DE102017223089A1 - Sensor arrangement for transmitting and / or receiving a sound signal - Google Patents

Abstract

Proposed is a sensor arrangement (30) for transmitting and / or receiving a sound signal (36), in particular an ultrasonic signal, for detecting an environment of the sensor arrangement (30), wherein the sensor arrangement (30) has at least two sensor units (32, 34). The sensor arrangement (30) has a first sensor unit (32) for transmitting a sound signal (36), the first sensor unit (32) being designed as a piezo sensor (32). Furthermore, the sensor arrangement (30) has a second sensor unit (34) for receiving the sound signal (36) transmitted by means of the first sensor unit (32) and reflected at an environment object (38), wherein the second sensor unit (34) acts as a capacitive sound transducer ( 34) is formed.

Description

State of the art

The invention relates to a sensor arrangement for transmitting and / or receiving a sound signal.

From the DE 10 2013 206 715 A1 a sensor arrangement for transmitting and / or receiving ultrasound for environment detection with at least one sensor unit is known, wherein a vibratable membrane and an electret material are included.

From the DE 197 27 877 A1 For example, a piezoelectric sensor is known, which is designed as an ultrasonic transducer with a piezoelectric element.

From the DE 10 2011 077 558 A1 is known as a capacitive transducer a device for transmitting and / or receiving sound signals, comprising an electromechanical film, wherein the electromechanical film comprises a membrane of a so-called ferroelectret material.

Disclosure of the invention

A sensor arrangement is proposed for transmitting and / or receiving a sound signal, in particular an ultrasound signal, for detecting an environment of the sensor arrangement, the sensor arrangement having at least two sensor units. The sensor arrangement has a first sensor unit for transmitting a sound signal, wherein the first sensor unit is designed as a piezo sensor. In this context, a piezoelectric sensor should be understood to mean a sound transducer which has at least one piezoceramic element as the transducer element. Such a piezo sensor comprises z. B. at least one piezo-disc, which is arranged on a metal membrane, in particular with this cohesively connected.

Furthermore, the sensor arrangement has a second sensor unit for receiving the sound signal transmitted by means of the first sensor unit and reflected at an environment object, wherein the second sensor unit is designed as a capacitive sound transducer.

The advantage of the proposed sensor arrangement is that the environment of the sensor arrangement by means of the use of piezoelectric sensors and capacitive sound transducers can be detected easier and / or better, in particular by means of the use of both sensor types a higher range of the detection of the environment is possible. In other words, by using both sensor types, objects can be detected and / or identified at a further distance. In particular, advantageous properties of the respective sensor type can be used. The piezoelectric sensor, for example, in comparison to the capacitive sound transducer, a stronger sound generation performance, the capacitive transducer compared to the piezo sensor has a more sensitive sound detection. In other words, compared to the capacitive sound transducer, the piezo sensor can transmit stronger sound signals and the capacitive sound transducer can receive more sensitive sound signals compared to the piezo sensor. As a result, objects in the vicinity of the sensor arrangement can advantageously be identified and / or detected more reliably and / or better and / or more easily and thus be perceived.

A capacitive sound transducer may be understood to mean a sensor which may have at least one electret foil as the transducer element. Such a capacitive sound transducer may e.g. be designed as a condenser or electret capacitor transducers. Piezoelectrics are also known as ferroelectrets. For example, a capacitive transducer may be a sensor that can receive and transmit sound signals using a capacitance of a capacitor. For receiving sound waves from a room or for transmitting sound waves into a room, for example, a combination of a vibratable electrode membrane and a base electrode is used to bring about an electromechanical interaction. The operation of such sound transducers is based e.g. on a direct relationship that results between a force on the membrane and an electrical voltage of the electrode assembly as a function of the distance between the electrodes and the capacitance of the electrode assembly. An example of a capacitive transducer is, for example, an electret sensor.

In an advantageous embodiment, the sensor arrangement is designed to detect an environment of a vehicle. In this way, it can advantageously be ensured that by means of the use of both sensor types a higher range of the detection of the surroundings of a vehicle is made possible, whereby it can be better detected and thus better perceived. As a result, vehicle safety and / or comfort can advantageously be increased.

In a further development, the first sensor unit is arranged in front of the second sensor unit in the direction of travel of the vehicle. As a result, advantageously, the sound signal emitted by means of the first sensor unit can be carried, for example by means of the travel wind, better and / or faster to the second sensor unit. be transported. As a result, the sound signal emitted by means of the first sensor unit can advantageously be received more simply and / or better by means of the second sensor unit for receiving the sound signal transmitted by the first sensor unit and reflected at an environment object, thereby improving and / or simplifying the detection of the surroundings of the sensor arrangement and / or or can be accelerated.

In a further embodiment, the sensor arrangement is designed to be arranged on a front region of the vehicle and / or on a rear end of the vehicle and / or on the sides of a vehicle. In this way, advantageously, the detection of the environment of the vehicle can be improved, in particular objects in the surroundings of the vehicle can be perceived better and / or easier. As a result, the safety, in particular the vehicle safety, and / or the comfort can be advantageously increased and / or improved.

Furthermore, the sensor arrangement preferably has at least three sensor units, wherein the sensor arrangement has a first sensor unit and two second sensor units and wherein the first sensor unit is arranged between the two second sensor units or wherein the sensor arrangement has two first sensor units and one second sensor unit and wherein the second sensor unit is arranged between the two first sensor units. By means of the described arrangement of the sensor units, the detection and / or the perception of the surroundings of the sensor arrangement can advantageously be improved. In particular, the sound signal emitted by means of the first sensor unit can be received more easily and / or better by the second sensor unit.

In an exemplary embodiment, the capacitive acoustic transducer comprises an electret material, wherein the electret material is formed as a piezoelectret material. As a result, the function of the capacitive sound transducer can be ensured, which ensures that the second sensor unit can safely receive a sound signal. Piezoelectrons can also be referred to as ferroelectrets.

Furthermore, the capacitive sound transducer may have a cover, in particular a cover layer. By means of the cover, the capacitive sound transducer can preferably be protected against environmental influences, whereby the function of the capacitive sound transducer can be ensured. For example, the capacitive transducer can be protected from penetrating media, such as water and / or dust and / or small particles, and / or from shocks.

Preferably, the cover may comprise a plastic, in particular a reinforced plastic. As a result, the function of the cover can be ensured. Furthermore, the cover can be safely and / or easily and / or cost-effectively arranged on the capacitive sound transducer.

In an advantageous embodiment, the piezo sensor and / or the capacitive sound transducer for receiving signals in the audible range is formed. In particular, the sound audible to a human has a frequency range of 16 Hz to 20 kHz. As a result, ambient noise can advantageously be detected better and / or more easily, as a result of which further functions can be realized by means of the sensor arrangement. Further functions may be, for example, an object classification of the detected objects and / or the recognition of road properties and / or the recognition of tire properties of a vehicle tire and / or voice recognition.

Furthermore, a vehicle with a sensor arrangement is proposed.

Furthermore, a method for operating a sensor arrangement for detecting an environment of the sensor arrangement is proposed, wherein the sensor arrangement has two sensor units, in particular a first sensor unit and a second sensor unit. The method comprises the following steps:

Transmitting a sound signal, in particular an ultrasonic signal, by means of the first sensor unit of the sensor arrangement, wherein the first sensor unit is designed as a piezo sensor,

Receiving the sound signal transmitted by the first sensor unit and reflected at an environment object by means of the second sensor unit of the sensor arrangement, wherein the second sensor unit is designed as a capacitive sound transducer,

Evaluation of the received sound signal.

By means of the proposed method for operating a sensor arrangement, the environment of the sensor arrangement can advantageously be detected more simply and / or better and / or more favorably by means of the use of piezoelectric sensors and capacitive sound transducers, whereby a higher detection range is preferably made possible by the use of both sensor types can. For example, objects in the vicinity of the sensor arrangement can be identified and / or detected more reliably and / or better and / or more easily and thus be perceived. By means of the use of both sensor types, it is preferably possible to detect and / or identify objects at a further distance.

In a further development, the piezo sensor and / or the capacitive sound transducer can receive signals in the audible range. Advantageously, this ambient noise can be detected better and / or easier.

Furthermore, properties of a roadway can be identified by means of the signals in the audible range. Advantageously, this can be used to improve and / or simplify the recognition of roadway characteristics, as a result of which, for example, vehicle safety can be improved.

In an advantageous embodiment, the properties of a vehicle tire can be identified by means of the signals in the audible range. Advantageously, the detection of tire properties can thereby be improved and / or simplified, whereby, for example, vehicle safety can be improved. For example, the following properties of the tire can be determined: the tire pressure and / or the tire tread and / or the lack of generosity and / or the tire age and / or whether unauthorized tires are mounted on a vehicle.

In a further development, voice commands can be identified by means of the signals in the audible range. In this way, for example, the speech recognition can advantageously be made possible in and / or on a vehicle and / or outside of a vehicle, whereby in particular the vehicle operation can be simplified and / or facilitated and / or accelerated.

list of figures

• 1 eine schematische Darstellung eines Fahrzeugs;
• 2 eine schematische Darstellung einer Sensoranordnung gemäß eines Ausführungsbeispiels der vorliegenden Erfindung;
• 3 eine schematische Darstellung eines Fahrzeugs gemäß eines Ausführungsbeispiels der vorliegenden Erfindung;
• 4 eine schematische Darstellung eines Fahrzeugs gemäß eines Ausführungsbeispiels der vorliegenden Erfindung;
• 5 eine schematische Darstellung eines Fahrzeugs gemäß eines Ausführungsbeispiels der vorliegenden Erfindung;
• 6 eine schematische Darstellung eines Fahrzeugs gemäß eines Ausführungsbeispiels der vorliegenden Erfindung;
• 7 eine schematische Darstellung eines Fahrzeugs gemäß eines Ausführungsbeispiels der vorliegenden Erfindung;
• 8 eine schematische Darstellung eines Fahrzeugs gemäß eines Ausführungsbeispiels der vorliegenden Erfindung;
• 9 ein Verfahren zum Betreiben einer Sensoranordnung gemäß eines Ausführungsbeispiels der vorliegenden Erfindung;
• 10 ein Verfahren zum Betreiben einer Sensoranordnung gemäß eines Ausführungsbeispiels der vorliegenden Erfindung;

Embodiments of the invention are illustrated in the drawings and explained in more detail in the following descriptions. The same reference numerals are used for the elements shown in the various figures and similarly acting, wherein a repeated description of the elements is dispensed with. Show it:

• 1 a schematic representation of a vehicle;
• 2 a schematic representation of a sensor arrangement according to an embodiment of the present invention;
• 3 a schematic representation of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention;
• 4 a schematic representation of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention;
• 5 a schematic representation of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention;
• 6 a schematic representation of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention;
• 7 a schematic representation of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention;
• 8th a schematic representation of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention;
• 9 a method of operating a sensor assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention;
• 10 a method of operating a sensor assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Embodiments of the invention:

1 shows a schematic representation of a perspective view of a vehicle 20 , The vehicle 20 has in particular a front area 22 , a tail 24 as well as a first page 26 and a second page 28 on. In the front area 22 as well as at the stern 24 of the vehicle 20 are sensor units 32 arranged. In this embodiment, the sensor units 32 especially as piezo sensors 32 educated. Preferably, six piezo sensors 32 in the front area 22 of the vehicle 20 as well as six piezo sensors 32 at the stern 24 of the vehicle 20 arranged. However, there may be fewer or more piezo sensors 32 at the vehicle 20 , especially in the front area 22 of the vehicle 20 and / or at the stern 24 of the vehicle 20 be arranged.

Piezo sensors can generate and receive ultrasound. In particular, ultrasound has a frequency range from 20 kHz to 1.6 GHz. By means of the piezo sensors 32 can be an environment of the vehicle 20 be detected by means of one or more piezoelectric sensors 32 Ultrasound is emitted. The emitted ultrasound may be emitted by an object in the vicinity of the vehicle 20 can be reflected and thus back to the vehicle 20 be returned and / or reflected back. One or more piezo sensors 32 can receive this ultrasound and thus the object in the environment of the vehicle 20 detect. According to the invention, other sensors, such as capacitive sound transducer, on the vehicle 20 be appropriate to receive and / or receive the ultrasonic transmit can. Alternatively or additionally, the sensors may be on one or both sides 26 . 28 be arranged. An example of a capacitive transducer is, for example, an electret sensor.

2 shows a schematic representation of a sensor arrangement 30 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The sensor arrangement 30 for transmitting and / or receiving a sound signal 36 , In particular an ultrasonic signal is used to detect an environment of the sensor array 30 , For this purpose, the sensor arrangement 30 at least two sensor units 32 . 34 on, in particular a first sensor unit 32 and a second sensor unit 34 , The first sensor unit 32 for sending a sound signal 36 , In particular, an ultrasonic signal is as a piezoelectric sensor 32 educated. In other words, the piezo sensor 32 for sending a sound signal 36 be used. For controlling the first sensor unit 32 can the first sensor unit 32 by means of a connection 37 For example, be connected to a computing unit and / or a control unit. The second sensor unit 34 for receiving by means of the first sensor unit 32 sent and to an environment object 38 reflected sound signal 36 is as a capacitive transducer 34 educated. In other words, the capacitive transducer 34 for receiving a sound signal 36 be used. An example of a capacitive transducer is, for example, an electret sensor. For controlling the second sensor unit 34 can the second sensor unit 34 by means of a connection 39 For example, be connected to a computing unit and / or a control unit. In a further development, the capacitive transducer 34 an electret material, wherein the electret material may be formed in a further development example, as a piezoelectric material.

The first sensor unit 32 and thus the piezo sensor 32 sends a sound signal 36 , in particular an ultrasonic signal, off. For controlling the first sensor unit 32 can the first sensor unit 32 Control signals by means of the connection 37 receive. The emitted sound signal 36 gets into the environment of the sensor array 30 Posted. In the environment of the sensor arrangement 30 For example, an object may be 38 located, by means of the first sensor unit 32 sent sound signal 36 on the environment object 38 meets and especially on the surrounding object 38 is reflected. In other words, the sound signal becomes 36 at the surrounding object 38 reflects, which on the surrounding object 38 reflected sound signal 36 to the second sensor unit 34 and thus to the capacitive transducer 34 is directed or directed. In other words, this is true of the surrounding object 38 reflected sound signal 36 on the second sensor unit 34 and thus on the capacitive transducer 34 , The second sensor unit 34 or the capacitive sound transducer 34 is arranged to receive the sound signal 36 , in particular an ultrasonic signal. For processing the received sound signal 36 can the second sensor unit 34 a connection 39 have to a computing unit. For example, for processing the sound signal 36 that by means of the second sensor unit 34 received sound signal 36 about the connection 39 be routed to a computing unit and / or to a control unit. Located in the vicinity of the sensor arrangement 30 no environment object 38 Thus, the sound signal can not be reflected consequently and thus can not to the second sensor unit 34 be returned.

Piezo sensors 32 and capacitive sound transducers 34 In particular, they are able to generate and transmit sound as well as to receive sound. Objects that are in close proximity to the sensor array 30 may additionally and / or alternatively only capacitive transducers 34 can be detected alone by detecting the echo of the self-emitted signal. Objects that are a little further away may additionally and / or alternatively from the piezo sensors 32 be detected because they have a stronger sound power. Furthermore, objects can be created by the interaction of piezo sensors 32 and capacitive transducers 34 or an electret microphone 34 be recognized. The piezo sensors 32 send sound signals 36 from, with the echo by means of the sensitive capacitive sound transducers 34 can be detected.

In a further development, the capacitive transducer 34 have a cover, in particular a cover layer. The cover may for example comprise a plastic material, in particular a reinforced plastic. In a further development, the sensor unit can be protected by means of a CFRP protective layer, in particular by means of CFRP mats. As a result, the mechanical stability can be ensured, whereby the sensor units are mechanically robust. The sensor of the sensor units 32 . 34 can advantageously be arranged in each case in a housing, wherein the housing may each have a holder.

Furthermore, the second sensor unit 34 also receive sound signals that are not from the first sensor unit 32 or a further sensor unit, but from the environment of the sensor arrangement 30 come and from the environment of the sensor array 30 to the second sensor unit 34 be directed.

Furthermore, the capacitive sound transducer 34 additionally and / or alternatively be designed to receive signals in the audible range. This allows the capacitive transducer 34 additionally and / or alternatively used as an ambient microphone. For example, it is possible to record sound and therefore noise and to perform and / or support categorization of the sounds. In a first embodiment, the capacitive sound transducer 34 receive both ultrasonic signals and signals in the audible range of the sound. In a second embodiment, the capacitive sound transducer 34 specialized and can receive either ultrasonic signals or signals in the audible range of sound. Furthermore, the piezo sensor 32 additionally and / or alternatively be designed to receive signals in the audible range. This is how the piezo sensor works 32 Receive sound signals as ultrasonic signals and / or sound signals in the audible range. Sound signals in the audible range can be audible to humans, for example. In particular, the sound audible to a human has a frequency range of 16 Hz to 20 kHz.

It is also possible with the capacitive sound transducers 34 to capture a language of a user. This allows the user with the sensor array 30 speak and / or communicate and thus trigger actions, for example. The simultaneous detection by means of several sensors and evaluation of the phase shift can be calculated from which direction the noise comes. This can be used to calculate from which object the noise was generated.

3 shows a schematic representation of a vehicle 20 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle 20 has in particular a front area 22 , a tail 24 as well as a first page 26 and a second page 28 on. In the front area 22 of the vehicle 20 is a sensor arrangement 30 arranged. Alternatively or additionally, the sensor arrangement 30 also at the rear 24 of the vehicle 20 and / or on one or both sides 26 . 28 be arranged. Furthermore, the sensor arrangement 30 on the vehicle 20 be arranged for example in the field of bumpers, bumpers, door guards, side guards, spoilers and / or number plate frame. In a further development, the membrane of the sensor units 32 . 34 the sensor arrangement 30 be formed by the outer skin of the vehicle, such as the outer skin of a bumper, a side mirror, a trim strip, a headlight, a tail light or a door area, wherein the sensor units 32 . 34 hidden behind the outer skin can be arranged. The sensor of the sensor units 32 . 34 can be advantageously arranged in each case in a housing, wherein the housing in each case has a holder and wherein the holder for arranging the housing to the vehicle 20 is trained.

The sensor arrangement 30 is in accordance with the sensor arrangement according to this embodiment 2 designed. In this embodiment, the sensor assembly 30 designed for detecting an environment of the sensor arrangement 30 , in particular of the vehicle 20 ,

For this purpose, the sensor arrangement 30 for transmitting and / or receiving a sound signal 36 , in particular an ultrasonic signal, at least two sensor units 32 . 34 on, in particular a first sensor unit 32 for sending a sound signal 36 and a second sensor unit 34 for receiving a sound signal 36 , The first sensor unit 32 for sending a sound signal 36 , In particular, an ultrasonic signal is as a piezoelectric sensor 32 educated. The second sensor unit 34 for receiving by means of the first sensor unit 32 sent and to an environment object 38 reflected sound signal 36 is as a capacitive transducer 34 educated. The first sensor unit 32 for sending a sound signal 36 and the second sensor unit 34 for receiving a sound signal 36 are in particular arranged such that of the first sensor unit 32 transmitted sound signal from the second sensor unit 34 can be received. An example of a capacitive transducer is, for example, an electret sensor.

The first sensor unit 32 and thus the piezo sensor 32 sends a sound signal 36 , in particular an ultrasonic signal, off. This sound signal 36 gets into the environment of the sensor array 30 and thus in the environment of the vehicle 20 Posted. For example, an object can be in the environment 38 located, by means of the first sensor unit 32 sent sound signal 36 on the environment object 38 meets and especially on the surrounding object 38 is reflected. An environment object 38 in the environment of the vehicle 20 may be, for example, an object and / or another road user and / or a pedestrian and / or other objects, which are in the environment of the vehicle 20 can be located. This can then be done on the environment object 38 reflected sound signal 36 to the second sensor unit 34 and thus to the capacitive transducer 34 reflected and / or directed and / or steered. The second sensor unit 34 or the capacitive sound transducer 34 is arranged to receive the sound signal 36 , As a result, in particular by means of the evaluated sound signal 36 objects 38 in the environment of the sensor arrangement 30 be perceived. Located in the vicinity of the sensor arrangement 30 no environment object 38 Thus, the sound signal can not be reflected consequently and thus can not to the second sensor unit 34 be returned.

In a further development, the first sensor unit 32 in the direction of travel of the vehicle 20 in front of the second sensor unit 34 be arranged. In other words, the piezo sensor 32 in the direction of travel 40 of the vehicle 20 in front of the capacitive transducer 34 be arranged. Alternatively or additionally, the capacitive sound transducer 34 so between the piezo sensors 32 be ordered that the wind the sound signals 36 , For example, the ultrasonic signals from the piezoelectric sensors 32 to the capacitive sound transducers 34 wearing. The direction of travel 40 of the vehicle 20 is by means of the arrow 40 shown.

Furthermore, the second sensor unit 34 also receive sound signals that are not from the first sensor unit 32 are sent, but from the environment of the sensor array 30 or of the vehicle 20 come and thus from the environment of the sensor array 30 to the second sensor unit 34 be directed.

Furthermore, the capacitive sound transducer 34 additionally and / or alternatively be designed to receive signals or sound signals in the audible range. This allows the capacitive transducer 34 additionally and / or alternatively used as an ambient microphone. For example, it is possible to record noises and perform and / or support a categorization of the sounds. In a first embodiment, the capacitive sound transducer 34 receive both ultrasonic signals and signals in the audible range of the sound. In a second embodiment, the capacitive sound transducer 34 specialized and can receive either ultrasonic signals or signals in the audible range of sound. Furthermore, the piezo sensor 32 additionally and / or alternatively be designed to receive signals in the audible range. This is how the piezo sensor works 32 Receive sound signals as ultrasonic signals and / or sound signals in the audible range. Sound signals in the audible range can be audible to humans, for example.

It is also possible, by means of a capacitive transducer 34 to capture a language of a user. This allows the user with the sensor assembly 30 communicate or speak. The simultaneous detection by means of several sensors and evaluation of the phase shift can be calculated from which direction the noise comes. This can be used to calculate from which object the noise was generated. For example, the user can talk to the vehicle and thus communicate commands to the vehicle to carry out actions, for example, the vehicle can thus be unlocked, for example doors are opened and / or the vehicle is given the command to drive to a parking space. Further commands for carrying out further actions are conceivable.

Furthermore, by means of a capacitive sound transducer 34 the characteristics of roadway and tires are recognized. By using the sensor arrangement 30 For example, speech recognition and / or object classification and / or recognition of the roadway properties and / or recognition of the tire properties can be realized.

The object recognition, road and tire classification and speech recognition can be performed, for example in a cloud by the received noise or signals are first transmitted to a controller and then they are transmitted to the cloud. A cloud or cloud computing describes the provision of IT infrastructure such as storage space, computing power or application software as a service over the Internet. Alternatively, e.g. with the aid of a neuromorphic chip, the recognition also in the vehicle, in particular in a control unit, e.g. be performed in the ultrasonic control unit or in the communication control unit. Detection in the vehicle does not require bandwidth of the wireless connection.

4 shows a schematic representation of a vehicle 20 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle 20 is according to the vehicle 20 according to 3 constructed and has in particular a front area 22 , a tail 24 as well as a first page 26 and a second page 28 on. At the vehicle 20 is at least one sensor arrangement 30 arranged. The sensor arrangement 30 is in this embodiment according to the sensor arrangement in 2 and or 3 designed. In this embodiment, the sensor assembly 30 designed for detecting an environment of the sensor arrangement 30 , in particular of the vehicle 20 ,

In contrast to 3 are on the vehicle 20 according to 4 several sensor units 32 . 34 arranged. In this embodiment according to 4 are three sensor units in the front area 22 of the vehicle 20 as well as three sensor units 32 . 34 at the stern 24 of the vehicle 20 arranged. In the front area 22 of the vehicle 20 has the sensor arrangement 30 at least three sensor units, in particular a first sensor unit 32 and two second sensor units 34 , wherein the first sensor unit 32 between the two second sensor units 34 is arranged. At the stern 24 of the vehicle 20 has the sensor arrangement 30 at least three sensor units, in particular two first sensor units 32 and a second sensor unit 34 wherein the second sensor unit 34 between the first two sensor units 32 is arranged. This is the first sensor unit 32 and thus the piezo sensor 32 in the direction of travel 40 of the vehicle 20 in front of the second sensor unit 34 and thus the capacitive sound transducer 34 arranged so that the airstream the sound signals 36 , For example, the ultrasonic signals from the one or more piezo sensors 32 to the one or more capacitive transducers 34 wearing. The direction of travel 40 of the vehicle 20 is by means of the arrow 40 shown.

5 shows a schematic representation of a vehicle 20 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle 20 is according to the vehicle 20 according to 4 built up. At the vehicle 20 is at least one sensor arrangement 30 arranged. The sensor arrangement 30 is in this embodiment according to the sensor arrangement 30 in 2 and or 3 and or 4 designed. In this embodiment, the sensor assembly 30 designed for detecting an environment of the sensor arrangement 30 , in particular of the vehicle 20 ,

In contrast to 4 are on the vehicle 20 according to 5 several sensor units 32 . 34 arranged. In this embodiment according to 5 are four sensor units in the front area 22 of the vehicle 20 as well as four sensor units 32 . 34 at the stern 24 of the vehicle 20 arranged. In the front area 22 of the vehicle 20 has the sensor arrangement 30 at least four sensor units, in particular two first sensor units 32 and two second sensor units 34 wherein the two first sensor units 32 between the two second sensor units 34 are arranged. At the stern 24 of the vehicle 20 has the sensor arrangement 30 at least four sensor units, in particular two first sensor units 32 and two second sensor unit 34 , wherein the two second sensor units 34 between the first two sensor units 32 are arranged. As a result, the first sensor units 32 and thus the piezo sensors 32 in the direction of travel 40 of the vehicle 20 before the second sensor units 34 and thus the capacitive sound transducers 34 arranged so that the airstream the sound signals 36 , For example, the ultrasonic signals from the one or more piezo sensors 32 to the one or more capacitive transducers 34 wearing. The direction of travel 40 of the vehicle 20 is by means of the arrow 40 shown.

6 shows a schematic representation of a vehicle 20 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle 20 is according to the vehicle 20 according to 4 and / or according to 5 built up. At the vehicle 20 is at least one sensor arrangement 30 arranged. The sensor arrangement 30 is in this embodiment according to the sensor arrangement in 2 and or 3 and / or according to 4 and / or according to 5 designed. In this embodiment, the sensor assembly 30 designed for detecting an environment of the sensor arrangement 30 , in particular of the vehicle 20 ,

In contrast to 3 . 4 and / or too 5 are on the vehicle 20 according to 6 the sensor units 32 . 34 the sensor arrangement 30 on one side 26 of the vehicle 20 arranged. In this embodiment, a first sensor unit 32 and a second sensor unit 34 on a first page 26 of the vehicle 20 arranged. Alternatively or additionally, the sensor arrangement 30 on the second page 28 of the vehicle 20 be arranged. Furthermore, the first sensor unit 32 and thus the piezo sensor 32 in the direction of travel 40 of the vehicle 20 in front of the second sensor unit 34 and thus the capacitive sound transducer 34 arranged so that the airstream the sound signals 36 , For example, the ultrasonic signals from the piezo sensor 32 to the capacitive transducer 34 wearing. The direction of travel 40 of the vehicle 20 is by means of the arrow 40 shown.

7 shows a schematic representation of a vehicle 20 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle 20 is according to the vehicle 20 according to 5 built up. At the vehicle 20 is at least one sensor arrangement 30 arranged. The sensor arrangement 30 is in this embodiment according to the sensor arrangement in 2 designed and according to the sensor arrangement 30 according to 2 and or 3 and / or according to 4 and / or according to 5 and / or according to 6 on the vehicle 20 arranged. In this embodiment, the sensor assembly 30 designed for detecting an environment of the sensor arrangement 30 , in particular of the vehicle 20 ,

In contrast to 5 are on the vehicle 20 according to 7 additional sensor units 32 . 34 the sensor arrangement 30 on the first page 26 and on the second page 28 of the vehicle 20 arranged. In this embodiment, a first sensor unit 32 and a second sensor unit 34 each on the first page 26 of the vehicle 20 and on the second page 28 of the vehicle 20 arranged. Furthermore, in each case the first sensor unit 32 and thus the piezo sensor 32 in the direction of travel 40 of the vehicle 20 in front of the second sensor unit 34 and thus the capacitive sound transducer 34 arranged so that the airstream 42 the sound signals 36 , For example, the ultrasonic signals from the piezo sensor 32 to the capacitive transducer 34 wearing. The wind 42 is using the arrows 42 shown. The direction of travel 40 of the vehicle 20 is by means of the arrow 40 shown.

In other words, the capacitive sound transducer 34 and piezo sensors 32 be arranged so that the capacitive sound transducer 34 between the piezo sensors 32 are positioned. With six sensors per bumper, for example, the second and the fifth sensor can be used as a capacitive transducer 34 be executed.

8th shows a schematic representation of a vehicle 20 , The vehicle 20 is according to the vehicle 20 according to 1 built up. At the vehicle 20 at least one sensor unit is arranged. In this embodiment, the sensor unit is designed to detect an environment of the sensor arrangement 30 , in particular of the vehicle 20 ,

In contrast to 1 are on the vehicle 20 according to 8th several second sensor units 34 arranged. In this embodiment according to 8th are two second sensor units 34 in the front area 22 of the vehicle 20 and two second sensor units 34 at the stern 24 of the vehicle 20 arranged. Alternatively or additionally, the sensor units on the sides 26 . 28 of the vehicle 20 be arranged.

By using the sensor units, it is possible, for example, to realize speech recognition and / or object classification and / or recognition of the roadway properties and / or recognition of the tire properties. For example, tire pressure that is too low, tire tread depth that is too low, too old age of a tire, incorrectly fitted tires, and / or missing clearance of a tire can be identified. As a result, the vehicle safety and / or ride comfort can be increased, whereby, for example, accidents and / or the severity of the accident can be reduced.

In this exemplary embodiment, the second sensor units 34 and thus the capacitive sound transducer 34 additionally and / or alternatively be designed to receive signals in the audible range. This allows the capacitive transducer 34 additionally and / or alternatively used as an ambient microphone. For example, it is possible to record noises and perform and / or support a categorization of the sounds. In a first embodiment, the capacitive sound transducer 34 receive both ultrasonic signals and signals in the audible range of the sound. In a second embodiment, the capacitive sound transducer 34 specialized and can receive either ultrasonic signals or signals in the audible range of sound.

In a further embodiment, as an alternative or in addition to the second sensor unit 34 one or more first sensor units 32 thus piezo sensors 32 be used. Furthermore, the piezo sensor 32 additionally and / or alternatively be designed to receive signals in the audible range. Sound signals in the audible range are audible to humans, for example.

It is also possible, by means of a capacitive transducer 34 and / or by means of a piezo sensor 32 to capture a language of a user. This allows the user with the sensor assembly 30 communicate or speak. The simultaneous detection by means of several sensors and evaluation of the phase shift can be calculated from which direction the noise comes. This can be used to calculate from which object the noise was generated. For example, the user can talk to the vehicle and thus give instructions to the vehicle to perform actions, for example, the vehicle can be unlocked, for example, one or more doors are opened and / or the vehicle is issued the command, in a parking lot to drive. Further commands for carrying out further actions are conceivable.

Furthermore, by means of a capacitive sound transducer 34 and / or by means of a piezo sensor 32 the properties of tires of the vehicle 20 , in particular the tire pressure, are detected. For this, the vehicle can 20 Evaluate the ambient noise received by the sensor units in order to determine the tire condition. If a tire pressure of one or more vehicle tires drops, the tire is deformed with the revolutions. This deformation is audible and thus measurable by means of the sensor units. The vehicle 20 or a control unit in a vehicle 20 compares the noise behavior of the tires of the vehicle 20 , which are installed on the same axis, with each other. If the noise behavior deviates from one of the two tires over a relatively long period of time, an excessively low tire pressure can be detected, for example, the system can issue a warning to the driver. In addition, the vehicle can evaluate the wheel speed to assess a pressure drop. For example, if the wheel speed evaluation and the noise evaluation arrive at a similar result that one of the tires has too low a pressure, a warning message may be issued to the driver.

Furthermore, by means of a capacitive sound transducer 34 and / or by means of a piezo sensor 32 the properties of tires of the vehicle 20 , in particular the tread depth of the tires, are recognized. The tire noise may depend on the road surface, the forces acting, the speeds of the tires and / or the tread depth of a tire when the road is dry. If the vehicle 20 Consequently, driving straight ahead at a constant speed can be concluded in particular by means of the evaluation of the tire noise on the tread depth of the tire. Therefor For example, the tire noise may be compared with known recorded reference sounds of a tire, which may be used to deduce, for example, the tread depth of the vehicle tire and / or the tire model. This evaluation can be done in the vehicle 20 and / or in the cloud. Furthermore, aging cracks and / or age-related outgassing of the plasticizers and / or a lack of generosity of the tires can be detected.

9 shows a method 50 for operating a sensor arrangement according to an embodiment of the present invention. The sensor arrangement for transmitting and / or receiving a sound signal, in particular an ultrasound signal, has at least two sensor units, in particular a first sensor unit for transmitting a sound signal and a second sensor unit for receiving a sound signal and is according to the sensor arrangement according to FIG 2 . 4 . 5 . 6 and or 7 executed and can according to 3 . 4 . 5 . 6 and or 7 be arranged in a vehicle.

The procedure 50 has the following steps:

In a first step 52 of the procedure 50 a sound signal, in particular an ultrasonic signal, is transmitted by means of the first sensor unit of the sensor arrangement, wherein the first sensor unit is designed as a piezo sensor.

In a second step 54 of the procedure 50 the sound signal transmitted by means of the first sensor unit and reflected by an environment object is received by means of the second sensor unit of the sensor arrangement, the second sensor unit being designed as a capacitive sound transducer.

In a third step 56 of the procedure 50 the received ultrasonic signal is evaluated. To evaluate the received ultrasonic signal, the signals can be processed in a control unit and / or transmitted to the cloud.

Furthermore, by means of the first sensor unit and / or the second sensor unit of the sensor arrangement, sound signals in the audible range can be received. As a result, more of the following functions can be performed by means of the received and / or evaluated sound signal. Properties of a roadway can be identified by means of the signals in the audible range and / or properties of a vehicle tire can be identified by means of the signals in the audible range and / or voice commands can be identified by means of the signals in the audible range.

10 shows a method 60 for operating a sensor arrangement according to an embodiment of the present invention. The sensor arrangement for receiving a sound signal has at least one sensor unit, in particular a first sensor unit and / or a second sensor unit for receiving a sound signal and is in accordance with the sensor arrangement according to 8th executed and can according to 8th be arranged in a vehicle.

The procedure 60 has the following steps:

In a first step 62 of the procedure 60 a sound signal is received in the audible range by means of the first sensor unit and / or the second sensor unit of the sensor arrangement. The first sensor unit is designed as a piezo sensor and the second sensor unit is designed as a capacitive sound transducer. For this purpose, the capacitive sound transducer and / or the piezo sensor can receive signals in the audible range.

In a second step 64 of the procedure 60 the received sound signal is evaluated.

In a third step 66 of the procedure 60 For example, one or more of the following functions may be performed by means of the received and / or evaluated sound signal. Properties of a roadway can be identified by means of the signals in the audible range and / or properties of a vehicle tire can be identified by means of the signals in the audible range and / or voice commands can be identified by means of the signals in the audible range.

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

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

Cited patent literature

• DE 102013206715 A1 [0002]
• DE 19727877 A1 [0003]
• DE 102011077558 A1 [0004]

Claims (15)

Sensor arrangement (30) for transmitting and / or receiving a sound signal (36), in particular an ultrasonic signal, for detecting an environment of the sensor arrangement (30), characterized in that the sensor arrangement (30) has at least two sensor units (32, 34) the sensor arrangement (30) has a first sensor unit (32) for transmitting a sound signal (36), wherein the first sensor unit (32) is designed as a piezo sensor (32), and in that the sensor arrangement (30) has a second sensor unit (34 ) for receiving the by means of the first sensor unit (32) and sent to an environment object (38) reflected sound signal (36), wherein the second sensor unit (34) as a capacitive sound transducer (34) is formed. Sensor arrangement (30) according to Claim 1 , characterized in that the sensor arrangement (30) for detecting an environment of a vehicle (20) is formed. Sensor arrangement (30) according to Claim 2 , characterized in that the first sensor unit (32) in the direction of travel (40) of the vehicle (20) in front of the second sensor unit (34) is arranged. Sensor arrangement (30) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sensor arrangement (30) is adapted to a front region (22) of the vehicle (20) and / or at a rear (24) of the vehicle (20) and / / or on the sides (26, 28 of a vehicle (20)). Sensor arrangement (30) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sensor arrangement (30) has at least three sensor units, wherein the sensor arrangement (30) has a first sensor unit (32) and two second sensor units (34) and wherein the first sensor unit ( 32) is arranged between the two second sensor units (34) or wherein the sensor arrangement (30) has two first sensor units (32) and a second sensor unit (34) and wherein the second sensor unit (34) is arranged between the two first sensor units (32) is. Sensor arrangement (30) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the capacitive sound transducer (34) comprises an electret material, wherein the electret material is formed as a piezoelectric material. Sensor arrangement (30) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the capacitive sound transducer (34) has a cover, in particular a covering layer. Sensor arrangement (30) according to a Claim 7 , characterized in that the cover comprises a plastic, in particular a reinforced plastic. Sensor arrangement (30) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the piezoelectric sensor (32) and / or the capacitive sound transducer (34) is designed for receiving signals in the audible range. Vehicle (20) with a sensor arrangement (30) according to one of the preceding claims. Method for operating a sensor arrangement (30) according to one of the preceding Claims 1 - 9 for detecting an environment of the sensor arrangement (30), the sensor arrangement (30) having two sensor units, in particular a first sensor unit (32) and a second sensor unit (34), the method comprising the steps of: transmitting a sound signal (36), in particular an ultrasound signal, by means of the first sensor unit (32) of the sensor arrangement (30), wherein the first sensor unit (32) is designed as a piezo sensor (32), receiving the means of the first sensor unit (32) and transmitted to an environment object (38 ) reflected sound signal (36) by means of the second sensor unit (34) of the sensor arrangement (30), wherein the second sensor unit (34) is designed as a capacitive sound transducer (34), evaluating the received sound signal (36). Method according to Claim 11 , characterized in that the piezo sensor (32) and / or the capacitive sound transducer (34) can receive signals in the audible range. Method according to Claim 12 , characterized in that by means of the signals in the audible range properties of a roadway can be identified. Method according to one of the preceding Claims 12 - 13 , characterized in that by means of the signals in the audible range properties of a vehicle tire can be identified. Method according to one of the preceding Claims 12 - 14 , characterized in that by means of the signals in the audible range voice commands can be identified.

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