ANTI-PINCH DEVICE FOR VEHICLE WINDOW

Abstract

The invention relates to a motor vehicle (10) comprising an opening (12), a frame delimiting the opening (12), and a window (18) sliding within the opening between an open and a closed position, and a guide rail for the window; the frame comprising a support pillar (14). The window (18) comprises a support edge (20) adapted to come into contact with the support pillar (14) in the closed position. The vehicle (10) comprises an anti-pinch system (40) including a light source (24) connected to the window (18), which is disposed in the guide rail, and which is configured to emit a beam of light into the opening along the support edge (20); the system (40) further comprising a photoelectric sensor and an analysis module (50) analyzing the propagation of the light beam so as to detect an obstacle in the opening. Figure to be published with the abstract: Fig. 2

Description

Title of the invention: ANTI-PINCH DEVICE FOR VEHICLE WINDOW

[0001] The invention relates to safety in the operation of a sliding element of a vehicle. More particularly, the present invention relates to an anti-pinch system for a window of a motor vehicle. The invention also relates to a method for closing a window of a motor vehicle.

[0002] A motor vehicle commonly includes side windows or sunroof panels that are said to be electric. The driver or passenger can then operate a control device that triggers an electric motor to close or open the window.

[0003] The control element generally comprises a switch with or without a return spring. In the first case, the motor is activated as long as the user holds the control element in a given position; releasing the control element stops the motor and thus the window. Using a switch without a return spring, the element allows the motor to be operated in one direction or the other until another element, or the same one, is activated to stop the motor.

[0004] At the end of its travel, the window comes to a stop against a corresponding element. The motor generally shuts off when its applied torque exceeds a threshold value. This threshold value is too high for a child to stop the window's movement by hand. Therefore, there is a risk of injury if a child were to place their hand or another part of their body against the window during its automatic closing.

[0005] The controls, and in particular the rear side window controls, are often centralized in the driver's seat. It is therefore common for the driver to open or close a window without being able to see the passengers' hands. This is particularly problematic with young children. Solutions are therefore being sought to limit the risk of pinching between the frame and the window.

[0006] The invention aims to improve upon existing state-of-the-art solutions, and in particular to provide a vehicle that enhances passenger safety. The invention also aims to provide a simple, cost-effective solution that can be adapted to a vehicle window without obstructing visibility through it.

[0007] To this end, and according to a first aspect, the invention relates to a motor vehicle comprising an opening, a frame delimiting the opening, and a window sliding in the opening between at least one open position and one closed position, at least one guide rail for the window; the frame comprising a docking post; the window comprising a contact edge adapted to come into contact with the door frame in the closed position; noteworthy that the motor vehicle further comprises an anti-pinch system including a light source connected to the window, which is disposed in the guide rail, and which is configured to emit a beam of light into the opening along the contact edge; the anti-pinch system further comprising a photoelectric sensor, an analysis module connected to the photoelectric sensor and configured to analyze the propagation of the light beam along the contact edge so as to detect an obstruction in the opening

[0008] As will be understood from reading the definition just given, the invention proposes a motor vehicle with an anti-pinch system with a light source which emits a beam preceding the closing movement of the window, the emission position being from the guide rail in order to sweep the entire docking edge.

[0009] Positioning the light source in the guide rail allows the entire width of the opening to be monitored. This arrangement eliminates blind spots in the opening. Thus, the invention improves safety by increasing the monitored area within the opening. Furthermore, a window guide rail has a narrow groove that prevents a passenger's finger from entering it. Consequently, placing the light source, and possibly the associated sensor, in this groove does not compromise safety. On the contrary, this arrangement prevents the light source from coming into contact with a finger. The anti-pinch function is optimized.

[0010] CN109577779A is known to describe an anti-pinch system against the edge of a pivoting door. The system comprises, along one edge of the door, a laser emitter arranged at the top of the door edge and a receiver arranged at the bottom of the edge. The laser emitter and receiver are mounted on beveled wedges. These wedges engage in notches in the door edge when in contact with the door frame. When an object or part of a person is leaning against the edge, the laser signal between the emitter and receiver is interrupted. The anti-pinch system can send a pinch-risk alarm signal.

[0011] Unfortunately, this solution is unsatisfactory because it cannot detect an obstacle at the level of one of the beveled wedges. Similarly, this solution is blind to obstacles between a beveled wedge and the adjacent end of the door. Furthermore, this solution remains complex and expensive. Since the sensors are concealed within the door, this system cannot be adapted to a vehicle window without obstructing visibility. Moreover, creating the notches and holes for the springs would weaken the glass and would be incompatible with automotive glass manufacturing processes.

[0012] According to one embodiment, the anti-pinch system further comprises reflective means arranged opposite the light source with respect to the glass, and configured to reflect the light beam towards the photoelectric sensor, the photoelectric sensor being arranged on the side of the guide rail.

[0013] According to a complementary or alternative embodiment, the frame includes a groove facing the guide rail and the reflective means are arranged in said groove.

[0014] Preferably, and regardless of the embodiment considered, the window comprises a trajectory between the open position and the closed position, and the reflective means comprise a plurality of reflective elements distributed along the trajectory.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the photoelectric sensor is connected to the glass and is arranged in the guide rail.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the guide rail includes a direction of guidance of the glass, and the photoelectric sensor and the light source are superimposed along said direction of guidance.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the window includes an edge opposite the docking edge, and the motor vehicle includes means for driving the window between the open position and the closed position which are connected to the opposite edge, the anti-pinch system further includes an angled structure connected to the driving means; and the light source is integral with the angled structure.

[0018] Preferably, the angled structure includes a branch extending along the entire length of the glass along the direction of movement of the glass between the open position and the closed position, and said branch extends into the guide rail.

[0019] Preferably, the photoelectric sensor is attached to the light source and / or integrated into the light source.

[0020] Preferably, the light source comprises a laser. A laser makes it possible to emit a concentrated beam of light which follows the docking edge without deviating from it.

[0021] Preferably, the opening includes a separation between the reflective means and the landing frame of between 50 cm and 15 cm; preferably between 40 cm and 20 cm; inclusive.

[0022] According to a second aspect, the invention relates to a method for closing a window in an opening of a motor vehicle, notable in that the motor vehicle conforms to the first aspect; the method comprising the following steps: receiving a command to close the window; starting the movement of the window towards the closed position; emitting a light beam towards the photoelectric sensor, the light beam propagating in the opening along the edge of the window; communicating a signal of monitoring by the photoelectric sensor based on the reception of the light beam; analysis of the monitoring signal in order to detect an obstacle in the opening in the event of interruption of the reception of the light beam by the photoelectric sensor; interruption of the movement of the glass in the event of detection of an obstacle in the opening.

[0023] Preferably, during the emission stage, the anti-pinch system further comprises reflective means arranged opposite the light source with respect to the glass, and configured so as to reflect the light ray towards the photoelectric sensor, the light ray propagates towards the reflective means.

[0024] Preferably, the method further comprises; after the step of interrupting the movement of the glass; the following steps: displaying an alert sign to a user; obtaining confirmation from the user to continue closing the opening with the glass; continuing to close the opening with the glass.

[0025] Preferably, the step of emitting a light beam is carried out when the docking edge of the glass is at a predetermined distance from the docking edge; the predetermined distance is preferably greater than or equal to 30 cm.

[0026] The invention will be well understood and other aspects and advantages will become clear upon reading the following description given with reference to the accompanying figures in which:

[0027] [Fig-1] Fig.1 schematically represents a vehicle according to the invention.

[0028] [Fig.2] Fig.2 shows an opening with a pane of glass according to a first mode of realization of the invention.

[0029] [Fig.3] Fig.3 shows an opening with a window according to a second mode of realization of the invention.

[0030] [Fig.4] Fig.4 represents a diagram of a closing process according to the invention.

[0031] In the following description, the term "include" is synonymous with "include" and is not limiting in that it permits the presence of other steps in the process or other elements in the part or in the motor vehicle to which it relates. It is understood that the term "include" includes the terms "consist of." The terms "external" and "internal" shall respectively designate what is oriented toward the outside of the vehicle and toward the inside of the vehicle.

[0032] Similarly, the terms "lower", "upper", "high" and "low" shall be understood according to their usual definition, in which the terms "lower" and "low" indicate a greater proximity to the ground in the vertical direction than respectively the terms "higher" and "high".

[0033] In this description, the terms "longitudinal" and "transverse" are used with respect to the vehicle's frame of reference in the mounting configuration. The term "longitudinal" refers to the vehicle's principal direction of travel. The term "transverse" refers to a direction perpendicular to the vehicle's principal direction of travel. The term "front" refers to the vehicle's principal direction of travel. The term "rear" refers to the opposite of the front of the vehicle.

[0034] In this description, the term "pinching" covers the action of crushing or pinching a limb, finger, or object. The expression "anti-pinching" can be interpreted as avoiding contact or not exerting a closing force in the event of possible contact.

[0035] Figure 1 represents a vehicle 10 according to the invention. The vehicle 10 is an automobile. The vehicle 10 includes several openings, such as doors 11 allowing users to enter the passenger compartment. The doors 11 are advantageously glazed.

[0036] The doors 11 are pivotally or slidably attached to the vehicle body 10. The doors 10 advantageously include windows 18 that seal tightly around corresponding openings 12. At least one or each window is movable between an open and a closed position. In the closed position, as shown on the front door, the edge 20 of the window 18 is housed within a frame. In the open position, as shown on the rear door, the edge 20 is positioned away from the associated frame and is designed to receive it when closed. Passage is permitted through the opening 12. At least one or each door 11 includes a frame, or chassis, surrounding the opening 12. At least one or each window 18 slides vertically in a translational motion. The translational motion may include a substantially curved path when the window 18 is itself curved.

[0037] According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, the frame is partially formed by the vehicle body and the upper edge of the door. The frame is shared between the chassis and the door. When the door is opened, the glass has an upper edge, a front edge, and a rear edge that remain free from contact with the body.

[0038] Optionally, the vehicle includes a roof with a movable window (not shown). The corresponding opening is horizontal. The window is movable horizontally; for example, longitudinally, between an open and a closed position. These positions can be a front position and a rear position, respectively.

[0039] Figure 2 represents a vehicle opening according to the invention. The vehicle is advantageously such as that described in relation to Figure 1. In the present In the figure, the opening is a front door 11. However, this instruction applies to any door of the vehicle. This instruction can be adapted to a rear door by analogy.

[0040] The door 11 has a frame surrounding the opening 12. The frame forms the structure of the door 11. The frame comprises vertical mullions 16 connected by a horizontal mullion 14 (or end mullion 14). In the closed position, the end mullion 20 of the glass fits into the end mullion 14, and in particular into a sealing gasket fitted therein. The vertical mullions 16 are a front mullion 16 and a rear mullion 16. The end mullion 14 is called the top mullion 14. The front mullion 16 may be inclined, for example from 30° to 60°, with respect to the vertical direction.

[0041] The window 18 is shown here in the open position. The window 11 can occupy several open positions, partially freeing the opening 12. The window 18 can be in an open end position where the edge 20 retracts into the structure of the opening, or remains protruding within the opening 12. The opening 12 is free between the edge 20 and the frame 14. A clearance appears between these two portions. The opening 12 is angled; it has a horizontal portion above and an inclined portion below.

[0042] The rear pillar 16 includes a guide rail (not shown) into which the window 18 is inserted. This guide rail provides a seal and sliding surfaces that dictate the path of the window 18 between its closed position and its open positions, according to the opening and closing path. At the front, the opening 12 is delimited by a front guide rail, which is parallel to that of the rear pillar 16.

[0043] The window 18 includes a slider edge 28 opposite the landing edge 18. The slider edge 28 is also referred to as the opposite edge 28. Here, the opposite aspect is understood according to the direction of movement of the window 18, for example, along the main direction of the guide rail. The opposite edge 28 includes a slider 30 movable along the opposite edge. Furthermore, the opening 11 includes drive means 22 for the window 18 in order to actuate it between the open and closed positions. The drive means 22 include, for example, a motor and a cable mechanism. The slider 30 transmits the opening and closing movement of the drive means 22 to the window 18.

[0044] The vehicle includes an anti-pinch system 40, which is generally a safety system. The anti-pinch system 40 is configured to prevent pinching a passenger's limb in the opening 12 when the window 18 is closed. For this purpose, the anti-pinch system 40 includes a light source 24. The light source 24 is placed in the guide rail (not shown), or slide of glass. The person skilled in the art is well acquainted with the guide rails, so this element will not be described in more detail in this description.

[0045] When the window 18 is in the open position, the light source 24, for example a laser, emits a light beam (represented by straight arrows) into the opening 12. The light beam is directed along the edge of the opening 20. This beam is parallel to the edge of the opening 20. It illuminates any element or obstacle (not shown) located in the opening opposite the light source 24. When an obstacle intercepts the light beam, it cuts, deflects, or attenuates it. In general, it alters it.

[0046] In addition, the anti-pinch system 40 includes a photoelectric sensor. The photoelectric sensor is advantageously integrated into the light source 24. This arrangement simplifies electrical connections and forms a compact transmitter-receiver module. The photoelectric sensor is positioned to receive the light beam, either directly or indirectly. The photoelectric sensor is configured to measure the light beam and detect any changes in light intensity. For example, the output signal of the photoelectric sensor varies when the light beam is interrupted by an obstacle at the docking edge 18.

[0047] The anti-pinch system 40 optionally includes reflective means 26. The reflective means 26 comprise a mirror, or a plurality of reflective elements. These reflective elements are arranged opposite the light source 24. They are distributed along the inclined portion of the frame. The reflective means 26 are arranged in the upper part of the opening 12. They begin at a predetermined distance from the docking post 14. This improves safety since this area presents a higher probability of pinching.

[0048] The reflective means 26 are placed in the groove of a seal defining the opening 12, for example at the level of the front pillar 16. In the absence of an obstruction, a light beam emitted by the light source 24 is reflected by the reflective means 26 and then directed back to the photoelectric sensor. The light beam passes through the opening 12 twice. This arrangement is compact and preserves the transparent surface of the vehicle. This improves comfort and the perceived quality of the vehicle.

[0049] The anti-pinch system 40 further comprises an analysis module 50. The analysis module 50 includes computing means (not shown) and a memory (not shown) on which a computer program is stored for executing a closing method according to the invention. The computer program may include code instructions which, when executed by the vehicle's on-board computer, enable the closing method to be performed. as described below. The closing mechanism allows for the control of the closing, for example automatic, of a window in a vehicle opening. The analysis module 50 can be integrated into, or correspond to, the vehicle's on-board computer. In one variant, the analysis module includes a programmable card integrated into the door 11.

[0050] The analysis module 50 is connected to the photoelectric sensor and receives and analyzes its output signal. Upon analysis, it identifies a case of interrupted light in the opening. In response to this intruder detection, the analysis module 50 cuts off the power supply to the drive means 22 in order to stop the movement of the window 18. The analysis module 50 acts on the drive means 22, or on their control unit (not shown). Consequently, the anti-pinch system 40 prevents a limb from being pinched or crushed in the opening 18.

[0051] The safety system 40 further comprises an angled structure 31. The angled structure 31 conforms to the opposite edge 28 and the guided edge which is in the guide rail. The angled structure 31 comprises a first arm fixed to the drive means 22; for example, to the sliders 30. The angled structure 31 comprises a second arm 32, for example, disposed in the guide rail. The light source is integral with the angled structure 31. It is fixed to the second arm 32, preferably at its end opposite the first arm 31. This arrangement allows the light source 24 to be reliably connected to the drive means 22.

[0052] Figure 3 shows a vehicle opening 11 according to a second embodiment of the invention. The vehicle corresponds to that described in relation to Figure 1. During operation, the light source 24 emits a light beam towards the reflective means 26. The photoelectric sensor integrated into the light source 24 is connected to the analysis module 50 in order to identify cases where the light beam is interrupted; this corresponds to the presence of an obstacle in the opening 12. In the event of obstacle detection, the analysis module 50 acts on the drive means 22 so as to interrupt the closing of the window 18, or at least the approach of the edge of the window 18 to the frame 20.

[0053] The second embodiment of the invention is similar to the first embodiment of the invention. However, it differs from it in that the angled structure is replaced by fastening means 34. These fastening means allow the light source 24 to be fixed directly to the glass 18. The fastening means 34 are located at a distance from the drive means 22.

[0054] The fastening means 34 may be clamping means, for example, screw-type. This allows the position of the light source 24 to be adjusted. Replacement is simplified. Alternatively, the fastening means may be adhesive for greater compactness.

[0055] The fastening means 34 are arranged in the guide rail (not shown). They are protected by the rear jamb 16 of the door 11. This configuration makes it possible to lighten the safety system 40.

[0056] Following the direction of guidance of the guide rail, the fixing means 34 are at a distance from the edge of the window 18. In the closed position, these fixing means 34 remain at a distance from the edge of the window 14. Thus, the presence of the fixing means 34 does not constrain the movements of the window 18, and does not limit the stroke towards the closed position.

[0057] According to one embodiment of the invention, the photoelectric sensor is fixed to the glass, opposite the light source with respect to said glass. Thus, both the photoelectric emitter and receiver are each smaller than a module combining them. This allows them to be placed in narrower grooves.

[0058] Figure 4 shows a diagram of a method for closing a window in an opening of a vehicle. The vehicle includes an anti-pinch system according to the first or second embodiment of the invention.

[0059] The closing process takes place when the window is open. It can begin when the size of the opening, i.e., the distance between the edge of the landing and the landing frame, becomes less than or equal to a threshold value. This threshold value can vary from 30 cm to 50 cm. The closing process comprises the following steps, preferably performed in the order shown.

[0060] Receiving 100 of a window closing command.

[0061] Starting 102 of the movement of the window towards the closed position.

[0062] Emission 104 of a light beam towards the photoelectric sensor, the beam light propagating in the opening along the edge of the window.

[0063] Communication 106 of a monitoring signal by the photoelectric sensor as a function of the reception of the light beam by said sensor.

[0064] Analysis 108 of the monitoring signal in order to detect an obstacle in the opening in the event of interruption of the reception of the light beam by the photoelectric sensor.

[0065] Interruption 110 of the movement of the window in case of detection of an obstacle in the opening.

[0066] Displaying 112 of a warning sign intended for a user such as the driver.

[0067] Obtaining 114 confirmation from the user to proceed with the closure of the opening through the glass.

[0068] Continuation 116 of the closing of the opening by the glass.

[0069] At the receiving step 100 of a closing command, a user; for example the driver or a passenger, activates a window closing button. This command can be a partial or total window closing command.

[0070] In response to the closing command, the window moves closer to the docking post during the start-up step 102 of the movement of the glass towards the closed position.

[0071] When the window's edge is at a critical distance, i.e., close enough to pinch or trap a limb, the emission step 104 of a light beam begins. The light beam propagates through the opening, parallel to and at the level of the window's edge, towards the photoelectric sensor. It can reach the sensor directly or indirectly depending on the presence of reflective means. The emission step 104 of a light beam is performed when the window's edge is at a predetermined distance from the edge of the window; the predetermined distance is preferably greater than or equal to 30 cm. According to one embodiment of the invention, the light beam is emitted as soon as the window moves in the closing direction.

[0072] The photoelectric sensor provides an electrical signal depending on the light it receives, and therefore depending on whether or not it is illuminated by the light beam emitted by the light source. This electrical signal is transmitted during the communication step 106 of the monitoring signal. The electrical monitoring signal exhibits a voltage variation depending on whether the sensor is struck by the light beam.

[0073] The analysis module receives and analyzes the monitoring signal during the monitoring signal analysis step 108. It compares the electrical signal to at least one reference value and identifies the presence of an obstacle when the monitoring signal deviates significantly from the reference values. If the photoelectric sensor interrupts the reception of the light beam, the monitoring signal reaches a threshold value.

[0074] When an obstacle is detected during the previous step, the anti-pinch system stops the window from closing during the interruption step 110 of the window's movement. This prevents the pinching and crushing of a limb. The safety of passengers, or more generally of anyone in the vicinity of the window, is improved.

[0075] The steps of displaying 112 a warning sign; obtaining 114 a confirmation and continuing 116 the closure remain purely optional in the context of the invention.

Claims

Demands

1. Motor vehicle (10) comprising an opening (12), a frame delimiting the opening (12), and a window (18) sliding in the opening (12) between at least one open position and a closed position, at least one guide rail for the window (18); the frame comprising a docking post (14); the window (18) comprising a docking edge (20) capable of coming into contact with the docking post (14) in the closed position; the motor vehicle (10) further comprising an anti-pinch system (40) comprising a light source (24) which is connected to the window (18), which is disposed in the guide rail, and which is configured to emit a beam of light into the opening (12) along the docking edge (20);the anti-pinch system (40) further comprising a photoelectric sensor, an analysis module (50) which is connected to the photoelectric sensor and which is configured to analyze the propagation of the light beam along the docking edge (20) so as to detect an obstacle in the opening (12), the anti-pinch system (40) further comprising reflective means (26) arranged opposite the light source (24) with respect to the window (18), and configured so as to reflect the light beam towards the photoelectric sensor, the photoelectric sensor being arranged on the side of the guide rail, characterized in that the photoelectric sensor (26) is connected to the window (18) and is arranged in the guide rail.;

2. Motor vehicle (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that the frame includes a groove facing the guide rail and in that the reflective means (26) are arranged in said groove.

3. Motor vehicle (10) according to any one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the window (18) comprises a trajectory between the open position and the closed position, and in that the reflective means (26) comprise a plurality of reflective elements distributed along the trajectory.

4. Motor vehicle (10) according to claim 1 to 3, characterized in that the guide rail comprises a window guide direction (18), and in that the photoelectric sensor and the light source (24) are superimposed along said guide direction.

5. Motor vehicle (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the window (18) comprises an edge opposite (28) to the docking edge (20), in that the motor vehicle comprises drive means (22) for the window (18) between the open position and the closed position which are connected to the opposite edge (28), the anti-pinch system (40) further comprises an angled structure (31) connected to the drive means; and in that the light source (24) is integral with the angled structure (31).

6. Motor vehicle (10) according to claim 5, characterized in that the angled structure (31) comprises a branch (32) extending over the entire length of the window (18) along the direction of movement of the window (18) between the open position and the closed position, and in that said branch (32) extends into the guide rail.

7. A method for closing a window (18) in an opening (12) of a motor vehicle (10), characterized in that the motor vehicle (10) conforms to any one of claims 1 to 6; the method comprising the following steps: receiving (100) a command to close the window; starting (102) the movement of the window (18) to the closed position; emitting (104) a light beam to the photoelectric sensor, the light beam propagating in the opening (12) along the edge (20) of the window (18); communicating (106) a monitoring signal by the photoelectric sensor as a function of the reception of the light beam; analyzing (108) the monitoring signal to detect an obstacle in the opening (12) in the event of an interruption in the reception of the light beam by the photoelectric sensor; interruption (110) of the movement of the glass (18) in case of detection of an obstacle in the opening (12).

8. Method according to claim 7, characterized in that the anti-pinch system (40) further comprises reflective means (26) arranged opposite the light source (24) with respect to the glass (18), and configured to reflect the light beam towards the photoelectric sensor, and in that during the emission step (104), the light beam propagates towards the reflective means (26).

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