DETECTION DEVICE FOR MONITORING AT LEAST A MONITORING AREA, VEHICLE WITH AT LEAST A DETECTION DEVICE AND METHOD FOR OPERATING A TESTING DEVICE OF A DETECTION DEVICE

Description

Technical area

[0001] The invention relates to a detection device for monitoring at least one monitoring area by means of scanning signals, with at least one transmitting device for transmitting scanning signals and with at least one testing device for testing a functional state of at least one component of the detection device to be tested, which component is exposed to scanning signals during operation of the detection device, and for generating at least one warning signal in the event of a deviation of an actual functional state of the component to be tested from a reference functional state.

[0002] Furthermore, the invention relates to a vehicle with at least one detection device for monitoring at least one monitoring area by means of scanning signals, wherein the at least one detection device has at least one transmitting device for transmitting scanning signals and at least one testing device for testing a functional state of at least one component of the detection device to be tested, which component is exposed to scanning signals during operation of the detection device, and for generating at least one warning signal in the event of a deviation of an actual functional state of the component to be tested from a reference functional state.

[0003] Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for operating a testing device of a detection device, wherein the detection device is provided for monitoring at least one monitoring area by means of scanning signals, wherein in the method a functional state of at least one component of the detection device to be tested, which component is exposed to scanning signals during operation of the detection device, is tested and at least one warning signal is generated upon detection of an actual functional state that deviates from a reference functional state of the at least one component to be tested. State of the art

[0004] From DE 10 2017 109 138 A1 an optical detection device for a motor vehicle is known, comprising a housing of the optical detection device in which a light source unit of the optical detection device is arranged, wherein by means of the light source unit light beams can be emitted through a housing part of the housing into an environment of the motor vehicle, wherein the optical detection device has a checking unit by means of which a functional state of the housing can be checked, and upon detection of an actual functional state of the housing which deviates from a reference functional state of the housing, a control signal can be generated.

[0005] US 2005 / 0205764 A1 discloses a generic detection device comprising a light transmitter and a light receiver arranged in a housing. A sensor is arranged within the housing as a first test device to measure temperature, humidity, or pressure within the housing. Damage to the housing can be detected based on a change in these parameters. Additionally, another sensor can be arranged on the outside of the housing as a second test device to measure the corresponding parameters outside the housing. Damage to the housing can then be detected by comparing the rates of change of internal and external parameters.

[0006] Furthermore, US 2021 / 00188890 discloses an optically controllable, particularly electrochromatic, building window and an associated security device for buildings. It is proposed to detect damage to windows by measuring the electrical properties of the electrochromatic coating.

[0007] The invention is based on the object of designing a detection device, a vehicle and a method of the type mentioned at the outset, in which a functional state of at least one component of the detection device, which is exposed to scanning signals during operation of the detection device, can be checked more easily and / or reliably. Disclosure of the invention

[0008] This object is achieved according to the invention in the detection device in that the at least one testing device at least two electrically conductive test elements, between which at least a part of the at least one component to be tested is arranged, wherein the at least two test elements are not electrically conductively connected to one another, the at least two test elements are each electrically connected to at least one test evaluation means, with which at least one electrical test signal can be applied to the at least two test elements and at least one actual state variable, which characterizes an actual functional state of the at least one component to be tested, can be determined from at least one electrical interaction between the at least two test elements, and the detection device has at least one means with which, in the event of a deviation of at least one actual state variable from at least one predetermined reference state variable, which characterizes a reference functional state of the at least one component to be tested,taking into account a tolerance, at least one warning signal can be generated.

[0009] According to the invention, the at least one component to be tested and / or at least one of the at least two test elements are arranged such that changes in the at least one component to be tested influence the electrical interaction between the at least two test elements.

[0010] At least a part of at least one component to be tested is arranged between at least two electrically conductive test elements. At least one electrical test signal can be applied to the at least two test elements using at least one test evaluation means. The at least two test elements are connected to one another in a non-electrically conductive manner, so that an electrical field can develop as an interaction between the at least two test elements. The electrical field is characteristic of the arrangement of the at least two test elements and the part of the at least one component to be tested located therebetween. An electrical voltage tapped at the at least two test elements and / or a frequency response of the electrical voltage can advantageously be determined as at least one actual state variable that characterizes an actual functional state of the at least one component to be tested.If the arrangement changes, in particular if the shape of at least one of the test elements and / or part of the at least one component to be tested changes, or if part of the test elements and / or part of the at least one component to be tested is missing, the electric field and thus also the at least one actual state variable changes.

[0011] Using at least one means of the detection device, the at least one actual state variable can be compared with at least one predefined reference state variable, taking a tolerance into account. The reference state variable characterizes a predefined reference functional state of the at least one component to be tested. The reference functional state is the state in which the at least one component to be tested functions according to specifications, in particular with regard to eye safety. Depending on the result of the comparison, at least one warning signal can be generated.

[0012] In response to the warning signal, functions of the detection device, in particular the transmission of scanning signals, can be influenced, in particular stopped.

[0013] Electronic threshold comparisons can advantageously be used to compare the at least one actual state variable with at least one reference state variable. The comparison can be implemented using software and / or hardware.

[0014] The tolerance for comparing at least one actual state variable with at least one reference state variable can be specified. The tolerance can also be zero or nearly zero.

[0015] The at least one reference state variable can advantageously be determined in advance, in particular during a calibration of the detection device, for example, at the end of a production line of the detection device. Reference state variables can advantageously be stored in corresponding storage means. Alternatively, reference state variables can also be set by specifying and / or adjusting corresponding, in particular electrical / electronic, components.

[0016] A functional state of the at least one component to be tested can be affected, in particular, by damage to or missing parts of the at least one component to be tested. Such damage can include, in particular, deep scratches in surfaces, cracks or breaks, holes, particularly caused by stone chips or the like, or a complete or partial absence of the at least one component to be tested. Especially when used outdoors, especially on the exterior of a vehicle, the detection device can be exposed to harsh operating conditions, resulting in an increased risk of damage.

[0017] Such damage can lead to functional impairment of at least one component to be tested. Depending on the application of the detection device, functional impairment of at least one component to be tested can lead to health damage to persons in the vicinity of the detection device, to damage to components of the detection device, and / or to damage to components in the vicinity of the detection device due to uncontrolled propagation of scanning signals.

[0018] In particular, a functional impairment of a transmission housing section, through which scanning signals can pass in a controlled manner in a functional state, can lead to electromagnetic scanning signals, in particular laser beams, transmitted by at least one transmitting device of the detection device being released into the environment in an uncontrolled manner and thus endangering the eye safety of people. The eye safety of the detection device can be increased with the aid of the testing device according to the invention.

[0019] Advantageously, the invention allows the functional status of at least one component being tested to be checked during ongoing operation of the detection device. In the event of a change in the functional status, particularly due to damage, the detection device or parts of the detection device can be shut down within a very short time.

[0020] Advantageously, in response to a warning signal from at least one testing device, a voltage supply to a control of the at least one transmitting device can be switched off or the triggering of scanning signals can be stopped.

[0021] Advantageously, the detection device can monitor at least one monitoring area using electromagnetic scanning signals, in particular light signals, especially laser signals. In this way, the at least one monitoring area can be monitored contactlessly.

[0022] Advantageously, the detection device can be configured to perform a signal time-of-flight method. Such detection devices can be configured and referred to as time-of-flight (TOF) systems, light detection and ranging (LiDAR) systems, laser detection and ranging (LaDAR) systems, or the like.

[0023] Advantageously, the detection device can be designed to determine information about objects in a monitoring area, in particular distances, speeds and / or directions of objects relative to the detection device and / or at least one reference area of ​​the detection device or a carrier carrying the detection devices, in particular a vehicle, a machine or the like.

[0024] Advantageously, the detection device can be configured as a so-called flash system, in particular as a flash LiDAR. Corresponding scanning signals can simultaneously illuminate a larger portion of a surveillance area or the entire surveillance area. Alternatively, the detection device can be configured as a scanning system. A surveillance area can be scanned using scanning signals. For this purpose, the propagation directions of the scanning signals can be varied, in particular, panned across the surveillance area.

[0025] The detection device can advantageously be configured as a laser-based distance measuring system. A laser-based distance measuring system can have at least one laser, in particular a diode laser, as the light source of at least one transmitting device. Pulsed scanning signals, in particular, can be transmitted with the at least one laser. The laser can emit scanning signals in wavelength ranges visible or invisible to the human eye. Accordingly, at least one receiving device of the detection device can have a detector designed for the wavelength of the emitted light, in particular a point sensor, line sensor, or area sensor, in particular an (avalanche) photodiode, a photodiode array, a CCD sensor, an active pixel sensor, in particular a CMOS sensor, or the like.

[0026] The invention can advantageously be used in vehicles, in particular motor vehicles. The invention can advantageously be used in land vehicles, in particular passenger cars, trucks, buses, motorcycles, or the like, aircraft, in particular drones, and / or watercraft. The invention can also be used in vehicles that can be operated autonomously or at least semi-autonomously. However, the invention is not limited to vehicles. It can also be used in stationary operation, in robotics, and / or in machines, in particular construction or transport machines, such as cranes, excavators, or the like.

[0027] The detection device can advantageously be connected to or be part of at least one electronic control device of a vehicle or machine, in particular a driver assistance system and / or a chassis control system and / or a driver information device and / or a parking assistance system and / or a gesture recognition system or the like. In this way, at least some of the functions of the vehicle or machine can be performed autonomously or semi-autonomously.

[0028] The detection device can detect stationary or moving objects, in particular vehicles, persons, gestures, movements, animals, plants, obstacles, road surface irregularities, in particular potholes or stones, road markings, traffic signs, open spaces, in particular parking spaces, precipitation or the like.

[0029] In an advantageous embodiment, the detection device can have at least one electrical test signal generating means. In this way, electrical test signals can be generated, which can be applied to the at least two test elements.

[0030] Advantageously, the at least one electrical test signal generating means can generate alternating electrical test signals. Alternating electrical fields can be generated between the at least two test elements using alternating electrical test signals. The frequency response of the alternating fields can be determined with the at least one test evaluation means and used as an actual state variable.

[0031] In a further advantageous embodiment, at least the part of at least one component to be tested that is located between the at least two electrically conductive test elements can be electrically non-conductive or only slightly conductive. In this way, an electrical voltage can build up between the at least two test elements.

[0032] The dielectric properties of at least one part of the at least one component to be tested can change with its properties, in particular its shape. The change in the optical properties of the at least one part can change the electrical interaction between the at least two electrically conductive test elements. In this way, a change in the properties of the component to be tested can be detected via the electrical interaction between the at least two test elements.

[0033] Advantageously, at least the part of at least one component to be tested that is located between the at least two electrically conductive test elements can be made of plastic and / or glass. In this way, electrical insulation between the at least two test elements can be achieved.

[0034] Advantageously, at least one test evaluation means and / or at least one means for generating at least one warning signal in the event of a deviation of at least one actual state variable from at least one reference state variable can be implemented in software and / or hardware.

[0035] Advantageously, at least one test evaluation means and / or at least one means for generating at least one warning signal in the event of a deviation between actual state variables and reference state variables can be implemented at least partially with a control and evaluation device of the detection device. In this way, means already present in the detection device can be used.

[0036] In a further advantageous embodiment, the detection device can have at least one housing in which at least one transmitting device and / or at least one receiving device and / or at least a part of at least one testing device is arranged, and / or at least one housing of the detection device can have at least one transmission housing section for transmitting scanning signals. Components, in particular at least one transmitting device and / or at least one receiving device and / or at least a part of at least one testing device, can be protected from the environment in a housing.

[0037] Through at least one transmission housing section, scanning signals from at least one transmitting device can pass from the housing into the at least one monitoring area and / or reflected scanning signals from the at least one monitoring area can pass into the housing to at least one receiving device.

[0038] In a further advantageous embodiment, at least one component to be tested can be a housing section and / or a transmission housing section of a housing and / or an optical component. Housing sections can be used to prevent scanning signals from propagating in an uncontrolled manner.

[0039] Advantageously, at least one housing section to be tested can separate the interior of the housing from the surrounding area. Scanning signals can be emitted in a controlled manner, particularly into the monitored area, through a transmission housing section. If the housing section, in particular a transmission housing section, is damaged, scanning signals can escape into the surrounding area in an uncontrolled manner. Uncontrolled light emission can cause health damage to people, particularly eye damage. The testing device can be used to test the functional status of the at least one housing section, in particular at least one transmission housing section.If a change in the functional state is detected that indicates damage to the at least one housing section, in particular to the at least one transmission housing section, the detection device, in particular the at least one transmitting device, can be controlled accordingly, in particular switched off. This can increase the overall eye safety of the detection device.

[0040] Alternatively or additionally, at least one housing section to be tested can advantageously separate areas within the interior of the housing, in particular an area with at least one transmitting device and an area with at least one receiving device. In this way, a transfer of scanning signals between the at least one transmitting device and the at least one receiving device can be prevented.

[0041] Advantageously, at least one component to be tested can be an optical component. Optical components can influence the properties of optical scanning signals.

[0042] Optical components can be for optical scanning signals, in particular light signals, transmissive optical components, in particular optical windows, transmission housing sections or the like, and / or components influencing optical scanning signals, in particular optical lenses, deflection devices, in particular mirrors, or the like.

[0043] If the actual functional state of the optical components deviates from their reference functional state, the optical scanning signals can be negatively affected by the detection device. If an optical window malfunctions, optical scanning signals can leak into the environment in an uncontrolled manner and cause damage, particularly to human health.

[0044] In a further advantageous embodiment, at least one arrangement comprising at least two electrically conductive test elements and a part of at least one component to be tested located therebetween can be at least partially permeable to scanning signals. In this way, the at least one arrangement can create a transmission section, in particular a window, for scanning signals. The scanning signals can pass both through the at least two electrically conductive test elements and through the part of the at least one component to be tested located therebetween. In this way, the test elements can be arranged in a propagation path of the scanning signals.

[0045] In a further advantageous embodiment, at least one electrically conductive test element can be made of a material permeable to scanning signals and / or have gaps through which scanning signals can pass. In this way, impairment of the propagation of scanning signals by the at least one electrically conductive test element can be reduced. Thus, the at least one conductive test element can be arranged in a propagation path of the scanning signals.

[0046] Advantageously, at least one electrically conductive test element can be made of a material permeable to scanning signals. In this way, scanning signals can pass directly through the at least one test element.

[0047] Additionally or alternatively, at least one electrically conductive test element can advantageously be implemented in a linear, strip-like, track-like, grid-like, or similar configuration. This allows gaps to be created that are permeable to scanning signals. This improves the transmission behavior for scanning signals.

[0048] In a further advantageous embodiment, at least one electrically conductive test element can have properties that influence scanning signals. In this way, additional functions can be realized with the at least one electrically conductive test element. This allows the overall component complexity of the detection device to be reduced. Alternatively or additionally, at least part of an already existing component of the detection device can be used additionally as an electrically conductive test element.

[0049] Advantageously, at least one electrically conductive test element can have properties for beam shaping, diffraction, scattering, focusing, widening or the like of scanning signals, in particular electromagnetic scanning signals, in particular optical scanning signals.

[0050] In a further advantageous embodiment, at least one electrically conductive test element can be arranged on a wide side of at least one component to be tested and / or At least one electrically conductive test element can be arranged on a side of at least one component to be tested, which is exposed to scanning signals during operation of the detection device, and / or at least one electrically conductive test element can be arranged on a narrow side of at least one component to be tested, and / or at least one electrically conductive test element can be arranged on a side of at least one component to be tested, which is not exposed to scanning signals during operation of the detection device. In this way, the position of the at least one electrically conductive test element can be adapted to the shape and / or the function and / or the position of the at least one component to be tested.

[0051] On a broad side of the at least one component to be tested, the at least one test element can cover a larger area. This allows a better signal-to-noise ratio to be achieved with regard to electrical interaction.

[0052] On a side which is exposed to scanning signals, the functionality with regard to the effect of the component to be tested on the scanning signals can be efficiently tested with the at least one test element.

[0053] The at least one test element can be arranged in a space-saving manner on a narrow side of the at least one component to be tested, in particular an optical component.

[0054] On a side not exposed to scanning signals, the influence of the at least one test element on the effect of the component under test on the scanning signals, in particular its transmissivity, can be reduced. This allows the requirements, in particular, regarding the transmission properties of the at least one test element to be reduced.

[0055] Advantageously, at least one electrically conductive test element can extend over multiple sides. In this way, the arrangement of the at least one electrically conductive test element can be individually adapted to the at least one component to be tested.

[0056] In a further advantageous embodiment, at least one electrically conductive test element can be mechanically connected to the at least one component to be tested in a force-transmitting manner. This allows for better transmission of changes in state, particularly deformations.

[0057] In a further advantageous embodiment, at least one electrically conductive test element can be implemented as an electrically conductive coating on a surface of the at least one component to be tested. In this way, flat and / or low-profile electrically conductive test elements can be easily implemented.

[0058] Advantageously, at least one electrically conductive test element can be made of indium tin oxide. This allows for the realization of a light-transparent and electrically conductive test element. Indium tin oxide is referred to as indium tin oxide (ITO). Indium tin oxide can be used as a coating on the at least one component to be tested. Thus, the electrically conductive test element can be arranged in a transmission region of the at least one component to be tested.

[0059] In a further advantageous embodiment, at least one electrically conductive test element can be provided with a protective layer on an outer side facing away from the at least one component to be tested. In this way, the at least one test element can be better protected from environmental influences, in particular stone chips or the like.

[0060] In a further advantageous embodiment, at least one transmitting device can be designed to transmit electromagnetic scanning signals and / or the detection device can have at least one receiving device.

[0061] Electromagnetic scanning signals can be transmitted using the at least one transmitting device. For this purpose, the at least one transmitting device can have at least one signal source. Electromagnetic scanning signals can be used to detect objects without contact.

[0062] Electromagnetic scanning signals reflected from objects can be received by at least one receiving device. If necessary, received electromagnetic scanning signals can be converted into received signals, in particular electrical received signals, by the at least one receiving device. The received signals, in particular electrical received signals, can be processed by an evaluation device, in particular an electrical evaluation device. Advantageously, the electromagnetic scanning signals can comprise or consist of light signals, in particular laser signals. Light signals can be implemented technically simply using a corresponding signal source, in particular a light source, and received by corresponding detectors.

[0063] Advantageously, the detection device can comprise at least one evaluation device. With an evaluation device, information about the monitored area, in particular distances, speeds, and / or directions of objects relative to the detection device, can be determined from the transmitted and / or received scanning signals, in particular from electrical transmission signals from which the transmitted scanning signals are generated, and / or electrical reception signals generated from the received scanning signals.

[0064] Advantageously, the at least one evaluation device can be a combined control and evaluation device. A control and evaluation device can control components of the detection device and process signals.

[0065] Furthermore, the object is achieved according to the invention in the vehicle in that the at least one testing device at least two electrically conductive test elements, between which at least a part of the at least one component to be tested is arranged, wherein the at least two test elements are not electrically conductively connected to one another, the at least two test elements are each electrically connected to at least one test evaluation means, with which at least one electrical test signal can be applied to the at least two test elements and at least one actual state variable, which characterizes an actual functional state of the at least one component to be tested, can be determined from at least one electrical interaction between the at least two test elements, and the detection device has at least one means with which, in the event of a deviation of at least one actual state variable from at least one predetermined reference state variable, which characterizes a reference functional state of the at least one component to be tested,taking into account a tolerance, at least one warning signal can be generated.

[0066] Advantageously, the vehicle can have at least one driver assistance system. With a driver assistance system, vehicle functions can be performed autonomously or at least partially autonomously.

[0067] Advantageously, at least one detection device can be connected to at least one driver assistance system. In this way, information determined by the at least one detection device, in particular information about objects in a monitoring area, can be transmitted to the at least one driver assistance system. The information from the at least one detection device can be used with the at least one driver assistance system to autonomously or partially autonomously execute functions of the vehicle.

[0068] Furthermore, the object is achieved according to the invention in the method in that at least one electrical test signal is applied to at least two electrically conductive test elements, between which at least a part of the at least one component to be tested is arranged, at least one actual state variable, which characterizes an actual functional state of the at least one component to be tested, is determined from at least one electrical interaction between the at least two test elements, in the event of a deviation of at least one actual state variable from at least one predetermined reference state variable, which characterizes a reference functional state of the at least one component to be tested, at least one warning signal is generated taking into account a tolerance.

[0069] According to the invention, at least one test signal is applied to at least two electrically conductive test elements. At least a part of at least one component to be tested is arranged between the at least two electrically conductive test elements. An actual state variable is determined from at least one electrical interaction between the at least two electrically conductive test elements. The electrical interaction and the actual state variable are dependent on an actual functional state of the at least one component to be tested. If the actual functional state of the at least one component to be tested deviates from a reference functional state, it is assumed that the at least one component to be tested cannot fulfill its function without errors.

[0070] The reference functional state is characterized by a predefined reference state variable. If the at least one actual state variable deviates from the at least one reference state variable, at least one warning signal is generated, taking into account a tolerance, which can also be zero.

[0071] In response to the warning signal, the emission of scanning signals can be reduced, in particular stopped. Thus, the method according to the invention can improve the functional reliability, in particular the eye safety, of the detection device.

[0072] Advantageously, the method can be implemented by software and / or hardware, in particular by means of the detection device. Short description of the drawings

[0073] Further advantages, features and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description, in which exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail with reference to the drawings. They show schematically Figure 1 shows a front view of a vehicle with a driver assistance system and a LiDAR system for monitoring a surveillance area in the direction of travel in front of the vehicle; Figure 2 shows a section of a LiDAR system which is installed in the vehicle from Figure 1 can be used with a test device according to a first embodiment; Figure 3 a front view of a window of the LiDAR system from the Figure 2 with flat test elements of the test device, the test elements being arranged on opposite wide sides of the window; Figure 4 shows a section of the window from the Figure 3 in a functional reference functional state; Figure 5 a section of the window from the Figures 3 and 4in an actual functional state in which the window is damaged; Figure 6 shows a front view of a window with grid-shaped test elements of a test device according to a second embodiment, which in the LiDAR system from the Figures 1 to 3 can be used; Figure 7 a front view of a window with flat test elements of a test device according to the third embodiment, which in the LiDAR system from the Figures 1 to 3 can be used, with the test elements arranged on opposite narrow sides of the window.

[0074] In the figures, identical components are provided with identical reference symbols. Embodiment(s) of the invention

[0075] In the Figure 1 A vehicle 10 in the form of a passenger car is shown in the front view. The vehicle 10 has a detection device in the form of a LiDAR system 12. The LiDAR system 12 is in the Figure 2shown schematically in a section. The LiDAR system 12 is located, for example, in the front bumper of the vehicle 10. With the LiDAR system 12, a surveillance area 14 can be monitored, for example, in the direction of travel in front of the vehicle 10 for objects 16. The LiDAR system 12 can also be arranged at a different location and with a different orientation on the vehicle 10. The vehicle 10 can also have multiple LiDAR systems 12.

[0076] Furthermore, the vehicle 10 has a driver assistance system 18. With the driver assistance system 18, functions of the vehicle 10 can be performed autonomously or semi-autonomously. The LiDAR system 12 is connected to the driver assistance system 18. In this way, information about the monitoring area 14 determined by the LiDAR system 12, for example, information about objects 16 in the monitoring area 14, can be transmitted to the driver assistance system 18 and used therewith to execute functions of the vehicle 10.

[0077] With the LiDAR system 12, object information, for example distances, directions and / or speeds of detected objects 16 relative to the LiDAR system 12 or relative to a reference area of ​​the vehicle 10, for example relative to a vehicle longitudinal axis and / or a vehicle transverse axis of the vehicle 10, can be determined.

[0078] The LiDAR system 12 can detect stationary or moving objects, such as vehicles, persons, gestures, movements, animals, plants, obstacles, road surface irregularities, such as potholes or stones, road markings, traffic signs, open spaces, in particular parking spaces, precipitation or the like.

[0079] The LiDAR system 12 comprises a housing 20. The housing 20 has a transmission housing section in the form of a window 22 on one side, which faces the monitoring area 14 in the operating state. The window 22 is in the Figure 3 shown in the front view from the monitoring area 14.

[0080] A transmitting device 24, a receiving device 26 and an electronic control and evaluation device 28 are arranged in the housing 20.

[0081] The LiDAR system 12 further includes a test device 30. The test device 30 can be used to test the functional status of the window 22. The test device 30 includes two electrically conductive test elements 32 and a test evaluation device 34. The test evaluation device 34 is arranged in the housing 20. The test elements 32 are located on the window 22.

[0082] The transmitting device 24, the receiving device 26, the control and evaluation device 28, and the test and evaluation device 34 are arranged, for example, on a common carrier, for example a circuit board 36. The transmitting device 24, the receiving device 26, the control and evaluation device 28, and the test and evaluation device 34 can also be arranged on different carriers, even decentrally. The test and evaluation device 34 can also be implemented at least partially in the control and evaluation device 28 or with separate components.

[0083] The transmitting device 24 transmits electromagnetic scanning signals 38 through the window 22 into the monitored area 14. The transmitting device 24 has a light source, for example in the form of a laser. The laser can generate electromagnetic scanning signals 38 in the form of laser light pulses. The transmitting device 24 can further comprise light-influencing devices, for example, optical lenses, optical deflection devices, or the like, with which the scanning signals 38 can be shaped and / or directed.

[0084] For example, the LiDAR system 12 is configured as a so-called flash LiDAR system. The scanning signals 38 are emitted as flashes that simultaneously illuminate the surveillance area 14. Alternatively, the LiDAR system 12 can also be configured as a scanning system, in which the directions in which the scanning signals 38 are transmitted into the surveillance area 14 are varied.

[0085] The window 22 is permeable to the scanning signals 38 and corresponding echo scanning signals 40. The test elements 32 are also permeable to the scanning signals 38 and the echo scanning signals 40.

[0086] The scanning signals 38 that strike an object 16 are reflected by the object as electromagnetic echo scanning signals 40. The echo scanning signals 40, which are reflected toward the LiDAR system 12, pass through the window 22 to the receiving device 26.

[0087] The receiving device 26 comprises, for example, a detector with which the received echo scanning signals 40 can be converted into electrical signals. Furthermore, the receiving device 26 can optionally comprise optical components with which the echo scanning signals 40 can be influenced, for example, focused on the at least one detector.

[0088] The detector of the receiving device 26 is, for example, a detector designed for the wavelength of the light emitted by the transmitting device 24, in particular a point sensor, line sensor, or area sensor, in particular an (avalanche) photodiode, a photodiode array, a CCD sensor, an active pixel sensor, for example a CMOS sensor, or the like. The receiving device 26 can also have multiple detectors.

[0089] From the electrical signals which are determined from the echo scanning signals 40 by the receiving device 26, the distance, the speed and / or the direction of the detected object 16 relative to the LiDAR system 12 are determined, for example, according to a signal propagation time method.

[0090] The test elements 32 are each implemented, for example, as flat coatings on the opposite wide surfaces of the window 22, through which the scanning signals 38 and the echo scanning signals 40 also pass. The test elements 32 are made of an optically transparent and electrically conductive material, for example, indium tin oxide. The two test elements 32 are connected to each other in a non-electrically conductive manner.

[0091] The test element 32 on the outer side of the window 22 facing the monitoring area 14 can also be provided with an optional protective layer 42. The protective layer 42 is made of a material that is permeable to the scanning signals 38 and the echo scanning signals 40.

[0092] The window 22 is arranged between the test elements 32. The window 22 is made of a material that is permeable to the scanning signals 38 and the echo scanning signals 40 and is not electrically conductive, for example, glass or plastic.

[0093] Each test element 32 is electrically connected to the test evaluation device 34. The test evaluation device 34 has a test signal generating means 35 with which test signals, for example in the form of alternating voltages, can be applied to the two test elements 32.

[0094] Due to the electrical interaction between the test elements 32, an electric field 44 is generated in response to the test signals. Figures 4 and 5 For illustrative purposes, field lines 46 of an electric field 44 are shown. The electric field 44 is characteristic of the arrangement of the test elements 32 with the window 22. The electric field 44 also depends on the permittivity ε of the window 22.

[0095] In the Figure 4The arrangement of the test elements 32 with the window 22 is shown in a reference functional state. In the reference functional state, the window 22 is undamaged and meets the functional requirements. Figure 5 shows the arrangement of the test elements 32 with the window 22 in an exemplary actual functional state, in which the external test element 32 and the window 22 are damaged on the outside. In this actual functional state, the window 22 does not meet the functional requirements. The damage affects the interaction between the test elements 32. The electric field 44 in the actual functional state differs from the electric field 44 in the reference functional state.

[0096] The test evaluation device 34 can be used to determine an actual state variable, for example in the form of an electrical voltage or a frequency behavior.

[0097] The actual state variable characterizes the actual functional state of window 22. The functional state of window 22 can be changed, for example, by damage to or the absence of parts of window 22. Changes in the functional state of window 22 can be caused, for example, by deep scratches in the outer surface, cracking or breaking, hole formation, for example due to stone chips or the like, or a complete or partial absence of window 22. Since test elements 32 are arranged directly on and connected to window 22, changes in the functional state of window 22 also affect the interaction between test elements 32. This changes the electric field 44 between test elements 32 and the corresponding actual state variable.

[0098] The test evaluation device 34 has means by which the actual state variable can be compared with a reference state variable. The reference state variable characterizes the reference functional state of the test elements 32 and the window 22, as shown by way of example in Figure 4 is shown.

[0099] For example, the comparison of the actual state variable with the reference state variable can be carried out using threshold comparisons.

[0100] The reference state variables are predefined, for example, in a storage medium. The storage medium can, for example, be part of the test evaluation device 34. The reference state variables characterize the reference functional state of window 22.

[0101] The reference state variables can be determined, for example, during a calibration of the LiDAR system 12, for example, at the end of a production line. Deviations from the reference state of the window 22, for example due to damage or the absence of at least parts of the window 22, can lead to scanning signals 38 escaping into the environment in an uncontrolled manner. Uncontrolled escaping scanning signals 38 can, for example, cause health damage, particularly eye damage, to people exposed to the illumination. To ensure the required eye safety, scanning signals 38 that escape into the environment in an uncontrolled manner must therefore be prevented.

[0102] If the comparison reveals a deviation of the actual state variable from the reference state variable, taking into account a tolerance which may also be zero, as is the case with the Figure 5If the actual state shown is not the case, a warning signal is generated by device 30. Upon receipt of the warning signal, the transmission of further scanning signals 38 is stopped.

[0103] With the test device 30, the functional state of the window 22 can be tested without contact during operation of the LiDAR system 12 and / or during operational breaks.

[0104] In the Figure 6 A window 22 of a LiDAR system 12 with test elements 132 according to a second embodiment is shown. The elements that correspond to those of the embodiment from the Figures 2 to 5 are similar, are provided with the same reference numerals. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the test elements 132 are implemented in the form of grids. Gaps are implemented between the material regions of the test elements 132, through which the scanning signals 38 and the echo scanning signals 40 can pass.

[0105] In the Figure 7 A window 22 of a LiDAR system 12 with inspection elements 232 according to a third exemplary embodiment is shown. In contrast to the first exemplary embodiment, the inspection elements 232 in the third exemplary embodiment are arranged on opposite narrow sides of the window 22, which lie outside the transmission range of the window 22.

Claims

1. Detection device (12) for monitoring at least one monitoring region (14) by means of scanning signals (38, 40), having at least one transmission apparatus (24) for transmitting scanning signals (38) and having at least one test apparatus (30) for testing a functional state of at least one component (22) to be tested of the detection device (12), which component is exposed to scanning signals (38, 40) during operation of the detection device (12), and for generating at least one warning signal in the event of a deviation between an actual functional state of the component (22) to be tested and a reference functional state, wherein the at least one test apparatus (30) has at least two test elements (32; 132; 232), between which at least a part of the at least one component (22) to be tested is arranged, wherein the at least two test elements (32; 132; 232) are each electrically connected to at least one test evaluation means (34), and wherein the detection device (12) has at least one means with which at least one warning signal can be generated if at least one actual state variable deviates from at least one predefined reference state variable, which characterizes a reference functional state of the at least one component (22) to be tested, taking into account a tolerance, characterized in that the at least two test elements (32; 132; 232) are electrically conductive and are connected to one another in a non-electrically conductive manner, wherein the test evaluation means (34) can be used to apply at least one electrical test signal to the at least two test elements (32; 132; 232) and the at least one actual state variable, which characterizes an actual functional state of the at least one component (22) to be tested, can be determined from at least one electrical interaction between the at least two test elements (32; 132; 232), wherein an electrical field is formed as the interaction between the at least two test elements (32; 132; 232).

2. Detection device according to Claim 1, characterized in that the detection device (12) comprises at least one electrical test signal generation means (35).

3. Detection device according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that at least the part of at least one component (22) to be tested that is located between the at least two electrically conductive test elements (32; 132; 232) is electrically non-conductive.

4. Detection device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the detection device (12) has at least one housing (20), in which at least one transmission apparatus (24) and / or at least one reception apparatus (26) and / or at least a part (34) of at least one test apparatus (30) is arranged, and / or at least one housing (20) of the detection device (12) has at least one transmission housing portion (22) for the transmission of scanning signals (38, 40).

5. Detection device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one component to be tested is a housing portion (22) and / or a transmission housing portion (22) of a housing (20) and / or an optical component.

6. Detection device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one arrangement having at least two electrically conductive test elements (32; 132; 232) and an intermediate part of at least one component (22) to be tested is at least partially permeable for scanning signals (38, 40).

7. Detection device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one electrically conductive test element (32; 132; 232) is made of a material permeable for scanning signals (38, 40) and / or has gaps through which scanning signals (38, 40) can pass.

8. Detection device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one electrically conductive test element (32; 132; 232) has properties that influence scanning signals (38, 40).

9. Detection device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one electrically conductive test element (32; 132) is arranged on a wide side of at least one component (22) to be tested and / or at least one electrically conductive test element (32; 132) is arranged on one side of at least one component (22) to be tested that is exposed to scanning signals (38, 40) during operation of the detection device (12), and / or at least one electrically conductive test element (232) is arranged on a narrow side of at least one component (22) to be tested and / or at least one electrically conductive test element (232) is arranged on one side of at least one component (22) to be tested that is not exposed to scanning signals (38, 40) during operation of the detection device (12),10. Detection device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one electrically conductive test element (32; 132; 232) is mechanically connected to the at least one component (22) to be tested in a force-transmitting manner.

11. Detection device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one electrically conductive test element (32; 132; 232) is implemented as an electrically conductive coating on a surface of the at least one component (22) to be tested.

12. Detection device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one electrically conductive test element (32; 132) is provided with a protective layer (42) on an outer side that faces away from the at least one component (22) to be tested.

13. Detection device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one transmission apparatus (24) is designed to send electromagnetic scanning signals (38) and / or the detection device (12) has at least one reception apparatus (26).

14. Vehicle (10) having at least one detection device (12) according to Claim 1.

15. Method for operating a test apparatus (30) of a detection device (12), wherein the detection device (12) is provided for monitoring at least one monitoring region (14) by means of scanning signals (38, 40), wherein, in the method, a functional state of at least one component (22) to be tested of the detection device (12), which, during operation of the detection device (12), is exposed to scanning signals (38, 40), is tested and a warning signal is generated if it is identified that an actual functional state deviates from a reference functional state of the at least one component (22) to be tested and wherein at least one warning signal is generated if at least one actual state variable deviates from at least one predefined reference state variable, which characterizes a reference functional state of the at least one component (22) to be tested, taking into account a tolerance, characterized in that at least one electrical test signal is applied to at least two electrically conductive test elements (32; 132; 232), between which at least a part of the at least one component (22) to be tested is arranged, the at least one actual state variable, which characterizes an actual functional state of the at least one component (22) to be tested, is determined from at least one electrical interaction between the at least two test elements (32; 132; 232), wherein an electrical field is formed as the interaction between the at least two test elements (32; 132; 232).