Object Detection

The power liftgate system uses an object detection method which consists of liftgate side sensors fixed to both sides of the liftgate near the seal area. The liftgate side sensors consist of an internal fixed resistor and normally open switch contacts which when closed will bypass the resistor. The signal circuit is supplied 5 V through a resistor and monitored within the rear gate module, and during normal power liftgate operation the signal circuit should remain a fixed value. When an liftgate side sensor is presses one of the sensors the contacts close and the resistor is bypassed causing the signal circuit voltage at the module to go low. If the liftgate is being power closed at that time, the rear gate module will command the power liftgate to reverse direction. All power close liftgate operations will be suspended until the obstruction pressing on the liftgate side sensor is removed

The rear gate module continuously monitors power liftgate operation and calculates its location and direction of travel from an liftgate position sensor (part of the power assist actuator). One input returns the position of the liftgate relative to the x-axis and y-axis. The rear gate module then uses these 2 inputs together to calculate its position and motion, if the rear gate module detects a current spike and motion reduction in the liftgate position sensor during the power close operation, it will command the liftgate to reverse direction.