EP1328907A1 - Method for processing detection signals for a motor vehicle - Google Patents

Method for processing detection signals for a motor vehicle

Info

Publication number
EP1328907A1
EP1328907A1 EP01969688A EP01969688A EP1328907A1 EP 1328907 A1 EP1328907 A1 EP 1328907A1 EP 01969688 A EP01969688 A EP 01969688A EP 01969688 A EP01969688 A EP 01969688A EP 1328907 A1 EP1328907 A1 EP 1328907A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
detection
vehicle
handle
signal
sensors
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.)
Granted
Application number
EP01969688A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP1328907B1 (en
Inventor
Thierry Benard
Jo[L Garnault
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.)
Valeo Comfort and Driving Assistance SAS
Original Assignee
Valeo Electronique SA
Valeo Securite Habitacle SAS
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
Priority claimed from FR0011299A external-priority patent/FR2813630B1/en
Priority claimed from FR0108901A external-priority patent/FR2827064B1/en
Application filed by Valeo Electronique SA, Valeo Securite Habitacle SAS filed Critical Valeo Electronique SA
Publication of EP1328907A1 publication Critical patent/EP1328907A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1328907B1 publication Critical patent/EP1328907B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E05—LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
    • E05B—LOCKS; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR; HANDCUFFS
    • E05B81/00—Power-actuated vehicle locks
    • E05B81/54—Electrical circuits
    • E05B81/64—Monitoring or sensing, e.g. by using switches or sensors
    • E05B81/76—Detection of handle operation; Detection of a user approaching a handle; Electrical switching actions performed by door handles
    • E05B81/78—Detection of handle operation; Detection of a user approaching a handle; Electrical switching actions performed by door handles as part of a hands-free locking or unlocking operation
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07C—TIME OR ATTENDANCE REGISTERS; REGISTERING OR INDICATING THE WORKING OF MACHINES; GENERATING RANDOM NUMBERS; VOTING OR LOTTERY APPARATUS; ARRANGEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS FOR CHECKING NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE
    • G07C9/00—Individual registration on entry or exit
    • G07C9/20—Individual registration on entry or exit involving the use of a pass
    • G07C9/215—Individual registration on entry or exit involving the use of a pass the system having a variable access-code, e.g. varied as a function of time
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E05—LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
    • E05B—LOCKS; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR; HANDCUFFS
    • E05B81/00—Power-actuated vehicle locks
    • E05B81/54—Electrical circuits
    • E05B81/64—Monitoring or sensing, e.g. by using switches or sensors
    • E05B81/76—Detection of handle operation; Detection of a user approaching a handle; Electrical switching actions performed by door handles
    • E05B81/77—Detection of handle operation; Detection of a user approaching a handle; Electrical switching actions performed by door handles comprising sensors detecting the presence of the hand of a user
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07C—TIME OR ATTENDANCE REGISTERS; REGISTERING OR INDICATING THE WORKING OF MACHINES; GENERATING RANDOM NUMBERS; VOTING OR LOTTERY APPARATUS; ARRANGEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS FOR CHECKING NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE
    • G07C2209/00—Indexing scheme relating to groups G07C9/00 - G07C9/38
    • G07C2209/60—Indexing scheme relating to groups G07C9/00174 - G07C9/00944
    • G07C2209/63—Comprising locating means for detecting the position of the data carrier, i.e. within the vehicle or within a certain distance from the vehicle
    • G07C2209/65—Comprising locating means for detecting the position of the data carrier, i.e. within the vehicle or within a certain distance from the vehicle using means for sensing the user's hand

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a method for processing detection signals originating from at least one detection zone arranged on a motor vehicle, a device for implementing this method, a door handle and a motor vehicle provided with such means.
  • Motor vehicles fitted with at least one centralized locking system comprise on the one hand different sensors which collect information reflecting the actions of the users and on the other hand control means which exploit this information to trigger different devices in response to said actions users.
  • Capacitive sensors are for example used to detect touch, they are then designated as touch sensors, or the approach of a user's hand relative to a given surface, they are then called approach sensors.
  • the optical sensors detect breaks in the light beam. They belong to the category of approach sensors.
  • the presence of such sensors to execute different commands is certainly advantageous in comparison with mechanical sensors, as has just been mentioned, but nevertheless poses some difficulties linked to the fact that it is necessary to manage all these sensors simultaneously, which supposes the presence in the vehicle of relatively complex electronic means capable of settling possible conflicts between sensors, and that it is necessary to bear the cost of supplying and mounting these sensors and the associated electronic means.
  • the present invention aims to propose a solution in which the number of sensors used is optimized and in which the electronic means required in the vehicle can be simplified.
  • This invention finds a particularly interesting application in motor vehicles provided with a so-called "hands-free" system, in which the various User actions first give rise to an identifier search allowing to know if the person whose action has been detected is an authorized user of the vehicle.
  • the subject of the present invention is a method for processing detection signals originating from at least one detection zone arranged on a motor vehicle, characterized in that it consists in taking into account, following the reception of said detection signals, environmental information characteristic of a state in which the vehicle is located, and in interpreting the signal received as a function of this environmental information in order to provide an actuation signal intended for control means belonging to the motor vehicle.
  • control means means all of the devices present in the vehicle to execute orders for locking / unlocking of opening elements, activation / deactivation of the supply circuit breaker, activation / deactivation of alarm, engine start / stop, and more generally any start / stop command from any part of the vehicle. Thanks to the invention, the control means are issued, in the form of actuation signals, orders directly executable by said control means.
  • the invention makes a distinction between a first category of rules, which could be described as discriminating, making it possible to determine what the intention of the user is when he activates a detection zone. and a second category of rules, which could be described as arbitrary, relating to the management of priorities between different intentions which are a priori contradictory or incompatible but which are expressed simultaneously by one or more users.
  • the method for processing detection signals takes care of the application of the discriminating rules, which makes it possible to relieve the control means which only have to ensure, if necessary, the management priorities using arbitration rules.
  • the environmental information relates to the state of locking of the opening elements of the vehicle.
  • the method takes account of the fact that all the openings or at least some of them are locked or unlocked.
  • account when receiving the detection signal, account is taken not only of environmental information but also of temporal information linked to the detection signal received, by example its duration or a time elapsed between its reception and an additional event caused by the user.
  • the invention provides for different categories of commands resulting from the interpretation of the detection signal.
  • One of these commands is the verification of the identity of the person whose action is detected, verification which is particularly important in the context of the operation of a "hands-free" system.
  • the environmental information verifies predetermined conditions, such as for example that all the doors of the vehicle are locked, in which case provision may be made for the identity verification command to be followed by a command unlocking.
  • the time information can be used to interpret the signal received as a command to lock or unlock a single window or all the windows of the vehicle.
  • This time information can consist of the duration of the received signal, a short duration signal corresponding for example to the unlocking of an opening element associated with the detection zone while a long duration signal corresponds for example to the unlocking of all opening elements.
  • the time delay between the start of the received detection signal and the change of position of a switch is chosen as time information linked to the detection signal received.
  • the switch can be linked to an opening handle of an opening, the switch changing position when the handle is operated or released, the associated opening being for example unlocked alone if the delay between the start of detection and the change of position of the switch is less than a predetermined duration while all the doors are for example unlocked if said delay reaches the predetermined duration.
  • the method according to the invention is implemented for automatically locking a door leaf of a motor vehicle using a hands-free access system comprising a recognition device intended to be installed inside the vehicle and a portable identification device, said recognition device being able to communicate remotely with the identification device to authenticate it.
  • This method applies to a vehicle equipped with a hands-free access system configured so that a user of the vehicle can enter it without having to handle a key or a remote control.
  • Such a vehicle most often comprises an approach sensor coupled to the recognition device of the hands-free access system so that an authentication attempt is triggered when the approach sensor detects the presence of a user.
  • the recognition device triggers the unlocking of one or more openings of the vehicle.
  • One of the aims of the present invention is to remedy this drawback by improving the ergonomics of hands-free access systems.
  • the method according to the invention consists in automatically locking a window of a motor vehicle using a hands-free access system comprising a recognition device intended to be installed inside the vehicle and a portable identification member, said recognition device being able to communicate remotely with the identification member to authenticate it, by providing the vehicle control means, following authentication of the identification unit, a signal for locking or unlocking the opening of the vehicle.
  • the vehicle can be locked, for example, by activating a detection zone with the hand but without operating the door handle of the vehicle which is in the closed state.
  • a detection zone for example, a two-position switch linked to the movement of the handle to detect the released or engaged position of the handle.
  • This method has the advantage of being able to be implemented with the parts already present on a hands-free access system configured to automatically trigger the locking of an opening leaf of the vehicle.
  • a signal for locking the opening of the vehicle is delivered, before the expiration of a predetermined period, as soon as the approach sensor no longer supplies a signal detection. In this way, the vehicle can be locked in a very short time.
  • said predetermined delay has a duration prerecorded in the recognition device, so that operating instabilities linked to the unlocking criteria can be avoided.
  • a locking signal of the opening is delivered only if the recognition device authenticates the identification member, the locking of the vehicle can only be achieved by a user carrying an identification device.
  • the present invention also relates to a particular technical problem which is part of the more general problem, previously explained, of the simultaneous management of several sensors.
  • two capacitive sensors can be provided: one oriented towards the inside of the comb and which fulfills the function of approach sensor, the other oriented towards the outside of the handle and which performs the function of touch sensor.
  • the approach sensor detects if the user runs his fingers behind the handle to grab it and, for example, open the door.
  • the touch sensor detects whether the user applies a finger to said sensor, for example to lock all the doors of the vehicle.
  • Each sensor therefore corresponds for the user to a particular function.
  • a difficulty which arises with these capacitive sensors is that their proper functioning is conditioned by the absence, in their environment, of materials liable to disturb them, such as electrically conductive materials which either mask the sensor or sensors and inhibit or spread them out. their detection areas so that in the event of detection, any sensor which has reacted is not necessarily a sensor concerned by the action triggered by the user.
  • an approach detection can be mistaken for a tactile detection following the untimely activation of the two sensors, thus introducing erroneous information into the means for controlling the detection signals.
  • the present invention therefore also aims to propose a solution which makes it possible to overcome this difficulty linked to the presence of materials disturbing the proper functioning of the sensors.
  • the detection signal received is interpreted as having to be ignored.
  • the method according to the invention makes it possible to intervene on the signals supplied by several sensors before said signals cause undesirable actions.
  • the detection signals coming from at least two independent detection zones, each of which is capable of providing its own detection signal.
  • the present invention draws its originality from the fact that the inventors, rather than seeking to overcome the deficiencies of the sensors when they are placed in an unfavorable environment, have sought a solution making it possible to accommodate a degraded operation of said sensors without degradation. as for the analysis of the detection signals.
  • the detection zones are mounted on a handle of the vehicle.
  • the handle is itself mounted on an opening of the vehicle.
  • the detection zones can be coated with a material capable of disturbing their proper functioning.
  • a material can be an electrically conductive material such as a paint incorporating particles metallic, the detection zones being zones sensitive to a variation of electric or electromagnetic field.
  • ignoring the signal from a detection zone can consist of different implementations.
  • ignoring the signal can consist of inhibiting means for reading the signal from the detection zone.
  • Ignoring the signal can also be achieved by replacing said signal with a constant signal of true boolean value, so that a detection is considered to have taken place as soon as the predetermined conditions are verified and independently of a real detection signaled by the sensor.
  • Another possibility may consist in replacing the result of any control carried out on the detection signal, that is to say both the detection controls and the non-detection controls, with the true Boolean value, which amounts to to no longer take into account the signal from the sensor in question, whether or not a detection is carried out.
  • the present invention also relates to a device for implementing the method described above.
  • Such a device is constituted by processing means comprising at least one state module capable of taking into account environmental information, as well as at least one signal interpretation module, said interpretation module providing a signal. actuation dependent on environmental information and directly usable by control means.
  • the device further comprises duration measurement means providing information related to the detection signal received and / or means for verifying predetermined conditions.
  • the interpretation module is placed directly downstream of a sensor and is constituted by an OR gate accepting as input on the one hand the signals from the sensor, on the other hand the result, provided by the status module, checking conditions.
  • This embodiment is suitable for control means performing only positive detection checks on the sensor, that is to say verifying that a detection has taken place, because these checks are systematically made positive by the value true resulting from the verification of the predetermined conditions when these are fulfilled.
  • adapted to control means carrying out only negative detection checks that is to say verifying that no detection takes place, the door OR is replaced by a NOT gate at the output of the status control module and an AND gate combines this output with the sensor signal.
  • control means control the positive detection as well as the negative detection by the sensor by means of detection control modules
  • interpretation module is placed not directly downstream of the detection zone but directly downstream of any detection control module and that it consists of an OR gate combining the result of the detection control with the result of the verification of predetermined conditions, so that the result of the control seen by the control means is always true if said conditions are met.
  • the detection zones form an integral part of a vehicle handle, which is advantageously mounted on an opening of the vehicle.
  • the present invention also relates to a handle of a motor vehicle sash comprising on the one hand at least one detection zone, on the other hand, a processing device as described above, providing an actuation signal directly usable by control means external to the handle.
  • the detection zone of the handle is sensitive either to a variation of electric or electromagnetic field, or to a cut of a light beam.
  • the detection zone is advantageously arranged on the handle in such a way that the ambient electric or electromagnetic field is disturbed or that the optical beam is cut when a hand is engaged in the handle.
  • the present invention relates to a motor vehicle comprising at least one opening, at least one detection zone and a processing device as described above.
  • the opening is provided with a handle which integrates the treatment device.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a door handle of a motor vehicle
  • FIG. 2 is similar to FIG. 1 and shows the detection field of each detection zone of the handle
  • FIG. 3 is a functional diagram illustrating a treatment method according to the invention.
  • FIG. 4 is a detailed view of an interpretation module of the diagram in FIG. 3
  • FIG. 5 is a detailed view of another interpretation module of the diagram of FIG. 3
  • FIG. 6 is a block diagram of the steps implemented in an opening handle during an attempt to lock the latter
  • FIG. 7 is a schematic representation of another opening handle
  • FIG. 8 is a first graph illustrating a method implemented by the handle of FIG. 7
  • FIG. 9 is a second graph illustrating another method implemented by the same handle.
  • a handle 1 comprises a central gripping part 2 and two fixing ends, one 3 pivoting the other 4 sliding, allowing the operation of the handle for opening the door.
  • the central part 2 has an internal clearance 5 leaving a space for the fingers of a user wishing to pull the handle towards him.
  • the handle comprises an approach detection zone 6, delimited by a broken line in the drawing.
  • the handle On the outside and to the right of its sliding end 4, the handle has a tactile detection zone 7 also delimited by a broken line and constituted by a capacitive sensor 8, a portion of which appears through the open end 9 of the handle.
  • This tactile zone 7 is intended to detect the application of a finger of the user while the approach zone 6 detects the fact that a user passes his fingers behind the handle to grasp it.
  • the detection fields 6a, 7a of these two zones are of different dimensions, the approach detection zone 6 having a greater range than the tactile detection zone 7.
  • the handle is covered with a metallic paint giving a chrome finish (not visible in the drawing).
  • This painting interferes with the visibility of the two sensors and causes, or risks causing, at least partial overlapping of the two detection zones 6, 7.
  • the ergonomics of the handle can be such that the hand of the user grasping or approaching said handle is simultaneously in the two detection fields 6a, 7a, even if the latter do not overlap.
  • the two sensors embodying the detection zones 6, 7 sometimes provide imprecise information.
  • processing means 10 shown schematically in FIG. 3, are interposed between the detection zones 6, 7 and control means 11, which are used for determining and executing the actions requested by the user.
  • the processing means 10 comprise state modules 12, 13 and interpretation modules 14, 15.
  • Each status module 12, 13 is connected to different detectors 16 - 19 placed on the vehicle, detectors whose function is to collect the overall state of the vehicle.
  • the detector 16 signals that an opening of the vehicle is locked.
  • the detector 17 signals that a door is open, etc.
  • the state modules 12, 13 are capable of globally determining the state of the vehicle with regard to the criteria relevant for triggering an action corresponding to the user's requests.
  • the role of the module d interpretation 14 is to ensure that, seen by the control means 11, the detection zone 6 always provides a true signal when the predetermined conditions are verified by the status module.
  • an OR gate 20 as shown in FIG. 4, is satisfactory.
  • the signal arriving at the control means 11 is systematically false when the corresponding predetermined conditions are verified, even if the detection zone emits a true signal.
  • a NON gate 21 is placed at the output of the state control module and an AND gate 22 following this NO gate to combine this output with the signal from the sensor, in order to provide to the control means 11 a signal which is that of the sensor when the predetermined conditions are not met and which is always false when these conditions are met.
  • Other arrangements of the interpretation modules are naturally possible depending on the specifics of the control means.
  • control means can also be modified in their organization, for example by installing control shunts so as to ignore the reading of the detection zone when the corresponding predetermined conditions are fulfilled.
  • the treatment method according to the invention can, for example, be implemented if the exterior tactile detection zone 7 corresponds to a manual locking command for the opening of the vehicle and the interior approach detection zone 6 is used to ensure the unlocking the lock, releasing the lock allowing the door to be opened and the alarm to be deactivated.
  • the status modules 12, 13 and the interpretation modules 14, 15 are preferably integrated into the handle so that the processing method according to the invention takes place inside the handle and so that the latter is seen by the vehicle control means as a member delivering clear locking and unlocking signals, in the sense that the control means no longer have to discriminate between different possible action requests made by the user.
  • FIG. 6 shows an example of a succession of steps of the treatment method which can be implemented in the handle.
  • a detection signal following an activation of the detection zone 6 is perceived by the interpretation module.
  • the interpretation module interrogates the status module 12, which, during a step 32, interrogates the various detectors 16-19 placed on the vehicle and, during the next step 33 , provides the status module 14 with globalized environment information.
  • a next step 34, executed in the interpretation module 14, consists of a test of the environmental information received. If predetermined conditions are not fulfilled, the process stops and no signal is sent to the control means 11.
  • the interpretation module 14 triggers, during a step 35, a time countdown of a predetermined time.
  • a test of the detection zone 6 is again carried out to find out whether the detection signal is still present.
  • a locking signal is sent to control means 11. If not, the process continues to proceed by a test, corresponding to the step 37, test during which a switch present on the handle (switch not shown in FIGS. 1 and 2) is scanned. If it is found that the switch has switched before the expiration of the predetermined time, the process stops and no signal is delivered to the control means. On the other hand, if the switch has not flipped, the method goes to a next step 38 during which it is tested whether the predetermined time has elapsed in order either to complete the test in step 36 or to exit the loop for delivering to the control means 11 a locking signal.
  • control means receive a directly executable locking signal.
  • a door handle 40 which is mounted on the external part of an opening leaf 41 of a motor vehicle, is equipped with an optical approach sensor 42 capable of emitting and receiving an optical beam 43.
  • This optical sensor 42 is electrically connected to a recognition device 44 of a hands-free access system so as to emit towards it a characteristic electrical signal when it detects a cut in the optical beam.
  • the transmitter and the optical receiver of the approach sensor 42 are mounted in the handle and the optical beam 43 is emitted from the handle in the direction of the leaf 41 and reflected by the latter towards the handle so that 'It is cut when the hand of a vehicle user is engaged in the handle, which is detected by the recognition device 44.
  • the recognition device is installed inside the vehicle as is known and is capable of communicate with a portable identification unit worn by the user of the vehicle.
  • the door handle is provided for example with a two-position switch 46 which changes position when the handle is moved from a so-called released rest position to an engaged position when it is operated, which allows the opening of the vehicle door.
  • a two-position switch 46 which changes position when the handle is moved from a so-called released rest position to an engaged position when it is operated, which allows the opening of the vehicle door.
  • the released position of the handle is shown on the switch 46 by 47 and the engaged position of the handle is indicated by 48.
  • This switch is connected to the recognition device 44 to supply it with a signal representative of the change in position of the switch and therefore of the handle.
  • a two-position open (interior) door switch could be envisaged which changes position when the leaf is moved from the closed position to the open position or vice versa.
  • FIG. 8 which is a representation of signals 51 and 52 respectively emitted by the switch 46 and by the approach sensor 42 in the direction of the recognition device, the corresponding evolution over time of the state 53 has been represented.
  • the opening of the vehicle which will preferably be the driver's door of the vehicle.
  • the door is unlocked.
  • the handle is in a relaxed state: the electrical signal 51 indicates that the switch 46 is in the position 47.
  • the device recognition 44 verifies that the switch 46 remains in position 47 (the handle remaining released), which is indicated by the signal 51, for a duration ⁇ t which is prerecorded (of the order of 2 seconds) counted from the detection of the change of state of the switch 46. If the recognition device does not detect a change of state of the switch 46 during the duration ⁇ t, it controls the locking of the door of the vehicle at the end of the duration ⁇ t. According to another embodiment of the method according to the invention illustrated in FIG. 3, the locking of the vehicle sash is controlled as soon as the optical beam is no longer cut, which is detected by a change in the signal 52.
  • FIG. 9 contributes to making the hands-free access system more responsive.
  • the opening can be locked in a shorter time than ⁇ t.
  • the switch 46 must nevertheless be monitored after having detected that the beam is no longer cut. More particularly, if very shortly after the detection that the optical beam 43 has been cut, the switch 46 changes position (the handle for example is engaged), it is necessary to command the unlocking of the door of the vehicle as soon as the detection of the change of position of the switch since it is then a situation where the user wants to open the door of the vehicle.
  • the implementation of the method according to FIG. 8 can be adapted to introduce a time delay ⁇ t intended to avoid instabilities of the succession type of locking and unlocking when the user moves his hand in the handle.
  • the recognition device 44 may make an attempt to authenticate an organ identification 49, so as to further condition the locking of the vehicle to the authentication of the identification member 49.
  • the authentication can advantageously be supplemented by a location of the identification member 49 so that the command the door lock is only triggered if the identification member 49 authenticated by the recognition device 44 is outside the vehicle.
  • the door is locked conventionally on detection of the cut in the optical beam 43 and the change in position of the handle 40 (which is operated) which is indicated by a change in the signal 52.
  • the method according to the invention makes it possible to automatically lock and unlock a vehicle window using a hands-free access system equipped with an approach sensor and a two-position switch.

Abstract

The invention concerns a method for processing a motor vehicle detection signals. It consists in taking into account data concerning the surroundings to interpret the detection signals and deliver actuating signals. The invention also concerns a device for implementing said method and an opening panel handle (1) and a vehicle comprising such a device.

Description

PROCEDE DE TRAITEMENT DE SIGNAUX DE DETECTION POUR UN VEHICULE AUTOMOBILEMETHOD FOR PROCESSING DETECTION SIGNALS FOR A MOTOR VEHICLE
La présente invention concerne un procédé de traitement de signaux de détection provenant d'au moins une zone de détection disposée sur un véhicule automobile, un dispositif pour la mise en œuvre de ce procédé, une poignée d'ouvrant et un véhicule automobile muni de tels moyens.The present invention relates to a method for processing detection signals originating from at least one detection zone arranged on a motor vehicle, a device for implementing this method, a door handle and a motor vehicle provided with such means.
Les véhicules automobiles munis d'au moins un système de condamnation centralisée comprennent d'une part différents capteurs qui collectent des informations traduisant les actions des utilisateurs et d'autre part des moyens de commande qui exploitent ces informations pour déclencher différents dispositifs en réponse auxdites actions des utilisateurs.Motor vehicles fitted with at least one centralized locking system comprise on the one hand different sensors which collect information reflecting the actions of the users and on the other hand control means which exploit this information to trigger different devices in response to said actions users.
Dans les véhicules modernes, le recours à des capteurs capacitifs ou optiques tend à se généraliser pour réaliser des fonctions de détection de présence n'utilisant pas de moyens mécaniques.In modern vehicles, the use of capacitive or optical sensors tends to be generalized to perform presence detection functions not using mechanical means.
C'est ainsi que l'on monte des capteurs capacitifs ou optiques sur des poignées d'ouvrants et plus particulièrement sur les portières.This is how capacitive or optical sensors are mounted on door handles and more particularly on the doors.
Ces capteurs sont avantageux en ce qu'ils ne subissent aucune usure mécanique et fournissent donc une information fiable tout au long de leur durée de vie. Les capteurs capacitifs sont par exemple utilisés pour détecter un toucher, on les désigne alors capteurs tactiles, ou l'approche de la main d'un utilisateur par rapport à une surface donnée, on les nomme alors capteurs d'approche.These sensors are advantageous in that they do not undergo any mechanical wear and therefore provide reliable information throughout their lifetime. Capacitive sensors are for example used to detect touch, they are then designated as touch sensors, or the approach of a user's hand relative to a given surface, they are then called approach sensors.
Les capteurs optiques détectent des coupures de faisceau lumineux. Ils appartiennent à la catégorie des capteurs d'approche. La présence de tels capteurs pour exécuter différentes commandes est, certes, avantageuse en comparaison avec les capteurs mécaniques, comme cela vient d'être rappelé, mais pose toutefois quelques difficultés liées au fait qu'il faut gérer tous ces capteurs simultanément, ce qui suppose la présence dans le véhicule de moyens électroniques relativement complexes aptes à régler d'éventuels conflits entre capteurs, et qu'il faut supporter le coût d'approvisionnement et de montage de ces capteurs et des moyens électroniques associés.The optical sensors detect breaks in the light beam. They belong to the category of approach sensors. The presence of such sensors to execute different commands is certainly advantageous in comparison with mechanical sensors, as has just been mentioned, but nevertheless poses some difficulties linked to the fact that it is necessary to manage all these sensors simultaneously, which supposes the presence in the vehicle of relatively complex electronic means capable of settling possible conflicts between sensors, and that it is necessary to bear the cost of supplying and mounting these sensors and the associated electronic means.
La présente invention vise à proposer une solution dans laquelle le nombre de capteurs utilisés est optimisé et dans laquelle les moyens électroniques requis dans le véhicule peuvent être simplifiés. Cette invention trouve une application particulièrement intéressante dans les véhicules automobiles munis d'un système dit "mains libres", dans lequel les différentes actions des utilisateurs donnent d'abord lieu à une recherche d'identifiant permettant de savoir si la personne dont l'action a été détectée est un utilisateur autorisé du véhicule.The present invention aims to propose a solution in which the number of sensors used is optimized and in which the electronic means required in the vehicle can be simplified. This invention finds a particularly interesting application in motor vehicles provided with a so-called "hands-free" system, in which the various User actions first give rise to an identifier search allowing to know if the person whose action has been detected is an authorized user of the vehicle.
La présente invention a pour objet un procédé de traitement de signaux de détection provenant d'au moins une zone de détection disposée sur un véhicule automobile, caractérisé en ce qu'il consiste à prendre en compte, suite à la réception desdits signaux de détection, des informations d'environnement caractéristiques d'un état dans lequel se trouve le véhicule, et à interpréter le signal reçu en fonction de ces informations d'environnement pour fournir un signal d'actionnement destiné à des moyens de commande appartenant au véhicule automobile. Au sens de la présente invention, on entend par moyens de commande l'ensemble des dispositifs présents dans le véhicule pour exécuter des ordres de condamnation/décondamnation d'ouvrants, activation/désactivation de coupe-circuit d'alimentation, activation/désactivation d'alarme, démarrage/arrêt de moteur, et plus généralement toute commande de marche/arrêt d'un organe quelconque du véhicule. Grâce à l'invention, on délivre aux moyens de commande, sous forme de signaux d'actionnement, des ordres directement exécutables par lesdits moyens de commande.The subject of the present invention is a method for processing detection signals originating from at least one detection zone arranged on a motor vehicle, characterized in that it consists in taking into account, following the reception of said detection signals, environmental information characteristic of a state in which the vehicle is located, and in interpreting the signal received as a function of this environmental information in order to provide an actuation signal intended for control means belonging to the motor vehicle. For the purposes of the present invention, the term “control means” means all of the devices present in the vehicle to execute orders for locking / unlocking of opening elements, activation / deactivation of the supply circuit breaker, activation / deactivation of alarm, engine start / stop, and more generally any start / stop command from any part of the vehicle. Thanks to the invention, the control means are issued, in the form of actuation signals, orders directly executable by said control means.
En d'autres termes, l'invention opère d'une distinction entre une première catégorie de règles, que l'on pourrait qualifier de discriminantes, permettant de déterminer quelle est l'intention de l'utilisateur lorsqu'il active une zone de détection et une seconde catégorie de règles, que l'on pourrait qualifier d'arbitrales, relatives à la gestion des priorités entre différentes intentions a priori contradictoires ou incompatibles mais exprimées de façon simultanée par un ou plusieurs utilisateurs.In other words, the invention makes a distinction between a first category of rules, which could be described as discriminating, making it possible to determine what the intention of the user is when he activates a detection zone. and a second category of rules, which could be described as arbitrary, relating to the management of priorities between different intentions which are a priori contradictory or incompatible but which are expressed simultaneously by one or more users.
Grâce à l'invention, le procédé de traitement de signaux de détection se charge de l'application des règles discriminantes, ce qui permet d'en délester les moyens de commande qui n'ont plus qu'à assurer, si nécessaire, la gestion des priorités à l'aide des règles arbitrales.Thanks to the invention, the method for processing detection signals takes care of the application of the discriminating rules, which makes it possible to relieve the control means which only have to ensure, if necessary, the management priorities using arbitration rules.
Dans un mode de réalisation particulier, les informations d'environnement concernent l'état de condamnation des ouvrants du véhicule.In a particular embodiment, the environmental information relates to the state of locking of the opening elements of the vehicle.
En d'autres termes, le procédé tient compte du fait que tous les ouvrants ou au moins certains d'entre eux sont verrouillés ou déverrouillés.In other words, the method takes account of the fact that all the openings or at least some of them are locked or unlocked.
Dans certaines circonstances, la seule connaissance des informations d'environnement ne suffit pas pour interpréter correctement une détection. Cela peut être le cas si la détection provient toujours du même capteur alors que l'utilisateur agit en deux emplacements différents du véhicule (par exemple en deux zones apparemment séparées par une délimitation sur une poignée qui ne contient en réalité qu'un seul capteur) dans le but de déclencher deux actions différentes. La discrimination entre les deux actions doit donc être effectuée par le procédé de traitement.In certain circumstances, knowledge of the environmental information alone is not sufficient to correctly interpret a detection. This can be the case if the detection always comes from the same sensor while the user acts in two different locations of the vehicle (for example in two zones apparently separated by a delimitation on a handle which actually contains only one sensor) in order to trigger two different actions. The discrimination between the two actions must therefore be carried out by the treatment process.
A cet effet, selon un mode de mise en œuvre particulier de l'invention, lors de la réception du signal de détection, on prend en compte non seulement des informations d'environnement mais également des informations temporelles liées au signal de détection reçu, par exemple sa durée ou un délai écoulé entre sa réception et un événement supplémentaire provoqué par l'utilisateur.To this end, according to a particular embodiment of the invention, when receiving the detection signal, account is taken not only of environmental information but also of temporal information linked to the detection signal received, by example its duration or a time elapsed between its reception and an additional event caused by the user.
L'invention prévoit différentes catégories de commandes résultant de l'interprétation du signal de détection. L'une de ces commandes est la vérification de l'identité de la personne dont l'action est détectée, vérification qui est particulièrement importante dans le cadre du fonctionnement d'un système "mains libres".The invention provides for different categories of commands resulting from the interpretation of the detection signal. One of these commands is the verification of the identity of the person whose action is detected, verification which is particularly important in the context of the operation of a "hands-free" system.
Pour déclencher une telle action, on contrôle que les informations d'environnement vérifient des conditions prédéterminées, comme par exemple que tous les ouvrants du véhicule sont verrouillés, auquel cas on peut prévoir que la commande de vérification d'identité est suivie d'une commande de déverrouillage.To trigger such an action, it is checked that the environmental information verifies predetermined conditions, such as for example that all the doors of the vehicle are locked, in which case provision may be made for the identity verification command to be followed by a command unlocking.
Dans ce cas, on peut utiliser les informations temporelles pour interpréter le signal reçu comme commande de verrouillage ou de déverrouillage d'un seul ouvrant ou de tous les ouvrants du véhicule.In this case, the time information can be used to interpret the signal received as a command to lock or unlock a single window or all the windows of the vehicle.
Ces informations temporelles peuvent consister en la durée du signal reçu, un signal de courte durée correspondant par exemple au déverrouillage d'un ouvrant associé à la zone de détection tandis qu'un signal de longue durée correspond par exemple au déverrouillage de tous les ouvrants.This time information can consist of the duration of the received signal, a short duration signal corresponding for example to the unlocking of an opening element associated with the detection zone while a long duration signal corresponds for example to the unlocking of all opening elements.
Dans une variante, on choisit comme information temporelle liée au signal de détection reçu le délai entre le début du signal de détection reçu et le changement de position d'un commutateur.In a variant, the time delay between the start of the received detection signal and the change of position of a switch is chosen as time information linked to the detection signal received.
Par exemple, le commutateur peut être lié à une poignée d'ouverture d'un ouvrant, le commutateur changeant de position lorsque la poignée est manœuvrée ou relâchée, l'ouvrant associé étant par exemple déverrouillé seul si le délai entre le début de la détection et le changement de position du commutateur est inférieur à une durée prédéterminée tandis que tous les ouvrants sont par exemple déverrouillés si ledit délai atteint la durée prédéterminée.For example, the switch can be linked to an opening handle of an opening, the switch changing position when the handle is operated or released, the associated opening being for example unlocked alone if the delay between the start of detection and the change of position of the switch is less than a predetermined duration while all the doors are for example unlocked if said delay reaches the predetermined duration.
On peut également dans une variante, adopter la règle que l'ouvrant est déverrouillé si le délai est supérieur à une durée prédéterminée.It is also possible, in a variant, to adopt the rule that the door is unlocked if the time is greater than a predetermined duration.
Dans un mode de réalisation particulier, le procédé selon l'invention est mis en œuvre pour verrouiller automatiquement un ouvrant d'un véhicule automobile à l'aide d'un système d'accès mains libres comprenant un dispositif de reconnaissance destiné à être installé à l'intérieur du véhicule et un organe d'identification portatif, ledit dispositif de reconnaissance étant apte à communiquer à distance avec l'organe d'identification pour l'authentifier.In a particular embodiment, the method according to the invention is implemented for automatically locking a door leaf of a motor vehicle using a hands-free access system comprising a recognition device intended to be installed inside the vehicle and a portable identification device, said recognition device being able to communicate remotely with the identification device to authenticate it.
Ce procédé s'applique à un véhicule équipé d'un système d'accès mains libres configuré pour qu'un utilisateur du véhicule puisse entrer dans celui-ci sans avoir à manipuler de clé ni de télécommande.This method applies to a vehicle equipped with a hands-free access system configured so that a user of the vehicle can enter it without having to handle a key or a remote control.
Un tel véhicule comprend le plus souvent un capteur d'approche couplé au dispositif de reconnaissance du système d'accès mains libres pour qu'une tentative d'authentification soit déclenchée lorsque le capteur d'approche détecte la présence d'un utilisateur. Ainsi, dans le cas où la tentative d'authentification est un succès, le dispositif de reconnaissance déclenche le déverrouillage d'un ou de plusieurs ouvrants du véhicule.Such a vehicle most often comprises an approach sensor coupled to the recognition device of the hands-free access system so that an authentication attempt is triggered when the approach sensor detects the presence of a user. Thus, in the event that the authentication attempt is successful, the recognition device triggers the unlocking of one or more openings of the vehicle.
En revanche, pour déclencher le verrouillage des ouvrants d'un véhicule équipé d'un système d'accès mains libres, il est généralement nécessaire à l'utilisateur soit d'actionner un bouton poussoir de l'organe d'identification portatif, qui joue alors un rôle de télécommande, soit de quitter la zone de communication entre le dispositif de reconnaissance et l'organe d'identification pour que le dispositif de reconnaissance commande implicitement le verrouillage du véhicule.On the other hand, to trigger the locking of the doors of a vehicle equipped with a hands-free access system, it is generally necessary for the user either to actuate a push button of the portable identification member, which plays then a role of remote control, that is to leave the communication zone between the recognition device and the identification member so that the recognition device implicitly commands the locking of the vehicle.
Le défaut de ces deux modes de verrouillage du véhicule est qu'ils ne permettent pas à l'utilisateur de déclencher le verrouillage de son véhicule en étant placé à proximité de celui-ci pour vérifier que le verrouillage a bien lieu, sans avoir à manipuler l'organe d'identification portatif.The defect of these two vehicle locking modes is that they do not allow the user to trigger the locking of his vehicle by being placed close to it to verify that the locking takes place, without having to handle the portable identification unit.
Un des buts de la présente invention est de remédier à cet inconvénient en apportant une amélioration à l'ergonomie des systèmes d'accès mains libres.One of the aims of the present invention is to remedy this drawback by improving the ergonomics of hands-free access systems.
A cet effet, dans un mode de réalisation particulier, le procédé selon l'invention consiste à verrouiller automatiquement un ouvrant d'un véhicule automobile à l'aide d'un système d'accès mains libres comprenant un dispositif de reconnaissance destiné à être installé à l'intérieur du véhicule et un organe d'identification portatif, ledit dispositif de reconnaissance étant apte à communiquer à distance avec l'organe d'identification pour l'authentifier, en fournissant aux moyens de commande du véhicule, suite à l'authentification de l'organe d'identification, un signal de verrouillage ou de déverrouillage de l'ouvrant du véhicule.To this end, in a particular embodiment, the method according to the invention consists in automatically locking a window of a motor vehicle using a hands-free access system comprising a recognition device intended to be installed inside the vehicle and a portable identification member, said recognition device being able to communicate remotely with the identification member to authenticate it, by providing the vehicle control means, following authentication of the identification unit, a signal for locking or unlocking the opening of the vehicle.
Avec un tel procédé, il est possible de verrouiller l'ouvrant du véhicule sans télécommande en restant à proximité du véhicule.With such a method, it is possible to lock the opening of the vehicle without remote control by remaining close to the vehicle.
Le verrouillage du véhicule peut par exemple être réalisé en activant une zone de détection avec la main mais sans manœuvrer la poignée de porte du véhicule qui est dans l'état fermé. Il suffit de surveiller par exemple un changement de position d'un commutateur à deux positions lié au mouvement de la poignée pour détecter la position relâchée ou enclenchée de la poignée. On pourrait tout aussi bien surveiller le changement de position d'un contacteur de porte ouverte (intérieur) qui détecte la position fermée ou ouverte de la porte du véhicule. Ce procédé présente l'avantage de pouvoir être mis en œuvre avec les pièces déjà présentes sur un système d'accès mains libres configuré pour déclencher automatiquement le verrouillage d'un ouvrant du véhicule.The vehicle can be locked, for example, by activating a detection zone with the hand but without operating the door handle of the vehicle which is in the closed state. Just watch for example a change in position of a two-position switch linked to the movement of the handle to detect the released or engaged position of the handle. We could just as easily monitor the change in position of an open (interior) door switch that detects the closed or open position of the vehicle door. This method has the advantage of being able to be implemented with the parts already present on a hands-free access system configured to automatically trigger the locking of an opening leaf of the vehicle.
Selon un mode de mise en œuvre préféré du procédé selon l'invention, on délivre un signal de verrouillage de l'ouvrant du véhicule, avant l'expiration d'un délai prédéterminé, dès que le capteur d'approche ne fournit plus de signal de détection. De cette manière, on peut déclencher le verrouillage du véhicule en un temps très court.According to a preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, a signal for locking the opening of the vehicle is delivered, before the expiration of a predetermined period, as soon as the approach sensor no longer supplies a signal detection. In this way, the vehicle can be locked in a very short time.
Selon encore un autre mode de mise en œuvre particulier du procédé selon l'invention, ledit délai prédéterminé a une durée préenregistrée dans le dispositif de reconnaissance, de sorte que des instabilités de fonctionnement liées aux critères de déverrouillage peuvent être évitées.According to yet another particular implementation mode of the method according to the invention, said predetermined delay has a duration prerecorded in the recognition device, so that operating instabilities linked to the unlocking criteria can be avoided.
Selon un autre mode de mise en œuvre particulier du procédé selon l'invention, on délivre un signal de verrouillage de l'ouvrant seulement si le dispositif de reconnaissance authentifie l'organe d'identification, le verrouillage du véhicule ne pouvant être réalisé que par un utilisateur porteur d'un organe d'identification. La présente invention concerne également un problème technique particulier qui s'inscrit dans le cadre du problème plus général, précédemment expliqué, de la gestion simultanée de plusieurs capteurs.According to another particular mode of implementation of the method according to the invention, a locking signal of the opening is delivered only if the recognition device authenticates the identification member, the locking of the vehicle can only be achieved by a user carrying an identification device. The present invention also relates to a particular technical problem which is part of the more general problem, previously explained, of the simultaneous management of several sensors.
En effet, sur les poignées de portières, deux capteurs capacitifs peuvent être prévus : l'un orienté vers l'intérieur de la peignée et qui remplit la fonction de capteur d'approche, l'autre orienté vers l'extérieur de la poignée et qui remplit la fonction de capteur tactile.In fact, on the door handles, two capacitive sensors can be provided: one oriented towards the inside of the comb and which fulfills the function of approach sensor, the other oriented towards the outside of the handle and which performs the function of touch sensor.
Le capteur d'approche détecte si l'utilisateur passe ses doigts derrière la poignée pour la saisir et, par exemple, ouvrir la portière.The approach sensor detects if the user runs his fingers behind the handle to grab it and, for example, open the door.
Le capteur tactile détecte si l'utilisateur applique un doigt sur ledit capteur, par exemple pour condamner tous les ouvrants du véhicule.The touch sensor detects whether the user applies a finger to said sensor, for example to lock all the doors of the vehicle.
Chaque capteur correspond donc pour l'utilisateur à une fonction particulière.Each sensor therefore corresponds for the user to a particular function.
Une difficulté qui se pose avec ces capteurs capacitifs est que leur bon fonctionnement est conditionné par l'absence, dans leur environnement, de matériaux susceptibles de les perturber, comme les matériaux électriquement conducteurs qui soit masquent le ou les capteurs et les inhibent, soit étalent leurs zones de détection de sorte qu'en cas de détection, tout capteur ayant réagi n'est pas nécessairement un capteur concerné par l'action déclenchée par l'utilisateur.A difficulty which arises with these capacitive sensors is that their proper functioning is conditioned by the absence, in their environment, of materials liable to disturb them, such as electrically conductive materials which either mask the sensor or sensors and inhibit or spread them out. their detection areas so that in the event of detection, any sensor which has reacted is not necessarily a sensor concerned by the action triggered by the user.
En d'autres termes, une détection d'approche peut être prise à tort pour une détection tactile suite à l'activation inopportune des deux capteurs, introduisant ainsi une information erronée dans les moyens de commande des signaux de détection.In other words, an approach detection can be mistaken for a tactile detection following the untimely activation of the two sensors, thus introducing erroneous information into the means for controlling the detection signals.
Une telle perturbation se produit en particulier lorsque les capteurs sont recouverts d'une peinture électriquement conductrice.Such a disturbance occurs in particular when the sensors are covered with an electrically conductive paint.
Tel est généralement le cas du fait de la présence de particules métalliques introduites dans les peintures afin de réaliser leur application par attraction électrostatique, comme cela est connu. Ce phénomène est aggravé si la peinture est une couche de métallisation, auquel cas, plus que les particules nécessaires à la mise en œuvre du procédé de peinture électrostatique, ce sont les pigments métalliques nécessaires au rendu esthétique qui nuisent au bon fonctionnement des capteurs.This is generally the case due to the presence of metallic particles introduced into the paints in order to carry out their application by electrostatic attraction, as is known. This phenomenon is aggravated if the paint is a metallization layer, in which case, more than the particles necessary for the implementation of the electrostatic painting process, it is the metallic pigments necessary for the aesthetic rendering that affect the proper functioning of the sensors.
La présente invention vise donc aussi à proposer une solution permettant de surmonter cette difficulté liée à la présence de matériaux perturbant le bon fonctionnement des capteurs.The present invention therefore also aims to propose a solution which makes it possible to overcome this difficulty linked to the presence of materials disturbing the proper functioning of the sensors.
En effet, dans un mode de réalisation particulier de l'invention, lorsque les informations d'environnement remplissent des conditions prédéterminées, le signal de détection reçu est interprété comme devant être ignoré. Ainsi, le procédé selon l'invention permet d'intervenir sur les signaux fournis par plusieurs capteurs avant que lesdits signaux ne provoquent des actions indésirables.In fact, in a particular embodiment of the invention, when the environmental information fulfills predetermined conditions, the detection signal received is interpreted as having to be ignored. Thus, the method according to the invention makes it possible to intervene on the signals supplied by several sensors before said signals cause undesirable actions.
De ce fait, dans un mode de mise en œuvre particulier, on peut traiter les signaux de détection provenant d'au moins deux zones de détections indépendantes, dont chacune est apte à fournir son propre signal de détection. La présente invention tire son originalité du fait que les inventeurs, plutôt que de chercher à palier les déficiences des capteurs lorsqu'ils sont placés dans un environnement défavorable, ont recherché une solution permettant de s'accommoder d'un fonctionnement dégradé desdits capteurs sans dégradation quant à l'analyse des signaux de détection. Dans un mode de mise en œuvre particulier de l'invention, les zones de détection sont montées sur une poignée du véhicule.Therefore, in a particular embodiment, it is possible to process the detection signals coming from at least two independent detection zones, each of which is capable of providing its own detection signal. The present invention draws its originality from the fact that the inventors, rather than seeking to overcome the deficiencies of the sensors when they are placed in an unfavorable environment, have sought a solution making it possible to accommodate a degraded operation of said sensors without degradation. as for the analysis of the detection signals. In a particular embodiment of the invention, the detection zones are mounted on a handle of the vehicle.
Dans une variante avantageuse, la poignée est elle même montée sur un ouvrant du véhicule.In an advantageous variant, the handle is itself mounted on an opening of the vehicle.
Conformément à l'invention, les zones de détection peuvent être revêtues d'un matériau susceptible de perturber leur bon fonctionnement. Un tel matériau peut être un matériau électriquement conducteur tel qu'une peinture incorporant des particules métalliques , les zones de détection étant des zones sensibles à une variation de champ électrique ou électromagnétique.In accordance with the invention, the detection zones can be coated with a material capable of disturbing their proper functioning. Such a material can be an electrically conductive material such as a paint incorporating particles metallic, the detection zones being zones sensitive to a variation of electric or electromagnetic field.
Selon l'invention, le fait d'ignorer le signal d'une zone de détection peut consister en différentes mises en œuvre. Tout d'abord, ignorer le signal peut consister à inhiber des moyens de lecture du signal de la zone de détection.According to the invention, the fact of ignoring the signal from a detection zone can consist of different implementations. First of all, ignoring the signal can consist of inhibiting means for reading the signal from the detection zone.
Ignorer le signal peut également être réalisé en remplaçant ledit signal par un signal constant de valeur booléenne vraie, de manière qu'une détection soit considérée comme ayant eu lieu dès lors que les conditions prédéterminées sont vérifiées et indépendamment d'une réelle détection signalée par le capteur.Ignoring the signal can also be achieved by replacing said signal with a constant signal of true boolean value, so that a detection is considered to have taken place as soon as the predetermined conditions are verified and independently of a real detection signaled by the sensor.
Une autre possibilité peut consister à remplacer le résultat de tout contrôle effectué suc le signal de détection, c'est-à-dire aussi bien les contrôles de détection que les contrôles d'absence de détection, par la valeur booléenne vraie, ce qui revient à ne plus tenir compte du signal provenant du capteur considéré, qu'une détection soit ou non réalisée.Another possibility may consist in replacing the result of any control carried out on the detection signal, that is to say both the detection controls and the non-detection controls, with the true Boolean value, which amounts to to no longer take into account the signal from the sensor in question, whether or not a detection is carried out.
La présente invention a également pour objet un dispositif pour la mise en œuvre du procédé décrit ci-dessus.The present invention also relates to a device for implementing the method described above.
Un tel dispositif est constitué par des moyens de traitement comprenant au moins un module d'état apte à prendre en compte des informations d'environnement, ainsi qu'au moins un module d'interprétation de signaux, ledit module d'interprétation fournissant un signal d'actionnement dépendant des informations d'environnement et directement utilisables par des moyens de commande.Such a device is constituted by processing means comprising at least one state module capable of taking into account environmental information, as well as at least one signal interpretation module, said interpretation module providing a signal. actuation dependent on environmental information and directly usable by control means.
Dans un mode de réalisation particulier de l'invention, le dispositif comporte en outre des moyens de mesure de durée fournissant une information liée au signal de détection reçu et/ou des moyens de vérification de conditions prédéterminées.In a particular embodiment of the invention, the device further comprises duration measurement means providing information related to the detection signal received and / or means for verifying predetermined conditions.
Dans un mode de réalisation particulier, le module d'interprétation est placé directement en aval d'un capteur et est constitué par une porte OU acceptant en entrée d'une part les signaux du capteur, d'autre part le résultat, fourni par le module d'état, de la vérification des conditions. Ce mode de réalisation est adapté à des moyens de commande n'effectuant que des contrôles de détection positive sur le capteur, c'est-à-dire vérifiant qu'une détection a eu lieu, car ces contrôles sont systématiquement rendus positifs par la valeur vraie résultant de la vérification des conditions prédéterminées lorsque ces dernières sont remplies. Dans une variante, adaptée à des moyens de commande n'effectuant que des contrôles de détection négative, c'est-à-dire vérifiant qu'aucune détection n'a lieu, la porte OU est remplacée par une porte NON en sortie du module de contrôle d'état et une porte ET combine cette sortie au signal du capteur.In a particular embodiment, the interpretation module is placed directly downstream of a sensor and is constituted by an OR gate accepting as input on the one hand the signals from the sensor, on the other hand the result, provided by the status module, checking conditions. This embodiment is suitable for control means performing only positive detection checks on the sensor, that is to say verifying that a detection has taken place, because these checks are systematically made positive by the value true resulting from the verification of the predetermined conditions when these are fulfilled. In a variant, adapted to control means carrying out only negative detection checks, that is to say verifying that no detection takes place, the door OR is replaced by a NOT gate at the output of the status control module and an AND gate combines this output with the sensor signal.
Enfin, si les moyens de commande contrôlent la détection positive ainsi que la détection négative par le capteur grâce à des modules de contrôle de détection, il est préférable que le module d'interprétation soit placé non pas directement en aval de la zone de détection mais directement en aval de tout module de contrôle de détection et qu'il soit constitué par une porte OU combinant le résultat du contrôle de détection au résultat de la vérification de conditions prédéterminées, de manière que le résultat du contrôle vu par les moyens de commande soit toujours vrai si lesdites conditions sont remplies.Finally, if the control means control the positive detection as well as the negative detection by the sensor by means of detection control modules, it is preferable that the interpretation module is placed not directly downstream of the detection zone but directly downstream of any detection control module and that it consists of an OR gate combining the result of the detection control with the result of the verification of predetermined conditions, so that the result of the control seen by the control means is always true if said conditions are met.
Dans un mode de réalisation particulier de l'invention, les zones de détection font partie intégrante d'une poignée de véhicule, laquelle est avantageusement montée sur un ouvrant du véhicule.In a particular embodiment of the invention, the detection zones form an integral part of a vehicle handle, which is advantageously mounted on an opening of the vehicle.
La présente invention a également pour objet une poignée d'ouvrant de véhicule automobile comportant d'une part au moins une zone de détection, d'autre part, un dispositif de traitement tel que décrit ci-dessus, fournissant un signal d'actionnement directement utilisable par des moyens de commande extérieurs à la poignée.The present invention also relates to a handle of a motor vehicle sash comprising on the one hand at least one detection zone, on the other hand, a processing device as described above, providing an actuation signal directly usable by control means external to the handle.
Dans un mode de réalisation particulier, la zone de détection de la poignée est sensible soit à une variation de champ électrique ou électromagnétique, soit à une coupure d'un faisceau lumineux.In a particular embodiment, the detection zone of the handle is sensitive either to a variation of electric or electromagnetic field, or to a cut of a light beam.
La zone de détection est avantageusement disposée sur la poignée de telle façon que le champ électrique ou électromagnétique ambiant est perturbé ou que le faisceau optique est coupé quand une main est engagée dans la poignée.The detection zone is advantageously arranged on the handle in such a way that the ambient electric or electromagnetic field is disturbed or that the optical beam is cut when a hand is engaged in the handle.
Enfin, la présente invention a pour objet un véhicule automobile comprenant au moins un ouvrant, au moins une zone de détection et un dispositif de traitement tel que décrit ci-dessus.Finally, the present invention relates to a motor vehicle comprising at least one opening, at least one detection zone and a processing device as described above.
Dans un mode de réalisation particulier, l'ouvrant est muni d'une poignée qui intègre le dispositif de traitement.In a particular embodiment, the opening is provided with a handle which integrates the treatment device.
Dans le but de faciliter la compréhension de l'invention, on va maintenant en décrire un mode de réalisation donné à titre d'exemple non limitatif, à l'aide des dessins annexés dans lesquels : la figure 1 est une vue en perspective d'une poignée de portière d'un véhicule automobile, la figure 2 est analogue à la figure 1 et montre le champ de détection de chaque zone de détection de la poignée, la figure 3 est un schéma fonctionnel illustrant un procédé de traitement selon l'invention. la figure 4 est une vue de détail d'un module d'interprétation du schéma de la figure 3, - la figure 5 est une vue de détail d'un autre module d'interprétation du schéma de la figure 3, la figure 6 est un schéma synoptique des étapes mises en œuvre dans une poignée d'ouvrant lors d'une tentative de verrouillage de celle-ci, la figure 7 est une représentation schématique d'une autre poignée d'ouvrant, - la figure 8 est un premier graphe illustrant un procédé mis en œuvre par la poignée de la figure 7, la figure 9 est un deuxième graphe illustrant un autre procédé mis en œuvre par la même poignée.In order to facilitate the understanding of the invention, we will now describe an embodiment given by way of nonlimiting example, using the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 is a perspective view of a door handle of a motor vehicle, FIG. 2 is similar to FIG. 1 and shows the detection field of each detection zone of the handle, FIG. 3 is a functional diagram illustrating a treatment method according to the invention. FIG. 4 is a detailed view of an interpretation module of the diagram in FIG. 3, FIG. 5 is a detailed view of another interpretation module of the diagram of FIG. 3, FIG. 6 is a block diagram of the steps implemented in an opening handle during an attempt to lock the latter, FIG. 7 is a schematic representation of another opening handle, - FIG. 8 is a first graph illustrating a method implemented by the handle of FIG. 7, FIG. 9 is a second graph illustrating another method implemented by the same handle.
Dans le mode de réalisation décrit, une poignée 1 comprend une partie centrale 2 de préhension et deux extrémités de fixation, l'une 3 pivotante l'autre 4 glissante, permettant la manœuvre de la poignée pour l'ouverture de la portière.In the embodiment described, a handle 1 comprises a central gripping part 2 and two fixing ends, one 3 pivoting the other 4 sliding, allowing the operation of the handle for opening the door.
La partie centrale 2 comporte un dégagement intérieur 5 laissant un espace pour les doigts d'un utilisateur souhaitant tirer la poignée vers lui.The central part 2 has an internal clearance 5 leaving a space for the fingers of a user wishing to pull the handle towards him.
Dans la région correspondant à ce dégagement 5, du côté intérieur, la poignée comporte une zone de détection d'approche 6, délimitée par un trait interrompu sur le dessin.In the region corresponding to this clearance 5, on the interior side, the handle comprises an approach detection zone 6, delimited by a broken line in the drawing.
Du côté extérieur et au droit de son extrémité glissante 4, la poignée comporte une zone de détection tactile 7 délimitée elle aussi par un trait interrompu et constituée par un capteur capacitif 8 dont une portion apparaît par l'extrémité ouverte 9 de la poignée. Cette zone tactile 7 est prévue pour détecter l'application d'un doigt de l'utilisateur tandis que la zone d'approche 6 détecte le fait qu'un utilisateur passe ses doigts derrière la poignée pour la saisir.On the outside and to the right of its sliding end 4, the handle has a tactile detection zone 7 also delimited by a broken line and constituted by a capacitive sensor 8, a portion of which appears through the open end 9 of the handle. This tactile zone 7 is intended to detect the application of a finger of the user while the approach zone 6 detects the fact that a user passes his fingers behind the handle to grasp it.
On constate, sur la figure 2, que les champs de détection 6a, 7a de ces deux zones sont de dimensions différentes, la zone de détection d'approche 6 ayant une plus grande portée que la zone de détection tactile 7.It can be seen in FIG. 2 that the detection fields 6a, 7a of these two zones are of different dimensions, the approach detection zone 6 having a greater range than the tactile detection zone 7.
La poignée est recouverte d'une peinture métallisée donnant un rendu chromé (non visible sur le dessin).The handle is covered with a metallic paint giving a chrome finish (not visible in the drawing).
Cette peinture gène la visibilité des deux capteurs et provoque, ou risque de provoquer, un chevauchement au moins partiel des deux zones de détection 6, 7. De plus, l'ergonomie de la poignée peut être telle que la main de l'utilisateur saisissant ou approchant ladite poignée se trouve simultanément dans les deux champs de détection 6a, 7a, même si celles-ci ne se chevauchent pas.This painting interferes with the visibility of the two sensors and causes, or risks causing, at least partial overlapping of the two detection zones 6, 7. In addition, the ergonomics of the handle can be such that the hand of the user grasping or approaching said handle is simultaneously in the two detection fields 6a, 7a, even if the latter do not overlap.
De ce fait, les deux capteurs matérialisant les zones de détection 6, 7 fournissent quelquefois des informations imprécises.As a result, the two sensors embodying the detection zones 6, 7 sometimes provide imprecise information.
Conformément à l'invention, des moyens de traitement 10, représentés de façon schématique à la figure 3, sont intercalés entre les zones de détection 6, 7 et des moyens de commande 11 , lesquels servent à la détermination et à l'exécution des actions demandées par l'utilisateur. Comme on le voit à la figure 3, les moyens de traitement 10 comprennent des modules d'état 12, 13 et des modules d'interprétation 14, 15.According to the invention, processing means 10, shown schematically in FIG. 3, are interposed between the detection zones 6, 7 and control means 11, which are used for determining and executing the actions requested by the user. As can be seen in FIG. 3, the processing means 10 comprise state modules 12, 13 and interpretation modules 14, 15.
Chaque module d'état 12, 13 est relié à différents détecteurs 16 - 19 placés sur le véhicule, détecteurs dont la fonction est de recueillir l'état global du véhicule.Each status module 12, 13 is connected to different detectors 16 - 19 placed on the vehicle, detectors whose function is to collect the overall state of the vehicle.
Par exemple, le détecteur 16 signale qu'un ouvrant du véhicule est condamné. Le détecteur 17 signale qu'une portière est ouverte, etc.For example, the detector 16 signals that an opening of the vehicle is locked. The detector 17 signals that a door is open, etc.
Ainsi, les modules d'état 12, 13 sont capables de déterminer globalement l'état du véhicule au regard des critères pertinents pour le déclenchement d'une action correspondant aux requêtes de l'utilisateur.Thus, the state modules 12, 13 are capable of globally determining the state of the vehicle with regard to the criteria relevant for triggering an action corresponding to the user's requests.
Sous l'hypothèse que la zone de détection 6 intéresse les moyens de commande 11 uniquement selon le critère d'une détection positive, c'est-à-dire d'une présence détectée dans le champs de détection 6a, le rôle du module d'interprétation 14 est de faire en sorte que, vue par les moyens de commande 11 , la zone de détection 6 fournisse toujours un signal vrai lorsque les conditions prédéterminées sont vérifiées par le module d'état. A cet effet, une porte OU 20, comme représenté à la figure 4, donne satisfaction.Under the assumption that the detection zone 6 concerns the control means 11 only according to the criterion of a positive detection, that is to say of a presence detected in the detection field 6a, the role of the module d interpretation 14 is to ensure that, seen by the control means 11, the detection zone 6 always provides a true signal when the predetermined conditions are verified by the status module. To this end, an OR gate 20, as shown in FIG. 4, is satisfactory.
De même, sous l'hypothèse que la zone de détection 7 intéresse les moyens de commande 11 pour une absence de détection, c'est-à-dire que les moyens de commande vérifient uniquement que l'utilisateur n'est pas détecté dans la zone de détection 7a, il faut, conformément à l'invention, que le signal parvenant aux moyens de commande 11 soit faux de façon systématique lorsque les conditions prédéterminées correspondantes sont vérifiées et ce, même si la zone de détection émet un signal vrai.Similarly, under the assumption that the detection zone 7 interests the control means 11 for an absence of detection, that is to say that the control means only verify that the user is not detected in the detection zone 7a, it is necessary, in accordance with the invention, that the signal arriving at the control means 11 is systematically false when the corresponding predetermined conditions are verified, even if the detection zone emits a true signal.
A cet effet, comme représenté à la figure 5, on place une porte NON 21 en sortie du module de contrôle d'état et une porte ET 22 à la suite de cette porte NON pour combiner cette sortie au signal du capteur, afin de fournir aux moyens de commande 11 un signal qui est celui du capteur lorsque les conditions prédéterminées ne sont pas remplies et qui est toujours faux lorsque ces conditions sont remplies. D'autres agencements des modules d'interprétation sont naturellement possibles en fonction des spécificités des moyens de commande.To this end, as shown in FIG. 5, a NON gate 21 is placed at the output of the state control module and an AND gate 22 following this NO gate to combine this output with the signal from the sensor, in order to provide to the control means 11 a signal which is that of the sensor when the predetermined conditions are not met and which is always false when these conditions are met. Other arrangements of the interpretation modules are naturally possible depending on the specifics of the control means.
En outre, les moyens de commande peuvent également être modifiés dans leur organisation, par exemple en installant des shunts de contrôle de manière à ignorer la lecture de la zone de détection lorsque les conditions prédéterminées correspondantes sont remplies.In addition, the control means can also be modified in their organization, for example by installing control shunts so as to ignore the reading of the detection zone when the corresponding predetermined conditions are fulfilled.
Le procédé de traitement selon l'invention peut par exemple être mis en œuvre si la zone de détection tactile extérieure 7 correspond à une commande de condamnation manuelle des ouvrants du véhicule et que la zone de détection d'approche intérieure 6 est utilisée pour assurer le déverrouillage de la serrure, la libération de la serrure permettant l'ouverture de la portière et la désactivation de l'alarme.The treatment method according to the invention can, for example, be implemented if the exterior tactile detection zone 7 corresponds to a manual locking command for the opening of the vehicle and the interior approach detection zone 6 is used to ensure the unlocking the lock, releasing the lock allowing the door to be opened and the alarm to be deactivated.
A l'état condamné du véhicule, état qui est fourni par le module d'état, il est inutile de lire la zone tactile de condamnation. Cette zone est donc inhibée conformément à l'invention et toute détection fournie par l'un quelconque des deux signaux de détection est considérée comme venant du capteur intérieur.In the condemned state of the vehicle, a state which is provided by the state module, it is useless to read the touchdown condemnation zone. This zone is therefore inhibited in accordance with the invention and any detection provided by any of the two detection signals is considered to come from the interior sensor.
Inversement, si la portière est ouverte, il est inutile de lire la zone de détection d'approche intérieure et tout signal provenant de l'un quelconque des deux capteurs de la poignée est considéré comme provenant nécessairement de la zone de détection tactile commandant une condamnation manuelle de tous les ouvrants. Les modules d'état 12, 13 et les modules d'interprétation 14, 15 sont de préférence intégrés à la poignée afin que le procédé de traitement selon l'invention se déroule à l'intérieur de la poignée et que cette dernière soit vue par les moyens de commande du véhicule comme un organe délivrant des signaux clairs de verrouillage et de déverrouillage, en ce sens que les moyens de commande n'ont plus à discriminer entre différentes demandes d'action possible formées par l'utilisateur.Conversely, if the door is open, it is useless to read the interior approach detection zone and any signal coming from any one of the two sensors of the handle is considered as necessarily coming from the tactile detection zone commanding a locking manual of all openings. The status modules 12, 13 and the interpretation modules 14, 15 are preferably integrated into the handle so that the processing method according to the invention takes place inside the handle and so that the latter is seen by the vehicle control means as a member delivering clear locking and unlocking signals, in the sense that the control means no longer have to discriminate between different possible action requests made by the user.
On a représenté à la figure 6 un exemple d'une succession d'étapes du procédé de traitement qui peut être mise en œuvre dans la poignée.FIG. 6 shows an example of a succession of steps of the treatment method which can be implemented in the handle.
Lors d'une première étape 30, qui se déroule dans le module d'interprétation 14, un signal de détection faisant suite à une activation de la zone de détection 6 est perçu par le module d'interprétation.During a first step 30, which takes place in the interpretation module 14, a detection signal following an activation of the detection zone 6 is perceived by the interpretation module.
Lors d'une étape suivante 31 , le module d'interprétation interroge le module d'état 12, lequel, lors d'une étape 32, interroge les différents détecteurs 16-19 placés sur le véhicule et, lors de l'étape suivante 33, fournit au module d'état 14, des informations d'environnement globalisées. Une étape suivante 34, exécutée dans le module d'interprétation 14, consiste en un test des informations d'environnement reçues. Si des conditions prédéterminées ne sont pas remplies, le procédé s'arrête et aucun signal n'est envoyé au moyen de commande 11.During a next step 31, the interpretation module interrogates the status module 12, which, during a step 32, interrogates the various detectors 16-19 placed on the vehicle and, during the next step 33 , provides the status module 14 with globalized environment information. A next step 34, executed in the interpretation module 14, consists of a test of the environmental information received. If predetermined conditions are not fulfilled, the process stops and no signal is sent to the control means 11.
En revanche, si les conditions d'environnement sont remplies, le module d'interprétation 14 déclenche, lors d'une étape 35, un décompte de temps d'un délai prédéterminé.On the other hand, if the environmental conditions are met, the interpretation module 14 triggers, during a step 35, a time countdown of a predetermined time.
Lors de l'étape suivante 36, un test de la zone de détection 6 est à nouveau effectué pour savoir si le signal de détection est toujours présent.During the next step 36, a test of the detection zone 6 is again carried out to find out whether the detection signal is still present.
Dans la négative, on décide que l'utilisateur a souhaité verrouiller l'ouvrant supportant la poignée et un signal de verrouillage est envoyé au moyen de commande 11. Dans la négative, le procédé continue de se dérouler par un test, correspondant à l'étape 37, test au cours duquel un commutateur présent sur la poignée (commutateur non représenté sur les figures 1 et 2) est scruté. S'il est avéré que le commutateur a basculé avant l'expiration du délai prédéterminé, le procédé s'arrête et aucun signal n'est délivré au moyen de commande. En revanche, si le commutateur n'a pas basculé, le procédé passe à une étape suivante 38 au cours de laquelle on teste si le délai prédéterminé est écoulé afin soit de boucler sur le test de l'étape 36, soit de sortir de la boucle pour délivrer aux moyens de commande 11 un signal de verrouillage.If not, it is decided that the user wishes to lock the opening supporting the handle and a locking signal is sent to control means 11. If not, the process continues to proceed by a test, corresponding to the step 37, test during which a switch present on the handle (switch not shown in FIGS. 1 and 2) is scanned. If it is found that the switch has switched before the expiration of the predetermined time, the process stops and no signal is delivered to the control means. On the other hand, if the switch has not flipped, the method goes to a next step 38 during which it is tested whether the predetermined time has elapsed in order either to complete the test in step 36 or to exit the loop for delivering to the control means 11 a locking signal.
En toutes hypothèses, les moyens de commande reçoivent un signal de verrouillage directement exécutable.In all cases, the control means receive a directly executable locking signal.
Sur la figure 7, une poignée de porte 40 qui est montée sur la partie extérieure d'un ouvrant 41 d'un véhicule automobile, est équipée d'un capteur d'approche optique 42 apte à émettre et à recevoir un faisceau optique 43. Ce capteur optique 42 est électriquement connecté à un dispositif de reconnaissance 44 d'un système d'accès mains libres de manière à émettre en direction de celui-ci un signal électrique caractéristique lorsqu'il détecte une coupure du faisceau optique. Plus particulièrement, l'émetteur et le récepteur optique du capteur d'approche 42 sont montées dans la poignée et le faisceau optique 43 est émis de la poignée en direction de l'ouvrant 41 et reflété par celui-ci vers la poignée de sorte qu'il est coupé quand la main d'un utilisateur du véhicule est engagée dans la poignée, ce qui est détecté par le dispositif de reconnaissance 44. Le dispositif de reconnaissance est installé à l'intérieur du véhicule comme cela est connu et est apte à communiquer avec un organe d'identification portatif porté par l'utilisateur du véhicule.In FIG. 7, a door handle 40 which is mounted on the external part of an opening leaf 41 of a motor vehicle, is equipped with an optical approach sensor 42 capable of emitting and receiving an optical beam 43. This optical sensor 42 is electrically connected to a recognition device 44 of a hands-free access system so as to emit towards it a characteristic electrical signal when it detects a cut in the optical beam. More particularly, the transmitter and the optical receiver of the approach sensor 42 are mounted in the handle and the optical beam 43 is emitted from the handle in the direction of the leaf 41 and reflected by the latter towards the handle so that 'It is cut when the hand of a vehicle user is engaged in the handle, which is detected by the recognition device 44. The recognition device is installed inside the vehicle as is known and is capable of communicate with a portable identification unit worn by the user of the vehicle.
La poignée de porte est munie par exemple d'un commutateur à deux positions 46 qui change de position quand la poignée est déplacée d'une position de repos dite relâchée à une position enclenchée quand elle est manœuvrée, ce qui permet l'ouverture de la portière du véhicule. Sur la figure 7, la position relâchée de la poignée est indiquée sur le commutateur 46 par 47 et la position enclenchée de la poignée est indiquée par 48. Ce commutateur est relié au dispositif de reconnaissance 44 pour lui fournir un signal représentatif du changement de position du commutateur et donc de la poignée. A la place du commutateur de poignée, on pourrait envisager un contacteur porte ouverte (intérieur) à deux positions qui change de position quand l'ouvrant est déplacé de la position fermée à la position ouverte ou inversement.The door handle is provided for example with a two-position switch 46 which changes position when the handle is moved from a so-called released rest position to an engaged position when it is operated, which allows the opening of the vehicle door. In Figure 7, the released position of the handle is shown on the switch 46 by 47 and the engaged position of the handle is indicated by 48. This switch is connected to the recognition device 44 to supply it with a signal representative of the change in position of the switch and therefore of the handle. Instead of the handle switch, a two-position open (interior) door switch could be envisaged which changes position when the leaf is moved from the closed position to the open position or vice versa.
Sur la figure 8 qui est une représentation de signaux 51 et 52 respectivement émis par le commutateur 46 et par le capteur d'approche 42 en direction du dispositif de reconnaissance, il a été représenté l'évolution correspondante dans le temps de l'état 53 de l'ouvrant du véhicule qui sera de préférence la porte conducteur du véhicule. Au départ, l'ouvrant est déverrouillé. La poignée est dans un état relâchée : le signal électrique 51 indique que le commutateur 46 est dans la position 47. Quand le faisceau électrique 43 est coupé pendant une durée 54, ce qui est détecté par un changement 1 du signal 52, le dispositif de reconnaissance 44 vérifie que le commutateur 46 reste dans la position 47 (la poignée restant relâchée), ce qui est indiqué par le signal 51 , pendant une durée Δt qui est préenregistrée (de l'ordre de 2 secondes) comptée à partir de la détection du changement d'état du commutateur 46. Si le dispositif de reconnaissance ne détecte pas de changement d'état du commutateur 46 pendant la durée Δt, il commande le verrouillage de l'ouvrant du véhicule à l'issue de la durée Δt. Selon un autre mode de mise en œuvre du procédé selon l'invention illustré par la figure 3, le verrouillage de l'ouvrant du véhicule est commandé dès que le faisceau optique n'est plus coupé, ce qui est détecté par un changement du signal 52. Par rapport au déroulement du procédé illustré sur la figure 8, celui de la figure 9 contribue à rendre plus réactif le système d'accès mains libres. En effet, dans le cas de la figure 9, l'ouvrant peut être verrouillé dans un temps plus court que Δt. Mais dans ce mode de mise en œuvre, il faut quand même surveiller le commutateur 46 après avoir détecté que le faisceau n'est plus coupé. Plus particulièrement, si très peu de temps après la détection que le faisceau optique 43 a été coupé, le commutateur 46 change de position (la poignée par exemple est enclenchée), il faut commander le déverrouillage de l'ouvrant du véhicule dès la détection du changement de position du commutateur puisqu'il s'agit alors d'une situation où l'utilisateur veut ouvrir l'ouvrant du véhicule.In FIG. 8 which is a representation of signals 51 and 52 respectively emitted by the switch 46 and by the approach sensor 42 in the direction of the recognition device, the corresponding evolution over time of the state 53 has been represented. the opening of the vehicle which will preferably be the driver's door of the vehicle. At the start, the door is unlocked. The handle is in a relaxed state: the electrical signal 51 indicates that the switch 46 is in the position 47. When the electrical harness 43 is cut for a period of 54, which is detected by a change 1 of the signal 52, the device recognition 44 verifies that the switch 46 remains in position 47 (the handle remaining released), which is indicated by the signal 51, for a duration Δt which is prerecorded (of the order of 2 seconds) counted from the detection of the change of state of the switch 46. If the recognition device does not detect a change of state of the switch 46 during the duration Δt, it controls the locking of the door of the vehicle at the end of the duration Δt. According to another embodiment of the method according to the invention illustrated in FIG. 3, the locking of the vehicle sash is controlled as soon as the optical beam is no longer cut, which is detected by a change in the signal 52. Compared to the process illustrated in FIG. 8, that of FIG. 9 contributes to making the hands-free access system more responsive. In fact, in the case of FIG. 9, the opening can be locked in a shorter time than Δt. However, in this embodiment, the switch 46 must nevertheless be monitored after having detected that the beam is no longer cut. More particularly, if very shortly after the detection that the optical beam 43 has been cut, the switch 46 changes position (the handle for example is engaged), it is necessary to command the unlocking of the door of the vehicle as soon as the detection of the change of position of the switch since it is then a situation where the user wants to open the door of the vehicle.
La mise en œuvre du procédé selon la figure 8 peut être adaptée pour introduire une temporisation Δt destinée à éviter des instabilités de type succession de verrouillage et de déverrouillage lorsque l'utilisateur déplace sa main dans la poignée. Lors de la détection de la coupure du faisceau optique 43, le dispositif de reconnaissance 44 pourra effectuer une tentative d'authentification d'un organe d'identification 49, de manière à conditionner en outre le verrouillage du véhicule à l'authentification de l'organe d'identification 49. L'authentification peut être complétée avantageusement par une localisation de l'organe d'identification 49 pour que la commande de verrouillage de l'ouvrant ne soit déclenchée que si l'organe d'identification 49 authentifié par le dispositif de reconnaissance 44 est à l'extérieur du véhicule.The implementation of the method according to FIG. 8 can be adapted to introduce a time delay Δt intended to avoid instabilities of the succession type of locking and unlocking when the user moves his hand in the handle. Upon detection of the cut of the optical beam 43, the recognition device 44 may make an attempt to authenticate an organ identification 49, so as to further condition the locking of the vehicle to the authentication of the identification member 49. The authentication can advantageously be supplemented by a location of the identification member 49 so that the command the door lock is only triggered if the identification member 49 authenticated by the recognition device 44 is outside the vehicle.
Le verrouillage de l'ouvrant se fait classiquement sur détection de la coupure du faisceau optique 43 et du changement de position de la poignée 40 (qui est manœuvrée) qui est indiqué par un changement du signal 52.The door is locked conventionally on detection of the cut in the optical beam 43 and the change in position of the handle 40 (which is operated) which is indicated by a change in the signal 52.
Ainsi, le procédé selon l'invention permet de verrouiller et déverrouiller automatiquement un ouvrant de véhicule à l'aide d'un système d'accès mains libres équipé d'un capteur d'approche et d'un commutateur à deux positions.Thus, the method according to the invention makes it possible to automatically lock and unlock a vehicle window using a hands-free access system equipped with an approach sensor and a two-position switch.
Les exemples fournit ci-dessus ne présentent aucun caractère limitatif. Ils pourront recevoir toute modification désirable sans sortir pour cela du cadre de l'invention. The examples provided above are in no way limiting. They can receive any desirable modification without departing from the scope of the invention.
EP01969688A 2000-09-05 2001-09-04 Method for processing detection signals for a motor vehicle Expired - Lifetime EP1328907B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (5)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR0011299A FR2813630B1 (en) 2000-09-05 2000-09-05 METHOD FOR AUTOMATICALLY LOCKING A VEHICLE OPENING ELEMENT WITH A HANDS-FREE ACCESS SYSTEM AND AN APPROACH SENSOR
FR0011299 2000-09-05
FR0108901A FR2827064B1 (en) 2001-07-04 2001-07-04 METHOD FOR PROCESSING DETECTION SIGNALS FROM AT LEAST ONE DETECTION AREA OF A MOTOR VEHICLE, DEVICE FOR CARRYING OUT THIS METHOD AND HANDLE FOR A MOTOR VEHICLE
FR0108901 2001-07-04
PCT/EP2001/010167 WO2002021455A1 (en) 2000-09-05 2001-09-04 Method for processing detection signals for a motor vehicle

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EP1328907A1 true EP1328907A1 (en) 2003-07-23
EP1328907B1 EP1328907B1 (en) 2010-06-23

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JP4783543B2 (en) 2011-09-28
DE60142440D1 (en) 2010-08-05

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