Liftgate anti-pinch detector utilizing back-up sensors
US6836209B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | May 30, 2003 |
| Grant date | Dec 28, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 23, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE05Y2900/546
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
An improved system for detecting the presence of an object in the path of a liftgate relies upon the sensor/transmitters that are used for collision avoidance systems to detect the presence of an object rearwardly of a vehicle moving in a reverse direction. Known sensors are provided to look for the presence of an object when the vehicle is being moved in a reverse direction. The sensors are now also actuated when the liftgate is being moved to its closed position. Should an object be detected, further movement of the liftgate is stopped. The present invention thus detects the presence of an object in the path of a liftgate prior to any contact. Further, the invention combines two prior control modules into a single control module.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.