FR3136253A1 - Motor vehicle opening control system - Google Patents

Abstract

The subject of the invention is a control system (23) for the opening (16) of a motor vehicle (10). The control system comprises sash actuation means (20), and a control unit (22) configured to control the actuation means. The control unit is configured to receive sash data and to identify a sash closing command, called manual restart, by pressing the sash in the closing direction. The control unit is configured to calculate a sash parameter based on the sash data, to compare the sash parameter to an end of sash closing command criterion, and to identify an end of command when the opening parameter meets the criterion; then, after identification of the end of the command, to control the actuation means so as to close the opening, and to analyze the data in order to detect an obstacle. Figure to be published with the abstract: Fig. 2

Description

Motor vehicle opening control system

The invention relates to the field of safety of a motor vehicle. More precisely, the invention relates to a system for controlling an opening of a motor vehicle. The invention also relates to a motor vehicle. The invention further relates to a method of closing an opening of a motor vehicle.

A motor vehicle opening, such as a trunk flap, can be motorized to facilitate its use. Still with this in mind for ease of use, the motorized closing movement is initiated in different ways. Commonly, the motorized closing is initiated using a push button, which forms a man-machine interface. According to another possibility, the closing is initiated when a user presses directly on the opening in the closing direction. This closing control mode is commonly called “manual restart”. It responds in case the user does not know the motorized assistance closing function; or when the user does not reach the dedicated human-machine interface. This control mode is detected and controlled by a dedicated control unit.

From a safety point of view, the motorized opening commonly has pressure sensors on the side edges. These sensors make it possible to detect a pinching situation between the sash and the contour of the associated opening. More generally, these sensors make it possible to identify an obstacle on the closing path. This anti-pinch analysis mode is commonly called “direct analysis mode”. However, these sensors have limited effectiveness since their detection zone is limited to their length.

In order to detect and avoid possible pinching situations on the entire motorized opening, it is known to analyze the behavior of the opening according to its closing instruction. In the event of a discrepancy, the vehicle concludes that there is an obstacle preventing closure, therefore a risk of being pinched. The vehicle then deactivates the motorized door closing function. Therefore, certain user injuries are avoided, as is possible mechanical damage.

However, this obstacle detection mode remains incompatible with a closing initiated by a manual restart since the latter disrupts the behavior of the opening when it is closed. The physical effort of the user generates a deviation in closing behavior. When the user interrupts his effort on the shutter and the automatic motorized closing maneuver is already started, this loss of effort in the direction of the maneuver is then perceived by the anti-pinch function as an effort opposing the maneuver; and therefore as a potential pinch. From then on, the means of actuating the opening stop.

Assisted closing is deactivated for safety purposes, but the opening no longer closes despite the user's wishes. A solution remains to be found to improve the situation.

The invention aims to respond to at least one of the problems or disadvantages encountered in the prior art. In particular, the invention aims to improve the ergonomics of a motorized opening of a motor vehicle. The invention also aims to optimize the ergonomics and safety of an opening of a motor vehicle.

According to a first aspect, the invention proposes a motor vehicle opening control system, the control system comprising opening actuation means, and a control unit configured to control the actuation means, to receive sash data and to identify a sash closing command by pressing the sash in the direction of closing as a function of said sash data; remarkable in that the control unit is configured to calculate at least one opening parameter as a function of the opening data, to compare the opening parameter(s) to one or more end of closing control criteria. associated sash, and to identify an end of closing command when the or at least one of the sash parameters meets the or at least one of the associated end of command criteria; then after identification of the end of the command, to control the actuation means so as to close the opening.

Preferably, the control unit is configured to calculate at least one opening parameter as a function of the opening data, to compare the opening parameter(s) to one or more end of opening closing control criteria. associated, and to identify an end of closing command when the or at least one of the opening parameters fulfills the or at least one of the associated end of command criteria; then after identification of the end of the command, to control the actuation means so as to close the opening, and to analyze the opening data in order to detect an obstacle to the closing of the opening.

It will be understood that the invention proposes a motor vehicle opening control system, the control system comprising means for actuating the opening, and a control unit configured to control the actuation means, the control unit being configured to detect a sash closing command by pressing on the sash in the closing direction; remarkable in that the control unit is configured to detect an end of closing command phase then to start closing the opening and/or searching for a possible obstacle in the closing trajectory of the opening; optionally simultaneously.

The invention makes it possible to optimize both the safety and the ergonomics of a motor vehicle since the motorized closing of the opening and the monitoring of the presence of an obstacle is conditioned by a phase or sub-step of end of command. closure caused by the user. This configuration makes it possible to operate the opening and monitor the probability of a pinch event without being disturbed by the physical action of the user when he presses on the opening in order to close it. In this way, the invention optimizes the ease of use of the vehicle.

We know the document FR2900206B1 which presents a motor vehicle comprising a motorized opening. The vehicle also includes means for controlling the closing of the opening, means for motorizing the opening and anti-pinch means for detecting an obstacle to the closing of the opening. The motor vehicle also has means for engaging a forced closing mode of the opening connected to means for deactivating the anti-pinch means. This solution is not satisfactory since it does not guarantee safety during certain operating phases since the anti-pinch is temporarily deactivated.

Preferably, the sash parameter(s) comprise a sash closing speed, and the associated end-of-control criterion(s) comprise a closing speed threshold.

Preferably, the control unit is configured to control the actuation means so as to close the opening by imposing a closing speed setpoint.

Preferably, the opening parameter(s) comprise an acceleration of opening opening, and the associated end-of-command criteria(s) comprise a closing acceleration threshold.

Preferably, the opening parameter(s) include a movement, and the associated end-of-order criteria(s) include a minimum movement threshold.

Preferably, the control unit is configured to identify the end of the order when at least one end of order criterion is met for a duration greater than or equal to a duration threshold.

Preferably, the actuation means comprise measuring means adapted to determine the opening data; the control unit is preferably configured to analyze the opening data in order to detect an obstacle to the closing of the opening, after identification of the end of the command.

Preferably, the control system includes the opening.

Preferably, the end of control criterion includes a deceleration of the closing movement of the opening.

Preferably, the control unit is configured to identify the end of the command when the sash data includes a zero sash closing speed.

Preferably, the control unit is configured to actuate the actuation means by imposing a closing speed setpoint for the opening by adapting the power supply to the actuation means as a function of a movement speed measurement.

Preferably, the control unit is configured to identify the end of the command when the sash data includes a sash movement greater than or equal to a movement threshold.

According to another aspect, the invention proposes a motor vehicle comprising an opening, and an opening control system, remarkable in that the opening control system is in accordance with the invention, and the opening is a shutter trunk.

According to another aspect, the invention proposes a method for closing the opening of a motor vehicle, the motor vehicle comprising an opening, means for actuating the opening, and a unit for controlling the actuation means, remarkable in that the control system conforms to the invention and in that the method comprises the following steps: reception of opening data, detection of an opening closing command by pressing on the opening in the direction of closing based on opening data; calculation of at least one sash parameter based on the sash data; comparison of the sash parameter(s) to one or more associated sash closing command end criteria, identification of an end of closing command when the or at least one of the sash parameters fulfills the or at least one associated end-of-order criteria; then, closing of the opening by actuation of the actuating means so as to close the opening.

Preferably, the method further comprises a step of analyzing the opening data in order to detect an obstacle to the closing of the opening, the closing step and the analysis step begin simultaneously, and in the step identification the opening is stationary relative to a chassis of the motor vehicle.

According to another aspect, the invention provides a computer program comprising program code instructions for executing the steps of the closing method according to the invention.

According to another aspect, the invention proposes a computer-readable recording medium comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer, lead it to implement the steps of the closure method according to the invention.

The invention will be well understood and other aspects and advantages will appear clearly on reading the description which follows given with reference to the figures appended and listed below.

There is a side view of a motor vehicle according to the invention.

There is an enlargement of the , on the rear part of the motor vehicle according to the invention.

There is a diagram of a method of closing a motor vehicle opening according to the invention.

In the following description, the term “include” is synonymous with “include” and is not restrictive in that it authorizes the presence of other elements in the motor vehicle to which it relates. It is understood that the term “understand” includes the terms “consist of”. The terms “external” and “internal” will respectively designate what is oriented towards the exterior of the vehicle and towards the interior of the vehicle.

In this description, the term “longitudinal”, the term “longitudinal”, the term “transverse”, and the term “transversely” are used according to the reference of the vehicle, in the assembly configuration. The term “longitudinal” corresponds to the main direction of movement of the vehicle. The term “transverse” corresponds to a direction perpendicular to the main direction of movement of the vehicle. The term “front” refers to the main direction of movement of the vehicle. The term “rear” refers to the opposite of the front of the vehicle. The X axis represents the longitudinal direction, the Y axis represents the transverse direction, and the Z axis represents the vertical direction.

Through the description, the different figures use the same reference signs to designate identical or similar entities.

There presents a motor vehicle 10 according to the invention. The motor vehicle 10 is shown from the side, in the transverse direction, along the Y axis. The arrow of the X axis is oriented towards the front of the vehicle.

The motor vehicle 10 comprises a chassis 12 forming its main structure. Frame 12 forms the framework. The various components of the motor vehicle 10 are fixed to the chassis 12. The chassis 12 connects the running gear of the vehicle, and supports the motor(s) necessary for driving the vehicle 10. The chassis 12 delimits the passenger compartment and the storage space. rear loading, in this case the rear trunk.

The motor vehicle 10 comprises openings and openings 16 capable of closing the associated openings. The motor vehicle 10 includes front and rear doors 14 allowing a user to enter the passenger compartment. The doors 14 are generally pivotable relative to vertical axes (i.e., along the Z axis). The vehicle 10 further comprises a trunk flap 18, commonly called a tailgate. The trunk flap 18 generally pivots along a transverse pivot axis in its opening and closing movements. The trunk flap 18 and the doors 14 are generally openings 16. The opening 16 moves along the trajectory T in its opening and closing movements. Generally, the openings 16 are pivotally mounted relative to the body 12.

According to a variant of the invention, the vehicle can be a utility vehicle. Access to its rear loading space can be closed by openings with vertical pivot axes, such as doors.

According to another variant of the invention, the openings can be sliding. They can open and close their openings in a longitudinal translation movement. Generally speaking, the openings 16 can be sliding openings.

The motor vehicle 10 comprises a plurality of openings 16. For convenience, the description will focus on one of the openings 16, for example the trunk lid 18. However, the following characteristics apply to all the openings 16 of the motor vehicle 10 .

The opening 16 is advantageously a motorized opening. It comprises actuation means 20 (only one shown) configured to open and close the opening 16 against the frame 12. In the open position, the free end of the opening 16 is at a distance from the body 12, and therefore example in elevation relative to the roof. The actuation means 20 can be cylinders (only one shown) arranged at a distance from the hinges 21. Alternatively, the actuation means are motors (not shown) integrated into the hinges 21.

The actuation means 20 may include measuring means (not shown). These measuring means make it possible to determine the position or the opening angle of the opening 16. The measuring means may include Hall probes, which generate electrical pulses during the movement of the actuating means 20. These electrical pulses form an electrical signal understood as data relating to the opening. The Hall probes distributed along the cylinder make it possible to estimate its length, and by extension the position of the opening. The closing position of the latter can be initialized each time it is closed, when locking the lock.

The opening movement of the opening 16 is controlled by a control unit 22, also called a motor control device. The 22 control unit may include a motor control box. The control unit 22 communicates with the actuation means 20, for example with a wired connection, or by electromagnetic waves. The control unit 22 is able to manage one or more closing commands. A closing command can come from a push button on the opening 16, from a remote control (not shown) integrated into a vehicle key, or even from a user terminal. The control unit 22 is able to recognize a closing command by pressing the sash. When the actuation means are in a stopped state and a movement is detected, the control unit 22 recognizes an opening command. The control unit 22 is preferably integrated into the opening 16.

The control unit 22 controls the electrical supply of the actuating means 20 so as to impose a closing speed on them. The control unit 22 sends a closing speed instruction to the actuation means 20.

Alternatively, the control unit is integral with the chassis. It can be integrated into a central computer of the vehicle.

The control unit 22 includes a computer 24 and a storage device 26. The computer 24 can be a processor. The storage device 26 may be a computer memory. It is capable of storing a computer program comprising program code instructions for executing the steps of the closing method according to the invention. The storage device 26 forms a computer-readable recording medium. It can be removable. The control unit 22 may be a computer. It may be a programmable electronic card.

The control unit 22 is configured to detect an obstacle 28 when it closes. Obstacle 28 is a physical obstacle. It forms a body opposing the closing movement. The obstacle 28 blocks the complete closure of the opening 16. It may be a user member or an inert element. For this reason, the control unit 22 implements an anti-pinch function. The anti-pinch function aims to avoid crushing a possible obstacle 28 between an opening edge and the opening 16 when it travels along its trajectory T. This avoids injuries or mechanical damage.

There presents a part of a motor vehicle 10 comprising an opening 16 according to the invention. The motor vehicle 10 preferably corresponds to that presented in relation to the . A user 30 is shown pressing the opening 16, in this case the trunk lid 18. The user 30 presses in the closing direction.

The control unit 22 is configured to receive opening data and to identify a closing command for the opening 18. In particular, the control unit 22 is configured to analyze the opening data and to identify a closing control by pressing on the opening 18. Such a command includes pressing in the direction of closing, towards the associated opening, or more generally towards the frame 12. The control unit 22 and the actuation means form a control system 23 of the opening 16. The control system 23 is generally a control assembly. It can be powered by a vehicle battery.

The control unit 22 is configured to calculate at least one sash parameter as a function of the sash data, to compare the sash parameter(s) to one or more associated sash closing control end criteria, and to identify an end of closing command when the or at least one of the opening parameters fulfill the or at least one of the associated end of command criteria. The control unit 22 is able to recognize an end or a final phase of the closing command. In response to this identification of the end of the command, the control unit 22 controls the actuation means 20 so as to close the opening 18. The actuation means 20 go from a standby mode to a standby mode. training. In parallel, the control unit 22 launches the analysis of a possible presence of obstacle 28 when closing the sash on the basis of the sash data. An arm or a hand of the user 30 can form the obstacle 28.

By counting the electrical pulses, for example grouped in an electrical signal in squares, the control unit 22 manages to estimate the position of the opening 12 when it retracts. The pulses can also be used to track and record the position of the sash as it opens. By deriving the electrical pulses from time, the control unit 22 determines the closing speed of the sash. Thanks to the second derivative with respect to time, the control unit 22 calculates the acceleration of the closing movement. By convention, when the acceleration is negative; it is referred to as deceleration. Velocity can be angular velocity, and acceleration can be angular acceleration. Thus, the control unit 22 has the closing speed of the opening and optionally the acceleration of the closing movement of the opening. The opening parameter(s) include an opening closing acceleration 16, and the associated end of control criteria(s) include a closing acceleration threshold. The control unit 22 is configured to compare the sash closing acceleration and the closing acceleration threshold.

The end of control criteria(s) may include a sash closing speed threshold 16. The end of control criteria(s) may include a deceleration of the closing movement of the sash. The sash parameter(s) 16 include a sash closing speed 16. The control unit 22 is configured to compare the sash closing speed to the closing speed threshold.

The control unit 22 is configured to identify the end of the order when at least one end of order criterion is met for a duration greater than or equal to a duration threshold. This improves the probability of identifying the end of the order.

The control unit 22 is configured to identify the end of the command when the sash parameter(s) include a sash movement greater than or equal to a movement threshold. Compared to a previously estimated open position, the control unit 22 counts the pulses or slots of the signal.

The actuation means 20 are configured so as to provide the opening parameter(s) 16 by means of measuring means. The measuring means make it possible to determine the opening parameter(s), for example in the form of an electrical signal with pulses or pulses.

Alternatively or in addition to the measuring means, the vehicle 10 can include force sensors 32, such as strain gauges. The force sensors 32 can be arranged at the ends of the cylinders or at the hinges 21.

According to another alternative or optionally, optical means 34 make it possible to estimate the position of the opening. The optical means can be arranged on the opening 16 and/or on the frame 12. Comparison of the images acquired by the optical means makes it possible to estimate an opening movement. The images form sash data.

There presents a diagram of a method of closing a motor vehicle opening. The motor vehicle 10 preferably corresponds to that presented in relation to the and/or the .

The process comprises the steps listed below, in particular carried out in the following order.

Reception of 100 sash data, possibly continuously.

Detection 102 of an opening command based on sash data.

Calculation 104 of at least one parameter relating to the opening, for example a state parameter of the opening, based on the opening data.

Comparison 106 of the parameter(s) to one or more associated end of closing control criteria for the sash.

Identification 108 of an end of closing command when the or at least one opening parameter (or each opening parameter) satisfies at least one end of closing command criterion for the associated opening (or each criterion end of associated command).

Closing 110 of the opening by actuation of the actuation means using the control unit following identification of the end of the command.

Analysis 112 of the presence of an obstacle in the closing path of the opening.

Stop 114 of the opening in the closed position.

At reception step 100, the sash is in the open position. The open position can correspond to a maximum opening, or to an intermediate position between the maximum opening and the final closing of the sash. Before the reception step 100, the opening is stationary relative to the associated opening, preferably to the vehicle chassis.

During the reception step 100 and/or the detection step 102, a user presses the opening. This support moves the sash towards its closed position. This movement in the direction of closure implies a distance of movement, for example measured as angular of movement or length of movement. Moving involves moving speed and acceleration. Each of these parameters is calculated by the control unit.

In detection step 102, an audible signal is optionally emitted. This audible signal invites the user to stop pressing against the sash. The audible signal confirms the detection of a closing command by the control unit. It announces the motorized actuation of the sash.

The calculation step 104 includes the calculation of at least one parameter based on the sash data. The opening parameter(s) comprise one or more parameters chosen from a measured closing displacement, a measured closing speed, a measured closing acceleration, a measured effort, preferably the opening parameters comprise all of said parameters. The measured acceleration may be a deceleration. The effort is advantageously measured using force gauges, for example at the level of the actuating means or the hinges.

In the comparison step 106, the associated end-of-order criteria(s) may include one or more speed criteria; for example chosen from a maximum speed threshold, and/or a speed range. A speed criterion can be zero speed. The measured speed is compared to the speed criterion. In addition or as a variant, the associated end-of-order criteria(s) include a movement threshold and/or a deceleration threshold and/or a stress threshold. An associated end-of-order criterion can be a complex criterion composed of the combination of several of the previously mentioned criteria.

When the measured displacement is greater than or equal to the displacement threshold, the associated end of command criterion is met. When the opening is moved by at least this movement threshold, the control unit considers that the user has pushed the opening sufficiently to indicate a desire to close the opening.

When the measured speed is less than or equal to the speed threshold, the associated end of command criterion is met. The speed threshold can be zero speed. So when the opening is stopped, the associated end of command criterion is met. This configuration corresponds to the case where the user has stopped pressing the sash. If the criterion includes the speed range, the associated end of command criterion is met if the measured speed is within the speed range.

In the comparison step 106, the associated end-of-order criterion(s) may include an acceleration criterion. The acceleration criterion may include an acceleration threshold, or an acceleration range. When the measured acceleration is less than or equal to the acceleration threshold, the associated end of command criterion is met; and/or when the measured acceleration is within the acceleration range, the end of command criterion is met.

When the measured effort is greater than or equal to the effort threshold, the associated end of order criterion is met.

In the identification step 108, the, or at least one, or each parameter respects and/or fulfills the, or at least one, or each criterion for the end of the closing command of the associated opening. From then on, the control unit powers the actuation means so as to move the opening in the closing direction. This power supply imposes a closing speed setpoint. The sash closes gradually at a constant speed.

The identification step 108 is possibly conditioned by a minimum duration relating to the time when the opening parameter(s) respect the criterion. This aspect makes it possible to filter vibrations from the sash that could mislead the control unit. Certain shocks are thus ignored.

In the closing step 110, the opening is advantageously controlled according to a closing speed instruction. When the parameter(s) include the measured speed, the invention fulfills its control and monitoring functions through the use of the same parameter. This simplifies data processing and associated calculations. Precision is increased. The closing step 110 is generally a step of actuation of the actuation means by the control unit.

The closing 110 and analysis 112 steps begin simultaneously, and can also end at the same time. Thus, the invention optimizes the analysis time for obstacle detection in relation to the actuation time. The invention avoids deactivating the obstacle detection analysis when the opening moves and is likely to pinch a foreign body. Security is improved.

Alternatively, the closing 110 and analysis 112 steps begin staggered. According to one option of the invention, the analysis step begins after the closing step when an additional condition is met.

In stop step 114, the sash is optionally locked in the closed position. The associated opening is closed and the sash is held in position, for example at the end of travel stop. The closed position can be initialized.

The aforementioned steps are advantageously controlled by computer, in particular by the control unit.

Claims (10)

Control system (23) for an opening (16) of a motor vehicle (10), the control system (23) comprising means (20) for actuating an opening (16), and a control unit (22) configured to control the actuation means (20), to receive opening data (16) and to identify an opening closing command (16) by pressing the opening (22) in the closing direction as a function of said opening data (16); characterized in that the control unit (22) is configured to calculate at least one sash parameter as a function of the sash data, to compare the sash parameter(s) to one or more end of control criteria of closing of associated sash (16), and to identify an end of closing command when the or at least one of the sash parameters (16) fulfills the or at least one of the associated end of command criteria; then after identification of the end of the command, to control the actuation means (20) so as to close the opening (16). Control system (23) according to claim 1, characterized in that the sash parameter(s) (16) comprise a sash closing speed (16), and the associated end of control criterion(s) comprise a threshold. closing speed. Control system (23) according to claim 2, characterized in that the control unit (22) is configured to control the actuation means (20) so as to close the opening (16) by imposing a setpoint of closing speed. Control system (23) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the opening parameter(s) (16) comprise an acceleration of opening closing (16), and the end of opening criterion(s). associated commands include a closing acceleration threshold. Control system (23) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the opening parameter(s) (16) comprise a movement, and the associated end-of-control criterion(s) comprise a minimum movement threshold . Control system (23) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the control unit (22) is configured to identify the end of the order when at least one end of order criterion is fulfilled during a duration greater than or equal to a duration threshold. Control system (23) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the actuation means (20) comprise measuring means adapted to determine the opening data (16); the control unit (22) is preferably configured to analyze the opening data (16) in order to detect an obstacle (28) to the closing of the opening (16), after identification of the end of the command. Motor vehicle (10) comprising an opening (16), and an opening control system (23), characterized in that the opening control system (23) conforms to one of claims 1 at 7, and the opening (16) is a trunk flap (18). Method for closing an opening (16) of a motor vehicle, the motor vehicle (10) comprising an opening (16), means (20) for actuating the opening (16), and a control unit (22) actuation means (20), characterized in that the control system (23) conforms to one of claims 1 to 7 and in that the method comprises the following steps: reception (100) of data from sash, detection (102) of a sash closing command by pressing the sash (16) in the closing direction based on sash data; calculation (104) of at least one sash parameter based on the sash data; comparison (106) of the opening parameter(s) (16) with one or more associated end of closing control criteria for the opening (16), identification (108) of an end of closing command when the or at least one of the opening parameters (16) fulfills the or at least one of the associated end-of-order criteria; then, closing (110) of the opening by actuation of the actuating means (20) so as to close the opening (16). Method according to claim 9, characterized in that the method further comprises a step of analyzing (112) the opening data in order to detect an obstacle to the closing of the opening (16), the closing step ( 110) and the analysis step (112) begin simultaneously, and in the identification step (108) the opening (16) is stationary relative to a chassis of the motor vehicle (10).