Determining horizontal clearance of vehicle

Abstract

A system for determining a horizontal clearance of a vehicle includes a ranging sensor configured to measure a distance between the vehicle and an object in an environment surrounding the vehicle. The system may also include a human-machine interface (HMI). The system may also include a controller in electrical communication with the ranging sensor and the HMI. The controller is further programmed to determine an available gap distance between a door of the vehicle and an object in the surroundings of the vehicle using the ranging sensor. The controller is also programmed to compare the available gap distance to one or more predetermined gap distance thresholds. The controller is further programmed to provide information to the vehicle occupant using the HMI based at least in part on the available gap distance and one or more predetermined gap distance thresholds.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for enhancing vehicle occupant alertness and, more particularly, to systems and methods for determining a horizontal clearance of a vehicle. Background Art

[0002] To enhance occupant comfort, convenience, and alertness, vehicles may be equipped with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) designed to assist occupants in operating the vehicle. ADAS systems can use various sensors such as cameras, radar, ultrasonic, and LiDAR to detect and identify objects around the vehicle, including other vehicles, pedestrians, and traffic signs. When a potential collision or obstacle is detected, the ADAS system may alert the occupant or take corrective measures to prevent or mitigate the collision. Additionally, vehicles can be equipped with parking sensors to assist occupants in maneuvering the vehicle when parking, particularly in tight spaces. Parking sensors can include, for example, ultrasonic ranging sensors. However, current ADAS systems and parking sensors may not assist the occupant in determining the horizontal clearance available for opening the passenger door and / or cargo door of the vehicle.

[0003] Thus, while current ADAS and parking sensor systems and methods achieve their intended purposes, there is a need for a new and improved system and method for determining the horizontal clearance of a vehicle. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to several aspects, a system for determining a horizontal clearance of a vehicle is provided. The system can include a ranging sensor configured to measure a distance between the vehicle and an object in the vehicle's surrounding environment. The system can also include a human-machine interface (HMI). The system can further include a controller in electrical communication with the ranging sensor and the HMI. The controller is programmed to use the ranging sensor to determine an available clearance distance between a door of the vehicle and an object in the vehicle's surrounding environment. The controller is also programmed to compare the available clearance distance with one or more predetermined clearance distance thresholds. The controller is further programmed to provide information to a vehicle occupant using the HMI at least in part based on the available clearance distance and the one or more predetermined clearance distance thresholds.

[0005] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the one or more predetermined clearance distance thresholds at least include: a first clearance distance threshold that indicates that the door of the vehicle can be opened to a full open distance; and a second clearance distance threshold that indicates that the door of the vehicle can be opened to two-thirds of the full open distance. The one or more predetermined clearance distance thresholds further at least include: a third clearance distance threshold that indicates that the door of the vehicle can be opened to one-third of the full open distance; and a fourth clearance distance threshold that indicates that the door of the vehicle cannot be opened.

[0006] In another aspect of the present disclosure, one or more predetermined gap distance thresholds are determined at least in part based on at least one of the following: one or more dimensions of the vehicle and one or more dimensions of the vehicle's door.

[0007] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the HMI may further include at least one display. To provide information to a vehicle occupant, the controller is further programmed to, in response to determining that the available gap distance is greater than or equal to a first gap distance threshold, use the at least one display to provide a first indication to the vehicle occupant. To provide information to a vehicle occupant, the controller is further programmed to, in response to determining that the available gap distance is greater than or equal to a second gap distance threshold and less than the first gap distance threshold, use the at least one display to provide a second indication to the vehicle occupant. To provide information to a vehicle occupant, the controller is further programmed to, in response to determining that the available gap distance is greater than or equal to a third gap distance threshold and less than the second gap distance threshold, use the at least one display to provide a third indication to the vehicle occupant. To provide information to a vehicle occupant, the controller is further programmed to, in response to determining that the available gap distance is less than or equal to a fourth gap distance threshold, use the at least one display to provide a fourth indication to the vehicle occupant.

[0008] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the at least one display includes at least one LED array. The first indication includes illuminating a first LED of the LED array. The second indication includes illuminating a second LED of the LED array. The third indication includes illuminating a third LED of the LED array. The fourth indication includes illuminating a fourth LED of the LED array.

[0009] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the at least one LED array may further include a first LED array that is fixed to an outer surface of the vehicle's door adjacent to an outer handle of the vehicle's door. The at least one LED array may further include a second LED array that is fixed to an inner surface of the vehicle's door adjacent to an inner handle of the vehicle's door.

[0010] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the at least one display includes an infotainment display. The first indication includes a visual representation of the vehicle depicting the available gap distance relative to the first gap distance threshold. The second indication includes a visual representation of the vehicle depicting the available gap distance relative to the second gap distance threshold and the first gap distance threshold. The third indication includes a visual representation of the vehicle depicting the available gap distance relative to the third gap distance threshold and the second gap distance threshold. The fourth indication includes a visual representation of the vehicle depicting the available gap distance relative to the fourth gap distance threshold.

[0011] In another aspect of the present disclosure, to provide information to a vehicle occupant, the controller is further programmed to determine the position of the occupant relative to the vehicle, where the position of the occupant includes one of the following: inside the vehicle and outside the vehicle. To provide information to the vehicle occupant, the controller is further programmed to, in response to determining that the position of the occupant is inside the vehicle, use the infotainment display to provide at least one of the following: a first indication, a second indication, a third indication, and a fourth indication.

[0012] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the ranging sensor may further include one or more ultrasonic distance measurement sensors fixed to a door of the vehicle. To determine the available clearance distance, the controller is further programmed to use the one or more ultrasonic distance measurement sensors to determine the available clearance distance between the door of the vehicle and an object in the vehicle's surrounding environment.

[0013] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the ranging sensor may further include a camera system. To determine the available clearance distance, the controller is further programmed to use the camera system to determine the available clearance distance between the door of the vehicle and an object in the vehicle's surrounding environment.

[0014] According to several aspects, a method for determining a horizontal clearance of a vehicle is provided. The method may include using a ranging sensor to determine an available clearance distance between a door of the vehicle and an object in the vehicle's surrounding environment. The method may further include comparing the available clearance distance with one or more predetermined clearance distance thresholds. The method may further include providing information to a vehicle occupant using a human machine interface (HMI) at least partially based on the available clearance distance and the one or more predetermined clearance distance thresholds.

[0015] In another aspect of the present disclosure, comparing the available clearance distance with one or more predetermined clearance distance thresholds may further include comparing the available clearance distance with a first clearance distance threshold that indicates that the door of the vehicle can be opened to the full open distance. Comparing the available clearance distance with one or more predetermined clearance distance thresholds may further include comparing the available clearance distance with a second clearance distance threshold that indicates that the door of the vehicle can be opened to two-thirds of the full open distance. Comparing the available clearance distance with one or more predetermined clearance distance thresholds may further include comparing the available clearance distance with a third clearance distance threshold that indicates that the door of the vehicle can be opened to one-third of the full open distance. Comparing the available clearance distance with one or more predetermined clearance distance thresholds may further include comparing the available clearance distance with a fourth clearance distance threshold that indicates that the door of the vehicle cannot be opened.

[0016] In another aspect of the present disclosure, providing information to a vehicle occupant may further include providing a first indication to the vehicle occupant using an HMI in response to determining that the available clearance distance is greater than or equal to a first clearance threshold. Providing information to the vehicle occupant may further include providing a second indication to the vehicle occupant using an HMI in response to determining that the available clearance distance is greater than or equal to a second clearance distance threshold and less than the first clearance distance threshold. Providing information to the vehicle occupant may further include providing a third indication to the vehicle occupant using an HMI in response to determining that the available clearance distance is greater than or equal to a third clearance distance threshold and less than the second clearance distance threshold. Providing information to the vehicle occupant may further include providing a fourth indication to the vehicle occupant using an HMI in response to determining that the available clearance distance is less than or equal to a fourth clearance distance threshold.

[0017] In another aspect of the present disclosure, providing information to a vehicle occupant may further include illuminating a first LED of at least one of the following: a first LED array of the HMI that is fixed to an outer surface of the vehicle door adjacent to an outer door handle of the vehicle; and a second LED array of the HMI that is fixed to an inner surface of the vehicle door adjacent to an inner door handle of the vehicle. Providing information to the vehicle occupant may further include illuminating a second LED of at least one of the first LED array and the second LED array to provide a second indication. Providing information to the vehicle occupant may further include illuminating a third LED of at least one of the first LED array and the second LED array to provide a third indication. Providing information to the vehicle occupant may further include illuminating a fourth LED of at least one of the first LED array and the second LED array to provide a fourth indication.

[0018] In another aspect of the present disclosure, providing information to a vehicle occupant may further include using an infotainment display of the HMI to display a visual representation of the vehicle depicting the available clearance distance relative to the first clearance distance threshold to provide a first indication. Providing information to the vehicle occupant may further include using an infotainment display of the HMI to display a visual representation of the vehicle depicting the available clearance distance relative to the second clearance distance threshold and the first clearance distance threshold to provide a second indication. Providing information to the vehicle occupant may further include using an infotainment display of the HMI to display a vehicle visual representation depicting the available clearance distance relative to the third clearance distance threshold and the second clearance distance threshold to provide a third indication. Providing information to the vehicle occupant may further include using an infotainment display of the HMI to display a visual representation of the vehicle depicting the available clearance distance relative to the fourth clearance distance threshold to provide a fourth indication.

[0019] In another aspect of the present disclosure, providing information to a vehicle occupant may further include determining the position of the occupant relative to the vehicle. Providing information to the vehicle occupant may further include using at least one of an infotainment display, a first LED array, and a second LED array to provide at least one of the following, at least partially based on the position of the occupant relative to the vehicle: a first indication, a second indication, a third indication, and a fourth indication.

[0020] In another aspect of the present disclosure, providing information to a vehicle occupant may further include determining the position of the occupant relative to the vehicle. The position of the occupant includes one of inside the vehicle and outside the vehicle; in response to determining that the position of the occupant is inside the vehicle, using the infotainment display and the second LED array to provide at least one of the following: a first indication, a second indication, a third indication, and the fourth indication. Providing information to the vehicle occupant may further include, in response to determining that the position of the occupant is outside the vehicle, using the first LED array to provide at least one of the following: a first indication, a second indication, a third indication, and a fourth indication.

[0021] A system for determining a horizontal clearance of a vehicle is provided in several aspects. The system may include a ranging sensor configured to measure a distance between the vehicle and an object in the vehicle's surrounding environment. The ranging sensor includes at least one of the following: one or more ultrasonic ranging sensors and a camera system. The system may also include a human-machine interface (HMI). The HMI may include a first LED array fixed to an outer surface of the vehicle's door adjacent to an outer handle of the vehicle's door. The HMI may also include a second LED array fixed to an inner surface of the vehicle's door adjacent to an inner handle of the vehicle's door. The HMI may also include an infotainment display disposed within the vehicle. The system may also include a controller in electrical communication with the ranging sensor and the HMI. The controller is programmed to use the ranging sensor to determine an available clearance distance between the vehicle's door and an object in the vehicle's surrounding environment. The controller is also programmed to compare the available clearance distance with a first clearance distance threshold indicating that the vehicle's door can be opened to a full open distance, a second clearance distance threshold indicating that the vehicle's door can be opened to two-thirds of the full open distance, a third clearance distance threshold indicating that the vehicle's door can be opened to one-third of the full open distance, and a fourth clearance distance threshold indicating that the vehicle's door cannot be opened. The controller is also programmed to provide a first indication to a vehicle occupant using the HMI in response to determining that the available clearance distance is greater than or equal to the first clearance distance threshold. The controller is also programmed to provide a second indication to a vehicle occupant using the HMI in response to determining that the available clearance distance is greater than or equal to the second clearance distance threshold and less than the first clearance distance threshold. The controller is also programmed to provide a third indication to a vehicle occupant using the HMI in response to determining that the available clearance distance is greater than or equal to the third clearance distance threshold and less than the second clearance distance threshold. The controller is also programmed to provide a fourth indication to a vehicle occupant using the HMI in response to determining that the available clearance distance is less than or equal to the fourth clearance distance threshold.

[0022] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the controller is also programmed to illuminate a first LED of at least one of the first LED array and the second LED array to provide the first indication. The controller is also programmed to illuminate a second LED of at least one of the first LED array and the second LED array to provide the second indication. The controller is also programmed to illuminate a third LED of at least one of the first LED array and the second LED array to provide the third indication. The controller is also programmed to illuminate a fourth LED of at least one of the first LED array and the second LED array to provide the fourth indication.

[0023] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the controller is further programmed to use the infotainment display to display a visual representation of the vehicle depicting the available gap distance relative to a first gap distance threshold to provide a first indication. The controller is further programmed to use the infotainment display to display a visual representation of the vehicle depicting the available gap distance relative to a second gap distance threshold and the first gap distance threshold to provide a second indication. The controller is further programmed to use the infotainment display to display a visual representation of the vehicle depicting the available gap distance relative to a third gap distance threshold and the second gap distance threshold to provide a third indication. The controller is further programmed to use the infotainment display to display a visual representation of the vehicle depicting the available gap distance relative to a fourth gap distance threshold to provide a fourth indication.

[0024] Based on the description provided herein, further applicable fields will become apparent. It should be understood that the specification and specific examples are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure in any way.

[0026] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a system for determining a horizontal gap of a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0027] Figure 2A is a schematic diagram of an outer passenger door surface of a vehicle passenger door including an LED array according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0028] Figure 2B is a schematic diagram of an inner passenger door surface of a vehicle passenger door including an LED array according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0029] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of an outer cargo door surface of a vehicle cargo door including an LED array according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0030] Figure 4 is a flowchart of a method for determining a horizontal gap of a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0031] Figure 5 is a first visual representation of a vehicle for display using an infotainment system according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0032] Figure 6 is a second visual representation of a vehicle for display using an infotainment system according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0033] Figure 7 is a third visual representation of a vehicle for display using an infotainment system according to an exemplary embodiment; and

[0034] Figure 8 is a fourth visual representation of a vehicle for use with an infotainment system display in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. Detailed Description

[0035] The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the present disclosure, application, or uses.

[0036] In aspects of the present disclosure, a vehicle occupant may desire to open a passenger door and / or a cargo door of a vehicle while the vehicle is parked in a restricted space. ADAS and parking assistance systems may assist the occupant in maneuvering and / or parking the vehicle in a limited space. However, the ADAS and parking assistance systems may not assist the occupant in determining whether and to what extent the passenger door and / or the cargo door of the vehicle can be opened without colliding with other vehicles, objects, or obstacles in the vehicle's surrounding environment. Accordingly, the present invention provides a new and improved system and method for determining the horizontal clearance of a vehicle and providing information to the occupant regarding the available horizontal clearance when opening the passenger door and / or the cargo door.

[0037] Reference Figure 1 , a system for determining the horizontal clearance of a vehicle is shown and generally designated by reference numeral 10. System 10 is shown in conjunction with an exemplary vehicle 12. Although a passenger vehicle is shown, it should be understood that vehicle 12 can be any type of vehicle without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. System 10 generally includes a controller 14, a range sensor 16, and a human machine interface (HMI) 18.

[0038] The controller 14 is configured to implement a method 100 for determining a horizontal clearance of a vehicle, as described below. The controller 14 includes at least one processor 20 and a non-transitory computer-readable storage device or medium 22. The processor 20 can be a custom or commercially available processor, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an auxiliary processor among a plurality of processors associated with the controller 14, a semiconductor-based microprocessor (in the form of a microchip or chipset), a macroprocessor, a combination thereof, or generally a device for executing instructions. The computer-readable storage device or medium 22 can include, for example, volatile and non-volatile storage devices such as read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), and keep-alive memory (KAM). KAM is a persistent or non-volatile memory that can be used to store various operating variables when the processor 20 is powered off. The computer-readable storage device or medium 22 can be implemented using multiple storage devices, such as PROM (programmable read-only memory), EPROM (electric PROM), EEPROM (electrically erasable PROM), flash memory, or other electrical, magnetic, optical, or combined storage devices capable of storing data, some of which represents executable instructions used by the controller 14 to control various systems of the vehicle 12. The controller 14 can also be composed of a plurality of controllers that are electrically connected to each other. The controller 14 can be interconnected with additional systems and / or controllers of the vehicle 12, thereby allowing the controller 14 to access data such as the speed, acceleration, braking, and steering angle of the vehicle 12.

[0039] The controller 14 communicates electrically with a ranging sensor 16 and a human-machine interface (HMI) 18. In an exemplary embodiment, electrical communication is established using, for example, a CAN network, a FLEXRAY network, a local area network (e.g., WiFi, Ethernet, etc.), a serial peripheral interface (SPI) network, or a serial peripheral interface (SPI) network, etc. It should be understood that various additional wired and wireless technologies and communication protocols for communicating with the controller 14 are within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0040] The ranging sensor 16 is configured to measure the distance between the vehicle 12 and an object in the environment around the vehicle 12. In a first exemplary embodiment, the ranging sensor 16 includes one or more ultrasonic distance measurement sensors 24. In a second exemplary embodiment, the ranging sensor 16 includes a camera system 28. In a third exemplary embodiment, the ranging sensor 16 includes both one or more ultrasonic distance measurement sensors 24 and a camera system 28. It should be understood that various additional types of sensors, such as LiDAR sensors, radar sensors, and / or time-of-flight sensors, are also within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0041] One or more ultrasonic distance measurement sensors 24 include a transducer and a receiver. The transducer emits ultrasonic pulses, and the receiver picks them up after the ultrasonic pulses are reflected from an object. In a non-limiting example, the transducer emits ultrasonic waves that bounce off an object and return to the receiver. One or more ultrasonic distance measurement sensors 24 measure the time required for the ultrasonic pulses to travel to and fro and calculate the distance based on the speed of sound in a given medium (e.g., air). In a non-limiting example, one or more ultrasonic distance measurement sensors 24 are fixed to the outer door surfaces 26a, 26c ( Figure 2A , Figure 3 ) of one or more doors of the vehicle 12. Within the scope of the present disclosure, the doors of the vehicle 12 include passenger doors (e.g., driver's door, front passenger door, rear passenger door, etc.) and cargo doors (e.g., trunk, front luggage compartment, hatch, liftgate, rear bumper, etc.). As described above, one or more ultrasonic distance measurement sensors 24 are in electrical communication with the controller 14.

[0042] The camera system 28 is configured to capture images and / or videos of the environment around the vehicle 12. In an exemplary embodiment, the camera system 28 includes a photo and / or video camera positioned to observe the environment around the vehicle 12. In a non-limiting example, the camera system 28 includes a camera fixed inside the vehicle 12 (e.g., in the headliner of the vehicle 12) with a field of view through the windshield. In another non-limiting example, the camera system 28 includes a camera fixed outside the vehicle 12 (e.g., fixed on the roof of the vehicle 12) with a field of view of the environment in front of the vehicle 12.

[0043] In another exemplary embodiment, the camera system 28 is a surround-view camera system that includes a plurality of cameras (also referred to as satellite cameras) arranged to provide a field of view of the environment adjacent to all sides of the vehicle 12. In a non-limiting example, the camera system 28 includes a front camera (e.g., mounted in the front grille of the vehicle 12), a rear camera (e.g., mounted on the rear bumper of the vehicle 12), and two side cameras (e.g., mounted below each of the two side mirrors of the vehicle 12). In another non-limiting example, the camera system 28 further includes an additional rearview camera mounted near the center high-mounted stop lamp of the vehicle 12.

[0044] It should be understood that a camera system with an additional camera and / or additional mounting locations is within the scope of the present disclosure. It should also be understood that cameras with various sensor types, including for example charge-coupled device (CCD) sensors, complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) sensors, and / or high dynamic range (HDR) sensors, are within the scope of the present disclosure. Additionally, cameras with various lens types, including for example wide-angle lenses and / or narrow-angle lenses, are within the scope of the present disclosure. As described above, the camera system 28 is in electrical communication with the controller 14.

[0045] The human-machine interface (HMI) 18 is used to provide information to the occupants of the vehicle 12. Within the scope of the present disclosure, the occupants include the driver and / or passengers of the vehicle 12. In a first exemplary embodiment, the HMI 18 includes at least one light-emitting diode (LED) array 30. In a second exemplary embodiment, the HMI 18 includes an infotainment display 32. In a third exemplary embodiment, the HMI 18 includes both at least one LED array 30 and an infotainment display 32. It should be understood that, without departing from the scope of the present invention, the HMI 18 may also include additional display systems, such as a head-up display (HUD), an augmented reality head-up display (AR-HUD).

[0046] At least one LED array 30 is used to provide information to the occupants of the vehicle 12. In an exemplary embodiment, at least one LED array 30 includes one or more LEDs operable to emit light in multiple colors. In a first exemplary embodiment, at least one LED array 30 includes a single multicolor LED operable to emit light in multiple colors, including for example green, yellow, orange, and red. In a second exemplary embodiment, at least one LED array 30 includes a plurality of LEDs. Each of the plurality of LEDs is operable to emit light in one or more colors. In a non-limiting example, at least one LED array 30 includes a first LED 34a operable to emit green light, a second LED 34b operable to emit orange light, a third LED 34c operable to emit yellow light, and a fourth LED 34d operable to emit red light. It should be understood that the number and colors of the LEDs in the at least one LED array 30 described above are merely exemplary in nature, and variations in the number and / or colors of the LEDs are within the scope of the present disclosure. Additionally, it should be understood that one or more displays (e.g., LCD displays, LED displays, etc.) may be used to replace at least one LED array 30 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0047] Reference Figure 2A, shows a schematic diagram 40a of an outer passenger door surface 26a of a passenger door of a vehicle 12. The outer passenger door surface 26a includes an outer passenger handle 42a and a first LED array 30a of one or more LED arrays 30. The outer passenger handle 42a is used to unlock and / or open the door of the vehicle 12. The first LED array 30a is fixed adjacent to the outer passenger handle 42a such that a passenger of the vehicle 12 can see which one (if any) of the plurality of LEDs 34a, 34b, 34c, 34d is lit when entering the vehicle. In a non-limiting example, the first LED array 30a is fixed to the outer passenger door surface 26a by adhesive and / or screw connection. In another non-limiting example, the first LED array 30a is fixed within a hole or other recess of the outer passenger door surface 26a and is protected from the environment by a translucent substrate (e.g., glass, plexiglass, etc.). It should be understood that any additional means for fixing the first LED array 30a to the outer passenger door surface 26a are within the scope of the present disclosure. It should also be understood that the position and configuration of the first LED array 30a discussed above are merely exemplary in nature, and variations in position and / or configuration are within the scope of the present disclosure. The first LED array 30a is in electrical communication with the controller 14, as described above.

[0048] Reference Figure 2B , shows a schematic diagram 40b of an inner passenger door surface 26b of a passenger door of a vehicle 12. The inner passenger door surface 26b includes an inner handle 42a and a second LED array 30b of one or more LED arrays 30. The inner passenger handle 42b is used to unlock and / or open the door of the vehicle 12. The second LED array 30b is fixed adjacent to the inner passenger handle 42b such that a passenger of the vehicle 12 can see which one (if any) of the plurality of LEDs 34a, 34b, 34c, 34d is lit when leaving the vehicle. In a non-limiting example, the second LED array 30b is fixed to the inner passenger door surface 26b by adhesive and / or screw connection. In another non-limiting example, the second LED array 30b is fixed within a hole or other recess of the inner passenger door surface 26b and is protected by a translucent substrate (e.g., glass, plexiglass, etc.). It should be understood that any additional means for fixing the second LED array 30b to the inner passenger door surface 26b are within the scope of the present disclosure. It should also be understood that the position and configuration of the second LED array 30b discussed above are merely exemplary in nature, and variations in position and / or configuration are within the scope of the present disclosure. The second LED array 30b is in electrical communication with the controller 14, as described above.

[0049] Reference Figure 3, which shows a schematic diagram 40c of the outer cargo door surface 26c of the cargo door of the vehicle 12. Within the scope of the present disclosure, the cargo door of the vehicle 12 includes, for example, a trunk, a front luggage compartment, a hatch, a liftgate, a rear hatch, etc. The outer cargo door surface 26c includes an outer cargo door handle 42c and a third LED array 30c in one or more LED arrays 30. The outer cargo door handle 42c is used to unlock and / or open the cargo door of the vehicle 12. The third LED array 30c is fixedly adjacent to the outer cargo handle 42c such that a passenger of the vehicle 12 can see which one (if any) of the plurality of LEDs 34a, 34b, 34c, 34d is lit when opening the cargo door of the vehicle 12. In a non-limiting example, the third LED array 30c is fixedly attached to the outer cargo door surface 26c by adhesive and / or screw connection. In another non-limiting example, the third LED array 30c is fixed within a hole or other recess in the outer cargo door surface 26c and is protected from the environment by a translucent substrate (e.g., glass, plexiglass, etc.). It should be understood that any additional means for fixing the third LED array 30c to the outer cargo door surface 26c is within the scope of the present disclosure. It should be understood that the position and configuration of the third LED array 30c discussed above are merely exemplary in nature, and variations in the position and / or configuration are within the scope of the present disclosure. The third LED array 30c is in electrical communication with the controller 14, as described above. In some embodiments, a fourth LED array (not shown) may be fixed to the inner cargo door surface (not shown) of the cargo door of the vehicle 12 to provide information about the gap to an occupant opening the cargo door from inside the vehicle 12.

[0050] Referring again to FIG. 1, the infotainment display 32 is a display located within the occupant's field of view (e.g., adjacent to the instrument panel of the vehicle 12) and is capable of displaying text, graphics, and / or images. It should be understood that HMI display systems, including LCD displays, LED displays, etc., are within the scope of the present disclosure. Further exemplary embodiments in which the infotainment display 32 is disposed within the rearview mirror are also within the scope of the present disclosure. In another exemplary embodiment, the infotainment display 32 includes a head-up display (HUD) configured to provide information to the occupant by projecting text, graphics, and / or images onto the windshield of the vehicle 12. The text, graphics, and / or images are reflected by the windshield of the vehicle 12, and the occupant can view them without having to shift their gaze from the road ahead of the vehicle 12. In another exemplary embodiment, the infotainment display 32 includes an augmented reality head-up display (AR-HUD). An AR-HUD is a type of HUD configured to enhance the occupant's view of the road ahead of the vehicle 12 by superimposing text, graphics, and / or images onto physical objects in the surrounding environment of the vehicle 12 within the field of view. In an exemplary embodiment, the occupant may interact with the infotainment display 32 using a human-machine interface device (HID), which includes, for example, a touch screen, an electromechanical switch, a capacitive switch, a knob, etc. It should be understood that additional systems for displaying information to the occupants of the vehicle 12 are also within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0051] Reference Figure 4 , a flowchart of method 100 is shown. Method 100 begins at block 102 and proceeds to blocks 104 and 106. At block 104, the controller 14 determines one or more predetermined gap distance thresholds 50a, 50b, 50c, 50d ( Figures 5 - 8 ). The one or more predetermined gap distance thresholds 50a, 50b, 50c, 50d ( Figures 5 - 8 ) indicate how far the door of the vehicle 12 can be opened. In a non-limiting example, the distance that the door of the vehicle 12 can be opened is limited by objects in the surrounding environment of the vehicle 12, as will be discussed in more detail below.

[0052] In an exemplary embodiment, the one or more gap distance thresholds 50a, 50b, 50c, 50d ( Figures 5 - 8 ) include at least: a first gap distance threshold 50a, a second gap distance threshold 50b, a third gap distance threshold 50c, and a fourth gap distance threshold 50d. The first gap distance threshold 50a indicates that the door of the vehicle 12 can be opened to the full open distance. Within the scope of the present disclosure, the full open distance is the maximum distance (or open angle) to which the door is designed to open. The second gap distance threshold 50b indicates that the door of the vehicle 12 can be opened to two-thirds of the full open distance. The third gap distance threshold 50c indicates that the door of the vehicle 12 can be opened to one-third of the full open distance. The fourth gap distance threshold 50d indicates that the door of the vehicle 12 cannot be opened.

[0053] In an exemplary embodiment, one or more predetermined gap distance thresholds 50a, 50b, 50c, 50d are retrieved from the medium 22 of the controller 14 ( Figures 5 - 8 In another exemplary embodiment, one or more predetermined gap distance thresholds 50a, 50b, 50c, 50d ( Figures 5 - 8 ) is stored on a remote server system and retrieved using a vehicle communication system in electrical communication with the controller 14. In a non-limiting example, one or more predetermined gap distance thresholds 50a, 50b, 50c, 50d ( Figures 5 - 8 ) is determined based at least in part on at least one of: one or more dimensions of the vehicle 12 (e.g., the length, width, and height of the vehicle 12) and one or more dimensions of one or more doors of the vehicle 12 (e.g., door length, door width, door height, full opening distance, full opening angle, etc.). After frame 104, the method proceeds to frame 108, as will be discussed in more detail below.

[0054] At block 106 , the controller 14 uses the ranging sensor 16 to determine the distance between one or more doors of the vehicle 12 and an object 54 in the environment surrounding the vehicle 12 ( Figures 5 - 8 ) between the available gap distance 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d ( Figures 5 - 8 ). Within the scope of the present disclosure, object 54 ( Figures 5 - 8 ) include, for example, another vehicle, a structure (e.g., a parking lot wall, guardrail, curb), a pedestrian, and / or other obstacles within the opening path of one or more doors of vehicle 12.

[0055] In a first exemplary embodiment, the controller 14 uses one or more ultrasonic distance measurement sensors 24 to measure the distance between one or more doors of the vehicle 12 and the object 54 ( Figures 5 - 8 ) between the available gap distance 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d ( Figures 5 - 8 ). In a second exemplary embodiment, the controller 14 uses the camera system 28 to capture multiple images of the environment surrounding the vehicle 12. Using computer vision methods, the controller 14 determines the available gap distances 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d based at least in part on the multiple images ( Figures 5 - 8 ). After frame 106, method 100 proceeds to frame 108.

[0056] At box 108, the controller 14 determines the available gap distances 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d ( Figures 5 - 8 ) and one or more predetermined gap distance thresholds 50a, 50b, 50c, 50d determined at block 104 ( Figure 5 ​​​​​​​​​)Compare. After block 108, method 100 proceeds to block 110.

[0057] At block 110, controller 14 determines the position of the occupant relative to vehicle 12. Within the scope of the present disclosure, the position of the occupant relative to vehicle 12 includes one of the following: inside vehicle 12 and outside vehicle 12. In an exemplary embodiment, to determine the position of the occupant relative to vehicle 12, controller 14 uses one or more vehicle sensors. In a non-limiting example, one or more vehicle sensors include, for example, a seat occupancy sensor, an interior camera system, etc. For example, controller 14 can communicate electrically with a seat occupancy sensor to determine whether the occupant is currently occupying the seat of vehicle 12. If the occupant is occupying the seat of vehicle 12, the position of the occupant relative to vehicle 12 is determined to be inside vehicle 12. In another example, controller 14 can use an interior camera system to capture one or more images of the interior of vehicle 12. Controller 14 then uses computer vision algorithms to search for the occupant in the one or more images. If the occupant is present inside vehicle 12 in the one or more images, the position of the occupant relative to vehicle 12 is determined to be inside vehicle 12.

[0058] In another exemplary embodiment, controller 14 uses camera system 28 to determine the position of the occupant relative to vehicle 12. In a non-limiting example, controller 14 uses camera system 28 to capture multiple images of the environment around vehicle 12. Controller 14 then uses computer vision algorithms to search for the occupant in the multiple images. If the occupant is present in the environment around vehicle 12 in the multiple images, the position of the occupant relative to vehicle 12 is determined to be outside vehicle 12.

[0059] In another exemplary embodiment, controller 14 uses a vehicle communication system to wirelessly communicate with one or more wireless mobile devices of the occupant (e.g., a cellular phone, a smartphone, a tablet, a smartwatch, a vehicle key fob, etc.). Based on, for example, the communication signal strength between the vehicle communication system and the one or more wireless mobile devices, controller 14 determines the position of the occupant relative to vehicle 12.

[0060] It should be understood that any additional systems and / or methods for determining the position of the occupant relative to vehicle 12 and / or the occupancy status of vehicle 12 are within the scope of the present disclosure. If it is determined that the position of the occupant relative to vehicle 12 is inside vehicle 12, method 100 proceeds to blocks 112 and 114. If it is determined that the position of the occupant relative to vehicle 12 is outside vehicle 12, method 100 proceeds to block 116, as will be discussed in more detail below. In another exemplary embodiment, block 110 of method 100 is bypassed, and method 100 proceeds directly from block 108 to blocks 112, 114, and 116.

[0061] Reference Figure 5 , shows a first visual representation 60a of the vehicle 12. The first visual representation 60a depicts a first available gap distance 52a between the vehicle 12 and the object 54 relative to a first gap distance threshold 50a. In a non-limiting example, the first gap distance threshold 50a is shown as a green shaded area to indicate to the occupants of the vehicle 12 that the door of the vehicle 12 can be opened to the full open distance without colliding with the object 54.

[0062] Reference Figure 6 , shows a second visual representation 60b of the vehicle 12. The second visual representation 60b depicts a second available gap distance 52b between the vehicle 12 and the object 54 relative to a second gap distance threshold 50b. In a non-limiting example, the second gap distance threshold 50b is shown as an orange shaded area to indicate to the occupants of the vehicle 12 that the door of the vehicle 12 can be opened to two-thirds of the full open distance without colliding with the object 54. Thus, the second gap distance threshold 50b is less than the first gap distance threshold 50a, as Figures 5 - 6 shown.

[0063] Reference Figure 7 , shows a third visual representation 60c of the vehicle 12. The third visual representation 60c depicts a third available gap distance 52c between the vehicle 12 and the object 54 relative to a third gap distance threshold 50c. In a non-limiting example, the third gap distance threshold 50c is shown as a yellow shaded area to indicate to the occupants of the vehicle 12 that the door of the vehicle 12 can be opened to one-third of the full open distance without colliding with the object 54. Thus, the third gap distance threshold 50c is less than the first gap distance threshold 50a and the second gap distance threshold 50b, as Figures 5 - 7 shown.

[0064] Reference Figure 8 , shows a fourth visual representation 60d of the vehicle 12. The fourth visual representation 60d depicts a fourth available gap distance 52d between the vehicle 12 and the object 54 relative to a fourth gap distance threshold 50d. In a non-limiting example, the fourth gap distance threshold 50d is shown as a red shaded area to indicate to the occupants of the vehicle 12 that the door of the vehicle 12 cannot be opened without colliding with the object 54. Thus, the fourth gap distance threshold 50d is less than the first gap distance threshold 50a, the second gap distance threshold 50b, and the third gap distance threshold 50c, as Figures 5 - 8 shown.

[0065] In an exemplary embodiment, the first visual representation 60a, the second visual representation 60b, the third visual representation 60c, and the fourth visual representation 60d are generated at least in part based on a plurality of images of the environment around the vehicle 12 captured using the camera system 28. In a non-limiting example, the controller 14 stitches together the plurality of images with a graphical representation of the vehicle 12 to generate the first visual representation 60a, the second visual representation 60b, the third visual representation 60c, and the fourth visual representation 60d. In some embodiments, the first visual representation 60a, the second visual representation 60b, the third visual representation 60c, and the fourth visual representation 60d include a real-time video feed and / or are updated periodically such that an occupant can observe changes in the environment around the vehicle 12.

[0066] In Figures 5 - 8 this figure, the available gap distances 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d and one or more predetermined gap distance thresholds 50a, 50b, 50c, 50d are depicted as being the same for all doors of the vehicle 12 (i.e., the passenger door and the cargo door). It should be understood that Figures 5 - 8 the figure is not drawn to scale and, based on door size and opening characteristics variations, the available gap distances 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d and one or more predetermined gap distance thresholds 50a, 50b, 50c, 50d may vary for different vehicles. It should also be understood that the first visual representation 60a, the second visual representation 60b, the third visual representation 60c, and the fourth visual representation 60d are merely exemplary in nature and that the design, color, style, presentation, and / or the like do not constitute a departure from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0067] Referring again to Figure 4 this figure, at block 112, the controller 14 uses the infotainment display 32 to provide an indication of the available gap distances 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d ( Figures 5 - 8 ) relative to one or more predetermined gap distance thresholds 50a, 50b, 50c, 50d ( Figures 5 - 8 ). In an exemplary embodiment, the controller 14 uses the infotainment display 32 to display at least one of the first visual representation 60a, the second visual representation 60b, the third visual representation 60c, and the fourth visual representation 60d at least in part based on a comparison performed at block 108 between the available gap distances 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d ( Figures 5 - 8 ) and one or more predetermined gap distance thresholds 50a, 50b, 50c, 50d ( Figures 5 - 8 ).

[0068] If the available gap distances 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d ( Figures 5 - 8 ) are greater than or equal to the first gap distance threshold 50a, then the controller 14 uses the infotainment display 32 to display the first visual representation 60a (Figure 5 )。If the available gap distances 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d ( Figures 5 - 8 ) are greater than or equal to a second gap distance threshold 50b and less than a first gap distance threshold 50a, the controller 14 uses the infotainment display 32 to display a second visual presentation 60b ( Figure 6 )。If the available gap distances 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d ( Figures 5 - 8 ) are greater than or equal to a third gap distance threshold 50c and less than the second gap distance threshold 50b, the controller 14 uses the infotainment display 32 to display a third visual presentation 60c ( Figure 7 )。If the available gap distances 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d ( Figures 5 - 8 ) are less than or equal to a fourth gap distance threshold 50d, the controller 14 uses the infotainment display 32 to display a fourth visual presentation 60d ( Figure 8 )。After block 112, the method 100 proceeds to the standby state at block 118.

[0069] At block 114, the controller 14 uses a second LED array 30b ( Figure 2B ) fixed to the inner passenger door surface 26b of the door of the vehicle 12 and / or an inner cargo door surface (not shown) to provide an indication of the available gap distances 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d ( Figures 5 - 8 ) relative to one or more predetermined gap distance thresholds 50a, 50b, 50c, 50d ( Figures 5 - 8 )。

[0070] If the available gap distances 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d ( Figures 5 - 8 ) are greater than or equal to the first gap distance threshold 50a, the controller 14 illuminates a first LED 34a (i.e., a green LED) of the second LED array 30b. If the available gap distances 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d ( Figures 5 - 8 ) are greater than or equal to the second gap distance threshold 50b and less than the first gap distance threshold 50a, the controller 14 illuminates a second LED 34b (i.e., an orange LED) of the second LED array 30b. If the available gap distances 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d ( Figures 5 - 8 ) are greater than or equal to the third gap distance threshold 50c and less than the second gap distance threshold 50b, the controller 14 illuminates a third LED 34c (i.e., a yellow LED) of the second LED array 30b. If the available gap distances 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d ( Figures 5 - 8)If it is less than or equal to the fourth clearance distance threshold 50d, the controller 14 illuminates the fourth LED 34d (i.e., the red LED) of the second LED array 30b. After block 114, the method 100 proceeds to the standby state at block 118.

[0071] At block 116, the controller 14 uses the first LED array 30a ( Figure 2A ) fixed to the outer passenger door surface 26a and / or the outer cargo door surface 26c of the door of the vehicle 12 to provide an indication of the available clearance distances 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d ( Figures 5 - 8 ) relative to one or more predetermined clearance distance thresholds 50a, 50b, 50c, 50d ( Figures 5 - 8 ).

[0072] If the available clearance distances 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d ( Figures 5 - 8 ) are greater than or equal to the first clearance distance threshold 50a, the controller 14 illuminates the first LED 34a (i.e., the green LED) of the first LED array 30a. If the available clearance distances 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d ( Figures 5 - 8 ) are greater than or equal to the second clearance distance threshold 50b and less than the first clearance distance threshold 50a, the controller 14 illuminates the second LED 34b (i.e., the orange LED) of the first LED array 30a. If the available clearance distances 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d ( Figures 5 - 8 ) are greater than or equal to the third clearance distance threshold 50c and less than the second clearance distance threshold 50b, the controller 14 illuminates the third LED 34c (i.e., the yellow LED) of the first LED array 30a. If the available clearance distances 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d ( Figures 5 - 8 ) are less than or equal to the fourth clearance distance threshold 50d, the controller 14 illuminates the fourth LED 34d (i.e., the red LED) of the first LED array 30a. After block 116, the method 100 proceeds to the standby state at block 118.

[0073] In an exemplary embodiment, the controller 14 repeatedly exits the standby state 118 and restarts the method 100 at block 102. In a non - limiting example, the controller 14 exits the standby state 118 and restarts the method 100 based on a timer, for example, every three hundred milliseconds.

[0074] The system 10 and method 100 of the present disclosure have several advantages. By using the ranging sensor 16 (e.g., one or more ultrasonic distance measurement sensors 24) to determine the available clearance distances 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d ( Figures 5 - 8), the system 10 and method 100 can determine the available clearance distances for each door of the vehicle 12, allowing the system 10 and method 100 to consider environments with complex or irregular structures near the vehicle. Additionally, by utilizing at least one LED array 30 (e.g., the first LED array 30a and / or the second LED array 30b) to provide feedback to the occupants of the vehicle 12, the occupants receive relevant information regarding the horizontal clearance when operating the vehicle's doors. Further, the infotainment display 32 is used to display one of the visual presentations 60a, 60b, 60c, 60d( Figures 5 - 8 ) using the available clearance distances 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d( Figures 5 - 8 ) relative to one or more predetermined clearance distance thresholds 50a, 50b, 50c, 50d to provide additional information regarding the horizontal clearance to the occupants.

[0075] The description of the present disclosure is merely exemplary in nature, and variations that do not depart from the gist of the present disclosure are intended to fall within the scope of the present disclosure. These variations should not be regarded as departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A system for determining horizontal clearance of a vehicle, the system comprising: a range sensor configured to measure the distance between the vehicle and an object in the vehicle's surroundings; Human-machine interface HMI; as well as a controller in electrical communication with the ranging sensor and the HMI, wherein the controller is programmed to: determining, using the ranging sensor, an available clearance distance between a door of the vehicle and the object in the vehicle's surroundings; comparing the available gap distance to one or more predetermined gap distance thresholds; as well as Based at least in part on the available gap distance and the one or more predetermined gap distance thresholds, information is provided to an occupant of the vehicle using the HMI.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The one or more predetermined gap distance thresholds include at least: a first gap distance threshold, the first gap distance threshold indicating that the door of the vehicle can be opened to the full fully open distance; a second gap distance threshold, the second gap distance threshold indicating that the door of the vehicle can be opened to two-thirds of the fully open distance; a third gap distance, the third gap distance indicating that the door of the vehicle can be opened to one-third of the fully open distance; and a fourth gap distance threshold, the fourth gap distance threshold indicating that the door of the vehicle cannot be opened.

3. The system according to claim 2, wherein: The one or more predetermined gap distance thresholds are determined based at least in part on at least one of: one or more dimensions of the vehicle and one or more dimensions of a door of the vehicle.

4. The system according to claim 2, wherein: The HMI further comprises at least one display, and wherein, in order to provide information to an occupant of the vehicle, the controller is further programmed to: In response to determining that the available gap distance is greater than or equal to the first gap distance threshold, providing a first indication to an occupant of the vehicle using at least one display; In response to determining that the available gap distance is greater than or equal to the second gap distance threshold and less than the first gap distance threshold, providing a second indication to an occupant of the vehicle using at least one display; In response to determining that the available gap distance is greater than or equal to the third gap distance threshold and less than the second gap distance threshold, providing a third indication to an occupant of the vehicle using at least one display; and In response to determining that the available gap distance is less than or equal to the fourth gap distance threshold, a fourth indication is provided to an occupant of the vehicle using at least one display.

5. The system according to claim 4, wherein: The at least one display comprises at least one LED array, and wherein: The first indication comprises lighting a first LED of the LED array; The second indication comprises lighting a second LED of the LED array; The third indication comprises lighting a third LED of the LED array; and The fourth indication includes lighting a fourth LED of the LED array.

6. The system according to claim 5, wherein: The at least one LED array further comprises: a first LED array secured to an exterior surface of a door of the vehicle adjacent an exterior handle of the door of the vehicle; and A second LED array is secured to an interior surface of a door of the vehicle adjacent an interior handle of the door of the vehicle.

7. The system according to claim 4, wherein: The at least one display comprises an infotainment display, and wherein: the first indication comprising a visual representation of the vehicle depicting the available gap distance relative to the first gap distance threshold; the second indication comprising a visual representation of the vehicle depicting the available gap distance relative to the second gap distance threshold and the first gap distance threshold; The third indication includes a visual representation of the vehicle depicting the available gap distance relative to the third gap distance threshold and the second gap distance threshold; and The fourth indication includes a visual representation of the vehicle depicting the available gap distance relative to the fourth gap distance threshold.

8. The system according to claim 7, wherein: In order to provide information to the occupants of the vehicle, the controller is also programmed to: determining a position of the occupant relative to the vehicle, wherein the position of the occupant comprises one of: an interior of the vehicle and an exterior of the vehicle; and In response to determining that the position of the occupant is within the vehicle, using the infotainment display, providing at least one of: the first indication, the second indication, the third indication, and the fourth indication.

9. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The distance measuring sensor further comprises one or more ultrasonic distance measuring sensors fixed to a door of the vehicle, and wherein, to determine the available clearance distance, the controller is further programmed to: The available clearance distance between a door of the vehicle and the object in the vehicle surroundings is determined using the one or more ultrasonic distance measurement sensors.

10. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The distance measuring sensor further comprises a camera system, and wherein, in order to determine the available gap distance, the controller is further programmed to: The available clearance distance between a door of the vehicle and the object in the vehicle's surroundings is determined using the camera system.

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