Motor vehicle lock assembly for a closure element of a motor vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a motor vehicle lock assembly for a closure element (2) of a motor vehicle (1), having a motor vehicle lock (4) and a UWB module (5), wherein the UWB module (5) has at least one antenna (7) for receiving measurement signals and / or for emitting UWB signals and a UWB control unit (8) connected to the antenna (7) for evaluating measurement signals and / or for generating UWB signals, wherein the UWB module (5) is connected to the motor vehicle lock (4) via a local electrical connection (10) or is integrated in the motor vehicle lock (4).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a motor vehicle lock assembly for a closed element of a motor vehicle according to claim 1, an application of a UWB module with an antenna in a closed element of a motor vehicle according to claim 12, and a closed element assembly having a closed element and a motor vehicle lock assembly arranged in the closed element according to claim 13.

[0002] The term "enclosure element" should be interpreted broadly in this invention, including, for example, rear covers, trunk lids, hoods, side doors, tailgates, window glass, and pop-up roofs. This enclosure element can be arranged on the vehicle body in a swingable and / or longitudinally movable manner.

[0003] In some motor vehicles, the location of the vehicle operator is achieved using multiple UWB modules, which are distributed throughout the vehicle, mostly located at the front and rear. UWB modules can also be used for gesture recognition, among other things. However, a disadvantage of these UWB modules is that, as self-contained electronic components, they incur corresponding wiring and installation costs, making them expensive.

[0004] There is a question of how to improve known existing technologies by making the use of UWB modules less costly and thus less expensive.

[0005] The above problem is solved by the features of claim 1.

[0006] The core concept is that the UWB module can be directly connected to or integrated into the vehicle lock. This connection offers several advantages. The vehicle lock's power and / or data interface (especially the CAN bus) can be used by the UWB module, eliminating the need for a separate power supply or data interface. Communication latency between the UWB module and the vehicle lock is reduced, thereby enabling, for example, faster entry functionality. Arranging the UWB module within a closed component also allows for additional functions such as operator or gesture recognition. Generally, this invention can be configured to increasingly integrate functions into the vehicle lock until the lock control unit replaces the door control device.

[0007] Specifically, a motor vehicle lock assembly for a closed element of a motor vehicle is proposed, the motor vehicle lock assembly having a motor vehicle lock and a UWB module, wherein the UWB module has at least one antenna for receiving measurement signals and / or for transmitting UWB signals and a UWB control unit connected to the antenna for evaluating the measurement signals and / or for generating UWB signals, wherein the UWB module is connected to the motor vehicle lock or integrated into the motor vehicle lock via a local electrical connection.

[0008] In one design according to claim 2, the UWB control unit is integrated into the housing of the vehicle lock. This allows for the reuse of existing dry areas, and other resources of the vehicle lock, such as electrical wires and energy storage devices, can be used by the UWB control unit. Alternatively, the UWB control unit and the lock control unit can share a common processor.

[0009] When the UWB control unit is housed within the housing, the antenna can be housed inside the housing (claim 3), partially inside the housing (claim 4), or outside the housing (claim 5). In particular, existing openings, such as inlets, can be utilized to create openings for the antenna or antenna connectors. In another design according to claim 6, the opening is provided by a hollow bolt. The opening can be subsequently closed using a sealant.

[0010] If the UWB module has another antenna, that antenna can at least partially, particularly within the opening area, utilize the antenna connector of the first antenna, or have its own antenna connector parallel to it. Thus, the path leading from the vehicle lock only needs to be configured once (claim 7).

[0011] Claim 8 proposes to provide a dual purpose for the potting of the antenna or antenna connector, thereby also potting the energy storage device. This protects the energy storage device from shock and contamination.

[0012] In one design according to claim 9, the antenna connector is proposed to be implemented at least partially via electromagnetic coupling. Thus, signals can be wirelessly transmitted from or to the antenna, for example via a dry / wet zone seal. When the dry / wet zone seal is a purely sealed element, it can be designed to be relatively thin, thereby enabling good transmission power.

[0013] Claim 10 specifically states that, at least when the antenna is arranged outside the housing, the electrical connection of this part can be a coaxial cable.

[0014] According to claim 11, the antenna can be designed to be flat, particularly foil-shaped, thereby providing good transmit / receive characteristics with limited structural space.

[0015] According to another aspect of claim 12, which has independent significance, a UWB module with an antenna is claimed for use in the enclosure of a motor vehicle, particularly the UWB module for a proposed motor vehicle lock assembly, for measuring UWB signals via an antenna through a gap in the body of the enclosure when the enclosure is closed, and / or for transmitting UWB signals through a gap in the body of the enclosure when the enclosure is closed, preferably wherein, when the enclosure is closed, the UWB signal is transmitted via the antenna through the gap in the body to a receiver located behind a metal plate of the enclosure as viewed from the antenna, and / or wherein, when the enclosure is closed, the measured signal is received via the antenna through the gap in the body by a transmitter located behind a metal plate of the enclosure as viewed from the antenna.

[0016] Of particular interest in this invention is the realization, discovered through measurement techniques, that, contrary to all prejudices, it is feasible to use a UWB module behind the metal plate of a closed element, despite the shielding effect of the metal plate. Surprisingly, body clearances, such as door clearances, are sufficient to position the mobile device with high precision even "at corners" behind the shielding of the metal plate.

[0017] All implementation schemes for the proposed motor vehicle lock components can be referenced.

[0018] According to another embodiment of claim 13, which is also independent, a closure element assembly is claimed, having a closure element and the proposed motor vehicle lock assembly arranged in the closure element.

[0019] All implementation schemes for the proposed motor vehicle lock components and applications can be referenced.

[0020] In one design, it is proposed that a motor vehicle, in a positioning routine, uses a UWB module and other UWB modules of the motor vehicle to perform positioning of an operator, particularly an operator's mobile device, which is approaching the motor vehicle, wherein the UWB module, in particular the antenna, is additionally used to involve the function of the enclosed element.

[0021] In one design, this additional function is controlled by the lock control unit, thereby creating synergy between UWB positioning as a global vehicle function and the vehicle lock, where the UWB module is connected to a local unit as a reference enclosure element. For example, the energy consumption of the UWB module can be used to selectively discharge the energy storage device of the vehicle lock. Therefore, in one design, the power supply to the UWB module can be actively switched.

[0022] In another design, the proposed function involving the enclosure element includes the measurement of the UWB module, thereby determining the position and / or velocity of the enclosure element.

[0023] It can be configured so that the UWB module is not used for operator positioning during the execution of functions involving enclosed components.

[0024] To achieve further synergy, the lock control unit can perform at least one opening function of the locking element, specifically manual pressing or electric opening. For this purpose, the lock control unit can directly utilize the antenna signal without circumventing a more central system, such as a separate door control device. This reduces the operational delay of the opening function.

[0025] Other cost advantages stem from the fact that UWB modules can share the power and / or data supply of the vehicle lock.

[0026] When the antenna is positioned at the enclosed element, especially at the end of the enclosed element, the required structural space and wiring costs are reduced. Furthermore, positioning the antenna at the end, away from the swing axis of the enclosed element, increases the antenna's radius of motion, thereby facilitating its positioning and inference of the position and / or velocity of the enclosed element.

[0027] In another design, an antenna is proposed to be positioned behind the body gap of a closed component of a motor vehicle, such that the measurement signal is received by the antenna through the body gap and / or the UWB signal is transmitted through the body gap, and in particular, the operator is detected by the UWB module through the body gap using UWB reflection measurement.

[0028] Another design configuration involves the lock control unit executing a response routine in response to the detection of an operator. In one variant, the operator forms an obstacle, and the lock control device is able to, for example, stop the opening of the closure element with low delay. In another variant, the lock control unit detects an operational gesture during the response routine. For such an operational gesture, body clearances can serve as an interaction surface for the operator, thus making the use of UWB through body clearances particularly effective.

[0029] Furthermore, it can be configured to detect operators using an antenna while the enclosure is open, thereby enabling obstacle identification of constantly changing situations through the movement of the antenna and making it possible to "scan" the surrounding environment.

[0030] It is also feasible to additionally use the antenna to detect operators in the interior space of a motor vehicle, especially to detect operational gestures related to enclosed components.

[0031] In one design, the seals of the vehicle body gap are partially designed to attenuate UWB signals, thereby achieving directional detection characteristics. When the vehicle body gap acts as an interaction surface determined by these directional characteristics, this surface can also be illuminated, allowing for the integration of another function into the vehicle lock and providing the operator with a visual understanding of where to perform the operation gestures.

[0032] The invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate embodiments only. In the drawings:

[0033] Figure 1 The image shows the side door of a motor vehicle equipped with a vehicle lock during operator positioning.

[0034] Figure 2 Another view of the side door is shown, with a magnified view of the vehicle lock located on the end side.

[0035] Figure 3 A variant of a motor vehicle lock with a UWB antenna is shown, and

[0036] Figure 4 The measurement structure of the proposed motor vehicle and the corresponding measurement results are shown.

[0037] These figures illustrate a motor vehicle 1 having a closure element 2, here a front side door capable of swinging about a swing axis. The motor vehicle 1 has a motor vehicle lock assembly 3 for the closure element 2. The motor vehicle lock assembly 3 has a motor vehicle lock 4 and a UWB module 5. The closure element 2 is a closure element that closes and releases a vehicle body opening. The motor vehicle lock assembly 3 can be arranged in the closure element 2 or on the side of the vehicle body. In principle, the motor vehicle lock assembly 3 can also be assigned to other closure elements 2 of the motor vehicle 1. See the opening section for possible closure elements 2. The vehicle body opening can be used for passenger entry and exit or for storing luggage. Preferably, the closure element 2 is a swingable flap, particularly a side door or rear cover. Alternatively, the closure element 2 can also cover a functional opening; for this purpose, the closure element can be designed as a fuel tank cap or a charging cover. These figures illustrate a front side door as a closure element 2, as a preferred application scenario. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As can be clearly seen, the UWB module 5 can be arranged together with the vehicle lock 4 in the enclosure element 2, which is in this case, the side door. More precisely, the UWB module 5 and the vehicle lock 4 can be arranged at the end side 6, which is opposite to the swing axis of the enclosure element 2.

[0038] Here, and preferably, the vehicle lock 4 has a latch and a locking pawl as locking elements, as is common. The latch can then be brought to the locked position, in which the latch remains engaged with the locking component, and in which the latch can be secured by the locking pawl (not shown).

[0039] Preferably, the UWB module 5 is adapted for communication in a frequency range of 3.1 GHz to 10.6 GHz. The UWB signal used by the UWB module 5 is preferably a pulse with a bandwidth of at least 500 MHz, and more preferably a pulse with a duration on the order of nanoseconds.

[0040] UWB module 5 has at least one antenna 7 for receiving measurement signals and / or for transmitting UWB signals, and a UWB control unit 8 connected to the antenna 7 for evaluating measurement signals and / or for generating UWB signals. Figure 1 As shown, antenna 7 can also be positioned at end 6 of enclosure 2. UWB control unit 8 may be functionally limited and, for example, designed only in hardware form. Preferably, UWB control unit 8 has at least one microcontroller. The measurement signal may be a UWB signal received from mobile device 9, and thus part of, particularly, bidirectional communication, and / or a measurement signal from reflection measurement.

[0041] According to the invention, the UWB module 5 is connected to or integrated into the vehicle lock 4 via a local electrical connection 10. Herein and preferably, this local electrical connection 10 is at least largely, and particularly entirely, a wired connection. The term "local" here refers to the manner of integration within the system of the vehicle 1. This local electrical connection 10 is not made via the central communication system of the vehicle 1. Communication via the central control device of the vehicle 1 should be considered global. Similarly, this local electrical connection 10 is not made via the central CAN bus of the vehicle 1. Preferably, this local electrical connection 10 is a cable connection that connects only the UWB module 5 to the vehicle lock 4. Figure 3 Examples of this are shown. In some embodiments, the UWB module 5 is thus connected to the vehicle lock 4, i.e., the antenna 7 is connected to the vehicle lock 4 via a coaxial cable, and the UWB control unit 8 is integrated into the vehicle lock 4. Figure 3 b) to e). Alternatively, antenna 7 and thus the UWB control unit 8 can also be integrated as a whole into the vehicle lock 4 ( Figure 3 a) and f)).

[0042] The electrical connection 10 in this area is preferably a connection for data (here, measurement signals and UWB signals) and / or for power supply to the UWB module 5. Wherever there is a control device for the enclosure element 2 separate from the vehicle lock 4, the UWB module 5 is preferably connected to that control device only indirectly via the vehicle lock 4.

[0043] from Figure 1 and Figure 2 As can be seen, when the enclosure element 2 is closed, the antenna 7 is preferably arranged to be covered. When the enclosure element 2 is open, the antenna may be accessible, but is preferably visually indistinguishable, for example, arranged behind a UWB-penetrable protective element to avoid human manipulation.

[0044] Antenna 7 may also be arranged at or in the handle slot, and is preferably used to detect operations inserted into the handle slot, which may be another local function, such as those described later.

[0045] Herein and preferably, the UWB module 5 and the vehicle lock 4 are components of an installation module that can be operated independently, and thus can be installed on the vehicle 1, particularly the sealing element 2, together with other components when appropriate.

[0046] Preferably, the vehicle lock 4 has a housing 11 in which the lock control unit 12 is disposed. The UWB control unit 8 may also be disposed in the housing 11. The lock control unit 12 and the UWB control unit 8 may even use a common processor or form a common, inseparable control unit. It can be configured such that the processor of the UWB module 5 is used to read the sensors of the vehicle lock 4 and / or control the motor of the vehicle lock 4. Therefore, it is conceivable that the lock control unit 12 is partially or completely shaped by the microcontroller or similar device of the UWB module 5. It should be noted that the UWB control unit 8 or its microcontroller, etc., can generally be distinguished from the lock control unit 12, especially when the UWB module 5 itself forms a unit, particularly as an outsourced component. It is conceivable that a lock control unit 12 separate from the UWB control unit 8 is not provided. The lock control unit 12 and the UWB control unit 8, whether as separate control units or implicitly as a common control unit, may share a circuit board, on which the antenna 7 may also be disposed.

[0047] like Figure 3 As can also be seen in the diagram, the vehicle lock 4 may have a wet zone 13 and a dry zone 14. The lock control unit 12 and the UWB control unit 8 may be arranged together in the same dry zone 14, and in which, for example, they share a circuit board.

[0048] like Figure 3As shown in various variations, the antenna 7 can be arranged in the vehicle lock 4 at an opening in the housing 11. Preferably, this opening in the housing 11 has another function, specifically serving as an inlet 15 for the locking component. Figure 3 Similarly, a dedicated opening can be provided, which, when appropriate, has a UWB-transparent window (a). Figure 3 f)).

[0049] Similarly, it is conceivable that the antenna 7 partially protrudes from the housing 11 through the opening in the housing 11. Figure 3 (b)). In this case, antenna 7 can be designed as a cylindrical antenna.

[0050] In other variations, the antenna 7 is arranged outside the housing 11, particularly at the housing 11, and is connected to the UWB control unit 8 by means of the antenna connector 16, particularly the coaxial cable. Figure 3 All variations of antenna connector 16 are shown, which can be configured independently of the arrangement of antenna 7. Figure 3 In c) to e), antenna 7 is external. Antenna 7, which is arranged outside the housing 11, can be arranged in the recess of the metal plate 17 of the enclosure element 2 and / or in or at the seal of the enclosure element 2.

[0051] Preferably, the antenna connector 16 extends through an opening in the housing 11, and more preferably, this opening in the housing 11 has another function, particularly as an inlet 15 for a locking component. Figure 3 e).

[0052] Figure 3 As shown in b) to d), the opening of the housing 11 is provided in a hollow bolt for securing the housing 11 to the closure element 2 or the body of the motor vehicle 1. Preferably, the antenna 7 ( Figure 3 b) or antenna connector 16 Figure 3 c) and d) are particularly used for potting, especially by casting, the sealant placed in the hollow bolt. Alternatively, the hollow bolt can be screwed into the sealant, thereby sealing the hollow bolt in the same way.

[0053] Furthermore, and preferably, the UWB module 5 has an additional antenna 7 connected to the UWB control unit 8 for receiving measurement signals and / or transmitting UWB signals. This additional antenna 7 is connected to the UWB control unit 8 via an additional antenna connector 16, which extends at least partially parallel to the first antenna connector 16 or is at least partially formed by the first antenna connector 16. Figure 3 d) illustrates this situation, while Figure 3The remaining parts each have their own independent antenna connector 16 for the additional antenna 7. Both antennas 7 can be used for both transmission and reception, or one can be used for transmission and the other for reception.

[0054] Furthermore, the energy storage unit 18 can be encapsulated together with the antenna 7 or the antenna connector 16, particularly cast into the housing 11. Figure 3 d), where the sealant is not shown.

[0055] Specifically, to bridge the dry and wet zone isolation, the antenna connector 16 can be configured to have a wireless segment in which measurement signals and / or UWB signals are transmitted between the UWB control unit 8 and the antenna 7 via electromagnetic coupling, particularly across the sealed section of the housing 11. For this purpose, coupling antennas can be provided, for example, on both sides of the dry and wet zone isolation, with the antenna connector 16 extending wirelessly between these coupling antennas.

[0056] Preferably, the local electrical connection 10 has a coaxial cable, particularly the antenna connector 16. As has been derived from the aforementioned variant, the UWB module 5 can also be partially integrated into the vehicle lock 4, for example, when the antenna 7 is arranged outside the housing 11 and the UWB control unit 8 is arranged inside the housing 11.

[0057] Furthermore, and preferably, the antenna 7 is designed to be flat, particularly foil-shaped, and preferably, the flat antenna 7 is pasted or printed on the housing 11.

[0058] According to another independently significant proposal, an application of a UWB module 5 with antenna 7 to a closed element 2 of a motor vehicle 1, particularly to a UWB module 5 in a motor vehicle lock assembly 3, is proposed. This module is used to measure UWB signals through a body gap 19 of the closed element 2 via antenna 7 when the closed element 2 is in the closed state, and / or to transmit UWB signals through the body gap 19 of the closed element 2 when the closed element 2 is in the closed state. The body gap 19 is the gap between the closed element 2 and another body component, which is either another closed element 2 or a fixed component. Other gaps, such as intentionally designed radar windows that do not have other functions, are not considered as body gaps 19 here.

[0059] If you have already referenced Figures 1 to 3 As shown in the preferred arrangement described, antenna 7 can be positioned behind metal plate 17. Therefore, antenna 7 is expected to be excessively shielded.

[0060] However, experiments conducted using a commercially available UWB module 5 and a commercially available mobile device 9 (smartphone) in a commercially available motor vehicle 1 yielded... Figure 4 The results shown indicate that these experiments were conducted in Figure 4 The diagram above illustrates this. Surprisingly, distance measurement of a smartphone using the UWB module 5 can be achieved with sufficient accuracy within an angular range of -90° to +90° from the body clearance 19 (here, the side door clearance). Figure 4 The actual and measured positions (outermost measurement) are shown when the maximum distance reaches 4m. The distance measurement deviation is less than 0.5m across the entire measurement range (approximately 0m to approximately 4m, and -90° to +90°). No angle measurements were performed; therefore, the marked angles were measured manually. Thus, these experiments demonstrate that UWB distance measurement through the vehicle body gap 19 is feasible even when the mobile device 9 is shielded by the metal plate 17.

[0061] Here, and preferably, the UWB signal is measured by means of the antenna 7 through the body gap 19 of the enclosure element 2 when the enclosure element 2 is closed, and / or, the UWB signal is transmitted through the body gap 19 of the enclosure element 2 when the enclosure element 2 is closed.

[0062] Preferably, with the enclosure element 2 closed, the UWB signal is transmitted to the receiver 20 via the antenna 7 through the vehicle body gap 19. The receiver, viewed from the antenna 7, is positioned behind the metal plate 17 of the enclosure element 2. Alternatively or additionally, with the enclosure element 2 closed, the measurement signal is received by the transmitter 21 via the antenna 7 through the vehicle body gap 19. The transmitter, viewed from the antenna 7, is positioned behind the metal plate 17 of the enclosure element 2.

[0063] All implementation schemes of the proposed motor vehicle lock component 3 can be referenced.

[0064] According to another independent proposal, a closed element assembly 22 is proposed, which has a closed element 2 and a motor vehicle lock assembly 3 arranged in the closed element 2.

[0065] All implementation schemes of the proposed motor vehicle lock component 3 and the proposed application can be referenced.

[0066] It can be configured such that the UWB control unit 8 communicates with the lock control unit 12 and / or is integrated into the vehicle lock 4.

[0067] One possible use of the UWB module 5 involves the location of operator 23. It can be configured that, in a positioning routine, vehicle 1 uses the UWB module 5 and another UWB module 5 of vehicle 1 to perform the location of operator 23, particularly operators approaching vehicle 1, and especially the location of operator 23's mobile device 9. Figure 1 Another UWB module 5 is shown; other UWB modules can be distributed arbitrarily.

[0068] Generally, "positioning" should be understood as determining the position information of the operator 23 relative to the vehicle 1 via UWB operation using the UWB module 5. Preferably, within the framework of positioning, the distance and direction information of the operator 23 relative to the vehicle 1 can be determined. This positioning can be performed by the main control unit 24 of the vehicle 1 or by the lock control unit 12.

[0069] Particularly preferably, positioning is configured to be performed via UWB communication between at least one UWB module 5 and a mobile device 9 assigned to the operator 23. The mobile device 9 may be designed as, for example, an electronic key, mobile phone, PDA, wearable device, etc. In this case, the UWB module 5 and the mobile device 9 are adapted for positioning based on bidirectional UWB communication. Specifically, UWB communication is performed according to standards such as IEEE 802.15.4z, and runtime information is exchanged between the UWB module 5 and the mobile device 9, based on which positioning is performed.

[0070] Location can be triggered by detecting the mobile device 9 via other wireless communications, particularly BLE communication or similar communications. Specifically, in the case of the UWB module 5 being deactivated, at least one BLE module that can be assigned to the sensor system detects the mobile device 9 entering the detection range by sending and receiving advertising signals. Once the mobile device 9 is detected via BLE communication, the UWB module 5 can be activated for location.

[0071] In principle, it can be configured to verify the mobile device 9 using UWB communication and / or BLE communication. For example, one or more actions may be performed only if UWB communication and / or BLE communication determine that the detected mobile device 9 has been stored as a licensed mobile device 9 of the motor vehicle 1.

[0072] In another design, the vehicle lock 4 is unlocked in response to the approach of an operator 23 detected during positioning, by bringing the vehicle lock 4 into an unlocked state. Therefore, the operator 23 can selectively open the closing element 2 upon approach by performing an operational gesture or by actuating the door handle. Preferably, the approach of the operator 23 is considered detected when positioning indicates that the distance between the mobile device 9 and the vehicle 1 is below a predetermined first distance. This first distance can also be predetermined based on direction.

[0073] Preferably, the UWB module 5, particularly the antenna 7, is additionally used for functions related to the enclosure element 2. The functions related to the enclosure element 2 are local functions, while positioning is a global function. Thus, a cooperative multi-use of the UWB module 5 is achieved through its connection to the vehicle lock 4.

[0074] Particularly preferred and in a coordinated manner, the functions relating to the locking element 2 can be controlled by the lock control unit 12. Preferably, the functions relating to the locking element 2 are performed during the positioning of the operator 23, in particular without affecting the positioning of the operator 23.

[0075] In one embodiment, the function of the sealing element 2 involves targeted, particularly partial, discharge and preferably diagnostics of the energy storage 18 of the vehicle lock 4 of the vehicle lock assembly 3 for the sealing element 2. This targeted discharge is typically important for the energy storage 18, which may be a supercapacitor, when the supercapacitor is used as an emergency power source, so that it can be operated, particularly opened, even after the main power supply to the vehicle 1 fails, in order to enable operation, particularly opening, the vehicle lock 4. Thus, provisions may exist for voltage levels at specific temperatures and, for example, periodic diagnostics of capacity.

[0076] Therefore, it is feasible for the lock control unit 12 to switch the power supply to the UWB module 5 during the positioning process of operator 23, specifically by temporarily supplying power to the UWB module 5 from the energy storage unit 18 and thereby selectively discharging the energy storage unit 18. If the positioning involves multiple positioning messages, it can be configured so that the UWB module 5 is powered by the energy storage unit 18 only for a portion of these positioning messages.

[0077] Preferably, the energy storage device 18 is discharged to a predetermined, particularly temperature-related, rated voltage or discharged to a voltage below that rated voltage. Additionally or alternatively, the lock control unit 12 may be configured to diagnose the energy storage device 18 during power supply to the UWB module 5, or to diagnose it during recharging after a targeted discharge.

[0078] In another design, the function of the closure element 2 is configured to include positioning of the UWB module 5, particularly via another UWB module 5 and / or the mobile device 9. Preferably, the position and / or velocity of the closure element 2 are determined from the positioning of the UWB module 5, particularly via the lock control unit 12. This leads to a feasible scheme for determining the opening angle of the closure element 2, which can be calculated using known closure element kinematics.

[0079] Similarly, it can be configured so that UWB module 5 is not used for positioning operator 23 during the execution of functions involving enclosing element 2. Therefore, UWB module 5 can be detached from positioning during the execution of functions involving enclosing element 2, during which positioning can continue to be performed by other UWB modules 5.

[0080] Furthermore, and preferably, the lock control unit 12 operates an ejector unit 25 for partially pressing open the closure element 2 and / or a closure element drive device 26 for fully opening the closure element 2. It is well known that the ejector unit 25 is used to create an insertion gap through which the handle can become accessible or replace the handle.

[0081] Further synergistic effects occur when the lock control unit 12 obtains the measurement signals from the antenna 7 directly, and thus without intermediate access to a control unit (such as the main control unit 24 or a separate door control device) outside the vehicle lock assembly 3, as is preferably the case, and operates the ejector unit 25 and / or the closing element drive device 26 based on these measurement signals. This reduces the latency when operating the corresponding drive device by connecting the UWB module 5 to the vehicle lock 4.

[0082] Furthermore, and preferably, the vehicle lock 4 supplies voltage to the UWB module 5, and / or the vehicle lock 4 provides a data interface, particularly a CAN bus interface, to the UWB control unit 8.

[0083] As shown in the figure, the antenna 7 can be arranged at the closed element 2. Preferably, the antenna 7 is arranged at the end 6 of the closed element 2, which is opposite to the swing axis of the closed element 2. Thus, the antenna 7 swings through a large angle, which can effectively detect the opening angle. Independently, the antenna 7 is arranged near the vehicle body gap 19.

[0084] Similarly, the operator 23 can be detected by the UWB module 5 through the vehicle body gap 19, specifically by means of UWB reflectance measurement. This operator detection can be an additional function, provided that the detection is subsequently used locally as exemplarily described hereafter. The UWB module 5 can switch from the mode for locating the mobile device 9 to reflectance mode when a switching condition occurs.

[0085] The motor vehicle 1, particularly the lock control unit 12, can execute a response routine in response to the detection of the operator 23. In this response routine, it is preferable to react to the operator 23 as an obstacle, particularly by stopping or braking the closing element drive 26 of the closing element 2. Alternatively or additionally, a warning may be issued. Here, the obstacle is a local obstacle to opening the closing element 2, such as a cyclist approaching from behind (a so-called "door-opening killer"). The detection range of the proposed component is particularly suitable for this.

[0086] UWB module 5 can also be used to perform general obstacle recognition, particularly the recognition of stationary obstacles such as walls and ceilings. Reaction routines can also be executed for this purpose, to which the above applies accordingly. Ceiling recognition can be performed particularly efficiently via vehicle lock 4, especially when the closure element 2 is opened upwards (e.g., as a rear cover or front trunk lid).

[0087] Furthermore, and preferably, the detection of a predetermined operational gesture is performed within the response routine. Preferably, the operational gesture includes a swipe along or laterally across the vehicle body gap 19. It is evident that the component proposed in this invention is particularly sensitive to this.

[0088] Responses to operational gestures may include unlocking the vehicle lock 4 and / or opening the closure element 2 via the closure element drive 26 and / or pressing open the closure element 2 via the ejector unit 25. Operational gestures may also be foot gestures, particularly when the closure element 2 is a rear cover. Generally, the body clearance 19, as an interaction surface, can be illuminated, particularly by the lighting assembly connected to the vehicle lock 4.

[0089] In gesture recognition, UWB radar signals are used to monitor the execution of operational gestures within the area of ​​interest. Preferably, radar sensor values ​​determined by the transmission and reception of UWB radar signals are checked against predetermined operational gesture criteria to determine whether a valid operational gesture exists. Here, the operational gesture criteria may involve preset characteristics of the operational gesture to be performed, such as the position, velocity, and acceleration of the detected radar target. Based on the current consistency between the radar sensor values ​​and these characteristics, it can be determined whether the detection should be classified as a valid operational gesture or discarded as an invalid one. A reaction is triggered when a valid operational gesture is found.

[0090] It is also conceivable that, with the aid of the UWB module 5, and particularly the antenna 7, the detection of the operator 23 within the interior space of the vehicle 1, especially the detection of the operator 23's gestures within the interior space, can be performed. The arrangement of the antenna 7 proposed in this invention is also advantageous in that it can also be directed inwards. Therefore, it is suitable to utilize this. The gestures of the operator 23 can be specifically targeted at the opening of the closure element 2.

[0091] Here, and preferably, the use of the UWB module 5 is switched between inward and outward use depending on the location of the operator 23, particularly whether he / she is staying inside or outside.

[0092] Preferably, a seal is arranged in the vehicle body gap 19, which is partially designed to be UWB-permeable and partially to attenuate UWB, and in particular, to be UWB-impermeable. Preferably, the vehicle lock assembly 3 has a light-emitting element, particularly connected to the vehicle lock 4, which illuminates the vehicle body gap 19 in the UWB-permeable area of ​​the seal.

[0093] In this invention, the motor vehicle 1 itself is also relevant.

Claims

1. A motor vehicle lock assembly for a closed element (2) of a motor vehicle (1), the motor vehicle lock assembly having a motor vehicle lock (4) and a UWB module (5), wherein the UWB module (5) has at least one antenna (7) for receiving measurement signals and / or for transmitting UWB signals and a UWB control unit (8) connected to the antenna (7) for evaluating the measurement signals and / or for generating the UWB signals, wherein the UWB module (5) is connected to the motor vehicle lock (4) via a local electrical connection (10) or integrated into the motor vehicle lock (4).

2. The vehicle lock assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The vehicle lock (4) has a housing (11), the lock control unit (12) is arranged in the housing (11), and the UWB control unit (8) is arranged in the housing (11). Preferably, the lock control unit (12) and the UWB control unit (8) use a common processor.

3. The vehicle lock assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The antenna (7) is arranged in the motor vehicle lock (4) at the opening of the housing (11), preferably the opening of the housing (11) has another function, in particular as an inlet (15) for the locking component.

4. The vehicle lock assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The antenna (7) protrudes from the housing (11) partially through an opening in the housing (11).

5. The vehicle lock assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The antenna (7) is arranged outside the housing (11), particularly at the housing (11), and the antenna (7) is connected to the UWB control unit (8) by means of an antenna connector (16), particularly a coaxial cable. Preferably, the antenna connector (16) extends through an opening in the housing (11). More preferably, the opening in the housing (11) has another function, particularly as an inlet (15) for a locking component.

6. The motor vehicle lock assembly according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that, The opening of the housing (11) is provided in a hollow bolt for fixing the housing (11) to the closure element (2) or the body of the motor vehicle (1). Preferably, the antenna (7) or the antenna connector (16) is arranged in the hollow bolt by means of a sealant, particularly by casting.

7. The motor vehicle lock assembly according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that, The UWB module (5) has an additional antenna (7) connected to the UWB control unit (8) for receiving measurement signals and / or transmitting UWB signals. The additional antenna (7) is connected to the UWB control unit (8) via an additional antenna connector (16) that extends at least partially parallel to the first antenna connector (16) or is at least partially formed by the first antenna connector (16).

8. The motor vehicle lock assembly according to claim 6 and, where appropriate, claim 7, characterized in that, The energy storage device (18) is encapsulated together with the antenna (7) or antenna connector (16), particularly cast into the housing (11).

9. The motor vehicle lock assembly according to claim 5, and where appropriate according to any one of claims 6 to 8, characterized in that, The antenna connector (16) has a wireless segment in which the measurement signal and / or the UWB signal are transmitted between the UWB control unit (8) and the antenna (7) via electromagnetic coupling, particularly across the segment that seals the housing (11).

10. The motor vehicle lock assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The local electrical connection (10) has a coaxial cable, particularly the antenna connector (16), and / or the UWB module (5) is partially integrated into the vehicle lock (4).

11. The motor vehicle lock assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The antenna (7) is designed to be flat, particularly foil-shaped, and preferably, the flat antenna (7) is pasted or printed on the housing (11).

12. An application of a UWB module (5) having an antenna (7) to a closure element (2) of a motor vehicle (1), particularly to a motor vehicle lock assembly (3) according to any one of the preceding claims, for measuring UWB signals by means of the antenna (7) through the body gap (19) of the closure element (2) in the closed state, and / or for transmitting UWB signals through the body gap (19) of the closure element (2) in the closed state, preferably In one location, the UWB signal is transmitted via the antenna (7) through the vehicle body gap (19) to a receiver (20) located behind the metal plate (17) of the enclosure (2) as viewed from the antenna (7) when the enclosure (2) is closed, and / or the measurement signal is received via the antenna (7) through the vehicle body gap (19) by a transmitter (21) located behind the metal plate (17) of the enclosure (2) as viewed from the antenna (7).

13. A closure element assembly having a closure element (2) and a motor vehicle lock assembly (3) arranged in the closure element (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

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