Vehicle Door Interface System Proximity Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Autonomous vehicles and self-driving cars face challenges in opening and closing doors without a driver, particularly in situations where a human is needed to unlock and operate the doors for passenger access.
Innovation Solution
A door interface system equipped with a proximity sensor and visual indicator, which uses infrared light and light-emitting diodes to detect and authenticate objects, allowing the door to be opened or closed automatically based on sensor data and user input.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If traditional manual door operation is used, then driver control is required, but this creates a problem in autonomous vehicles without drivers
Solution Approach 1:
The door interface system enables the door to operate autonomously by detecting objects with a proximity sensor and automatically actuating the door mechanism, eliminating the need for manual driver intervention while maintaining ease of passenger access
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical door operation with an automated system using proximity sensors, visual indicators, and electronic door actuators to detect and respond to passenger needs automatically
2Extent of automation
If proximity sensor detection is used, then automatic door operation is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The door interface system integrates multiple functions into a single unified system including proximity detection, visual indication, authentication, and door actuation control, reducing overall system complexity despite adding automation capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a door interface system as an intermediary component that coordinates between the proximity sensor, visual indicator, authentication mechanism, and door actuator, managing system complexity through a centralized control architecture
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
Enables secure and user-friendly operation of vehicle doors in autonomous vehicles, ensuring safe entry and exit by automatically opening or closing doors based on proximity detection and authentication, enhancing passenger experience and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a proximity sensor configured to sense proximity of an object
Implementation Method 2
at least one light-emitting diode positioned around a periphery of the proximity sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A door interface system for a vehicle door includes a sensor and a visual indicator. The sensor may be a proximity sensor and may be positioned proximate to the visual indicator such that it will detect an object proximate to the proximity sensor. The visual indicator may convey the position of the sensor and/or a status of the vehicle door. The door interface system is configured to control the vehicle door based at least in part on detecting an object proximate the visual indicator.