Vehicle Flap Automatic Opening via Proximity Sensor Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicles do not simplify the process of opening vehicle flaps from the outside without manual operation of the unlocking/locking mechanism, which can be inconvenient for users, especially when hands are occupied.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle equipped with a proximity sensor and control device that recognizes a valid access authorization device, allowing the automatic opening of flaps without manual unlocking, with additional safety features like integrated distance detection systems and dual proximity sensors to prevent accidental openings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operation of unlocking/locking mechanism is required to open vehicle flaps, then operational safety is maintained, but user convenience deteriorates when hands are occupied
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical operation of the unlocking/locking mechanism with an automated system using proximity sensors and control devices. The mechanical action of manually operating the unlock mechanism is substituted by an automated detection and actuation system that senses the user's approach and automatically activates the unlocking mechanism, enabling hands-free operation while maintaining security through controlled activation conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service operation where the vehicle flap opening function serves itself by automatically detecting the user's presence and intent through proximity sensors and control logic. The system autonomously determines when to unlock and open the flap without requiring manual intervention, while still maintaining safety through programmed activation conditions that prevent accidental opening
2Reliability
If automatic opening mechanism is implemented without additional sensors, then device complexity is reduced, but operational safety deteriorates due to accidental openings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by implementing a proximity sensor system that detects potential accidental opening conditions (such as animals or objects approaching the vehicle) before the automatic opening can be triggered. The control device evaluates multiple sensor signals in advance and only activates the unlocking mechanism when the pattern matches intentional user approach, thereby preventing accidental openings while maintaining system reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from multiple proximity sensors positioned at different locations around the vehicle to determine the intent behind an approaching object. The control device continuously monitors sensor signals and uses the feedback pattern (which sensors are activated, in what sequence, and with what intensity) to distinguish between intentional user approach and accidental objects, thereby enhancing reliability without excessive complexity
3Ease of operation
If proximity sensor is positioned for easy user activation, then ease of operation improves, but risk of accidental activation by animals or objects increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the proximity detection function into multiple sensors positioned at different locations around the vehicle rather than using a single sensor. This segmentation allows the control device to analyze the spatial pattern of activation and distinguish between a user approaching from a specific direction versus animals or objects elsewhere, thereby maintaining ease of operation while reducing accidental activation
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts its response based on the temporal and spatial characteristics of sensor activation. The control device evaluates the dynamics of the situation - the speed, direction, and sequence of sensor activation - to determine whether the approaching object is a human user (who typically approaches with purpose and from expected locations) or an animal/object (which may approach differently). This dynamic evaluation maintains ease of operation while preventing accidental activation
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 allowing hands-free operation of vehicle flaps while ensuring operational safety by preventing accidental openings, such as when the vehicle is moving or when animals might trigger the mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
a proximity sensor and a control device are provided. The control device is operatively connected on one side with an unlocking/locking mechanism for the automatically opening flap and on the other side with the proximity sensor. The control device is constructed such that it recognizes the presence of a valid access authorization device within a surrounding area and, if a valid access authorization device is recognized, as a function of the presence of an unlocking signal of the proximity sensor, activates the unlocking/locking mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle, particularly a motor vehicle, has a flap, which automatically opens as a result of an opening command. The opening command takes place without a manual operation of an unlocking/locking mechanism. A proximity sensor and a control device coupled therewith are present, the control device being constructed such that it recognizes the presence of a valid access authorization device within a surrounding area and, if a valid access authorization device is recognized, as a function of the presence of an unlocking signal of the proximity sensor, activates the unlocking/locking mechanism for releasing the automatically opening flap.