DE102019209300A1 - Adjustment system and method for externally actuated adjustment of a vehicle adjustment part with the aid of an optical detection device - Google Patents

Abstract

The proposed solution relates to an adjustment system and a method for the external force-operated adjustment of an adjustment part (H) on a vehicle (F). A proposed adjustment system comprises at least one optical detection device (K) which is set up in at least one detection zone (Z3) in a The surroundings of the vehicle (F) to optically detect at least one operating event triggered by a person (N1, N2, N3) and to generate at least one detection signal (s3) depending on the presence of the operating event, and at least one motorized drive device (A), which is set up to adjust the adjustment part (H) by external force as a function of the at least one detection signal (s3). The optical detection device (K) is also set up in the at least one detection zone (Z3) to align at least one foot of the person (N2 ) visually to detect u with regard to the externally operated adjusting part (H) nd to generate the at least one detection signal (s3) as a function of the detected alignment of the at least one foot of the person (N2).

Description

The proposed solution relates to an adjustment system and a method for externally actuated adjustment of an adjustment part on a vehicle.

Adjustment systems for externally actuated adjustment of an adjustment part, for example a side or rear vehicle door, a trunk lid or a side or rear window pane, on a vehicle with the aid of a motorized drive device are widely known. In this context, different possibilities have already been proposed for adjusting the respective adjustment part as a function of a contactlessly recorded operating event.

From the DE 10 2005 032 403 B3 For example, it is known to evaluate an approach of a person across two different zones that are monitored in the vicinity of the vehicle as an operating event that is intended to trigger an adjustment part on the vehicle. The two opto-electronically monitored zones are located at different distances from the vehicle, so that it can be evaluated whether a person is moving from one (more distant) zone in a predetermined direction to the other (closer) zone. In this way, an approach of a person can be detected, which - if necessary after a corresponding authentication of the person, for example via a vehicle key carried by the person - can be evaluated as an operating event for opening the adjustment part

As an alternative to the one in the DE 10 2005 032 403 B3 disclosed opto-electronic method for externally actuated adjustment of an adjustment part on a vehicle are known solutions in which it is capacitive or inductive evaluated whether a person in a predetermined detection zone in a vehicle's surroundings makes a certain gesture, which is then used as an operating event to open the respective Verstellteils is considered. For example, it is detected here whether a kicking movement is being carried out with one foot in the vicinity of the adjustment part to be adjusted.

With the previously known solutions, however, it may not always be possible to clearly determine whether the respective person actually wants to trigger an adjustment of an adjustment part. The criteria used up to now for an operating event triggering an adjustment movement can be too unspecific in individual cases to avoid false triggering. Also, certain gestures previously proposed as operating events cannot be carried out by physically handicapped people.

Proceeding from this, the proposed solution is based on the object of providing an improved method and an improved adjustment system for adjusting an adjustment part on a vehicle that is actuated by an external force.

This object is achieved with an adjustment system of claim 1 and with a method of claim 20.

A proposed adjustment system here comprises at least one optical detection device which is set up to optically detect at least one operating event triggered by a person in at least one detection zone in the vicinity of the vehicle (in particular in the vicinity of the adjustment part to be adjusted) and depending on the presence of the Operating event to generate at least one detection signal. Furthermore, the adjustment system comprises at least one motorized drive device which is set up to adjust the adjustment part by means of an external force as a function of the at least one detection signal of the optical detection device. The optical detection device is now further set up to optically detect the alignment of at least one foot of a person with respect to the externally-actuated adjustment part in the at least one detection zone and to generate the at least one detection signal as a function of the detected alignment of the at least one foot of the person.

The proposed solution is thus based on the basic idea of optically detecting an operating event and making this operating event dependent on the alignment of at least one foot of a person with respect to the adjustment part to be adjusted. A mere presence of the person in the vicinity of the vehicle or only the person approaching the vehicle is therefore not sufficient to trigger an adjustment of the adjustment part. Rather, the proposed adjustment system uses its optical detection device to evaluate how at least one person's foot or even both of a person's feet (to further reduce the risk of operating errors) are aligned with respect to the adjustment part to be adjusted in order to decide whether there is actually an operator request the person has to adjust the adjustment part.

Against this background, the optical detection device can be set up, for example, to generate at least one detection signal when the at least one foot of the person points with its toe towards the adjustment part to be adjusted. In order to further reduce false tripping, it can in particular be provided that the at least one detection signal is used to trigger a Adjustment movement of the adjustment part is only generated when both feet of the person point with both toes towards the adjustment part to be adjusted. In this case, it is checked, for example, whether the tip of the person's at least one foot, lying within a defined tolerance range, points to the adjusting adjustment part before the at least one detection signal is generated. The adjustment system thus triggers an adjustment movement of the adjustment part not only in a single specific alignment of a person's foot, but also allows different positions of a foot in the detection zone - but each oriented towards the adjustment part - to be rated as an operating event.

• - zusätzlich zu der wenigstens einen Detektionszone, die für die Erzeugung des mindestens einen Detektionssignals in Abhängigkeit von der erfassten Ausrichtung des wenigstens einen Fußes der Person überwacht wird, wenigstens eine weitere Zone als Prüfzone in der Umgebung des Fahrzeugs optisch zu überwachen, die durch mindestens einen äußeren Randabschnitt begrenzt wird, der einen größeren Abstand zu dem Fahrzeug aufweist als jeder die mindestens eine Detektionszone begrenzender Randabschnitt, und
• - mindestens ein Prüfsignal zu erzeugen, wenn eine Person in die Prüfzone eintritt und und/oder wenn eine Person in der Prüfzone steht (in letzterem Fall also nach dem Eintreten in die Prüfzone eine vorgegebene Mindestzeitdauer in der Prüfzone verbleibt).

In one embodiment, the optical detection device is set up,

• - In addition to the at least one detection zone, which is monitored for the generation of the at least one detection signal as a function of the detected alignment of the at least one foot of the person, at least one further zone as a test zone in the vicinity of the vehicle to be optically monitored by at least one outer edge portion is limited, which has a greater distance from the vehicle than each edge portion delimiting the at least one detection zone, and
• - to generate at least one test signal when a person enters the test zone and / or when a person stands in the test zone (in the latter case, that is, after entering the test zone, a predetermined minimum period of time remains in the test zone).

The optical detection device is thus set up here to optically monitor two different, i.e. spatially differently extending zones, the detection zone on the one hand and the test zone on the other, and to distinguish the two zones from one another in order to be able to generate different signals. The different zones are not congruent here, but can at least partially overlap. In any case, the test zone covers an area that is further away from the vehicle than the detection zone. An approach of a person to the vehicle can thus be detected via the test zone before an alignment of the person's foot is tested in the detection zone.

The test signal can thus be used, for example, to prepare an optical detection of the alignment of at least one foot of a person in the detection zone closer to the vehicle, for example by "waking up" at least one electronic component of the optical detection device, for example from standby Mode is switched to an active mode. Alternatively or in addition, the presence of the test signal can trigger an authentication query, which is used to check whether the person approaching the vehicle is an authenticated user. For example, in response to the test signal, face recognition or an interrogation of an authentication element, for example a transponder carried by the person, can be triggered to determine whether the approaching person is authorized to adjust the adjustment part on the vehicle.

• - optisch zu erfassen, ob mindestens ein Fuß und/oder wenigstens ein Teil eines Beins (z.B. dem unteren Teil eines Schienbeins) einer Person in der Prüfzone vorliegt, und
• - in Abhängigkeit vom Erfassen mindestens eines Fußes und/oder wenigstens eines Teil eines Beins der Person in der Prüfzone das mindestens eine Prüfsignal zu erzeugen.

In a possible development, the optical detection device is set up

• - to detect optically whether at least one foot and / or at least part of a leg (eg the lower part of a shin) of a person is present in the test zone, and
• - to generate the at least one test signal as a function of the detection of at least one foot and / or at least part of a leg of the person in the test zone.

For the generation of a test signal it is therefore crucial in this variant that at least a person's foot or at least part of a leg is optically detected in the test zone. Any approach of a person into the test zone or, for example, only the presence of an arm in the test zone is not sufficient here to generate the at least one test signal.

The optical detection device for optically detecting the alignment of a person's foot in the detection zone and possibly at least part of a person's leg in the test zone includes, for example, a camera, in particular an event-based camera, such as a camera system manufactured by Prophesee, Paris , France and / or an infrared camera.

In principle, the adjustment system can comprise a signaling device which is set up to receive the at least one detection signal and to generate at least one control signal for controlling the drive device (in particular as a function of the at least one detection signal). The signaling device consequently comprises a corresponding evaluation logic and for this purpose, for example, a corresponding microcontroller in order to control the drive device as a function of the at least one detection signal and, if necessary, as a function of signals additionally transmitted to the signaling device.

For example, the signaling device is set up to generate the at least one control signal only after the signaling device has received an identification signal that signals that the person is a user who has been authenticated to adjust the adjustment part. The presence of the at least one detection signal alone is consequently not sufficient here to trigger an adjustment of the adjustment part. Rather, an identification signal must also have been received at the signaling device. This includes, for example, an embodiment variant that checks whether a predetermined alignment of a foot or both feet of a person is present in the detection zone for at least a time t1 with respect to the adjustment part to be adjusted by an external force, and an identification signal is requested in response to this. If there is still an aligned foot or aligned feet in the detection zone up to a time t2 (with t2> t1) and the identification is successful, the adjustment of the adjustment part is triggered. The identification signal can originate, for example, from an interrogation device on the vehicle, to which the signaling device is coupled when the adjustment system is properly installed in the vehicle.

The query device carries out face recognition, for example, and / or queries the presence of an authentication element in the vicinity of the vehicle, in particular the presence of an authentication element on the optically captured person. The query of the authentication element can for example be restricted to a defined area around the vehicle, in particular to the respective zone in which a person was optically detected. In particular, the query of the authentication element can consequently take place as a function of position, so that, for example, the query device only queries whether there is an authentication element in the immediate vicinity of the optically detected person, for example a corresponding transponder assigned to the vehicle is carried by this person.

In one embodiment variant, the signaling device is set up to query the identification signal after receiving the at least one detection signal. If the at least one detection signal was consequently generated after it was determined optically with the aid of the optical detection device that (a) there is a person in the detection zone and (b) at least one foot of this person is aligned with the adjustment part within a defined tolerance range, via the signaling device triggers a query as to whether the person is an authenticated user.

Alternatively or additionally, the signaling device can be set up to query the identification signal after receiving the at least one test signal which is generated by the detection of a person in the test zone which is at least partially further away from the vehicle. This variant thus includes the possibility that after the detection of an approach of a person to the vehicle (via the entry of the person into the test zone) the authentication of this person is already requested before the person gets into the detection zone and the alignment of at least one foot is checked with regard to the adjustable part to be adjusted. The possibility of requesting the identification signal after receipt of a test signal can easily be combined with a request for an identification signal after generating the at least one detection signal. If, for example, the at least one detection signal is already generated within a defined period of time after the test signal has been generated, a check is carried out for the authorization of the person and thus for the presence of an authenticated user following the at least one generated detection signal. If, on the other hand, no detection signal is generated within the predefined time after the test signal has been generated, an identification signal is then requested. If, in response to this, an authorized user is identified in the vicinity of the vehicle and an identification signal is generated accordingly, the output of an optical message can be triggered in order to inform this authenticated user how he / she is using the at least one detection signal for adjusting the adjustment part can trigger the vehicle.

Accordingly, the signaling device can be set up, for example, to request the identification signal after receiving the at least one test signal if, within a predetermined period of time (ie until a preset time period has elapsed) after receiving the at least one test signal, no detection signal has been received that indicates that the person is standing in the detection zone with their feet aligned with the adjustment part. The signaling device can then be further set up to output at least one optical indication after receiving the identification signal, via which the person triggering the at least one test signal is informed of a position of at least one area in the detection zone to which the person is going and there with the Adjusting part aligned feet must remain in order to trigger the generation of the at least one detection signal (and thus to trigger a motorized adjustment of the adjustment part, for example to open the adjustment part).

A visual indication can be output in the area of the detection zone itself. This includes, for example, that in the detection zone monitored by the optical detection device on the ground in the vicinity of the vehicle a corresponding notice is projected, via which the person is informed of an area in the detection zone on which feet aligned with the adjustment part Detection signal can be triggered

In principle, it can be provided that an operating event and thus at least one detection signal must be permanently present until an adjustment of the adjustment part triggered by this has been completed. If, for example, it is determined via the optical detection device that the alignment of the person's feet in the detection zone has changed before an adjustment movement of the adjustment part is completed, this adjustment movement can be stopped. Such a procedure can be advantageous with regard to safety, since an adjustment movement can be stopped comparatively quickly. With regard to increased comfort under certain circumstances for the user, it can also be provided that the operating event does not have to continue for the continuation of an adjustment movement of the adjustment part that has been triggered. The at least one detection signal therefore only has to be present for a defined triggering period until the adjustment of the adjustment part has started. Then, for example, the person can move away from the detection zone again.

In one embodiment variant, the optical detection device can be switched between at least two different operating modes and is further configured to switch to another of the two different operating modes as a function of a change in an image captured in the vicinity of the vehicle. The optical detection device is thus set up in this variant to work in the manner of a motion detector and thus e.g. to detect a movement in the vicinity of the vehicle, in response to which the adjustment system is switched to another operating mode. This includes, for example, a variant in which a movement detected via the optical detection direction in the vicinity of the vehicle (e.g. in the detection zone or another zone) leads to switching to a (respectively) different operating mode. This is understood to mean in particular that the adjustment system is “woken up” and / or a frame rate of a camera unit of the optical acquisition device is to be changed as a function of a detected movement that is recorded by changing a recorded image

In one embodiment variant, the optical detection device can be switched between at least two different operating modes and is also set up to optically monitor at least one further zone in addition to the at least one detection zone and, depending on the zone in which a user is detected by the optical detection device, in one to switch to another operating mode. The at least one further zone can be, for example, the test zone already mentioned above. In addition to the test zone, an approach zone can also be defined, the outermost edge of which (in the properly installed state of the adjustment system) lies further away from the vehicle than any edge of the detection zone and the test zone. Via the then at least three different optically monitored zones (approach zone, test zone and detection zone), an approach of a person to the vehicle and in particular to the adjustment part to be adjusted can consequently be determined, with entry into each of the zones as a trigger for a change to one other operating mode can be used.

For example, the adjustment system is set up to generate a wake-up signal when a person is detected in the (outermost) approach zone in order to activate components of the adjustment system that were previously in a sleep mode. The generation of the wake-up signal can be e.g. also depend on the presence of an identification signal, so that the adjustment system is only “woken up” when an authenticated user is detected in the vicinity of the vehicle. As an alternative or in addition, the entry of a person into the approach zone can also be used to change a frame rate of a camera unit of the optical detection device. Thus, after a person has been detected in the approach zone, a frame rate of the camera unit can be increased. When entering a (closer) test zone, this frame rate can then, for example, be increased again and / or a signaling device of the adjustment system can be activated, which was previously also in a sleep mode. In this context, a frame rate is basically understood to mean the number of individual images that are recorded and processed per time span with the aid of a camera unit of the optical detection device.

In one embodiment variant, the adjustment system can be provided only for externally actuated opening or only for externally actuated closing of the adjustment part by the motorized drive device. In one variant, both opening and closing of the adjustment part is possible via the adjustment system. For example, the optical detection device is set up here, to generate at least the at least one detection signal for an externally actuated opening of the adjustment part and to generate a distance signal for an externally actuated closing of the adjustment part. This distance signal is generated when it is optically detected - by the optical detection device, possibly by the same or a different camera unit - that a person is being monitored from the detection zone away from the vehicle into a - possibly also optically from the optical detection device, zone further away from the vehicle. This more distant zone can be, for example, the test zone already mentioned above and / or the approach zone mentioned above. Accordingly, for example, the adjustment part can be automatically closed when it is detected via the optical detection device that the person, in particular a (previously) authenticated user, is moving away from the adjustment part and is therefore detected one after the other in different zones and thus distances from the vehicle . In this context, the sequence in which different signals assigned to the respective different zones are received by a signaling device in order to conclude that a person is moving away from the open adjustment part can play a role.

For the generation of a control signal to the motorized drive device for closing the adjustment part, in particular the position (open or closed) in which the adjustment part is located can be taken into account. Consequently, in a closed position of the adjustment part, no control signal is generated to the motorized drive device in response to a received distance signal.

An external force-operated closing of the adjustment part can alternatively or additionally be triggered depending on the orientation of the at least one foot of the person with respect to the adjustment part in the at least one detection zone. This includes, for example, that a control signal for closing the opened adjustment part is generated when the feet of the person located in the detection zone are moved so that they point away from the adjustment part.

In one embodiment variant, when the adjustment part is open, a visual indication, in particular in the area of the detection zone, can be output as to how the generation of at least one control signal for closing the adjustment part can be triggered by the person by indicating a position of at least one area in the detection zone which the person must go and stand there with their feet facing away from the adjustment part in order to trigger the generation of the at least one control signal for closing the adjustment part.

• - in wenigstens einer Detektionszone in einer Umgebung des Fahrzeugs optisch wenigstens ein durch eine Person ausgelöstes Bedienereignis zu erfassen und in Abhängigkeit von dem Vorliegen des Bedienereignis mindestens ein Detektionssignal zu erzeugen und
• - in Abhängigkeit von dem mindestens einen Detektionssignal das Verstellteil fremdkraftbetätigt zu verstellen.

Another aspect of the proposed solution relates to a method for externally actuated adjustment of an adjustment part on a vehicle. It is suggested that

• - to optically detect at least one operating event triggered by a person in at least one detection zone in the vicinity of the vehicle and to generate at least one detection signal depending on the presence of the operating event
• - To adjust the adjustment part operated by an external force as a function of the at least one detection signal.

In the at least one detection zone, the alignment of at least one foot of the person with respect to the adjustment part to be adjusted by an external force is optically detected.

The at least one detection signal is then generated as a function of the detected orientation of the person's at least one foot

Design variants of a proposed method can be implemented by design variants of a proposed adjustment system. Advantages and features of design variants of a proposed adjustment system explained above and below therefore also apply to design variants of a proposed method and vice versa.

The adjustment part to be adjusted can basically be a part that at least partially closes a body opening on the vehicle in a closed position, i.e. in particular, for example, a side or rear vehicle door, a trunk lid or a side or rear window pane.

The attached figures exemplify possible variants of the proposed solution.

• 1 schematisch eine Ausführungsvariante eines vorgeschlagenen Verstellsystems zur motorischen Verstellung eines Verstellteils in Form einer Heck- oder Kofferraumklappe an einem Fahrzeug;
• 2A-2C erste Phasen eines Verfahrens zum fremdkraftbetätigten und berührungslos ausgelösten Öffnen der geschlossenen Heckklappe der 1;
• 3A-3C sich an die 2A bis 2C anschließende Phasen einer ersten Alternative zum Öffnen der Heckklappe;
• 4A-4D sich an die Phasen der 2A bis 2C anschließende Phasen einer zweiten Alternative zum Öffnen der Heckklappe;
• 5A-5D in unterschiedlichen Phasen und mit den 2A bis 4D übereinstimmenden Ansichten unterschiedliche Phasen bei einem automatisierten Schließen der geöffneten Heckklappe der 1 gemäß einer ersten Ausführungsvariante;
• 6A-6E in unterschiedlichen Phasen und mit den 2A bis 4D übereinstimmenden Ansichten unterschiedliche Phasen bei einem automatisierten Schließen der geöffneten Heckklappe der 1 gemäß einer zweiten Ausführungsvariante;
• 7A-7E verschiedene Phasen für ein automatisierte Schließen der geöffneten Heckklappe gemäß einer dritten Ausführungsvariante.

Here show:

• 1 schematically, a variant of a proposed adjustment system for motorized adjustment of an adjustment part in the form of a tailgate or trunk lid on a vehicle;
• 2A-2C first phases of a procedure for power-operated and contactless triggered opening of the closed tailgate of the 1 ;
• 3A-3C to the 2A to 2C subsequent phases of a first alternative for opening the tailgate;
• 4A-4D adhere to the phases of 2A to 2C subsequent phases of a second alternative for opening the tailgate;
• 5A-5D in different phases and with the 2A to 4D matching views show different phases in an automated closing of the opened tailgate of the 1 according to a first embodiment variant;
• 6A-6E in different phases and with the 2A to 4D matching views show different phases in an automated closing of the opened tailgate of the 1 according to a second embodiment variant;
• 7A-7E different phases for an automated closing of the opened tailgate according to a third embodiment variant.

The 1 shows schematically an embodiment of a proposed adjustment system in a vehicle F. for example to adjust an adjustment part in the form of a tailgate H is used. The tailgate is by means of the adjustment system H motorized with the help of a drive device A. to open and close in response to a contact-free detected operating event.

The adjustment system includes, among other things, an optical detection device with a camera unit K that are at the rear of the vehicle F. is arranged and optically three different zones Z1 , Z2 , Z3 supervised. A first zone here is an approach zone Z1 going through a perimeter U1 around the vehicle F. is defined and the edge of which is the greatest distance from the tailgate to be adjusted H having. A second zone further inside in the form of a test zone Z2 is behind the rear of the vehicle F. Are defined. This review zone Z2 is also from the camera unit K supervised. The test zone Z2 here has a top view of the 1 trapezoidal cross-section. Within the test zone Z2 lies - with smaller dimensions - as the detection zone Z3 trained third zone. This detection zone Z3 is in contrast to the test zone Z2 completely within a radius U2 that has a smaller diameter than the perimeter U1 the approach zone Z1 has, for example, a diameter that is only half the diameter of the circumference U1 for the approach zone Z1 corresponds.

The diamond-shaped test zone in plan view Z2 has a length b the longer of the two parallel edges. The detection zone Z2 is an example in plan view with a square cross-section with one side a <b formed, with both the test zone Z2 as well as the detection zone Z3 with a minimum distance c from the tailgate H are provided. For example, the diameter of the circumference is U1 for the approach zone Z1 at 2 m. Furthermore, for example, the following can apply: a = 65 cm, b = 140 cm and c = 25 cm.

About the different zones Z1 , Z2 and Z3 can be graded whether a person N1 , N2 or N3 the tailgate H at the rear of the vehicle F. approaching. Here one person solves N1 , N2 or N3 when moving along a movement path 1a , 1b or 1c towards the tailgate H different signals s1 and s2 out. This becomes an approach signal s1 generated when via the camera unit K and the associated optical detection device is detected that the respective person N1 , N2 or N3 the approach zone Z1 enters. The person approaches N1 , N2 or N3 hereinafter the vehicle F. and in particular the tailgate H so far that the respective person N1 , N2 or N3 into the test zone Z2 is reached by the optical detection device with the camera unit K a test signal s2 generated.

The signals s1 and s2 are from a signaling device SE processed, which is also part of the optical detection device. The signaling device SE is with the motorized drive device A. coupled and can control signals sc for the motorized drive device A. generate an adjusting movement of the tailgate H trigger and control.

To do this an adjustment of the tailgate H not just on the basis of a person's approach N1 , N2 or N3 to the tailgate H to trigger and to ensure that there is actually an existing operator request from an identified user for the (desired) adjustment of the tailgate H is performed using the optical detection device with its camera unit K and the signaling device SE the presence of an operating event in the innermost detection zone D3 in the immediate vicinity behind the tailgate H evaluated. Should the closed tailgate H be opened by a motor, in the present case must be through the optical detection device with the camera unit K in particular, it can be detected that the feet of a person in detection zone 3 N1 , N2 or N3 towards the tailgate H are aligned and consequently the tips of your feet on the tailgate H demonstrate. In particular, it is assumed that the respective person N1 , N2 or N3 with on the tailgate H aligned feet a defined trigger period in the detection zone Z3 remains in order to ensure that actually a corresponding operator request of the respective person N1 , N2 or N3 is available.

To not be with every person N1 , N2 or N3 that with towards the tailgate H aligned feet in the detection zone Z3 stops, an adjustment movement to open the tailgate H to be triggered automatically, an authentication of the respective person is also required N1 , N2 or N3 carried out to check that the particular person N1 , N2 or N3 actually to open the tailgate H is justified. A corresponding authentication includes, for example, face recognition with the aid of the camera unit K and / or the query for a permissible authentication element, here in the form of a transponder T on a vehicle key, in the vicinity of the vehicle F. , preferably in the detection zone Z3 a.

In the present case, therefore, several conditions must cumulatively be met before the tailgate can be opened H is triggered. It is particularly important that at the signaling device SE a detection signal s3 in the direction of the tailgate H aligned feet one in the detection zone Z3 located person N1 , N2 or N3 displayed. Furthermore, at least one identification signal must also be used sid concern about which an authenticated user in the vicinity of the vehicle F. is signaled. In a training course, how long a person lasts can also be decisive N1 , N2 , or N3 with towards the tailgate H aligned feet in the detection zone Z3 remains. For example, the detection signal s3 only generated when it was detected that the person N1 , N2 , or N3 for a time of, for example, 1 to 5 seconds with in the direction of the tailgate H aligned feet.

When a person enters the approach zone Z1 generated proximity signals s1 and when entering the test zone Z2 generated test signals s2 can also be taken into account before adjusting the tailgate H can be triggered. In particular, it can be provided that in response to an entry by a person N1 , N2 or N3 into the approach zone Z1 triggered proximity signal s1 the generation of a wake-up signal sw1 by the signaling device SE triggers. This wake-up signal sw1 then leads, for example, to the camera unit K the test zone Z2 is monitored at a higher frame rate and / or a microprocessor of the optical detection device, which is previously in a sleep mode, is activated. The occurrence of a test signal s2 that by the entry of a person N1 , N2 or N3 into the test zone Z2 is triggered, for example, can lead to the signaling device SE a second wake-up signal sw2 to “wake up” further electronic components of the optical detection device and / or systems coupled to it. In one embodiment variant, the occurrence of the test signal triggers s2 an interrogation signal sat from, via which an interrogation device coupled to the optical detection device AT is controlled in order to carry out an authentication. For example, in response to the signaling device SE generated query signal sat the interrogator AT driven to check whether in the vicinity of the vehicle F. a permissible, the vehicle F. assigned transponders T present. Alternatively or in addition, the query signal sat face recognition using the camera unit K the one in the test zone Z2 located person are triggered. This is done with the help of the chamber unit K captured face of in the test zone Z2 The person located in a memory is compared with recordings of one or more authorized users in order to decide whether an authorized user is in the test zone 2.

In one embodiment variant, in response to a test signal s2 by the signaling device SE a projection signal sp be generated if it is not determined within a predefined time window that the respective person N1 , N2 or N3 out of the test zone Z2 into the detection zone Z3 has moved or has moved into the detection zone Z3 moving person N1 , N2 or N3 their feet not in the direction of the tailgate as required H has aligned to the detection signal s3 to create. Was it previously detected that this was the case with the respective person N1 , N2 or N3 is an authenticated user (and thus the identification signal beforehand sid received) is made by the projection signal sp the output of a visual notice is triggered to the authenticated user or the respective person N1 , N2 or N3 on one area FROM (compare for example 2A) in the detection zone to which the person is heading N1 , N2 or N3 go and there with the tailgate H aligned feet must stand in order to generate the detection signal s3 trigger. This visual indication can, for example, be a corresponding projection ABp of the relevant area FROM within the detection zone Z3 on the floor behind the tailgate H include, optionally with a projection in the direction of the tailgate aligned foot soles.

The 2A to 2C , 3A to 3C and 4A to 4D illustrate in different phases possible alternatives for the functioning of the proposed adjustment system and a method implemented with it for the adjustment of the tailgate operated by an external force H on the vehicle F. .

First, according to the 2A the approach of a person N2 along a movement path 1b towards the tailgate H detected by the fact that via the optical detection device with the camera unit K it is found that the person N2 in the outermost approach zone Z1 entry. Then according to the 2 B and 2C captured that person N2 up to the test zone Z2 further the tailgate H approaching. This is done via the camera unit K for example found that person's legs N2 in the test zone Z2 available. In addition, a corresponding movement of the person N2 in the test zone Z2 can be detected optically. A movement in the furthest approach zone Z1 and which is closer to the tailgate H extending test zone Z2 can for example exclusively from a processor of the camera unit K can be detected. Only after entering the test zone Z2 is then for example an additional microcontroller of the signaling device SE activated for the electronic evaluation and generation of further signals.

In the further course according to the 3A , 3B and 3C the person approaches N2 the tailgate H continue on until the person N2 in the detection zone in an activation area FROM with to the tailgate H aligned feet. The person N2 waits for a defined trigger period during which the adjustment system is based on the tailgate H directed feet closes the presence of a valid operator event. Is the direction signal accordingly s3 at the signaling device SE for the trigger period, the identification signal sid by sending the interrogation signal sat requested to the person N2 identify as an authorized user. Is an authorized user in the detection zone Z3 is present, the adjustment system confirms the presence of a valid operating event and the presence of the others to open the tailgate H necessary criteria by projection of the activation area ABp in the detection zone Z3 . Then according to the 3C the tailgate H using the motorized drive device A. open.

In a starting from the 2C alternative variant remains the person N2 initially in the test zone Z2 , for example because of the person N2 is not aware of how an automated tailgate opening H is triggered. Is connected to the camera unit via the optical detection device K detects that the person N2 a defined period of time in the test zone Z2 remains without entering the detection zone Z3 to move or in the activation area FROM with to the tailgate H Standing still with your feet aligned will be the identification signal at this point sid requested.

There is no authenticated user in the vicinity of the vehicle F. and therefore there is no identification signal sid in response to an interrogation signal sat at the signaling device SE on, there is no motorized adjustment of the tailgate H and the adjustment system switches to sleep or rest mode.

Will the person N2 but authenticated as an authorized user, the adjustment system provides assistance for the person N2 to visualize them as the tailgate H can open without contact. For this purpose, the adjustment system responds to the projection signal sp a visual indication, such as an operator event to open the tailgate H can be triggered. Becomes an authenticated user as a person N2 in the test zone Z2 the activation area is identified ABp on the ground behind the vehicle F. in the detection zone Z3 projected to the person N2 Point out where he / she must go to open the tailgate H trigger contactless. If a user has then chosen according to the 4C to the activation area FROM moved on and remains here with the tailgate H aligned feet, is done according to the 4D an opening of the tailgate H .

In the 5A to 5D , 6A to 6E and 7A to 7E different possibilities are exemplarily illustrated, such as an automated and contactless controllable closing of the opened tailgate on the basis of the proposed adjustment system and a method implemented with it H can be done.

In the variant of the 5A to 5D is for example via the optical detection device with the camera unit K that recorded the feet of the authenticated user in the shape of the person N2 with the tailgate open H from the tailgate H be directed away and then the person N2 along a movement path 2 B according to the 5B and 5C over the detection zone Z3 and the test zone Z2 from the vehicle F. away. If no further movement is detected within a defined threshold time interval, this recorded movement sequence was carried out in accordance with 5D for motor-controlled closing of the tailgate H . For this purpose, a distance signal is sent to the signaling device SE that generates a control signal sc to the motorized drive device A. to close the tailgate H triggers.

In the variant of the 6A to 6E it is assumed that the authenticated user is in the form of the person N2 in the detection zone Z3 initially remains without moving his feet for that Adjustment system measurable to signal that the tailgate H should be closed. For this reason, the 6B the activation area again ABp in the detection zone Z3 projected to the person N2 to give an optical and thus visually detectable indication, such as a control command sc to close the tailgate H can be triggered. Here, for example, the projected activation area is used ABp on the ground behind the vehicle F. a pair of soles projected, the tips of their feet each from the tailgate H are directed away. The projected activation area ABp (accordingly also the activation area ABp the 4B) can also be shown flashing for this purpose, for example.

Does the person move N2 then according to the 6C and 6D in the activation area ABp , aligns its feet accordingly and then moves away from the tailgate after a release period has elapsed H along a movement path 2 B , this leads to the generation of a range signal. This distance signal in turn triggers a control signal sc to the motorized drive device A. to close the tailgate H out.

In the variant of the 7A to 7E is made without considering the orientation of the person's feet N2 the open tailgate H closed when across each zone Z1 , Z2 , Z3 a removal of the person N2 along a movement path 2 B from the tailgate H away is detected optically. After a defined time window there will be no more movement in any of the zones Z1 , Z2 and Z3 detected, the tailgate closes automatically H triggered.

Basically, a plausibility check for removing the person N2 signaling measurements can be provided by, for example, checking whether one of the transponder T detected identification signal sid becomes weaker, i.e. the signal strength of the identification signal sid decreases before closing the tailgate H is triggered.

List of reference symbols

1a, 1b, 1c

Open motion path

2b, 2b '

Close motion path

A.

Drive device

a

length

AB, ABp

Activation area

AT

Interrogator

b

width

c

distance

F.

vehicle

H

Tailgate (adjustment part)

K

Camera unit

N1, N2, N3

Users

SE

Signaling device

s1

Approach signal

s2

Test signal

s3

Detection signal

sat

Query signal

sc

Control signal

sid

Identification signal

sp

Projection signal

sw1, sw2

Wake-up signal

T

Transponder (authentication element)

U1, U2

Radius

Z1, Z2, Z3

Monitored zone

QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant was 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.

Patent literature cited

• DE 102005032403 B3 [0003, 0004]

Claims (20)

Adjustment system for externally actuated adjustment of an adjustment part (H) on a vehicle (F), with - at least one optical detection device (K) which is set up in at least one detection zone (Z3) in the surroundings of the vehicle (F) optically at least one through a Person (N1, N2, N3) to record triggered operator control event and to generate at least one detection signal (s3) as a function of the presence of the operator control event, and at least one motorized drive device (A) which is set up as a function of the at least one detection signal (s3) to adjust the adjustment part (H) by means of an external force, characterized in that the optical detection device (K) is set up, in the at least one detection zone (Z3), the alignment of at least one foot of the person (N2) with respect to the adjustment part to be adjusted by means of an external force (s3) H) to be detected optically and depending on the detected alignment of the at least e in the foot of the person (N2) to generate the at least one detection signal (s3). Adjustment system according to Claim 1 , characterized in that the optical detection device (K) is set up to generate the at least one detection signal (s3) when the at least one foot of the person (N2) points with its toe towards the adjustment part (H) to be adjusted. Adjustment system according to Claim 1 or 2 , characterized in that the optical detection device (K) is set up to optically detect in the at least one detection zone (Z3) the alignment of both feet of the person (N2) with respect to the adjustment part (H) to be adjusted by an external force and depending on the detected alignment both feet of the person (N2) to generate the at least one detection signal (s3). Adjustment system according to one of the Claims 1 to 3 , characterized in that the optical detection device (K) is set up, - in addition to the at least one detection zone (Z3) which is responsible for generating the at least one detection signal (s3) as a function of the detected alignment of the at least one foot of the person (N2 ) is monitored to optically monitor at least one further zone as a test zone (Z2) in the vicinity of the vehicle (F), which is delimited by at least one outer edge section which is at a greater distance from the vehicle (F) than each of the at least one Detection zone (Z3) delimiting edge section, and - to generate at least one test signal (s2) when a person (N2) enters the test zone (Z2) and / or when a person (N2) stands in the test zone. Adjustment system according to Claim 4 , characterized in that the optical detection device (K) is set up to optically detect whether at least one foot and / or at least part of a leg of a person (N2) is present in the test zone (Z2), and - depending on the detection at least one foot and / or at least part of a leg of the person (N2) in the test zone (Z2) to generate the at least one test signal (s2). Adjustment system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the adjustment system comprises a signaling device (SE) which is set up to receive the at least one detection signal (s3) and to generate at least one control signal (sc) for controlling the drive device. Adjustment system according to Claim 6 , characterized in that the signaling device (SE) is set up to generate the at least one control signal (sc) only after the signaling device (SE) has received an identification signal (sid), which signals that the person ( N2) is a user authenticated to adjust the adjustment part (H). Adjustment system according to Claim 7 , characterized in that the signaling device (SE) is set up to switch the adjustment system from a power-saving mode to an active mode as a function of the identification signal (sid). Adjustment system according to Claim 7 , characterized in that the signaling device (SE) is set up to query the identification signal (sid) after receiving the at least one detection signal (s3). Adjustment system according to Claim 4 or 5 and Claim 7 or 9 , characterized in that the signaling device (SE) is set up to query the identification signal (sid) after receiving the at least one test signal (s2). Adjustment system according to Claim 10 , characterized in that the signaling device (SE) is set up to query the identification signal (sid) after receiving the at least one test signal (s2) if there is no detection signal (s3) within a predetermined time window after receiving the at least one test signal (s2) has been received, which indicates that the person (N2) is standing in the detection zone (Z3) with feet aligned with the adjustment part (H). Adjustment system according to Claim 11 , characterized in that the signaling device (SE) is set up, after receiving the identification signal (sid), to output at least one optical indication via which the person (N2) triggering the at least one test signal (s2) to a position of at least one area (AB) in the detection zone (Z3) to which the person (N2) must go and stand there with their feet aligned with the adjustment part (H) in order to trigger the generation of the at least one detection signal (s3). Adjustment system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the optical detection device (K) can be switched between at least two different operating modes and is also set up as a function of a change in an image recorded in the vicinity of the vehicle (F) to another of the to switch two different operating modes. Adjustment system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the optical detection device (K) can be switched between at least two different operating modes and is also set up to optically close at least one additional zone (Z1, Z2) in addition to the at least one detection zone (Z3) monitor and, depending on the zone (Z1, Z2, Z3) in which a user is detected by the optical detection device (K), to switch to another operating mode. Adjustment system according to Claim 14 , characterized in that a frame rate of a camera unit (K) of the optical detection device (K) is different in the at least two operating modes. Adjustment system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the adjustment system is provided for externally actuated opening and / or for externally actuated closing of the adjustment part (H). Adjustment system according to Claim 16 , characterized in that the optical detection device (K) is set up to generate at least one detection signal (s3) for an externally operated opening of the adjustment part (H) and to generate a distance signal for an externally operated closing of the adjustment part (H), if optical , by the optical detection device (K), it is detected that a person is moving away from the detection zone (Z3) away from the vehicle (F) into a likewise optically monitored by the optical detection device (K), moving further away from the vehicle (F) away extending zone (Z2) moves. Adjustment system according to Claim 16 or 17th , characterized in that an externally actuated closing of the adjustment part (H) can be triggered depending on the orientation of the at least one foot of the person (N2) with respect to the adjustment part (H) in the at least one detection zone (Z3). Adjustment system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the adjustment system is set up to generate a wake-up signal (sw1, sw2) when a person is detected in the vicinity of the vehicle (F) in order to activate at least one component of the adjustment system that was previously in a sleep mode activate. Method for the external force-operated adjustment of an adjusting part (H) on a vehicle (F), wherein - in at least one detection zone (Z1, Z2, Z3) in the surroundings of the vehicle (F), at least one optical device (N1, N2, N3) triggered operating event is detected and at least one detection signal (s1, s3) is generated as a function of the presence of the operating event, and - as a function of the at least one detection signal (s1, s3) the adjustment part (H) is adjusted by external force, characterized in that in the at least one detection zone (Z3) the alignment of at least one foot of the person (N2) with respect to the adjustment part (H) to be adjusted by an external force is optically detected and depending on the detected alignment of the at least one foot of the person (N2) the at least one detection signal ( s3) is generated.

Images