WO2023227316A1

WO2023227316A1 - Acquisition device for a motor vehicle, and assembly

Info

Publication number: WO2023227316A1
Application number: PCT/EP2023/060874
Authority: WO
Inventors: Nicholas Aldersley; Victor ORLINSKIY; Matthias Findeis
Original assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft
Priority date: 2022-05-25
Filing date: 2023-04-26
Publication date: 2023-11-30
Also published as: DE102022113320B3

Abstract

The invention relates to an acquisition device (2) for a motor vehicle (1), comprising a housing element (5) which delimits a receiving space (6) at least in part, and comprising at least three sensor elements (9, 10, 11) which are arranged in the receiving space (6) and by means of which at least one acoustic signal (13) can be acquired from the surroundings (14) of the motor vehicle (1), pairs of the sensor elements (9, 10, 11) being mutually adjacent and mutually spaced along a direction of extent (18) of the acquisition device (2) to be held on an outer face (16) of a body shell (17) of the motor vehicle (1), which pairs are different from one another and have distances (19, 20) from one another in the direction of extent (18).

Description

Detection device for a motor vehicle and arrangement

The invention relates to a detection device for a motor vehicle according to the features of patent claim 1. The invention further relates to an arrangement of a detection device on a component of a motor vehicle according to the features of patent claim 4.

DE 102004 045690 A1 discloses a device for determining external sound sources in the environment of a motor vehicle, which has a microphone array arranged on the motor vehicle with a plurality of microphones for recording ambient noise of a motor vehicle and an evaluation device for evaluating the microphone signals.

It is the object of the invention to create a detection device for a motor vehicle and an arrangement of a detection device on a component of a motor vehicle, so that an acoustic signal from the surroundings of the motor vehicle can be detected particularly well.

This object is achieved according to the invention by a detection device for a motor vehicle with the features of patent claim 1 and by an arrangement of a detection device on a component of a motor vehicle with the features of patent claim 4. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims and the description.

A first aspect of the invention relates to a detection device for a motor vehicle. The motor vehicle is preferably designed as a motor vehicle, in particular as a passenger car, commercial vehicle or truck.

The detection device has at least one housing element which at least partially, in particular completely, delimits a receiving space. In other words, the receiving space is at least partially, in particular completely, surrounded by the housing element or formed by the housing element. The recording space is therefore at least partially, in particular completely, of covered by the housing element. The recording space is part of the recording device. This means that the detection device includes the recording space.

The detection device has at least three, for example four, in particular exactly four, in particular acoustic, sensor elements arranged in the receiving space, by means of which, in particular in the installed position of the detection device in the motor vehicle, at least one acoustic signal from an environment of the motor vehicle can be or will be detected. The sensor elements are thus arranged within the housing element. This means that the sensor elements can be integrated in the housing element, which can in particular be referred to as a housing. The acoustic signal can in particular be understood to mean a noise from an environment of the motor vehicle. This means that an acoustic signal or noise emitted by a noise source located in the vicinity of the motor vehicle can be detected by means of the sensor elements. The acoustic signal, in particular in the form of sound or sound waves, can thus be emitted by the noise source and received or detected by the sensor elements. The noise source can be understood to mean, in particular, a sound source. The respective sensor element is designed, for example, as a respective microphone.

For example, at least one variable that characterizes the acoustic signal can be detected using the sensor elements. For example, the detected size is transmitted by the sensor elements to an electronic computing device, whereby the acoustic signal can be determined or evaluated by means of the electronic computing device depending on the detected or transmitted size.

The noise wave is preferably a person, in particular in the vicinity of the motor vehicle. The acoustic signal can therefore be a noise emitted by the person, in particular caused by the person. Preferably, the acoustic signal or the noise is a person's voice, in particular a human one. The term, in particular human, voice can be understood to mean sound generated in particular by vocal folds in the person's larynx and modulated in the person's vocal tract, in particular the oral cavity and/or pharynx and/or nasal cavity. Thus, the acoustic signal or the noise is, for example, a voice command. The detection device is to be held, in particular via the housing element, on an outside of a bodyshell of the motor vehicle, in particular at least indirectly or directly on the component. This means that the detection device is arranged or fastened on the outside of the bodyshell when the motor vehicle is fully manufactured. The detection device can be held or attached at least indirectly to the shell, in particular via the component. The detection device can therefore be arranged outside the shell. The body shell can be understood in particular as a structure of the motor vehicle. The shell is preferably designed as a body, in particular a self-supporting body.

In order to be able to detect the acoustic signal from the surroundings of the motor vehicle particularly well, it is provided that the sensor elements are arranged in pairs, in particular directly, adjacently and spaced apart from one another along an extension direction and in pairs have different distances from one another in the extension direction. In other words, respective distances based on the direction of extension between two sensor elements that are adjacent in the direction of extension, in particular directly, are different from one another. In other words, the sensor elements are arranged asymmetrically along the direction of extension, in particular in the receiving space or the housing element. This can mean in particular the following:

For example, a first of the sensor elements and a second of the sensor elements are spaced apart from one another at a first distance in the extension direction. For example, the second sensor element and a third of the sensor elements are spaced apart from one another in the extension direction at a second distance that is different from the first distance. For example, the second sensor element is arranged in the extension direction between the first sensor element and the third sensor element. The first and second sensor elements are therefore respective, in particular directly adjacent, sensor elements. The first and third sensor elements are therefore in particular not respective, in particular directly adjacent, sensor elements. The second and third sensor elements are respective, in particular directly adjacent, sensor elements. In particular, the second sensor element closes along the extension direction at least at the first distance indirectly to the first sensor element. In particular, the third sensor element adjoins the second sensor element at least indirectly along the extension direction at the second distance. For example, the third sensor element and the fourth of the sensor elements are spaced apart from one another in the extension direction at a third distance different from the first and/or the second distance. The third and fourth sensor elements are therefore respective, in particular directly adjacent, sensor elements. In particular, the second and fourth sensor elements and the first and fourth sensor elements are not respective, in particular directly adjacent, sensor elements. In particular, the fourth sensor element adjoins the third sensor element at least indirectly along the extension direction at the third distance.

The direction of extension of the detection device can be a transverse direction of extension of the detection device or a longitudinal direction of extension of the detection device. Alternatively, the extension direction can run obliquely or perpendicular to the transverse extension direction and/or to the longitudinal extension direction of the detection device. For example, the direction of extension of the detection device in the installed position of the detection device in the motor vehicle can run parallel to the vehicle's longitudinal direction and/or to the vehicle's transverse direction and/or to the vehicle's vertical direction of the motor vehicle. Alternatively, the direction of extension of the detection device can run obliquely or perpendicular to the vehicle's longitudinal direction and/or to the vehicle's transverse direction and/or to the vehicle's vertical direction.

The invention is based in particular on the following findings and considerations: Vehicles, in particular motor vehicles, can be operated from the outside with mechanical and/or electrical elements. For example, handles, buttons, switches, radio remote controls or targeted movements of a person can be used for operation. For example, a wing element, in particular a tailgate, of the motor vehicle can be operated via haptic elements, such as buttons, emblem actuation or similar. Alternatively or additionally, the wing element, in particular the tailgate, can be operated via an interior button, remote control or the targeted movement of the person. The targeted movement of the person can in particular be a contactless operation, that is, a contactless movement in which the motor vehicle is not touched by the person. The targeted movement can, for example be a movement of one of the person's feet, particularly known as a foot kick. The operation or opening of the motor vehicle, in particular the wing element, for example the tailgate, can in particular be referred to as a smart opener (SMO). The tailgate can be effected in particular by a kicking movement of the foot under a rear bumper of the motor vehicle. Operation through targeted movement in the form of a contactless control point (smart opener) can be unintuitive for the person and particularly prone to errors. This can have a negative impact on the comfort of the motor vehicle.

In contrast, by means of the detection device according to the invention, the motor vehicle can be operated from outside, that is, from the environment, by voice control or by voice command. This means that the motor vehicle can be controlled by voice by the person in the area. Thus, for example, the wing element and/or a window of the motor vehicle can be opened and/or closed by the person using voice control or voice control. As a result, the motor vehicle can be controlled or operated from the outside with particularly little effort, in particular particularly intuitively. In particular, the wing element and/or the window can be opened or closed with particularly little effort, in particular particularly intuitively. As a result, the comfort of the motor vehicle can be particularly increased. Because the detection device has at least the three sensor elements, and in particular the sensor elements have different distances, a direction detection and/or a distance detection of the acoustic signal, in particular particularly reliably and/or particularly precisely, can be made possible. This allows, for example, background noise from the surroundings of the motor vehicle to be filtered out in a targeted manner. As a result, the detection of the acoustic signal can be particularly improved; in particular, the acoustic signal can be detected particularly precisely and/or particularly reliably. The motor vehicle, in particular the wing element and/or the window, can therefore be operated particularly reliably by the person. As a result, the comfort of the motor vehicle can be particularly increased.

The wing element can be understood, for example, as a flap element, particularly referred to as a flap. For example, the flap element is a tailgate or a door, in particular a side door, of the motor vehicle. In a further embodiment, it is provided that the sensor elements are arranged on an imaginary straight line in the direction of extension. This means that the straight line runs through the sensor elements. In other words, the sensor elements are lined up next to one another, in particular in the direction of extension, that is to say arranged in a row in the receiving space. This can be understood to mean, for example, that the sensor elements are collectively designed as a sensor element array, particularly referred to as a microphone array. This allows, for example, the direction detection of the acoustic signal to be carried out particularly precisely. The detection of the acoustic signal can thus be particularly improved.

In a further embodiment, it is provided that the sensor elements are arranged, in particular directly, on a carrier element which is formed separately from the housing element, in particular in common. In other words, the sensor elements are held or attached, in particular directly, to the carrier element. This means that the sensor elements can be installed together on the carrier element, in particular the circuit board. As a result, the installation space of the detection device can be designed particularly advantageously, in particular kept particularly small. The carrier element is designed, for example, as a circuit board. The carrier element is preferably, in particular completely, arranged in the receiving space.

It is preferably provided that the housing element is designed to be liquid-tight, in particular waterproof. For example, at least one sealing element, in particular directly, is arranged on the housing element, by means of which the housing element can be sealed or sealed against an environment of the detection device. Liquid tightness, in particular watertightness, can thus be achieved by means of the sealing element. As a result, the detection device, in particular the housing element, can be kept particularly tight. As a result, the sensor elements can be particularly well protected against damage caused by moisture, for example. The detection device can therefore be arranged or installed in a wet area of the motor vehicle, in particular in the vehicle exterior.

It is preferably provided that the respective sensor element has at least one respective opening provided for the entry of sound into a respective interior of the sensor element. In other words, the acoustic signal is transmitted via the respective opening for detecting the acoustic signal the interior of the respective sensor element, in particular acoustically, transferable. This means that the opening is provided for the sound entry of the acoustic signal into the respective sensor element, in particular into the respective interior space.

It is preferably provided that the respective opening is covered by a respective membrane, in particular liquid-tight, for example waterproof, in particular directly. In other words, the opening is at least partially, in particular completely, surrounded by the membrane in its axial direction, in particular to the outside. In other words, the membrane is arranged, in particular directly, at the opening. This means that the opening is at least partially, in particular completely, closed by the membrane. As a result, the interior of the sensor element can be protected particularly reliably against incoming liquid or moisture.

The membrane is preferably designed to transmit sound or to be able to transmit sound. Therefore, the membrane can be referred to in particular as a sound membrane. This means that sound waves acting on the membrane from a first side, in particular the acoustic signal, can be transferred via the membrane to a second side of the membrane that is different from the first side, in particular opposite the first side. The first side is preferably an outside of the membrane or the sensor element. The second side is preferably an inside of the membrane or the sensor element. This means that the second side preferably faces the interior and the first side preferably faces away from the interior.

Preferably, it is provided that the carrier element is arranged in a first plane and the respective opening is arranged in a second plane that is different from the first plane, in particular at a distance from the first plane. In other words, the respective opening is spaced from the carrier element, in particular obliquely or perpendicularly to the direction of extension of the detection device. As a result, the acoustic signal can be detected particularly well, in particular error-free or particularly resistant to interference, by means of the respective sensor element.

A second aspect of the invention relates to an arrangement of at least one detection device having a housing element and at least three sensor elements, for example four, in particular exactly four, sensor elements, in particular according to the first aspect of the invention, in particular in a component of a motor vehicle. Advantages and advantageous refinements of the first aspect of the invention are to be viewed as advantages and advantageous refinements of the second aspect of the invention and vice versa.

The housing element at least partially, in particular completely, delimits a receiving space in which the sensor elements are arranged. At least one acoustic signal from the surroundings of the motor vehicle can be detected by means of the sensor elements.

The detection device is arranged on an outside of a bodyshell of the motor vehicle. In other words, the detection device is located on the outside of the shell. This means that the detection device is not arranged in an interior of the motor vehicle, which is particularly referred to as a vehicle interior or a passenger cell. The detection device is therefore spaced from the interior. The detection device can be held, in particular via the housing element, on the outside of the shell, in particular at least indirectly or directly, on the component and/or on the shell.

In order to be able to detect the acoustic signal from the environment particularly well, it is provided that the sensor elements are arranged in pairs, in particular directly, adjacently and spaced apart from one another in an extension direction of the detection device and in pairs have different distances from one another in the extension direction.

It is preferably provided that the component is designed separately from the shell. This means that the component and the shell are not formed in one piece. The component can therefore be an add-on part. In particular, the shell and the component are manufactured separately from one another. For example, the component is formed from a material that is different from the shell.

The detection device can be integrated into the component, wherein the detection device can be held or fastened at least indirectly to the shell by means of the component. This allows direct acoustic access of the respective sensor element, in particular without a cover, to the environment, in particular referred to as the exterior of the motor vehicle. Furthermore, the sensor elements can be particularly inconspicuous, especially on the outside of the bodyshell, be integrated into the motor vehicle. In particular, an installation space of the motor vehicle can be designed particularly advantageously. For example, existing installation spaces in the component can be used to arrange the detection device. This means that the installation space of the motor vehicle can be designed particularly efficiently.

In a further embodiment, it is provided that the component is designed as a wing element, in particular as a wing element part of the wing element, or as an air-guiding element, in particular as an air-guiding element part of the air-guiding element, or as an exterior mirror, in particular as an exterior mirror part of the exterior mirror, or as a sill, in particular as a sill part of the sill, or is designed as a cover element, in particular as a cover element part of the cover element. In other words, the wing element, the air guide element, the exterior mirror, the sill or the cover element is at least partially, in particular completely, formed by the component. The detection device can therefore be arranged on, in particular in, the wing element, the air guide element, the exterior mirror, the sill or the cover element. As a result, the installation space of the motor vehicle can be designed particularly advantageously. In particular, the detection device can be accommodated in the motor vehicle in a particularly space-saving manner.

The wing element is designed, for example, as a door, in particular as a side door, or as a flap, in particular as a tailgate or as a front flap. The component can thus be designed as a tailgate, in particular as a tailgate part of the tailgate. In particular, the front flap can be operated at least partially electrically if the motor vehicle has a loading space, in particular referred to as a frunk, which is covered or can be covered by the front flap. The use of voice control can be particularly attractive since, for example, sensible haptic alternatives may not be available in the front area of the motor vehicle. The cover element is designed, for example, as a strip, in particular as a window strip. For example, the bar or the window bar is a decorative strip. The air guiding element is designed, for example, as a spoiler, in particular as a rear spoiler. For example, the air guiding element is arranged in an air flow flowing towards or around the motor vehicle while the motor vehicle is traveling. This means that the air guide element is acted upon by the air flow when the motor vehicle is moving, in particular the air flow flows against it or flows around it. The sill is, for example, a side sill. In particular, if the component is designed as a wing element, in particular as a tailgate, it is preferably provided that the detection device, in relation to the vehicle vertical direction of the motor vehicle, and in particular in relation to a closed position of the wing element, in the area of a lower end, in particular in the area of a lower edge, of the wing element, in particular the tailgate, is arranged. In other words, the detection device is located in the vertical direction of the vehicle in the area of the lower end, in particular the lower edge, of the wing element. In other words, the detection device is arranged in the vertical direction of the motor vehicle in the area of the lower end of the wing element. As a result, the installation space of the wing element, in particular the tailgate, can be designed particularly advantageously. The lower end of the wing element can be understood in particular to mean a lower end region of the wing element in relation to the vertical direction of the vehicle. For example, the lower end is a handle strip of the wing element. The component can therefore be designed in particular as the handle strip of the wing element.

For example, the detection device is designed as a module. The module can preferably be arranged, in particular integrated, in the component, in particular in the wing element and/or the air guiding element and/or in the exterior mirror and/or in the sill and/or in the cover element.

In a further embodiment, it is provided that the detection device is arranged in a receiving area which is delimited, in particular directly, at least partially, in particular completely, by a wall, in particular of the component, which is formed separately from the detection device. In other words, the receiving area is at least partially, in particular completely, surrounded by the wall, in particular directly. The recording area is designed, for example, as a wet area. The detection device can therefore be arranged in the wet area. For example, the receiving area, in particular the wet area, is separated by the wall from a dry area that is different from the receiving area, in particular the wet area. For example, the component includes the wall. The wall can therefore be designed as a wall region of the component. Alternatively, the wall can be formed separately from the component. The wall can, for example, be part of the bodyshell or part of a component of the motor vehicle that is designed separately from the bodyshell. Preferably, it is provided that the sensor elements are connected, at least indirectly or directly, to one, in particular one, in particular electrical, connecting device which extends at least partially outside the housing element. In other words, the connecting device is at least partially arranged outside the housing element. The connection device is provided for signal transmission between the sensor elements and a component of the motor vehicle, in particular an electrical and/or electronic component, which is designed separately from the detection device and is arranged outside the recording area. In other words, the sensor elements can be connected via the connecting device to the component arranged outside the receiving area in a signal-transmitting or electrical manner. Signal transmission is, for example, data transmission. The connection device can therefore be provided for data transmission between the sensor elements and the component. This means that the sensor elements can be connected or connected to the component via the connecting device in a data-transmitting manner. Alternatively, the connection device can be provided, for example, for the, in particular electrical, energy supply or for powering the sensor elements. The component is arranged, for example, in the dry area.

The connecting device preferably comprises one, in particular exactly one, in particular electrical, line element, which is designed, for example, as a cable. For example, the connecting device comprises at least one, in particular electrical, connection element, which is designed, for example, as a plug connector. For example, the line element is or can be connected to the sensor elements electrically and/or for data transmission via the connection point.

In a further embodiment, a sealing element is provided which covers the connecting device, in particular the connection element, at least in some areas and rests against the housing element and the wall, in particular directly, with which the housing element can be sealed or sealed against the wall. In other words, the sealing element surrounds at least a length region of the connecting device, in particular the connecting element, for example in the circumferential direction of the connecting device, at least partially, in particular completely. The connecting device, in particular the connecting element, can thus be guided through the sealing element. Again in other words, the housing element is supported on the wall via the sealing element, in particular directly. A sealing effect can thus be achieved between the housing element and the wall by means of the sealing element. As a result, the housing element can be sealed, in particular directly, from the wall, in particular from the dry area, by means of the sealing element. In particular, the connecting device, in particular the line element and/or the connection element, can be protected from moisture. For example, the sealing element is designed as a grommet. The connecting device can be spaced apart from the sealing element or the connecting device can directly contact the sealing element. The sealing element can therefore lie against the connecting device or not lie against the connecting device. Preferably, the sealing element is formed from a material that is different from the housing element and/or the connecting device.

Alternatively, a first sealing element can be provided which partially covers the connecting device, in particular the line element and/or the connecting element, and rests against the housing element and the connecting device, in particular directly. In other words, the first sealing element surrounds a length region, in particular referred to as a first length region, of the connecting device, in particular of the line element and/or the connecting element, for example in the circumferential direction of the connecting device, in particular directly, wherein preferably the sealing element surrounds the housing element and the connecting device, in particular Line element and / or the connection element, in particular directly, touched. The connecting device, in particular the length region, can thus be arranged at least partially within the first sealing element or be guided through the second sealing element. In other words, the connecting device, in particular the line element, is supported on the housing element via the first sealing element. By means of the first sealing element, the housing element can be sealed or sealed against the connecting device, in particular the line element and/or the connecting element. In other words, a sealing effect for sealing the housing element against the connecting device can be effected or brought about by means of the first sealing element.

In this case, there is preferably a connecting device, in particular the line element and/or the connection element, which partially covers the area Wall and the connecting device, in particular on the line element and / or the connection element, in particular directly, a second sealing element is provided which is spaced apart from the first sealing element. In other words, the second sealing element surrounds a second length region of the connecting device, in particular of the line element, which is spaced apart from the first length region, for example in the circumferential direction of the connecting device, in particular of the line element, wherein preferably the second sealing element touches the wall and the connecting device, in particular directly. The connecting device, in particular the second length region, can thus be arranged at least partially within the second sealing element or be guided through the second sealing element. Again in other words, the connecting device, in particular the line element, is supported or can be supported on the wall, in particular directly, via the second sealing element. By means of the second sealing element, the connecting device, in particular the line element, can be sealed or sealed against the wall. In other words, a sealing effect for sealing the connecting device, in particular the line element, against the wall, in particular against the dry area, can be effected or brought about by means of the second sealing element. The housing can thus be sealed to the connecting device via the first sealing element and sealed to the wall, in particular to the dry area, via the second sealing element. The first and/or the second sealing element is designed, for example, as a respective grommet. For example, the connecting device is at least partially arranged in the wet area. Preferably, the first and/or the second sealing element is each formed from a material that is different from the housing element and/or the connecting device and/or from the wall.

In a further embodiment, it is provided that the wing element is held on the shell so that it can pivot relative to the shell, in particular at least indirectly or directly, between the closed position and at least one open position. In other words, the wing element is attached, in particular at least indirectly or directly, to the shell, the wing element being pivotable about a pivot axis between the closed position and the open position relative to the shell. For example, in the closed position, an opening, in particular limited by the shell, for example referred to as a flap opening, is closed, in particular completely, by the wing element. For example, this is Opening in the open position is at least partially, in particular completely, released by the wing element. The opening is, for example, access to an interior or a loading space of the motor vehicle.

Preferably, at least one coupling device which can be coupled to the wing element, in particular electrically and/or mechanically, is provided, by means of which the wing element is moved between the closed position and the open position depending on the acoustic signal detected by the respective sensor element is or will be pivotable. In other words, the wing element can be pivoted from the closed position to the open position and/or from the open position to the closed position depending on the acoustic signal detected by the respective sensor element, in particular about the pivot axis. This means that the wing element, in particular the tailgate, can be opened and/or closed via voice control. As a result, the wing element can be opened with particularly little effort, in particular thereby increasing the comfort of the motor vehicle. For example, the wing element can be pivoted between the closed position and the open position by means of the coupling device depending on the size detected by the respective sensor element.

For example, an electronic computing device is provided, by means of which, depending on the acoustic signal detected by the respective sensor element or depending on the respective size detected by the respective sensor element, at least one control signal can be transmitted to the coupling device for causing the wing element to pivot. The wing element can thus be opened and/or closed by means of the coupling device depending on the control signal transmitted from the electronic computing device to the coupling device.

The coupling device is preferably arranged outside the housing element, in particular outside the receiving area. The electronic computing device can be arranged inside the housing element or outside the housing element, in particular outside the receiving area. In particular, if the electronic computing device is arranged within the housing element, that is to say is arranged within the receiving space, at least a first processing of the acoustic signal detected by means of the respective sensor element can be carried out, for example directly on the circuit board, by means of the electronic Computing device done. In this case, at least one result signal can be determined by means of the electronic computing device depending on the detected acoustic signal, for example the control signal, wherein the result signal can be sent or transmitted by the electronic computing device to a second electronic computing device designed separately from the electronic computing device. The result signal is, for example, a digital signal, in particular a digital output BUS signal. The second electronic computing device is arranged, for example, outside the housing element, in particular outside the receiving area. The second electronic computing device can be part of the coupling device or the second electronic computing device can be designed separately from the coupling device and, in particular, can be connected or connectable to the coupling device for data transmission.

In a further embodiment, it is provided that by means of the electronic computing device and/or by means of the second electronic computing device, depending on the acoustic signal detected by means of the respective sensor element, a distance between the noise source emitting the acoustic signal and the motor vehicle, in particular a portion of the motor vehicle, can be determined or is determined. In other words, a distance between the noise source and the motor vehicle, in particular the portion of the motor vehicle, can be determined by means of the first electronic computing device and/or the second electronic computing device. When determining, the distance is calculated, for example. The sub-area of the motor vehicle can be understood to mean, in particular, a reference point. The reference point can be arranged inside the motor vehicle or on an outside of the motor vehicle. By determining the distance, which can be referred to in particular as distance detection, the respective acoustic signal can be filtered, for example, depending on the determined distance. Thus, for example, particularly disturbing background noises from additional noise sources, particularly those that are particularly far away and different from the noise source, can be filtered out, that is, not taken into account. This means that disruptive noise can be particularly minimized. As a result, reliability for detecting or evaluating the acoustic signal can be particularly increased. Alternatively or additionally, it is provided that a direction in which the noise source is located in relation to the motor vehicle, in particular to the partial area of the motor vehicle, can be detected or detected by means of the electronic computing device and/or the second electronic computing device. This means that a direction can be detected or is detected in which the noise source is located, starting from the motor vehicle, in particular the sub-area of the motor vehicle, or is spaced from the motor vehicle, in particular the sub-area of the motor vehicle. By determining the direction, which can in particular be referred to as direction detection, the background noise or interfering noise can be filtered out depending on the direction determined. This means that when processing signals, directional sensitivity can be achieved while at the same time filtering out noise.

It is preferably provided that the acoustic signal detected by means of the respective sensor element is compared with at least one reference signal by means of the first electronic computing device and/or by means of the second electronic computing device. The wing element is pivoted between the closed position and the open position, for example by means of the coupling device, when a, in particular predefined, criterion is met, for example when the detected acoustic signal corresponds to the reference signal. The reference signal can be understood in particular as a reference speech signal, that is, a reference speech message or a reference speech command. Preferably, the wing element does not pivot between the closed position and the open position if the, in particular predefined, criterion is not met, for example if the detected acoustic signal does not correspond to the reference signal, that is, if the detected acoustic signal is different from the reference signal, for example.

It is preferably provided that the comparison of the detected acoustic signal with the reference signal is carried out when the determined distance has a first distance value or corresponds to the first distance value. Preferably, the detected acoustic signal is not compared with the reference signal if the determined distance has a second distance value that is different from the first distance value, in particular larger than the first distance value, or corresponds to the second distance value. It is preferably provided that the comparison of the detected acoustic signal with the reference signal is carried out when the determined direction has a first direction value or corresponds to the first direction value. Preferably, the detected acoustic signal is not compared with the reference signal if the determined direction has a second direction value that is different from the first direction value or corresponds to the second direction value.

For example, a sensor device, in particular designed separately from the detection device, is provided, by means of which an object located in the environment and/or in the motor vehicle, in particular different from the noise source, can be detected. The object is, for example, a key for the motor vehicle or the motor vehicle, particularly referred to as a vehicle key. In particular, a distance between the object and the motor vehicle, in particular the motor vehicle part, can be detected or determined by means of the sensor device.

It is preferably provided that the pivoting of the wing element is carried out when the object is at a first distance from the motor vehicle or is located within the motor vehicle. Preferably, the wing element does not pivot if the object is spaced from the motor vehicle at a second distance value that is different from the first distance value, the second distance value preferably being greater than the first distance value. The respective distance value can be understood in particular as a respective distance value detected by the sensor device. The pivoting of the wing element can therefore only be carried out as a function of the detected acoustic signal if it is recognized by the sensor device that the object, in particular the key, is at least in the vicinity of the motor vehicle.

It is preferably provided that the comparison of the detected acoustic signal with the reference signal is carried out depending on the object detected by the sensor device. It is provided, for example, that the comparison of the detected acoustic signal with the reference signal is carried out if a difference between the determined distance and the determined distance is smaller than a predefined threshold value. Preferably, the recorded data is not compared acoustic signal with the reference signal if the difference between the determined distance and the determined distance is greater than the predefined threshold value. This means that background noise, particularly referred to as background noise, can be filtered out particularly well.

Alternatively or additionally, it is provided, for example, that an object direction can be detected or determined by means of the sensor device, in which the object is located in relation to the motor vehicle, in particular to the partial area of the motor vehicle. Preferably, it is provided that the comparison of the detected acoustic signal with the reference signal is carried out when a difference between the determined direction and the determined object direction is smaller than a predefined threshold value, in particular referred to as a second threshold value. Preferably, the detected acoustic signal is not compared with the reference signal if the difference between the determined direction and the determined object direction is greater than the predefined threshold value. This means that background noise, particularly referred to as background noise, can be filtered out particularly well.

A third aspect relates to a method for operating a motor vehicle having a detection device, in particular according to the first aspect of the invention. Advantages and advantageous embodiments of the first aspect and the second aspect of the invention are to be viewed as advantages and advantageous embodiments of the third aspect and vice versa.

The detection device has a housing element which at least partially delimits a receiving space. In the method, at least one acoustic signal from the surroundings of the motor vehicle is detected by means of at least three, in particular acoustic, sensor elements of the detection device arranged in the recording space. It is provided that the sensor elements are arranged in pairs, in particular directly, adjacently and spaced apart from one another along an extension direction of the detection device to be held on an outside of a bodyshell of the motor vehicle and in pairs have different distances from one another that run in the extension direction.

A fourth aspect relates to a method for operating an arrangement according to the second aspect of the invention. Advantages and advantageous refinements of the first Aspect of the invention and the second aspect of the invention and the third aspect are to be viewed as advantages and advantageous embodiments of the fourth aspect and vice versa.

Further features of the invention emerge from the claims, the figures and the description of the figures. The features and combinations of features mentioned above in the description as well as the features and combinations of features mentioned below in the description of the figures and/or shown in the figures alone can be used not only in the combination specified in each case, but also in other combinations or on their own.

The invention will now be explained in more detail using a preferred exemplary embodiment and with reference to the drawings. Show it:

1 is a schematic partial sectional view of a motor vehicle which has a detection device according to the invention; and

Fig. 2 is a schematic perspective view of an inventive

detection device; and

Fig. 3 is a schematic perspective view of an inventive

Arrangement of a detection device according to the invention on a component of a motor vehicle; and

Fig. 4 is a schematic partial sectional view of the arrangement from Fig. 3; and

Fig. 5 is a schematic partial sectional view of the arrangement from Fig. 3; and

Fig. 6 is a schematic perspective view of an inventive

Arrangement of a detection device according to the invention on a component of a motor vehicle according to a further embodiment; and

Fig. 7 is a schematic partial sectional view of the arrangement from Fig. 6; and

Fig. 8 is a schematic partial sectional view of the arrangement from Fig. 6; and Fig. 9 is a schematic perspective view of an inventive

Detection device according to a further embodiment.

In the figures, identical or functionally identical elements are provided with the same reference numerals.

Fig. 1 shows a schematic partial sectional view of a motor vehicle 1, which has a detection device 2. Fig. 2 shows the detection device 2 in a schematic perspective view. 3 shows a schematic perspective view of an arrangement 3 of the detection device 2 on a component 4 of the motor vehicle 1. The detection device 2 has a housing element 5 which at least partially, in particular completely, delimits a receiving space 6. Fig. 4 shows the arrangement 3 in a schematic partial sectional view, which is in particular a longitudinal section. Fig. 5 shows the arrangement 3 in a schematic partial sectional view, which is in particular a cross section.

In the exemplary embodiment, the housing element 5 comprises a first housing part 7 and a second housing part 8 which is formed separately from the first housing part 7 and is connected, in particular directly, to the first housing part 7. The housing element 5, which is particularly referred to as a housing, is therefore in several parts, in particular in two parts, educated. The first housing part 7 is designed, for example, as a lower part. The second housing part 8 is designed, for example, as a lid. The housing parts 7, 8 are preferably designed to correspond to one another. As shown for example in FIG. 2, the housing element 5 in the exemplary embodiment is elongated, for example bone-shaped or bone-like.

The detection device 2 has at least three, for example four, in the receiving space 6, arranged, in particular acoustic, sensor elements 9-12, by means of which at least one acoustic signal 13 from an environment 14 of the motor vehicle 1 can be detected or is detected. The respective sensor element 9-12 is designed, for example, as a respective microphone. The respective microphone is preferably designed as a respective digital microphone. As a result, interference influences, especially compared to a respective analog microphone, can be kept particularly low. The acoustic signal 13 is emitted, for example, by a noise source 15, which is located in the environment 14 of the motor vehicle 1. The noise source 15 is, for example, a person.

The detection device 2 is arranged on an outside 16 of a bodyshell 17 of the motor vehicle 1. The detection device 2 can be held at least indirectly or directly on the component 4 and/or on the shell 17, in particular via the housing element 5.

In order to be able to detect the acoustic signal 13 particularly well by means of the respective sensor element 9-12, it is provided that the sensor elements 9-12 are arranged in pairs, in particular directly, adjacent and spaced apart from one another in an extension direction 18 of the detection device 2 and in pairs from one another have different respective distances 19 from one another, running in the extension direction 18. For example, a first of the sensor elements 9 is arranged along the extension direction 18 next to a second of the sensor elements 10. For example, a third of the sensor elements 11 is arranged along the extension direction 18 next to the second sensor element 10. For example, the fourth of the sensor elements 12 is arranged along the extension direction 18 next to the third sensor element 11. For example, the second sensor element 10 is arranged in the extension direction 18 between the first sensor element 9 and the third sensor element 11. For example, the third sensor element 11 is arranged in the extension direction 18 between the second sensor element 10 and the fourth sensor element 12. Preferably none of the sensor elements 9-12 is arranged between the first and second sensor elements 9, 10, in particular along the extension direction 18. Preferably none of the sensor elements 9-12 is arranged between the second and third sensor elements 10, 11, in particular along the extension direction 18. None of the sensor elements 9-12 is arranged between the third and fourth sensor elements 11, 12, in particular along the extension direction 18. The first and second sensor elements 9, 10 are spaced apart from one another at a first distance 19 in the extension direction 18. The second and third sensor elements 10, 11 are spaced apart from one another at a second distance 20 in the extension direction 18, in particular at a second distance 20 that is different from the first distance 19. The third and fourth sensor elements 11, 12 are spaced apart from one another at a third distance 21 in the extension direction 18, in particular at a third distance 21 which is different from the first and/or the second distance 19, 20. It is preferably provided that the sensor elements 9-12 are arranged on a, in particular imaginary, straight line 22 in the extension direction 18. It is preferably provided that the sensor elements 9-12 are arranged on a carrier element 23 which is formed separately from the housing element 5, in particular in common, and which is designed, for example, as a circuit board. For example, the respective sensor element 9-12 is mechanically and/or electrically connected to the carrier element 23.

In a further embodiment, it is provided that the respective sensor element 9-12 has at least one opening 25 provided for the entry of sound into a respective interior 24 of the respective sensor element 9-12. The respective opening 25 is preferably covered by a respective membrane 26, in particular in a liquid-tight manner.

For example, the component 4 has at least three, for example four, through openings 27-30, which are each assigned to a respective one of the sensor elements 9-12, in particular the respective opening 25 or membrane 26. A first of the through openings 27 is assigned to the first sensor element 9. A second of the through openings 28 is assigned to the second sensor element 10. A third of the through openings 29 is assigned to the third sensor element 11. The fourth of the through openings 30 is assigned to the fourth sensor element 12. Via the respective through opening 27-30, the respective sensor element 9-12 assigned to the respective through opening 27-30, in particular the respective opening 25 or the respective membrane 26, is connected or can be connected to the environment 14 in a sound-transmitting and/or sound-permeable manner. Thus, the respective through opening 27-30 is provided for the entry of sound, in particular the acoustic signal 13, into the respective interior of the respective sensor element 9-12.

For example, the respective through opening 27-30 is unevenly or irregularly shaped, in particular in its axial direction, for example in the radial direction and/or in the circumferential direction. Thus, the respective through opening 27-30 can, for example, have uneven radii, in particular along its axial direction. This means that the respective through opening can be shaped, for example, trumpet-shaped. As a result, the acoustic signal 13 can be detected or received particularly well by means of the respective sensor element 9-12. For example, the component 4 is formed on an outside 31 from a first part 32. For example, a second part 33 of the component 4 that is different from the first part 32 adjoins the first part 32 towards the inside, in particular at least indirectly or directly. For example, the first part 32 is formed from a first material and the second part 33 is formed, for example, from a second material that is different from the first material, the second material preferably being harder than the first material. The first material can therefore be a soft material and the second material can be a hard or harder material. For example, the second material is a plastic. For example, the first material is a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). In the area of the respective through opening 27-30, the first part 32 can be pulled through until it connects to the housing element 5, whereby an interface between the first part 32 and the housing element 5 can be optimally designed or depicted. This means that unwanted noise and/or acoustic leaks can be avoided.

For example, the detection device 2, in particular the housing element 5, is at least predominantly covered from the outside by the component 4, in particular the first and/or the second part 32, 33. Thus, from the environment 14, for example, especially in secondary surface areas, only the through openings 27-30 are visible, which are preferably particularly small.

In a further embodiment, it is provided that the component 4 is designed separately from the shell 17. The component 4 is therefore designed, for example, as an add-on part. For example, the detection device 2 is held on the shell 17, in particular via the housing element 5, at least indirectly, in particular directly, via the component 4.

In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, the component 4 is designed as a wing element 34. The wing element 34 is designed, for example, as a tailgate. In particular, the component 4 can be designed as a tailgate part of the tailgate. Preferably, it is provided that the detection device 2 is arranged in the region of a lower end 36 of the wing element 34, in particular the tailgate or the tailgate part, in relation to a vehicle vertical direction 35 of the motor vehicle 1. The lower end 36 is designed, for example, as the lower flap edge of the tailgate. For example, is the component 4 is designed as a handle strip, which is preferably arranged in the area of the lower end 36, and in particular in the area of the lower end 36, in particular on the edge of the flap, is connected, in particular directly, to a base body of the tailgate or is installed on the base body is.

6 shows the arrangement 3 in a schematic perspective view according to a further embodiment. Fig. 7 shows the arrangement 3 according to the embodiment from Fig. 6 in a schematic partial sectional view, in particular a cross section. Fig. 8 shows the arrangement 3 according to the embodiment from Fig. 6 in a schematic partial sectional view, in particular in a longitudinal section. In the respective embodiment shown in FIGS. 6 to 8, the component 4 is designed as an air guiding element 37, in particular as a spoiler, preferably as a rear spoiler. The air guiding element 37 is arranged, for example, on the wing element 34, in particular on the tailgate. Alternatively, the component 4 can be designed, for example, as an exterior mirror 38, in particular as a mirror base of the exterior mirror, or as a sill 39 or as a cover element 40, for example as a window strip. The term spoiler can in particular be understood to mean a spoiler system.

The base body of the tailgate is designed, for example, in particular as a tailgate panel 41, which is shown in FIG. 8. A pane 42 of the tailgate, particularly referred to as a rear window, is connected to the tailgate panel 41, for example by means of adhesive 43, in particular directly.

As shown, for example, in FIG. 3 and in FIG. 6 , it is provided in a further embodiment that the detection device 2 is arranged in a receiving area 44, in particular in the component 4. The receiving area 44 is designed, for example, as a wet area of the component 4 or the motor vehicle 1. The receiving area 44 is at least partially, in particular completely, delimited by a wall 45, in particular of the component 4, which is formed separately from the detection device 2.

For example, a second receiving area 44a that is different from the receiving area 44, in particular spaced apart from the receiving area 44, is separated from the first receiving area 44 by the wall 45. The second receiving area 44a is designed, for example, as a dry area of the component 4 or the motor vehicle 1. The sensor elements 9-12 are preferably, in particular at least indirectly or directly, connected to a, in particular electrical, connecting device 46 which extends at least partially outside the housing element 5. The connecting device 46 has, for example, a, in particular electrical, line element 47 and a, in particular electrical, connection element 48. The motor vehicle 1 has, for example, a component 49, in particular an electrical and/or electronic one, which is designed, for example, as an electronic computing device 50. The connecting device 46 is intended for signal transmission, in particular for data transmission, between the sensor elements 9-12 and the component 49. The component 49 is preferably arranged outside the receiving area 44. The component 49 is arranged, for example, in the second receiving area 44a. The connecting device 46 can be part of the detection device 2 or can be designed separately from the detection device 2.

In the exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 2, a sealing element 51 is provided which covers the connecting device 46, in particular the connection element 48, at least in some areas and rests against the housing element 5, in particular on the second housing part 8, and the wall 45, in particular directly, by means of which the housing element 5, in particular the second housing part 8, can be sealed or sealed against the wall 45. For example, the sealing element 51 is designed as a grommet.

Thus, the detection device 2 located in the receiving area 44, in particular in the wet area, can be connected, in particular electrically, via the connecting device 46 to the component 49, which is preferably located in the second receiving area 44a, in particular in the wet area, whereby the sealing element 51 prevents moisture from entering the housing element 5 and the second receiving area 44a.

9 shows the detection device 2 in a schematic perspective view according to a further, in particular alternative, embodiment. In the embodiment shown, for example in FIG. 3, FIG. 6 and FIG Line element 47, in particular directly, abutting, first sealing element 52 is provided, by means of which the housing element 5, in particular the second housing part 8 can be sealed or sealed against the connecting device 46, in particular the line element 47. The first sealing element 52 is designed, for example, as a grommet.

In addition, a second sealing element 53 is provided which partially covers the connecting device 46, in particular the line element 47, and which rests against the wall 45 and the connecting device 46, in particular on the line element 47, in particular directly, and is spaced apart from the first sealing element 52, by means of which the Connecting device 46, in particular the line element 47, can be sealed or is sealed against the wall 45.

Thus, the detection device 2 located in the receiving area 44, in particular in the wet area, can be connected, in particular electrically, via the connecting device 46 to the component 49, which is preferably located in the second receiving area 44a, in particular in the wet area, whereby the first sealing element 52 can prevent moisture from entering the housing element 5 and the second sealing element 53 can prevent moisture from entering the second receiving area 44a.

For example, the connecting device 46 has a second connecting element 54, in particular an electrical one, which is spaced apart from the first connecting element 48. For example, the connection element 48 is arranged at one end on the line element 47 and the second connection element 54 is arranged, for example, at the other end on the line element 47. For example, the line element 47 is connected or can be connected, in particular electrically, to the component 49 via the second connection element 54.

It is preferably provided that the wing element 34 is held on the shell 17 so that it can pivot relative to the shell 17 between a closed position and at least one open position. In a further embodiment, at least one coupling device 55 that can be coupled or coupled to the wing element 34 is provided, by means of which the wing element 34 can be pivoted or is pivoted between the closed position and the open position depending on the acoustic signal 13 detected by the respective sensor element 9-12. For example, the wing element 34 can be electrically pivoted between the closed position and the open position by means of the coupling device 55. The coupling device 55 can therefore have, for example, at least one electrical machine for pivoting the wing element 34.

For example, at least a first processing of the acoustic signal 13 detected by the respective sensor element 9-12, for example signal processing, can take place directly on the circuit board. This means that signal processing can take place on the board. For example, the circuit board is designed as an electronic computing device, in particular referred to as a second electronic computing device, or the circuit board comprises the second electronic computing device.

For example, the signal 13 detected by means of the respective sensor element 9-12, which can be referred to in particular as a signal transmitter, can be processed, which can be referred to in particular as signal processing. The signal processing takes place, for example, on the circuit board or in the microphone array. A signal transmission, in particular digital or analog, of the processed signal to the electronic computing device 50, in particular via the connection device 46, can then take place. The processed signal can thus be transmitted, preferably digitally, to the electronic computing device 50. For example, the electronic computing device 50 includes a signal receiver. The signal transmitted to the electronic computing device 50 can be processed by means of the electronic computing device 50, in particular by means of speech recognition algorithms, which can be referred to in particular as signal processing.

Preferably, the component 49, in particular the electronic computing device 50, and/or the second electronic computing device is designed to determine a distance 56 between the noise source 15 emitting the acoustic signal 13 and depending on the acoustic signal 13 detected by the respective sensor element 9-12 to determine the motor vehicle 1. Alternatively or additionally, the component 49, in particular the electronic computing device 50, is designed to determine a direction 57 in which the noise source 15 is located in relation to the motor vehicle 1.

For example, the detection device 2 is, in particular at least essentially, aligned horizontally in its installed position in the motor vehicle 1. As a result, the direction 57 can be determined particularly advantageously, in particular particularly precisely. In particular, interference sources and signal sources can be eliminated from one another, for example digitally. It can therefore be particularly advantageous, for example, In particular, it can be determined particularly precisely in which direction 57 the person is located or from which direction 57 the person is approaching the motor vehicle 1.

Reference symbol list

Motor vehicle detection device arrangement component housing element receiving space first housing part second housing part first sensor element second sensor element third sensor element fourth sensor element acoustic signal environment noise source outside shell

Extension direction first distance second distance third distance straight carrier element interior opening membrane first through opening second through opening third through opening fourth through opening outside first part second part wing element Vehicle elevation

End

Air guide element

Exterior mirror

sill

Cover element

Tailgate panel

disc

adhesive

Recording area a second recording area

wall

Connection facility

Line element

Connection element

Component electronic computing device sealing element first sealing element second sealing element second connection element coupling device

distance

Direction

Claims

Claims Detection device (2) for a motor vehicle (1), with a housing element (5) which at least partially delimits a receiving space (6), and with at least three sensor elements (9, 10, 11) arranged in the receiving space (6), by means of which at least one acoustic signal (13) from an environment (14) of the motor vehicle (1) can be detected, the sensor elements (9, 10, 11) along an extension direction (18) on an outside (16) of a shell (17) of the motor vehicle (1) are arranged in pairs adjacent and spaced apart from one another and in pairs have different distances (19, 20) from one another that run in the direction of extension (18). Detection device (2) according to claim 1, characterized in that the sensor elements (9, 10, 11) are arranged on an imaginary straight line (22) in the direction of extension (18). Detection device (2) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the sensor elements (9, 10, 11) are arranged on a carrier element (23) formed separately from the housing element (5). Arrangement (3) of a detection device (2) having a housing element (5) and at least three sensor elements (9, 10, 11) on a component (4) of a motor vehicle (1), in which the housing element (5) has a receiving space (6) at least partially limited, in which the sensor elements (9, 10, 11) are arranged, by means of which at least one acoustic signal (13) from an environment (14) of the motor vehicle (1) can be detected, and the detection device (2) on an outside (16) of a shell (17) of the motor vehicle (1) is arranged, the sensor elements (9, 10, 11) being adjacent in pairs and in pairs from each other in an extension direction (18) of the detection device (2). are arranged at a distance and in pairs have different distances (19, 20) from one another in the direction of extension (18). Arrangement (3) according to claim 4, characterized in that the component (4) is designed separately from the shell (17). Arrangement (3) according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the component (4) is designed as a wing element (34), air guide element (37), exterior mirror (38), sill (39) or as a cover element (40). Arrangement (3) according to claim 6, characterized in that the detection device (2) is arranged in the region of a lower end (36) of the wing element (34) with respect to a vehicle vertical direction (35) of the motor vehicle (1). Arrangement (3) according to one of claims 4 to 7, characterized in that

• the detection device (2) is arranged in a receiving area (44), which is at least partially delimited by a wall (45) formed separately from the detection device (2), and

• the sensor elements (9, 10, 11) are connected to a connecting device (46) which extends at least partially outside the housing element (5), which is used for signal transmission between the sensor elements (9, 10, 11) and one outside the receiving area (44). arranged component (49) of the motor vehicle (1) is provided. Arrangement (3) according to claim 8, characterized by

• a sealing element (51) which at least partially covers the connecting device (46) and rests on the housing element (5) and the wall (45), by means of which the housing element (5) can be sealed against the wall (45), or • a first sealing element (52) which partially covers the connecting device (46) and rests against the housing element (5) and the connecting device (46), by means of which the housing element (5) can be sealed against the connecting device (46), and the connecting device (46) partially covering second sealing element (53) which rests on the wall (45) and the connecting device (46) and is spaced apart from the first sealing element (52), by means of which the connecting device (46) can be sealed against the wall (45). . Arrangement (3) according to one of claims 4 to 9, characterized in that

• a wing element (34) is held on the shell (17) so as to be pivotable relative to the shell (17) between a closed position and at least one open position and

• a coupling device (55) which can be coupled or coupled to the wing element (34) is provided, by means of which the wing element (34) is moved between the closed position and depending on the acoustic signal (13) detected by the respective sensor element (9, 10, 11). the open position can be pivoted.