Radar sensor for driving movable part of vehicle

Abstract

A radar sensor (1) for driving a movable part of a vehicle, such as a vehicle door or a cover panel, comprises:-a housing (3) for accommodating electronics, where the electronics comprise an antenna and a transmitting / receiving unit, where the housing (3) has at least one first fixed form for direct fixation to a vehicle body (2), and where the housing (3) has at least one second fixed form for direct fixation to the vehicle body (2); the fastening form (2) has at least one first fastening part (5) and at least one second fastening part (6), the first fastening part (5) and the second fastening part (6) being arranged at an angle to one another.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a radar sensor for actuating movable parts of a vehicle (e.g., doors or covers), having the features described in the preamble of claim 1. Furthermore, the invention also relates to a radar sensor module incorporating the radar sensor. Background Technology

[0002] Vehicle systems commonly known in the prior art provide various vehicle functions, such as gesture recognition systems for actuating movable parts of the vehicle (e.g., doors or covers), personnel detection, and vehicle assistance systems. To actuate a tailgate, for example, via a kick-geste gesture, a radar sensor with two detection areas is typically used, one aligned longitudinally along the vehicle and the other facing the ground. Such known radar sensor devices are mounted vertically and cannot be tilted. They are typically mounted to the vehicle's bumper using brackets. A disadvantage of this approach is its high cost. When using a radar sensor with only one detection range, the sensor needs to be mounted at, for example, a 30-degree angle to the ground to detect the kick-geste gesture. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The object of the present invention is achieved by the features of claim 1 and the radar sensor module having the features of claim 11. Other features and details of the invention can be seen from the dependent claims, the specification, and the drawings.

[0004] The subject matter of this invention relates particularly to a radar sensor for actuating movable parts of a vehicle (e.g., doors or covers) when the vehicle is stationary. The vehicle may be configured as a motor vehicle and / or passenger car and / or truck and / or at least a partially automated vehicle. During gesture recognition, the vehicle may or must be stationary, i.e., immobile. This is advantageous for ensuring the safety of gestures outside the vehicle, such as those used to open doors or covers. For example, automatically checking the vehicle's condition or speed may be a prerequisite for activating vehicle functions or behaviors. If the check indicates that the vehicle is not stationary, gesture recognition can be prevented as needed.

[0005] A posture is preferably understood as a single action or a series of actions, characterized in particular by a specific movement pattern, specific form and / or direction of the human body or limbs, including but not limited to the movements of the hands, arms, legs and feet, facial expressions, head movements and / or body postures used to convey information, express emotions or convey intentions.

[0006] According to the invention, the housing has at least one first fixing form for direct fixation to a vertically oriented vehicle body, the fixing form having at least one first fixing part and at least one second fixing part, wherein the first fixing part and the second fixing part are arranged at an angle to each other. The radar sensor according to the invention has the advantage that attitude can be detected using a single radar sensor because the radar sensor can be directly fixed to the vehicle body, thereby allowing the selection of the desired tilt angle based on the installation position through different fixing parts.

[0007] Since the mounting components are directly molded onto the radar sensor housing, no support is required. This reduces the complexity of the device.

[0008] Radar sensors can be installed behind door sills or bumpers, particularly on the front and / or rear bumpers, the front trunk of electric vehicles, or on the A, B, and / or C pillars of a vehicle.

[0009] Within the scope of this invention, preferably, at least a third fixing portion may be provided on the housing. The advantage of doing so is that the housing design is more versatile, allowing the housing to have a total of three or more different tilt angles.

[0010] One improvement of the invention is the formation of at least one retaining tab on the housing. This achieves a stable and cost-effective fixation with improved contact surfaces. The retaining tab is integrally formed and made of the same material as the housing. Particularly preferably, two retaining tabs are positioned on opposite sides of the housing, which further enhances the stability of the fixation. For this purpose, complementary mounting holes are provided on the body to secure the housing to the mounting tabs with screws. Alternatively, other mounting methods can be used. For example, snap-fit ​​connections, clip connections, or bayonet connections can be used.

[0011] If the mounting part has at least one mounting opening for mounting to the vehicle body, and the mounting part is formed on the mounting plate, then the design is very economical, efficient and simple.

[0012] Advantageously, the mounting openings of each mounting part can be positioned differently according to the error-proofing principle (Poka-Yoke-Prinzip), ensuring that the radar sensor can only be installed in the predetermined mounting position. The varying distances between the mounting openings on the mounting plate allow the radar sensor to be screwed onto the predetermined mounting part of the radar sensor at the predetermined mounting position on the vehicle body. This ensures that the mounting position and required tilt angle of the radar sensor are not confused when installing it onto the vehicle.

[0013] The first fixing part can be intentionally placed vertically or horizontally, and the second fixing part has an angle of 5 to 45 degrees relative to the first fixing part. The radar sensor can be selectively mounted on the vertical part, for example, for detecting posture in the B-pillar area. Conversely, the second fixing part can be used to sense posture on the front trunk, which preferably requires an angle of 40 degrees.

[0014] The first fixing part can be intentionally placed vertically or horizontally, and the third fixing part has an angle of inclination of 5 to 90 degrees relative to the first fixing part. The third fixing part can also be used to sense the foot posture in the rear region, which preferably requires the radar sensor to have an angle of inclination of 30 degrees to the ground.

[0015] Alternatively, it can be envisioned that the second and third fixed parts have different angles of inclination relative to the vertical or horizontal first fixed part. The advantage of this method is that it provides greater flexibility and versatility in the installation of the radar sensor, allowing it to be used in various installation locations.

[0016] In addition, a second mounting method can be provided for securing the radar sensor to a bracket. To further improve the versatility of the radar sensor, a second mounting method can be provided, which allows the radar sensor to be directly mounted to the vehicle body in addition to the first mounting method, so that the radar sensor can use either the first or the second mounting method.

[0017] The second type of mounting is achieved by forming at least one rib on the housing to secure the radar sensor to the bracket, which is tilted relative to the basically vertically positioned vehicle body, specifically tilted 5 to 45 degrees toward the ground. This design is very economical, efficient and simple.

[0018] The present invention also relates to a radar sensor module comprising a bracket for fixing a radar sensor and a radar sensor according to the invention for driving a movable part (e.g., a door or panel) of a vehicle, wherein a second fixing method is specifically achieved by at least one rib formed on a housing for fixing the radar sensor to the bracket, wherein the bracket is tilted relative to the substantially vertically arranged vehicle body, specifically tilted at 30 or 45 degrees toward the ground.

[0019] It should be understood that the above-described features, as well as the features to be explained below, can be used not only in their respective specified combinations, but also in other combinations or individually, without departing from the scope of the invention. The scope of the invention is defined only by the claims. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Further details, features, and advantages of the subject matter of the invention will become apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate exemplary preferred embodiments of the invention. The drawings show: Figure 1 A perspective view of a radar sensor according to the present invention is shown.

[0021] Figure 2 A top view of the radar sensor according to the present invention is shown.

[0022] Figure 3 A bottom view of the radar sensor according to the present invention is shown.

[0023] Figure 4 A side view of a radar sensor fixed to a first fixed part according to a first fixing method is shown.

[0024] Figure 5 A side view of a radar sensor fixed to a third fixed part according to a first fixing method is shown.

[0025] Figure 6 A side view of a radar sensor fixed to a second fixed part according to a first fixing method is shown.

[0026] Figure 7 A perspective view of a radar sensor of a second fixed form according to the present invention is shown.

[0027] Figure 8 A side view of a radar sensor of a second fixed form according to the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0028] Figure 1 A perspective view of a radar sensor according to the present invention is shown. The radar sensor 1, used for driving movable parts of a vehicle (e.g., doors or covers), has a housing 3 for housing electronic equipment, wherein the electronic equipment includes at least one antenna and a transmitting / receiving unit. Furthermore, the housing 3 may have a cover 4, which can be fixed by ultrasonic welding. The housing 3 has at least one first fixing form for direct fixing to a substantially vertical vehicle body 2, the fixing form having at least one first fixing portion 5 and at least one second fixing portion 6, wherein the first fixing portion 5 and the second fixing portion 6 are arranged at an angle to each other.

[0029] Furthermore, the housing 3 is provided with at least one third fixing part 7. The housing 3 is provided with at least one fixing piece 8. Preferably, in order to stably fix the radar sensor 1, two fixing pieces 8 are provided, which are formed opposite to each other on the housing 3. In addition to the first fixing method, a second fixing method is also provided. For this purpose, the housing has at least one rib 10, preferably three ribs 10, for fixing to the bracket 9.

[0030] The mounting portion has at least one mounting opening for fixing to the vehicle body 2, wherein the mounting portion is formed on the mounting plate 8. The vehicle body 2 has complementary mounting openings for tightening the radar sensor 1. Alternatively, the radar sensor 1 can be fixed to the corresponding mounting portion via a snap-fit ​​connection on the vehicle body 2. The housing 3 also has a connector 11 for connecting the radar sensor 1 to the vehicle control unit, as shown in figures 2 and 3.

[0031] from Figure 1 , 2 As can be clearly seen in Figure 3, the fixing openings of each fixed part are different from each other according to the error-proofing principle, so the radar sensor can only be installed in the predetermined installation position.

[0032] The first fixed part 5 is vertical or horizontal, and the inclination of the second fixed part 6 is in the range of 5 degrees to 45 degrees.

[0033] The first fixed part 5 is vertical or horizontal, and the inclination of the third fixed part 7 is in the range of 5 degrees to 90 degrees.

[0034] The second fixing part 6 and the third fixing part 7 have different inclinations relative to the first vertical or horizontal fixing part 5.

[0035] Figure 4 , 5 Figures 5 and 6 show radar sensor 1, which is mounted on fixed parts 5, 6 and 7 respectively on the vehicle body 2.

[0036] exist Figure 4 In this configuration, the radar sensor is mounted on the first fixed part 5. The detection area of ​​the radar sensor 1 on the housing 4 is indicated by two lines. The vehicle body 2 is vertical. In this case, the detection area extends substantially horizontally.

[0037] exist Figure 5 In this configuration, the radar sensor is mounted on the third fixed part 7. The detection area of ​​the radar sensor 1 on the housing 4 is indicated by two lines. The vehicle body 2 is vertical. In this case, the detection area points downwards towards the ground.

[0038] exist Figure 6In this configuration, the radar sensor is mounted on the second fixed part 6. The detection area of ​​the radar sensor 1 on the housing 4 is indicated by two lines. The vehicle body 2 is vertical. In this configuration, the detection area is tilted upwards relative to the ground.

[0039] Figure 7 and Figure 8 A second mounting method for the radar sensor is shown, which is achieved by forming at least one rib 10 on the housing 3 for mounting the radar sensor 1 to a bracket 9, wherein the bracket 9 is inclined relative to the vertically arranged vehicle body 2, specifically, the inclination angle is 5 degrees to 45 degrees. The radar sensor module includes a bracket 9 for mounting the radar sensor 1 and the radar sensor 1 according to the invention for driving movable parts of the vehicle, such as doors or partitions. The second connection method is specifically achieved by forming at least one rib 10 on the housing 3 for connecting the radar sensor 1 to the bracket 9. The bracket 9 is inclined relative to the vertically arranged vehicle body 2, specifically, inclined at 30 degrees or 45 degrees towards the ground.

[0040] The bracket 9 has at least one fixing arm 12, preferably three connecting arms 12. Ribs 10 interact with the fixing arms 12. Connection can be achieved by inserting the radar sensor 1 laterally into the bracket 9, or by inserting it from the front by elastically bending the fixing arms 12, thereby snapping the radar sensor 1 into the bracket 9 and securing it with the ribs 10.

[0041] Of course, the above invention is not limited to the embodiments described and shown. Those skilled in the art will clearly see that various modifications can be made to the embodiments shown in the figures according to the intended application without departing from the scope of the invention. This invention covers all content contained in the specification and / or shown in the drawings, including any deviations from the specific embodiments that are obvious to those skilled in the art.

[0042] 1: Radar sensor 2: Body 3: Shell 4: Lid 5: First fixed part 6: Second fixed part 7: Third fixed part 8: Installation plate 9: Bracket 10: Ribs 11: Connector 12: Fixed arm 20: Radar sensor module.

Claims

1. A radar sensor (1) for actuating a movable part of a vehicle, such as a door or cover, comprising: - A housing (3) for accommodating electronic equipment, wherein the electronic equipment includes an antenna and a transmitting / receiving unit, The housing (3) is characterized in that it has at least one first fixing form for direct fixing to the vehicle body (2), the fixing form (2) having at least one first fixing part (5) and at least one second fixing part (6), wherein the first fixing part (5) and the second fixing part (6) are arranged at an angle to each other.

2. The radar sensor (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing (3) is provided with at least one third fixing part (7).

3. The radar sensor (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, At least one fixing piece (8) is provided on the housing (3).

4. The radar sensor (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The fixing part (5, 6, 7) has at least one fixing opening for fixing to the vehicle body, wherein the fixing part (5, 6, 7) is formed on the fixing piece (8).

5. The radar sensor (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The fixing openings of each fixing part (5, 6, 7) are positioned differently according to the error-proof principle, so that the radar sensor can only be fixed in the predetermined installation position.

6. The radar sensor (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The first fixing part (5) is preferably vertical or horizontal, wherein the second fixing part (6) has an inclination of 5 to 45 degrees relative to the first fixing part (5).

7. The radar sensor (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The first fixing part (5) is preferably vertical or horizontal, wherein the third fixing part (7) has an inclination of 5 to 90 degrees relative to the first fixing part (5).

8. The radar sensor (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The second fixing part (6) and the third fixing part (7) have different inclinations relative to the first fixing part (5), which is preferably vertical or horizontal.

9. The radar sensor (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, A second fixing method is provided for fixing the radar sensor (1) to the bracket (9).

10. The radar sensor (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second fixing method is achieved by at least one rib (10) formed on the housing (3) for fixing the radar sensor (1) to the bracket (9), wherein the bracket (9) is inclined relative to the substantially vertically arranged vehicle body (2), specifically inclined to the ground at 5 to 45 degrees.

11. A radar sensor module, including: - A bracket (9) for fixing the radar sensor (1); - The radar sensor (1) for driving movable parts of a vehicle, such as doors or covers, according to claim 1, wherein the second fixing form is specifically achieved by at least one rib (10) formed on the housing (3) for fixing the radar sensor (1) to a bracket (9), wherein the bracket (9) is inclined relative to the substantially vertically arranged vehicle body (2), specifically inclined at 30 degrees or 45 degrees toward the ground.

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