Vehicle Closure Device with Dual Sensor Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional closure devices for vehicles are complex, expensive, and prone to faults due to mechanical coupling mechanisms, and sensor-based systems are susceptible to incorrect triggering and installation challenges, particularly when used for fueling and charging operations.
Innovation Solution
A closure device with a control electronics system utilizing two spatially separated sensor devices for opening and closing the cover element, allowing for targeted adaptation and positioning on the cover element, combined with a connecting channel for easy access to filling or connection openings, and an actuation mechanism driven by external force for enhanced user comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a mechanical coupling mechanism is used to connect the cover element and closure element, then the closure element can be automatically adjusted when the cover element is opened, but the construction and assembly become complicated and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical coupling mechanism (levers, linkages) with an electronic control system. Sensors detect the cover element position and send signals to a control unit, which then actuates the closure element via an electric motor or actuator. This substitution eliminates complex mechanical linkages while achieving the same automatic adjustment function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an electronic control unit as an intermediary between the cover element position detection and the closure element actuation. Instead of direct mechanical coupling, the control unit processes sensor signals and generates appropriate actuation commands, simplifying the overall system architecture.
2Device complexity
If a single sensor device is used for both opening and closing detection, then the device is simpler, but the sensor may be incorrectly triggered and difficult to position correctly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the sensing function into two separate sensor devices: one dedicated to detecting opening requests and another for detecting closing requests. Each sensor is positioned optimally for its specific function, and the control unit processes their signals independently. This segmentation eliminates cross-interference and positioning conflicts while improving triggering reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent assigns different functional qualities to different parts of the closure device. The first sensor is optimized for detecting opening conditions (positioned to detect user approach or manual activation), while the second sensor is optimized for detecting closing conditions (positioned to detect cover element movement toward closed position). This localized functional specialization improves overall system reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A closure device for closing a through opening on a vehicle is provided. An interior space with a filling or connection opening being accessible via the through opening, wherein the filling or connection opening is configured and provided for consumable filling on the vehicle, and it being possible for the through opening to be closed by way of a cover element which can be adjusted on the vehicle in a manner which is actuated by external force between at least one closure position for closing the through opening and an open position for opening the through opening. A control electronics system for triggering an adjustment of the cover element being provided with at least one first and second sensor device.