WO2024153414A1

WO2024153414A1 - Fixedly mounted actuation device for a vehicle

Info

Publication number: WO2024153414A1
Application number: PCT/EP2023/086349
Authority: WO
Inventors: Dirk MÜLLER; Sebastian STÜCKER
Original assignee: Huf Hülsbeck & Fürst Gmbh & Co. Kg
Priority date: 2023-01-22
Filing date: 2023-12-18
Publication date: 2024-07-25
Also published as: DE102023101486A1

Abstract

The invention relates to an actuation device (100) for a vehicle (200), in particular for an access system (110) to the vehicle (200), for actuating, preferably unlocking and/or opening, a movable part (201), in particular a movable part without a handle, of the vehicle (200), the actuation device comprising: - a wing element (10) designed to be disposed on the movable part (201) of the vehicle (200), - a sensor unit (20) configured to monitor at least one actuation range (I, II) at the vehicle (200), and - an electronic unit (30) configured to control the sensor unit (20) in such a way that a user (300) is detected in the at least one actuation range (I, II) and in particular an obstacle is detected in a movement range of the movable part (201), the wing element (10) being designed to be fixedly mounted on the movable part (201) of the vehicle (200), and the sensor unit (20) being movably disposed on the wing element (10).

Description

Fixed operating device for a vehicle

Description

The invention relates to an actuating device, in particular a contactless one, for a vehicle, preferably for an access system of the vehicle, for actuating, preferably unlocking and/or opening, a movable part of the vehicle, in particular a handleless part. The invention further relates to a corresponding access system for a vehicle with a corresponding actuating device.

Actuating devices in the form of door handles for access devices in vehicles are generally known. Known actuating devices often have sensor devices within the door handle that serve to automatically operate moving parts, such as a door or a tailgate, in vehicles. Known sensor devices usually have sensors that can monitor the surroundings of the vehicle in order to detect a user. Radar sensors are increasingly being used as sensors. Modern vehicles are increasingly being equipped with aerodynamically adapted moving parts that are designed, if possible, without (additional) gaps, joints and/or recesses, e.g. for handles. However, the operation of such access devices does not always prove to be safe, particularly with regard to obstacle control in the movement area of the moving part, which can open automatically.

The object of the invention is therefore to at least partially overcome the disadvantages described above. In particular, the object of the invention is to provide an improved, in particular contactless, actuating device for a vehicle, in particular for to provide an access system of the vehicle for actuating, preferably unlocking and/or opening, a movable part of the vehicle, in particular a handle-free part. Preferably, the object of the invention is to provide an actuating device, in particular a contactless one, for a vehicle, in particular for an access system of the vehicle for actuating, preferably unlocking and/or opening, a movable part of the vehicle, in particular a handle-free part, which is safe and reliable in operation and which enables safe actuation of the movable part, preferably with regard to obstacle control in the movement area of the movable part, which are actuated automatically. Furthermore, the object of the present invention is to provide a corresponding access system for a vehicle with a corresponding actuating device.

This object is achieved by an actuating device, in particular a contactless one, for a vehicle, in particular for an access system of the vehicle, for actuating, preferably unlocking and/or opening, a movable part of the vehicle, in particular a handleless part, with the features of the independent device claim and by a corresponding access system for a vehicle with a corresponding actuating device according to the independent system claim. Preferred developments of the actuating device are listed in the dependent claims. Features that are disclosed for the individual embodiments of the actuating device and the access system according to the invention can be combined with one another in such a way that reference is or can always be made to each other with regard to the disclosure of the embodiments.

The invention provides an actuating device, in particular a contactless one, for a vehicle, preferably for an access system of the vehicle, for (preferably automatically) actuating (at least including unlocking and/or opening) a movable part of the vehicle, in particular a handleless part. The movable part is preferably designed in the form of a door, e.g. a side door, a sliding door, or a flap, e.g. a tailgate, tank or loading flap, or a hood, of the vehicle. Usually, several movable parts are provided on the vehicle, in particular in order to be able to close the interior of the vehicle. The actuating device comprises: a wing element which is designed to be arranged on the movable part of the vehicle, a sensor device which is designed to monitor at least one actuating region (preferably at least two) on the vehicle, and an electronic device which is designed to control the sensor device in such a way as to detect a user in the at least one actuating region (and in particular to detect an obstacle in a movement region of the movable part).

The wing element can, for example, be hidden behind and/or recessed in the movable part and/or arranged adjacent to the movable part. It is also conceivable that the wing element can be arranged protrudingly on the movable part.

The shape of the wing element can advantageously be adapted to the shape of the moving part in terms of flow, in order to preferably maintain the aerodynamic properties of the moving part and/or to limit or even reduce the air resistance on the moving part during operation of the vehicle. It is also conceivable that the wing element can be designed in a wing-like, fin-like and/or rudder-like manner. The sensor device in particular is arranged on or within the wing element.

The sensor device itself can preferably monitor the at least one actuation area using electromagnetic waves, in particular radar waves. The sensor device has at least one or more sensor elements, which can in particular be designed differently. The actuation area of a sensor element is also referred to below as the detection area, whereby the actuation areas can be composed at least partially or entirely of the detection areas of the sensor elements of the sensor device.

The electronic device (which can also be arranged within the wing element) can in particular be designed to control the sensor device in such a way as to enable detection, in particular radar detection, of a user and/or To communicate with a user-side device, e.g. in the form of a mobile phone or an ID transmitter. This allows an access system, in particular in the form of a central locking system, to be controlled and preferably unlocked or locked.

Actuating the movable part can be understood to mean unlocking and/or opening the movable part as well as closing and/or locking the movable part. In order to hold the movable part in the closed position on the vehicle, an electromechanical lock is preferably provided, which can be controlled by the actuating device (directly or indirectly). In the closed position, the movable part is mechanically fixed to the vehicle by the lock. As soon as the lock no longer closes the movable part, it can be opened, whereby the lock can also at least support the opening process of the movable part. In addition, a (door) drive for moving the movable part can also be present in order to support the opening and/or closing process. Moving or the movement of the movable part can be understood to mean opening and/or closing the movable part.

In addition, the actuating device can also be designed to close and/or lock the movable part, wherein in particular for closing the movable part the actuating device can act in a contactless or contact-based manner, wherein preferably for locking the movable part the

Actuating device can act in a contact-based manner. The

The actuating device preferably generates at least one or more control signals for the aforementioned processes of unlocking and/or locking as well as opening and/or closing. In other words, the actuating device can be used primarily for actuating the movable part, in particular by a user (in particular comparable to a door handle).

It is further provided that the wing element is designed to be arranged in a fixed position on the moving part of the vehicle and that the sensor device is arranged in a movable position on the wing element. The term "fixed" in this context is to be understood as meaning that the wing element is fixed to the moving part so that it cannot be moved by a user and is nevertheless able to be used for (complete) actuation of the movable part. The sensor device, on the other hand, is arranged at least partially or completely (all sensor elements of the sensor device) movably on the wing element. Due to the mobility of the sensor device or its sensor elements, their actuation range (as well as their detection range) can be adjusted and/or changed, so that the overall actuation range (of the individual sensor element and/or the sensor device) can be increased. Advantageously, the number of sensor elements required to detect a defined actuation range can also be reduced. The actuation device thus has a particularly simple and robust mechanical structure due to the fixed wing element.

In this way, it can be made possible for an enlarged actuation range to be detected by the sensor device, which in particular avoids blind zones in the movement range of the movable part and/or substantially encloses the movement range of the movable part.

In this way, the actuating device can provide obstacle control when moving, preferably opening, a movable part, in particular one without handles. In this case, one can speak of a so-called impact protection as a function of the actuating device.

However, the actuating device can also provide obstacle control when moving, preferably closing, a movable part, in particular one without handles. In this case, one can speak of a so-called anti-pinch protection as a function of the actuating device.

Advantageously, the electronic device can be designed to control the sensor device in such a way that not only a detection of a user in the at least one actuation area, but also a detection of an obstacle (e.g. an object such as a side mirror of a vehicle parked nearby, a post, a tree, etc., or a person or a body part of a person) in the movement area of the movable part can be carried out. Thus, an improved, in particular contactless, actuating device for a vehicle, in particular for an access system of the vehicle, for actuating, preferably unlocking and/or opening, a, in particular handleless, movable part of the vehicle can be provided, which is safe and reliable in operation and which enables a safe actuation of the movable part, preferably with regard to obstacle control in the movement range of the movable part, which are actuated automatically.

Furthermore, the wing element can be designed to be arranged on a movable part in the form of a door, e.g. a side door, sliding door or a flap, e.g. a tailgate, of the vehicle. In this way, the actuating device can be used to enable obstacle control when actuating, preferably unlocking and/or opening, a door or a flap of the vehicle.

Furthermore, the wing element can be designed to be arranged between the movable part, in particular in the form of a movable door or flap, and a movable window or a body element of the vehicle. In this way, the actuating device can be arranged at existing joints and/or gaps between the components of the vehicle, so that the movable part can be designed without (additional) gaps, joints and/or recesses, e.g. for handles. In this way, advantageous flow and/or aerodynamic properties can be ensured for the movable part. With the help of the actuating device, the advantageous functions of a contactless actuating device can also be provided as part of a handle-free access system, preferably in the form of a keyless go or keyless entry system, even without a handle on the movable part, which is automatically actuated, in particular automatically moved.

The wing element can advantageously be designed for an operative connection with an electromechanical lock (for the movable part). The lock can be designed to operate the movable part of the vehicle, in particular to unlock and/or open and/or close and/or lock it. The lock can, for example, form part of a corresponding access system. The wing element can thus enable the movable part to be operated. On the wing element Preferably, at least one actuation action (at least approach, touch and/or movement pattern and/or gesture) of the user can be detected using the sensor device. One actuation action can be determined for a corresponding actuation (such as unlocking and then opening) of the movable part.

Preferably, the electronic device can be designed to generate a corresponding control signal for the lock in order to control the lock in accordance with an actuation action by the user that was detected by the sensor device. Authentication, preferably of a user using a user-side device, can also take place, as will be described in more detail below.

It is also conceivable that at least one sensor element, in particular a radar sensor element, of the sensor device can detect a first actuation (approach, touch and/or movement pattern and/or gesture) of the user. The radar sensor element can locate (determine distance and angle) a measured object and/or a user in the detection area. The radar sensor element is preferably operated at a frequency (in the range) of 79 GHz or by UWB technology (ultra-wideband technology). The first actuation can cause the movable part to be unlocked and/or opened, for example by generating a corresponding control signal for the lock through the electronic device.

It is also conceivable that at least one sensor element, in particular a radar sensor element, of the sensor device can detect a second actuation (approach, touch and/or movement pattern) of the user. The second actuation can be used to close and/or lock the movable part, for example by generating a corresponding control signal for the lock through the electronic device. For closing the movable part, the second actuation can be, for example, a movement pattern or a gesture on at least one sensor element. For locking the movable part, the second actuation can be, for example, a touch of at least one sensor element of the sensor device. A mounting bracket can advantageously be provided for the wing element in order to hold and/or support the wing element on the moving part of the vehicle. The mounting bracket can preferably be arranged on the inside of the moving part. In this way, a complete structural unit can be provided for the actuating device in order to enable simple installation on the vehicle. The mounting bracket can be designed as a housing or frame in order to improve mechanical stability. With a housing-like design, the other components (e.g. bearing device, drive device, gear, wing element in the rest position, etc.) of the actuating device can also be protected from dirt and moisture - unlike with a frame-like design.

In addition, the sensor device, in particular at least one sensor element of the sensor device, can be arranged on the wing element in a linearly movable manner. In this way, simple mounting and/or stable guidance of the sensor device, in particular of the at least one sensor element of the sensor device, can be made possible in order to enable an enlarged operating range by the sensor device.

In addition, the sensor device, in particular at least one sensor element of the sensor device, can be arranged on the wing element in a rotatable and/or tiltable manner. In this way, simple mounting and/or advantageous guidance of the sensor device, in particular of the at least one sensor element of the sensor device, can be made possible in order to enable an enlarged operating range by the sensor device.

A combination of a linear and a rotatable and/or tiltable movement of the sensor device, in particular of the at least one sensor element of the sensor device, is also conceivable.

Advantageously, the wing element can have a guide unit in order to movably mount and/or guide the sensor device, in particular at least one sensor element of the sensor device, on the wing element. The guide unit can advantageously enable the sensor device, in particular at least one Sensor element of the sensor device can be securely attached to the wing element and can carry out a desired movement, such as a linear and/or a rotatable and/or tilting movement.

Preferably, the wing element can have a drive unit in order to drive the sensor device, in particular at least one sensor element of the sensor device, movably on the wing element. With the aid of the drive unit, a desired movement, such as a linear and/or a rotatable and/or tiltable movement, of the sensor device, in particular of the at least one sensor element of the sensor device, can be generated.

It is also conceivable that the wing element, in particular a guide unit of the wing element, can have a positive guide for the sensor device, in particular at least one sensor element of the sensor device. In this way, a safe and stable guide for the sensor device, in particular the at least one sensor element of the sensor device, can be ensured. The positive guide can advantageously be designed in such a way that the sensor device, in particular at least one sensor element of the sensor device, can be moved automatically when the wing element moves.

Furthermore, the sensor device, in particular at least one (movable, in particular movable by the drive unit) sensor element of the sensor device, can have a first detection position and a second detection position, wherein in the first detection position the sensor device, in particular at least one sensor element of the sensor device, can detect a first actuation area, and wherein in the second detection position the sensor device, in particular at least one sensor element of the sensor device, can detect a second actuation area. In this way, an enlarged actuation area can be provided by the sensor device in a simple and reliable manner, which in particular avoids blind zones and/or essentially encloses the movement area of the movable part.

Furthermore, the sensor device, in particular at least one sensor element of the sensor device, can be moved (in particular by the drive unit) be that during the movement of the sensor device, the at least one actuation area is continuously formed by the sensor device, so that an enlarged actuation area is created dynamically, which in particular avoids blind zones and/or essentially encloses the movement area of the movable part. The sensor device 20 can thereby continuously carry out a detection during its movement. An enlarged actuation area I, II can thus be provided dynamically.

Advantageously, the wing element can be arranged on the moving part and/or designed to be fluidically adapted to the aerodynamic properties of the moving part in such a way that the aerodynamic properties of the moving part are retained and/or the air resistance on the moving part is limited during operation of the vehicle. In this way, advantageous use of the actuating device can be made possible even with a fixed wing element.

In principle, it is conceivable that the sensor device can have a first sensor element and a second sensor element, wherein the first sensor element of the sensor device can be designed to detect a first actuation area, and wherein the second sensor element of the sensor device can be designed to detect a second actuation area. In this way, an enlarged actuation area can be formed in a simple manner by the sensor elements of the sensor device, which preferably avoids blind zones and/or essentially includes the complete range of movement of the movable part. In addition, an advantageous functionality can thus be enabled in the actuation device. In this way, the sensor device can be used to detect at least one or more movement patterns, wherein in particular a movement pattern can be provided for a specific actuation action. An approach and/or a first movement pattern can be used, for example, to unlock and/or open the movable part. A distance and/or a second movement pattern can be used, for example, to close the movable part. Touching a specific sensor element can be used, for example, to lock the movable part. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the sensor device has a first sensor element and a second sensor element, which are aligned such that an enlarged actuation area is detected by the sensor device. In this way, an enlarged actuation area can be formed.

According to a particular advantage, the electronic device can be designed to control the sensor device, in particular at least one sensor element of the sensor device, to detect an obstacle in the movement range of the movable part, in particular with the aid of detection, preferably radar detection. In particular, the electronic device can be designed to provide a warning signal and/or a stop signal when the sensor device detects an obstacle in the movement range of the movable part.

In this way, obstacle control can be provided when moving, preferably opening, a movable part, in particular one without handles. Thus, a so-called impact protection can be provided as a function of the actuating device.

In this way, obstacle control can be provided when moving, preferably closing, a movable part, in particular one without handles. Thus, a so-called anti-pinch protection can be provided as a function of the actuating device.

Thus, the electronic device can control the sensor device in such a way that not only a detection of a user in the at least one actuation area, but also a detection of an obstacle (e.g. an object such as a side mirror of a vehicle parked nearby, a post, a tree, etc., or a person or a body part of a person) in the movement area of the movable part (both outwards and inwards with respect to the vehicle) can be carried out.

In this way, when operating the moving part of the vehicle, especially the handleless part, the safety in the area of movement of the moving part can be increased. Furthermore, it can be advantageous for the electronic device to be designed to control the sensor device, in particular at least one sensor element of the sensor device, to carry out an authorization query, in particular by means of communication with a user-side device, preferably a mobile phone, ID transmitter, etc., in order to enable authentication of the user. In this way, it can be ensured that only an authorized user can initiate the actuation, in particular the unlocking and/or opening of the movable part of the vehicle, in particular the handle-less part.

Furthermore, it can be advantageous for the electronic device to be designed to control the sensor device, in particular at least one sensor element of the sensor device, to detect an approach, a touch and/or a specific movement pattern, in particular with the aid of detection, preferably radar detection, in order to initiate unlocking and/or opening of the movable part after detection. It is also conceivable that at least one sensor element, in particular radar sensor element, of the sensor device can detect a first actuation (approach, touch and/or movement pattern) of the user. The first actuation can initiate unlocking and/or opening of the movable part. For this purpose, the electronic device can generate a corresponding control signal for the lock.

Furthermore, it can be advantageous for the electronic device to be designed to control the sensor device, in particular at least one sensor element of the sensor device, to detect an approach, a touch and/or a specific movement pattern, in particular with the aid of detection, preferably radar detection, in order to initiate closing and/or locking of the movable part after detection. It is also conceivable that at least one sensor element, in particular radar sensor element, of the sensor device can detect a second actuation (approach, touch and/or movement pattern) of the user. The second actuation can initiate closing and/or locking of the movable part. For this purpose, the electronic device can generate a corresponding control signal for the lock. For closing the movable part, the second actuation can be, for example, a movement pattern on at least one sensor element. For locking the movable part, the The second actuation action may, for example, be a touch of at least one sensor element of the sensor device.

The sensor device can advantageously have at least one radar sensor element, a UWB sensor element, in particular comprising a pulse radar or a continuous wave radar measuring method, a capacitive sensor element, an inductive sensor element, a piezo sensor element and/or an NFC sensor element. A radar sensor element or a UWB sensor element can advantageously enable detection (e.g. for detecting an approach, a touch and/or a movement pattern) and communication (e.g. for carrying out an authorization query). A capacitive sensor element can advantageously enable detection (e.g. for detecting an approach, a touch and/or a movement pattern). An inductive sensor element or a piezo sensor element can enable detection (e.g. for detecting a touch). An NFC sensor element can enable communication (e.g. for carrying out an authorization query). But detection (e.g. to detect an approach into the vicinity of the wing element or a touch) is also conceivable using an N FC sensor element.

In order to enable the user to move the movable part easily and/or to enable the rescue services to release the movable part in an accident, the wing element can be designed as a handle element (with an emergency release mechanism), in particular one that can be extended (and/or rotated out and/or swung out).

In order to enable an extended functionality of the actuating device, the actuating device can be designed to carry out a locking, an unlocking and/or an emergency release of the movable part.

In addition, at least one sensor element of the sensor device can be designed to carry out a locking, for example by means of a touch of this sensor element.

In addition, at least one sensor element of the sensor device can be designed to carry out an unlocking, for example by approaching the wing element in an extended access area. An authorization query can then be made The same and/or another sensor element of the sensor device can further sense an approach, a touch and/or a movement pattern in order to cause the movable part to open.

Particularly with regard to safety, especially in the event of an accident involving the vehicle, the actuating device can provide further advantages if the wing element (or an additional emergency release element on the actuating device) has an emergency release mechanism that can be coupled to the electromechanical lock of the movable part (at least in the event of an accident). For this purpose, the emergency release mechanism has a coupling element and at least a first and/or second pulling element. The existing pulling elements can be designed at least partially as a rope, wire, rod and/or a chain. Preferably, the coupling element mechanically couples the first pulling element to the second pulling element (exclusively) during and/or directly after an accident, so that a pulling movement from the first pulling element can be mechanically transferred to the second pulling element. For this purpose, the first pulling element is preferably mechanically arranged (connected) between the actuating device, in particular the wing element or the additional emergency release element, and the coupling element, and the second pulling element is preferably mechanically arranged (connected) between the coupling element and the electromechanical lock. During or immediately after an accident, a coupling is established by the coupling element, so that an emergency release, for example by a mechanical pulling movement on the actuating device, in particular the wing element or the additional emergency release element, is transmitted to the electromechanical lock in order to finally be able to open the movable part. The (electrical) control of the coupling element for coupling can be carried out by an acceleration sensor or crash sensor, e.g. via the electronic device or the control device. The wing element (or an additional emergency release element on the actuating device) can advantageously serve as a tangible handle element of the emergency release in order to enable manual opening of the movable part, e.g. by the rescue workers who need access to the vehicle interior. In the event of an accident, automatic unlocking of the moving part may also be provided. Furthermore, the actuating device can have a lighting device that is designed to make the actuating device visible for actuation. Advantageously, the lighting device can be designed for ambient lighting of the wing element. According to a further advantage, the lighting device can be designed for interaction with a user, preferably to facilitate the actuation of the actuating device and preferably to guide the user when actuating the actuating device.

In order to enable an expanded functionality of the actuating device, the actuating device can further comprise a communication device which is designed to enable interaction with a user, preferably to facilitate the actuation of the actuating device and preferably to guide the user in the actuation of the actuating device. The communication device can comprise an optical, acoustic and/or haptic display device.

The invention provides an access system for a vehicle, having an actuating device, in particular a contactless one, which can be designed as described above. The same advantages can be achieved with the aid of the access system as were described above in connection with the actuating device. These advantages are fully referred to here.

As part of the access system, a control device can be provided which is designed to stop an actuation, in particular an opening, of the movable part when the sensor device detects an obstacle in the movement range of the movable part, in particular with the aid of detection, preferably radar detection, and/or when the electronic device provides a warning signal. In this way, obstacle control, comprising impact and/or pinch protection, can be ensured.

As part of the access system, an electromechanical lock can also be provided, which can be controlled in particular by means of a control device in order to actuate the movable part, in particular to unlock and/or open it. In this way, an access system with a locking system can be provided. Further advantages and details of the invention are disclosed in the following description. They show:

Fig. 1 is a side view of a vehicle with operating devices,

Fig. 2 is a top view of a vehicle with operating devices,

Fig. 3 is a schematic representation of an actuating device for a vehicle,

Fig. 4 is a schematic representation of an actuating device with a fixed wing element (in two exemplary fixed/unchangeable operating positions) and other components for a vehicle, and

Fig. 5 is a schematic representation of a comparable actuating device from Fig. 4 with a fixed wing element and further components, wherein the sensor elements are movable, for a vehicle.

In the following figures, the same reference numerals are used for the same technical features even in different embodiments.

The figures show an actuating device 100, in particular a contactless one, with a wing element 10 for a vehicle 200, preferably for an access system 110 of the vehicle 200, for the preferably automatic actuation of a movable part 201 of the vehicle 200, in particular a handleless part. As Figures 1 and 2 illustrate, the movable part 201 can be designed, for example, in the form of a door, e.g. a side door, or a flap, e.g. a tailgate, of the vehicle 200.

Actuation of the movable part 201 by a user 300 (with a user-side device for identification) may include unlocking and/or opening the movable part 201 and/or closing and/or locking the movable part 201 of the movable part 201.

Moving the movable part 201 may include opening and/or closing the movable part 201. On the one hand, the actuating device 100 can be designed to unlock and/or open the movable part 201, wherein in particular the actuating device 100 can act without contact to unlock and/or open the movable part 201.

On the other hand, the actuating device 100 can also be designed to close and/or lock the movable part 201, wherein in particular for closing the movable part 201 the actuating device 100 can act in a contactless or contact-based manner, wherein preferably for locking the movable part 201 the actuating device 100 can act in a contact-based manner.

As shown in Figs. 1 to 5, the actuating device 100 has the following components: a wing element 10, which is designed to be arranged on the movable part 201 of the vehicle 200, a sensor device 20 (see Figs. 4 and 5), which is designed to monitor at least one actuation area I, II on the vehicle 200 (see Figs. 1 to 3), and an electronic device 30, which is designed to control the sensor device 20 in such a way as to detect a user in the at least one actuation area I, II (see Fig. 2), and preferably to detect an obstacle in a movement area of the movable part 201.

Furthermore, it is conceivable that the wing element 10 can be leaned against the movable part 201 at least in an operating position from the outside with respect to the vehicle 200 (cf. the dash-dotted representation of the wing element 10 in Fig. 4).

Furthermore, it is conceivable that the wing element 10 can be arranged protrudingly on the movable part at least in an operating position (cf. Figs. 4 and 5).

As Figs. 3 to 5 indicate, the shape of the wing element 10 can be aerodynamically adapted to the shape of the movable part 201 in order to preferably maintain the aerodynamic properties of the movable part 201. and/or to keep the air resistance on the moving part 201 low during operation of the vehicle 200.

As Figs. 3 to 5 indicate, the wing element 10 can be designed as a wing, fin and/or rudder.

The sensor device 20 can monitor the at least one actuation region I, II preferably by means of electromagnetic waves, in particular radar waves.

The electronic device 30 can preferably be designed to control the sensor device 20 in such a way as to carry out a detection, in particular a radar detection, of a user 300 and/or a communication with a user-side device 301, for example in the form of a mobile phone or an ID transmitter.

As indicated in Fig. 5, the wing element 10 can be arranged in a fixed manner on the movable part 201 of the vehicle 200 by means of the mounting bracket 11. At the same time, the sensor device 20 is arranged movably on the wing element 10 by means of a drive unit AE.

With the aid of the proposed actuating device 100, an enlarged actuating area I, II can be detected by the sensor device 20, as indicated in Figs. 1 to 3. The enlarged actuating area I, II includes almost no blind zones in the movement range of the movable part 201 and/or covers the movement range of the movable part 201 almost completely.

In Fig. 3, the enlarged actuation area I, II is indicated by means of opening angles. The enlarged actuation area I, II comprises at least a first actuation area I and at least a second actuation area II of the sensor device 20. It can be seen that an obstacle 206, which is indicated next to a tire 205 of the vehicle 200, can be detected in the enlarged actuation area I, II, in particular in the second actuation area II. The actuation area I, II can also be referred to in other words as a detection area.

In this way, the actuating device 100 can provide obstacle control when moving, preferably opening, a movable part 201, in particular a handleless one (so-called shock protection as a function).

Furthermore, it is also conceivable that the actuating device 100 can provide obstacle control during movement, preferably closing, of a movable part 201, in particular a handleless part (so-called pinch protection as a function of the actuating device 100).

Thus, the sensor device 20 can not only detect a user 300 in the at least one actuation area I, II, but also detect an obstacle 206, for example an object such as a side mirror of a vehicle parked nearby, a post, a tree, etc., or a person or a body part of a person, in the movement range of the movable part 201.

Thus, an improved, in particular contactless, actuating device 100 for actuating a, in particular handleless, movable part 201 of the vehicle 200 can be provided, which is safe and reliable in operation and which enables a safe actuation of the movable part 201, preferably with regard to obstacle control in the movement range of the movable part 201 when the movable part 201 is automatically moved (opened or closed).

With the aid of the actuating device 100, the advantageous functions of a contactless actuating device can be provided within the framework of a handleless access system 110, preferably in the form of a keyless go or keyless entry system.

As shown in Fig. 1 to 3, the wing element 10 can be arranged on a movable part 201 in the form of a door, e.g. a side door, or a flap, e.g. a tailgate, of the vehicle 200. In this way, with the help of the Actuating device 100 can provide obstacle control when actuating, in particular opening and/or closing, a door or a flap of the vehicle 200.

Furthermore, it is conceivable that the wing element 10 can be arranged between the movable part 201, in particular in the form of a movable door or flap, and a movable window 202 or a body element 203 of the vehicle 200 (not shown in the figures merely for reasons of simplicity).

Advantageously, the actuating device 100 can be arranged at existing joints and/or gaps between the components of the vehicle 200, so that the movable part 201 can be designed without (additional) gaps, joints and/or recesses, e.g. for handles. The movable part 201 can thus be designed in an advantageous manner in order to obtain favorable flow and/or aerodynamic properties.

As Figs. 1 and 2 indicate, the wing element 10 can be brought into operative connection with an electromechanical lock 204 in order to control the lock 204 accordingly.

The lock 204 can be designed to operate the movable part 201 of the vehicle 200, in particular to unlock and/or open and/or close and/or lock it. The lock 204 can, for example, form part of a corresponding access system 110.

The wing element 10 can thus enable the movable part 201 to be actuated. At least one actuation action B1, B2, such as an approach, touch and/or a movement pattern, of the user 300 can preferably be detected on the wing element 10 using the sensor device 20. One actuation action B1, B2 can be determined for a corresponding actuation of the movable part 201.

Preferably, the electronic device 30 can be designed to generate a corresponding control signal for the lock 204 in order to control the lock 204 according to an actuation action B1, B2 which was detected by means of the sensor device 20 on the wing element 10.

The sensor device 20 can have at least one sensor element 21, 22, 23, in particular a radar sensor element.

At least one sensor element 21, 22, 23, in particular a radar sensor element, of the sensor device 20 can detect a first actuation action B1, such as an approach, touch and/or a movement pattern, of the user 300. The first actuation action B1 can be provided, for example, for unlocking and/or opening the movable part 201.

At least one sensor element 21, 22, 23, in particular a radar sensor element, of the sensor device 20 can detect a second actuation action B2, such as an approach, touch and/or a movement pattern, of the user 300. The second actuation action B2 can be provided, for example, for closing and/or locking the movable part 201.

To close the movable part 201, the second actuation action B2 can, for example, provide a movement pattern which can be detected, for example, by means of two sensors 21, 22.

To lock the movable part 201, the second actuation action B2 can, for example, provide for a contact with a specific sensor element 23 of the sensor device 20.

As shown in Fig. 3 ff., a mounting bracket 11 can be provided for the wing element 10 in order to support or hold the wing element 10 on the movable part 201 of the vehicle 200. The mounting bracket 11 can, for example, be arranged on the inside of the movable part 201.

As Fig. 5 indicates, the sensor device 20, in particular at least one sensor element 21, 22, 23 of the sensor device 20, can be arranged to be linearly movable on the wing element 10. In this way, a simple mounting and/or a stable guidance of the sensor device 20, in particular of the at least one sensor element 21, 22, 23 of the sensor device 20 on the wing element 10. At the same time, an enlarged actuation area I, II can thus be provided by the sensor device 20 in an advantageous manner.

As Fig. 5 further indicates, the sensor device 20, in particular at least one sensor element 21, 22, 23 of the sensor device 20, can be arranged rotatably and/or tiltably on the wing element 10. In this way, an advantageous guidance of the sensor device 20, in particular of the at least one sensor element 21, 22, 23 of the sensor device 20, on the wing element (10) can be made possible in order to enable an enlarged actuation area I, II by the sensor device 20.

A combination of a linear and a rotatable and/or tiltable movement of the sensor device 20, in particular of the at least one sensor element 21, 22, 23 of the sensor device 20, is also conceivable.

As Fig. 5 also shows, the wing element 10 can have a guide unit FE in order to movably support and/or guide the sensor device 20, in particular at least one sensor element 21, 22, 23 of the sensor device 20, on the wing element 10. The wing element 10 can also have a drive unit AE in order to movably drive the sensor device 20, in particular at least one sensor element 21, 22, 23 of the sensor device 20, on the wing element 10.

The guide unit FE in the wing element 10 can preferably have a positive guide for the sensor device 20, in particular at least one sensor element 21, 22, 23 of the sensor device 20. The positive guide can advantageously be designed such that the sensor device 20, in particular at least one sensor element 21, 22, 23 of the sensor device 20, can be automatically moved along with the movement of the wing element 10.

Here, the sensor device 20 (see Fig. 5), in particular at least one sensor element 21, 22, 23 of the sensor device 20, can have a first detection position S1 and a second detection position S2. In the first detection position S1, the sensor device 20, in particular at least one sensor element 21, 22, 23 of the sensor device 20, can detect a first actuation area I. In the second In the detection position S2, the sensor device 20, in particular at least one sensor element 21, 22, 23 of the sensor device 20, can detect a second actuation area II. In this way, with the help of a movable sensor device 20, an enlarged actuation area I, II can be provided, which in particular avoids blind zones and/or essentially completely encloses the range of movement of the movable part 201.

Advantageously, the sensor device 20, in particular at least one sensor element 21, 22, 23 of the sensor device 20, can be moved in such a way that during the movement of the sensor device 20, the at least one actuation area I, II is continuously formed. An enlarged actuation area I, II can thus be created dynamically. The sensor device 20 can thereby continuously carry out a detection during its own movement. An enlarged actuation area I, II can thus be provided dynamically.

In principle, it is conceivable that the sensor device 20 can have a first sensor element 21 and a second sensor element 22. The first sensor element 21 of the sensor device 20 can be designed to detect a first actuation area I. The second sensor element 22 of the sensor device 20 can be designed to detect a second actuation area II. An enlarged actuation area I, II can thus be formed using sensor elements 21, 22 of the sensor device 20. In addition, advantageous functionality can be enabled in the actuation device 100 using sensor elements 21, 22 of the sensor device 20. In this way, the sensor device 20 can be used to detect at least one or more movement patterns. In particular, a movement pattern can be provided for a specific actuation action B1, B2.

An approach and/or a first movement pattern can be used, for example, to unlock and/or open the movable part 201. A distance and/or a second movement pattern can be used, for example, to close the movable part 201. A touch of a specific sensor element 23 of the sensor device 20 can be used, for example, to lock the movable part 201. Advantageously, the electronic device 30 can be specifically designed to control the sensor device 20 to detect an obstacle in the movement range of the movable part 201, in particular by means of detection, preferably radar detection. Furthermore, the electronic device 30 can be designed to provide a warning signal and/or a stop signal when the sensor device 20 detects an obstacle in the movement range of the movable part 201. Thus, improved obstacle detection can be provided by means of the electronic device 30.

Furthermore, the electronic device 30 can be specifically designed to control the sensor device 20 to carry out an authorization query, in particular by means of communication with a user-side device 301, preferably a mobile phone, ID transmitter, etc. In this way, authentication of the user 300 can be ensured, so that only an authorized user can initiate the actuation, in particular the unlocking and/or opening of the movable part 201 of the vehicle 200, in particular the handle-less part.

Furthermore, the electronic device 30 can be specifically designed to control the sensor device 20 to detect an approach, a touch and/or a specific movement pattern, in particular by means of detection, preferably radar detection, in order to initiate an unlocking and/or opening of the movable part 201 after detection.

Furthermore, the electronic device 30 can be designed to control the sensor device 20 to detect an approach, a touch and/or a specific movement pattern, in particular by means of detection, preferably radar detection, in order to initiate a closing and/or locking of the movable part 201 after detection.

The electronic device 30 can generate corresponding control signals for the lock 204 according to a particular actuation action of the user 300.

Advantageously, the sensor device 20 can have at least one radar sensor element or a UWB sensor element, in particular operated according to a pulse radar or a continuous wave radar measuring method. A radar sensor element or a UWB The sensor element can advantageously enable detection, e.g. to detect an approach, a touch and/or a movement pattern, as well as communication, e.g. to carry out an authorization query.

The sensor device 20 can advantageously have at least one capacitive sensor element, an inductive sensor element, a piezo sensor element and/or an NFC sensor element. A capacitive sensor element can advantageously enable detection, e.g. for detecting an approach, a touch and/or a movement pattern. An inductive sensor element or a piezo sensor element can enable detection, e.g. for detecting a touch. An NFC sensor element can enable communication, e.g. for carrying out an authorization query. An NFC sensor element can also enable detection, e.g. for detecting an approach in the vicinity of the wing element or a touch.

In principle, it is conceivable that the wing element 10 can be designed as a handle element, in particular one that can be extended and/or rotated and/or pivoted out. This allows the user 300 to easily move the movable part 201 during normal operation and/or the rescue team in the event of an accident involving the vehicle 200.

Furthermore, it is conceivable that the actuating device 100 can be designed to carry out an emergency release of the movable part 201.

For this purpose, the wing element 10 (or an additional emergency release element on the actuating device 100) can have an emergency release mechanism 18 (see schematically in Figs. 4 and 5), which can be mechanically coupled to the electromechanical lock 204 of the movable part 201 at least in the event of an accident, preferably by at least the first or second coupling element 17.1, 17.2, preferably automatically by the coupling element 16. During or directly after an accident, a coupling is established by the coupling element 16, so that an emergency release, for example by a mechanical pulling movement on the actuating device 100, in particular the wing element 10 or the additional emergency release element, is transmitted to the electromechanical lock 204 in order to to finally be able to open the movable part 201. The wing element 10 or an additional emergency release element can advantageously serve as a gripping element to enable the rescue team to manually open the movable part 201.

In the event of an accident, an access system 110 for a vehicle 200 may be provided for automatic unlocking of the movable part 201.

As indicated in Fig. 3 ff., the actuating device 100 can have a lighting device 40. The lighting device 40 can be designed to make the actuating device 100 visible for actuation. The lighting device 40 can be designed, for example, for ambient lighting of the wing element 10. Furthermore, the lighting device 40 can be designed for interaction with a user 300 in order to guide the user 300 when actuating the actuating device 100.

Furthermore, the actuating device 100 can have a communication device 50 that is designed to enable interaction with a user 300 in order to guide the user 300 in the actuation of the actuating device 100. The communication device 50 can, for example, have an optical, acoustic and/or haptic display device.

An access system 110 for a vehicle 200, comprising an actuating device 100, in particular a contactless one, which can be designed as described above, also represents an aspect of the invention.

As part of the access system 110, a control device 120 can be provided which is designed to stop an actuation, in particular an opening, of the movable part 201 when the sensor device 20 detects an obstacle in the movement range of the movable part 201, in particular with the aid of detection, preferably radar detection, and/or when the electronic device 30 provides a warning signal. In this way, obstacle control, including impact and/or pinch protection, can be ensured. The access system 110 can have an electromechanical lock 204, which can be controlled in particular by means of a control device 120 in order to actuate the movable part 201, in particular to unlock and/or open as well as to close and/or lock it. The control device 120 can receive corresponding control signals from the electronic device 30, which are generated in accordance with certain actuation actions B1, B2 of the user 300, which are detected by the sensor device 20. The above explanation of the embodiments describes the present invention exclusively in the context of examples. Of course, individual features of the present invention can be freely combined with one another, provided that this is technically expedient, without departing from the scope of the present invention/claims.

Reference list

100 Actuator

10 Wing element

11 mounting brackets for 10

12 Storage device

13 Drive device

14 Gearbox

15 Return mechanism, return spring

16 Coupling element

17.1 first tension element between 10 and 16

17.2 second tension element between 16 and 204

18 Emergency release mechanism

20 Sensor device

21 Sensor element

22 Sensor element

23 Sensor element

AE drive unit

FE guide unit

30 Electronic device

40 Lighting device

50 Communication device

110 Access system

120 Control device 200 vehicle

201 movable part, movable flap, door

202 movable pane, window pane

203 Body element

204 electromechanical lock

205 tires

206 Obstacle

300 users

301 user-side device (ID transmitter / mobile phone)

I Operating range

II Operating area

B1 Actual action (first)

B2 Actual action (second)

51 first recording position

52 second detection position

S gap

L linear movement direction

D rotating direction of movement

Claims

Patent claims

1. Actuating device (100) for a vehicle (200), in particular for an access system (110) of the vehicle (200), for actuating, preferably unlocking and/or opening, a, in particular handleless, movable part (201) of the vehicle (200), comprising:

- a wing element (10) which is designed to be arranged on the movable part (201) of the vehicle (200),

- a sensor device (20) which is designed to monitor at least one actuation area (I, II) in the vehicle (200), and

- an electronic device (30) which is designed to control the sensor device (20) in such a way as to detect a user (300) in the at least one actuation region (I, II) and in particular to detect an obstacle in a movement region of the movable part (201), wherein the wing element (10) is designed to be arranged fixedly on the movable part (201) of the vehicle (200), and wherein the sensor device (20) is arranged movably on the wing element (10).

2. Actuating device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the wing element (10) is designed to be arranged on a movable part (201) in the form of a door or a flap of the vehicle (200), and/or that the wing element (10) is designed to be arranged between the movable part (201), in particular in the form of a movable door or flap, and a movable window (202) or a body element (203) of the vehicle (200).

3. Actuating device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the wing element (10) can be brought into an operative connection with an electromechanical lock (204), wherein in particular the lock (204) is designed to actuate the movable part (201) of the vehicle (200), in particular to unlock and/or open and/or close and/or lock it, wherein preferably the electronic device (30) is designed to generate a corresponding control signal for the lock (204) in order to control the lock (204) in accordance with an actuation action (B1, B2) of the user (300) which was detected by means of the sensor device (20).

4. Actuating device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a mounting bracket (11) is provided for the wing element (10) in order to support the wing element (10) on the movable part (201) of the vehicle (200).

5. Actuating device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sensor device (20), in particular at least one sensor element (21, 22, 23) of the sensor device (20), is arranged on the wing element (10) so as to be linearly movable, and/or that the sensor device (20), in particular at least one sensor element (21, 22, 23) of the sensor device (20), is arranged on the wing element (10) so as to be rotatable and/or tiltable.

6. Actuating device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the wing element (10) has a guide unit (FE) in order to movably mount and/or guide the sensor device (20), in particular at least one sensor element (21, 22, 23) of the sensor device (20), on the wing element (10).

7. Actuating device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the wing element (10) has a drive unit (AE) to drive the sensor device (20), in particular at least one sensor element (21, 22, 23) of the sensor device (20), movably on the wing element (10).

8. Actuating device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the wing element (10), in particular a guide unit (FE) of the wing element (10), has a positive guide for the sensor device (20), in particular at least one sensor element (21, 22, 23) of the sensor device (20), wherein in particular the positive guide is designed such that the sensor device (20), in particular at least one sensor element (21, 22, 23) of the sensor device (20), is automatically movable when the wing element (10) moves.

9. Actuating device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sensor device (20), in particular at least one sensor element (21, 22, 23) of the sensor device (20), has a first detection position (S1) and a second detection position (S2), wherein in the first detection position (S1) the sensor device (20), in particular at least one sensor element (21, 22, 23) of the sensor device (20), can detect a first actuation area (I), and wherein in the second detection position (S2) the sensor device (20), in particular at least one sensor element (21, 22, 23) of the sensor device (20), can detect a second actuation area (II).

10. Actuating device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sensor device (20), in particular at least one sensor element (21, 22, 23) of the sensor device (20), is movable in such a way that during the movement of the sensor device (20) the at least one actuating region (I, II) is continuously formed by the sensor device (20), so that an enlarged actuating region (I, II) is dynamically created, which in particular avoids blind zones and/or essentially encloses the movement range of the movable part (201).

11. Actuating device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sensor device (20) has a first sensor element (21) and a second sensor element (22), wherein the first sensor element (21) of the sensor device (20) is designed to detect a first actuating region (I), and wherein the second sensor element (22) of the sensor device (20) is designed to detect a second actuating region (II).

12. Actuating device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sensor device (20) has a first sensor element (21) and a second sensor element (22) which are aligned such that an enlarged actuating area (I, II) is detected by the sensor device (20), which in particular avoids blind zones and/or essentially completely encloses the movement area of the movable part (201).

13. Actuating device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the electronic device (30) is designed to control the sensor device (20), in particular at least one sensor element (21, 22, 23) of the sensor device (20), to detect an obstacle in the movement range of the movable part (201), in particular with the aid of detection, preferably radar detection, wherein in particular the electronic device (30) is designed to provide a warning signal and/or a stop signal when the sensor device (20) detects an obstacle in the movement range of the movable part (201).

14. Actuating device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the electronic device (30) is designed to control the sensor device (20), in particular at least one sensor element (21, 22, 23) of the sensor device (20), to carry out an authorization query, in particular with the aid of communication with a user-side device (301), preferably in the form of a mobile phone and/or ID transmitter, in order to enable authentication of the user (300), in particular, and/or that the electronic device (30) is designed to control the sensor device (20), in particular at least one sensor element (21, 22, 23) of the sensor device (20), to detect an approach, a touch and/or a specific movement pattern, in particular with the aid of detection, preferably radar detection, in order to initiate unlocking and/or opening of the movable part (201) after detection, and/or that the electronic device (30) is designed to control the sensor device (20), in particular at least one sensor element (21, 22, 23) of the sensor device (20), to detect an approach, a contact and/or a certain movement pattern, in particular with the aid of detection, preferably radar detection, in order to initiate a closing and/or locking of the movable part (201) after detection.

15. Actuating device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sensor device (20) has at least one radar sensor element, a UWB sensor element, in particular comprising a pulse radar or a continuous wave radar measuring method, a capacitive sensor element, an inductive sensor element, a piezo sensor element and/or an NFC sensor element.

16. Actuating device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the wing element (10) is designed to serve as a handle element, in particular an extendable one, for moving the movable part (201).

17. Actuating device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuating device (100) is designed to carry out a locking, an unlocking and/or an emergency release of the movable part (201), wherein in particular at least one sensor element (21, 22, 23) of the sensor device (20) is designed to carry out a locking, wherein preferably at least one sensor element (21, 22, 23) of the sensor device (20) is designed to carry out an unlocking, wherein preferably the wing element (10) has an emergency release mechanism (18) with a coupling element (16) and at least one first pulling element (17.1) or second pulling element (17.2), wherein the emergency release mechanism (18) is connected to the electromechanical lock (204) of the movable part (201) by the coupling element (16) and at least the first pulling element (17.1) and/or the tension element (17.2).

18. Actuating device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuating device (100) has a lighting device (40) which is designed to make the actuating device (100) visible for actuation, wherein in particular the lighting device (40) is designed for ambient lighting of the wing element (10), and/or wherein the lighting device (40) is designed for interaction with a user (300), preferably to facilitate the actuation of the actuating device (100).

19. Actuating device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuating device (100) has a communication device (50) which is designed to enable interaction with a user (300), preferably to facilitate the actuation of the actuating device (100), wherein in particular the communication device (50) has an optical, acoustic and/or haptic display device.

20. Access system (110) for a vehicle (200), comprising an actuating device (100), in particular a contactless one, according to one of the preceding claims.

21. Access system (110) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that a control device (120) is provided which is designed to stop an actuation, in particular an opening, of the movable part (201) when the sensor device (20) detects an obstacle in the movement range of the movable part (201), in particular with the aid of detection, preferably radar detection, and/or when the electronic device (30) provides a warning signal, and/or an electromechanical lock (204) is provided which can be controlled in particular with the aid of a control device (120) in order to actuate the movable part (201), in particular to unlock and/or open it.