JP2003520976A - Safety interlock device for machine-operated closing motion device - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) Abstract A detection system for the purpose of the present invention detects the presence of an object in a pinch zone of an automated, powered closing device such as a power sunroof (22), a power window, a power door or a power hatch. An optical triangulation module is used for detection. The optical triangulation module is provided with an emitter (160) and a position sensitive detector (156).

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

Cross reference with related applications Not applicable. Statement of US-sponsored R & D Not applicable. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to safety interlocks, and more particularly to a method for providing an indication of the presence of an object within a pinch zone located around an automatically closing motion device such as a power window, power sunroof, power door or hatch. And equipment.

Currently, the operation of closing the openings of automobile windows, sunroofs, sliding doors, etc. is generally motor driven. For the convenience of the driver or passenger of the motor vehicle, the power window is often provided with a control feature for automatic opening and closing of the opening after a simple and short command from the driver or passenger. On the other hand, the automatic opening and closing of the opening can correspond to the input from another device, for example, rain or a temperature sensor. For example, the driver's window can be commanded to simply push up from one of the lower positions to a fully closed position by momentarily lifting a portion of the window control switch. Such operation is sometimes referred to as the "fast closing motion" characteristic. This characteristic is also commonly given to automobile sunroofs. Automakers will likewise give these properties to power doors, hatches and the like. Such automated opening closure characteristics are also applicable to a wide variety of other household appliances and industrial equipment.

However, in addition to providing additional convenience, such properties carry risks never before encountered. If it is an inanimate object, it may be inside the opening when a command to automatically close the opening is given. For example, an automatic window closing motion device may be activated by rain hitting an interconnected rain sensor when a pet is heading out of a window. In addition, the driver, other occupants, or the child may have accidentally closed his window or child's head out of the sunroof.

In order to avoid such a catastrophic accident or damage to assets including inclusions sandwiched between the power window and the sunroof, the situation is detected and the window is closed for a certain period even if a high-speed closing operation command is issued. A system that does not cause
An example would be a system that monitors the time it takes for a window to reach a closed state. It is a system that automatically lowers the window if the time threshold is exceeded. Another possible system is to monitor the current flowing to the motor that drives the window. It is a mechanism by which the window falls again when the current exceeds the threshold value at an inappropriate time during the closing operation.

A problem with such safety systems is that the window or other closing motion device is closed for an indefinite period of time before the safety mechanism lowers the window or reverses the sunroof or other closing motion device due to an intervening object being sandwiched between them. That is, they must be subjected to operating stress. In such a system, personal injury or property damage can be postponed. Furthermore, if a mechanical failure occurs in the window drive system, or if the fuse blows, a person or object remains trapped.

Non-contact object detection systems are known that detect the presence of an object intervening in an opening. This system is employed, for example, in security systems and garage door safety interlocks to detect blockage of a light beam across an opening. Other systems are used in motor vehicle openings with motorized closing motion devices such as windows, sunroofs and sliding doors to detect intervening objects in the immediate vicinity of or extending through each opening. This prevents improper operation of the opening closing mechanism when inclusions such as fingers or windows extend through the opening during the closing operation. This closing device does not need to come into contact with an intervening sensing object.

Such an object detection system measures the magnitude of a reflected signal in order to determine the presence or absence of an intervening object. The emitter emits a light beam across the opening toward the opposite side of the opening. At the unobstructed opening, at least part of the emitted beam is reflected from the opposite side of the opening. A receiver located near the emitter receives the reflected light beam and produces an output signal representative of the intensity of the reflected beam. Reflections from the opposite side typically produce a reflected signal of nominal intensity that is returned to the receiver. Intervening objects in the path of the light beam change the intensity of the reflected light beam, a condition reflected in the detector output signal. Thus, the detector output signal when there is an object in the light beam path is different from the detector output signal when there is no object. Depending on the reflectivity of the intervening object and the reflection characteristics around the aperture, the detector output signal may be larger or smaller than the nominal output signal from the detector.

Distance measuring triangulation sensors used to generate an output signal representative of the distance to an object are known. As such a sensor, for example, model number GP2D02 sold by Sharp Microelectronics Co., USA, Camas, Washington
There are also GP2D05 distance measuring sensors. Such a sensor, referred to herein as an optical triangulation sensor, contains a detector in close proximity to the emitter in a common container.

The detector employed in such a module is a position sensitive detector (PSD)
This detector, which is referred to as a detector, provides a signal that represents the position where the reflected beam strikes the PSD surface. The module is generally arranged such that the emitter emits a light beam in the direction of the target object. The light beam reflects off the target object and impinges on the PSD surface. Since the distance between the emitter and the detector is fixed, the distance to the target object can be measured via the triangulation method based on the output signal obtained from the PSD. When the target object is in close proximity to the module, the light beam emitted by the emitter and reflected away from the object impinges on a PSD that is further away than the emitter. Optical triangulation modules have been used to date for measuring distances to target objects, such as in module and camera-integrated focusing systems.

Therefore, it is possible to detect the presence of an object in a pinch zone proximate to an automated closing motion device in order to prevent damage and damage to parts of the body and parts in motion for humans and assets. It would be beneficial to provide a safety interlock that could.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION A method and apparatus for providing a signal indicative of the presence of an object within a pinch zone is disclosed. The boundary of the pinch zone varies depending on the type of automatic closing operation device. For example, if the automatic closing motion device is a sliding closing motion device such as a power assisted power sunroof, power window or power door, the pinch zone may be the leading edge of the closing motion device and the leading edge of the closing motion device and the opening. The boundary is defined by a part of the opening that defines the boundary part of the part. If the closing motion device consists of a powered hinged door or hatch, or a powered revolving door, the pinch zone is typically the end of the opening where the front edge of the door or hatch approaches. And a line bounded by a line proximate the opening edge in the path of travel of the front edge of the door or hatch.

In one embodiment, wherein the closing motion device comprises a sliding closing motion device, an optical triangulation module comprising an emitter and a position sensitive detector (PSD) comprises: the emitter of the module passing through a pinch zone; Positioning is selectively performed in close proximity to the sliding movement surface of the closing motion device so as to emit an infrared (IR) beam that is reflected from the reflection surface opposite the pinch zone to the PSD in the module. The IR light beam has a PS at the nominal position when there is no object in the pinch zone.
Collide with the D surface. If the object is in a pinch zone within the path of the emitted IR beam, the IR beam will be reflected from the object to a different location on the PSD. The PSD provides an output signal that is analyzed to indicate the presence of objects within the pinch zone. The output signal is used to stop the movement of the powered closing motion device, reverse the closing motion device, activate an alarm, or perform a combination of these operations.

In another embodiment, the optical triangulation module is located close to the pinch zone of a power hatch, power hinged door or revolving door. More specifically, the module passes through the pinch zone and has no object in the pinch zone, as described above, and the PSD surface on the PSD surface with no object in the pinch zone from the reflective surface opposite the pinch zone. Are positioned so that the emitter emits an IR light beam that reflects to the nominal position of. When the object is in the pinch zone, the light beam emitted by the module emitter is reflected from the object to different locations on the PSD surface. In response to detecting the PSD output signal difference, the power door or hatch movement is stopped or reverted under the applicable conditions.

Furthermore, in order to increase the reliability in detecting the object in the pinch zone of the above-mentioned automatic closing device, the IR reflection amplitude detection system can be used in combination with the optical triangulation module. The IR reflected amplitude sensing system includes an IR emitter and an IR amplitude detector located proximate to the emitter, preferably in a common containment structure. In one embodiment, the IR reflection amplitude detection system shares a common containment structure with the optical triangulation module. The IR emitter emits a substantially planar light beam that is reflected back to the IR amplitude detector from one or more reflective surfaces opposite the pinch zone with no object in the pinch zone. When the object enters the path of the light beam emitted by the IR emitter, the amplitude change of the received IR light beam is detected by the IR amplitude detector. The output of the IR amplitude detector is analyzed or thresholded to provide an indication of the presence of objects within the pinch zone. As a result of the detection of the presence of an object in the pinch zone by either or both of the IR amplitude detector and the PSD, movement of the motorized closing motion device is stopped or reverted and / or an alarm is issued. .

The system disclosed herein can also be used for intrusion detection. For example, if the closing mechanism is a power window and automatic ventilation is enabled during parking, someone could pass through a partially lowered car window and illegally enter the vehicle or It is possible to insert an object through a window that is opened for the purpose of unlocking the lock. Monitoring under such circumstances can be performed continuously or periodically, but the latter case is advantageous in that it consumes less power.

[0016]   Other aspects, features and characteristics of the invention are described in detail below.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION A method and apparatus for detecting the presence of an object within a pinch zone of a power sunroof, a power window, or an automatically closing motion device such as a power door or hatch is disclosed. In each of the embodiments described herein, an optical distance measuring sensor is used to indicate the presence of an object within the pinch zone of the automatic closing motion device. In order to minimize personal injury or property damage that may occur if the closing motion device continues to move past the pinch zone in response to an indication of the presence of an object within the pinch zone, said It is possible to stop or reverse the operation of the automatic closing operation device. In another embodiment of the present invention, a reflective IR amplitude detection system is used in conjunction with the optical distance measurement sensor to improve the effectiveness of object detection within the pinch zone of the self-closing motion device.

1a-1c are diagrams illustrating a power sunroof connected to an optical triangulation module. As shown in FIG. 1 a, a vehicle roof 10 comprises an opening 12 bounded by a closing motion device end 14. The sunroof panel 22 is slidable within the roof 10 between an open position (see FIG. 1a) and a closed position (see FIG. 1c).
When in the open position, the sunroof 22 is housed in the roof 10 to let in fresh air and sunlight into the vehicle, and when in the closed position, the sunroof 22 seals the opening in a conventional manner.

The pinch zone associated with the illustrated closing motion device is the closed position end 14 of the opening 12.
The boundary is defined by the dotted line AA located a predetermined distance behind the opening 12, the side surfaces 16 and 18, and the closed position end 14. This distance can be selected to allow the object 30 such as a human head to pass through the pinch zone between the closed end and the dotted line AA.
By detecting the presence of an object in the pinch zone and stopping the closing of the sunroof 22 when the object is in this zone, children or children can be passed through the sunroof 22 when the sunroof control mechanism closing the sunroof 22 is activated. It is desirable to minimize the likelihood of personal injury or property damage, even if the pet's head or limbs or parts of the object are extended.

In order to detect the presence of the object 30 in the pinch zone, as shown in FIG.
An optical triangulation module 32 is mounted below the moving plane of the sliding sunroof. The optical triangulation module 32 includes an infrared IR emitter 34 and a position sensitive detector 36 housed in a common container. Module 3
2 is attached at a location selected near one end of the pinch zone and below the plane of the movement path of the sunroof 22. The automotive roofliner in this position is preferably adapted to receive the module 32 while minimizing sudden protrusions. In another embodiment, the emitter 34 and detector 36 are located in separate containment structures.

When there is no object in the pinch zone, the beam 38a emitted from the emitter 34 crosses the pinch zone and is fitted to the reflector below the moving surface of the sunroof 22 opposite to the pinch zone. Clash to 40. The emitted beam 38a is reflected from the reflector 40 and leaves the position-sensitive detector 36 at the first position.
Clash with.

The theory of operation of the optical triangulation module 34 is disclosed with reference to FIG. 1d. The IR diode emits a modulated beam that is focused by an optical component, such as a lens, just before the emitter. The beam hits the object, and part of the light is reflected and returned to the PSD through the light receiving unit. In one embodiment, PS
D is embodied as a photodiode array. Since the object A is closer to the emitter, the light reflected from it will enter the PSD lens at a greater angle than the light from the distant object B. When light hits one of the photodiodes, a current flows in proportion to the amount of light received by the photodiode. The output current is compared to a threshold level to produce a voltage proportional to the illuminated portion of the photodiode array. The predetermined correspondence between the output voltage and the object distance is referenced to determine the distance to the reflective object. However, it is not necessary to determine the absolute distance in this application. Rather, the only decision to be made is whether the object to be reflected is closer to the triangulation module than to the perimeter of an unobstructed aperture, which may include a reflector placed opposite the module. is there. In yet another embodiment, the test for a blocker is a test for whether the reflected light energy is from a target at a distance greater or less than the distance of the reflector without a blocker. May be

When the object 30 enters the pinch zone and blocks a portion directly below the moving surface of the sunroof 22, the emitted beam 42a is reflected and separated from the object 30, and the reflected beam 42b is different from the first position. Colliding with position sensitive detectors 36 at different positions. The output signal of the position sensitive detector is provided to a comparison logic (discussed below in connection with the description of FIG. 1e), and if the output signal of this comparison logic differs from the nominal PSD output signal by a predetermined value, then the comparison is performed. The logic produces a signal representative of the presence of the object 30 within the pinch zone. That is, when the object 30 is pushed into the light beam path, the PSD within the optical triangulation module 32 typically produces an output signal that can indicate the distance to the object that is shorter than the distance to the reflector 40. Emitted beam 42
a module that simply obstructs a or is actually outside the field of view of the detector 36
Obstacles in close proximity to 2 are attributed to the indication from module 32 that did not receive a valid range signal. This marking can be interpreted as indicating the presence of an obstacle.

When an output signal is generated from the comparison logic indicating the presence of the object in the pinch zone, the actuator causing the movement of the sunroof 22 is controlled to stop the closing movement of the sunroof 22. Further, an alarm device may be provided to warn a driver and an occupant that the object 30 is present in the pinch zone. Embodiments may be constructed in which the operation of the sunroof can be reversed.

FIG. 1e is a block diagram of an example of emitter drive logic and comparison logic used in a sensing system of interest in accordance with the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 1e, the signal generator 50
Generates the appropriate control signals for the triangulation module. This control signal corresponds to the internal control circuit 52 and commands the LED drive 54 to connect the connected LEDs.
To irradiate. The energy reflected from the object strikes the photodiode of PSD 56 and produces a characteristic output provided to the signal processing circuitry of PSD 56. This output is further processed by internal control circuitry 52 before being sent to external compare logic 51. Depending on the device 55 used, the output is
May be a series of pulses that clearly characterize the distance of the reflective object from 5,
Alternatively, it may be a binary logic output indicating whether the reflective object is over a certain distance from the device 55. The external comparison logic 51 includes a separate memory (not shown) coupled thereto to compare the data received from the device 55 to determine whether the reflected light is from a blocker or the opposite of the aperture being monitored. It gives an output indicating whether the light is from a reflector placed on the side. If Sharp GP2
If a device 55 such as D05 is used, the internal signal processing circuit 56 can be programmed to provide a constant output if the distance of the reflective object from the device 55 is less than a certain distance. This potentially eliminates the need for external comparison logic 51. The signal generator 50 and comparison logic 51 can be implemented in separate circuits or can be implemented using memory (not shown) associated with a programmable microprocessor.

2a-2d show that the automatic closing motion device comprises an automotive power window, and 1
FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating another embodiment in which two or more optical triangulation modules are used to detect the presence of an object in each of one or more pinch zones of a window. As shown in Figure 2a, a single optical triangulation module 100 is used to detect the presence of an object in a pinch zone along the head space of the open part of the window. The module 100 is mounted inside a vehicle and is positionally arranged such that an emitter 102 emits a beam across a pinch zone. The emitted beam is reflected by a reflector 104 (also mounted inside the vehicle) to a PSD 106 housed within the optical triangulation module 100. Operation of the system to detect objects in a pinch zone along the top of the open portion of the window is otherwise shown in FIG.
Follow the operation described above for 1d. The reflector 104 may be constructed of any material that reflects a significant portion of the emitted IR beam to the PSD 106. The reflector may be a separate reflector element, may be integral with the interior of the vehicle, or may be the interior itself. Variations in such reflector embodiments also apply to all embodiments disclosed herein.

As shown in FIG. 2b, the optical triangulation module 110 and the reflector 112 can also be mounted inside the vehicle to detect objects in a pinch zone along the front part of the open window. Further, as shown in FIG. 2c, a plurality of optical triangulation modules coupled to each of the reflectors 124 and 126 to enhance the effectiveness of object detection in both the upper and front pinch zones of the open window. It is also possible to use 120 and 122. The positions of such modules and reflectors may be reversed. Finally, in FIG. 2d, the optical triangulation module 130 has an open window so that a single detection system can be used to detect an object in a pinch zone along either the front or the top of the open window. Mounted on the interior of the vehicle adjacent to a reflector 132 mounted on the interior of the vehicle along the lower front and the upper rear portion of the open window.

As shown in FIG. 3 a, the optical triangulation module 140 is installed inside the vehicle along the upper edge of the opening of the sliding door immediately adjacent to the vehicle B pillar, and the module 140
An inner emitter may emit an IR light beam across a pinch zone along the front of the door 142. The emitted light beam collides with a reflector 144 mounted inside the vehicle on the opposite side of the opening of the door 142, and the reflector 144 reflects the emitted light beam to a position sensitive detector in the housing of the module 140. And put it back. The processing of the output signal from the position sensitive detector is performed according to the operation described in connection with FIGS. 1a-1c.

FIG. 3 b is a diagram illustrating the arrangement of the optical triangulation module at the front edge of the sliding door 142. When the door advances, the emitted light beam collides with a reflector 144 attached to the inside of the vehicle at the lower end of the door opening, whereby the reflector 144 reflects the emitted light beam and the inside of the module 140 storage portion. Return to the position sensitive detector of. The processing of the output signal from the position sensitive detector is carried out according to the processing described in connection with Figures 1a-1c. The placement of the module 140 with respect to the door opening may be by other methods. For example, one or more optical triangulation modules 140 may be placed on the C-pillar that emits light toward the B-pillar and receives light reflected therefrom. If multiple modules are used in this embodiment, it is possible to detect blockages using a single processing element as it is independent of which module detected the blockages.

As shown in FIGS. 4 a-4 c, a power hinge door 154, a power hatch 156.
Alternatively, the optical triangulation module 150 can be used in conjunction with the reflector 152 to detect the presence of an object within the pinch zone of the power revolving door 158. In such situations, in contrast to the embodiments of FIGS. 1a-1c, 2a-2d, and 3a-3b, the closing motion device rotates out of its plane of aperture. For the power hatch 56, a reflector (not shown) is located on the opposite side of the pinch zone from the optical triangulation module 150. Similarly, in the top view of revolving door 158, the reflector is also located on the opposite side of the pinch zone from the optical triangulation module,
It is not visible in this top view.

It should be appreciated that in all embodiments the positions of the optical triangulation module and the reflector can be reversed. However, a greater noise to signal immunity ratio is achieved by placing the optical triangulation module on one particular side of each pinch zone.

A reflective IR amplitude detector can be used in conjunction with the optical triangulation module to enhance the effectiveness of object detection within the pinch zone of an automatic closing motion device, including the devices described herein. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 5, a signal generator (not shown) is used to drive the IR emitter 160 at a specified frequency. The emitter 160 is positioned so that the substantially planar light beam 162a emitted from the IR emitter 160 strikes at least a portion of the pinch zone and impinges on the interior of the vehicle, including potential opening interiors around the sunroof opening. Select and place. A separate reflector 164 may be included to enhance the performance of the reflected signal in the clear. In the absence of an object in the light path, the perimeter of the aperture or reflector 164 emits at least a portion of the emitted light beam 162 (the reflected portion is not shown in FIG. 5 for simplicity of illustration). It reflects to an IR detector 166 located adjacent to 160. IR
Detector 166 produces an output signal indicative of the presence or absence of an object in the light path from emitter 160 to detector 166. For example, the magnitude of the output signal of the detector 166 changes with the received signal strength. Alternatively, the detector output signal may be provided as a series of pulses that vary in number, duration or length as the received signal changes.

When an object is within the optical range of the emitted light beam 162, the signal reflected from the object is expected to change based on the size, orientation and reflectivity of the object. The change in the output signal from the IR detector 166 observed in the absence of the object can indicate the presence of the object in the irradiation site of the opening 12. I
When a change in the output of the R detector 166 is detected, a control signal is generated to stop the operation of the automatic closing operation device. The operation of the closing action device is immediately stopped when the object is detected in the irradiation site or when the front edge of the closing action device enters the pinch zone and an obstacle is detected. Further, the operation of the moving member of the automatic closing motion device is such that upon detection of a signal received from either the optical triangulation system or the IR amplitude detector system indicating the presence of an object within the pinch zone. You can stop immediately.

The IR amplitude detector 166 of FIG. 5 is generally composed of a processing circuit configuration including a photodiode, a filter and a memory. The photodiode is a device that is responsive to reflected IR radiation and typically produces an output proportional to the amplitude of the reflected radiation impinging on the photodiode. The filter and processing circuit arrangement is for improving the noise-to-signal ratio by causing the photodiode to perform a filtering process. Further, the processing circuit configuration performs amplitude threshold value processing based on the threshold value in the connected memories. The threshold value treated as described above may be a stable value, or may be a value that is dynamically adjusted according to the previously measured reflected energy in the absence of an obstacle. As mentioned above, the perception of obstruction is attributed to a decrease in reflected energy if the perimeter of the opening is highly reflective, or to an increase in reflected energy if the perimeter is IR energy absorbing.

The placement of the emitters and detectors used in the IR amplitude detector system described herein may be generally similar to that shown for the optical triangulation system, but the detectors in this IR amplitude detection system are position sensitive. It measures the amplitude of the received light beam rather than its position on the instrument surface.

Further, when the object is detected in the pinch zone of any one of the above-described automatic closing motion devices in which the closing motion is already operating and the object is detected in the pinch zone, or the closing motion device is operated. It should be further noted that the closing action device can be deactivated as soon as the leading edge of the is simply in the pinch zone.

Furthermore, it should be understood that the combination of the optical triangulation detection system and the IR amplitude detection system shown in FIG. 5 may be used in conjunction with any of the above-described automatic closing motion devices.

The detection device according to the present disclosure can be used as part of an intrusion detection system, in addition to being used to prevent the capture of an object by a powered closing motion device. For example, a vehicle with a power window can be provided with an automatic ventilation system. In the case of such a system, the hot air inside the vehicle can be discharged to the outside of the vehicle by automatically opening a predetermined amount of the window or sunroof. Depending on how open it is, the intruder can unlock the door of the vehicle to put a hand or other object into or out of the vehicle to get in or out. The system according to the invention described above can be used to continuously monitor the open part once the automatic ventilation system has been activated. If an object is detected, an alarm can be sounded or, depending on the situation, the closing device can be commanded to close. However, when selecting the latter, it must be taken into consideration that an intruder or an intervening object may be damaged. Countermeasures for this detection include disabling the ignition device of the automobile or automatically communicating an alarm signal to a distant recipient that an intruder cannot hear. The battery efficiency per cycle required for the detection system according to the present method is lower than the power required for the obstacle detection system associated with the normal closing operation.

Other devices may be used instead of using the IR range finding system illustrated throughout the above description and shown in FIG. 1d. For example, the IR amplitude detection system may be replaced with an ultrasonic system. A distance measurement system based on ultrasonic energy realizes distance measurement to an object in its beam path by measuring the short distance between a burst of transmitted ultrasonic sound and its reflection. . Depending on the application, narrow and narrow beam units with a detection range of approximately 2 inches to 3 feet can be used. An absolute range to the object is not required when using an IR distance measurement system. Rather, the deviation of the reflecting surface from one distance to another can be used as a basis for recognizing the presence of an object.

In yet another embodiment, a temperature sensor can be used instead of IR. Human body temperature corresponds to a peak blackbody radiation of 10 microns. Suitable sensors for this wavelength are of the pyroelectric type often found in automatic indoor or outdoor optical switches. In most pyroelectric radiation detectors, the radiation is absorbed by thin electrodes of a thickness that can be adjusted to give a radiation absorption of 50% or more of the entire electromagnetic spectrum. Changes that occur in the electrode temperature in the presence of radioactive objects produce corresponding changes in the output electrical signal. The change in electrical signal is compared to a certain expected value range to determine if the object is in the targeted range by the coupled processing circuitry.

In yet another embodiment, an RF range finding system can be utilized. Such a system is constructed in the simplest form, consisting of a transmitter, an antenna, a receiver and a processor. The transmitter serves to provide the electromagnetic energy, while the antenna serves to focus the emitted energy into a well-defined beam that directs it in the desired direction. The directional beam of the RF beam is emitted across the part to be monitored, the pinch zone in the present invention. The object in the beam reflects some of the electromagnetic energy back into the system of the present invention. The antenna collects the energy contained in the echo signal and conveys it to the receiver.
After being amplified by the returned energy receiver, it is analyzed by the radar processor. The radar processor analyzes the echo to see if the object is present.

Those skilled in the art will further recognize that variations and modifications of the above described method and apparatus for sensing an object within an opening of a closed motion passage may be made without departing from the inventive concept disclosed herein. Should be. Therefore, it should be understood that the invention is limited only by the scope and spirit of the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The invention may be more completely understood by reference to the following detailed description in connection with the drawings.

FIG. 1a is a top view showing the sunroof in the open position using the object detection system of the present invention.

1b is a side cross-sectional view of the automobile roof of FIG. 1a taken along line BB and looking toward the front of the automobile.

FIG. 1c is a top view showing the sunroof in the closed position using the object detection system of the present invention.

FIG. 1d is a schematic diagram for explaining an operation theory of the optical triangulation module when used in the invention disclosed in the present application.

FIG. 1e is a block diagram of an optical triangulation module when used in the disclosed invention.

FIG. 2a is a side view of a vehicle window illustrating the use of an optical triangulation module to detect an object in a pinch zone along the top of the vehicle window in the open state.

FIG. 2b is a side view of the vehicle window illustrating the use of the optical triangulation module to detect an object in a pinch zone along the front of the vehicle window in the open state.

FIG. 2c is a side view of an automotive window illustrating the use of multiple optical triangulation modules to detect objects in a pinch zone along the front and top of the open vehicle window.

2d is a side view of an automobile window illustrating the use of an optical triangulation module to detect an object along a diagonal extending from the lower front corner of the window opening to the upper rear corner of the window opening. FIG. is there.

FIG. 3a is a partial side view of a wagon vehicle illustrating the use of an optical triangulation module located on a B-pillar for sensing an object within a pinch zone of a sliding door opening.

FIG. 3b is a partial side view of a wagon to illustrate the use of an optical triangulation module located at the leading edge of a sliding door for detection of objects within a pinch zone of the sliding door opening. Is.

FIG. 4a is a perspective view illustrating the use of an optical triangulation module to detect an object in a pinch zone of a hinged door.

FIG. 4b is a perspective view illustrating the use of an optical triangulation module for detecting an object in the pinch zone of a hatch.

FIG. 4c is a top view to illustrate the use of the optical triangulation module to detect an object within the pinch zone of a revolving door.

FIG. 5 is a top view to illustrate the use of an optical triangulation module coupled with an amplitude detection system to detect an object in a pinch zone of an automobile sunroof.

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Claims (42)

[Claims] 1. An emitter that emits radiation in the vicinity of an opening, a reflecting surface that reflects at least a part of the emitted radiation, and a receiver that receives the reflected radiation, wherein the light receiver is the An obstacle detection circuit in an opening configured to provide an output signal depending on a position on a light receiver irradiated by reflected radiation. 2. The circuit of claim 1, wherein the reflected radiation comprises at least a portion of the emitted radiation reflected from the reflective surface. 3. The circuit of claim 1, wherein the reflected radiation comprises a portion of the emitted radiation reflected from an object that lies between the emitter and the reflective surface. 4. The circuit of claim 1 further including comparison logic for receiving the photoreceiver output signal and comparing the output signal with a threshold valid for comparison logic. 5. The circuit of claim 1, further comprising a memory unit in communication with the comparison logic storing the threshold value. 6. The circuit of claim 1 further comprising comparison logic for receiving the photoreceiver output signal and comparing the output signal with a first set of acceptable numbers. 7. The circuit of claim 6, further comprising a memory unit in communication with the comparison logic for storing the first set of acceptable numbers. 8. The circuit of claim 1, wherein the photoreceiver includes a series of photodiodes, each photodiode emitting a characteristic output when illuminated by the reflected radiation. 9. The control device further includes a controller for controlling a closing operation device having power for closing the opening in response to the photodetector output signal.
The circuit described in paragraph. 10. The circuit of claim 9 wherein the controller controls a closing motion device having power to slide within the opening. 11. The circuit of claim 9 wherein the controller controls a closing motion device having a hinged motion adjacent the opening. 12. The circuit of claim 1, wherein the emitter comprises an infrared wavelength emitter. 13. The circuit of claim 1, wherein the emitter is a light emitting diode. 14. The circuit of claim 1, wherein the photodetector is a position sensitive detector. 15. A second emitter for emitting radiation to a surface in the immediate vicinity of the opening,
And a second receiver for receiving the reflected planar radiation, wherein the receiver provides an output signal dependent on the amplitude of the reflected planar radiation at the second receiver. The circuit according to claim 1, wherein: 16. A control device for controlling a closing operation device having power for sealing the opening in response to the light-receiver output signal and the second light-receiver output signal. The circuit according to item 15. 17. The controller responds to the second photoreceiver output signal when the second photoreceiver output signal indicates a change in the second reflected radiation from an amplitude value in a predicted range. 17. The circuit according to claim 16, wherein: 18. The connection according to claim 18, wherein the controller interrupts or prevents a closing operation of the power-operated closing operation device in response to the light receiver output signal and the second light receiver output signal. The circuit according to item 16. 19. The circuit of claim 1 wherein the photodetector output signal is one of two possible numbers. 20. The first of the possible values is indicative of the reflected radiation illuminating a position within a first range of receiver positions, and the second of the possible values is the receiver position. 20. The circuit of claim 19, displaying the reflected radiation that does not illuminate locations within the first range. 21. Emitting radiation from an emitter in the immediate vicinity of a portion of the opening, receiving at least a portion of the emitted radiation reflected from at least one surface in the immediate vicinity of the opening at a receiver, and reflecting the light. And generating a position signal indicating the position on the receiver that received the emitted radiation, if there was any emitted radiation.
A method of detecting an obstacle in the immediate vicinity of an opening, which includes a closing motion device having a power capable of being operated in the opening. 22. The generating step further includes an operation of generating the position signal indicating a distance from the light receiver to an object that reflects the reflected and emitted radiation. Item 21. The method according to Item 21. 23. The step of generating further comprises the step of generating the position signal indicative of whether the reflected and emitted radiation is received at a first portion of the receiver. Item 21. The method according to Item 21. 24. The connection according to claim 24, wherein the generating step further includes an operation of generating a position signal indicating that the light receiver has failed to receive at least a part of the emitted radiation. The method according to item 24. 25. The method of claim 21, further comprising the step of determining whether the position signal is indicative of receipt of any of the reflected and emitted radiation at the receiver. Method. 26. The method of claim 21, further comprising the step of comparing the position signal with a threshold value. 27. The comparing step includes the step of comparing the position signal with a threshold value reflecting an allowable distance from the light receiver to the object reflecting the emitted and emitted radiation. The method described in paragraph 26. 28. The method of claim 26, further comprising controlling a power actuated closing motion device for the opening in response to the comparing step. 29. A step of emitting a radiation surface in the vicinity of the opening from a second emitter, and a step of receiving at least a part of the emission radiation surface reflected from the periphery of the opening by a second light receiver. 22. The method of claim 21, further comprising the step of: generating an amplitude signal by the second light receiver, the amplitude signal being indicative of the amplitude of the reflected and emitted radiation surface received by the second light receiver. 30. The method further comprising controlling a power actuated closing motion device for the opening based on the position signal and the amplitude signal.
The method according to item 9. 31. A first emitter for emitting a focused light energy beam in the immediate vicinity of an opening, and a first light receiver in the immediate vicinity of the opening for receiving the reflected and focused beam. A first receiver for receiving at least a portion of the emitted and focused beam reflected from one or more reflective surfaces that generate a first output signal indicating the position of Then, the obstacle detection system in the immediate vicinity of the opening which can be sealed by the closing operation device having power is configured by a controller for controlling the closing operation device having power. 32. The first receiver further fails to receive and fails to receive at least a portion of the emitted and focused beam reflected from any reflective surface proximate the aperture. 32. The system of claim 31, generating a first output signal that indicates 33. A second emitter for selectively emitting a planar beam of light energy to the vicinity of the opening, and the emitted planar shape reflected from one or more reflecting surfaces nearest to the opening. A second photoreceiver for receiving at least a portion of the beam and generating a second output signal indicative of the relative intensity of the reflected planar beam received by the second photoreceiver, the control 32. The system of claim 31, wherein the device controls the powered closing mechanism in response to the second output. 34. Further comprising a memory coupled to said controller for storing one or more thresholds for comparison by said controller of said first and second outputs. Item 33. The system according to Item 33. 35. The first output indicates a relative distance between an object reflecting at least a portion of the emitted and focused beam and the first light receiver. System. 36. The controller is operative to stop, reverse or prevent operation of the powered closing device when the relative distance is less than or equal to a threshold value. The system of claim 35. 37. The controller comprises: when the relative distance is less than or equal to a threshold and when the relative intensity of the reflected planar beam exceeds a predetermined threshold.
37. The system of claim 36, which acts to stop, reverse, or prevent operation of the powered closing motion device. 38. Injecting a focused beam of light energy into the immediate vicinity of the aperture, and attempting to receive a reflected portion of the focused beam at a location on a position sensitive detector. Generating a first output signal indicating a position on the position sensitive detector when the reflected portion of the focused beam is received; and A powered closing mechanism comprising the step of comparing the first output signal with a threshold to infer whether the reflected portion is reflected away from an object in close proximity to the opening. A method of detecting an object in the immediate vicinity of an opening that can be sealed. 39. The method of claim 38, further comprising generating the first output signal indicative of a failure to receive a reflected portion of the focused beam at the position sensitive detector. Method described in section. 40. The method according to claim 38, further comprising the step of selectively stopping, reversing, or preventing the operation of the power-operated closing operation device in response to the comparing step. Method. 41. Injecting a planar beam of light energy into the immediate vicinity of said opening; receiving a reflected portion of said planar beam at an amplitude sensitive detector; detecting by said amplitude sensitive detector. Generating a second output signal indicative of the amplitude of the reflected portion reflected, and whether the reflected portion of the planar beam is reflected away from an obstruction proximate to the aperture. 39. The method of claim 38, further comprising the step of comparing the second output signal with a threshold to infer. 42. Selectively stopping, reversing, or blocking the operation of the powered closing mechanism in response to the step of comparing the first and second output signals with respective threshold values. 42. The method of claim 41, further comprising the step of: