Drive device for adjusting interior component of vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a drive device (2) for adjusting an interior component (11) of a vehicle (1), comprising: an electrodynamic adjustment drive (20) for generating an adjustment force; an adjustment kinematic mechanism (21-24) which can be driven by the adjustment drive (20) for transmitting an adjustment force generated by the adjustment drive (20) to the interior assembly (11); and a control device (3) for controlling the adjusting drive (20). The control device (3) is designed to actuate the actuating drive (20) in a recognition mode in order to adjust the interior component (11) on a predetermined adjustment path or to adjust the actuating drive (20) on the basis of a predetermined rotational speed profile or on the basis of a predetermined current profile. The control device (3) is further configured to detect the characteristic variable in the recognition mode and to determine, on the basis of the characteristic variable, an operation command representing an adjustment intention of a user to adjust the interior component (11).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a drive device for adjusting an interior component of a vehicle and a method for operating a drive device for adjusting an interior component of a vehicle according to the preamble of claim 1 . Background Art

[0002] This drive device comprises an electromotive adjusting drive for generating an adjusting force; an adjusting kinematic mechanism drivable by the adjusting drive for transmitting the adjusting force generated by the adjusting drive to an interior component; and a control device for controlling the adjusting drive.

[0003] Interior components of the type described herein are components within the interior of a vehicle. These components may be, for example, vehicle seats, console elements with a storage or receptacle function, displays, partitions, or storage shelves such as tables or compartments. Interior components are not part of the vehicle body and, as such, are not used to close off the vehicle from the outside (as in doors or a sliding roof). They are also not part of the vehicle's drive or steering system (for example, a vehicle's steering column). Interior components are arranged within the vehicle's interior and can be adjusted by the user therein, in particular to provide comfort functions within the interior.

[0004] For example, a vehicle seat can be adjustable to adjust the backrest inclination, longitudinal positioning, and / or lateral positioning, or also to adjust the rotational position in the interior, so as to achieve a comfortable seating position for the vehicle occupants. A console element can be movable along the vehicle floor, for example, to provide a storage shelf in the vehicle interior or to enable the operation of functional components on the console element. A display can be adjustable in its pivot position, height position, and / or tilt position, so as to achieve a comfortable viewing position for the vehicle occupants.

[0005] In particular, in new interior concepts, such as those associated with autonomously driven vehicles, interior components such as vehicle seats or console elements may be variably adjustable in order to achieve a comfortable ride for the vehicle occupants. Adjusting the interior components should be easy, comfortable, and intuitive for the user.

[0006] US 2017 / 0166089 A1 discloses an electrically adjustable vehicle seat in the interior of a vehicle. Adjustment of the vehicle seat can be initiated by the user using gesture control, for example, by the user performing a predetermined gesture in the area of ​​the vehicle seat, thereby causing, for example, a pivoting of the backrest or a longitudinal adjustment of the vehicle seat in the vehicle interior.

[0007] Known adjustment concepts may include the provision of sensors for detecting, for example, gestures made by a user in the vehicle interior, so that adjustment movements of interior components (e.g., vehicle seats) can be effected based on the detected user gestures. This requires, on the one hand, a relatively complex sensor system and, in addition, a relatively complex control system that must ensure reliable recognition of user gestures in order to enable adjustment movements to be carried out in a manner that is comfortable for the user, while also avoiding undesired adjustments due to possible erroneous gesture recognition. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The object of the present invention is to provide a drive device for adjusting an interior component in a vehicle and a method for operating the drive device, which enable a user to adjust the interior component easily, comfortably and intuitively.

[0009] This object is achieved by the subject matter having the features of claim 1 .

[0010] The control device is therefore designed to control the adjusting drive in the identification mode so as to adjust the interior component along a predetermined adjustment path or to adjust the adjusting drive based on a predetermined speed profile or based on a predetermined current profile. Furthermore, the control device is designed to detect characteristic variables in the identification mode and to determine, based on the characteristic variables, an operating command that represents a user's desire to adjust the interior component.

[0011] In the drive device, the electric adjusting drive is designed to generate an adjusting force, which is introduced into the interior component via the adjusting kinematics in order to electrically adjust the interior component or at least to electrically support the adjustment. The adjusting kinematics with the transmission are preferably designed to be self-locking, so that when the adjusting drive is not energized, the interior component is held in position solely via the adjusting kinematics, so that forces introduced on the output side do not result in an adjustment of the interior component.

[0012] In mechanics, self-locking is understood as the resistance created by friction that prevents two objects resting against each other from slipping or twisting. A transmission is self-locking, particularly when the actuator is de-energized, if it allows drive via the drive shaft but not via the output shaft. Self-locking in transmissions is usually achieved through a high transmission ratio or low efficiency (typically <50%). In worm gears or screw gears, self-locking is typically achieved when the lead angle of the worm or screw thread is less than the inverse tangent of the coefficient of static friction.

[0013] The control kinematics of the drive device may include a self-locking transmission. The self-locking of the control kinematics may, for example, be at least partially achieved through the interaction between a screw and a nut. Alternatively or additionally, the self-locking of the control kinematics may be at least partially achieved through the interaction between a pinion and a gear meshing with the pinion. Alternatively or additionally, the self-locking of the control kinematics may be at least partially achieved through the interaction between a worm and a worm wheel. Self-locking may also be achieved through a combination of multiple transmission stages, such as the combination of the transmission stages described above.

[0014] The control kinematics preferably has dynamic and static self-locking, so that no matter whether in dynamic movement or in a static rest state, the torque on the driven side itself does not cause a movement of the control kinematics.

[0015] To recognize a user's operating command (by which the user expresses an adjustment intention for adjusting the interior component), the control device can switch to a recognition mode. In recognition mode, the control device activates the adjusting drive to adjust the interior component along a predetermined adjustment path or to adjust the adjusting drive based on a predetermined speed profile or a predetermined current profile. When activating the adjusting drive, the control device detects characteristic variables based on which the operating command is determined. If an operating command is detected in recognition mode, the control device can, for example, switch to an adjustment mode in which the interior component is automatically moved to a defined adjustment position, for example, in automatic operation, or in servo operation, manual adjustment of the interior component can be performed with the electric assistance of the adjusting drive.

[0016] Therefore, in the identification mode, the control device is configured to detect an operator control command. While the control device is in the identification mode, a characteristic variable can be detected based on a predetermined activation of the adjusting drive, so that an operator control command can be detected based on the characteristic variable. If an operator control command is present, the interior component can be adjusted, for example, in automatic operation, in servo operation, or in so-called touch-and-go operation, by overcoming the self-locking of the adjusting kinematics.

[0017] In one embodiment, the control device is configured to detect a motor current of the control drive and / or a motor speed of the control drive when adjusting the interior component along a predetermined adjustment path in the identification mode, and to determine a characteristic variable based on the motor current and / or the motor speed. Within the scope of the identification mode, in one embodiment, the interior component is adjusted along an adjustment path having a predetermined path length, wherein the adjustment path can be very small, for example, a few millimeters or a few centimeters. When adjusting the interior component along the predetermined adjustment path in the identification mode, the motor current or the motor speed of the control drive is detected, and the characteristic variable is determined based on the motor current or the motor speed.

[0018] Regulation along a predetermined control path can be performed, for example, by voltage regulation. Accordingly, during the regulation process along the control path, motor current and speed profiles occur, which can be evaluated to determine characteristic variables.

[0019] Instead of voltage regulation, current regulation can also be performed. In this case, the speed profile is detected. Alternatively, speed regulation can be performed. In this case, the motor current profile is detected.

[0020] If the user influences the interior component to issue an operating command, for example by pushing or pulling the interior component, the adjustment drive is subjected to a force. It is assumed that the user's force action on the interior component can represent an operating command to trigger an adjustment in the adjustment direction pointing in the direction of the force action.

[0021] Because the interior component is subject to user force, the motor current or speed typically changes compared to adjustments made without user-induced force. If, in identification mode, the interior component is adjusted by the actuator in the same direction as the force exerted by the user on the interior component, the adjustment motion is supported by the user's force. Consequently, the motor current decreases and the speed increases. If, on the other hand, the user exerts force on the interior component in a direction opposite to the adjustment direction, the user-induced force inhibits the adjustment motion. Consequently, the motor current increases and the speed decreases.

[0022] This effect on the motor current and / or speed can be detected in order to derive a characteristic variable based on the motor current or speed and compare it, for example, with a reference value. For example, if the characteristic variable deviates from a predetermined reference variable by more than a predetermined amount, this is interpreted as an operating command, wherein, based on the force direction, it is possible to determine in which direction the interior component should be adjusted in the subsequent adjustment mode.

[0023] In one embodiment, the control device is designed to determine the characteristic variable in the identification mode based on the maximum motor current or the maximum speed when adjusting the interior component along the predetermined adjustment path. Thus, the maximum motor current or the maximum speed when adjusting the interior component along the predetermined adjustment path is determined as the characteristic variable.

[0024] In one embodiment, the control device is configured to determine a characteristic variable based on the duration of an adjustment process that causes the interior component to adjust along a predetermined adjustment path. If the adjustment drive is voltage- or current-controlled, the speed, and therefore the duration of the adjustment process, will depend on the force acting on the interior component. When the interior component is subjected to a user force representing an operating command, the duration of the adjustment process varies compared to the duration of the adjustment process when the interior component is unloaded (i.e., when the user is not pushing or pulling on the interior component to initiate the adjustment process). Therefore, the duration of the adjustment process can be determined as a characteristic variable and used in determining the operating command.

[0025] In one embodiment, the control device is configured to control the adjustment drive during the recognition mode, while adjusting the interior component along a predetermined adjustment path, so that the interior component is adjusted in a first direction of movement during a first recognition phase and in a second direction of movement opposite to the first direction of movement during a second recognition phase. To enable recognition of operator commands over a longer period of time, the interior component can be repeatedly adjusted back and forth within the recognition mode, i.e., in the first direction of movement during a first recognition phase and in the second, opposite direction of movement during a subsequent second recognition phase. The adjustment movements each occur along a predetermined adjustment path, i.e., back and forth over the same adjustment path length, and the back and forth movements can be repeated as often as desired. The interior component thus moves back and forth within the range of its adjusted actual position. In particular, the interior component assumes the same actual position both before the recognition mode is activated and after the recognition mode has concluded (when no adjustment operations are to be performed subsequently).

[0026] The value of the characteristic variable is repeatedly determined in the different recognition phases in order to infer, if necessary, an operator control command based on the change in the characteristic variable during the recognition phase.

[0027] In one embodiment, the control device is configured to detect the motor current of the adjusting drive and determine a characteristic variable based on the motor current when the adjusting drive is adjusted based on a predetermined speed profile in the identification mode. If the speed of the adjusting drive is adjusted based on the predetermined speed profile in the identification mode, the motor current can be determined so that the characteristic variable can be determined based on the motor current. For example, the characteristic variable can be determined based on the maximum motor current. Adjustment of the interior component based on the predetermined speed profile in the identification mode can be performed along a predetermined adjustment path or within a predetermined adjustment time.

[0028] In one embodiment, the control device is configured to control the adjusting drive in a recognition mode, when the adjusting drive is set based on a predetermined speed profile, so that the interior component is adjusted in a first direction of motion during a first recognition phase and in a second direction of motion opposite to the first direction of motion during a second recognition phase. To enable recognition of operator commands over a longer period of time, the interior component can be repeatedly adjusted back and forth within the recognition mode, i.e., in the first direction of motion during a first recognition phase and in the second, opposite direction of motion during a subsequent second recognition phase, wherein this back-and-forth movement can be repeated as desired. The interior component thus moves back and forth within the range of its adjusted actual position, wherein adjustment in each direction within a predetermined path or within a predetermined time period is performed based on the predetermined speed profile. In particular, the interior component assumes the same actual position both before the recognition mode is activated and after the recognition mode has concluded (when no adjustment operations are to be performed subsequently).

[0029] In one design, the control device is configured to, in an identification mode, detect the path traveled and / or the motor speed, and / or the time point and / or the current value at which the adjustment movement of the interior space component begins when the adjustment drive is adjusted based on a predetermined current variation curve, and determine characteristic parameters based on the path traveled, the motor speed, the time point and / or the current value.

[0030] If the control drive is operated in the identification mode with a predetermined current profile, various parameters can be determined to determine the characteristic variable. For example, when the control drive is energized, the path traveled can be determined based on the predetermined current profile, so that the characteristic variable can be determined based on the path traveled.

[0031] Additionally or alternatively, when the actuator is energized, the motor speed can be detected based on a predetermined current profile in order to determine a characteristic variable based on the motor speed, in particular based on the motor speed profile, for example based on the maximum motor speed.

[0032] When the adjusting drive is activated in the identification mode to adjust the interior component along a predetermined adjustment path or based on a predetermined speed profile, or when the adjusting drive is activated based on a predetermined current profile to detect the traveled path or motor speed, this generally results in an adjustment movement of the interior component. However, activation of the adjusting drive based on a predetermined current profile can also prevent adjustment movement of the interior component. Therefore, the adjusting drive can be energized based on the predetermined current profile until the adjustment movement of the interior component begins. Based on this activation, the time or current value at which the adjustment movement of the interior component begins can be detected. In this case, a characteristic variable is determined based on this time or current value.

[0033] For example, the predetermined current profile can correspond to a linearly increasing or decreasing ramp function. Thus, the motor current can, for example, increase linearly until the interior component begins adjusting movement. This can correspond to energizing the adjusting drive for an adjustment movement in a first adjustment direction. Additionally or alternatively, the motor current can be set to decrease linearly, for example, resulting in a linearly decreasing current ramp. This can correspond to energizing the adjusting drive for an adjustment movement in a second adjustment direction, opposite to the first adjustment direction.

[0034] This linear ramp function can be used in particular to determine the motor current value at the beginning of the adjustment movement of the interior space component. By increasing the current value, the motor current can be changed in particular until the interior space component moves.

[0035] In one embodiment, the control device is designed to, in the identification mode, disconnect the motor current supply when an adjustment movement of the interior component is detected while the adjustment drive is set based on a predetermined current profile. For example, if a movement of the interior component is detected by a motion sensor on the interior component, the control device disconnects the motor current supply, thereby immediately inhibiting the adjustment movement at the outset and effectively preventing the interior component from being adjusted.

[0036] Depending on the force acting on the interior component (e.g., caused by a user pushing or pulling on the interior component to initiate adjustment of the interior component), the motor current value and the time at which the interior component begins adjusting movement will vary when the motor current profile is adjusted. If the direction of energization of the adjustment drive is the same as the direction of the user's force, the current value and time at which the adjustment movement begins will be lower than when the interior component is unloaded. However, if the user's force and the adjustment force of the adjustment drive caused by energization are in opposite directions, the motor current value and time at which the adjustment movement begins will be higher than when the interior component is unloaded. Therefore, the characteristic variable can be determined based on the motor current value or the time.

[0037] In one embodiment, the control device is configured to, in an identification mode, energize the adjusting drive in a first current supply direction during a first identification phase for adjusting the interior component when the adjusting drive is commissioned based on a predetermined motor current profile, and to energize the adjusting drive in a second current supply direction, opposite to the first current supply direction, during a second identification phase. Thus, energizing the adjusting drive based on the predetermined motor current profile alternates in different, mutually opposite current supply directions (with respect to an adjustment movement in the first direction of movement and an adjustment movement in the opposite second direction of movement) in different, successive identification phases.

[0038] In one embodiment, the control device is configured to determine an operating command based on a deviation of the characteristic variable from a reference variable. Generally, it can be assumed that the value of the characteristic variable resulting from the activation of the adjustment drive within the scope of the recognition mode remains substantially constant as long as the interior component is not loaded by a user force that causes the operating command. When the interior component is unloaded, i.e., when no user force is applied, the characteristic variable therefore has a substantially constant value. This value can serve as a reference variable, wherein the value of the reference variable can alternatively be programmed and thus fixed, for example.

[0039] When a user exerts a force on the interior component to trigger an operating command, the characteristic variable changes. For example, if the adjustment drive is controlled in identification mode so that the motor current is set based on a predetermined motor current curve, and the motor current value or the time at which the interior component begins an adjusting movement is determined, the motor current value and the time will change depending on whether, with what force, and in what direction the user touches the interior component. Therefore, based on the deviation of the characteristic variable from the reference variable, an operating command can be inferred. When an operating command is present, i.e., when the operating command is successfully detected, an adjustment mode for automatically adjusting the interior component or a servo mode for electrically assisting the adjustment of the interior component can be initiated.

[0040] In one embodiment, the control device is configured to repeatedly detect the characteristic variable by actuating the adjusting drive in the recognition mode to adjust the interior component along a predetermined adjustment path or to adjust the adjusting drive based on a predetermined speed profile or based on a predetermined current profile. In particular, the recognition phases through which the control device actuates the adjusting drive within the scope of adjustment movements in different directions of movement can be repeated cyclically, so that user operating commands can be detected in the continuous recognition mode over a longer period of time.

[0041] During the recognition mode, in particular when the control device repeatedly controls the adjusting drive to adjust the interior component along a predetermined adjustment path or when the adjusting drive is set in successive recognition phases based on a predetermined speed profile or based on a predetermined current profile, the values ​​of the characteristic variable can be repeatedly detected in order to determine the time profile of the characteristic variable based on the changes in these values. For example, based on this profile, the pattern of the force exerted on the interior component by the user can be detected, so that based on this pattern detection, the adjustment mode can be initiated, for example, for adjusting the interior component in automatic operation or in servo operation.

[0042] For example, based on the variation of the characteristic variable, an impulse action on the interior component can be detected. Thus, the control device can be configured, for example, to infer an operator control command upon detecting an impulse action on the interior component by the user. Such an impulse action can be applied, for example, by the user inducing a force in one direction on the interior component, wherein the force action is applied in a pulse-like manner over a relatively short period of time, thus occurring relatively suddenly, and then being released again. This can be detected based on the variation of the characteristic variable, wherein an operator control command is only inferred if a predetermined type of force action can be detected based on the variation of the characteristic variable.

[0043] In one embodiment, the control device is configured to, upon detecting an operating command, activate the adjustment drive in an adjustment mode for adjusting the interior component. In the adjustment mode, the interior component can be automatically moved to a defined adjustment position, for example, in automatic operation. In another embodiment, the adjustment mode can include, for example, a servo operation, within which the interior component can be manually adjusted by the user in an electrically assisted manner. In yet another embodiment, a so-called tapping operation can be switched to, in which the control device provides a support current to the adjustment drive to override the self-locking of the adjustment drive and the self-locking of the adjustment kinematic mechanism operatively connected to the adjustment drive, thereby allowing the user to manually adjust the interior component substantially without applying force.

[0044] For example, when the adjustment mode is activated, the control device can control the adjustment drive with a supporting current. This supporting current is metered such that, while overcoming the self-locking of the adjustment kinematics, the interior component can be moved by a user force manually applied to the interior component. When the adjustment drive is de-energized, the interior component is held in position by the adjustment kinematics and, therefore, cannot be adjusted even by a user force applied to the interior component from the driven side. When the adjustment drive is supplied with a supporting current in the adjustment mode, thereby overriding the self-locking of the adjustment kinematics, the interior component can be manually moved. To this end, the control device is configured to supply a supporting current to the adjustment drive in the activated adjustment mode, which overturns the self-locking of the adjustment kinematics. This results in manual user force applied to the interior component causing movement of the interior component, and thus, the interior component can be moved by manual user force. By supplying the supporting current to the adjustment drive, the adjustment kinematics, which inherently has a self-locking mechanism, is unlocked and can be moved by force applied from the driven side.

[0045] In one embodiment, the supporting current is metered such that the adjustment force caused by the supporting current does not cause the interior component to move. When the adjustment mode is activated, the adjustment drive is energized so that an adjustment force is applied to the adjustment kinematics to overcome the self-locking, but the adjustment kinematics are not moved by the supporting current, and thus the interior component is not adjusted. Thus, by energizing with the supporting current when the adjustment mode is activated, only the self-locking is overcome, but no adjustment movement occurs.

[0046] The adjustment kinematics can be implemented, for example, as a worm gear or a screw gear. In a worm gear, the drive worm is in driving engagement with the drive wheel via the worm toothing. In a screw gear, the screw has a screw thread that is in threaded engagement with the internal thread of the nut, wherein a longitudinal movement of the nut relative to the screw can be caused by rotating the screw or, alternatively, by rotating the nut.

[0047] In one embodiment, the control device is configured to activate the recognition mode as a function of at least one trigger criterion. To avoid excessive current profiles, the recognition mode should not be constantly active in the vehicle, but rather only under specific conditions. To activate the recognition mode, the control device can, for example, evaluate one or more trigger criteria and, depending on the trigger criteria, determine whether the recognition mode should be activated or not. If one or more trigger criteria are present, the recognition mode is initiated.

[0048] Since the recognition mode is activated based on one or more triggering criteria, the sensor components used to initiate the recognition mode and detect the desired adjustment can be simplified. In particular, sensor components for monitoring and evaluating user gestures are no longer necessary. The recognition mode can be activated based on relatively easy-to-determine criteria, such as the open state of a vehicle door or the occupied state of a vehicle seat.

[0049] The triggering criterion can be, for example, the occupancy status of an interior component. If the interior component is, for example, a vehicle seat or a vehicle seat component (e.g., a vehicle seat backrest), the control device can only provide a detection mode when the vehicle seat is not occupied by a vehicle occupant. For example, the backrest should only be adjusted when the vehicle seat is unoccupied. The occupancy status can be evaluated, for example, based on a (capacitive) occupancy sensor, the state of a seatbelt buckle, or even by an interior monitoring device.

[0050] The trigger criterion can also be the movement state of the interior component. For example, if the front vehicle seats are moving, the drive devices on the rear vehicle seats or on the center console can be switched to the recognition mode to enable the movement of the rear vehicle seats or the center console.

[0051] Another triggering criterion may be the opening status of a vehicle door, particularly a side door or tailgate. For example, the control device may be configured to activate the recognition mode as soon as a side door is opened. For example, if the right rear door of the vehicle is open, the recognition mode may be activated for the right rear and / or right front vehicle seats. Conversely, if the left rear door of the vehicle is open, the recognition mode may be activated for the left rear and / or left front vehicle seats. For example, if the tailgate is confirmed to be open, the recognition mode may be activated for the rear seats of the vehicle.

[0052] As an additional criterion, the vehicle's driving state can be evaluated. Thus, for example, recognition mode may only be enabled when the vehicle is stationary. Alternatively, recognition mode can be activated when the vehicle is stationary, but also when it is moving. While the vehicle is moving, recognition mode can be deactivated depending on the situation (for example, depending on the vehicle's speed or when a so-called "pre-crash" warning indicating an imminent collision is issued). If the drive system is in recognition mode when such a "pre-crash" warning is issued, recognition mode can be deactivated, locking the interior components in their last position so that any impact forces can be absorbed and dissipated.

[0053] As a further triggering criterion, for example, a sensor signal from a sensor device, such as an interior monitoring device (eg a radar system or lidar system) or a motion sensor on an interior component, can also be evaluated.

[0054] Other triggering criteria may be: adjusting adjacent interior components; operating the vehicle ignition system; dedicated user actions (such as operating a button on the seat or a button in the menu of the on-board computer, or a voice command).

[0055] Switching off the recognition mode according to a trigger criterion or a combination of trigger criteria can occur, for example, when the trigger criterion no longer exists; after the adjustment is completed; time-controlled; for example based on a "power budget" when the vehicle is parked.

[0056] In one embodiment, the control device is configured to generate a prompt signal after activation of the recognition mode as a prompt for outputting the recognition mode to the user. Thus, the control device can, for example, generate a prompt signal that signals to the user via a vehicle device (e.g., the vehicle's audio system) that the recognition mode for adjustment has been activated.

[0057] The actuator can be designed, for example, as a direct current motor, particularly advantageously as a brushless direct current motor (a so-called BLDC motor). However, other motors can also be used in principle.

[0058] The control device can be integrated into the adjusting drive, but can also be designed separately from the adjusting drive, for example by a seat control or a central control in the vehicle.

[0059] Various applications of a drive device of the aforementioned type are conceivable and possible.

[0060] In one application, the interior component can be implemented, for example, by a vehicle seat. The drive device can be configured, in particular, to adjust the vehicle seat backrest relative to the seating area. Alternatively, the drive device can be configured for longitudinal seat adjustment. Still alternatively, the drive device can be configured for seat height adjustment.

[0061] In another application, the interior component can be realized, for example, by a console element, such as a center console, an armrest, a table or another component of the vehicle interior.

[0062] In one application, the interior component can be implemented by a vehicle seat and can be moved into an easy-entry position within the context of the so-called easy-entry function. In this easy-entry position, the vehicle seat, including the backrest, is folded forward and, as a whole, moved forward, thereby freeing up space behind the vehicle seat, particularly facilitating access to the seat row located behind it. In this case, the vehicle seat can, for example, have two drive devices, each with an electric adjustment drive and adjustment kinematics. These two drive devices enable the vehicle seat to be moved longitudinally in the vehicle and, on the other hand, the backrest to be pivoted relative to the seating area. For example, a recognition mode can be activated on one or both drive devices, depending on at least one trigger criterion, to transfer the vehicle seat into the easy-entry position or to guide it back from the easy-entry position to the normal use position.

[0063] Within the scope of this application, for example, the Comfort Entry function can be activated when a force acting on the backrest of a vehicle seat or on the vehicle seat is detected in a recognition mode. If the recognition mode is implemented, for example, in a drive device for adjusting the backrest relative to the seating part, the recognition mode is activated, for example, in dependence on at least one trigger criterion.

[0064] For example, a user sitting on a vehicle seat behind the front vehicle seat and wanting to get out of the vehicle can push on the backrest of the front vehicle seat. If the drive device of this vehicle seat, which is assigned to adjusting the backrest, is in recognition mode, this force action can be interpreted as an operating command and an adjustment mode can be activated, for example, to automatically adjust the entire vehicle seat into the easy entry position and thus pivot the backrest part relative to the seating part into the forward folded position and adjust the entire vehicle seat into the forward moved position.

[0065] As a trigger criterion for initiating a recognition mode for one or more vehicle seat drives within the context of the Car Entry function (particularly the drive for adjusting the vehicle seat backrest and the drive for longitudinal adjustment of the vehicle seat), for example, whether the vehicle is in a stationary position can be considered. Additionally or alternatively, whether the vehicle seat to be adjusted is occupied can be considered. Additionally or alternatively, whether a vehicle door is open can be considered. If a trigger criterion or a predetermined combination of trigger criteria exists, a recognition mode can be initiated within the context of the Car Entry function for one or more vehicle seat drives, allowing the recognition of an operating command. Upon recognition of an operating command within the context of the Car Entry function, the vehicle seat belt is automatically and electrically moved to a defined end position corresponding to the Car Entry position.

[0066] In this respect, exclusion criteria for the recognition mode can also be defined. For example, if a vehicle seat that needs to be adjusted within the scope of the comfort entry function is occupied, the recognition mode can be blocked and therefore not activated even when one or more triggering criteria are present.

[0067] When there is a trigger criterion or a combination of multiple trigger criterions, the recognition mode can for example be opened for a limited time respectively. If the operating instruction on the interior space component is not identified within this limited time, the recognition mode will stop again.

[0068] The control device for controlling the recognition mode can be realized, for example, by a seat controller or a central controller in the vehicle. Such a control device can communicate with the local control unit of the corresponding drive device via a bus system (such as a LIN bus or a CAN bus).

[0069] Control tasks can also be distributed, for example. For example, a higher-level controller can check the presence of a trigger criterion and initiate a recognition mode accordingly. The recognition of the operating instructions can be performed, for example, by a local control unit of the drive device.

[0070] According to another aspect, a method for operating a drive device for adjusting a vehicle interior component comprises: providing an electric adjusting drive for generating an adjusting force; providing an adjusting kinematic mechanism that can be driven by the adjusting drive for transmitting the adjusting force generated by the adjusting drive to the interior component; providing a control device for controlling the adjusting drive; driving the adjusting drive by the control device in an identification mode so as to adjust the interior component on a predetermined adjustment path, or to adjust the adjusting drive based on a predetermined speed change curve or based on a predetermined current change curve; detecting a characteristic parameter by the control device in an identification mode; and determining by the control device an operating instruction that represents the user's adjustment intention to adjust the interior component based on the characteristic parameter.

[0071] The advantages and advantageous embodiments described above for the drive device also apply analogously to this method.

[0072] According to another aspect, a computer program product comprises instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the above method. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0073] The basic concept of the present invention will be explained in detail below with reference to the embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0074] Figure 1 shows a schematic view of a vehicle having an interior component in the form of a vehicle seat;

[0075] Figure 2 A schematic illustration of a drive device is shown, which comprises an adjusting drive and an adjusting kinematic mechanism for transmitting an adjusting force generated by the adjusting drive to an interior component;

[0076] Figure 3 A diagram showing a motor current profile during control on a predetermined control path within the scope of a recognition mode;

[0077] Figure 4 Shown according to Figure 3 Another view of the motor current variation curve of FIG. 1 , wherein the motor current variation curve is normalized to a common starting point in a segmented manner;

[0078] Figure 5 A diagram showing the motor current set in the identification mode based on a predetermined motor current profile is shown;

[0079] Figure 6 A diagram showing a further example of a motor current set based on a predetermined motor current profile;

[0080] Figure 7A Shown according to Figure 6 Example of motor current;

[0081] Figure 7B Shown according to Figure 7A The current integral of the motor current;

[0082] Figure 8 The diagram shows an example of a motor current set on the basis of a predetermined motor current profile for determining the profile of a changed characteristic variable. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0083] Figure 1A schematic view of a vehicle 1 is shown, which is constructed with an interior space enclosed by a body 10, in which interior space components, for example in the form of vehicle seats 11, and possibly further interior space components such as console elements, displays, partitions, storage shelves or storage compartments or similar interior space components are arranged.

[0084] Within the scope of new interior concepts, for example in connection with autonomously driven vehicles, the interior component 11 may be variably adjustable in the interior of the vehicle 1 .

[0085] For example, the interior component 11 in the form of a vehicle seat can be variably adjustable so that the vehicle seat can be adjusted along an adjustment plane defined by the vehicle longitudinal direction X and the vehicle transverse direction Y and, if necessary, can also be twisted about the vertical direction Z. Furthermore, components of the vehicle seat, such as the backrest 112, can also be adjustable to adapt the positions of the respective components. For example, the backrest 112 can be adjustable in its inclination. Furthermore, the seating part 111 can be adjustable in its height and also in its inclination.

[0086] In the interior component 11, there is a fundamental desire for comfortable, intuitive, and sensual adjustment for the user. Adjustments should be possible as precisely and quickly as possible, with the effort required by the user being limited.

[0087] In order to adjust the interior space component 11, as Figure 1 As shown schematically in FIG, a drive device 2 is provided, which is connected to a control device 3. The drive device 2 is designed to be electric and can be operated to move the associated interior component 11 between different positions in an electric manner.

[0088] In principle, each interior space component 11 to be adjusted or a subcomponent of the interior space component 11 to be adjusted (for example, the backrest 112 of a vehicle seat) can be assigned its own electric drive device 2, wherein these drive devices 2 can, for example, be connected to a common control device 3, so that the control device 3 controls these drive devices 2 together for adjusting the assigned interior space component 11.

[0089] Using the drive device 2, the associated interior component 11 can be adjusted along a defined motion path. For example, the vehicle seat can be moved longitudinally relative to the vehicle floor in the vehicle longitudinal direction X along a motion path defined by the guide rails. Furthermore, the backrest portion 112 can be pivoted relative to the seating portion 111 about a defined pivot axis 110.

[0090] Figure 2 A schematic view shows an exemplary embodiment of a drive device 2, which is designed for motorized adjustment of an associated interior component 11. For example, in servo mode, the drive device 2 enables manual but motorized adjustment of the associated interior component 11, while in automatic mode, it enables, for example, automatic adjustment between defined adjustment positions.

[0091] The drive device 2 has an electric adjustment drive 20 in the form of an electric motor, which is operatively connected to a transmission 21. The transmission 21 is used to drive an output element 22, which acts on an adjustment transmission 23 (e.g., a spindle-nut transmission) and, via the adjustment transmission, on an adjustment component 24 (e.g., a screw) to adjust the associated interior component 11. The transmission 21, together with the output element 22, the adjustment transmission 23, and the adjustment component 24, realizes an adjustment kinematic mechanism for transmitting the adjustment force from the adjustment drive 20 to the associated interior component 11.

[0092] For example, the driven element 22 can be designed as a drive worm with worm gearing integrally formed thereon, which engages with an adjustment mechanism 23 having a transmission element in the form of a nut. The nut can be arranged, for example, on an adjustment component 24 in the form of a threaded rod, so that by driving the nut, a longitudinal adjustment is effected between the nut and the threaded rod, and thus the associated interior component 11. Such an adjustment kinematic mechanism can be implemented, for example, in a longitudinal adjustment mechanism of an interior component 11 in the form of a vehicle seat.

[0093] The adjusting drive 20 with the transmission 21 and the adjustment kinematics provided via the output element 22, the adjustment transmission 23 and the adjustment assembly 24 are preferably designed to be self-locking. Therefore, if the adjusting drive 20 is not energized, the respectively associated interior component 11 is held in position by the adjustment kinematics.

[0094] Adjustment of the interior component 11 should be performed in a user-friendly manner by the user touching the interior component 11 to be adjusted and initiating the adjustment movement by manually exerting force. When the adjustment drive 20 is de-energized, the self-locking of the adjustment kinematics prevents manual adjustment of the interior component 11 and blocks the adjustment force introduced into the interior component 11 from the driven side via the adjustment kinematics. However, provision can be made for the self-locking to be overcome by energizing the adjustment drive in the adjustment mode, thereby enabling manual adjustment of the interior component 11.

[0095] In particular, the control device 3 can be designed to activate an adjustment mode for adjusting the interior component 11 and to control the adjustment drive 20 with a supporting current when the adjustment mode is activated. The supporting current is metered in such a way that the self-locking of the adjustment kinematics is overridden, so that the interior component 11 can be manually moved when a user touches it.

[0096] In the present case, when a user operating command on an interior component 11 (e.g., a vehicle seat) is detected, an adjustment movement of the interior component 11 (e.g., a vehicle seat or a subassembly of the vehicle seat, such as the backrest portion 112) should be initiated. The user operation should be able to proceed in such a way that the user can initiate the adjustment movement in an intuitive and comfortable manner without having to operate buttons or other dedicated operating elements for this purpose.

[0097] In order to recognize the operating instructions, the control device 3 is configured to control the adjustment drive 20 in a predetermined manner in a recognition mode and detect characteristic variables during the control in order to determine, based on the characteristic variables, the operating instructions that represent the user's adjustment intention to adjust the interior component 11.

[0098] Within the scope of the identification mode, the control of the actuator 20 is generally carried out based on certain predetermined parameters, wherein one or more characteristic variables are detected within the scope of the control. The predetermined parameter can be, for example, a predetermined control path. However, the predetermined parameter can also be, for example, a predetermined speed curve or a predetermined current curve.

[0099] Thus, for example, within the scope of a recognition mode, the control device 3 can control the adjusting drive 20 so that it adjusts the interior component 11 along a predetermined adjustment path, for example by voltage adjustment. During the adjustment movement along the predetermined adjustment path, the motor current and the motor speed can be detected in order to determine a characteristic variable based on the motor current or the motor speed.

[0100] Figure 3 The motor current curve I detected within the scope of the detection mode is shown as an example. Therefore, within the scope of the detection mode controlled by the control device 3, the interior component 11 is set according to the control mode by adjusting the drive 20. Figure 3 In the example of FIG, regulation is performed on a defined path, wherein regulation is performed, for example, in the form of voltage regulation or in the form of speed regulation, so that Figure 3For example, during the time period T0 between times t0 and t1, the adjustment drive 20 controlled by the control device 3 can adjust the interior component 11 along a predetermined adjustment path in the first direction of movement M1. During the subsequent time period T0 between times t1 and t2 (which is the same length as the time period T0 between times t0 and t1), the interior component 11 is adjusted back along the same adjustment path in the second direction of movement M2, thereby returning to the original initial position of the interior component 11 at time t2. During the time period T1 between times t2 and t3, the interior component 11 is adjusted again along the predetermined adjustment path in the direction of movement M1; during the time period T2 between times t3 and t4, the interior component 11 is adjusted back in the direction of movement M2.

[0101] In the various recognition phases A1, A2, A3, and A4, the interior component 11 is moved back and forth by the adjustment drive 20 controlled by the control device 3. In each recognition phase A1, A2, A3, and A4, the interior component 11 is moved over a distance corresponding to a predetermined adjustment path, with the adjustment taking place alternately in the first direction of movement M1 and the second direction of movement M2. The predetermined adjustment path covered by the back-and-forth movement can be very small, for example, a few millimeters or centimeters.

[0102] During the back-and-forth movement, the adjusting drive 20 is energized in order to generate an adjusting force on the interior component 11, wherein the adjusting drive 20 is energized, for example, in a voltage-controlled manner or (in accordance with Figure 3 In the example above, the motor is controlled by speed adjustment. During the adjustment movement, the motor current I is detected and recorded, so that Figure 3 The motor current curve is shown.

[0103] It should be noted that, for example, the rotational speed can be detected instead of the motor current in order to obtain the rotational speed curve. In this case, the control of the regulating drive 20 is voltage-regulated or current-regulated.

[0104] In each of the identification phases A1, A2, A3, and A4, control is performed along a predetermined control path. Thus, the current curve between times t0 and t1 corresponds to the motor current profile during control in the forward direction M1 and along the control path in the first identification phase A1. The motor current curve between times t1 and t2 corresponds to the motor current profile during control in the return direction M2 and along the control path in the second identification phase A2 (correspondingly, negative motor currents occur), and so on.

[0105] The purpose of adjusting the inner space component 11 in the recognition mode is to determine the user's operation instruction, which indicates the user's intention to adjust the inner space component 11. Therefore, in order to apply the operation instruction, the user can push the inner space component 11 or pull the inner space component 11 in one direction, thereby causing a force F to act on the inner space component 11 (see Figure 1 Depending on the magnitude of the force and on the direction of the force, a movement of the interior component 11 in the movement direction M1 is supported and a movement in the opposite movement direction M2 is inhibited, or vice versa.

[0106] This can be identified in conjunction with the motor current curve in identification mode.

[0107] In the identification phases A1 and A2 between time points t0 and t1 or between t1 and t2, there is no user force F acting on the interior space component 11. Therefore, the time period T0 between time points t0 and t1 or between t1 and t2 is approximately equal in size, and the maximum current values ​​I1 and I2 in the identification phases A1 and A2 are also approximately equal in magnitude.

[0108] In the identification stages A3 and A4, Figure 1 , the motorized movement of the interior component I in the direction of movement M1 is supported by the user force F during identification phase A3, while movement in the opposite direction of movement M2 is resisted during identification phase A4. The current curve shows that during identification phase A3 (in which the interior component 11 is adjusted along the predetermined adjustment path in the direction of movement M1), a lower maximum current I3 occurs. Furthermore, the adjustment movement is completed within a shorter time period T1, which is shorter than time period T0. In contrast, during identification phase A4 (in which the return movement along the adjustment path in the direction of movement M2 occurs), a maximum current value I4 occurs that is greater than the reference value for the magnitude of current values ​​I1 and I2 in the absence of user-applied force F. Furthermore, time period T2 between times t3 and t4 is longer than time period T0, requiring a longer adjustment time to complete the predetermined adjustment path.

[0109] exist Figure 4 In the example, the different current curves in the individual identification phases A1, A2, A3, and A4 are normalized to a common starting point and superimposed. This shows the deviations of the maximum current values ​​I3 and I4 when the interior component 11 is loaded from the maximum current values ​​I1 and I2 when the interior component 11 is unloaded, and also shows the deviations of the time periods T1 and T2 from the time period T0 when the interior component 11 is unloaded.

[0110] Current values ​​I3, I4 and time periods T1, T2 represent characteristic variables that can be evaluated to infer an operator control command. Thus, based on the deviation of the respective characteristic variables from a reference variable (e.g., corresponding to the maximum current values ​​I1, I2 when the interior component 11 is unloaded, or to a time period T0 during which the adjustment path is adjusted when the interior component 11 is unloaded), it can be determined whether a force F is acting on the interior component 11, indicating an operator control command. For example, if the deviation is greater than a predetermined value, an operator control command is inferred.

[0111] Furthermore, the force direction can be determined by determining the upward or downward direction of the deviation relative to a reference value in different detection phases A3, A4. Based on the decrease in maximum current value I3 relative to reference variable I1 and / or the decrease in time period T1 relative to reference variable T0 in detection phase A3, and also based on the increase in the magnitude of maximum current value I4 relative to reference variable I2 and the increase in time period T2 relative to reference variable T0, it can be inferred that the force action F is acting in the direction of movement M1.

[0112] If an operating command is recognized, an adjustment mode for adjusting the interior component 11 can be activated. Within the scope of this adjustment mode, the interior component 11 is adjusted to a predetermined position, for example, in an automatic mode, for example, within the scope of an easy-entry adjustment. Alternatively, in the adjustment mode, for example, a servo mode can be activated, in which a manual but electrically assisted adjustment of the interior component 11 is possible.

[0113] In accordance with Figure 3 In the example of FIG, the interior component 11 is moved back and forth along a predetermined path within the scope of the recognition mode. This results in a movement of the interior component 11, wherein the movement takes place about the initial position, so that after the end of the recognition mode, the interior component 11 is at least approximately back in the initial position occupied by the interior component 11 before the start of the recognition mode.

[0114] exist Figure 5 In another embodiment shown in FIG, in the identification mode, the regulating drive 20 is energized based on a predetermined current curve. Figure 5 In the example shown, the actuator 20 is energized based on a ramp-shaped, linearly increasing current profile, wherein the current is switched off as soon as the start of movement of the interior component 11 is detected. Therefore, within the scope of the detection mode, the interior component 11 does not move substantially, and thus its positioning does not change.

[0115] In accordance with Figure 5In the example shown, the motor current increases linearly within the current setting range in detection phases A1 to A5. Thus, between times t0 and t1, in the first detection phase A1, the motor current I increases from 0 to a value I1 at time t1. At time t1, the start of movement of the interior component 11 is detected, for example, based on a motion sensor on the interior component 11 or a sensor (e.g., a Hall sensor) on the actuator 20, and the motor current is therefore switched off. In subsequent detection phases A2, A3, A4, and A5, the motor current I is ramped up again. The detection phases can be repeated until an operating command is detected or the detection mode is terminated in another way.

[0116] When the interior component 11 is unloaded, i.e., when no user force F is applied to the interior component 11 by the user pushing or pulling on it, the time period T0 and the maximum current value I1 (at which point the ramp-like increase in motor current I is interrupted due to the detection of the start of movement of the interior component 11) are at least approximately equal. Therefore, in the detection phases A1, A2, and A3, the motor current I is ramped up over substantially equal time periods T0, respectively, to a substantially constant maximum current value I1.

[0117] If the direction of the force F acting on the interior component 11 is the same as the direction in which the motor current generates a torque on the actuating drive 20, then this force F supports the torque on the actuating drive 20. This is shown in the detection phase A4 between times t3 and t4. The time period T1 and the maximum current value I2, during which the interior component 11 begins to move, are correspondingly smaller than the time period T0 or the maximum current value I1 when the interior component 11 is unloaded.

[0118] If, however, the direction of the force F acting on the interior component 11 is opposite to the direction of the torque generated by the motor current on the actuator 20, the force F will counteract the torque on the actuator 20. This is shown in the identification phase A5 between times t4 and t5. The time period T2 and the maximum current value I3 during which the interior component 11 begins to move are correspondingly greater than the time period T0 or the maximum current value I1 when the interior component 11 is unloaded.

[0119] Maximum current values ​​I1, I2, and I3 represent characteristic variables, as do time periods T0, T1, and T2. Maximum current value I1 and time period T0, when interior component 11 is unloaded (i.e., without user force F), represent reference variables for a normal state in which no operator control command is present. For example, if a characteristic variable deviates from an associated reference variable by more than a predetermined threshold, an operator control command can be inferred based on the deviation. The direction of the deviation can also be used to infer the force direction F. Thus, upon detecting an operator control command, a control mode can be activated, for example, to initiate control based on the force direction F, for example, in automatic or servo operation.

[0120] In accordance with Figure 5 In the embodiment of the present invention, the motor current I rises linearly in the same direction in the different identification phases A1 to A5, and Figure 6 In the exemplary embodiment, the motor current I increases linearly alternately in one direction and in the other direction in successive detection phases A1 to A5. Again, the maximum current at the time of shutdown (i.e., when the start of movement of the interior component 11 is detected) and the respective time periods T0, T1, and T2 of the linear increase can be recorded as characteristic variables.

[0121] In accordance with Figure 6 In the example shown, the interior component 11 is not loaded during identification phases A1 to A3, and therefore the maximum current values ​​I1 and I2 are approximately equal in magnitude. The time period T0 during which the motor current I changes linearly until the interior component 11 begins to move is approximately the same. In identification phase A4, however, the time period T1 decreases, and the maximum current value I3 decreases in magnitude. In identification phase A5, the time period T2 increases, and the maximum current value I4 increases in magnitude. This corresponds to the interior component 11 being loaded (according to Figure 1 In the example (in the example), a force acting in the movement direction M2 acts and can be detected accordingly.

[0122] according to Figure 7A Examples and basis Figure 6 The example corresponds to, where Figure 7B As shown in Figure 7B The integral of the motor current curve is used as the characteristic variable instead of the maximum current value and / or the time period.

[0123] When interior component 11 is unloaded, i.e., when the user is not exerting any force on interior component 11, the integrals at least approximately cancel each other out after two consecutive recognition phases A1 and A2, as can be seen at time t2. These two consecutive recognition phases are associated with energization in opposite directions. In contrast, if interior component 11 is loaded due to user force, the motor current profiles become asymmetrical during the different recognition phases, as can be seen in recognition phases A4 and A5. Consequently, the integral profile deviates from the integral profile when interior component 11 is unloaded. In particular, after two recognition phases with opposite directions of energization, the integral is no longer zero, but deviates from zero, which can be detected and evaluated accordingly to infer an operator control command.

[0124] according to Figure 8 The example is in principle the same as Figure 5 In particular, the control drive 20 is energized in a linearly increasing manner based on a predetermined motor current curve, wherein the current is switched off as soon as the start of movement of the interior component 11 is detected. Figure 8 In the example of FIG. 1 , in the multiple identification stages A1, A2, ..., AN, for example, the maximum current value I obtained in each identification stage A1, A2, ..., AN is respectively recorded. X And / or the time period until the cut-off. According to the characteristic parameter thus obtained (for example, based on the maximum current value I X ), the envelope curve E is obtained, which is the maximum current value I X Interpolation is performed to express the user's action on the internal space component 11.

[0125] Based on the Figure 8 The envelope curve E in the example of can be used to identify that the user is influencing the interior component 11 in a force direction, wherein the force direction is the same as the direction of the torque acting on the adjustment drive 20 due to the energization. Therefore, at the end of the respective identification phases A1, A2, ..., AN, the maximum motor current I X If the user then releases the inner space component 11 and removes the force, the maximum current value I X Will rise again. Figure 8 It can be seen that a valley value is obtained in the envelope E.

[0126] Based on this envelope E, pattern recognition can be performed. For example, if a pulse-like force is detected on the interior component 11, an operator control command can be identified, for example, whereby a user applies a force to the interior component 11 in the form of a pulse-like impact and then removes the force. If this pulse-like force is detected, an operator control command is inferred, and a control mode for adjusting the interior component 11, for example, in automatic or servo mode, is activated accordingly.

[0127] Based on Figure 8 The visible envelope E can be used to obtain, for example, the slope, curvature or duration of the force action, so as to infer the user's operating instructions therefrom.

[0128] For example, when a rise followed by a fall occurs in the envelope E, or a fall followed by a rise occurs in reverse, the user's operation instruction can be recognized.

[0129] For example, according to Figure 8 In the example of FIG. 1 , the maximum current value I can also be based on, for example, the maximum current value I in multiple identification stages A1, A2, ..., AN. X The moving average is evaluated. The moving average is continuously re-determined over the multiple recognition phases A1, A2, ..., AN. User interventions can lead to changes in the average, which can be evaluated to infer an action instruction.

[0130] In accordance with Figure 8 In the example, it is also possible to alternately energize in different energizing directions, such as according to Figure 6 and Figure 7A 、 Figure 7B .

[0131] In order to reduce the requirements on the sensor means for detecting the adjustment request, it is provided, for example, that a recognition mode for detecting an operating instruction to adjust the interior component 11 is activated as a function of one or more triggering criteria.

[0132] Such a triggering criterion may be, for example, an occupation state or a movement state of the interior module 11 (eg a vehicle seat), an open state of a vehicle door (particularly a vehicle side door or a tailgate), or a driving state of the vehicle.

[0133] This trigger criterion can be checked as a positive criterion and lead to activation of the recognition mode. However, this trigger criterion can also be checked as a negative criterion (exclusion criterion) and lead to the recognition mode being activated only when this negative criterion is not met.

[0134] For example, the open state of a vehicle door can be queried as a positive criterion. Thus, for example, the recognition mode can be activated when a vehicle side door or tailgate is open. In this case, the recognition mode is activated for interior components 11 in the area of ​​the open vehicle side door or tailgate.

[0135] For example, the occupancy state or driving state of the vehicle can be queried as a negative criterion. Thus, for example, the recognition mode can be activated only when the interior component 11 in the form of a vehicle seat is not in an occupied state or the vehicle is not driving.

[0136] If an adjustment request is detected when the identification mode is activated, the system can, for example, switch to servo mode for motorized support of further manual adjustment of the interior component 11 or to automatic mode for automatic adjustment of the interior component 11 .

[0137] Alternatively, the control device 3 can be designed to switch to a tapping operation when an adjustment intention is recognized, in which the interior space component 11 is first moved due to a pulse applied by the user and then, without further user action, the interior space component 11 is moved further, for example by adjusting the current of the adjustment drive 20 for further movement of the interior space component 11 to a predefined final position.

[0138] It should be noted that in the tapping mode, it is also possible not to further control the movement of the interior component 11 after the user applies a pulse, but to allow the interior component 11 to move freely after the user's tap until the interior component 11 stops autonomously due to friction in the system. When a supporting current is provided to override the self-locking, further movement is thus performed completely manually, i.e., the user applies a pulse to the interior component 11, and the interior component 11 then moves autonomously without further control.

[0139] When the recognition mode is activated, the control device 3 can be designed to generate a prompt signal for the user, thereby notifying the user that the recognition mode for a specific interior component 11 has been activated. This prompt can be achieved by controlling the adjustment drive 20 in the activated recognition mode to cause the interior component 11 to perform a slow movement that is perceptible to the user. Additionally or alternatively, the control device 3 can send a signal to the vehicle's audio system, for example, to notify the user that the recognition mode has been activated. Additionally or alternatively, the control device 3 can control the adjustment drive 20 to generate a predetermined noise, such as a tone.

[0140] The concept underlying the present invention is not limited to the above-described exemplary embodiments, but can also be implemented in other ways.

[0141] Interior components can be implemented by various components in the interior of the vehicle and are not limited to vehicle seats or console elements. Interior components that can be adjusted by the drive in a servo-operated manner can also include, for example, displays, storage shelves (e.g., tables or similar components), partitions, storage compartments, or similar components.

[0142] Reference Signs List

[0143] 1 Motor Vehicle

[0144] 10 Body

[0145] 11 Interior space components (vehicle seats)

[0146] 110 Swing axis

[0147] 111 Ride section

[0148] 112 backrest

[0149] 113 Longitudinal adjustment kinematic mechanism

[0150] 2 Drive equipment

[0151] 20 Adjustment drive (motor)

[0152] 21 Transmission

[0153] 22 driven element

[0154] 23 Adjusting the transmission

[0155] 24 Adjustment assembly (screw)

[0156] 3 Control device

[0157] A1…AN identification stage

[0158] E envelope

[0159] F User Power

[0160] I Current

[0161] I1…I4 current values

[0162] I X Current value

[0163] M1, M2 movement direction

[0164] t time point

[0165] t1…t6 time points

Claims

1. A drive device (2) for adjusting an interior component (11) of a vehicle (1), the drive device comprising: An electric regulating drive (20) for generating a regulating force, an adjusting kinematic mechanism (21-24) drivable by the adjusting drive (20) for transmitting the adjusting force generated by the adjusting drive (20) to the interior space component (11), and a control device (3) for controlling the adjusting drive (20), It is characterized by: The control device (3) is configured to control the adjusting drive (20) in a recognition mode in order to adjust the interior component (11) along a predetermined adjustment path, or to set the adjusting drive (20) based on a predetermined speed profile or based on a predetermined current profile. The control device (3) is configured to detect characteristic parameters in the recognition mode and determine, based on the characteristic parameters, an operation instruction representing the user's adjustment intention to adjust the interior space component (11).

2. The drive device (2) according to claim 1, characterized in that The adjustment kinematics are self-locking.

3. The drive device (2) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The control device (3) is configured to detect the motor current of the adjustment drive (20) and / or the motor speed of the adjustment drive (20) when adjusting the interior space component (11) on a predetermined adjustment path in the identification mode, and determine the characteristic variable based on the motor current and / or the motor speed.

4. The drive device (2) according to claim 3, characterized in that The control device (3) is designed to determine the characteristic variable based on a maximum motor current or based on a maximum rotational speed.

5. The drive device (2) according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that The control device (3) is designed to determine the characteristic variable based on the duration of an adjustment process in which the interior component (11) is adjusted along a predetermined adjustment path.

6. The drive device (2) according to any one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that The control device (3) is configured to, in the recognition mode, drive the adjustment drive (20) when adjusting the interior space component (11) on a predetermined adjustment path, so as to adjust the interior space component (11) in a first movement direction in a first recognition phase and in a second movement direction opposite to the first movement direction in a second recognition phase.

7. The drive device (2) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The control device (3) is configured to detect the motor current of the adjusting drive (20) in the identification mode when the adjusting drive (20) is adjusted based on a predetermined speed curve, and to determine the characteristic variable based on the motor current.

8. The drive device (2) according to claim 7, characterized in that The control device (3) is configured to, in the recognition mode, control the regulating drive (20) when the regulating drive (20) is adjusted based on a predetermined speed variation curve, so that the interior space component (11) is adjusted in a first movement direction (M1) in a first recognition phase and in a second movement direction (M2) opposite to the first movement direction (M1) in a second recognition phase.

9. The drive device (2) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The control device (3) is configured to detect the path traveled and / or the motor speed when the adjustment drive (20) is adjusted based on a predetermined current variation curve in the identification mode, and / or detect the time point and / or the current value when the adjustment movement of the interior space component (11) begins, and determine the characteristic variable based on the path traveled, the motor speed, the time point and / or the current value.

10. The drive device (2) according to claim 9, characterized in that The predetermined current profile corresponds to a linearly increasing or decreasing ramp function.

11. The drive device (2) according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that The control device (3) is designed to, in the identification mode, disconnect the motor current supply when an adjustment movement on the interior component (11) is detected, while the adjustment drive (20) is set based on a predetermined current profile.

12. The drive device (2) according to any one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that The control device (3) is configured such that, in the identification mode, when the adjusting drive (20) is adjusted based on a predetermined motor current variation curve, in order to adjust the interior space component (11), the adjusting drive (20) is energized in a first current supply direction in a first identification phase, and in a second identification phase, the adjusting drive is energized in a second current supply direction opposite to the first current supply direction.

13. Drive device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The control device (3) is configured to determine the operating instruction based on a deviation between the characteristic variable and a reference variable.

14. Drive device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The control device (3) is configured to repeat, in the identification mode, a control process for controlling the regulating drive (20) to adjust the interior space component (11) on a predetermined adjustment path or for adjusting the regulating drive (20) based on a predetermined speed change curve or based on a predetermined current change curve, so as to repeatedly detect the characteristic variable.

15. The drive device (2) according to claim 14, characterized in that The control device (3) is configured to: obtain a change in the characteristic parameter over time and determine the operation instruction based on the change.

16. Drive device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The control device (3) is configured to, when it is determined that the operation instruction is present, drive the adjustment drive in an adjustment mode for adjusting the interior space component (11).

17. Drive device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The adjustment kinematics mechanism comprises a self-locking transmission device.

18. Drive device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The self-locking of the adjustment kinematics is produced at least partially by the interaction between the screw and the nut.

19. Drive device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The self-locking of the adjustment kinematics is produced at least partially by the interaction between the pinion and the toothing meshing with the pinion.

20. Drive device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The self-locking of the adjustment kinematics is produced at least partially by the interaction between the worm and the worm wheel.

21. A method for operating a drive device (2) for adjusting an interior component (11) of a vehicle (1), the method comprising: providing an electric adjusting drive (20) for generating an adjusting force, Providing an adjustment kinematic mechanism (21-24) that can be driven by the adjustment drive (20) and is used to transmit the adjustment force generated by the adjustment drive (20) to the inner space component (11), and providing a control device (3) for controlling the adjusting drive (20), Its characteristics are: The control device (3) controls the adjusting drive (20) in a recognition mode in order to adjust the interior component (11) along a predetermined adjustment path or to adjust the adjusting drive (20) based on a predetermined speed profile or based on a predetermined current profile, The control device (3) detects characteristic variables in the recognition mode, and The control device (3) determines an operation instruction representing the user's adjustment intention to adjust the interior space component (11) based on the characteristic parameter.

22. A computer program product comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the method according to claim 20.

Images