Patent ID: 7547058
Filing Date: 2009-06-16
Classification: B60J,E05F,E05Y

Abstract:
1. A system for operating an automotive liftgate, comprising: at least one telescopic strut adapted to be positioned between a liftgate and an adjacent door opening panel; a motor drive adapted for positioning a liftgate, with said motor drive comprising: a motor; an actuator powered by the motor, with said actuator being interposed between the motor and a liftgate, wherein said actuator comprises a lead screw driven by said motor, and an actuator sensor having an encoder for counting the revolutions of said lead screw; a clutch interposed between the motor and the actuator; and a controller, connected with said clutch, said motor, and said actuator sensor, for operating said motor and said clutch, with said controller commanding the motor drive to place the liftgate in a predetermined position in the event that said actuator sensor detects unintended movement of the liftgate.