Vehicle Side Door Obstacle Detection via Centralized Sensor Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing obstacle and gesture detection systems for motor vehicles are inadequate in preventing closure members from unintentionally striking obstacles, leading to increased complexity and cost due to the need for multiple obstacle detection sensors on each closure member.
Innovation Solution
A non-contact obstacle and gesture detection system comprising a first electronic control unit connected to a power source, coupled with non-contact sensors and a power actuator, which communicates with a second electronic control unit to control the movement of a second closure member based on detected obstacles or gestures, reducing the need for multiple sensors on each closure member.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple obstacle detection sensors are installed on each closure member, then obstacle detection capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The first electronic control unit is equipped with non-contact sensors that serve dual purposes: detecting obstacles near the first closure member and providing obstacle detection information for the second closure member. This multi-functional approach allows a single sensor system to protect multiple closure members, reducing the total number of sensors needed while maintaining comprehensive obstacle detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the obstacle detection functions for both closure members into a single integrated system. The first electronic control unit processes sensor data and communicates obstacle information to the second electronic control unit, merging what would traditionally be separate detection systems into one unified architecture, thereby reducing complexity.
2Reliability
If multiple obstacle detection sensors are installed on each closure member, then obstacle detection capability is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system on the first electronic control unit performs multiple functions: detecting obstacles for both the first and second closure members. This eliminates the need to purchase and install separate sensor systems for each closure member, directly reducing component costs and manufacturing expenses.
Solution Approach 2:
By merging the obstacle detection functionality into a single integrated system rather than implementing separate systems for each closure member, the patent reduces overall component count, assembly requirements, and associated manufacturing costs.
3Ease of operation
If powered actuation systems are used for closure members, then ease of operation is improved, but risk of striking obstacles increases
Solution Approach 1:
The non-contact sensors detect obstacles before the powered actuation system moves the closure members. By performing detection in advance and communicating obstacle information between control units, the system takes preliminary protective action to prevent harmful strikes while maintaining the convenience of powered operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback through communication between the first and second electronic control units. When the first control unit detects an obstacle, it communicates this information to the second control unit, which then adjusts the operation of the second closure member accordingly. This feedback loop enables powered actuation to operate safely by continuously monitoring and responding to obstacle conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
A non-contact obstacle and gesture detection system and method are disclosed. The system includes first and second electronic control units in communication with one another and obstacle and gesture sensors coupled to the first electronic control unit. First and second power actuators are coupled to the first and second electronic control units for moving first and second closure members, respectively. The first electronic control unit detects the obstacle or gesture using the obstacle and gesture sensors, communicates the detection of the obstacle or gesture to the second electronic control unit, and controls movement of the first closure member using the first power actuator. The second electronic control unit is configured to request the detection of the obstacle or gesture adjacent the motor vehicle from the first electronic control unit and control movement of the second closure member using the second power actuator accordingly.