DE102016211495A1 - Control device for a motor vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a control device (1) for a motor vehicle (10), having a sensor unit (2) which is adapted to contactlessly detect an object (30) in a sensor region (22), and a control unit (3) is configured to generate a first control signal for at least one actuator (5, 6) of the motor vehicle (10) as a function of the detected object (30). In order to improve the reliability and user-friendliness of a control device of a motor vehicle with non-contact sensor technology, it is provided according to the invention that the control device (1) has a projector unit (4) which is configured to project a light pattern (23) which comprises at least a part of the Sensor area (22) marked.

Description

The invention relates to a control device for a motor vehicle, having the features of the preamble of claim 1, with a sensor unit, which is adapted to contactlessly detect an object in a sensor area, and a control unit, which is set up in dependence on the detected object to generate a first control signal for at least one actuator of the motor vehicle.

In many modern motor vehicles, it is possible to control various functions without contact, i. without the driver or user having to make direct physical contact with the vehicle or the component to be operated. This includes, for example, non-contact ignition lock systems, the unlocking of the vehicle by approaching a coded smartphone and other. Another such non-contact system assists the user in opening the tailgate. A sensor monitors an area below the tailgate. If the user does not have a free hand, he can in the appropriate area, for example. With the foot perform a passing movement, which is detected by the sensor and detected by a coupled thereon electronics. Then the tailgate is opened by means of a corresponding actuator.

The problem is that the user in such systems, which are normally invisible, for example, working with infrared, or ultrasonic or capacitive proximity sensors, can not detect how large the detection range of the respective sensor. This can lead to the user, for example, performing the correct movement, but in an area where this can not be detected by the sensor. The user only notices in this case that the desired action (opening the boot lid or the like) has not been carried out. However, he does not know why this is because as possible sources of error also, for example, a faulty execution of the movement, a vehicle-side malfunction or other factors could be considered. This uncertainty exists in particular in a vehicle unknown to the user, for example in a rental car.

The US 2003/0165048 A1 discloses an input system for an electronic device, such as a mobile phone, an electronic musical instrument or an on-board computer of a motor vehicle. The system includes a sensor system that can detect the position of an object (eg, a finger) in an active sensor area on a surface, and a projector that is capable of projecting an image into a projection area of the surface. The image can represent several input surfaces within which the object triggers an input. In particular, a virtual keyboard can be projected with the positions of the user's fingers being detected by emitting infrared rays and receiving reflections thereof.

The US 2014/0225860 A1 shows a display device, for example. As part of vehicle dashboard, a smartphone or a tablet, with a detector that detects the approach of an object (in particular one or more fingers) to the display and then detects an action of the object. Here, a control unit distinguishes between at least two types of approaches of the object. In particular, it is possible to differentiate between the approach of a single finger and the approach of several fingers, in which case it is possible to activate signal lights of different colors or different signal tones.

The US 9,147,058 B2 discloses an electronic device with a touch-sensitive screen. To authenticate a user, a gestures input screen is displayed, for example, containing a series of graphical elements along which the user can perform a series of gestures. As part of the determination of an authentication gesture, the user can practice the gesture repeatedly, with a different coloration of the elements can be displayed to what extent the gesture was performed correctly.

The KR 10 2015 110257 A shows a device to be worn in the manner of glasses, with an image sensor that detects a gesture of the user and accordingly defines a virtual input interface. The virtual input interface is projected into the user's field of view, which can then make certain input actions on the interface via gestures, which in turn are detected by the image sensor.

The US 2012/0287050 A1 shows a system for providing an interface between a driver of a vehicle and a computer. In this case, a projector is arranged in the vehicle, by means of which an image of a virtual keyboard is projected onto a driver-side surface of the steering wheel or dashboard. By means of a gesture sensor finger movements of the driver with respect to various virtual keys are registered. The computer is connected to the gesture sensor and uses the movements to detect the selection of individual keys. Optionally, the virtual keyboard can also be partially used in the manner of a touchpad.

The DE 10 2013 226 188 A1 discloses an ambient light for a motor vehicle that projects the status of a traction battery onto a surface. The surface may be a wall of a building, a surface of the vehicle itself or, in particular, the floor underneath the vehicle. The ambient light is preferably integrated in the underside of an exterior mirror. The activation can be done by unlocking the vehicle via remote key.

In view of the cited prior art, the reliability and user-friendliness of a control device of a motor vehicle with non-contact sensor technology still offers room for improvement. This applies in particular to control devices of access elements such as doors, tailgates or the like.

The invention has for its object to improve the reliability and ease of use of a control device of a motor vehicle with non-contact sensors.

According to the invention the object is achieved by a control device having the features of claim 1, wherein the dependent claims relate to advantageous embodiments of the invention.

It should be noted that the features listed in the following description as well as measures in any technically meaningful way can be combined with each other and show other embodiments of the invention. The description additionally characterizes and specifies the invention, in particular in connection with the figures.

The invention provides a control device for a motor vehicle. The motor vehicle may be a road vehicle, such as a car, minivan, van or truck. Applications for motorcycles, trikes or quads are conceivable, but are not the focus of the invention. It may, for example, be a motor vehicle with an internal combustion engine, an electric motor or a hybrid drive.

The control device has a sensor unit which is set up to detect an object in a sensor area without contact. The term "sensor unit" here is to be interpreted broadly and does not mean that this unit must be located in a particular vehicle area. The sensor unit may comprise one or a plurality of sensors, which may possibly be clearly spaced from each other. These may be active or passive sensors. In active sensors comprising at least one transmitter and at least one receiver, the transmitter and receiver can be arranged immediately adjacent or at a greater distance from each other. It is also possible to combine sensors of different types, for example optical sensors, radar sensors and / or ultrasound sensors. This list is to be understood as purely exemplary and in no way conclusive. The sensor unit is naturally limited in terms of the detection of objects to a certain area, which is referred to here as the sensor area. In the case of a single sensor, this may be, for example, a solid angle range. The sensor area is usually contiguous, but this is not mandatory. In particular, it would be conceivable for the sensor region to have one or more recesses, that is to say, for example, to be ring-shaped. With regard to the object, it is possible for the sensor unit to detect only certain types of objects, for example objects of a certain size or objects of a specific temperature, which, for example, corresponds approximately to a human body temperature.

Furthermore, the control device has a control unit which is set up to generate a first control signal for at least one actuator of the motor vehicle as a function of the detected object. The control unit may in this case be assigned to the control device in particular and may possibly be located in the vicinity of the sensor unit. However, it is also possible that the control unit is at least partially integrated in an on-board computer or other device that has additional functions that are unrelated to the control device. It is also possible that the control unit consists of a plurality of physically spaced subunits, which, however, are normally electrically connected together. Of course, the control unit can be partially realized in software. The control unit generates the first control signal in dependence on the detected object. This means that at least one object must be detected to generate the first control signal. However, embodiments are possible in which the mere detection is not sufficient, but the object is e.g. has to have a certain property (size, shape or the like) or has to move in a certain way. It is understood that the control unit must be connected to the sensor unit, which includes the possibility of a wireless connection. Normally, the connection is realized wired. Control signals can be generated for one or more actuators, wherein the at least one actuator is, in particular, a motor, ie motion-generating, actuator.

According to the invention, the control device further comprises a projector unit that is configured to project a light pattern that marks at least a part of the sensor area. The projector unit may also be realized by a plurality of subunits, which may also be clearly spaced from each other. Overall, the projector unit can project the light pattern, in which case the term "light" refers to visible light. In addition, the projector unit could also project non-visible light components, which, however, is immaterial to the realization of the invention. The term "pattern" in this context is to be interpreted broadly and in the broadest sense encompasses any light distribution that is not uniform in all directions. For example, a cone of light would also be suitable for projecting a light pattern insofar as it is limited to the sides. The projector unit may be configured to project a light pattern corresponding to a sharp image in a designated projection plane. For this purpose, the projector unit may comprise optical elements such as lenses or prisms. Of course, the projector unit also includes at least one light-generating element, for example a laser or an LED. It is possible that the light pattern is multicolored. It is also preferred, as will be explained, that the projector unit is configured to project different patterns of light or to change the pattern of light over time. The light pattern marks at least a part of the sensor area, ie it is structured in such a way that a user can recognize where this part of the sensor area or the sensor area as a whole is located. Normally, the light pattern is therefore limited to the sensor region or the named part of the sensor region, although deviations from this would also be possible, for example in the form of projected arrow symbols which point to the boundary of the sensor region but are themselves arranged outside the sensor region. The projection of the light pattern takes place in a certain plane or on a certain surface, which is spaced from the projector unit. The light pattern is here dimensioned so that it marks the sensor area in this plane or area. Outside the area, the distribution of the light that is responsible for the light pattern may differ significantly from the (total three-dimensional) sensor area.

Although it is functionally different between the sensor unit and the projector unit and they are actually physically distinguishable, it is conceivable within the scope of the invention that the projector unit forms part of the sensor unit, wherein the projected light pattern on the one hand marks the sensor area, but on the other hand also serves to scan the sensor area or a part thereof, for example. In the manner of a scanner. The units mentioned here, that is to say the control unit, the sensor unit and the projector unit, are to be understood as functional units within the control unit. It is understood that two or all three of the units mentioned can be integrated, for example on the same board.

The projection of the light pattern gives the user an optical indication of the position as well as the extent of the sensor area. It is therefore also possible for a vehicle unfamiliar to him to determine directly where a detection of an object (for example a foot or other body part of the user) is even possible. The user-friendliness is thereby increased significantly and the number of error sources is reduced.

Preferably, the control unit is configured to generate the first control signal upon detection of a first movement of the object. The term "first movement" does not refer to any temporal or other sequence, but merely serves to distinguish it from a second movement to be discussed later. In this embodiment, therefore, the first control signal is not triggered simply by the presence of an object in the sensor area, but by the fact that the object executes said first movement. In particular, the type of movement, for example, the direction, speed or path length, be given, which is necessary for the first control signal is sent. Of course, the nature of the movement is usually given with a certain tolerance, so as not to affect the user-friendliness. The object is preferably a body part, in particular a foot, of a user, and the control unit is set up to generate the first control signal upon detection of a body movement of the user, that is to say a movement of the body part.

In particular, the sensor region can be arranged on an outer side of the motor vehicle. In this case, the projector unit and the sensor unit are usually arranged at least partially on the outside of the vehicle. With such a sensor area, it is possible for a user to influence outside the vehicle on certain actuators. A typical example is the control of an already mentioned boot lid.

There are different ways in which the light pattern can be projected. It could, for example, be projected onto a surface of the vehicle or even onto surrounding walls or ceilings, if this makes sense in connection with the sensor area. Preferably, the projector unit is adapted to project the light pattern onto the ground. This is the bottom or the Underground understood, on which the motor vehicle is (or drives, which is usually not the case during use of the control device). This means that the sensor area is at least partially also near the ground. In this case, as an object, which is detected by the control unit, in particular serve a foot of a user. The sensor unit may in this case be arranged in a lower region of the motor vehicle, in particular in the region of the vehicle underbody.

In particular, a movement of an access element of the motor vehicle can be influenced by the actuator. Access elements here are all doors, hoods, covers (for example a gas cap or a tailgate of an electric car or plug-in hybrid vehicle), flaps, but also tiltable or sliding windows or window panes, ie all elements that have access to or Allow access to the vehicle interior, the boot, the engine compartment, a filler neck, a charging socket or other. These access elements are arranged on the outside of the vehicle and can be opened and closed. In addition, they can be lockable. In this case, the actuator can actively move the access element or he can, for example, release a lock, whereafter the access element carries out the movement itself due to static loading. In particular, the actuator can be designed to bring about an opening of the access element. Normally, but not necessarily, the projector unit is located in the area of the access element and the light pattern is projected near the access element. In particular, the access element can be a boot lid which can be opened, for example, via a sensor unit arranged in the region of the underbody or on the flap itself.

Preferably, at least a part of the light pattern is arranged along an edge of the sensor area. That is to say that the light pattern comprises a portion, for example in the form of a closed or broken line, which is arranged along the edge of the sensor region. Such a line may, for example, also be displayed in the form of an animation, for example by flashing, rotating or changing its thickness or its color. In addition, the light pattern may contain further elements, for example image or text elements. Of course, the boundary marked by the light pattern can also be chosen to be slightly larger or slightly smaller than the actual sensor area, ie. H. it does not have to be congruent with the edge of the sensor area. For example, in the case of control by foot movement of the user, it can not be assumed that the sensor area must be marked with an accuracy of 1 cm or less. The portion which is arranged at the edge of the sensor area may be formed as a frame element.

According to a preferred embodiment, the first movement is indicated by the light pattern. This can be done, for example, by a static display, which in the form of a movement arrow and / or a simplified representation of a body part of the user who performs the movement, gives an indication of which movement is to be performed. In addition, however, it is also conceivable that the movement in the form of an animation, so with moving images, is illustrated. This may mean, for example, that a movement arrow is moving in the direction in which it points or which is e.g. a symbol representing a foot or other body part of the user moves in the way the first movement is to be performed.

In addition to the marking of the sensor area and the optional above-mentioned hinting function on the first movement to be executed, further functions may be provided to assist a user. According to one embodiment, the control unit is configured to trigger a recognizable for a user feedback signal upon detection of the object. The feedback signal is triggered by the control unit, but need not be generated by the control unit itself, but may drive another unit (e.g., the projector unit) to generate the signal. In particular, the feedback signal can be triggered upon detection of the first movement. Such a feedback signal is particularly advantageous in cases in which the function influenced by the actuator is not clearly or not immediately recognizable to the user. The user therefore does not have to wait for the action to take effect, but receives immediate feedback that, for example, a movement has been detected. The feedback signal can be perceived by the user in particular visually or acoustically. Of course, it may be a combined signal or multiple signals. In the case of an acoustic signal, an announcement of a computer voice describing the action initiated by the actuator, e.g. "Trunk is opened" or something similar. An optical signal could, for example, be generated by a dedicated signal lamp or by an already existing light source, such as a turn signal or a tail light, or a projection within the same.

The control unit is preferably set up to change the light pattern when the object is detected. Specifically, the control unit is adapted to drive the projector unit so that the light pattern changes. So it is in response to the recognition of the object - or in particular in response to the detection of the first movement - generates a different light pattern than before recognition. In this case, the color and / or the shape of the light pattern can be changed. That is, it is also possible that the light pattern remains unchanged in shape or extent and only its color, for example. From red to green, is changed. It is also possible that in turn a kind of animation in the form of moving images is played. It could also be projected a short text or a pictogram, which / which gives an indication of the detection or the triggered action.

In some cases, the first control signal triggers an action in which the user wishes to intervene optionally. An example would be the opening of a trunk lid, which the user may only wish to open to a certain extent and whose movement should be stopped at this opening degree. For such cases, the control unit is configured according to a preferred embodiment, after the first movement has been detected, upon detection of a second movement to generate a second control signal for an actuator of the motor vehicle. Here, the second movement may be physically identical to the first movement, i. it is possible that the same movement will be performed twice, resulting in the first time generating the first control signal and the second time generating the second control signal. The first and the second control signal may preferably be intended for the same actuator or for the same actuators. In addition, however, it is also possible that the second control signal is intended for one or more actuators that are not affected by the first control signal. A typical example of a first and second control signal would be, in the case of opening a trunk lid, that an actuator is activated with the first control signal, which opens the trunk lid, while the second control signal, the corresponding actuator is stopped.

In this case, the control unit is advantageously configured to change the light pattern in such a way that the second movement is displayed. This in turn is to be understood that the control unit controls the projector unit such that the light pattern is changed in this way. The second movement may be displayed as well as the first movement, for example, by directional arrows or by a representation of a body part of the user performing the movement. Again, an animation in the form of moving images is possible. It is of course also possible that the color of the light pattern changes. You can also project a text or a combination of images and text. The display of the second movement may alternatively be to the o.g. Confirmation signal carried out or subsequently thereto. Thus, the light pattern could first be changed for confirmation, with the corresponding representation held only for a few seconds, after which the light pattern is changed a second time to indicate the second movement.

Further advantageous details and effects of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to an embodiment shown in the figures. Show it

1 a rear view of a motor vehicle with a control device according to the invention;

2 a perspective view of the motor vehicle 1 at a first time;

3 a perspective view of the motor vehicle 1 at a second time; and

4 a perspective view of the motor vehicle 1 at a third time.

In the different figures, the same parts are always provided with the same reference numerals, which is why these are usually described only once.

1 shows a rear view of a motor vehicle 10 , which is exemplified here constructed in the manner of an SUV. For better orientation, as well as in the other figures, the X, Y and Z axis of the motor vehicle 10 located. Visible in the rear area is a boot lid 11 , for example via two actuators 5 in the exemplary embodiment as a motorized flap lifter 5 can be raised and another actor 6 in the exemplary embodiment as a motor closing element, or as so-called Zuziehhilfe 6 can be locked or unlocked.

Near the subsoil 12 of the motor vehicle 10 is a control device 1 arranged over which both the flap lifter 5 as well as the closing aid 6 can be controlled. More precisely, this is done via a control unit 3 , which via control lines, not shown here with the said actuators 5 . 6 connected is. The control unit 3 is on the one hand with a sensor unit 2 connected, which may be formed, for example, as an ultrasonic sensor. The dotted line is a sensor area 22 the sensor unit 2 marked. This sensor area 22 is from the sensor unit 2 monitored, ie in this area the presence and position of an object can be detected. Leads a user, as in 3 shown with his leg 30 in the sensor area 22 a kicking motion, this will from the control unit 3 connected to the sensor unit 2 is connected, detected as a first movement, which causes the control unit 3 the closing aid 6 unlocked and the boot lid 11 by means of the flap lifter 5 raising.

On the one hand the user the possibility of opening the boot lid 11 to show by the described kicking motion and to make it clear on the other hand, where the sensor area 22 is located, in which the treadmill can be detected, is also a projector unit 4 provided, for example, by means of a laser or at least one LED a visible light pattern 23 on the ground 20 projects on which the motor vehicle 10 stands. Here are in 1 the limits of a ray bundle 21 that for the light pattern 23 is responsible, characterized by dash-dotted lines. The ray bundle 21 deviates in the upper area of the sensor area 22 but is oriented so that it is in the area of the ground 20 with the extent of the sensor area 22 coincides.

In the example shown, the sensor unit 2 and the projector unit 4 in the area of the subfloor 12 arranged. However, it would also be conceivable that at least one of the units 2 . 4 in the boot lid 11 even arranged. Likewise, the control unit could 3 spatially from the sensor unit 2 and / or the projector unit 4 arranged separately and, for example, be integrated in another control unit.

As in the perspective view in 2 recognizable, the light pattern is divided 23 in a frame element 23.1 as well as a drawing element 23.2 , The frame element 23.1 is along the edge of the sensor area 22 arranged and thus clearly shows a user where the sensor area 22 begins or ends. In the present case, the frame element 23.1 with the edge of the sensor area 22 congruent, but it could also deviate to a small extent, for example, by a few centimeters, from this. To further clarify to the user which function via the sensor unit 2 can be triggered and how this happens is the drawing element 23.2 in schematic form, the rear of the motor vehicle 10 with open trunk lid 11 in which a direction arrow in the lower area indicates the user to be carried out treadle movement. The light pattern 23 can be single or multi-colored, it could be executed, for example, total red. Alternatively or in addition to the drawing element 23.2 could also a text element be projected. The drawing element 23.2 could also be animated, for example, by a moving representation of an opening trunk lid.

In 3 is the leg 30 represented by the user, with which the user (as indicated by the bold arrow) a tread movement within the sensor area 22 performs. The kicking motion is from the sensor unit 2 captured and from the control unit 3 evaluated and recognized, which on the one hand leads to the corresponding control signals to the closing aid 6 as well as the flap lifter 5 sends, and on the other hand, that they are the projector unit 4 such that it controls the light pattern 23 changed. To give the user an optical feedback about the successful recognition process, the character element becomes 23.2 by another character element 23.3 replaced in the form of a hook. The latter can also be displayed in a different color, for example. Green. It is also possible to use the frame element 23.1 in this case to change the color. Alternatively or in addition to the visual indication by the light pattern 23 could also be a beep or a computer voice that speaks a confirmation message.

4 shows an optional extension of the functions of the controller 1 where the user is able to control the movement of the boot lid 11 stop by performing another kick. In turn, to display this option to the user becomes a drawing element 23.4 projected, which is essentially the in 2 shown drawing element 23.2 is similar, with a text element above the open trunk lid 23.5 is added, indicating the option, the trunk lid 11 to stop. It is possible that in 3 illustrated light pattern 23 For 1 to 2 Seconds is displayed and then the representation of the light pattern according to 4 replaced. Again, if the user makes the kick, it will do so by the control unit 3 by means of the sensor unit 2 recognized, whereupon the control unit 3 Control signals to the flap lifter 5 sends, so that they are stopped and the trunk lid 11 comes to a standstill. Here, too, an optional confirmation can again take place, for example, by a light pattern that corresponds to that in FIG 3 is similar or identical to this.

In the embodiment shown, the trunk lid 11 controlled without contact. It is understood that in a similar manner, another access element of the motor vehicle 10 , For example, a door, a hood, a window, a filler neck, a tailgate of a scooter or the like can be controlled. If this is expedient, may differ from the embodiment shown, the projector unit 4 the light pattern 23 instead of on the floor 20 also, for example, on a surface of the motor vehicle 10 or a surrounding wall or ceiling can be projected.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

 control device

2

 sensor unit

3

 control unit

4

 projector unit

5

 flap jack

6

 closing aid

10

 motor vehicle

11

 Trunk lid

12

 underbody

20

 ground

21

 ray beam

22

 sensor range

23

 light pattern

23.1

 frame element

23.2, 23.3, 23.4

 character element

23.5

text element

X

 X axis

Y

 Y-axis

Z

 Z-axis

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• US 2003/0165048 A1 [0004]
• US 2014/0225860 Al [0005]
• US 9147058 B2 [0006]
• KR 102015110257 A [0007]
• US 2012/0287050 A1 [0008]
• DE 102013226188 A1 [0009]

Claims (10)

Control device ( 1 ) for a motor vehicle ( 10 ), with a sensor unit ( 2 ), which is adapted to an object ( 30 ) in a sensor area ( 22 ) contactless, and a control unit ( 3 ), which is set up, depending on the detected object ( 30 ) a first control signal for at least one actuator ( 5 . 6 ) of the motor vehicle ( 10 ), characterized by a projector unit ( 4 ), which is adapted to a light pattern ( 23 ) projecting at least part of the sensor area ( 22 ). Control device according to claim 1, characterized in that the control unit ( 3 ) is adapted, upon detection of a first movement of the object ( 30 ) to generate the first control signal. Control device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the sensor region ( 22 ) on an outer side of the motor vehicle ( 10 ) is arranged. Control device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the projector unit ( 4 ) is adapted to the light pattern ( 23 ) on the ground ( 20 ) to project. Control device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that by the actuator ( 5 . 6 ) a movement of an access element ( 11 ) of the motor vehicle ( 10 ) is influenced. Control device according to claim 5, characterized in that the access member (a trunk lid 11 ). Control device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that by the light pattern ( 23 ) the first movement is displayed. Control device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control unit ( 3 ) is set up, upon detection of the object ( 30 ) the light pattern ( 23 ) to change. Control device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control unit ( 3 ) is set up, after the first movement has been detected, upon detection of a second movement, a second control signal for at least one actuator ( 5 . 6 ) of the motor vehicle ( 10 ) to create. Control device according to claim 9, characterized in that the control unit ( 3 ) is adapted to the light pattern ( 23 ) so that the second movement is displayed.

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