auxiliary actuation group are controlled by the second controller unit.

[0026] Another aspect of this disclosure provides a two-door pillarless door system for a motor vehicle having a vehicle body and front and rear doors, the two-door pillarless door system comprising: an upper latch assembly for securing the upper portions of the front and rear doors to the upper portion of the vehicle body, the upper latch assembly having an actuation group operable to control latching the front and rear doors to the vehicle body; a lower latch assembly for securing the lower portions of the front and rear doors to the lower portion of the vehicle body, the lower latch assembly having an actuation group operable to control latching the front and rear doors to the vehicle body; and a control system coupled to the upper and lower latch assemblies and configured to control the actuation groups.

[0027] Another aspect of this disclosure provides a method for operating a door system of a vehicle having a closing member, comprising the steps of: controlling an upper latch to secure an upper portion of the door to an upper portion of a vehicle body, the upper latch having an actuation assembly operable to control latching the upper portion of the door to the vehicle body; controlling a lower latch to secure a lower portion of the door to a lower portion of the vehicle body, the lower latch having an actuation assembly operable to control latching the lower portion of the door to the vehicle body; and synchronizing the release of the upper latch and the lower latch to release the door from the vehicle body.

[0028] Another aspect of this disclosure provides a control system for a two-door pillarless door system for a motor vehicle having a vehicle body and front and rear doors, the two-door pillarless door system comprising: at least one control unit coupled to at least one latching assembly, each of the at least one latching assembly being associated with the front and rear doors; wiring electrically connecting the at least one control unit to the at least one latching assembly; wherein the at least one control unit and the at least one latching assembly are mounted on the vehicle body; wherein the wiring is configured to extend within the vehicle body but does not pass through the doors.

[0029] Another aspect of this disclosure provides a two-door pillarless door system for a motor vehicle having a vehicle body and front and rear doors, the two-door pillarless door system comprising: at least one front door latch assembly mounted on the vehicle body to secure the front door to the vehicle body, the at least one front door latch assembly having an actuation group operable to control latching the front door to the vehicle body; at least one rear door latch assembly mounted on the vehicle body to secure the rear door to the vehicle body, the at least one rear door latch assembly having an actuation group operable to control latching the rear door to the vehicle body; and a control system coupled to the at least one front door latch assembly and the at least one rear door latch assembly and configured to control the actuation group, the control system being mounted in the vehicle body.

[0030] Other areas of application will become apparent from the description provided herein. The descriptions and specific examples in this invention are intended for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0031] The accompanying drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only, and not for all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure.

[0032] Figure 1 shows a motor vehicle equipped with separate latch assemblies for each door according to the prior art;

[0033] Figures 2 to 4 Another motor vehicle is shown equipped with a separate latch assembly for each door, which is operated by a passive entry feature used in conjunction with an electronic key fob.

[0034] Figure 5A Further example motor vehicles with a "pillarless" door system according to various aspects of this disclosure are depicted, the "pillarless" door system having a first movable closing member and a second movable closing member latched using a single latch assembly;

[0035] Figure 5B Further example motor vehicles with a "pillarless" door system according to various aspects of this disclosure are described, the "pillarless" door system having a first movable closing member and a second movable closing member latched by an upper latch assembly and a lower latch assembly;

[0036] Figure 5C Further example motor vehicles with a "pillarless" door system according to various aspects of this disclosure are depicted, the "pillarless" door system having a first movable closing member and a second movable closing member latched by an upper latch assembly and a lower latch assembly associated with each of the front and rear doors;

[0037] Figure 5D A block diagram depicts a master-slave control configuration for a latch assembly according to various aspects of this disclosure;

[0038] Figure 5E A block diagram depicts a distributed control configuration for a latching component according to various aspects of this disclosure;

[0039] Figure 5F A block diagram depicts a remote control configuration for a latch assembly according to various aspects of this disclosure;

[0040] Figures 6A to 6D This disclosure illustrates various aspects of the disclosure. Figure 5A , Figure 5B The operation of the latching component;

[0041] Figure 6E The overlapping B-pillarless door configuration according to various aspects of this disclosure is shown;

[0042] Figures 7A to 7E A latching mechanism having an actuation assembly for a first closing member and a second closing member is shown according to various aspects of this disclosure;

[0043] Figure 8A This is a general block diagram of the electronic control circuit of the latch assembly according to various aspects of this disclosure;

[0044] Figure 8B This is a general block diagram of the electronic control circuit of the latch assembly according to various aspects of this disclosure;

[0045] Figure 8C Based on all aspects of this disclosure Figure 8A The circuit diagram of the switching unit;

[0046] Figure 8DThis is a system block diagram of an exemplary control system for a B-pillarless door configuration having an upper latch assembly and a lower latch assembly, based on various aspects of this disclosure;

[0047] Figure 8E This is a system block diagram of another exemplary control system for a B-pillarless door configuration having an upper latch assembly and a lower latch assembly, based on various aspects of this disclosure;

[0048] Figure 8F The various aspects described in this disclosure are as follows. Figure 8D An illustrative wiring diagram of the control system;

[0049] Figure 8G The various aspects described in this disclosure are as follows. Figure 8E An illustrative wiring diagram of the control system;

[0050] Figure 8H The present disclosure describes various aspects of the use of Figure 8F An illustrative wiring diagram of a control system for a pillarless door configuration with a power actuator mounted to the door;

[0051] Figure 8I The present disclosure describes various aspects of the use of Figure 8G An illustrative wiring diagram of the control system for a pillarless door configuration with a power actuator mounted to the vehicle body;

[0052] Figures 9A to 9D The operation of a door system using latching assemblies on each of the first and second sides of a motor vehicle is described according to various aspects of this disclosure;

[0053] Figure 10 and Figure 11 This is a block diagram of a door system including multiple obstacle detection sensors, based on various aspects of this disclosure;

[0054] Figures 12A to 12D The operation of a door system using a latch assembly on each of the first and second sides of a motor vehicle is described in accordance with various aspects of this disclosure, in the case of using multiple obstacle detection sensors;

[0055] Figures 13 to 15 The steps of a method for operating a gate system according to various aspects of this disclosure are shown; and

[0056] Figure 16 The steps of a method for operating a double pillarless door system according to other aspects of this disclosure are shown. Detailed Implementation

[0057] In the following description, details will be set forth to provide an understanding of this disclosure. In some instances, certain circuits, structures, and techniques have not been described or shown in detail so as not to obscure the contents of this disclosure.

[0058] In general, at least one exemplary embodiment of a latch assembly for a double-door pillarless door system and a corresponding door system constructed in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure will now be disclosed. The provision of exemplary embodiments makes this disclosure exhaustive and will fully convey the scope to those skilled in the art. Numerous specific details, such as examples of particular components, devices, and methods, are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of this disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details are not required, that exemplary embodiments may be implemented in many different forms, and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure. In some exemplary embodiments, well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well-known techniques are described in detail.

[0059] Reference Figures 2 to 4 For a vehicle 30 with passive entry features, an occupant 31 can approach the vehicle 30 and actuate (i.e., pull) the exterior door handle 34 or electronically command unlocking it using an electronic key fob 32. For example, a single command from the key fob 32 can be used to unlock the driver's side front door 36 (i.e., the driver's door). Therefore, the latch assembly 38 associated with the driver's side front door 36 actuates a power release function to release and unlock the latch mechanism of the latch assembly 38 to open the driver's side front door 36. Figure 4 As shown, a second or subsequent command from key fob 32 can be used to unlock the remaining doors of passenger 33 (e.g., driver's side rear door 40, passenger side front door 42 opposite driver's side front door 36, and passenger side rear door 44 opposite driver's side rear door 40). Therefore, all doors 36, 40, 42, and 44 are unlocked via the second command from key fob 32, even if person 31 only wants to unlock driver's side rear door 40. This operation can therefore create security problems on the opposite side of vehicle 30 (e.g., an intruder could gain unauthorized access to vehicle 30 via passenger side front door 42 and / or passenger side rear door 44 after the second command from key fob 32).

[0060] First refer to Figure 5A An example motor vehicle 50 is shown, comprising a body 52 having an exterior 54 and an interior 56 defining a passenger compartment. Connecting the exterior 54 and interior 56 of the body 52 is a continuous or "pillarless" side opening 58 defining a first terminal or front terminal 60 and a second terminal or rear terminal 62. Providing a first movable closure member to the front of the opening 58 is a second front door 66, which is connected to the first front door 64 (…). Figures 9A to 9DThe second front door 66 has a front portion 68, which is pivotally connected to the vehicle body 52 via an upper passenger front hinge 70 and a lower passenger front hinge 72, for example, to the A-pillar of the vehicle, adjacent to the front end portion 60 of the opening 58. The second front door 66 has a rear portion 73, which is generally opposite its pivotal connection to the vehicle body 52. ​​Providing a second movable closing member to the rear portion of the opening 58 is the first rear door 74 (…). Figures 9A to 9D The second rear door 76 is opposite to the opening 58. The second rear door 76 has a rear portion 78 pivotally connected to the body 52 via an upper passenger rear hinge 80 and a lower passenger rear hinge 82, for example, to a C-pillar to the body, adjacent to the rear end portion 62 of the opening 58, and the second rear door 76 has a front portion 84 generally opposite to its pivotal connection. Other types of coupling between the door and the body can be provided. The front doors 64, 66 and the rear doors 74, 76 may be adjacent to or nearly adjacent to the center of the opening 58, or otherwise a B-pillar connecting the upper lintel and the bottom sill will be provided at the center of the opening 58. For example, a seal 101 may be provided between the front doors 64, 66 and the rear doors 74, 76, as part of a sealing arrangement such as that shown in U.S. Patent No. 10,337,227 entitled “Rear access door latch and sealing systems,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Illustratively, front door 66 and rear door 76 are shown mounted to body 52 via a pivoting connection such as a pivot hinge, but other mounting types may also be provided. When the second front door 66 and the second rear door 76 are closed together, the far end of the rear portion 73 of the second front door 66 may or may not overlap with the far end of the front portion 84 of the second rear door 76. An example of this overlapping configuration of the front door 64 and the rear door 74 is shown in... Figure 6E As shown in the text, Figures 6A to 6DThis is an example of a non-overlapping configuration of the front and rear doors for a pillarless door system. Therefore, the first front door 64 and the first rear door 74 can move independently of each other between their open and closed positions without having to open one of the doors 64, 74 to open the other. For example, the main actuator groups 104, 106 can be controlled to release the first closing members 64, 66 without controlling the auxiliary actuator groups 112, 114 to release the second closing members 74, 76. For example, the main actuator groups 104, 106 can be controlled to release the first closing members 64, 66, and the auxiliary actuator groups 112, 114 can be controlled simultaneously to release the second closing members 74, 76. For example, the auxiliary actuator groups 112, 114 can be controlled to release the second closing members 74, 76 without controlling the main actuator groups 104, 106 to release the first closing members 64, 66. Each of the main actuator groups 104, 106 and the auxiliary actuator groups 112, 114 includes a separate electrically actuated motor. This eliminates the need for sequential operation of either the main actuator groups 104, 106 followed by the auxiliary actuator groups 112, 114, or vice versa, as required in a configuration where only a single motor controls both the main actuator groups 104, 106 and the auxiliary actuator groups 112, 114. It should be understood that the first front door 64 and the first rear door 74 are located on the first side (driver's side) of the vehicle 50, while the second front door 66 and the second rear door 76 are located on the second side (passenger side) of the vehicle 50 opposite the first side.

[0061] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a double-door pillarless door system 86 for a motor vehicle 50 is provided. The double-door pillarless door system 86 includes at least one latching assembly 88, 90, with the exemplary double-door pillarless door system 86 shown having latching assemblies 88, 90 on each side of the motor vehicle 50. Referring again... Figure 5A A second side latch assembly 90 for a two-door pillarless door system 86 is attached to the vehicle body 52 (e.g., along the lower portion, such as a sill 89 extending horizontally along the opening 58 by way of example and not limitation) for independently latching a first closing member (e.g., a second front door 66) and a second closing member (e.g., a second rear door 76). A first side latch assembly 88 for independently latching a first front door 64 and a first rear door 74 is similarly included on the opposite side or first side of the vehicle 50. Still referring to... Figure 5AA second side latch assembly 90 for the two-door pillarless door system 86 is attached to the vehicle body 52 (e.g., along the lower portion, such as a sill 89 extending horizontally along the opening 58 by way of example and not limitation) for independently latching the first closing member (e.g., the second front door 66) and the second closing member (e.g., the second rear door 76). A first side latch assembly 88 for independently latching the first front door 64 and the first rear door 74 is similarly included on the opposite side or first side of the vehicle 50.

[0062] Reference Figure 5B The two-door pillarless door system 86 can be illustratively configured to have a lower latch assembly, such as a lower latch assembly 88a, and an upper latch assembly, such as an upper latch assembly 88b, on each side of the vehicle 50. One side of the vehicle 50 is shown for illustrative purposes, but a similar configuration may be provided on the other side of the vehicle. The lower latch assembly 88a may be attached to the body 52 (e.g., along a lower frame portion extending between the lower portions of the A-pillar and the lower portions of the C-pillar, such as a sill 89 or rocker panel extending horizontally below the opening 58 by way of example and not limitation), and the upper latch assembly 88b may be attached to the body 52 (e.g., along an upper frame portion extending between the upper portions of the A-pillar and the upper portions of the C-pillar, such as a lintel 91 extending horizontally above the opening 58 by way of example and not limitation). The lower latch assembly 88a and the upper latch assembly 88b can be as follows Figure 5B The latches are positioned on opposite sides of the opening 58. The lower latch assembly 88a and the upper latch assembly 88b can each be mounted to separate frame plates 117 (e.g., two separate latches for the upper and lower positions respectively), which in turn are each mounted to the vehicle body 52, as shown. Figure 5C As illustrated in the diagram. In another possible configuration, the lower latch assembly 88a and the upper latch assembly 88b may each have two separate frame plates 117 mounted at the sill 89 and lintel 91 portions, each latch assembly having an actuation group of one of the main actuation groups 104, 106 and auxiliary actuation groups 112, 114 associated with the separate frame plate 117 or the housing 116 connected to the frame plate 117. Figure 5C In this configuration shown, controller units 136, 138 may be associated with a housing 116 or a frame plate 117 (e.g., a first frame plate 117a and a first associated housing 116a, and a second frame plate 117b and a second associated housing 116b), which is associated with one of the actuation groups of the main actuation groups 104, 106 and the auxiliary actuation groups 112, 114 of each of the upper latch assembly or the lower latch assembly (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 5DAlternatively, controller units 136, 138 may be distributed between two separate frame plates 117 of the upper latch assembly or lower latch assembly within two separate housings 116a, 116b (such as two controller units 136a, 138a, and 136b and 138b), and on the separate frame plates 117a, 117b) and electrically connected to each other (see [reference]). Figure 5E Alternatively, the controller units (136, 138) may be located away from the frame plates 117a, 117b and housings 116a, 116b of the upper or lower latch assembly, such as being part of a central control module or node, or, for example, a body control module (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 5F And therefore it is not housed within housing 116, but rather within a separate housing located at another position in vehicle 50.

[0063] The operation of the second-side latch assembly 90, for example, in Figures 6A to 6D The first and second closing members (e.g., the second front door 66 and the second rear door 76) each include corresponding strike pins 92, 94 attached thereto, which are independently received by the second main (front) fish mouth 96 and the second auxiliary (rear) fish mouth 98 of the second side latch assembly 90. The first side latch assembly 88 provides similar operation for the first front door 64 and the first rear door 74. The two latch assemblies 88, 90 allow one or both closing members (e.g., the second front door 66 and the second rear door 76) to open and close independently, regardless of their respective states.

[0064] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the specific locations of the latch assemblies 88, 90, such as on the sill 89, as shown for example with respect to the second side latch assembly 90, are intended only to illustrate an exemplary dual-door latch arrangement and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, the first side latch assembly 88 and the second side latch assembly 90 can be used for other automotive latch configurations, such as hood latches, cargo door latches, trunk lid latches, glass latches, sliding door latches, auxiliary latches, emergency release latches, seat latches, liftgate latches, tailgate latches, etc. Similarly, the type of latch release mechanism employed is unrelated to the inventive concept associated with this disclosure, and those skilled in the art will understand that any known powered latch release mechanism can be associated with each of the latch assemblies 88, 90. The dual-door system may also include sliding door systems, tailgate systems, hatch systems, or other entry / exit systems.

[0065] Now refer to Figures 7A to 7EEach latch assembly 88, 90 includes a master latch mechanism 100, 102 for a first closing member (e.g., a first front door 64 or a second front door 66), the master latch mechanism having master actuation groups 104, 106 operable to control actuation of the first closing member. Additionally, each latch assembly 88, 90 includes a secondary latch mechanism 108, 110 for a second closing member (e.g., a first rear door 74 or a second rear door 76), the secondary latch mechanisms 108, 110 having secondary actuation groups 112, 114 operable to control actuation of the second closing member. For the first side latch assembly 88, the first master latch mechanism 100, the first master actuation group 104, the first secondary latch mechanism 108, and the first secondary actuation group 112 are all integrated into a single first side housing 116. Figure 7E Similarly, the second side latch assembly 90, the second main latch mechanism 102, the second main actuation group 106, the second auxiliary latch mechanism 110, and the second auxiliary actuation group 114 are all integrated into a single second side housing 118. Figure 7E ).

[0066] Each master actuation assembly 104, 106 of the master latching mechanisms 100, 102 includes master ratchet 120, 122 movable between a pin-release position and a pin-capture position. Master pawls 124, 126 are movable between a ratchet holding position for holding the master ratchet 120, 122 in its pin-capture position and a ratchet release position for allowing the master ratchet 120, 122 to move to its pin-release position. Master actuation assemblies 104, 106 are operable to move the master pawls 124, 126 between their ratchet holding position and their release position. Similarly, the auxiliary actuation assemblies 112, 114 of the auxiliary latching mechanisms 108, 110 include auxiliary ratchet 128, 130 movable between a pin-release position and a pin-capture position. Secondary pawls 132 and 134 are movable between a ratchet holding position for holding secondary ratchet wheels 128 and 130 in their pin-captured position and a ratchet release position for allowing secondary ratchet wheels 128 and 130 to move to their pin-released position. Secondary actuator assemblies 112 and 114 are operable to move secondary pawls 132 and 134 between their ratchet holding position and their ratchet release position.

[0067] Each latch assembly 88, 90 further includes a corresponding controller unit 136, 138, which is also integrated into the corresponding housing 116, 118 (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 7CAs shown, corresponding printed circuit boards 140 and 142 are mounted to the corresponding housings 116 and 118, with corresponding connectors 144 and 146 extending from the corresponding housings 116 and 118. Therefore, controller units 136 and 138 are disposed within the housings 116 and 118. Controller unit 136 is coupled to the main actuator group 104 and the auxiliary actuator group 112, and controller unit 138 is coupled to the main actuator group 106 and the auxiliary actuator group 114, wherein each controller unit 136 and 138 is configured to determine which actuator group among the corresponding main actuator groups 104 and 106 and the corresponding auxiliary actuator groups 112 and 114 is actuated. Therefore, controller unit 136 independently controls actuation at the main actuator group 104 and the auxiliary actuator group 112, while controller unit 138 independently controls actuation at the main actuator group 106 and the auxiliary actuator group 114.

[0068] More specifically, the first side latch assembly 88 has a first side controller unit 136 coupled to a first main actuator group 104 and a first auxiliary actuator group 112, and the first side controller unit 136 is configured to control the actuation of at least one of the first main actuator group 104 and the first auxiliary actuator group 112. The second side latch assembly further includes a second side controller unit 138 that communicates with the first side controller unit 136 and is coupled to a second main actuator group 106 and a second auxiliary actuator group 114, and the second side controller unit 138 is configured to control the actuation of at least one of the second main actuator group 106 and the second auxiliary actuator group 114.

[0069] Now refer to Figure 8A The latch assemblies 88, 90 of the double-door pillarless door system 86 are electrically connected to the main power supply 148 of the vehicle 50 via electrical connection elements such as power cables, for example, a main battery providing a 12-volt battery voltage Vbatt (the main power supply 148 may also include different electrical energy sources within the vehicle 50, such as an alternator). Each actuation assembly 104, 106, 112, 114 includes an electric motor (not shown), which is operable when using power from the main power supply 148 to control the actuation of the respective closing members 64, 66, 74, 76. Each pawl 124, 126, 132, 134 is driven by a corresponding electric motor to move between an engaged position (ratchet held) and a non-engaged position (ratchet released).

[0070] Each latch assembly 88, 90 is controlled by a corresponding electronic control circuit 150, 152 including a corresponding controller unit 136, 138. More specifically, each controller unit 136, 138 includes a microcontroller, microprocessor, or similar computing module 136', 138' and embedded memory 136"', 138" such as non-volatile or random access memory, coupled to the computing module 136', 138' to store appropriate programs and computer instructions (e.g., in firmware). It should be appreciated that the controller units 136, 138 may alternatively include discrete-component logic circuitry to implement the functions of the computing modules 136', 138' and the memories 136"', 138"." Therefore, electronic control circuit 150 is coupled to the electric motor of each actuation group 104, 112 and provides a drive signal to the electric motor, and electronic control circuit 152 is coupled to the electric motor of each actuation group 106, 114 and provides a drive signal to the electric motor.

[0071] Electronic control circuits 150 and 152 are electrically coupled to the vehicle main management unit 154 (also known as the main BCM or "body control module"), which is configured to control the overall operation of the motor vehicle 50 via a data bus 156 to exchange signals, data, commands and / or information.

[0072] In addition, such as Figure 8A As shown, electronic control circuits 150, 152 (directly and / or indirectly via vehicle management unit 154) are coupled to several different sensors 158 (schematically shown) of the motor vehicle 50, such as: handle reading sensor or switch 158a (which reads the actuation of the external handle and / or internal handle of the closing member), collision sensor 158b, lock switch sensor 158c, etc.; conveniently, electronic control circuits 150, 152 also receive feedback information about latch actuation from position sensor 158d, such as a Hall sensor, which is configured to detect, for example, the operating position of ratchet 120, 122, 128, 130 and / or pawl 124, 126, 132, 134.

[0073] Electronic control circuits 150 and 152 are also coupled to the main power supply 148 of the vehicle 50 to receive the battery voltage Vbatt; therefore, electronic control circuits 150 and 152 can check whether the value of the battery voltage Vbatt has dropped below a predetermined threshold to quickly determine whether an emergency has occurred (when backup power may be needed).

[0074] Each electronic control circuit 150, 152 includes an embedded and integrated backup power source 160, which is configured to supply power to the actuators 104, 106, 112, 114 and the latching electric motor, as well as to the same electronic control circuits 150, 152, in the event of a failure or interruption of the main power supply from the main power source 148 of the vehicle 50.

[0075] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the backup energy source 160 includes a group of low-voltage supercapacitors 162 (hereinafter referred to as supercapacitor bank 162) serving as an energy supply unit (or energy tank) to provide backup power to latching assemblies 88, 90 even in the event of a power failure. The supercapacitors may include electrolytic double-layer capacitors, quasi-capacitors, or combinations thereof.

[0076] Supercapacitors offer advantageous advantages such as high energy density, high output current capability, and no memory effect; furthermore, they are small in size and easy to integrate, have a wide temperature range, long lifespan, and can withstand very high numbers of charge cycles. Supercapacitors are non-toxic and do not pose an explosion or fire risk, making them suitable for hazardous environments, such as automotive applications.

[0077] The backup power source 160 also includes a charging module 164, an equalization module 165, and a boost module 166. The charging module 164 is electrically coupled to the supercapacitor bank 162 and is configured to recharge the supercapacitor bank 162 from the battery voltage Vbatt whenever power from the main power source 148 is available, so that the same supercapacitor bank 162 can provide full energy storage and compensate for any leakage current in an emergency.

[0078] The equalization module 165 is electrically coupled to the supercapacitor bank 162 and is configured to ensure that the supercapacitor cells have the desired cell voltage value, particularly the same cell voltage value during operation (to achieve a balanced operating state). The equalization module 165 also prevents the supercapacitor cells from having a cell voltage exceeding the maximum desired cell voltage level, thereby protecting the supercapacitor from overcharging.

[0079] The boost module 166 receives the supercapacitor voltage Vsc generated by the supercapacitor bank 162 at its input and is configured to boost its value, i.e., increase it to the automotive standard voltage (e.g., 9V to 16V), and provide sufficient output current capability to drive standard automotive electric motors, such as the electric motors of latch assemblies 88 and 90. In fact, in emergency situations such as loss or insufficient power supply from the main power source 148 of the vehicle 50, the supercapacitor voltage Vsc may be too low to provide effective backup power to directly drive the electric motor.

[0080] Therefore, the boost module 166 provides a boost voltage V at its output terminal (i.e., the output terminal of the backup energy source 160) based on the supercapacitor voltage Vsc. boost Then, the boost voltage V boost The output of the latching assemblies 88 and 90 is received by the output modules (e.g., including an integrated H-bridge module 167) of the electronic control circuits 150 and 152, the output of which drives the electric motors of the latching assemblies 88 and 90.

[0081] The backup power source 160 also includes a diagnostic module 168, which is operatively coupled to the supercapacitor bank 162 and is configured to monitor the health of the supercapacitors during the charging process, based on the same charging process, for example by measuring their voltage, capacitance, and internal equivalent resistance (DCR - DC resistance).

[0082] Temperature sensor 169 is configured to monitor the operating temperature of supercapacitor bank 162, and temperature sensor 169 is coupled to diagnostic module 168 to provide detected temperature information; for example, temperature sensor 169 may include an NTC (negative temperature coefficient) resistor disposed near supercapacitor bank 162.

[0083] Diagnostic module 168 is operatively coupled to controller units 136, 138 to provide them with diagnostic information, such as the value of the supercapacitor voltage Vsc. In a possible implementation not shown, diagnostic module 28 may be implemented in controller units 136, 138 as a diagnostic routine run by their microprocessor or microcontroller.

[0084] Each electronic control circuit 150, 152 may further include a switching unit 170, which is coupled to controller units 136, 138 (e.g., coupled to the output of H-bridge module 167) and to main actuation groups 104, 106 and auxiliary actuation groups 112, 114. Therefore, controller units 136, 138 are also configured to control the switching unit 170 to actuate and control the actuation of at least one of the main actuation groups 104, 106 and auxiliary actuation groups 112, 114. Figure 8C A schematic circuit diagram of the switching unit 170 is shown. The switching unit 170 can be configured to control the power flow to any one of the main actuator groups 104, 106 and the auxiliary actuator groups 112, 114, respectively. Each of the main actuator groups 104, 106 and the auxiliary actuator groups 112, 114 can be supplied with power individually or together, for example, both can be controlled simultaneously. Figure 8AThe diagram illustrates a configuration where a single H-bridge 167 is connected via a switching unit 170 to each of the main actuator groups 104, 106 and the auxiliary actuator groups 112, 114, wherein controllers 136, 138 are adapted to use the switching unit 170 to control the switching of signal lines output from the single H-bridge 167, such as... Figure 8C As shown. Switching unit 170 is schematically shown as two double-pole double-pass switches, each controlled by controllers 136, 138 for selectively connecting or disconnecting a single H-bridge 167 with main actuator groups 104, 106 and auxiliary actuator groups 112, 114. Figure 8B In the alternative configuration shown, instead of a switch unit 170, two H-bridges 167a and 167b, each controllable by controllers 136 and 138, are provided. Each of the two H-bridges 167a and 167b is individually connected to an associated main actuation group 104 and 106 or an auxiliary actuation group 112 and 114. Power is supplied to any one or both of the associated main actuation groups 104 and 106 or auxiliary actuation groups 112 by the controllers 136 and 138 that control each of the H-bridges 167a and 167b.

[0085] Now refer to Figure 8D and Figure 8FA possible circuit configuration for a pillarless door system 86 for a motor vehicle 50 having a front door 64 and a rear door 74 is shown. The pillarless door system 86 includes a first latching assembly 88, such as an upper latching assembly 88b, which includes: a first master latching mechanism 100 for the front door 64 and having a first master actuation group 104 operable to control actuation of the front door 64; an auxiliary latching mechanism 108 for the rear door 74 and having a first auxiliary actuation group 112 operable to control actuation of the rear door 74; and a first controller unit 136a coupled to the first master actuation group 104 and the first auxiliary actuation group 112 and configured to control actuation of at least one of the actuation groups of the first master actuation group 104 and the first auxiliary actuation group 112. The double-door pillarless door system 86 may further include a second latching assembly 88a, such as a lower latching assembly 88a, which includes: a second master latching mechanism 102 for the front door 64, the second master latching mechanism 102 having a second master actuation group 106 operable to control actuation of the front door 64; a second auxiliary latching mechanism 110 for the rear door 74, the second auxiliary latching mechanism 110 having a second auxiliary actuation group 114 operable to control actuation of the rear door 74; and a second controller unit 136b coupled to the second master actuation group 106 and the second auxiliary actuation group 114 and configured to control actuation of at least one of the actuation groups of the second master actuation group 106 and the second auxiliary actuation group 114. The first controller unit 136a and the second controller unit 136b operate synchronously to control the actuation of the front door 64 independently of the actuation of the rear door 76, and to control the actuation of the rear door 76 independently of the actuation of the front door 64. For example, the first controller unit 136a and the second controller unit 136b can be connected via communication links 135a, 135b, such as dedicated wired connections between them (see...). Figure 8D ) or via a communication vehicle bus, such as LIN or CAN networks as examples (see, for example) Figure 10The first controller unit 136a and the second controller unit 136b communicate and coordinate with each other to control the second primary actuator group 106 to release only the front door 64. For example, the first controller unit 136a and the second controller unit 136b can communicate and coordinate with each other via a communication channel such as a dedicated wired connection to each other or via a communication vehicle bus such as a LIN or CAN network, for example, to jointly control the first auxiliary actuator group 112 and the second auxiliary actuator group 114 to release only the rear door 66. When each of the first controller unit 136a associated with the first latch assembly 88a and the second controller unit 136b associated with the second latch assembly 88b receives a closing member command signal such as a closing member opening command via signal communication lines 135a, 135b, the control of the first primary actuator group 104 and the second primary actuator group 106 can be synchronized to release only the front door 64. The signal communication lines 135a, 135b connect each of the first controller unit 136a and the second controller unit 136b to a vehicle control module such as a body control module 154 or a vehicle control module such as a vehicle control module 154. Figure 8DThe other control nodes shown are centralized control modules 133. These centralized control modules 133 and 154 can be located on the vehicle body 52, or inside one of the front door 64 and rear door 75. The centralized control module 133 can communicate signalically with the handle switch 158a, the body control module 154 (if not used as a body control module), and the key fob 32 or other interface devices, and is configured to issue commands 137 to the first controller unit 136a and the second controller unit 136b via signal lines 135a and 135b. Each controller unit in the first controller unit 136a and the second controller unit 136b can simultaneously receive the command signal 137 to ensure the synchronous release of each latch assembly in the lower latch assembly 88a and the upper latch assembly 88b. For example, the first controller unit 136a and the second controller unit 136b can communicate and coordinate with each other via a communication channel such as a dedicated wired connection to each other or via a communication vehicle bus such as a LIN or CAN network, to jointly control the first main actuation group 104 of the upper latch assembly and the second main actuation group 106 of the lower latch assembly to release only the front door 64. For example, the first controller unit 136a and the second controller unit 136b can communicate and coordinate with each other via a communication channel such as a dedicated wired connection to each other or via a communication vehicle bus such as a LIN or CAN network, to jointly control the first auxiliary actuation group 112 of the upper latch assembly and the second auxiliary actuation group 114 of the lower latch assembly to release only the rear door 74. When each of the controller units in the first controller unit 136a associated with the lower latch assembly 88a and the second controller unit 136b associated with the upper latch assembly 88b receives a closing member command signal 137, such as a closing member opening command, via signal communication lines 135a, 135b, it is possible to configure the control of the first main actuator group 104 and the second main actuator group 106 to release only the front door 64. The signal communication lines 135a, 135b connect each of the controller units in the first controller unit 136a and the second controller unit 136b to a centralized control module 133, such as reference... Figure 8D and Figure 8F The vehicle body control module 154 is shown. Figure 8FElectrical signal lines connecting the first controller unit 136a and the second controller unit 136b to a centralized control module operating on the body 52 of the vehicle 50 are shown, without having to pass through the doors 64, 74 or bridge the body 52 wiring harness to the doors 64, 74 for electrical wiring. The centralized control module can signal communicate with the handle switch 158a, the body control module 154 (if not used as a body control module), and the key fob 32, and can be configured to issue or send commands via the signal lines. Each controller unit in the first controller unit 136a and the second controller unit 136b can simultaneously receive command signals to ensure the synchronized release of each latch assembly in the lower latch assembly 88a and the upper latch assembly 88b. When one of the controller units 136a associated with the first latch assembly 88a and 136b associated with the second latch assembly 88b acts as the master controller receiving a closing member command signal, such as a closing member opening command, via a signal communication line or bus 135c, the control of the first master actuation group 104 and the second master actuation group 106 can be synchronized to release only the front door 64. The signal communication line or bus 135c connects only one of the controller units 136a and 136b to centralized control modules 133, 154, such as reference... Figure 8E and Figure 8G The vehicle body control module shown. The first controller unit 136a is in Figure 8E The first controller unit 136a is shown acting as the master controller, while the second controller unit 136b is shown acting as the slave controller. The centralized control module 133 can communicate signalally with, for example, a handle switch 158a, a body control module 154 (if not used as body control module 154), or a key fob 32, and is configured to issue a command 137 via signal line 135c. One of the controller units in the first controller unit 136a acting as the master controller can receive the command signal 137 and send a sub-command signal 139 to the other controller unit in the first controller unit 136a associated with the first latch assembly 88a and the second controller unit 136b acting as the slave controller associated with the second latch assembly 88b, to ensure the synchronous release of the lower latch assembly 88a and the upper latch assembly 88b, such as the simultaneous release of the lower latch assembly 88a and the upper latch assembly 88b. The first controller unit 136a and the second controller unit 136b can be connected via a dedicated signal line 135d or via a shared vehicle bus.

[0086] Now refer to Figure 8H and Figure 8I ,Apart from Figure 8DIn addition, the two-door pillarless door system 86 may also include a first motor 181a associated with the front door 64 to move the front door 64 and a second motor 181b associated with the rear door 74 to move the rear door. The first motor 181a, the second motor 181b, the first controller unit 136a, and the second controller unit 136b are electrically connected to a main controller, such as a body control module or other centralized control module. The first motor 181a, the second motor 181b, the first controller unit 136a, and the second controller unit 136b can use, for example, […]. Figure 10 The vehicle bus shown is electrically connected to the main controller, such as the body control module or other centralized control module, via a dedicated wire, wireless communication path, or a combination thereof. The first motor 181a and the second motor 181b can be as follows: Figure 8I The actuator shown is mounted to the vehicle body, but it can also be located inside doors 64 and 66 (or mounted to the door), as shown. Figure 10 and Figure 8H As shown. In the case of Figure 8I The first latch assembly 88a and the second latch assembly 88b, as well as the first motor 181a and the second motor 181b shown, are all installed in the body assembly, which can reduce the weight of the doors 64 and 74 and the wiring complexity of the wiring harness through the doors 64 and 74. Figure 8H and Figure 8I Both show the configuration of the first motor 181a and the second motor 181b, which have corresponding... Figure 8F and Figure 8G The control system configuration shown is associated with the configuration described herein; however, the first motor 181a and the second motor 181b can be combined with any of the control system configurations described herein, and are not limited to this configuration. Figure 8H and Figure 8I The configuration shown above. In the above configuration, motors 181a and 181b can be associated with different control arrangements, for example, the two motors can be controlled by one of the latching assemblies 88a and 88b, such as one of the latching assemblies 88a and 88b that is adjusted to a master controller as described above herein.

[0087] The operation of the double-door pillarless door system 86 is as follows: Figures 9A to 9D As shown. Therefore, controller units 136, 138 are configured to receive an opening command from an input source, selected from an actuation mechanism also referred to as an input source, such as a handle switch 158a, a body control module 154, or a key fob 32. More specifically, controller units 136, 138 are configured to operate only on the same side of the vehicle 50 as a person 31 with the key fob 32 (or on the side where person 31 pulls the handle of door 64, 66, 74, 76 to activate handle switch 158a). Therefore, as Figure 9A As shown, occupant 31 is on the first side of vehicle 50; therefore, the first-side controller unit 136 controls the actuation of both the first front door 64 and the first rear door 74 on the first side of vehicle 50 via latch assembly 88, while the second front door 66 and the second rear door 76 are held locked or latched via latch assembly 90, as... Figure 9B As shown. Similarly, as Figure 9C As shown, the person 31 is on the second side of the vehicle 50 opposite to the first side. Therefore, the second side controller unit 138 controls the actuation of both the second front door 66 and the second rear door 76 via the latch assembly 90 on the second side of the vehicle 50, while the first front door 64 and the first rear door 74 are held locked or latched via the latch assembly 88.

[0088] Now refer to Figure 9D Controller units 136 and 138 are further configured to determine whether at least one closure member opening command from an input source includes two closure member commands, such as an open command, as an example and not a limitation. In response to determining that at least one closure member opening command from an input source includes two closure member opening commands, controller units 136 and 138 then use the first-side controller unit 136 to control the actuation of both the first front door 64 and the first rear door 74 on the first side, or use the second-side controller unit 138 on the second side to control the actuation of both the second front door 66 and the second rear door 76, and transmit an opposite-side open command to one of the first-side controller units 136 and 138. In response to receiving an opposite-side open command from the first-side controller unit 136, the second-side controller unit 138 then controls the actuation of both the second front door 66 and the second rear door 76.

[0089] Return to reference Figure 8A The double-door pillarless door system 86 may additionally include a plurality of obstacle detection sensors 172 communicating with the first side controller unit 136 and the second side controller unit 138. The plurality of obstacle detection sensors 172 are configured to detect objects or postures adjacent to the first front door 64 and the first rear door 74, as well as the second front door 66 and the second rear door 76.

[0090] like Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, each of the first front door 64, the first rear door 74, the second front door 66, and the second rear door 76 may include more than one obstacle detection sensor 172. Specifically in Figures 9A to 9DIn each of the doors 64, 66, 74, and 76, the obstacle detection sensor 172 communicates via bus 156 with a central sensor control unit 174 powered by power supply 176. The central sensor control unit 174 is also connected to a liquid crystal display (LCD) 178 and communicates with the key fob 32 via a wireless interface 180. Each door 64, 66, 74, and 76 also includes a motor 181 for the powered movement of the door 64, 66, 74, and 76. Alternatively, in Figure 10 In this configuration, obstacle detection sensors 172 in each of doors 64, 66, 74, and 76 communicate with door sensor control unit 182, which in turn communicates via bus 156. Body control module 154 is powered by power supply 176. Body control module 154 is also connected to liquid crystal display (LCD) 178 and communicates with key fob 32 via wireless interface 180. Furthermore, each of doors 64, 66, 74, and 76 includes a motor 181 for the dynamic movement of doors 64, 66, 74, and 76.

[0091] Therefore, as Figures 12A to 12D As best illustrated, the first side controller unit 136 is further configured to adjust the control of actuation of at least one of the first main actuation group 104 and the first auxiliary actuation group 112 based on the detection of an object or posture. Similarly, the second side controller unit 138 is further configured to adjust the control of actuation of at least one of the second main actuation group 106 and the second auxiliary actuation group 114 based on the detection of an object or posture.

[0092] More specifically, the first-side controller unit 136 of the two-door pillarless door system 86 is further configured to receive an opening command from an input source selected from a handle switch 158a, a body control module 154, or a key fob 32. The first-side controller unit 136 is also configured to determine whether an object or gesture is adjacent to at least one of the first front door 64 or the first rear door 74. Based on the opening command from the input source and whether the object or gesture is adjacent to at least one of the first front door 64 or the first rear door 74, the first-side controller unit 136 determines which actuation group of the first primary actuation group 104 and the first secondary actuation group 112 should be actuated.

[0093] Similarly, the second-side controller unit 138 is configured to receive at least one closure member opening command from an input source selected from the handle switch 158a, the body control module 154, or the key fob 32. Additionally, the second-side controller unit 138 is configured to determine whether an object or gesture is adjacent to at least one of the second front door 66 or the second rear door 76. Then, the first-side controller unit 138 determines which actuation group of the second primary actuation group 106 and the second secondary actuation group 114 should be actuated based on the at least one closure member opening command from the input source and whether the object or gesture is adjacent to at least one of the second front door 66 or the second rear door 76.

[0094] like Figures 13 to 15 As best illustrated, a method for operating a two-door pillarless door system of a vehicle 50 having multiple closing members is also provided. First, refer to... Figure 13 The method includes step 200: receiving an opening command from an input source selected from a handle switch 158a, a body control module 154, or a key fob 32. The method continues with step 202: determining which actuation group among the primary actuation groups 104, 106 and secondary actuation groups 112, 114 of at least one latching assembly 88, 90 is actuated. The next step of the method is 204: controlling the actuation of at least one actuation group among the primary actuation groups 104, 106 and / or secondary actuation groups 112, 114 of at least one latching assembly 88, 90 based on the determination of which actuation group among the primary actuation groups 104, 106 and / or secondary actuation groups 112, 114 is actuated.

[0095] As described above, the multiple closing members may include a first front door 64, a first rear door 74, a second front door 66, and a second rear door 76. The double-door pillarless door system 86 may also include multiple obstacle detection sensors 172, which are configured to detect objects or postures adjacent to the first front door 64 and the first rear door 74, as well as the second front door 66 and the second rear door 76. Therefore, as... Figure 14 As best illustrated, the method further includes step 206: detecting objects or poses adjacent to the first front door 64 and the first rear door 74, as well as the second front door 66 and the second rear door 76.

[0096] Therefore, the method further includes step 208: determining whether at least one closing member opening command from the input source includes a closing member opening command. The method proceeds to step 210: in response to determining that at least one closing member opening command from the input source includes a closing member opening command, based on the detection of objects or postures adjacent to the first front door 64 and the first rear door 74, and the second front door 66 and the second rear door 76, the actuation of both the first front door 64 and the first rear door 74 is controlled using a first-side controller unit 136 on the first side of the vehicle 50, or the actuation of both the second front door 66 and the second rear door 76 is controlled using a second-side controller unit 138 on the second side of the vehicle 50 opposite to the first side. The next step of the method is 212: determining whether at least one closing member opening command from the input source includes two closing member opening commands. Next, the method continues with step 214: in response to determining that at least one closing member opening command from the input source includes two closing member opening commands, the actuation of both the first front door 64 and the first rear door 74 on the first side is controlled using the first-side controller unit 136, or the actuation of both the second front door 66 and the second rear door 76 is controlled using the second-side controller unit 138 on the second side, and a relative-side opening command is transmitted to one of the controller units 136 and 138. The method further includes step 216: in response to the relative-side opening command received from the first-side controller unit 136, the actuation of both the second front door 66 and the second rear door 76 is controlled using the second-side controller unit 138.

[0097] like Figure 15As best illustrated above, the method includes step 218: determining whether at least one closing member opening command from the input source includes a closing member opening command. The method proceeds to step 220: in response to determining that at least one closing member opening command from the input source includes a closing member opening command, based on the detection of objects or postures adjacent to the first front door 64 and the first rear door 74, and the second front door 66 and the second rear door 76, actuation of the first front door 64 is controlled using a first-side controller unit 136 on a first side of the vehicle 50, or actuation of the second front door 66 is controlled using a second-side controller unit 138 on a second side of the vehicle 50 opposite to the first side. The next step of the method is 222: determining whether at least one closing member opening command from the input source includes two closing member opening commands. The method then continues with step 224: in response to determining that at least one closing member opening command from the input source includes two closing member opening commands, the actuation of the first front door 64 and the first rear door 74 is controlled using the first side controller unit 136 on the first side of the vehicle 50, or the actuation of the second front door 66 and the second rear door 76 is controlled using the second side controller unit 138 on the second side of the vehicle 50. Next, step 226 is performed: determining whether the at least one closing member opening command from the input source includes three closing member opening commands. The method continues with step 228: in response to determining that at least one closing member opening command from the input source includes three closing member opening commands, the actuation of both the first rear door 74 and the second rear door 76 on the first side is controlled using the first side controller unit 136, or the actuation of both the second front door 66 and the second rear door 76 on the second side is controlled using the second side controller unit 138 on the second side, and a relative side opening command is transmitted to one of the controller units 136 and 138. The method further includes step 230: in response to receiving an opposite side open command from the first side controller unit 136, using the first side controller unit 136 to control the actuation of both the first front door 64 and the first rear door 74, or using the second side controller unit 138 to control the actuation of both the second front door 66 and the second rear door 76.

[0098] Now refer to Figure 16A method 999 for operating a two-door pillarless door system for a motor vehicle having front and rear doors is shown. The method includes: controlling a first main actuation group 1000 of an upper latch assembly associated with the front door; controlling a second main actuation group 1002 of a lower latch assembly associated with the front door in coordination with controlling the first main actuation group; controlling a first auxiliary actuation group 1004 of the upper latch assembly associated with the front door; and controlling a second auxiliary actuation group 1006 of the lower latch assembly associated with the front door in coordination with controlling the first auxiliary actuation group. Steps 1000, 1002, 1004, and 1006 may include electrically controlling the first main actuation group, the second main actuation group, the first auxiliary actuation group, and the second auxiliary actuation group. The first main actuation group, the second main actuation group, the first auxiliary actuation group, and the second auxiliary actuation group may be mounted to the vehicle body.

[0099] Obviously, changes may be made to the description and illustrations herein without departing from the scope defined by the appended claims. The foregoing description of embodiments has been provided for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or limiting of this disclosure. Various elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but are interchangeable where applicable and can be used in chosen embodiments, even if not specifically shown or described. Variations are also possible in many respects. Such variations are not considered to depart from this disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure.

[0100] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular exemplary embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” may also be intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are open-ended inclusions and therefore specify the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described herein should not be construed as requiring them to be performed in the specific order discussed or shown, unless specifically specified as such. It should also be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed.

[0101] When an element or layer is referred to as “on another element or layer,” “joined to,” “connected to,” or “coupled to” another element or layer, it may be directly on, joined to, connected to, or coupled to the other element or layer, or there may be intermediate elements or layers present. Conversely, when an element is referred to as “directly on another element or layer,” “directly joined to,” “directly connected to,” or “directly coupled to” another element or layer, there may be no intermediate elements or layers present. Other terms used to describe relationships between elements should be interpreted in the same manner (e.g., “between” vs. “directly between,” “adjacent” vs. “directly adjacent,” etc.). As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0102] Although the terms first, second, third, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or portions, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or portions should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be used only to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or portion from another. Terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms used herein do not imply order or sequence unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Therefore, a first element, component, region, layer, or portion discussed below may be referred to as a second element, component, region, layer, or portion without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments.

[0103] Spatial relative terms such as “inside,” “outside,” “below,” “below,” “lower,” “above,” “upper,” “top,” “bottom,” etc., may be used in this document to describe the relationship between one element or feature and another element or feature as shown in the figure. In addition to the orientations depicted in the figure, spatial relative terms may be intended to cover different orientations of the device in use or operation. For example, if the device in the figure is flipped, an element described as “below” or “below” other elements or features would be oriented as “above” other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term “below” can include both above and below orientations. The device may be oriented in other ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations) and the spatial relative descriptors used herein are interpreted accordingly.

[0104] The present invention can also be configured as follows:

[0105] 1. A latch assembly (88, 90) for a double-door pillarless door system (86), the double-door pillarless door system (86) having a first closing member (64, 66) and a second closing member (74, 76) each movable between an open position and a closed position, the latch assembly (88, 90) comprising:

[0106] Shell (116, 118);

[0107] A main latching mechanism (100, 102) for the first closing member (64, 66) and an auxiliary latching mechanism (108, 110) for the second closing member (74, 76), the main latching mechanisms (100, 102) being disposed in the housing (116, 118) and having a main actuation assembly (104, 106) operable to control the actuation of the first closing member (64, 66), the auxiliary latching mechanisms (108, 110) being disposed in the housing (116, 118) and having an auxiliary actuation assembly (112, 114) operable to control the actuation of the second closing member (74, 76); and

[0108] A controller unit (136, 138) is operatively communicatively connected to the main actuator group (104, 106) and the auxiliary actuator group (112, 114), and is configured to determine which of the main actuator group (104, 106) and the auxiliary actuator group (112, 114) is actuated and to control the actuation of at least one of the main actuator group (104, 106) and the auxiliary actuator group (112, 114).

[0109] 2. The latch assembly (88, 90) according to 1, wherein the controller unit (136, 138) is configured to actuate the main actuation group (104, 106) and the auxiliary actuation group (112, 114) in a relationship independent of each other.

[0110] 3. The latch assembly (88, 90) according to 1 or 2, wherein the controller unit (136, 138) is disposed in the housing (116, 118).

[0111] 4. The latch assembly (88, 90) according to claim 1 or 2 further includes a switching unit (170) coupled to the controller unit (136, 138), the main actuation group (104, 106) and the auxiliary actuation group (112, 114), wherein the controller unit (136, 138) is configured to control the actuation of the switching unit (170) and to control the actuation of at least one of the main actuation group (104, 106) and the auxiliary actuation group (112, 114).

[0112] 5. The latch assembly (88, 90) according to 1 or 2, wherein:

[0113] The main actuation assembly (104, 106) of the main latching mechanism (100, 102) includes a main ratchet (120, 122) movable between a pin release position and a pin capture position, a main pawl (124, 126) movable between a ratchet holding position for holding the main ratchet (120, 122) in its pin capture position and a ratchet release position for allowing the main ratchet (120, 122) to move to its pin release position, and the main actuation assembly (104, 106) is operable to move the main pawl (124, 126) between its ratchet holding position and its ratchet release position; and

[0114] The auxiliary actuator assembly (112, 114) of the auxiliary latching mechanism (108, 110) includes an auxiliary ratchet (128, 130) movable between a pin release position and a pin capture position, and an auxiliary pawl (132, 134) movable between a ratchet holding position for holding the auxiliary ratchet (128, 130) in its pin capture position and a ratchet release position for allowing the auxiliary ratchet (128, 130) to move to its pin release position. The auxiliary actuator assembly (112, 114) is operable to move the auxiliary pawl (132, 134) between its ratchet holding position and its ratchet release position.

[0115] 6. The latch assembly (88, 90) according to 1, wherein the first closing member (66) is a front door mounted to the A-pillar of the vehicle (50), and the second closing member (74, 76) is a rear door mounted to the C-pillar of the vehicle (50).

[0116] 7. The latch assembly (88, 90) according to claim 6, wherein the controller unit is configured to selectively actuate the main actuation group (104, 106) associated with the front door and the auxiliary actuation group (112, 114) associated with the rear door and the second closing member (74, 76), such that each of the first closing member (64, 66) and the second closing member (74, 76) can be controlled independently of each other.

[0117] 8. The latch assembly (88, 90) according to 7, wherein the front door and the rear door are not arranged to overlap each other.

[0118] 9. The latch assembly (88, 90) according to 7, wherein the latch assembly (88, 90) is mounted to one of the top frame portion and the bottom frame portion of the vehicle body.

[0119] 10. A double-door pillarless door system (86) for a motor vehicle (50) having a front door (64) and a rear door (74), the double-door pillarless door system (86) comprising:

[0120] A first latch assembly (88) comprising: a first main latch mechanism (100) for the front door (64) and having a first main actuation group (104) operable to control actuation of the front door (64); a secondary latch mechanism (108) for the rear door (74) and having a first secondary actuation group (112) operable to control actuation of the rear door (74); and a first controller unit (136) coupled to the first main actuation group (104) and the first secondary actuation group (112) and configured to control actuation of at least one of the first main actuation group (104) and the first secondary actuation group (112).

[0121] 11. The double-door pillarless door system (86) for a vehicle according to claim 10 further includes:

[0122] A second latch assembly (90) comprising: a second main latch mechanism (102) for the front door (66) and having a second main actuation group (106) operable to control actuation of the front door (66); a second auxiliary latch mechanism (110) for the rear door (76) and having a second auxiliary actuation group (114) operable to control actuation of the rear door (76); and a second controller unit (138) coupled to the second main actuation group (106) and the second auxiliary actuation group (114) and configured to control actuation of at least one of the second main actuation group (106) and the second auxiliary actuation group (114).

[0123] 12. The double-door pillarless door system (86) according to 11, wherein the first controller unit (136) and the second controller unit (138) operate synchronously to control the actuation of the front door (64) independently of the actuation of the rear door (76).

[0124] 13. The double-door pillarless door system (86) according to 11, wherein the first controller unit (136) and the second controller unit (138) are operatively communicable to each other.

[0125] 14. The double-door pillarless door system (86) according to 13, wherein one of the controller units (136) and the second controller unit (138) is further configured to:

[0126] Receive a command to open at least one closed component;

[0127] Actuation of at least one of the main actuation group (104) and the auxiliary actuation group (112) associated with one of the controller units (136) and the second controller unit (138) that has received the command to open the at least one closing member; and

[0128] The command to open the at least one closing member is sent to another controller unit in the first controller unit (136) and the second controller unit (138) to control the actuation of at least one of the main actuation group (104) and the auxiliary actuation group (112) associated with the other controller unit in the first controller unit (136) and the second controller unit (138).

[0129] 15. The double-door pillarless door system (86) according to 11 further includes a first motor (181) associated with the front door (64) to move the front door (64) and a second motor associated with the rear door (74) to move the rear door, wherein the first motor, the second motor, the first controller unit (136) and the second controller unit (138) are electrically connected to a main controller.

[0130] 16. The double-door pillarless door system (86) according to 11, wherein the first latch assembly (88) includes a first frame plate mounted on the upper body of the vehicle, wherein the first main latch mechanism (100) is mounted to the first frame plate, and the second latch assembly (90) includes a second frame plate mounted on the lower body of the vehicle, wherein the auxiliary latch mechanism (108) is mounted to the second frame plate.

[0131] 17. A method of operating a double-door pillarless door system (86) of a vehicle (50), the vehicle (50) having a front closing member and a rear closing member, the method comprising the steps of:

[0132] Receive at least one closing member opening command from an input source selected from a handle switch (158a), a body control module (154), and a key fob (32);

[0133] Determine which of the primary actuation group (104, 106) and secondary actuation group (112, 114) of at least one latching assembly (88, 90) is actuated; and

[0134] The actuation of at least one of the main actuation groups (104, 106) and the auxiliary actuation groups (112, 114) of the at least one latching assembly (88, 90) is controlled based on the determination of which of the main actuation groups (104, 106) and the auxiliary actuation groups (112, 114) performs actuation.

[0135] 18. The method according to 17 further includes: controlling a first motor (181) to move the front closing member after controlling actuation of the main actuation group (104, 106), and controlling a second motor (183) to move the rear closing member after controlling the auxiliary actuation group (112).

[0136] 19. The method according to 17, wherein the at least one latching assembly (88, 90) includes an upper latching assembly and a lower latching assembly, and wherein the step of controlling the actuation of at least one of the main actuation group (104, 106) and the auxiliary actuation group (112, 114) of the upper latching assembly and the lower latching assembly comprises: synchronizing the actuation of the main actuation group (104, 106) and the auxiliary actuation group (112, 114) of each latching assembly of the upper latching assembly and the lower latching assembly.

[0137] 20. The method according to 17, wherein the step of controlling the actuation of at least one of the main actuation group (104, 106) and the auxiliary actuation group (112, 114) of the at least one latching assembly (88, 90) comprises: independently controlling the main actuation group (104, 106) and the auxiliary actuation group (112, 114).

Claims

1. A double-door pillarless door system for a motor vehicle, the motor vehicle having a vehicle body and front and rear doors, the double-door pillarless door system comprising: An upper latch assembly for securing the upper portion of the front door and the upper portion of the rear door to the upper portion of the vehicle body, the upper latch assembly having an actuation group operable to control the latching of the front door and the rear door to the vehicle body; A lower latch assembly for securing the lower portion of the front door and the lower portion of the rear door to the lower portion of the vehicle body, the lower latch assembly having an actuation group operable to control the latching of the front door and the rear door to the vehicle body; A first power-operated actuator for moving the front door, the first power-operated actuator being mounted on the vehicle body; A second power-operated actuator for moving the rear door, the second power-operated actuator being mounted on the vehicle body; A first handle sensor associated with a first handle mounted on the front door; A second handle sensor associated with the second handle installed on the rear door; as well as A central control system installed on the vehicle body is coupled via signal lines to the upper latch assembly, the lower latch assembly, the first handlebar sensor, the second handlebar sensor, the first power-operated actuator, and the second power-operated actuator, and is configured to, in response to receiving a signal from the handlebar sensor, control the actuator group to simultaneously release all latch assemblies, and control the power-operated actuator.

2. The double-door pillarless door system according to claim 1, wherein, A first control unit is included in the upper latch assembly, and a second control unit is included in the lower latch assembly, wherein each of the first and second control units includes a backup power supply.

3. The double-door pillarless door system according to claim 2, wherein, The central control system is adapted to send release signals to the first control unit and the second control unit to simultaneously release the lower latch assembly and the upper latch assembly.

4. The double-door pillarless door system according to claim 1, wherein, The upper latch assembly includes: a first upper latch mounted to a frame plate of the vehicle body, the first upper latch being associated with the upper portion of the front door; and a second upper latch mounted to a separate frame plate of the vehicle body, the second upper latch being associated with the upper portion of the rear door.

5. The double-door pillarless door system according to claim 4, wherein, The lower latch assembly includes: a first lower latch mounted to a frame plate of the vehicle body, the first lower latch being associated with the lower portion of the front door; and a second lower latch mounted to a separate frame plate of the vehicle body, the second lower latch being associated with the lower portion of the rear door.

6. The double-door pillarless door system according to claim 1, in, The upper latch assembly includes: a first upper latch mounted to a frame panel of the vehicle body, the first upper latch being associated with the upper portion of the front door; and a second upper latch mounted to the same frame panel of the vehicle body, the second upper latch being associated with the upper portion of the rear door. The lower latch assembly includes: a first lower latch mounted to a frame plate of the vehicle body, the first lower latch being associated with the lower portion of the front door; and a second lower latch mounted to the same frame plate of the vehicle body, the second lower latch being associated with the lower portion of the rear door. The central control system includes a first control unit and a second control unit. The first control unit is associated with the first upper latch and the second upper latch, and the second control unit is associated with the first lower latch and the second lower latch.

7. The double-door pillarless door system according to claim 6, wherein, Each of the first control unit and the second control unit includes a backup power source.

8. The double-door pillarless door system according to claim 1, wherein, The central control system is coupled to a vehicle bus for communicating with the control node.

9. The double-door pillarless door system according to claim 8, wherein, The control node is located within one of the front door and the rear door.

10. The double-door pillarless door system according to claim 8, wherein, Multiple obstacle detection sensors are connected to the central control system.

11. The double-door pillarless door system according to claim 1, wherein, The central control system is connected to the upper latch assembly and the lower latch assembly using wiring that runs through the vehicle body.

12. A method of operating a door system of a vehicle having a front closing member and a rear closing member, comprising the following steps: A first upper latch is controlled to secure the upper part of the front closing member to the upper part of the vehicle body. The first upper latch has an actuation assembly operable to control the latch of the upper part of the front closing member to the vehicle body. A second upper latch is controlled to secure the upper part of the rear closing member to the upper part of the vehicle body. The second upper latch has an actuation assembly operable to control the latch of the upper part of the rear closing member to the vehicle body. A first lower latch is controlled to secure the lower part of the front closing member to the lower part of the vehicle body. The first lower latch has an actuation assembly operable to control the latch of the lower part of the front closing member to the vehicle body. A second lower latch is controlled to secure the lower part of the rear closing member to the lower part of the vehicle body. The second lower latch has an actuation assembly operable to control the latch of the lower part of the rear closing member to the vehicle body. as well as When the control unit receives an open command signal from the handle switch, it simultaneously releases the first upper latch and the first lower latch, as well as the second upper latch and the second lower latch, so that the front closing member and the rear closing member are released from the vehicle body.

13. The method of claim 12, further comprising: Control the power actuator to move the closing member after it is released from the vehicle body.

14. The method of claim 13, further comprising: Command signals are sent to the upper latch, the lower latch, and the power actuator via wiring located in the vehicle body.

15. The method of claim 12, further comprising: Command signals are sent to the upper latch and the lower latch by wiring located in the vehicle body rather than wiring passing through the closure member.

16. A central control system for a pillarless door system for a motor vehicle, the motor vehicle having a vehicle body and front and rear doors, the pillarless door system comprising: A control unit mounted on the vehicle body is coupled to a first upper latch and a first lower latch associated with the front door and a second upper latch and a second lower latch associated with the rear door; Wiring that electrically connects the control unit to the first upper latch, the first lower latch, the second upper latch, and the second lower latch; The control unit and the first upper latch, the first lower latch, the second upper latch and the second lower latch are mounted on the vehicle body; The wiring is configured to extend within the vehicle body, but does not pass through the doors. When the central control system receives an open command signal from the handle switch, the wiring sends a signal from the central control system to simultaneously release the first upper latch, the first lower latch, the second upper latch, and the second lower latch.

17. The central control system according to claim 16, wherein, The control unit is coupled to two power actuators, each of which is used to move one of the front door and the rear door, wherein the power actuators are mounted on the vehicle body; The wiring that couples the control unit to the power actuator is configured to extend within the vehicle body, but the wiring does not pass through the door.

18. A double-door pillarless door system for a motor vehicle, the motor vehicle having a vehicle body and front and rear doors, the double-door pillarless door system comprising: At least one front door latch assembly is mounted on the vehicle body to secure the front door to the vehicle body, the at least one front door latch assembly having an actuation group operable to control the latch of the front door to the vehicle body; At least one rear door latch assembly is mounted on the vehicle body to secure the rear door to the vehicle body, the at least one rear door latch assembly having an actuation group operable to control the latch of the rear door to the vehicle body; as well as A control system coupled to the at least one front door latch assembly and the at least one rear door latch assembly and configured to simultaneously control the actuation assembly when the control system receives an opening command signal from a handle switch associated with a handle mounted on one of the front and rear doors, the control system being mounted in the vehicle body.

19. The double-door pillarless door system of claim 18, further comprising a power actuator controlled by the control system for moving one of the front door and the rear door, wherein, The power actuator is mounted on the vehicle body.

20. The double-door pillarless door system according to claim 18, wherein, It also includes wiring connecting the control system to the at least one front door latch assembly and the at least one rear door latch assembly, wherein the wiring is disposed in the vehicle body but does not pass through the doors.

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