MXPA94001953A

MXPA94001953A - Power driven venting of a vehicle.

Info

Publication number: MXPA94001953A
Application number: MXPA94001953A
Authority: MX
Inventors: Yuan Lu Michael
Original assignee: Prospects Corp
Priority date: 1993-03-17
Filing date: 1994-03-17
Publication date: 2002-05-07
Also published as: AU6411494A; WO1994022212A1; CA2135069A1; EP0642706A4; EP0642706A1; JPH07507116A

Abstract

An obstruction detection apparatus is provided for use in closing a power driven vent, such as a window, that is located in an opening. When the vent includes a first closing edge that moves as the vent is closed and the opening includes a second closing edge that is contacted by the first closing edge when the vent is in a fully closed position, the apparatus includes a detector configured to detect an obstruction at points all along the second closing edge without requiring contact between the obstruction and the vent and to deliver a detection signal when an obstruction is detected. A controller is connected to the detector for receiving the detection signal and delivering a corresponding alarm signal.

Description

_ ENERGY-POWERED VENTILATION FOR A VEHICLE INVENTORS: MICHAEL YUAN LU, CLIFF L. CHUANG, JAIN ZHANG, JOHN (ZHAO U) Z.W. ZHANG, PETER (JING) J. PAN, JA (SHAOWU) S.L., ZIQIANG CHEN, CHONGTIAN WANG and YONGBO SH citizens of the United States the first three and the People's Republic of China the remaining six, domici # respectively at 17 Raby Street, Nashua, New Hampshire; Crawford Street, Lowell, Massachusetts; 16 Royal Crest Cou Nashua,? Ew Hampshire; 18 Royal Crest Court,? Ashua, Hampshire; 42 Cannongate Road, Tyngsboro, Massachusetts; Crawford Street, Lowell, Massachusetts; 31 Congress Street, A 11, Nashua,? Ew Hampshire; 114 Crawford Street, Lowell, Massac setts; and 490 Angel Street, Apt. 306C, Providence, Rhode Island all in the United States. # CAUSAHAB E? TE: PROSPECTS CORPORATION, a United States corporation, with address at One Industrial W Tyngsboro, Massachusetts, United States.

Summary An obstruction detection device is suitable for use in closing an energy-driven vent, such as a window, that is located in an opening. When the venti includes a first closing edge that moves on closing ventilates and the opening includes a second closing edge that contacted by the first closing edge when the ventilator is in a completely closed position, the apparatus includes detector configured to detect a obstruction at points to along the second closing edge without requiring contact between the obstruction and the vent and to deliver a detection signal when an obstruction is detected. A controller is connected to the detector to receive the detection signal to deliver a corresponding alarm signal. Background of the Invention The invention relates to power-driven ventilation of a vehicle. The first automobiles, for example, included stationary windows that allowed a car occupant to look at regions outside the car. Over time, these stationary windows evolved into adjustable windows that could be opened to provide ventilation to the car's interior. Adjustable windows, which were first hand-hoisted, were first followed by windows with crank manu and then by power-operated windows, commonly found in current automobiles. Eventually, it was discovered that power-operated windows could be automatically opened for ventilation when the interior of the automobile becomes too hot and closed automatically when rain is detected. It is an automatic window system, which is described in US Pat. No. 4,852,469 and incorporated by reference, then evolving into the automotive environment administration system described in United States Patent 5,054,686, also incorporated by reference. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Generally, in one aspect, the invention relates to an obstruction detection apparatus for use in closing a power-driven ventilator, such as a window, that is located in an opening. The vent includes a first edge of cie that moves when the ventilator is closed and the opening includes a second closing edge that makes contact with the first closing edge when the ventilator is in a completely closed position, and the apparatus includes a detector configured to detect an obstruction at all points along the following closing edge without requiring contact between the obstruction and venting and to deliver a detection signal when an obstruction is detected. A controller is connected to the detector to receive the detection signal and deliver a corresponding wing signal that is used, for example, to open the window. The detection of obstructions ensures that the vents operate by energy, such as windows or upper ceilings, can close automatically without the risk of injury to children, pets or other occupants of a vehicle in which the vents are installed. Preferred embodiments may include the following aspects. The detector may include an optical detect, an infrared detector, an ultrasound detector, similar devices. The detector can deliver the detection signal in response to an increase in the energy received by the detector, and the apparatus can also include a transmitter * emits energy so that the detector delivers the detection signal in response to an increase in a reflected portion of the energy produced by the emitter and received by the detector. The detection signal may have a characteristic that represents the intensity of the received energy. For example, the detector can produce pulses that have a duration related to the intensity of the energy received by the detector and deliver the detection signal when the duration * a pulse exceeds a predetermined value, or when the durations of a predetermined number of consecutive pulses exceed the predetermined value. The default value may be related to the duration of a pulse when no obstruction is present or the average duration of puls produced when the obstruction is not present and the ventilator moves between an open position and a closed position. The default value may include a correction factor that takes into account variations in the duration of the pulses produced when no obstruction is present, and may vary based on the position of the vent. The default value or some other value indicative of an obstruction-free opening can be stored during an initialization procedure. The detector and the emitter can be included in an integral unit, which can be a compact unit in which the detector and the emitter share a common lens. The sender can »Include a light-emitting diode or a laser device. The emission may also include a lens that emits a fan-shaped curtain of ener. The apparatus may also include a second detect configured to detect an obstruction at any point along the second closing edge without requiring contact between obstruction and the vent and for delivering a second detection signal when an obstruction is detected. The first and second detectors may be arranged so that the first and second detection signals c are not delivered as a result of the received energy at the same time. The apar may also include a first emitter placed to emit first energy signal to the first detector, and a transmitter placed to emit a second energy signal to the second detector, the first and second emitters producing the first and second energy signals in an alternating form, the controller being connected to the second detector and delivering alarm signal in response to the prime or second detection signals. The detectors may be configured so that when the first emitter is emitting the first signal energy, the first detector delivers the first detection signal in response to a reduction in the energy received by the first detector, and the second detector delivers the second detection signal. in response to a reduction in the energy received in the second detector, and when the second emitter is emitting the second energy signal, the first detector enters the first detection signal in response to an increase in energy received in the first detector and the second detect delivers the second detection signal in response to an increase in the energy received in the second detector. The first detector can be analyzed from the second emitter and the second detector can be analyzed from the first emitter. The automatic closing of the vent can be initiated by a rain sensor, a temperature sensor, a motion sensor or a light sensor. The closing of the ventila can also be initiated by a manual switch. In another aspect, generally, the invention includes apparatus for controlling windows driven by automobile power. The apparatus includes driver control switches accessible in the driver's position, control switch for separate passengers, accessible in a passenger position, and microprocessor control circuitry to respond to the operation of the driver and passenger control switches to control the windows powered by energy. The microprocessor control circuitry programmable in response to the driver control and programmable control switches separately in response to the passenger control switches. Preferred embodiments may include one -? more of the following aspects. The microprocessor control circuitry may respond to the operation of the driver control interrupts when a conflict arises between the driver control switches and the passenger control switches. The apparatus may also include additional passenger control interfaces located in additional passenger positions and a switch to close the position of the driver which, when activated, causes ? microprocessor control circuitry ignore the operation the additional passenger control switches response to the closing switch. This aspect, for example, can be used to disable rear window window controls of a car when children are present in the back seat. The apparatus is configured so that the driver control interrupters are not directly connected to the fan drive circuits, and the microprocessor controller can be remotely located from the driver control interfaces. In this case, the driver control switches may be connected to the microprocessor controller by a 20 gauge or thinner cable. The apparatus provides safety operation as it is designed so that a fault in the obstruction detection device will prevent the automatic closing of vents. It ensures that a system failure does not result in injury. However, the apparatus also includes a manual interrupt that can surpass the obstruction detection aspects. In this way, in the case of a failure of the obstruction detection system, the vents can still be closed by manual override. In another aspect, generally, the invention includes automatically opening a power-driven ventilated response to the door opening to reduce the accumulation of air pressure when a vehicle door is closed. This substantially reduces the force required to close the door. This aspect may also include closing the vent automatically after the doors are closed, and may also include detecting obstructions while automatically closing the vent without requiring contact between obstruction and the vent. Other aspects and advantages will be apparent from the following description and from the claims.

Brief Description of the Drawings Figure 1 is a side view of an automobile closed doors. Figure 2 is a top view of the automobile of Figure 1 with open doors. Figure 3 is a block diagram of an automatic window system. Figure 4 is a side view of energy curtains _r-, produced by an automatic window system obstruction detection system of Figure 3. Figure 5 is a top view of the energy curtains of the figure. Fig. 6 is a schematic of a front transmitter / receiver unit of the system of Fig. 3. Fig. 7 is a block diagram of an integrated photocouple of a receiver of the transmitter / receiver unit of FIG.

Figure 6. Figure 8 is a schematic of a subsequent transmitter / receiver unit of the system of Figure 3. Figures 9A-9C are schematic views of a compact emitter / receiver unit for use in the system of Figure 3. Figure 10 is a flowchart of an obstruction detection procedure of the system of Figure 3. Figures 11A-11C are timing diagrams of signals related to the obstruction detection system of Figure 3. Figure 12 is a block diagram of a controller of the system of FIG. 3. FIGS. 13-15 are flow charts of procedures implemented by the controller of FIG. 12. FIGS. 16A-16B are procedural flow diagrams of FIG. of parking implemented by the controller of figure 12. - Figure 17 is a top view of the emitter / receiver placement for a system of detection of obstructions of the automatic window system of Figure 3. Figure 18 is a schematic of an emitter / receiver unit for upper ceiling of the system of Figure 3. Figure 19 is a block diagram of a control system of upper ceiling. Figures 20-29 are flow charts of procedures implemented by a control unit of the upper ceiling control system of Figure 19. Figure 30 shows a block diagram of obstruction detection system. Figure 31 shows an obstruction detection system for a window associated with a vehicle door. Figure 32 shows an obstruction detection system for a top roof associated with a vehicle Figure 33 shows the path of an energy signal produced by an obstruction detection system Figure 34 shows a detection system obstructions in an environment that includes a source of the environmental. Figure 35 shows a lens and filter system. Figure 36 shows a shutter and filter system Figure 37 shows a modulated pulse signal ? high frequency. Figure 38 shows a signal modulated in pulse amplitude of high frequency / low frequency. Figure 39 shows a pulse synchronization diagram. Figure 40 shows an obstruction detection system that includes an environmental energy signal receiver. Figure 41 shows a divergent unit. Figure 42 shows a partial view of an obstruction detection system including the diverging unit shown in Figure 41 together with several receiver units. Figure 43 shows an isometric view of the transmitter / receiver unit shown in Figure 42. The figure 44 shows an obstruction detection system including the transmitter / receptacle unit shown in Figure 43. Figure 45 shows an obstruction detection system including several transmitter / receiver units Figure 46 shows an obstruction detection system including a waveguide fiber optic having several notches. Figure 47 shows a block diagram of obstruction detection system including a bidirectional transmitter / receiver unit. ? Figure 48 shows a detection system obstructions in an environment that includes environmental reflection. Figure 49 is a schematic block diagram, a circuit that generates and detects a beam that monitors and controls the window. Figure 50 is a schematic of a vehicle door showing a partially closed window and an array of transmit and receive transducers that establish a supervisory beam for a nonlinear, rectilinear window edge. Figure 51 is a schematic of a partially closed top vehicle roof showing the array of transducers relative to a curvilinear, non-linear edge. Fig. 52 is a schematic three-dimensional view of a single sensor corner receiver. Figure 53 is a schematic three-dimensional view of a dual sensor corner receiver. ÍA? Figure 54 is a top plan view, schematic, of a transducer using a spring-polarized switch. Figure 55 is a side elevation view of a transducer accompanied by a cam surface for guiding obstructions towards the beam. Figure 56 is a schematic view showing ambient light from the sun interfering with receiver reception. Fig. 57 is a view similar to Fig. 56 of the reflected radiation of the transmitter is interfering with operation of the receiver. Fig. 58 is a schematic view of a transmitter and receiver employing umbrellas according to this invention. Fig. 59 is a view similar to Fig. 58, in which the transmitter and receiver are using both sunshade and filters. Figure 60 is a schematic of a dual channel obstruction detection system for a vehicle window according to this invention, using different frequencies p each channel. Figure 61 is a view similar to Figure 60 where channels can use the same frequency but are operated at the same time. Figure 62 shows the transmit and receive waveforms for each of the channels of Figure 61. Figure 63 is a schematic block diagram a control circuit for operating the dual channel system of Figure 61. Description of the PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS • Referring to Figures 1 and 2, a car 10 often includes a front door 12 and a rear door 14 on each side, with the front door 12 having a power operated front window 16, and the door after 14 tenien * a rear window operated by power 18. The automobile may also include a top roof operated by power 2 The power operated windows 16, 18 are moved between closed and fully open positions by electric motors 22 (see figure 3) placed within the doors 1 14, and doors 12, 14 are operated by window switches 24. Typically, windows 16, 18 s each operated by two motors 22 - one for raising and one for lowering, the upper roof being operated by a single motor 2 Typically, the side front door 12 of the driver includes a control panel 26 that includes four window switches 24 and allows the driver of the automobile 10 to operate all windows 16, 18. Similarly, the upper roof 20 open and closed by an engine 22 and operated by an overhead roof switch 28 that is typically positioned near the upper tec 20.

The sensors 30 (FIG. 2) indicate whether the doors 14 are closed (FIG. 1) or open (FIG. 2). Similarly, the position of an ignition switch 32 provided a general indication of whether the automobile 10 is occupied (ie, when the ignition switch 32 is turned on, car 10 is probably occupied, and when the ignition switch 32 is turned off, the car 10 is probably unoccupied) and specifically if a key has been inserted and what rotating position is found. Also referring to Figure 3, a rain sensor 34 placed on the exterior of the automobile 10 detects the presence of rain, and a temperature sensor 36 placed inside the automobile 10 monitors the interior temperature of automobile 10. As will be discussed below, a 38 sensor, a motion detector 40, and a hazardous gas detector 42, can also be installed in the automobile 10. The automatic window system 44 includes controller 46 which uses the signals of the sensors described above to control the engines 22 For example, controller 46 responds to an indication of the rain sensor that rain is beginning to fall by automatically controlling the motors 22 to close the windows 16, 18 and the upper tec 20. The controller 46 responds to the temperature sensor by that the motors 22 open or close the windows 16, # and / or the top ceiling 20. In response to a temperature sensor indication 36 that the temperature of the The automobile 10 has exceeded a first threshold value (typically 95 ° F), and in the absence of a rainfall sensor rain indication 34, the controller 46 causes the motors 22 to open the windows 16, 18 and / or the roof 20. In a similar manner, response to an indication of the temperature sensor 36 that the temperature inside the automobile 10 has fallen below the second threshold value (typically 55 ° F), the controller * causes the motors 22 to close the windows 16, 18 and the upper tec 20. The temperature sensor 36 can be implemented using a single sensor that measures the temperature and compares the two threshold values, or using two sensors, each one of which compares the temperature against one of the threshold values. In addition to controlling the environment within the car 10, the '44 system can be configured to provide aspects such as night lock, intrusion detection, gas detection. When the system 44 includes a light sensor 38, the windows 16, 18 are automatically closed at night to prevent insects and other nocturnal pests from entering the automobile 10. A motion detector 40 can provide intrusion detection, when the automobile 10 is not occupies (as indicated by the position of the ignition switch 32 causing the system 44 to automatically close the windows 16, 18 and the top roof 20 when motion detection occurs. Similarly, a hazardous gas detector 42 can make the system 44 automatically opens the windows 16, 18 and / or upper roof 20, upon detection of unacceptable levels of harmful gases, such as carbon monoxide.The system 44 also provides aspects of expertise, such as fast opening and closing, which allow to the occupants of the car 10 open or close completely the windows 16, 18, just by touching a window switch 2 * In addition, the system 44 allows the driver to quickly open or close any or all of the windows 16, 18 by simply touching the control panel 26. Infant protection aspects q allow the driver to disable the switches 24 placed on the rear doors 14 also are provided. Other aspects of the system 44 provide as much security as convenience. For example, the system 44 can be configured to automatically close the windows 16, and the upper roof 20 when the ignition switch 32 is turned off, which indicates that the driver and other occupants are leaving the car 10. This aspect, which eliminates any inconvenience associated with closing the windows 16, 18 and the upper tec 20, is known as a safety lock, because it ensures that the automobile 10 will not be neglected by accidentally opening the windows. Another aspect, referred to as an anti-air ligature, facilitates the closing of the doors 12, 14 and thereby reduces the possibility of a door accidentally being left closed. As automobiles are made increasingly air-proof, it has been discovered that a considerable pressure air pressure is produced by the air that is inside the automobile while a door is being closed. This pressure referred to as air ligation, requires applying considerable force to the door to ensure proper closure. The system eliminates the air ligation by partially opening the rear windows 18 upon receiving a signal from a sensor 30 that door 12, 14 is open. The open rear windows drastically reduce the accumulated pressure inside the car 10 and thereby eliminate the problem of air ligation. Once the system 44 determines, via sensors 30, that all the doors 12, 14 are closed, the system 44 automatically closes the windows 18. The system 44 may also be configured to interact with an alarm system 48 or a system of air conditioning 50. When the system 44 interacts with air conditioning system 50, the controller 46 ab the windows 16, 18 to allow particularly hot air to be vented from the automobile 10. Once controller 46 determines that the temperature inside the car 10 has dropped below a specified value, the control 46 closes the windows 16, 18.

Because the system 44 automatically opens and closes the windows 16, 18 and the top roof 20, and often has no human interaction, the system 44 must take into account the risk that a window 16, 18 or the top roof 20 s accidentally closed in such a manner as to pinch or otherwise injure a child, pet or other occupant of the automobile 10. To eliminate this risk, the system 44 includes an obstruction detection system 52 which prevents the system 44 from accidentally closing a window. , 18 or the upper roof 20 when an obstruction such as an arm of a nor present is present within the path traveled by the window 16, or the upper roof 20, and does so without requiring obstruction to make contact with the window in movement 16, 18 or upper ceiling 20. Typically, the obstruction detection system 52 produces a curtain of energy in the region traversed by a window 16, 18 or upper roof 20 that is being closed, and detects interferences ia with the energy curtain. As shown in Figure 3, the controller receives control signals from the occupants of the automobile 10, particularly the driver, through signals received from the ignition switch 32, the window switches 24, upper ceiling switch 28, and the door sensors 3 Controller 46 also responds to signals from rain sensor 34, temperature sensor 36, light sensor 38, motion sensor 40, and hazardous gas detector 42. In addition # controller 46 interacts with the obstruction detection system 52 sending excitation signals 54 to the system and responding to detection signals 56 produced by system 52. Excitation signals 54 cause the system to produce power curtains in the windows 16, 18 or the upper tec 20, and typically they only occur when the control 46 is preparing to close or is closing a window 16, or the upper roof 20. The controller 46 configures excitation signals 54 to only produce a curtain of energy in a particular window 16, 18 that is closing. The controller also monitors the electrical characteristics of the motor 22 and uses information on the characteristics to control the motors 22. The window switches 24 and the upper ceiling switch 28, besides noting that the windows 16, 18 and upper roof 20 must be opened or closing, provide configuration signal to the controller 46. By pressing a window switch 24 immediately after turning off the ignition switch 32, the driver can disable the safety lock, and by pressing the window switch 24 more than once, the driver can set the extension in which the windows 16, 18 are opened upon detection of a temperature sensor signal 36, for example, with an additional tightness running slightly open and five additional oppressions corresponding to fully open. Instead of configuring each window separately, the driver can simultaneously configure all the windows by pressing the switch corresponding to the left rear window. To enable / disable the anti-air binding system, the conduct simultaneously presses the corresponding switches 24 the right and left rear windows. When the switches 24, 28 are used for system configuration, the controller 46 provides feedback to the driver through a feedback unit 58. The feedback can be provided through audible tones that reflect the number of times the driver has pressed the switches 24. 28. The feedback can also be provided through a screen light emitting diodes (LEDs) or liquid crystal (LCD), or other means. Although the use of the switches 24, 28 pa configuration reduces the number of required switches facilitates installation, a separate set of configuration controls can also be used. Because the system 44 is based on many sensors and pre-existing controls, the system 44 can be easily installed in an existing automobile 10. For example, in many systems, the controller 46, the obstruction detection system 52, the feedback unit 58 (which typically a buzzer), the rain sensor 34, and temperature sensor 36 are the only new components. Moreover, because many controller functions 46 are implemented in softwa (computer programs), the controller 46 can be easily updated or adapted to specific needs by making new aspects available. Referring to Figure 4, the obstruction detection system 52 includes front emitter / receiver units 60 positioned to produce power curtains in regions traversed by the front windows 16, and subsequent emitter / receiver unit 64 placed to produce energy curtains. in regions traversed by subsequent windows 18. The emitter / receiver units 60, 64 include and emitters 68 (see Figure 6) that produce power 6 6 66 curtains and receivers 70 (see Figure 6) that detect any portion of the energy curtains 62 66, which is reflected back to the emitter / receiver units 60, 64. When obstructions are placed within the energy curtains 62, 64, the reflected portions of the energy curtains 62, 64 are increased. this way, the receivers 70 detect obstructions detect increases in the reflected portions of the energy curtains 62, 66. The front unit of emitter / receiver 60 is placed vertically in the lower front corner of the window 1 This positioning ensures that the power curtain 62 cover ABCD region in which an obstruction can be trapped between window 16 and a window frame portion 72 of door # when closing window 16. This placement also minimizes vertical angle alphax of energy curtain 62 necessary to cover the region ABCD, which for example can be around 38 °. Because the area covered by the energy curtain is directly related to the vertical angle alpha17 and intensity of the energy curtain 62 is inversely related to the area covered by the energy curtain 6 minimizing the vertical angle alphax maximizes the curtain intensity of energy 62 that can be produced from particular emitter 68. Because the sensitivity of the front transmitter / receiver unit 60 is directly related to the intensity of the power curtain 62, the placement of the transmitter / receiver front unit 60 maximizes the front unit capacity of transmitter / receiver 60 to detect obstruction The position of the emitter / receiver front unit 60 also aesthetically pleasing and allows an efficient installation. The rear emitter / receiver unit 64 is positioned horizontally in the lower front corner of the window 1. This positioning ensures that the energy curtain 66 covers the EFGHI region in which an obstruction between window 18 and a window frame portion 74 can be trapped. of the door when the window is closed 18. As with the receiver / receiver front unit 60, the placement of the rear receiving unit 64 minimizes the vertical angle alpha2 of the power curtain 66, which may vary from about 50. at 60 °, dependent on the configuration of a particular window 18. This placement maximizes the intensity of the energy curtain 66 thereby maximizing the capacity of the subsequent transmitter / receiver unit 64 to detect obstructions. Referring to Figure 5, the emitter / receiver units 60, 64 are positioned so that the horizontal angles beta1 (beta2) of the energy curtains 62, 66 are approximately centered, respectively, on the portion, window frame 72 of the door 12 and the window frame portion 74 of the door 14. This placement ensures that even if an emitter / receiver unit 60, 64 is more aligned due to vibrations or other adverse operating conditions present in the automobile 10., energy curtains 62, will detect obstructions in the planes defined by windows 16, 18. These same concerns for alignment s focused by combining emitters 68 and receivers 70 in l transmitter / receiver units 60, 64 to eliminate any difficulties of installation that would be associated with align emitters 68 and receivers 70 packed separately, and to eliminate maintenance and operation difficulties that could result from poor alignment by vibrations or other adverse operating conditions. Referring to Figure 6, the front emitter / receiver unit 60 includes an emitter 68 and two receivers 70. emitter 68 includes four infrared light emitting diodes (LEDs) 76 which produce an energy curtain 64 in response to excitation signal 54 of the controller 46. The LEDs 76 can produce beams infrared beams 78 having angles of between 25 and 3 and wavelengths of 940 or 950 nanometers, and are arranged so that the beams 78 are parallel to and share a common vertical plan. Operating power for each LED 76 is around 4 to 6 milliwatts A cylindrical lens 80 focuses horizontally and vertically diverges the conical beams 78 the LEDs 76 to produce a power curtain 64 having vertical angle alphax of about 38 ° and an angle Beta horizont of about 5-10 ° The emitter 68 includes the multiple LEDs to increase the vertical angle alphax, and pa increases the intensity of the power curtain 64 which, to z, increases the range R in which the emitter / receiver front unit 60 can detect obstructions. Each receiver 70 includes a biconvex lens 82 focusing the energy that arrives in a parallel beam directed to band pass filter 84 that passes energy having wavelength of about 930 to 950 nanometers. From the band pa filter 84, the parallel beam is directed to a second biconvex lens 86 that focuses the beam on an integrated photocourt that produces a voltage signal that varies with the beam intensity. Also referring to Figure 7, the integrated photocouple 88 includes a photodiode 90 which produces a volta # in response to the beam and an amplifier 92 that amplifies the voltage. The output of the amplifier 92 passes through the 38 kHz bandpass filter 94 before being applied to the input of an integrator 96 which, in combination with a comparator 98, acts as a Schmitt trigger. The output of the comparator is supplied to an excitation transistor 100 which provides output voltage 102 of the integrated photocurrent 88 in queue at a high value of about five volts when an energy threshold amount is being received at a low value around zero. volts when more than the threshold amount of energy is being received. The integrated photocourt 88 implemented using an available IS1U60 OPIC sensor from Sharp. Because each receiver 70 has a conical field view of about 12 °, two receivers 70 are used to provide an adequate field of view. The outputs 102 of the receivers 70 are combined by a logical AND operator 104 pa. producing a detection signal 56. Because the outputs 1 have a low value when energy is being detected, the detection signal 56 has a high value when no receiver is detecting power, and otherwise has a low value. As illustrated in figure 8, except for the placement of the LEDs 76, the rear emitter / receiver unit 74 identical to the front unit of transmitter / receiver 60. The LEDs 7, although they still share a vertical plane, are not ready to produce parallel beams 78. Instead, the LEDs are arranged so that their beams 78 converge on the le 80 and then diverge from the lens 80. This arrangement gives as a result an energy curtain 66 having a vertical angle alpha2 wide that the power curtain 62 produced by the front emitter / receiver unit 60. In an alternative approach, as illustrated in FIGS. 9A-9C, the emitter / receiver units 60, 64 s implemented using only one transmitter / receiver 1 compact unit that is only 1.4 in. wide by 0.74 in. in depth by 1.1 in. high. As the units 60, 64, unit 1 includes four LEDs 76 and an integrated photocourt 88. The unit 106 also includes a common lens 108 used by the LEDs 76 and integrated photocoupler 88, and a receiver lens 110 used by an integrated photocourt 88. To prevent the beams 78 of the LEDs 76 from directly hitting the integrated photocurrent 8, it is placed in a recess 110 inside a housing 1 of the unit 106. Due to its compact size, the unit 106 is extremely easy to install. Referring to Figure 10, the controller operates the obstruction detection system 52 according to a procedure 120. Because the obstruction detection system 52 is only active when a window is being closed, the controller 46 does not activate the system. detecting obstructions 52 until the generator 46 generates or receives a closure request (step 122). As discussed above, controller 46 generates automatic shutdown requests responsive to signals from, for example, rain sensor 34, to implement aspects such as an anti-air tie In addition, the driver or other occupant of the automobile 10 can make the controller 46 generates a fast automatic closing request, merely by touching a switch 24, or a manual closing request by continuously depressing a switch 24. This way, as a next step, controller 46 determines • the closing request is a manual automatic closing request (step 124). Typically, a switch closure request 24 is considered to be a manual request if switch 24 is depressed for more than three tenths of a second. If the closure request is a manual closing request (step 124), the controller 46 sends a signal of closing a motor 22 that controls the window associated with the interrupt depressed (step 126). The closing signal causes the motor to close the window in an increment. After sending the closure signal, the controller 46 determines if there is still a closure request, (ie, the driver is still depressing the switch 24) (step 122), and, in that case, re-runs the process. The manual closing request, which enables closing a window without attempting to detect obstructions, provides a useful security because it ensures that a window can be closed in case of a failure in the obstruction detection system. 5 If the closure request is a request for closure automatic (step 124), the controller 46 activates the appropriate transmitter and determines whether the transmitter 68 is operating correctly (step 128). As illustrated in Figure HA, the controller activates the transmitter 68 by sending an excitation signal 54 which includes a series of 38 kHz pulses 150 that are modulated in a lower frequency pulse train 152 having P period and one cycle of work of around 50%. The period P for an emitter / receiver front unit 60 may vary between 40 and 60 milliseconds, and the period P for a subsequent transmitter / receiver unit 64 may vary between 50 and 1 milliseconds. The controller 46 determines whether the transmitter 68 is operating correctly by monitoring the detection signal produced by the receivers 70. As illustrated in FIG. 11B, when the transmitter 68 is operating correctly, the detection signal 56 includes a series of pulses 154 having a period P. The pulses 154, which correspond approximately to the puls 152 of the excitation signal 54 and have low volta values when the pulses 152 have high voltage values, s result of the detection by the integrated photocouple 88 of a reflected portion of a power curtain 62. When the emission 68 is not operating correctly, as illustrated in FIG. 11C, the detection signal 56 does not include pulses and in its lug it remains at a high voltage value. This condition occurs when the emitter 68 is not producing any curtain * energy 62, or when the emitter 68 is blocked so that no portion of the energy curtain 62 can be reflected to the integrated photocouple 88. If the emitter 68 is not operating correctly (step 130), the controller 46 does not carry out any additional action, and instead expects a new closure request (step 122). At this time, if desired, driver or other occupant of automobile 10 would surpass controller 46 by manually pressing a window switch 24. If transmitter 68 is operating correctly (step 130 controller 46 monitors detection signal 56 and determines, the length of a detecting pulse (step 132) The length of a detecting pulse is related to the intensity of incident energy on the integrated photocurrent 88 and, due to obstructions reflects back energy towards the integrated photocurrent 88, is increased when present an obstruction In this way, the controller 46 detects obstructions by comparing t with T ', an initialization value related to the length of a detection pulse produced by the integrated photo switch 88 when a window 16 is free of obstruction (step 134). 'is generated in an initialization procedure during the installation of the system 44. During this procedure, the transmitter 68 is activated and the detection signal 56 monitored while window 16 is closed under obstruction-free conditions. T, the average value of t while the window 16 is being closed, is determined from the detection signal 56. T ^ is generated as: T '= T + 2 square root of T, where the square root term allows some deviation in value of an acceptable t and with it takes into account deviation that can be caused by variations in the system voltage or temperature. T 'can be generated using ot approaches. For example, T 'can be varied with different window positions to more accurately take into account reflections caused by window 16. Furthermore, to avoid the need for non-volatile memory to store T', T 'can be determined each time the system 44 is energized (it is deci connected to the car battery 10). Also, to optimize the performance of the system 44 under different operating conditions, T 'can be generated in response to a driver command of the automobile 10. T' takes into account the background noise and system variations 44 which can affect the performance of the vehicle. system. Other background effects, such as sunlight, which in an inappropriately designed system can adversely affect operation, are handled by the filters 84, 94 included in the receiver 70. The filter 84 ensures that only the energy has a length of A wave similar to that produced by an emission 68 may impinge on the integrated photocircuit 88. However, sunlight includes sufficient amounts of energy within the band of wavelength passed through the filter to saturate the integrated photocouple 88 and prevent detection. of reflections from energy curtain 62 (sunlight includes 10 to 15 milliwatts in the wavelength band of 930 to 9 nanometers, while emitter 68 produces approximately 24 milliwatts in this band). To eliminate the effects of sunlight, the receiver 70 also includes the filter 94, which passes the energy which, like the excitation signal 54, is modulated at 38 kHz. In this way, sunlight can only affect the operation of the receiver 70 if the sunlight were somewhat modulated at 38 kHz, a situation that is extremely unlikely to occur. Moreover, in the unlikely event that sunlight would saturate the receiver 70 , this would only prevent the automatic closing of the window 16, and would not impose any risk of the window 16 being accidentally closed over an obstruction such as a child's hand. If the controller 46 determines that t is greater than (step 134), this indicates that an obstruction may be present in the window 16, and the controller 46 responds by incrementing a failed comparison count (step 136). If the incremental failed comparison count is greater than two (step 138), controller 46 determines that it is actually present or obstruction, and responds by canceling any pending signals and sending a signal to motor 22 which causes mot 22 to fully open the window 16 (step 140). Subsequently, the controller 46 waits for additional closure requests (pa 122). If the increased failed comparison count of not more than two (step 138), the controller 46 sends a close signal to the engine 22 corresponding to the window associated with closing request (step 142). The closing signal causes the motor 22 to close the window by an amount in increment. Typically, the controller 46 operates at a rate at which cu consecutive closing signals overlap so that, in the absence of the detection of an obstruction, the closing signals The motor 22 closes the window 16 in a smooth continuous manner. After sending the closing signal (step 142), controller 46 determines whether window 16 is closed (pa 144). Typically, the controller 46 makes this determination by detecting changes in the motor electrical characteristics '22. For example, the physical resistance caused by the fact that the window reaches the closed position results in an increased load on the motor 22 that is detectable by the controller 46. If the window is not closed the controller 46 repeats the automatic closing process by monitoring the detection signal 56 and determining t (pa 132). If the window is closed, the controller 46 requests additional closure (step 122).

If the controller 46 determines that t is less than or equal to T '(step 134), the controller 46 responds by resetting the failed comparison account (step 146). In doing so, controller 46 ensures that only three consecutive failed comparisons will be treated as a real obstruction, and minimizes the occurrence of incorrect detections of obstruction. Subsequently, controller 46 sends a motor closing signal 22 (step 142) and checks whether the window 16 is closed With reference to Figure 12, the controller can be implemented using a processor 156 that communicated with other components of the system 44 through ports 1 connected to an input / output interface (1/0) 158. Specifically, the interface 1/0 158 communicates with the driver d switch (D) 24, the pass switch (P_D) 24, the left rear switch (RL_D) 24, the right rear interrupt (RR_D) 24, and the guard switch for children ( CG) 160 of the control panel 26; passenger switch (P) 24; the left rear switch (RL) 24; right rear switch (RR) 24; the upper tec switch (SR) 28; the top roof indicator is completely closed (SRFC) 162; the ignition switch (IS) 32; the temperature sens 36; the rain sensor 34; excitation signals 54 of upper roof (SR), driver (D), passenger (P), left posteri (RL) and rear right (RR) and detection signals * 56; the audible feedback unit 58; and the anti-air ligation interrupt (AAB) 164, which has a value raised when all the doors 12, 14 are closed, and a value ba when a door 12, 14 is opened. Because the switches 24, 28 operate in three modes (open, close, and inactive), i / O interface 158 communicates its status to processor 156 through pairs of binary digits (bits) of ports 157. Interface I / O 158 communicates the status of each of the sensors restant through simple bits of the ports 157. The controller 46 also includes a rain sensor interface 166 and a temperature sensor interface 16 Because the rain sensor 34 is a capacitor having a changing value in the presence of rain, the interface 1 includes an oscillator 170 which drives the rain sensor 34 and sensor 172 which detects a change in the capacitance of the rain sensor 34. The temperature sensor 36 is a resistor that varies with the temperature, and the interface 168 includes a heat detector 174 which compares the res temperature sensor with a resistance corresponding to 95 ° F, and produces a high value output when the resistance of the temperature sensor indicates a temperature in excess of 95 ° F. The interface 1 also includes a cold detector 176 which compares the resistance of the temperature sensor 36 with a corresponding resistance at 55 ° F and produces a high value output when resistance of the temperature sensor 36 indicates a temperature which is less than 55 ° F. The processor 156 drives the motors 22 through port 178 which is connected to a set of relays 18 Relays 180 are connected to the window motors 22 through an eight-pronged port 182. Each window 16, 18 operated by two motors unidirectional 22, one to open yu to close, so that two relays 180 correspond to window 16, 18. The relays 180 are connected to the upper ceiling motor 22, a 12 volt power source (automobile battery 10), and electric ground through four-prong port 184. The motor 22 of the reversible upper roof, so that two relays 180, one to open upper roof 20 and one to close upper roof 2 correspond to upper roof 20. Provide central control for the motors 2 the controller 46 produces substantial savings in wiring power consumption. For example, instead of each interrupt 24 being connected to its corresponding motors 22 with high-voltage, heavy gauge wire, the switches 24 are connected to the controller 46 using low-voltage, light gauge wire. In addition, switches 24 are required only to handle low voltages and can therefore be implemented using less expensive and lighter materials. Essentially, processor 156 operates in one of three modes: a parking mode in which processor 1 automatically opens and closes windows 16, 18 and upper tec 20 in response to rain, heat, movement and light; driving mode in which the processor 156 provides quick opening and closing, with a single touch, of the windows 16, 18 and upper roof 20; and an anti-air binding mode in which processor 156 automatically opens rear windows in response to an open door 12, 14. When process 156 enters parking mode (in response to ignition switch 32 moving to the OFF position), processor 156 provides security lock of all windows 16, 18 and top ceiling 20. Referring to FIG. 13, processor 1 determines its mode of operation according to a procedure 200. If a gate 12, 14 (step 202), the processor 1 performs anti-air binding operations (step 204). a door 12, 14 is not open (step 202), the processor 1 determines whether the ignition switch 32 is active (pa 206). If the ignition switch 32 is active, the processor 156 performs run mode operations (step 208. If the ignition switch 32 is inactive, the processor 1 performs parking mode operations (step 210). of anti-air binding (step 204) (step 208) or parking lot (step 210), the processor 1 determines whether a door is open (step 202) and repeats procedure 200.

Referring to Figure 14, when the processor 156 performs anti-air binding operations (pa 204), the processor 156 first opens the windows 18 (step 212). Subsequently, the processor 156 waits until no doors are closed. , 14 (step 214) When all the doors 12, 14 are closed, the processor 156 closes the rear windows (step 216) and leaves the anti-air binding operations, processor 156 closes the windows 18 sequentially generating closing requests. automatic for each subsequent window and responding to requests for automatic closing and detecting obstructions according to procedure 120, as illustrated in Figure 10 and discussed above With reference to Figure 15, when processor 156 performs Run mode operations (step 208), processor 156 first check to determine if a valid open switch has been pressed (step 218) When the child save switch is active (CG) 160, valid open switches include certain switches (D, P_D, RL_D, RR and P) of window 24 and the upper ceiling switch (SR) 2 When the child guard switch (CG) 160 is inactive, valid open switches also include the RR and RL 24 window switches (the child guar switch (CG) 160 disables the window switches and RL 24). If a valid open switch has been depressed (pa 218), processor 156 monitors the switch until the switch is released or depressed for more than three tenths of a second (step 220). If the switch is depressed for more than three tenths of a second, the processor 156 manually opens the window associated with the depressed switch (step 222) activates the corresponding motor 22 until the window reaches the fully open position or the switch is released. If the switch is pressed for less than three tenths of a second (step 220), and the switch pressed is not * window switch RL_D 24 (step 224), the processor 156 ab quickly the window associated with the depressed switch (pa 226) activating the corresponding motor 22 until the sale reaches the fully open position or the switch depressed again. If the switch is depressed for less than three tenths of a second (step 220), and the switch is pressed to the window interface RL_D 24 (step 224), the processor 156 will ab fast all the windows (step 228) sequentially activating the open motors 22 until all the windows reached the fully open position or another interrupt is pressed The processor sequentially activates the motors 22 to avoid excessive draining of the car battery 10 which can be caused by simultaneously activating all the motors 22. After respond to any valid open switches, the processor 156 verifies the valid close switches oppressed (step 230). The valid ceramic switches correspond exactly to the valid ab switches discussed above. If a valid close switch has been depressed, the processor 156 monitors the switch until the switch is released or depressed for more than three tenths of a second (step 232). If the switch is depressed for more than three tenths of a second, the processor 156 manually closes window associated with the depressed switch (step 234) generates a request for manual closure and responding according to procedure 120. If the switch is pressed for less than three second of seconds (step 232), and the pressed switch is not window switch RL_D 24 (step 236), processor 1 quickly closes the window associated with the oppressed switch (step 238) generating a fast closing request responding in accordance with procedure 120. Although not illustrated in the discussion of procedure 120, the quick closing operation, such as the quick opening operation, can be stopped by depressing the switch again. If the switch is depressed for less than three tenths of a second (step 232), and the switch is pressed in the window slot RL_D 24 (step 236), the processor 156 quickly closes all the windows (step 240) generating sequence requests of automatic closing and responding according to procedure 120.

Referring again to FIGS. 16A-16 when processor 156 performs parking mode operations (step 210), processor 156 first initializes a timer to thirty seconds (step 242). The processor 1 then waits until a switch 24 is pressed to disable the security lock (step 244) or to expire the timer (step 246). If the timer expires before a switch 24 is depressed, the processor 156 performs a security closing aspect by quickly closing all windows, and re-initializes the timer to thirty seconds (step 248). As discussed above, the processor 156 quickly closes all the windows, generating sequential automatic closing requests. After re-initializing the timer (step 248) the processor 156 waits until a switch 24 is pressed to activate the heat-opening appearance (step 250) or the timer expires (step 252). If a switch is depressed, the processor 156 proceeds to further operations If a switch is pressed before the timer expires (steps 244, 250), the processor 1 provides feedback in the form of an audible tone to the feedback unit 58 (step 254) and activates the heat opening aspect (step 256), then, if the activated heat opening appearance and the temperature in the automobile 10 is greater than 95 (step 258), and it is not raining (step 260). , the processor quickly sequentially opens all the windows 24 positions previously designated by the driver of the car 10 (step 262). (As discussed above, the driver can designate the extent to which the windows are opened 24 endo buttons several times. ) Finally, if it is raining (step 264), if the temperature is below 55 ° F (step 266), if motion is detected (step 268) or if it is dark (step 270), the processor 156 quickly shuts down all the windows generating sequentially automatic closing requests for each window and respond according to procedure 120 (step 272). Subsequent if no door 12, 14 (step 274) is open and ignition switch remains inactive (step 276), processor 156 repeats the process by checking an excess temperature of 95 ° F (step 258). Typically, the controlled opening and closing of window occupants 16, 18 are disabled when processor 156 is in parking mode. However, if desired, these aspects can be easily implemented in the present. Referring to Figs. 17-18, the detection of obstructions for the upper ceiling 20 with dual emitter / dual receiver configuration. Two emitter / receiver units 300, each including a transmitter 302 and V receiver 304, are positioned at the front corners of the top roof ma 306. The emitter / receiver units 300 are oriented such that a beam of energy produced by the Emission 302 of a transmitter / receiver unit 300 impinges on the receptacle 304 of the other transmitter / receiver unit 300. A barrier 308 provided between the transmitter 302 and the receiver 304 so that the power of the transmitter 302 of a transmitter unit transmitter / receiver 300 falls directly on receiver 304 of the same transmitter / receiver unit 300. Each emitter 302 includes an infrared LED 76 producing a conical infrared beam having an angle of 25-30 ° a wavelength of 950 nanometers. A suitable LED 76 is LED model GL538 from Sharp. The emitter housing 302 limited the conical angle of the infrared beam produced by the emitter 3 to about 10 °. Each receiver 304 includes a biconvex lens 82 focusing the energy that arrives in a parallel beam directed in high pass filter 310 that passes energy having wavelengths of more than 750 nanometers. From the high-pass filter 310, the parallel is directed to a second biconvex lens 86 that focuses the beam on an integrated photo-circuit 88 that produces a voltage signal that varies with the intensity of the beam. As discussed with respect to the window system, the Integrite 88 photocouple produces a voltage having a high value of around five volts when less than a quantity is being received * >; energy threshold at a low value of around zero volt when more than one amount of energy threshold is being received. In operation, the transmitters 302 are energized 38 kHz signals that are modulated by a series of 400 kHz pulses that are configured such that only one emitter 302 is energized, at any time. Obstructions are detected if a beam of a transmitter 302 of one of the transmitter / receiver units 300 is interrupted and the other transmitter / receiver unit 300 is prevented from reaching the receiver 304 so that the receiving output 304 remains high. Obstructions are also detected when a beam from an emitter 302 of one of the transmitter / receiver units 300 is reflected back to the receiver 304 of the same transmitter / receiver unit 300 so that the receiver output 304 changes to a low value. The use of two receivers 304 and two emitters 3 operating in an alternating manner eliminates any risk of sunlight causing the system to fail to detect an obstruction. As discussed with respect to the window system, the 38 kHz bandpass filter in the integrated photocourt prevents the sunlight from being detected by the integrated photocouple 88. However, sunlight can still saturate the integrated photocouple 88. thereby preventing the integrated photo switch 88 from detecting the 38 kHz signal from the emitter 302. It uses two receivers 304 positioned so that sunlight can strike one of them at any given moment, the dual emitter / dual receiver system eliminates the effects of Sunlight An obstruction-free condition, F, for the upper tec 20, can be expressed as a logical equation: F = E1R1R2 +? 2R2R1 where El and E2 are the emitters 302 in, respectively, the left and right front corners and they have values of a logic while emitting the modulated signal of 38 kHz, and Rl and R2 s the receivers 304, respectively, in the front corners * right and left of the upper ceiling frame 306 and have values of 1 logical while receiving a modulated Khz signal. According to this equation, the upper roof 20 is free of obstructions when the left front emitter 3 (El) is emitting, the right front receiver 304 (Rl) is receiving, and the left front receiver 304 (R2) is not receiving, or when the right front emitter 302 (E2) is emitting, the left front receiver 304 (R2) is receiving, and the right front receiver 304 (R1) is not receiving This equation works well even when a receiver 304 is saturated by the sunlight and unable to receive a signal from a transmitter 30 For example, when the left front receiver 304 (R2) is saturated, R2 always has a value of logical 0 and the equation reduces to: F = E1R1. In this way, when a receiver 304 is saturated by the solar, the system of detection of obstructions of the upper tec still works. Because it does not require a cylindrical lens 80, the upper ceiling obstruction detection system is substantially less expensive than the window obstruction detection system. However, due to the conical nature of the beams produced by the emitters 302, the upper ceiling obstruction detection system is inadequate ? for use in a window. Moreover, due to the difficulties associated with the installation of the window system in a way that does not result in false detections caused by the driver's head or a passenger, the window obstruction detection system would be difficult to use in a higher tech . Although, as discussed above, the control of the upper tec 20 can be integrated into the system 44, the upper ceiling control 20 can also be implemented using separate system 312, as illustrated in FIG. 19. system 312 includes a control unit. control 314 receiving input from ignition switch 32, upper tec switch 28, rain sensor 34, heat sensor 36, l receivers 304, and a motor feedback signal processing unit 316. In response to these Inlet the control unit 312 operates the emitters 302 and a motor driver 318 which drives the upper roof motor 22.

As illustrated in Figure 20, the control unit 314 implements a main procedure 320. After initialization (step 322), if the ignition switch 32 is active (step 324), the control unit 314 carries out the procedure of running (step 326), and if the ignition switch 32 is inactive (step 324), the control unit 3 performs a parking procedure (step 328). Operations in the running procedure 3 (Figure 21) are based on the position of the upper tec switch 28, which may be in a closed position, an open position, or an inactive position. If the switch is in the closed position (step 330), the control unit carries out a procedure to close the upper roof (step 332) and return to the main procedure (step 332), control unit performs a procedure to open top roof 20 (step 336) and returns to the main procedure (step 334). If the switch 28 is in the inactive position the control unit 314 returns to the main procedure (pa 334). The upper roof 20 can be in an open position, a closed position or a ventilated position. When the upper roof 20 is in the closed position, setting the switch 28 to the open position will cause the upper roof 20 to move to the open position, and setting the switch 28 to the closed position will cause the upper roof 20 to move to the open position. ventilated position. When the upper roof 20 is in the open position, setting the switch 28 to the cer position will cause the upper roof 20 to move to the closed position. Finally, when the upper roof 20 is in the ventilated position, set the switch 28 to the closed position. opening position h that the upper roof 20 moves to the closed position. In the procedure to close the upper roof (figure 22), if the upper roof 20 is in the closed position (step 340), the unit 314 performs an ab ventilation procedure (step 342). If the upper roof 20 is not in the closed position (step 340), the control unit 314 performs a sliding closing procedure (step 344). After carrying out the procedure for opening vents (step 34 or the sliding closing procedure (step 344), the control unit 314 returns to the previous procedure (step 346) In the procedure for opening the upper roof 3 (figure 23) , if the upper roof 20 is in the ventilated position (step 348), the control unit 314 carries out the vent closure procedure (step 350) If the upper tec 20 is not in the ventilated position (step 348), control unit 314 performs a sliding aperture procedure (step 352) After carrying out the vent closing procedure (step 350) or the sliding aperture method (step 352), the control unit 314 returns the procedure previous (step 354).

In the slide closing procedure 344 (FIG. 24), the control unit 314 sets a small wave counter in an increment mode (step 346). The control unit 3 uses the small wave counter, which counts the current waves in the motor 22 and is supplied by the motor feedback signal processing unit 316, to detect that the upper ceiling 20 has reached a fully open position or completely ventilated. The control unit 314 also enables (step 348) a small wave interruption procedure 349 (FIG. 28) which uses the control unit 314 to increase or decrease the small wave counter each time one of them occurs, and to detect a obstruction in the upper roof path 2 After enabling small wave interruption 3 (step 348), the control unit 314 signals the mot exciter 318 to activate the motor 22 to close the upper roof (step 350) and determines whether the switch 28 was touched or pushed (step 352). If the switch 28 was pushed, this indicates that the manual closure was selected, and the control unit 3 allows the motor driver 318 to continue closing the upper tec 20 until the switch 28 is released (step 354) the upper roof 20 reaches the position completely closes (step 356). When either of these conditions occurs, control unit 314 signals the motor driver 318 to deactivate the motor 22 and stop the counter (step 358) before returning to the previous procedure (step 360). If switch 28 was touched, this indicates that it selected quick closing, and control unit 314 allows motor driver 318 to continue closing the upper roof until switch 28 is touched again (step 362), detects an obstruction (F = 0) (step 364) or the upper roof reaches the fully closed position (step 366). When switch 28 is touched again (step 362) or top ceiling 20 becomes completely closed (step 366), the unit (control 314 signals the motor driver 318 to deactivate motor 22 and stops the counter (step 358) before returning to the previous procedure (step 360.) When an obstruction is detected (step 364), control unit 314, after noting motor driver 318 to deactivate motor 22 and stop counter (step 368), performs the slider open procedure (step 352) In the process of opening air vents 342 (figure 25 control unit 314 sets the counter in an increment mode (step 370), enables interruption 349 (step 372), signals motor exciter 318 to deactivate motor 22 to drive upper roof 20 in the closing direction (step 374), and fi a ventilation flag internal indicating that the upper tec 20 is in the ventilated position and is automatically restored when the upper roof 20 reaches the fully closed position (step 376), then the control unit 314 determines whether the switch 28 was touched or puj (step 378). If the switch 28 was pushed, this indicates manual closing was selected, and the control unit 314 continues to close the upper roof 20 until the break 28 is released (step 380) or the counter indicates that the upper roof 20 e in the position Fully ventilated (step 382). When either of these conditions is met, the 318 motor control unit 318 will deactivate the motor 22 and stop 384) before returning to the pre procedure. If the switch 28 was touched, this indicates that it selected fast ventilation, and the control 314 perm to the motor driver 318 continue to ventilate the super roof 20 until the switch 28 is again touched (step 388) or counter indicates that the top roof 20 is in the fully ventilated position (step 390). When either of these conditions occurs, the control unit 314 signals the motor exciter 318 to deactivate the motor 22 and stop the counter (p 384) before returning to the previous procedure (step 386). In the sliding opening procedure 352 (fig 26), the control unit 314 sets the counter to a decrement mode (step 392), enables the interruption 349 (step 39 and signals the motor driver 318 to activate the motor 22 p to drive the top roof 20 in the open direction (step 39) Next, the control unit 314 determines whether the interrupt 28 was touched or pushed (step 398) If the interrupt 28 was pushed, this indicates that manual closing was selected, and the control unit 314 continues to close the upper ceiling 20 until the switch 28 is released (step 400) or the counter indicates that top roof 20 is in the fully open position (p 402) .When any of these conditions occurs, the control unit 314 signals the motor driver 318 to deactivate motor 22 and stops the counter (step 404) before returning the previous procedure (step 406) If the switch 28 was touched, this indicates that i selected quick opening, and the control unit 314 allows motor exciter 318 to continue to open the The upper ceiling until the switch 28 is touched again (step 408) or counter indicates that the upper roof 20 is in the fully open position (step 410). When anybody happens In these conditions, the control unit 314 signals the motor exciter 318 to deactivate the motor 22 and stop the counter (pa 404) before returning to the previous procedure (step 406). In the vent closing procedure 350 (FIG. 27), the control unit 314 sets the counter in a decrement mode (step 412), enables the interruption 349 (step 414 and signals the motor exciter 318 to activate the motor 22 pa driving the upper roof 20 in the opening direction (closes the upper roof 20 of the ventilated position) (step 416) Next, the control unit 314 determines whether the interrupt 28 was touched or pushed (step 418). interrupt 28, this indicates that the manual closure was selected, and the control unit 314 allows the motor driver 318 to continue closing the upper roof 20 until the interrupter 28 is released (step 420) or the upper ceiling 20 reaches the position completely closed (step 422) When any of these conditions occur, the control unit 314 signals the motor exciter 318 to deactivate the motor 22 and stops the counter (p i 424) before returning to the previous procedure (step 426). the switch was touched 28, this indicates that you selected quick closure, and the control unit 314 continues to close the upper roof 20 until the switch 28 is again touched (step 428), the upper roof 20 reaches fully closed position (step 430), or the interruption sets a stop flag after detecting by pressure obstruction (step 432). When the interrupt 28 is again touched (step 428), or the upper roof 20 becomes completely closed (step 430), the control unit 314 signals the motor excitation 318 to deactivate the motor 22 and stop the counter (p 424 ) before returning to the previous procedure (step 42) When the interrupt 349 sets the stop flag (step 43 indicating that an obstruction is present in the path of the upper ceiling 20, the control unit 314 responds performs the procedure of opening vent (step 342) The interrupt 349 (Fig. 28), when enabled, is called by the control unit 314 each time a small wave is detected by the motor feedback signal processing unit 316. Depending on whether the counter is in an increase or decrease mode (step 434), control unit 314 increases (step 436) or decrements (pa 438) the counter. Next, the control unit 314 calculates the small wave frequency present (step 440) based on time that has elapsed since the last time the 349 interrupt was called. If the small wave frequency is less than the small wave frequency since the interruption 349 is previously called by more than a predetermined amount of threshold (step 442), this indicates that the motor 22 is encountering increased resistance, such as that caused by or obstruction in the path of the upper ceiling 20, and the control 314 responds by setting the stop flag (step 444) by returning to the previous procedure (step 446). In the parking procedure 328, the control unit 314 initiates a thirty second timer (pa 448) and waits for an occupant of the automobile 10 to press the button 28 to deactivate the security lock (step 450) or for the timer to expire (step 452). If timer expires, control unit 314 performs a top-roof security lock 20 (step 454), initiates another thirty-second timer (step 456), and waits for a car occupant to press button 28 to activate opening by heat and closing * by rain (step 458) or for the timer to expire (p 460). If the timer expires, the control unit 314 turns off (step 462) and waits to be reactivated by the ignition switch activation 32. If an occupant of the automobile 10 presses the switch 28 to deactivate the safety lock (step 450) op activate heat opening and rain closure (step 458), control unit 314 responds by making the alarm 58 its once (step 464). The control unit 314 then wait * an occupant of the automobile 10 presses the switch 28 p to indicate that the upper roof 20 must be opened by compl during the heat opening (step 466) or for the timer to expire (step 468). If the switch 28 is depressed, control unit 314 causes alarm 58 to sound once (p 470) and sets the mode for opening by heat to open totalme (step 472). If the timer expires, control unit 3 sets the mode for opening by heat to partially open (p 474). Subsequently, the control unit 314 is turned off and is to be reactivated by a rain sensor signal 34 or temperature sensor 36, or by the ignition of the ignition switch 32. With reference to FIG. 30, an alternative system 1010 includes a electromagnetic energy signal transmitter 1012, a laser signal receiver 1014, a signal detection unit 1016, a signal amplifier 1018, a control unit 1020, a ventilation element power unit 1022, a ventilation element 1024 , a signal modulation unit 1026, and a laser driver unit 1028. Electromagnetic energy signal transmitter 1012 is a low power laser, such as a laser diode operating on the visible light beam. Alternatively, infrared diodes or other light diodes can be used. Low-power laser sources have minimal impact on the human eye and safety reasons are preferred. The following descriptions, including visible light lasers, may alternatively include ot signal sources of electromagnetic energy that produce, for example, ultraviolet light or infrared light. In operation, the obstructions 1030 entering path 1032 of the laser beam cause interruptions in the laser beam signal received by the receiver 1014. This interruptions are detected by the detection unit 1016 transmits a detection signal to the control unit 1020. unit control 1020 commands the ventilation element 1022 power unit to respond accordingly. The ventilation element power unit 1022 can cause ventilation element 1024 to stop movement, and then move in the reverse direction. The signal modulation unit 1026 is connected to the control unit 1020 p to improve the operation through feedback control The modulation unit 1026 preferably provides modulation of amplitude, frequency or phase of the signal, and unit of modulation. detection 1016 detects modulated signals through the use of bandpass filters or the like. The control unit may include a microprocessor controller that performs low frequency modulation detection, amplitude modulation detection, pulse code modulation detection, and provides feedback to the signal modulation unit. As shown in Fig. 31, the vent element may be a window 1024 associated with a door of the vehicle 1033. The closing path 1042 is defined p the upper edge 1035 of the door 1033 and the edges 1038, 104 1041 of the frame 1024. window. The transmitter 1012 and the receiver 10 are placed together as a single transmitter / receiver unit 1050, and the mirrors 1034, 1036 are positioned to direct the laser energy beam along straight edges adjacent to 1038, 1040. As shown. in figure 32, the ventilation element can also be a top roof 1024 'inside a vehicle roof 1027. The mirrors 1046, 1048 are positioned to direct the laser signal along the curved edge 1044. The front edge 1045 of the roof upper 1024 together with the upper roof opening defines the closing path 1042 '. Figure 33 shows the laser beam 1052 of the invention when being transmitted from the transmitter 1012, reflected from the mirrors 1036 and 1034 and returned to the receiver 1014. Alternatively, the laser beam 1052 can be transmitted along the edges 1038 and 1040, then returned duplicated along the edge 1040 and finally along the edge 1038. In the case where the ventilation element is a transparent window, the laser energy beam 1052 will pass through the ventilation element without causing the detection unit to detect an obstruction. In this way, the energy signal follows a path that is intersected by two or m edges 1054 of the ventilation element when the ventilation element crosses the closing path. In alternative approaches involving opaque ventilation elements, the beam must follow a path that does not intersect the ventilation element when traversing the closing path. In this case the trajectory of the laser beam must be substantially parallel plane defined by the ventilation element. Preferably such a path is adjacent to the interior surface of the ventilation element unlike the external surface which is exposed to the exterior environment of the vehicle. Variations of temperature, as well as prolonged vibration, can cause misalignment of the energy beam. Two adjustments that can partially alleviate the effects of t misalignment are to increase the sensitivity of the receiver 10 and allow the energy beam 1052 to diverge when traveling from the transmitter. 1012 to the receiver 1014. Preferably, the energy beam is diverged such that the cross-sectional diameter of the energy beam is considerably greater at the receiver than the surface area of the receiving surface 1013 (shown in FIG. 35) of the receiver 1014. Join All the components of the vehicle are also firmly reduced, as well as the problems of ma alignment. Ambient energy signals, such as light 105 may interfere with the obstruction detection system as shown in Figure 34. If, for example, sunlight 1056 saturates the 1014 receiver, then no obstructions will be detected unless discrimination is made between the environmental signal 1056 and the energy signal 1052 from the transmission 1012. A discrimination unit 1600, such as a len 1058, a polarization filter 1060, and pass-through filters 1062, are shown in FIG. Figure 35. The lens 1058 focuses the laser 1032 which is substantially perpendicular to the lens while deflecting the ambient light 1056 which is substantially parallel to the lens 1058 away from the focal point of the lens. The polarization filter 1060 operates in cooperation with another polarization filt 1064 (shown in FIG. 36) in the transmission 1012 to further distinguish the transmitted energy beam from the environmental signals. The 1062 filters maximize transmission of the laser signal and minimize the transmission of ambient signals through absorption. The transmission of laser light is maximized at its central wavelength corresponding to the length of on of the laser light. If, for example, the laser light operates at 6 nanometers, then the filters can be selected to provide transmission of only red light (approximately 620 700 nm). Certain lenses and filters can be combined in single color lens. As shown in Figure 36, the system may also include a blind configuration 1066 for shading either the transmitter, the receiver or both, of the environmental signals 1056. The lens unit 1065 includes color polarization lens as well as the 1058 lens pa focus the beam at a focal point that matches the receiving surface 1013 of the receiver 1014. As discussed in relation to Figure 30, system includes a signal modulation unit 1026 pa to modulate the amplitude, frequency, phase or the transmitted signal energy pulse of the transmitter. Moreover, the signal may suffer a combination of modulations, such as high frequency (100 kHz) / low frequency pulse modulation (10 kHz as shown in figure 37, or pulse modulation of the frequency / low frequency, such as 38 is shown in FIG. 38. With reference to FIG. 37, the signal 1800 undergoes a low frequency pulse modulation having a TI period thus co-modulation of high frequency having a period T2.

Alternate amplitude between Al and A2. The detection unit to detect the 1800 signal must include two bandpass frequency filters: one for each of the frequencies l / Tl and 1 / T With reference to Figure 38, the signal 1900 undergoes high frequency modulation of period T4, as well as low frequency modulation of period T4, which ranges from an amplitude of ± A3 to ± A4. The detection unit for detecting the signal 19 must include a frequency filter 1 / T3, a frequency filter 1 / T4, as well as an amplitude filter to detect the modulations of periodic amplitude. Pulse modulations may also be employed to discriminate between the transmitted signal and the ambient signals. As shown in FIG. 39, the transmitter emits a predetermined pulse being 1950 which will receive the transmitter 1952 as long as there is no obstruction in the closing path. The detection unit is synchronized to detect if the receiver received the correct signal. The correct signal is defined co including three or more short pulses of period T5 followed by a series of longer pulses of period T6. Here, the system requires that a series of pulses at predetermined intervals be detected in order to distinguish the transmitted signal from the blinking environmental signals. A flashing ambien signal can be the result of the vehicle passing tree that are placed between the vehicle and the sun. Returning to figure 39, at time tb the closing operation is started until an obstruction is detected by the detection unit. If and when an obstruction is detected, the system responds as described above. As shown in Figure 40, signal discrimination can be achieved by using another signal receiver 1068 to receive only environmental signals. The signal detection unit 1016 would be based on the output of the environmental signal receptacle 1068 as a reference. In operation, the analog output of the receiver 1014 is measured with respect to the positive output of the receiver 1068 instead of being measured with respect to ground. Alternatively, the control unit 1020 may include a microprocessor to digitize the respective outputs of the receivers 1014 and 1068. The output of the receiver 10 may then be subtracted from the output of the receiver 1014 p the microprocessor. The system may also include a cylindrical lens 1070 to diverge the laser energy signal as it is emitted from transmitter 1072 as shown in Figure 41. The laser energy signal is thus diverged to a substantial light beam 1074, any portion 1074 ' from which an obstruction 1076 may be reflected. This reflection of the signal 1074 'detected by the signal receiver 1078 through the filtered lens 1080. In this case, the detection of an unusually bright reflection corresponds to the detection of or obstruction and the system respond accordingly.

As shown in Figure 42, numerous receiver units 1082a-f are positioned adjacent transmitter 1072 to diverging lens 1070. Each receiver / lens unit 10 includes a receiver 1014 similar to that shown in Figure 30, a filter lens unit. 1065 similar to that shown in Figure 36. With reference to Figures 43 and 44, the multiple receiver units 1082a-f together with the emitter 1072 and the divergent len 1070 (unit 1073) are packaged as a single transmitter / receiver unit 1084. and positioned adjacent to the closing path of an automated vent 1024. In alternative approaches, various transmitter / receiver units 1086a may be placed along one or more edges of a closing path, as shown in FIG. 45. Preferably such units are pre-packaged in a single strip 1088 that is attached to the window frame of the vehicle. In another approach, the system includes a 1090 fiber optic waveguide having triangular notches 1092a-f cut as shown in Figure 46. In operation, the laser beam would be transmitted to the 1090 waveguide., and the l would escape through several notches 1092, thus producing a substantially flat h 1094. The receiver may be placed at the opposite end of the fiber optic waveguide or adjacent to the transmitter. In this latter situation, the waveguide includes a mirror 1096 placed at the opposite end of the waveguide. Again, the presence of an unusually bright signal in the receiver is typically indicative of an obstruction in the closing path. In other approaches of the invention, the ventilation element includes a transmitter, receiver or guide to or connected to transmit the energy signal of a transmitter. Still further approaches, the ventilation element my may comprise a flat waveguide to transmit the energy se. A concern associated with systems incorporating divergent devices is that reflection of the energy beam, for example, from the interior roof of a car, can produce a false detection signal if excess light is reflected. Consequently, the detection and control units of such systems would also detect and correct excessive levels of reflection that remain constant. As shown in Fig. 47, a bidirectional transmitter / receiver unit 1000 comprises a 1100 emitter, an emitter lens 1102, a light splitter 1104 at 45 °, a parallel focus lens 1106, a flat cylindrical lens, positi 1108, a receiver lens 1110, and a signal receiver 1112. output of signal receiver 1112 is amplified by the alternating current amplifier 1114 and the continuous current amplifier 1116. The ventilation control unit 1118 controls the movement of the ventilation element 1024 which responds to the output of the DC amplifier 1116. A output * of the ventilation control unit 1118 is fed back to the modulation unit 1120 which corrects the synchronization and other inconsistencies that are within the acceptable variation range. If, for example, a modulation of a frequency of 25 Khz is carried out on the transmitted signal and the received signal has a low frequency modulation of Khz, then the detection unit will not report an error p the received signal is within an acceptable range (25 ± 5 Khz * The modulation unit will correct the transmitted signal to return it to 25 kHz. Alternatively, the cont unit can register the 30 kHz modulation and measure changes from this new base. The bidirectional transmitter / receiver unit 10 operates as follows. The transmitted light from the transmitter 1100 focused by the lens 1102 and passes through the splitter 1104. The light is then focused by the lens 1106 and diverged by the cylindrical lens 1108 to a substantially flat beam 112. If the light reflects from an obstruction 1124. , then the reflected l 1122 'will pass back through the cylindrical lens 1108, through the lens 1106 and will be divided by the beam splitter 1104. A portion of this light will be refracted to beam splitter and a portion will be reflected by the splitter make. The reflected portion is directed towards the photosensitive receiving surface of the receiver 1110. If excessive bright light is received for a prolonged period of time (t * as caused by the light reflected from the interior ceiling or by the sun visor), The control unit can adjust and measure variations of the increased level of brightness As shown in figure 48, an environment, such as the interior of a car, can include ambient reflection 1122. Such reflection can be produced by the internal ceiling of the car. an automobile 1126. The environmental reflection 1122"interfered with the reflection 1122" of the object 1124 and will flood the receiver with the unit 1000 with reflected light 1122 'and 1122. "The system of differentiating between object detection reflection 1122' and environmental reflection 1122. " The system achieves this differentiation by using the feedback control mentioned above. In general, environmental reflection 1122"does not change rapidly as the reflection of object 1122. The system employs numerous modulation techniques, as described above, to detect variations in reflected light by object 1122 'c with respect to reflection. Stable Environmental State 1122 This feedback provides the system with desirable failsafe aspects.Referring to Figure 49, another 2010 alternative obstruction detection system for a vehicle window uses a pair of transducers, the 2012 transmitter and the 2014 receiver. Transmitter 2012 includes a transmitter 2016 emits a narrow beam 2018 energy that can be soni ultrasound, infrared or light, for example.This beam is received by the sensor 2020 in the receiver 2014. The transmitting generator circuit 2022 energizes the transmitter 2012 to emit 2018. To improve the rejection of noise, modulation circuit 2024 can be provided to modulate the 2018 beam. The transmitter generator 2022 is also supplied to the amplifier and the bandpass filter circuit 2026 so that any necessary modulation detection can be achieved. If an obstacle 2028 interferes and obstructs the 2018, it is detected by the sensor 2030 and control 2032 is supplied, which then interrupts the power to the window exciter 2034. In order to efficiently provide a beam pa to monitor the non-linear edge of the window 2040 2030 on door 2036, FIG. 50, having a rectilinear shape of straight edges 2042 and 2044 joined at apex 2046, three transducers 2048, 2050 and 2052 are used. The transducers 2048, 20 and 2052 are mounted on the 2055 section of the frame 2054 that received the edge 2040 of the window 2038. The transducer 2050 is the opposite transducer ti than the transducers 2048 and 2052. This way, if the 2050 transducer is a transmitter, l transducers 2048 and 2054 are receivers. Conversely, if transmitter 2050 near intermediate portion 2046 is a receiver, then transducers 2048 and 2052 at the terminal portions 2056 and 2058 of edge 2040 are transmitters. In this form, a beam conforming closely to the contour of the window bo 2040 can be achieved with a minimum number of transducers. Typically the transmitters and receivers for use with infrared are the infrared emitter C0X14GE, the phototra infrared sistor L14C2GE; the ultrasonic ones are the P9923 ceramic ultrasonic transduct, the P9934 ceramic ultrasonic microphone; of sound are the P9922 audio transducer, the P9956 electric condenser microphone; of lasers are the diodes P451, the phototransistor BPW38GE; and of light are the emitter of l P374, the phototransistor PN116PA. A similar construction is shown with respect to upper roof 2057, Figure 51, where the roof panel 202a has terminal portions 2056a and 2058a and the intermediate portion 2046a. In situations where the 2050 transducer is a receiver, there is a need to prevent a blind spot from occurring c which a finger or other small object can be squeezed between -A apex or intermediate portion 2046 of the window 2038, figure 50, the par-angle 2047 of the section 2055, where transducer 2050 is located. In that case a receiver 2050 ', figure 5 having a single sensor 2060, which is generally of wide angle, can be used so that the smallest finger or similar objec need necessarily interfere with beam 2018 ', 2018 even in its convergence at sensor 2060. Such receiver is PN127-NPN phototransistor. Alternatively, a receiver 2050", figure 53, can - ¬ »Eon the transmitter 2082. Alternatively, the band pa filter 2096, FIG. 59, can be used to analyze from receiver 2084 all frequencies of light, sound or other energy beam, except the particular one, except the originally contained one. in beam 2080. This would of course not prevent the effect of diverted h 2080 'because it would have the same frequency as beam 2080 because it is derived from that beam. However, with additional improvement of the transmitter or receiver construction, such effect * can be eliminated. The blind 2092 as well as the blind 209 may be used in conjunction with the filter 2096. In another approach, a dual channel system 2100, FIG. 60, may be used where channel A includes transmitter 208 transmitting beam 2080a to receiver 2084a. . The channel is inverted with respect to channel A so that transmission 2082b is close to receiver 2084a and receiver 2084b is close to transmitter 2082a. This is done so that if environmental energy hits the receiver 2084a, it is improbable that it may also impact the receiver 2084b, since receiver 2084b is in the opposite direction of the receiver 2084. When an obstacle 2086 is present, it is possible that the h 2080a can collide in the obstacle 2086, as indicated in 2080 and be reflected as is also indicated throughout 2080 so that it will collide with the receiver 2084b. The same would happen with respect to the beam 2080b, whereby the beam 208Obb would be reflected to the receiver 2084a. To prevent this crossing between the channels, they are sufficiently small facts, about 1/4 inch or less, so that each receives a portion of the beam 2018 ', 2018", but the space 2062 between the sensors 2060' and 2060"is made sufficiently small so that even the smallest object to be detected overlaps and blocks one or the other sensors 2060 'and 2060" and provides the necessary interruption of the beam 2018', 2018"so that the 2032 control stops the excitation of window 2034. T device is AEM (automobile environmental management system) of Prospects Corporation. Either the transducer 2050, FIG. 50, is a transmitter or a receiver, it can be constructed as shown in FIG. 54, where the transducer 2050"has two sensors 206 2064 that can also be emitters, and a switch or cuber 2066 that is biased by the spring 2068 away from the sensors the emitters 2062, 2064 in the normal condition However, when for example a advancing window edge pushes a against the switch 2066, it will be moved against the spring force 2068 until it covers sensors 2062 and 2064, by interrupting beams 2018 'and 2018", causing an indication of the presence of an obstacle and causing control 2032 to stop window excitation 2034. Such a device is an AEM system from Prospects Corporation. In any corner situation where an obstruction may be so small as not to block the transmitter or receiver, the transmitter or receiver 2070, FIG. 55, could be assembled in conjunction with a cam surface 2072 to guide a finger 2074 toward the transistor or receiver. , propels by the advancing window edge 2076 until finger 2074 compelled to block beam 2018. Receiver 2070 may be about 1/4 inch or less in diameter and surface 2072 may have a radius that varies from 3 at 30 inches. Often when a beam 2080, FIG. 56, is transmitted from the transmitter 2082 to the receiver 2084, the presence of an obstacle 2086 may not be detected due to environmental noise. For example, if the beam 2080 is a beam of lu then the ambient light of the sun 2088 may be such overshoot or saturate the receiver 2084 so that even if the h 2080 is completely blocked by the obstacle 2086, the 2084 receptacle receives sufficient light so that does not provide indication that an obstruction has occurred. The same type of interference may occur when the beam of the transmitter 2082 itself deviated as the beam 2080 ', FIG. 57, from a surrounding surface 2090, so that the receiver 2084 does not detect the presence of an obstacle 2086. This can be remedied in various forms of agreement with this invention. As shown in Fig. 58, the receptacle 2084 may be provided with a blind 2092 that blocks not the sun's rays 2088, but also the deflected beam 2080 '. similar shutter 2094 can be used in a mount * beam 2080a and beam 2080b are selected to have d different frequencies such as 20 and 70 kHz. The receivers are therefore tuned to different frequencies and one can interfere with the other. Alternatively, as shown in Figure 6, a dual channel system can be constructed in which the channel and the B channel provide energy beams 2080c and 208Od of same frequency, but their operation is sequenced or multiplexed so that a single beam is active at any given moment. Of is * way, transmitter 2082c sends a series of pulses 2082c figure 62, which are received by receiver 2084c by being pulses 2084cc. Any difference between the received pulses 2084cc and the transmitted pulses 2082cc is an indication that an obstacle has been detected. The periods between the pulses, shown sketched in 2083cc, are ignored because during these periods transmitter 2082d is generating pulses 2082dd and receiver 2084d is receiving a similar series of pulses 2084dd. The sketched areas indicated at 2085dd are the periods during which the 2084d receiver is ignored, as they are occurring during the 2082cc, 2084cc pulses period. The synchronization diagram, figure 62, also shows the fail-safe detection diagnostic operations. The active time period ant of timeline 2102 indicates the time interval of active detection fail-safe. Before the operation * closing of vents, an inactive / active diagnostic signal is sent from the transmitter. The receiver must correspondingly receive the same signal pattern as the supervised one for the processor 2120. Otherwise, a warning message is generated by the processor 2120 and automatic closing operation of the vents is blocked. This can be achieved by using the main controller such as the microprocessor 2120, FIG. 63, which drives the switch control 2122, operates the switch 2124 to connect the transmitter generator 2022, FIG. 49, to the switch 2124, and selects which of the transmitters. 2082c and 2082d is activated in the alternate sequence. A second switch 2126 can be used, also monitored by switch control 2122, so that the receiver circuits 2026, 2030, 2032 will not even see the signal of the other channel. switch 2126 can also be used under the control of microprocessor 2120, so that if an obstruction is indicated on one of the channels and not on the other, indicating that a can is giving false readings, the switch 2126 can simply be connected continuously to the channel still worthy of credit so that only the outputs of that channel are processed to determine if a true obstruction has occurred. Other embodiments are within the following claims.

Claims

* NOVELTY OF THE INVENTION CLAIMS 1. Apparatus for closing a ventilated p energy inside an opening, the vent including a closing edge pri that moves when closing the vent and the opening including a second closing edge that makes contact with the first closing edge when the The ventilator is in a fully closed position, the apparatus comprising: a detector configured to detect an obstruction at all points along the second closing edge s require contact between the obstruction and the ventilator and pa produce a detection signal when a detection is detected. obstruction, and a controller connected to the detector to receive detection signal and produce a corresponding alarm signal. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the detector produces the detection signal in response to an increase in the energy received in the detector. 3. The apparatus of claim 2, further comprising an emitter that emits energy, and wherein the detector produces the detection signal in response to an increase in a reflected portion of the energy received by the detector. 4. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the detection means has a characteristic representing the intensity of the received energy. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the detector produces pulses having durations related to the intensity of the energy received by the detector, and where the detector produces the detection signal when the pulse duration exceeds a predetermined value. 6. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein detector produces pulses having durations related to * intensity of the energy received by the detector, and where detector produces the detection signal when the durations a predetermined number of consecutive pulses exceed the predetermined value. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the detector and the emitter comprise an integral unit. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the detector and the emitter share a common lens. 9. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising initialization means for storing an indicative value of an opening free of obstructions. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a second detector configured to detect or obstruct at any point along the second closing edge without requiring contact between the obstruction and the vent to produce a second detection signal when an obstruction is detected . The apparatus of claim 10, further comprising: a first emitter positioned to emit a first energy signal to the first detector, and a second emitter placed to emit a second energy signal to the second detector, where the emitters first and second produce the first and second energy signals in an alternating form, where the controller is connected to the second detector and produces the alarm signal in response to the first or second detection signals. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein: when the first emitter is emitting the first energy signal, the first detector produces the first energy signal in response to a reduction in the energy received at the first detector, and the second detector produces the second detection signal in response to a reduction in the energy received in the second detector; and when the second emitter is emitting the second energy signal, the first detector produces the first detection signal in response to an increase in the energy received by the first detector, and the second detector produces the second detection signal in response to an increase in the energy received in the second detector. 13. Apparatus for closing an impulse ventilated p-11- $ energy within an opening, comprising: a first detector configured to detect or obstruct within the opening without requiring contact between obstruction and the vent and to produce a first detection signal when detects an obstruction, a second detector configured to detect or obstruct within the opening without requiring contact between obstruction and the vent and to produce a second detection signal when an obstruction is detected, and a controller connected to the first second detectors to combine the first detection signals and according to producing a combined detection signal and producing a corresponding alarm signal in response to the combined detection signal. 14. The apparatus of claim 13, further comprising: a first emitter positioned to emit a first power signal to the first detector, and a second emitter positioned to emit a second power signal to the second detector. 15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the first and second emitters alternately emit the first and second energy signals. 16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein: when the first emitter is emitting the first energy signal, the first detector produces the response detection signal to a reduction in the energy received in the first detector, and the second detector produces the detection signal responds to a reduction in the energy received in the detector follow; and when the second emitter is emitting the next energy signal, the first detector produces the detection signal in response to an increase in the energy received by the first detector, and the second detector produces the detection signal in response to an increase in the received energy the second detector. 17. Apparatus for producing a signal when obstruction is present in an opening of an automobile from which an energy-driven ventilator is being closed, comprising an emitter that emits a fan-shaped energy curtain within the aperture. The apparatus of claim 17, further comprising: a detector that receives at least one power curtain portion and is configured to detect an obstruction in the opening without requiring contact between the obstruction and venting and to produce a detection signal when an obstruction is detected, and a controller connected to the detector to receive detection signal and produce a corresponding alarm signal. 19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein detector produces the detection signal in response to an increase in the energy received in the detector. 20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the detection signal has a characteristic representing the intensity of the received energy. The apparatus of claim 20, wherein detector produces pulses having durations related to intensity of the energy received by the detector, and where detector produces the detection signal when the pulse duration exceeds a predetermined value. The apparatus of claim 20, wherein the detector produces pulses having durations related to the intensity of the energy received by the detector, and where the detector produces the detection signal when the durations a predetermined number of consecutive pulses exceed the predetermined value. 23. The apparatus of claims 21 or 22, wherein the predetermined value is related to the pulse duration when an obstruction is not present. 24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the predetermined value is related to the average duration of the pulses produced when an obstruction is not present and vent moves between an open position and a closed position. 25. The apparatus of claim 24, wherein the predetermined value includes, a correction factor that takes into account variations in the duration of the pulses produced when an obstruction is present. 26. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the predetermined value varies based on the position of the vent. 27. Apparatus for closing a ventilated impulse p energy within an aperture, comprising a detect placed to detect an obstruction in the aperture by receiving energy reflected from the obstruction, detecting producing pulses that have durations related to intensity of the received energy by the detector. 28. The apparatus of claim 27, wherein detector produces the detection signal when the duration of minus one pulse exceeds a predetermined value. 29. The apparatus of claim 28, wherein detector produces the detection signal when the durations a predetermined number of consecutive pulses exceed the predetermined value. 30. The apparatus of claim 28, wherein the predetermined value is related to the duration of a pulse when no obstruction is present. 31. The apparatus of claim 30, wherein the predetermined value is related to the average duration pulses produced when no obstruction is present the vent moves between an open position and a closed position. 32. The apparatus of claim 31, wherein the predetermined value includes a correction factor that takes into account variations in the duration of pulses produced when no obstruction is present. 33. The apparatus of claim 30, wherein the val ? default varies based on the position of the vent. 34. Apparatus for controlling power windows of an automobile, comprising: driver control switches accessible in the driver's position, separate passenger control switches accessible in a passenger position, and microprocessor control circuitry to respond to the operation of the driver and passenger control switches to control the power-driven windows, the microprocessor control circuitry is programmable in response to the driver and programmable control switches separately in response to the passenger control switches. 36. The apparatus of claim 34, further comprising additional passenger control switches located in two additional passenger positions. 37. The apparatus of claim 36, comprising a closing switch in the driver's position, wherein microprocessor control circuitry ignores the operation of the additional passenger control switches response to the closing switch. 38. A method for closing a ventilated p-energy within an opening, comprising: (activating the vent with a manual actuator or automatic actuator, detecting an obstruction in the opening without requiring contact between the obstruction and the vent, producing a signal of detection when detected or obstructed, and when the ventilator has been activated by automatic activation, respond to the detection signal by deactivating ventilation, when the ventilator has been activated by manual activation, ignore the detection signal. conditioning a vehicle to reduce pressure build-up when a vehicle door is closed, which comprises automatically opening a power-driven vent in response to the opening of the door 40. The method of claim 39, further comprising initiating the automatic closing of the vehicle. the ventilated p * energy in response to all doors being closed 41. The method of claim 40, wherein the energy-driven venti is located within an aperture, further comprising, after initiating the automatic closing of the power-driven ventilator: monitoring the aperture to determine if there is or obstruction in the aperture, and opening the vent Powered by energy when it detects an obstruction. 42. The method of claim 41, wherein obstruction is detected without requiring contact between the obstruction and the vent. 43. The method of claim 39, wherein the vehicle has two front windows and two rear windows and where the fan driven by open energy in response to the opening of the door is a rear window. 44. The method of claim 43, wherein the rear windows are opened in response to opening the door. IN WITNESS WHEREOVER, I sign the above, in Mexico City, D.F., on the 17th day of March, 1994. By PROSPECTS CORPORATION