Continental introduces smart doors for autonomous vehicles

Continental has introduced an intelligent door brake system and smart autonomous door support system that is intended to support convenient opening and closing operations and avoiding uncontrolled slamming. The obstacle detection function has been designed to prevent dents and paint scratches in traffic scenarios.

According to Continental, the smart autonomous door system will aid automated driving as driverless vehicles must be able to open and close their doors even without operators or door handles to deal with different practical situations and allow passengers to get in and out conveniently. Thanks to its advanced functions, Continental’s intelligent door system has been recognized as a CES 2019 Innovation Award honoree in the Vehicle Intelligence and Self-Driving Technology category. 

Johann Hiebl, head of Continental body and security business unit, said, “By means of its connection with our passive start and entry system (PASE), the vehicle doors open automatically and contact-free at the right time. They also recognise the respective user and open on the right side.”

The smart autonomous door is in continuous communication with the integrated static obstacle detection. If the sensors identify a stationary obstacle, then the intelligent door automatically stops the opening process. In the assistant mode, the system makes the door easier to operate by reducing the amount of physical effort required and allowing for any opening angle. This significantly increases convenience when the vehicle is on an incline. The door no longer slams shut and can be opened or closed in an uphill position by the assistant function without requiring additional physical effort. This makes it easier for children and the elderly to operate vehicle doors. Optional functions such as adjustable door speed, slam protection and end position damping can further increase convenience and relieve pressure on the door and chassis mechanisms.

Continental claims that the intelligent door supports smooth opening in any position without snapping into place at all. Despite this, the door can be stopped securely in any position desired by the intelligent control system. Using static obstacle detection, Continental claims that it reliably prevents a potential collision by immediately stopping the process of opening the door if an obstacle is identified.