Moveable UWB Hatch Modules for Accurate Vehicle Access

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vehicle access systems, such as passive keyless entry and passive entry passive start, face challenges in accurately locating operators due to the fixed positioning of UWB modules, which affects the reliability and precision of vehicle access functionality.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of moveable UWB modules on adjustable vehicle hatches, combined with a control assembly that determines their position relative to the vehicle, enables accurate vehicle access functionality by considering the variable position of these modules through UWB signal exchange and hatch kinematics.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If UWB modules are fixed at predetermined positions on the motor vehicle, then the device complexity is reduced and installation is simplified, but the measurement precision of operator location deteriorates when hatches are adjusted

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveUWB module arrangement complexityVSAvoidoperator location accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the dynamics principle by making at least one UWB module moveable rather than fixed. The UWB module is arranged on an adjustable hatch (such as a tailgate or door) and moves together with the hatch when it opens or closes. This dynamic arrangement ensures that the UWB module maintains optimal positioning relative to the operator regardless of hatch position, thereby preserving measurement precision without significantly increasing device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If multiple UWB modules are distributed about the perimeter of the motor vehicle to optimize reception and transmission range, then the vehicle access functionality is improved, but the device complexity and installation difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevehicle access functionalityVSAvoidUWB module distribution complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the universality principle by designing the UWB module system to serve multiple functions. The same UWB modules distributed around the vehicle perimeter not only provide reception and transmission for operator location but also function as part of the vehicle access control system. This multi-functionality allows the system to achieve improved vehicle access functionality without proportionally increasing device complexity, as the modules perform both localization and access control tasks.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Measurement precision

If UWB modules are arranged on adjustable hatches to improve operator location accuracy, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity and positional determination requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperator location accuracyVSAvoidpositional determination system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the feedback principle by implementing a control assembly that actively determines the position of moveable UWB modules based on hatch position information. The system receives feedback about the hatch state (open/closed position) and uses this information to calculate and update the positions of the UWB modules mounted on the hatches. This feedback mechanism enables accurate operator location measurement while managing system complexity through intelligent position calculation rather than requiring additional physical sensors for each module.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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

This configuration enhances the accuracy and reliability of vehicle access operations, ensuring consistent functionality regardless of hatch position, and supports secure vehicle access and obstacle detection.

Implementation Method 1

multiple UWB modules which are designed for transmitting and receiving UWB signals

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectUltra-wideband signal transmission and reception: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS20260043891A1Sensor system for providing a vehicle-access function of a motor vehicle
Publication Date: 2026.02.12 BROSE FAHRZEUGTEILE GMBH & CO KG
  • US20260043891A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A sensor system for providing a vehicle access functionality of a motor vehicle, which sensor system comprises multiple UWB modules which are arranged with a mutual spacing at predetermined positions on the vehicle, and a control assembly for actuating the UWB modules and for providing the vehicle access functionality by the UWB modules, wherein at least one of the UWB modules is arranged as a moveable UWB module on a hatch of the motor vehicle which is adjustable by means of a hatch kinematic function, such that the moveable UWB module, upon an adjustment of the hatch, is adjustable relative to the remainder of the motor vehicle. The control assembly can be designed to execute a positional determination of the moveable UWB module relative to the remainder of the vehicle, and to provide the vehicle access functionality according to the position of the moveable UWB module thus determined.