Drive device for adjusting an interior assembly of a vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a drive apparatus (2) for adjusting an interior assembly (11) of a vehicle (1), comprising: - an electric-motor adjustment drive (20) for producing an adjustment force; - an adjustment kinematic mechanism (21-24) for transmitting an adjustment force produced by the adjustment drive (20) to the interior assembly (11), which adjustment kinematic mechanism can be driven by means of the adjustment drive (20); and - a control device (3) for controlling the adjustment drive (20). The control device (3) is designed to control the adjustment drive (20) in a detection mode, in order to adjust the interior assembly (11) via a predetermined adjustment path or to regulate the adjustment drive (20) by means of a predetermined rotation rate curve or by means of a predetermined current curve. The control device (3) is further designed to acquire a characteristic parameter in the detection mode and to identify an operating command based on the characteristic parameter, indicating an adjustment request by a user for adjusting the interior assembly (11).

Description

[0001] Drive device for adjusting an interior assembly of a vehicle

[0002] Description

[0003] The invention relates to a drive device for adjusting an interior module of a vehicle according to the preamble of claim 1 and a method for operating a drive device for adjusting an interior module of a vehicle.

[0004] Such a drive device comprises an electromotive adjustment drive for generating an adjustment force, an adjustment kinematics drivable by the adjustment drive for transmitting an adjustment force generated by the adjustment drive to the interior module and a control device for controlling the adjustment drive.

[0005] An interior assembly of the type described here is an assembly in the interior of a vehicle. An interior assembly of the type described here can be, for example, a vehicle seat, a console element with a storage or tray function, a monitor, a partition wall or a tray such as a table or a storage compartment. The interior assembly is not part of the vehicle body and therefore does not serve to lock the vehicle from the outside (as is the case with a vehicle door or a sunroof). The interior assembly is also not part of a drive and steering system of the vehicle (such as a vehicle steering column). The interior assembly is arranged in the interior of the vehicle and can be adjusted by a user within the interior, in particular to provide a comfort function in the interior.

[0006] For example, a vehicle seat can be adjustable to adjust the backrest angle, the longitudinal and / or transverse position, or even the rotational position within the interior to provide a comfortable seating position for a vehicle occupant. A console element can be slidable along a vehicle floor, for example, to provide storage within the vehicle interior or to enable operation of a functional assembly on the console element. A monitor can be adjustable in its swivel position, height position, and / or tilt position to enable a vehicle occupant to view the monitor comfortably.

[0007] Particularly in new interior concepts, for example, in the context of autonomous vehicles, interior components such as vehicle seats or console elements can be variably adjustable to enable vehicle occupants to enjoy a comfortable ride. Adjusting an interior component should be easy, convenient, and intuitive for the user.

[0008] US 2017 / 0166089 A1 discloses an electrically adjustable vehicle seat in the interior of a vehicle. The adjustment of the vehicle seat can be initiated by a user using gesture control, for example, by a user performing a predetermined gesture in the area of ​​the vehicle seat, thereby causing, for example, a pivoting of a backrest or a longitudinal adjustment of the vehicle seat in the vehicle interior.

[0009] Known adjustment concepts may provide for sensors to detect, for example, a user gesture in the interior of a vehicle, in order to enable an adjustment movement of an interior component, such as a vehicle seat, based on a detected user gesture. This requires, on the one hand, comparatively complex sensor technology and, on the other hand, a complex control system that must ensure that a user gesture is reliably recognized. This allows for a comfortable adjustment movement for the user, while simultaneously preventing unwanted adjustment due to a possibly incorrectly recognized gesture.The object of the present invention is to provide a drive device for adjusting an interior module in a vehicle and a method for operating a drive device which can enable a user to adjust the interior module in a simple, comfortable and intuitive manner.

[0010] This object is achieved by an article having the features of claim 1.

[0011] Accordingly, the control device is configured to control the adjustment drive in a detection mode in order to adjust the interior module over a predetermined adjustment path or to regulate the adjustment drive based on a predetermined speed curve or based on a predetermined current curve. The control device is further configured to detect a characteristic variable in the detection mode and, based on the characteristic variable, to identify an operating command indicating a user's adjustment request for adjusting the interior module.

[0012] In the drive device, the electromotive adjustment drive is designed to generate an adjustment force that is introduced into the interior assembly via the adjustment kinematics in order to adjust the interior assembly electromotively or at least to assist such adjustment electromotively. The adjustment kinematics, which has a gear, is preferably designed to be self-locking, so that when the adjustment drive is not energized, the interior assembly is held in position solely by the adjustment kinematics, thus preventing a force introduced on the output side from causing the interior assembly to shift.

[0013] In mechanics, self-locking refers to the frictional resistance that prevents two adjacent bodies from slipping or twisting. Self-locking occurs in a gear, particularly in a de-energized variable speed drive, when the gear can be driven via the input shaft but not via an output shaft. Self-locking in gears is typically achieved by a high gear ratio or low efficiency (usually <50%). In a worm gear or spindle gear, self-locking is typically achieved when the pitch angle of a worm thread or spindle thread is smaller than the arctangent of the static friction coefficient.

[0014] The adjustment kinematics of the drive device can comprise a self-locking gear. Self-locking of the adjustment kinematics can, for example, be generated at least partially by an interaction between a spindle and a spindle nut. Alternatively or additionally, self-locking of the adjustment kinematics can be generated at least partially by an interaction between a pinion and a gear meshing with the pinion. Alternatively or additionally, self-locking of the adjustment kinematics can be generated at least partially by an interaction between a worm and a worm wheel. Self-locking can also be achieved by a combination of several gear stages, such as the gear stages mentioned above.

[0015] The adjustment kinematics are preferably dynamically and statically self-locking. A torque on the output side cannot cause the adjustment kinematics to move on its own, either during dynamic movement or in a static rest state.

[0016] To detect a user's operating command, which indicates a desired adjustment of the interior assembly, the control device can switch to a detection mode. In detection mode, the control device controls the adjustment drive to adjust the interior assembly over a predetermined adjustment path or to control the adjustment drive based on a predetermined speed curve or a predetermined current curve. When controlling the adjustment drive, the control device detects a parameter that is used to identify the operating command.If an operating command has been identified in the detection mode, the control device can, for example, switch to an adjustment mode in which, for example, in automatic mode, the interior module is automatically moved to a defined adjustment position or in servo mode, a manual adjustment of the interior module is enabled, but with the assistance of an electric motor via the adjustment drive.

[0017] In the detection mode, the control device is thus configured to identify an operating command. While the control device is in the detection mode, a characteristic value can be detected based on a predetermined control of the adjustment drive in order to identify the operating command based on the characteristic value and, when an operating command is present, to enable adjustment of the interior module, for example, in automatic mode, in servo mode, or in a so-called nudge mode by overcoming the self-locking of the adjustment kinematics.

[0018] In one embodiment, the control device is designed to detect a motor current of the adjustment drive and / or a motor speed of the adjustment drive in the detection mode when the interior module is adjusted over a predetermined adjustment path and to determine the characteristic variable based on the motor current and / or the motor speed. Within the scope of the detection mode, in one embodiment, the interior module is adjusted over an adjustment path with a predetermined length, wherein the adjustment path can be small, for example a few millimeters or centimeters. When the interior module is adjusted in the detection mode over the predetermined adjustment path, the motor current of the adjustment drive or the motor speed is detected, and a characteristic variable is determined based on the motor current or the motor speed.

[0019] Adjustment over the predetermined adjustment range can, for example, be carried out in a voltage-controlled manner. Accordingly, a motor current curve and a speed curve are established during the adjustment process along the adjustment range, which can be evaluated to determine the characteristic value.

[0020] Instead of voltage control, current control can also be used. In this case, the speed curve is recorded. Alternatively, speed control can be used. In this case, the motor current curve is recorded.

[0021] If a user exerts an operating command on the interior assembly, for example, by pushing or pulling on the interior assembly, a force is exerted on the adjustment drive. It is assumed that a force exerted by a user on the interior assembly may indicate an operating command intended to trigger an adjustment in a direction parallel to the direction of the force.

[0022] Due to the force exerted on the interior assembly by the user, there is generally a change in the motor current or speed compared to an adjustment of the interior assembly without any force exerted by the user. If the interior assembly is adjusted by the adjustment drive in detection mode in an adjustment direction that corresponds to the direction of the force with which the user acts on the interior assembly, the adjustment movement is assisted by the user's force. Accordingly, the motor current drops and the speed increases. If, on the other hand, the user acts on the interior assembly with a force in a direction opposite to the adjustment direction, the force applied by the user counteracts the adjustment movement. Accordingly, the motor current increases and the speed decreases.Such an effect on the motor current and / or speed can be detected in order to derive a characteristic value based on the motor current or speed and, for example, compare it with a reference value. If the characteristic deviates from a predetermined reference value by more than a predetermined amount, for example, this is interpreted as an operating command, whereby the direction of the force can be used to determine the direction in which the interior assembly should be adjusted in a subsequent adjustment mode.

[0023] In one embodiment, the control device is designed to determine the characteristic variable based on a maximum motor current or a maximum rotational speed when adjusting the interior module over the predetermined adjustment range in the detection mode. Thus, the maximum motor current or the maximum rotational speed when adjusting the interior module over the predetermined adjustment range is determined as the characteristic variable.

[0024] In one embodiment, the control device is designed to determine the characteristic variable based on the duration of an adjustment process for adjusting the interior module over the predetermined adjustment path. If the adjustment drive is voltage-controlled or current-controlled, the speed and thus also the duration of the adjustment process are set depending on a force acting on the interior module. If a user exerts a force on the interior module that indicates an operating command, the duration of the adjustment process will vary compared to the duration of the adjustment process when the interior module is unloaded, i.e. when a user does not push or pull on the interior module to initiate an adjustment process. The duration of the adjustment process can thus be determined as a characteristic variable and used to identify the operating command.

[0025] In one embodiment, the control device is designed, in the detection mode, when the interior module is adjusted over a predetermined adjustment path, to control the adjustment drive to adjust the interior module in a first detection phase in a first direction of movement and in a second detection phase in a second direction of movement opposite to the first direction of movement. In order to enable the detection of an operating command over a longer period of time, the interior module can be repeatedly adjusted back and forth within the scope of the detection mode, i.e. in a first detection phase in a first direction of movement and in a subsequent, second detection phase in an opposite, second direction of movement, wherein the adjustment movement takes place in each case over the predetermined adjustment path, i.e. back and forth over the same adjustment path length, and the back and forth movement can be repeated as often as required.The interior assembly is thus moved back and forth within the range of its set actual position. In particular, the interior assembly assumes the same actual position in a state before starting detection mode and in a state after ending detection mode (should no adjustment operation follow).

[0026] In the different detection phases, values ​​for the parameter are repeatedly determined in order to infer an operating command based on a variation in the parameter in the detection phases.

[0027] In one embodiment, the control device is designed to detect a motor current of the adjustment drive in the detection mode when the adjustment drive is controlled based on a predetermined speed profile and to determine the characteristic variable based on the motor current. If the speed of the adjustment drive is controlled based on a predetermined speed profile in the detection mode, the motor current can be determined in order to determine the characteristic variable based on the motor current. For example, the characteristic variable can be determined based on the maximum motor current. The adjustment of the interior module in the detection mode based on the predetermined speed profile can take place over a predetermined adjustment path or over a predetermined adjustment time.

[0028] In one embodiment, the control device is designed, in the detection mode, to control the adjustment drive based on the predetermined speed curve to adjust the interior module in a first detection phase in a first direction of movement and, in a second detection phase, in a second direction of movement opposite to the first direction of movement. To enable the detection of an operating command over a longer period of time, the interior module can be repeatedly adjusted back and forth within the scope of the detection mode, i.e., in a first detection phase in a first direction of movement and, in a subsequent, second detection phase, in an opposite, second direction of movement, wherein the back and forth movement can be repeated as often as desired.The interior assembly is thus moved back and forth within the range of its set actual position, with the adjustment in each direction occurring over a predetermined distance or a predetermined time based on the specified speed curve. In particular, the interior assembly assumes the same actual position in a state before starting detection mode and in a state after ending detection mode (should no adjustment operation follow).

[0029] In one embodiment, the control device is designed to detect the distance traveled and / or the motor speed in the detection mode when controlling the adjustment drive based on a predetermined current profile and / or to detect a time and / or a current value at which an adjustment movement of the interior module begins, and to determine the characteristic variable based on the distance traveled, the motor speed, the time and / or the current value.

[0030] If the adjustment drive is controlled with a predetermined current profile in detection mode, various parameters can be determined to determine a characteristic value. For example, when the adjustment drive is energized, the distance traveled can be determined based on the predetermined current profile in order to determine the characteristic value based on the distance traveled.

[0031] Additionally or alternatively, when the adjustment drive is energized, the motor speed can be detected based on the predetermined current curve in order to determine the characteristic value based on the motor speed, in particular based on a motor speed curve, for example based on the maximum motor speed.

[0032] While an adjustment movement of the interior assembly generally occurs when the adjustment drive is controlled in a detection mode to adjust the interior assembly over a predetermined adjustment path or based on a predetermined speed curve, or when the adjustment drive is controlled based on a predetermined current curve to detect the distance traveled or the motor speed, the adjustment drive can also be controlled based on the predetermined current curve in such a way that no adjustment movement of the interior assembly occurs. For example, the adjustment drive can be energized based on a predetermined current curve until an adjustment movement of the interior assembly just begins. Using such a control, a point in time or a current value can be detected at which the adjustment movement of the interior assembly just begins. In this case, the characteristic is determined based on the point in time or the current value.

[0033] The predetermined current profile can, for example, correspond to a linearly increasing or decreasing ramp function. For example, the motor current can be increased linearly until an adjustment movement of the interior module begins. This can correspond to energizing the adjustment drive in the sense of an adjustment movement directed in a first adjustment direction. Additionally or alternatively, the motor current can, for example, be regulated in a linearly decreasing manner, resulting in a linearly decreasing current ramp. This can correspond to energizing the adjustment drive in the sense of an adjustment movement directed in a second adjustment direction, opposite to the first adjustment direction.

[0034] Such a linear ramp function can be used, in particular, to determine the motor current value at which an adjustment movement of the interior assembly just begins. By increasing the current value, the motor current can be varied, in particular, until a movement of the interior assembly occurs.

[0035] In one embodiment, the control device is configured to deactivate a motor current supply in the detection mode when regulating the adjustment drive based on the predetermined current profile if an adjustment movement of the interior module is detected. For example, if a movement of the interior module is detected by a motion sensor on the interior module, the control device deactivates a motor current supply, so that an adjustment movement is prevented immediately upon its occurrence, thus effectively preventing any adjustment of the interior module.

[0036] Depending on the force exerted on the interior assembly, for example by a user pushing or pulling on the interior assembly to initiate adjustment of the interior assembly, the motor current value and the time at which the adjustment movement of the interior assembly begins vary, given a regulated motor current profile. If the current supplied to the adjustment drive and the force exerted by the user are in the same direction, the current value and the time at which the adjustment movement begins are lower than when the interior assembly is unloaded. If, on the other hand, the force exerted by the user is opposite to the adjustment force exerted by the current supplied to the adjustment drive, the motor current value and the time at which the adjustment movement begins are higher than when the interior assembly is unloaded.The characteristic variable can thus be determined based on the motor current value or based on the time. In one embodiment, the control device is designed, in the detection mode, when the adjustment drive is controlled based on the predetermined motor current profile, to energize the adjustment drive for adjusting the interior module in a first detection phase in a first current supply direction and, in a second detection phase, in a second current supply direction opposite to the first current supply direction. The energization of the adjustment drive based on the predetermined motor current profile thus takes place alternately in different, subsequent detection phases in different, opposite current supply directions, in the sense of an adjustment movement directed in a first direction of movement and in the sense of an adjustment movement directed in an opposite, second direction of movement.

[0037] In one embodiment, the control device is designed to identify the operating command based on a deviation of the characteristic variable from a reference variable. It can generally be assumed that actuating the adjustment drive in the detection mode results in a characteristic variable that remains essentially constant in value, as long as the interior module is not subjected to a force from the user to trigger an operating command. When the interior module is unloaded, i.e., without force from a user, the characteristic variable will thus have an essentially constant value. This value can serve as a reference variable; alternatively, a value for the reference variable can also be programmed, for example, and thus fixed.

[0038] In contrast, if a user applies force to the interior assembly to trigger an operating command, the parameter varies. For example, if the adjustment drive is controlled in detection mode such that the motor current is regulated based on a predetermined motor current profile, and a motor current value or a time at which an adjustment movement of the interior assembly begins is determined, the motor current value and the time will vary depending on whether and with what force and in which direction a user applies force to the interior assembly.Based on a deviation of the characteristic variable from a reference variable, an operating command can thus be inferred in order to, for example, start an adjustment mode for automatically adjusting the interior module or to start a servo mode for electric motor-assisted adjustment of the interior module when an operating command is present, i.e., when the operating command is successfully identified. In one embodiment, the control device is designed to repeat a control process in the detection mode for controlling the adjustment drive to adjust the interior module over a predetermined adjustment path or for regulating the adjustment drive based on a predetermined speed curve or based on a predetermined current curve in order to repeatedly detect the characteristic variable.In particular, detection phases in which the control device controls the adjustment drive in the sense of an adjustment movement in different directions of movement can be repeated cyclically in order to be able to detect an operating command from a user over a longer period of time in a continuous detection mode.

[0039] During the detection mode, particularly when the adjustment drive is repeatedly activated by the control device to adjust the interior module over a predetermined adjustment path or to regulate the adjustment drive based on a predetermined speed curve or based on a predetermined current curve in successive detection phases, values ​​for the parameter can be repeatedly recorded in order to determine a curve of the parameter over time based on a variation in the values. Based on such a curve, for example, patterns in the force exerted by a user on the interior module can be recognized in order to start an adjustment mode based on such pattern recognition, for example to adjust the interior module in automatic mode or in servo mode.

[0040] For example, an impulse effect on the interior module can be detected based on the course of the characteristic variable. For example, the control device can be designed to infer an operating command if an impulse effect on the interior module caused by a user is detected. Such an impulse effect can be exerted, for example, by a user exerting a force in one direction on the interior module, wherein the force effect is exerted in an impulse-like manner over a relatively short period of time and thus occurs and is also removed again relatively suddenly. This can be detected based on a course of the characteristic variable, whereby an operating command is only inferred if a force effect of a predetermined type can be identified based on the course of the characteristic variable.

[0041] In one embodiment, the control device is configured to activate the adjustment drive in an adjustment mode for adjusting the interior assembly upon identification of the operating command. In the adjustment mode, the interior assembly can be automatically moved to a defined adjustment position, for example, in automatic operation. In another embodiment, a servo operation can be initiated in the adjustment mode, for example, within which the interior assembly can be manually adjusted by a user with the assistance of an electric motor.In yet another embodiment, a so-called nudge operation can be switched on, in which the control device provides a support current to the adjustment drive to cancel a self-locking of the adjustment drive and the adjustment kinematics operatively connected to the adjustment drive, so that the interior module can be adjusted manually by a user in a substantially forceless manner.

[0042] For example, when the adjustment mode is activated, the control device can actuate the adjustment drive with a support current dimensioned such that the interior assembly can be set in motion by a user force manually applied to the interior assembly by a user, overcoming the self-locking of the adjustment kinematics. While when the adjustment drive is not energized, the interior assembly is held in position by the adjustment kinematics and thus cannot be adjusted even by user force applied to the interior assembly on the output side, the interior assembly can be manually set in motion if the adjustment drive provides a support current in an adjustment mode, thereby removing the self-locking of the adjustment kinematics.For this purpose, the control device is designed to supply a support current to the adjustment drive when the adjustment mode is activated, which causes the self-locking of the adjustment kinematics to be canceled. This results in a manual user force on the interior assembly causing a movement of the interior assembly, and the interior assembly can thus be set in motion by manual user force. By supplying the adjustment drive with the support current, the inherently self-locking adjustment kinematics is released and can be moved by applying a force to the output side.

[0043] In one embodiment, the assist current is dimensioned such that an adjustment force caused by the assist current does not move the interior assembly. When the adjustment mode is activated, the adjustment drive is thus energized in such a way that an adjustment force is applied to the adjustment kinematics to overcome the self-locking effect, but the adjustment kinematics is not moved by the assist current, and thus the interior assembly is not adjusted. Applying the assist current when the adjustment mode is activated (only) overcomes the self-locking effect, but no adjustment movement occurs.

[0044] The adjustment kinematics can be implemented, for example, by a worm gear or a spindle gear. In a worm gear, a drive worm is in gear engagement with a drive wheel via worm gearing. In a spindle gear, a spindle has a spindle thread that is in threaded engagement with an internal thread of a spindle nut. A longitudinal movement of the spindle nut relative to the spindle can be effected by rotating the spindle or, alternatively, by rotating the spindle nut.

[0045] In one embodiment, the control device is configured to activate the detection mode depending on at least one trigger criterion. To avoid excessive current flow, the detection mode should not always be activated in the vehicle, but only in specific situations. To activate the detection mode, the control device can, for example, evaluate one or more trigger criteria to determine, depending on the trigger criteria, whether the detection mode should be activated or not. If one or more trigger criteria are present, the detection mode is started.

[0046] By starting the detection mode based on one or more trigger criteria, the sensor system for initiating the detection mode to detect an adjustment request can be simplified. In particular, no sensor system is required to monitor and evaluate a user gesture. The detection mode can be started based on relatively easy-to-determine criteria, such as the open state of a vehicle door or the occupancy state of a vehicle seat.

[0047] A trigger criterion can, for example, be the occupancy status of the interior module. If the interior module is a vehicle seat or a module of a vehicle seat, such as the backrest of a vehicle seat, the control device only makes the detection mode available when the vehicle seat is not occupied by a vehicle occupant. For example, the backrest should only be adjustable when the vehicle seat is empty. The occupancy status can be evaluated, for example, using a (capacitive) occupancy sensor, the status of a seat belt buckle, or even an interior monitoring device. A trigger criterion can also be the movement status of the interior module.For example, if a front vehicle seat is moved, a drive device on a rear vehicle seat or on a center console can be switched to detection mode to enable movement on the rear vehicle seat or the center console.

[0048] Another trigger criterion can be the opening state of a vehicle door, in particular a vehicle side door or a tailgate. For example, the control device can be designed to activate the detection mode as soon as a vehicle side door is opened. If, for example, the right rear vehicle side door is opened, the detection mode for a vehicle seat at the rear right and / or front right can be started. If, in contrast, the left rear vehicle side door is opened, the detection mode for a vehicle seat at the rear left and / or front left is started, for example. If it is determined that the tailgate is opened, the detection mode can be started, for example, for a rear row of seats in a vehicle.

[0049] As an additional criterion, the vehicle's driving status can be evaluated. For example, detection mode may only be enabled when the vehicle is stationary. Alternatively, detection mode can be activated when the vehicle is stationary, but also when the vehicle is moving. While the vehicle is moving, detection mode can be inhibited depending on the situation, for example, depending on the vehicle's speed or in the event of a so-called "pre-crash" warning indicating a potentially impending crash. If the drive system is currently in detection mode when such a "pre-crash" warning is triggered, detection mode can be deactivated and the interior module can be locked in its current position to absorb and dissipate any crash forces.

[0050] Another trigger criterion that can be evaluated is a sensor signal from a sensor device, such as an interior monitoring device (e.g., a radar or lidar system) or a motion sensor on an interior module. Further trigger criteria can include: adjustment of an adjacent interior module; activation of the vehicle ignition; a dedicated user action (e.g., pressing a button on the seat or the menu in the on-board computer, or a voice command).

[0051] The detection mode can be switched off according to a trigger criterion or a combination of trigger criteria, for example: when a trigger criterion is no longer present; after an adjustment has been made; time-controlled; when the vehicle is parked, for example based on a "power budget".

[0052] In one embodiment, the control device is configured to generate an indication signal indicating the recognition mode after activation of the recognition mode for output to a user. For example, the control device can generate an indication signal that is output via a vehicle device, such as a vehicle audio system, to signal to the user that the recognition mode for adjustment has been started.

[0053] The adjustment drive can be designed, for example, as a DC motor, particularly advantageously as a brushless DC motor (so-called BLDC motor). However, other motors can also be used.

[0054] The control device can be integrated into the adjustment drive, but can also be designed separately from the adjustment drive, for example by a seat control unit or a central control unit in the vehicle.

[0055] Different applications for a drive device of the type described are conceivable and possible.

[0056] In one application, the interior module can be implemented, for example, as a vehicle seat. The drive device can be designed, in particular, to adjust a backrest of the vehicle seat relative to a seat part of the vehicle seat. Alternatively, the drive device can be designed for seat longitudinal adjustment. Alternatively, the drive device can be designed for seat height adjustment.

[0057] In another application, the interior assembly may be implemented, for example, by a console element, such as a center console, an armrest, a table, or another assembly in the vehicle interior. In one application, the interior assembly is implemented by a vehicle seat and, as part of a so-called easy-entry function, can be moved into an easy-entry position in which the vehicle seat is, on the one hand, folded forward with a backrest and, on the other hand, moved as a whole into a forward position, thus freeing up space behind the vehicle seat, in particular for easier access to a row of seats located behind the vehicle seat.In this case, the vehicle seat can, for example, have two drive devices, each with an electric motor adjustment drive and adjustment kinematics, via which, on the one hand, the vehicle seat can be displaced longitudinally within the vehicle and, on the other hand, the backrest of the vehicle seat can be pivoted relative to a seat part of the vehicle seat. A detection mode can be activated on one or both drive devices, for example, depending on at least one trigger criterion, in order to transfer the vehicle seat into the easy-entry position or to return it from the easy-entry position to a normal use position.

[0058] Within the scope of such an application, the Easy Entry function can be activated, for example, if a force is detected on the backrest part of the vehicle seat or on the vehicle seat itself in the detection mode. If the detection mode is implemented, for example, in the drive device for adjusting the backrest part relative to the seat part, the detection mode is activated, for example, depending on at least one trigger criterion.

[0059] For example, a user sitting on a vehicle seat behind a vehicle seat in front of them and wishing to exit the vehicle can press on the backrest of the vehicle seat in front of them. If the drive device assigned to the backrest adjustment of this vehicle seat is in detection mode, such a force can be interpreted as an operating command and an adjustment mode can be initiated, for example, to automatically adjust the entire vehicle seat to an easy-entry position. Thus, the backrest section can be pivoted into a forward-folded position relative to the seat section, and the vehicle seat as a whole can be adjusted to a forward-shifted position.

[0060] As a trigger criterion for starting the detection mode on one or more drive devices of the vehicle seat as part of an easy-entry function, in particular on a drive device for adjusting the backrest of the vehicle seat and on a drive device for longitudinally adjusting the vehicle seat, it can be considered, for example, whether the vehicle is in a stationary position. Additionally or alternatively, it can be considered whether the vehicle seat to be adjusted is unoccupied. Again, additionally or alternatively, it can be considered whether a vehicle door is open.If a trigger criterion or a predetermined combination of trigger criteria is present, the detection mode can be started on one or more drive devices of the vehicle seat as part of the Easy Entry function, so that an operating command can be detected in order to automatically and electrically move the vehicle seat into a defined end position that corresponds to the Easy Entry position after the operating command has been detected as part of the Easy Entry function.

[0061] Exclusion criteria for the detection mode can also be defined in this context. For example, if the vehicle seat that is to be adjusted as part of the Easy Entry function is occupied, the detection mode can be prevented and thus cannot be started even if one or more trigger criteria are present.

[0062] For example, detection mode can be activated for a limited time when a trigger criterion or a combination of several trigger criteria is met. If no operating command is detected on the interior module within this limited time, detection mode is stopped again.

[0063] The control device for controlling the detection mode can be implemented, for example, by a seat control unit or a central control unit in the vehicle. Such a control device can communicate, for example, via a bus system, such as a LIN bus or a CAN bus, with a local control unit of a respective drive device.

[0064] Control tasks can also be handled in a distributed manner. For example, a higher-level control unit can check for trigger criteria and initiate detection mode accordingly. In contrast, detection of an operating command can be performed by a local control unit of a drive device, for example.

[0065] According to a further aspect, a method for operating a drive device for adjusting an interior module of a vehicle comprises: providing an electromotive adjustment drive for generating an adjustment force; providing adjustment kinematics drivable by the adjustment drive for transmitting an adjustment force generated by the adjustment drive to the interior module; providing a control device for controlling the adjustment drive; controlling the adjustment drive by the control device in a detection mode in order to adjust the interior module over a predetermined adjustment path or to regulate the adjustment drive based on a predetermined speed curve or based on a predetermined current curve; detecting, by the control device, a characteristic variable in the detection mode;and identifying, by the control device, an operating command indicating a user's adjustment request to adjust the interior module on the basis of the characteristic variable;

[0066] The advantages and advantageous embodiments described above for the drive device also apply analogously to the method.

[0067] According to a further aspect, a computer program product comprises instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the method specified above.

[0068] The concept underlying the invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the exemplary embodiments illustrated in the figures. They show:

[0069] Fig. 1 is a schematic view of a vehicle with an interior assembly in the form of a vehicle seat;

[0070] Fig. 2 is a schematic view of a drive device comprising an adjustment drive and an adjustment kinematics for transmitting an adjustment force generated by the adjustment drive to an interior module;

[0071] Fig. 3 is a view of a motor current curve in a detection mode during adjustment over a predetermined adjustment path;

[0072] Fig. 4 shows another view of the motor current curve according to Fig. 3, normalized in sections to a common starting point;

[0073] Fig. 5 is a view showing a motor current controlled based on a predetermined motor current waveform in a detection mode; Fig. 6 is a view showing another example of a motor current controlled based on a predetermined motor current waveform;

[0074] Fig. 7A shows the example of the motor current according to Fig. 6;

[0075] Fig. 7B shows a current integral of the motor current according to Fig. 7A; and

[0076] Fig. 8 is a view of an example of a predetermined

[0077] Motor current curve of controlled motor current to determine a curve of a varying characteristic.

[0078] Fig. 1 shows a schematic view of a vehicle 1 which forms an interior enclosed by a vehicle body 10, in which interior components, for example in the form of vehicle seats 11 and possibly further interior components such as console elements, monitors, partition walls, shelves, storage compartments or the like, are arranged.

[0079] In the context of new interior concepts, for example in connection with autonomously driving vehicles, interior assemblies 11 can be variably adjustable in the interior of a vehicle 1.

[0080] For example, an interior assembly 11 in the form of a vehicle seat can be variably adjustable in order to adjust the vehicle seat along an adjustment plane defined by a vehicle longitudinal direction X and a vehicle transverse direction Y, and also, if necessary, to rotate it about a vertical direction Z. Furthermore, components of the vehicle seat, for example, the backrest 112, can be adjustable in order to adapt the position of the respective assembly. For example, the backrest 112 can be adjustable in its inclination. Furthermore, the seat part 111 can be adjustable in its height position and also in its inclination position.

[0081] For an interior assembly 11, the fundamental goal is for the user to be able to adjust the components comfortably, intuitively, and with a pleasant tactile feel. Adjustment should be as precise and quick as possible, while limiting the amount of force required by the user.

[0082] For adjusting an interior assembly 11, a drive device 2 is provided, as schematically shown in Fig. 1, which is connected to a control device 3. The drive device 2 is configured as an electric motor and can be operated to move an associated interior assembly 11 between different positions by means of an electric motor.

[0083] In principle, each interior assembly 11 to be adjusted or a subassembly of an interior assembly 11 to be adjusted, for example the backrest 112 of a vehicle seat, can be assigned its own electromotive drive device 2, wherein the drive devices 2 can be connected, for example, to a common control device 3, so that the control device 3 jointly controls the drive devices 2 for adjusting the associated interior assembly 11 and 11.

[0084] Using the drive device 2, an associated interior assembly 11 can be adjusted along a defined movement path. For example, a vehicle seat can be displaced longitudinally along the vehicle's longitudinal direction X along a movement path defined by guide rails relative to a vehicle floor. A backrest part 112 can also be pivoted about a defined pivot axis 110 relative to the seat part 111.

[0085] Fig. 2 schematically shows a view of an embodiment of a drive device 2 configured for the electric motorized adjustment of an associated interior module 11. The drive device 2 can, for example, enable manual but electric motor-assisted adjustment of the associated interior module 11 in servo mode and automatic adjustment, for example, between defined adjustment positions, in automatic mode.

[0086] The drive device 2 has an electromotive adjustment drive 20 in the form of an electric motor, which is operatively connected to a gear 21. The gear 21 serves to drive an output element 22, which acts on an adjustment gear 23, for example, a spindle nut gear, and via it on an adjustment assembly 24, for example, a spindle, for adjusting the associated interior module 11. The gear 21, together with the output element 22, the adjustment gear 23, and the adjustment assembly 24, implements an adjustment kinematics for transmitting an adjustment force from the adjustment drive 20 to the associated interior module 11.

[0087] For example, the output element 22 can be configured as a drive worm with worm gearing formed thereon, which engages with an adjustment gear 23 having a gear element in the form of a spindle nut. The spindle nut can, for example, be arranged on an adjustment assembly 24 in the form of a spindle, so that driving the spindle nut causes a longitudinal adjustment between the spindle nut and the spindle, thus longitudinally adjusting an associated interior assembly 11. Such adjustment kinematics can be implemented, for example, in a longitudinal adjustment device of an interior assembly 11, for example in the form of a vehicle seat.

[0088] The adjustment drive 20, with the gear 21 and the adjustment kinematics provided by the output element 22, the adjustment gear 23, and the adjustment assembly 24, is preferably designed to be self-locking. Thus, when the adjustment drive 20 is not energized, the respective associated interior assembly 11 is held in position by the adjustment kinematics.

[0089] The adjustment of the interior assembly 11 should be able to be carried out comfortably by a user by engaging the interior assembly 11 to be adjusted and initiating an adjustment movement by applying manual force. While manual adjustment of the interior assembly 11 is impossible when the adjustment drive 20 is not energized due to the self-locking of the adjustment kinematics, and an adjustment force introduced into the interior assembly 11 on the output side is blocked by the adjustment kinematics, it can be provided that in an adjustment mode, the self-locking is overcome by energizing the adjustment drive, thus enabling manual adjustment of the interior assembly 11.

[0090] In particular, the control device 3 can be configured to activate an adjustment mode for adjusting the interior assembly 11 and, when the adjustment mode is activated, to control the adjustment drive 20 with an assist current. The assist current is dimensioned such that the self-locking of the adjustment kinematics is canceled, so that when a user touches the interior assembly 11, it can be moved manually.

[0091] An adjustment movement of an interior assembly 11—for example, a vehicle seat or a subassembly of the vehicle seat, for example, the backrest part 112—is to be initiated when a user's operating command is detected on the interior assembly 11, for example, the vehicle seat. The user's operation is to be able to be performed in such a way that an adjustment movement can be initiated intuitively and conveniently by the user, without the user having to, for example, press a button or other dedicated control element.

[0092] In order to recognize an operating command, the control device 3 is designed to control the adjustment drive 20 in a predetermined manner in a recognition mode and to detect a characteristic value during the control in order to identify an operating command on the basis of the characteristic value, which indicates an adjustment request of a user to adjust the interior module 11.

[0093] In the detection mode, the adjustment drive 20 is generally controlled based on a specific specification, with one or more parameters being recorded during the control process. The specification can be, for example, a predetermined adjustment path. However, the specification can also be, for example, a predetermined speed curve or a predetermined current curve.

[0094] For example, within the detection mode, the control device 3 can control the adjustment drive 20 to adjust the interior module 11 over a predetermined adjustment range, for example, in a voltage-controlled manner. During the adjustment movement over the predetermined adjustment range, a motor current and a motor speed can be detected in order to determine a characteristic variable based on the motor current or the motor speed.

[0095] Fig. 3 shows, by way of example, a motor current curve I that was recorded during the detection mode. Thus, during the detection mode, controlled by the control device 3, the interior module 11 is adjusted by the adjustment drive 20 over a defined path in the example according to Fig. 3. The adjustment is carried out, for example, in a voltage-controlled manner or also in a speed-controlled manner, so that the motor current is obtained according to Fig. 3. In a time period T0 between times t0 and t1, for example, the adjustment drive 20, controlled by the control device 3, can adjust the interior module 11 in a first direction of movement M1 over a predetermined adjustment path.In a subsequent time period T0 between times t1 to t2 (corresponding to the length of the time period T0 between times t0 and t1), the interior assembly 11 is adjusted back in a second direction of movement M2 over the same adjustment path, so that the original starting position of the interior assembly 11 is reached again at time t2. In a time period T1 between times t2 and t3, an adjustment in the direction of movement M1 again takes place over the predetermined adjustment path, and in a time period T2 between times t3 and t4, a return adjustment in the direction of movement M2 takes place.

[0096] In different detection phases A1, A2, A3, A4, the interior assembly 11 is thus adjusted back and forth by the adjustment drive 20, controlled by the control device 3. In each detection phase A1, A2, A3, A4, the interior assembly 11 is adjusted over a distance corresponding to the predetermined adjustment path, with the adjustment occurring alternately in the first movement direction M1 and the second movement direction M2. The predetermined adjustment path over which the back and forth movement occurs can be small, for example, a few millimeters or centimeters.

[0097] During the forward and backward movement, the adjustment drive 20 is energized to generate an adjustment force on the interior assembly 11. The adjustment drive 20 is controlled, for example, by voltage control or—in the example according to Fig. 3—by speed control. During the adjustment movement, the motor current I is detected and recorded, so that a motor current curve, as shown in Fig. 3, is obtained.

[0098] It should be noted that, for example, the rotational speed can be measured instead of the motor current to obtain a speed curve. In this case, the control of the adjustment drive 20 is voltage-controlled or current-controlled.

[0099] In each detection phase A1, A2, A3, and A4, the adjustment occurs over the predetermined adjustment range. The current curve between times t0 and t1 thus corresponds to the motor current curve during an adjustment over the adjustment range in the forward direction M1 in a first detection phase A1. The motor current curve between times t1 and t2 corresponds to the motor current curve during an adjustment over the adjustment range in the reverse direction M2 in a second detection phase A2 (correspondingly, a negative motor current is established), etc.

[0100] The adjustment of the interior assembly 11 in the detection mode is carried out in order to identify a user's operating command, which indicates a user's adjustment request to adjust the interior assembly 11. Thus, in order to execute an operating command, a user can push in one direction on the interior assembly 11 or pull on the interior assembly 11, thus causing a force F (see Fig. 1) to act on the interior assembly 11. Depending on the magnitude and direction of the force, a movement of the interior assembly 11 in the direction of movement M1 is supported and a movement in the opposite direction of movement M2 is counteracted, or vice versa.

[0101] This can be detected by the motor current curve in detection mode.

[0102] In the detection phases A1, A2 between the times tO, t1 and t1, t2, there is no force F exerted by a user on the interior module 11. Accordingly, the time periods TO between the times tO, t1 and t1, t2 are approximately the same, and the maximum current values ​​11, 12 in the detection phases A1, A2 are also approximately the same in magnitude.

[0103] In the detection phases A3, A4, however, there is a force F in the direction shown in Fig.

[0104] I direction, so that the motor movement of the interior assembly

[0105] II is assisted in the direction of movement M1 by the user force F in the detection phase A3, but the movement in the opposite direction M2 is counteracted in the detection phase A4. The current curve shows that in the detection phase A3, in which the interior module 11 is adjusted in the direction of movement M1 over the specified adjustment path, a lower maximum current I3 is generated and the adjustment movement also takes place in a shorter time period T1, which is shorter than the time period TO. In the detection phase A4, on the other hand, in which the return movement in the direction M2 takes place over the adjustment path, a maximum current value I4 is generated which is greater in magnitude than the reference value of the magnitude of the current values ​​I1, I2 without the user force F.In addition, the time period T2 between the times t3, t4 is longer than the time period TO, so that a longer adjustment time is required to cover the predetermined adjustment distance.

[0106] The different current waveforms in the individual detection phases A1, A2, A3, and A4 are superimposed in Fig. 4, normalized to a common starting point. This illustrates the deviation in the maximum current values ​​I3, I4 when the interior module 11 is loaded from the maximum current values ​​I1, I2 when the interior module 11 is unloaded, as well as the deviation of the time periods T1, T2 from the time period T0 when the interior module 11 is unloaded.

[0107] The current values ​​I3, I4 and the time periods T1, T2 represent parameters that can be evaluated to infer an operating command. Thus, based on a deviation of the respective parameter from a reference value, corresponding, for example, to the maximum current value I1, I2 with the interior assembly 11 unloaded or the time period T0 for adjustment over the adjustment path with the interior assembly 11 unloaded, it can be determined whether a force F is acting on the interior assembly 11 that indicates an operating command. If the deviation is greater than a predetermined value, for example, an operating command is inferred.

[0108] In addition, the direction of the force can be determined by determining the upward or downward direction of the deviation with respect to the reference variable in the different detection phases A3 and A4. From the reduction of the maximum current value I3 with respect to the reference variable I1 and / or the reduction of the time period T1 with respect to the reference variable TO in the detection phase A3, as well as from the increase in the magnitude of the maximum current value I4 compared to the reference variable I2 and the increase in the time period T2 compared to the reference variable TO, it can be concluded that the force F acts in the direction of movement M1.

[0109] If an operating command is detected, an adjustment mode for adjusting the interior assembly 11 can be initiated. During this adjustment mode, the interior assembly 11 is moved to a predetermined position, for example, in automatic mode, such as during an easy-entry adjustment. Alternatively, a servo mode can be initiated in the adjustment mode, enabling manual adjustment of the interior assembly 11 with the assistance of an electric motor.

[0110] In the example according to Fig. 3, the interior assembly 11 is moved back and forth over a predetermined path during the detection mode. This results in a movement of the interior assembly 11, whereby the movement occurs around the initial position. Thus, after the detection mode ends, the interior assembly 11 is at least approximately back in the initial position it occupied before the detection mode began.

[0111] In another embodiment, shown in Fig. 5, in detection mode, the adjustment drive 20 is energized based on a predetermined current curve. For this purpose, in the example shown in Fig. 5, the adjustment drive 20 is energized based on a ramp-shaped, linearly rising current curve, with the energization being switched off as soon as an incipient movement is detected on the interior assembly 11. Accordingly, in detection mode, the interior assembly 11 is essentially not moved and thus does not change its position.

[0112] In the example according to Fig. 5, the motor current is increased linearly in detection phases A1-A5 as part of a current control. Thus, between times t0, t1, in a first detection phase A1, the motor current I is increased from 0 to a value 11 at time t1. At time t1, an incipient movement of the interior module 11 is detected, for example, by a motion sensor on the interior module 11 or a sensor, for example a Hall sensor, on the adjustment drive 20, and the motor current is switched off accordingly. In subsequent detection phases A2, A3, A4, A5, the motor current I is again increased in a ramp-like manner, whereby detection phases can follow one another until an operating command is detected or the detection mode is otherwise terminated.

[0113] When the interior assembly 11 is unloaded, i.e., when no user force F is applied by pushing or pulling the interior assembly 11, the time period T0 and the maximum current value I1, at which the ramp-like increase in the motor current I is switched off due to the detection of an incipient movement on the interior assembly 11, are at least approximately equal. Accordingly, in the detection phases A1, A2, and A3, the ramp-like increase in the motor current I occurs over essentially equal time periods T0, each up to an essentially constant maximum current value I1.

[0114] If a force F is applied to the interior assembly 11 in a direction that corresponds to the direction in which the motor current generates a torque on the adjustment drive 20, the force F supports the torque on the adjustment drive 20. This is shown in the detection phase A4 between times t3 and t4. The time period T1, during which a movement begins on the interior assembly 11, and the maximum current value I2 are correspondingly smaller than the time period T0 or the maximum current value I1 when the interior assembly 11 is unloaded.

[0115] If, on the other hand, a force F is applied to the interior assembly 11 in a direction opposite to the direction in which the motor current generates a torque on the adjustment drive 20, the force F counteracts the torque on the adjustment drive 20. This is shown in the detection phase A5 between times t4 and t5. The time period T2, during which a movement begins on the interior assembly 11, and the maximum current value I3, are correspondingly longer than the time period T0 or the maximum current value I1 when the interior assembly 11 is unloaded.

[0116] The maximum current value I1, I2, I3 represents a characteristic value, as does the time period T0, T1, T2. The maximum current value I1 and the time period T0 with an unloaded interior module 11 (i.e. without user force F) represent reference values ​​for a normal state without an operating command. Based on a deviation of the characteristic value from the respective reference value, an operating command can be inferred, for example if the characteristic value deviates from the assigned reference value by more than a predetermined amount. Based on the direction of the deviation, the direction of force F can also be inferred. Accordingly, when an operating command is detected, an adjustment mode can be started, for example, in order to start an adjustment according to the direction of force F, for example in automatic mode or in servo mode.

[0117] While in the embodiment shown in Fig. 5, the motor current I is increased linearly in the same direction in the different detection phases A1-A5, in the embodiment shown in Fig. 6, the motor current I is increased linearly alternately in one direction and in the other direction in successive detection phases A1-A5. Again, the maximum current at switch-off, i.e., upon detection of an incipient movement of the interior module 11, and the respective time period T0, T1, T2 of the linear increase can be recorded as a characteristic.

[0118] In the example according to Fig. 6, the interior module 11 is unloaded in the detection phases A1-A3, and accordingly the maximum current values ​​I1, I2 are approximately the same in magnitude. Approximately equal time periods T0 are established, over which the motor current I is varied linearly until movement begins on the interior module 11. In contrast, in the detection phase A4, there is a shortened time period T1 and a reduced maximum current value I3. In the detection phase A5, there is an increased time period T2 and an increased maximum current value I4. This corresponds to a force acting on the interior module 11 that acts in the direction of movement M2 (in the example according to Fig. 1) and can be detected accordingly. The example according to Fig. 7A corresponds to the example according to Fig. 6, whereby, as shown in Fig.7B, the integral over the motor current curve according to Fig. 7B is determined as a characteristic instead of the maximum current value and / or the time period.

[0119] When the interior assembly 11 is unloaded, i.e. when no force is exerted by a user on the interior assembly 11, the integral at least approximately cancels out after two consecutive detection phases A1, A2, which are associated with current being applied in opposite current flow directions, as can be seen at time t2. If, on the other hand, a load is applied to the interior assembly 11 due to user force, the motor current curves in the different detection phases become asymmetrical, as can be seen from the detection phases A4, A5, so that the integral curve deviates from the integral curve when the interior assembly 11 is unloaded. In particular, after two detection phases with opposite current flow directions, the integral is no longer zero, but deviates from 0, which can be detected and evaluated accordingly in order to infer an operating command.

[0120] The example according to Fig. 8 corresponds in principle to the example according to Fig. 5. In particular, the adjustment drive 20 is supplied with current in a linearly increasing manner based on a predetermined motor current curve, wherein the current supply is switched off as soon as it is detected that movement has begun on the interior module 11. In the example according to Fig. 8, for example the resulting maximum current value Ix and / or the time period until switch-off in the respective detection phase A1, A2...AN are recorded over a large number of detection phases A1, A2...AN. From the values ​​of the characteristic variable determined in this way, for example based on the varying maximum current values ​​Ix, an enveloping curve E is determined which interpolates the maximum current values ​​Ix and indicates a user effect on the interior module 11.

[0121] Based on the envelope E in the example according to Fig. 8, it can be recognized that a user is acting on the interior module 11 in a direction of force, wherein the direction of force corresponds to the direction in which the torque generated by the current supply acts on the adjustment drive 20. Accordingly, the maximum motor current Ix initially decreases at the end of the respective detection phase A1, A2...AN. If the user then releases the interior module 11 and thus cancels the force, the maximum current value Ix increases again. A valley results in the envelope E, as can be seen in Fig. 8. Pattern recognition can be carried out based on such an envelope E. For example, an operating command can be recognized if an impulse-like force effect is detected on the interior module 11, within the scope of which a user exerts a force on the interior module 11 and then cancels it again, in the sense of an impulse-like shock.If such an impulse-like force effect is detected, an operating command is inferred and an adjustment mode for adjusting the interior module 11 is started accordingly, for example in an automatic mode or in a servo mode.

[0122] Based on the envelope E, as shown in Fig. 8, for example, a gradient, a curvature or a duration of a force can be determined in order to infer a user's operating command.

[0123] For example, a user's operating command can be detected if an increase is followed by a decrease or, conversely, a decrease is followed by an increase in the envelope E.

[0124] An evaluation can also be performed, for example, in the example shown in Fig. 8, based on a moving average, for example, the maximum current value Ix over a plurality of detection phases A1, A2...AN. The moving average over several detection phases A1, A2...AN is continuously recalculated. User intervention leads to a change in the average, which can be evaluated to determine an operating command.

[0125] In the example according to Fig. 8, current can also be supplied alternately in different current directions, as in the examples according to Figs. 6 and 7A, 7B.

[0126] In order to reduce the requirements for a sensor system for detecting an adjustment request, it is provided, for example, that the detection mode for detecting an operating command for adjusting the interior module 11 is activated depending on one or more trigger criteria.

[0127] Such trigger criteria can be, for example, the occupancy or movement state of an interior module 11, for example, a vehicle seat, the opening state of a vehicle door, in particular a vehicle side door or a tailgate, or a driving state of the vehicle. Such trigger criteria can be checked as positive criteria and lead to the activation of the detection mode. However, such trigger criteria can also be checked as negative criteria (exclusion criteria) and cause the detection mode to be started only if such a negative criterion is not met.

[0128] For example, the opening status of a vehicle door can be queried as a positive criterion. For example, the detection mode can be activated when a vehicle side door or the tailgate is opened. In this case, the detection mode is activated, for example, for an interior assembly 11 in the area of ​​the opened vehicle side door or the tailgate.

[0129] As a negative criterion, for example, the occupancy status or a driving status of the vehicle can be queried. For example, activation of the detection mode may only be possible if an interior module 11 in the form of a vehicle seat is unoccupied or if the vehicle is not moving, i.e., is stationary.

[0130] If an adjustment request is detected when the detection mode is activated, it is possible to switch, for example, to servo mode in order to support further manual adjustment of the interior assembly 11 with an electric motor, or to automatic mode for automatic adjustment of the interior assembly 11.

[0131] Alternatively, the control device 3 can be designed to switch to a nudge operation when an adjustment request is detected, in which the interior module 11 is first moved by applying an impulse by a user and the further movement of the interior module 11 then takes place without further user action, for example by regulating the current of the adjustment drive 20 to further move the interior module 11 to a predefined end position.

[0132] It should be noted that in nudge mode, it is also possible to stop further controlling the movement of the interior assembly 11 after a user applies an impulse, but rather to allow the interior assembly 11 to move freely after the user has nudged it until the interior assembly 11 stops automatically due to friction in the system. When the assist current is provided to remove the self-locking, further movement is thus achieved purely manually, with a user applying an impulse to the interior assembly 11, and the interior assembly 11 then moves automatically without further control.

[0133] When the recognition mode is activated, the control device 3 can be configured to generate an indication signal for a user, so that the user is alerted that the recognition mode has been activated for a specific interior assembly 11. Such an indication can be provided by controlling the adjustment drive 20, upon activation of the recognition mode, for a slow movement of the interior assembly 11 that is perceptible to a user. Additionally or alternatively, the control device 3 can emit a signal, for example to an audio system of the vehicle, which alerts the user to the activated recognition mode. Again additionally or alternatively, the control device 3 can control the adjustment drive 20, for example, for a predetermined noise generation, for example to play sounds.

[0134] The idea underlying the invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, but can also be implemented in other ways.

[0135] The interior module can be implemented by a wide variety of components within a vehicle's interior and is therefore not limited to a vehicle seat or a console element. An interior module that can be adjusted via a servo drive can also be, for example, a monitor, a shelf (e.g., in the form of a table or the like), a partition, a storage compartment, or the like.

[0136] List of reference symbols

[0137] 1 motor vehicle

[0138] 10 Vehicle body

[0139] 11 Interior assembly (vehicle seat)

[0140] 110 Swivel axis

[0141] 111 Seat part

[0142] 112 Backrest part

[0143] 113 Longitudinal adjustment kinematics

[0144] 2 drive device

[0145] 20 Adjustment drive (motor)

[0146] 21 gearboxes

[0147] 22 Output element

[0148] 23 variable speed gears

[0149] 24 Adjustment assembly (spindle)

[0150] 3 Control device

[0151] A1...AN detection phases

[0152] E Envelope

[0153] F User power

[0154] I Current

[0155] 11 ... I4 current values

[0156] Ix current value

[0157] M1, M2 Direction of movement t Time t1...t6 Time points

Claims

Claims 1. Drive device (2) for adjusting an interior module (11) of a vehicle (1), with an electromotive adjustment drive (20) for generating an adjustment force, an adjustment kinematics (21-24) drivable by the adjustment drive (20) for transmitting an adjustment force generated by the adjustment drive (20) to the interior module (11), and a control device (3) for controlling the adjustment drive (20), characterized in that the control device (3) is designed to control the adjustment drive (20) in a detection mode in order to adjust the interior module (11) over a predetermined adjustment path or to control the adjustment drive (20) based on a predetermined speed curve or based on a predetermined current curve, wherein the control device (3) is designedto detect a characteristic value in the detection mode and to identify, on the basis of the characteristic value, an operating command indicating a user's adjustment request for adjusting the interior module (11).

2. Drive device (2) according to claim 1, characterized in that the adjustment kinematics is self-locking.

3. Drive device (2) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the control device (3) is designed to detect a motor current of the adjustment drive (20) and / or a motor speed of the adjustment drive (20) in the detection mode when the interior module (11) is adjusted over a predetermined adjustment path and to determine the characteristic variable based on the motor current and / or the motor speed.

4. Drive device (2) according to claim 3, characterized in that the control device (3) is designed to determine the characteristic variable on the basis of a maximum motor current or on the basis of a maximum speed.

5. Drive device (2) according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the control device (3) is designed to determine the characteristic variable based on the duration of an adjustment process for adjusting the interior module (11) over the predetermined adjustment path.

6. Drive device (2) according to one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that the control device (3) is designed, in the detection mode, when the interior module (11) is adjusted over a predetermined adjustment path, to control the adjustment drive (20) for adjusting the interior module (11) in a first detection phase in a first direction of movement and in a second detection phase in a second direction of movement opposite to the first direction of movement.

7. Drive device (2) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the control device (3) is designed to detect a motor current of the adjustment drive (20) in the detection mode when controlling the adjustment drive (20) on the basis of a predetermined speed curve and to determine the characteristic variable on the basis of the motor current.

8. Drive device (2) according to claim 7, characterized in that the control device (3) is designed, in the detection mode, when controlling the adjustment drive (20) based on the predetermined speed curve, to control the adjustment drive (20) for adjusting the interior module (11) in a first detection phase in a first direction of movement (M1) and in a second detection phase in a second direction of movement (M2) opposite to the first direction of movement (M1).

9. Drive device (2) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the control device (3) is designed, in the detection mode, when controlling the adjustment drive (20) on the basis of a predetermined current profile, to detect the distance traveled and / or the motor speed and / or to detect a time and / or a current value at which an adjustment movement of the interior module (11) begins, and to determine the characteristic variable on the basis of the distance traveled, the motor speed, the time and / or the current value.

10. Drive device (2) according to claim 9, characterized in that the predetermined current profile corresponds to a linearly increasing or decreasing ramp function.

11. Drive device (2) according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that the Control device (3) is designed to be in the detection mode when regulating the Adjustment drive (20) to switch off a motor current feed based on the predetermined current profile when an adjustment movement on the interior module (11) is detected.

12. Drive device (2) according to one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that the control device (3) is designed, in the detection mode, when controlling the adjustment drive (20) based on the predetermined motor current profile, to energize the adjustment drive (20) for adjusting the interior module (11) in a first detection phase in a first current supply direction and in a second detection phase in a second current supply direction opposite to the first current supply direction.

13. Drive device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control device (3) is designed to identify the operating command on the basis of a deviation of the characteristic variable from a reference variable.

14. Drive device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control device (3) is designed to repeat, in the detection mode, a control process for controlling the adjustment drive (20) for adjusting the interior module (11) over a predetermined adjustment path or for controlling the adjustment drive (20) based on a predetermined speed curve or based on a predetermined current curve in order to repeatedly detect the characteristic variable.

15. Drive device (2) according to claim 14, characterized in that the control device (3) is designed to determine a variation of the characteristic variable over time and to identify the operating command on the basis of the variation.

16. Drive device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control device (3) is designed to control the adjustment drive in an adjustment mode for adjusting the interior module (11) upon identification of the operating command.

17. Drive device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the adjustment kinematics comprises a self-locking gear.

18. Drive device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a self-locking of the adjustment kinematics is at least partially generated by an interaction between a spindle and a spindle nut.

19. Drive device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a self-locking of the adjustment kinematics is generated at least partially by an interaction between a pinion and a toothing meshing with the pinion.

20. Drive device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a self-locking of the adjustment kinematics is generated at least partially by an interaction between a worm and a worm wheel.

21. Method for operating a drive device (2) for adjusting an interior assembly (11) of a vehicle (1), comprising: Providing an electromotive adjustment drive (20) for generating an adjustment force, Providing an adjustment kinematics (21-24) which can be driven by the adjustment drive (20) for transmitting an adjustment force generated by the adjustment drive (20) to the interior module (11) and Providing a control device (3) for controlling the adjustment drive (20), characterized by: controlling the adjustment drive (20) by the control device (3) in a detection mode in order to adjust the interior module (11) over a predetermined adjustment path or to control the adjustment drive (20) based on a predetermined speed curve or based on a predetermined current curve, Detecting, by the control device (3), a characteristic in the detection mode and Identifying, by the control device (3), an operating command indicating a user's adjustment request for adjusting the interior module (11) on the basis of the characteristic variable.

22. A computer program product comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the method according to claim 20. REVISED SHEET (RULE 91) ISA / EP

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