Abstract: A detection system for a closure panel of a vehicle and corresponding method of operation are provided. The system includes a detection module including a sensor subassembly for detecting an object in a detection zone and sensing a motion and characteristics of the object and outputting a corresponding sensor signal. The system also includes a gesture selector for accepting a user input from a user to select a valid activation gesture and a controller arrangement coupled to the sensor subassembly. The controller arrangement receives the user input from the gesture selector and adjusts a plurality of predetermined thresholds representing the valid activation gesture by the user required to move the closure panel based on the user input. The controller arrangement analyzes the sensor signal and determines whether the sensor signal is within the plurality of predetermined thresholds and then initiates movement of the closure panel accordingly.

Abstract: A non-contact object and/or gesture detection system includes at least one sensor configured to sense an object or motion within a field of view (FOV) using radio frequency radiation. Various sensor and brackets are provided which may allow a position and/or tilt of the sensor to be adjusted for controlling the FOV. A sensor housing includes a vent filter that breathable but impermeable to liquids. Various antenna designs are provided to provide desired FOV sizes and shapes, particularly for optimizing a radiation pattern that is relatively wide and shallow. A steerable antenna layout is also provided for controlling the location of the FOV without an adjustable bracket. A sensor housing including a projector mount for an icon projector is provided. A seal prevents debris from entering between the antenna and the bumper.