Vehicle Closure Actuation With Object Detection and Suspension Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle closure systems require manual operation by users to open or close, lacking automation for authorized users with objects, and do not adjust vehicle suspension dynamically for loading.
Innovation Solution
Implementing an electronic control unit (ECU) in vehicles to analyze images from sensors for user and object detection, automatically actuating closures based on user authorization and object recognition, and adjusting suspension levels for easy loading.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operation of vehicle closures is used, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation deteriorates for authorized users with objects
Solution Approach 1:
The closure system automatically detects and opens itself when an authorized user with objects approaches, eliminating the need for manual operation. The system serves itself by using sensors to detect the user and objects, then autonomously actuating the closure without human intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with an automated system using image sensors, processors, and electronic actuators. The mechanical closure system is supplemented with optical detection and electronic control mechanisms to achieve automatic opening.
2Ease of operation
If automatic closure actuation based on object detection is implemented, then ease of operation improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The image sensor system serves multiple functions: detecting the authorized user, identifying objects being carried, and determining the appropriate closure to open. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate detection systems for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The processor acts as an intermediary between the image sensor and the closure actuator. It analyzes the captured images, identifies objects, determines user intent, and decides which closure to open, mediating between detection and action.
3Measurement precision
If image analysis is used for user and object detection, then measurement precision improves, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The image sensor and analysis process operate periodically or on-demand rather than continuously. The system activates detection when the vehicle is approached and processes images only when needed, reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining detection precision.
Data Source
AI summary
A suspension configuration of a vehicle may be dynamically changed based on object detection. A device may include at least one processor configured to detect an authorized user within a proximity of a vehicle, detect an object within a proximity of the authorized user, and cause an a dynamic change to a suspension configuration of the vehicle based at least in part on the detected authorized user and the detected object. For example, a suspension of the vehicle may be raised or lowered based on the detected object.