EP2595840A1

EP2595840A1 - Vehicle trim comprising a hidden ultrasound sensor assembly and method for integrating ultrasonic transducers into vehicle trims

Info

Publication number: EP2595840A1
Application number: EP11722820.5A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Matthias Karl
Original assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
Current assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
Priority date: 2010-07-20
Filing date: 2011-06-01
Publication date: 2013-05-29
Also published as: CN103003103B; JP2013530880A; DE102010031573A1; CN103003103A; KR20130041913A; WO2012010363A1; JP5538628B2

Abstract

The invention relates to vehicle trim having an ultrasound sensor assembly. The ultrasound sensor assembly comprises at least one ultrasound sensor element (20), which is provided in a cutout or an outwardly open cavity (30) in the vehicle trim. The cutout (30) or the outwardly open cavity (30) is formed by at least one vehicle trim element (10, 12), the outer face of which is not interrupted in order to receive the ultrasound sensor element (20). The invention further relates to a method for integrating ultrasound sensors in vehicle trim. At least one ultrasound sensor element (20) of an ultrasound sensor assembly is fixed to the vehicle trim. The ultrasound sensor element (20) is fixed in a cutout (30) or in an outwardly open cavity (30) in the vehicle trim, wherein the cutout (30) or the outwardly open cavity (30) in which the ultrasound sensor element (20) is fixed is formed by at least one vehicle trim element (10, 12), the outer face of which is not interrupted to receive the ultrasound sensor element (20). The invention finally relates to methods for the protected emission and reception of ultrasound waves.

Description

Description title

Vehicle fairing with concealed ultrasonic sensor assembly and method of integrating ultrasonic transducers in vehicle fairings

State of the art

The use of sensors for object recognition (i.e., distance estimation) is widely used in automotive engineering. In this case, a sensor is placed in the outside of a motor vehicle, which emits waves and detects objects in the environment on the basis of the reflected waves. As sensors are especially suitable

Microwave sensors that emit and receive microwave pulses, as well as

Ultrasonic sensors that transmit and receive ultrasonic wave packets, and use time and other criteria to estimate distances.

In automotive engineering, ultrasonic sensors dominate the market, which are embedded in the outer surface of the motor vehicle. These sensors are commonly used in the

Exterior surfaces of bumpers attached or in corresponding moldings by these are embedded in the surface or by spacers or

Hinterwandbefestigungen are fixed in the bumpers or moldings. Firstly, this type of attachment requires additional steps, which are initially generated recesses in the bumper, with more

Fasteners would have to be mounted in a complex manner to make the sensor outer surface flush with the bumper outer surface. In addition to the disadvantages in terms of processing, there are drawbacks of a creative nature, since this fastening technique necessarily leads to a disturbance of the outer

Appearance of the vehicle leads.

In addition, the sensor outer surface is direct by the attachment

Exposed to environmental influences and even at low loads of

Bumpers give rise to strong forces acting on the mechanically sensitive sensor Act. No mechanical protection for the sensors can be attached as it would be clearly visible to the sensors mounted on the vehicle surface and would be in line with the design requirements of the vehicle manufacturer. Because of this, today's ultrasonic sensors are always equipped with a very rigid membrane for better mechanical protection, which due to the physical laws of the operation of the sensors only in a very narrow

Frequency range is possible. In addition, the arrangement of the sensors on the vehicle surface limited due to the non-negligible running time of conventional transmission signals

Nahmessfähigkeit. For example, objects that are closer than 20 cm to the sensors can usually no longer be detected. Disclosure of the invention

The invention enables a much more flexible attachment of the sensors, at the same time these are protected even with stronger rear-end collisions. In addition, due to the small footprint, the sensors can be fastened to almost any point in the vehicle, at least at significantly more points, as is the case with sensors that detect electromagnetic waves. In particular, no additional work is required to mount a sensor in the vehicle trim; The elements of the vehicle trim itself remain largely untouched and need not be provided with precise recesses.

In particular, it is possible with the present invention, invisible to attach the sensors on the motor vehicle, so that the sensors are not an obstacle to the design of the vehicle. The features necessary for mounting according to the invention are given in each vehicle trim already by the usual design of the vehicle trim, it can thus be used unprocessed standard parts, as used for vehicle panels, in which no sensors are to be attached. Furthermore, it is possible to use very powerful, large-area sensors, without being too large

Interruptions in the surface of the vehicle trim would lead, with such interruptions in a vehicle trim affects the mechanical stability of the trim. The underlying idea underlying the invention is that, in contrast to electromagnetic waves, sound or beam waves have the advantage that they are not absorbed by conventional vehicle lining elements, but merely bent, deflected or focused on other points. The invention makes use of these advantages by taking into account the propagation characteristics of sound waves and using them.

The concept underlying the invention is therefore not to embed ultrasonic sensors directly in the surface of a vehicle trim panel, but to use existing gaps, gaps, cavities and recesses in order to allow the ultrasound to escape there. The ultrasonic sensor element in turn is preferably to the outer surface of the vehicle trim inwardly to

Vehicle offset, which automatically results in a significant mechanical protection. In contrast to microwave detecting sensors, which so offset to the outer surface of the vehicle trim by the absorption of the

Vehicle trim would not be functional, allows the recessed arrangement of the ultrasonic sensors that the wave generation takes place inwardly offset to the vehicle trim surface and the generated sound waves leak at existing gaps of the vehicle. In this case, the physical principle is used, according to which only a fluid connection or acoustic connection must exist between transducer and sound space, which, however, by no means requires a completely free field of view, but that in principle any connection is suitable which allows pressure equalization and thus sound transmission. A

Automotive trim includes many individual components that do not abut each other directly due to various materials or due to moving parts, but are secured such that smaller gaps result, for example, between doors and door frames. Such gaps are completely sufficient to allow the ultrasound to emerge, wherein, moreover, the transducer surface can be significantly larger than the gap width. Ultimately, the passage of sound through such a column attenuates only the sound, but at gap widths of more than 2 to 5 mm (or more than a half or a wavelength of the sound pulse, for example, more than about 3.7 or 7, 5 mm), this damping is too low to substantially affect the operation of the sensor. As a sensor is an ultrasonic transducer configured to transmit and receive to actively sample the environment.

The invention therefore provides a vehicle trim with a

Ultrasonic sensor arrangement which comprises one or more ultrasonic sensor elements. At least one of these ultrasonic sensor elements lies behind the

Surface of vehicle trim, i. in a recess or an outwardly open cavity of the vehicle trim. The recess or the outwardly open cavity may be formed by an outward bulge of the vehicle trim, such as a bulge for receiving the license plate or may be formed by a cavity which forms relative to the surface of the vehicle trim inside, for example behind a crack, which is defined by a door and an associated frame. The recess or outwardly open cavity is formed by at least one vehicle trim element, i. in particular, a sheet metal or a plastic molding element, which forms a conventional part of a vehicle trim, but without departing from this conventional form for receiving a sensor. In other words, the vehicle trim elements without cutouts or openings are provided, which serve only the arrangement of an ultrasonic sensor element, but the shape is in particular at the edge of the vehicle trim element to the shape of the adjacent

Vehicle trim element adapted and there is a continuous surface of the vehicle trim element, so that no

Break arises, which serves to receive an ultrasonic sensor element. Although the outside of the vehicle trim element may be interrupted, for example, to other elements of the vehicle trim or exterior

Vehicle elements such as exterior mirrors record, but without special

Recesses or openings for receiving an ultrasonic sensor element, whereby vehicle trim elements can be used, which are not specifically provided for receiving sensors. This simplifies manufacture and results in a positive design aspect. Above all, the fact that the outside does not absorb a

Ultrasonic sensor element is interrupted, the ultrasonic sensor element also not directly attached to an outside, thereby precluding that the ultrasonic sensor element directly mechanical stresses from the environment is exposed. Rather, the ultrasonic sensor element is arranged offset inwards (and thus protected). Alternatively, there are sections of the

Vehicle trim element, which protrude and thus protect the ultrasonic sensor, especially in lighter impact accidents.

According to one aspect of the invention, the recess is formed by a recess which serves to receive a further cladding element or an outer vehicle element. Thus, the recess has two functions, namely the inclusion of the ultrasonic sensor element and also the inclusion of a further cladding element or outer vehicle element. The ultrasonic sensor element is thus fastened together with a further cladding element or an outer vehicle element (for example, the license plate holder) in the recess, so that the recess and possibly also the other

Cladding element or the outer vehicle element a protection for the

Form ultrasonic sensor element. The recess or the cavity may be formed by the shape of a single vehicle trim element. The mold provides a vehicle-facing space that is in direct fluid contact with the surroundings of the vehicle trim to deliver the sound waves. Instead of a fluid connection may also be provided a sound transmission connection in which, for example, a sheet or other plate acts as a membrane which, although a fluid-mechanical connection separates a compound, but acts sound transmitting by the plate or plate resonates, namely in

Vibrations can be added. Alternatively, the recess or the cavity may be formed by two different vehicle trim elements, which may be connected to each other, for example, via a distance or via a gap. The gap or the distance forms in this case, the fluid connection (which also has a

Membrane can be separated and then carried out as a sound transmitting connection). Various vehicle trim elements that abut each other over the distance may be made of different materials, such as plastic and metal, or the various vehicle trim elements may be mutually movable vehicle trim elements. In both cases, a gap is usually provided, for example between a

Headlight housing and the surrounding sheet metal lining, or between a door and the frame. Movable vehicle trim elements include a first element movable to the vehicle trim panel and a second,

fixed element, or two movable to the vehicle panel

Vehicle trim elements that are movable relative to each other.

Another aspect of the invention provides that the at least one

Ultrasonic sensor element in direct fluid communication with the immediate

Surrounding the vehicle trim. This allows the sound wave to pass directly from the ultrasonic sensor (i.e., from within the cavity or within the cavity) directly to the environment. As a variant according to the invention, instead of the direct fluid communication, an acoustic transmission channel may also be provided, in which a membrane is the direct one

Interrupts fluid communication, however, allows an acoustic transmission, characterized in that the membrane resonates. Such a membrane may be, for example, a portion of a vehicle trim element that is from within the

Vehicle panel is excited by the ultrasonic sensor element, and radiates the sound through this excitation in the environment. Conversely, such a membrane or such fluid communication can transmit sound from the environment into the cavity or into the recess into the ultrasonic sensor element, so that a sound signal can be converted into electrical signals.

Optionally, this type of arrangement is used for ultrasonic sensor elements, which are provided only for transmission, with more

Ultrasonic sensor elements (in direct fluid communication with the environment, without separation by membrane) are provided for receiving.

Furthermore, the ultrasonic sensor element is provided with a directional characteristic which is in a spatially determined arrangement for vehicle trim, wherein the directional characteristic has at least one sensitive area (for example, defined by a sensitivity or intensity or amplitude above a certain threshold), which is on a part of a vehicle trim element or an outer vehicle element is directed. The arrangement of the directional characteristic relative to the vehicle element or vehicle trim element, on which this radiates, results from the attachment of the ultrasonic sensor element. By targeted irradiation of a vehicle trim element, a suitable, outward directional characteristic can be displayed, at the same time, however, the Ultrasonic sensor element remains offset to the rear and thus mechanically protected. The vehicle trim element or the outer vehicle element conceals at least a portion of a sensitive area of the vehicle

Ultrasonic sensor element with respect to the immediate environment. Despite the cover which provides mechanical protection, the ultrasonic sensor element may still receive and convert sound from the immediate environment via fluid communication (or via the acoustic connection) or radiate sound into the immediate environment. The ultrasonic sensor element is partially or completely concealed by a portion of the vehicle trim panel or a vehicle part attached thereto, and the at least one ultrasonic sensor element is mounted in the recess or cavity, particularly on or in an interior trim panel of the vehicle trim panel. The attachment may be provided directly or indirectly. The inner lining element forms part of the recess or a cavity, in particular a bottom portion of the recess or the

Cavity. Such an interior trim element may, for example, be an inner frame section of a door or a flap, which is usually concealed by the flap, and represents the floor of the cavity or recess directed towards the vehicle.

The following are some concrete examples of the inventive arrangement of the ultrasonic sensor element mentioned. For example, the recess or the open cavity of a ventilation grille or a grille of the

Be formed vehicle trim. In this case, the ultrasonic sensor can be arranged between the grid elements or behind the ventilation grille, so that the ventilation grille or the grille closes off the cavity, but represents a sound connection to the environment through the opening of the grid or grill structure. In the case of a ventilation grille or grille this is also considered as uninterrupted outside, even if a fluid connection is ensured to the interior of the vehicle. In particular, an interruption of the regular or periodic structure of the grid is considered, which serves to receive the element. However, the usual grid structures and the regular grid openings are not considered to interrupt the outside because they do not disrupt the regular structure of the grid or grille. Alternatively, the recess or cavity is formed by a gap in the vehicle panel, the gap being formed by the adjacent meeting of a movable and a fixed one

Vehicle element to another movable or fixed vehicle element. Both vehicle elements may be fixed, movable, or it may be a fixed and a movable vehicle trim element provided by

Clashes make up the column. The column through two

Vehicle trim elements can be represented by: a side door, a flap (for example, a trunk, gas cap or bonnet) on the one hand, and the associated stop or the associated frame

on the other hand. Further, the gaps are formed by a Öffnergriff on the one hand and a Öffnerg riffmulde or Öffnergriffbefestigungsabschnitt the

Vehicle fairing on the other hand. The opener handle can thus on the

Vehicle trim be fitted or can be recessed in a recessed grip. In both cases arise, for example, by a cover of

Öffnermechanik, a gap and an open cavity to the surrounding

Vehicle trim. Another example illustrating the gap is a fixed or movable (i.e., adjustable) exterior mirror on the one hand and a mirror housing in which the exterior mirror is received. Due to the different materials and in particular to allow the movement, there is a gap between the outer edge of the outer mirror plate and the inside of the housing shell. In this case, in particular, the ultrasonic sensor element may also be provided in the mirror housing shell and transmit sound through the gap to the outside or received from the outside. Furthermore, the gap may be provided by a fender element of the vehicle trim panel, a bumper, a crossfade, a decorative element, a trim strip, a license plate light, a fastener therefor, a radiator grille or a grille fastener on the one hand and an adjoining vehicle trim element (or its edge ) are formed. For example, the radiator grille can encounter a front apron, whereby usually at this point a gap arises, behind which according to the invention

Ultrasonic sensor element can be arranged. In particular, these examples relate to gaps between two fixed vehicle trim elements. Another example of the formation of the column is provided by lights or headlamp housing on the one hand and an adjoining

Cladding element on the other hand, for example, a vehicle panel, is embedded in the space for the headlight housing. Due to assembly operations and to take into account different coefficients of thermal expansion, a gap is made between the different materials or components.

Finally, the gap can be represented by inner sides of wheel arches on the one hand and vehicle wheels on the other. Although mounted within the vehicle body ultrasonic sensor elements are indeed very well protected, but may have the disadvantage of a greater interference in sound transmission.

ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION The ultrasonic sensor element itself is formed by an ultrasonic transducer which essentially comprises an electromechanical element (for example a piezoelectric element) and an excitation membrane connected thereto. In other cases, the piezoelectric element itself can form the membrane. In addition, the ultrasonic sensor element may comprise fastening elements or elements for influencing acoustics, for example cavity-forming elements, in order to produce specific acoustic properties, resonances. Particular embodiments of the ultrasonic sensor elements used in the present invention include a horn attached to the membrane surface (i.e., the sensitive surface) for converging the sound away from the membrane or toward the membrane. The arrangement of the ultrasonic sensor element in a recess or a cavity of a vehicle results in a modified transmission characteristic of the converter, which is preferably compensated by a compensation circuit, or which is taken into account at least in the processing of the ultrasonic signals. In particular, the gap density is considered, which has a strong influence on the

Diffraction has with which the sound is changed when passing through the gap. The directional characteristic of the ultrasonic sensor element, and thus the orientation of the ultrasonic sensor element can be chosen almost arbitrarily. In a first example, the directional characteristic of the recess or from the cavity forth on the gap or on the fluid connection or sound connection is aligned, but also reflectors can be used selectively, to which the Ultrasonic sensor element is directed, and which are arranged to radiate the beam to the gap. As a reflector element, additional elements in the

Recess or be installed in the cavity and fastened there. In a second example, an inner surface of the vehicle trim is shaped to serve as a reflector. Further cases relate to an alignment of the ultrasonic sensor element on an inner wall of the recess or of the cavity, in which the given shape is taken into account unchanged and a suitable radiation of the sound from the reflector is provided on the gap by suitable arrangement of the ultrasonic sensor element.

As a gap, any fluid connection or acoustic connection can be considered, which is suitable to transmit the sound from the recess or from the cavity into the immediate surroundings. The fluid connection does not have to

is necessarily provided, but in general an acoustic connection is sufficient, for example via a membrane to be distinguished from the excitation membrane of the sensor, in which case this membrane produces a further protective effect, since, for example, from the outside no moisture can enter the interior, if this from the Membrane is closed. In this context, outwardly open cavity means that it is open to the outside at least for the sound and thus is defined by at least one surface portion which allows transmission to the outside. This area section can be a

Include fluid connection in the immediate vicinity or a

Acoustic connection that allows only one sound transmission, but not one

Fluid communication relates, for example, a membrane formed by a portion of a vehicle trim element.

The invention further relates to a method for integrating ultrasonic sensors into a vehicle trim panel, in which the arrangements of the at least one ultrasonic sensor element described here are used. The method of integration initially comprises the provision of the at least one

An ultrasonic sensor element belonging to an ultrasonic sensor arrangement. The ultrasonic sensor element is secured to the vehicle trim, in particular within the vehicle trim, set back from the outer imaginary envelope of the vehicle trim (i.e., opposite the outer surface of the vehicle trim)

Vehicle paneling reset). The ultrasonic sensor element is in a Attached recess or in an outwardly open cavity of the vehicle trim, wherein the recess or the cavity of at least one

Vehicle trim element is formed, the outside of which is not interrupted for receiving the ultrasonic sensor element. This allows the use of conventional vehicle trim elements, not for the arrangement of the

Ultrasonic sensor element are configured, for example, through holes,

Recesses or by special formations of the edge, which allow the inclusion of an ultrasonic sensor element, but have no cause in the arrangement of the distribution element except for this purpose.

The method provides, in particular, that not only the ultrasonic sensor element but also a further cladding element or an outer vehicle element is fastened in the recess. In particular, it is provided that the

Ultrasonic sensor element is attached to the recess or to the outer vehicle element or to a fastening element which fixes the cladding element or the outer vehicle element in the recess. These attachment steps may be performed in quick succession or substantially simultaneously, thereby making the attachment step more efficient. The

Ultrasonic sensor element may further be in one of two different

Vehicle trim elements formed recess are secured, preferably behind a gap between two different

Vehicle trim elements. For this purpose, the ultrasonic sensor element is first attached and then the vehicle trim elements are attached. Such vehicle trim elements, which are attached after the ultrasonic sensor element, are in particular made of different materials (for example

Sheet metal and plastic) or are mutually movable, such as a door frame and a door. Here, the attachment of the designed

Ultrasonic sensor element simply because different

Vehicle trim elements necessarily in separate anyway

Mounting steps are mounted, and thus the step of attaching the ultrasonic sensor element in these assembly steps can be easily integrated.

The ultrasonic sensor element is preferably covered by the

Vehicle trim attached to the vehicle trim element, wherein at least a portion of the sensitive area of the ultrasonic sensor element of at least a portion of the vehicle panel or the

Vehicle trim element is arranged concealed. In this case, the ultrasonic sensor element is first attached, whereupon the vehicle trim is arranged. Instead of the vehicle trim, the outer vehicle element may also be fastened in such a way that at least part of the sensitive area of the vehicle

Ultrasonic sensor element is covered. This ensures that in further assembly steps, the ultrasonic sensor element is protected from external influences. Further, the ultrasonic sensor element is mounted in fluid communication with the immediate vicinity of the vehicle trim panel, wherein the fluid communication may also be provided by a mere acoustic connection, for example via a diaphragm which breaks a fluid connection. This ensures that after assembly, the ultrasonic sensor element is operational, without further work steps must be made on the panel to provide the ultrasonic sensor element in acoustic contact with the environment.

The method can be provided in particular by the components of the vehicle trim or the outer components described above in detail

Vehicle elements are fixed in the specified manner, for example in the attachment of the doors, the flaps, the Öffnergriffs, the exterior mirror, the

Fender element, a cross-fade, a decorative element or the radiator grille or even in the attachment of a headlight housing or the vehicle wheels or the wheel well. The step of attaching the ultrasonic sensor element can thereby be integrated in the assembly steps of these elements in a simple manner.

The invention further comprises a method for the secure delivery of

Ultrasonic waves, where sound waves by excitation of the

Ultrasonic sensor element are generated and at least a portion of the ultrasonic waves are radiated to an inner surface of at least one vehicle trim element or an outer vehicle element (for example, a protruding bar, cover or the like). In particular, the sound waves are radiated in part on an edge, which is spaced by a gap or a distance from another vehicle element adjacent thereto. In this case, the ultrasound waves are diffracted and / or partially reflected, wherein the reflection also includes that a part of the ultrasound waves first reflects toward the vehicle is then radiated by internal distribution elements to the outside through the gap. Through this radiation can be achieved that

Vehicle trim element or outer vehicle elements serve as protection, at the same time a radiation of the ultrasonic waves is possible. The ratio of conventional gap width and wavelength is such that diffraction occurs so that, for example, the far-field-near column can be regarded as a spot radiator. The cavities or recesses provided in the vehicle trim, together with the gap, provide a possibility of deliberately shaping the radiated sound without the need for external acoustic elements. The radiation characteristic changed by the internal installation can be further taken into account by a step of compensating, wherein the step of compensating the distortion of the transmission channel by the acoustic

Realties of vehicle trim reproduces and taken into account in a complementary manner in the signal processing of the ultrasonic signals.

Complementary to this, the invention further provides a method for the protected reception of ultrasonic waves, wherein the ultrasonic waves impinge on an outer surface of the vehicle trim element and enter through a gap in the interior of the vehicle trim to be converted there by the ultrasonic sensor element. As a transmission channel through the outside of the vehicle trim through at least one gap is provided or an opening. In general, a gap between two adjacent vehicle elements and a

Opening, for example in the vehicle panel or in an outer

Vehicle element (exterior mirrors, for example), considered as an acoustic channel. This channel can equally be provided by an acoustic connection from the ultrasonic sensor element to the environment, in which the channel comprises a spatially separating membrane. As a membrane and sections of the vehicle trim can be considered as far as they transmit sound. Brief description of the drawings

FIG. 1 shows a first embodiment of two alternative arrangement variants;

FIG. 2 shows two further alternative embodiments of the invention

Arrangement; FIG. 3 shows a further embodiment with two variants of the embodiment

arrangement according to the invention; Figures 4 and 5 show further embodiments of the inventive arrangement, and

6 shows an integrated into a grille ultrasonic sensor element embodiments of the invention

FIG. 1 shows a vehicle trim that is formed by two different vehicle trim elements 10, 12, which are separated from one another by a gap 14. In this gap 14, an ultrasonic sensor element 20 is provided which radiates through the gap 14 between the vehicle trim elements 10 and 12 through ultrasonic waves, as shown by the solid arrows. In this case, the ultrasonic sensor element 20 is fastened in a recess 30, which is formed by interior lining elements 40. An alternative

Arrangement is shown in dashed line, wherein in this alternative arrangement, the ultrasonic sensor element 20 'further set back inside within the

Recess 30 is attached. In particular, the ultrasonic sensor element 20 may also be fastened directly to a bottom section 42 of the interior trim element 40. On the basis of the beam path, shown in phantom, it can be seen that a central beam passes unhindered through the gap between the two

Vehicle trim elements 10, 12 passes, wherein a part of

Ultrasonic energy (see arrow line 50, 50 ') does not pass directly through the gap 14, but is first reflected and then exits the gap 14.

Due to the wavelength actually result diffraction effects, so that no discrete radiation waveform, as shown by the arrows, is provided. Thus, the arrow traces 50, 50 'only symbolically show the propagation direction. In an actual implementation, the radiation and the sound propagation through

Diffraction effects, reflection effects and in particular determined by interference.

Nevertheless, the radiation characteristic, as it acts outwards from the gap 14, can be predicted precisely by taking these effects into account. One

Horn 22 of the alternative arrangement (shown in phantom) is at the sensitive / radiating side of the sensor 20 'and is directed to the gap 14 between the vehicle trim elements 10, 12.

FIG. 2 shows a further variant of the invention according to the arrangement, wherein two vehicle trim elements 10, 12 form a gap 14 through which the ultrasonic sensor element 20 can transmit and receive sound. Here, the ultrasonic sensor element 20 is arranged in a diverting inner lining element 44, 44 ', which forms a channel. The one end of the channel is completed by the ultrasonic sensor element 20, which radiates into the channel, see arrows. The channel formed by the inner lining element 44, 44 'deflects the sound wave and directs it towards the gap 14. The sound is emitted at the gap 14. Due to the arrangement of the ultrasonic sensor element 20 in the

Interior trim elements 44, 44 ', the ultrasonic sensor element is particularly protected, and further the wiring to the interior of the vehicle is simplified.

FIG. 2 further illustrates with dashed lines a second ultrasonic sensor element 20, which is provided in an alternative arrangement. This includes the

Ultrasonic sensor element 20 'an optional horn 22, which bundles the sound wave of the ultrasonic sensor element 20' and initially on a portion of the vehicle trim element 12. Since this is vibrated by the radiated sound, the portion of the vehicle trim element 12, which is irradiated by the ultrasonic sensor element 20 ', the sound energy from, see arrow to the right of vehicle trim element 12. In this variant, the

Ultrasonic sensor element 20 particularly protected, since the entire portion of the vehicle trim element 12, which is illuminated, serves as a mechanical protection. As already noted, there is no direct fluid connection between the ultrasonic sensor element 20 and the environment, but rather an acoustic connection exists between the surroundings and the ultrasonic sensor element 20, the irradiated section of the vehicle lining element 12 functioning as a membrane.

FIG. 3 shows a specific embodiment of the invention in which an ultrasonic sensor element 20 is fastened in a mirror housing 46 of an exterior mirror 46 '. The exterior mirror 46 'itself is held by a fastener 46 "which movably or in a fixed manner supports the mirror 46' Ultrasonic sensor element 20 (shown in solid lines) is arranged. The ultrasonic sensor element 20 has a horn 22 which serves to align the radiated acoustic power. First, the ultrasonic sensor element 20, together with the horn 22 directed to a gap 14 which is provided between the outer mirror 46 'and the mirror housing 46. At the gap 14 itself, the power generated by the ultrasonic sensor element 20 is then emitted, see arrow. Since mirror housings 46 usually always have a cavity 30 (due to the required aerodynamic properties), conventional mirror housings 46 can be used as an example of an exterior vehicle element in which a cavity 30 is formed, which is connected via gap 14 to the environment. The gap 14 is provided at each conventional outside mirror 46 ', particularly at movable exterior mirrors 46' to allow movement of the mirror element with respect to the mirror housing 46. Dashed lines show another ultrasonic sensor element 20 'which does not radiate directly onto the gap 14. Rather, that includes

Ultrasonic sensor element 20 'as well as a horn, which is directed to an additional reflector 24, which deflects the sound suitable to the gap 14. Although a part of the sound power of the ultrasonic sensor element 20 is reflected from the inside of the mirror housing 46 to the gap 14, however, allows the additional reflector 24, that the sound is selectively reflected. Instead of an extra

Reflector 24 may also be configured the natural inner shape of the outer mirror housing 46 and aligned with the ultrasonic sensor element 20 so that a suitable reflection to the gap 14 results.

FIG. 4 shows a further embodiment in which a recessed grip of a door handle forms a cavity 30 in its boundary wall

Ultrasonic sensor element 20 is arranged. The outer part of the handle results in diffraction effects, which are shown schematically by the arrows of FIG. Due to the wavelength, there are no abrupt changes in direction, but the outer edge of the handle or the gap 14 itself according to the

Huygens' principle be regarded as a radiation source. In FIG. 4, the recessed grip and the handle correspond to two vehicle trim elements 10, 12 which are movable relative to one another and which provide the cavity 30 or the recess 30. FIG. 5 relates to a further realization possibility of the arrangement according to the invention, wherein a part of a vehicle trim element 10 (for example the head side of a trunk lid) forms a cavity 30, together with a facing 12 of a license plate light 12 'representing a vehicle trim element, within which the sensitive surface of an ultrasonic sensor element 20 abuts , Since a veneer 12 of the license plate light 12 ', which represents the vehicle trim element in this case, is arranged anyway on the tailgate 10, an already provided open cavity 30 or a recess is formed for the arrangement of the ultrasonic sensor element 20. It can be seen that the ultrasonic sensor element 20 radiates a part of the sound energy to the veneer 12, but a further part penetrates directly to the outside. Since this in turn results in interference and diffraction effects, a definable interference situation is generated by the arrangement of the veneer 12 and the tailgate 10, which leads to a determinable directional characteristic. It will be appreciated, however, that the veneer 12 merely reflects the sound but does not absorb it, thereby not significantly affecting the radiated sound power despite the indirect propagation. FIG. 6 shows a radiator grille 10 and an adjoining one

Vehicle trim element 12 shown. For the ultrasonic sensor element 20, four different variants of the arrangement result.

The first variant provides an arrangement within the cavity 30, which is formed by the vehicle trim elements 10, 12, and at a significant distance from a radiator grille. This position is represented by the ultrasonic sensor element 20. The ultrasonic sensor element 20 radiates sound onto the radiator grille 10, which due to its open structure allows the sound to pass through different interspaces of the grating and radiates outwards, and in this case the

Represents vehicle panel element. The arrows 60 show the radiation after passing through the grille, wherein the arrows 62 represent the radiation to the radiator grille 10.

The second variant is the arrangement of the ultrasonic sensor element 20 'in FIG

Essentially directly on the inside of the grille 10, wherein the Ultrasonic sensor element 20 only emits sound through an open structure of the grille 10, so that the sound is emitted from this open structural element of the radiator grill 10, as shown by the arrows 64. First, however, the total sonic energy is radiated substantially into a single contiguous open structure of the radiator grille 10, as opposed to the irradiation of a plurality of open structures by the ultrasonic sensor element 20.

The third arrangement variant is shown with the ultrasound sensor element 20 ", which is located within an open structure of the radiator grille 10. From there it emits the sound directly into the environment, see arrow starting from the ultrasound sensor element 20". While the ultrasonic sensor elements 20, 20 'are provided within the cavity 30, which of the

In the case of vehicle trim elements 10, 12, the ultrasonic sensor element 20 "is provided inside an open structure of the vehicle trim element 10 (inside the radiator grille). In this case, the cavity 30 is represented by only one vehicle trim element 10 or its open structure.

In contrast to the figures 1 to 5, Figure 6 shows a variant in which the

Fluid connection or the equivalent acoustic connection between

Ultrasonic sensor element 20 and the environment is not formed by openings, gaps or gaps, which is characterized by the collision of

Vehicle trim elements 10, 12 are formed or which are formed by an outer enveloping shape of a vehicle trim element 10, 12 (see veneering of the motor vehicle license plate), but an arrangement variant in which the vehicle trim element 10, 12 is itself permeable and provides a direct return connection. In the first and second arrangement variant of Figure 6, the entire portion of the sound energy is first on the

Vehicle trim element 10 (the grille) radiated through which the sound is transported. In this point, Figure 6 is similar to the arrangement of the ultrasonic sensor element 20 'of Figure 2, in which the entire sound energy is first radiated to the vehicle trim element 12, which passes the sound by swinging and thus serves as a sound connection to the environment. The examples shown in FIGS. 1 to 6 are not shown to scale. In particular, the thickness of the vehicle trim elements 10, 12 is not to scale to the length. Likewise, the size of the ultrasonic sensor element 20 is not shown to scale to the gap width, in particular, for example, in Figure 1, the ultrasonic sensor element 20 and its sensitive surface may be provided significantly larger than the gap width. Due to the reversibility applicable to sound propagation, the previously described propagation paths for sound signals to be transmitted in the reverse direction also apply to sound signals to be received.

Claims

Claims 1. Vehicle trim with an ultrasonic sensor assembly, wherein the

At least one ultrasonic sensor element (20), characterized in that the ultrasonic sensor element (20) in a recess (30) or an outwardly open cavity (30) of Innenverkleidungselement.es (40) is provided, wherein the recess (30) or the outwardly open cavity (30) is formed by at least one vehicle lining element (10, 12) whose

Outside is not interrupted for receiving the ultrasonic sensor element (20).

2. Vehicle trim according to claim 1, wherein the recess (30) by a

Well, which is formed to accommodate another

Vehicle trim element (10, 12) or outer vehicle element (46) is formed, or wherein the recess (30) or the cavity (30) is formed by a distance (14), in particular a gap (14) between two different outer vehicle elements ( 46, 46 '), in particular from different

Materials are made.

3. Vehicle trim according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the ultrasonic sensor element (20) within the recess (30) or within the cavity (30) on the one hand in direct fluid communication with the immediate vicinity of

Vehicle trim elements (10, 12) and the other is the

Ultrasonic sensor element (20) with a directional characteristic in a relative arrangement to

Vehicle trim is provided, which has at least one sensitive area on a vehicle trim element (10, 12) or on an outer

Vehicle element (46) is directed, or wherein the vehicle trim element (10, 12) or the outer vehicle element (46) covers at least a portion of a sensitive region of the ultrasonic sensor element (20) from the immediate environment.

4. A vehicle trim panel according to claim 3, wherein the sound power radiated by the ultrasonic sensor element (20) is at least partially detected by means of diverting elements (44, 44 ') in the direction of a gap (14) between the vehicle trim elements (10, 12) is directed.

A vehicle trim panel according to claim 1, wherein the ultrasonic sensor element (20) is partially or completely concealed by a portion of the vehicle trim panel or vehicle trim element (10, 12) and the ultrasonic sensor element (20) in the recess (30) or outwardly open cavity (FIG. 30) is directly or indirectly fixed on or in an interior trim element (40) of the vehicle trim that defines part of the recess (30) or cavity (30), in particular a bottom portion (42) of the recess (30) or cavity (30 ).

A vehicle trim panel according to claim 1, wherein the recess (30) or the outwardly open cavity (30) is formed by open structures in one

Ventilation grille or grille of the vehicle trim, or wherein the recess (30) or the outwardly open cavity (30) is formed by a gap (14) in the vehicle trim, by the meeting of a movable or fixed vehicle trim element (10, 12) on a further movable or fixed vehicle lining element (10, 12) is formed, in particular by:

(A) a side door, or a trunk, gas cap or hood flap on the one hand and the associated stop on the other hand;

(B) an opener handle on the one hand and a Öffnergriffmulde or a

Öffnergriffbefestigungsabschnitt the vehicle trim on the other hand; or

(c) a fixed or movable exterior mirror (46 ', 46 ") on the one hand and a mirror housing (46) receiving same on the other hand;

(D) a fender element of the vehicle trim, a bumper, a

Crossfade, a decorative element, a trim strip, a license plate light, a license plate mounting element, a grille, a grille fastener on the one hand and an adjoining vehicle trim element

on the other hand, for example a front apron; or

(e) a light or headlamp housing on the one hand and a itself on it

subsequent vehicle trim element (10, 12) on the other hand; or

(F) inner sides of wheel arches on the one hand and vehicle wheels on the other. A method of integrating ultrasonic sensors into a vehicle fascia, comprising: providing at least one ultrasonic sensor element (20) of one

An ultrasonic sensor assembly, and attaching the ultrasonic sensor element (20) to vehicle trim elements or vehicle exterior elements (10, 12, 40, 42), characterized in that the fastening comprises: attaching the

Ultrasonic sensor element (20) in a recess (30) or an outwardly open cavity (30) of the vehicle trim, wherein the recess (30) or the outwardly open cavity (30) in which the ultrasonic sensor element (20) is attached , is formed by at least one vehicle lining element (10, 12) whose outer side is not interrupted for receiving the ultrasonic sensor element (20).

The method of claim 7, wherein the ultrasonic sensor element (20) is mounted in a recess (30) in which another vehicle trim element (10, 12) or outer vehicle element (46) is further attached, or wherein the ultrasonic sensor element (20) in the recess (30) is fastened, wherein the recess (30) by a gap (14) between two different vehicle trim elements (10, 12) is formed, which are in particular made of different materials or mutually movable vehicle trim elements (10, 12).

The method of claim 7 or 8, wherein the ultrasonic sensor element (20) is at least partially covered by the vehicle trim element (10, 12) or the outer vehicle element (46), wherein at least a portion of a sensitive area of the ultrasonic sensor element (20) of at least a portion of

Vehicle trim panel (10, 12) is concealed by the fastening, and the ultrasonic sensor element (20) is in fluid communication with the immediate vicinity of the vehicle trim panel by being attached to the sensitive area.

Method for the protected release of ultrasonic waves from one to one

Vehicle trim fastened ultrasonic sensor element (20) in the vicinity of the vehicle trim with the steps: generating ultrasonic waves by exciting the ultrasonic sensor element (20) and emitting at least a portion of the

Ultrasonic waves on an inner surface of at least one vehicle trim element (10, 12) having an edge spaced from another vehicle garment member (10, 12), the ultrasonic waves being radiated into the environment, the blasting comprising: bowing and / or reflecting the

Ultrasonic waves on the vehicle trim element (10, 12). A method for the protected receiving of ultrasonic waves by a at a

A vehicle trim mounted ultrasonic sensor element (20) from the vicinity of the vehicle trim, comprising the steps of: receiving ultrasonic waves impinging on an outer surface of at least one vehicle trim element (10, 12) having an edge spaced from another vehicle trim element (10, 12) wherein the ultrasonic waves impinge on a cavity or cavity (30) formed by the at least one vehicle trim element (10, 12) or in the cavity (30), the radiation comprising: diffracting and / or reflecting the ultrasonic waves on the vehicle trim element (10, 12).