Device for detecting collisions and method

The column has motor movable parts (31) moved relative to a residual furniture. A recognition device recognizes collisions of the movable parts with an obstacle and an automatic propulsion mechanism to move the movable parts. A controlling unit controls the automatic propulsion mechanism, and a sensor (4) i.e. collision sensor, transmits the collision during the movement of the movable parts with the obstacle. The sensor includes a force-sensitive sensor (41), where a control signal is generated dependent on a conductivity value of the force-sensitive sensor. The force-sensitive sensor comprises a conductor layer and a matrix that is made of conductive and non-conductive material. The column is with foam material and/or an elastomer. An independent claim is also included for a method for controlling an automatic movement of a movable portion in a furniture column.