Vehicle Liftgate Proximity Sensor Sequence Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for operating vehicle liftgates require manual assistance or complex foot-activated mechanisms, which can lead to unintended operation and are cumbersome when carrying loads.
Innovation Solution
A hands-free operation system using proximity sensors mounted on the vehicle's periphery, where sequential activation of these sensors controls the liftgate to open or close, allowing for intuitive operation without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operation or foot-activated mechanisms are used, then the liftgate can be operated without hands, but the system complexity increases and unintended operation may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the sensing area into multiple segments using several proximity sensors positioned at different locations. Each sensor monitors a specific zone, and the controller processes sequential activation patterns across these segments to determine user intent. This segmentation allows for more reliable hands-free operation by requiring a specific sequence of sensor activations rather than triggering on any single sensor, thereby reducing unintended operation while maintaining ease of use.
2Extent of automation
If remote controls are used, then the liftgate can be opened automatically, but at least one hand must be available to operate the remote
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces the mechanical remote control operation with an optical/electronic proximity sensing mechanism. Instead of requiring the user to physically press buttons on a remote control device, the system uses proximity sensors to detect the user's approach and automaticl}y trigger liftgate opening when the proper sequential activation pattern is detected. This substitution eliminates the need for hand operation of remote controls while maintaining automatic opening functionality.
3Ease of operation
If foot-activated sensors under the bumper are used, then the liftgate can be opened hands-free, but the system becomes complex in avoiding unintentional operation
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback through multiple proximity sensors that monitor different zones around the vehicle. The controller analyzes the sequential activation pattern of these sensors to verify user intent before triggering liftgate operation. By requiring a specific sequence of sensor activations and monitoring the temporal and spatial pattern of detections, the system provides feedback validation that reduces unintended operation while maintaining hands-free convenience.
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
The system provides secure, hands-free operation of liftgates, reducing the risk of unintended activation and allowing for easy loading/unloading by enabling gesture-based control, thus enhancing user convenience and safety.
Implementation Method 1
a first proximity sensor and a second proximity sensor located on a periphery of the vehicle have been sequentially activated to indicate an object moving across the first proximity sensor and the second proximity sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A method for operating a closure panel of a vehicle, comprising: using a processor, determining whether a first proximity sensor and a second proximity sensor located on a periphery of the vehicle have been sequentially activated to indicate an object moving across the first proximity sensor and the second proximity sensor; and, controlling the closure panel to open or close when the first proximity sensor and the second proximity sensor have been sequentially activated.