Method for operating a sensor device

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for operating a sensor device (100), in particular a UWB sensor device designed to monitor the interior (201) of a vehicle (200), to provide different essential vehicle functions (F1, F2) for the vehicle (200), comprehensive burglary protection, access control, indoor presence detection and / or child presence detection, wherein the different essential vehicle functions (F1, F2) are provided depending on a detection of movement inside or outside the vehicle (200), wherein the sensor device (100) comprises at least one sensor unit (10, 20) for monitoring at least one row of seats in the interior (201) of the vehicle (200), demonstrating the procedure: - Detection of a sensor signal (S) by the sensor device (100), - Examining the sensor signal (S) based on classified signal types (A, B, C), - Evaluating the sensor signal (S) depending on the investigation, - Providing a corresponding functionally essential vehicle function (F1, F2) depending on the evaluation.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a method for operating a sensor device, in particular a UWB sensor device. Furthermore, the invention relates to a corresponding computer program, a corresponding control unit, and a corresponding sensor device, in particular a UWB sensor device, for carrying out a corresponding method.

[0002] Modern vehicles are increasingly being equipped with ultra-wideband (UWB) sensor units. These units can be used to detect people inside the vehicle. They measure the travel time of sensor signals reflected by people inside the vehicle. Based on this signal travel time, the distance to the people can be determined. The Doppler shift of the sensor signals allows for the detection of movement, such as chest movement during breathing. Furthermore, vital signs, such as respiratory rate, can be measured. A disadvantage of current sensor units is that they cannot distinguish between detection from inside and outside the vehicle, as UWB signals can penetrate closed windows. The distance to the person can be determined based on the sensor's position and the distance to the person.The transit time of the sensor signals is not reliable information to distinguish between inside and outside, as the radial distance of an animal lying in the footwell and an adult standing close outside the vehicle may be the same.

[0003] It is therefore an object of the present invention to overcome at least one of the disadvantages described above, at least partially. In particular, it is an object of the invention to provide an improved method for operating a sensor device, especially a UWB sensor device, which is (primarily) designed for monitoring the interior of a vehicle and which has extended functionality to provide various essential vehicle functions for the vehicle, including anti-theft protection, access control, interior presence detection, child presence detection, etc., wherein the various essential vehicle functions are provided depending on the detection of movement inside or outside the vehicle.Preferably, the object of the invention is to provide an improved method for operating a sensor device, in particular a UWB sensor device, which enables improved presence detection in the interior and exterior of the vehicle, which has improved accuracy, which enables improved monitoring functions, which reduces or even avoids false alarms, which increases customer comfort and enhances confidence in the vehicle's functions. Furthermore, it is an object of the present invention to provide a corresponding computer program product and a corresponding sensor device, in particular a UWB sensor device, for carrying out such a method.

[0004] The present invention provides a method for operating a sensor device, in particular a UWB sensor device, with the features of the independent method claim. Furthermore, the invention provides a corresponding computer program product, a corresponding control unit, and a corresponding sensor device, in particular a UWB sensor device, with the features of the dependent claims. Features and details described in connection with the different embodiments and / or aspects of the invention naturally also apply in connection with the other embodiments and / or aspects, and vice versa, so that the disclosure relating to the individual embodiments and / or aspects always includes, or can include, reciprocal references.

[0005] The present invention provides for: A method for operating a sensor device, in particular a UWB sensor device, which is (primarily) designed to monitor the interior of a vehicle (and which acquires extended functionality within the scope of the invention), in order to provide various essential vehicle functions for the vehicle based on interior and / or exterior detection. These include, for example, various vehicle functions such as burglar protection, access control, interior presence detection, and / or child presence detection, etc. The various essential vehicle functions are advantageously provided depending on the detection of movement inside or outside the vehicle.

[0006] The sensor device can include at least one sensor unit for monitoring at least one row of seats in the vehicle's interior. However, the sensor device can also include multiple sensor units for monitoring multiple rows of seats in the vehicle's interior. In principle, the sensor device can comprise one or more sensor units per row of seats.

[0007] The procedure consists of the following steps: - Detection of a sensor signal by the sensor device, - Examining (or in other words, classifying) the sensor signal based on classified signal types, - Evaluating the sensor signal depending on the investigation, - Providing a corresponding essential vehicle function depending on the evaluation.

[0008] It is recognized that sensor units, particularly UWB sensor units with radar capabilities, are increasingly being used in vehicles to provide various vehicle functions. Typically, separate sensor units are used for functions inside the vehicle, such as detecting the presence of children, and other sensor units for functions outside the vehicle, such as detecting intruders. Such sensor units generally enable the detection and localization of movements.

[0009] The invention recognizes that such sensor units, such as UWB sensor units, often cannot detect where the detection originates, from outside or from inside the vehicle, since sensor signals, such as radar signals or UWB signals, can pass through non-conductive vehicle parts, such as plastic parts and / or windows.

[0010] The invention recognizes that the localization of the detection outside or inside the vehicle is important for the safe, reliable and error-free operation of the sensor units.

[0011] The distance itself (also known as time-of-flight measurement) cannot provide reliable information to distinguish between detection outside or inside the vehicle, since, for example, the radial distance of an animal lying in the footwell and an adult standing close outside the vehicle may be the same.

[0012] The present idea aims to improve the differentiation between detection outside and inside the vehicle. Several physical observations / regularities can be used advantageously in this way, as explained in detail below.

[0013] Internally mounted sensor units, such as UWB sensors, can detect objects outside the vehicle within a direct line of sight, for example, through adjacent side windows, and for the first row through a windshield and for the last row through a tailgate window. The sensor signals, e.g., UWB sensor signals, can also be attenuated, for example, by a solid window with a metallized coating, or similar.

[0014] A person outside the vehicle typically first walks towards or away from the vehicle. This walking / running movement differs from other detectable movements, such as breathing, arm movements, turning, etc., and generates a detectable sensor signal, e.g., a UWB signal. This detectable sensor signal, e.g., a UWB signal, can be assigned to, for example, a Type A sensor.

[0015] Other detectable movements include vital movements such as breathing, arm movements, slight head or torso turns, etc. These other detectable movements also generate a detectable sensor signal, e.g., a UWB signal. This detectable sensor signal, e.g., a UWB signal, can be referred to as a Type B signal.

[0016] Furthermore, sensor signals, e.g. UWB signals, are also detectable when nothing is happening near and / or inside the vehicle, and can be described as a type C signal.

[0017] Basically, different signal types can be created for corresponding movements (Type A, B, C, D, E, ...).

[0018] The signal types A, B and C described above are only examples and are not an exhaustive list.

[0019] Different signal types (Type A, B, C, D, E, ...) can be provided for different movements.

[0020] Different signal types can be combined in various sequences to form identifiable signal sequences. These different signal sequences can be assigned to corresponding essential vehicle functions.

[0021] Several signal types can be classified using physical and / or machine learning algorithms, e.g., by applying a sliding time window to an incoming sensor signal, e.g., a UWB signal.

[0022] The detected signal types and / or signal sequences can be translated into a description of the situation using the invention.

[0023] An exemplary sequence is described in the following example, in which someone approaches the vehicle from behind, stays close, and then moves away again. 1 st time 2 nd time 3 rd time 4 th time Front row UWB Type C Type C Type C Type C Rear row UWB Type C Type A Type B Type A

[0024] In the example shown in the table, the sensor device can have a sensor unit (so-called "Front row UWB") for a front row of seats and a sensor unit (so-called "Rear row UWB") for a rear row of seats.

[0025] In the example shown in the table, the sensor signal can be measured using a sliding time window (1 st time, 2 nd time, 3 rd time, 4 th time, etc.), which is passed over an incoming sensor signal, can be examined or classified.

[0026] Various essential vehicle functions can use the detected signal types and / or signal sequences to make their operation safer, more reliable and more comfortable.

[0027] In the event of a child presence detection, a Type B sensor signal might resemble a sensor signal generated inside the vehicle, potentially leading to interference. Therefore, Type A sensor signals (incoming and / or outgoing) can be used as markers for the start and / or end of a sensor signal generated outside the vehicle. In other words, the arrival of an external person (Type A signal) can be clearly identified and interpreted as the beginning of an external interference, allowing the vehicle's child presence detection function to delay its decision until this interference disappears (when a Type A sensor signal is again detected). This significantly reduces the risk of a false alarm from the vehicle's child presence detection function due to external interference.If the disturbance (in this case, a sensor signal of type B) persists after a certain period, the function can perform the evaluation using the available signals. If, after a further period, a sensor signal of type A is received, it can be recognized that the person outside has moved away from the vehicle again. In this way, the vehicle function (child presence detection) can recognize that the sensor signal of type B was detected due to external interference. An alarm for the detection of child presence can then be omitted.

[0028] In the event of a break-in detection, the arrival of a stranger (Type A signal) could, for example, be transmitted to a break-in alarm system and / or even activate the alarm system, since a break-in can only occur if someone is near a vehicle window. Therefore, the use of the internally mounted sensor device can help to reduce, and preferably minimize, the risk of false alarms from vehicle functions (break-in detection or break-in protection).

[0029] In principle, it is conceivable that the examination or classification of the sensor signal is carried out using a sliding time window over an incoming sensor signal.

[0030] Furthermore, the procedure may include, for example, before the examination, - Dividing the sensor signal into temporally successive signal segments.

[0031] Dividing the sensor signal into temporally sequential signal segments can be achieved, for example, by using a specific time window over an incoming sensor signal. This allows for improved detection of signal types and / or signal sequences in a simple manner.

[0032] Furthermore, it may be possible to classify signal types by detecting, locating, and examining different movement patterns inside and outside the vehicle. In this way, different movement patterns inside and outside the vehicle can be learned, which can then be used to provide various essential vehicle functions.

[0033] Furthermore, it may be possible to classify the signal types before commissioning and / or during the operation of the sensor device. In this way, a trained and / or continuously improving sensor device can be provided that can generate advantageous signals, even complete control signals, for various essential vehicle functions.

[0034] Furthermore, it may be possible to classify the signal types using physical investigation methods and / or machine learning methods. This can be done in advance, before the sensor device is put into operation, and / or during the sensor device's operation.

[0035] Furthermore, the signal types may include at least one primary signal type specific to the approach and / or departure of a person from outside the vehicle. Such a sensor signal has a specific, easily recognizable form that is distinguishable from other signals. Such a sensor signal can offer many different advantages.

[0036] Advantageously, the first signal type can be used as a marker for detection outside the vehicle's interior. This allows for a simple, yet safe and reliable distinction between detection from inside and outside the vehicle.

[0037] Further advantages can arise if the first signal type is used for an anti-theft system and / or access control. In this way, the sensor device can enable advanced vehicle functions that are not only based on interior monitoring but also improve exterior monitoring.

[0038] Advantageously, the first signal type can be used to activate an intrusion detection system. This way, false alarms in the intrusion detection system can be avoided simply, reliably, and safely.

[0039] Advantageously, the first signal type can be used to activate the vehicle's access control system. For example, the first signal type can be used to initiate an authentication request from an authorized user. Thus, the sensor device can contribute to improved functionality of an access control system and, in particular, reduce the hardware components required for presence detection outside the vehicle.

[0040] Further advantages can arise if the first signal type is used to verify false detections and / or avoid false alarms in interior presence detection, particularly child presence detection. Since the first signal type is specific to presence detection outside the vehicle, it can provide a simple verification for interior presence detection, especially child presence detection, preferably to reduce, and in particular avoid, external interference.

[0041] Furthermore, the signal types can include at least one second signal type specific to a person breathing and / or moving inside the vehicle. Advantageously, the second signal type can be used for interior presence detection, particularly child presence detection.

[0042] Furthermore, the signal types can include at least a third signal type, which is specific to a standstill situation when no movement is detected inside and / or outside the vehicle. This sensor signal can serve to differentiate the other signal types and / or even to normalize the sensor signals.

[0043] Another advantage of the method is that different signal sequences with specific successive signal types can be classified for corresponding essential vehicle functions. Thus, a wide variety of essential vehicle functions can be supported, improved, and / or ensured by the sensor device.

[0044] The present invention provides for: A computer program product comprising instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform a procedure that can proceed as described above. The same advantages described above in connection with the method according to the invention can be achieved with the computer program product. These advantages are fully referenced herein.

[0045] The present invention provides for: A control unit comprising a processing unit and a storage unit in which a code is stored, which, when at least partially executed by the processing unit, carries out a process that can proceed as described above. The same advantages described above in connection with the method according to the invention can be achieved with the control unit. These advantages are fully referenced herein.

[0046] Advantageously, an artificial neural network can be stored in the memory unit, which is specifically trained to classify the signal types.

[0047] Additionally or instead, a characteristic map can be stored in the memory unit, which includes the classified signal types.

[0048] The present invention provides for: A sensor device, in particular a UWB sensor device, comprising a corresponding control unit specifically designed to execute a method that can proceed as described above. The sensor device offers the same advantages described above in connection with the method according to the invention. These advantages are fully referenced herein.

[0049] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. These schematically depict: Fig. 1. An exemplary representation of signal types, Fig. 2 an exemplary representation of a sensor device, and Fig. 3. An exemplary visualization of a proposed procedure.

[0050] The Fig. 1, Fig. 2 and Fig. Figure 3 serves to explain a method within the meaning of the invention, which was developed for operating a sensor device 100, e.g. in the form of a UWB sensor device.

[0051] The sensor device 100 is designed (primarily) to monitor an interior 201 of a vehicle 200.

[0052] The sensor device 100, in addition to improved indoor monitoring functionality, receives extended functionality for outdoor monitoring through the invention.

[0053] The sensor device 100 can thus serve to provide various essential vehicle functions F1, F2 for the vehicle 200, based on interior and / or exterior detection. These could include various vehicle functions F1, F2, such as burglar protection, access control, interior presence detection, and / or child presence detection, etc.

[0054] The different essential vehicle functions F1, F2 can advantageously be provided depending on a detection of movement inside or outside the vehicle 200 (or in other words, depending on a distinction between a detection outside or inside the vehicle 200).

[0055] The sensor device 100 can comprise at least one sensor unit 10, 20 for monitoring at least one row of seats in the interior 201 of the vehicle 200. Furthermore, the sensor device 100 can comprise several sensor units 10, 20 for monitoring several rows of seats in the interior 201 of the vehicle 200. In principle, the sensor device 100 can comprise one or more sensor units 10, 20 per row of seats.

[0056] As it is Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 merely to illustrate by way of example, the sensor device 100 can have a sensor unit 10 (so-called “Front row UWB”) for a front row of seats and a sensor unit 20 (so-called “Rear row UWB”) for a rear row of seats.

[0057] The procedure consists of the following steps: - Detection of a sensor signal S by the sensor device 100 (see also Fig. 2) - Examining the sensor signal S based on classified signal types A, B, C (see also...) Fig. 1) - Evaluating the sensor signal S depending on the investigation (see here) Fig. 3) - Providing a corresponding functionally essential vehicle function F1, F2 depending on the evaluation.

[0058] The invention recognizes, firstly, that sensor units 10, 20, such as UWB sensor units, often cannot recognize from where a detection originates, from outside or from inside the vehicle 200, since sensor signals, such as radar signals or UWB signals, can pass through non-conductive vehicle parts, such as plastic parts and / or windows.

[0059] The invention also recognizes that the localization of the detection outside or inside the vehicle 200 is important for a safe, reliable and error-free operation of the sensor units 10, 20.

[0060] The information about the distance to the detected object in itself cannot provide reliable information to distinguish between detection outside or inside the vehicle 200, since, for example, the radial distance of an animal lying in the footwell and an adult standing close outside the vehicle 200 may be the same.

[0061] The method enables a fast, safe and reliable distinction between detection outside or inside the vehicle 200.

[0062] As it is Fig. As indicated in Figure 2, one insight that can be used advantageously is that internally arranged sensor units 10, 20, such as UWB sensor units, can detect objects outside the vehicle 200 within direct line of sight, for example, through adjacent side windows. The sensor unit 10 for the first row can also detect objects through a windshield, and the sensor unit 20 for the last row can also detect objects through a tailgate window.

[0063] As it is Fig. 2 and Fig. As illustrated in Figure 3, a person P outside vehicle 200 will typically first walk towards or away from vehicle 200. This walking / running movement differs from other detectable movements, such as breathing, arm movements, turning, etc., and generates a detectable sensor signal S, e.g., a UWB signal. This detectable sensor signal S, e.g., a UWB signal, can be assigned to a type A, cf. the Fig. 1.

[0064] Other detectable movements, e.g., vital movements such as breathing, arm movements, slight head or torso rotation, etc., also generate a detectable sensor signal S, e.g., a UWB signal. This detectable sensor signal S, e.g., a UWB signal, can be referred to as a type B signal; see the following. Fig. 1.

[0065] Furthermore, sensor signals, e.g., UWB signals, are also detectable if no movement is detected in the vicinity and / or inside the vehicle 200, and can be referred to as a type C signal; see the following. Fig. 1.

[0066] In principle, different additional signal types can be created for corresponding movements, e.g. signal type D, E, ....

[0067] Different signal types A, B, and C can be combined in various sequences to form identifiable signal sequences. These different signal sequences can be assigned to corresponding essential vehicle functions F1 and F2.

[0068] Several signal types A, B, C can be classified using physical and / or machine learning algorithms, e.g. by applying a sliding time window to an incoming sensor signal, e.g., a UWB signal.

[0069] The detected signal types A, B; C and / or signal sequences can be translated into a description of the situation using the invention.

[0070] An exemplary signal sequence is described in the following example, in which a person P approaches the vehicle from behind, stops nearby, and then moves away again, as the Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 hint. 1 st time 2 nd time 3 rd time 4 th time Front row UWB Type C Type C Type C Type C Rear row UWB Type C Type A Type B Type A

[0071] In the example shown in tabular form, the sensor device 100 can have a sensor unit (so-called “Front row UWB”) for a front row of seats and a sensor unit (so-called “Rear row UWB”) for a rear row of seats.

[0072] In the example shown in the table, the sensor signal S can be measured using a sliding time window (1 st time, 2 nd time, 3 rd time, 4 th time, etc.), which is passed over an incoming sensor signal, can be examined or classified.

[0073] Various essential vehicle functions F1, F2 can use the detected signal types A, B, C and / or signal sequences to make their operation safer, more reliable and more comfortable.

[0074] For example, in the case of the Fig. 2 and Fig. In the example described in 3, a sensor signal S of type B may resemble a sensor signal S generated in vehicle 200 when detecting the presence of children, which may lead to a possible malfunction in the vehicle function F1 (detection of the presence of children).

[0075] For this reason, sensor signals of type A (incoming and / or departing) can be used as markers for the beginning or end of a sensor signal S generated from outside the vehicle. In other words, the arrival of an external person P (signal of type A) can be detected and interpreted as the beginning of an external disturbance, allowing the vehicle function F1 (detection of child presence) to postpone its decision until this disturbance has disappeared (again a sensor signal of type A). In this way, the risk of a false alarm for vehicle function F1 (detection of child presence) due to an external disturbance can be significantly reduced. If the disturbance (here a sensor signal of type B) persists after a certain period, the sensor device can perform the evaluation using the available signals.If, after a further period of time, a sensor signal of type A is received, it can be recognized that the person P outside has moved away from vehicle 200 again. In this way, the vehicle function F1 (child presence detection) can recognize that the sensor signal of type B was detected due to external interference. An alarm for the detection of child presence can therefore be safely omitted.

[0076] In the case of vehicle function F2 (burglary detection or burglary protection), the arrival of a stranger P (signal of type A) can be transmitted to a burglary alarm system, for example. Advantageously, a sensor signal of type A can be used to activate the burglary alarm system. Since a burglary can only occur if someone is near a window of vehicle 200, valuable information can thus be provided for vehicle function F2 (burglary detection or burglary protection). Therefore, the use of the internally mounted sensor device 100 can help to avoid false alarms in vehicle function F2 (burglary detection or burglary protection).

[0077] In principle, it is conceivable that the sensor signal S can be examined based on classified signal types A, B, C using a sliding time window (1 st time, 2 nd time, 3 rd time, 4 thtime, etc.) can be carried out via an incoming sensor signal S (see here). Fig. 1).

[0078] As the table above suggests, the procedure may also include, for example, before examining or classifying the sensor signal S: - Dividing the sensor signal S into temporally successive signal segments Si.

[0079] Dividing the sensor signal S into temporally successive signal segments can be achieved, for example, by using a specific time window (1 st time, 2 nd time, 3 rd time, 4 th time, etc.) via an incoming sensor signal S.

[0080] Thus, improved detection of signal types A, B; C and / or signal sequences can be carried out in a simple manner.

[0081] Advantageously, signal types A, B, C can be classified by detecting, locating and investigating different movement sequences inside and outside the vehicle 200.

[0082] Signal types A, B, C can be classified before commissioning and / or during the operation of the sensor device 100, e.g. using physical investigation methods and / or machine learning methods.

[0083] As it is Fig. As indicated in Figure 1, signal types A, B, and C can include at least one first signal type A, which is specific for the approach and / or departure of a person P from outside the vehicle 200. Such a sensor signal S has a specific, easily recognizable form that is distinguishable from other sensor signals S of type B or C. Such a sensor signal S can provide many different advantages.

[0084] Advantageously, the first signal type A can be used as a marker for detection outside the interior 201 of the vehicle 200. The first signal type A can be used for an anti-theft system and / or access control to enable advanced vehicle functions F1, F2 through the sensor device 100, which are not only based on interior monitoring but also improve exterior monitoring.

[0085] Advantageously, the first signal type A can be used to activate an intrusion detection system. In this way, false alarms in the intrusion detection system can be avoided simply, reliably, and safely.

[0086] Advantageously, the first signal type A can be used to activate the vehicle's access control system. For example, the first signal type A can be used to initiate an authentication request from an authorized user.

[0087] Further advantages of the first signal type A can be achieved in interior presence detection, particularly child presence detection, by verifying false detections and / or preventing false alarms. Since the first signal type A is specific to presence detection outside the vehicle, it can provide a simple verification method for interior presence detection, especially child presence detection, preferably to reduce, and in particular avoid, external interference.

[0088] As it is Fig. As indicated in section 1, signal types A, B, and C can include at least one second signal type B, which is specific for detecting a person breathing and / or moving inside the vehicle. Advantageously, the second signal type B can be used for interior presence detection, in particular for detecting the presence of a child.

[0089] As it is Fig.As indicated in section 1, signal types A, B, and C can include at least one third signal type C, which is specific to a standstill situation when no movement is detected inside and / or outside the vehicle 200. This signal type C can be used to normalize the sensor signals S.

[0090] Furthermore, the invention relates to a corresponding computer program product, a corresponding control unit ECU and a corresponding sensor device 100, in particular a UWB sensor device, for carrying out a corresponding method.

[0091] The preceding explanation of the embodiments describes the present invention solely by way of examples. Naturally, individual features of the embodiments can be freely combined with one another, provided this is technically feasible, without departing from the scope of the present invention. Reference symbol list 100 sensor device 10 sensor units 20 sensor units 200 vehicles 201 Interior A signal type B Signal type C Signal type S Sensor signal F1 vehicle function F2 Vehicle Function P Person ECU control unit time window

Claims

[1] Method for operating a sensor device (100), in particular a UWB sensor device designed to monitor an interior (201) of a vehicle (200), to provide different essential vehicle functions (F1, F2) for the vehicle (200), comprehensive burglary protection, access control, indoor presence detection and / or child presence detection, wherein the different essential vehicle functions (F1, F2) are provided depending on a detection of movement inside or outside the vehicle (200), wherein the sensor device (100) comprises at least one sensor unit (10, 20) for monitoring at least one row of seats in the interior (201) of the vehicle (200), demonstrating the procedure: - Detection of a sensor signal (S) by the sensor device (100), - Examining the sensor signal (S) based on classified signal types (A, B, C), - Evaluating the sensor signal (S) depending on the investigation, - Providing a corresponding functionally essential vehicle function (F1, F2) depending on the evaluation. [2] Method according to claim 1, wherein the classification of the sensor signal (S) is carried out using a sliding time window (time) over an incoming sensor signal (S). [3] Method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the signal types (A, B, C) are classified by detecting, locating and investigating different motion sequences inside and outside the vehicle (200). [4] Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the signal types (A, B, C) are classified before commissioning and / or during operation of the sensor device (100). [5] Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the signal types (A, B, C) are classified using physical investigation methods and / or machine learning methods. [6] Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the signal types (A, B, C) include at least one first signal type (A) which is specific for an approach and / or departure of a person from outside to the vehicle (200). [7] Method according to the preceding claim, wherein the first signal type (A) is used as a marker for detection outside the interior (201) of the vehicle (200). [8] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, where the first signal type (A) is used for an intrusion protection system and / or access control, and / or where the first signal type (A) is used to activate an intrusion protection system, and / or wherein the first signal type (A) is used to activate an access control system of the vehicle, and / or wherein the first signal type (A) is used to initiate an authentication query of an authorized user. [9] Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first signal type (A) is used to verify false detections and / or avoid false alarms in indoor presence detection, in particular child presence detection. [10] Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the signal types (A, B, C) include at least a second signal type (B) which is specific for breathing and / or moving a person inside the vehicle (200). [11] Method according to the preceding claim, wherein the second signal type (B) is used for indoor presence detection, in particular child presence detection. [12] Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the signal types (A, B, C) include at least a third signal type (C) which is specific for a rest situation when no detection of movement inside and / or outside the vehicle (200) takes place. [13] Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein different signal sequences with certain successive signal types (A, B, C) are classified for corresponding functionally essential vehicle functions (F1, F2). [14] Computer program product comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform a method according to any of the preceding claims. [15] Electronic control unit (ECU) comprising a computing unit and a storage unit in which a code is stored which, when at least partially executed by the computing unit, performs a method according to any one of the preceding method claims 1 to 13. [16] Sensor device (100) comprising a control unit (ECU) according to the preceding claim.

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