Abstract: A method and system for detecting the presence of an object caught between an automotive window and its respective frame includes an electric drive motor for opening and closing the automotive window. The electric drive motor receives power from a power supply via a primary brush assembly coupled to a power line. A piezoelectric sensor is mounted on the drive motor for sensing a resistive torque applied to the regulator and generating a signal having a value indicative of the resistive torque. The signal is then transmitted to a control circuit for determining whether or not an object is caught between the window and a frame based on the signal. The signal may be transmitted to the control circuit either by the primary brush assembly via the power line or by a secondary brush assembly coupled directly to the control circuit.

Abstract: A method and system for detecting the presence of an object caught between an automotive window and its respective frame is provided. The window opens and closes via a regulator driven by an electric drive motor. A force is sensed at an interface between the window and the regulator proportional to a force exerted on the window. This force is compared with a predetermined value, and if the sensed force exceeds the predetermined value, an object caught between the window and its respective door frame is detected.

Abstract: In a first embodiment, a vehicle window obstruction system incorporates a conductive coating placed on the window. Such coatings are known for use in defrost systems. A voltage source is connected to the conductive coating, such that an electrical charge is placed across the window. Electrical characteristics of the charge are monitored, and compared to expected values. In the event that an obstruction is encountered, the monitored values will differ from expected values, and a control can indicate the presence of an obstruction. Alternatively, the signal could be a high frequency signal such as a sound signal which would be varied when the window contacts a human obstruction.

Abstract: A method and device for determining torque applied to a motor of an automotive power window system includes a motor having a rotor mounted on a rotor shaft wherein the rotor and rotor shaft move linearly along an axial length of the rotor shaft in response to an applied torque. A ring magnet is mounted on the rotor shaft for generating a magnetic field as the rotor shaft rotates. A sensor, in communication with the ring magnet, senses a strength of the magnetic field based on a linear position of the ring magnet in relation to the sensor and generates a proportional voltage signal. A control circuit receives the voltage signal and detects a torque applied to the motor in response thereto.

Abstract: A vehicle window obstruction detection system looks for lateral forces on the window. A lateral force is indicative of an obstruction in the path of the window, and is particularly indicative of a living obstruction. The presence of the lateral force is utilized to identify an obstruction, and stop further movement of the movable closure.

Abstract: A method and system for directly determining the presence of an object between a window and its respective frame during closing of the window is disclosed. A sensor is provided within the frame to determine a length of the frame being compressed when the window is closed against the frame. This length is compared to a predetermined value. If the compressed length is less than the predetermined value, an object is detected so that the window can be controlled to stop and change direction so as to release the object before injury or damage occurs.

Abstract: An object detection system includes a sensor in communication with a controller to identify an object within a field of view. Pattern recognition algorithms are incorporated into the controller, and particular objects are predefined to minimize false detection and sift predefined objects such as vehicles from background clutter. Upon recognition of the object, an indicator in communication with the controller provides an alert to the operator who can then take corrective action. By defining another field of view the controller halts or reverses the movement of a power window to prevent trapping an object between the closing window and the window frame. Yet another field of view includes a vehicle entry point such as a vehicle door. Movement of the vehicle door will be identified by the controller and will provide an alert such as activation of the vehicle alarm system.