Method for controlling the automatic closing of an opening element of a vehicle with respect to a seal attached to the vehicle, and system for controlling the automatic closing of a door of a vehicle with respect to a seal attached to the vehicle.

Abstract

Methods and systems for controlling the automatic closing of a vehicle door with respect to a seal attached to the vehicle are provided. An input sensor is configured to receive an input to close the door.A processor is configured to enable at least the execution of a counter relating to a time period after which the seal was fitted to the vehicle; and upon receiving the input to close the door: automatic closing of the door according to a first protocol with a first driving force according to instructions provided by the processor if the counter is less than a predetermined threshold; and automatic closing of the door according to a second protocol with a second driving force that is less than the first driving force, according to instructions provided by the processor if the counter is greater than a predetermined threshold.

Description

[0001] The technical field generally concerns vehicles and, in particular, methods and systems for controlling the closing of engine flaps for vehicles.

[0002] Certain vehicles today include engine hatches (or other opening mechanisms) that are automatically opened and closed by the vehicle, for example, upon receiving input from a user. In certain situations, the opening of engine hatches (or other opening mechanisms) can be impaired if an object is located near the vehicle.

[0003] DE 10 2018 210 426 A1 describes a method and a device for closing a door at a door recess, in particular on a vehicle, comprising a seal formed between the door and the door recess to separate an interior space and an exterior space from each other in an installation environment of the door, a door drive for closing the door, a control means for controlling the door drive depending on an operating request of a user, as well as a door arrangement and a motor vehicle.

[0004] Accordingly, the object of the invention is to provide improved methods and systems for controlling engine flaps (and other opening elements) of a vehicle, including when an object is located near the vehicle.

[0005] According to the invention, a method for controlling the automatic closing of a vehicle's opening element with respect to a seal attached to the vehicle is provided. The method comprises: executing a counter, via a processor, which relates to a time period after which the seal has been attached to the vehicle; automatically closing the door according to a first protocol with a first driving force according to instructions provided by the processor when the counter is less than a predetermined threshold; and automatically closing the door according to a second protocol with a second driving force that is less than the first driving force, according to instructions provided by the processor when the counter is greater than the predetermined threshold. The opening element comprises a door.The step of performing the counter involves an indirect estimation of the time it took for the seal to be fitted to the vehicle, based on counting a number of actions or cycles of one or more vehicle components.

[0006] The step of automatically closing the door according to the first protocol further includes automatically closing the door according to the first protocol with the first driving force, according to instructions provided by the processor, if the counted number of actions or cycles of one or more vehicle components is less than the predetermined threshold. The step of automatically closing the door according to the second protocol further includes automatically closing the door according to the second protocol with the second driving force, which is greater than the first driving force, according to instructions provided by the processor, if the counted number of actions or cycles of one or more vehicle components is greater than the predetermined threshold.

[0007] According to one embodiment, the opening element comprises a rotating door; the step of automatically closing the door according to the first protocol comprises automatically closing the door with a first rotary drive speed when the counter is less than the predetermined threshold; and the step of automatically closing the door according to the second protocol comprises automatically closing the door with a second rotary drive speed that is less than the first rotary drive speed when the counter is greater than the predetermined threshold.

[0008] According to a further embodiment, the opening element comprises a sliding door; the step of automatic closing of the door according to the first protocol comprises an automatic closing of the door with a first sliding drive speed when the counter is less than the predetermined threshold; and the step of automatic closing of the door according to the second protocol comprises an automatic closing of the door with a second sliding drive speed that is less than the first sliding drive speed when the counter is greater than the predetermined threshold.

[0009] According to another embodiment, the opening element comprises a door, and the step of performing the counter includes directly calculating the time after which the seal was attached to the vehicle.The step of automatically closing the door according to the first protocol further includes automatically closing the door according to the first protocol with the first driving force according to instructions provided by the processor, if the time after which the seal was attached to the vehicle, as calculated directly by the processor performing the counter, is less than a predetermined time threshold; and the step of automatically closing the door according to the second protocol further includes automatically closing the door according to the second protocol with the second driving force, which is less than the first driving force, according to instructions provided by the processor, if the time after which the seal was attached to the vehicle, as calculated directly by the processor performing the counter, is greater than the predetermined time threshold.

[0010] According to another embodiment, the step of performing the counter includes an indirect estimation of the time after which the seal was fitted to the vehicle, based on counting the number of times the door was opened and closed.The step of automatically closing the door according to the first protocol further includes automatically closing the door according to the first protocol with the first driving force according to instructions provided by the processor if the counted number of times the door has been opened and closed is less than the predetermined threshold, and the step of automatically closing the door according to the second protocol further includes automatically closing the door according to the second protocol with the second driving force, which is less than the first driving force, according to instructions provided by the processor if the counted number of times the door has been opened and closed is greater than the predetermined threshold.

[0011] According to another embodiment, the step of performing the counter includes an indirect estimation of the time after which the seal was fitted to the vehicle, based on counting the number of times the door was locked and unlocked.The step of automatically closing the door according to the first protocol further includes automatically closing the door according to the first protocol with the first driving force according to instructions provided by the processor if the counted number of times the door has been locked and unlocked is less than the predetermined threshold, and the step of automatically closing the door according to the second protocol further includes automatically closing the door according to the second protocol with the second driving force, which is less than the first driving force, according to instructions provided by the processor if the counted number of times the door has been locked and unlocked is greater than the predetermined threshold.

[0012] According to another embodiment, the step of performing the counter includes an indirect estimation of the time after which the seal was fitted to the vehicle, based on counting the number of times the vehicle's engine was switched on and off.The step of automatically closing the door according to the first protocol further includes automatically closing the door according to the first protocol with the first driving force according to instructions provided by the processor if the counted number of times the vehicle's engine has been switched on and off is less than the predetermined threshold, and the step of automatically closing the door according to the second protocol further includes automatically closing the door according to the second protocol with the second driving force, which is less than the first driving force, according to instructions provided by the processor if the counted number of times the vehicle's engine has been switched on and off is greater than the predetermined threshold.

[0013] According to a further embodiment, the opening element comprises a door. The automatic closing step of the door according to the first protocol includes automatically closing the door with a first drive speed based on a first function of drive speed versus closing distance between the door and the seal. The first function includes increasing values ​​of drive speed versus closing distance according to instructions provided by the processor when the counter is less than the predetermined threshold. The automatic closing step of the door according to the second protocol includes automatically closing the door with a second drive speed greater than the first drive speed, and the second drive speed is based on a second function of drive speed versus closing distance between the door and the seal.The second function involves increasing values ​​of drive speed relative to the closing distance. This second function includes a vertical upward shift of the first function according to instructions provided by the processor when the counter exceeds the predetermined threshold.

[0014] According to the invention, a system for controlling the automatic closing of a vehicle door with respect to a seal attached to the vehicle is also provided. The system comprises an input sensor and a processor. The input sensor is configured to receive an input to close the door, and the processor is coupled to the input sensor.The processor is configured to perform at least one counter operation, which relates to the time after which the seal was attached to the vehicle and, upon receiving the input to close the door: automatic closing of the door according to a first protocol with a first driving force, as per instructions provided by the processor, if the counter is less than a predetermined threshold; and automatic closing of the door according to a second protocol with a second driving force, less than the first driving force, as per instructions provided by the processor, if the counter is greater than a predetermined threshold. The counter operation step involves an indirect estimation of the time after which the seal was attached to the vehicle, based on counting a number of actions or cycles of one or more vehicle components.The step of automatically closing the door according to the first protocol further includes automatically closing the door according to the first protocol with the first driving force, according to instructions provided by the processor, if the counted number of actions or cycles of one or more vehicle components is less than the predetermined threshold. The step of automatically closing the door according to the second protocol further includes automatically closing the door according to the second protocol with the second driving force, which is greater than the first driving force, according to instructions provided by the processor, if the counted number of actions or cycles of one or more vehicle components is greater than the predetermined threshold.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the door comprises a rotating door and the processor is further configured to enable at least the automatic closing of the door with a first rotary drive speed when the counter is less than the predetermined threshold; and automatic closing of the door with a second rotary drive speed greater than the first rotary drive speed when the counter is greater than the predetermined threshold.

[0016] In an exemplary embodiment, the door also comprises a sliding door and the processor is further configured to enable at least the automatic closing of the door with a first sliding drive speed when the counter is less than the predetermined threshold; and automatic closing of the door with a second sliding drive speed that is less than the first sliding drive speed when the counter is greater than the predetermined threshold.

[0017] According to a further embodiment, the processor is further configured to enable at least the execution of the counter by directly calculating the time after which the seal was attached to the vehicle; automatic closing of the door according to the first protocol with the first driving force according to instructions provided by the processor, if the time after which the seal was attached to the vehicle, as calculated directly by the processor performing the counter, is less than a predetermined time threshold; and automatic closing of the door according to the second protocol with the second driving force, which is greater than the first driving force, according to instructions provided by the processor, if the time after which the seal was attached to the vehicle, as calculated directly by the processor performing the counter, is greater than the predetermined time threshold.

[0018] According to a further embodiment, the processor is further configured to enable at least the following: performing the counter by indirectly estimating the time after which the seal was attached to the vehicle, based on counting a number of actions or cycles of one or more vehicle components; automatically closing the door according to the first protocol with the first driving force according to instructions provided by the processor, if the counted number of actions or cycles of the one or more vehicle components is less than the predetermined threshold; and automatically closing the door according to the second protocol with the second driving force, which is greater than the first driving force, according to instructions provided by the processor, if the counted number of actions or cycles of the one or more vehicle components is greater than the predetermined threshold.

[0019] According to a further embodiment, the processor is further configured to enable at least the following: performing the counter by indirectly estimating the time after which the seal was fitted to the vehicle, based on counting the number of times the door was opened and closed; automatically closing the door according to the first protocol with the first driving force according to instructions provided by the processor, if the counted number of times the door was opened and closed is less than the predetermined threshold; and automatically closing the door according to the second protocol with the second driving force, which is greater than the first driving force, according to instructions provided by the processor, if the counted number of times the door was opened and closed is greater than the predetermined threshold.

[0020] According to a further embodiment, the processor is further configured to enable at least the following: performing the counter by indirectly estimating the time after which the seal was fitted to the vehicle, based on counting the number of times the door was locked and unlocked; automatically closing the door according to the first protocol with the first driving force according to instructions provided by the processor, if the counted number of times the door was locked and unlocked is less than the predetermined threshold; and automatically closing the door according to the second protocol with the second driving force, which is greater than the first driving force, according to instructions provided by the processor, if the counted number of times the door was locked and unlocked is greater than the predetermined threshold.

[0021] According to a further embodiment, the processor is further configured to enable at least the following: performing the counter by indirectly estimating the time after which the seal was attached to the vehicle, based on counting the number of times the vehicle's engine was switched on and off; automatically closing the door according to the first protocol with the first driving force according to instructions provided by the processor, if the counted number of times the vehicle's engine was switched on and off is less than the predetermined threshold; and automatically closing the door according to the second protocol with the second driving force, which is greater than the first driving force, according to instructions provided by the processor, if the counted number of times the vehicle's engine was switched on and off is greater than the predetermined threshold.

[0022] According to a further embodiment, the processor is further configured to enable at least the following upon receiving the input to close the door: automatic closing of the door with a first drive speed based on a first function of drive speed versus closing distance between the door and the seal, wherein the first function includes increasing values ​​of drive speed versus closing distance according to instructions provided by the processor when the counter is less than the predetermined threshold;and automatic closing of the door with a second drive speed that is greater than the first drive speed, wherein the second drive speed is based on a second function of drive speed versus closing distance between the door and the seal, wherein the second function includes increasing values ​​of drive speed versus closing distance, and wherein the second function includes a vertical upward shift of the first function according to instructions provided by the processor when the counter is greater than the predetermined threshold.

[0023] According to another embodiment, a vehicle is provided comprising: a body, a seal attached to the body, a door configured to open and close, and configured to touch the seal when the door is closed; an actuator configured to move the door; an input sensor configured to receive an input to close the door; and a processor coupled to the input sensor and the actuator, the processor being configured to at least allow the execution of a counter relating to a time period after which the seal was attached to the vehicle;and upon receiving the input to close the door: automatic closing of the door according to a first protocol with a first driving force and with a first driving speed according to instructions provided to the actuator by the processor and implemented by the actuator when the door closes automatically if the counter is less than a predetermined threshold; and automatic closing of the door according to a second protocol with a second driving force greater than the first driving force and with a second driving speed greater than the first driving speed, according to instructions provided to the actuator by the processor and implemented by the actuator when the door closes automatically if the counter is greater than a predetermined threshold.

[0024] According to a further embodiment, the processor is further configured to enable at least the following upon receiving the input to close the door: automatic closing of the door at the first drive speed, wherein the first drive speed is based on a first function of drive speed versus closing distance between the door and the seal, and wherein the first function includes increasing values ​​of drive speed versus closing distance according to instructions provided by the processor when the counter is less than the predetermined threshold;and automatic closing of the door with the second drive speed, wherein the second drive speed is greater than the first drive speed, and wherein the second drive speed is based on a second function of drive speed versus closing distance between the door and the seal, wherein the second function includes increasing values ​​of drive speed versus closing distance, and wherein the second function includes a vertical upward shift of the first function according to instructions provided by the processor when the counter is greater than the predetermined threshold.

[0025] The present description is further described below in conjunction with the following drawing figures, where identical reference symbols denote identical elements and where: Fig. 1 a functional block diagram of a vehicle which includes a multitude of doors (or other opening elements) in addition to a control system for automatically controlling the doors with different closing profiles based on the age of a door seal; Fig. 2-4 exemplary illustrations of a door and a door seal as installed in a vehicle, provide and supply the items associated with the vehicle. Fig. 1 can be used; Fig. 5 provides a flowchart of a process for automatically controlling the servo doors of a vehicle using different closing profiles for the servo doors based on the age of a seal of the servo doors and which, in conjunction with the vehicle, Fig. 1 and the doors from Fig. 1-4 can be implemented; and Fig. 6. A graphical representation of an implementation of the process from Fig. 5 provides in relation to the implementation of profile changes for closing a vehicle door based on the age of the seal.

[0026] Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound to any theory presented in the preceding background or in the detailed description below.

[0027] Fig. Figure 1 illustrates a vehicle 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. As described in more detail below, the vehicle 100 comprises a plurality of doors 104 and respective seals 105 for the doors 104, together with a control system 102 configured to automatically control the doors 104, including the use of different protocols for closing the doors 104 based on the age of the seals 105 (as described in more detail below). As used in this application, the term "doors" may also refer to other opening elements of the vehicle 100, such as tailgates, hatches, and the like.

[0028] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the vehicle 100 comprises an automobile in various embodiments. The vehicle 100 can be any of a number of different types of automobiles, such as a sedan, a station wagon, a truck, or an SUV, and in certain embodiments can be a two-wheel drive (2WD) (i.e., rear-wheel drive or front-wheel drive), four-wheel drive (4WD), or all-wheel drive (AWD) vehicle, and / or various other types of vehicles. In certain embodiments, the vehicle 100 can also comprise a motorcycle or another vehicle, such as an aircraft, a spacecraft, a watercraft, and so on, and / or one or more other types of mobile platforms (for example, a robot and / or another mobile platform).

[0029] The vehicle 100 comprises a body 103 mounted on a chassis 106. The body 103 essentially encloses other components of the vehicle 100. The body 103 and the chassis 106 can together form a frame. The vehicle 100 also comprises a plurality of wheels 112. The wheels 112 are each rotatably coupled to the chassis 106 near a respective corner of the body 103 to enable the movement of the vehicle 100. In one embodiment, the vehicle 100 comprises four wheels 112, although this may vary in other embodiments (for example, for trucks and certain other vehicles).

[0030] A drive system 110 is mounted on the chassis 106 and drives the wheels 112, for example via axles 114. In certain embodiments, the drive system 110 comprises a drive unit. In certain exemplary embodiments, the drive system 110 comprises an internal combustion engine and / or an electric motor / generator coupled to it via a transmission. In certain embodiments, the drive system 110 can vary and / or two or more drive systems 110 can be used.

[0031] In various embodiments, the doors 104 include engine covers that are automatically controlled by the control system 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the vehicle 100 has four doors 104, which include, for example, two front doors 104 (for example, by a front row of seats of the vehicle 100) and two rear doors 104 (for example, by one or more rear rows of seats of the vehicle 100). In certain embodiments, the number of doors 104 of the vehicle 100 can vary.

[0032] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the vehicle 100, in various embodiments, includes seals 105 in or on the body 103 for each of the respective doors 104, such that a given door 104 contacts a given seal 105 when that door closes. In various embodiments, the seals 105 are fitted onto the vehicle 100 during its manufacture. In certain embodiments, each seal 105 begins as a new seal 105 (also referred to herein as a temporary seal or green seal) when it is first fitted onto the vehicle 100 and subsequently becomes an aged seal 105 (also referred to as an aged seal or permanent seal).In various embodiments, the compression force for closing the door 104 changes when the seal 105 changes from a new seal to an aged seal, and this information is used for the protocols for automated control of the closing of the door 104, as further described below in conjunction with the control system 102. Fig. 1, of procedure 500 from Fig. 5 and the implementation from Fig. 6 described.

[0033] In certain embodiments, the doors 104 comprise sliding doors, wherein the doors 104 are opened and closed by a sliding motion. In other embodiments, the doors 104 comprise swing doors, wherein the doors 104 are opened and closed by a swinging motion. In certain embodiments, some of the doors 104 (for example, front doors) may comprise sliding doors, while others of the doors 104 (for example, rear doors) may also comprise sliding doors.

[0034] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, in certain embodiments the doors 104 and the respective seals 105 can be considered together as forming a door system 107.

[0035] With reference to Fig. 2-4 are illustrations of exemplary implementations of the door system 107. Fig. 1 provided according to exemplary embodiments.

[0036] With reference to Fig. Figure 2 shows a representation of the door 104 next to the seal 105 as part of the door system 107. In various embodiments, as mentioned above, the door 104 touches the seal 105 when the door 104 closes.

[0037] With further reference to Fig. Figure 3 provides a representation of the door system 107 in a situation where the door 104 is closed. In various embodiments, when the door 104 is closed (as in Fig. 3 shown), the door 104 touches the seal 105, and the seal 105 is not visible.

[0038] With further reference to Fig. Figure 4 provides a representation of the door system 107 in a situation where the door 104 is open. In various embodiments, when the door 104 is open (as in Fig. 4 shown), the door 104 does not touch the seal 105, and the seal 105 is visible.

[0039] With renewed reference to Fig. 1 The doors 104 in various embodiments include motor doors (as mentioned above) which are automatically controlled by the control system, using different profiles which vary based on the age of the seal 105 (as discussed in more detail below).

[0040] With further reference to Fig. 1 The control system 102 is coupled to the doors 104 in various embodiments and controls their operation, including according to method 500. Fig. 5 and the implementations from Fig. 6. In certain embodiments, the control system 102 can also be coupled with one or more other vehicle systems (for example, the drive system 110, among others) and control their operation wholly or partially. Also in certain embodiments, the control system 102 is part of or coupled to a body control module (BCM) for the vehicle 100; however, this may vary in other embodiments.

[0041] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the control system 102 in various embodiments comprises a door control module 115 together with a sensor arrangement 120 and a controller 140, as described in more detail below.

[0042] In various embodiments, the door control module 115 comprises one or more actuators 116 and a processor 117. In certain embodiments, the door control module 115 can be considered part of the control system 102, whereas in other embodiments, the door control module 115 can be considered separate from and / or coupled to the control system 102. In various embodiments, the actuators 116 automatically move the doors 104 (including opening and closing the doors 104) according to instructions provided to them by the processor 117 and / or via the controller 140. In certain embodiments, the controller 140 provides instructions to the processor 117 of the door control module 115, which are then implemented by the actuators 116 to move the doors 104; however, this may vary in other embodiments.

[0043] In various embodiments, the sensor arrangement 120 comprises different sensors that receive sensor data for use in controlling the automatic operation of the doors 104. In various embodiments, the sensor arrangement 120 comprises one or more input sensors 122. In certain embodiments, the sensor arrangement 120 may also include one or more other sensors 124.

[0044] In various embodiments, the input sensors 122 detect input from one or more drivers or other users of the vehicle 100, including for opening and closing the doors 104 of the vehicle 100. In certain embodiments, the input sensors 122 are part of or coupled with one or more buttons for controlling the opening and closing of the doors 104. For example, in various embodiments, these inputs can be provided via buttons or other input devices on the doors 104 or on the body 103 of the vehicle 100, or on a touchscreen or control panel of the vehicle 100, or a user's key fob, and / or one or more other input devices or techniques.

[0045] In various embodiments, the other sensors 124 may also include one or more other sensors relating to the doors 104 and / or other components of the vehicle 100, and / or providing sensor information used to determine the age of the seal 105 (for example, sensor data relating to the number of times the doors 104 have been opened and closed or locked and unlocked, the number of times the drive system 110 has been switched on, the number of journeys or ignition cycles of the vehicle 100, and so on). In certain embodiments, the other sensors 124 may also detect the current position of the doors 104 (for example, open or closed), along with the current closing distance of the doors 104 (that is, the distance of each door 104 to its respective seal 105) and other parameters relating to the doors 104 and / or their operation and / or status.

[0046] In various embodiments, the control unit 140 is coupled to the door control module 115 and to the sensor assembly 120. In certain embodiments, the control unit 140 can also be coupled to one or more other vehicle systems, such as the drive system 110. Also in various embodiments, the control unit 140 comprises a computer system (hereinafter also referred to as computer system 140) and includes a processor 142, a memory 144, an interface, a storage device 148, and a computer bus 150. In various embodiments, the control unit (or computer system) 140 controls the display 130, including the information relating to the doors 104 that is provided on the display 130 for the driver or other user of the vehicle 100. In various embodiments, the control unit 140 outputs these and other functions according to the steps of method 500. Fig. 5 and the implementations from Fig. 6 ready.

[0047] In various embodiments, the controller 140 (and in certain embodiments, the control system 102 itself) is arranged within the body 103 of the vehicle 100. In one embodiment, the control system 102 is mounted on the chassis 106. In certain embodiments, the controller 140 and / or the control system 102 and / or one or more components thereof may be arranged outside the body 103, for example, on a remote server, in the cloud, or on another device where image processing is performed remotely.

[0048] It goes without saying that the control unit 140 otherwise differs from the one in Fig. The embodiment shown in Figure 1 may differ. For example, the control unit 140 may be coupled to one or more remote computer systems and / or other control systems, or may otherwise use them, for example as part of one or more of the devices and systems of the vehicle 100 identified above.

[0049] In the illustrated embodiment, the computer system of the controller 140 comprises a processor 142, a memory 144, an interface, a storage device 148, and a bus 150. The processor 142 performs the calculation and control functions of the controller 140 and can comprise any type of processor or multiple processors, individual integrated circuits such as a microprocessor, or any suitable number of integrated circuit devices and / or printed circuit boards working together to perform the functions of a processing unit. During operation, the processor 142 executes one or more programs 152 contained in the memory 144 and, as such, controls the general operation of the controller 140 and the computer system of the controller 140, generally when performing the processes described herein, such as the method 500 from Fig. 5 and the implementations from Fig. 6.

[0050] The memory 144 can be any suitable type of memory. For example, the memory 144 can include various types of dynamic random-access memory (DRAM), such as SDRAM, the various types of static RAM (SRAM), and the various types of non-volatile memory (PROM, EPROM, and Flash). In certain examples, the memory 144 is located on the same computer chip as the processor 142 and / or is located together on the same chip. In the embodiment shown, the memory 144 stores the aforementioned program 152 together with stored values ​​157 (for example, thresholds for the method 500 in various embodiments).

[0051] The bus 150 serves to transmit programs, data, status, and other information or signals between the various components of the controller 140's computer system. The interface enables communication with the controller 140's computer system, for example, from a system driver and / or another computer system, and can be implemented using any suitable method and device. In one embodiment, the interface receives various data from the sensor arrangement 120, among other possible data sources. The interface can include one or more network interfaces for communication with other systems or components. The interface can also include one or more network interfaces for communication with technicians and / or one or more memory interfaces for connecting to storage devices such as the storage device 148.

[0052] The storage device 148 can be any suitable type of storage device, including various types of random-access memory and / or other storage devices. In an exemplary embodiment, the storage device 148 comprises a program product from which the memory 144 can receive a program 152 executing one or more embodiments of one or more processes of the present description, such as the steps of method 500, which are described below in conjunction with Fig. 5 and the implementations from Fig. 6 will be discussed. In another exemplary embodiment, the program product can be stored directly in memory 144 and / or a disk (for example, disk 156), such as those mentioned below, and / or accessed in another way.

[0053] The bus 150 can be any suitable physical or logical means for connecting computer systems and components. This includes, but is not limited to, direct hard-wired connections, fiber optic, infrared, and wireless bus technologies. During operation, the program 152 is stored in memory 144 and executed by processor 142.

[0054] It is understood that, while this exemplary embodiment is described in the context of a fully functioning computer system, the person skilled in the art will recognize that the mechanisms of the present description can be distributed as a program product using one or more types of non-volatile, computer-readable signal-carrying media for storing the program and its instructions, and for carrying out its distribution. This includes, for example, a non-volatile, computer-readable medium carrying the program and containing computer instructions stored therein to instruct a computer processor (such as Processor 142) to execute the program. Such a program product can take a variety of forms, and the present description applies equally regardless of the specific type of computer-readable signal-carrying media used for carrying out the distribution.Examples of signal-carrying media include: writable media, such as floppy disks, hard drives, memory cards, and optical discs, and transmission media, such as digital and analog communication links. It is understood that cloud-based storage and / or other technologies may also be used in certain embodiments. Likewise, it is understood that the computer system of the control unit 140 may also differ in other ways from the one described in [reference missing]. Fig. 1 can differ from the embodiment shown, for example in that the computer system of the controller 140 can be coupled with one or more remote computer systems and / or other control systems or can use them in other ways.

[0055] Fig. Figure 5 is a flowchart of a method 500 for automatically controlling the servo doors of a vehicle using different closing profiles for the servo doors based on the age of a seal of the servo doors according to exemplary embodiments. The method 500 can also be used in various embodiments in conjunction with the vehicle 100. Fig. 1 to be implemented, including the tax system 102 from Fig. 1 and the doors 104 and the door system 107 from Fig. 1-4. Procedure 500 is described below in conjunction with the flowchart, as in Fig. 5 shown, as well as the implementations that are in Fig. 6 are shown and are described in more detail below in connection with them.

[0056] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the process 500 begins in various embodiments at step 502. In one embodiment, the process 500 begins when the vehicle 100 is manufactured and continues after the vehicle 100 has been manufactured.

[0057] In various embodiments, during step 504, servo door controls for the doors 104 of the vehicle 100 are learned in a manufacturing plant or facility while the vehicle 100 is being manufactured. In particular, in various embodiments, the processor 142 determines a first protocol for automatically controlling the doors 104, including closing the doors 104 against the respective seals 105 of the vehicle 100, after the seals 105 have first been attached to the body 103 of the vehicle 100. In certain embodiments, the first protocol is determined by the vehicle 100 based on information (or in certain embodiments, the protocol itself) stored in the memory 144 as stored values ​​157 therein.

[0058] In particular, in various embodiments, during step 504, the doors 104 are automatically closed according to the first protocol when the door 104 is closed (for example, as implemented when a request to close the door 104 is received via one or more input sensors 122). In various embodiments, under these circumstances, the actuators 116 close the doors 104 with the magnitude of the driving force (and the resulting driving speed) corresponding to the first profile, according to instructions provided by one or both of the processors 142, 117. As mentioned above, in certain embodiments, the processor 142 (for example, of a vehicle's BCM) provides instructions to the processor 117 (for example, of the door control module 115) to move the actuators 116 to close the doors 104 according to the first profile.

[0059] In various embodiments, the first protocol includes a magnitude of the driving force (and a corresponding driving speed) of the actuators 116 of Fig. 1 to close each of the respective doors 104 against their respective seals 105 when the doors 104 are closed. In various embodiments, the drive force and drive speed depend on a closing distance of the doors 104 from the seals 105 (for example, as in certain embodiments, via one or more other sensors 124 of Fig. 1 recorded), wherein the driving force and the driving speed are generally greater when the closing distance is greater, and wherein the driving force and the driving speed generally decrease when the closing distance decreases (that is, when the door 104 approaches the seal 105).

[0060] If the seal 105 is relatively new (for example, while the vehicle 100 is still being manufactured, or in certain embodiments shortly thereafter), the driving force (and the corresponding driving speed) are additionally relatively larger for a predetermined period (that is, while the seal 105 is aging and before it becomes aged or permanent) to accommodate the greater compression force of the seal 105 during this initial period. In various embodiments, the driving force (and the corresponding driving speed) during this preliminary period (that is, while the seal 105 is still new) is lower than it will subsequently be in a new profile after the seal 105 has aged or become permanent (discussed below).

[0061] As mentioned above, in certain embodiments the doors 104 may comprise rotating doors, while in certain other embodiments the doors 104 may comprise sliding doors. In certain embodiments where one or more doors 104 are rotating doors, the drive force is exerted on the doors 104 by the actuators 116 to rotate the doors 104 at a rotary drive speed that is relatively higher while the seal 105 is new in step 504 (compared to when the seal 105 is aged, as described below).

[0062] In various embodiments, a counter is initiated (step 506). In various embodiments, the counter can include any number of techniques used to determine or approximate a time interval after which the seal 105 was fitted to the vehicle 100, or, alternatively, to indicate whether the seal 105 is still new or whether the seal 105 has aged (for example, permanently). In various embodiments, the counter is initiated, incremented, and monitored by the processor 142 using any number of counting or related techniques, such as those described below.

[0063] For example, in certain embodiments, the counter may be based on one or more devices or systems of the vehicle 100, such as the number of times the doors 104 have been opened and closed or locked and unlocked, the number of vehicle starts (for example, for the engine and / or drive system 110, such as the number of times a motor of the drive system 110 has been switched on and off), the number of vehicle journeys, the number of hall counts, the number of locking cycles, the number of door cycles and / or any number of other such techniques.In addition, in certain embodiments, the processor 142 can also directly track the duration of time (for example, via a vehicle clock or vehicle timer), and / or can track the duration of time based on readings of data and times that are either kept within the vehicle 100 and / or obtained from one or more other external sources (for example, a universal date and time source).

[0064] The processor 142 also uses one or more such techniques (or similar techniques) in various embodiments to determine whether the counter has exceeded a predetermined threshold (step 508). In various embodiments, the predetermined threshold corresponds to a time period (or a proxy or other parameter specifying an estimated time period) that the seal 105 has aged (that is, a time period after the seal 105 was fitted to the vehicle 100 during the manufacture of the vehicle 100). In certain embodiments, the predetermined threshold of step 508 is a calibratable value stored in the memory 144 as a stored value 157 therein.

[0065] If, in step 508, it is determined that the counter has not reached the predetermined threshold, the procedure proceeds to step 510 in various embodiments. In various embodiments, the first door control protocol from step 504 is maintained during step 510. In particular, in various embodiments, during step 510, the doors 104 are automatically closed according to the first protocol of step 504 if the door 104 is closed (for example, as implemented when a request to close the door 104 is received via one or more input sensors 122). In various embodiments, under these circumstances, the actuators 116 close the doors 104 with the magnitude of the driving force (and the resulting driving speed) corresponding to the first profile, according to instructions provided by one or both of the processors 142, 117.As mentioned above, in certain embodiments the processor 142 (for example, of a vehicle's BCM) provides instructions to the processor 117 (for example, of the door control module 115) to move the actuators 116 to close the doors 104 according to the first profile.

[0066] In various embodiments, the procedure 500 then proceeds to step 506 when the counter is incremented and the procedure 500 continues with an updated execution of step 506 in a new iteration.

[0067] Conversely, in various embodiments, if it is determined in step 508 that the counter has reached the predetermined threshold, the procedure proceeds to step 511 instead. In various embodiments, a second door control protocol is initiated during step 511. In various embodiments, the second door control protocol of step 511 provides a reduced drive force (resulting in a reduced drive speed) for closing the doors 104 compared to the first protocol of step 504. In certain embodiments, the second protocol provides a relative decrease in drive force (resulting in a reduced drive speed) at each closing distance compared to the first protocol of step 504 (as described below in conjunction with Fig. 6 (described in more detail according to an exemplary implementation).

[0068] With further reference to Fig. In one exemplary embodiment, during step 511, the doors 104 are automatically closed according to the second protocol of step 511 when the door 104 is closed (for example, as implemented when a request to close the door 104 is received via one or more input sensors 122). In various embodiments, under these circumstances, the actuators 116 close the doors 104 with the magnitude of the drive force (and the resulting drive speed) corresponding to the second profile, according to instructions provided by one or both of the processors 142, 117. Similar to the discussion above, in certain embodiments, the processor 142 (for example, of a vehicle's BCM) provides instructions to the processor 117 (for example, of the door control module 115) to move the actuators 116 to close the doors 104 according to the second profile.

[0069] As mentioned above, in certain embodiments the doors 104 may comprise rotating doors, while in certain other embodiments the doors 104 may comprise sliding doors. In certain embodiments where one or more doors 104 are rotating doors, the drive force is exerted on the doors 104 by the actuators 116 to rotate the doors 104 at a rotation drive speed that is relatively lower while the seal 105 has aged in step 511 (compared to when the seal 105 is new, as described above in relation to step 504).

[0070] In various embodiments, the method 500 then ends at 512.

[0071] With reference to Fig. 6 will be a graphical representation 600 in relation to the procedure 500 from Fig. 5 provided according to an exemplary embodiment. As in Fig. Figure 6 shows that in an exemplary embodiment, the graphic representation 600 includes an x-axis 602, which represents the closing distance (that is, between the door 104 and the seal 105 when the door 104 closes), while the y-axis 604 represents the drive speed of the door 104 as it is moved while being closed by the actuator 116.

[0072] With further reference to Fig. 6 a first function 606, which corresponds to the first protocol of step 504 (that is, when the seal 105 is still new). As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 6, the drive speed with the first function 606 generally increases with the closing distance. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, Fig. 1. With the first function 606, the rate of increase of the drive speed with respect to the closing distance is relatively larger at lower closing distances (i.e., with a relatively larger slope) and is relatively smaller at higher closing distances (i.e., with a relatively smaller slope as the curve flattens out, as in Fig. 6 shown).

[0073] As also in Fig. As shown in Figure 6, a second function 608 corresponds to the second protocol of step 511 (that is, after the seal 105 has aged). As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 6, the drive speed for the second function 608 also generally increases with the closing distance, and the rate of increase of the drive speed with respect to the closing distance is relatively greater at lower closing distances (i.e., with a relatively larger slope) and relatively smaller at higher closing distances (i.e., with a relatively smaller slope as the curve flattens out, as shown in Figure 6). Fig. 6 shown).

[0074] However, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the second function 608 comprises a drive speed that is smaller than the respective drive speed for the first function 606 at each specific closing distance level. Accordingly, as shown in Fig. Figure 6 shows the second function 608 in an exemplary embodiment of a vertical downward shift of the first function 606. According to exemplary embodiments, this shows how the drive speed decreases from the second protocol of step 511 compared to the first protocol of step 504, and in particular, how the drive speed for the second protocol of step 511 decreases compared to the first protocol of step 504 for each specific closing distance value. In certain embodiments, less kinetic energy is required to close the door during the second protocol of step 511 because the aged seal does not require as much closing force (in contrast to steps 504 and 606, which require a relatively higher speed and kinetic energy to accommodate newer, more “eco-friendly” seals with a higher force).

[0075] Accordingly, methods, systems, and vehicles are provided for automatically controlling a vehicle's servo doors using different closing profiles for the servo doors based on the age of the servo door seals. As described above, exemplary embodiments employ different protocols for closing the servo doors with varying drive forces (and corresponding drive speeds) based on the seal's age. Specifically, various embodiments utilize a counter to determine or estimate the time elapsed since the seal was installed, and a different drive force (with a different drive speed) is applied based on whether the counter has exceeded a predetermined threshold (i.e., based on whether the seal is determined to be new or aged).

[0076] It is understood that the systems, vehicles, and procedures may differ from those depicted in the figures and described herein. For example, vehicle 100 may consist of Fig. 1, including the doors 104 and the control system 102 and components thereof, vary in different embodiments. Likewise, it is understood that the steps of method 500 differ from that described in Fig. 5 can be distinguished from the ones shown and / or that different steps of procedure 500 occur simultaneously and / or in a different order than that shown. Fig. The 5 shown examples can be used. It is equally understood that the implementations from Fig. 2-4 and Fig. 6 can also differ in various embodiments.

Claims

[1] Method (500) for controlling an automatic closing of an opening element of a vehicle (100) with respect to a seal (105) attached to the vehicle (100), the method (500) comprising: Performing (506) a counter, via a processor (142) which relates to a time period after which the seal (105) was fitted to the vehicle (100); automatic closing (510) of the door (104) according to a first protocol with a first driving force according to instructions provided by the processor (142) when the counter is less than a predetermined threshold; and automatic closing (511) of the door (104) according to a second protocol with a second driving force that is smaller than the first driving force, according to instructions provided by the processor (142) when the counter is greater than the predetermined threshold; wherein the opening element comprises a door (104) and wherein: The step of performing the counter (506) includes an indirect estimation of the time after which the seal (105) was fitted to the vehicle (100), based on counting a number of actions or cycles of one or more vehicle components; The step of automatically closing (510) the door (104) according to the first protocol further comprises an automatic closing of the door (104) according to the first protocol with the first driving force according to instructions provided by the processor (142) when the counted number of actions or cycles of one or more vehicle components is less than the predetermined threshold; and The step of automatically closing (511) the door (104) according to the second protocol further includes an automatic closing of the door (104) according to the second protocol with the second driving force, which is greater than the first driving force, according to instructions provided by the processor (142), when the counted number of actions or cycles of one or more vehicle components is greater than the predetermined threshold. [2] Method (500) according to claim 1, wherein: the opening element comprises a rotating door (104); The step of automatically closing (510) the door (104) according to the first protocol includes an automatic closing of the door (104) with a first rotary drive speed when the counter is less than the predetermined threshold; and The step of automatically closing (511) the door (104) according to the second protocol includes an automatic closing of the door (104) with a second rotary drive speed that is smaller than the first rotary drive speed when the counter is larger than the predetermined threshold. [3] Method (500) according to claim 1, wherein: the opening element includes a sliding door; The step of automatically closing (510) the door (104) according to the first protocol includes an automatic closing of the door (104) with a first sliding drive speed when the counter is less than the predetermined threshold; and The step of automatically closing (511) the door (104) according to the second protocol includes an automatic closing of the door (104) with a second sliding drive speed that is smaller than the first sliding drive speed when the counter is larger than the predetermined threshold. [4] Method (500) according to claim 1, wherein: the opening element comprises a door (104); The step of performing the counter (506) includes a direct calculation of the time after which the seal (105) was attached to the vehicle (100); The step of automatically closing (510) the door (104) according to the first protocol further comprises an automatic closing of the door (104) according to the first protocol with the first driving force according to instructions provided by the processor (142) when the time after which the seal (105) was fitted to the vehicle (100), as calculated directly by the processor (142) performing the counter, is less than a predetermined time threshold; and The step of automatically closing (511) the door (104) according to the second protocol further includes an automatic closing of the door (104) according to the second protocol with the second driving force, which is smaller than the first driving force, according to instructions provided by the processor (142), if the time after which the seal (105) was attached to the vehicle (100), as calculated directly by the processor (142) performing the counter, is greater than the predetermined time threshold. [5] Method (500) according to claim 1, wherein: The step of performing the counter (506) includes an indirect estimation of the time after which the seal (105) was fitted to the vehicle (100), based on counting the number of times the door (104) was opened and closed; The step of automatically closing (510) the door (104) according to the first protocol further comprises an automatic closing of the door (104) according to the first protocol with the first driving force according to instructions provided by the processor (142) when the counted number of times the door (104) has been opened and closed is less than the predetermined threshold; and The step of automatically closing (511) the door (104) according to the second protocol further includes an automatic closing of the door (104) according to the second protocol with the second driving force, which is smaller than the first driving force, according to instructions provided by the processor (142), when the counted number of times the door (104) has been opened and closed is greater than the predetermined threshold. [6] Method (500) according to claim 1, wherein: The step of performing the counter (506) includes an indirect estimation of the time after which the seal (105) was fitted to the vehicle (100), based on counting the number of times the door (104) was locked and unlocked; The step of automatically closing (510) the door (104) according to the first protocol further comprises an automatic closing of the door (104) according to the first protocol with the first driving force according to instructions provided by the processor (142) when the counted number of times the door (104) has been locked and unlocked is less than the predetermined threshold; and The step of automatically closing (511) the door (104) according to the second protocol further includes an automatic closing of the door (104) according to the second protocol with the second driving force, which is smaller than the first driving force, according to instructions provided by the processor (142), when the counted number of times the door (104) has been locked and unlocked is greater than the predetermined threshold. [7] Method (500) according to claim 1, wherein: The step of performing the counter (506) includes an indirect estimation of the time after which the seal (105) was fitted to the vehicle (100), based on counting the number of times the engine of the vehicle (100) was turned on and off; The step of automatically closing (510) the door (104) according to the first protocol further comprises an automatic closing of the door (104) according to the first protocol with the first driving force according to instructions provided by the processor (142) when the counted number of times the motor of the vehicle (100) has been switched on and off is less than the predetermined threshold; and The step of automatically closing (511) the door (104) according to the second protocol further includes an automatic closing of the door (104) according to the second protocol with the second driving force, which is smaller than the first driving force, according to instructions provided by the processor (142), when the counted number of times the motor of the vehicle (100) has been switched on and off is greater than the predetermined threshold. [8] Method (500) according to claim 1, wherein: the opening element comprises a door (104); The step of automatically closing (510) the door (104) according to the first protocol comprises an automatic closing of the door (104) with a first drive speed based on a first function of drive speed versus closing distance between the door (104) and the seal (105), wherein the first function comprises increasing values ​​of drive speed versus closing distance according to instructions provided by the processor (142) when the counter is less than the predetermined threshold; and The step of automatically closing (511) the door (104) according to the second protocol comprises an automatic closing of the door (104) with a second drive speed that is greater than the first drive speed, and wherein the second drive speed is based on a second function of drive speed versus closing distance between the door (104) and the seal (105), wherein the second function includes increasing values ​​of drive speed versus closing distance, and wherein the second function includes a vertical upward shift of the first function according to instructions provided by the processor (142) when the counter is greater than the predetermined threshold. [9] System (102) for controlling an automatic closing of a door (104) of a vehicle (100) with respect to a seal (105) attached to the vehicle (100), the system (102) comprising: an input sensor (122) configured to receive an input to close the door (104); and a processor (142) coupled to the input sensor (122), wherein the processor (142) is configured to enable at least the following: Performing a counter relating to a time period after which the seal (105) was fitted to the vehicle (100); and upon receipt of the input to close the door (104): automatic closing (510) of the door (104) according to a first protocol with a first driving force according to instructions provided by the processor (142) when the counter is less than a predetermined threshold; and automatic closing (511) of the door (104) according to a second protocol with a second driving force that is smaller than the first driving force, according to instructions provided by the processor (142) when the counter is greater than a predetermined threshold; and where: The step of performing the counter (506) includes an indirect estimation of the time after which the seal (105) was fitted to the vehicle (100), based on counting a number of actions or cycles of one or more vehicle components; The step of automatically closing (510) the door (104) according to the first protocol further comprises an automatic closing of the door (104) according to the first protocol with the first driving force according to instructions provided by the processor (142) when the counted number of actions or cycles of one or more vehicle components is less than the predetermined threshold; and The step of automatically closing (511) the door (104) according to the second protocol further includes an automatic closing of the door (104) according to the second protocol with the second driving force, which is greater than the first driving force, according to instructions provided by the processor (142), when the counted number of actions or cycles of one or more vehicle components is greater than the predetermined threshold.

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