Optical sensor system with light guide element and transmitter

Abstract

Optical sensor technology (OS) for a lidar system application, and / or a lidar system application in which, by means of the optical sensor technology (OS), a monitoring area and / or a detection area or a detection characteristic can be variably adapted to a specific situation during operation, comprising at least one light guide element (LE) and a transmitting source (SQ), characterized in that - the light guide element (LM) is designed to be bidirectional in order to guide one or more frequencies of an electromagnetic wave spectrum (EMW) in two different directions, - the light guide element (LE) at a coupling point (EKS) has the transmitting source (SQ), - the light guide element (LE) has a prismatic characteristic (P) and / or a lenticular characteristic in the area of ​​an exit (A) and / or in the area of ​​a termination (AS), and - the transmitting source (SQ) of the optical sensor (OS) is designed to emit at least two different frequencies of the electromagnetic wave spectrum (EMW), - where the frequencies lie outside the portion of the electromagnetic wave spectrum visible to humans (EMW), and - the transmitting source (SQ) of the optical sensor (OS) is designed to change and / or adapt the at least two different frequencies of the electromagnetic wave spectrum (EMW) to be emitted during operation, - whereby by changing the frequency of the transmitting source (SQ) an angle of detection and / or a monitoring characteristic can be variably adjusted, and - the frequencies of a receiver (EP) for detecting at least two different frequencies of the electromagnetic wave spectrum (EMF), and / or - the frequencies of the transmitting source (SQ) are adaptable for the emission of at least two different frequencies of the electromagnetic wave spectrum (EMW), wherein - depending on the monitoring area (ÜB1, ÜB2) and / or detection area (ÜB1, ÜB2), the frequency(ies) of the electromagnetic wave spectrum (EMW) can be changed.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to an optical sensor system with a light guide element and a transmitter source.

[0002] The trend in vehicle development in recent years shows that vehicles are becoming increasingly larger - whether SUVs or conventional motor vehicles.

[0003] One problem that arises as a result is that parking in parking lots or garages is becoming increasingly difficult / problematic, since the size of the parking lots or garages remains the same, or does not follow this "growth trend".

[0004] For many drivers, parking forwards is just about manageable, whereas when reversing out of a parking space, drivers often reach their limits in terms of driving technique.

[0005] The latter can be observed very well in parking garages based on the various paint traces on the "boundaries", as well as on the door jambs of garages.

[0006] A solution to support vehicle drivers is described in application DE 10 2018 002 992 A1.

[0007] A disadvantage of this solution, or rather a weakness of such a solution which therefore needs to be improved / further developed, is that the monitoring area cannot be variably adapted to a situation during operation (after such a system has been installed in the vehicle).

[0008] German patent DE 601 19 122 T2 discloses a side mirror which typically employs direct and / or combined optical systems (mirrors, prisms, lenses and / or video cameras). It consists of signal-generating and structural modules of compatible size and dimensions that work together and are interchangeable, allowing for the combination of assemblies and the creation of various models where common parts are used for different vehicles with 2, 3, 4 or more wheels.

[0009] From the document DE 10 2012 203 315 A1, a device and a method for measuring the distance or thickness of an object are known, comprising at least two optical distance sensors designed to emit light from a light source and to which a receiver for light reflected from the object is assigned, wherein a distance or thickness determination is carried out on the basis of the distances determined by the distance sensors between the distance sensors and the object. Purpose of the invention:

[0010] The object of the invention can be seen as being to improve / further develop optical sensors for environmental monitoring or detection in general, so that the monitoring or detection range / detection characteristics can be variably adapted to a specific situation during operation (after such a system has been installed in the vehicle), whereby the solution with regard to the application can relate to a very simple sensor for detecting two or more different waves / frequencies of the electromagnetic wave spectrum, or to an image-generating sensor with an image receiver chip of an environment detection system (e.g. a camera, night vision camera) which is designed for detection of at least two or more waves / frequencies of the electromagnetic wave spectrum.

[0011] To facilitate understanding of the problem described above, this is illustrated in the attached document. Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 are visually represented, which will be described in more detail later. Solution to the problem:

[0012] The problem is solved by the subject matter of independent claim 1, which possesses the features thereof. Further developments of the invention are described in the dependent claims and the following description.

[0013] The optical sensor technology according to the invention for a lidar system application, and / or a lidar system application, in which, by means of the optical sensor technology (OS), a monitoring area and / or a detection area or the detection characteristic can be variably adapted to a specific situation during operation, which has at least one light guide element and a transmitting source, is designed, for example, such that - the optical fiber element is designed to be bidirectional in order to guide one or more frequencies of an electromagnetic wave spectrum in two different directions, - the light guide element has the transmitting source at a coupling point, - the light guide element has a prismatic and / or lenticular characteristic in the area of ​​an exit and / or in the area of ​​a termination, and - the transmitting source of the optical sensor is designed to emit at least two different frequencies of the electromagnetic wave spectrum, - where the frequencies lie outside the portion of the electromagnetic wave spectrum visible to humans (EMW), and - the transmitting source (SQ) of the optical sensor (OS) is designed to change and / or adapt the at least two different frequencies of the electromagnetic wave spectrum (EMW) to be emitted during operation, - whereby by changing (adapting) the frequency of the transmitting source (SQ) the angle of detection and / or the monitoring characteristic can be variably (adaptively) adjusted, and - the frequencies of a receiver (EP) for detecting at least two different frequencies of the electromagnetic wave spectrum (EMF), and / or - the frequencies of the transmitting source (SQ) are adaptable for the emission of at least two different frequencies of the electromagnetic wave spectrum (EMW), wherein - depending on the monitoring area (ÜB1, ÜB2) and / or detection area (ÜB1, ÜB2), the frequency(ies) of the electromagnetic wave spectrum (EMW) can be changed.

[0014] In other words: The solution of the invention is based on the knowledge, or rather on the physical laws of a prism, that - in the case of electromagnetic waves when passing through a prism, - with a constant angle of entry, - the exit angle changes depending on the frequency of the electromagnetic waves, - and thus, as a result, a monitoring area / directional characteristic can be varied / adjusted depending on the frequency (by varying the frequency of the electromagnetic waves).

[0015] Such a solution approach is described in more detail in application DE 10 2018 213 652 A1, to which reference is made for content.

[0016] In an advantageous embodiment of the optical sensor technology according to the invention with light guide element and transmitter source, the optical sensor technology is characterized in that by changing (adapting) the frequency of the transmitter source (SQ) and changing (adapting) the frequency of the receiver (EP), the angle of detection and / or the monitoring characteristic can be variably (adaptively) adjusted.

[0017] In an advantageous embodiment of the optical sensor according to the invention with light guide element and transmitting source, the optical sensor is characterized in that the transmitting source of the optical sensor is further configured to emit at least two different frequencies of the electromagnetic wave spectrum in parallel and / or sequentially during operation.

[0018] In an advantageous embodiment of the optical sensor according to the invention with light guide element and transmitting source, the optical sensor is characterized in that the prismatic characteristic and / or lens-shaped characteristic in the area of ​​the exit and / or in the area of ​​the termination of the light guide element is combined with the light guide element - are trained together as a single unit, or - is designed as a separate prism-shaped element, or - is formed as a separate lens-shaped element.

[0019] In an advantageous embodiment of the optical sensor technology according to the invention with light guide element and transmitting source, the optical sensor technology is characterized by the fact that - the coupling point for the transmitting source is located at one end of the optical fiber element, and - the prism-shaped characteristic is located in the area of ​​the exit and / or in the area of ​​the termination, at the other end of the light guide element.

[0020] In an advantageous embodiment of the optical sensor technology according to the invention with light guide element and transmitting source, the optical sensor technology is characterized by the fact that - the light guide element has a disconnect point, as well as - the optical sensor has a receiver for detecting at least two different frequencies of the electromagnetic wave spectrum.

[0021] In an advantageous embodiment of the optical sensor technology according to the invention with light guide element and transmitting source, the optical sensor technology is characterized by the fact that - the solution of the invention is based on the physical laws of a prism, that i. in the case of electromagnetic waves when “passing” through a prism, ii. at a constant angle of entry, iii. the exit angle changes depending on the frequency of the electromagnetic waves, iv. and thus, as a result, a monitoring area or directional characteristic can be varied or adjusted depending on the frequency, in particular by varying the frequency of the electromagnetic waves.

[0022] In an advantageous embodiment of the optical sensor technology according to the invention with light guide element and transmitting source, the optical sensor technology is characterized by the fact that - the electronics of the optical sensors and i. the electronics for mirror adjustment, and / or ii. the light source of the direction indicator signal, located on a common circuit board, and / or - the light guide element also i. serves as an optical element for indicating the direction of travel, and / or ii. serves as an optical element for transmitting a direction indicator signal.

[0023] In an advantageous embodiment of the optical sensor technology according to the invention with light guide element and transmitting source, the optical sensor technology is characterized by the fact that - the bidirectionally designed light guide element is designed as a multi-component light guide element, wherein - that the multi-component light guide element is formed in one piece.

[0024] In an advantageous embodiment of the optical sensor technology according to the invention with light guide element and transmitting source, the optical sensor technology is characterized by the fact that - the receiver's frequency(ies) for detecting at least two different frequencies of the electromagnetic wave spectrum, and / or - the frequency(ies) of the transmitting source for emitting at least two different frequencies of the electromagnetic wave spectrum, - are adapted in such a way that the frequencies of the receiver and the transmitting source are essentially the same.

[0025] Furthermore, the invention relates to a solution variant in which an optical sensor is designed in such a way as to have at least one prism-shaped element and a transmitting source, wherein - the prism-shaped element is designed to be bidirectional in order to direct one or more frequencies of the electromagnetic wave spectrum in two different directions, - the prism-shaped element at the coupling point has a transmitting source, - the prism-shaped element in the area of ​​the exit and / or in the area of ​​the termination emits and / or transmits the electromagnetic wave spectrum in a frequency-dependent manner with different radiation characteristics, and - the transmitting source of the optical sensor is designed to emit at least two different frequencies of the electromagnetic wave spectrum.

[0026] In an advantageous embodiment of the optical sensor according to the invention, the optical sensor is characterized in that, by means of a suitable mechanical realization of the light guide element, the light guide element assumes / has the properties of a "prismatic characteristic", for example when - that the first end of the optical fiber element or the coupling point has an (entry) angle of 90 degrees relative to the transmitter source ( Fig. 15), and - that the other end of the light guide element has an exit angle of other than 90 degrees at the termination ( Fig. 15), whereby - also realizations are possible in which, in general, the (entry) angle (relative to the relevant end region of the optical fiber element) is not equal to the (egress) angle (relative to the other relevant end region of the optical fiber element), whereby with increasing length of the optical fiber element, the first end of the optical fiber element or the coupling point towards the transmitter source increasingly / more closely approximates / strives for an (entry) angle of 90 degrees.

[0027] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the wavelength of the transmitting source is variable between 50 nm and 50 µm, wherein in a further preferred embodiment of the invention the wavelength of the transmitting source is variable only in a sub-range of this spectrum, such as only within the near-infrared range.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment, the prism or prism-shaped element (element with prismatic characteristics) comprises a material that includes glass, acrylic, and / or light-guiding components made of plastic, such as PMMA or polycarbonate. The material of the prism or prism-shaped element (element with prismatic characteristics) is matched to the wavelengths of the transmitting source used and the specified detection range.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment, the prism or prism-shaped element (element with prismatic characteristics) comprises a roof angle between 20 degrees and 70 degrees. The roof angle depends, for example, on the wavelengths of the transmitting source used, the specified detection range, and / or the type of material.

[0030] Further features, effects, and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the description of preferred embodiments of the invention, which also include a combination of the features of the individual figures within the scope of protection. All figures are only schematic representations (not to scale). They show: Fig. Figure 1 schematically shows a vehicle reversing out of a garage. Fig. 2 shows analogous to Fig. 1 schematically a vehicle which is reversing out of a garage, but has an offset in the middle to the garage door opening. Fig. 3 shows analogous to Fig. 2 schematically a vehicle which reverses out of a garage and has an offset in the middle to the garage door opening, wherein an optical sensor is located in the area of ​​the exterior side mirror or the electric exterior side mirror replacement system of the vehicle. Fig. 4 shows analogous to Fig. 2 schematically a vehicle which is reversing out of a garage and has an offset in the middle to the garage door opening, whereby the driver assistance system initiates an automatic lane correction or carries out an alternative measure due to the existing danger. Fig. Figure 5 schematically shows an example of the realization of a motor vehicle mirror (mirror representing as a synonym for exterior side mirror or the electric exterior side mirror replacement system), which shows a common circuit board on which both the electronics of the optical sensor system and the electronics for mirror adjustment, and / or the light source for the direction indicator are located. Fig. Figure 6 schematically shows an example of the implementation of an optical sensor in the area of ​​the motor vehicle mirror using "photo replicas", which shows a plastic element (according to the state of the art) incorporated into the mirror, wherein the incorporated plastic element (light guide technology) is designed both as a direction indicator (turn signal) and as a bidirectional light guide element to direct one or more frequencies of the electromagnetic wave spectrum in two different directions. Fig. Figure 7 schematically shows the light guide element with further details. Fig. Figure 8 schematically shows the optical fiber element according to the invention in principle, in particular the exit (A) and the entry (E) of the optical fiber element (LE) at the “monitoring-side” end. Fig. Figure 9 schematically shows the optical fiber element according to the invention, similar to the Fig. 8 in principle representation, in particular the exit (A) and the entry (E) of the light guide element (LE) at the “monitoring-side” end. Fig. Figure 10 schematically shows the optical fiber element according to the invention, similar to the Fig. 8 in principle, in particular the exit and entry of the light guide element at the “monitoring-side” end. Fig. Figure 11 schematically shows the basic principle of a prismatic characteristic / prismatic contour. Fig. Figure 12 schematically shows a special form of an implementation example of the optical sensor technology according to the invention. Fig. Figure 13 shows schematically, by way of example, how the monitoring area to be monitored can be varied in accordance with the state of the art. Fig. Figure 14 schematically illustrates how the monitoring area can be varied according to the optical sensor technology according to the invention. Fig. Figure 15 schematically shows an exemplary optical fiber element according to the invention, which has the properties of a “prismatic characteristic”.

[0031] The Fig. Figure 1 shows a vehicle (F) reversing (R) out of a garage (G). As can be seen from the Fig. As can be seen from section 1, there is no danger in this driving scenario, since the vehicle (F) is centered in relation to the garage (G).

[0032] As from the Fig. However, as can already be seen, the garage door opening / door recess (G) is only slightly wider than the vehicle width including the side mirrors (S) (side mirrors being used as a synonym for external side mirrors (S) or the electric external side mirror replacement system).

[0033] The Fig. Figure 2 shows a vehicle (F) reversing (R) out of a garage (G). As can be seen from the Fig. As further shown in section 2, there is already a danger in this driving scenario, since the vehicle (F) is NOT centered on the garage (G).

[0034] Conventional ultrasonic sensors (US) (shown only as examples and designated as US) according to the state of the art cannot detect this danger (scratches of the mirror (S) on the reveal (“H”) of the gate opening) because these ultrasonic sensors (US), which act as parking aids, are preferably located in the area of ​​the rear and front “bumper”.

[0035] The Fig. 3 shows analogous to Fig. 2 schematically a vehicle (F) which reverses (R) out of a garage (G) and has an offset in the middle to the garage door opening, as shown in the Fig. As can be seen further in Figure 3, an optical sensor (OS) is located in the area of ​​the exterior side mirror (S) or the electric exterior side mirror replacement system of the vehicle (F), the detection characteristic of which - preferably with a narrow lobe shape - is directed or acts towards the rear, parallel to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle. Note:

[0036] The arrow marked OS (in the Fig. 3 and further Fig.) is symbolically representative of the optical sensor technology (OS) and shows the detection / the operating characteristic of the optical sensor technology (OS), whereby the actual electronics including the light guide element are located in the side mirror (S).

[0037] As from the Fig. As can be seen further in section 3, the optical sensor (OS) in the area of ​​the side mirror (S) can be used to precisely monitor / predict a potential / predicted collision or scraping of the side mirror (S) against the door jamb (“H”) (which essentially represents an obstacle (H)) during a reversing maneuver (R) – in order to subsequently (in the Fig. 3) to initiate countermeasures not shown in detail.

[0038] The Fig. 4 shows analogous to Fig. 2 schematically a vehicle (F) which is reversing (R) out of a garage (G) and has an offset in the middle to the garage door opening, whereby the driver assistance system initiates an automatic lane correction (SK) or carries out an alternative measure due to the existing danger.

[0039] As from the Fig. As can be seen further in Figure 4, the optical sensor system (OS), which is designed as a driver assistance system, shows the driver assistance system in action after a collision or scraping of the side mirror (S) on the jamb of the gate opening ("H") has been predicted, as shown in the Fig. As can be seen in section 4, the environment-sensing driver assistance system performs an automatic (minor) lane correction (SK) as a countermeasure to prevent damage when reversing (R) – provided that the available space / distance on the opposite side of the vehicle to the garage door jamb allows this, whereby alternatively, or if a lane correction (SK) is not possible, the driver assistance system is designed to - initiate automatic braking (vehicle standstill), and / or - to cause the mirror (S) to fold in automatically (as shown in the Fig. 4 indicated), and / or - to generate an acoustic / haptic warning message.

[0040] As from the Fig. As shown schematically in Figure 4, an automatic lane correction (SC) is performed (e.g. via overlay steering), whereby this lane correction (SC) should not be perceptible to the driver in most cases, as in practice only a few centimeters of correction are usually required.

[0041] As in the Fig. 4 not shown in detail, but previously discussed, it is proposed in a further alternative embodiment that if an automatic (minor) lane correction (SK) is not effective, the driver assistance system, upon detecting a predicted collision or scraping of the side mirror (S) on the jamb of the gate opening ("H"), alternatively - initiates automatic braking (vehicle standstill), and / or - causes the mirror (S) to fold in automatically, and / or - generates an acoustic / haptic warning message.

[0042] The Fig. Figure 5 schematically shows an example of the realization of a motor vehicle mirror (S) (motor vehicle mirror representing as a synonym for exterior side mirror (S) or the electric exterior side mirror replacement system), which shows a common circuit board (LP) on which both the electronics (EOS) of the optical sensor (OS) and the electronics (ESV) for mirror adjustment (SV), and / or the light source (B, EKB) for the direction indicator are located.

[0043] As in the Fig. 5 not shown in detail, it is also possible that in an advantageous embodiment of the invention the optical sensor (OS) - in particular in electronic mirror replacement systems - is realized as a camera (K), by means of which, analogous to the previously described and shown realization of the optical sensor (OS) with light guide element (LE), an emitted (visible or invisible) light spectrum / an emitted electromagnetic wave spectrum (EMW) is monitored for reflection (RF) in order to be able to infer an “obstacle” (H, “H”) from the reflection (RF).

[0044] The Fig. Figure 6 schematically shows an example of an optical sensor (OS) implemented in the area of ​​a vehicle mirror (S) using "photo replicas". The "photo replicas" show a plastic element (according to the prior art) incorporated into the mirror (S), wherein the incorporated plastic element is further developed according to the invention as a light guide technology (LT) to function both as a direction indicator (B) (turn signal) and, according to the invention, as an optic or as a bidirectional light guide element (LE) to guide one or more frequencies of the electromagnetic wave spectrum (EMW) in two different directions.

[0045] As from the Fig. As can be seen in section 6, a synergistic use of the "light guide technology" (LT) for the direction indicator (turn signal) is achieved by using the "optical light guide technology" (LT) - a plastic part incorporated / integrated into the side mirror (S) - as light guide technology (LT) for both - the direction indicator (B), as well as - as optics for the optical sensor technology (OS) according to the invention with light guide element (LE).

[0046] The angle of the “terminal” (AS) of the “optical sensor (OS) with light guide element (LE)” can be used to determine the “beaming angle” (monitoring direction).

[0047] In other words: The "angle" / orientation of the "terminal" (AS) – that is, the direction / spatial vector or x / y / z spatial plane towards which the termination (AS) "points" / is directed – of the "optical sensor (OS) with fiber optic element (LE)" allows the exit direction (x / y / z coordinate direction / spatial vector) of the electromagnetic wave spectrum (EMW) to be determined / defined, and thus the "radiation angle" (monitoring direction / spatial vector) to be determined / defined. The spatial vector is oriented perpendicular to the spatial plane, meaning that the exit or entry point is perpendicular to the spatial plane. The advantage of this solution is that - on the one hand, a very flexible solution can be achieved by i. can be brought / placed with the “optical sensor (OS) with light guide element (LE)” up to the edge of an object (e.g., the mirror) provided with the “optical light guide element (LE)” according to the invention, ii. with the “optical sensor technology (OS) with light guide element (LE)” very little installation space is required in the actual monitoring area, since only the space for the “optical light guide element (LE)” is required in the monitoring area, - and on the other hand, a synergistic use of the "optical light guide element (LE)" for different functions is possible, whereby the associated electronics (EOS, ESV, B) can be arranged somewhat away (spaced) from the "location" / "area of ​​effect" of the "optical light guide element (LT)", - and furthermore, a directional characteristic (x / y / z coordinates / spatial vector) of the area to be monitored can be realized with simple means by aligning the “end” (A) of the “optical light guide element” directed into the environment to be monitored according to the desired monitoring direction and by shaping it as an “exit opening” or as an “entry opening” for the electromagnetic wave spectrum (EMW).

[0048] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the emitted (visible and / or invisible) light spectrum (EMF) is modulatable (frequency and / or amplitude modulated) and variable in intensity, so that optimal adaptation to the current environment can be achieved during online operation.

[0049] The lower "photo replica" of the Fig. Figure 6 shows an example of a mirror (S) from its back (SA), or the "mirror exterior" (SA). As can be seen here, in the area of ​​the surface (approximately in the middle) there is an incorporated / integrated plastic part (LT) running approximately horizontally into the side mirror (S), which is / has been modified for the purpose of the invention such that it is used both as a light guide element (LE) for - the direction indicator / turn signal (B), as well as - as optics for the optical sensor technology (OS) according to the invention with light guide element (LE).

[0050] The end of the incorporated / integrated plastic part (LT) extending to the left in the lower image can be seen as the "end" (AS) in the image above.

[0051] The Fig. Figure 7 schematically shows the light guide element (LMI) with further details, and the exemplary embodiment also demonstrates the simplicity (ease of implementation) of the solution.

[0052] The Fig. Figure 7 shows a synergistic use of the optical fiber element (EL) according to the invention - as described above - using the example of an application on the side mirror (S).

[0053] As from the Fig. As can be seen in Figure 7, the light guide element (LE), which is a multi-component light guide element (2KLE), in the example shown as a two-component light guide element (2KLE), consists of two components (K1, K2), wherein the two components (K1, K2) are designed as a single-piece workpiece.

[0054] As from the Fig. As further shown in Figure 7, the first component (K1) is directed towards the inside of the mirror (SI) and the second component (K2) towards the outside of the mirror (SA) / back of the mirror. Section AB shows the two components (K1, K2) of the light guide element (LE), designed as a two-component light guide element (2KLE), in enlarged form, with the two components (K1, K2) exhibiting a small amount of crosstalk between them.

[0055] To minimize the stray light of the coupled signal / electromagnetic wave spectrum (EMF), the optical signal / electromagnetic wave spectrum (EMF) for monitoring is coupled in, preferably in the "inner component area" (K1). To avoid coupled-in interference light, the "feedback" of the reflected signal in the light guide element (LE), designed as a two- or multi-component light guide element (2KLE), can also take place in an "inner component area." In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it is also possible for the light guide element (LE), in particular a component (K1, K2), to be designed such that one or more frequencies of the electromagnetic wave spectrum (EMF) can be bidirectionally guided in two different directions by means of a component (K1, K2) of the two- or multi-component light guide element (2KLE).

[0056] Of course, that's in the Fig. The two-component light guide element (2KLE) shown above is not limited to the shape shown, but can also have other geometric shapes (e.g. rectangular, square, round, triangular, polygonal, oval, etc.), as exemplified in the design / illustration at the very bottom.

[0057] In the upper half of the image Fig. Figure 7 shows again visually, using images / “photo replicas”, how the two-component light guide element (2KLE), in particular its “exit” (A) / “termination” (AS) / “entry” (E) is to be integrated / arranged on or in the vehicle mirror (S).

[0058] In the lower half of the image of Fig. Figure 7 shows the two-component light guide element (2KLE) with further details. As can be seen more clearly here, - both a coupling point (EKS) for coupling in the electromagnetic wave spectrum (EMW), - as well as an output coupling point (ACS) for decoupling the reflected electromagnetic wave spectrum (EMF), wherein the input coupling point (ICP) acts as a "transmitter" or transmitting source (SQ) (transmitting electronics symbolically shown as a diode) of the signal for optical monitoring of the environment, and the output coupling point (ACS) acts as a "receiver" or receiver (EP) for detecting (receiver electronics symbolically shown as a diode) the signal for optical monitoring of the environment. Furthermore, the figure symbolically shows the input coupling point (ICP) of the direction indicator signal (B) (the turn signal) by means of a diode. ICP, ACS & ICP are each on the electronic side.

[0059] In the lower half of the image of Fig. Figure 7 shows, in particular, the monitoring-side “exit” (A) / “termination” (AS), or “entry” (E) for the electromagnetic wave spectrum (EMW) of the two-component optical fiber element (2KLE). Furthermore, the Fig. 7. In the area of ​​the "exit" (A) / "closure" (AS) or "entry" (E), there is an obstacle (H) which generates a reflection (R). Furthermore, the Fig. 7 by means of arrows, the bidirectional “flow direction” of the electromagnetic wave spectrum (EMW) in the two components (K1, K2) of the two-component optical fiber element (2KLE).

[0060] The terms “optical sensor technology” (OS) and “light guide element” (LE) are to be understood as generalized placeholders in light of the invention, or the designs are not limited to the light spectrum perceptible to the human eye, but also include realizations which lie in the non-visible color spectrum / electromagnetic wave spectrum (EMW).

[0061] In other words: In light of the invention, the terms "optical sensor technology" (OS) and "light guide element" (LE) also include applications which - within, and / or - outside, especially UV or IR rays (ultraviolet or infrared rays), the portion of the electromagnetic spectrum visible to humans / electromagnetic wave spectrum (EMW), provided that these can be realized with materials of classic optical fiber technology, such as fiber optics, light-colored plastics, and the like.

[0062] In the context of the invention, the term "one-piece" means that the workpiece / element is a single piece which, for example, has been irreversibly assembled from several components. This assembly can be achieved during the manufacturing process, for example, by bonding and / or two-component injection molding.

[0063] The Fig. 8, Fig. 9 and Fig. Ten images each show, in an enlarged representation, a partial view or section from the Fig. 7, whereby the different characteristics are shown by way of example at the conclusion (AS), or in particular at the exit (A) and at the entry (E).

[0064] The Fig. Figure 8 shows, for example, the optical fiber element (EM) according to the invention in a basic representation, in particular the exit (A) and the entry (E) of the optical fiber element (EM) at the “monitoring-side” end, wherein, as can be seen from the Fig. As can be seen in Figure 8, both the exit (A) and the inlet (E) have a prismatic characteristic (P) / prismatic contour (P) in order to achieve a variable emission / detection characteristic (ÜB1, ÜB2) according to the invention.

[0065] The frequency or wavelengths of the electromagnetic wave spectrum (EMW) determine the exit angle, or, in a bidirectional view, the entry angle.

[0066] By changing (adapting) the frequency of the transmitter source (SQ) and changing (adapting) the frequency of the receiver (EP), the detection angle (the monitoring characteristic) can be variably (adaptively) adjusted. A higher frequency wavelength produces a different detection characteristic (ÜB1, ÜB2) than a lower frequency wavelength (preferably frequencies or wavelengths are used that are in the invisible range or outside the human color spectrum).

[0067] The Fig. Figure 9 shows the optical fiber element (EM) according to the invention, similar to the Fig. 8, for example in a general representation, in particular the exit (A) and the entry (E) of the light guide element (LE) at the “monitoring-side” end, wherein as shown in the Fig. As can be seen in Figure 9, the exit (A) has a prism-shaped characteristic (P) / prism-shaped contour (P), whereas, in contrast, the inlet (E) has a lens-shaped characteristic / lens-shaped contour in order to achieve a variable emission / detection characteristic (ÜB1, ÜB2) according to the invention.

[0068] By changing (adapting) the frequency of the transmitter source (SQ), the angle of detection (the monitoring characteristic) can be variably (adaptively) adjusted.

[0069] In such an embodiment, the detectable wavelength is preferably broadband, or the receiver (EP) is implemented (adapted) in such a way that the receiver (EP) can detect the entire system-relevant (transmitter-dependent adaptable) electromagnetic wave spectrum (EMW), whereas the transmission frequency of the transmitting source (SQ) is adapted to a narrowband frequency in order to achieve the desired detection / monitoring characteristic (ÜB1, ÜB2).

[0070] The Fig. Figure 10 shows the optical fiber element (EM) according to the invention, similar to the Fig. 8, for example in a general representation, in particular the exit (A) and the entry (E) of the light guide element (LE) at the “monitoring-side” end, wherein as shown in the Fig. As can be seen in Figure 10, the exit (A) has a lenticular characteristic / lenticular contour, whereas, in contrast, the inlet (E) has a prismatic characteristic (P) / prismatic contour (P) in order to achieve a variable detection characteristic (ÜB1, ÜB2) according to the invention.

[0071] By changing (adapting) the frequency of the receiver (EP), the angle of detection (the monitoring characteristic) can be variably (adaptively) adjusted.

[0072] In such an embodiment, the detectable wavelength is preferably narrowband, or the receiver (EP) is implemented (adapted) in such a way that the receiver (EP) can detect a narrowband section of the electromagnetic wave spectrum (EMW) in order to achieve the desired detection / monitoring characteristic (ÜB1, ÜB2), whereas the transmission frequency of the transmitting source (SQ) preferably transmits the entire system-relevant frequency spectrum / electromagnetic wave spectrum (EMW).

[0073] As in the Fig. 8, Fig. 9 and Fig. 10 not shown in detail, in a further embodiment of the invention the exit (A) and the inlet (E) can each be designed / realized as a lens-shaped characteristic (contour) in order to achieve a defined radiation characteristic or reception characteristic, whereby further combinations with regard to the characteristic (contour) and the choice of the frequency spectrum / electromagnetic wave spectrum (EMW) are also conceivable / possible.

[0074] The Fig. Figure 11 shows the basic principle of a prism-shaped characteristic (P) / prism-shaped contour (P) as applied according to the invention. As is known from physics, an electromagnetic wave spectrum (EMF), consisting of a multitude of different wavelengths, is refracted / deflected differently when passing through a prism (P), the angle of refraction or deflection depending on the individual frequencies of the electromagnetic wave spectrum (EMF).

[0075] For easier understanding (only for the purpose of explaining the function), the individual frequencies are labelled "blue", "green" and "red" in the illustration, into which a "white light" is "broken down" when passing through a prism, the invention being not limited to this frequency spectrum, but preferably operated with frequencies which are outside the field of view of the human eye.

[0076] The Fig. Figure 12 shows a special form of an implementation example of the optical sensor technology (OS) according to the invention. As can be seen from the Fig. As shown in Figure 12, the optical sensor (OS) comprises a prism-shaped element (P), a transmitter (SQ), and a receiver (EP). Due to the assumed compact design of the optical sensor (OS), a light guide element (LE) can be omitted by directly connecting the transmitter (SQ) and receiver (EP) to the prism-shaped element (P).

[0077] As from the Fig. As further shown in Figure 12, the prism-shaped element (P) is bidirectional in order to direct one or more frequencies of the electromagnetic wave spectrum (EMW) in two different directions.

[0078] As from the Fig. As further shown in section 12, the prism-shaped element (P) at the coupling point (EKS) has a transmitting source (SQ), wherein the prism-shaped element (P) in the area of ​​the exit (A) and / or in the area of ​​the termination (AS) emits and / or transmits the electromagnetic wave spectrum (EMW) frequency-dependently with different radiation characteristics (ÜB1, ÜB2).

[0079] As from the Fig. As further shown in section 12, the transmitting source (SQ) of the optical sensor (OS) is designed to emit at least two different frequencies of the electromagnetic wave spectrum (EMW).

[0080] As from the Fig. As further stated in section 12, the receiver (EP) of the optical sensor (OS) is designed to detect at least two different frequencies of the electromagnetic wave spectrum (EMW).

[0081] The Fig. Figure 13 shows an example of how the monitoring area (M1, M2) can be varied according to the prior art. A change in the characteristics of the monitoring area (M1, M2) or the alignment of the detection characteristics (M1, M2) according to the prior art is achieved, for example, by means of mechanical adjustment mechanisms, or in the manner (as disclosed by way of example in DE 10 2017 212 286 A1) by defining the detection area (M1, M2) of an image receiver chip via pixel selection, where the pixel selection is a variable subset of the total number of pixels of the image receiver chip.

[0082] The Fig. Figure 14 shows an example of a vehicle (F) traveling in the middle lane of a three-lane roadway (lane A, lane B, lane C). As can be seen from the Fig. As further shown schematically in Figure 14, according to the invention, the characteristics of the monitoring area (ÜB1, ÜB2) are adapted / modified by changing (adapting) the frequency of the transmitter source (SQ) and / or changing (adapting) the frequency of the receiver (EP) – as shown in the preceding figures, in particular the Fig. Sections 8 to 12 discuss in more detail how the angle of detection (the monitoring characteristic) can be variably (adaptively) adjusted to the desired parameters / driving situation. As can be seen from the Fig. As further explained in section 14, an application example is shown in which the lateral detection area (ÜB1, ÜB2) and / or the detection area (ÜB1, ÜB2) directed opposite to the direction of travel (towards the rear) is monitored / detected by means of the optical sensor technology (OS), wherein the optical sensor technology (OS) is located in the side rearview mirror or is placed / mounted in the area of ​​the side rearview mirror.

[0083] Depending on the implementation example, the receiver of the optical sensor (OS) can be, according to the examples of the Fig. 7 to 14, to be a very simple sensor for detecting two or more different waves / frequencies of the electromagnetic spectrum (EMW), or to be an image receiver chip of an environment-sensing system (e.g. a camera, night vision camera) which is designed to detect at least two or more waves / frequencies of the electromagnetic spectrum (EMW).

[0084] In light of the invention, the term / expression “prismatic characteristic (P)” is to be understood as encompassing not only a prism (P) but also, in the broadest sense, elements which have the property of a prism, or elements which have the property of refracting / deflecting different frequencies / waves from the electromagnetic wave spectrum (EMW) differently.

[0085] The Fig. Figure 15 shows an example of a light guide element (L) which has the properties of a “prismatic characteristic (P)”.

[0086] Through a suitable mechanical realization of the light guide element (L), the light guide element (L) can, for example, assume / exhibit the properties of a "prismatic characteristic (P)", if, for example, - that the first end of the optical fiber element (EL) or the coupling point (EKS) has an (entry) angle of 90 degrees relative to the transmitter source (SQ) Fig. 15), and - that the other end of the light guide element (LE) at the termination (AS) has an (exit) angle of non-90 degrees ( Fig. 15), whereby - also realizations are possible in which, in general, the (entry) angle with respect to the relevant end region of the optical fiber element (EM) is not equal to the (egress) angle with respect to the other relevant end region of the optical fiber element (EM), whereby with increasing length of the optical fiber element (EM), the first end of the optical fiber element (EM) or the coupling point (EKS) relative to the transmitter source (SQ) should increasingly / preferably have an (entry) angle of 90 degrees.

[0087] The applications that are / can be implemented with the optical sensor technology (OS) according to the invention include, for example, so-called "Lidar systems" ("Light Detection And Ranging"), and / or so-called "Ladar systems" ("Laser Detection And Ranging"), and / or image-capturing systems (e.g. cameras, night vision cameras).

[0088] The invention (as described, among other things, in application DE 10 2018 213 652 A1) uses, for example, wavelengths in the visible range, in the near-infrared and / or in the near-ultraviolet, and wavelengths outside the detection range of the human eye, as well as far outside this range spectrum, are also possible.

[0089] As a transmitting source with a variable wavelength, LEDs or LED systems with several different colored LEDs, or tunable lasers, can be used (as described, among other things, in application DE 10 2018 213 652 A1). The transmitting sources can be operated continuously or in pulses.

[0090] The frequency(ies) are controlled / adjusted / adapted by a control unit not shown in detail. Likewise, for the sake of clarity, and because they are self-evident to the expert, the other components required for a system application, such as the power supply (power adapter function), data processing / evaluation (processing unit / microprocessor), program storage / calibration parameter storage (EPROM, EEPROM), etc., are not shown in detail. Reference symbol list: 2KLE Multi- / Two-component light guide element A Exit AS graduation AKS disconnect point B Turn signal / Direction indicator E Entry EP receiver F vehicle EMW electromagnetic wave spectrum / light spectrum EKB coupling of turn signal / direction indicator signal EKS coupling point EOS Electronics of Optical Sensor Technology ESV electronics for mirror adjustment F vehicle G Garage (enclosure of the garage with door opening) H obstacle "H" Garage door / door jamb as an obstacle "H" reveal of the gate opening - practically as an obstacle IR Infrared LE light guide element LT fiber optic technology LP printed circuit board / circuit board K Camera K1 Component 1 K2 Component 2 R reverse (reverse gear) RF reflection S Side mirror / mirror SA Mirror - Exterior / Mirror - Back SI mirror inside SV mirror adjustment SQ transmission source OS Optical Sensor Technology P Prism, pinch-shaped element, prism-f. Characteristic US Ultrasound Sensors UV Ultra-Violet ÜB1 Monitoring area 1 or detection area 1 Monitoring area 2 or detection area 2

Images