Apparatus and method for evaluating a sensor

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for evaluating a sensor, wherein the sensor is received in a component of a motor vehicle, and wherein the device comprises a shape adaptation module which is configured such that it is designed to be specifically shaped to the component of the motor vehicle which receives the sensor, and which is configured to be connectable to the component of the motor vehicle which receives the sensor, and the device comprises a coupling module which is configured such that it is designed to couple the device to a host vehicle. Furthermore, a corresponding method for evaluating a sensor is provided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an apparatus for evaluating a sensor, wherein the sensor is received (gefasst) into a component of a motor vehicle for evaluation, and wherein the apparatus includes a shape-fitting module configured to be specifically shaped to fit the receiving sensor component of the motor vehicle, and configured to be connectable to the receiving sensor component of the motor vehicle, and the apparatus includes a coupling module configured to couple the apparatus to a carrier vehicle. Furthermore, a corresponding method for evaluating the sensor is provided. Background Technology

[0002] In the automotive field, sensor evaluation encompasses various analyses. Field-of-view analysis, for example, falls into this category. Field-of-view analysis is important for ultrasonic sensors, radar sensors, and video sensors. Typically, these analyses can only be performed accurately when the sensor is installed in the final components of the vehicle, such as in the bumper.

[0003] Existing technology provides numerous devices for evaluating the field of view of sensors. These devices typically consist of a profile rod (Bosch Rexroth profile) to which the vehicle component to be inspected, along with the mounted sensor, is secured. Due to the different structures between the device and the vehicle component, tightening some, or even both, components is difficult and often requires the use of tape for fixation.

[0004] The positioning and orientation (or recalibration) of a sensor cannot usually be easily changed in a one-time process, at least not without reconstructing the entire design.

[0005] Furthermore, this device is typically mounted on a vehicle to enable evaluation. In dynamic applications, such as during movement / driving, problems may arise due to instability in the design structure or its connections. This affects the accuracy of the measurements and, consequently, the validity of the evaluation results.

[0006] Furthermore, due to the limitations of a single construction within the overall design structure, it is not possible to easily and quickly install, replace, and test multiple different evaluation setups (different bumpers with sensors to be evaluated) on a carrier vehicle. Therefore, the flexibility of the evaluation is limited or associated with higher time consumption. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Conversely, advantageously, the device according to the invention enables a low-cost design structure that achieves high stability and thus improves the quality of evaluation results. This can be achieved through the device according to the invention and its preferred configuration.

[0008] According to the present invention, an apparatus for evaluating a sensor is provided, wherein the sensor is received in a component of a motor vehicle for evaluation, and wherein the apparatus includes a shape-adapting module configured to be specifically shaped to fit the receiving sensor component of the motor vehicle and configured to be connected to the receiving sensor component of the motor vehicle, and the apparatus includes a coupling module configured to couple the apparatus to a vehicle carrier.

[0009] This is understood to mean that the device has a first module and a second module.

[0010] The first module is a shape-fitting module. This shape-fitting module is configured to adapt the shape of the device to the component receiving the sensor. For example, the shape-fitting module is a region of the device whose shape is adapted to the component receiving the sensor of the motor vehicle (hereinafter also referred to as the bumper) and configured to be connected to or detachably connected to that component. The shape-fitting module is configured to achieve a stable connection with the bumper, for example, by constructing itself to structurally fit the shape of the component. Shape fitting can be understood, for example, as at least partially forming a negative mold of the component (i.e., the bumper) to which the shape is fitted. By way of example, this means that the shape-fitting module substantially represents the internal structure of the bumper by means of its outer contour. Furthermore, the shape-fitting module can achieve a stable connection with the bumper, for example, by enabling multiple structural connection possibilities, or threaded connections, between the two components. For this purpose, corresponding available and correspondingly positioned structures and / or surfaces are provided to achieve a stable connection, such as surfaces suitable for tightening or fastening. Therefore, the shape-fitting module can improve the stability of the bumper. In addition, it improves the vibration characteristics of the bumper during dynamic evaluation.

[0011] The second module is the coupling module. This coupling module is configured to enable coupling between the overall equipment and the carrier vehicle. The coupling module is, for example, a region of the equipment that is fixedly coupled to or already fixedly coupled to the carrier vehicle. Coupling is specifically understood as a detachable connection. Fixed coupling is understood as a connection without any degrees of freedom.

[0012] Furthermore, the shape adaptation module and the coupling module are configured to be interconnected. That is, an operational connection can be established between the two modules. Here, the connection can exist directly or at least indirectly. An indirect connection can be achieved, for example, through another module, such as an adjustment module, which is introduced between the shape adaptation module and the coupling module. The adjustment module can be constructed to enable an adjustable connection between the shape adaptation module and the coupling module, so as to adjust, for example, the height relationship and / or angular relationship between the two modules. A connection is formed between the vehicle and the sensor receiving component when there is coupling from the coupling device to the carrier vehicle and a connection between the shape adaptation device and the sensor receiving component.

[0013] As already shown, the component of a motor vehicle that serves as a receiving sensor can be particularly understood as the vehicle's bumper. The sensor is fixedly positioned within the bumper for evaluation. This fixed positioning does not allow for adjustment of position or orientation relative to the bumper; that is, after positioning, neither height nor angle adaptation can be performed on the sensor within the bumper. The sensor to be evaluated is particularly understood as an ultrasonic sensor and / or a radar sensor and / or a camera sensor. The evaluation of the sensor is particularly understood as field-of-view analysis.

[0014] In an advantageous embodiment, the device is characterized in that it includes an adjustment module configured such that, when the sensor is received into a component of a motor vehicle for evaluation, the adjustment module enables the adjustment of the spatial position of the sensor (i.e., the adjustment module is capable of adjusting the spatial position of the sensor).

[0015] This is understood to mean that the device includes a third module. The third module is an adjustment module. The adjustment module is, for example, a region of the device constructed between the shape-adapting module and the coupling module, and by virtue of which the spatial and / or geometric relationships between the shape-adapting module and the coupling module can be defined and adjusted. The adjustment module thus enables, for example, height and / or angle adjustments between the shape-adapting module and the coupling module. In one possible configuration, the adjustment module is detachably connected to the coupling module. In an alternative configuration, the adjustment module and the coupling module are configured as a single piece.

[0016] The module configuration is adjusted to enable, for example, adjustments to the position and / or orientation of the sensor. This adjustment advantageously relates to the absolute position of the sensor, particularly its height and angle. The adjustment can also relate to the spatial relationship between the sensor and the surrounding environment of the vehicle. In an alternative embodiment, the adjustment relates to the spatial or geometric relationship between the vehicle and the sensor. Similarly, the adjustment can relate to the spatial or geometric relationship between the coupling module and the component receiving the sensor.

[0017] Here, adjustment is advantageously understood as an initial definition or variable adjustment of spatial position or height and / or slope. Adjustment can be performed automatically, in particular. To implement this adjustment, other data and information can be used. For example, a height sensor and / or a differential sensor and / or an angle sensor can be used.

[0018] In an advantageous configuration, the adjustment module is configured to enable independent adjustment of the sensor's height and angle positions (i.e., the adjustment module can independently adjust the sensor's height and angle positions).

[0019] In one possible configuration, the device is characterized in that the adjustment module is configured such that, when the sensor is received into a component of the vehicle for evaluation, the adjustment module enables the adjustment of the sensor's height position (i.e., the adjustment module is capable of adjusting the sensor's height position).

[0020] This is understood here as adjusting the module configuration to enable, for example, adjusting the height relationship, i.e., the horizontal relationship, between the shape-adapting module and the coupling module. This adjustment possibility can involve not only the absolute height position of the sensor, but also the relative height position (height difference) relative to a defined reference point.

[0021] In a preferred configuration, the device is characterized in that, in order to adjust the height position of the sensor, the device includes an actuator, wherein, in particular, the actuator is connected to two elements of the adjustment module, wherein the two elements are connected by means of a sliding device in a manner that allows them to move relative to each other in one degree of freedom.

[0022] In an alternative implementation, the device is characterized in that, in order to adjust the height position of the sensor, at least one element of the adjustment module is structurally connected to elements of the coupling module and / or the shape-fitting module, such that all spatial degrees of freedom between these elements are prohibited except for the possibility of movement for adjusting the height position of the sensor.

[0023] This is understood to mean that a defined motion capability is formed between the area of ​​the adjustment module and, for example, the area of ​​the coupling module. This motion capability is defined to enable adjustment of the sensor's height position. In particular, movement can be performed in the vertical direction. Furthermore, the achievable motion capability involves only one degree of freedom, that is, the motion capability is limited only to the defined direction. This can be achieved, for example, through linear movement by means of sliding one component on another. Alternatively or additionally, a motion capability is formed between the adjustment module and the shape adaptation module. The motion capability between these two modules can also be generated, for example, through a (direct) corresponding movable connection between the adjustment module and the carrier vehicle.

[0024] In an alternative extension, the device is characterized in that, in order to adjust the height position of the sensor, the device includes an actuator, wherein, in particular, the actuator is connected not only to the adjustment module, but also to the coupling module and / or the shape adaptation module.

[0025] This is understood to mean that the device includes an actuator. This actuator can, for example, be positioned and connected between the adjustment module and the coupling module. When the actuator is activated, it generates relative movement between the components and a corresponding adjustment to the desired height position of the sensor. Depending on the precise construction of the device, the actuator may also be configured between the adjustment module and the shape-fitting module, or between the adjustment module and the carrier vehicle. A linear servo motor can be used as an example of an actuator.

[0026] In an advantageous configuration, the device is characterized in that the adjustment module is configured such that, when the sensor is received into a component of the motor vehicle for evaluation, the adjustment module enables the possibility of adjusting the angular position of the sensor, and in particular, the possibility of adjusting the inclination of the sensor (i.e., the adjustment module is capable of adjusting the angular position of the sensor, and in particular, the inclination of the sensor).

[0027] This is understood as establishing a defined mobility between the vehicle-carrying component and the sensor-receiving component. For example, this mobility is established between the area of ​​the adjustment module and the shape-fitting module. This mobility is defined to allow adjustment of the sensor's angular position. This can be achieved, for example, via a hinge, by which the angular reference between the two elements of the adjustment module can be adjusted. Thus, for example, the angle of the shape-fitting element can be adjusted, and consequently, the angle of the sensor-receiving component can also be adjusted.

[0028] Considering the above-described embodiments, it is evident that the adjustment module can adjust not only the height position of the sensor but also its angular position. Advantageously, the adjustment module is configured to separate these two functions. That is, the adjustment module is configured to enable independent adjustment of both the height and angular positions of the sensor.

[0029] In one possible implementation, the device is characterized in that at least one element of the adjustment module is structurally connected to an element of the vehicle-carrying vehicle, such that all spatial degrees of freedom between these elements are prohibited except for the possibility of movement for adjusting the angular position of the sensor.

[0030] In a preferred extension, the device is characterized in that, in order to adjust the angular position of the sensor, the device includes an actuator, wherein, in particular, the actuator is connected to the adjustment module and the carrier vehicle.

[0031] This is understood to mean that the device includes an actuator. The actuator may, for example, be positioned between and connected to the adjustment module and the carrier vehicle. When the actuator is activated, it generates relative movement between the components and accordingly adjusts the desired angular position of the sensor. Depending on the precise construction of the device, the actuator may also be configured between the adjustment module and the shape-fitting module, or between the adjustment module and the coupling module. A linear servo motor may be used as an example of an actuator.

[0032] In an alternative embodiment, the device is characterized in that the shape-adapting module is at least partially configured as a negative mold relative to the receiving sensor component of the motor vehicle.

[0033] Shape fitting can be understood, for example, as a mold that at least partially constitutes the shape-fitted component (i.e., the bumper). By way of example, this means that the shape-fitting module essentially represents the internal structure of the bumper by virtue of its outer contour. The mold can be constructed, for example, using a skeletal structure made of wood or sheet metal. Alternatively or additionally, the mold can also be formed from a solid material, such as rigid foam.

[0034] In an advantageous extension, the device is characterized in that the shape adaptation module comprises a design structure in the form of a structural skeleton.

[0035] This is understood to mean that the shape-fitting module consists of or includes a skeletal structure. This skeletal structure can form the negative mold for the sensor-receiving component in the form of an endoskeleton. Here, a skeletal structure made of wood or wood panels is particularly advantageous. Of course, rigid foam board or even sheet material can also be used for this purpose. Advantageously, materials that are easy to process and ensure sufficient stability are used. A combination of, for example, wood panels and rigid foam board can also be considered.

[0036] In one possible implementation, the device is characterized in that the shape adaptation module comprises a design structure consisting of horizontally oriented sheet elements and vertically oriented sheet elements, wherein, in particular, the horizontally oriented and vertically oriented sheet elements are interconnected.

[0037] This is understood to mean that the shape adapter module includes not only horizontally oriented elements but also vertically oriented elements. For example, the shape adapter module includes two horizontally oriented sheet elements. Furthermore, the shape adapter module advantageously includes multiple vertically oriented sheet elements, for example, 3 to 25, preferably 8. These elements are advantageously interconnected, for example, inserted vertically into corresponding gaps. Additional connectors may be considered between the elements to provide durable retention and good stability for the structure.

[0038] In a preferred configuration, the device is characterized in that the outer contours of the horizontally oriented sheet elements and / or the outer contours of the vertically oriented sheet elements match the inner contours of the receiving sensor components of the motor vehicle.

[0039] This can be understood as the outer contours of the horizontally oriented sheet elements and / or the vertically oriented sheet elements at least partially and substantially matching the inner contours of the receiving sensor components of the motor vehicle. Of course, other factors, such as the space required for assembly or components, can also contribute to a deviation between the outer contours and the inner contours of the bumper.

[0040] Furthermore, according to the present invention, an application of the described device is provided for evaluating sensors using a vehicle-mounted vehicle.

[0041] Furthermore, according to the present invention, a method for evaluating a sensor received in a component of a motor vehicle using the described device is provided, wherein the device includes a shape-adapting module configured to specifically shape-adapt to the component of the receiving sensor of the motor vehicle, and the shape-adapting module is connected to the component of the receiving sensor of the motor vehicle; the device includes a coupling module configured to couple the device to a carrier vehicle; and the device includes an adjustment module configured to enable adjustment of the spatial position of the sensor, wherein the spatial position of the sensor is adjusted by means of the adjustment module for evaluation. Attached Figure Description

[0042] It should be noted that the features listed individually in the specification can be combined with each other in any technically meaningful manner and indicate other configurations of the invention. Other features and utility of the invention will be apparent from the description of the embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0043] As shown in the attached diagram:

[0044] Figure 1 A device coupled to a vehicle and connected to a component of the vehicle that receives the sensor to be evaluated; and

[0045] Figure 2 Equipment that is not coupled to the carrier vehicle and lacks a shape-fitting module; and

[0046] Figure 3 Details of the configuration of the device's adjustment module; and

[0047] Figure 4 An alternative configuration for equipment coupled to the carrier vehicle without a shape-fit module; and

[0048] Figure 5A configuration method for shape adaptation modules; and

[0049] Figure 6 Details of one implementation of a shape-fitting module in connection with a receiving sensor component of a motor vehicle. Detailed Implementation

[0050] Figure 1 A device is shown that is coupled to a carrier vehicle and connected to a component of a vehicle receiving a sensor to be evaluated. Here, device 2 is coupled to carrier vehicle 1 via coupling module 4. Both coupling module 4 and carrier vehicle 1 are shown only partially. Device 2 also includes shape-fitting module 3. Shape-fitting module 3 is shaped to component 7 of the receiving sensor 6 of the vehicle (not shown). Component 7 can be, for example (as in...) Figure 1 As shown in the figures, the front bumper of the motor vehicle is used. It should be noted that, as can be seen in the figures, this front bumper is not a conventional bumper for the vehicle. Sensor 6 can be, for example, an ultrasonic sensor, a lidar sensor, or a video sensor. The device 2 also includes an adjustment module 5 (shown only partially). The adjustment module 5 is capable of adjusting the spatial relationship between the coupling module 4 and the shape adaptation module 3, and thus the spatial relationship between the receiving components 7 of the vehicle and the motor vehicle carrying the sensor 6. Because the vehicle 1 has a fixed and substantially constant spatial relationship relative to the road surface, the adjustment module 5 can directly adjust the spatial relationship between the sensor 6 and the surrounding environment.

[0051] Figure 2 The equipment coupled to the carrier vehicle is shown again, but this time without the shape-fit module. The description of the components is essentially the same as already provided. Figure 2 The adjustment module 5 is shown more clearly in the diagram. For example, it can be seen in this diagram that the adjustment module 5 consists of two elements 5a and 5b, which are movably connected to each other via a hinge element 5d. Furthermore, a sliding device 9 is shown, which is fixedly connected to an element of the adjustment module 5 (in this case, connected to 5a) and enables relative movement between the adjustment module 5 and the coupling module 4. Furthermore, in Figure 2 Two actuators 8a are also shown. These two actuators are positioned between the adjustment module 5 and the coupling module 4. In the illustrated embodiment, the actuator 8a is connected to a substantially horizontal element 5a of the adjustment module 5, and allows adjustment of the height of the horizontal element 5a when activated. Similarly, an actuator 8b is shown. This actuator is positioned between the adjustment module 5 and the carrier vehicle 1. In the illustrated embodiment, the actuator 8b is connected to a substantially vertical element 5b of the adjustment module 5, and allows adjustment of the angle of the vertical element 5b when activated.

[0052] exist Figure 3Details of one embodiment of the adjustment module of the device are shown. A sliding device 9 is shown here, which is fixedly connected to a substantially horizontal element 5a of the adjustment module 5. The sliding device 9 is configured, for example, as a sleeve. The cross-sectional shape of the sliding device and the cross-sectional shape of the vertical rod of the coupling module 4 (on which the sliding device slides) are coordinated with each other. The shape shown reduces additional degrees of freedom of movement, resulting in a very stable system. In the illustrated embodiment, the sliding device 9 is configured as a rectangle. Other cross-sectional shapes, especially circles, are also possible.

[0053] Figure 4 As shown again in Figure 2 The device without a shape-fitting module coupled to the carrier vehicle is not shown; instead, an alternative configuration is presented. For illustrative purposes, please refer to... Figure 2 A key difference is the altered structure of adjustment module 5. In this configuration, adjustment module 5 consists of three elements: 5a, 5b, and 5c. The adjustment module includes both an angle adjustment device and a height adjustment device.

[0054] To construct the angle adjustment device, elements 5a and 5b are movably connected to each other via hinge element 5d. Element 5b is constructed rectangularly, for example, using a profile rod, and forms a frame. Element 5b is screwed onto hinge element 5d. Element 5a is detachably connected to coupling module 4, for example, via a threaded connection. Furthermore, element 5a, for example, forms rotary bearings for hinge element 5d at its two ends.

[0055] Alternatively, element 5a can be fixedly configured and thus become part of the coupling module. In this case, the adjustment module 5 can be directly connected to the coupling module 4, for example, by means of two mounted rotary hinges and hinge elements 5d.

[0056] Furthermore, a sliding device 9 is shown, which is fixedly connected to element 5c. Here, the sliding device 9 comprises two sleeves spaced apart from each other and connected by a metal connecting part. The sliding device 9 slides on a tube mounted in the adjusting element 5, specifically in the frame-shaped element 5b. This sliding device 9 enables relative movement within the adjusting module 5 (more specifically, movement between elements 5b and 5c). The sliding device 9 and the tube sliding thereon are substantially circular in configuration. Furthermore, in Figure 4Two actuators 8a are also shown. In the illustrated embodiment, these two actuators are positioned between module 5b and module 5c, enabling adjustment of the height of the horizontal element 5c when activated. Actuator 8b is also shown. This actuator is positioned between the adjustment module 5 and the carrier vehicle 1. In the illustrated embodiment, actuator 8b is connected to element 5b of the adjustment module 5 and, when activated, can adjust the angle of the vertical element 5b and thus also the angle of the element 5c connected thereto.

[0057] Figure 5 One embodiment of the shape adaptation module is shown. The shape adaptation module 3 is configured here as a structural skeleton 10. The structural skeleton 10 includes sheet-like structural elements 11. Horizontally oriented elements 11a and vertically oriented elements 11b are present. These structural elements are interconnected and form a stable structural skeleton 10 in a unified locking mechanism. The outer contours of elements 11a and 11b match the inner contour of the bumper carrying the sensor, at least in some areas. Of course, other aspects, such as the space required for assembly or components, can also contribute to a deviation between the outer contours and the internal shape of the bumper, as seen, for example, in the two rightmost vertically oriented sheet elements 11b.

[0058] Figure 6 Details of a configuration of a shape-fitting module in connection with a receiving sensor in a motor vehicle are shown. An embodiment for the connecting element is shown here. Connector 12a, for example, provides mechanical coupling between the shape-fitting module 3 and the adjustment module 5. Reference is also made to this. Figure 1 The diagram shows that connector 12b provides, for example, mechanical coupling between the shape-fit module 3 and the component 7 (i.e., the front bumper) of the vehicle's receiving sensor 6. Furthermore, a possible sensor 6 to be evaluated is shown, which, for example, is configured as an ultrasonic sensor and positioned in the side region of the front bumper.

Claims

1. A device (2) for evaluating a sensor (6), wherein, The sensor (6) is received into a component (7) of the motor vehicle for evaluation. The device (2) includes a shape adaptation module (3) configured to specifically adapt its shape to the part (7) of the vehicle receiving the sensor (6), and the shape adaptation module (3) is configured to connect to the part (7) of the vehicle receiving the sensor (6). The device (2) includes a coupling module (4) configured to couple the device (2) to the carrier vehicle (1). The device (2) includes an adjustment module (5) which can adjust the spatial relationship between the coupling module (4) and the shape adaptation module (3), thereby adjusting the spatial relationship between the carrier vehicle (1) and the motor vehicle's receiving component (7) of the sensor (6).

2. The device (2) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The adjustment module is configured such that when the sensor (6) is received into the component (7) of the motor vehicle for evaluation, the adjustment module is able to adjust the spatial position of the sensor (6).

3. The device (2) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The adjustment module (5) is configured such that when the sensor (6) is received into the component (7) of the motor vehicle for evaluation, the adjustment module is able to adjust the height position of the sensor (6).

4. The device (2) according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, In order to adjust the height position of the sensor (6), the device (2) includes an actuator.

5. The device (2) according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The adjustment module (5) is configured such that when the sensor (6) is received into the component (7) of the motor vehicle for evaluation, the adjustment module is able to adjust the angular position of the sensor (6).

6. The device (2) according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, In order to adjust the angular position of the sensor (6), the device (2) includes an actuator.

7. The device (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 3. Its features are, The shape adaptation module (3) is at least partially configured as a negative mold relative to the part (7) of the motor vehicle that receives the sensor (6).

8. The device (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 3. Its features are, The shape adaptation module (3) includes a design structure in the form of a structural skeleton.

9. The device (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 3. Its features are, The shape adaptation module (3) includes a design structure consisting of horizontally oriented sheet elements (11a) and vertically oriented sheet elements (11b).

10. The device (2) according to claim 9, characterized in that, The outer contour of the horizontally oriented sheet element (11a) and / or the outer contour of the vertically oriented sheet element (11b) match the inner contour of the component (7) of the motor vehicle that receives the sensor (6).

11. The device (2) according to claim 4, characterized in that, The actuator is connected to two elements (5b, 5c) of the adjustment module (5), wherein the two elements (5b, 5c) are connected by means of a sliding device (9) in a manner that allows them to move relative to each other in one degree of freedom.

12. The device (2) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The adjustment module (5) is configured such that when the sensor (6) is received into the component (7) of the motor vehicle for evaluation, the adjustment module is able to adjust the inclination of the sensor (6).

13. The device (2) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The actuator is connected to the adjustment module (5) and the carrier vehicle (1).

14. The device (2) according to claim 9, characterized in that, The horizontally oriented sheet element (11a) and the vertically oriented sheet element (11b) are interconnected.

15. The use of a device (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 14 for evaluating a sensor (6) by means of a carrier vehicle (1).

16. A method for evaluating a sensor (6) in a component (7) received from a motor vehicle, said method being carried out by means of a device (2) according to any one of claims 2 to 14, wherein, The spatial position of the sensor (6) is adjusted using the adjustment module (5) for evaluation.

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