Method for activating a start function and control device

Abstract

According to the invention, the technology disclosed herein relates to a method for activating a start function of at least one sensor (31, 32) of a motor vehicle (10), wherein a start of the motor vehicle (10) is determined to be imminent and the start function is activated in response thereto. According to the invention, the technology disclosed herein also relates to a related control device (40).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The technology disclosed herein relates to a method for activating a startup function and related control devices. Background Technology

[0002] In motor vehicles, a start-up function is typically performed on sensors to establish their operational readiness. For example, sensors such as temperature or pressure sensors may need to be preheated or otherwise conditioned to optimally perform their required tasks. This start-up function is usually activated first when the vehicle is started, for example by the driver entering and pressing the start button, and the full operational capabilities of the sensors become available only after the start-up function ends. During this process, there may be a period during which the sensors are not yet fully operational, although this is actually desirable from the perspective of vehicle operation. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The preferred objective of the technology disclosed herein is to reduce or overcome at least one drawback of previously known solutions or to propose alternative solutions. In particular, the preferred objective of the technology disclosed herein is to provide a method for activating a startup function, which enables the sensor to become operational and ready earlier. Further preferred objectives can be derived from the advantageous effects of the technology disclosed herein. These objectives are addressed by the subject matter of the independent claims. The dependent claims constitute preferred embodiments.

[0004] The technology disclosed herein relates to a method for activating a start-up function of at least one sensor in a motor vehicle. The method includes the steps of: determining that the start-up of the motor vehicle is about to begin; and activating the start-up function in response to determining that the start-up of the motor vehicle is about to begin.

[0005] In this way, the start-up function can be initiated before the vehicle starts. This allows all sensor functions to be available much earlier, ideally at the moment the vehicle starts. The start-up function can begin just before the vehicle starts, not just when it is actually started. Therefore, the start-up function can be specifically shifted to a period of time when sensor functions are not yet needed.

[0006] The startup function specifically refers to the function used to establish the sensor's operational readiness. In particular, the startup function may involve, for example, heating the sensor or activating its voltage supply. This startup function typically requires a certain amount of time, during which time, although the sensor may be substantially functional, it has not yet reached the reliability it would possess after the startup function has ended.

[0007] The imminent start of a motor vehicle can be determined in various ways. Specifically, determining that the start of a motor vehicle is imminent means evaluating an indicator that signals the imminent start of the vehicle. Typical implementations are further described below. In principle, different implementations are possible, and they can be combined with each other. Typically, an information evaluation is performed in the implementation to predict the start of the motor vehicle and determine that the start is imminent, usually by setting a flag or variable or, for example, by invoking a specific program in the control unit. In response to determining that the start of the motor vehicle is imminent, the start function is then activated, causing the sensors to be pre-adjusted in a timely manner.

[0008] Typically, it is stipulated that during the activation function, the sensor activating the activation function does not perform any measurement tasks. This avoids obtaining unreliable measurements. Furthermore, it prevents any measurement tasks by the sensor from interfering with the activation function. Typically, the sensor's measurement tasks are activated directly after the activation function ends. Deactivation of the measurement task can be achieved, for example, by not reading data, not supplying power to the components required for measurement, or by placing the sensor in a configuration where it does not perform measurement tasks through mechanical movement or by operating an external component such as a valve. Alternatively, the sensor can be isolated from the medium to be measured to prevent the execution of measurement tasks.

[0009] For example, in response to detecting a user approaching a motor vehicle, it can be determined that the vehicle's start is imminent. This typically indicates an impending start because the user is approaching the vehicle and, in most cases, intends to use it. This approach can be detected, for example, by a transmitter carried by the user. For instance, this could be a typical electronic key used for remote central locking systems. It could also be a signature card or a similar device. Alternatively or additionally, a camera or other environmental detection system could be used to detect a user's approach to the motor vehicle.

[0010] Specifically, a user's approach to a vehicle can be detected using a transmitter carried by the user. For example, it can be integrated into a car key, mobile phone, key card, or other object. This allows for simple and reliable detection of the user's approach. For instance, the transmitter can have a unique identifier, through which the vehicle can uniquely identify that its associated transmitter is approaching. This method effectively prevents false activation.

[0011] According to one implementation, the system determines that the vehicle is about to start in response to a user activating a function. This is typically a manual activation by the user, for example, through operating a display or via a remote control or other portable device such as a mobile phone. In particular, it could be the activation of functions such as parking heaters, parking air conditioning, or lights. This also generally indicates that the user will soon be using the vehicle.

[0012] According to one implementation, the imminent start-up of the vehicle is determined in response to a vehicle autonomous activation function. This function can typically be activated by the vehicle itself without manual input or any interaction with the user. In particular, it can involve specially designed functions. For example, it can involve functions for maintaining the lifespan of fuel cells or other components. For example, it can involve nighttime drying, antifreeze preparation, high-voltage storage recharging, or other functions that the vehicle can perform without user interaction. These functions are typically performed when the vehicle is stationary. They are specifically designed to extend component lifespan and / or ensure the vehicle is ready for operation.

[0013] Specifically, it can be specified that at least one set of equivalent sensors exists. Equivalent sensors should be understood in particular as sensors that perform the same or at least very similar measurement tasks and / or are at least partially substitutable for each other. Sensors can also be considered redundant with each other. This allows for redundancy that improves safety. Multiple sets of such equivalent sensors can exist. However, only one set may also exist.

[0014] Specifically, it can be specified that, in at least one group, the start-up function is activated only in a subset of the equivalent sensors within that group when the start-up function is activated. This allows only one sensor, or at least a subset of the sensors in a group, to be subjected to the start-up function, while other sensors typically do not receive the start-up function and are generally not activated during subsequent operation of the vehicle, or are only activated later. The start-up function of other sensors may, for example, only begin when the vehicle is started, or alternatively, other sensors may remain inactive and unused until the next activation. This allows for targeted control of usage conditions and, consequently, sensor aging.

[0015] In particular, multiple sets of equivalent sensors may exist. These sensors can, for example, specifically perform corresponding measurement tasks, and one set of sensors can typically completely or at least partially replace each other.

[0016] Specifically, it can be specified that the activation function is activated in a different group of sensors during direct, sequential activation. For example, in a group of three sensors, the first sensor can be used during one activation, the second sensor during another, and the third sensor during yet another. This can then be repeated from the beginning, starting with the first sensor. This enables load control, which allows for uniform loading and results in uniform aging.

[0017] Specifically, it can be specified that the activation function is activated under a set pattern for each sensor in a group during multiple successive activations. This pattern can specifically specify which sensor(s) to use during activation and thus perform the activation function for them. This pattern can be the same for all activations or can vary with each activation. This allows for targeted load control of the sensors.

[0018] According to one implementation, it is specified that one or more sensors from the same group are always activated during all activations, but not all sensors in that group. This allows some sensors in the group to age selectively compared to the other sensors in the group. This, for example, allows these sensors to be replaced earlier, while other sensors that are normally not activated have longer durability and are replaced later. The term "all activations" here specifically refers to a long time period, such as the lifespan of a vehicle or the time between maintenance intervals. It can specifically refer to a time period of at least one month, at least six months, or at least one year.

[0019] According to one implementation, the starting function is activated only in a subset of the vehicle's sensors in response to a determination that the vehicle is about to start. This may specifically involve safety-critical sensors. Other sensors, which are not particularly safety-critical, are typically activated later or their starting functions are activated only then. This allows, for example, safety-critical sensors to be available as early as possible, while the starting function of other sensors is activated only when a better energy supply is available in the vehicle. Sensors that do not require a starting function at all are generally not considered in this approach.

[0020] Specifically, after the activation function ends, one or more sensors can switch to the measurement function. The sensor is then typically adjusted by the activation function and can perform its measurement function appropriately. The activation function is then deactivated.

[0021] Specifically, the activation function can be the heating of one or more sensors, or include heating of one or more sensors. For this purpose, a heating element can be activated, for example. This allows the sensor to reach an operating temperature at which it can ideally perform its measurement tasks and / or at which it is calibrated. Heating can also be achieved by normally energizing the sensor.

[0022] In particular, one or more sensors can be configured as hydrogen sensors. The procedures described herein have proven particularly suitable. Hydrogen sensors can specifically detect the presence of hydrogen. They are generally used here for safety purposes because they can report potential leaks. In principle, the procedures described herein are also possible in other sensors.

[0023] The technology disclosed herein also relates to a control device for one or more sensors, wherein the control device is configured to perform the methods described herein. The technology disclosed herein also relates to a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium containing program code that, when executed by a processor, implements the methods described herein. All embodiments and variations described herein may be referenced in relation to this method.

[0024] In other words, it is generally preferable that safety-related sensors are activated and ready for measurement first upon vehicle startup. However, some sensors typically have startup times, which can result in a perceptible waiting time for the customer after the vehicle has started. Furthermore, in some safety functions, decomposing sensors into multiple redundant units may be necessary or desirable. In particular, this can help rule out common causes of failure. For example, aging beyond the recommended operating time could be a possible cause of failure.

[0025] For example, the relevant sensors may already be activated when a vehicle key, mobile phone, or key card is near. Thus, the sensors are available when the customer is seated in the vehicle and wants to start it. Further waiting time is avoided or at least reduced. In redundant sensors, some implementations may specify, for example, that only one of two sensors is activated. Here, two cases need to be distinguished: a) always the same: preventing common causes of sensor aging, as one sensor may activate more frequently (e.g., when the vehicle is not moving) and remain operational for longer; b) alternating activation: distributing operation between the two, optimizing sensor lifespan.

[0026] If the second sensor activates later than the first sensor, or for example, when the vehicle starts, then only one of the two redundant sensors can be used. This is particularly possible while still adhering to relevant functional safety requirements.

[0027] Sensors, particularly hydrogen sensors, can be configured as fuel sensors, for example. These fuel sensors can be specifically fluidly connected to a gas outlet, such as to a fuel cell. For instance, a fuel sensor can be positioned in the exhaust system of a fuel cell system, such as in or downstream of a mixing region where anode and cathode gases are mixed. Similarly, fuel sensors can also be positioned in ventilation ducts. Fuel sensors, such as hydrogen sensors, are known in themselves. Attached Figure Description

[0028] The technology disclosed herein will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. These drawings show:

[0029] Figure 1 : A motor vehicle for performing the method according to the first embodiment; and

[0030] Figure 2 : A motor vehicle used to perform the method according to the second embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0031] Figure 1 The vehicle 10 is shown purely schematically for performing the methods described herein. Only components relevant to performing the methods are examined here.

[0032] Motor vehicle 10 has a fuel cell 20. The fuel cell 20 supplies electrical energy to motor vehicle 10, for example, to drive a traction drive. Motor vehicle 10 has an exhaust gas path 25, through which the fuel cell 20 can emit anode and cathode exhaust gases toward the environment. These typically contain a small amount of hydrogen, the content of which is monitored. A first sensor 31 and a second sensor 32 are used for this purpose. Currently, sensors 31 and 32 are hydrogen sensors that measure the hydrogen content in exhaust gas path 25. These two sensors 31 and 32 can be understood as a pair. They are redundant and equivalent to each other. This specifically means that if one of the two sensors 31 and 32 fails, the other sensor can take over its function.

[0033] The vehicle 10 also has a control device 40. The control device 40 is configured to read the two sensors 31 and 32, allowing the determination of the hydrogen content in the exhaust path 25. In this implementation, the control device 40 is also configured to detect whether a transmitter 50 is nearby. The transmitter 50 may be, in particular, a portable transmitter carried by the user of the vehicle 10 and continuously transmitting radio signals. This is detected by the control device 40 when the user approaches with the transmitter 50. In this case, a start-up function is activated in one of the two sensors 31 and 32. This means that the corresponding sensor 31 or 32 is heated to its operating temperature in this situation. This occurs before the user starts the vehicle 10. When the user starts the vehicle 10, one of the two sensors 31 and 32 is already fully operational and ready, and there is no waiting time required to use the vehicle 10 for departure.

[0034] In the current configuration, during successive activations, the control device 40 always alternately activates the two sensors 31 and 32. This results in uniform aging of sensors 31 and 32. In another implementation, it is also possible, for example, to always only subject the first sensor 31 or the second sensor 32 to the start-up function, thus causing that sensor to age earlier. Then the corresponding other sensor 31 or 32 typically only undergoes the start-up function when the vehicle is started, or alternatively, it remains deactivated.

[0035] Figure 2 A motor vehicle 10 according to a second embodiment is shown. This is essentially the same as the first embodiment, except that activation of the starting function is not coupled to the proximity of the transmitter 50, but rather to the activation of a parking heater (not shown) via a wireless operating device 60. Unlike the transmitter 50, which is configured to continuously transmit radio signals, the wireless operating device 60 only emits a radio signal when button 62 of the wireless operating device 60 is manually pressed. This allows the user to also activate the parking heater or parking air conditioning of the motor vehicle 10 before approaching it. This activation typically indicates that the start of the motor vehicle is imminent, as the user activates the parking heater or parking air conditioning in preparation for departure shortly. This also justifies the activation of the starting function via at least one of the sensors 31, 32.

[0036] As an alternative to the instant activation just described, activation can also be achieved after a set waiting time.

[0037] For readability reasons and for simplicity, the expression "at least one" has been partially omitted. If the features of the technology disclosed herein are described in a singular or indefinite form (e.g., the / a sensor, the / a transmitter, etc.), then their plural forms (e.g., the at least one sensor, the at least one sensor, etc.) should also be disclosed.

[0038] The foregoing description of the present invention is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the invention. Various changes and modifications can be made within the scope of the invention without departing from the scope of the invention and its equivalents.

[0039] List of reference numerals in the attached diagram:

[0040] 10 Motor vehicles

[0041] 20 Fuel Cells

[0042] 25 Exhaust Gas Path

[0043] 31 First Sensor

[0044] 32 Second Sensor

[0045] 40 Control device

[0046] 50 transmitters

[0047] 60 Wireless operating device

[0048] 62 buttons

Claims

1. A method for activating the start-up function of at least one sensor (31, 32) of a motor vehicle (10), wherein, The method includes the following steps: It is determined that the starting of the motor vehicle (10) is about to begin; and In response to determining that the starting of the motor vehicle (10) is about to begin, the starting function is activated, wherein at least one set of equivalent sensors (31, 32) is provided; and in at least one set, when the starting function is activated, the starting function is activated only in a portion of the equivalent sensors (31, 32) of that set.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein, When the startup function is activated directly and sequentially, the startup function is activated in a set of different sensors (31, 32).

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, When the startup function is activated multiple times in succession, the startup function is activated under each sensor (31, 32) in a group according to the preset mode.

4. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, In all activations, always activate one or more of the same sensors (31, 32) in a group, but do not activate all sensors (31, 32) in that group.

5. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The sensors (31, 32) whose activation function is activated do not perform measurement tasks during the activation process.

6. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, In response to the detection that a user is approaching the motor vehicle (10), it is determined that the start-up of the motor vehicle (10) is about to begin.

7. The method according to claim 6, wherein, The user is identified as approaching a motor vehicle (10) by using a transmitter (50) carried by the user.

8. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The system determines that the start-up of the motor vehicle (10) is about to begin in response to the user activating the function of the motor vehicle (10).

9. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The start-up of the motor vehicle (10) is about to begin in response to the autonomous activation function of the motor vehicle (10).

10. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, In response to the determination that the start of the motor vehicle (10) is about to begin, the start function is activated only in some sensors (31, 32) of the motor vehicle (10).

11. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, After the startup function ends, one or more sensors (31, 32) switch to the measurement function.

12. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The activation function may include heating one or more sensors (31, 32).

13. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, One sensor (31, 32) or multiple sensors (31, 32) are configured as a hydrogen sensor.

14. A control device (40) for one or more sensors (31, 32), wherein, The control device (40) is configured to perform the method described in any of the preceding claims.

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