Variable Speed Vehicle Door Actuator Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing powered vehicle doors lack the ability to adjust opening speed based on user input, providing a constant speed that may not accommodate varying user efforts or situations, such as when objects are in the way or when a user is in a hurry.
Innovation Solution
A variable-speed powered door system that utilizes proximity sensors, such as capacitive sensors, on the door handle to detect the size of the user's hand contact area, allowing the actuator to adjust the door opening speed accordingly, from slow to fast based on the sensed contact area, and includes a controller to process these signals for precise control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a constant speed actuator is used for door opening, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different user needs and situations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator speed is made dynamic rather than fixed. The system transitions from a constant speed actuator to a variable speed actuator that adjusts its operating speed based on real-time sensing of user hand contact area on the door handle, enabling adaptation to different user needs and situations
Solution Approach 2:
A feedback loop is established where proximity sensors detect the user's hand contact area on the door handle, the controller processes this information, and the actuator speed is adjusted accordingly. This closed-loop control enables the system to adapt to varying user inputs and external conditions
2Ease of operation
If proximity sensors and variable speed control are added, then the door opening functionality and user convenience are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides self-service by automatically detecting user intent through hand contact area sensing and autonomously adjusting the door opening speed without requiring explicit user commands. The user simply needs to contact the door handle, and the system handles the rest, improving ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
Traditional mechanical door opening mechanisms are replaced with an electromechanical system that uses proximity sensors and electronic control to regulate actuator speed, substituting mechanical complexity with electronic sensing and control for smoother, more adaptable operation
3Productivity
If the door opens at high speed always, then the productivity of door opening operation is improved, but the safety and convenience in situations with objects in the way deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The door opening speed is made dynamic, allowing the system to transition between high speed (when safe and efficient) and low speed (when objects may be in the way or precision is needed). This resolves the contradiction by making speed adaptable rather than fixed at high values
Solution Approach 2:
The system takes preliminary action by detecting user intent through hand contact sensing before the door actually opens. This early detection allows the system to prepare appropriate speed settings and monitor the opening process, preventing potential safety issues before they occur
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
The system enhances door opening functionality by allowing the door to open at varying speeds in response to user input, providing enhanced convenience and safety by accommodating different user efforts and scenarios.
Implementation Method 1
The proximity sensor comprises one or more capacitive sensors
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle door is provided that includes a door panel, a door handle located on the panel and having a contact surface, and one or more proximity sensors located on the handle to sense a user's hand interfacing with the handle. The vehicle door also includes an actuator for actuating the door panel, and a controller configured to control the actuator to open the door open position at a speed that varies based on the sensed user hand contacting the contact surface.