Sensor device for a functional device of a vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a sensor device (100) for a functional device (101), in particular in the form of an access device, preferably a door handle, of a vehicle (F), the sensor device comprising: - at least one sensor element (10), preferably in the form of a preferably capacitive sensor electrode, for detecting an actuating action, in particular in the form of an approach and / or a touch, by a user (B) on the functional device (101), and / or for detecting when an outer surface (102) of the functional device (101) is exposed to moisture, in particular water droplets, - and a control unit (20) for controlling and / or for reading out the sensor element (10).

Description

[0001] Sensor device for a functional device of a vehicle

[0002] Description

[0003] The invention relates to a sensor device for a functional device of a vehicle. Furthermore, the invention relates to a corresponding functional device for a vehicle with a corresponding sensor device.

[0004] Sensor devices for functional devices in vehicles are generally known. Known sensor devices are used to operate moving parts, such as a door or a tailgate, in vehicles. Known sensor devices usually have sensors that can exchange information with the environment to detect a user's approach and / or touch of the functional device. Capacitive sensors are often used as sensors. However, the operation of such sensors is not always reliable, as the capacitive field can be easily distorted by environmental influences, particularly moisture.

[0005] The object of the invention is therefore to at least partially overcome the disadvantages described above. In particular, the object of the invention is to provide an improved sensor device for a functional device of a vehicle. Preferably, the object of the invention is to provide a sensor device for a functional device of a vehicle that is safe and reliable in operation and that has expanded functionality, preferably with regard to improved sensor functions and / or detection of moisture, such as in the case of rain. Furthermore, the object of the present invention is to provide a corresponding functional device for a vehicle with a corresponding sensor device.The above object is achieved by: a sensor device for a functional device of a vehicle having the features of the independent device claim and a corresponding functional device for a vehicle having a corresponding sensor device having the features of the independent device claim. Further features, advantages, and details of the invention emerge from the respective subclaims, the description, and the drawings. Features, advantages, and details described in connection with different aspects of the invention naturally also apply in connection with the other aspects of the invention, and vice versa, so that with regard to the disclosure of the individual aspects of the invention, reference is or can always be made to each other.

[0006] The invention provides: a sensor device for a functional device, in particular in the form of an access device, preferably a door handle, of a vehicle, comprising: at least one sensor element, preferably in the form of a, preferably capacitive, sensor electrode, for detecting an actuation action, in particular in the form of an approach and / or a touch, of a user on the functional device and / or for detecting the exposure of an outer surface of the functional device to moisture, in particular to water droplets, and a control unit for controlling (e.g. charging and discharging) and / or reading the sensor element (e.g. by analog and / or digital processing of sensor signals and / or evaluating the results of the processing),

[0007] Furthermore, the sensor device can have: a shielding element for aligning a detection area of ​​the sensor element, wherein the control unit can be designed to control and / or read out the shielding element, wherein preferably the shielding element has and / or forms at least one, in particular flat, shielding electrode, and / or an edge element for adapting environmental influences (in particular due to moisture) to the sensor element, wherein the control unit can be designed to control and / or read out the edge element, wherein in particular the edge element is designed separately from the shielding element and / or is arranged at a distance from the shielding element, wherein preferably the edge element has and / or forms at least one, in particular capacitive, preferably flat, electrode.

[0008] As already mentioned above, the functional device can be designed in the form of an access device, preferably a door handle of the vehicle, which can be designed, for example, to be extendable or fixed, in order to operate a movable part of the vehicle. The operation can include locking, unlocking, opening, and / or closing.

[0009] It is also conceivable that the functional device can be designed in the form of a module or chip, which can be arranged at different positions on or in the vehicle in order to actuate a movable part of the vehicle. The actuation can comprise locking, unlocking, opening and / or closing. It is conceivable that the functional device can be arranged in the form of a module or chip on or next to the movable part of the vehicle to be actuated. A door, a tailgate, a fuel filler flap, a loading flap, a folding mirror, a sunroof, a window pane, or similar can be conceivable as a movable part. In the case of a side door of the vehicle as a movable part, the functional device can be arranged in the form of a module or chip on the door itself or on the B-pillar of the vehicle.

[0010] The sensor device can preferably be designed for convenient operation of a movable part of the vehicle. The operation can preferably require a specific operation sequence. First, during a specific operation sequence, the sensor element can detect the user's approach to the functional device. Furthermore, user authentication can be carried out, e.g., after detecting the user's approach into the detection range of the sensor element. The authentication can serve to verify whether the user is authorized to operate the movable part and / or to gain access to the vehicle and / or to a functional compartment of the vehicle. Furthermore, during a specific operation sequence, the sensor element can detect the user's touch on an outer surface of the functional device.

[0011] The sensor device can have one or more sensor elements. Different sensor elements can be designed for different actuation functions, such as locking or unlocking, opening or closing the moving part of the vehicle. Different actuation functions can provide different actuation sequences. Different sensor elements can preferably have different detection ranges.

[0012] Furthermore, it is conceivable that different sensor elements can have a (common) shielding element and / or a (common) edge element.

[0013] For example, two sensor elements can be provided for a door handle. A first sensor element can, for example, have a detection area directed outwards away from the vehicle in order to detect a user approaching the detection area and subsequently touching an outer surface of the functional device. The first sensor element can, for example, be used to unlock and, if necessary, directly open the movable part. A second sensor element can, for example, have a detection area directed inwards towards the vehicle, in particular into a handle recess, in order to detect a user reaching behind the door handle. The second sensor element can, for example, be used to lock the movable part.

[0014] In the previous example, a shielding element can be provided for both sensor elements and separate the detection area of ​​the first sensor element from the detection area of ​​the second sensor element or align it on the one hand outwards away from the vehicle and on the other hand inwards towards the vehicle, in particular into a handle recess.

[0015] In the previous example, an edge element can be provided for both sensor elements in order to control the environmental influences, in particular due to moisture, on the sensor element according to the desired function (reducing the moisture influence for the purpose of cleaning the sensor signal and / or increasing the moisture influence for the purpose of moisture or rain detection), preferably with the aid of the control unit, which preferably applies field control to the edge element.

[0016] The invention recognizes that sensor devices, especially capacitive sensor devices, react sensitively to environmental influences, especially humidity. High humidity in the ambient air can trigger an undesired detection at the sensor element. Fluctuations in humidity can also impair sensor functions.

[0017] In addition, the invention recognizes that the sensor device reacts differently to moisture, such as a drop of water on an outer surface of the functional device, which is usually poorly conductive, and to a human body, such as a human finger, which touches the outer surface of the functional device and which is usually highly conductive.

[0018] The invention utilizes this difference in the response of the sensor device to enable different functions in the sensor device. The following functions are conceivable: one function to detect water, e.g., in the form of rain, on an outer surface of the functional device (or rain detection); another function to correct the detection of an actuation, in particular a touch, by the user on an outer surface of the functional device for moisture influences; and / or to (at least) increase the difference between the detection of an actuation, in particular a touch, by the user and the detection of moisture exposure on an outer surface of the functional device.

[0019] To establish effective rain suppression and / or rain detection, two different physical approaches and, in addition, a combination of them are used. The differences between a human body and a raindrop are primarily exploited here. Due to its dimensions, a human body is well grounded. Its electrical potential is not noticeably altered by local influences near the body. In contrast, a raindrop, dirty water, or similar object changes its electrical potential depending on the local conditions.

[0020] A second difference between a raindrop and a human body is the resistance of the material. The conductivity of the human body is greater than 50,000 pS / cm, while the conductivity of clear water is only 0.05 pS / cm.

[0021] Combined with the shape of free water as opposed to the human body, the resulting resistance of a human body is significantly different than the resistance of any type of water.

[0022] The idea is to use a single voltage pulse or a sequence of voltage pulses of any frequency to measure the capacitance in such a way that it is less sensitive to rain or intentionally extremely sensitive to rain.

[0023] There is a wide variety of capacitive sensor systems. They all share the same approach: charging a sensor element, e.g., a capacitive sensor electrode, according to its external capacitance and then measuring this charge, e.g., by discharging the sensor element and measuring the discharge time.

[0024] Depending on the external capacitance, the amount of charge that can be stored on the sensor element varies. This difference is now evaluated according to the invention.

[0025] The charge on the capacitive sensor electrode can be positive or negative. Multiple voltage pulses or just a single voltage pulse may be required to enable rain suppression and / or rain detection. The pulses can have a single frequency or a mix of frequencies. A combination of voltage pulse sequences and frequencies is also conceivable. To charge and / or discharge the sensor element, a specific voltage is applied to the sensor element in multiple voltage pulses or just a single voltage pulse. The charge of the charged sensor element is transferred to a reference electrode, which can be measured.

[0026] If a raindrop or water is near the sensor electrode, the water does not significantly affect the detection of a user's actuation, especially a touch.

[0027] In the absence of the user, a raindrop can inadvertently cause charge to flow to the sensor electrode. This allows the sensor element to also detect, but at a much slower rate than detecting a user touch.

[0028] If a human body creates a capacitance at the sensor electrode, there is virtually no resistance involved. This means that there is hardly any voltage drop in the internal resistance of the finger upon contact, and the charge is completely dissipated relatively quickly.

[0029] When a raindrop causes a different capacitance at the sensor electrode, a large internal resistance is involved. The charge is transferred more slowly, and there is a voltage drop across the internal resistance.

[0030] When a finger causes a change in capacitance, no significant difference can be seen between a short and a long measuring pulse.

[0031] If a raindrop causes a change in capacitance, the difference between a short and a long measuring pulse is significant.

[0032] The sensor signal thus differs when detecting the user and when detecting the water. The invention utilizes these differences to detect or eliminate rain influences on the sensor device. Advantageously, it is not necessary to operate with different frequencies. The frequencies used only need to be selected depending on the needs of the capacitive system.

[0033] The edge element can generally be used to prevent unwanted charge from flowing to the sensor electrode via a raindrop (reducing the influence of moisture in order to clean up the sensor signal).

[0034] Advantageously, the edge element can be subjected to the same or a similar potential as the sensor electrode in order to prevent charge from flowing to the sensor electrode via the water droplet.

[0035] In addition, through targeted control, e.g. synchronous and / or concurrent control, of the edge element, the influence of moisture can be reduced and the difference between user detection and water detection can be increased (cleaning of the sensor signal and / or improved differentiation between rain detection and user detection).

[0036] In addition, by targeted control, e.g. asynchronous and / or counter-rotating control, of the edge element, the moisture influence can be increased in such a way that moisture or rain detection is enabled (increasing the moisture influence for the purpose of moisture or rain detection).

[0037] Thus, an improved sensor device for a functional device of a vehicle can be provided that is safe and reliable in operation and has expanded functionality, preferably with regard to improved sensor functions and / or detection of moisture, such as rain. In this way, an improved functional device for a vehicle can also be provided.

[0038] Furthermore, it can be provided that the sensor element has and / or forms at least one, in particular capacitive, sensor electrode (preferably made of metal). In this way, the sensor element can be used for a capacitive measurement. Using such a sensor element, not only the user's approach to the detection area but also the user's touch on an outer surface of the functional device can be detected.

[0039] Furthermore, it can be provided that the detection range of the sensor element is configured essentially horizontally when installed on the vehicle. In this way, the user's approach to the vehicle can be detected over relatively large ranges. An authentication query can then advantageously be initiated, preferably before the user reaches the vehicle and touches the functional device, which can also be detected using the sensor element with the horizontal detection range.

[0040] Furthermore, it can be provided that the detection area of ​​the sensor element is configured essentially vertically when installed on the vehicle. In this way, additional actuation functions can be provided by the sensor device, such as locking a movable part of the vehicle.

[0041] In addition, the sensor element can be designed to detect a user approaching the detection area. Furthermore, the sensor element can be designed to detect a user touching an outer surface of the functional device. In this way, specific sequences for activating the functional device can be provided.

[0042] Advantageously, the sensor element can be designed to detect the exposure of an outer surface of the functional device to moisture, in particular water droplets.

[0043] Furthermore, it can be provided that the shielding element has and / or forms at least one, in particular capacitive, preferably flat, shielding electrode (preferably made of metal). In this way, the shielding element can align the detection area of ​​the sensor element in the desired direction.

[0044] Furthermore, it can be provided that the edge element has and / or forms at least one, in particular capacitive, preferably flat, electrode section (preferably made of metal). In this way, the edge element can reduce the influence of water from different directions on various functionally essential components of the sensor device, such as the at least one sensor element, possibly another sensor element, the control unit, a communication unit, etc.

[0045] Furthermore, it can be provided that the sensor element is arranged and / or attached to the control unit. This allows for a compact design of the sensor device.

[0046] Furthermore, it can be provided that the sensor element can be arranged and / or attached to the functional device. In this way, improved detection areas can be created on the functional device.

[0047] Furthermore, the control unit can be provided with at least one circuit board. Advantageously, the sensor element can be arranged and / or attached to the circuit board. Preferably, the shielding element can be arranged and / or attached to the circuit board.

[0048] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the edge element is arranged and / or attached to the circuit board at least in sections. In this way, the edge element can also serve to shield a communication unit, in particular an NFC unit. The edge element can be used with multiple sections offset and / or spaced from the NFC coil to prevent direct kappa coupling into the NFC coil. The NFC coil has, on average, two sensor sections that can be symmetrically surrounded by edge element sections. This also allows the thickness differences between the PCB layers to be compensated. Furthermore, detuning between the PCB layers can be avoided.

[0049] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the edge element can be arranged and / or fastened to the functional device at least partially at a distance from the circuit board. In this way, the edge element can be used to specifically determine the direction from which the influence of water is to be prevented. This can be advantageous, particularly in the edge region of the sensor element, in order to prevent unwanted charge from flowing to the sensor electrode via conductive parts of the vehicle and via a raindrop. Furthermore, it can be provided that the control unit has control electronics designed to charge and / or discharge the sensor element. Advantageously, the control unit can be designed to measure an electrical potential at the charged sensor element and / or to determine a discharge time of the charged sensor element.An electrical potential at the charged sensor element and / or a discharge time of the charged sensor element can be specific to the user's actuation, preferably an approach and / or contact, of the functional device and / or the exposure of an outer surface of the functional device to moisture, in particular water droplets. In this way, a capacitive measurement with a sensor electrode can be enabled.

[0050] Furthermore, the control unit can be provided with a comparison capacitor designed to absorb the charge of the sensor element in order to measure an electrical potential at the charged sensor element and / or determine a discharge time of the charged sensor element. In this way, simple and reliable control electronics can be provided for measuring an electrical potential at the charged sensor element and / or determining a discharge time of the charged sensor element.

[0051] Advantageously, the control unit can comprise control electronics designed to charge and / or discharge the sensor element using one or more voltage pulses, preferably voltage pulse sequences. In particular, an electrical potential at the charged sensor element and / or a discharge time of the charged sensor element can be specific to the actuation, preferably an approach and / or contact, of the user to the functional device and / or an exposure of an outer surface of the functional device to moisture, in particular water droplets. In this way, a simple and reliable measurement method can be provided for measuring an electrical potential at the charged sensor element and / or determining a discharge time of the charged sensor element.

[0052] Furthermore, it can be provided that the control unit has control electronics designed to detect the exposure of an outer surface of the functional device to moisture, in particular water droplets, as a function of one, in particular exclusively one, detection signal from the sensor element. For this purpose, in particular a form of the detection signal from the sensor element can be evaluated. Since a drop of water causes a slow load shift, a detection signal with a slowly falling and / or rising edge can be an indication of a drop of water. In contrast, a finger touch causes almost no voltage drop, so that a steeply falling and / or rising edge can be recognized in the detection signal. In this way, it is possible to determine whether the sensor element is sensing a drop of water or a human finger based on just one detection signal from the sensor element.

[0053] Furthermore, it can be provided that the control unit has control electronics designed to detect the exposure of an outer surface of the functional device to moisture, in particular water droplets, depending on a comparison between two detection signals of the sensor element. In particular, the amplitudes of the detection signals of the sensor element can be compared, preferably if the detection signals have different voltage pulse sequences with different pulse / pause ratios and / or different voltage levels. This makes it possible to exploit the effect that a raindrop causes a slow load shift and causes a measurable voltage drop, e.g., in the range of a few mV to a few V, so that the difference between a short and a long measurement pulse in the detection signals is noticeably large.Corresponding voltage pulse sequences can each form a point at the corresponding detection signal, which is now higher or lower.

[0054] In addition, the control unit can comprise control electronics designed to detect the exposure of an outer surface of the functional device to moisture, in particular water droplets, as a function of one, in particular exclusively one, voltage pulse of the sensor element, in particular as a function of a transient, in particular a gradient, of the voltage pulse of the sensor element. For example, two points in time for reading the voltage can be determined to determine the transient. Furthermore, the transient can be determined from the entire voltage pulse. This enables fast and reliable rain detection.In addition, the control unit can have control electronics designed to detect the exposure of an outer surface of the functional device to moisture, in particular water droplets, as a function of a comparison between two voltage pulses of the sensor element, in particular as a function of a comparison of the amplitudes of the voltage pulses of the sensor element, preferably when the voltage pulses have different lengths. In this way, reliable rain detection can be enabled. Pulses of different lengths cause load shifts of different sizes. The voltage drop can be within a measurable range, e.g., in the range of a few mV to a few V, so that the difference between a short and a long measurement pulse is noticeably large. Such rain detection is fast. Two voltage pulses are sufficient to enable reliable rain detection.

[0055] Furthermore, it can be provided that the control unit has control electronics designed to detect the exposure of an outer surface of the functional device to moisture, in particular water droplets, depending on a comparison between two voltage pulse sequences of the sensor element. In particular, the amplitudes of the voltage pulse sequences of the sensor element can be compared, preferably if the voltage pulse sequences have different pulse / pause ratios. Pulses of different lengths cause load shifts of different sizes. The voltage drop can be within a measurable range, for example in the range of a few mV to a few V, so that the difference between a voltage pulse sequence with a short and a voltage pulse sequence with a long measuring pulse can be recognized from the side. Such rain detection is fast and reliable.Two points in the voltage pulse sequences are sufficient to enable reliable rain detection.

[0056] Furthermore, the control unit can be provided with control electronics designed to apply a specific voltage and / or specific voltage profiles, preferably voltage pulse sequences, to the shielding element. In this way, extended functions can be provided for the shielding element. The shielding element can thus be selectively switched on or off. For the sake of simplicity, the control unit can be designed to connect the shielding element to a ground potential.

[0057] Furthermore, the control unit can have control electronics designed to charge and / or discharge the shielding element using one or more voltage pulses, preferably voltage pulse sequences. With the aid of the shielding element, the sensor device can provide different functionalities and / or different methods for detecting moisture. It is also conceivable that the voltage pulses, preferably voltage pulse sequences, at the sensor element and the voltage pulses, preferably voltage pulse sequences, at the shielding element are coordinated with one another and / or correspond. Preferably, the voltage pulses, preferably voltage pulse sequences, at the sensor element and the voltage pulses, preferably voltage pulse sequences, at the shielding element can be implemented with a temporal offset and / or phase shift.In this advantageous manner, a measurable influence on a transient of the voltage pulses at the sensor element can be generated.

[0058] Advantageously, the control unit can be provided with control electronics designed to apply a specific voltage and / or specific voltage profiles, preferably voltage pulse sequences, to the edge element in order to provide at least one or more different functions with regard to environmental influences, in particular moisture, on the sensor element. In this way, improved effects can be achieved by the edge element. In this way, the edge element can be controlled using a field controller to provide different functions (targeted rain suppression and / or enhanced rain detection).

[0059] Furthermore, it can be provided that the control unit has control electronics that are designed to apply a specific voltage and / or specific voltage profiles, preferably voltage pulse sequences, to the edge element in order to reduce the environmental influences, in particular moisture, on the sensor element. In this way, the detection signal of the sensor element can be specifically cleaned of the environmental influences on the sensor element. Furthermore, it can be provided that the control unit has control electronics that are designed to apply a specific voltage and / or specific voltage profiles, preferably voltage pulse sequences, to the edge element in order to amplify the environmental influences, in particular moisture, on the sensor element, in order to detect in particular the exposure of an outer surface of the functional device to moisture, in particular water droplets.In this way, enhanced rain detection can be enabled by the sensor device.

[0060] Furthermore, the control unit can be provided with control electronics designed to charge and / or discharge the edge element using one or more voltage pulses, preferably voltage pulse sequences. This enables field control of the edge element and, furthermore, coordinated control of the sensor element and the edge element.

[0061] Furthermore, the control unit can be provided with control electronics designed to apply identical or different specific voltage(s) and / or identical or different specific voltage waveforms, preferably voltage pulse sequences, to the edge element and the sensor element synchronously and / or concurrently in order to reduce environmental influences, particularly those caused by moisture, on the sensor element. In this way, the differences between the detection of a water droplet and the detection of a human finger can be magnified and / or the sensor signal can be cleaned up.

[0062] Furthermore, it can be provided that the control unit has control electronics designed to apply the same or different specific voltage(s) and / or same or different specific voltage profiles, preferably voltage pulse sequences, to the edge element and the sensor element asynchronously and / or in opposite directions in order to amplify the environmental influences, in particular moisture, on the sensor element, in particular to detect the exposure of an outer surface of the functional device to moisture, in particular water droplets. In this way, the effect of the water on the sensor element can be amplified, so that simple, fast, and reliable rain detection can be provided in the sensor device.

[0063] Different checking methods for detecting exposure of an outer surface of the functional device to moisture, in particular water droplets, can be provided by controlling a sensor element, a shielding element and / or an edge element, each individually or in combination.

[0064] In principle, it is conceivable that different testing procedures for detecting exposure of an outer surface of the functional device to moisture, in particular water droplets, are carried out individually or in combination.

[0065] It is also conceivable that at least one verification method can provide a first indication of exposure of an outer surface of the functional device to moisture, in particular water droplets. Subsequently, at least one further verification method or several further verification methods can be performed to confirm the detection. In this way, a multi-verification method can be provided.

[0066] Furthermore, it is conceivable for the edge element to have a 3D shape. This allows the edge element to be designed with different sections that can protect various functional components of the sensor device from environmental influences.

[0067] Furthermore, it is conceivable for the edge element to be designed in a frame-like manner, at least in sections. In this way, the edge element can, in particular, surround the narrow longitudinal sides of the sensor element and protect a side area of ​​the sensor element from environmental influences.

[0068] Furthermore, it is conceivable for the edge element to be made of a metal sheet, in particular a planar one, preferably by punching and bending the metal sheet. In this way, a simple and cost-effective edge element can be provided.

[0069] Furthermore, it is conceivable for the edge element to have at least one, in particular two, legs for adapting environmental influences to at least one side area of ​​the sensor element. In this way, environmental influences on the sensor element that cause charge to flow from the sensor element to conductive parts of the vehicle via the water can be reliably reduced.

[0070] Furthermore, it is conceivable for the edge element to have at least one, in particular two, shield sections for shielding the control electronics of the control unit. In this way, the edge element can fulfill a further advantageous function of protecting the control electronics from the influence of electromagnetic fields and / or unwanted capacitive couplings.

[0071] In order to provide advantageous sections of the edge element, such as the legs and / or the shield sections, the edge element can be arranged at least in sections outside the circuit board of the control unit, in particular on the functional device.

[0072] Advantageously, the edge element can be designed as a fastening element and / or positioning element and / or spacing element for the control unit on the functional device. Furthermore, the edge element can have at least one or more, in particular angled, fastening sections designed to fasten and / or position the control unit on the functional device and / or to arrange it at a distance from an outer surface of the functional device. In this way, the edge element can offer further advantages with regard to the mounting of the sensor device.

[0073] Furthermore, it is conceivable for the edge element to have at least one, in particular a plurality of, shield sections for shielding a communication unit, in particular an NFC unit, of the control unit. The edge element can be integrated, at least in sections, within a circuit board of the control unit. An NFC coil has, on average, two sensor sections, which can be symmetrically surrounded by edge element sections, which in turn can be offset and / or spaced from the sensor sections of the NFC coil. In this way, direct kappa coupling into the NFC coil can be prevented. In addition, the thickness differences between the layers of the PCB can be compensated for. Furthermore, detuning between the layers of the PCB can thus be avoided.

[0074] The invention further provides a functional device, in particular in the form of a door handle, for a vehicle, comprising a sensor device, which can be designed as described above. The functional device can achieve the same advantages as those described above in connection with the sensor device. These advantages are referred to in detail herein.

[0075] Further advantages, features, and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description, which describes embodiments of the invention in detail with reference to the drawings. The features mentioned in the claims and in the description may be essential to the invention individually or in any combination. It shows:

[0076] Fig. 1 is an exemplary representation of a sensor device,

[0077] Fig. 2 is an exemplary representation of a sensor device within the scope of the present disclosure,

[0078] Fig. 3 is an exemplary representation of a sensor device within the scope of the present disclosure,

[0079] Fig. 4 is an exemplary representation of a sensor device within the scope of the present disclosure,

[0080] Fig. 5 shows an exemplary representation of voltage pulse sequences when discharging a sensor element in a water droplet,

[0081] Fig. 6 is an exemplary representation of voltage pulse sequences when discharging a sensor element in a human finger, Fig. 7 is an exemplary representation of detection signals of a sensor element when discharging a sensor element, on the left with a water drop and on the right with a human finger,

[0082] Fig. 8 shows an exemplary representation of voltage pulse sequences when discharging a sensor element with a water droplet, top: without control of the edge element, middle: with a concurrent control of the edge element to reduce the moisture influence and bottom: with a counter-current control of the edge element to increase the moisture influence,

[0083] Fig. 9 shows an exemplary representation of a sensor device with a possible edge element,

[0084] Fig. 10 is an exemplary representation of a sensor device with a possible edge element, and

[0085] Fig. 11 shows an exemplary representation of a sensor device with a possible edge element.

[0086] Figures 2 to 4 and 9 to 11 show a sensor device 100 for a functional device 101, in particular in the form of a door handle, of a vehicle F, comprising: at least one sensor element 10 for detecting an actuation action, for example in the form of an approach and / or a touch, of a user on the functional device 101, wherein preferably the at least one sensor element 10 has and / or forms at least one, preferably capacitive, sensor electrode, a control unit 20 for controlling (e.g. charging and discharging) and / or for reading the sensor element 10 (e.g. by analog and / or digital processing of sensor signals and / or evaluating the results of the processing).

[0087] In addition, the sensor device 100 can have the following elements: a shielding element 11 for aligning a detection area of ​​the sensor element 10, wherein the control unit 20 can be designed to control (e.g. charging and discharging) and / or to read out the shielding element 11, wherein the shielding element 11 preferably has and / or forms at least one, in particular flat, shielding electrode, and / or an edge element 12 for adapting environmental influences (in particular due to moisture) to the sensor element 10, wherein the control unit 20 can be designed to control (e.g. charging and discharging) and / or to read out the edge element 12, wherein in particular the edge element 12 is designed separately from the shielding element 11 and / or is arranged at a distance from the shielding element 11, wherein the edge element 12 preferably has and / or forms at least one, in particular capacitive, preferably flat, electrode.

[0088] As Fig. 4 indicates, the functional device 101 can be designed, for example, in the form of a door handle of the vehicle F, which can be designed, for example, to be extendable or fixed.

[0089] As Fig. 9 to 11 indicate, the functional device 101 can be designed in the form of a module or chip, which can be arranged at different positions on or in the vehicle F in order to actuate a movable part of the vehicle F. The actuation can comprise locking, unlocking, opening and / or closing the movable part of the vehicle F. It is conceivable that the functional device 101 can be arranged on (e.g. on the door handle) or next to (e.g. on a B-pillar) the movable part of the vehicle F to be actuated. A door, a tailgate, a fuel filler flap, a loading flap, a hinged mirror, a sunroof, a window pane, or the like is conceivable as a movable part.

[0090] The sensor device 100 can enable convenient operation of the movable part of the vehicle F. The operation can advantageously require a specific operation sequence, which can be detected by the at least one sensor element 10. First, during a specific operation sequence, a presence or approach of the user B to the functional device 101 can be detected by the sensor element 10. Subsequently, authentication of the user B can be initiated to check whether the user B is authorized to operate the movable part and / or to gain access to the vehicle F. Subsequently, during a specific operation sequence, a touch of the user B on an outer surface 102 of the functional device 101 can be detected by the sensor element 10.Only when the specific actuation sequence has been detected by the at least one sensor element 10 can the control unit 20 generate a signal according to which the movable part is actuated.

[0091] As indicated in Figs. 9 to 11, the sensor device 100 can have one or more sensor elements 10. Different sensor elements 10 can be designed for different actuation functions or types, such as unlocking and, if necessary, opening or locking the movable part of the vehicle F. Different actuation functions can provide for different actuation sequences. Different sensor elements 10 can preferably have different detection ranges.

[0092] Furthermore, Figs. 9 to 11 indicate that different sensor elements 10 may have a (common, e.g. planar) shielding element 11 and / or a (common, e.g. 3D-shaped) edge element 12.

[0093] In the case of a door handle, for example, two sensor elements 10 can be provided. A first sensor element 10 can, for example, have a detection area which is oriented outwards away from the vehicle F in order to detect the approach of a user B into the detection area and subsequent contact with an outer surface 102 of the functional device 101. The first sensor element can, for example, be used to unlock and, if necessary, directly open the movable part, depending on whether the door handle is movable and stationary. A second sensor element 10 can, for example, have a detection area which is oriented inwards towards the vehicle F, in particular into a handle recess, in order to detect reaching behind the door handle, for example when closing the vehicle door. The second sensor element 10 can, for example, be used to lock the movable part. This example is shown schematically in Figs. 1 to 4 and 9 to 11. As shown in Fig.9 to 11 show, a shielding element 11, in particular a planar one, can be provided for both sensor elements 10 and separate the detection area of ​​the first sensor element 10 from the detection area of ​​the second sensor element 10 or, on the one hand, align it outwards away from the vehicle F and, on the other hand, inwards towards the vehicle F, in particular into a grip recess.

[0094] As shown in Figs. 9 to 11, a particularly 3D-shaped edge element 12 can be provided for both sensor elements. As illustrated in Figs. 5 to 8, the edge element 12 is designed to control the environmental influences, in particular moisture, on the sensor element 10 according to the desired function F1, F2 (reducing the moisture influence for the purpose of cleaning the sensor signal F1 and / or amplifying the moisture influence for the purpose of moisture or rain detection F2). As Fig. 8 also indicates, the edge element 12 can be controlled by means of the control unit 20, preferably by means of a field controller, in order to specifically reduce the moisture influence (function F1, see the middle graphic in Fig. 8) or to amplify it (function F2, see the lower graphic in Fig. 8).

[0095] As Fig. 1 illustrates, sensor devices 100, especially capacitive sensor devices, react sensitively to environmental influences, especially humidity. High humidity in the ambient air can trigger an undesired detection at the sensor element. Humidity fluctuations can also impair sensor functions.

[0096] As Fig. 1 further illustrates, the sensor device 100 reacts to moisture, such as a water droplet W on an outer surface 102 of the functional device 101, which is usually poorly conductive (resistance R w ), and to a user B, such as a human finger, which touches the outer surface of the functional device and which is usually well conductive (resistance RB), is different.

[0097] The invention utilizes this difference in the response of the sensor device 100 to enable different functions in the sensor device 100, as illustrated in Figs. 5 to 8. The following functions are conceivable: a function F2 (cf. the lower graphic in Fig. 8) to detect water, e.g., in the form of rain (or rain detection), another function F1 (cf. the upper and middle graphic in Fig. 8) to correct the detection of an actuation, in particular a touch, of the user B on an outer surface 102 of the functional device 101 from moisture influences (cf. middle graphic in Fig. 8), and / or to (at least) increase the difference between the detection of an actuation, in particular a touch, of the user B and the detection of moisture exposure on an outer surface 102 of the functional device 101 (cf. upper graphic in Fig. 8 and Figs. 5 to 7).

[0098] According to the invention, the differences between the human body of a user B and a drop of water W are used.

[0099] The human body of a user B is well grounded due to its dimensions. Its electrical potential is not noticeably altered by a local influence near the body. In contrast, a raindrop or water droplet W, especially one containing dirty water or similar, changes its electrical potential depending on the local conditions.

[0100] A second difference between a drop of water W and the human body of a user B is the resistance of the material. The conductivity of the human body is greater than 50,000 pS / cm, while the conductivity of extremely clear water is only 0.05 pS / cm.

[0101] Combined with the shape of the water droplet W in contrast to the human body, the resulting resistance RB of a human body is significantly lower than the resistance Rw of the water droplet W.

[0102] As Fig. 5, particularly in comparison to Fig. 6, and Fig. 8 illustrate, with a sequence of voltage pulses (or a single voltage pulse, preferably of any frequency), the capacitance can be measured in such a way that it is less sensitive to rain (Figs. 5 to 7 and Fig. 8 top), almost insensitive to rain (Fig. 8 middle), or intentionally extremely sensitive to rain (Fig. 8 bottom). Multiple voltage pulses or just a single voltage pulse may be required to enable rain suppression and / or rain detection. The pulses can have a single frequency or a mixture of frequencies. A combination of voltage pulse sequences and frequencies is also conceivable.

[0103] The sensor device 100 can be operated by first charging the sensor element 10 according to the external capacitance. The charge on the capacitive sensor electrode 10 can be positive or negative. This charge is then measured, for example, by discharging the sensor element 10 and measuring the discharge time.

[0104] Depending on the external capacitance, the amount of charge that can be stored on the sensor element 10 varies. This difference (illustrated as AU in Figs. 5, 6, and 8 and A1-A2 in Fig. 7) is now evaluated according to the invention.

[0105] Figs. 5 and 6 show long discharge pulses at the top and short discharge pulses at the bottom. To discharge the sensor element, the sensor element 10 is connected to a reference capacitance Load.

[0106] Fig. 8 shows discharge pulses of equal length. In the middle and lower graphics of Fig. 8, the edge element 12 is additionally controlled to provide function F1 (reducing the moisture influence) or function F2 (increasing the moisture influence), which will be discussed in more detail below.

[0107] As Fig. 6 shows, the water does not significantly impair the detection of a touch by user B, even if a raindrop or water is near the sensor electrode. If a human body causes capacitance at the sensor electrode, there is virtually no resistance involved. As a result, there is hardly any voltage drop in the internal resistance of the finger upon touch, and the load is completely transferred relatively quickly.

[0108] As Fig. 5 shows (see also Fig. 1), in the absence of the user B, an unintentional charge can flow to the sensor electrode via a water droplet W. This allows the sensor element 10 to also detect the sensor, albeit much more slowly than detecting a user touch (see the lower graphic in Fig. 5). If a raindrop or water droplet W causes a different capacitance at the sensor electrode 10, a large internal resistance is involved. The load is displaced more slowly, and a voltage drop AU occurs across the internal resistance.

[0109] In Fig. 5, a voltage drop AU of approximately 46 mV can be detected (above the detection occurs at approximately 71.89 mV, below the detection occurs at approximately 25.55 mV).

[0110] In order to charge the sensor element 10 more quickly under the influence of water, the voltage pulses could either last longer and / or the level of the voltage U could be increased.

[0111] When a finger causes a change in capacitance, no significant difference can be seen between a short and a long measuring pulse (see Fig. 6).

[0112] If a water drop W causes a change in capacitance, the difference between a short and a long measuring pulse is large (cf. the voltage drop AU of approx. 46 mV in Fig. 5).

[0113] The detection signal S1 or S2 thus differs when detecting the user B (right in Fig. 7) and when detecting the water drop W (left in Fig. 7).

[0114] As illustrated in Fig. 7 (slow discharge pulses above, fast discharge pulses below), the sensor element 10 cannot be discharged as quickly with fast discharge pulses as with slow discharge pulses. The detection signal S1 at the top has a higher amplitude than the detection signal S2 at the bottom.

[0115] In this way, a water droplet W can be detected, especially when two detection signals S1 and S2 with different pulse / pause ratios are compared.

[0116] In contrast, when detecting a user on the right in Fig. 7, there is almost no difference between the amplitudes of the detection signals S1 and S2.

[0117] However, a water droplet W can also be detected using just one detection signal S1 or S2. As Fig. 7 indicates, the edges of the detection signals S1 and S2 on the left have a relatively gentle slope. In contrast, the edges of the detection signals S1 and S2 on the right have a relatively steep slope.

[0118] Thus, a detection signal S1 or S2 can be attributed by its shape to a water droplet W (flatly rising and / or falling) or to a user B (steeply rising and / or falling).

[0119] As indicated in Figs. 4 and 9 to 11, the control unit 20 can have at least one printed circuit board 21. Advantageously, the sensor element 10 can be arranged and / or secured to the printed circuit board 21. Preferably, the shielding element 11 can be arranged and / or secured to the printed circuit board 21.

[0120] Furthermore, the edge element 12 can be arranged and / or attached to the circuit board 21, at least in sections (see Fig. 11). In this way, the edge element 12 can serve to shield a communication unit 23, in particular an NFC unit. The edge element 12 can be used with multiple sections offset and / or spaced from the NFC coil to prevent direct kappa coupling into the NFC coil. The NFC coil has, on average, two sensor sections, which can be symmetrically surrounded by shield sections 12e, 12f, 12g. This also allows for the thickness differences between the layers of the PCB to be compensated.

[0121] Furthermore, the edge element 12 can be arranged and / or fastened to the functional device 101 at least partially spaced from the circuit board 21 (see Figs. 2 to 4 and 9 and 10). In this way, the edge element 12 can be used to specifically determine the direction from which the water inflow is to be prevented. This can be advantageous, particularly in the side region 10s of the sensor element 10, to prevent unwanted charge from flowing to the sensor electrode via conductive parts of the vehicle F and via a water droplet W, as indicated in Figs. 1 and 3.

[0122] As already mentioned above, the control unit 20 can have control electronics 22 designed to charge and / or discharge the sensor element 10. Advantageously, the control unit 20 can be designed to measure an electrical potential at the charged sensor element 10 and / or to determine a discharge time of the charged sensor element 10. An electrical potential at the charged sensor element 10 and / or a discharge time of the charged sensor element 10 can be specific to the actuation, preferably an approach and / or a touch, of the user on the functional device 101.

[0123] As shown in Fig. 4, the control unit 20 may have a comparison capacitance Load, which is designed to receive the charge of the sensor element 10 in order to measure an electrical potential at the charged sensor element 10 and / or to determine a discharge time of the charged sensor element 10.

[0124] As already mentioned above, the control unit 20 can have control electronics 22 designed to charge and / or discharge the sensor element 10 using one or more voltage pulses, preferably voltage pulse sequences, as shown in Figs. 5, 6 and 8. In particular, an electrical potential at the charged sensor element 10 and / or a discharge time of the charged sensor element 10 can be specific to the actuation action, preferably an approach and / or a touch, of the user on the functional device 100 and / or an exposure of an outer surface 102 of the functional device 100 to moisture, in particular water droplets.

[0125] Furthermore, the control unit 20 can have control electronics 22 designed to detect the exposure of an outer surface 102 of the functional device 101 to moisture, in particular water droplets, as a function of one, in particular exclusively one, detection signal S1 of the sensor element 10, as indicated in Fig. 7. For this purpose, in particular, a form of the detection signal S1 of the sensor element 10 can be evaluated. Since a water droplet W causes a slow load shift, a detection signal S1, S2 with a slowly falling edge can be an indication of a water droplet W (see left in Fig. 7). In contrast, a finger touch causes almost no voltage drop, so that a sharply falling edge can be recognized in the detection signal S1, S2 (see right in Fig. 7).In this way, it is possible to determine whether the sensor element is sensing a water droplet W or a human finger based on just one detection signal S1 from the sensor element 10. Furthermore, the control unit 20 can comprise control electronics 22 designed to detect the exposure of an outer surface 102 of the functional device 101 to moisture, in particular to water droplets, as a function of a comparison between two detection signals S1, S2 from the sensor element 10. In particular, the amplitudes A1, A2 of the detection signals S1, S2 from the sensor element 10 can be compared, preferably when the detection signals S1, S2 comprise different voltage pulse sequences with different pulse / pause ratios and / or different voltage levels.

[0126] 5, 6 and 8 also indicate that the control unit 20 may include control electronics 22 configured to detect the exposure of an outer surface 102 of the functional device 101 to moisture, in particular water droplets, as a function of one, in particular exclusively one, voltage pulse of the sensor element 10, in particular as a function of a transient, in particular a gradient, of the voltage pulse of the sensor element 10. For example, two points in time on the x-axis can be determined for reading voltage U10 at the sensor element 10 in order to determine the transient of the voltage pulse. Furthermore, the transient can be calculated from the entire voltage pulse. This enables rapid and reliable rain detection.

[0127] 5, 6, and 8 also indicate that the control unit 20 may comprise control electronics 22 configured to detect the exposure of an outer surface 102 of the functional device 101 to moisture, in particular water droplets, based on a comparison between two voltage pulses of the sensor element 10, in particular based on a comparison of the amplitudes of the voltage pulses of the sensor element 10, preferably when the voltage pulses have different lengths. This enables reliable rain detection. Pulses of different lengths cause load shifts of different magnitudes, as shown in Fig. 5 on the left in a comparison between an upper and a lower graph. The voltage drop may be within a measurable range, for example, in the range from a few mV to a few V, so that the difference between a short and a long measurement pulse is noticeably large.Such rain detection is fast. Two voltage pulses are sufficient to enable reliable rain detection. Furthermore, Figs. 5, 6 and 8 indicate that the control unit 20 can have control electronics 22 which are designed to detect the exposure of an outer surface 102 of the functional device 101 to moisture, in particular water droplets, depending on a comparison between two voltage pulse sequences of the sensor element 10. In particular, the amplitudes of the voltage pulse sequences of the sensor element 10 can be compared, preferably if the voltage pulse sequences have different pulse / pause ratios. Pulses of different lengths cause different load shifts, as shown in Fig. 5 on the left in the comparison between an upper and a lower graphic. The voltage drop AU can lie in a measurable range, e.g.in the range of a few mV to a few V, so the difference between a short and a long measurement pulse is noticeably large. Rain detection of this type is very fast. Two points in the voltage pulse sequences are sufficient to enable reliable rain detection.

[0128] Furthermore, the control electronics 22 can be designed to apply a specific voltage and / or specific voltage profiles, preferably voltage pulse sequences, to the shielding element 11. The shielding element 11 can thus be selectively switched on or off. For the sake of simplicity, the control unit 20 can be designed to connect the shielding element 11 to a ground potential.

[0129] An embodiment not shown in the figures solely for reasons of simplicity can provide that the control electronics 22 can be designed to charge and / or discharge the shielding element 11 using one or more voltage pulses, preferably voltage pulse sequences. With the aid of the shielding element 11, the sensor device 100 can provide different functionalities and / or different methods for detecting moisture. It is also conceivable that the voltage pulses, preferably voltage pulse sequences, at the sensor element 10 and the voltage pulses, preferably voltage pulse sequences, at the shielding element 11 are coordinated with one another and / or correspond. Preferably, the voltage pulses, preferably voltage pulse sequences, at the sensor element 10 and the voltage pulses, preferably voltage pulse sequences, at the shielding element 11 can be carried out with a temporal offset and / or with a phase shift.In this advantageous manner, a measurable influence on a transient of the voltage pulses at the sensor element 10 can be generated.

[0130] Furthermore, Fig. 8 indicates that the control unit 20 may comprise control electronics 22 designed to apply a specific voltage and / or specific voltage profiles, preferably voltage pulse sequences, to the edge element 12 in order to provide at least one or more different functions F1, F2 with regard to the environmental influences, in particular moisture, on the sensor element 10. The edge element 12 can be controlled using a field controller to achieve different effects (targeted rain suppression F1 and / or enhanced rain detection F2).

[0131] As indicated in the middle of Fig. 8, the control unit 20 can have control electronics 22 which are designed to apply the same or different specific voltage(s) and / or same or different specific voltage waveforms, preferably voltage pulse sequences, to the edge element 12 and the sensor element 10 synchronously or concurrently in order to reduce the environmental influences, in particular due to moisture, on the sensor element 10.

[0132] As indicated below in Fig. 8, the control unit 20 can have control electronics 22 designed to apply identical or different specific voltage(s) and / or identical or different specific voltage waveforms, preferably voltage pulse sequences, to the edge element 12 and the sensor element 10 asynchronously or in opposite directions in order to amplify the environmental influences, in particular moisture, on the sensor element 10, in particular to detect the exposure of an outer surface 102 of the functional device 101 to moisture, in particular water droplets. In this way, the effect of the water on the sensor element 10 can be amplified, so that simple, fast, and reliable rain detection can be provided in the sensor device 100.

[0133] Different checking methods for detecting exposure of an outer surface 102 of the functional device 101 to moisture, in particular to water droplets, can be provided by controlling a sensor element 10, a shielding element 11 and / or an edge element 12 individually or in combination.

[0134] In principle, it is conceivable that different checking methods for detecting exposure of an outer surface 102 of the functional device 101 to moisture, in particular to water droplets, are carried out individually or in combination.

[0135] It is further conceivable that at least one verification method (e.g., a transient of a voltage pulse at sensor element 10 exhibits a typical gradient for a water droplet) can provide a first indication of exposure of an outer surface 102 of functional device 101 to moisture, in particular water droplets. Subsequently, at least one further verification method (e.g., comparison of amplitudes of two voltage pulses at sensor element 10) or several further verification methods (e.g., with additional activation of shielding element 11 and / or edge element 12) can be performed to confirm the first indication. In this way, a multi-verification method can be provided.

[0136] As shown in Figs. 9 to 11, the edge element 12 can have a 3D shape. In this way, the edge element 12 can form different sections with extended functions, in particular to protect various functional components 10s, 22, NFC in the sensor device 100 from environmental influences.

[0137] The edge element 12 can be made of a, in particular planar, metal sheet, preferably by punching and bending the metal sheet.

[0138] As shown in Figs. 9 and 10, the edge element 12 can be designed in a frame-like manner, at least in sections. In this way, the edge element can, in particular, surround the narrow longitudinal sides of the sensor element and protect a side region 10s of the sensor element 10 from environmental influences.

[0139] As shown in Fig. 10, the edge element 12 can have at least one, in particular two, legs 12a, 12b for adapting environmental influences to at least one side region 10s of the sensor element 10. In this way, the environmental influences that cause charge to flow from the sensor element to conductive parts of the vehicle via the water droplet W can be reliably reduced.

[0140] Furthermore, it is conceivable for the edge element 12 to have at least one, in particular two, shield sections 12c, 12d for shielding the control electronics 22 of the control unit 20. In this way, the edge element 12 can fulfill a further advantageous function to protect the control electronics 22 from influences caused by electromagnetic fields and / or capacitive couplings.

[0141] In order to provide advantageous sections 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d of the edge element 12, such as the legs 12a, 12b and / or the shield sections 12c, 12d, the edge element 12 can be arranged at least in sections outside the circuit board 21 of the control unit 20, in particular on the functional device 101.

[0142] Furthermore, Figs. 9 and 10 indicate that the edge element 12 can be designed as a fastening element and / or positioning element and / or spacing element for the control unit 20 on the functional device 101. For this purpose, the edge element 12 can have at least one or more, in particular angled, fastening sections 12i, 12h, which are designed to fasten and / or position the control unit 20 on the functional device 101 and / or to arrange it at a distance from an outer surface 102 of the functional device 101. In this way, the edge element 12 can offer further advantages with regard to the mounting of the sensor device 100 on the functional device 101.

[0143] Furthermore, Fig. 11 indicates that the edge element 12 can have at least one, in particular a plurality of, shield sections 12e, 12f, 12g for shielding a communication unit 23, in particular an NFC unit, of the control unit 20. The edge element 12 can be integrated, at least in sections, within a circuit board 21 of the control unit 20. An NFC coil has, on average, two sensor sections, which can be symmetrically surrounded by shield sections 12e, 12f, 12g, which in turn can be offset and / or spaced from the sensor sections of the NFC coil. In this way, direct kappa coupling into the NFC coil can be prevented. Furthermore, the thickness differences between the layers of the circuit board 21 can be compensated.A corresponding functional device 101, in particular in the form of a door handle, for a vehicle F, with at least one sensor device 100, which can be designed as described above, also represents an aspect of the invention.

[0144] The above explanation of the embodiments describes the present invention exclusively by way of examples. Of course, individual features of the embodiments can be freely combined with one another, provided they are technically feasible, without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0145] Bezuq szei chen li ste

[0146] 100 sensor device

[0147] 10 Sensor element

[0148] 10s page range

[0149] Load comparison capacity

[0150] 11 Shielding element

[0151] Edge element

[0152] 12a, 12b legs

[0153] 12c, 12d shield sections

[0154] 12e, 12f, 12g shield sections

[0155] 12h, 12i fastening sections

[0156] 20 Control unit

[0157] 21 Circuit board

[0158] 22 Control electronics

[0159] 23 Communication unit

[0160] 101 Functional device

[0161] 102 exterior area

[0162] B User

[0163] Rb resistance from user

[0164] W water drops

[0165] Rw resistance of the water drop

[0166] F vehicle

[0167] 51 Detection signal

[0168] A1 amplitude

[0169] 52 detection signal

[0170] A2 Amplitude I Current

[0171] U Voltage U10 Voltage at the sensor element

[0172] ULoad voltage at comparison capacity

[0173] AU voltage drop

Claims

Patent claims 1. Sensor device (100) for a functional device (101), in particular in the form of an access device, preferably a door handle, of a vehicle (F), comprising: - at least one sensor element (10), preferably in the form of a, preferably capacitive, sensor electrode, for detecting an actuation action, in particular in the form of an approach and / or a touch, of a user (B) on the functional device (101) and / or for detecting an exposure of an outer surface (102) of the functional device (101) to moisture, in particular to water droplets, - and a control unit (20) for controlling and / or reading the sensor element (10).

2. Sensor device (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that the sensor device (100) has a shielding element (11) for aligning a detection area of ​​the sensor element (10), wherein the control unit (20) is designed to control and / or read out the shielding element (11), and / or that the sensor device (100) has at least one edge element (12), in particular designed separately from the shielding element (11) and / or arranged at a distance from the shielding element (11), for adapting environmental influences to the sensor element (10), wherein the control unit (20) is designed to control and / or read out the edge element (12).

3. Sensor device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sensor element (10) has and / or forms at least one, in particular capacitive, sensor electrode, and / or that the detection area of ​​the sensor element (10) is designed to be substantially horizontal when installed on the vehicle (F), and / or that the detection area of ​​the sensor element (10) is designed to be substantially vertical when installed on the vehicle (F), and / or that the sensor element (10) is designed to detect an approach of a user (B) into the detection area, and / or that the sensor element (10) is designed to detect a contact of the user (B) on an outer surface (102) of the functional device (101), and / or that the sensor element (10) is designed to detect an exposure of an outer surface (102) of the functional device (101) to moisture, in particular water droplets.

4. Sensor device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the shielding element (11) has and / or forms at least one, in particular capacitive, preferably planar, shielding electrode, and / or that the edge element (12) has and / or forms at least one, in particular capacitive, preferably planar, electrode section.

5. Sensor device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sensor element (10) is arranged and / or fastened to the control unit (20), and / or that the sensor element (10) can be arranged and / or fastened to the functional device (101).

6. Sensor device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control unit (20) has at least one printed circuit board (21), in particular wherein the sensor element (10) is arranged and / or fastened to the printed circuit board (21), preferably wherein the shielding element (11) is arranged and / or fastened to the printed circuit board (21), preferably wherein the edge element (12) is arranged and / or fastened to the printed circuit board (21) at least in sections and / or wherein the edge element (12) can be arranged and / or fastened to the functional device (101) at a distance from the printed circuit board (21) at least in sections.

7. Sensor device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control unit (20) has control electronics (22) which are designed to charge and / or discharge the sensor element (10), and / or that the control unit (20) is designed to measure an electrical potential at the charged sensor element (10) and / or to determine a discharge time of the charged sensor element (10), wherein in particular an electrical potential at the charged sensor element (10) and / or a discharge time of the charged sensor element (10) are / is specific for the actuation action, preferably an approach and / or a touch, of the user (B) to the functional device (101) and / or an exposure of an outer surface (102) of the functional device (101) to moisture, in particular to water droplets.

8. Sensor device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control unit (20) has a comparison capacitance (Load) which is designed to absorb the charge of the sensor element (10) in order to measure an electrical potential at the charged sensor element (10) and / or to determine a discharge time of the charged sensor element (10).

9. Sensor device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control unit (20) has control electronics (22) which are designed to charge and / or discharge the sensor element (10) using one or more voltage pulses, preferably voltage pulse sequences, wherein in particular an electrical potential at the charged sensor element (10) and / or a discharge time of the charged sensor element (10) is specific for the actuation action, preferably an approach and / or a touch, of the user (B) on the functional device (101) and / or an exposure of an outer surface (102) of the functional device (101) to moisture, in particular to water droplets.

10. Sensor device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control unit (20) has control electronics (22) which are designed to detect an exposure of an outer surface (102) of the functional device (101) to moisture, in particular to water droplets, as a function of one, in particular exclusively one, detection signal (S1) of the sensor element (10), in particular as a function of a form of the detection signal (S1) of the sensor element (10).

11. Sensor device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control unit (20) has control electronics (22) which are designed to detect an exposure of an outer surface (102) of the functional device (101) to moisture, in particular to water droplets, as a function of a comparison between two detection signals (S1, S2) of the sensor element (10), in particular as a function of a comparison of the amplitudes of the detection signals (S1, S2) of the sensor element (10), preferably when the detection signals (S1, S2) have different voltage pulse sequences with different pulse / pause ratios and / or different voltage levels.

12. Sensor device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control unit (20) has control electronics (22) which are designed to detect an exposure of an outer surface (102) of the functional device (101) to moisture, in particular to water droplets, as a function of one, in particular exclusively one, voltage pulse of the sensor element (10) of the sensor element (10), in particular as a function of a transient, in particular a gradient, of the voltage pulse of the sensor element (10).

13. Sensor device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control unit (20) has control electronics (22) which are designed to detect an exposure of an outer surface (102) of the functional device (101) to moisture, in particular to water droplets, as a function of a comparison of two voltage pulses of the sensor element (10), in particular as a function of a comparison of the amplitudes of the voltage pulses of the sensor element (10), preferably when the voltage pulses have different lengths.

14. Sensor device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control unit (20) has control electronics (22) which are designed to detect an exposure of an outer surface (102) of the functional device (101) to moisture, in particular to water droplets, as a function of a comparison between two voltage pulse sequences of the sensor element (10), in particular as a function of a comparison of the amplitudes of the voltage pulse sequences of the sensor element (10), preferably when the voltage pulse sequences have different pulse / pause ratios, wherein a corresponding charge transfer to a comparison capacitance (load) is preferably provided.

15. Sensor device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control unit (20) has control electronics (22) which are designed to apply a specific voltage and / or specific voltage profiles, preferably voltage pulse sequences, to the shielding element (11), and / or that the control unit (20) is designed to connect the shielding element (11) to a ground potential.

16. Sensor device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control unit (20) has control electronics (22) which are designed to charge and / or discharge the shielding element (11) using one or more voltage pulses, preferably voltage pulse sequences, wherein in particular the voltage pulses, preferably voltage pulse sequences, at the sensor element (10) and the voltage pulses, preferably voltage pulse sequences, at the shielding element (11) are coordinated with one another and / or are corresponding, wherein preferably the voltage pulses, preferably voltage pulse sequences, at the sensor element (10) and the voltage pulses, preferably voltage pulse sequences, at the shielding element (11) are carried out with a time offset and / or phase shift in order to preferably generate a measurable influence on a transient of the voltage pulses at the sensor element (10).

17. Sensor device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control unit (20) has control electronics (22) which are designed to apply a specific voltage and / or specific voltage profiles, preferably voltage pulse sequences, to the edge element (12) in order to provide at least one or more different functions (F1, F2) with regard to the environmental influences, in particular due to moisture, on the sensor element (10): - a first function (F1) to clean the detection of an actuation, in particular a touch, of the user on an outer surface (102) of the functional device (101) from moisture influences, and / or - a second function (F2) to detect an exposure of an outer surface (102) of the functional device (101) to moisture, in particular water droplets.

18. Sensor device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control unit (20) has control electronics (22) which are designed to apply a specific voltage and / or specific voltage profiles, preferably voltage pulse sequences, to the edge element (12) in order to reduce the environmental influences, in particular moisture, on the sensor element (10).

19. Sensor device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control unit (20) has control electronics (22) which are designed to apply a specific voltage and / or specific voltage profiles, preferably voltage pulse sequences, to the edge element (12) in order to amplify the environmental influences, in particular due to moisture, on the sensor element (10), in order in particular to detect an exposure of an outer surface (102) of the functional device (101) to moisture, in particular to water droplets.

20. Sensor device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control unit (20) has control electronics (22) which are designed to charge and / or discharge the edge element (12) with the aid of one or more voltage pulses, preferably voltage pulse sequences, wherein in particular the voltage pulses, preferably voltage pulse sequences, on the sensor element (10) and the voltage pulses, preferably voltage pulse sequences, on the edge element (12) are coordinated with one another and / or are corresponding.

21. Sensor device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control unit (20) has control electronics (22) which are designed to apply the same or different specific voltage(s) and / or same or different specific voltage profiles, preferably voltage pulse sequences, to the edge element (12) and the sensor element (10) synchronously and / or concurrently in order to reduce the environmental influences, in particular due to moisture, on the sensor element (10).

22. Sensor device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control unit (20) has control electronics (22) which are designed to apply the same or different specific voltage(s) and / or the same or different specific voltage profiles, preferably voltage pulse sequences, to the edge element (12) and the sensor element (10) asynchronously and / or in opposite directions in order to amplify the environmental influences, in particular due to moisture, on the sensor element (10), in particular in order to detect the exposure of an outer surface (102) of the functional device (101) to moisture, in particular water droplets.

23. Sensor device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the edge element (12) has a 3D shape, and / or that the edge element (12) is designed to be frame-shaped at least in sections, and / or that the edge element (12) is designed from a, in particular planar, metal sheet, preferably by punching and bending the metal sheet.

24. Sensor device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the edge element (12) has at least one, in particular two, legs (12a, 12b) for adapting environmental influences to at least one side region (10s) of the sensor element (10), and / or that the edge element (12) has at least one, in particular two, shield sections (12c, 12d) for shielding a control electronics (22) of the control unit (20), and / or that the edge element (12) can be arranged at least in sections outside the circuit board of the control unit (20), in particular on the functional device (101).

25. Sensor device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the edge element (12) is designed as a fastening element and / or positioning element and / or spacer element for the control unit (20) on the functional device (101), and / or that the edge element (12) has at least one or more, in particular angled, fastening sections (12h, 12i) which are designed to fasten and / or position the control unit (20) on the functional device (101) and / or to arrange it at a distance from an outer surface (102) of the functional device (101).

26. Sensor device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the edge element (12) has at least one, in particular several, shield sections (12e, 12f, 12g) for shielding a communication unit (23), in particular a NFC unit, the control unit (20), and / or that the edge element (12) is at least partially integrated within a circuit board (21) of the control unit (20).

27. Functional device (101), in particular in the form of a door handle, for a vehicle (F), with a sensor device (100) according to one of the preceding claims.

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