EP1248956A1 - Distance sensor device - Google Patents

Distance sensor device

Info

Publication number
EP1248956A1
EP1248956A1 EP00991564A EP00991564A EP1248956A1 EP 1248956 A1 EP1248956 A1 EP 1248956A1 EP 00991564 A EP00991564 A EP 00991564A EP 00991564 A EP00991564 A EP 00991564A EP 1248956 A1 EP1248956 A1 EP 1248956A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
distance sensor
distance
sensors
sensor
control device
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Ceased
Application number
EP00991564A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Juergen Hoetzel
Marco Knoblauch
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Robert Bosch GmbH
Original Assignee
Robert Bosch GmbH
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Robert Bosch GmbH filed Critical Robert Bosch GmbH
Publication of EP1248956A1 publication Critical patent/EP1248956A1/en
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01S—RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES
    • G01S15/00—Systems using the reflection or reradiation of acoustic waves, e.g. sonar systems
    • G01S15/88—Sonar systems specially adapted for specific applications
    • G01S15/93—Sonar systems specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes
    • G01S15/931—Sonar systems specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes of land vehicles
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q9/00—Arrangement or adaptation of signal devices not provided for in one of main groups B60Q1/00 - B60Q7/00, e.g. haptic signalling
    • B60Q9/002—Arrangement or adaptation of signal devices not provided for in one of main groups B60Q1/00 - B60Q7/00, e.g. haptic signalling for parking purposes, e.g. for warning the driver that his vehicle has contacted or is about to contact an obstacle
    • B60Q9/004—Arrangement or adaptation of signal devices not provided for in one of main groups B60Q1/00 - B60Q7/00, e.g. haptic signalling for parking purposes, e.g. for warning the driver that his vehicle has contacted or is about to contact an obstacle using wave sensors
    • B60Q9/006—Arrangement or adaptation of signal devices not provided for in one of main groups B60Q1/00 - B60Q7/00, e.g. haptic signalling for parking purposes, e.g. for warning the driver that his vehicle has contacted or is about to contact an obstacle using wave sensors using a distance sensor
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01S—RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES
    • G01S13/00—Systems using the reflection or reradiation of radio waves, e.g. radar systems; Analogous systems using reflection or reradiation of waves whose nature or wavelength is irrelevant or unspecified
    • G01S13/86—Combinations of radar systems with non-radar systems, e.g. sonar, direction finder
    • G01S13/862—Combination of radar systems with sonar systems
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01S—RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES
    • G01S13/00—Systems using the reflection or reradiation of radio waves, e.g. radar systems; Analogous systems using reflection or reradiation of waves whose nature or wavelength is irrelevant or unspecified
    • G01S13/88—Radar or analogous systems specially adapted for specific applications
    • G01S13/93—Radar or analogous systems specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes
    • G01S13/931—Radar or analogous systems specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes of land vehicles
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04L—TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04L69/00—Network arrangements, protocols or services independent of the application payload and not provided for in the other groups of this subclass
    • H04L69/28—Timers or timing mechanisms used in protocols
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60T—VEHICLE BRAKE CONTROL SYSTEMS OR PARTS THEREOF; BRAKE CONTROL SYSTEMS OR PARTS THEREOF, IN GENERAL; ARRANGEMENT OF BRAKING ELEMENTS ON VEHICLES IN GENERAL; PORTABLE DEVICES FOR PREVENTING UNWANTED MOVEMENT OF VEHICLES; VEHICLE MODIFICATIONS TO FACILITATE COOLING OF BRAKES
    • B60T2201/00—Particular use of vehicle brake systems; Special systems using also the brakes; Special software modules within the brake system controller
    • B60T2201/10—Automatic or semi-automatic parking aid systems
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01S—RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES
    • G01S13/00—Systems using the reflection or reradiation of radio waves, e.g. radar systems; Analogous systems using reflection or reradiation of waves whose nature or wavelength is irrelevant or unspecified
    • G01S13/88—Radar or analogous systems specially adapted for specific applications
    • G01S13/93—Radar or analogous systems specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes
    • G01S13/931—Radar or analogous systems specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes of land vehicles
    • G01S2013/9314—Parking operations
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01S—RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES
    • G01S13/00—Systems using the reflection or reradiation of radio waves, e.g. radar systems; Analogous systems using reflection or reradiation of waves whose nature or wavelength is irrelevant or unspecified
    • G01S13/88—Radar or analogous systems specially adapted for specific applications
    • G01S13/93—Radar or analogous systems specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes
    • G01S13/931—Radar or analogous systems specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes of land vehicles
    • G01S2013/9317—Driving backwards
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01S—RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES
    • G01S13/00—Systems using the reflection or reradiation of radio waves, e.g. radar systems; Analogous systems using reflection or reradiation of waves whose nature or wavelength is irrelevant or unspecified
    • G01S13/88—Radar or analogous systems specially adapted for specific applications
    • G01S13/93—Radar or analogous systems specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes
    • G01S13/931—Radar or analogous systems specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes of land vehicles
    • G01S2013/9324—Alternative operation using ultrasonic waves
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04L—TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04L67/00—Network arrangements or protocols for supporting network services or applications
    • H04L67/01—Protocols
    • H04L67/12—Protocols specially adapted for proprietary or special-purpose networking environments, e.g. medical networks, sensor networks, networks in vehicles or remote metering networks

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a distance sensor device, in particular as a component of a parking aid or reversing aid for a motor vehicle, with one or more distance sensors and a distance sensor control device for controlling the or the distance sensors via a respective signal line by means of a preferably quasi-digital time-analogous control pulse ,
  • the motor vehicle equipment products parking and reversing aid are generally known. These products consist of a number of up to 10 ultrasonic sensors, an associated control unit and one or more acoustic or opto-acoustic warning elements for the driver.
  • 5 illustrates a known ultrasound distance sensor device for a reversing aid with four ultrasound sensors US and a control device US-SG. Four signal lines as well as a voltage supply line and a ground line run from the control unit US-SG to a distributor V. A signal line as well as the voltage supply line and the ground line to the respective ultrasonic sensor US run from the distributor V.
  • the ultrasound sensors US are controlled via the respective signal lines via a respective bidirectional open collector interface.
  • the transmission is quasi-digital on the part of the amplitude under consideration, but analogous to time.
  • FIG. 6 shows a control pulse generated internally in the control unit for an ultrasonic sensor US of the known ultrasonic distance sensor device according to FIG. 5.
  • Time t is plotted on the x-axis and voltage amplitude U on the y-axis.
  • the duration of this control pulse, which triggers the measurement sequence in the ultrasonic sensor US, is ti - to (typically 300 ⁇ s). At the beginning of the time t 0 , the ultrasound sensor US therefore begins to transmit its ultrasound pulse.
  • Time t is plotted on the x-axis and voltage amplitude U on the y-axis.
  • a comparator (not shown) examines the signal voltage from the ultrasound transducer with regard to a sufficiently high reception amplitude, and the voltage is only evaluated as detection of an object from a certain minimum amplitude in order to mask out noise effects or interference effects.
  • the time between t 2 and t 3 indicates the mechanical oscillation of the sensor membrane as a result of the activation.
  • the time between t 4 and t 5 shows the ultrasonic energy reflected and detected by an object.
  • FIG. 8 shows the signals on the data line between control device US-SG and ultrasound sensor US as a whole for the known ultrasound distance sensor device according to FIG. 5.
  • Time t is plotted on the x-axis and voltage amplitude U on the y-axis.
  • the time interval between t 0 and t 4 represents the distance s between the reflecting object and the ultrasonic sensor US, which is determined in the control unit US-SG. The following applies:
  • the problem underlying the present invention therefore generally consists in creating a more flexible distance sensor device.
  • the distance sensor device according to the invention with the features of claim 1 has the advantage over the known solution approaches that it creates a function and interface compatible distance sensor device with the known ultrasound sensor and the corresponding requirement-specific function control for an expanded functionality via the transmission / reception line by the control device ,
  • the functional and interface identicality of the microwave sensor to the known ultrasonic sensors has the advantage that the control unit and the software for the parking and reversing aid can still be used with the microwave sensors for the current functionality, Further advantages are the possibility of mixing sensors with different physical properties or sensor principles and the possible identical construction of the microwave sensor for different applications with different quantity requirements.
  • Filtering of the measured values when using a microcontroller in the sensor can be carried out, as well as self-diagnosis of the control unit and remote diagnosis of the sensors.
  • the idea on which the present invention is based is that at least one of the distance sensors has two different working modes and a switch between the working modes can be carried out by varying the time duration and / or amplitude of the control pulse from the distance sensor control device.
  • the distance sensors have a plurality of ultrasound sensors and a plurality of microwave sensors, the ultrasound sensors preferably being sensors have one working mode and the microwave sensors have several working modes.
  • the ultrasound sensors preferably being sensors have one working mode and the microwave sensors have several working modes.
  • a microwave sensor with a functionally compatible ultrasonic sensor interface and a switchover option for different requirements can be implemented.
  • EMC electromagnetic compatibility
  • a bidirectional open collector interface is provided between the distance sensor control device and the respective distance sensor. This is a suitable, robust interface known from the ultrasonic sensor control units.
  • the different working modes include measuring range modes and / or signal transmission modes and / or test modes and / or service modes for setting / calibrating the sensor.
  • the working modes include a digital signal transmission mode.
  • the time-analog, preferably quasi-digital interface can be switched over to a bidirectional digital interface with a fixed data format and a fixed protocol by means of a control pulse from the control device.
  • the construction of a data transmission interface with low transmission rates using the sensor is advantageous.
  • the distance sensor control device is a control device common to all distance sensors, which is connected to a respective distance sensor via a single signal line.
  • the known ultrasonic sensor control device can thus be used for the expanded functionality according to the invention.
  • FIG. 1 shows a first embodiment of the distance sensor device according to the invention using microwave sensors with the previous ultrasonic sensor control unit for parking aid and reversing assistance applications;
  • FIG. 2 control pulses generated internally in the control device for a microwave sensor for the distance sensor device according to FIG. 1;
  • FIG. 3 shows a second embodiment of the distance sensor device according to the invention using microwaves and ultrasound sensors with the previous ultrasound sensor control device of parking aid and reversing assistance applications in mixed sensor configuration;
  • FIG. 5 shows a known ultrasonic distance sensor device for a reversing aid with four ultrasonic sensors and a control device
  • FIG. 6 shows a control pulse generated internally in the control device for an ultrasound sensor for the known ultrasound distance sensor device according to FIG.
  • FIG. 8 shows the signals on the data line between the control device and the ultrasonic sensor as a whole for the known ultrasonic distance sensor device according to FIG. 5.
  • FIG. 1 shows a first embodiment of the distance sensor device according to the invention using four microwave sensors ⁇ W with the previous ultrasonic sensor control device US-SG of parking aid and reversing assistance applications.
  • the microwave sensors ⁇ W are controlled via the respective signal lines for each sensor via a bidirectional single-core open collector line.
  • the above- Carrying takes place on the part of the considered amplitude quasi-digital, but time-analog.
  • a sequence control built into the respective microwave sensor ⁇ W or the microcontroller located in the respective microwave sensor ⁇ W checks the control impulse of the request on the transmission / reception line or signal line emitted by the control unit US-SG.
  • a request could also be a request for calibration, display of set parameters or for a reset.
  • FIG. 2 shows control pulses generated internally in the control device for a microwave sensor for the distance sensor device according to FIG. 1.
  • the interface properties are switched to support different functions of the microwave sensors ⁇ W by reducing or varying the duration of the activation pulse.
  • the first basic mechanism is a change in the activation duration while maintaining the measurement data transmission principle listed above.
  • the switchover of the microwave sensors ⁇ W to a measuring range from 0.2 m to 7 m with a measuring duration of 10 ms e measuring range cycle by a control duration of 200 ⁇ s corresponding to (ti '''-to') m Fig. 2 or Switching to a measuring range of 0.2 m to 1.5 m with a measuring range cycle time of 2 ms with a control duration of 100 ⁇ s can be called (t ⁇ '' ⁇ to ') m Fig. 2, (ti''''- t 0 ') in FIG. 2 additionally designates a measurement cycle for ultrasound simulation corresponding to 300 ⁇ s in the range 0.2 to 2 m.
  • the second basic mechanism is the switching of the time-analog, quasi-digital interface into a bidirectional digital interface with a fixed data format and a fixed protocol by means of a control pulse from the control unit US-SG.
  • This control pulse is shorter than the control pulses used for the functional switchover with time-analog measurement data transmission principle.
  • a duration of 52 ⁇ s corresponding to (ti'-t 0 ') has advantageously developed in FIG. 2, which corresponds to a data transmission rate of 19200 BAUD.
  • a request is triggered by the control device US-SG with a command word or a command word and data words, whereupon the microwave sensor ⁇ W with an acknowledgment or a
  • the US-SG control unit can switch the microwave sensor ⁇ W to another functionality by changing the activation duration n.
  • the command words or the command words with data words from the control device can, for. B. have the following content:
  • Measurement request • Measurement type setting (distance by pulse - echo - operation or speed by means of Doppler signal evaluation)
  • the acknowledgment or the acknowledgment with data words from the microwave sensor ⁇ W can e.g. B. have the following content:
  • FIG. 3 shows a second embodiment of the distance sensor device according to the invention using microwave and ultrasonic sensors with the previous ultrasonic sensor control unit of parking aid and reversing aid applications in a mixed sensor configuration. Different control pulse lengths are interpreted differently by the different sensors.
  • FIG. 4 shows control pulses generated internally in the control device for a microwave sensor for the distance sensor device according to FIG. 3.
  • the duration of an actuation pulse which triggers the measurement sequence in the ultrasonic sensor US in a measuring range of 0.2 m to 2 m is ti ** - to * .
  • the duration of a control pulse that triggers the measurement process in the microwave sensor ⁇ W in a measuring range from 0.2 m to 1.5 m is (ti * - t 0 * '
  • the sensor is always operated by the control unit with its interface in bidirectional digital mode, several sensors can be connected to one send / receive line. In this case, a clear sensor identifier must always be contained within the acknowledgment.
  • a sensor ID can be dispensed with for a point-to-point connection between sensor ⁇ -> control unit. You can also imagine a mixture of different modes for the microwave sensors (individually and as specified by the control unit).
  • the invention is also not limited to ultrasonic and microwave sensors, but can be applied to any sensors.

Abstract

The invention relates to a distance sensor device, in particular, as a component of a parking or reversing aid for a motor vehicle, comprising one or several distance sensors (US, mu W) and a distance-sensor controller (US-SG) to control the distance sensor(s) (US, mu W) over a dedicated signal line, by means of a preferably quasi-digital time-analogue control impulse. At least one of said distance sensors (US, mu W) exhibits two different working modes. A switching of working modes is possible by means of a variation in the time duration and/or amplitude of the control impulse from the distance-sensor (US-SG).

Description

AbstandssensorVorrichtungDistance sensor device
STAND DER TECHNIKSTATE OF THE ART
Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft eine Abstandssensorvor- richtung, insbesondere als Bestandteil einer Einparkhilfe oder Ruckfahrhilfe für ein Kraftfahrzeug, mit einem oder mehreren Abstandssensoren und einer Abstandssensor-Steuer- emrichtung zum Ansteuern des oαer der Abstandssensoren u- ber eine jeweilige Signalleitung mittels eines vorzugsweise quasidigitalen zeitanalogen Ansteueπmpulses .The present invention relates to a distance sensor device, in particular as a component of a parking aid or reversing aid for a motor vehicle, with one or more distance sensors and a distance sensor control device for controlling the or the distance sensors via a respective signal line by means of a preferably quasi-digital time-analogous control pulse ,
Obwohl auf beliebige Abstandssensorvorrichtungen anwendbar, wie z.B. Abstandssensorvorrichtungen für Schiffe, Flugzeuge usw., werden die vorliegende Erfindung sowie die ihr zugrundeliegende Problematik in oezug auf eine Abstandssen- sorvorrichtung als Bestandteil einer Einparkhilfe oder Ruckfahrhilfe für ein Kraftfahrzeug erläutert.Although applicable to any distance sensor devices such as Distance sensor devices for ships, airplanes, etc., the present invention and the problem on which it is based are explained in relation to a distance sensor device as part of a parking aid or reversing aid for a motor vehicle.
Allgemein bekannt sind die Kraftfahrzeugausstattungsprodukte Einpark- und Ruckfahrhilfe. Diese Produkte bestehen aus einer Anzahl von bis zu 10 Ultraschallsensoren, einem zugehörigen Steuergerat und einem oder mehreren akustischen oder optoakustischen Warnelementen für den Fahrer. Fig. 5 illustriert eine bekannte Ultraschall-Abstands- sensorvorrichtung für eine Rückfahrhilfe mit vier Ultraschallsensoren US und einem Steuergerät US-SG. Vom Steuergerät US-SG laufen vier Signalleitungen sowie eine Span- nungsversorgungsleitung und eine Masseleitung zu einem Verteiler V. Vom Verteiler V laufen jeweils eine Signalleitung sowie die Spannungsversorgungsleitung und die Masseleitung zum jeweiligen Ultraschallsensor US.The motor vehicle equipment products parking and reversing aid are generally known. These products consist of a number of up to 10 ultrasonic sensors, an associated control unit and one or more acoustic or opto-acoustic warning elements for the driver. 5 illustrates a known ultrasound distance sensor device for a reversing aid with four ultrasound sensors US and a control device US-SG. Four signal lines as well as a voltage supply line and a ground line run from the control unit US-SG to a distributor V. A signal line as well as the voltage supply line and the ground line to the respective ultrasonic sensor US run from the distributor V.
Die Ansteuerung der Ultraschallsensoren US über die jeweiligen Signalleitungen erfolgt über eine jeweilige bidirektionale Open-Collektor-Schnittstelle. Die Übertragung erfolgt von Seiten der betrachteten Amplitude quasidigital, aber zeitanalog.The ultrasound sensors US are controlled via the respective signal lines via a respective bidirectional open collector interface. The transmission is quasi-digital on the part of the amplitude under consideration, but analogous to time.
Fig. 6 zeigt einen intern im Steuergerät erzeugten Ansteu- erimpuls für einen Ultraschallsensor US der bekannten Ult- raschall-Abstandssensorvorrichtung nach Fig. 5. Auf der x- Achse ist die Zeit t aufgetragen und auf der y-Achse die Spannungsamplitude U.6 shows a control pulse generated internally in the control unit for an ultrasonic sensor US of the known ultrasonic distance sensor device according to FIG. 5. Time t is plotted on the x-axis and voltage amplitude U on the y-axis.
Die Dauer dieses AnSteuerimpulses, der den Meßablauf im Ultraschallsensor US auslöst, beträgt ti - to (typischerweise 300 μs) . Mit Beginn der Zeit t0 beginnt der Ultra- schallsensor US also mit der Aussendung seines Ultraschallimpulses.The duration of this control pulse, which triggers the measurement sequence in the ultrasonic sensor US, is ti - to (typically 300 μs). At the beginning of the time t 0 , the ultrasound sensor US therefore begins to transmit its ultrasound pulse.
Fig. 7 zeigt die intern im Ultraschallsensor US erzeugte Signalantwort für einen Ultraschallsensor US der bekannten Ultraschall-Abstandssensorvorrichtung nach Fig. 5. Auf der x-Achse ist die Zeit t aufgetragen und auf der y-Acπse die Spannungsamplitude U.7 shows the signal response generated internally in the ultrasonic sensor US for an ultrasonic sensor US of the known one Ultrasonic distance sensor device according to FIG. 5. Time t is plotted on the x-axis and voltage amplitude U on the y-axis.
Ein nicht dargestellter Komparator untersucht die Signalspannung vom Ultraschallwandler hinsichtlich einer ausreichend hohen Empfangsamplitude, und nur ab einer bestimmten Mindestamplitude wird die Spannung als Detektion eines Objektes gewertet, um Rauscheffekte oder Störeffekte auszu- blenden.A comparator (not shown) examines the signal voltage from the ultrasound transducer with regard to a sufficiently high reception amplitude, and the voltage is only evaluated as detection of an object from a certain minimum amplitude in order to mask out noise effects or interference effects.
Die Zeit zwischen t2 und t3 zeigt das mechanische Schwingen der Sensormembran infolge der Ansteuerung an. Die Zeit zwischen t4 und t5 weist die von einem Objekt reflektierte und detektierte Ultraschallenergie aus.The time between t 2 and t 3 indicates the mechanical oscillation of the sensor membrane as a result of the activation. The time between t 4 and t 5 shows the ultrasonic energy reflected and detected by an object.
Fig. 8 zeigt die Signale auf der Datenleitung zwischen Steuergerät US-SG und Ultraschallsensor US insgesamt für die bekannte Ultraschall-Abstandssensorvorrichtung nach Fig. 5. Auf der x-Achse ist die Zeit t aufgetragen und auf der y-Achse die Spannungsamplitude U.8 shows the signals on the data line between control device US-SG and ultrasound sensor US as a whole for the known ultrasound distance sensor device according to FIG. 5. Time t is plotted on the x-axis and voltage amplitude U on the y-axis.
Der zeitliche Abstand zwischen t0 und t4 repräsentiert die Entfernung s zwischen dem reflektierenden Objekt und dem Ultraschallsensor US, die im Steuergerät US-SG ermittelt wird. Es gilt:The time interval between t 0 and t 4 represents the distance s between the reflecting object and the ultrasonic sensor US, which is determined in the control unit US-SG. The following applies:
s = cs * te/2 (1) mits = c s * t e / 2 (1) With
te = t4 - t0 ( 2 )t e = t 4 - t 0 (2)
wobei cs die Schallgeschwindigkeit in Luft ist.where c s is the speed of sound in air.
Bedauerlicherweise ist der Meßbereich der derzeit am Markt verfugbaren Ultraschallsensoren auf ca. 2 m begrenzt.Unfortunately, the measuring range of the ultrasonic sensors currently available on the market is limited to approximately 2 m.
Die der vorliegenden Erfindung zugrundeliegende Problematik besteht daher allgemein darin, eine flexiblere Abstandssensorvorrichtung zu schaffen.The problem underlying the present invention therefore generally consists in creating a more flexible distance sensor device.
VORTEILE DER ERFINDUNGADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION
Die erfindungsgemaße Abstandssensorvorrichtung mit den Merkmalen des Anspruchs 1 weist gegenüber den bekannten Lo- sungsansatzen den Vorteil auf, daß sie eine zum bekannten Ultraschallsensor funktions- und schnittstellenkompatible Abstandssensorvorrichtung und die entsprechende anforderungsspezifische Funktionssteuerung für eine erweiterte Funktionalitat über die Sende-/Empfangsleitung durch das Steuergerat schafft.The distance sensor device according to the invention with the features of claim 1 has the advantage over the known solution approaches that it creates a function and interface compatible distance sensor device with the known ultrasound sensor and the corresponding requirement-specific function control for an expanded functionality via the transmission / reception line by the control device ,
Die Funktions- und Schnittstellengleichheit des Mikrowellensensors zu den bekannten Ultraschallsensoren hat den Vorteil, daß das Steuergerat und die Software für die Einpark- und Ruckfahrhilfe unverändert auch mit Mikrowellensensoren für die derzeitige Funktionalitat einzusetzen ist, Weitere Vorteile sind die Möglichkeit der Mischung von Sensoren mit unterschiedlichen physikalischen Eigenschaften oder Sensorprinzipien und die mögliche Baugleichheit des Mikrowellensensors für unterschiedliche Anwendungen mit unterschiedlichen Stückzahlanforderungen.The functional and interface identicality of the microwave sensor to the known ultrasonic sensors has the advantage that the control unit and the software for the parking and reversing aid can still be used with the microwave sensors for the current functionality, Further advantages are the possibility of mixing sensors with different physical properties or sensor principles and the possible identical construction of the microwave sensor for different applications with different quantity requirements.
Eine Meßbereichs- und Meßartumschaltung durch ein Steuergerät für die Anforderungen unterschiedlicher Funktionalitä- ten ist möglich.It is possible to switch between measuring ranges and measuring types by means of a control unit for the requirements of different functionalities.
Eine Filterung der Meßwerte bei Einsatz eines Mikrocontrol- lers im Sensor kann durchgeführt werden sowie eine Eigendiagnose des Steuergeräts und Ferndiagnose der Sensoren.Filtering of the measured values when using a microcontroller in the sensor can be carried out, as well as self-diagnosis of the control unit and remote diagnosis of the sensors.
Die der vorliegenden Erfindung zugrundeliegende Idee besteht darin, daß mindestens einer der Abstandssensoren zwei verschiedene Arbeitsmodi aufweist und durch eine Variation der Zeitdauer und/oder Amplitude des AnSteuerimpulses von der Abstandssensor-Steuereinrichtung eine Umschaltung zwischen den Arbeitsmodi durchführbar ist.The idea on which the present invention is based is that at least one of the distance sensors has two different working modes and a switch between the working modes can be carried out by varying the time duration and / or amplitude of the control pulse from the distance sensor control device.
In den Unteransprüchen finden sich vorteilhafte Weiterbildungen und Verbesserungen der in Anspruch 1 angegebenen Ab- Standssensorvorrichtung.Advantageous developments and improvements of the distance sensor device specified in claim 1 are found in the subclaims.
Gemäß einer bevorzugten Weiterbildung weisen die Abstandssensoren mehrere Ultraschallsensoren und mehrere Mikrowellensensoren aufweisen, wobei vorzugsweise die Ultraschall- sensoren einen Arbeitsmodus und die Mikrowellensensoren mehrere Arbeitsmodi aufweisen. Dies entspricht einer Erweiterung der bekannten Ultraschallsensorvorrichtung auf Mikrowellensensoren, wobei letztere sich besonders für eine Modusumschaltung eignen. So ist also ein Mikrowellensensor mit einer funktionskompatiblen Ultraschallsensorschnittstelle und einer Umschaltmöglichkeit für verschiedene Anforderungen realisierbar. Hierdurch können im Mikrowellensensor die Anforderungen für beispielsweise schnellere Meß- zyklen, höhere Reichweiten, Überwachung eines Entfernungsabschnittes, Ermittlung der Relativgeschwindigkeit, Datenübertragung oder starke EMV - Einstrahlung (EMV = elektromagnetische Verträglichkeit) durch die Steuereinrichtung umgeschaltet werden. Die hardwaremäßige Schnittstelle zur Nachbildung eines Ultraschallsensors für ein Ultraschallsteuergerät kann unverändert bleiben.According to a preferred development, the distance sensors have a plurality of ultrasound sensors and a plurality of microwave sensors, the ultrasound sensors preferably being sensors have one working mode and the microwave sensors have several working modes. This corresponds to an extension of the known ultrasonic sensor device to microwave sensors, the latter being particularly suitable for a mode switch. Thus, a microwave sensor with a functionally compatible ultrasonic sensor interface and a switchover option for different requirements can be implemented. As a result, the requirements for, for example, faster measuring cycles, longer ranges, monitoring of a distance section, determination of the relative speed, data transmission or strong EMC radiation (EMC = electromagnetic compatibility) can be switched over by the control device in the microwave sensor. The hardware interface for emulating an ultrasound sensor for an ultrasound control unit can remain unchanged.
Gemäß einer weiteren bevorzugten Weiterbildung ist zwischen der Abstandssensor-Steuereinrichtung und dem jeweiligen Ab- standssensor eine bidirektionale Open-Kollektor-Schnitt- stelle vorgesehen. Dies ist eine geeignete, robuste und von den Ultraschallsensor-Steuergeräten bekannte Schnittstelle.According to a further preferred development, a bidirectional open collector interface is provided between the distance sensor control device and the respective distance sensor. This is a suitable, robust interface known from the ultrasonic sensor control units.
Gemäß einer weiteren bevorzugten Weiterbildung umfassen die verschiedenen Arbeitsmodi Meßbereichsmodi und/oder Signalübertragungsmodi und/oder Testmodi und/oder Servicemodi zum Einstellen/Kalibrieren des Sensors. Gemäß einer weiteren bevorzugten Weiterbildung umfassen die Arbeitsmodi einen digitalen Signalübertragungsmodus. So läßt sich eine Umschaltung der zeitanalogen, vorzugsweise quasidigitalen Schnittstelle in eine bidirektionale digitale Schnittstelle mit festem Datenformat und festgelegtem Protokoll durch einen Ansteuerimpuls vom Steuergerät realisieren. Insbesondere der Aufbau einer Datenübertragungsschnittstelle niedriger Übertragungsraten mit dem Sensor ist von Vorteil.According to a further preferred development, the different working modes include measuring range modes and / or signal transmission modes and / or test modes and / or service modes for setting / calibrating the sensor. According to a further preferred development, the working modes include a digital signal transmission mode. In this way, the time-analog, preferably quasi-digital interface can be switched over to a bidirectional digital interface with a fixed data format and a fixed protocol by means of a control pulse from the control device. In particular, the construction of a data transmission interface with low transmission rates using the sensor is advantageous.
Gemäß einer weiteren bevorzugten Weiterbildung ist die Ab- standssensor-Steuereinrichtung ein für alle Abstandssensoren gemeinsames Steuergerät, welches über eine einzige Signalleitung mit einem jeweiligen Abstandssensor verbunden ist. So kann das bekannte Ultraschallsensor-Steuergerät für die erfindungsgemäße erweiterte Funktionalität verwendet werden.According to a further preferred development, the distance sensor control device is a control device common to all distance sensors, which is connected to a respective distance sensor via a single signal line. The known ultrasonic sensor control device can thus be used for the expanded functionality according to the invention.
ZEICHNUNGENDRAWINGS
Ausführungsbeispiele der Erfindung sind in den Zeichnungen dargestellt und in der nachfolgenden Beschreibung näher erläutert.Embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings and explained in more detail in the following description.
Es zeigen:Show it:
Fig. 1 eine erste Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemäßen Abstandssensorvorrichtung unter Nutzung von Mikrowellensensoren mit dem bisherigen Ultraschall- sensor-Steuergerat von Einparkhilfe- und Ruck- fahrhilfeanwendungen;1 shows a first embodiment of the distance sensor device according to the invention using microwave sensors with the previous ultrasonic sensor control unit for parking aid and reversing assistance applications;
Fig. 2 intern im Steuergerat erzeugte AnSteuerimpulse für einen Mikrowellensensor für die Abstandssensorvorrichtung nach Fig. 1;FIG. 2 control pulses generated internally in the control device for a microwave sensor for the distance sensor device according to FIG. 1;
Fig. 3 eine zweite Ausfuhrungsform der erfmdungsgemaßen Abstandssensorvorrichtung unter Nutzung von Mik- rowellen- und Ultraschallsensoren mit dem bisherigen Ultraschallsensor-Steuergerat von Einparkhilfe- und Ruckfahrhilfeanwendungen in gemischter Sensorbestückung;3 shows a second embodiment of the distance sensor device according to the invention using microwaves and ultrasound sensors with the previous ultrasound sensor control device of parking aid and reversing assistance applications in mixed sensor configuration;
Fig. 4 intern im Steuergerat erzeugte Ansteuerimpulse für einen Mikrowellensensor für die Abstandssensorvorrichtung nach Fig. 3 ;4 control pulses generated internally in the control device for a microwave sensor for the distance sensor device according to FIG. 3;
Fig. 5 eine bekannte Ultraschall-Abstandssensorvorrich- tung für eine Ruckfahrhilfe mit vier Ultraschallsensoren und einem Steuergerat;5 shows a known ultrasonic distance sensor device for a reversing aid with four ultrasonic sensors and a control device;
Fig. 6 einen intern im Steuergerat erzeugten Ansteuerim- puls für einen Ultraschallsensor für die bekannte Ultraschall-Abstandssensorvorrichtung nach Fig.6 shows a control pulse generated internally in the control device for an ultrasound sensor for the known ultrasound distance sensor device according to FIG.
5;5;
Fig. 7 die intern im Ultraschallsensor US erzeugte Signalantwort für einen Ultraschallsensor US der be- kannten Ultraschall-Abstandssensorvorrichtung nach Fig. 5; und7 shows the signal response generated internally in the ultrasonic sensor US for an ultrasonic sensor US of the knew ultrasonic distance sensor device according to Fig. 5; and
Fig. 8 die Signale auf der Datenleitung zwischen Steuer- gerat und Ultraschallsensor insgesamt für die bekannte Ultraschall-Abstandssensorvorrichtung nach Fig. 5.8 shows the signals on the data line between the control device and the ultrasonic sensor as a whole for the known ultrasonic distance sensor device according to FIG. 5.
BESCHREIBUNG DER AUSFÜHRUNGSBEISPIELEDESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
In den Figuren bezeichnen gleiche Bezugszeichen gleiche o- der funktionsgleiche Elemente.In the figures, the same reference symbols designate the same or functionally identical elements.
Fig. 1 zeigt eine erste Ausführungsform der erfindungsgema- ßen Abstandssensorvorrichtung unter Nutzung von vier Mikrowellensensoren μW mit dem bisherigen Ultraschallsensor- Steuergerät US-SG von Einparkhilfe- und Ruckf hrhilfeanwendungen .1 shows a first embodiment of the distance sensor device according to the invention using four microwave sensors μW with the previous ultrasonic sensor control device US-SG of parking aid and reversing assistance applications.
Vom Steuergerät US-SG laufen vier Signalleitungen sowie eine Ξpannungsversorgungsleitung und eine Masseleitung zu einem Verteiler V. Vom Verteiler V laufen jeweils eine Signalleitung sowie die Spannungsversorgungsleitung und die Masseleitung zum jeweiligen Mikrowellensensor μW.Four signal lines as well as a voltage supply line and a ground line run from the control unit US-SG to a distributor V. A signal line as well as the voltage supply line and the ground line each run from the distributor V to the respective microwave sensor μW.
Die Ansteuerung der Mikrowellensensoren μW über die jeweiligen Signalleitungen erfolgt für jeden Sensor über eine bidirektionale einadrige Open-Kollektor-Leitung. Die Über- tragung erfolgt von Seiten der betrachteten Amplitude quasidigital, aber zeitanalog.The microwave sensors μW are controlled via the respective signal lines for each sensor via a bidirectional single-core open collector line. The above- Carrying takes place on the part of the considered amplitude quasi-digital, but time-analog.
Eine im jeweiligen Mikrowellensensor μW eingebaute Ab- laufSteuerung oder der sich im jeweiligen Mikrowellenser.sor μW befindende MikroController überprüft den vom Steuergerät US-SG abgegebenen Ansteuerimpuls der Anforderung auf der Sende-/Empfangsleitung bzw. Signalleitung. Solch eine Anforderung könnte auch eine Anforderung zur Kalibrierung, Darstellung eingestellter Parameter oder zum Reset sein.A sequence control built into the respective microwave sensor μW or the microcontroller located in the respective microwave sensor μW checks the control impulse of the request on the transmission / reception line or signal line emitted by the control unit US-SG. Such a request could also be a request for calibration, display of set parameters or for a reset.
Hat er die Form und Dauer des AnSteuerimpulses eines Steuergerätes für Ultraschallsensoren, so bildet er die Schnittstelle für Ultraschallsensoren nach. Der Sensor startet die Entfernungsmessung und simuliert das typische Nachschwingen des Ultraschallsensors auf der Sende-/ Empfangsleitung. Ist ein Objekt im Meßbereich, so wird die Zeit t4 aus der gemessenen Entfernung und der Festlegung, t0 = 0 = Beginn der Meßanforderung, nach den obigen Formeln (1) und (2) berechnet. Zum Zeitpunkt t4 wird die Sende-/ Empfangsleitung vom Sensor für eine vorher eingestellte Dauer, die ein sicheres Detektieren des Empfangssignals durch das Ultraschallsteuergerät ermöglicht, auf Low bzw. auf Erkennung eines Hindernisses geschaltet. Werden im De- tektionsbereich mehrere Hindernisse in unterschiedlicher. Entfernungen detektiert, so wird die Entfernungsberechnung und Hindernisübertragung mehrfach nach dem eingangs dargestellten Schema durchgeführt. Fig. 2 zeigt intern im Steuergerat erzeugte Ansteueπmpulse für einen Mikrowellensensor für die Abstandssensorvorrichtung nach Fig. 1.If it has the form and duration of the control pulse of a control unit for ultrasonic sensors, it simulates the interface for ultrasonic sensors. The sensor starts the distance measurement and simulates the typical reverberation of the ultrasonic sensor on the send / receive line. If an object is in the measuring range, the time t 4 is calculated from the measured distance and the determination, t 0 = 0 = start of the measurement request, according to the formulas (1) and (2) above. At time t 4 , the transmission / reception line is switched to low or to detection of an obstacle by the sensor for a previously set duration, which enables the reception signal to be reliably detected by the ultrasound control device. If there are several obstacles in different areas in the detection area. If distances are detected, the distance calculation and obstacle transmission are carried out several times according to the scheme shown at the beginning. FIG. 2 shows control pulses generated internally in the control device for a microwave sensor for the distance sensor device according to FIG. 1.
Die Umschaltung des Schnittstelleneigenschaften zur Unter- stutzung unterschiedlicher Funktionalitaten der Mikrowellensensoren μW erfolgt nun durch Verringerung bzw. Variation der zeitlichen Dauer des AnSteuerimpulses .The interface properties are switched to support different functions of the microwave sensors μW by reducing or varying the duration of the activation pulse.
Besonders zweckmäßig haben sich dabei zwei Grundmecnanismen herausgebildet .Two basic mechanisms have developed particularly expediently.
Der erste Grundmechanismus ist eine Veränderung der Ansteu- erdauer bei Beibehaltung des oben aufgeführten Meßdaten- ubertragungsprmzips .The first basic mechanism is a change in the activation duration while maintaining the measurement data transmission principle listed above.
Als Beispiel soll hier die Umschaltung der Mikrowellensensoren μW auf einen Meßbereich von 0,2 m bis 7 m mit einer Meßdauer von 10 ms e Meßbereichszyklus durch eine Ansteuerdauer von 200 μs entsprechend (ti'''- to') m Fig. 2 oder die Umschaltung in einen Meßbereich von 0,2 m bis 1,5 m mit einer Meßbereichszyklenzeit von 2 ms bei einer Ansteuerdauer von 100 μs entsprechend (tι' '~ to') m Fig. 2 genannt werden, (ti''''- t0') in Fig. 2 bezeichnet zusätzlich einen Meßzyklus zur Ultraschallsimulation entsprechend 300 μs im Bereich 0,2 bis 2 m. Der zweite Grundmechanismus ist αie Umschaltung der zeitanalogen, quasidigitalen Schnittstelle in eine bidirektionale digitale Schnittstelle mit festem Datenformat und festgelegtem Protokoll durch einen Ansteuerimpuls vom Steu- ergerat US-SG. Dieser Ansteuerimpuls ist kurzer als die für die funktionale Umschaltung mit zeitanalogem Meßdaten- ubertragungsprmzip verwendeten AnSteuerimpulsen . Vorteilhaft hat sich eine Dauer von 52 μs entsprechend (ti'- t0') in Fig. 2 herausgebildet, was einer Datenübertragungsrate von 19200 BAUD entspricht.As an example, the switchover of the microwave sensors μW to a measuring range from 0.2 m to 7 m with a measuring duration of 10 ms e measuring range cycle by a control duration of 200 μs corresponding to (ti '''-to') m Fig. 2 or Switching to a measuring range of 0.2 m to 1.5 m with a measuring range cycle time of 2 ms with a control duration of 100 μs can be called (tι '' ~ to ') m Fig. 2, (ti''''- t 0 ') in FIG. 2 additionally designates a measurement cycle for ultrasound simulation corresponding to 300 μs in the range 0.2 to 2 m. The second basic mechanism is the switching of the time-analog, quasi-digital interface into a bidirectional digital interface with a fixed data format and a fixed protocol by means of a control pulse from the control unit US-SG. This control pulse is shorter than the control pulses used for the functional switchover with time-analog measurement data transmission principle. A duration of 52 μs corresponding to (ti'-t 0 ') has advantageously developed in FIG. 2, which corresponds to a data transmission rate of 19200 BAUD.
Im festgelegten Datenformat und Protokoll wird eine Anforderung durch das Steuergerat US-SG mit einem Befehlswort oder einem Befehlswort und Datenwortern ausgelost, worauf der Mikrowellensensor μW m t einer Quittierung oder einerIn the specified data format and protocol, a request is triggered by the control device US-SG with a command word or a command word and data words, whereupon the microwave sensor μW with an acknowledgment or a
Quittierung mit Datenwortern antworten muß. Beim Reset wird allerdings ausnahmsweise keine Quittierung vorgesehen sein.Acknowledgment with data words must respond. Exceptionally, no acknowledgment will be provided for a reset.
Das Steuergerat US-SG kann nach jedem Zyklus (z.B. Befehls- wort vom Steuergerat, Quittierung mit Datenwortern vom Sensor usw. ) den Mikrowellensensor μW durch Veränderung der Ansteuerdauer n eine andere Funktionalitat umschalten.After each cycle (e.g. command word from the control unit, acknowledgment with data words from the sensor, etc.), the US-SG control unit can switch the microwave sensor μW to another functionality by changing the activation duration n.
Die Befehlworte oder die Befehlsworte mit Datenwortern vom Steuergerat können z. B. folgende Inhalte haben:The command words or the command words with data words from the control device can, for. B. have the following content:
• Sensormodeauswahl• Sensor mode selection
• Meßaufforderung • Meßarteinstellung (Entfernung durch Puls - Echo - Betrieb oder Geschwindigkeit mittels Dopplersignalauswer- tung)• Measurement request • Measurement type setting (distance by pulse - echo - operation or speed by means of Doppler signal evaluation)
• Meßbereichseinstellung • Diagnoseaufforderung• Measuring range setting • Diagnostic request
• Zeitabgleich für Triangulation und permanenten Empfang• Time alignment for triangulation and permanent reception
• reiner permanenter Empfang• pure permanent reception
• Sendung einer Impulsfolge• Transmission of a pulse train
• Kalibrierung • Reset• calibration • reset
Die Quittierung oder die Quittierung mit Datenwörtern vom Mikrowellensensor μW können z. B. folgende Inhalte haben:The acknowledgment or the acknowledgment with data words from the microwave sensor μW can e.g. B. have the following content:
• Sensorkennung, Anzahl der Datenwörter und Entfernung zu den nächsten Hindernissen• Sensor identification, number of data words and distance to the nearest obstacles
• Sensorkennung, Anzahl der Datenwörter, Entfernung und Geschwindigkeit der nächsten Hindernisse• Sensor identification, number of data words, distance and speed of the next obstacles
• Sensorkennung und Ergebnis Sensordiagnose • Sensorkennung und Umschaltung auf Empfangsmodus• Sensor identification and result of sensor diagnosis. • Sensor identification and switchover to receive mode
• Sensorkennung und Datenwort einer Impulsfolge• Sensor identification and data word of a pulse train
Fig. 3 zeigt eine zweite Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemäßen Abstandssensorvorrichtung unter Nutzung von Mikrowel- len- und Ultraschallsensoren mit dem bisherigen Ultraschallsensor-Steuergerät von Einparkhilfe- und Rückfahrhil- feanwendungen in gemischter Sensorbestückung. Hier werden unterschiedliche Ansteuerimpulslängen von den unterschiedlichen Sensoren unterschiedlich interpretiert.FIG. 3 shows a second embodiment of the distance sensor device according to the invention using microwave and ultrasonic sensors with the previous ultrasonic sensor control unit of parking aid and reversing aid applications in a mixed sensor configuration. Different control pulse lengths are interpreted differently by the different sensors.
Fig. 4 zeigt beispielhaft intern im Steuergerät erzeugte Ansteuerimpulse für einen Mikrowellensensor für die Abstandssensorvorrichtung nach Fig. 3.FIG. 4 shows control pulses generated internally in the control device for a microwave sensor for the distance sensor device according to FIG. 3.
Die Dauer eines Ansteuerimpulses, der den Meßablauf im Ult- raschallsensor US in einem Meßbereich von 0,2 m bis 2 m auslöst, beträgt ti** - to*.The duration of an actuation pulse which triggers the measurement sequence in the ultrasonic sensor US in a measuring range of 0.2 m to 2 m is ti ** - to * .
Die Dauer eines Ansteuerimpulses, der den Meßablauf im Mikrowellensensor μW in einem Meßbereich von 0,2 m bis 1,5 m auslöst, beträgt (ti*- t0 * ' The duration of a control pulse that triggers the measurement process in the microwave sensor μW in a measuring range from 0.2 m to 1.5 m is (ti * - t 0 * '
Obwohl die vorliegende Erfindung anhand bevorzugter Ausführungsbeispiele vorstehend beschrieben wurde, ist sie darauf nicht beschränkt, sondern auf vielfältige Weise modifizier- bar.Although the present invention has been described above on the basis of preferred exemplary embodiments, it is not restricted to these but can be modified in many ways.
Wird der Sensor vom Steuergerät immer mit seiner Schnittstelle im bidirektionalen digitalen Modus gefahren, so sind mehrere Sensoren an einer Sende-/ Empfangsleitung an- schließbar. In diesem Fall muß immer innerhalb der Quittierung eine eindeutige Sensorkennung enthalten sein. Auf eine Sensorkennung kann bei einer Punkt zu Punkt - Verbindung Sensor <-> Steuergerät verzichtet werden. Ebenfalls kann man sich eine Mischung unterschiedlicher Modi für die Mikrowellensensoren (einzeln und nach Vorgabe durch das Steuergerät) vorstellen.If the sensor is always operated by the control unit with its interface in bidirectional digital mode, several sensors can be connected to one send / receive line. In this case, a clear sensor identifier must always be contained within the acknowledgment. A sensor ID can be dispensed with for a point-to-point connection between sensor <-> control unit. You can also imagine a mixture of different modes for the microwave sensors (individually and as specified by the control unit).
Auch ist die Erfindung nicht auf Ultraschall- und Mikrowellensensoren beschränkt, sondern auf beliebige Sensoren anwendbar. The invention is also not limited to ultrasonic and microwave sensors, but can be applied to any sensors.

Claims

PATENTANSPRÜCHE
1. Abstandssensorvorrichtung, insbesondere als Bestandteil einer Einparkhilfe oder Ruckfahrhilfe für ein Kraft- fahrzeug, mit:1. Distance sensor device, in particular as part of a parking aid or reversing aid for a motor vehicle, with:
einem oder mehreren Abstandssensoren (US, μW) ; undone or more distance sensors (US, μW); and
einer Abstandssensor-Steuereinrichtung (US-SG) zum Ansteu- ern des oder der Abstandssensoren (US, μS) über eine jeweilige Signalleitung mittels eines vorzugsweise quasidigitalen zeitanalogen Ansteuerimpulses;a distance sensor control device (US-SG) for controlling the distance sensor (s) (US, μS) via a respective signal line by means of a preferably quasi-digital time-analog control pulse;
dadurch g e k e n n z e i c h n e t , daßbecause of the fact that
mindestens einer der Abstandssensoren (US, μW) zwei oder mehr verschiedene Arbeitsmodi aufweist; undat least one of the distance sensors (US, μW) has two or more different working modes; and
durch eine Variation der Zeitdauer und/oder Amplitude des Ansteuerimpulses von der Abstandssensor-Steuereinrichtungby varying the duration and / or amplitude of the drive pulse from the distance sensor control device
(US-SG) eine Umschaltung zwischen den Arbeitsmodi durchführbar ist. (US-SG) a switchover between the working modes can be carried out.
2. Abstandssensorvorrichtung nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Abstandssensoren (US, μW) mehrere Ultraschallsensoren (US) und mehrere Mikrowellensensoren2. Distance sensor device according to claim 1, characterized in that the distance sensors (US, μW), a plurality of ultrasonic sensors (US) and a plurality of microwave sensors
(μW) aufweisen, wobei vorzugsweise die Ultraschallsensoren (US) einen Arbeitsmodus und die Mikrowellensensoren (μW) mehrere Arbeitsmodi aufweisen.(μW), wherein preferably the ultrasonic sensors (US) have one working mode and the microwave sensors (μW) have several working modes.
3. Abstandssensorvorrichtung nach Anspruch 1 oder 2, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß zwischen der Abstandssensor- Steuereinrichtung (US-SG) und dem jeweiligen Abstandssensor (US, μW) eine bidirektionale Open-Kollektor-Schnittstelle vorgesehen ist.3. Distance sensor device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that a bidirectional open collector interface is provided between the distance sensor control device (US-SG) and the respective distance sensor (US, μW).
4. Abstandssensorvorrichtung nach einem der vorhergehen- den Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die verschiedenen Arbeitsmodi umfassen: Meßbereichsmodi und/oder Signalübertragungsmodi und/oder Testmodi und/oder Servicemodi zum Einstellen/Kalibrieren des Sensors.4. Distance sensor device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the different working modes include: measuring range modes and / or signal transmission modes and / or test modes and / or service modes for setting / calibrating the sensor.
5. Abstandssensorvorrichtung nach Anspruch 4, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Arbeitsmodi einen digitalen Signalübertragungsmodus umfassen.5. Distance sensor device according to claim 4, characterized in that the working modes comprise a digital signal transmission mode.
6. Abstandssensorvorrichtung nach einem der vorhergehen- den Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Abstandssensor-Steuereinrichtung (US-SG) ein für alle Abstandssensoren (US, μW) gemeinsames Steuergerät ist, welches über eine einzige Signalleitung mit einem jeweiligen Abstandssensor (US, μW) verbunden ist 6. Distance sensor device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the distance sensor control device (US-SG) is a common for all distance sensors (US, μW) control device, which via a single signal line with a respective distance sensor (US, μW) is connected
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US20030128137A1 (en) 2003-07-10
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DE19963755A1 (en) 2001-07-12
WO2001050153A8 (en) 2001-10-04

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