Vehicle Door Opening Detection Using UWB Module Ranging
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high cost and complexity of incorporating multiple dedicated sensors for detecting the opening of motor vehicle sections, such as doors and trunks, pose a significant challenge in vehicle manufacturing.
Innovation Solution
A method and device utilizing at least two ultra-high-frequency communication modules, each located on a different openable section of a motor vehicle, connected to an electronic computer, which allows for 'hands-free' access by estimating the opening angle based on pre-calibrated distances and the time of flight of ultra-wideband radiation exchanged between modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple dedicated sensors are incorporated in each openable section to detect opening, then detection reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost and device complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into existing communication modules: door opening detection, hands-free access, and vehicle authentication are all performed using the same UWB modules that already communicate between key and vehicle. This eliminates the need for separate dedicated sensors while maintaining detection reliability through the existing communication infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication modules serve multiple purposes: they enable hands-free access by detecting door opening angles, perform vehicle authentication through secure communication, and provide detection functionality. This multi-functionality reduces the overall number of components needed in the system while maintaining all required capabilities.
2Measurement precision
If five dedicated sensors are incorporated for each openable section, then detection precision is improved, but manufacturing cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The communication modules inherently provide detection functionality as part of their normal operation. The modules continuously measure distances and angles during hands-free access operations, automatically providing detection data without requiring additional dedicated sensing hardware. This self-service approach eliminates extra manufacturing costs while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses parameter changes in the communication signals (time of flight, signal strength) to detect door opening angles and positions. By utilizing variations in existing communication parameters rather than dedicated sensor outputs, the system achieves precise detection without the cost of additional sensing components.
3Measurement precision
If dedicated sensors are used in each openable section, then detection accuracy is improved, but the number of components and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges detection functionality with the existing communication modules used for hands-free access and authentication. The same UWB modules that enable contactless entry also detect door opening angles and positions, eliminating the need for separate sensor systems and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication modules act as intermediaries that perform both authentication and detection functions. Rather than having dedicated sensors directly detect opening, the communication modules mediate between the physical door state and the detection system, providing accurate measurement while simplifying the overall architecture.
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
This approach reduces costs while maintaining reliability and simplicity, enabling effective detection of openable section openings and facilitating hands-free vehicle access without the need for multiple sensors.
Implementation Method 1
a distance between the two modules when the two openable sections associated with the two modules are closed, together with the first and the second distance, are determined in advance in a calibration phase
Implementation Method 2
a distance between said modules, said distance being determined by a time of flight of the ultra-high-frequency radiation exchanged between the two modules
Data Source
AI summary
A method for detecting the opening of the openable sections of a motor vehicle by a detection device. The device includes at least two ultra-high-frequency communication modules, each located on a different openable section and connected to an electronic computer. An opening angle of a first openable section is determined based on: a first distance between a rotation point of the first openable section on which a first communication module is located and a position of a second module when the two openable sections associated with the two modules are closed; a second distance between a rotation point of the first openable section and a position of the first module on the openable section; a distance between the two modules when the two openable sections associated with the two modules are closed; a distance between the modules, determined by a time of flight of ultra-high-frequency radiation exchanged between the modules.