Interior Radar Sensor Liftgate Actuation via Rear Window
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for opening a vehicle liftgate, such as hands-free liftgate opening, require additional proximate sensors outside the vehicle, which can be cumbersome for users carrying items and are not universally applicable.
Innovation Solution
An interior sensor-based system, utilizing a radar sensor installed behind the vehicle's centerline, detects a user's presence and gestures through the rear window, allowing the liftgate to be opened without the need for external sensors, by satisfying specific preconditions like vehicle parking and valid user device proximity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If external proximate sensors are used under the rear bumper for hands-free liftgate opening, then the liftgate can be opened without physical contact, but the system becomes more complex and users carrying items find it difficult to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the existing interior radar sensor (originally designed for other functions) with the liftgate opening function. By merging the sensor's existing capabilities with the new application, the system achieves hands-free operation without adding external sensors, thus reducing device complexity while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The interior radar sensor is designed to serve multiple functions: its original purpose plus detecting user presence and gestures for liftgate opening. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated external sensors, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and device complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If external proximate sensors are installed outside the vehicle for gesture detection, then hands-free operation is enabled, but additional sensors are required increasing system complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The interior radar sensor performs multiple functions including gesture detection for liftgate opening, occupant detection, and other vehicle functions. This universal application of a single sensor enables gesture-based operation without requiring additional external sensors
Solution Approach 2:
The radar sensor acts as an intermediary that detects user presence and gestures through the rear window, enabling hands-free operation without direct contact. This intermediary approach allows gesture recognition using an existing interior sensor rather than installing external sensors
3Speed
If the interior radar sensor continuously monitors for user presence, then responsive liftgate opening is achieved, but energy consumption increases when the sensor is always active
Solution Approach 1:
The radar sensor operates in periodic cycles, alternating between active monitoring and low-power sleep modes. The sensor activates when triggered by specific conditions (such as detecting the key fob) and returns to sleep mode when not in use, achieving responsive operation while managing energy consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary detection of the key fob before activating the radar sensor for full monitoring. This preliminary action allows the sensor to remain in low-power mode until needed, reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining fast response when the user approaches
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 convenient and sensor-independent liftgate operation by detecting user presence and gestures from within the vehicle, enhancing user experience and reducing sensor dependency.
Implementation Method 1
an interior sensor (e.g., a radar sensor or the like) that may be used to detect a user outside the rear of the vehicle
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods of opening a vehicle liftgate based on an interior radar sensor that may be used to detect a user outside the rear of the vehicle are provided. The interior radar sensor may be installed behind the center line of a headliner of the vehicle, and detect the user's head and/or an upper-body gesture through the rear window of the vehicle. e.g., upon detection of a key fob carried by the user outside the vehicle. Upon detection of a valid gesture, e.g., a predetermined pattern of movement, by the user, the liftgate may be actuated to open.