Powered Tailgate Collision Protection via Dynamic Distance Thresholds
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing powered tailgate opening systems fail to prevent collisions with objects when the tailgate has a non-uniform profile, as a single minimum distance threshold is insufficient to avoid contact with objects like ceilings or walls during opening.
Innovation Solution
A powered tailgate opening system with object collision protection, utilizing object distance sensors, an opening angle sensor, and a controller that adjusts the tailgate movement based on dynamically calculated limit distance values varying with the opening angle, employing a rotation matrix to determine the rotated shape of the tailgate and positioning virtual walls and ceilings with an error margin to prevent collisions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single minimum distance threshold is used for tailgate opening, then the system is simple to operate, but collision protection is insufficient for non-uniform tailgate profiles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a static single minimum distance threshold to a dynamic distance threshold that varies with the opening angle of the tailgate. The controller continuously adjusts the distance threshold based on the current opening angle, ensuring that the distance requirement adapts to the changing geometry of the tailgate during opening. This resolves the contradiction by providing reliable collision protection for non-uniform profiles while maintaining operational simplicity through automated angle-based adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the distance threshold parameter as a function of the opening angle. Instead of using a fixed distance value, the system changes the distance threshold parameter dynamically based on the measured opening angle, creating a relationship where the required safe distance varies according to the tailgate's position. This enables effective collision protection for non-uniform profiles without requiring complex manual intervention.
2Reliability
If a fixed minimum distance is maintained, then the control logic is simple, but objects may still be contacted during tailgate opening
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring both the opening angle of the tailgate and the distance to detected objects, then using this feedback information to dynamically adjust the distance threshold. The controller compares the measured object distance against the angle-appropriate threshold and adjusts tailgate operation accordingly. This feedback mechanism ensures reliable collision prevention while managing measurement complexity through systematic comparison and automated control decisions.
3Speed
If the tailgate opens with full drive power, then opening speed is fast, but collision risk increases with objects in the sweep range
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by proactively detecting objects in the tailgate's sweep range using distance sensors before opening begins, and by pre-calculating angle-specific distance thresholds that prevent collision. The system takes preventive action by identifying potential hazards in advance and adjusting the opening operation accordingly, rather than reacting after a collision risk materializes. This allows fast opening when safe while preventing collisions when objects are present.
Data Source
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Figure 2
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AI summary
A powered tailgate opening system having object collision protection is disclosed for reducing the risk of collision with an object during opening of the tailgate. The opening system has an object distance sensor (2) to sense a distance to an object during movement of the tailgate and an opening angle sensor (3) for sensing an angle of opening (a) of the tailgate. A memory (6) stores limit distance values (dth) which vary according to different angles of opening (a) of the tailgate and a controller (4) controls a tailgate movement drive mechanism (5) according to a determination of whether a sensed distance at a sensed angle of opening (a) is less than the stored limit distance value (dth) for that sensed angle of opening (a).