Abstract: A non-contact obstacle detection (NCOD) system and a virtual handle assembly for a motor vehicle and a method of operating the non-contact obstacle detection system and a closure member using a virtual handle assembly are disclosed. The NCOD system includes a main electronic control unit. At least one non-contact obstacle sensor is coupled to the main electronic control unit for detecting obstacles. The control unit is configured to detect the obstacle and cease opening of the closure member in response to the obstacle being detected. Additionally, the control unit is configured to release a latch and apply power to a motor in response to the obstacle not being detected. The virtual handle assembly includes at least one virtual handle sensor for detecting a hand and maintaining a distance to the hand by operating an actuation system to move the closure member.

Abstract: A touch and gesture pad for a swipe/tap entry verification system and a method of operating the touch and gesture pad are disclosed. The touch and gesture pad includes a housing that defines a compartment. The touch and gesture pad includes a wiring connector for attachment to a wiring harness to provide power and communication with a processing unit. A PCB is disposed in the compartment. A plurality of IR TOF sensors are disposed on and electrically connected to the PCB for sensing gestures and touches to the touch and gesture assembly. The plurality of IR TOF sensors each includes a transmitter for transmitting an infrared beam and a receiver for receiving the infrared beam after reflection from an object near one of the plurality of IR TOF sensors and for outputting an IR TOF signal to the processing unit indicating touches or gestures.

Abstract: An electric propulsion system for use with a vehicle including a pair of first wheels, a pair of second wheels, and a gas propulsion system. The electric propulsion system includes a first electric traction motor mounted to one of the first wheels, and a second electric traction motor mounted to the other one of the first wheels. The electric propulsion system includes pair of electric motor controllers each in electrical communication with a respective one of the first or second electric traction motors. Each of the electric motor controllers are also in electrical communication with the system controller and configured to receive vehicle signals from the system controller to control the respective electric traction motors accordingly. Put another way, the pair of electric motor controllers react to vehicle conditions to provide vehicle assist power to the gas propulsion system as needed.