DE102021125565B4 - Adaptive system for use in a vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

Impact protection system (300), comprising: a fiber-plastic composite component (100, 202, 304) having one or more actuator elements (150, 204, 306) which are coupled to the fiber-plastic composite component (100, 202, 304) and /or are integrated into the fiber-plastic composite component (100, 202, 304) and which are set up to change a stiffness of the fiber-plastic composite component (100, 202, 304) based on a contraction of the one or more actuator elements ( 150, 204, 306); a sensor system (312) for determining an existence of a collision situation in which an object and the fiber-plastic composite component (100, 202, 304) collide or could collide; anda control system (314) which is set up to cause a contraction of the one or more actuator elements (150, 204, 306) when the presence of a collision situation has been determined by the sensor system (312) for changing the stiffness of the fiber-plastic composite component ( 100, 202, 304) during the collision situation, wherein the fiber-plastic composite component (100, 202, 304) comprises a fiber-composite material, or wherein the fiber-plastic composite component (100, 202, 304) is formed from a fiber-composite material, and wherein at least one actuator element of the one or more actuator elements (150, 204, 306) is textile-technically connected to fibers of the fiber composite material at least in sections.

Description

Various aspects relate to a crash protection system and methods thereof (e.g., a method of operating a crash protection system).

In general, a vehicle can have intelligent systems that control moving components in order to dynamically and adaptively implement complex functions. Such components and systems may be provided for various aspects of vehicle operation, e.g. to assist driving, to react to a sudden hazard, to improve driver comfort, etc. For example, a car or an airplane may have an aerodynamic device to actively adjust its aerodynamic properties (e.g. air resistance). As another example, a car may be equipped with an opening hood that can protect pedestrians in a crash. Upon detecting an impact, a signal may be sent to the hood and, upon receiving the signal from the sensor, the hood may move up to close the hood from pedestrians. This minimizes the impact energy in the event of a pedestrian/car collision, thereby reducing the risk of serious injury to the pedestrian.

Conventionally, adaptive kinematic and oscillating systems (e.g. a conventional engine hood) are based on what is known as a differential construction using conventional kinematics, in which a large number of individual parts are connected to one another (e.g. using joining technology). However, such a differential design is generally accompanied by a large number of individual assemblies that are susceptible to damage, an increased space requirement and a larger number of moving and unmoving masses. The large number of individual parts is also associated with an increased potential for vibration and noise development, as well as higher energy consumption. Clearly, the differential components cannot be stable over the long term, and they can therefore be maintenance-intensive and costly.

In the DE 101 14 958 A1 describes an impact protection system having a fiber-plastic composite component having one or more actuator elements which are coupled to the fiber-plastic composite component and/or integrated into the fiber-plastic composite component, and which are set up to give the fiber-plastic a rigidity - to change the composite component based on a contraction of the one or more actuator elements; a sensor system for determining an existence of a collision situation in which an object and the fiber-plastic composite component collide or could collide; and a control system, which is set up to cause a contraction of the one or more actuator elements if the sensor system has determined that a collision situation exists, in order to change the stiffness of the fiber-plastic composite component during the collision situation.

In the DE 10 2012 003 452 A1 another component made of a fiber composite material for the outer surface of a vehicle is described. In the DE 10 2011 078 029 B3 a further device for changing a rigidity of a cross member of a vehicle is described.

The object of the present invention is to provide a composite component which eliminates the above-mentioned disadvantages of conventional components. This object is solved by the features of the independent claims. Further refinements emerge from the dependent claims.

Various aspects relate to an adaptive (kinematic) system for use in a vehicle, which is based on the use of a fiber-plastic composite part configured as a vehicle component. Fiber-plastic composites (FRP) can be used in various devices, whereby the fiber-plastic composites can have lightweight construction potential and advantageous mechanical properties compared to traditionally used metal components. By means of a structural integration of components made of a shape memory alloy (SMA) in a fiber-plastic composite, for example, integrally manufactured adaptive FRP components can be produced efficiently. As examples, the fiber-plastic composite component can be configured (e.g., molded) as a hood, body panel, wing tip, spoiler, airbrake, etc.

Within the scope of this description, various aspects are described, in particular with regard to a composite component having a fiber-plastic composite or consisting of a fiber-plastic composite. Such a configuration provides a favorable configuration for enabling efficient power transmission and flexible assembly of a vehicle component. However, it should be understood that the aspects described herein may apply in a similar manner to composite components comprising or consisting of other (e.g. deformable) materials.

Various aspects can thus be based on the knowledge that the use of a fiber-plastic composite component enables a simple and cost-effective approach to moving Liche and / or deformable components, eg for use in a vehicle to provide with suitable robustness and stability. Thus, a fiber-plastic composite part is well suited to provide a controllable and adaptable component for a vehicle. However, it goes without saying that the adaptive system described here with a fiber-plastic composite component can also be provided for other types of applications, for example for installation in a fixed structure, as will be described in more detail below.

According to various aspects, the adaptive system described here can be set up in such a way that it carries out a sensor-based change in one or more mechanical properties of the fiber-plastic composite component. The sensor-based change can allow the properties of the fiber-plastic composite component to be adapted to a current scenario, e.g. to a current scenario of the vehicle (e.g. a current operating situation). The sensor-based control of the fiber-plastic composite component can thus enable an adaptive configuration for the implementation of intelligent functionalities without resorting to complex mechanical systems and components.

In various aspects, the adaptive (kinematic) system can be based on the activation of tailor-made fiber-based shape memory effect (SFM) structures, e.g. shape memory alloy (SFM) based actuator networks, which are produced by means of a textile manufacturing process (e.g. weaving, embroidery, braiding or knitting) can be coupled with a textile reinforcement structure (clearly in a fiber-plastic composite) or integrated into the textile reinforcement structure.

The use of shape memory alloys as actuator elements enables a simple, error-free and more cost-effective design. Shape memory alloys offer an energy-efficient actuation strategy for use in an adaptive system, e.g. in an FRP-based vehicle component. The arrangement of SMA-based actuators in textile support structures thus offers an environmentally friendly and simple mechanism for providing controllable adaptive systems. The approach described here can make it possible to replace complex built-up mechanisms with integrated gears and motors with textile-based parts.

The integration of fiber structures with FGE into textile structures, by means of which the functional integration of adaptive systems is achieved, enables the realization of an adaptive system (e.g. a vehicle component) for various applications in a less maintenance and cost-intensive way compared to conventional designs. In addition, the proposed system can be constructed integrally, so that it is stable, low-maintenance and cost-effective over long periods of time.

The approach described here makes it possible to provide an adaptive system without the conventional motors and external drives, and to achieve a reduction in the number of gear links, leading to a significant simplification while at the same time maintaining or even increasing or improving the existing kinematic range of functions.

Throughout this specification, the term "vehicle" may be used to describe various types of vehicles, such as a land vehicle, an aircraft, and/or a watercraft. As an example, a "vehicle" may be a land vehicle, such as a car, bicycle, land drone, etc. As another example, a "vehicle" may be an aircraft, such as an airplane, helicopter, airborne drone, etc As another example, a "vehicle" may be a watercraft, such as a ship, submarine, boat, water drone, etc.

In the following, an adaptive system can be described in particular with regard to its use in an airplane or in a car. However, it should be understood that the adaptive system described herein can also be used in other areas of application, for example in other types of vehicles (such as a bicycle, a ship, etc., as described above).

According to various aspects, an impact protection system can be provided, the impact protection system having: a fiber-plastic composite component having one or more actuator elements which are coupled to the fiber-plastic composite component and/or integrated into the fiber-plastic composite component and which are set up to change a stiffness of the fiber-plastic composite component based on a contraction of the one or more actuator elements; a sensor system for determining an existence of a collision situation in which an object and the fiber-plastic composite component collide or could collide; and a control system, which is set up to cause a contraction of the one or more actuator elements if the sensor system has determined that a collision situation exists, in order to change the stiffness of the fiber-plastic composite component during the collision situation.

According to various aspects, a method for operating an impact protection system can be provided, the impact protection system having a fiber-plastic composite component having one or more actuator elements which are coupled to the fiber-plastic composite component and/or integrated into the fiber-plastic composite component, the method comprising: determining an existence of a collision situation in which an object and the fiber-plastic composite component collide or could collide; and causing a contraction of the one or more actuator elements if the existence of a collision situation has been determined to change a stiffness of the fiber-plastic composite component during the collision situation.

In the context of this description, the term "actuator" (also called an actuator), as it is used, for example, in relation to an arrangement, a component or an element, can be understood in such a way that the arrangement, the component or the element converts an electrical signal into a mechanical one Movement or can convert into other physical quantities.

The term “shape memory alloy” is understood to mean an alloy that has the property of temporarily or reversibly exhibiting a shape other than its original shape after a mechanical deformation, for example an elastic deformation, and of resuming its original shape by means of an external stimulus. The shape memory alloy can be deformed and shaped such that specific configurations and shape changes of the shape memory alloy can be obtained. The phenomenon of the shape memory property is a function of the alloy as such, which the alloy can acquire after suitable steps, for example after deforming the shape memory alloy above the transition temperature of the shape memory alloy and rapidly cooling the shape memory alloy. The transition temperature of the shape memory alloy can also be referred to herein as the phase transformation temperature.

The term "deformable", as used here for example with regard to a fiber-plastic composite component, can be used in the context of this description to mean that the respective component (e.g. the fiber-plastic composite component) can be bent, flexible, elastic, is movable and/or articulated.

Exemplary embodiments are shown in the figures and are explained in more detail below.

• 1A ein Faser-Kunststoff-Verbundbauteil in einer schematischen Ansicht, gemäß verschiedenen Aspekten;
• 1B ein Aktorelement in einer schematischen Ansicht, gemäß verschiedenen Aspekten;
• 2A und 2B jeweils eine Aktorkomponente aufweisend ein Faser-Kunststoff-Verbundbauteil und ein Aktorelement in einer schematischen Ansicht, gemäß verschiedenen Aspekten;
• 2C eine Verbindung zwischen einem Faser-Kunststoff-Verbundbauteil und einem Aktorelement, gemäß verschiedenen Aspekten;
• 3 ein adaptives System aufweisend ein Faser-Kunststoff-Verbundbauteil in einer schematischen Ansicht, gemäß verschiedenen Aspekten;
• 4 ein schematisches Flussdiagramm eines Verfahrens zum Betreiben eines adaptiven Systems, gemäß verschiedenen Aspekten; und
• 5 ein schematisches Flussdiagramm eines Verfahrens zum Betreiben eines Aufprallschutzsystems, gemäß verschiedenen Aspekten.

Show it

• 1A a fiber-plastic composite component in a schematic view, according to various aspects;
• 1B an actuator element in a schematic view, according to various aspects;
• 2A and 2 B each having an actuator component having a fiber-plastic composite component and an actuator element in a schematic view, according to various aspects;
• 2C a connection between a fiber-plastic composite component and an actuator element, according to various aspects;
• 3 an adaptive system comprising a fiber-plastic composite component in a schematic view, according to various aspects;
• 4 a schematic flow diagram of a method for operating an adaptive system, according to various aspects; and
• 5 a schematic flow diagram of a method for operating an impact protection system, according to various aspects.

In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. It is understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural or logical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. It is understood that the features of the various exemplary embodiments described herein can be combined with one another unless specifically stated otherwise. The following description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims.

1A shows a fiber-plastic composite component 100 in a schematic view, according to various aspects. The fiber-plastic composite component 100 can be for use in an adaptive system (eg for a vehicle). The fiber-plastic composite component 100 can be or provide a carrier structure or a reinforcement structure for an adaptive system, for example. The fiber-plastic composite component 100 can be understood as a functional element for an adaptive system.

The fiber-plastic composite component 100 can be used according to the intended use directed (eg formed) be or become, eg according to the application of an adaptive system comprising the fiber-plastic composite component 100. Within the scope of this description, the use of a fiber-plastic composite component (eg the fiber-plastic composite component 100) can be used, for example in relation to an adaptive system for car/aircraft deployment. In this context, the fiber-plastic composite component 100 can be shaped in such a way that it can be mounted in a car or in an airplane, eg to be arranged in the body of a car or in a wing of an airplane. However, it should be understood that the use of a fiber-plastic composite component is not limited to an automotive component or aircraft component, and the fiber-plastic composite component 100 may be configured (eg, molded) to be attached to other vehicles ( eg a bicycle, a drone, etc.) and/or attached to other structures.

As an exemplary configuration, the fiber-plastic composite component 100 can have an elongated shape. The fiber-plastic composite component 100 can have a length that is greater than its width (and than its thickness). As a numerical example, the fiber-plastic composite component 100 can have a length in the range from 20 cm to 200 cm, for example in the range from 40 cm to 100 cm. As a further numerical example, the fiber-plastic composite component 100 can have a width in the range from 10 cm to 150 cm, for example in the range from 20 cm to 100 cm. The thickness of the fiber-plastic composite component 100 can be less than its length, for example in the range from 1 cm to 10 cm, for example in the range from 2 cm to 5 cm. The elongated shape can provide a configuration to ensure efficient power transmission to the fiber-plastic composite component 100 . However, it should be understood that the fiber-plastic composite component 100 may have a different shape (and dimensions), for example to fit a different type of vehicle or structure.

The fiber-plastic composite component 100 can have a longitudinal axis 102 . A longitudinal axis (e.g., longitudinal axis 102) may be an axis along the length of an object's body (e.g., fiber-plastic composite component 100) from end to end (head to tail). A longitudinal axis can be the long axis of an object and can be aligned with the length of the object.

The fiber-plastic composite component 100 can have a transverse axis 104 . A transverse axis (e.g., transverse axis 104) may be an axis along the width of the body of an object (e.g., fiber-plastic composite component 100) from end to end. A transverse axis can be the short axis of an object and can be aligned with the width of the object. The transverse axis of an object may be oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the object. A transverse axis can also be referred to herein as a horizontal axis.

The fiber-plastic composite component 100 can have one or more mechanical properties which describe the mechanical (and geometrical) behavior of the fiber-plastic composite component 100 . The one or more mechanical properties can describe, for example, a rigidity, an elongation, a shape, a deformation and/or a strength of the fiber-plastic composite component 100 . In the context of use in a vehicle, the one or more mechanical properties of the fiber-plastic composite component 100 can describe its impact resistance and aerodynamic behavior. The one or more mechanical properties of the fiber-plastic composite component 100 can be altered by the controlled application of a force (e.g., a tensile force) to the fiber-plastic composite component 100 .

The fiber-plastic composite component 100 can be deformable at least in sections. Clearly, the fiber-plastic composite component 100 can have at least one deformable section. As an exemplary embodiment, the fiber-plastic composite component 100 may have a central portion 106a, which is deformable, and two side portions 106b (connected to the central portion 106a) that are not or less deformable than the central portion 106a. In another exemplary embodiment, the fiber-plastic composite component 100 can be fully deformable, i.e., both the central section 106a and the side sections 106b can be deformable. The central portion 106a may also be referred to herein as a functional portion, and the two lateral portions 106b may also be referred to herein as attachment portions. As a numerical example, the central portion 106a may extend at least 50% of the length of the fiber-plastic composite component 100, e.g., at least 70% of the length, e.g., at least 90% of the length.

With regard to the deformability properties, the fiber-plastic composite component 100 can have a first shape 110a, which the fiber-plastic composite component 100 has when it is not subjected to any (deformation) force. The first Form 110a can be an initial form or an original form of the fiber-plastic composite component 100, for example. The first shape 110a may be the shape to which the fiber-plastic composite component 100 returns after deformation, as will be described in more detail below. The material of the fiber-plastic composite component 100 can be designed in such a way that the fiber-plastic composite component 100 prefers the first (eg straight) shape 110a in terms of energy. The first shape 110a can also be referred to herein as the first state, rest state or initial state of the fiber-plastic composite component 100 .

When deformed, the fiber-plastic composite component 100 can assume a second shape 110b, which differs from the first shape 110a. Clearly, the fiber-plastic composite component 100 can be deformable at least in sections, so that the fiber-plastic composite component 100 can be brought into at least a first shape 110a and a second shape 110b, which differs from the first shape 110a. The second shape 110b may be a deformed shape, that is, a shape that the fiber-resin composite member 100 can assume when a force (e.g., a tensile force) is applied to the fiber-resin composite member 100 .

As an exemplary embodiment, as in 1A 1, the fiber-resin composite member 100 may be configured to extend along a straight line (illustratively, along a straight line) when it is in the first shape 110a. Clearly, the first shape 110a can be a straight shape. The straight shape enables the fiber-plastic composite component 100 to be easily adapted to a vehicle for use in an adaptive system. However, it goes without saying that the fiber-resin composite member 100 may be configured to have a different original shape, such as a shape that is not straight (eg, a curved shape), depending on the purpose of use. For example, the material of the fiber-plastic composite component 100 can alternatively be designed in such a way that the fiber-plastic composite component 100 prefers a non-straight (for example a curved) shape in terms of energy.

As an exemplary embodiment, as in 1A 1, the fiber-plastic composite member 100 may be configured so that it is extended along a curved line when it is (or is placed) in the second mold 110b. Clearly, the second shape 110b can be a curved shape. A curved second shape 110b (with a straight first shape 110a) can be an advantageous configuration for using the fiber-plastic composite component 100 as an aerodynamic component (eg for influencing an air flow) or as a hood of a car. However, it goes without saying that the fiber-plastic composite component 100 can be set up, depending on the intended use, in such a way that it has a different deformed (second) shape 110b, for example a straight second shape.

It is also understood that the fiber-plastic composite component 100 may have more than one deformed shape, e.g. the fiber-plastic composite component 100 may be configured to assume a variety of different (second) deformed shapes depending on the force applied thereto (e.g. depending on the magnitude of the force, the direction of the force, etc.).

According to various aspects, the fiber-plastic composite component 100 can be configured such that it maintains or resumes the first (original) shape 110a when no deforming force is applied to the fiber-plastic composite component 100 . The fiber-plastic composite component 100 can be elastically deformable, eg elastically in sections (eg at least the central section 106a can be elastically). In the exemplary embodiment in 1A For example, the fiber-plastic composite component 100 can be set up in such a way that it can be elastically deformed from the second (eg curved) shape 110b into the first (eg straight) shape 110a. It goes without saying, however, that the fiber-plastic composite component 100 can alternatively be designed in such a way that it can be elastically deformed from a straight shape into a curved shape, depending on the predefined configuration of the fiber-plastic composite component 100.

The fiber-plastic composite component 100 can have or consist of a material with such resiliently deformable properties. The material of the fiber-plastic composite component 100 can be designed in such a way that the material imparts a restoring force to the fiber-plastic composite component 100 . For example, the material can store energy during the deformation of the fiber-plastic composite component 100 and release the stored energy as soon as no deformation force acts on the fiber-plastic composite component 100 (to return the fiber-plastic composite component 100 to its first (rest) ) to bring form 110a).

The fiber-plastic composite component 100 can be set up in such a way that a restoring force is generated when the fiber-plastic composite component 100 is deflected from the first (original, eg straight) shape 110a. The fiber-plastic composite component 100 be elastically deformable in sections in such a way that a restoring force is generated, which brings the fiber-plastic composite component 100 from the second (curved) shape 110b into the first (straight) shape 110a. It goes without saying that the fiber-plastic composite component 100 can alternatively be set up in such a way that a restoring force is generated when the fiber-plastic composite component 100 is deflected from a curved shape into a straight shape.

The fiber-plastic composite component 100 can be a fiber-plastic composite or have a fiber-plastic composite (as the material) or consist of a fiber-plastic composite. The fiber-plastic composite can have a fiber material and a plastic material. The fiber-plastic composite can consist of reinforcing fibers and a plastic matrix, as is generally known. The fiber-plastic composite can extend integrally from the central section 106a into the two side sections 106b. A fiber-plastic composite can ensure optimal power transmission to the fiber-plastic composite component 100, for example from an actuator element (see FIG 2A until 2C ), and thus a long-term stability of an adaptive kinematic system.

As an example, the fiber-plastic composite component 100 can be formed from a fiber material produced by textile technology (e.g. a fabric made of glass fibers, ceramic fibers, carbon fibers, etc.). For example, the fiber material of the fiber-plastic composite can be knitted. The fiber-plastic composite component 100 can also be formed from a plastic (e.g. a polymer matrix material) in which the textile-technically produced fiber material is embedded. The fiber material can also be referred to herein as a fiber composite material.

For example, the fibers of the fibrous material may be embedded in a matrix material, e.g., in a polymer matrix material such as epoxy resin, in polyethylene or in another suitable polymer matrix material. A functionalized preform can be infiltrated with the matrix material according to the desired shape of the functional element 100 (e.g. according to the shape of a vehicle component). The fibers of the fiber material can be comparatively long fibers which are connected to one another by textile technology. As a numerical example, the respective fibers may have a length greater than 5 cm, for example greater than 10 cm. A textile-technical connection of the fibers to one another can be produced, for example, by means of weaving, braiding, knitting, etc.

1B 15 shows an actuator element 150 in a schematic view, according to various aspects. The actuator element 150 may be for use in an adaptive system. For example, the actuator element 150 can be set up to provide an actuating force for an adaptive system.

The actuator element 150 can have or consist of a shape memory alloy. Actuator element 150 may, in some aspects, be a shape memory alloy actuator element (and referred to as such herein). A shape memory alloy-based actuator element 150 enables a simple actuation strategy, eg for use in a kinematic system, without having to rely on complex mechanical motors and components. Shape memory alloys provide high usable energy density (eg, greater than 10 MJ/m ³ ). However, it goes without saying that the actuator element 150 can also have or consist of a different material with suitable properties in order to enable a force transmission to a functional element.

In some aspects, actuator element 150 may include or be composed of one or more dielectric elastomers (e.g., silicones, acrylics, etc.). In some aspects, the actuator element 150 can be a dielectric elastomer actuator element (DEA), for example the influencing of the mechanical properties of the fiber-plastic composite component can thus only be achieved by means of actuators based on a dielectric elastomer. An actuator element 150 having a dielectric elastomer or consisting of a dielectric elastomer can ensure comparatively (e.g. relative to an SMA actuator) rapid activation and rapid execution of the influencing of the mechanical properties. This can be advantageous for use in a vehicle, for example, when a quick response (e.g. in connection with a possible accident) is desired. Dielectric elastomers, for example, can enable higher actuation cut-off frequencies (e.g. greater than 100 Hz) compared to a shape memory alloy.

It is understood that in some aspects the actuator element 150 can also have a combination of at least one SMA actuator and at least one actuator based on one or more dielectric elastomers. According to various aspects, the actuator element 150 can have at least two actuators that differ from one another in terms of their actuator limit frequencies (clearly the reaction time or speed of action). As a result, for example, possible responses to spontaneous events can be made faster or more specifically.

The activation of the actuator element 150 in 1B is shown using the example of a shape memory alloy. It is understood that the aspects described herein can apply in a corresponding manner to dielectric elastomers or other actuators. For example, an actuator element 150 comprising one or more dielectric elastomers can stretch in a lateral direction when an (electrical) signal is provided to the actuator element 150 .

The actuator element 150 can be set up in such a way that it converts a received control signal into a force (e.g. into a tensile force). The actuator element 150 can be set up in such a way that one or more of its (e.g. geometric) properties change upon receipt of a suitable control signal (e.g. an electrical signal).

The actuator element 150 can be designed as a one-way actuator element. For example, actuator element 150 may be configured such that one or more of its properties change upon receipt of an appropriate control signal, and then an external force may be applied to actuator element 150 to restore actuator element 150 to its initial state. The actuator element 150 may illustratively, in some aspects, be a disposable shape memory alloy actuator element (and referred to as such herein).

For example, the shape memory alloy of the actuator element 150 can be set up in such a way that a change in length, ΔL, (eg a contraction) of the actuator element 150 is generated as a result of a phase transformation. The phase transformation can occur when the shape memory alloy is heated to a temperature, T, above the phase transformation temperature, T _U . For example, in the opposite phase transition, there is no change in length (also known as the intrinsic one-way actuator effect). The opposite phase transformation can occur when the shape memory alloy is cooled to a temperature, T, below the phase transformation temperature, T _U . However, the actuator element 150 can then be stretched by means of an external force, for example brought back to its original length L1.

As an exemplary embodiment, as in 1B As shown, actuator element 150 may be configured such that its length changes (eg, decreases) upon receipt of a suitable control signal. The reduction in length can cause a tensile force (e.g. a deformation force) in a component coupled to the actuator element 150 (e.g. in the fiber-plastic composite component 100, see also 2A and 2 B ) generate. It is understood that the reduction in length is an exemplary actuation mechanism and other configurations of the actuator element 150 for use as an actuator are possible (eg, an expansion, an increase in length, as further examples).

The actuator element 150 may have a first actuator state 152a, which may be an initial state of the actuator element 150 (in the absence of an applied control signal). In the first actuator state 152a, the actuator element 150 can have a first (initial or original) length L1. In the first actuator state 152a, a temperature, T, of the actuator element 150 (eg, a temperature of the shape memory alloy of the actuator element 150) may be below its phase transformation temperature, T _U . The first actuator state 152a may also be referred to herein as an inactive state.

The actuator element 150 may have a second actuator state 152b, which may be an actuated state of the actuator element 150 (in the presence of an applied control signal or after the control signal is applied). In the second actuator state 152b, the actuator element 150 can have a second length L2 (varies by ΔL, for example). In the second actuator state 152b, the temperature T of the actuator element 150 (eg, the temperature of the shape memory alloy of the actuator element 150) may be above its phase transformation temperature, T _U . The second actuator state 152b may also be referred to herein as an active state. The second length L2 can thus be smaller than the first length L1. The change in length, ΔL, may depend on the design of the actuator element 150 . As a numerical example, the length change, ΔL, may be in a range from 1 cm to 100 cm, eg in a range from 2 cm to 70 cm, eg in a range from 5 cm to 50 cm.

It is understood that the actuator element 150 may have more than two states, e.g., the initial state and a plurality of actuated states, each associated with a corresponding temperature above the phase transformation temperature (e.g., each with a corresponding change in length).

In various aspects, the length of actuator element 150 may be its major dimension. For example, the actuator element 150 can be shaped in such a way that its thickness is smaller than its length (eg at least 1000 times smaller or at least 10000 times smaller). In an exemplary configuration, the actuator element 150 can be a wire (clearly a shape memory alloy wire) or can be configured as a wire. In another exemplary embodiment, this can Actuator element 150 may be or have a thin plate whose width is greater than its thickness (eg at least twice, at least three times or at least five times the thickness). However, it goes without saying that the actuator element 150 can also have a different type of geometry which is suitable for enabling efficient transmission of force from the actuator element 150 to a component.

The actuator element 150 can have a planar geometry. For example, the actuator element 150 can have constant dimensions along its length. Alternatively, actuator element 150 may have a taper (e.g., a cross-sectional taper). For example, the actuator element 150 can be thicker and/or wider at its lateral sections than at its central section.

It goes without saying that the shape of the actuator element 150 is not limited to that in 1B shown exemplary configuration is limited and that the actuator element 150 can also have other shapes, depending on the predefined use of the actuator element 150.

2A and 2 B each show an actuator component 200a, 200b in a schematic view, according to various aspects. The actuator component 200a, 200b can have a fiber-plastic composite component 202 and one or more actuator elements 204. The fiber-plastic composite component 202 can be set up like the fiber-plastic composite component 100, which with regard to FIG 1A was described. The one or more actuator elements 204 may be configured like the actuator element 150, which with respect to 1B was described.

The one or more actuator elements 204 can be coupled to the fiber-plastic composite component 202 and/or integrated into the fiber-plastic composite component 202 (see also 2C ). The actuator component 200a, 200b can be an actuator element 204 ( 2A ) or a large number of actuator components 204 ( 2 B ) which are coupled to the fiber-plastic composite component 202 and/or integrated into the fiber-plastic composite component 202. As an example embodiment, the one or more actuator elements 204 may be or include one or more wires (eg, one or more shape memory alloy wires). The use of a plurality of actuator elements 204 can provide a more complex configuration, which however allows for a greater degree of control over the mechanical properties of the fiber-plastic composite component 202 .

The one or more actuator elements 204 can extend substantially over the entire extent of the fiber-plastic composite component 202, for example over the entire length or the entire width, depending on the arrangement of the one or more actuator elements 204. As a numerical example, the one or several actuator elements 204 in a configuration in which the actuator elements 204 can be arranged along or parallel to the longitudinal axis 206 of the fiber-plastic composite component 202 (see 2A and 2 B ), cover at least 80% of the length of the fiber-plastic composite component 202, for example at least 90% of the length, for example 100% of the length. As another numerical example, in a configuration where the one or more actuator elements 204 are arranged along or parallel to the transverse axis 208 of the fiber-plastic composite component 202 (not shown), the one or more actuator elements 204 can be at least 80% of the width of the fiber -Plastic composite component 202 cover, for example at least 90% of the width, for example 100% of the width.

The one or more actuator elements 204 can be coupled to the fiber-plastic composite component 202 and/or integrated into the fiber-plastic composite component 202 in such a way that the contraction of the one or more actuator elements 204 exerts a tensile force on the fiber-plastic composite component 202 generated. Clearly, the one or more actuator elements 204 can be set up in such a way that they can be activated in order to exert a force on the fiber-plastic composite component 202 . Activation of the one or more actuator elements 204 may cause a respective change (eg, decrease) in its length, as with respect to FIG 1B was described, and the change in length can provide a force transmission to the fiber-plastic composite component 202 . A force can be transmitted from the one or more actuator elements 204 to the fiber-plastic composite component 202 if the (respective) length L1 of the one or more actuator elements 204 changes (if the one or more actuator elements 204 changes in the respective second actuator state located), for example reduced to a length L2.

Clearly, the one or more actuator elements 204 can be coupled to the fiber-plastic composite component 202 or integrated into the fiber-plastic composite component 202 in such a way that one or more mechanical properties of the fiber-plastic composite component 202 are activated by activating the one or more Actuator elements 204 can be changed. The one or more actuator elements 204 can be arranged in the fiber-plastic composite component 202 in such a way that one or more mechanical properties of the fiber-plastic composite component are based on a contraction of the one or more actuator elements 204 can be changed. The contraction of the one or more actuator elements 204 (when activated) may cause a change in one or more of the mechanical properties of the fiber-plastic composite part 202 . The power transmission from the one or more actuator elements 204 to the fiber-plastic composite component 202 can thus enable one or more of the mechanical properties of the fiber-plastic composite component 202 to be controlled.

As an example, the one or more actuator elements 204 can be configured to change a stiffness of the fiber-plastic composite component 202 based on the contraction of the one or more actuator elements 204. The one or more actuator elements 204 can be arranged in the fiber-plastic composite component 202 in such a way be that activation (or deactivation) of the one or more actuator elements 204 causes a change in the stiffness of the fiber-plastic composite component 202 (e.g. an increase or a decrease, depending on the arrangement of the one or more actuator elements 204).

For example, the one or more actuator elements 204 can be under tension in the inactive state and thus contribute to greater rigidity of the fiber-plastic composite component 202 . When activated, the one or more actuator elements 204 can no longer be under tension and thus contribute to a lower (reduced) stiffness of the fiber-plastic composite component 202 . In this configuration, the one or more actuator elements 204 may be arranged along a body axis of the fiber-plastic composite component 202 in order to minimize deformation of the fiber-plastic composite component 202 while at the same time allowing for the variation in stiffness.

The stiffness of an object (e.g., the fiber-plastic composite part 202) may be associated with its shape, as is known in the art. The one or more actuator elements 204 may be arranged in the fiber-plastic composite component 202 such that contraction of the one or more actuator elements 204 causes a change in shape of the fiber-plastic composite component 202 to cause a corresponding change in stiffness . In an exemplary embodiment, a (first) subgroup of actuator elements 204 can be arranged in the fiber-plastic composite component 202 in such a way that their contraction causes a change in shape, which is associated with an increase in the rigidity of the fiber-plastic composite component 202 . Additionally or alternatively, another (second) subgroup of actuator elements 204 can be arranged in the fiber-plastic composite component 202 in such a way that their contraction causes a change in shape, which is associated with a decrease in the stiffness of the fiber-plastic composite component 202.

As a further example, additionally or alternatively, the one or more actuator elements 204 can be set up so that they cause a deformation of the fiber-plastic composite component 202 by means of their contraction, e.g. in order to change it from its first (e.g. straight) shape to its second (e.g. curved) form. Clearly, the change in length ΔL of the one or more actuator elements 204 can produce a bending (or in general a deformation) of the fiber-plastic composite component 202 .

The one or more actuator elements 204 can be coupled to the fiber-plastic composite component 202 or integrated into the fiber-plastic composite component 202 in such a way that the fiber-plastic composite component 202 is released by means of a tensile force generated by the one or more actuator elements 204 from its first (original, e.g. straight) shape to its second (deformed, e.g. curved) shape. The one or more actuator elements 204 can be set up in such a way that the fiber-plastic composite component 202 can be brought into at least two different shapes by a contraction of the actuator element 2040 . The contraction of the one or more actuator elements 204 can thus influence the shape of the fiber-plastic composite component 202 . Clearly, the one or more actuator elements 204 can be arranged such that the contraction of the one or more actuator elements 204 causes a deformation of the fiber-plastic composite component 202 (e.g. along its longitudinal axis 206 and/or along its transverse axis 208).

As an example (see also 1A ) the fiber-plastic composite component 202 can be in a straight shape in its initial state. When the one or more actuator elements 204 are switched to the active state (the second actuator state), the fiber-plastic composite component 202 can be moved from the initial state to a temporary state, for example from the first shape into the second (curved) shape. If the one or more actuator elements 204 are switched to the inactive state (the first actuator state), the fiber-plastic composite component 202 can be moved from the temporary state to the initial state, for example from the second (e.g. curved) shape, by means of the restoring force of the material return to the first (e.g. straight) shape.

The fiber-plastic composite component 202 can be configured in such a way that the one or more actuator elements 204 are brought back to an initial length L1 when the shape memory alloy is cooled to a temperature, T, below the phase transformation temperature, T _U . Clearly, a restoring force is transmitted from the fiber-plastic composite component 202 to the one or more actuator elements 204, so that the one or more actuator elements 204 can be operated reversibly with regard to the change in length, ΔL (also referred to as an extrinsic two-way actuator).

The arrangement of the one or more actuator elements 204 in relation to the longitudinal axis 206 and/or the transverse axis 208 of the fiber-plastic composite component 202 can be selected such that a predefined operation of the actuator component 200a, 200b is made possible. In 2A and 2 B two exemplary configurations are shown, which can represent a simple and stable arrangement of the actuator component 200a, 200b. However, it goes without saying that other arrangements of one or more actuator elements 204 in a fiber-plastic composite component 202 are also possible.

As in 2A is shown, the actuator component 200a can have an actuator element 204 which extends along the longitudinal axis 206 of the fiber-plastic composite component 202 . In an alternative embodiment, as in 2 B As shown, actuator component 200b may include a plurality of actuator elements 204 extending along (and/or parallel to) longitudinal axis 206 . By way of example, the actuator component 200a may include an array of actuator elements 204, each of which extends along and/or parallel to the longitudinal axis 206 and which are distributed along the transverse axis 208 (eg, at regular intervals). For example, the actuator component 200a can have a multiplicity of shape memory alloy wires guided in the direction of the longitudinal axis 206 . The orientation along or parallel to the longitudinal axis 206 can provide an efficient configuration for a deformation of the fiber-plastic composite component 204 along its longitudinal axis 206, clearly for a deformation (e.g. a bend) about the transverse axis 208.

In an alternative configuration (not shown), the actuator component 200a, 200b can have an actuator element 204, which extends along a direction at an angle to the longitudinal axis 206 of the fiber-plastic composite component 202. For example, the actuator component 200a can have an actuator element 204 which extends along the transverse axis 208 of the fiber-plastic composite component 202 (illustratively at an angle of 90° to the longitudinal axis 206). As another example, the actuator component 200a, 200b may include a plurality of actuator elements 204 extending along a direction at an angle to the longitudinal axis 206 (e.g., along or parallel to the transverse axis 208). For example, the actuator component 200a, 200b may include an array of actuator elements 204, each of which extends along a direction at an angle to the longitudinal axis 206 (e.g., along a direction parallel to the transverse axis 208) and which are distributed along the longitudinal axis 206 (e.g., in regular distances). The orientation orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 206 can provide an efficient configuration for deformation of the fiber-plastic composite component 202 along its transverse axis 208, illustratively for deformation (e.g. bending) about the longitudinal axis 206.

These configurations can be combined with each other. As a further example, an actuator component 200a, 200b can have actuator elements 204 which are arranged along or parallel to both axes of the fiber-plastic composite component 202. For example, the actuator component 200a, 200b can have a large number of actuator elements 204, and at least one (first) actuator element can extend along the longitudinal axis 206 of the fiber-plastic composite component 202, and at least one further (second) actuator element can extend along the transverse axis 208 of the fiber-plastic composite component 202 extend. In an alternative configuration, the actuator component 200a, 200b can have at least one (first) actuator element 204, which extends along the longitudinal axis 206 of the fiber-plastic composite component 202, and a multiplicity of further (second) actuator elements 204, which extend along or parallel to the transverse axis 208 of the fiber-plastic composite component 202 extend. It goes without saying that another configuration can also be provided, in which the actuator component 200a, 200b has a plurality of first actuator elements 204, which extend along or parallel to the longitudinal axis 206 of the fiber-plastic composite component 202, and a plurality of second actuator elements 204, which extend along the transverse axis 208 of the fiber-plastic composite component 202 has.

The "crossed" configurations may offer increased capabilities of the actuator component 200a, 200b. The multiplicity of actuator elements 204 can make it possible for the fiber-plastic composite component 202 to be brought into a plurality of different shapes by means of the multiplicity of actuator elements 204 and thus, for example as several different positions for the actuator component 200a, 200b can be defined or made possible.

The controlled change in stiffness and the controlled deformation of the fiber-plastic composite component 202 are of particular interest for the use of the actuator component 200a, 200b in an adaptive system for a vehicle (see also 3 ). For example, varying stiffness may enable a response to a collision, eg, to decrease the stiffness of a portion of the vehicle to protect a pedestrian, or to increase the stiffness of a portion of the vehicle to protect an internal component or circuit . Changing the shape of the fiber-plastic composite component 202 may provide an adjustment to a vehicle's aerodynamic properties, eg, to increase or decrease drag. However, it goes without saying that the one or more actuator elements 204 can be arranged in the fiber-plastic composite component 202 in such a way that other mechanical properties can also be varied, depending on the predefined application of the actuator component 200a, 200b.

2C shows a possible connection of a fiber-plastic composite component 202 and an actuator element 204 to one another, in a schematic view according to various aspects. It goes without saying that the aspects described in relation to the connection of an actuator element 204 can apply in a corresponding manner to each actuator element 204 of a plurality of actuator elements 204 .

According to different aspects, as in 2C is shown, the actuator element 204 can be textile-technically coupled to the fiber-plastic composite component 202 (eg with the fiber material) at least in sections and/or can be textile-technically integrated into the fiber-plastic composite component 202 in sections. The actuator element 204 (eg each of the one or more actuator elements 204) can be textile-technically connected in sections to fibers 212 of the functional element 202, eg by means of a textile-technical connection or incorporation. For example, a fiber material of the fiber composite material can be textile-technically connected to at least a first end section and a second end section of the actuator element 204 . A textile connection or incorporation can be produced, for example, by weaving, braiding, knitting, etc., of the actuator element 204 with the fibers 212 of the fiber composite material.

A textile connection can be a positive connection, for example formed between elements (e.g. fibers, band-like elements, etc.) of the fiber composite material and the actuator element 204. For example, the shape memory alloy of the actuator element 204 can be parallel to the warp or weft direction or at any angle to the fiber direction of the Fiber-plastic composite component 202 (illustratively, the textile reinforcement structure) can be arranged. For example, the actuator element 204 can be textile-technically coupled or integrated at least in the fastening sections 214b of the fiber-plastic composite component 202 . The actuator element 204 can have a corrugated section which is embedded in the fibers of the fiber-plastic composite component 202 .

The textile-technical connection provides a robust arrangement which ensures a firm connection between the fiber-plastic composite component 202 and the actuator element 204 without having to rely on more complex and more expensive techniques (e.g. joining technology).

According to various aspects, in a region 214a (e.g. in the central section) of the fiber-plastic composite component 202, a sliding layer 216 can be provided between the actuator element 204 and the fiber-composite material for decoupling the actuator element 204 from the fiber-composite material (see 2C ). Clearly, the actuator element 204 can be connected to the fiber composite material only in sections (for example only in one or both lateral sections 214b). The sliding layer 216 can be arranged, for example, in an area between at least the two fastening sections 214b. The sliding layer can enable displacement of the actuator element 204 relative to the fiber composite material surrounding the actuator element 204 (illustratively, relative to the tissue). This makes it possible, for example, to be able to transfer comparatively large forces (e.g. tensile forces of more than 10 N) from the actuator element 204 to the fiber-plastic composite component 202 without damaging the fiber-plastic composite component 202 and/or without breaking the connection between the fiber-plastic composite component 202 and the actuator element 204 is destroyed.

The sliding layer 216 may comprise or consist of short fibers (e.g. fibers with a length of less than 1 mm), particles (e.g. graphite particles), or another suitable material with sliding properties. The sliding layer 216 can clearly form a channel in the matrix material of the fiber-plastic composite component 202, through which the actuator element 204 (e.g. designed as a shape-memory alloy wire) extends.

In some aspects, the actuator element 204 can be completely textile-technically coupled to the fiber-plastic composite component 202 (e.g. with the fibers) and/or completely textile-technically integrated into the fiber-plastic composite component 202 (e.g. both in the lateral sections 214b and in the central section 214a).

3 10 shows an adaptive system 300 having an actuator component 302 in a schematic view, according to various aspects. The actuator component 302 can be set up like the actuator component 200a, 200b, which with respect to 2A until 2C was described, and can have a fiber-plastic composite component 304 with one or more actuator elements 306 . In some aspects, the adaptive system 300 may be for use in a vehicle. Clearly, the adaptive system 300 can be set up for the implementation of a smart functionality in a vehicle. In some aspects, a vehicle may include the adaptive system 300 (eg, a vehicle may be equipped or retrofitted with the adaptive system 300).

The fiber-plastic composite component 304 may be configured (e.g., molded) depending on the intended use of the adaptive system 300. As an example, the fiber-plastic composite component 304 may be or be configured as a hood or body panel of a vehicle . As further examples, the fiber-plastic composite component 304 may be or be configured as a wing tip, a spoiler, and/or an airbrake (e.g., for a car or for an airplane).

The one or more actuator elements 306 can be coupled to the fiber-plastic composite component 304 and/or integrated into the fiber-plastic composite component 304, as described above. As an example embodiment, the one or more actuator elements 306 may be or include one or more wires (eg, one or more shape memory alloy wires). In 3 the one or more actuator elements 306 are shown schematically. The arrangement of the one or more actuator elements 306 with respect to the axes 308, 310 of the fiber-plastic composite component 304 can be chosen to implement a predefined functionality of the adaptive system 300. Possible configurations and arrangements of one or more actuator elements in a fiber-plastic -Composite parts were related to 2A until 2C described.

The adaptive system 300 can have a sensor system 312 for providing sensor data which describe an environment of the adaptive system 300 . Sensor system 312 may include one or more sensors configured to perform various types of sensing (e.g., optical, sonic, etc.) and one or more processors configured to process the output of one or of the multiple sensors process. The sensor system 312 can be set up in such a way that it provides sensor data which can be used to control the actuator component 302, e.g. to control the one or more mechanical properties of the fiber-plastic composite component 304. As examples, the sensor system 312 can have at least one camera, a light detection and ranging (LIDAR) sensor, a radio detection and ranging (RADAR) sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, a global positioning system (GPS) device, an accelerometer, and/or a gyroscope.

In some aspects, sensor system 312 may be configured to determine an operating situation of a vehicle. The sensor system 312 can be set up in such a way that it determines a current scenario in which the vehicle is located. The sensor system 312 can thus provide data that describe this scenario. The operating situation can thus be understood as a current situation of the vehicle in relation to one or more aspects that are relevant to what the vehicle is doing and how the vehicle should behave. The operating situation can, for example, have one or more of the following aspects: a trajectory of the vehicle, a speed of the vehicle, weather conditions in the vicinity of the vehicle, collision status with regard to a vehicle, error status of a vehicle, location (e.g. spatial position and/or alignment) of a vehicle , acceleration (e.g. longitudinal and/or lateral acceleration) of a vehicle, and/or the presence of one or more objects in the vicinity of the vehicle. The operating situation can describe, for example, a current behavior of the vehicle and surroundings of the vehicle (eg a traffic situation).

In some aspects, the sensor system 312 may be configured to determine an existence of a collision situation in which an object and the fiber-plastic composite component 304 collide or could collide. Clearly, in some aspects, the adaptive system 300 may be configured as an impact protection system.

A collision situation may describe a scenario in which an impact between the object and the fiber-plastic composite component 304 is imminent or has already occurred. A collision situation can, for example, be a Sze describe nario in which an impact between the object and the fiber-plastic composite component 304 will take place with a probability of more than 95%, for example more than 99%.

The sensor system 312 can be set up in such a way that it determines the existence of the collision situation as a function of one or more parameters which describe the environment of the adaptive system 300 . For example, the sensor system 312 can be set up in such a way that it determines the existence of the collision situation depending on one or more of the following: a distance between the object and the fiber-plastic composite component 304, a speed (and/or an acceleration) of the object , a speed (and/or an acceleration) of the fiber-plastic composite component 304, a trajectory of the object and/or a trajectory of the fiber-plastic composite component 304. Clearly, the sensor system 312 can be set up in such a way that it detects the presence of a collision between the object and the fiber-plastic composite component 304, e.g. based on the sensor data.

In an exemplary embodiment, the sensor system 312 can be set up in such a way that it determines the existence of the collision situation as a function of the operating situation. For example, the sensor system 312 can be set up in such a way that it determines the existence of the collision situation depending on one or more of the following parameters: a distance between the object and the vehicle, a speed (and/or an acceleration) of the object, a speed ( and/or an acceleration) of the vehicle, a trajectory of the object and/or a trajectory of the vehicle.

In an exemplary scenario, the object may be a pedestrian who is (or will be) impacted by the fiber-plastic composite component 304, e.g., the fiber-plastic composite component 304 configured as a hood or body panel of an automobile.

It should be understood that the configuration of the adaptive system 300 as a crash protection system is not limited to use in a vehicle. Alternatively, the crash protection system may be placed in a fixed structure such as a wall, pillar, street lamp, and so on. In this embodiment, the fiber-plastic composite member 304 may be configured as part of the fixed structure, e.g., as a part that may be subject to potential collisions. The sensor system 312 can be configured to detect a collision situation between an object and the fiber-plastic composite component 304 in the fixed structure, e.g., a pedestrian or a car running into the wall or street lamp.

In some aspects, additionally or alternatively, the sensor data may describe a path or an expected path of the fiber-plastic composite component 304 (e.g., a path of a vehicle). The path can describe that the fiber-plastic composite component 304 (or the vehicle) moves along a linear trajectory or along a curve or uphill/downhill, as examples. As another example, the sensor data may describe a particular phase of movement of the fiber-plastic composite component 304 (e.g., a particular phase of vehicle movement). The phase can be, for example, a departure, an arrival, a take-off or a landing (in the case of an aircraft, such as an airplane). The operating situation can clearly describe a path of the vehicle and/or a phase of the journey of the vehicle.

The adaptive system 300 can also have a control system 314 which is set up to control the actuator component 302 (clearly for controlling the activation and deactivation of the one or more actuator elements 306). The control system 314 may be configured to control the actuator component 302 based on the output of the sensor system 312. It will be appreciated that the adaptive system 300 may include more than one actuator component 302, and the control system 314 may be configured to control any of the Actuator components 302 controls. Control system 314 may include one or more processors. The control system 314 may also be referred to herein as a controller.

The control system 314 can be set up in such a way that it controls the activation of the one or more actuator elements 306 in order to influence the one or more mechanical properties of the fiber-plastic composite component 304 and to adapt it to the determined environment. For example, the control system 314 can be set up to cause the one or more actuator elements 306 to contract in order to change the one or more mechanical properties of the fiber-plastic composite component 304 depending on the determined operating situation.

The change in one or more of the mechanical properties of the fiber-plastic composite component 304 can change the behavior of the vehicle or the structure in which (s) the adaptive System 300 is integrated affect (eg, the reaction to a collision). In some aspects, the fiber-plastic composite component 304 may be configured such that a change in its one or more mechanical properties (eg, a change in its shape) provides (in other words, causes) a change in the aerodynamic properties of the vehicle.

In all examples, the fiber-plastic composite component 304 can be set up in such a way that the variation in one or more mechanical properties of the fiber-plastic composite component 304 causes one or more of the following variations: a variation in the speed of the vehicle, a variation in an acceleration of the Vehicle, a variation of a trajectory of the vehicle and / or a variation of one or more mechanical properties of the vehicle.

The control system 314 can thus be set up in such a way that it receives the sensor data from the sensor system 312 and controls the actuator component 302 accordingly in order to adapt the mechanical properties (e.g. the shape, the rigidity) of the control system 304 to the determined (e.g. driving) situation. This configuration may provide an adaptive strategy to improve the overall response of a vehicle (or structure) equipped with the adaptive system 300 to a current scenario.

For example, the control system 314 may be configured to control contraction of the one or more actuator elements 306 to cause deformation of the fiber-plastic composite component 304 to affect an airflow path defined by the fiber-plastic composite component 304 . The fiber-plastic composite component 304 can be deformable at least in sections (see FIG 1A ) that the fiber-plastic composite component 304 can be brought into at least a first shape and a second shape, which is different from the first shape, in order to change the air flow path.

The control system 314 may be configured to control the contraction of the one or more actuator elements 306 to adapt the aerodynamic properties of the adaptive system 300 (e.g. the aerodynamic properties of a vehicle) to the current situation. In an exemplary scenario in which the fiber-plastic composite component 304 is designed as an aerodynamic component (e.g. as a spoiler or airbrake), the control system 314 can be configured such that it controls the contraction of the one or more actuator elements 306 to shape of the fiber-plastic composite component 304 in a controlled manner in order to increase or decrease the drag of the vehicle, for example to increase the stability of the vehicle (e.g. in a turn or on landing). For example, the activation of the one or more actuator elements 306 can bring the fiber-plastic composite component 304 into the curved shape, as a result of which the air resistance can be increased.

In some aspects, the control system 314 may be configured to cause the one or more actuator elements 306 to contract when a collision situation is determined by the sensor system 312 to change the stiffness of the fiber-plastic composite component 304 during the collision situation. The control system 314 may be configured to adjust the stiffness of the fiber-plastic composite component 304 (via the contraction of the one or more actuator elements 306) to respond to the impact.

As an example, the stiffness of the fiber-plastic composite component 304 can be reduced during the collision situation. This configuration can protect the object colliding with the fiber-resin composite member, for example, it can reduce the risk of injury to a pedestrian colliding with the hood or body of a car.

As a further example, the rigidity of the fiber-plastic composite component can be increased during the collision situation. This configuration can protect another component of a vehicle (e.g., an electronic circuit) from the impact. Clearly, the fiber-plastic composite component 304 can become stiffer in order to reduce the risk of damage to another vehicle part.

As an additional or alternative configuration, the control system 314 may be (further) configured to cause the one or more actuator elements 306 to contract when a collision situation is determined by the sensor system 312 to change the shape of the fiber-plastic composite component 304 during the collision situation . For example, the control system 314 may be configured to cause the one or more actuator elements 306 to contract to convert the fiber-plastic composite component 304 from its first (e.g., straight) shape to its second (e.g., curved) shape.

The fiber-plastic composite member 304 in a curved shape may provide a configuration that is better able to withstand an impact. For example, the deformation of the fiber art designed as a hood fabric composite member 304 increase the distance between the hood and the engine, so that additional space is available to absorb the impact and reduce the risk of injury to a pedestrian.

As described above, impact protection cannot be limited to in-vehicle applications, but can also be used in other scenarios, e.g. for installation in a wall or in a pillar to improve the mechanical properties (e.g. the shape or the rigidity) of the Adjust fiber-plastic composite component 304 before an impact or during an impact.

In some aspects, the control system 314 may be configured to bring the one or more actuator elements 306 from the (respective) first (inactive) actuator state to the second (active) actuator state in order to adjust the one or more mechanical properties (e.g. shape, stiffness ) of the fiber-plastic composite component 304 to change. For example, the control system 314 may be configured to activate and deactivate the one or more actuator elements 306 by controlling a temperature of the one or more actuator elements 306 (e.g., a temperature of the respective shape memory alloy). For example, the control system 314 may be configured to heat the one or more actuator elements 306 (to a temperature greater than the phase transition temperature) to bring the one or more actuator elements 306 from the first actuator state to the second actuator state (to causing contraction of the one or more actuator elements 306).

4 FIG. 4 shows a schematic flow diagram of a method 400 for operating an adaptive system, according to various aspects. The adaptive system may be set up like the adaptive system 300 described in relation to FIG 3 was described, with a fiber-plastic composite component and with one or more actuator elements coupled/integrated therein.

The method 400 is described in relation to using the adaptive system in a vehicle. However, it should be understood that the aspects of the method 400 may apply in a corresponding manner to the use of the adaptive system in another scenario (e.g. in a fixed structure).

The method 400 may include, in 410, determining an environment of the adaptive system, eg determining an operating situation. The determination of the environment of the adaptive system can include, for example, the determination of sensor data which describe the environment of the adaptive system (eg the operating situation). The sensor data can be determined using various types of acquisition strategies, e.g. using optical acquisition, sound-based acquisition, etc. Clearly, the method 400 can include providing sensor data for controlling the one or more actuator elements of the adaptive system (e.g. for controlling the one or more mechanical Properties of the fiber-plastic composite component). In some aspects, determining the environment of the adaptive system may include determining a collision situation (see also 5 ).

The method 400 may include, in 420, controlling the one or more actuator elements to cause a change in one or more mechanical properties of the fiber-plastic composite component depending on the determined environment (e.g., the determined operating situation). Clearly, method 400 may include controlling the adaptive system based on the determined sensor data. Controlling the one or more actuator elements may include heating the one or more actuator elements to cause a respective contraction. In some aspects, the control of the one or more actuator elements can be based on a determined collision situation.

The change in one or more mechanical properties of the fiber-plastic composite component can include, for example, a deformation of the fiber-plastic composite component, e.g. around the fiber-plastic composite component from its first (e.g. straight) shape to its second (e.g. curved) shape bring to.

As another example, changing the one or more mechanical properties of the fiber-plastic composite part can cause a change (in other words, a variation) in the stiffness of the fiber-plastic composite part (e.g., to increase or decrease the stiffness). For example, the rigidity of the fiber-plastic composite component can be changed before or during a collision situation.

5 FIG. 5 shows a schematic flow diagram of a method 500 for operating a crash protection system, according to various aspects. The crash protection system can be set up like the adaptive system 300, which is described in relation to FIG 3 was described, with a fiber-plastic composite component and with one or more actuator elements coupled/integrated therein. Clearly, the impact protection system can be an exemplary embodiment of the adaptive system.

The method 500 may include determining an existence of a collision situation in which an object and the fiber-plastic composite component collide or could collide. For example, in 510, a collision situation can be determined or predicted at a point in time before the impact.

Method 500 may include contracting the one or more actuator elements when a collision situation has been determined to change a stiffness of the fiber-plastic composite component during the collision situation. As an example implementation, the method 500 may include, at 520, generating a signal from the sensor system that represents the presence of the collision situation. Method 500 may further include, at 530, controlling, by the control system, the one or more actuator elements to cause activation, at 540, of the one or more actuator elements. For example, method 500 may include heating the one or more actuator elements to cause the one or more actuator elements to contract. Activation of the one or more actuator elements may, at 550, (e.g., increase or decrease) the stiffness of the fiber-plastic composite component during the collision situation. For example, activation of the one or more actuator elements may cause a reduction in stiffness to protect a pedestrian during an automobile (e.g., hood) impact. As an exemplary scenario, immediately before the accident, the sensor can transmit a signal to the control system, which activates the SMA so that the adaptive kinematics inside the hood can act as a crash absorber structure by reducing the stiffness of the adaptive FRP.

To implement the adaptive kinematic system described here (using the example of a hood), adaptive functional elements, e.g. SMA, are automatically integrated in a single stage into the textile reinforcement structure based on high-performance fibers. The textile-technical integration of adaptive functional elements in the reinforcement structure is advantageous for the optimal power transmission of adaptive kinematic systems. In terms of textile technology, the adaptive functional elements can be integrated parallel to the warp and weft direction or at any angle to the fiber direction, both in the upper and lower side or in the central axis of the textile reinforcement structure.

The arrangement described here provides a weight-saving and cost-effective solution for adaptive kinematic and oscillating systems (using the example of a vehicle component), which can generate requirement-specific movements on the basis of energy- and material-efficient actuator principles, taking into account the lightweight construction concept.

Various examples are described below that relate to what has been described and illustrated above (e.g., to the adaptive system 300 and to the method 400, 500). It is understood that the aspects described in relation to the adaptive system can apply in a corresponding manner to the method(s), and vice versa.

Example 1 is an adaptive system for use in a vehicle, the adaptive system comprising: a fiber-plastic composite component comprising one or more actuator elements which are coupled to the fiber-plastic composite component and/or integrated into the fiber-plastic composite component and which are set up to change one or more mechanical properties of the fiber-plastic composite component based on a contraction of the one or more actuator elements; a sensor system for determining an operating situation of the vehicle; and a control system, which is set up to cause a contraction of the one or more actuator elements in order to change the one or more mechanical properties of the fiber-plastic composite component depending on the determined operating situation.

In example 2, the adaptive system according to example 1 can optionally further comprise that the operating situation comprises (e.g. describes) one or more of the following: a trajectory of the vehicle, a speed of the vehicle, weather conditions in the vicinity of the vehicle, collision state with respect to a vehicle , fault condition of a vehicle, location (e.g. spatial position and/or orientation) of a vehicle, acceleration (e.g. longitudinal and/or lateral acceleration) of a vehicle, and/or the presence of one or more objects in the vicinity of the vehicle.

In Example 3, the adaptive system according to Example 1 or 2 can optionally further include that the sensor system has at least one camera, a LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensor, a RADAR (Radio Detection and Ranging) sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, a GPS device (Global Positioning System), an accelerometer and/or a gyroscope.

In example 4, the adaptive system according to one of examples 1 to 3 can optionally also have that the fiber-plastic composite component is set up in such a way that a change in its one or more mechanical properties (e.g., a change in its shape) provides (in other words, causes) a change in the vehicle's aerodynamic properties.

In Example 5, the adaptive system according to one of Examples 1 to 4 can optionally further include that the fiber-plastic composite component is set up such that the variation of the one or more mechanical properties of the fiber-plastic composite component includes one or more of the following variations causes: a variation in a speed of the vehicle, a variation in an acceleration of the vehicle, a variation in a trajectory of the vehicle, and/or a variation in one or more mechanical properties of the vehicle.

In Example 5, the adaptive system according to any one of Examples 1 to 4 may optionally further include the vehicle being a car or an airplane.

Example 6 is a vehicle having one or more adaptive systems according to any one of examples 1 to 5.

Example 7 is an impact protection system comprising: a fiber-plastic composite component having one or more actuator elements which are coupled to the fiber-plastic composite component and/or integrated into the fiber-plastic composite component and which are configured to have a stiffness of the fiber - to change the plastic composite component based on a contraction of the one or more actuator elements; a sensor system for determining an existence of a collision situation in which an object and the fiber-plastic composite component collide or could collide; and a control system, which is set up to cause a contraction of the one or more actuator elements if the sensor system has determined that a collision situation exists, in order to change the stiffness of the fiber-plastic composite component during the collision situation.

In Example 8, the impact protection system according to Example 7 can optionally also have that the sensor system is set up in such a way that it determines the occurrence of the collision situation depending on one or more of the following: a distance between the object and the fiber-plastic composite component, a Speed (and/or an acceleration) of the object, a speed (and/or an acceleration) of the fiber-plastic composite component, a trajectory of the object and/or a trajectory of the fiber-plastic composite component.

In example 9, the impact protection system according to example 7 or 8 can optionally also have that the rigidity of the fiber-plastic composite component is reduced during the collision situation.

In Example 10, the impact protection system according to one of Examples 7 to 9 can optionally also have that the fiber-plastic composite component is deformable at least in sections such that the fiber-plastic composite component at least has a first shape and a second shape that is different from the first shape shape can be brought, and that the one or more actuator elements are coupled to the fiber-plastic composite component and/or integrated into the fiber-plastic composite component in such a way that the fiber-plastic composite component is produced by means of one of the one or more actuator elements Tensile force can be brought from the first form into the second form.

In example 11, the impact protection system according to one of examples 7 to 10 can optionally also have the fiber-plastic composite component being resiliently deformable.

In example 12, the impact protection system according to example 11 can optionally also have that the fiber-plastic composite component is set up in such a way that it can be deformed from the first shape into the second shape in a resilient manner; or that the fiber-plastic composite component is set up in such a way that it can be elastically deformed from the second shape into the first shape.

In example 13, the impact protection system according to one of examples 10 to 12 can optionally further have that the fiber-plastic composite component is made of a material such that the material imparts a restoring force to the fiber-plastic composite component.

In Example 14, the impact protection system according to any one of Examples 10 to 13 can optionally further include the fiber-plastic composite component being configured in such a way that a restoring force is generated when the fiber-plastic composite component is deflected from the first shape; or that the fiber-plastic composite component is set up in such a way that a restoring force is generated when the fiber-plastic composite component is deflected from the second shape.

In Example 15, the impact protection system according to one of Examples 10 to 14 can optionally also have the fiber-plastic composite component being resiliently deformable in sections in such a way that a restoring force is generated, which pushes the fiber-plastic composite component from the second mold into the brings first form.

In example 16, the impact protection system according to one of examples 7 to 15 can optionally further have that the control system is further set up to cause the contraction of the one or more actuator elements when the presence of a collision situation has been determined by the sensor system to change the shape of the fiber Plastic composite component during the collision situation.

In example 17, the impact protection system according to one of examples 7 to 16 can optionally further have that at least one actuator element of the one or more actuator elements has or consists of a shape memory alloy. In some aspects, at least one of the one or more actuator elements may include or consist of one or more dielectric elastomers. Alternatively, in some aspects, at least one of the one or more actuator elements may include a combination of at least one SMA actuator and at least one actuator based on one or more dielectric elastomers.

In example 18, the impact protection system according to one of examples 7 to 17 can optionally also have that at least one actuator element of the one or more actuator elements is designed as a one-way actuator element.

In example 19, the impact protection system according to any one of examples 7 to 18 can optionally further comprise that at least one actuator element of the one or more actuator elements can be in a first (inactive) actuator state and in a second (active) actuator state. For example, the at least one actuator element can be set up to generate the tensile force in the second actuator state.

In example 20, the impact protection system according to example 19 can optionally further comprise that when the at least one actuator element is in the first actuator state, the shape memory alloy of the at least one actuator element has a temperature below its phase transformation temperature, and when the at least one actuator element is in the second actuator state , The shape memory alloy of the at least one actuator element has a temperature above its phase transformation temperature.

In example 21, the impact protection system according to one of examples 7 to 20 can optionally further have that the fiber-plastic composite component has a fiber-composite material, or that the fiber-plastic composite component is formed from a fiber-composite material. Clearly, the fiber-plastic composite component can have a fiber material or consist of a fiber material that is embedded in a matrix material.

In example 22, the impact protection system according to example 21 can optionally also have that at least one actuator element of the one or more actuator elements is embedded in the fiber composite of the fiber-plastic composite component. For example, the at least one actuator element can be connected to fibers of the fiber-plastic composite component (e.g. by means of a textile connection).

In example 23, the impact protection system according to example 21 or 22 can optionally also have that at least one actuator element of the one or more actuator elements is at least partially textile-connected to fibers of the fiber composite material. For example, a fiber material of the fiber composite material can be textile-technically connected to at least a first end section and a second end section of the at least one actuator element.

In example 24, the impact protection system according to example 23 can optionally also have that the fiber-plastic composite component has a sliding layer for decoupling the at least one actuator element from the fiber-composite material.

In example 25, the impact protection system according to one of examples 7 to 24 can optionally also have that at least one actuator element of the one or more actuator elements is a shape memory alloy wire or is configured as a shape memory alloy wire.

In example 26, the impact protection system according to one of examples 7 to 25 can optionally also have that the fiber-plastic composite component is a hood or a body component of a vehicle or is configured as such.

In example 27, the impact protection system according to example 26 can optionally further include that the object is a pedestrian, and the collision situation includes an impact of the pedestrian with the hood or with the body component.

Example 28 is a vehicle having one or more impact protection systems according to any one of Examples 7 to 27.

Example 29 is a method for operating an adaptive system, the adaptive system comprising a fiber-plastic composite component having one or more actuator elements which are coupled to the fiber-plastic composite component and/or integrated into the fiber-plastic composite component, the method comprising: determining an operating situation; and controlling the one or more actuator elements in order to cause a change in one or more mechanical properties of the fiber-plastic composite component as a function of the determined operating situation.

In Example 30, the method of Example 29 may have one or more of the features of Examples 1-28.

Example 31 is a method for operating an impact protection system, the impact protection system having a fiber-plastic composite component having one or more actuator elements which are coupled to the fiber-plastic composite component and/or integrated into the fiber-plastic composite component, the method having : determining an existence of a collision situation in which an object and the fiber-plastic composite component collide or could collide; and causing a contraction of the one or more actuator elements if the existence of a collision situation has been determined to change a stiffness of the fiber-plastic composite component during the collision situation.

In Example 32, the process of Example 31 may include one or more features of Examples 1-30.

Example 33 is an adaptive system for use in a vehicle, the adaptive system comprising: a composite component comprising one or more actuator elements which are coupled to the composite component and/or integrated into the composite component and which are configured one or more mechanical properties of the composite component to change based on a contraction of the one or more actuator elements; a sensor system for determining an operating situation of the vehicle; and a control system, which is set up to cause the one or more actuator elements to contract in order to change the one or more mechanical properties of the composite component as a function of the determined operating situation.

Example 34 is an impact protection system, comprising: a composite component having one or more actuator elements which are coupled to the composite component and/or integrated into the composite component and which are configured to change a stiffness of the composite component based on a contraction of the one or more actuator elements; a sensor system for determining an existence of a collision situation in which an object and the composite component collide or may collide; and a control system, which is set up to cause a contraction of the one or more actuator elements if the sensor system has determined that a collision situation exists, in order to change the stiffness of the composite component during the collision situation.

Claims (8)

Impact protection system (300) comprising: a fiber-plastic composite component (100, 202, 304) having one or more actuator elements (150, 204, 306) which are coupled to the fiber-plastic composite component (100, 202, 304) and/or into the fiber-plastic - Composite component (100, 202, 304) are integrated and which are set up to change a stiffness of the fiber-plastic composite component (100, 202, 304) based on a contraction of the one or more actuator elements (150, 204, 306); a sensor system (312) for determining an existence of a collision situation in which an object and the fiber-plastic composite component (100, 202, 304) collide or could collide; and a control system (314), which is set up to cause a contraction of the one or more actuator elements (150, 204, 306) when the sensor system (312) has determined that a collision situation is present, in order to change the stiffness of the fiber-plastic composite component ( 100, 202, 304) during the collision situation, wherein the fiber-plastic composite component (100, 202, 304) comprises a fiber-composite material, or wherein the fiber-plastic composite component (100, 202, 304) is formed from a fiber-composite material, and wherein at least one actuator element of the one or more actuator elements (150, 204, 306) is textile-technically connected to fibers of the fiber composite material at least in sections. Impact protection system (300) according to claim 1 , wherein the sensor system (312) is set up in such a way that it determines the occurrence of the collision situation as a function of one or more of the following: a distance between the object and the fiber-plastic composite component (100, 202, 304), a speed of the Object, a speed of the fiber-plastic composite component (100, 202, 304), a trajectory of the object and/or a trajectory of the fiber-plastic composite component (100, 202, 304). Impact protection system (300) according to claim 1 or 2 , wherein the control system (314) is further set up to cause the contraction of the one or more actuator elements (150, 204, 306) when a collision situation of the sensor system (312) was determined to change the shape of the fiber-plastic composite component (100, 202, 304) during the collision situation. Impact protection system (300) according to one of Claims 1 until 3 , wherein the fiber-plastic composite component (100, 202, 304) is deformable at least in sections such that the fiber-plastic composite component (100, 202, 304) is brought into at least a first shape and a second shape that differs from the first shape and wherein the one or more actuator elements (150, 204, 306) are coupled to the fiber-plastic composite component (100, 202, 304) and/or integrated (100, 202, 304 ) are that the fiber-plastic composite component (100, 202, 304) can be brought from the first shape into the second shape by means of a tensile force generated by the one or more actuator elements (150, 204, 306). Impact protection system (300) according to one of Claims 1 until 4 , the control system (314) is further set up to cause the contraction of the one or more actuator elements (150, 204, 306) when the presence of a collision situation has been determined by the sensor system (312) to change the shape of the fiber-plastic composite component ( 100, 202, 304) during the collision situation. Impact protection system (300) according to one of Claims 1 until 5 , wherein at least one actuator element of the one or more actuator elements (150, 204, 306) has or consists of a shape memory alloy, and/or wherein at least one actuator element of the one or more actuator elements (150, 204, 306) has one or more dielectric elastomers or consists of. Impact protection system (300) according to one of Claims 1 until 6 , wherein the rigidity of the fiber-plastic composite component (100, 202, 304) is reduced during the collision situation. Method (500) for operating an impact protection system, the impact protection system having a fiber-plastic composite component having one or more actuator elements, which are coupled to the fiber-plastic composite component and / or integrated into the fiber-plastic composite component, wherein the fiber Plastic composite component has a fiber composite material, or wherein the fiber-plastic composite component is formed from a fiber composite material, and wherein at least one actuator element of the one or more actuator elements is at least partially textile-technically connected to fibers of the fiber composite material, the method (500) comprising: determining an existence of a collision situation in which an object and the fiber-plastic composite component collide or could collide; and Causing a contraction of the one or more actuator elements when the existence of a collision situation has been determined to change a stiffness of the fiber-plastic composite component during the collision situation.

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