UWB Trunk Adjustment via Trigger Zones
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle access systems, such as door and trunk opening mechanisms, are inefficient and unresponsive, often requiring users to wait for closures to open or close, and may accidentally impact individuals due to improper detection of user presence or proximity.
Innovation Solution
A UWB-based system using time-of-flight measurements and geographic trigger zones to automate moveable closure actions, such as door and trunk openings, providing partial or full openings/closings based on user proximity and movement patterns, with rearming mechanisms to prevent accidental closures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional key or key fob access control is used, then vehicle security is maintained, but access time is increased and user convenience is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical key-based access control with a UWB (Ultra-Wideband) wireless communication system. The UWB sensor detects the presence of an authenticated mobile device and automatically triggers moveable closure actions, eliminating the need for manual key insertion or fob button pressing, thereby reducing access time and improving convenience
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service operation where the vehicle automatically detects user presence via UWB signals and autonomously opens or closes moveable closures without requiring explicit user commands. The system monitors trigger zones and automatically executes closure actions based on detected user movement patterns
2Ease of operation
If automated moveable closure actions are implemented, then user convenience is improved, but risk of accidental closures increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors the user's position relative to the vehicle using UWB distance measurements and provides feedback through automated closure actions. Multiple trigger zones are defined with different actions, and the system adjusts closure behavior based on real-time distance data, preventing accidental closures by requiring sustained presence in specific zones
Solution Approach 2:
The system defines multiple trigger zones in advance, with the first trigger zone initiating an opening sequence and the second trigger zone (at a different distance) initiating a closing sequence. This preliminary zoning prevents accidental closures by requiring the user to pass through specific spatial zones in sequence, ensuring intentional interaction
3Measurement precision
If UWB time-of-flight measurements are used for precise positioning, then detection accuracy is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses UWB signals as an intermediary to enable precise distance measurement between the mobile device and the vehicle. The UWB sensor calculates time-of-flight to determine user position relative to trigger zones, providing accurate detection without requiring complex camera or sensor arrays, thus maintaining measurement precision while managing system complexity
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
Enhances user convenience by ensuring rapid and responsive vehicle access, preventing accidental closures, and improving safety by accurately detecting user presence and intent.
Implementation Method 1
determining a location of a mobile device by a UWB sensor based on a time of flight
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are described herein for a system to automatically execute actions associated with moveable closures of one or more trunk compartments of a vehicle. The system may detect a user device is within proximity of the vehicle using ultra-wideband signals. The system may then determine a location of the user device, and based on the location of the user device, whether the user device is within a trigger zone. A trigger zone may represent a real-world area positioned about a trunk compartment of the vehicle, the trunk compartment comprising a moveable closure. Based on determining that the user device is within a trigger zone, the system may execute an action associated with the moveable closure.