Tailgate Control Using Motion Detection for Accessibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tailgate opening and closing systems require unusual motions for operation, which can be unstable and inaccessible for individuals with mobility limitations, and often differentiate between opening and closing operations, complicating control and operability.
Innovation Solution
A tailgate opening and closing system that uses a control device and measurement device to identify entry and exit motions within a trigger region, allowing for simple and intentional operation using regular motions like walking or stepping, enabling both opening and closing with a unified control process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an unusual motion such as a kicking motion is used to open the tailgate, then the tailgate can be opened at the intended timing, but the vehicle operator is forced to perform an unusual motion which may result in an unstable posture
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the detection parameter from requiring unusual motion patterns to detecting simple approach motions. The camera detects when the operator approaches within a predetermined distance, which is a natural and stable motion that does not require unstable postures like kicking.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical kicking motion requirement is replaced with an optical detection system using a camera. Instead of requiring specific mechanical foot movements, the system uses image recognition to detect the operator's approach and intent, substituting physical motion requirements with visual field analysis.
2Reliability
If a person is limited in the foot motion, such as a user of a walking frame, a walking assistance stick, or a wheelchair, then the person cannot perform the unusual motion required to open the tailgate
Solution Approach 1:
The tailgate opening system is made universal by accepting multiple types of approach motions from different user groups. Whether the user walks normally, uses a walking frame, uses a walking assistance stick, or uses a wheelchair, the camera detects their approach within the predetermined distance and triggers tailgate opening, making the system accessible to all mobility levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically detects the operator's approach and intent without requiring specific manual activation. The camera continuously monitors the area, and when it detects the operator approaching within the predetermined distance, the system automatically initiates the tailgate opening sequence, eliminating the need for users to perform specialized motions.
3Ease of operation
If the tailgate closes when a person moves out outside of a movement range of the tailgate, then the person is not forced to perform an unusual motion, but there is a possibility that the tailgate closes at an unintended timing
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses continuous feedback from the camera to monitor the operator's position and motion. Before closing the tailgate, the system verifies that the operator has moved outside the predetermined distance and that no loading/unloading operation is in progress. This feedback mechanism prevents unintended closing by confirming the operator's intent through their motion pattern and position over time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary detection and verification before executing the tailgate closing action. It first detects when the operator moves outside the predetermined distance, then verifies that this motion indicates intent to close (rather than temporarily moving away during loading/unloading), and only then initiates the closing sequence, ensuring timing accuracy.
4Reliability
If different operations are used for opening and closing the tailgate, then each operation can be optimized, but the opening and closing control becomes complicated and may confuse the operator
Solution Approach 1:
The opening and closing control functions are merged into a single unified system. The same camera detects both opening intent (operator approaching) and closing intent (operator moving away beyond predetermined distance). The same control unit processes both operations, eliminating the need for separate detection and control systems for opening and closing, thus reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliable function differentiation.
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 the tailgate to be opened and closed at intended times with a simple motion, improving accessibility and operability for all users, including those with mobility issues, by using regular motions as signals for operation and maintaining stability during operation.
Implementation Method 1
a measurement device that is placed in the rear side portion and at a position lower than the tailgate in a closed state and sequentially obtains distance data to an object present behind the rear side portion
Data Source
AI summary
A tailgate opening and closing system, which includes a control device for controlling an opening and closing device that opens and closes tailgate placed in a rear side portion of a vehicle, and includes a measurement device that is placed in the rear side portion and obtains distance data to an object present behind the rear side portion, in which the control device executes, based on a plurality of the distance data which have been obtained by the measurement device, data processing of identifying an entry motion of the object to a trigger region set in a region apart from the rear side portion within a measurement range of the measurement device and an exit motion of the object from the trigger region, and the control device executes control processing of opening and closing the tailgate based on a combination of the identified entry motion and the exit motion.