EP1083285A1 - Vehicle door locking system - Google Patents

Abstract

The door lock system has at least one vehicle lock, an associated outer handle (6) and at least one associated sensor for detection of an approach, esp. of a hand, to a door handle and/or contact and/or actuation of the door handle. A vibration generator (10) sets the handle or part of it vibrating mechanically and the sensor (11) detects the vibrations from the resulting sound waves and/or reflections so that an approach, esp. of a hand, to a door handle and/or contact and/or actuation of the door handle can be detected. An Independent claim is also included for a door outer handle arrangement, for the use of a piezo vibration generator and for a method of controlling a door lock system.

Description

The present invention relates to a motor vehicle door locking system according to the preamble of claim 1, an outer door handle assembly for a motor vehicle door locking system according to the preamble of claim 27, a Using a piezo oscillator and a method of control a motor vehicle door locking system according to the preamble of the claim 34.

Conventional electromechanical motor vehicle door locking systems are known with radio remote control, but without "passive entry" function. At these classic motor vehicle door locking systems are operated by the operator a push button on the remote control module. This will make the Control electronics activate and immediately go through their reaction phase. Due to the distance of an operator when the button is pressed of the remote control module, the operator reaches the outside door handle the motor vehicle door with such a great time delay that the reaction phase the control electronics long completed and the motor vehicle lock has been unlocked. The operator opens by pulling on Outside door handle the motor vehicle door, the motor vehicle lock either mechanically opens, i.e. the pawl by the movement of the outer door handle is lifted, or opens electromechanically or pneumatically, a control signal from the outside door handle to an opening drive for Lifting the pawl is released.

Control electronics with a so-called "passive entry" function, also "electronic Key "differs from that previously discussed classic motor vehicle door locking system in that the remote control module no handling, so no button press has to be made, to unlock the motor vehicle lock when approaching the motor vehicle. Rather, this takes place automatically when the operator approaches to the motor vehicle.

The "passive entry" function includes an automatic, Motor vehicle-side data query or identification of an operator-side Understand data carrier, transponders or the like. To determine whether a an operator approaching the motor vehicle or an operator, which is already in the process of the motor vehicle or a motor vehicle door is open to access. This is mostly from a corresponding one Electronics of the motor vehicle checked. With appropriate Authorization of the operator is usually automatic Unlock either a central locking system, the driver's door lock or at least the door lock of the door that the operator is concerned with approaches or whose outside door handle touches or actuates the operator.

A motor vehicle door locking system with a "passive entry" function is required for the control electronics a specific reaction phase or time, which from a startup interval to the system when the disk approaches or remote control module, an authorization check interval to the operator based on the coding of the between remote control module and control electronics to check exchanged signals for their authorization, and finally the actual interval of action in which the action takes place, in particular the unlocking of the motor vehicle lock is carried out is put together. (Even when locking the motor vehicle door locking system an appropriate reaction phase is required. This is but less critical because the operator hardly notices it.)

The duration of the reaction phase of a few hundred milliseconds is in Compared to conventional motor vehicle door locking systems as long felt if the start-up interval only when the outer door handle is actuated starts. Pulling the outer door handle or the like can namely with a "passive Entry "function may already take place when the reaction phase of the Control electronics has not yet been completed. The operator must then pull the outer door handle a second time, which is a "malfunction" can be interpreted.

Because the resulting total time of the reaction phase is not shortened as much an attempt has already been made to hide the delay time (DE-A-195 21 024). In this motor vehicle door locking system the start-up interval and the authorization check interval of the control electronics moved into a phase before the actual one noticeable by the operator Operating phase. It is then noticeable for the operator only a remaining time that the reaction time of mechanical, conventional Motor vehicle door locking systems corresponds.

Another approach is the start-up interval of the control electronics not to start only when the outer door handle is actuated, but already an operator's hand approaching the outside door handle to start the start-up interval. It is known to do this on the outside door handle to provide a capacitive proximity sensor (DE-A-197 52 974; DE-A-196 17 038) by which the operator's hand approaches already about 100 to 150 ms before touching the outside door handle is grasped by hand. Starting the start-up interval of the Control electronics, that is to say the “waking up” of the control electronics, then take place so far before the actual pulling of the outside door handle that the Start-up interval and usually also the authorization check interval has already been completed are when the outside door handle is held by the operator's hand is actually moved.

DE-A-196 17 038, which is the starting point of the present invention forms, discloses a locking system, in particular for motor vehicles "Passive entry" function. Electrodes of a capacitive sensor are on the one hand in an outside door handle and on the other hand arranged on the door side to one Approaching an operator's hand to the outside door handle or in to capture the area between the electrodes and then the "passive entry" function to activate.

The use of capacitive proximity sensors in motor vehicle door locking systems of the type in question brings various difficulties with yourself. On the one hand, the proximity sensors have a comparative one high quiescent current, on the other hand, it is difficult to have a stable, clear Set response threshold. External influences such as rain, snow, dust and dirt change the measured values with capacitive proximity sensors very. After all, the problem with capacitive proximity sensors is the not to be overlooked by the electromagnetic interference radiation emitted by them. Because of the difficulties discussed above, automotive door locking systems have with "passive entry" function, where only a touch or operation of the outside door handle by the hand of an operator the start-up interval of the control electronics starts, also considerable advantages.

In the prior art, a relatively large effort is required to ensure proper functioning. The problem continues of the relatively high quiescent current. Accordingly, one is proportionate great circuitry required, which leads to high costs.

Another problem with the prior art is that between one Approaching the outside door handle and touching the outside door handle cannot be distinguished. Often, therefore, approaching with a first sensor and touching or pressing the outside door handle with detected by a second sensor. Accordingly, there is a lot of effort and high cost.

The present invention is based on the object of a motor vehicle door locking system, an outer door handle arrangement for a motor vehicle door locking system, a use of a piezo vibrator and a To provide methods for controlling a motor vehicle door locking system so that approaching, in particular an operator's hand, in a simple manner, to an outside door handle and / or touching and / or actuating of the outer door handle can be detected, in particular then a "passive entry" function of the motor vehicle door locking system is activated or a start-up interval of the control electronics can be started.

The above task is proposed by a motor vehicle door locking system according to claim 1, an outer door handle assembly according to claim 27, a use according to claim 32 or a method according to Claim 34 solved. Advantageous further developments are the subject of the subclaims.

A basic idea of the present invention is instead of capacitive sensing of approaching known from the prior art to the outside door handle or touching the outside door handle the outside door handle or at least part of it in mechanical vibrations to move and by means of a sensor the vibration behavior and / or by measure the vibration caused sound waves or their reflections, to approach the outside door handle, to touch the outside door handle and / or to detect an actuation of the outer door handle.

Under "capture" here is in particular the provision of data or Measurement signals meant, their evaluation a detection or sensing enables whether an operator's hand approaches the outside door handle has already touched and / or actuated it. The evaluation can in particular directly in electronics assigned to the sensor and / or in a separate evaluation electronics or the like. This poses It goes without saying for the person skilled in the art, so that no further details are given is dealt with, since it does not primarily matter where the evaluation takes place. However, it is advantageous if the corresponding detection signal available evaluation electronics already in the outside door handle or an outer door handle arrangement is integrated.

Touching the outer door handle is preferably done by one of the two detected or detected the following possibilities.

First, when an operator's hand touches the outside door handle or actuated, the swing behavior of the outer door handle changes. This can be recorded, for example by recording or evaluating the Damping behavior, the change in the resonance frequency, the change the vibration amplitude or the like.

Second, the outside door handle or at least part of it is so in Vibration displaces that sound waves, especially in the ultrasonic range, radiated and, for example, from adjacent areas of the assigned Door in particular can be reflected back. The reflected, again sound waves hitting the outside door handle and / or those on the door striking sound waves are recorded. When an operator's hand touches the outside door handle, in particular embraces or is actuated the aforementioned sound propagation is interrupted, which is recorded accordingly and can be evaluated.

In the two aforementioned cases, there is a touch sensor in a relatively simple way. Additionally or alternatively proximity sensing is performed. For this, according to the aforementioned second possibility sound waves from the outside door handle or a part radiated from it. An approaching hand causes a reflection of the Sound waves. The reflection of the sound waves is recorded, in particular the runtime recorded or evaluated. This makes it easy to approach an operator's hand on the outside door handle is detected become.

The touch and / or proximity sensor enables early detection Activate the "Passive Entry" function or start the start-up interval control electronics. Enough time is saved, for example unlock the motor vehicle lock before the operator actually the outside door handle for opening the corresponding motor vehicle door or the motor vehicle lock actuated.

Another aspect of the present invention is that very simple Both the proximity and the touch sensing can be made. So can be done in two stages, temporally staggered, corresponding functions of the motor vehicle door locking system, the control electronics or, for example, other electronics of the Motor vehicle be activated.

A piezo vibration generator is preferably used to generate the mechanical ones Vibration used. Such a component is proportional reasonably priced.

The vibration generator is preferably operated in the ultrasound range. This is especially true when emitting sound waves that are not should be audible, advantageous.

The vibration generator can be designed so that it the one hand External door handle or a part thereof vibrate and on the other hand Can radiate (ultra) sound waves directly. This is particularly the case with one Sensing both the approach and the touch is advantageous.

A sensor for detecting the vibration or sound waves is preferred also assigned to the outside door handle, especially like that Vibration generator arranged on the outside door handle. However, the sensor could for example also in an adjacent door area, for example one Handle shell of an outside door handle arrangement or the like.

On the other hand, a separate or additional sensor can only be used for detection of sound waves, in particular in the ultrasound range.

A particularly simple and inexpensive embodiment provides that the vibration generator also forms the sensor. Especially with a pulsed one The vibration generator can then generate the vibration in work as a sensor during the pause.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment, touch sensing takes place. As soon as an operator's hand grips the outside door handle or touching its vibrating part, the vibration characteristic changes, in particular the vibration amplitude, if necessary also the frequency. This change is evaluated, and the result the evaluation is used to "wake up" the control electronics, So to start a start-up interval of the control electronics, so that then Authorization check interval can follow. This time saving can be enough that in any case the start-up interval, usually also the authorization check interval at least for the most part it can be run through before the outside door handle then actually pulled or operated. Subjectively, the operator has then the feeling that the motor vehicle door lock is immediate reacts, i.e. immediately runs through the action interval.

Fig. 1

in einer schematischen und perspektivischen Ansicht ein Kraftfahrzeug mit einem Türschließsystem der in Rede stehenden Art;

Fig. 2

eine Türaußengriffanordnung bei einem Kraftfahrzeug-Türschließsystem gemäß Fig. 1;

Fig. 3

das Schaltschema einer Türaußengriffanordnung gemäß Fig. 2;

Fig. 4

ein weiteres Ausführungsbeispiel einer Türaußengriffanordnung für ein Türschließsystem gemäß der Erfindung;

Fig. 5

eine schematische Darstellung der Abstrahlung von Schallwellen von einem Türaußengriff bzw. einer Türaußengriffanordnung gemäß einem weiteren Ausführungsbeispiel;

Fig. 6

ein schematisches Diagramm von gemessenen bzw. erfaßten Schwingungsamplituden.

Further aspects, properties, features and advantages of the present invention result from the following explanation of preferred exemplary embodiments, which are shown in the drawing. It shows:

Fig. 1

in a schematic and perspective view of a motor vehicle with a door locking system of the type in question;

Fig. 2

an outer door handle arrangement in a motor vehicle door locking system according to FIG. 1;

Fig. 3

the circuit diagram of an outside door handle arrangement according to FIG. 2;

Fig. 4

a further embodiment of an outer door handle arrangement for a door locking system according to the invention;

Fig. 5

a schematic representation of the radiation of sound waves from an outside door handle or an outside door handle arrangement according to a further embodiment;

Fig. 6

a schematic diagram of measured or detected vibration amplitudes.

The motor vehicle 1 shown schematically in FIG. 1 has a motor vehicle door locking system on where the various motor vehicle locks 2 schematically for motor vehicle doors and a motor vehicle flap or the like with their installation positions are indicated. Each is preferably Motor vehicle lock 2 motorized, preferably electric motor, unlockable and lockable by means of a central locking drive. When running As an electric lock, as shown here, the motor vehicle lock 2 additionally the possibility of a motorized opening, i.e. lifting the pawl, by means of an opening drive. In this case unlocking and locking also take place only in terms of circuitry. A another variant is also the equipment of the motor vehicle locks 2 with a Auxiliary locking drive that is identical to or from the opening drive can be separated. In addition, the state of the art be referred (DE-A-196 29 709 etc.).

Control electronics 3 are indicated in the motor vehicle door locking system is indicated here as central control electronics, but also, in particular partially, decentrally assigned to each of the motor vehicle locks 2 can. A hood lock to be operated by means of a key is also provided 4 for the hood of the motor vehicle and a remote control module 5, which runs as a "passive entry" chip card or other data carrier is. The control electronics 3 operate overall with a "passive entry" function, with an "electronic key". In this respect, too the previously mentioned prior art.

The motor vehicle body can be recognized by the respective motor vehicle door an outside door handle 6 or the like, and a lock cylinder on the driver's door 7 for actuation with a mechanical key 8, one such actuation takes place in an emergency (emergency release and, if necessary, emergency opening).

As already explained in the prior art (DE-A-195 21 024), is in the proposed motor vehicle door locking system with "Passive Entry "function to take into account that the control electronics 3 a time Reaction phase with start-up interval, authorization check interval and action interval, in particular for unlocking the motor vehicle lock 2, needed.

It has already been realized in the prior art that the start-up interval of the control electronics 3 is started by the hand of an operator touches the outside door handle 6. Fig. 2 shows a typical door handle arrangement Motor vehicle door locking system of the type in question with the outside door handle 6 and the locking cylinder 7. A switching device is also indicated 9 on the outside door handle 6, with which when pulling the outside door handle 6 Switching signal is triggered to lift an electric opening drive to actuate the pawl. This is the variant of an electric lock. In the case of a mechanically operated lock, the switching device takes the place 9 a transmission mechanism of a classic design.

Fig. 3 shows schematically the outer door handle 6 in the for the teaching of the invention essential connection. In this embodiment, that on the outside door handle 6 on the one hand an electric vibration generator 10, on the other hand a sensor 11, in particular an electrical vibration sensor, is arranged. The outer door handle 6 is in the illustrated embodiment into vibration by means of the vibration generator 10 offset, the frequency and / or amplitude recorded by the sensor 11 and is evaluated in particular by an associated electronics. At Touching the outside door handle 6 by the hand of an operator the frequency, the amplitude and / or the attenuation or decay the vibration of the outer door handle 6 changed. This change is evaluated as a signal for starting the start-up interval of the control electronics 3. Fig. 3 shows the excitation circuit 12 for the vibration generator 10 and the evaluation circuit 13 for the sensor 11. The evaluation circuit 13 can be a simple threshold switch if necessary.

In terms of evaluation technology, it may be advisable to use the excitation circuit 12 for the vibration generator 10 on the one hand and the evaluation circuit 13 for the sensor 11, on the other hand, directly or within the control electronics 3 to connect in terms of circuitry by means of a feedback circuit, that the frequency and / or the amplitude of the vibration into which the outside door handle 6 is moved, can be regulated. The regulation to a constant Measured value and the evaluation of the energy required for this then available as the measured value to be evaluated, is usually from the Measurement accuracy ago more appropriate.

According to the aforementioned embodiment, the motor vehicle door locking system at least a touch or even an actuation the outside door handle 6 required by the hand of an operator, to start the start-up interval of the control electronics 3, the control electronics 3 "wake up". This start happens at the time earliest possible time, namely when you first touch the outside door handle 6, with the result that the actual actuation or pulling of the Outside door handle 6 takes so long that the start-up interval and the authorization check interval has expired and the action interval, regularly lifting the pawl for the operator apparently runs without delay.

With regard to energy consumption, i.e. the quiescent current of the control electronics 3 with the connected electronic modules, it is recommended to let the outside door handle 6 vibrate in or near its resonance.

A piezo vibration generator is, in particular, a vibration generator 10 intended. A piezo vibration generator is small, easy to install a component, such as the door handle 6, couple and has as a special The advantage of a comparatively low power consumption.

Other alternatives for vibration generator 10 are known from the prior art Technology known, for example from the "Lexicon Electronics and Microelectronics", VDI publishing house, Düsseldorf; 1990, pp. 765/766.

With regard to the sensor 11, it is particularly recommended to use this as Execute acceleration sensor and, preferably, at the location of a Antinode on the outside door handle 6, especially excitation at resonance frequency provided to arrange. An acceleration sensor comes as sensor 11 especially because it is robust, very inexpensive sensor elements, whose output signal can be easily evaluated. It is primarily a voltage signal, then using a voltage threshold switch as Evaluation circuit 13 is passed on to the control electronics 3. Touched the hand of an operator the outside door handle 6, so in this If the amplitude of the vibration drops sharply, with it the acceleration, measured by the acceleration sensor as a vibration sensor 11 becomes. This signal is evaluated and for starting the start-up interval the control electronics 3 used. During the following authorization check interval the control electronics 3 checks the authorization of the operator based on the signal exchange with the remote control module 5 and releases the action interval if the authorization is found to be positive has been.

External influences such as temperature changes, rain, snow, icing and Contamination impair the function of the motor vehicle door locking system hardly or not at all according to the invention.

The design is recommended for the acceleration sensor as sensor 11 as a sensor according to the specifications known in the prior art, for example from the already mentioned "Lexicon Electronics and Microelectronics" loc. cit., pp. 766 - 768.

We recommend that you take a particularly precise and error-free measurement it to assign the outside door handle 6 two sensors 11 and the Average measured values of the sensors 11 or otherwise combined with one another evaluate.

With regard to the fault sensitivity of the motor vehicle door locking system according to the invention can do another significant improvement be achieved that the change in frequency and / or amplitude of the Vibration or the damping behavior of the outer door handle 6 or its Is only partially evaluated as a signal to start the start-up interval, if this change is made with a minimum rate of change. As a result, only a rapid change in frequency and / or Amplitude of the vibration or damping behavior of the outside door handle 6 or its part, as it is for touching the outer door handle 6 by an operator's hand, to the desired signal the evaluation circuit 13 leads. A creeping, slow change of frequency and / or amplitude or the damping behavior of the outer door handle 6 or its part, as for interference, such as weather-related Influences or pollution, typical, do not lead to the detection of one Touch or an output signal of the evaluation circuit 13.

The latter concept can be completed by the fact that for changes in the frequency and / or amplitude of the vibration of the outer door handle 6, the speed below a lower limit speed take place, it is provided that in this respect by means of a feedback circuit a readjustment takes place. This will be weather related Influences and / or contamination of the outer door handle 6 taken into account in terms of evaluation technology. The function of the motor vehicle door locking system is not further affected by this.

It has already been mentioned above that the outside door handle is not 6 overall, but possibly also part of the outer door handle 6 in vibrations can be moved. The energy consumption of the vibrator 10 is of course the lower, the lower the mass of the vibrating offset part is. 4 therefore shows a variant of the teaching of the invention, which is characterized in that only part of the outer door handle 6, in the illustrated embodiment, an inner handle 14 of the Outside door handle 6 is set in vibration. This arrangement also has the advantage that the vibration generator 10 inside and hidden between the part or the handle shell and the rest of the outside door handle 6 can be. Also the electrical connections for the vibration generator 10 and the sensor 11 or the sensors 11 can thus be between the Place part and the rest of the outside door handle 6 well.

Finally, there is a possible variant for further completing the teaching the, the handle 14 or the other part of the outside door handle 6, via a To connect type of idle stroke connection with the rest of the outside door handle 6. Thereby even after touching the part of the outside door handle 6 an additional idle stroke and thus a certain period of time until actually pulling the outer door handle 6 and thus triggering the Action interval won. This allows you to use another part of the authorization check interval "conceal in time".

The invention also relates to a correspondingly designed Outside door handle arrangement for itself, for example, together with the associated Motor vehicle lock 2 or separately on the motor vehicle door, a motor vehicle flap or the like attached or built into this becomes.

The outer door handle 6 or a part thereof is preferably set to vibrate in the ultrasonic range and / or the vibration generator 10 operates in the ultrasonic range. “Ultrasonic range” here means vibrations with frequencies in the range from 16 or 20 kHz to approximately 8 · 10 ⁹ Hz. This ensures that sound waves emitted by the outer door handle 6, its part and / or the vibration generator 10 cannot be heard, since it is then ultrasound.

1 to 4 it has already been explained how a touch sensor, So the detection of whether an operator's hand, not shown touches or even actuates the outer door handle 6 or a part thereof can be. It is essential that the outer door handle 6 or its Part at least partially and at least temporarily vibrates mechanically or is set in mechanical vibration, which by a touch change in vibration behavior caused, in particular frequency, Amplitude and / or damping is detected and evaluated.

Additionally or alternatively, the outer door handle 6, part of it and / or immediately the vibration generator 10 sound waves, especially ultrasonic waves, blast as indicated in Fig. 5. By means of these sound waves can additionally or alternatively to the previously described touch sensing another touch sensing can be realized. Besides, can in addition or as an alternative to the touch sensor, a proximity sensor will be realized. These additional or alternative sensation options are explained in more detail below.

It can, as indicated in Fig. 5 by arrows 15, sound waves from the Outside door handle 6 or a part thereof in an interior 16 between the Outside door handle 6 and the associated motor vehicle door 17 and / or to areas the motor vehicle door 17, which are adjacent to the outer door handle 6, be emitted. In particular, the sound waves can either be direct again meet a section of the outer door handle 6 or from neighboring Areas of the motor vehicle door 17 to the outer door handle 6 and / or to one 5, as shown by arrow 18, is reflected become.

In the embodiment shown in Fig. 5 it is provided that the Vibration generator 10 also works as a sensor that detects the vibrations can that of the back on the outside door handle 6 or part of it cause striking sound waves. The attachment of a separate sensor 11, as already described above, is not (absolutely) necessary here.

The sound waves form in the interior 16 and / or in adjacent ones A sound barrier or a sound field. If one doesn't represented hand of an operator moves in this sound field, so in particular by reaching into the interior 16 the outside door handle 6 approaches, the sound barrier is interrupted or the sound field changed or disturbed, which are recorded and evaluated accordingly can, a proximity sensor and / or a touch sensor will be realized.

Additionally or alternatively, the outer door handle 6 and / or directly Vibration generator 10 in the outside space, in particular from the assigned Motor vehicle door 17 radiate away, as in Fig. 5 through wave fronts 19 indicated. The sound waves hit an approaching hand of one Operator, these at least partially become the outside door handle 6 reflected. The reflected sound waves can in turn pass through a separate sound sensor and / or indirectly by coupling it in the outer door handle 6 or a part thereof and the resulting Vibrations generated by the vibrator and / or a separate one Sensor are measured, recorded and evaluated. Hence is proximity sensing is also possible in this way.

In the aforementioned cases of sound radiation can additionally or alternatively to the arrangement of a sensor in or on the outside door handle 6 an arrangement of at least one sensor in or on adjacent areas the associated motor vehicle door 17 can be realized.

In the following, it is explained by way of example with reference to FIG. 6 how the Detection or evaluation can take place. With the schematic diagram 6, the abscissa represents a time axis t. The ordinate gives the amplitude A of the vibration of the outer door handle 6 or a part of it.

First of all, it should be noted that the outer door handle 6 is preferably only pulsed, d. H. is only occasionally vibrated, as indicated by the vibration or excitation pulse 20. A touch sensation can then be done in a very simple manner in that the decay or the damping of the vibration of the outside door handle 6 is detected and is evaluated. The line 21 in Fig. 6 shows an example of the course, like the Vibration subsides when the outside door handle 6 is free. Line 22 shows an example the damping when the outer door handle 6 is touched, d. H. if one hand one Operator touches the outer door handle 6. The significantly stronger damping when touched can be recorded and evaluated, so that simple It is possible to detect whether an operator's hand grips the outside door handle 6 touched or already pressed.

The same applies, of course, if only part of the outer door handle 6, how the handle 14 or the like is set in vibration. This goes without saying and is no longer separated in the following description highlighted.

Additionally or alternatively, a recording and evaluation can be directed towards it be that a signal 23, especially after a certain time T, as Sequence of the oscillation pulse 20 occurs. The signal 23 can be in particular a reflected signal that is generated by that the outer door handle 6 by the vibration signal 20 in vibration is displaced, emits sound waves and this again to the outside door handle - especially by an operator's approaching hand - be reflected and cause vibration in the outer door handle 6 again, which is detected as signal 23. The measurement or acquisition can be carried out by the vibration generator 10 and / or a separate one in FIGS. 5 and 6 not sensor 11 or the like. The appearance or absence of the "reflection" signal 23 and / or the running time T or the change thereof be evaluated in order to recognize or detect the approach of a hand.

However, it is not necessary that the reflected sound waves come back in couple the outside door handle 6. Rather, there is also the possibility by a corresponding sensor, in particular a microphone or a Ultrasonic transducer to measure the reflected sound waves directly to capture.

As an alternative or in addition, it can be one that detects the sound waves directly Sensor also on or in the associated door 17 or another Section of the outer door handle 6 may be arranged so that no reflections but an interruption in the propagation of sound is detected and accordingly can be evaluated as an approximation and / or contact.

Another alternative - especially for touch sensing - results is characterized in that, instead of sound radiation, the course of an oscillation pulse detected along the outer door handle 6 or a part thereof and is evaluated. For example, the vibration generator 10 can Generate vibration pulse 20, which is then along the outer door handle 6 spreads in particular at a characteristic speed. The Vibration pulse can then, for example, in the area of an opposite one End of the outer door handle 6 detected by a sensor arranged there according to the signal 23. However, the oscillation pulse also, for example in the area of a fastening or storage of the outer door handle 6, reflected and then from the vibration generator 10 or a correspondingly arranged sensor can be detected. In this case, too the result is a signal 23 which occurs with a delay or transit time T. If an operator's hand touches the outside door handle 6, the Time T and / or the amplitude and / or shape of the signal 23 changed. This can be detected and evaluated for touch sensing.

As already mentioned, both proximity sensing and touch sensing is also carried out. For example, the evaluation output a first signal when an approach is detected or sensed, the "passive entry" function or the start-up interval of the control electronics 3 to start. Subsequently, with the appropriate authorization and with correspondingly temporally correlated sensing of the touch of the outer door handle 6 unlocking of a central locking system and / or open the assigned motor vehicle lock 2. In the latter case, one can External door handle 6 assigned switch or the switching device 9 are omitted. It is even not necessary to like the outside door handle 6 or part of it the handle shell 14, movable or store.

In addition, it should be noted that the proximity sensor and / or Touch sensing also for controlling other motor vehicle functions and used to activate other vehicle controls can be. The evaluation electronics 13 preferably do this or control electronics corresponding to other electronics.

Claims (40)

Motor vehicle door locking system with at least one motor vehicle lock (2), an outer door handle (6) assigned to the motor vehicle lock (2) and at least one sensor (11) assigned to the outer door handle (6), whereby an approach, in particular an operator's hand, to the outer door handle ( 6) and / or a touch and / or actuation of the outer door handle (6) can be detected,
characterized, that the outside door handle (6) is assigned a vibration generator (10) such that the outside door handle (6) or part of the same can be set into mechanical vibration, and that the sensor (11) is designed to detect the vibration, sound waves caused by the vibration and / or their reflections, so that an approach, in particular an operator's hand, to the outside door handle (6) and / or a touch and / or or actuation of the outer door handle (6) or its part can be detected. Motor vehicle door locking system according to claim 1, characterized in that the frequency, damping and / or amplitude of the vibration of the outer door handle (6) or its part and / or by the vibration caused sound waves and / or their reflections from the sensor (11) is or are detectable. Motor vehicle door locking system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that one when touching the outside door handle (6) by the Hand of an operator entering change in frequency, the Damping and / or the amplitude of the vibration of the outer door handle (6) or its part and / or an absence of reflected sound waves from evaluation and / or control electronics (3) is or can be evaluated. Motor vehicle door locking system according to claim 3, characterized in that a signal indicating the touch can be output. Motor vehicle door locking system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that when a hand approaches a Operator at the outside door handle (6) change occurring Frequency, damping and / or the amplitude of the vibration of the outer door handle (6) or its part and / or one caused by the approximation Occurrence of reflected sound waves or changes in transit times the sound waves can be evaluated by evaluation and / or control electronics (3) is or are. Motor vehicle door locking system according to claim 5, characterized in that a signal indicating the approach can be output. Motor vehicle door locking system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the change in frequency, the attenuation and / or the amplitude of the vibration can only be evaluated as a measurement signal is when the change is at a minimum rate of change he follows. Motor vehicle door locking system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that changes in frequency and / or Amplitude of the vibration of the outer door handle (6) or its part by means of a feedback device can be regulated if the rate of change is below a lower limit speed. Motor vehicle door locking system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the motor vehicle lock (2) can be unlocked and locked by means of a motor or circuit technology, and can also be opened by means of a motor if necessary, that control electronics (3) with a "passive entry" function are provided, the control electronics (3) requiring a reaction phase with a start-up interval, authorization check interval and action interval, in particular for unlocking the motor vehicle lock (2), that a remote control module (5) is provided for the operator and that the proximity of a hand of an operator detected by the sensor (11) to the outside door handle (6) and / or detected contact and / or actuation of the outside door handle (6) or its part can be evaluated as a signal for starting the start-up interval. Motor vehicle door locking system according to claim 9, characterized in that when the outside door handle (6) is touched by the hand of an operator occurring change in frequency, damping and / or the amplitude of the vibration as a signal for starting the start-up interval is evaluable. Motor vehicle door locking system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the vibration generator (10) is electrical is operable. Motor vehicle door locking system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the vibration generator (10) for generation is formed by ultrasonic vibrations. Motor vehicle door locking system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the vibration generator (10) can be operated in a pulsed manner is. Motor vehicle door locking system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the vibration generator (10) on the outside door handle (6) is arranged. Motor vehicle door locking system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the vibration generator (10) is designed in this way and the outside door handle (6) is associated with sound waves, in particular Ultrasonic waves, from the outside door handle (6) or its part or directly can be emitted by the vibration generator (10). Motor vehicle door locking system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the vibration generator (10) as a piezo vibration generator is executed and / or has a piezo element. Motor vehicle door locking system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the vibration generator (10) also as Sensor (11) is operable. Motor vehicle door locking system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the outer door handle (6) or its part with its main resonance frequency can be set in vibration. Motor vehicle door locking system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sensor (11) as an electrical vibration sensor and / or for the detection of ultrasound and / or mechanical Vibrations in the ultrasonic range is formed. Motor vehicle door locking system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sensor (11) is arranged on the outer door handle (6) is. Motor vehicle door locking system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sensor (11) acts as an acceleration sensor executed and, preferably, at the location of an antinode Vibration is arranged. Motor vehicle door locking system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the outer door handle (6) or its part two sensors (11) are assigned, the measured values being averaged or otherwise evaluated in combination. Motor vehicle door locking system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that between the sensor (11) and the Vibration generator (10) a feedback device for control of frequency and / or amplitude of the vibration is provided. Motor vehicle door locking system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the vibrated part of the outer door handle (6) is an internal grip (14). Motor vehicle door locking system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the vibration generator (10) and / or the sensor (11) inside between a vibratable Part of the outer door handle (6), in particular a handle shell (14), and the rest Outside door handle (6) is or are arranged. Motor vehicle door locking system according to claim 24 or 25, characterized in that the part or the handle (14) with the rest of the outside door handle (6) is connected via an idle stroke connection. Outside door handle arrangement for a motor vehicle door locking system, in particular according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the outside door handle arrangement has an outside door handle (6), in particular for opening an associated motor vehicle lock (2),
characterized, that a vibration generator (10) is assigned to the outside door handle (6), so that the outside door handle (6) or a part thereof can be set into mechanical vibration, in particular in the ultrasonic range. Outside door handle arrangement according to claim 27, characterized in that the vibration generator (10) is a piezo element. Outside door handle arrangement according to claim 27 or 28, characterized in that the outside door handle has a sensor (11) for detecting the vibration and / or caused by the vibration and to the outside door handle (6) is assigned to reflected sound waves and / or the vibration generator (10) forms such a sensor (11). Outside door handle arrangement according to one of claims 27 to 29, characterized characterized in that in a recessed grip associated with the outside door handle (6) a sound sensor for the detection of the vibration generator (10), the Outside door handle (6) and / or its part emitted sound waves, in particular is arranged in the ultrasonic range. Outside door handle arrangement according to one of claims 27 to 30, characterized by the characteristics of the marking part of one or more of claims 1 to 26. Use of a piezo vibration generator (10),
characterized, that the piezo vibration generator (10) at least partially sets an outer door handle (6) of a motor vehicle (1) into mechanical vibration, in particular in the ultrasonic range. Use according to claim 32, characterized in that the piezo vibration generator (10) at the same time as or at different times to generate vibrations the vibration generated and / or caused by it and sound waves reflected to the outside door handle (6). Method for controlling a motor vehicle door locking system with at least one motor vehicle lock (2) and an outer door handle (6) assigned to the motor vehicle lock (2), whereby an approach, in particular an operator's hand, to the outer door handle (6) and / or touching and / or or actuation of the outer door handle (6) is detected,
characterized, that the outer door handle (6) or part of the same is at least temporarily set in mechanical vibration and that by means of an oscillation generator (10) and / or a sensor (11) the oscillation or sound waves caused by it and / or their reflections are or are detected in order to approach, in particular an operator's hand, the outer door handle (6) and / or to detect a touch and / or actuation of the outer door handle (6) or its part. A method according to claim 34, characterized in that the vibration lies in the ultrasound range. A method according to claim 34 or 35, characterized in that the Vibration is generated in pulses and their decay or damping detected and, in particular for detecting a touch, is evaluated. Method according to one of claims 34 to 36, characterized in that that the vibration generator (10), the outside door handle (6) and / or a part at least occasionally sound waves, especially in the ultrasound range, emits. A method according to claim 37, characterized in that the sound waves be emitted in pulses, recording and evaluating whether Hit sound waves again on the outer door handle (6) or reflected to it are, and in particular the transit time of the reflected sound waves recorded and is evaluated, in particular to detect an approach. A method according to claim 37 or 38, characterized in that the Sound waves in the undisturbed condition of the outside door handle (6) neighboring door areas, in particular a recessed grip, again to the outside door handle be reflected. Method according to one of claims 34 to 39, characterized in that that when detecting or detecting approaching, touching or actuating of the outside door handle (6) or a part of the same a check Operator access authorization or a "passive entry" function activated and / or a locking and / or opening mechanism the motor vehicle lock (2) is activated or operated.

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