Non-contact obstacle detection system utilizing ultra sensitive capacitive sensing

摘要

A non-contact obstacle detection system (210) utilizing ultra sensitive capacitive techniques. In an exemplary embodiment, the system includes a sensing element (212) disposed in proximity to a moveable panel and a proximity detection circuit (222) in communication with the sensing element. The proximity detection circuit generates a differential output signal reflective of whether a foreign object is in proximity to the sensing element. In addition, a central control module (226) is in communication with the sensing element. The central control module determines whether the differential output signal is reflective of a foreign object in proximity to the sensing element. If the central control module determines that the differential output signal is reflective of a foreign object in proximity to the sensing element, and the moveable panel is moving toward a closed position, then the central control module generates a control output signal to stop the moveable panel from moving toward the closed position.