Vehicle seat with integrated weight detection function

Abstract

The invention relates to a vehicle seat (1) comprising a seat part assembly (10), a backrest part assembly (11), a floor assembly (13) carrying at least the seat part assembly (10), and an adjustment device (12) for adjusting the seat part assembly (10) and / or the backrest part assembly (11) relative to the floor assembly (13) by means of a drive (3). Wherein a control system (14) is provided which is coupled to the drive means (3) and which is arranged to carry out the following steps: activating the drive means (3) in order to effect an adjustment of the seat part assembly (10) and / or the backrest part assembly (11) relative to the floor assembly (13); detecting at least one value of a parameter of the adjusting device (12) and / or of the drive device (3) during adjustment; and determining a weight acting on the vehicle seat (1), in particular acting on the seat part assembly (10), on the basis of the at least one value of the detected parameter during the adjustment, the control system (14) being configured to detect a signal indicating that there is an error in the at least one value of the detected parameter, and to determine the weight acting on the vehicle seat (1), in particular on the seat part assembly (10), and in response to the signal, repeatedly detecting at least one value of a parameter of the adjusting device (12) and / or of the drive device (3), and / or abandoning at least one value of a previously detected parameter.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle seat, a system including the vehicle seat, a method, a corresponding computer program product, and a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium.

[0002] Some functions in today's vehicles are based on seat occupancy detection. If a vehicle seat is occupied, the vehicle's controls periodically check if the corresponding seatbelt is also fastened. Furthermore, airbag deployment can be linked to seat occupancy. In some cases, this or other functions can be improved by not only detecting whether a vehicle seat is occupied in any way, but also quantifying the weight acting on the seat. Therefore, for example, if a vehicle seat is occupied by an object (such as a pocket) rather than by a passenger, the unfastened seatbelt alarm can be omitted. Additionally, airbag deployment can be adjusted based on the passenger's weight for optimized restraint.

[0003] In practice, for example, so-called cushioning pads or piezoelectric elements can be embedded in the seat portion to detect seat occupancy and perform approximate weight measurements. However, this type of component requires structural space and complicates manufacturing due to additional wiring and other factors.

[0004] DE 10 2006 061 669 A1 describes a method for determining an indication of the occupancy weight of a vehicle seat, wherein seat elements of the vehicle seat can be adjusted by means of a drive unit. The method includes the steps of: providing at least one measurement signal indicating the state of the drive unit; manipulating the drive unit for at least a predetermined time period; during the manipulation, detecting the measurement signal and determining a load torque from the measurement signal according to a motor model; and determining an indication of the occupancy weight of the seat elements based on the load torque. An electric drive unit can be provided to adjust the seat height. However, it has been found that the accuracy of the measurement needs to be improved.

[0005] DE 10 2017 217 331 A1 describes a method for operating an electric massage device for a seat, particularly for a motor vehicle, the electric massage device including a massage driver having an electric motor, wherein the electric motor is energized, the torque of the electric motor is detected and a reference value is determined therefrom, and the occupancy of at least a portion of the seat is determined based on the reference value.

[0006] DE 103 35 734 A1 relates to a method for detecting seat occupancy in a motor vehicle having at least one servo motor for seat adjustment. In this case, the power supply of one or more servo motors for seat adjustment is detected during operation and assessed as the degree of seat occupancy. However, there is potential to improve the accuracy of this measurement.

[0007] The purpose of this invention is to improve the weight detection of vehicle seats.

[0008] This objective is achieved by an object having the features of claim 1.

[0009] Accordingly, the vehicle seat includes a seat portion assembly, a backrest portion assembly, (at least) a floor assembly supporting the seat portion assembly, and an adjustment device, such as a height adjustment device, for adjusting the seat portion assembly and / or backrest portion assembly relative to the floor assembly via a drive mechanism (specifically, for example, adjusting the distance between the seat portion assembly and the floor assembly). Furthermore, the vehicle seat also includes a control system technically coupled to the drive mechanism, configured to perform the following steps: activating the drive mechanism to achieve adjustment of the seat portion assembly and / or backrest portion assembly relative to the floor assembly (e.g., specifically, adjusting (e.g., increasing or decreasing) the distance between the seat portion assembly and the floor assembly along a first direction (e.g., upward or downward); detecting one or at least one value of a parameter of the adjustment device (e.g., the height adjustment device) and / or the drive mechanism during adjustment (e.g., along the first direction); and determining the weight acting on the vehicle seat, particularly on the seat portion assembly, based on at least one (or more) values ​​of the parameter detected during adjustment. In addition, the control system is configured to detect a signal indicating that at least one value of the detected parameter is in error, and in response to the signal, repeatedly detect at least one value of the parameter of the regulating device and / or drive device, and / or discard at least one previously detected value of the parameter.

[0010] This is based on the understanding that weight measurements can be inaccurate due to various factors, such as movement of the user during measurement, travel on bumpy roads, or the user leaving the seat and placing a bag on it. Now, by providing the possibility of processing one or more additional signals that indicate measurement error, the acquired measurement results can be discarded and / or remeasured, ultimately leading to more accurate and reliable measurements, and thus improving overall weight detection performance.

[0011] This parameter can be an electrical parameter, specifically current intensity, voltage, or power. Alternatively or supplementarily, it can be designed to indicate torque. Alternatively or additionally, a parameter indicating (e.g., the rotational speed of the drive unit), particularly the maximum rotational speed reached during adjustment, can be provided. These parameters can be easily converted to weight, for example, via conversion rules and / or lookup tables (LUTs). This parameter can specifically refer to one or more drive motors of the drive unit. Optionally, the control system is configured (for each of the two directions) to increase the voltage and / or current intensity of the drive unit from a starting value (e.g., zero) until a component of the height adjustment device, particularly the drive motor of the drive unit, transitions from being inactive to moving. The value of the parameter is then recorded, for example, the reached value of the current intensity or voltage. The control system can also be configured to stop the drive unit once movement is recorded. Therefore, only minimal movement is required for weight measurement. Thus, the adjustment in the first and second directions is minimal and barely perceptible to the seat user.

[0012] It can be further designed such that the parameters indicate the adjustment stroke traveled within a specific (particularly predetermined) time period, particularly the length of that adjustment stroke, or the adjustment time required for a specific (particularly predetermined) adjustment stroke. These parameters also allow for easy conversion to weight, for example, through conversion rules and / or LUTs.

[0013] The adjustment device can be a height adjustment device for adjusting the distance between the seat sub-assembly and the floor assembly. The control system can be configured to activate the drive mechanism to adjust the distance between the seat sub-assembly and the floor assembly in one direction. This allows for particularly precise weight measurement.

[0014] The direction can be a first direction, and the control system can also be configured to perform the following steps (e.g., after activation and detection steps in the first direction): activating the drive to adjust the distance between the seat portion assembly and the floor assembly in a second direction opposite to the first direction; and detecting parameter values ​​of the height adjustment device and / or the drive while adjusting in the second direction. In this case, the control system can be configured to perform a determination of the weight acting on the seat portion assembly based on the detected values ​​of parameters from adjustments in both directions. This is based on the idea that the height adjustment motor generates torque corresponding to an electric current through adjustment. This current can be measured by the control system (which may include electronics arranged on the vehicle seat and / or a central vehicle controller) and used to assess the load. Furthermore, the solution is based on the understanding that friction and tolerances can impair the accuracy of weight measurement; however, measurements in both adjustment directions allow this effect to be offset. Therefore, particularly accurate weight determination can be achieved with a very simple structure.

[0015] For example, the signal indicates whether the vehicle seat and / or the passenger seated thereon move due to other forces during the detection of at least one value of a parameter of the adjustment device (particularly a height adjustment device) and / or the drive mechanism. The control system may be configured to detect this signal. The control system may be configured to generate the signal itself or receive the signal from a component with a communication connection.

[0016] The other forces acting on the vehicle seat can be independent of the adjustment and drive mechanisms, such as forces acting externally on the vehicle seat. For example, this can help identify movements of the seat user that could distort weight measurements.

[0017] The control system can be configured to detect signals by analyzing current distribution. This allows for accurate identification of measurement quality without the need for other sensors or similar devices.

[0018] For example, the signal indicates that the target state deviates from the actual state, thus suggesting that at least one value of the detected parameter is incorrect. The target state is, for example, given by a reference value.

[0019] In one technical solution, the signal indicates fluctuations in the current intensity of the drive device. Alternatively or supplementarily, the signal can indicate deviations from the average current intensity of the drive device. Alternatively or supplementarily, the signal can indicate the slope of the average current intensity of the drive device (e.g., calculated within the current time window). This allows for quality control and verification of weight measurements in a simple manner. One value, multiple values, or, for example, the time characteristic curve of the current intensity value used for this signal can be the same as the value used for weight measurement, or it can be other values.

[0020] The current intensity is, for example, the phase current of a multiphase drive motor in the drive unit. The drive motor is, for example, a BLDC motor. This makes precise adjustment and accurate measurement possible.

[0021] The control system can be configured to apply Fourier transforms, particularly Fast Fourier Transform (FFT), to measured values, especially current and / or position measurements. This can be designed so that the signal corresponds to values ​​exceeding a threshold within a given frequency range. This allows for the determination of frequencies that are absent or only weakly present in the correct measurements, in a particularly accurate manner. The FFT typically generates a spectrum of a time-based signal within a frequency range. The FFT of current intensity might be rotationally related; for example, at 6000 RPM, one spectral component is expected at the rotational frequency (100 Hz), and another at the nth harmonic. If the rotational speed changes, the position of the spectral components will also change. Alternatively, measurements can be acquired not in a time-controlled manner, but in a position-controlled manner, i.e., acquiring a predetermined number of measurements per motor revolution, such as 10 measurements per revolution. In this way, the FFT result on the X-axis no longer corresponds to an absolute frequency, but rather to an indication relative to the rotational frequency. This is the same or at least similar for all rotational speeds, thus simplifying the evaluation. For typical interferences, such as jitter at specific frequencies or poor road conditions, using an absolute frequency time-based method is also preferable. Alternatively, both time-based and location-based FFT analyses can be performed, and specific spectral components of the two results can be examined to identify erroneous measurements.

[0022] The control system can be configured to detect the signal by comparing the empty weight measurement when there are no passengers with the weight from a previous empty weight measurement. This allows identification of whether the overall measurement is affected.

[0023] Furthermore, the control system can be configured to detect signals by interrogating sensors and / or the activation and / or position of adjustable components. For example, if the backrest is folded forward, it can be identified that the seat is unoccupied, and weight measurement can be rejected. Sensors can also identify whether a seat is occupied. For example, activation of an entertainment system on or in front of the vehicle seat may indicate that the vehicle seat is occupied. Similarly, the closing or unlocking of a seatbelt buckle can provide an indication of whether a vehicle seat is occupied. Multiple such inputs can be combined to calculate a probability value representing the probability that the vehicle seat is occupied. Weight values ​​measured below a minimum probability can be discarded.

[0024] The control system can also be configured to detect the signal by comparing a curve of current intensity relative to position (or relative to time) with a stored reference curve. This allows for particularly precise verification of validity.

[0025] The control system can be configured to activate the drive in the first and second directions at predetermined times and / or at predetermined adjustment strokes (e.g., measured by motor speeds). For example, power can be measured by the predetermined adjustment stroke or predetermined adjustment time and used to determine the weight.

[0026] The drive unit can be activated at different adjustment speeds. In other words, the drive unit can achieve a variable adjustment speed. For example, the control system is configured to send the adjustment speed to the drive unit as a signal. Furthermore, the drive unit can have a maximum adjustment speed. For example, when adjusting the seat height, the drive unit will operate at the maximum adjustment speed. The control system can be configured to activate the drive unit at a certain adjustment speed in a first direction, and then activate the drive unit at that (or another) adjustment speed in a second direction, which is (always) less than the maximum adjustment speed. In this way, the weight measurement process will not disturb the seat user. In particular, the adjustment speed can (always) be less than or equal to 50% of the maximum adjustment speed, or optionally less than or equal to 10% of the maximum adjustment speed, or even less than or equal to 1% of the maximum adjustment speed, making the adjustment almost imperceptible. If the drive unit has a minimum operable adjustment speed, the control system can be configured to activate the drive unit at that minimum adjustment speed in the first direction, and then activate the drive unit at that (or one) minimum adjustment speed in the second direction. In this case, the measurement can be considered quasi-static.

[0027] The control system may include a storage medium, such as a stored model, which assigns the value of the applied weight to each possible value of a parameter. Based on this model (e.g., in the form of a LUT), weight determination can be performed in a particularly simple manner. This model can also be a machine learning model, which has been trained, for example, with different weight loads.

[0028] Alternatively, the model assigns the value of the applied weight to each of the parameters (specifically, each possible value of the parameter) for multiple possible setting positions of the height adjustment device. Therefore, it can be assumed that, due to the kinematics of the height adjustment device, the same torque is not required for adjustment at each setting position.

[0029] Optionally, the model assigns the applied weight to the parameter values ​​(specifically, each possible value of the parameter) independently of the adjustment in the first direction and the adjustment in the second direction. This can further improve the accuracy of the measurement.

[0030] For example, the control system is configured to determine the applied weight based on the detected values ​​of parameters in a first direction and the detected values ​​of parameters in a second direction, respectively. Optionally, the control system is also configured to determine the weight acting on the seat assembly 10 based on the two weight values ​​thus obtained, specifically by averaging them. In particular, a weighted average can be formed, for which each of the two individual values ​​is multiplied by a weighting factor.

[0031] Parameters can be detected for the drive motors of the drive unit. Optionally, the drive unit includes multiple drive motors. The control system can be configured to determine the weight acting on the seat component assembly based on the value of the detected parameter for each of the multiple drive motors during adjustment. For this purpose, the parameter values ​​of each drive motor can be added together, and the weight can be determined based on this sum. Alternatively, the corresponding weight acting on the seat component assembly can be measured separately for each drive motor, and then, for example, averaged. As described above, adjustment is performed first in the first direction and then in the second direction. The measurements from multiple drive motors can further improve the accuracy of the weight measurement.

[0032] When no weight is applied to the vehicle seat, the control system can be set to detect parameter values ​​for calibration. This can be achieved as described above, by activating the drive unit to adjust the distance between the seat component assembly and the floor assembly in a first direction, and detecting the values ​​of the drive unit's parameters during adjustment in the first direction; and by activating the drive unit to adjust the distance between the seat component assembly and the floor assembly in a second direction, and detecting the values ​​of the drive unit's parameters during adjustment in the second direction. Since the weight applied to the seat component assembly is known (0 kg), the detected values ​​can be stored as a reference and / or used for, for example, model calibration. Calibration can correct for aging-related effects, such as changes in efficiency, friction, etc., during the lifespan of the vehicle seat.

[0033] Optionally, the control system is configured to automatically repeat the calibration after a predetermined time interval. This ensures that high accuracy in weight determination is always possible.

[0034] The drive unit, particularly any one of a plurality of drive units, may (each) include a brushless DC motor. Such a motor allows for particularly precise setting of the regulated speed by setting the rotational speed. Typically, the regulated speed can be determined by the rotational speed.

[0035] The control system may optionally be configured to receive data on seat occupancy of the vehicle seats from a camera or another detection device (e.g., radar). The data may be camera images or other data evaluated by the control system, such as to determine the size of a passenger sitting in the vehicle seat and / or their position in the vehicle seat. This data may be used in conjunction with a determined weight. Furthermore, the determined weight may be corrected based on the seat occupancy data; for example, a measured weight that is too small may be corrected using the passenger's position in the vehicle seat.

[0036] The control system may include a memory in which a model is stored in a retrievable manner, establishing at least the relationship between the weight acting on the seat components and the input values ​​and measured parameters of the adjuster position. This enables rapid and reliable evaluation.

[0037] It may be advantageous to configure the control system to detect at least one value of the parameter along a first and / or second direction within a cycle in which one transmission stage of the height adjustment device and / or drive completes one full rotation. This can compensate for non-uniformity caused by transmission modulation, thus obtaining more accurate results.

[0038] According to a beneficial improvement, the control system can be configured to take vehicle tilt into account when measuring the weight acting on the seat components. The tilt of a vehicle with the seat installed can affect weight measurement; excessive tilt can lead to errors in weight determination. To avoid this, vehicle tilt can be considered as an additional input value.

[0039] According to a beneficial improvement, the control system can be configured to take temperature into account when measuring the weight acting on the seat components. Temperature can affect specific material properties, particularly those of a component of the height adjustment device and / or drive mechanism; therefore, significant temperature fluctuations can also affect weight measurement. To avoid this, temperature can be considered as another input value. For example, this temperature could be the temperature of the vehicle interior.

[0040] The aforementioned features can also be used to improve the methods and / or systems described and / or claimed herein.

[0041] According to one aspect, a system is provided that includes a vehicle seat employing any of the designs described herein, as well as a camera and / or other detection devices.

[0042] Further improvements to the system may include a measuring device for measuring settings of other seat adjustment devices, particularly for adjusting backrest angle and / or seat tilt.

[0043] According to one aspect, a computer-implemented method is provided for measuring weight acting on a vehicle seat, particularly on a vehicle seat employing any of the designs described herein. The method includes the steps of: activating a drive mechanism of a (height) adjustment device of the vehicle seat to adjust a seat portion assembly and / or backrest assembly relative to a floor assembly of the vehicle seat (e.g., adjusting distance); and detecting (at least one) value of a parameter of the (height) adjustment device and / or drive mechanism during adjustment (e.g., along the first direction). Optionally, the method includes activating the drive mechanism to adjust the distance between the seat portion assembly and the floor assembly in a second direction opposite to the first direction; and detecting a parameter value of the (height) adjustment device and / or drive mechanism during adjustment along the second direction. Furthermore, the method includes measuring the weight acting on the seat portion assembly based on one or more detected values ​​of said parameter. Wherein, a control system detects a signal indicating an error in at least one value of the detected parameter, and in response to the signal, repeatedly detects at least one value of the parameter of the adjustment device and / or drive mechanism, and / or discards at least one previously detected value of the parameter. Regarding advantages, refer to the above information concerning vehicle seats.

[0044] This method can include the steps of various design schemes for the aforementioned control system.

[0045] According to one aspect, a computer program product is provided, comprising instructions that, when executed by one or more computers (e.g., the control system described above), cause them to perform the methods described above.

[0046] According to one aspect, a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium is provided, on which instructions are stored, which, when executed by one or more computers (e.g., the control system described above), cause them to perform the methods described above.

[0047] According to one aspect, a vehicle seat is provided, particularly a vehicle seat employing any of the designs described herein, comprising: a seat portion assembly, a floor assembly supporting the seat portion assembly, a height adjustment device for adjusting the distance between the seat portion assembly and the floor assembly via a drive mechanism, and a control system coupled to the drive mechanism, the control system being configured to perform the following steps: activating the drive mechanism to adjust the distance between the seat portion assembly and the floor assembly in a first direction; detecting parameter values ​​of the height adjustment device and / or the drive mechanism during adjustment in the first direction; activating the drive mechanism to adjust the distance between the seat portion assembly and the floor assembly in a second direction opposite to the first direction; detecting parameter values ​​of the height adjustment device and / or the drive mechanism during adjustment in the second direction; and determining a weight acting on the seat portion assembly based on the detected parameter values. In one technical solution, the control system is further designed such that, during the detection of at least one value of the parameters of the height adjustment device and / or drive device, it identifies whether the vehicle seat and / or the seat user sitting therein has moved in a first direction and / or a second direction due to other forces (particularly forces independent of the height adjustment device and / or drive device), preferably such that the analysis of current distribution can be taken into account or considered, particularly when movement due to other forces is detected, at least one value of the parameters of the height adjustment device and / or drive device is repeatedly detected, and / or previously detected parameter values ​​are discarded.

[0048] The concept of the present invention will now be explained in more detail based on the embodiments shown in the figures. Wherein:

[0049] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a vehicle seat with height adjustment devices carried by a floor assembly is shown, wherein the floor assembly is configured, for example, in the form of longitudinal adjustment devices;

[0050] Figure 2 A view of the seat portion assembly of a vehicle seat is shown;

[0051] Figure 3 It shows that according to Figure 2 A floor plan showing the layout;

[0052] Figure 4 It shows that according to Figure 2 A partially enlarged view of the arrangement shows the drive mechanism for connecting the seat section assembly to the floor assembly in the form of a longitudinal adjustment device;

[0053] Figure 5 It shows the method for using according to Figure 1 The drive unit for the alternative design of vehicle seats;

[0054] Figure 6 The method for determining the effect based on Figure 1 Methods for determining the weight on vehicle seats; and

[0055] Figure 7 The current intensity of the drive motor relative to the position of the component it regulates is shown.

[0056] Figure 1 A vehicle seat 1 is shown, which can be arranged, for example, as a front seat or a rear seat in the second or third row of seats in a vehicle. The vehicle seat 1 has a seat portion assembly 10, on which a backrest portion assembly 11 is arranged with adjustable tilt, and which is connected to a floor assembly 13 in the form of a longitudinal adjustment device 12 for adjusting the vehicle seat 1 longitudinally in the longitudinal direction X.

[0057] like Figure 1 Combination Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the longitudinal adjustment device 13 typically has two pairs of guide rails 130A, 131A, 130B, and 131B, which are respectively arranged on one side of the seat assembly 10 and spaced apart from each other along the lateral direction Y, which is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction X. The lower guide rails 131A and 131B are fixedly connected to the vehicle floor 2. The upper guide rails 130A and 130B are coupled to the pivot elements 120A, 121A, 120B, and 121B of the height adjustment device 12, through which the floor assembly 13 is connected to the seat assembly 10.

[0058] Pivoting elements 120A, 121A, 120B, and 121B, together with the upper guide rails 130A and 130B of the seat component assembly 10 and the side frame portions 100A and 100B, form two pairs of four-bar linkages. For this purpose, pivoting elements 120A, 121A, 120B, and 121B are each pivotally connected at one end to their respective upper guide rails 130A and 130B, and at the other end to the seat component assembly 10, for example, to a transverse tube 102 that pivotally extends between the frame portions 100A and 100B of the seat component assembly 10 (or to another portion of the seat component assembly 10), such that by pivoting the pivoting elements 120A, 121A, 120B, and 121B, the height position of the seat component assembly 10 can be changed along the height direction Z (perpendicular to the longitudinal direction X and the transverse direction Y). In this case, the distance between the seat component assembly 10 and the floor assembly 13 is changed. Therefore, the height adjustment device 12 is configured to adjust the distance between the seat assembly 10 and the floor assembly 13. To achieve this adjustment, the height adjustment device 12 includes at least a drive unit 3 (with one or more drive motors).

[0059] The floor assembly, namely the longitudinal adjustment device 13 here, supports the seat portion assembly 10.

[0060] The vehicle seat 1 also includes a control system 14 coupled to the drive unit 3, which is configured to perform the following steps:

[0061] -Activate drive unit 3 to adjust seat assembly 10 and / or backrest assembly 11 relative to floor assembly (here, longitudinal adjustment device 13).

[0062] - Detect at least one value of the parameters of the regulating device 12 and / or the drive device 3 during the regulation period; and

[0063] - The weight acting on the vehicle seat 1 (particularly the seat component 10) is determined based on at least one value of the parameter detected during the adjustment process.

[0064] The control system 14 is configured to detect a signal indicating that at least one value of the detected parameter has an error, and in response to the signal, repeatedly detect at least one value of the parameter of the regulating device 12 and / or the drive device 3, and / or discard at least one previously detected value of the parameter.

[0065] For example, the signal indicates that the user sitting in vehicle seat 1 has moved during the measurement. For instance, if a child is sitting in vehicle seat 1 and twists their body, this could severely distort the measurement. This movement may (but is not necessarily) be an action performed by the user themselves. The movement of the vehicle (which in turn affects both the user and the vehicle seat) can also distort the measurement results. In such cases, and in other situations where the signal indicates a measurement error, measurement accuracy can be improved by repeating the measurement and / or discarding the results.

[0066] In addition, the control system 14 is also configured to (optionally or additionally) perform the following steps:

[0067] -Activate drive unit 3 to adjust the distance between seat part assembly 10 and floor assembly 13 in the first direction R1;

[0068] - While adjusting along the first direction R1, detect the parameter values ​​of the drive device 3;

[0069] -Activate drive unit 3 to adjust the distance between seat part assembly 10 and floor assembly 13 in a second direction R2 opposite to the first direction R1;

[0070] - While adjusting along the second direction R2, the parameter values ​​of the drive unit 3 are detected; and

[0071] -Based on the detected parameter values, the weight acting on the seat component 10 is measured.

[0072] Here, the control system 14 is exemplarily configured to: during the detection of at least one value of the parameters of the height adjustment device 12 and / or the drive device 3, identify whether the vehicle seat 1 and / or the seat user sitting there has moved along a first direction R1 and / or a second direction R2 due to other forces (particularly forces independent of the height adjustment device 12 and / or the drive device 3), preferably such that the analysis of the current distribution can be taken into account or taken into account, particularly when movement due to other forces is identified, repeatedly detect at least one value of the parameters of the height adjustment device 12 and / or the drive device 3, and / or discard previously detected parameter values.

[0073] according to Figure 1 The adjustment in the first direction R1 increases the distance between the seat assembly 10 and the floor assembly 13, while the adjustment in the second direction R2 decreases the distance between them. Only a very small adjustment travel is needed to measure the weight, for example, a few millimeters relative to the distance between the seat assembly 10 and the floor assembly 13, so the user will not or will hardly notice this measurement.

[0074] Optionally, multiple measurements can be performed, for example, three consecutive times, and the average weight can be determined. This can further improve accuracy.

[0075] The drive unit 3 can be activated at different adjustment speeds, and has minimum and maximum adjustment speeds. The control system 14 is configured to activate the drive unit 3 at the minimum adjustment speed, or at an adjustment speed lower than the maximum adjustment speed, sequentially in the first direction R1 and the second direction R2. Therefore, the seat user is almost unaware or completely unaware of the weight measurement.

[0076] Here, the parameter is an electrical parameter, namely the current intensity flowing through the power supply line of at least one drive motor 31 of the drive unit 3. Alternatively or additionally, for example, the applied power can also be used as a parameter. The current intensity corresponds to the corresponding torque of the drive unit 3 (of one or more drive motors). Depending on the magnitude of the applied weight, such as the weight applied by a passenger, the drive unit 3 must apply a larger or smaller torque for adjustment, for example, through a predetermined adjustment path. Therefore, the control system 14 can determine the weight using a predetermined relationship between the current intensity (typically the parameter) and the applied weight (optionally based on the corresponding instantaneous adjustment position of the height adjustment device 12). By taking measurements in two adjustment directions R1, R2, inaccuracies with different effects in different directions can be calculated, for example, by (optionally weighted) averaging the weight values ​​determined for the two directions R1, R2 respectively. Inaccuracies caused by friction, tolerances, wear, etc., can be calculated by measuring the empty space of the vehicle seat 1 when it is not occupied. For example, the difference between the current intensity used for downward airborne measurement (typically: the value of a parameter) and the weight measurement used for downward occupancy is calculated, and then multiplied by a first factor to determine the weight in the measurement during downward adjustment. Similarly, the difference between the current intensity used for upward weight measurement (typically: the value of a parameter) and the current intensity used for upward airborne measurement is calculated, and then multiplied by a second factor to determine the weight in the measurement during upward adjustment. The first and second factors can be different from each other or the same. Then, for example, the weight is determined based on the sum of the two weight values.

[0077] The current intensity in the corresponding direction (typically: the value of the parameter) can be determined as an average value by adjusting the path. Optionally, starting the drive motor is excluded.

[0078] For example, this parameter can also indicate the maximum speed reached during regulation, the regulation path traveled within a specific time period, or the regulation time required for a specific regulation path.

[0079] The predetermined relationship is stored, for example, in storage medium 140. This relationship can be a model that assigns the value of the applied weight to each possible value of the current intensity. Since these relationships depend on the adjustment direction in the illustrated example, the model also assigns the value of the applied weight independently of each other to each possible value of the current intensity for adjustment relative to the first direction R1 and relative to the second direction R2. And since these relationships also depend on the adjustment position in the illustrated example, the model assigns the value of the applied weight to each possible value of the current intensity for all possible settings of the height adjustment device 12 in each case. This model can include a LUT and / or a trained machine learning model.

[0080] To generate LUTs and / or training data for machine learning models, test masses with various known weights (e.g., 0 kg, 10 kg, 20 kg, 40 kg, and 80 kg, optionally with finer subdivisions) can be placed on the seat section component 10, and the values ​​of parameters can be determined in the manner described above (particularly at several adjustment positions). Therefore, a table with factors can be determined that assigns the weight value to each value of the parameter (e.g., current intensity) at each adjustment position. This table can be stored in a storage medium. Interpolation can be performed between two entries in the table.

[0081] To correct for changes in efficiency and friction, the control system 14 is configured to periodically perform calibration runs. In this case, the control system 14 is set to detect parameter values ​​for calibration when no weight is acting on the vehicle seat 1.

[0082] A camera 4 (or another detection device such as radar) is aimed at vehicle seat 1 to detect the size and position of the passenger sitting in vehicle seat 1 in the camera image. Camera 4 is directly or indirectly communicatively connected to control system 14, allowing control system 14 to receive data from camera 4 regarding seat occupancy of vehicle seat 1. This data can be in the form of recorded images or in the form of assessed information about weight, position, etc. By combining the determined weight with information about size and position, seat occupancy can be detected with particular precision. For example, weight determined due to seat position offset can also be corrected in this way. For this purpose, a correction table can be stored in a storage medium, which assigns correction factors to different seat positions (e.g., further forward, further back). This measure is particularly easy to implement due to the increasing number of passenger cameras installed in modern vehicles. For this purpose, control system 14 is configured to receive seat occupancy data based on camera images, for example, via an interface provided for this purpose.

[0083] An exemplary design of the height adjustment device 12 will be described in detail below.

[0084] The frame portions 100A and 100B of the seat assembly 10 are connected to each other at the rear end via a transverse tube 102. The transverse tube 102 (in this example) is pivotally supported on the frame portions 100A and 100B and carries the associated rear pivot elements 121A and 121B.

[0085] In the front region, seat grooves 101 are arranged on frame portions 100A and 100B to form the seat surface of seat portion assembly 10.

[0086] In the illustrated embodiment, the drive unit 3 of the height adjustment device 12 is, for example, arranged on the rear pivot element 121A on the side of the guide rail pair 130A, 131A, such as... Figure 2 and Figure 3 Combination Figure 4 As shown. The drive unit 3 is configured as a spindle drive and is used to introduce an adjustment force into the pivot element 121A, such that the pivot elements 120A, 121A, 120B, and 121B pivot as a whole through the pivot element 121A, thereby allowing the seat part assembly 10 to adjust its height position, i.e., the distance between the seat part assembly 10 and the floor assembly 13.

[0087] At the set seat height, the seat component 10 is held in position on the pivot element 121A by the drive device 3. For this purpose, the drive device 3 is designed to be loadable, so that the force acting on the seat component 10 can be absorbed and transferred.

[0088] Now for reference Figures 2 to 4 The drive unit 3 has a main shaft 30, one end of which is pivotally connected to an associated guide rail 130A via a bearing element.

[0089] The pivoting element 121A is coupled to an accessory connected to the guide rail 130A and is pivotally supported on the guide rail 130A by bearing bolts.

[0090] The main shaft 30 has a threaded shaft 300 with external threads, extending substantially perpendicularly from the end connected to the guide rail 130A. An adjusting gear 32 is operably connected to the main shaft 30 in such a way that by driving the adjusting gear 32, it can be adjusted relative to the main shaft 30 along the longitudinal extension direction L to change the length of the end of the main shaft 30 supported between the adjusting gear 32 and pivotally supported on the guide rail 130A, thereby introducing an adjusting force into the pivoting element 121A to adjust the distance between the seat portion assembly 10 and the floor assembly 13.

[0091] The adjusting gear 32 has a main shaft nut and a drive element in the form of a drive worm, which engages with the external teeth of the main shaft nut via the worm teeth. The drive element is driven by a drive motor 31, which allows the main shaft nut to rotate. The main shaft nut engages with the external threads of the main shaft 30 via its internal threads, causing the main shaft nut to roll on the main shaft 30 by rotation, thereby adjusting longitudinally relative to the main shaft 30 in the longitudinal direction L.

[0092] Optionally, the height adjustment device 12 includes another drive motor 31, which may be arranged, for example, mirror-image of the drive motor 31, on the rear pivot element 121B on the side of the guide rail pair 130B, 131B. This is in Figure 3 The diagram is schematically shown. The applied weight can be measured with particular precision based on the current intensities of the two drive motors.

[0093] The drive motor 31 is a brushless DC motor (BLDC motor), whose speed and torque can be set with exceptional precision.

[0094] The adjusting gear 32 is pivotally supported on the pivot element 121A. During the adjusting movement, the length of the portion of the main shaft 30 extending between the adjusting gear 32 and the guide rail end changes, so the adjusting gear 32 can pivot on the pivot element 121A, thereby compensating for changes in the position of the pivot element 121A relative to the floor assembly 13.

[0095] The drive motor 31 is pivotally supported on the pivot element 121A via the adjusting gear 32. During the adjustment movement of the pivot element 121A, the drive motor 31 and the adjusting gear 32 move together with the pivot element 121A.

[0096] Figure 5 An example is shown for use according to Figure 1 The alternative design of the vehicle seat includes a drive motor 31 mounted on the seat assembly 10 and driving a pinion 33 via gears. The pinion 33 meshes with a curved toothed segment 34 fastened to an upper guide rail 130A. Otherwise, the operation method is as described above.

[0097] Figure 6 A method for a vehicle seat 1 is shown, wherein the method includes the following steps:

[0098] Step S100: Activate the drive device 3 of the height adjustment device 12 of the vehicle seat 1 to adjust the distance between the seat portion assembly 10 and the floor assembly 13 of the vehicle seat 1 in the first direction R1.

[0099] Step S101: When adjusting along the first direction R1, detect the value of the parameters (e.g., current or torque) of the drive device 3.

[0100] Step S102: Activate the drive unit 3 to adjust the distance between the seat part assembly 10 and the floor assembly 13 in the second direction R2, which is opposite to the first direction R1.

[0101] Step S103: When adjusting along the second direction R2, detect the parameter value of the drive device 3.

[0102] Step S104: Based on the detected parameter values, determine the weight acting on the seat components.

[0103] Optionally, the method may periodically restart from step S100, with a (e.g., predetermined) delay set between steps S104 and S100 if necessary.

[0104] For the specific design of this method, please refer to the foregoing description of the control system 14 to avoid repetition. This method may include corresponding method steps for the aforementioned operating mode of the control system 14.

[0105] The storage medium 140 stores a computer program product containing instructions that, when executed by the control system 14, cause the control system to perform the methods described above.

[0106] In response, the signal may cause the repeated detection of at least one value of a parameter of the adjustment device 12 and / or the drive unit 3, and / or the discarding of at least one previously detected parameter value, which may be obtained from the same measurement as one or more parameter values ​​on which the calculation of the weight acting on the vehicle seat is based. Alternatively or as a supplement, the signal may also be based on another measurement and / or calculated from other sensor values.

[0107] Figure 7 An exemplary current distribution of the drive device 3 is shown. Specifically, Figure 7 The curve showing the current intensity of one phase of the drive motor 31 of drive unit 3 relative to the adjustment path is displayed. On the x-axis, the position is shown as the number of motor rotations. One complete rotation of the motor shaft corresponds to one motor rotation.

[0108] from Figure 7 As can be seen in the diagram, within one motor rotation, the current intensity fluctuates between a maximum and a minimum value, resulting in a wavy current distribution over several motor rotations. If we now calculate the average current intensity for each motor rotation (or another operating window), we can calculate these fluctuations for each motor rotation. These average values ​​are represented by dashed lines. However, it can be seen that the average value also has a variable process. Therefore, a repeating pattern can be seen, extending beyond a fixed number of motor rotations, and then repeating. This pattern is represented by vertical lines. This pattern is generated, for example, by the structure of the drive unit 3 and / or the regulating unit, particularly by the structure of the regulating gear 32.

[0109] like Figure 7 As shown, the individual parts of the complete pattern are also different from each other. Therefore, the pattern in the middle of the diagram has a higher total average current intensity than the pattern to its left, and a lower total average current intensity than the pattern to its right. Furthermore, the maximum deviation of the current intensity within the pattern, i.e., the difference between the minimum and maximum current intensity within the pattern, can differ in comparisons between the individual parts. Figure 7 An example of the central pattern, where the difference is drawn as a double arrow extending vertically.

[0110] The applied weight can be determined based on the measured values, for example, by using a predetermined conversion rule (e.g., LUT) to determine the weight from the average current intensity of the pattern. For example, at each position of the height adjustment device 12, the conversion rule assigns a value of weight to a value of current intensity.

[0111] Similarly, a signal can be calculated based on the displayed measurements. For example, the signal might be the difference between the minimum and maximum current intensities within the same pattern. Alternatively, the signal might be the deviation between values ​​in consecutive patterns (directly or at intervals). For example, if the signal exceeds a predetermined threshold, the control system will discard the measurement and re-measure. The signal might indicate that: current intensity fluctuations exceed a preset threshold; deviations from the average current intensity exceed a preset threshold; the slope of the average current intensity obtained within the current time window exceeds a preset threshold; and / or the curve deviates from a reference curve (e.g., the reference curve has a maximum value at a known location. If the distribution of the measured maximum value is offset, a positional error is likely). For example, fluctuations can be measured by peak-to-peak fluctuations, and a limit value can be stored for these fluctuations; measurements below this limit value are classified as error-free. Furthermore, the RMS value can be measured, for example. Additionally, the maximum slope of the average value can be referenced. If this slope exceeds a preset limit value, the measurement is classified as error-prone.

[0112] The control system 14 includes a computer-readable storage device storing a model that establishes at least one correlation between the weight acting on the vehicle seat 1, particularly on the seat portion assembly 10, and the values ​​of the adjuster position and / or measured parameters (e.g., the current intensity of the drive motor, such as the current intensity of one or all of a plurality of phases).

[0113] The control system 14 is configured to detect the signal by analyzing the current distribution.

[0114] For example, control system 14 is configured to, for example, target... Figure 7 The curve of the current intensity shown is subjected to an FFT. This signal indicates instances where a threshold is exceeded within a given frequency range. This allows identification of frequencies that are absent or only slightly present in error-free weight measurements, and whether they appear with amplitudes indicating an error. For example, all frequencies deviating from the motor's rotational harmonics, if exceeding a specific limit, are identified as having an error.

[0115] Signals can also be generated by comparing two unloaded measurements, where one unloaded measurement (i.e., no passenger on vehicle seat 1) serves as a reference measurement. Generally, signals are generated by comparing with a reference measurement. To do this, it can be checked whether the new measurement falls within the tolerance zone of the earlier measurement. One or more input variables, such as temperature, the tilt of vehicle seat 1, etc., can be used when measuring the tolerance zone. Additionally, signals can be obtained by querying sensors (e.g., in-vehicle sensors) or enabled / operable components (e.g., the air conditioning system in or on vehicle seat 1, operation of the door handle on vehicle seat 1, operation of the window regulator on vehicle seat 1—if such operation is detected but the load is not measured, an error may exist and be output). For example, if the seat occupancy sensor, camera 4, seatbelt buckle, or similar device indicates that vehicle seat 1 is not occupied by a passenger but is completely empty or occupied by an object such as a bag, the control system 14 can discard the weight measurement. The control system 14 can also be configured to query such external sensors or similar devices only if an error has been determined in the measurement itself. For example, to verify the reasonableness of the weight measurement results.

[0116] The signal can be an externally transmitted signal to the control system, or it can be a signal generated internally within the control system 14, such as the result of a binary query (e.g., the signal is the value of a Boolean variable). This signal, for example, indicates that the target state deviates from the actual state, thus allowing the inference that at least one value of the detected parameter has an error.

[0117] The control system 14 is configured, for example, to identify, through appropriate programming, an error in at least one value of a parameter detected for weight measurement, and in response, to repeatedly detect at least one value of a parameter of the adjusting device 12 and / or the drive device 3 to calculate the weight accordingly, and / or to discard at least one previously detected value of a parameter, i.e., not to use it for weight measurement. Measurement may include adjustment along one or both directions R1, R2.

[0118] Optionally, the control system 14 may output an error message when it detects an error in at least one value of a detected parameter. If the control system 14 detects a large deviation or change, which, for example, indicates that the vehicle seat 1 has been replaced or removed and installed, affecting mechanical characteristics, it may also output an error message. Furthermore, it may be designed so that when the control system 14 detects a measurement error, it requires the adjustment equipment (particularly the height adjustment equipment 12) to perform standardized operation. For this purpose, the adjustment equipment is moved to its end stop, and from there, an adjustment is performed, for example, within the available adjustment range.

[0119] List of reference numerals

[0120]

Claims

1. A vehicle seat (1), comprising: - Seat components (10). -Backrest components (11). -At least the floor assembly (13) supporting the seat portion assembly (10), and - Adjustment device (12) for adjusting the seat portion assembly (10) and / or the backrest portion assembly (11) relative to the floor assembly (13) via drive device (3). Its features - A control system (14) coupled to the drive device (3) is configured to perform the following steps: ○ Activate the drive device (3) to achieve adjustment of the seat part assembly (10) and / or the backrest part assembly (11) relative to the floor assembly (13); ○ During adjustment, at least one value of the parameter of the adjustment device (12) and / or the drive device (3) is detected; and Based on at least one value of the parameter detected during adjustment, the weight acting on the vehicle seat (1), particularly on the seat component (10), is measured. The control system (14) is configured to detect a signal indicating that at least one value of a detected parameter is in error, and in response to the signal, repeatedly detect at least one value of a parameter of the regulating device (12) and / or the driving device (3), and / or discard at least one value of a previously detected parameter.

2. The vehicle seat (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The parameters are electrical parameters, particularly current intensity, voltage or power, and / or, the parameters indicate torque, and / or, the parameters indicate the maximum speed achieved during adjustment.

3. The vehicle seat (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The parameter indicates the adjustment stroke traveled within a specific time period or the adjustment time required for a specific adjustment stroke.

4. The vehicle seat (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The adjustment device (12) is a height adjustment device for adjusting the distance between the seat part assembly (10) and the floor assembly (13), wherein the control system (14) is configured to perform the activation operation of the drive device (3) to adjust the distance between the seat part assembly (10) and the floor assembly (13) in one direction (R1).

5. The vehicle seat (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that, The direction (R1) is a first direction (R1), and the control system (14) is further configured to perform the following steps: ○Activate the drive device (3) to adjust the distance between the seat part assembly (10) and the floor assembly (13) in a second direction (R2) opposite to the first direction (R1); as well as ○ When adjusting along the second direction (R2), the parameter values ​​of the height adjustment device (12) and / or the drive device (3) are detected; The control system (14) is configured to measure the weight acting on the seat assembly (10) based on the detected values ​​of parameters adjusted from two directions (R1, R2).

6. The vehicle seat (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The control system (14) is configured to recognize the following as the signal: whether the vehicle seat (1) and / or the passenger sitting there moves due to other forces during the detection of at least one value of the parameters of the adjustment device (12) (in particular the height adjustment device (12)) and / or the drive device (3).

7. The vehicle seat (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The other force action is independent of the force action of the regulating device (12) and the driving device (3).

8. The vehicle seat (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The control system (14) is configured to detect the signal by analyzing the current distribution.

9. The vehicle seat (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The signal indicates that the target state deviates from the actual state, thus it can be inferred that at least one value of the detected parameter has an error.

10. The vehicle seat (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The signal indicates fluctuations in the current intensity of the drive device, indicates deviations from the average current intensity of the drive device, and / or indicates the slope of the average current intensity of the drive device obtained within the current time window.

11. The vehicle seat (1) according to claim 10, characterized in that, The current intensity is the phase current of the multiphase drive motor (31) of the drive device (3).

12. The vehicle seat (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The control system (14) is configured to apply an FFT to the measured values, particularly the current intensity, especially for time or adjustment position, wherein the signal indicates that a threshold is exceeded within a given frequency range.

13. The vehicle seat (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The control system (14) is configured to detect the signal by comparing an empty-load measurement of current intensity and / or weight when there are no passengers with the weight from a previous empty-load measurement.

14. The vehicle seat (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The control system (14) is configured to detect the signal by interrogating the sensor and / or interrogating the activation and / or position of the adjustable component.

15. The vehicle seat (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The control system (14) is configured to detect the signal by comparing a curve of current intensity relative to position with a stored reference curve.

16. The vehicle seat (1) according to any one of the preceding claims (in the case of retroactive reference to claim 5), characterized in that, The control system (14) is configured to activate the drive device (3) in the first direction (R1) and the second direction (R2) at predetermined times and / or at preset adjustment strokes, respectively.

17. The vehicle seat (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The control system (14) has a storage medium (140) storing a model that assigns the value of the applied weight to each possible value of the parameter.

18. The vehicle seat (1) according to claim 17, characterized in that, The model assigns the value of the applied weight to each possible value of the parameter for each of the multiple possible setting positions of the height adjustment device (12).

19. The vehicle seat (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, When no weight is applied to the vehicle seat (1), the control system (14) is set to the value of the detection parameter for calibration.

20. The vehicle seat (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The control system (14) is configured to acquire seat occupancy data of the vehicle seat (1) from a detection device, particularly from a camera (4).

21. The vehicle seat (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The control system (14) includes a memory in which a model is stored in a callable manner, through which at least one association is established between the weight acting on the seat component (10) and the input value of the adjuster position and the value of the measured parameter.

22. A system comprising a vehicle seat (1) according to any one of the preceding claims and a detection device or said detection device, particularly said camera (4).

23. A method for measuring the weight acting on a vehicle seat, particularly on a vehicle seat (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 21, comprising the following steps: ○Activate (S100) the drive unit (3) of the height adjustment device (12) of the vehicle seat (1) to adjust the seat part assembly (10) and / or backrest part assembly (11) relative to the floor assembly (13) of the vehicle seat (1). During adjustment, at least one value of the parameter of the adjustment device (12) and / or the drive device (3) is detected (S101); and Based on at least one value of the parameter detected during adjustment, the weight acting on the vehicle seat (1), particularly on the seat component assembly (10), is measured (S104). The control system (14) detects a signal indicating that at least one value of the detected parameter is in error, and in response to the signal, repeatedly detects at least one value of the parameter of the regulating device (12) and / or the driving device (3), and / or discards at least one value of the previously detected parameter.

24. A computer program product comprising instructions that, when executed by one or more computers, cause the computers to perform the method of claim 23.

25. A non-volatile computer-readable storage medium (140) having instructions stored thereon that, when executed by one or more computers, cause the computers to perform the method according to claim 23.

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