Capacitive Door Sensor Electrode Assembly With Single Plug Connector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor systems for detecting non-contact operation of motor vehicle doors or flaps are costly to mount and prone to incorrect assembly, with difficulties in adapting to different vehicle models.
Innovation Solution
A sensor unit with a flexible sensor electrode and connector system, where both the sensor electrode and wiring harness are connected using a single plug connector, and a flexible carrier with a conductive layer structure that can be adapted to various vehicle shapes, reducing assembly errors and the need for multiple connectors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate connectors are used for sensor electrode and wiring harness, then connection reliability is improved, but assembly complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the sensor electrode connector and wiring harness connector into a single integrated connector assembly. The sensor electrode is directly connected to the control electronics through this unified connector, eliminating the need for separate connection steps and reducing assembly complexity while maintaining reliable electrical connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: it provides electrical connection for the sensor electrode, structural support for the sensor assembly, and alignment features for proper installation. This multi-functional design reduces the number of components needed and simplifies the overall assembly process.
2Manufacturing precision
If rigid sensor electrode is used, then manufacturing precision is improved, but adaptability to different vehicle models decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor electrode is designed with flexible mounting features that allow it to adapt to different vehicle body contours while maintaining proper positioning. The electrode can be adjusted during installation to accommodate variations in vehicle models, combining positioning precision with adaptability through a dynamic mounting approach rather than a fixed rigid structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting parameters of the sensor electrode (such as position, orientation, and spacing) are designed to be adjustable within certain ranges to accommodate different vehicle models. This allows the same sensor design to be adapted to various vehicle types by changing installation parameters rather than redesigning the electrode itself for each model.
3Reliability
If multiple plug connectors are used, then connection reliability is improved, but assembly time and error risk increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple electrical connections (sensor electrode, power supply, signal lines) are integrated into a single plug connector assembly. This allows all electrical connections to be established simultaneously in one insertion action, reducing assembly time and eliminating the risk of incorrect connections between multiple separate plugs.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is pre-assembled with all necessary electrical contacts and wiring configured before installation. This preliminary preparation ensures that when the connector is installed, all electrical connections are already correctly configured, eliminating the need for on-site wiring adjustments and reducing assembly errors.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates reliable and secure assembly, reduces the risk of plug interchanges, and allows for easy adaptation to different vehicle designs, enhancing detection accuracy and durability.
Implementation Method 1
A sensor electrode is coupled to the control and evaluation unit in order to detect a change in capacitance of the sensor electrode when it is actuated by a user.
Implementation Method 2
The sensor electrode reacts to objects approaching or touching by changing the capacitance of the capacitor formed from the sensor electrode and the object.
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2a~2b
AI summary
An electronic sensor unit for detecting the non-contact operation of a door or flap on a motor vehicle. The sensor unit has a housing in which a control and evaluation unit is arranged and a sensor electrode is coupled to the control and evaluation unit in order to detect a change in capacitance of the sensor electrode when the user operates it without contact. The sensor unit and the control and evaluation unit arranged therein are connected to a cable harness of the vehicle by means of a plug connector arranged on the housing.