Operating device for generating a haptic warning signal

Abstract

The following description relates to an operating device for generating a haptic warning signal during an impending change of direction of travel of a motor vehicle (20), comprising: a switching element (12) for activating a plurality of direction indicators (13), wherein the switching element (12) is movable from a detent position into at least a first switching position for indicating a first direction of travel or a second switching position for indicating a second direction of travel; a blocking device (14) for blocking the movement of the switching element (12) from the detent position into the first switching position and / or into the second switching position and for generating a haptic warning signal in the form of a resistance to movement at the switching element (12);wherein the blocking device (14) is connectable to an evaluation unit of the motor vehicle (20), which detects obstacles (16) in the vicinity of the motor vehicle (20) by means of a plurality of sensor units (18), and the movement of the switching element (12) from the detent position to the first switching position and / or from the detent position to the second switching position can be blocked depending on the obstacles (16) detected by the evaluation unit.

Description

[0001] The following descriptions concern a control device for generating a haptic warning signal during an impending change of direction in a motor vehicle, by means of which the driver can be informed of a hazardous situation via an additional sensory stimulus. Furthermore, the following descriptions concern a motor vehicle equipped with the control device and a method for generating a haptic warning signal in the motor vehicle.

[0002] DE1 02017011 067 A1 describes a turn signal lever for an autonomously and non-autonomously operated motor vehicle, wherein the turn signal lever can be adjusted to detent and momentary positions, whereby in non-autonomous operation, adjustment to both detent and momentary positions is possible. In contrast, in autonomous operation, only adjustment to momentary positions is possible, whereby adjustment to detent positions is prevented by an actuator.

[0003] There is a need to improve the safety of a motor vehicle during an upcoming lane change as well as turning procedures.

[0004] Based on this situation, the task at hand is to propose a technical solution that can cost-effectively improve the safety of the motor vehicle during an upcoming lane change as well as a turning procedure.

[0005] The present problem is solved by the features of the independent claim. Advantageous embodiments are specified in the dependent claims, the description, and the drawings. Where technically feasible, the teachings of the dependent claims can be combined arbitrarily with those of the main and dependent claims.

[0006] In particular, the task is therefore solved by an operating device for generating a haptic warning signal during an impending change of direction of travel of a motor vehicle, comprising: - a switching element for activating a plurality of direction indicators, wherein the switching element can be moved from a detent position into at least a first switching position to indicate a first direction of travel and / or a second switching position to indicate a second direction of travel by the driver of the motor vehicle; - a blocking device for at least partially blocking the movement of the switching element from the detent position to the first switching position and / or from the detent position to the second switching position and for generating a haptic warning signal for the motor vehicle driver in the form of a movement resistance on the switching element; wherein the blocking device can be connected to an evaluation unit of the motor vehicle, which detects obstacles in the vicinity of the motor vehicle by means of a plurality of sensor units, and the movement of the switching element from the detent position to the first switching position and / or from the detent position to the second switching position can be blocked depending on the obstacles detected by the evaluation unit.

[0007] By using the operating device, especially in conjunction with an evaluation unit designed as a lane change assistant, the switching element can be at least partially blocked in certain situations in order to alert the driver to a dangerous situation, in particular that a planned lane change is not possible due to obstacles, by means of a haptic warning signal.

[0008] The following sections explain advantageous aspects and subsequently describe preferred modified embodiments. Explanations, particularly regarding advantages and definitions of features, are essentially descriptive and preferred, but not limiting, examples. If an explanation is limiting, this will be explicitly stated.

[0009] It is preferred that the sequence of process steps can be varied, unless a specific sequence is technically required. However, the aforementioned sequence of process steps is particularly preferred.

[0010] Where ordinal numbers, such as "first," "second," etc., are used, for example to designate a component, an element, a process step, or a process action, these ordinal numbers are solely for differentiation in the designation and do not indicate any dependencies or sequences. This means, in particular, that a device does not need to have a "first component" to have a "second component." A device can also have a "first component" and a "third component" without necessarily having a "second component." Multiple units with the same ordinal number are also possible, for example, multiple "first components."

[0011] The turn signal, also known as a turn indicator, is an essential component of a motor vehicle's lighting system. Its primary function is to signal to other road users the direction in which the driver intends to turn or change lanes. This contributes to clear communication in traffic and is an indispensable safety feature. The turn signal is used particularly for turning maneuvers and lane changes. The turn signal is activated by the control element, also known as the turn signal lever, which is located near the steering wheel and / or the dashboard of the vehicle. The driver's perception of the action when the control element is activated is described and specified by the force-displacement curve measured at a specific point on the control element.The switching element can be moved by the driver from a detent position, in which the turn signals are deactivated, to a first switching position or a second switching position, in which at least some of the turn signals are activated. The operating device, in particular the locking device, can be connected to the vehicle's evaluation unit, which detects obstacles in the vehicle's vicinity by means of a multitude of sensor units. This allows the switching element to be at least partially blocked depending on the obstacles detected by the evaluation unit.A vehicle evaluation unit, specifically designed as a driver assistance system or lane change assistant, which detects obstacles in the vehicle's vicinity using a variety of sensors, is designed to support the driver while driving, providing greater comfort and increasing safety. Such an evaluation unit can automatically initiate a lane change as soon as the driver has activated the gear selector or turn signal for a few seconds. The evaluation unit checks whether another vehicle is in the blind spot or nearby and only changes lanes once the sensors no longer detect any obstacles.The evaluation unit, in particular as a sensor unit, features a rear radar system and / or a side radar system, which is typically used when parking or changing lanes in short measuring ranges and in heavy traffic to assist the driver while driving. From the measured values, the evaluation unit can derive information about obstacles detected in the vicinity of the vehicle, indicating a hazardous situation. By linking the control device to the evaluation unit, haptic warning signals can be issued to the driver via the switching element, thus preventing a potential hazard caused by a change in the vehicle's direction of travel, especially by other road users in the vehicle's blind spot.This prevents the activation of turn signals during a hazardous situation, thus avoiding unnecessary confusion for other road users and discouraging the driver from turning or changing lanes due to an additional sensory stimulus. This can further reduce the risk of accidents.

[0012] The switching element can be moved by the driver in at least two opposite directions from its detent position. Generally, moving the switching element upwards in the direction of travel to the first switching position, which defines an impending change of direction of travel to the right, activates a number of turn signals, displaying a visual signal in that direction. Similarly, moving the switching element downwards in the direction of travel to the second switching position, which defines an impending change of direction of travel to the left, activates a number of turn signals, displaying a visual signal in the second direction. The locking device can at least partially lock the switching element in either the first and / or second switching position.If an obstacle, such as another road user, is detected to the right of the vehicle in the direction of travel, the movement of the switching element into the first switching position may be at least partially blocked. If an obstacle, such as another road user, is detected to the left of the vehicle in the direction of travel, the movement of the switching element into the second switching position may be at least partially blocked. If multiple obstacles, such as other road users, are detected to the right and left of the vehicle in the direction of travel, the movement of the switching element into both the first and second switching positions may be at least partially blocked.The blocking of the switching element's movement into the first and / or second switching position can be implemented as a complete blocking of movement or as a partial blocking, in which only additional resistance is applied to the switching element. In both cases, this allows the driver to perceive atypical operating behavior of the switching element as a haptic warning signal and adjust their driving accordingly.

[0013] Alternatively or additionally, the switching element can be provided for in such a way that it can be at least partially blocked mechanically, electrically, electromechanically, and / or electromagnetically by the blocking device. An electrically operated blocking device can be connected to and controlled by the vehicle's evaluation unit to initiate or release the at least partial blocking of the switching element. This allows the blocking of the switching element to be carried out cost-effectively, quickly, and reliably.

[0014] Alternatively or additionally, the blocking device may include an electrically switchable magnetorheological fluid and / or an electromagnet for blocking the switching element. In the case of an electrically switchable magnetorheological fluid, small metal particles in a liquid are magnetized by an electrical signal and aligned with the magnetic field. This causes the liquid to lose its flow properties, its viscosity to change, and the switching element to be blocked by the magnetorheological fluid. Magnetorheological fluids are special liquids whose rheological properties change in the presence of a magnetic field. Specifically, this means that the viscosity of the fluid, i.e., how thick or thin it is, can be influenced by a magnetic field. In an inactive state, these fluids behave like ordinary liquids.However, when a magnetic field is applied, the magnetic particles in the fluid solidify, making it stiffer and more viscous. In the locking device, the magnetorheological fluid can be used to create an adaptive lock. Under normal operating conditions, the switching element can move freely, but in the event of a sudden magnetic field, it can be immediately locked to prevent movement in a predetermined direction. By using an electromagnet, a predetermined resistance to movement can be generated at the switching element. This can improve the haptic perception of the warning signal by the driver.

[0015] Alternatively or additionally, the switching element can be designed as a turn signal lever. In particular, it is provided that the switching element is monostable, momentary, and / or mechanically latching. This allows the driver to operate the switching element with a familiar movement pattern when the anti-lock device is deactivated.

[0016] Alternatively or additionally, it may be provided that the activation of at least one direction indicator in the first direction of travel is effected by moving the switching element from the detent position into the first switching direction, wherein the activation of at least one direction indicator in the second direction of travel is effected by moving the switching element from the detent position into the second switching direction. In particular, it is provided that the movement of the switching element into the first switching position and the movement of the switching element into the second switching position occur in opposite directions.

[0017] The task is further solved by a motor vehicle with an operating device which can be designed and further developed as described above, comprising: - a plurality of direction indicators connected to the operating device and activatable via the switching element for visually indicating impending changes in the direction of travel of the motor vehicle; - a variety of sensor units for detecting obstacles in the vicinity of the vehicle and for providing measurement data; - an evaluation unit connected to the multitude of sensor units and the operating device for receiving and evaluating the measurement data and for blocking the movement of the switching element from the detent position to the first switching position and / or from the detent position to the second switching position by means of the blocking device depending on the detected obstacles.

[0018] Alternatively or additionally, the evaluation unit can be configured as a driver assistance system, in particular as a lane change assistant. A vehicle evaluation unit, specifically configured as a driver assistance system or lane change assistant, which detects obstacles in the vehicle's vicinity using a multitude of sensor units, is designed to support the driver while driving, provide greater comfort, and increase safety. Such an evaluation unit can automatically initiate a lane change as soon as the driver has activated the gear selector or turn signal for a few seconds. The evaluation unit checks whether another vehicle is in the blind spot or near the vehicle and only changes lanes once the sensor units no longer detect any obstacles.The evaluation unit, in particular as a sensor unit, features a rear radar system and / or a side radar system, which is typically used when parking or changing lanes in short measuring ranges and in heavy traffic to assist the driver while driving. From the measured values, the evaluation unit can derive information about obstacles detected in the vicinity of the vehicle, indicating a hazardous situation. By linking the control device to the evaluation unit, haptic warning signals can be issued to the driver via the switching element, thus preventing a potential hazard caused by a change in the vehicle's direction of travel, especially by other road users in the vehicle's blind spot.This prevents the activation of turn signals during hazardous situations, thus avoiding unnecessary distraction for other road users and deterring the driver from turning or changing lanes due to an additional sensory stimulus. This further reduces the risk of accidents. In particular, the coupling of the blocking device with the evaluation unit allows access to an existing vehicle system. Specifically, existing or already installed sensor units for environmental monitoring and blocking the switching element can be used. This enables a safe and cost-effective operating device for use in a motor vehicle.

[0019] Alternatively or additionally, the operating device may be located on the dashboard and / or steering mechanism of the motor vehicle. A dashboard is a display or instrument panel with gauges and controls (instruments) of a motor vehicle. The operating device is intended, particularly in the area of ​​the steering mechanism, for manual operation by the driver.

[0020] Alternatively or additionally, the sensor units may be configured as stereo radar for obstacle detection. Specifically, the sensor units may be configured as long-range radar for obstacle detection. In particular, the sensor units may include ultrasonic sensors, infrared sensors, time-of-flight (ToF) sensors, cameras, and / or similar components. Stereo radar is a sensor technology that combines the principles of radar and stereoscopic imaging. Radar (Radio Detection and Ranging) uses radio waves to detect the distance, speed, and other characteristics of objects, especially obstacles. It emits a signal and measures the time it takes for the echo to return, thus determining the distance. Doppler shifts in the returning signal provide information about the object's speed.Stereoscopic imaging uses two or more cameras that capture images from different angles. By comparing the differences (disparity) between these images, it is possible to reconstruct the depth information of the scene. Stereo radar combines these two technologies to extend the capabilities of traditional radar systems. The core idea is to use multiple radar sensors in different positions to create a stereoscopic effect. Advantageously, like stereoscopic cameras, stereo radar can provide more accurate depth information and improved depth perception, which is crucial for applications requiring precise distance measurements. Furthermore, by using multiple viewpoints, stereo radar can better distinguish objects and obstacles, even in cluttered environments or when the line of sight is partially obstructed.Multiple radar units can provide redundancy and increased system reliability, thereby improving fail-safe operation. In motor vehicles, especially autonomous vehicles, stereo radar can enhance the safety and accuracy of self-driving cars by providing better object detection and depth perception under varying weather conditions. Long-range radar is a radar system specifically designed for detecting and monitoring objects and obstacles over long distances. These radar systems can provide wide coverage and long range in motor vehicles. Time-of-flight (ToF) sensors are distance sensors that measure the time it takes for a light or sound signal to be emitted by a sensor, reflected by an object or obstacle, and return to the sensor.This technology can be used for precise distance measurement and depth information generation. Time-of-flight (ToF) sensors are characterized by high precision, fast response time, robustness, and versatility.

[0021] The task is further solved by a method for generating a haptic warning signal, in particular by at least partially blocking the switching element, in a motor vehicle, which can be designed and further developed as described above, comprising the following steps: - Detecting obstacles in the vicinity of the vehicle and disseminating measurement data through the multitude of sensor units; - Receiving and evaluating the measurement data by the evaluation unit; - Blocking the movement of the switching element from the detent position to the first switching position by the blocking device in the event of a detected obstacle in the first direction of travel; and / or - Blocking the movement of the switching element from the detent position to the second switching position by the blocking device in the event of a detected obstacle in the second direction of travel.

[0022] A preferred technical solution is explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and preferred embodiments. The term "figure" is abbreviated as "Fig." in the drawings.

[0023] The drawings show Fig. 1 a front view of a first embodiment of an operating device; Fig. 2 a schematic view of a first embodiment of a motor vehicle; Fig. 3 a partial view of the operating device according to Fig. 1; and Fig. 4 a partial view of a second embodiment of an operating device.

[0024] The described embodiments are merely examples that can be modified and / or supplemented in various ways within the scope of the claims. Each feature described for a particular embodiment can be used independently or in combination with other features in any other embodiment. Each feature described for an embodiment of a particular claim category can also be used accordingly in an embodiment of a different claim category.

[0025] Fig. Figure 1 shows a front view of a first embodiment of an operating device 10 for generating a haptic warning signal during an impending change of direction of travel of a motor vehicle 20, comprising: a switching element 12 for activating a plurality of direction indicators 13, wherein the switching element 12 can be moved from a detent position into at least a first switching position for indicating a first direction of travel or a second switching position for indicating a second direction of travel by the motor vehicle driver; a blocking device 14 for at least partially blocking the movement of the switching element 12 from the detent position into the first switching position and / or from the detent position into the second switching position and for generating a haptic warning signal for the motor vehicle driver in the form of a resistance to movement at the switching element 12;wherein the blocking device 14 is connectable to an evaluation unit of the motor vehicle 20, which detects obstacles 16 in the vicinity of the motor vehicle 20 by means of a plurality of sensor units 18, and the movement of the switching element 12 from the detent position to the first switching position and / or from the detent position to the second switching position can be blocked depending on the obstacles 16 detected by the evaluation unit.

[0026] Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic view of a first embodiment of a motor vehicle 20 with an operating device 10 according to Fig. 1, comprising: a plurality of direction indicators 13 connected to the operating device 10 and activatable via the switching element 12 for visually indicating impending changes in direction 13 of the motor vehicle 20; a plurality of sensor units 18 for detecting obstacles 16 in the vicinity of the motor vehicle 20 and for providing measurement data; an evaluation unit connected to the plurality of sensor units 18 and the operating device 10 for receiving and evaluating the measurement data and for blocking the movement of the switching element 12 from the detent position to the first switching position and / or from the detent position to the second switching position by means of the blocking device 14 depending on the detected obstacles 16.

[0027] Fig. Figure 3 shows a partial view of the operating device 10 according to Fig. 1, wherein the switching element 12 is at least partially blocked in the direction of the second switching position by the blocking device 14 and generates a haptic warning signal for the motor vehicle driver during actuation of the switching element 12.

[0028] Fig. Figure 4 shows a partial view of a second embodiment of an operating device 10, wherein the switching element 12 is at least partially blocked in the direction of the first switching position by the blocking device 14 and generates a haptic warning signal for the motor vehicle driver during actuation of the switching element 12. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DE 1 02017011 067 A1

[0002]

Claims

[1] Control device for generating a haptic warning signal during an impending change of direction of travel of a motor vehicle (20), comprising: - a switching element (12) for activating a plurality of direction indicators (13), wherein the switching element (12) can be moved from a detent position into at least a first switching position to indicate a first direction of travel or a second switching position to indicate a second direction of travel by the motor vehicle driver; - a blocking device (14) for at least partially blocking the movement of the switching element (12) from the detent position to the first switching position and / or from the detent position to the second switching position and for generating a haptic warning signal for the motor vehicle driver in the form of a movement resistance on the switching element (12); wherein the blocking device (14) is connectable to an evaluation unit of the motor vehicle (20), which detects obstacles (16) in the vicinity of the motor vehicle (20) by means of a plurality of sensor units (18), and the movement of the switching element (12) from the detent position to the first switching position and / or from the detent position to the second switching position can be blocked depending on the obstacles (16) detected by the evaluation unit. [2] Operating device according to claim 1, wherein the switching element (12) can be blocked at least partially mechanically, electrically, electro-mechanically and / or electromagnetically by the blocking device (14). [3] Operating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the blocking device (14) comprises an electrically switchable magnetorheological fluid and / or an electromagnet for blocking the switching element (12). [4] Operating device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the switching element (12) is designed as a flashing lever, wherein in particular the switching element (12) is designed to be monostable in a momentary position and / or mechanically latching manner. [5] Operating device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the activation of at least one direction indicator in the first direction of travel is effected by moving the switching element (12) from the detent position into the first switching direction, wherein the activation of at least one direction indicator in the second direction of travel is effected by moving the switching element (12) from the detent position into the second switching direction, wherein in particular the movement of the switching element (12) into the first switching position and the movement of the switching element (12) into the second switching position are effected in opposite directions. [6] Motor vehicle with an operating device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 4, comprising: - a plurality of direction indicators (13) connected to the operating device (10) and activatable via the switching element (12) for visually indicating impending changes in the direction of travel of the motor vehicle (20); - a variety of sensor units (18) for detecting obstacles (16) in the vicinity of the motor vehicle (20) and for providing measurement data; - an evaluation unit connected with the multitude of sensor units (18) and the operating device (10) for receiving and evaluating the measurement data and for blocking the movement of the switching element (12) from the detent position to the first switching position and / or from the detent position to the second switching position by means of the blocking device (14) depending on the detected obstacles (16). [7] Motor vehicle according to claim 6, wherein the evaluation unit is designed as a driver assistance system, in particular as a lane change assistant. [8] Motor vehicle according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the operating device is arranged on the dashboard and / or the steering device of the motor vehicle (20). [9] Motor vehicle according to one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the sensor units (18) are designed as a stereo radar for detecting obstacles (16), wherein in particular the sensor units (18) are designed as a long-range radar for detecting obstacles (16). [10] Method for generating a haptic warning signal in a motor vehicle according to any one of claims 6 to 9, comprising the following steps: - Detecting obstacles (16) in the vicinity of the motor vehicle (20) and disseminating measurement data through the multitude of sensor units (18); - Receiving and evaluating the measurement data by the evaluation unit; - Blocking the movement of the switching element (12) from the detent position to the first switching position by the blocking device (14) in the event of a detected obstacle (16) in the first direction of travel; and / or - Blocking the movement of the switching element (12) from the detent position to the second switching position by the blocking device (14) in the event of a detected obstacle (16) in the second direction of travel.

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