Coburg
Convenience is always treandy: capactive switch from Brose a big success
The capacitive liftgate switch makes loading and unloading of vehicles even more convenient. In conjunction with the keyless entry function, a simple foot movement is all that's needed for the lid to open by itself.
Just six months after its premiere at the IAA 2009, the capacitive switch from Brose, permitting hands-free opening of liftgates and trunk lids, is becoming a trend: two vehicle manufacturers will in future be fitting a total of eight of their models with this function. The new solution makes loading and unloading even more convenient, since a simple foot movement is all that's needed to open the trunk.
A capacitive sensor below the bumper responds to a simple foot movement and passes this information to the keyless entry control unit in the vehicle. This checks the key holder's authority, and transmits the signal to the trunk lid control unit to automatically open the lid. Nuisance factors such as moisture on the bumper or passers-by who approach the vehicle do not affect operation.
With this development, Brose is able to offer automobile manufacturers a complete convenience package for luggage compartment management: from the lock with closing aid, the liftgate actuator including anti-trapping device, and the power cargo floor with luggage compartment cover to capacitive switches for hands-free opening.