Method for monitoring at least one component of a motor vehicle and motor vehicle

Abstract

Method (3) for monitoring at least one component (4) of a motor vehicle (1), in which at least one detection value (12) of a detection quantity (14) is detected at several times (10, 11) within a time period by means of at least one sensor element (7) of the motor vehicle (1), which characterizes a mechanical load on the at least one component (4) of the motor vehicle (1), wherein it is determined by means of an electronic computing device (15) whether at least one value (16) of a comparison quantity (17) calculated from at least one of the detection values ​​(12) and / or assigned to at least one of the detection values ​​(12), which characterizes a mechanical stress (17a) of the component (4) accumulated over the time period, deviates from a reference value (19) by more than a predetermined amount (18), characterized in thatthat the respective measurement value (12) of the measurement quantity (14) detected by means of the sensor element (7) is assigned to one of a number of values ​​(16a, 16b, 16c) of the comparison quantity (17) and it is determined by means of the electronic computing device (15) whether the respective value (16a, 16b, 16c) of the comparison quantity (17) deviates from a respective reference value (19a, 19b, 19c) by more than the specified amount (18).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a method for monitoring at least one component of a motor vehicle according to the preamble of claim 1. Furthermore, the invention relates to a motor vehicle designed to carry out such a method.

[0002] Sensor elements for motor vehicles are already well known in the general state of the art. A sensor element can detect or measure a quantity that characterizes the mechanical stress on at least one component of the motor vehicle. The sensor element could be, for example, a force sensor, a temperature sensor, or an acceleration sensor. Thus, a force, a temperature, or an acceleration can be detected or measured using the sensor element.

[0003] DE 103 06 579 A1 discloses a method for determining the load on one or more mechanical components of a motor vehicle, in particular a commercial vehicle, in which the frequency of loads on the respective component is compared with an assigned threshold value, wherein a frequency limit of exceedances of an acceptable load limit assigned to the component is specified as the load-bearing limit for the respective component, and when the load-bearing limit is reached, the replacement of the component is indicated.

[0004] Furthermore, a method for determining the condition of a vehicle is disclosed in DE 10 2015 008 725 A1. Additionally, DE 10 2008 038 890 A1 discloses a method for load counting of a component in an electromechanical steering system.

[0005] The object of the invention is to create a method for monitoring at least one component of a motor vehicle, as well as in motor vehicles, so that the safety of the motor vehicle can be particularly increased.

[0006] This problem is solved according to the invention by a method for monitoring at least one component of a motor vehicle with the features of claim 1 and by a motor vehicle with the features of claim 9. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims and the description.

[0007] A first aspect of the invention relates to a method for monitoring at least one component of a motor vehicle. The motor vehicle is preferably designed as a car, in particular as a passenger car, commercial vehicle, or truck. Alternatively, the motor vehicle is, for example, designed as a motorcycle or a passenger bus.

[0008] The term "component" can refer to, in particular, a single component of a motor vehicle or an assembly comprising, for example, several separately manufactured and interconnected components. The assembly can be described as a complete assembly. For instance, the component may be a component subjected to particularly high stress, especially mechanical stress.

[0009] For example, the component is a part of a motor vehicle's chassis, particularly a mechanical one. The component can be, for example, a control arm, particularly a transverse control arm. For example, the component is an axle carrier, particularly an axle carrier assembly, which is preferably intended for the chassis, particularly a mechanical one. Alternatively, the component is, for example, the motor vehicle's powertrain or part of the powertrain. For example, the component is an electric machine or part of the electric machine. In particular, the component can be a bearing intended for supporting at least one component of the powertrain. In other words, the component can, for example, be designed as an assembly bearing. For example, the electric machine is the component of the powertrain.Alternatively, the component can be an energy storage device, particularly an electrical one, preferably a high-voltage storage device, for a motor vehicle. The electrical energy storage device is, for example, designed as a battery or accumulator. For example, the component is part of a vehicle's electrification kit. Alternatively, the component is, for example, designed as a structural component of the motor vehicle.

[0010] In particular, the component can be designed as a body-in-white part of a motor vehicle's body-in-white. The body-in-white can be understood to refer specifically to the vehicle's superstructure. Preferably, the body-in-white is designed as a body, particularly a self-supporting one. Thus, the component can be designed as a body component. In particular, the component can be a spring support. For example, the component can be designed as a mounting system or mounting element for an add-on part of the motor vehicle, particularly one excited by inertial forces. For example, the component can be designed as a trailer hitch via which a trailer intended for the motor vehicle can be coupled or connected to the motor vehicle. Thus, the trailer can be attached to the motor vehicle via the trailer hitch.For example, the component is designed as a baffle plate, which is designed, for instance, to accommodate a bumper, in particular a bumper crossmember, of the motor vehicle. The bumper, in particular the bumper crossmember, can be designed with or without a trailer hitch. This means that the bumper, in particular the bumper crossmember, can include the trailer hitch or be free of the trailer hitch. For example, the component is an add-on part of the motor vehicle. The add-on part is, for example, body-mounted or drivetrain-mounted. This means that the add-on part, in the fully manufactured state of the motor vehicle, can be connected to the body shell of the motor vehicle or to the drivetrain of the motor vehicle, in particular directly.

[0011] Naturally, it is also possible to monitor several, particularly different, components of the motor vehicle during the procedure. This means that the multiple components can each be different from the exemplary components described in the last paragraph.

[0012] In this method, at least one measurement value of a variable is acquired at several points in time within a given period, particularly during a journey of the motor vehicle, using at least one sensor element of the motor vehicle. In other words, the measurement value of the variable is measured at several points in time within this period. For example, a first measurement value of the variable is acquired by the sensor element at a first point in time, and a second measurement value of the variable is acquired at a second point in time that differs from the first. The first and second measurement values ​​can be the same or different from each other.

[0013] The term "detection variable" can be understood to mean, in particular, a measured quantity. The time period, for example, refers to the entire lifespan of the motor vehicle. This means that, for example, the sensor element records the respective value of the detection variable over the entire lifespan of the motor vehicle while the vehicle is in an activated operating state, such as while it is driving. An activated operating state can be understood to mean, in particular, an operating state of the motor vehicle that differs from a deactivated state. For example, during the activated operating state of the motor vehicle, the ignition of the vehicle is activated. The sensor element can be referred to, in particular, as a sensor device.

[0014] Naturally, the method can also be carried out for multiple, and in particular, different, sensor elements. This means that the vehicle, for example, can have several, and in particular, different, sensor elements, by means of which at least one measurement value of a respective parameter is recorded at any given time. Thus, several, and in particular, different, parameters can be recorded. In other words, a group of sensor elements can be provided for the vehicle.

[0015] The measured variable characterizes a mechanical load on at least one component of the motor vehicle. In other words, the measured variable detected by the sensor element is a measured variable that characterizes the mechanical load on the motor vehicle. This means that, for example, the sensor element either directly measures a mechanical load acting on the component or depends on the measured variable and is thus at least indirectly measured or detected. This means, in particular, that there is at least an indirect causal relationship between the measured variable and the mechanical load on the component.For example, the first measurement value is acquired by the sensor element when a first mechanical load acts on the component, and the second measurement value, which differs from the first measurement value, is acquired by the sensor element when a second mechanical load, different from the first, acts on the component. The measurement quantity can be described, in particular, as a stress quantity, for example, a mechanical stress quantity. Thus, the sensor means is designed to acquire the stress quantity. In particular, the group of sensor means is designed to acquire multiple stress quantities.

[0016] Mechanical stress can be understood to mean, for example, a stress (especially mechanical and / or thermal) on the component and / or a strain (especially mechanical and / or thermal) on the component. For example, the measured variable could be a force, a temperature, a stress (especially mechanical), a strain (especially mechanical), a torque, or an acceleration of the component.

[0017] To significantly enhance the safety of the motor vehicle, the invention provides that at least one electronic computing device determines whether at least one value of a comparative quantity, which characterizes a cumulative mechanical stress on the component over time and is calculated from at least one of the measured values ​​and / or uniquely assigned to at least one of the measured values, deviates by more than a predetermined, in particular predefined, amount from a reference value. In other words, the electronic computing device determines, based on the measured values ​​acquired by the sensor element, whether at least one value of the comparative quantity deviates from the reference value by more than the predetermined amount.In other words, at least one value of the comparison variable, calculated from at least one of the recorded values ​​and / or assigned to at least one of the recorded values, is compared with the reference value. Determining whether the at least one value of the comparison variable deviates from the reference value by more than the specified amount can be understood, in particular, as determining whether a deviation between the value of the comparison variable and the reference value differs from a threshold value, especially a specified one, and is, in particular, greater or less than the threshold value. Specifically, it can be determined whether the deviation between the value of the comparison variable and the reference value is below or above the specified threshold value. The threshold value or the measure can be zero or greater than zero. Thus, it can be determined, in particular, whether the value of the comparison variable is below or above the reference value.

[0018] The fact that the comparative value, which characterizes the mechanical stress on the component cumulatively over time, can be understood to mean, in particular, that the mechanical stress can include not only current mechanical loads on the vehicle, but also past mechanical loads on the component. This means that the mechanical stress cumulatively over time can be a cyclic stress and / or the comparative value can be a fatigue strength of the component. In other words, the comparative value can characterize the fatigue behavior of the component, especially its mechanical fatigue behavior. Put another way, the electronic computing device is designed to compare cumulative measured values ​​or cumulative values ​​of the comparative value with at least one reference value.

[0019] For example, the reference value is a value of a reference quantity, which can be referred to in particular as a reference stress quantity. Preferably, the reference stress characterizes the fatigue behavior of the component, especially its mechanical behavior.

[0020] The value of the reference quantity can be referred to as the reference value. The fact that the reference value is assigned to the measurement value can be understood to mean, in particular, that the respective measurement value is assigned to a respective reference value of the reference quantity, especially by means of at least one, preferably specific, transfer function, or that the respective reference value is assigned to one of the measurement values, especially by means of at least one, preferably specific, transfer function. This means that the reference value can, in particular, be a group of the respective measurement values. Thus, the grouped measurement values, in the form of the respective reference value, can be compared with the at least one reference value of the reference quantity.

[0021] The electronic computing unit can be referred to as an evaluation unit. Specifically, the sensor element can be configured to transmit the acquired data to the electronic computing unit. This means that the acquired data can be transferred from the sensor element to the electronic computing unit.

[0022] The invention is based in particular on the following findings and considerations: Various components or assemblies can be exposed to different types of stress during the operation of a motor vehicle, for example, stresses from normal operating loads and / or special event loads and / or misuse. Typically, the magnitude and distribution of the stress acting on the component can be highly dependent on the individual usage patterns of the motor vehicle or the driver using the motor vehicle. Therefore, for the fatigue strength design of the component, a load spectrum can generally be assumed which, from a static perspective, covers a predominant majority of all stresses occurring in basic usage patterns over a previously defined usage phase.This means that the fatigue strength design for a load spectrum preferably covers the vast majority of all stresses occurring in customer usage. Therefore, it is typically intended that components or assemblies, especially the component itself, are dimensioned to withstand the comparatively high stresses of a few particularly demanding customers, i.e., those who subject the component to particularly heavy loads, while, for example, the vast majority of the remaining customers, in their actual usage patterns, only generate a fraction of the stresses on the component used for fatigue strength design.

[0023] In the prior art, it is known to clearly indicate an exceedance of the stress level corresponding to the intended use (stress with operational and special event loads) of motor vehicles by triggering a mechanical damage chain, for example, by steering wheel and / or wheel misalignment in the previous neutral position. However, if this stress level is not exceeded, it is not usually directly apparent in the prior art or in a conventional motor vehicle to what stresses certain components or assemblies have been subjected to, or how far any existing mechanical degradation has progressed in relation to the component capability assumed and determined during the dimensioning of the component.This means that in a conventional motor vehicle, current stresses on some positions or components in the vehicle can be determined using vehicle-mounted sensors, but they cannot be measured with regard to the previous stresses on the component.

[0024] In contrast, the inventive method allows for the determination of any existing mechanical degradation of the component based on stresses detected or measured by the sensor element. This means that any exceedance of the stress level that may occur during normal use (loading with operational and special event loads) of the vehicle can be detected or determined. In particular, the component can be monitored with particular advantage, precision, and / or reliability. This significantly enhances the safety of the vehicle.In particular, if the respective value of the comparison parameter deviates from the reference value by more than the specified amount, the vehicle can be operated depending on the determined deviation between the comparison value and the reference value. Measures to protect the component can then be initiated, for example.

[0025] Furthermore, it is provided that each measured value of the measured quantity, acquired by the sensor element, is assigned to one of a plurality of, in particular, predetermined and / or calculated, values ​​of the reference quantity, in particular by means of at least one, preferably specific, transfer function, for example, by means of, preferably specific, transfer functions, and, in particular depending on the measured values, it is determined by the electronic computing device whether the respective value of the reference quantity deviates from the respective reference value by more than the predetermined amount. In other words, the measured values ​​are classified, and depending on the classified measured values, it is determined by the electronic computing device whether the respective value of the reference quantity deviates from the respective reference value by more than the predetermined amount.This can be understood in particular as follows: Several, especially different, values ​​of the reference variable are provided. The values ​​of the reference variable can especially be referred to as reference values. At least one of the measured values ​​acquired by the sensor element, for example, the first measured value, is assigned to a first of the reference values. At least one other measured value acquired by the sensor element, for example, the second measured value, is assigned to a second reference value, which is especially different from the first reference value. The respective assignment, that is, which of the measured values ​​is assigned to which of the reference values, preferably depends on the respective measured value, that is, for example, on the height or size of the respective measured value.The electronic computing device determines whether the first comparative value, to which the first recorded value is assigned, deviates from the respective reference value (e.g., a first reference value) by more than the specified amount. The electronic computing device also determines whether the second comparative value, to which the second recorded value is assigned, deviates from the respective reference value (e.g., a second reference value, particularly one that differs from the first reference value). This allows for a particularly advantageous classification of the recorded values, thereby enabling a particularly advantageous determination of the deviation of each comparative value from its respective reference value.This allows for particularly efficient and / or precise detection of any potential overload of the respective component, especially over time, caused by mechanical stress that has occurred or accumulated during that period. The electronic computing device is therefore specifically designed for classifying the measured quantity or values.

[0026] The fact that each measured value of the measured quantity is assigned to a specific number of values ​​of the reference quantity by means of the sensor element can be understood in particular to mean that each measured value of the measured quantity is uniquely assigned to a specific number of values ​​of the reference quantity by means of the sensor element.

[0027] For example, the respective reference value is stored in the electronic computing device. In particular, the respective reference value is stored in a memory of the electronic computing device. Preferably, the motor vehicle comprises at least one storage unit, in particular designated as a data storage unit. For example, comparison results of the comparison of the respective reference value with the respective reference value are stored in the data storage unit.This means that the data storage unit stores at least one piece of information that characterizes whether the respective value of the comparison variable deviates from the respective reference value by more than the specified amount, or whether the respective value of the comparison variable does not deviate from the respective reference value by more than the specified amount, i.e., whether the respective value of the comparison variable deviates from the respective reference value by more than the specified amount. In particular, the electronic computing device is designed to transmit the comparison results or the information to the data storage unit. For example, the storage unit is designed to query the comparison results or the information stored in the storage unit.

[0028] The transfer function(s) in this context refers, for example, to AI-based transfer functions. This means that the respective transfer function is determined, in particular calculated, using at least one AI-based method.

[0029] Preferably, it is provided that at least one control signal is sent, or in particular transmitted, to at least one electronic component, particularly of the motor vehicle, which is designed separately from the electronic computing device, by means of the electronic computing device, when the value of the comparison variable deviates from the reference value by more than the specified amount. In other words, when the value of the comparison variable deviates from the reference value by more than the specified amount, the control signal is sent from the electronic computing device to the component, and the transmitted control signal is preferably received by the electronic component.This means that, for example, if at least one reference value is overwritten by at least one comparison value, the control signal can be output by the electronic computing device, or is output. The electronic component can be part of the motor vehicle or be separate from it. The electronic component is, for example, located inside the motor vehicle or at a distance from it. Thus, the electronic component can be located outside the motor vehicle. For example, the electronic component is the storage unit or a device separate from the storage unit.

[0030] In a further embodiment, it is provided that at least one warning signal, particularly visual and / or acoustic, is issued to the driver of the vehicle by means of an output device, in particular an optical and / or acoustic one, if the value of the reference quantity deviates from the reference value by more than the specified amount. In other words, the driver is warned by the output device by the warning signal, in particular visual and / or acoustic, if the value of the reference quantity deviates from the reference value by more than the specified amount. This allows the driver to be informed particularly reliably about a possible overload of the component. This significantly increases the safety of the vehicle.

[0031] For example, the output device is the electronic component. This means that the electronic component can be configured as the output device. Thus, depending on the control signal transmitted to the electronic component, the warning signal can be issued to the driver of the vehicle via the output device. In particular, the warning signal can be issued to a driver of the vehicle via the output device when the control signal is transmitted from the electronic computing unit to the output device. The control signal can therefore be understood as, for example, a control signal for activating the output device and thus for issuing the warning signal. Therefore, the output device can be configured or set up to issue the warning signal, especially in the case of an input of the control signal.

[0032] The term "warning signal" can refer in particular to a warning message. Specifically, the output device is designed or configured for, for example, the graphical display and / or acoustic output of the comparison results or the information stored, in particular, in the memory unit.

[0033] For example, the measured values ​​acquired by the sensor element can be accumulated to form at least one value of the reference quantity. This means that the calculation to determine this at least one reference value from the measured values ​​includes at least one calculation step that involves accumulating the measured values. The reference value of the reference quantity can, in particular, be a reference value of a reference accumulation. Thus, the electronic computing device can be configured to determine an accumulated stress over a period of time, for example, over the vehicle's service life, based on the measured values, and to compare this with the reference accumulation over the same period, especially over the vehicle's service life.The term "service life" of a motor vehicle can be understood to mean, in particular, the lifespan of the motor vehicle.

[0034] In a further embodiment, it is provided that the electronic computing device, by means of which it is determined whether the respective value of the comparison variable deviates from the respective reference value by more than the specified amount, is either part of the motor vehicle or is designed separately from the motor vehicle. In other words, the motor vehicle can encompass the electronic computing device, or the electronic computing device can be designed separately from the motor vehicle and, for example, be located at a distance from it. If the electronic computing device is designed separately from the motor vehicle, it can be referred to as a backend system.If the electronic computing unit is integrated into the vehicle, the component can be monitored with minimal effort, for example, by eliminating the need for external communication. If the electronic computing unit is separate from the vehicle, calculations can be performed outside the vehicle. This can, for example, significantly reduce the vehicle's cost and / or weight.

[0035] The backend system is preferably designed or configured for telematics-based remote queries. For example, the storage unit is connected, or connectable, to the backend system, particularly wirelessly. This means that the storage unit is connected, or connectable, to the backend system.

[0036] The term "backend system" can be understood to mean, in particular, that the electronic computing device is part of a backend environment, specifically that it is configured within a backend environment, or that it is configured as a backend environment. Alternatively or additionally, the electronic computing device may, for example, be part of a cloud data computing environment (CDC environment), specifically that it is configured within a cloud data computing environment, or that it is configured as a cloud data computing environment. Thus, the electronic computing device can be integrated into the backend environment and / or the cloud data computing environment. This allows for particularly low vehicle costs, such as those of the sensor element, especially in connected vehicles.

[0037] For example, a second electronic computing unit of the motor vehicle, separate from the electronic computing unit (in particular the back-end system), determines the reference value based on the measurements taken by the sensor element. This reference value is then transmitted from the second electronic computing unit to the first electronic computing unit (in particular the back-end system), which is also separate from the motor vehicle. In other words, the second electronic computing unit calculates at least one value from the measured values, or each measured value is assigned to a corresponding value of the reference value, and the corresponding reference value is transmitted from the second electronic computing unit to the electronic computing unit, which can be referred to as the first electronic computing unit.

[0038] Preferably, the electronic computing device determines a characteristic value of a parameter, particularly based on the recorded values. This characteristic value characterizes the extent of the deviation of the respective value of the comparison parameter from the respective reference value. In other words, the electronic computing device derives the characteristic value for the utilization rate of the mechanical stress accumulated over time on the component or the reference accumulation, based on this comparison. This allows for a particularly advantageous characterization of the mechanical stress on the component. For example, the characteristic value is stored in the memory unit.

[0039] In a further embodiment, it is provided that the characteristic value and / or the information is sent, in particular transmitted, from the electronic computing device and / or the storage unit to at least one electronic terminal device, specifically a mobile or stationary device, that is separate from the motor vehicle. The terminal device is, for example, a mobile phone, in particular a smartphone, a tablet, a smartwatch, or a computer, in particular a laptop or a desktop PC. This means that the electronic computing device, in particular the backend system, is designed or configured to perform telematics-based remote queries via mobile and / or stationary terminal devices, in particular tablets, smartphones, smartwatches, laptops, and / or desktop PCs.In other words, the characteristic value and / or information is sent from the electronic computing device to the terminal device, which then receives the transmitted characteristic value or information. This allows, for example, the driver of a motor vehicle to be informed, particularly advantageously, about the previous mechanical stresses on the vehicle or its component. Specifically, the driver can be informed about any upcoming repairs or maintenance of the component. This can, for example, prevent damage to the component.

[0040] In a further embodiment, the sensor element is used to detect at least one acceleration, in particular the acceleration of the component. In other words, the sensor element detects at least one acceleration value, particularly of the component, at several points in time within a given period. This means that the sensor element is designed as an acceleration sensor, preferably as an acceleration sensor with a triaxial measuring range. The acceleration of the component can be understood to be, in particular, a direct acceleration of the component or an indirect acceleration of the component. This means that the sensor element can, for example, be arranged directly on the component, thereby enabling the sensor element to detect or detect the direct acceleration of the component.Alternatively, the sensor element can, for example, be arranged on another component of the motor vehicle that is different from the component itself, and in particular, that is designed separately from the component itself. This allows the sensor element to detect, or detect, the acceleration of the other component or the motor vehicle, whereby the detected acceleration of the other component or the motor vehicle corresponds at least approximately to the acceleration of the component itself, particularly because both the component and the other component are located within the motor vehicle. The acceleration of the component can be understood, in particular, as the acceleration of the component relative to the environment of the motor vehicle.

[0041] Alternatively or additionally, the sensor element can detect, for example, at least one force, in particular a force acting on the component, as the detection variable. In other words, the sensor element detects at least one force value, in particular a force acting on the component, at several points in time within a given period.

[0042] Alternatively or additionally, the sensor element can detect, for example, at least one torque, in particular a torque acting on the component, as the detection variable. In other words, the sensor element detects at least one torque value of the torque, in particular a torque acting on the component, at several points in time within a given period.

[0043] Alternatively or additionally, the sensor element is used to detect, for example, at least one strain, in particular a mechanical and / or thermal strain, especially a strain of the component, as the detection variable. In other words, the sensor element detects at least one strain value at several points in time within a given period.

[0044] Alternatively or additionally, the sensor element can detect, for example, at least one temperature, in particular the temperature of the component, as the detection variable. In other words, the sensor element detects at least one temperature value at several points in time within a given period.

[0045] Alternatively or additionally, the sensor element is used to detect, for example, at least one rotational speed, in particular the rotational speed of the component. In other words, the sensor element detects at least one rotational speed value at several points in time within a given period.

[0046] Alternatively or additionally, the sensor element is used to detect, for example, sound acting on the component, particularly structure-borne sound and / or airborne sound. In other words, the sensor element detects at least one sound value at several points in time within a given period. Sound can be understood to mean, in particular, mechanical vibrations in a medium, especially an elastic one, which is, for example, a gas, especially air, a liquid, or a solid. For example, sound can be understood to mean an excitation level acting on the component, particularly structure-borne sound and / or airborne sound.

[0047] Preferably, the sensor element, by means of which the acceleration of the component, in particular the respective acceleration value of the component, is detected, is connectable to or coupled with at least one control unit by means of which at least one airbag of the motor vehicle can be triggered depending on the acceleration detected by the sensor element, in particular depending on the respective detected acceleration value, for example via at least one triggering device designed separately from the control unit. In other words, the airbag of the motor vehicle is triggered depending on the acceleration detected by the sensor element. The sensor element can thus be part of an airbag system of the motor vehicle that includes the airbag.This means that the sensor element already present in the vehicle and intended for the airbag can be used to detect the mechanical stress or to monitor the component. In other words, an existing sensor element already installed in the vehicle can be used to detect the relevant value. This allows for particularly efficient monitoring of the component. Specifically, the detection value can be acquired with minimal effort. Furthermore, the vehicle's installation space can be designed to be particularly advantageous, especially kept very small. Additionally, the vehicle's costs and / or weight can be kept significantly low. Specifically, the sensor element can be configured to supply data to a control unit of the airbag system, specifically the airbag control unit.

[0048] The control unit is designed, for example, as an electronic computing device, in particular as a control unit. The triggering device is designed, for example, as a pyrotechnic triggering device.

[0049] For example, it is provided that the sensor element, by means of which the acceleration of the component, in particular the respective acceleration value of the component, is detected, can be coupled, at least indirectly, in particular via the control unit, to the triggering device by means of which at least one airbag of the motor vehicle can be triggered depending on the acceleration detected by the sensor element, in particular depending on the respective detected acceleration value. For example, by means of the control unit, in particular depending on the acceleration detected by the sensor element, for example depending on a signal evaluation of the detection values ​​detected by the sensor element carried out by the control unit, a trigger signal for triggering the airbag can be transmitted to the triggering device.

[0050] Especially when the electronic computing device is integrated into the backend environment and / or the cloud data computing environment, the costs of the control unit and / or the triggering device can be kept particularly low, especially in the case of a connected vehicle.

[0051] A second aspect of the invention relates to a motor vehicle designed to carry out a method according to the first aspect of the invention. Advantages and advantageous embodiments of the first aspect of the invention are to be regarded as advantages and advantageous embodiments of the second aspect of the invention, and vice versa.

[0052] Another aspect relates to a driver assistance system for a motor vehicle, wherein the driver assistance system is configured to perform a method according to the first aspect of the invention. Advantages and advantageous embodiments of the first and second aspects of the invention are to be regarded as advantages and advantageous embodiments of the third aspect, and vice versa.

[0053] Further features of the invention will become apparent from the claims, the figures, and the description of the figures. The features and combinations of features mentioned above in the description, as well as the features and combinations of features mentioned below in the description of the figures and / or shown in the figures alone, are not only usable in the combinations specified, but also in other combinations or on their own.

[0054] The invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to a preferred embodiment and the drawings. The drawings show: Fig. 1 a schematic partial sectional view of a motor vehicle according to the invention, which is designed to carry out a method according to the invention; Fig. 2 a schematic process diagram of a process according to the invention; and Fig. 3 a schematic process diagram of a process according to the invention in a further embodiment; and Fig. 4 a schematic diagram to illustrate an embodiment of a method according to the invention.

[0055] In the figures, identical or functionally equivalent elements are provided with the same reference symbols.

[0056] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic partial sectional view of a motor vehicle 1. In which in Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the motor vehicle 1 is located on a roadway 2.

[0057] Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic process diagram of a method for monitoring 3 at least one component 4 of the motor vehicle 1. The motor vehicle 1 is equipped to perform the method. For example, the motor vehicle 1 has at least one driver assistance system which is equipped to perform the method. This means that the driver assistance system can be operated by means of the method.

[0058] In the exemplary embodiment, several, in particular different, components 4, 5, 6 of the motor vehicle 1 are monitored by means of the method. In the method, within a time period corresponding, for example, to the service life or operating period of the motor vehicle 1, at least one sensor element 7, 8, 9 of the motor vehicle 1 is used to detect at least one measurement value 12, 13 of a measurement parameter 14 at several times 10, 11, which characterizes a mechanical load on the respective component 4, 5, 6 of the motor vehicle 1. In the exemplary embodiment, a first sensor element 7 is assigned to a first component 4, a second sensor element 8 is assigned to a second component 5, and a third sensor element 9 is assigned to a third component 6.This means that the respective sensor element 7, 8, 9 detects the respective measurement value 12, 13 of the respective measurement parameter 14, which characterizes a respective mechanical load on the respective component 4, 5, 6, which is assigned to the respective sensor element 7, 8, 9. In the Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, a first of the respective recording values ​​12 is recorded at a first of the time points 10 and a second of the respective recording values ​​13 is recorded at a second of the time points 11.

[0059] Fig. Figure 3 shows a process diagram of the process according to a further embodiment, wherein in Fig. Three exemplary steps S1-S6 of the method are illustrated. In the exemplary embodiment, the acquisition of the detection values ​​12, 13 is carried out in a first of the steps S1. This can be understood in particular as the acquisition of at least one stress parameter of the respective component 4, 5, 6 by means of the respective sensor element 7, 8, 9.

[0060] To further enhance the safety of the motor vehicle 1, an electronic computing device 15 is used to determine whether at least one value 16 of a comparative value 17, which characterizes a cumulative mechanical stress 17a of the respective component 4, 5, 6 over a period of time and is calculated from at least one of the respective measurement values ​​12, 13 and / or assigned to at least one of the respective measurement values ​​12, 13, deviates from a reference value 19 by more than a predetermined amount 18. In other words, the electronic computing device 15 performs at least one comparison 20 to determine whether the at least one respective value 16 of the comparative value 17 deviates from the reference value 19 by more than the predetermined amount 18. This means that a stress analysis of the respective component 4, 5, 6 is performed, particularly with regard to its fatigue strength.In other words, the electronic computing device 15 determines, depending on the detection values ​​12, 13 recorded by the respective sensor element 7, 8, 9, whether a, in particular cumulative, mechanical stress 17a of the respective component 4, 5, 6 in the time period or over the time period is greater than a reference stress characterized by the reference value 19.

[0061] In a further embodiment, it is provided that the respective measurement value 12, 13 of the measurement quantity 14, acquired by the respective sensor element 7, 8, 9, is assigned to one of a plurality of values ​​16a, 16b, 16c, and, in particular, depending on the respective measurement values ​​12, 13, the electronic computing device 15 determines whether the respective value 16a, 16b, 16c of the comparison quantity 17 deviates from a respective reference value 19a, 19b, 19c by more than the specified amount 18. This means that the measurement values ​​12, 13 can be classified.

[0062] For example, the recorded values ​​12 and 13 are transmitted to the electronic computing device 15 in a second step, S2. For example, the recorded values ​​12 and 13 transmitted to the electronic computing device 15 are classified in a third step, S3. For example, the classified recorded values ​​12 and 13 are compared with the respective reference values ​​19a, 19b, and 19c in a fourth step, S4.

[0063] Fig. Figure 4 shows a schematic diagram illustrating an embodiment of the method. The abscissa shows a number 21, which is specifically designated as the number of load cycles. The ordinate shows the mechanical stress 17a of the respective component 4, 5, 6. In the Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, three values ​​16a, 16b, 16c of the reference variable 17 are provided, in particular values ​​that are different from each other. At least one of the respective measured values ​​12, 13 acquired by the respective sensor element 7, 8, 9 is assigned to the first value 16a of the reference variable 17. At least one other measured value 12, 13 acquired by the respective sensor element 7, 8, 9, in particular a second group of measured values ​​12, 13 acquired by the respective sensor element 7, 8, 9, which is different from the first group, is assigned to a second value 16b of the reference variable 17.At least one other of the respective measured values ​​12, 13 acquired by the respective sensor element 7, 8, 9, in particular a third group of measured values ​​12, 13 acquired by the respective sensor element 7, 8, 9, which is distinct from the groups, is assigned to the third value 16c of the reference quantity 17. This means that the respective measured values ​​12, 13 are classified, wherein the respective value 16a, 16b, 16c of the reference quantity 17 preferably corresponds to one class of the classification. The respective value 16a, 16b, 16c can, for example, be predetermined or, in particular, determined, in particular calculated, depending on the measured values ​​12, 13.

[0064] For each value 16a, 16b, 16c of the comparison variable 17, it can be determined how many of the respective recorded values ​​12, 13 are or were assigned to the respective value 16a, 16b, 16c of the comparison variable 17. This means that for each value 16a, 16b, 16c of the comparison variable 17, a respective count value 21a, 21b, 21c of the number 21 is determined. The respective count value 21a, 21b, 21c corresponds to the respective number of each recorded value 12, 13 that are assigned to the respective value 16a, 16b, 16c of the comparison variable 17. In the Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, the first value 16a of the comparison variable 17 is assigned a first count value 21a of the number 21 of recorded values ​​12, 13. The second value 16b of the comparison variable 17 is assigned a second count value 21b of the number 21 of recorded values ​​12, 13. The third value 16c of the comparison variable 17 is assigned a third count value 21c of the number 21 of recorded values ​​12, 13. Thus, the first count value 21a is determined for the first value 16a. The second count value 21b is determined for the second value 16b. The fourth count value is determined for the third value 16c.

[0065] Furthermore, it shows Fig. 4. A reference quantity 22, which comprises several reference values ​​19a, 19b, 19c. Each reference value 19a, 19b, 19c of reference quantity 22 is assigned to one of the number values ​​21a, 21b, 21c of the quantity 21. Depending on the respective number value 21a, 21b, 21c, which is assigned to the respective value 16a, 16b, 16c of the comparison quantity 17, each value 16a, 16b, 16c of the comparison quantity 17 can be assigned to one of the reference values ​​19a, 19b, 19c. In other words, the respective reference value 19a, 19b, 19c is determined or calculated depending on the respective number value 21a, 21b, 21c of the respective value 16a, 16b, 16c of the comparison quantity 17.

[0066] In the Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, a first reference value 19a is assigned to the first quantity value 21a. Thus, the first value 16a of the comparison quantity 17 is assigned to the first reference value 19a. A second reference value 19b is assigned to the second quantity value 21b. Thus, the second value 16b of the comparison quantity 17 is assigned to the second reference value 19b. A third reference value 19c is assigned to the third quantity value 21c. Thus, the third value 16c of the comparison quantity 17 is assigned to the third reference value 19c. The electronic computing device 15 determines whether the respective value 16a, 16b, 16c of the comparison quantity 17 deviates from the respective reference value 19a, 19b, 19c to which the respective value 16a, 16b, 16c is assigned by more than the predefined measure 18. The electronic computing device 15 is used to determine whether the first value 16a of the comparison quantity 17 deviates from the first reference value 19a by more than the specified measure 18.The electronic computing device 15 determines whether the second value 16b deviates from the second reference value 19b by more than the specified measure 18. The electronic computing device 15 also determines whether the third value 16c of the comparison quantity 17 deviates from the third reference value 19c by more than the specified measure 18. In particular, it can be determined whether the respective value 16a, 16b, 16c exceeds or falls below the respective reference value 19a, 19b, 19c.

[0067] In the Fig.In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, the first value 16a is smaller than the first reference value 19a, and the third value 16c is smaller than the third reference value 19c. The second value 16b is larger than the second reference value 19b. Thus, in this embodiment, it can be determined using the electronic computing device 15 that the second value 16b of the comparison quantity 17 exceeds the second reference value 19b. For example, the reference quantity 22 is either the Wöhler curve or the Gassner curve. The Wöhler curve can also be referred to as the Wöhler curve. This means that the respective reference values ​​19a, 19b, and 19c can be values ​​of either the Wöhler curve or the Gassner curve.

[0068] In a further embodiment, it is provided that at least one control signal 23 is sent, in particular transmitted, by means of the electronic computing device 15 to at least one electronic component 24, which is designed separately from the electronic computing device 15, when at least one of the respective values ​​16, 16a, 16b, 16c of the comparison quantity 17 and more than a specified dimension 18 deviates from the respective reference value 19, 19a, 19b, 19c. For example, the electronic component 24 is designed as an output device 25 of the motor vehicle 1, in particular optical and / or acoustic. Preferably, at least one warning signal 26, in particular optical and / or acoustic, is issued to a driver of the motor vehicle 1 by means of the output device 25, in particular depending on the control signal 23, if the respective value 16, 16a, 16b, 16c of the comparison quantity 17 deviates from the respective reference value 19, 19a, 19b, 19c by more than a predetermined amount 18.

[0069] The electronic computing device 15 can be part of the motor vehicle 1 or be designed separately from the motor vehicle 1. If the electronic computing device 15 is designed separately from the motor vehicle 1, it is preferably located in an environment 27 of the motor vehicle 1 and thus outside the motor vehicle 1. The electronic computing device 15 designed separately from the motor vehicle 1 can in particular be referred to as a backend system.In particular, if the electronic computing device 15 is designed separately from the motor vehicle 1, the motor vehicle 1 preferably has a second electronic computing device 28 designed separately from the electronic computing device 15, by means of which the respective value 16, 16a, 16b, 16c of the comparison quantity 17 is calculated from the respective recording value 12, 13 or the respective recording value 12, 13 is assigned to the respective value 16, 16a, 16b, 16c of the comparison quantity 17.

[0070] In a further embodiment, the comparison 20 determines a respective comparison result, which includes whether the respective value 16, 16a, 16b, 16c of the comparison quantity 17 deviates from the respective reference value 19, 19a, 19b, 19c by more than the specified measure 18. The comparison results are preferably stored in a storage unit 32 of the motor vehicle 1. For example, the comparison results are transmitted to the storage unit 32 for storage in a fifth of the steps S5. The storage unit 32 can be referred to in particular as a data storage unit. For example, the comparison results for the sixth of the steps S6 can be queried from the storage unit 32.

[0071] For example, the electronic computing device 15, in particular the backend system, is configured such that at least one usage-specific characteristic, preferably several usage-specific characteristics, of the motor vehicle 1 can be stored in the comparison results, which are transmitted, in particular to the storage unit 32. This means that at least one usage-specific characteristic, or several usage-specific characteristics, are stored in the comparison results, which are transmitted, in particular to the storage unit 32. For example, the comparison results are evaluated, preferably statistically, in particular depending on the at least one usage-specific characteristic. For example, comparative stress parameters with usage-specific characteristics can be derived on the basis of this evaluation.This means that insights can be gained regarding the mechanical stress on the respective components 4, 5, 6 depending on the usage-specific characteristics of the vehicle 1. These insights can, for example, be incorporated into future vehicle developments.

[0072] The respective usage-specific characteristic can, for example, include data from the following data categories: Vehicle identification number (VIN), vehicle anonymous number (VAN), type code, ride height, seat occupancy detection, temperatures, in particular the distribution of installation compartment temperatures, driving modes, accelerator pedal position, DSC interventions, ARB interventions, driving experience switch modes, wheel speeds, vehicle speeds, optional equipment of the vehicle 1, frequency of use of a trailer hitch of the vehicle 1, and / or VDC modes. Driving modes can refer in particular to the respective direction of travel of the vehicle 1, for example, forward or reverse travel. ARB intervention can refer in particular to a wheel speed limitation of the vehicle 1, which prevents or minimizes vibration phenomena in the drivetrain.For example, the respective ARB intervention can be part of an anti-slip control system (ASR) of the vehicle 1. The respective VDC mode can be understood, in particular, as a respective adjustable or set state of a variable damper of the vehicle 1. The variable damper can be understood, in particular, as a damping element that has a variable or specifically adjustable damping characteristic.

[0073] In a further embodiment, it is provided that a respective characteristic value 29 of a characteristic parameter 30 is determined by means of the electronic computing device 15, which characterizes the extent of the deviation of the respective value 16, 16a, 16b, 16c of the comparison parameter 17 from the respective reference value 19, 19a, 19b, 19c. The determined characteristic value 29 is sent, for example, by the electronic computing device 15, in particular by the backend system, to at least one electronic terminal device 31, in particular mobile and / or stationary, which is separate from the motor vehicle 1 and the electronic computing device 15. Alternatively or additionally, the respective characteristic value 29 can be stored in the storage unit 32 of the motor vehicle 1.

[0074] In a further embodiment, it is provided that at least one acceleration 33, in particular of the respective component 4, 5, 6 or of the motor vehicle 1, is detected by means of the respective sensor element 7, 8, 9 as the detection variable 14. It is preferably provided that the respective sensor element 7, 8, 9, by means of which the acceleration 33 of the respective component 4, 5, 6 or of the motor vehicle 1 is detected, is connectable to or coupled with at least one control unit 34, by means of which at least one airbag 35 of the motor vehicle 1 can be triggered, in particular at least indirectly, depending on the acceleration 33 detected by the respective sensor element 7, 8, 9. The airbag 35 can in particular be understood to be an air-filled or inflatable airbag of the motor vehicle 1.For example, at least one of the sensor elements 7, 8, 9 is arranged in a transmission tunnel of the motor vehicle 1. For example, at least one of the sensor elements 7, 8, 9 is arranged in a control unit, in particular designated as an airbag control unit.

[0075] Alternatively or additionally, it is provided, for example, that at least one force 36 and / or at least one torque 37 and / or at least one strain 38 and / or at least one temperature 39 and / or at least one rotational speed 40, in particular of the component 4, and / or sound 41, in particular structure-borne sound and / or airborne sound, is detected by means of the respective sensor element 7, 8, 9 as the detection variable 14. Reference symbol list 1 motor vehicle 2 lanes 3. Monitor 4 first component 5 second component 6 third component 7 first sensor element 8 second sensor element 9 third sensor element 10 first point in time 11 second point in time 12 first recorded value 13 second recording value 14 Measurement size 15 electronic computing equipment 16 Value 16a first value 16b second value 16c third value 17 Comparison size 17a mechanical stress 18 measure 19 Reference value 19a first reference value 19b second reference value 19c third reference value 20 Comparison 21 Number 21a first number value 21b second number value 21c third number value 22 Reference size 23 Control signal 24 components 25 Output device 26 Warning signal 27 Surroundings 28 second electronic computing device 29 Key figure 30 Key figure 31 End device 32 storage units 33 Acceleration 34 Control unit 35 Airbag 36 Force 37 Torque 38 Stretch 39 Temperature 40 rpm 41 Sound S1 first step S2 second step S3 third step S4 fourth step S5 fifth step S6 sixth step

Claims

[1] Method for monitoring (3) at least one component (4) of a motor vehicle (1), in which at least one detection value (12) of a detection quantity (14) is detected at several times (10, 11) within a time period by means of at least one sensor element (7) of the motor vehicle (1), which characterizes a mechanical load on the at least one component (4) of the motor vehicle (1), wherein it is determined by means of an electronic computing device (15) whether at least one value (16) of a comparison quantity (17) calculated from at least one of the detection values ​​(12) and / or assigned to at least one of the detection values ​​(12), which characterizes a mechanical stress (17a) of the component (4) accumulated over the time period, deviates from a reference value (19) by more than a predetermined measure (18), characterized by, that the respective measurement value (12) of the measurement quantity (14) acquired by means of the sensor element (7) is assigned to a respective plurality of values ​​(16a, 16b, 16c) of the comparison quantity (17) and that it is determined by means of the electronic computing device (15) whether the respective value (16a, 16b, 16c) of the comparison quantity (17) deviates from a respective reference value (19a, 19b, 19c) by more than the specified measure (18). [2] Method according to claim 1, characterized by , that at least one control signal (23) is transmitted by means of the electronic computing device (15) to at least one electronic component (24) designed separately from the electronic computing device (15) when the value (16) of the comparison quantity (17) deviates from the reference value (19) by more than the specified measure (18). [3] Method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by, that at least one warning signal (26) is issued to a driver of the motor vehicle (1) by means of an output device (25) of the motor vehicle (1) if the value (16) of the comparison quantity (17) deviates from the reference value (19) by more than the specified measure (8). [4] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the electronic computing device (15), by means of which it is determined whether the value (16) of the comparison quantity (17) deviates from the reference value (19) by more than the specified measure (18), is part of the motor vehicle (1) or is designed separately from the motor vehicle (1). [5] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that by means of the electronic computing device (15) a characteristic value (29) of a characteristic parameter (30) is determined, which characterizes an extent of the deviation of the value (16) of the comparison parameter (17) from the reference value (19). [6] Method according to claim 5, characterized by, that the characteristic value (29) is sent from the electronic computing device (15) to at least one electronic terminal device (31) designed separately from the motor vehicle (1). [7] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that by means of the sensor element (7) as the detection variable (14) at least an acceleration (33) and / or at least a force (36) and / or at least a torque (37) and / or at least a strain (38) and / or at least a temperature (39) and / or at least a rotational speed (40) and / or sound (41) is detected. [8] Method according to claim 7, characterized by , that the sensor element (7) by means of which the acceleration (33) of the component (4) is detected is capable of being coupled or coupled to at least one control device (34) by means of which at least one airbag (35) of the motor vehicle (1) can be triggered depending on the acceleration (33) detected by means of the sensor element (7). [9] Motor vehicle (1) designed to carry out a method according to any of the preceding claims.

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