Detection and avoidance of pinch events

Abstract

The present invention relates to a device (1) for detecting clamping events of a locking system for motor operation of a vehicle (2), having a sensor electrode (3) and a reference sensor electrode (15), the sensor electrode and the reference sensor electrode being at least segmented around an opening (O) of the vehicle (2) that can be locked by at least one closing element (4). A control unit (5) is provided, which is configured to: - apply a potential for a charging process and a ground potential (GND) for a discharging process to the sensor electrode (3) and the reference sensor electrode (15), respectively; - detect a time period until a minimum potential threshold is reached caused by the return flow of charge through the ground potential (GND) of the sensor electrode (3) and the reference sensor electrode (15); - determine the difference between the time period detected for the sensor electrode (3) and the time period detected for the reference sensor electrode (15); - then, if the difference exceeds a predetermined threshold and the time period detected for the sensor electrode (3) deviates from a predetermined standard time period or is a standard time period detected in a state where no clamping event is detected, then infer the upcoming clamping event.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a device for detecting clamping events in a locking system for motor operation of a vehicle.

[0002] The present invention also relates to a method for operating such a device, and a device for preventing clamping events in a locking system for motor operation of a vehicle. Background Technology

[0003] A device for preventing clamping events in a locking system for motor operation of a vehicle is known from DE 10 2020 002 817 A1. The device includes sensor electrodes that surround, at least segmentally, an opening in the vehicle that can be locked by a closing element. Furthermore, the device includes a microcontroller, a measurement pin coupled to the microcontroller and the sensor electrodes, and a control pin coupled to the microcontroller and, through a high-impedance resistor, to the sensor electrodes. The microcontroller is configured to apply a potential to the sensor electrodes via the control pin, while simultaneously measuring the potential of the sensor electrodes and the distribution of negative charge on the sensor electrodes at the measurement pin. Once the potential measured at the measurement pin reaches a predetermined threshold, the microcontroller applies a ground potential at the control pin, causing charge to flow back from the sensor electrodes. Furthermore, the microcontroller is configured to detect a time period from reaching the threshold to reaching a minimum potential threshold due to charge flow, and to infer an impending clamping event when the detected time period deviates from a predetermined standard time period or is a standard time period detected in a state where no impending clamping event is detected.

[0004] Furthermore, an apparatus for controlling and monitoring an electric window glass of a motor vehicle that can move between an open position and a closed position is known from DE 10 2004 002 415 A1. The apparatus includes a sensor comprising sensor electrodes that generate an electric field in an opening region of a closing element. The apparatus also includes a control device connected to the sensor, which detects changes in the capacitance of the sensor electrodes and provides a control signal, wherein the control device detects changes in the capacitance of the sensor electrodes due to the presence of a moisture layer on the closing element.

[0005] EP 1 154 110 A2 describes an anti-pinch device for detecting the presence of an object in a scanned area. The anti-pinch device includes a main body, a ground electrode embedded in the main body, and a sensor electrode spaced from the ground electrode and embedded in the main body. The sensor electrode and the ground electrode are applied to different potentials. The main body is made of a non-conductive material to insulate the sensor electrode relative to the ground electrode. The anti-pinch device also includes a stiffness-reducing region disposed between the ground electrode and the sensor electrode, wherein the stiffness-reducing region is disposed in the main body and co-extruded together with the main body. Furthermore, the stiffness-reducing region is disposed in the form of an air gap in the main body, or in the form of a material with higher elasticity than the material of the main body, wherein the material with higher elasticity is made of foam rubber. The main body includes a conductive region surrounding the sensor electrode and a conductive region surrounding the ground electrode. Additionally, the anti-pinch device includes means for creating an input signal applied to the sensor electrode and receiving an output signal from the sensor electrode. The device can receive two types of output signals. When a medium object is present in the scanning area, the output signal varies depending on the capacitance change between the sensor electrode and the ground electrode. When a non-conductive object is present due to the change in the relative positions of the sensor electrode and the ground electrode, the output signal varies depending on the capacitance change between the sensor electrode and the ground electrode. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The purpose of this invention is to provide an improved apparatus for detecting clamping events of a locking system for motor operation of a vehicle, an improved method for operating such an apparatus, and an improved apparatus for avoiding clamping events of a locking system for motor operation of a vehicle, compared with the prior art.

[0007] According to the present invention, this objective is achieved by the following means:

[0008] - A device for detecting clamping events in a locking system for detecting motor operation of a vehicle, having the features described below.

[0009] - A method having the features described below, and

[0010] - A device for preventing clamping events in a locking system for avoiding motor operation of a vehicle, having the features described below.

[0011] Advantageous designs of the present invention are also given below.

[0012] A device for detecting clamping events in a locking system for detecting motor operation of a vehicle has sensor electrodes that are at least segmented around an opening of the vehicle at its edge, which can be locked by at least one closing element. The sensor electrodes are disposed within a sealing element that at least partially surrounds the opening.

[0013] According to the present invention, a reference sensor electrode is provided, which surrounds the opening of the vehicle at least segmentally at its edge, wherein the reference sensor electrode is arranged spaced apart from the sensor electrode in the sealing element, and the distance from the opening is greater than that of the sensor electrode. Furthermore, a control unit is provided, configured to apply a potential for a charging process and a ground potential for a discharging process to the sensor electrode and the reference sensor electrode, respectively, and to detect time periods until a minimum potential threshold of the sensor electrode and the reference sensor electrode is reached, the minimum potential threshold being caused by the return flow of charge via the ground potential. The control unit is further configured to determine the difference between the time period detected for the sensor electrode and the time period detected for the reference sensor electrode, and then, if the difference exceeds a predetermined threshold and the time period detected for the sensor electrode deviates from a predetermined standard time period or is a standard time period detected in a state where no impending clamping event is detected, then an impending clamping event is inferred.

[0014] For example, the device is configured in a vehicle to detect a clamping event between a locking element and a vehicle structure at least partially surrounding the locking element at its edges. This could be, for example, an electrically operated window glass and a vehicle structure at least partially surrounding the window opening at its edges, or an electrically operated door and a vehicle structure at least partially surrounding the door at its edges.

[0015] The safety requirements for so-called anti-pinch devices on vehicle power windows necessitate high responsiveness, but known current-based anti-pinch devices, for example, cannot guarantee this high responsiveness. This is primarily due to the relatively high stiffness of the test object used to test the anti-pinch device at 65 N / mm. For example, the test object represents the properties of a child's finger. Furthermore, the responsiveness of known anti-pinch devices is severely limited by the system time constant, which describes the time interval from the control of the window regulator motor to the response of the window glass. For frameless doors, this is particularly difficult because the freely placement angle of the test object and the test angle position make it impossible to ensure proper guidance of the window glass within the upper block. This also applies to door anti-pinch systems.

[0016] On the other hand, the device of the present invention enables a preventative anti-pinch device that allows a response without clamping force. This means that objects and body parts can be detected in window frames or door openings and in critical clamping areas, such as near seals, before clamping force occurs. Therefore, future safety requirements FMVSS-118 can be met. The device can be implemented with exceptionally low material and cost consumption. Detection is non-contact and non-invasive, and is particularly robust. For example, the detection range is 0.5 cm to 5 cm. In particular, enhanced robustness compared to capacitive systems is achieved by continuously recalibrating the discharge time, i.e., the time period during which the minimum potential threshold due to charge backflow is reached. It exhibits very high robustness to humidity and system variations. Furthermore, robustness is achieved through possible synchronization with the position of the window glass and therefore, an anti-pinch device that may only activate in critical areas. There is also no need to couple the clamped object to ground potential.

[0017] For devices using only a single active sensor electrode, the environmental characteristics constituting the so-called baseline are determined by the same sensor electrode as a slow low-pass value, thus also forming a fast low-pass value to determine the difference. Therefore, it is impossible to distinguish whether the change is caused locally by the clamping area or by a global change caused by, for example, external electric and magnetic fields. Therefore, a high threshold must be specified to avoid false detections, and this threshold must be exceeded when measuring through the sensor electrode, resulting in low sensitivity. The interaction between the sensor electrode and the vehicle body charge distribution further reduces the possible sensitivity because a stronger field interaction may occur than that caused by the clamped object. Due to the baseline's continuous adaptation to the current actual state, clamped objects remaining in the clamping area cannot be detected. On the other hand, by using a reference sensor electrode to determine the environmental characteristics, and thus using a robust baseline, this device allows for the use of a lower threshold while maintaining high robustness to false detections. Therefore, it can react to smaller differences, the advantageous result of which is increased device sensitivity, reduced inertia in detecting clamping events, and a reduced number of false detections. It can also distinguish between local interactions that primarily act on the clamping region of one of the electrodes and interactions caused by external influences acting on both electrodes. For example, it can distinguish between the interaction between the sensor electrode and the charge distribution on the vehicle body, as well as external electric and magnetic fields. In other words, it is possible to distinguish between local events and global events.

[0018] In a possible design of this device, the control unit is further configured to periodically and staggeredly perform charging and discharging of the sensor electrode and the reference sensor electrode, such that the charging and discharging of the sensor electrode begins after the charging and discharging of the reference sensor electrode has been completed, or vice versa. Therefore, one of the two electrodes is always passive, thus effectively and easily avoiding mutual interference between the electrodes.

[0019] In another possible design of the device, the sensor electrode is disposed in the inner sealing lip of the sealing element, and the reference sensor electrode is disposed in the outer sealing lip of the sealing element. This allows for simple and protected integration of the two electrodes, wherein the reference sensor electrode is located near the sensor electrode but not directly pointing towards and / or within the clamping area.

[0020] In another possible design of the device, the control unit and sensor electrode are coupled to a first measurement pin, and the control unit and reference sensor electrode are coupled to a second measurement pin. Furthermore, the control unit with the first control pin and sensor electrode are coupled to the first control pin via a high-impedance resistor, and the control unit with the second control pin and reference sensor electrode are coupled to the second control pin via a high-impedance resistor. The control unit is configured to apply respective potentials to the sensor electrode and reference sensor electrode via the first and second control pins, simultaneously measuring the potential of the sensor electrode and the distribution of negative charge on the sensor electrode at the first measurement pin, and simultaneously measuring the potential of the reference sensor electrode and the distribution of negative charge on the reference sensor electrode at the second measurement pin. Furthermore, the control unit is designed to apply a ground potential to the control pin once the potential measured at the measurement pin reaches its respective predetermined threshold, causing charge to flow back from the sensor electrode and reference sensor electrode, and to detect the corresponding time period from reaching the threshold until reaching the minimum potential threshold caused by charge flow back at the sensor electrode and reference sensor electrode. This design is characterized by its easy-to-implement structure, reliable operation, and high robustness to interference, and can be implemented with low material and cost expenditures.

[0021] In another possible design of the device, the sensor electrode and the reference sensor electrode are respectively coupled to potentials via capacitors.

[0022] In another possible design of the device, the sensor electrode and the reference sensor electrode are each constructed as a sensor cable having an electrical conductor and an electrically insulating portion surrounding the conductor. This makes the construction of the sensor electrode and the reference sensor electrode particularly simple, durable, and cost-effective. Therefore, the two electrodes can be easily integrated into a sealing element.

[0023] In another possible design of the device, shielding electrodes for protecting the sensor electrodes and reference sensor electrodes from interference are disposed within a vehicle frame element or vehicle roof beam that surrounds the opening at least in segments. The shielding electrodes can shield against interference occurring on the side furthest from the measurement range, thus achieving insensitivity to interference. By arranging the shielding electrodes within the vehicle frame element or vehicle roof beam, reliable function of the shielding electrodes is ensured, and easy integration into the vehicle is achieved.

[0024] In another possible design of the device, the control unit is further configured to infer an impending clamping event when the closing movement of the closing element is detected to be within a predetermined critical region. Therefore, erroneous triggering of the anti-pinch device can be avoided, particularly when the clamped object moves from the area between the closing element and the vehicle structure surrounding the closing element during its closing movement.

[0025] In the method for operating the above-described apparatus according to the present invention, a potential for the charging process and a ground potential for the discharging process are respectively applied to the sensor electrode and the reference sensor electrode, and time periods until the minimum potential threshold caused by the return flow of charge through the ground potential to the sensor electrode and the reference sensor electrode are reached are detected respectively. Furthermore, the difference between the time period detected for the sensor electrode and the time period detected for the reference sensor electrode is determined, and then, if the difference exceeds a predetermined threshold and the time period detected for the sensor electrode deviates from a predetermined standard time period or is a standard time period detected in a state where no impending clamping event is detected, a clamping event is inferred to be imminent.

[0026] By using a reference sensor electrode to determine environmental characteristics and thereby generate a robust baseline, this method allows for the use of a lower threshold while maintaining high robustness to false detections. Therefore, it can react to smaller differences, resulting in advantageously increased method sensitivity, reduced inertia in detecting clamping events, and a reduced number of false detections. It can also distinguish between local interactions primarily acting within the clamping region of one electrode and interactions of external influences acting on both electrodes; for example, it can distinguish between the interaction of the sensor electrode with the vehicle body charge distribution and external electric and magnetic fields. In other words, it is possible to differentiate between local and global events.

[0027] The device according to the invention for preventing clamping events in a locking system for motor operation of a vehicle includes the aforementioned device for detecting clamping events and at least one control unit for controlling the motor drive of a closing element, wherein the control unit is configured to stop and / or reverse the closing movement of the closing element in the presence of an impending clamping event. This device is particularly reliable in preventing clamping events while minimizing false detection and false triggering. Attached Figure Description

[0028] Embodiments of the present invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0029] In the attached diagram:

[0030] Figure 1 An electrical schematic diagram of a device for detecting clamping events in a locking system used to detect motor operation of a vehicle is shown.

[0031] Figure 2 A partial side view of the vehicle is shown schematically.

[0032] Figure 3 It schematically shows the following based on Figure 2 A perspective view showing a partial cross-sectional view of the vehicle in the area of ​​vehicle structure and sealing elements.

[0033] Figure 4 A perspective view schematically illustrating a partial cross-sectional view of the door within the area of ​​the sealing element is shown.

[0034] Figure 5 A flowchart illustrating a possible embodiment of a method for detecting clamping events in a locking system for detecting motor operation in a vehicle is shown schematically.

[0035] Figure 6 A flowchart illustrating a possible embodiment of a method for preventing clamping events in a locking system used to avoid motor operation in a vehicle is shown schematically; and

[0036] Figure 7 The illustration schematically shows a car door with a window opening and window glass.

[0037] Corresponding parts in all the accompanying figures are labeled with the same reference numerals. Detailed Implementation

[0038] exist Figure 1 The image shows a method for detection. Figure 2 The electrical schematic diagram shows in more detail a possible embodiment of the clamping event device 1 of the motor-operated locking system of vehicle 2.

[0039] Device 1 includes sensor electrodes 3, which at least segmentally surround the edge of vehicle 2 and are passable through at least one closing element 4. Figure 7 As shown) Locked opening O ( Figure 2 (As shown). For example, sensor electrode 3 has a length of more than 0.1 m to 5 m.

[0040] The device 1 also includes a reference sensor electrode 15, which is also positioned at least segmentally around the lockable opening O of the vehicle 2 at its edge. The distance between the reference sensor electrode 15 and the opening O is greater than the distance between the sensor electrode 3 and the opening.

[0041] Sensor electrode 3 and reference sensor electrode 15 are arranged together in a sealing element 10, which at least partially surrounds the opening O, and... Figures 2 to 5 It is shown in more detail below.

[0042] Device 1 also includes a control unit 5, such as a microcontroller, a measurement pin 6 coupled to the control unit 5 and the sensor electrode 3, and a control pin 8 coupled to the control unit 5 and coupled to the sensor electrode 3 through a high-impedance resistor 7.

[0043] In addition, the device 1 includes a measurement pin 16 coupled to the control unit 5 and the reference sensor electrode 15, and a control pin 18 coupled to the control unit 5 and coupled to the reference sensor electrode 15 through a high-impedance resistor 17.

[0044] Sensor electrode 3 and reference sensor electrode 15 can be coupled to the ground potential GND of vehicle 2 via capacitors 9 and 19, respectively. In embodiments not described in detail, capacitors 9 and 19 may be omitted.

[0045] Sensor electrode 3 and reference sensor electrode 15 are respectively configured as sensor cables having electrical conductors 3.1 and 15.1 and electrical insulation portions 3.2 and 15.2 surrounding them. The electrical conductors 3.1 and 15.1 are configured as, for example, copper conductors, and the electrical insulation portions 3.2 and 15.2 are configured as, for example, plastic or rubber insulation portions. For example, the diameter of the sensor cable is 0.5 mm to 2 mm. In particular, sensor electrode 3 and reference sensor electrode 15 are identically constructed to allow for better comparability of measurement results detected by these electrodes.

[0046] Control unit 5 is configured to apply a potential to sensor electrode 3 via control pin 8, while simultaneously measuring the potential of sensor electrode 3 and the resulting negative charge distribution on sensor electrode 3 at measurement pin 6. Once the potential measured at measurement pin 6 reaches a predetermined threshold, control unit 5 applies ground potential GND to control pin 8, causing negative and positive charges to flow back from sensor electrode 3. Here, control unit 5 detects the time period from reaching the threshold until reaching the minimum potential threshold caused by charge flow back.

[0047] Furthermore, similar to the process on sensor electrode 3, control unit 5 is configured to apply a potential to reference sensor electrode 15 via control pin 18, and simultaneously measure the potential of reference sensor electrode 15 and the resulting negative charge distribution on reference sensor electrode 15 at measurement pin 16. Once the potential measured at measurement pin 16 reaches a predetermined threshold, control unit 5 applies ground potential GND to control pin 18, causing negative and positive charges to flow back from reference sensor electrode 15. Here, control unit 5 also detects the time period from reaching the threshold until reaching the minimum potential threshold caused by charge flow back.

[0048] The environmental characteristics are determined using reference sensor electrode 15, thereby forming a so-called baseline. This baseline represents the external global boundary conditions, i.e., the effects acting on sensor electrode 3 and reference sensor electrode 15. These effects include the interaction between sensor electrode 3 and reference sensor electrode 15 and the vehicle body charge distribution, external charge distribution, external electric field and external magnetic field, etc. In particular, it is assumed that the rate of occurrence of external global changes is significantly slower than the period time used, for example, about 50 µs.

[0049] The charging and discharging processes of sensor electrode 3 and reference sensor electrode 15 occur periodically in a staggered manner, i.e., the charging and discharging process of sensor electrode 3 begins after the charging and discharging process of reference sensor electrode 15 is completed, or conversely, the charging and discharging process of reference sensor electrode 15 begins after the charging and discharging process of sensor electrode 3 is completed. This means that one of the two electrodes is always passive, thus avoiding mutual interference between the electrodes.

[0050] Furthermore, the difference between the time period detected for sensor electrode 3 and the time period detected for reference sensor electrode 15 is determined. If this difference exceeds a predetermined threshold, and the time period detected for sensor electrode 3 deviates from a predetermined standard time period or is a standard time period detected when no clamping event is detected, the control unit 5 infers the impending clamping event.

[0051] As a result of this deviation from the standard time period, external influences from objects such as human limbs fix negative charges in sensor electrode 3, thereby preventing charge backflow and thus creating non-uniformity in the charge distribution within sensor electrode 3.

[0052] By comparing the measurements detected by sensor electrode 3 with a baseline, differences with local origins, such as proximity of body parts, can be reliably determined. Therefore, highly robust and more stable identification of local carrier effects (>50ms) can be achieved. Environmental calibration of sensor electrode 3 via a slow low-pass filter is not required.

[0053] Figure 2 A partial side view of vehicle 2 is shown, wherein vehicle 2 includes a frameless door (not shown). In such a door, a closure element 4 configured as a window glass is sealed by means of at least one sealing element 10 that, in both the closed door and closed window glass states, at least partially surrounds the opening O, which is in this case the window opening, at its edge. In the illustrated embodiment, the sealing element 10 is disposed on the vehicle structure 11 formed by the vehicle roof beam.

[0054] exist Figure 3 The text shows the data based on... Figure 2A perspective view of a partial cross-section of vehicle 2 in the area of ​​vehicle structure 11, which forms the vehicle roof beam, and sealing element 10. The sealing element 10 is configured as a roof seal having a so-called bubble shape.

[0055] In order to pass by reference Figure 1 The description describes how to detect impending clamping events to avoid clamping between the window glass and the sealing element 10. The sensor electrode 3 is completely and directly surrounded by the sealing material 10.1 in the sealing element 10, or alternatively disposed in the cavity 10.2. In particular, the sensor electrode 3 is disposed in the inner sealing lip of the sealing element 10.

[0056] Furthermore, the reference sensor electrode 15 is completely and directly surrounded by the sealing material 10.1 in the sealing element 10, or alternatively, it is disposed in the cavity 10.2 such that the distance from the reference sensor electrode to the opening O is greater than the distance from the sensor electrode 3 to the opening. Specifically, the reference sensor electrode 15 is disposed in the outer sealing lip of the sealing element 10.

[0057] Furthermore, shielding electrode 13, used to shield sensor electrode 3 and reference sensor electrode 15, is disposed in the area of ​​vehicle structure 11 configured as a vehicle roof beam to resist interference. Alternatively, shielding electrode 13 may also be configured as a shielded cable having an electrical conductor, such as a copper conductor, and an electrical insulation portion, such as a plastic or rubber insulation portion, surrounding the electrical conductor.

[0058] For example, when using shielding electrode 13, sensor electrode 3 and reference sensor electrode 15 are not coupled to ground potential GND via capacitors 9 and 19. Shielding electrode 13 is specifically coupled to ground potential GND and is specifically positioned between the sensor electrode 3 and the edge of opening O.

[0059] In the embodiment of the device 1 shown, and according to Figure 1 The detection is similarly performed to detect impending clamping events. The shielding electrode 13 generates a directional, particularly downward-facing measurement area and shields against interference occurring on the side away from the measurement area. Therefore, the device 1 achieves insensitivity to interference.

[0060] Figure 4 A perspective view showing a partial cross-sectional view of the door 12 within the area of ​​the sealing element 10 is shown, wherein the door 12 is configured as a so-called frame door, the frame of which forms the vehicle structure 11, on which the sealing element 10 for sealing the window glass in the closed state is disposed. The sealing element 10 is configured as a frame seal of the frame of the door 12.

[0061] In order to pass by reference Figure 1The description describes detecting an impending clamping event between the window glass and the sealing element 10. The sensor electrode 3 and the reference sensor electrode 15 are completely and directly surrounded by the sealing material 10.1 in the sealing element 10, or alternatively disposed in the cavity 10.2. The reference sensor electrode 15 is arranged such that the distance between the reference sensor electrode and the opening O is greater than the distance between the sensor electrode 3 and the opening.

[0062] Furthermore, shielding electrode 13, used to shield sensor electrode 3 and reference sensor electrode 15, is disposed in the area of ​​vehicle structure 11 that forms the frame of door 12 to resist any interference that may occur. Alternatively, shielding electrode 13 may also be configured as a shielded cable having an electrical conductor, such as a copper conductor, and an electrical insulation portion, such as a plastic or rubber insulation portion, surrounding the shielded cable.

[0063] For example, when using shielding electrode 13, sensor electrode 3 and reference sensor electrode 15 are not coupled to ground potential GND via capacitors 9 and 19. Shielding electrode 13 is specifically coupled to ground potential GND and is specifically positioned between the sensor electrode 3 and the edge of opening O.

[0064] In the embodiment of the device 1 shown, and according to Figure 1 Similarly, in the detection described above, the shielding electrode 13 generates a directional, particularly downward-facing measurement area, and shields against interference occurring on the side away from the measurement area. Therefore, the device 1 achieves insensitivity to interference.

[0065] Figure 5 A flowchart of a possible embodiment of a method for detecting clamping events of a locking system for detecting motor operation of vehicle 2 is shown.

[0066] First, in the first step S1, a positive potential is applied to the reference sensor electrode 15 via the control pin 18, causing negative charges to migrate to the reference sensor electrode 15 to perform a charging phase. Simultaneously, the potential of the reference sensor electrode 15 and the resulting distribution of negative charges on the reference sensor electrode 15 are measured at the measurement pin 16.

[0067] At the first branch V1, it is checked whether the potential measured at measurement pin 16 has reached a predetermined threshold. If the predetermined threshold has not been reached, it is indicated by the "No" branch N1 and the charging phase continues.

[0068] If the potential measured at measurement pin 16 reaches a predetermined threshold, indicated by the "Yes" branch J1, control unit 5 applies ground potential GND to control pin 18 in the second step S2, causing the discharge phase to begin and negative and positive charges to flow back from reference sensor electrode 15. Here, control unit 5 detects the time period from reaching the threshold until reaching the minimum potential threshold caused by charge flow back. The timer is reset before the discharge phase begins.

[0069] The discharge phase will continue until the minimum threshold is reached. In the second branch V2, the minimum threshold is checked by the control unit 5. If the minimum threshold has not been reached, indicated by the "No" branch N2, then a timer is added in the third step S3.

[0070] On the other hand, if the minimum threshold is reached, as indicated by the "yes" branch J2, then in the fourth step S4, the timer value, i.e. the time period of measurement, is equated with the remaining charge.

[0071] Then, in the fifth step S5, the timer value is asymmetrically filtered using an asymmetric low-pass filter, where the shortening of the discharge time is given more weight, so that it can be correlated with the distance to the detectable object.

[0072] Then, steps S1 to S5 are similarly performed on sensor electrode 3, and a corresponding filtered timer value T2 is formed, which is the discharge time period.

[0073] Once the filter timer value T1 for the reference sensor electrode 15 and the timer value T2 for the sensor electrode 3 are obtained, the difference between the two timer values ​​T1 and T2 is formed in the sixth step S6. That is, the difference between the time period detected for the sensor electrode 3 until the minimum potential threshold is reached and the time period detected for the reference sensor electrode 15 until the minimum potential threshold is reached. Here, the timer value T1 of the reference sensor electrode 15 is subtracted from the timer value T2 of the sensor electrode 3.

[0074] In branch V3, it is checked whether the difference is always negative, that is, the timer value T1 of the reference sensor electrode 15 is always greater than the timer value T2 of the sensor electrode 3. If the difference is always negative, as indicated by the "yes" branch J3, then the deviation is calculated in the seventh step S7, and the reference sensor electrode 15 is calibrated by the deviation calculation.

[0075] If the difference is positive or constantly negative, that is, the timer value T1 of the reference sensor electrode 15 is less than the timer value T2 of the sensor electrode 3, which is indicated by the "No" branch N3, then the difference is filtered by a low-pass filter in the eighth step S8.

[0076] Then, in another branch V4, it is checked whether the difference exceeds a predetermined threshold. If the difference exceeds the predetermined threshold, indicated by the "Yes" branch J4, an object is detected in the ninth step S9, and an impending clamping event is inferred. If the difference does not exceed the predetermined threshold, indicated by the "No" branch N4, the method restarts according to step S10.

[0077] Since the filtering of timer values ​​T1 and T2 for the two electrodes is the same during the discharge time, they produce the same value under constant environmental characteristics. Therefore, if the discharge times of reference sensor electrode 15 and sensor electrode 3 are equal, it can be inferred that there is no object in the clamping area.

[0078] Figure 6 A flowchart is shown of a possible embodiment of a method for preventing the locking system of vehicle 2 from operating the motor, particularly for preventing the window glass from being clamped.

[0079] This method connects directly to Figure 5 The ninth step S9 of the method shown involves checking for the presence of a window closing signal F in branch V5. If no window closing signal exists, as indicated by the "No" branch N5, then according to... Figure 5 Restart the method.

[0080] However, if a window closing signal F is present, and an object was previously detected, as indicated by the "yes" branch J5, then in another branch V6, the window glass position POS at the upper edge of the glass is checked to see if it is located. Figure 7 The critical region K is shown in more detail below. If it is not in the critical region, as indicated by the "No" branch N6, then jump back to the previous branch V5 and check the presence of the window closing signal F.

[0081] Conversely, if the window glass position POS is in the critical region K, as indicated by the "yes" branch J6, then the movement of the window glass is stopped or reversed in the eleventh step S11 to avoid a clamping event.

[0082] Figure 7 A door 12 is shown, having an opening O configured as a window opening and a closing element 4 configured as a window glass, wherein the door 12 is arranged according to... Figure 4 The door 12 shown is constructed as follows. A critical region K is shown below the upper edge of the opening O, wherein the lower edge of the critical region K specifically represents the area where a clamping event may occur between the upper edge of the window glass and the upper edge of the opening O.

Claims

1. A device (1) for detecting clamping events of a locking system for the operation of a motor in a vehicle (2). - The device has sensor electrodes (3) that surround, at least segmentally at the edge, an opening (O) of the vehicle (2) that can be locked by at least one closing element (4), wherein, - The sensor electrode (3) is disposed in a sealing element (10) that at least partially surrounds the opening (O), Its features are, - A reference sensor electrode (15) is provided, which surrounds the opening (O) of the vehicle (2) at least in segments at the edge. - The reference sensor electrode (15) is spaced from the sensor electrode (3) in the sealing element (10), and the distance between the reference sensor electrode and the opening (O) is greater than the distance between the sensor electrode (3) and the opening. -A control unit (5) is provided, which is configured to, - Apply a potential for the charging process and a ground potential (GND) for the discharging process to the sensor electrode (3) and the reference sensor electrode (15), respectively. - Detect the time period until the minimum potential threshold caused by the return flow of charge through ground potential (GND) is reached at the sensor electrode (3) and the reference sensor electrode (15), respectively. - Determine the difference between the time period detected for the sensor electrode (3) and the time period detected for the reference sensor electrode (15). -Then, when the difference exceeds a predetermined threshold and the time period detected by the sensor electrode (3) deviates from the predetermined standard time period or the standard time period detected in the state where no clamping event is detected, the clamping event is inferred.

2. The device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that The control unit (5) is also configured to periodically stagger the charging and discharging processes of the sensor electrode (3) and the reference sensor electrode (15), such that the charging and discharging processes of the sensor electrode (3) begin after the charging and discharging processes of the reference sensor electrode (15) are completed, or conversely, the charging and discharging processes of the reference sensor electrode begin after the charging and discharging processes of the sensor electrode are completed.

3. The apparatus (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, - The sensor electrode (3) is disposed in the inner sealing lip of the sealing element (10). - The reference sensor electrode (15) is disposed in the outer sealing lip of the sealing element (10).

4. The apparatus (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, - The control unit (5) and sensor electrode (3) are coupled to the first measurement pin (6). - The control unit (5) and the reference sensor electrode (15) are coupled to the second measurement pin (16). - The control unit (5) is coupled to the first control pin (8), and the sensor electrode (3) is coupled to the first control pin (8) through a high impedance resistor (7). - The control unit (5) is coupled to the second control pin (18), and the reference sensor electrode (15) is coupled to the second control pin (18) through a high impedance resistor (17). -The control unit (5) is configured to, - Apply the respective potentials to the sensor electrode (3) and the reference sensor electrode (15) via the first control pin (8) and the second control pin (18). - Simultaneously measure the potential of the sensor electrode (3) and the negative charge distribution on the sensor electrode (3) on the first measurement pin (6). - Simultaneously measure the potential of the reference sensor electrode (15) and the negative charge distribution on the reference sensor electrode (15) on the second measurement pin (16). - Once the potentials measured at the first measurement pin (6) and the second measurement pin (16) reach their respective predetermined thresholds, ground potential (GND) is applied to the first control pin (8) and the second control pin (18), causing charge to flow back from the sensor electrode (3) and the reference sensor electrode (15). - Detect the corresponding time period from reaching the threshold until reaching the minimum potential threshold caused by the charge backflow at the sensor electrode (3) and the reference sensor electrode (15), respectively.

5. The device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The sensor electrode (3) and the reference sensor electrode (15) are coupled to ground potential (GND) through capacitors (9, 19), respectively.

6. The device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The sensor electrode (3) and the reference sensor electrode (15) are respectively configured as sensor cables having electrical conductors (3.1, 15.1) and electrical insulation portions (3.2, 15.2) surrounding the electrical conductors.

7. The device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The shielding electrode (13) for shielding the sensor electrode (3) and the reference sensor electrode (15) to prevent interference is disposed in the vehicle frame element or vehicle roof beam that surrounds the opening (O) at least in segments.

8. The device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that The control unit (5) is further configured to, when the closing movement of the closing element (4) is activated, additionally detect that the closing element (4) is located in a predetermined critical region (K), and then infer the upcoming clamping event.

9. A method for operating the apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, - Apply a potential for the charging process and a ground potential (GND) for the discharging process to the sensor electrode (3) and the reference sensor electrode (15), respectively. - Detect the time period until the minimum potential threshold caused by the return flow of charge through ground potential (GND) is reached at the sensor electrode (3) and the reference sensor electrode (15), respectively. - Determine the difference between the time period detected by the sensor electrode (3) and the time period detected by the reference sensor electrode (15). -Then, when the difference exceeds a predetermined threshold and the time period detected by the sensor electrode (3) deviates from the predetermined standard time period or the standard time period detected in the state where no clamping event is detected, the clamping event is inferred.

10. A device for preventing clamping events of a locking system for motor operation of a vehicle (2), the device comprising: -A device (1) for detecting clamping events according to any one of claims 1 to 8. - At least one control unit (5) for controlling the motor drive of the closing element (4), wherein the control unit (5) is configured to stop and / or reverse the closing movement of the closing element (4) when there is an impending clamping event.

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