DE102018202274A1 - USER NOTIFICATION OF ACTIVATION OF A GEARED SYSTEM IN CONTACT-FREE HUMAN ACTIVATION - Google Patents

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a non-contact closure element system for operating a tailgate of a vehicle. The non-contact force-locking element system includes at least one sensor for detecting an object or movement when a key fob is positioned within a predetermined distance from the vehicle. An indicator is placed on the vehicle to inform the user of an appropriate position to perform an activation gesture. The system also includes an electronic control unit connected to the at least one sensor and executing software. The electronic control unit processes the data to determine whether the gesture made by the user is the activation gesture required to open the liftgate or is a false signal. Depending on the activation gesture, the electronic control unit initiates the opening of the tailgate. Methods are provided for operating the liftgate of the vehicle using a non-contact force closure element system.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This utility model application is a partial follow-up of US 15/696 657 , which was submitted on September 16, 2017, the priority of the provisional U.S. Application 62 / 384,930 filed September 8, 2016, and this utility model application claims the benefit of the provisional U.S. Application 62 / 460,247 filed on 17 February 2017 and provisional U.S. Application 62 / 610,655 , which was submitted on December 27, 2017. The entire disclosures of these above applications are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

THE iNVENTION field

The present disclosure relates generally to automotive force closure element systems, and more particularly to a user-activated non-contact force closure element system for moving a closure element relative to a vehicle body between a closed position and an open position from the open position to the closed position.

Related Technology

This section provides background information related to the present disclosure, which is not necessarily prior art.

Automotive vehicles, such as off-road vehicles, may be configured to include a user-activated, non-contact, force-locking element system (i.e., power lift system) for automatically opening a closure element of the vehicle. The force closure element system includes a sensor for detecting a movement of the user desiring to open the closure element, for example, a foot movement of the user's foot below the rear bumper in the event that the closure element is a tailgate. The system includes technology to validate a user who possesses a keyfob associated with the vehicle and who is the source of the movement so that the closure element is not inadvertently activated by, for example, another person, an animal, Weather conditions or objects that can enter the space below the bumper. The system allows a convenient, user-friendly opening of the closure element when the user's hands are not free, for example when the user holds things to be loaded into the vehicle. User-activated, non-contact force-locking element systems that are available today can be improved.

SUMMARY

This section provides a general summary of the present disclosure and is not a comprehensive disclosure of the full scope of all of its features, aspects, and objectives.

Accordingly, it is an aspect of the present disclosure to provide a user-activated non-contact closure element system for detecting a gesture and operating a closure element in a vehicle. The system includes at least one non-contact sensor mounted on a vehicle body for detecting at least one object and movement corresponding to a gesture performed by the user and outputting data in response to the detection of at least one of the object and the movement , The at least one non-contact sensor includes a radar-based gesture recognition subassembly for providing a radar intermediate field within a predetermined distance from the radar-based gesture recognition subassembly within which the user can interact. An indicator is attached to the vehicle body to inform the user of an appropriate position to make the gesture. An electronic control unit is connected to the display and the at least one non-contact sensor and configured to receive and analyze the data output by the at least one non-contact sensor. The electronic control unit is further configured to determine whether the data corresponds to an activation gesture to transition to a trigger case mode defined by the gesture performed by the user corresponding to the activation gesture and to a no Trigger case mode defined by the gesture that does not correspond to the activation gesture, and to initiate the movement of the shutter member in response to a transition to the trigger case mode. The electronic control unit is additionally designed to inform the user about the display.

It is another aspect of the present disclosure to provide a method of opening a closure member of a vehicle having a non-contact force-locking member system including a display and a non-contact sensor that includes a radar-based gesture recognition subassembly and a vehicle electronic control unit comprises. The method includes the step of detecting a key fob associated with the vehicle within a predetermined distance to the vehicle. Next, briefing a user with the ad to present a gesture. The method further includes generating a radar intermediate field adjacent to the vehicle with the radar-based gesture recognition sub-array and detecting the gesture in the radar interfield performed by the user. The method also includes the steps of determining a time frame for the gesture performed by the user and comparing the gesture with an activation gesture and the time frame with a required amount of time required to initiate a trigger case mode to operate the closure element of the vehicle.

The user-activated non-contact force-locking element system according to the present disclosure provides innumerable advantages that are particularly attractive to the user of the vehicle. Because of the display, also referred to as an icon, the user is now aware of whether the system is activated, in motion, and / or is waiting for a gesture signal, such as a kick, when approaching the vehicle. The user is also informed that he is performing the activation gesture in the correct position and that the activation gesture has been received by the system.

These and other aspects and applications will be apparent from the description provided herein. The description and specific examples in this summary are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, the system includes at least one sensor for detecting at least one of an object and a movement adjacent to the shutter member and for outputting data corresponding to at least one of the object and the movement. At least one display is arranged on the vehicle. An electronic control unit is connected to the at least one sensor, and the at least one display is configured to receive and process data corresponding to the one of the object and the movement of the at least one sensor. The electronic control unit is also configured to determine whether the data associated with the at least one object and the movement is a correct activation gesture required to move the shutter member. In addition, the electronic control unit is configured to initiate movement of the closure element in response to at least one of the object and the movement being a correct activation gesture, the correct activation gesture comprising the at least one of the object and the movement adjacent to the object At least one sensor is performed and the at least one of the object and the movement is not adjacent to the at least one sensor after a predetermined period of time. The electronic control unit is also configured to inform the user using the at least one display. The valid activation gesture may also include the object that does not move during the predetermined period of time.

In another aspect, the present disclosure is a method of operating a closure member of a vehicle having a non-contact force-closure member system. The method begins with the detection of at least one of an object and a movement adjacent to the closure element with at least one sensor. The method further includes the step of determining whether data associated with at least one of an object and the movement is an activation gesture required to trigger the opening of the closure element, the activation gesture comprising the at least one of the object and the movement is adjacent to the at least one sensor and the at least one of the object and the movement is not adjacent the at least one sensor after a predetermined period of time. The method continues with triggering the movement of the shutter member in response to the determination that the data associated with the at least one of the object and the movement is a correct activation gesture. The method also includes the step of informing the user.

list of figures

• 1 eine Perspektivdarstellung eines beispielhaften Kraftfahrzeugs ist, das mit einem benutzeraktivierten berührungslosen Verschlusselementsystem zum Öffnen einer Heckklappe eines Fahrzeugs versehen ist, die die Positionen von mindestens einem Sensor zeigt und in Übereinstimmung mit den Lehren der vorliegenden Offenbarung aufgebaut ist,
• 2 ist eine weitere Perspektivdarstellung eines beispielhaften Kraftfahrzeugs, das mit dem benutzeraktivierten, berührungslosen Kraft-Verschlusselementsystem zum Öffnen der Heckklappe des Fahrzeugs ausgestattet ist, die die Position einer Anzeige darstellt, und das in Übereinstimmung mit den Lehren der vorliegenden Offenbarung aufgebaut ist,
• 3 ist eine vergrößerte Darstellung eines Teils des Kraftfahrzeugs einschließlich der Anzeige, die in 2 dargestellt ist,
• 4 ist eine vergrößerte Darstellung eines Teils einer beispielhaften Stoßstangenanordnung eines Kraftfahrzeugs mit einem benutzeraktivierten, berührungslosen Kraft-Verschlusselementsystem in Übereinstimmung mit den Lehren der vorliegenden Offenbarung und das eine Grafik aufweist, die während der Aktivierung (Aufwachen) und des Betriebs des Systems beleuchtet wird,
• 5A ist eine Explosionsdarstellung eines beispielhaften benutzeraktivierten, berührungslosen Kraft-Verschlusssystems mit einem einzelnen Sensor, der auf einer hinteren Stoßstange montiert ist und in Übereinstimmung mit den Lehren der vorliegenden Offenbarung aufgebaut ist,
• 5B ist eine Außenansicht des beispielhaften benutzeraktivierten, berührungslosen Kraft-Verschlusselementsystems, das in 5A dargestellt ist,
• 6A ist eine Seiten-Außenansicht einer exemplarischen Grafik eines benutzeraktivierten, kontaktlosen Kraft-Verschlusselementsystems mit einem Paar von Sensoren, die in Übereinstimmung mit den Lehren der vorliegenden Offenbarung aufgebaut sind und die an einer hinteren Stoßstange montiert sind, wobei die Stoßstange mit Durchgangsschlitzen für Ultraschallwellen versehen ist, die zu und/oder von den Sensoren übertragen werden,
• 6B ist eine Perspektivdarstellung von innen der Stoßstange einer elektronischen Steuereinheit und des Paares von Sensoren des Systems der 6A,
• 6C ist eine Unteransicht von innen der Durchgangsschlitze der hinteren Stoßstange der 6A,
• 7A ist eine Außen-Seitenansicht eines Beispiels der Grafik eines benutzeraktivierten, berührungslosen Kraft-Verschlusselementsystems mit einem einzelnen Sensor, der in Übereinstimmung mit den Lehren der vorliegenden Offenbarung aufgebaut ist und der an einer hinteren Stoßstange montiert ist, wobei die Stoßstange einen Durchgangsschlitz für Ultraschallwellen aufweist, die von und/oder zu dem Sensor übertragen werden,
• 7B ist eine Perspektivdarstellung von innen der hinteren Stoßstange einer elektronischen Steuereinheit und des Sensors des Systems der 7A,
• 7C ist eine Unteransicht von außen des Durchgangsschlitzes der hinteren Stoßstange der 7A,
• 8 zeigt eine optionale Verkleidungsblende, die um eine Grafik eines benutzeraktivierten, berührungslosen Kraft-Verschlusselementsystems installiert werden kann, das in Übereinstimmung mit den Lehren der vorliegenden Offenbarung aufgebaut ist, um Herstellungsfehler und/oder Fehlausrichtungen zu kaschieren,
• 9 ist eine Perspektivdarstellung eines beispielhaften Kraftfahrzeugs, das mit dem benutzeraktivierten, berührungslosen Kraft-Verschlusselementsystem zum Öffnen einer Heckklappe eines Fahrzeugs versehen ist, die die Position einer Anzeige einschließlich eines radarbasierten Gestenerkennungssystems zeigt und in Übereinstimmung mit den Lehren der vorliegenden Offenbarung aufgebaut ist,
• 10 ist ein schematisches Diagramm einer radarbasierten Gestenerkennungs-Unteranordnung, die Doppler-basiertes Radar mit kontinuierlicher Welle verwendet, in Übereinstimmung einem erläuternden und nicht beschränkenden Ausführungsbeispiel der vorliegenden Offenbarung,
• 11 ist ein schematisches Diagramm einer weiteren radarbasierten Gestenerkennungs-Unteranordnung, die frequenzmoduliertes Radar mit kontinuierlicher Welle verwendet, in Übereinstimmung mit einem erläuternden und nicht beschränkenden Ausführungsbeispiel der vorliegenden Offenbarung,
• 12 ist ein schematisches Diagramm einer weiteren radarbasierten Gestenerkennungs-Unteranordnung, die frequenzmoduliertes Radar mit kontinuierlicher Welle verwendet, in Übereinstimmung mit einem erläuternden und nicht beschränkenden Ausführungsbeispiel der vorliegenden Offenbarung,
• die 13 und 14A-14B sind Flussdiagramme zur Erläuterung von Schritten eines Verfahrens zum Betreiben eines Verschlusselements eines Fahrzeugs mit dem berührungslosen Kraft-Verschlusselementsystem in Übereinstimmung mit den Lehren der vorliegenden Offenbarung,
• 15 zeigt Beispiele des Zeitablaufs einer ersten und einer zweiten Erfassung einer Geste durch ein Ausführungsbeispiel des berührungslosen Kraft-Verschlusselementsystems in Übereinstimmung mit den Lehren der vorliegenden Offenbarung, und
• 16 zeigt Beispiele des Zeitablaufs einer ersten und einer zweiten Erfassung der Geste durch ein weiteres Ausführungsbeispiel des berührungslosen Kraft-Verschlusselementsystems in Übereinstimmung mit den Lehren der vorliegenden Offenbarung.

Further advantages of the present disclosure will be appreciated as they become better understood by reference to the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

• 1 3 is a perspective view of an exemplary motor vehicle provided with a user-activated non-contact closure element system for opening a tailgate of a vehicle, showing the positions of at least one sensor and constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure;
• 2 Figure 4 is another perspective view of an exemplary motor vehicle associated with the user-activated, non-contact force Equipped closure system for opening the tailgate of the vehicle, which represents the position of a display, and in Constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure,
• 3 is an enlarged view of a portion of the motor vehicle including the display shown in FIG 2 is shown
• 4 FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of a portion of an exemplary bumper assembly of a motor vehicle having a user-activated non-contact force-locking member system in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure and having a graph illuminated during activation (wake-up) and operation of the system. FIG.
• 5A FIG. 4 is an exploded view of an exemplary user-activated non-contact force-locking system with a single sensor mounted on a rear bumper and constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure. FIG.
• 5B FIG. 11 is an exterior view of the exemplary user-activated non-contact force-locking element system disclosed in FIG 5A is shown
• 6A FIG. 3 is a side elevational view of an exemplary graph of a user-activated contactless force-locking element system having a pair of sensors constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure and mounted on a rear bumper, the bumper being provided with through-slots for ultrasonic waves that are transmitted to and / or from the sensors,
• 6B is a perspective view from the inside of the bumper of an electronic control unit and the pair of sensors of the system 6A .
• 6C is a bottom view from the inside of the rear bumper through slots 6A .
• 7A FIG. 3 is an external side view of an example of the graph of a user-activated, non-contact, force sensor element system constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure and mounted on a rear bumper, the bumper having a passageway for ultrasonic waves. FIG. which are transmitted from and / or to the sensor,
• 7B is a perspective view from the inside of the rear bumper of an electronic control unit and the sensor of the system 7A .
• 7C is a bottom view from the outside of the passage slot of the rear bumper 7A .
• 8th FIG. 12 shows an optional trim panel that may be installed around a graph of a user-activated non-contact force-locking element system constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure to mask manufacturing defects and / or misalignments; FIG.
• 9 FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an exemplary motor vehicle provided with the user-activated non-contact force-locking element system for opening a tailgate of a vehicle showing the position of a display including a radar-based gesture recognition system constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure; FIG.
• 10 FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of a radar-based gesture recognition subassembly employing continuous wave Doppler-based radar in accordance with an illustrative and non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure;
• 11 FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of another radar-based gesture recognition subassembly employing continuous wave frequency modulated radar, in accordance with an illustrative and non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure;
• 12 FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of another radar-based gesture recognition subassembly employing continuous wave frequency modulated radar, in accordance with an illustrative and non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure;
• the 13 and 14A-14B 13 are flowcharts for explaining steps of a method of operating a closure member of a vehicle with the non-contact force-locking member system in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure;
• 15 FIG. 10 shows examples of the timing of first and second detection of a gesture by an embodiment of the non-contact force-locking element system in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure; and FIG
• 16 5 shows examples of the timing of first and second sensing of the gesture by another embodiment of the non-contact force-locking element system in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In general, several exemplary and non-limiting embodiments of a user-activated non-contact force-locking element system constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure are now disclosed. A method of operating a closure member of a vehicle with the non-contact force-locking member system constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention is also disclosed. The embodiments are provided so that this disclosure is complete and conveys the full breadth to those skilled in the art. Numerous specific details are advanced as examples of certain components, devices, and methods to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that certain details need not be employed, that embodiments may be embodied in many different forms, and that nothing should be considered to limit the scope of the disclosure. In some embodiments, known processes, known device structures, and known technologies are described in detail. Also, the system may alternatively be used to open and / or close another closure member such as, but not limited to, a sliding door or power swing door of the vehicle.

Referring initially to the 1 - 4 includes an illustrated exemplary motor vehicle 12 a closure element that has a tailgate 14 is that for a pivoting movement relative to a vehicle body 16 is mounted. According to an embodiment described in the present disclosure, the non-contact force-locking member system 10 is in a rear bumper 18 of the vehicle body 16 integrated and is used to control the movement of the tailgate 14 used. The non-contact force-locking element system 10 However, for example, it can be placed in a different location and for the tailgate 14 used or used for another closure element.

The non-contact force-locking element system 10 includes at least one sensor 20 that captures an object or movement when a key chain 22 that is related to the particular vehicle 12 heard, for example, within a predetermined distance to the vehicle 12 is arranged when the key fob 22 in possession of a user 24 is who is the vehicle 12 approaches. Although in this embodiment the key fob 22 used may be another component related to the particular vehicle 12 heard and by the vehicle 12 On the other hand, it may be possible to use the system 10 without using the key fob 22 to initialize. An example of the object passing through the at least one sensor 22 is one foot of the user 24 , and an example of the movement by the at least one sensor 22 in the detection zone 62 is a kick or wink or a step of the user 24 or a combination of them. Another example may be motion detection followed by non-waving, stationary motion detection, for example, by a step into the detection zone 32 . 62 is represented, and vice versa. It should be noted that other objects and / or motions and combinations thereof may alternatively be used.

The at least one sensor 20 can handle many different types of non-contact sensors in the non-contact closure element system 10 , which is constructed in accordance with the present disclosure include. For example, the sensor 20 an ultrasonic, capacitive, radar, or other type of proximity sensor capable of detecting an object or gesture in the detection zone 62 capture without requiring physical contact. If the at least one sensor 20 An ultrasonic sensor is the rear bumper 18 a through slot 26 which is best in the 5 - 7 is shown to allow ultrasonic waves to and / or from the sensor 20 for example, between the tailgate 14 and the floor 83 be transmitted. In the case of a radar-based system, which will be described later, optionally, the through-slot 26 be eliminated, eliminating the surface of the rear bumper 18 unimpaired. According to one embodiment, the non-contact closure element system comprises 10 a single ultrasonic sensor 20 as in the 5A - 5C and 7A - 7C is shown. According to one embodiment, the non-contact closure element system comprises 10 a pair of ultrasonic sensors 20A . 20B , which are referred to as double sensors, as in the 6A - 6C is shown. In this embodiment, one sensor transmits (Tx) and the other of the sensors receives (Rx) or listens. The double sensors 20A . 20B convey to the system 10 an advantage over comparable systems that include only a single ultrasonic sensor. If there is only a single ultrasonic sensor, feedback may occur due to the near range, which interferes with operation. The own transmit and receive sensors 20A . 20B eliminate this feedback / beat problem.

How best in the 2 - 8th The non-contact force-locking element system comprises 10 also an ad 28 attached to the vehicle 12 is mounted to inform the user of the appropriate position to perform an activation gesture, the opening of the closure element (ie rear door 14 ). The activation gesture can be a movement made by the user 24 is performed, and / or be an object by the user 24 adjacent to the at least one sensor 20 is placed. In the embodiment, the display is 28 adjacent to the at least one sensor 20 arranged, for example on the rear bumper 18 of the vehicle 12 , The ad 28 can also inform the user that the system 10 activated or energized while activating the system, in motion, that the approach of the user 24 to the vehicle 12 it was recorded that the system 10 an input from the user 24 receives if the user 24 has made an incorrect or invalid gesture or movement and / or if the system 10 waiting for the activation gesture signal. The display of the embodiment includes a graphic 30 , which is also referred to as an icon, for example, a high-density image of an open tailgate 14 to the user 24 to alarm. In this embodiment, the display 28 referred to as Icon. The use of a current icon that is appropriately placed conveys to the user 24 a visual indicator where the at least one sensor 20 is positioned. This feature is for the user 24 advantageous and has an advantage over comparable systems used by the user 24 ask to guess where the at least one sensor is 20 below a rear bumper 18 is positioned.

An exploded view of the user-activated, non-contact closure element system 10 with an ultrasonic sensor 20 According to one embodiment is in the 5A shown. The system 10 includes the rear bumper 18 with an opening 34 for different components of the sensor 20 and the passage slot 26 for ultrasonic waves coming from and / or to the ultrasonic sensor 20 be transmitted. A picture cover 36 is over the opening 34 arranged a cutout 38 the graphic 30 includes, in this case, the vehicle 12 with the tailgate open. The picture cover 36 is also colored to match the color of the vehicle body 16 match. An image diffuser 39 For example, a translucent white plastic is over the image cover 36 arranged. Next is a case 40 above the picture diffuser 39 arranged. The ultrasonic sensor 20 is in the case 40 picked up and resting on a base wall 42 of the housing 40 , A reflector 44, the light to the image or the surface of the graph 30 is also in the housing 40 adjacent to the sensor 20 arranged. The electronic control unit 32 is also in the housing 40 arranged. In the embodiment, at least one light emitting diode is on the far side of the electronic control unit 32 arranged. A cover 46 is above the case 40 arranged. As in 5 is shown, which is an external view of the system 10 of the 5A is, is the graphic 30 through the cover 46 visible, noticeable. As in 8th is shown, the system includes 10 optional an aperture 48 from the outside of the rear bumper 18 is installed to cover any manufacturing defects and / or misalignments that may be present.

An audible warning sound, horns or beeps, may also be with or without the graphic 30 used to the user 24 to draw attention. The ad 28 may also have other features or components to inform the user 24 For example, another type of light or illuminated area along or near the rear bumper 18 , the rear lights, the reverse lights, signal lights, an object or a projection on a glass of the vehicle 12 for example, a projected image or light. According to one embodiment, the display has 28 a different color in the on and the off state and gives the user 24 an idea where he or she has to set foot. The ad 28 for the information of the user 24 Any other area of the vehicle can be used 12 be that by the user 24 is visible. In summary, many options are possible for the feature or features that serve as an indication 28 for informing the user 24 be used. The essential point is that a feedback to the user 24 is created for the detection of the foot.

When, according to the embodiment, the user 24 approaches the vehicle 12, the vehicle detects 12 the key chain 22 and feeds the non-contact force-locking element system 10 , Once the system 10 wakes up, the at least one sensor 20 and the ad 28 activated. In the embodiment, the display is 28 an illuminated image, in the illustrated example, an image of an open tailgate representing the vehicle systems being operated on the rear bumper 18 to the user 24 of it too teach that the system 10 is activated and on an activation gesture by the user 24 waiting for the tailgate 14 to open. The ad informs the user 24 also about the correct position for performing the activation gesture, which in this case is the presence of a foot. It should be noted that the activation gesture may also include the user's foot 24 adjacent to the at least one sensor 20 to place (ie an intervention in the detection zone 62 ) and that the user's foot 24 not adjacent to the at least one sensor 20 is moved (ie from the detection zone 62 go out), after a predetermined period of time, during the period of time the foot of the user 24 optionally not moved or kept stationary for a period of time. The user 24 then place his or her foot under the illuminated display 28 , As soon as the foot is detected, the display flashes 28 , and optionally, an audible sound through the system 10 or another component of the vehicle 12 delivered to indicate the presence of the foot. The user 24 then leaves his or her foot stationary for a required amount of time required to open the tailgate 14 to initiate. On the other hand, if the user 24 keeps his or her foot stationary, but does not meet the required time, ie, less than the time required to open the tailgate 14 to initiate, the display flashes 28 , and optionally, an audible sound through the system 10 or another component of the vehicle 12 to indicate that the gesture made by the user is not required to open the tailgate 14 Fulfills.

The system also includes an electronic control unit 32 that runs software and with the at least one sensor 20 connected is. In one aspect, the electronic control unit is 32 separately from and in communication with an electronic force closure element controller (not shown), and the electronic control unit 32 may be opening the closure element 32 (ie the tailgate 14 ) by communicating with the electronic force shutter control unit; However, it should be noted that the electronic control unit 32 even the tailgate instead 14 control, or the functions of the electronic control unit 32 may alternatively be performed by the electronic force shutter control unit. If an object or a movement characteristic (speed, angle, size, etc.) of the object in the detection zone 62 through the at least one sensor 20 is detected, for example, the foot sends the at least one sensor 20 Data relating to the object or movement (and characteristics) to the electronic control unit 32 (that is software). The electronic control unit 32 processes the data from the at least one sensor 20 to determine if the object or movement is the activation gesture that is required to lift the tailgate 14 instead of a false signal (passing trash, a cat or other object running in front of the sensor) or an incorrect gesture. If the data indicates the presence of the correct activation gesture, the electronic control unit initiates 32 opening the tailgate. If in the embodiment, the tailgate 14 it is about to open, or open, the ad will 28 For example, the illuminated graphic 30 and the audible tone, activated to the user 24 to teach.

According to the embodiment, the software first creates a baseline measurement that is a distance between the at least one sensor and the floor 83 below the tailgate 14 can be without any obstacle. The system 10 then continue to monitor the sensor data and look for a change in baseline measurement that exceeds a given threshold distance. Once the threshold distance is exceeded, the electronic control unit takes 32 this as the correct activation gesture instead of a false signal and communicates to the electronic power tailgate control unit that an open or close request has been made. If the acquired data does not meet the set threshold, the electronic control unit will determine 32 in that a wrong signal has occurred, for example due to an object (ie a foot of the user 24 ) may occur inadvertently under the rear bumper 18 is moved. After the correct activation signal to the electronic control unit 32 has communicated, the electronic control unit 32 then opening the tailgate 14 initiate. In the embodiment, the system leaves 10 the ad again 28 flash and generate the audible tone to indicate the opening of the tailgate 14 and the tailgate 14 opens.

How best in the 9 - 12 may be a radar-based gesture recognition sub-arrangement 25 . 25 ' . 25 " alternatively in the non-contact force-locking element system 10 as a type of at least one non-contact sensor 20 in conjunction with the ad 28 be used. In addition, the radar-based gesture recognition subassembly 25 . 24 ' . 25 " used in icon-type applications. The radar-based gesture recognition subassembly 25 . 24 ' . 25 " can along with the ad 28 be integrated or alternatively separately on the rear bumper 18 in a different position on the vehicle 12 be attached.

In one aspect, an example includes a radar based gesture recognition subassembly 25 a waveform generator 29 for generating a waveform (ie continuous wave waveform) having a frequency as best shown in FIG 10 is shown. An oscillator 33 is with the waveform generator 29 for changing the frequency of the waveform and for outputting a beat signal. A transmission amplifier 37 is with the oscillator 33 connected to amplify the beat signal and output an amplified beat signal. The radar-based gesture recognition subassembly 25 also includes a splinter 41 with a splitter input 43 that with the transmit amplifier 37 and a number of splitter outputs 45 for splitting the amplified beat signal to the number of splitter outputs 45 , At least one transmitting antenna element 31 is one of the number of splitter outputs 45 connected to emitted radar waves (ie an emitted continuous wave 54e ) corresponding to the amplified beat signal to form a radar intermediate field (ie, a detection zone 62 ) within a predetermined distance D from the radar-based gesture recognition sub-assembly 25 (ie from the rear bumper 18 of the vehicle 12 ) to accomplish. The radar interfield allows the user 24 to interact with gestures or movements from a distance (ie, within a predetermined distance D), including, but not limited to, hand gestures, foot gestures, and / or full body gestures. Gestures can include motion, no movement, or a combination of them. As indicated, the emitted radar waves generated by the radar-based gesture recognition subassembly 25 , in the 10 is shown emitted, continuous wave radar (CW) (ie, the waveform generator 29 generates a continuous wave waveform), which is known in the art, for doppler radar to provide a motion / object detection system 10 is used with a simpler structure and lower cost. Nevertheless, it should be understood that the radar based gesture recognition subassembly 25 may be configured to emit continuously modulated radiation, ultra wideband radiation or sub-millimeter frequency radiation (ie, frequencies that are part of the industrial, scientific and medical (ISM ) Frequency band of, for example, 24 GHz or 60 GHz).

The radar-based gesture recognition subassembly 25 also includes at least one receiving antenna element 35 for receiving reflections from or detecting interactions within the radar intermediate field (ie, the emitted radar waves from the at least one transmit antenna element 31 ). A first reception amplifier 47 is with the one receiving antenna element 35 for amplifying the reflections of the emitted radar waves and for outputting an amplified signal of the reflected wave. A mixer 49 is with another of the number of splitter outputs 45 of the splitter 41 and with the first receiving amplifier 47 for mixing the amplified heterodyne signal and the amplified signal of the reflected wave to produce a mixed received signal. The radar-based gesture recognition subassembly 25 additionally includes a second receive amplifier 50 connected to the mixer 49 for amplifying the mixed received signal and outputting an amplified mixed received signal. A signal processor 27 is with the second receiving amplifier 50 for receiving and processing the amplified, mixed received signal (ie, the received reflected CW radar signal) connected to frequency shifts of the emitted radar waves (ie, the continuous wave 54e ) for a velocity V of the object or the user 24 are indicative. The signal processor 27 can also with the electronic control unit 32 be connected or alternatively in the electronic control unit 32 be integrated. The signal processor 27 is in communication with the at least one receiving antenna element 35 connected to process the received reflections or the restrictions of the emitted radar waves within the radar intermediate field (ie the signal processor 27 may execute instructions to perform calculations on the received reflection and transmitted radiation signals or mixed signals to implement the various detection techniques, including, but not limited to, CW radar, continuous wave frequency modulated radar, running time) to measure motion and / or or gesture data for determining the gesture to be delivered by the user 24 is performed.

Thus, the radar-based gesture recognition subassembly 25 , in the 10 is designed to be continuous wave radar (CW) with a transmitting antenna element and a receiving antenna element 35 to emit and record. In such a construction, the radar-based gesture recognition subsystem is 25 operable to speed / speed V of the object / user 24 with Doppler radar principles (ie processing by the signal processor 27 of the received reflected CW radar signal to frequency shifts of the emitted continuous wave 54e to determine the speed V of the object or the user 24 Is indicative).

As explained in 11 may be another exemplary radar-based Gesture recognition subassembly 25 ' also be configured to emit and receive frequency modulated continuous wave (FMCW) radar, wherein the gesture recognition subassembly 25 ' a transmitting antenna element 31 and a receiving antenna element 35 having. The structure of the radar based gesture recognition subassembly 25 ' is similar to the radar based gesture recognition subassembly 25 , in the 10 however, the waveform generator gives 29 ' instead a frequency modulated continuous waveform to a frequency modulated continuous wave 55 b with the transmitting antenna element 31 issue. In such a construction, the radar-based gesture recognition subassembly is 25 ' operable to make a gesture / movement of the object / user 24 to detect with frequency modulated radar techniques (that is, processing by the signal processor 27 the reflected FMCW radar signal to determine frequency shifts indicative of the velocity V or the Doppler frequency and the distance / range or beat frequency of the object / user 24 ).

As explained in 12 illustrates another example of the radar based gesture recognition subassembly 25 " also FMCW radar, and the at least one receiving antenna 35 may comprise a number of receiving antenna elements 35 ₁ , 35 ₂ to 35 _n , which form a receiving antenna arrangement. The use of multiple receive antenna elements 35 ₁ , 35 ₂ to 35 _n is advantageous because the angle θ of the reflections of the emitted radar waves for each of the number of receive antenna elements 35 ₁ , 35 ₂ to 35 _n depends on the position of the object / user 24 relative to each of the number of receiving antenna elements 35 ₁ , 35 ₂ to 35 _n . Thus, the use of the number of receive antenna elements 35 ₁ , 35 ₂ to 35 _{n may provide} a more accurate estimate of the position of the object / user 24 deliver. Also, the at least one transmitting antenna 31 comprise a number of transmitting antenna elements 31 to 31 _{n constituting} a transmitting antenna array. It should be noted that the radar-based gesture recognition subassembly 25 . 25 ' . 25 " instead may be configured for pulsed runtime radar.

The radar interfield or the detection zone 62 passing through the at least one transmitting antenna 31 can be a three-dimensional volume, for example, hemispherical, cubes, cones or cylinders. Again, this will be at least one receive antenna element 35 used to receive reflections of interactions in the radar interfield, and the signal processor 27 is used to process and analyze the received reflections to provide gesture data usable to trigger tailgate opening gestures 14 or another closure element. To detect gestures against obstacles, the radar-based gesture recognition sub-arrangement 25 . 25 ' . 25 " be configured to emit radar waves, which are able to penetrate substantially material, wood, plastic and glass and other non-metallic materials, and the at least one receiving antenna element 35 may be configured to receive the reflections from human tissue through the fabric of a user's clothing, as well as through plastic, ice, rain, snow, dirt, wood, and glass.

If the user 24 the vehicle 12 approaches, thus recognizes the vehicle according to this embodiment 12 the key chain 22 and activates the radar-based gesture recognition system and display 28 , The radar-based gesture recognition system has a trigger case mode and a non-trigger case mode. According to the embodiment, the display is 28 a light disposed in the rear bumper 18 to the user 24 to draw attention to the fact that the system 10 is activated and on an activation gesture by the user 24 waits for the closure element (ie the tailgate 14 ) to open. The display notifies the user 24 of the correct location to perform the activation gesture (ie, the presence of a user's foot 24 ). At the same time, the radar-based gesture recognition subarray generates 25 . 25 ' . 25 " the radar inter-frame adjacent to the display and the vehicle 12 ,

In the embodiment, the display informs the user 24 by lighting up a red light. To initiate the trigger case mode, the user places 24 his or her foot under the glowing display. When the user puts his or her foot under the lit display 28 (ie, such a movement may be a natural and intuitive "intervention" that involves a movement of his or her foot into the detection zone 62 in a move that is equivalent to a move, which involves an initial entry into the capture zone 62 in a position above the floor 83, followed by a movement towards the floor 83 and to the vehicle 12 , and finally the movement ends with the foot in contact with the ground 83 in the detection zone 62 ), the at least one receiving antenna element receives 35 the radar-based gesture recognition arrangement 25 . 24 ' , 25 "reflections in the radar interfield, the signal processor processes and analyzes 27 the received reflections to provide gesture data usable to determine the gesture. For example, the signal processor processes 27 the receiving reflection, um a Doppler shift to determine the speed / speed V of the object or user 24 or a frequency shift to calculate the distance and speed of the object or user 24 and the angle and direction changes that indicate a vertical change that indicate, for example, an object or a user 24 to the ground 83 emotional. The intensities of the reflected radar signal may also be processed to the size of the user or object 24 to determine. To be with the signal processor 27 to process the received reflections. To conclude that the activation gesture has been performed, it may be necessary for the user 24 keeps his or her foot stationary for a required period of time (for example 4 seconds). Once the user holds his or her foot stationary for the required amount of time and the appropriate gesture is performed, the display will teach 28 the user by flashing an enlightened yellow light. In this example, the gesture consists of a sequential combination of movement into the detection zone 62 and a non-movement of the foot in the detection zone 62 , Next, the system initiates 10 a movement of the closure element (ie opening the tailgate 14 ). On the other hand, if the user 24 leaves his or her foot stationary, but does not meet the required time (ie, less than 4 seconds) required to open the tailgate 14 initiate, the non-triggering case mode is initiated. During the non-tripping case, the display flashes 28 the yellow light quickly lit up to the user 24 display that by the user 24 executed gesture the requirements for opening the tailgate 14 not fulfilled.

Thus, how best in the 13 and 14A - 14B a method for operating a closure element (ie tailgate 14 ) of a vehicle 12 with a non-contact force-locking element system 10 with an ad 28 and a non-contact sensor having a radar-based gesture recognition subassembly 25, 22 ', 25 "and an electronic control unit 32 created. The method includes the step 100 capturing a key fob 22 of the vehicle 12 within a predetermined distance to the vehicle 12 , The step 100 the detection of a key fob can by a body control module (not shown) of the vehicle 12 in communication with the non-contact force-locking element system 10 or by the non-contact force-locking system 10 be performed. Next is 102, informing a user 24 with the ad 28 to make a gesture. In the embodiment, the display 28 a red light for the user 24 enlighten the user 24 to teach, to present the gesture that is required to open the tailgate 14 to initiate. The method further 104 104, the generation of a radar intermediate field adjacent to the vehicle 12 with the radar based gesture recognition subassembly 25 . 25 ' . 25 " , In detail, the step 104 the generation of the radar intermediate field adjacent to the vehicle 12 with the radar based gesture recognition subassembly 25 . 25 ' . 25 " the steps 106 generating a waveform having a frequency with the waveform generator 29 include. In the event that the waveform generator 29 a waveform 54g generated with continuous wave, includes the step 106 generating the waveform with the frequency with the waveform generator 29 108 , generating a waveform 54g with continuous wave with the frequency with the waveform generator 29 , Alternatively, the step 106 generating the waveform with the frequency with the waveform generator 29 110 include, generating a waveform 55g with frequency modulated continuous wave with the frequency with the waveform generator 29 ,

The step 104 the generation of the radar intermediate field adjacent to the vehicle 12 with the radar based gesture recognition subassembly 25 . 22 ' . 25 " can the step 112 include changing the frequency of the waveform and outputting a beat signal with an oscillator 33 that with the waveform generator 29 connected is. The step 104 the generation of the radar intermediate field adjacent to the vehicle 12 with the radar-based gesture recognition subassembly 25 . 25 ' . 25 " can also take the steps 114 the amplification of the beat signal and the output of an amplified beat signal with a transmission amplifier 37 which is connected to the oscillator, and 116, the splitting of the beat signal with a splitter 41 with a splitter input 43 that with the transmit amplifier 37 connected and a number of splitter outputs 43 having.

The step 104 the generation of the radar intermediate field adjacent to the vehicle 12 with the radar based gesture recognition subassembly 25 . 45 ' . 25 " can additionally the step 118 comprising emitting emitted radar waves corresponding to the amplified beat signal to a radar field within a predetermined distance D from the radar-based gesture recognition sub-array 25 . 25 ' . 25 " with the at least one transmitting antenna element 31 to create that with one of the number of splitter outputs 43 connected is. In detail, the step 118 emitting radar waves corresponding to the amplified beat signal to provide a radar intermediate field within a predetermined distance D from the radar-based gesture recognition sub-array 25 . 25 ' . 25 " with the at least one transmitting antenna element 31 that with one of the number of splitter outputs 43 connected, the step 120 comprise emitting an emitted radar wave corresponding to the amplified beat signal to a radar field within a predetermined distance D from the radar-based gesture recognition sub-array 25 . 25 ' . 25 " with the number of transmitting antenna elements 31 to create 31 _n , with one of the number of splitter outputs 43 are connected.

The method may proceed with 122, the detection of the gesture in the radar interfield by the user 24 is performed. The procedure may also include the step 124 receiving the reflections of the emitted radar waves in the radar intermediate field with the at least one receiving antenna element 35 , As discussed above, the at least one receive antenna element 35 a number of receiving antenna elements 351 , 35 ₂ to 35 _n , thus the step 124 the reception of reflections of the emitted radar waves in the radar intermediate field with the at least one receiving antenna element 35 126 comprise the reception of reflections of the emitted radar waves in the radar intermediate field with the number of receiving antenna elements 35 ₁ , 35 ₂ to 35 _n . The next step of the method is 128, amplifying the reflections of the emitted radar waves, and outputting a boosted reflection wave signal to the first receive amplifier 47 connected to the at least one receiving antenna element 35 connected is. The method may continue with steps 130, mixing the amplified beat signal and the amplified reflected wave signal to form a mixed receive signal with a mixer 49 to generate that with another of the number of splitter outputs 43 of the splitter 41 and with the first receiving amplifier 47 and 132, the gain of the mixed received signal and the output of an amplified mixed received signal with the second receiving amplifier 50 that with the blender 49 connected is. The method can be used with the step 134 proceeding, receiving and processing the amplified mixed received signal to determine frequency shifts of the emitted radar waves that are indicative of the velocity V of the object using a signal processor 27 the radar-based gesture recognition subassembly 25, 25 ', 25 "connected to the electronic control unit 32 and the second receiving amplifier 50 connected is. Other motion and gesture information such as the distance / area, the direction / angle, and the size of the object 24 can also be achieved by processing the amplified mixed received signal in step 134 be determined.

The method also includes the steps 136 determining a time frame for the gesture performed by the user, and 138, comparing the gesture with an activation gesture and the time frame with a required time required, a trigger case mode for actuating the shutter member 14 of the vehicle 12 to initiate (typically performed by software in the system 10 is incorporated and by the electronic control unit 32 is performed).

It should be noted that various techniques can be used to detect interactions in the radar interfield. In the embodiment, as in 15 is shown, the gesture technology is based on motion detection. As in 15 shown is a user 24 to the system 10 (door or lift door 14 ), bring his or her foot into the area of the radar zone (ie the radar interfield) and then wait for a time T before bringing his or her foot out of range of the radar to the system 10 to activate. In other words, a user needs 24 bring his or her foot into the radar interfield for the required period of time T before removing his or her foot. Within the period T after the first detection, no movements or substantially no movements are allowed. If the system 10 within the time period T detects a second move, the algorithm will ignore the first capture and go back to a reset state and then wait for a new input or gesture (ie, new intervention). To during the required period of time T the system 10 To activate it is preferable that the user 24 does not perform any additional movements in the radar interfield. If the system 10 detects an additional interaction, ie an additional movement by the user 24 in the radar field within the required time T, the first interaction generated by the at least one receiving antenna element 35 is captured by the system 10 ignored, and the system 10 is reset and waiting for a new interaction by the user 24 ,

In accordance with another embodiment, as in 16 Alternatively, a double-motion detection technique may be used to detect interactions in the radar field. To the system 10 to activate the user 24 first perform a first interaction in the radar interfield (ie bring his or her foot into the radar interfield). Um, as in 16 is shown, the system 10 to unlock or operate, brings the user 24 his foot in the area of the radar zone and then removes it within the time T and T + Δt to the system 10 to activate. After performing the first interaction, the user should perform a second interaction in the radar interfield within the required time period of T plus a time delay Δt (quickly remove his or her foot from the radar interfield). However, after the first acquisition and before T no second acquisitions are allowed. If the system 10 detects a second move, the algorithm will ignore the first capture and go into a reset state and wait for a new input. During the required period of time T is preferable that the user 24 does not perform any additional interactions in the radar interfield. If the system 10 detects a second interaction in the radar intermediate field during the required time period T, the first interaction passing through the at least one receiving antenna element becomes 35 is detected by the system 10 ignores and the system 10 is deferred waiting for a new interaction by the user 24 , Similarly, if there is no second detection after expiration of the allowed time T + Δt, the algorithm will ignore the first detection and go into a reset state and then wait for a new input. In other words, the system 10 does not detect a second interaction within the time delay Δt after the required period of time T, the system becomes 10 is reset and waiting for a new interaction by the user 24. It should be noted that the system with the radar-based gesture recognition subassembly 25 . 25 ' . 25 " can be used with other applications, including non-contact (ie, gesture-based) activation of force-opening closures such as powered doors, powered boot lids, frunks (ie, powered activation of a front hood including a front trunk), and powered sliding doors (ie, minivans) , In addition, these techniques can also be used in non-automotive applications that benefit from gesture-based activation of systems.

The foregoing description of embodiments has been provided for purposes of illustration and description. It should not be construed as exhaustive or as limiting the disclosure. Individual features or elements of a particular embodiment are not generally limited to the particular embodiment, but are interchangeable, if applicable, and may be used in a selected embodiment, even if not specifically illustrated or described. These can also be varied in many different ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the disclosure, and all such modifications are to be considered included within the scope of the disclosure.

Embodiments are provided so that this disclosure is complete and fully conveyed to those skilled in the art. Many specific details are presented as examples of certain components, devices, and methods to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that certain details need not be employed, that embodiments may be embodied in various different forms, and that it is not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. In some embodiments, known processes, known device structures, and known technologies are not described in detail.

The terminology used herein is used only for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and is not intended to be limiting. The singular forms "one, one, one," and "the, that," used herein may also encompass plurals unless the context otherwise indicates. The terms "comprising," "having," "including," and "having" are inclusive and thus indicate the presence of said features, points, steps, acts, elements, and / or components, but exclude the presence or addition of one or multiple features, points, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described herein are not to be considered necessarily requiring their performance in the particular order discussed or illustrated, unless stated as a sequence of operations. It should also be understood that additional or alternative steps may be used.

When an element or layer is referred to as being "on,""engagedwith,""connectedto," or "coupled to" another element or layer, it may directly engage, engage, coupled to, or coupled to the other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly on,""directly engaged with,""directly connected to," or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there should be no intervening elements or layers. Other words describing the relationships between elements are intended in the same way be interpreted (ie, "between" versus "directly between,""adjacent" versus "directly adjacent," etc.). As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

Although the terms first, second, third, etc., may be used herein to refer to various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections are not intended to be limiting of these terms be considered. These expressions can only be used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another section, layer or section. Terms such as "first," "second," and other numerical expressions used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or portion, which will be described later, may be referred to as a second element, component, region, layer or portion without departing from the teachings of the embodiments.

Spatial relative terms such as "inside," "outside," "below," "below," "lower," "above," "above," and the like may be used herein for convenience of description of the relationship of an element or feature to describe another element (s) or feature (s) shown in the figures. Spatial relative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientations shown in the figures. For example, if a character is flipped over, elements referred to as "below" or "below" other elements or features are then oriented "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the example of the term "under" may include both an orientation above and below. The device may be oriented in other ways (rotated degrees or in other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptions used herein interpreted accordingly.

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• US 15696657 [0001]
• US 62384930 [0001]
• US 62460247 [0001]
• US 62610655 [0001]

Claims (14)

A user-activated contactless closure element system (10) for detecting a gesture and operating a closure element (14) of a vehicle (12) with: at least one non-contact sensor (20) mounted on the vehicle body (16) for detecting at least one of an object and a movement corresponding to a gesture performed by a user (24) and outputting data in response from capturing at least one of the object and the movement, wherein the at least one non-contact sensor (20) comprises a radar-based gesture recognition subassembly (25, 25 ', 25 ") for providing a radar interfield within a predetermined distance (D) from the radar-based gesture recognition subassembly (25, 25', 25 ") in which the user (24) can interact, a display (28) fixed to the vehicle body (16) for informing the user (24) of an appropriate position for performing the gesture, an electronic control unit (32) connected to the display (32) and the at least one non-contact sensor (20) and configured to: receive and analyze the data output from the at least one non-contact sensor (20), determine whether the data corresponds to an update gesture to transition to a trigger case mode defined by the gesture performed by the user (24) in accordance with the activation gesture, or to a non-trigger case mode by the gesture is defined that does not correspond to the activation gesture, initiate a movement of the closure element (14) in response to the transition to the trigger case mode and to inform the user (24) with the display (28). System (10) after Claim 1 wherein the radar based gesture recognition subassembly (25, 25 ', 25 ") comprises a waveform generator (29, 29') for generating a waveform having a frequency and an oscillator (33) connected to the waveform generator (29, 29 ') is to change the frequency of the waveform and output a beat signal. System (10) after Claim 2 wherein the radar-based gesture recognition subassembly (25, 25 ', 25 ") comprises: a transmit amplifier (37) connected to the oscillator (33) for amplifying the beat signal and outputting an amplified beat signal, a splitter (41) a splitter input (43) connected to the transmit amplifier (37) and having a number of splitter outputs (45) for outputting the amplified beat signal at the plurality of splitter outputs (45), and at least one A transmitting antenna element (31) connected to one of the plurality of splitter outputs (45) for outputting emitted radar waves corresponding to the amplified beat signal to form a radar intermediate field within a predetermined distance D from the radar-based gesture recognition sub-assembly (25). 25 ', 25 "). System (10) after Claim 3 wherein the radar-based gesture recognition subassembly (25, 25 ', 25 ") comprises: at least one receive antenna element (35) for receiving reflections of the emitted radar wave in the radar interfield, a first receive amplifier (47) coupled to the at least one receive antenna element (35) is connected to amplify reflections of the emitted radar wave and to output an amplified reflection wave signal, a mixer (49) coupled to another one of the plurality of splitter outputs (45) of the splitter (41) and the first receive amplifier (47 ) to mix the amplified beat signal and the amplified reflected wave signal to produce a mixed received signal, and a second receiving amplifier (50) connected to the mixer (41) to amplify the mixed received signal and an amplified mixed signal Output signal. System (10) after Claim 3 or 4 wherein the radar-based gesture recognition subassembly (25, 25 ', 25 ") comprises a signal processor (27) connected to the electronic control unit (32) and the second receiving amplifier (50) for receiving and receiving the amplified mixed received signal to determine the frequency shifts of the emitted radar wave indicative of a velocity (V) of the object (24). Method for operating a closure element (14) of a vehicle (12) with a non-contact force-closure element system (10) having a display (28) and a non-contact sensor (20) with a radar-based gesture recognition subassembly (25, 25 ', 25 ") and an electronic control unit (32) comprising the steps of: detecting a key fob (22) associated with the vehicle (12) within a predetermined distance from the vehicle (12), Teaching a user (24) with the display (28) to make a gesture, generating a radar field adjacent to the vehicle (12) having the radar-based gesture recognition subassembly (25, 25 ', 25 ") detecting the gesture detected by the user (24) has been performed in the radar intermediate field, determining a time frame for the gesture performed by the user (24), and comparing the gesture with an activation gesture and the time frame with a required time (T) required to complete one Initiate trigger case mode for operating the closure element (14) of the vehicle (12). method Claim 6 wherein the step of generating the radar intermediate field adjacent to the vehicle (12) having the radar-based gesture recognition subassembly (25, 25 ', 25 ") comprises the steps of: generating a waveform having a frequency with a waveform generator (29, 29'); ), and changing the frequency of the waveform and outputting a beat signal using an oscillator (33) connected to the waveform generator (29, 49 '). Method according to Claim 7 wherein the step of generating the radar intermediate field adjacent to the vehicle (12) having the radar-based gesture recognition sub-assembly (25, 25 ', 25 ") comprises the steps of: amplifying the beat signal and outputting an amplified beat signal with a transmit amplifier (37) coupled to the oscillator (33), splitting the amplified beat signal with a splitter (41) having a splitter input (43) connected to the transmit amplifier (37) and having a number of splitter outputs (45) and emitting emitted radar waves corresponding to the amplified beat signal with the at least one transmit antenna element (31) connected to one of the plurality of splitter outputs (45) to provide a radar field within a predetermined distance (D) of the radar based gesture recognition signal. Subassembly (25, 25 ', 25 ") to create Method according to Claim 7 or 8th wherein the step of emitting emitted radar waves corresponding to the amplified beat signal to form a radar field within a predetermined distance (D) from the radar-based gesture recognition subassembly (25, 25 ', 25 ") using at least one transmit antenna element (31). associated with one of the plurality of splitter outputs (45), comprising the step of immissions of emitted radar waves corresponding to the amplified heterodyne signal to form a radar intermediate field within a predetermined distance (D) from the radar-based gesture recognition subassembly (Fig. 25, 25 ', 25 ") having a number of transmitting antenna elements (31) to (31) _n connected to one of the plurality of splitter outputs (45). Method according to one of Claims 7 to 9 further comprising the steps of: receiving reflections of the emitted radar waves in the radar intermediate field using at least one receiving antenna element (35), amplifying the reflections of the emitted radar waves, and outputting an amplified reflected wave signal to a first receiving amplifier (47) coincident with the at least one receiving antenna element (35) is connected, mixing the amplified beat signal and the amplified reflected wave signal to obtain a mixed received signal using a mixer (49) different from the number of splitter outputs (45) of the splitter (41) and the first reception amplifier (47), and amplifying the mixed reception signal and outputting an amplified mixed reception signal using a second reception amplifier (50) connected to the mixer (49). Method for operating a closure element (14) of a vehicle (12) with a non-contact force-closure element (14) system (10) with a display (28) and at least one non-contact sensor (20) connected to an electronic control unit (32) detecting, comprising the steps of: detecting a movement of an object (24) adjacent to the shutter member (14) and outputting data associated with the object (24) with the at least one non-contact sensor (20); first detection associated with detecting the movement of the object (24) that moves adjacent to the shutter member (14) and outputs of data associated with the object (24) determining whether the object (24 ) is left adjacent to the shutter member (14) without additional movement of the object (24) within a required period of time after detection, and outputting data associated with the object (24) ignores first detection and transition to a reset state and return to the steps of determining that a first detection is present and whether the object (24) adjacent to the shutter member (14) moves without additional movement of the object (24) within the required amount of time the first acquisition remains, Initiating a movement of the shutter member (14) in response to the determination that the first detection is present and that there is no second detection within the required time period after the first detection, and notifying the user (24) with the display (28) in FIG Depending on, initiating movement of the shutter member (14) and ignoring the first detection. Method according to Claim 11 further comprising the step of determining that there is a second detection associated with the movement of the object (24), wherein the object (24) does not remain adjacent to the shutter member (14), and determining whether the second detection is after the required time period after the first detection occurs. Method according to Claim 12 further comprising the step of determining whether the second detection occurs within the required time period and after a time delay after the required period of time, and wherein the step of initiating the movement of the shutter member (40) is dependent upon the determination that the first detection is present and that there is no second detection within the required time period after the first detection, further defined as the initiation of the movement of the shutter member (14) in response to the determination that the first detection is present and that the second detection is within the required time period and the time delay after the required period of time exists. Method according to Claim 12 or 13 further comprising the steps of: determining whether the second detection occurs within the required time period and a time delay after the required time period, and transitioning to the reset state and returning to the steps of determining that a first detection occurs depending on the determination; that there is no second detection within the required time period and the time delay after the required period of time.

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