Motor vehicle lock assembly for a closure element of a motor vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a motor vehicle lock assembly for a closure element (2) of a motor vehicle (1), comprising a motor vehicle lock (4) and a UWB module (5), wherein the UWB module (5) has at least one antenna (7) for receiving measurement signals and / or for emitting UWB signals and has a UWB control unit (8) connected to the antenna (7) for evaluating the measurement signals and / or for generating the UWB signals, wherein the UWB module (5) is connected to the motor vehicle lock (4) via a local electrical connection (10) or is integrated into the motor vehicle lock (4).

Description

[0001] Motor vehicle lock arrangement for a locking element of a motor vehicle

[0002] The present invention relates to a motor vehicle lock arrangement for a locking element of a motor vehicle according to claim 1, a use of a UWB module with an antenna for a locking element of a motor vehicle according to claim 12 and a locking element arrangement with a locking element and a motor vehicle lock arrangement arranged in the locking element according to claim 13.

[0003] The term "closure element" is to be understood broadly in this context and includes, for example, a tailgate, a trunk lid, a hood, a side door, a cargo area flap, a window pane, a pop-up roof, or the like. The closure element can be arranged on the vehicle body in a pivotable and / or longitudinally displaceable manner.

[0004] In some vehicles, the localization of vehicle operators is carried out using multiple UWB modules distributed throughout the vehicle, usually located at the front and rear. UWB modules can also be used for gesture recognition and similar applications. However, the disadvantage of such UWB modules is that they are expensive, requiring dedicated electronics and the associated cabling and assembly effort.

[0005] The problem is to improve the known state of the art by making the use of UWB modules less complex and thus more cost-effective.

[0006] The above problem is solved by the features of claim 1.

[0007] The fundamental idea is that the UWB module can be connected directly to the vehicle lock or integrated into it. This connection offers various advantages. A power supply and / or a data connection (especially CAN bus) of the vehicle lock can be used for the UWB module, thus eliminating the need for a separate power supply or data connection. Latency in communication between the UWB module and the vehicle lock is reduced, allowing access functions, for example, to be executed more quickly. The arrangement of the UWB module in a locking element also enables additional functions for recognizing an operator or an operating gesture. In general, an ever-increasing integration of functions into the vehicle lock can be envisaged, up to and including a lock control unit replacing a door control unit.

[0008] In detail, a motor vehicle lock arrangement for a locking element of a motor vehicle with a motor vehicle lock and a UWB module is proposed, wherein the UWB module has at least one antenna for receiving measurement signals and / or for transmitting UWB signals and a UWB control unit connected to the antenna for evaluating the measurement signals and / or for generating the UWB signals, wherein the UWB module is connected to the motor vehicle lock via a local electrical connection or is integrated into the motor vehicle lock.

[0009] In an embodiment according to claim 2, the UWB control unit is integrated into a housing of the motor vehicle lock. For example, an existing drying chamber can be reused, and other resources of the motor vehicle lock, such as electrical wiring, energy storage devices, and the like, can be used for the UWB control unit. It can also be provided that the UWB control unit and the lock control unit use a common processor.

[0010] If the UWB control unit is arranged in the housing, the antenna can be arranged inside (claim 3), partially inside (claim 4), or outside (claim 5) the housing. In particular, existing openings such as an inlet mouth can be used to create an opening for the antenna or an antenna connection. In a further embodiment according to claim 6, the opening is provided by a hollow screw. The opening can be subsequently sealed using an injected sealing compound.

[0011] If the UWB module has an additional antenna, this can at least partially utilize the antenna connection of the first antenna, particularly in the area of ​​the opening, or have its own antenna connection in parallel. Thus, the path out of the vehicle lock only needs to be provided once (claim 7).

[0012] According to claim 8, it is proposed to use the injection of the antenna or antenna connection for dual purposes, thereby also injecting an energy storage device. This protects the energy storage device from impacts and contamination.

[0013] In an embodiment according to claim 9, it is proposed that the antenna connection be implemented at least partially via an electromagnetic coupling. Thus, the signal can be transmitted wirelessly from the antenna or to the antenna, for example, across a wet / dry space seal. If it is a pure seal, this seal can be designed to be comparatively thin, thus allowing for good transmission performance.

[0014] Claim 10 specifies that the local electrical connection may be a coaxial cable, at least when the antenna is located outside the housing.

[0015] According to claim 11, the antenna can be designed to be flat, in particular foil-like, whereby it has a good transmission / reception characteristic with little installation space.

[0016] According to a further teaching according to claim 12, which has independent significance, a use of a UWB module with an antenna for a locking element of a motor vehicle, in particular the UWB module of a proposed motor vehicle lock arrangement, for measuring UWB signals by means of the antenna through a body gap of the locking element in a closed state of the locking element and / or for transmitting UWB signals through the body gap of the locking element in the closed state of the locking element, preferably, wherein the UWB signals are transmitted by means of the antenna through the body gap in the closed state of the locking element to a receiver which is arranged behind a sheet metal of the locking element starting from the antenna, and / or wherein the measurement signals are transmitted by means of the antenna through the body gap in the closed state of the locking element from a transmitter,which is arranged behind a sheet of the closure element, starting from the antenna, can be received.

[0017] Particularly interesting in this case is the finding that, contrary to all preconceptions, it has been measured to show that it is possible to use a UWB module behind a metal sheet of a closure element, despite the shielding effect of the sheet. A gap in a car body, such as a door gap, is surprisingly sufficient to locate a mobile device with high accuracy, even "around the corner" behind a metal sheet shield.

[0018] Reference may be made to all statements relating to the proposed motor vehicle lock arrangement.

[0019] According to a further teaching according to claim 13, which also has independent significance, a closure element arrangement with a closure element and a proposed motor vehicle lock arrangement arranged in the closure element is claimed.

[0020] Reference may be made to all statements regarding the proposed motor vehicle lock arrangement and the proposed use.

[0021] In one embodiment, it is proposed that the motor vehicle, in a localization routine, carries out a localization of an operator, in particular a mobile device of the operator, approaching the motor vehicle by means of the UWB module and further UWB modules of the motor vehicle, wherein the UWB module, in particular the antenna, is additionally used for a functionality relating to the closure element.

[0022] In one embodiment, it is proposed that the additional functionality be controlled by the lock control unit, creating a synergy between UWB localization as a global motor vehicle functionality and the connection of the UWB module to the motor vehicle lock as a local unit relative to the locking element. For example, the energy consumption of the UWB module can be used to specifically discharge an energy storage device in the motor vehicle lock. For this purpose, in one embodiment, a power supply to the UWB module can be actively switched.

[0023] In a further embodiment, it is proposed that the functionality relating to the closure element comprises a location of the UWB module, whereby a position and / or speed of the closure element can be determined.

[0024] It may be provided that the UWB module is not used to locate the operator during the execution of the functionality relating to the closure element.

[0025] To achieve further synergies, the lock control unit can implement at least one opening function of the locking element, in particular, controlling a push-open or motorized opening. For this purpose, the lock control unit can directly utilize the antenna signals without requiring a detour via a more central system such as a separate door control unit. This reduces the latency required to control the opening function.

[0026] Further cost advantages arise from the fact that the UWB module can share the power and / or data supply of the vehicle lock.

[0027] The required installation space and cabling effort are reduced when the antenna is mounted on the closure element, particularly on one of the closure element's front sides. Furthermore, positioning it on the front side away from the closure element's pivot axis increases the antenna's range of motion, making it easier to locate the antenna and determine the position and / or speed of the closure element.

[0028] In a further embodiment, it is proposed that the antenna is arranged behind a body gap of a closure element of a motor vehicle, so that the measurement signals from the antenna are received through the body gap and / or the UWB signals are transmitted through the body gap, and that an operator is detected by the UWB module through the body gap, in particular by means of a UWB reflection measurement.

[0029] A further embodiment provides that the lock control unit executes a reaction routine in response to the detection of the operator. In one variant, the operator forms an obstacle, and the lock control can, for example, stop the opening of the locking element with low latency. In another variant, the lock control unit detects an operating gesture in the reaction routine. For this operating gesture, a body gap can serve as an interaction surface for the operator, thereby particularly leveraging the use of UWB through the body gap.

[0030] Furthermore, it can be provided that the operator is detected by means of the antenna during an opening of the closure element, which in particular enables obstacle detection with changing detection by the movement of the antenna and enables a "scan" of the environment.

[0031] It is also possible to use the antenna additionally for detecting the operator, in particular a closure element-related operating gesture, in the interior of the motor vehicle.

[0032] In one embodiment, a seal in the body gap is partially designed to absorb UWB signals, thereby achieving a directional detection pattern. If the body gap serves as an interaction surface determined by the directional pattern, the interaction surface can also be illuminated, allowing an additional function to be integrated into the vehicle lock and allowing the operator to intuitively understand where the operating gesture should be performed.

[0033] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to a drawing which merely illustrates exemplary embodiments. In the drawing, Fig. 1 shows a side door of a motor vehicle with a motor vehicle lock during the location of an operator,

[0034] Fig. 2 is another view of the side door with an enlargement of the motor vehicle lock on the front side,

[0035] Fig. 3 Variants of a motor vehicle lock with UWB antenna and

[0036] Fig. 4 shows a measurement setup with a proposed motor vehicle and associated measurement results.

[0037] The figures show a motor vehicle 1 with a locking element 2, here a front side door that can be pivoted about a pivot axis. The motor vehicle 1 has a motor vehicle lock arrangement 3 for the locking element 2 of the motor vehicle 1. The motor vehicle lock arrangement 3 has a motor vehicle lock 4 and a UWB module 5. The locking element 2 is a locking element 2 that closes and opens a body opening. The motor vehicle lock arrangement 3 can be arranged in the locking element 2 or on the body side. The motor vehicle lock arrangement 3 can in principle also be assigned to other locking elements 2 of the motor vehicle 1. For possible locking elements 2, reference is made to the introductory section. The body opening can be used for people to get in and out or for storing luggage.The closure element 2 is preferably a pivotable flap, in particular a side door or a tailgate. Alternatively, the closure element 2 can also cover a functional opening, for which it can be designed as a fuel cap or loading flap. The figures show a front side door as the closure element 2 as a preferred application. In Figs. 1 and 2, it is clearly visible that the UWB module 5 can be arranged together with the motor vehicle lock 4 in the closure element 2, here the side door. More precisely, the UWB module 5 and the motor vehicle lock 4 can be arranged on an end face 6, which lies opposite a pivot axis of the closure element 2.

[0038] Here, and preferably as usual, the motor vehicle lock 4 has a lock latch and a pawl as locking elements. The lock latch can then be moved into a closed position in which the lock latch is in holding engagement with a locking part and in which the lock latch can be fixed by the pawl (not shown).

[0039] Preferably, the UWB module 5 is configured for communication in the frequency range from 3.1 GHz to 10.6 GHz. The UWB signals used by the UWB module 5 are preferably pulses with a bandwidth of at least 500 MHz, more preferably with a duration in the order of nanoseconds.

[0040] The UWB module 5 has at least one antenna 7 for receiving measurement signals and / or for transmitting UWB signals, and a UWB control unit 8 connected to the antenna 7 for evaluating the measurement signals and / or generating the UWB signals. Fig. 1 shows that the antenna 7 can also be arranged on the end face 6 of the closure element 2. The UWB control unit 8 can be functionally limited and, for example, implemented only in hardware. Preferably, the UWB control unit 8 has at least one microcontroller. The measurement signals can be UWB signals received from a mobile device 9, i.e., part of a communication, in particular a bidirectional communication, and / or measurement signals from reflection measurements.

[0041] According to the proposal, the UWB module 5 is connected to the motor vehicle lock 4 via a local electrical connection 10 or integrated into the motor vehicle lock 4. Here, the local electrical connection 10 is preferably at least largely, in particular completely, wired. The term "local" refers to the integration into the system of the motor vehicle 1. The local electrical connection 10 does not run via a central communication system of the motor vehicle 1. Communication via a central control unit of the motor vehicle 1 is to be considered global. Likewise, the local electrical connection 10 does not run via the central CAN bus of the motor vehicle 1. Preferably, the local electrical connection 10 is a wired connection that only connects the UWB module 5 to the motor vehicle lock 4. Examples of this are shown in Fig. 3.In some embodiments, the UWB module 5 is connected to the motor vehicle lock 4 by connecting the antenna 7 to the motor vehicle lock 4 via a coaxial cable, and integrating the UWB control unit 8 into the motor vehicle lock 4 (Fig. 3 b) to e)). Alternatively, the antenna 7 and thus the UWB control unit 8 can be integrated as a whole into the motor vehicle lock 4 (Fig. 3 a) and f)).

[0042] The local electrical connection 10 is preferably a connection for data (here measurement signals and UWB signals) and / or a power supply of the UWB module 5. If a control unit for the locking element 2 is separate from the motor vehicle lock 4, the UWB module 5 is preferably only indirectly connected to this control unit via the motor vehicle lock 4.

[0043] From Figs. 1 and 2, it can be seen that the antenna 7 is preferably concealed when the closure element 2 is closed. When the closure element 2 is open, it can be accessible, but is preferably not visually detectable, for example, arranged behind a UWB-permeable protective element to prevent tampering.

[0044] The antenna 7 can also be arranged on or in a handle recess and preferably used to detect an intrusion into the handle recess, which can be a further local functionality, such as the one that will be discussed later.

[0045] Here and preferably, the UWB module 5 and the motor vehicle lock 4 are part of an individually handleable assembly module, i.e., they can be mounted together on the motor vehicle 1, in particular the locking element 2, if necessary with other components.

[0046] The motor vehicle lock 4 preferably has a housing 11 in which the lock control unit 12 is arranged. The UWB control unit 8 can also be arranged in the housing 11. The lock control unit 12 and the UWB control unit 8 can even use a common processor or form a common, inseparable control unit. It can be provided that a processor of the UWB module 5 is used to read a sensor of the motor vehicle lock 4 and / or to control a motor of the motor vehicle lock 4. It is therefore conceivable to map the lock control unit 12 partially or completely by a microcontroller or the like of the UWB module 5. It should be noted that identification of the UWB control unit 8 or its microcontroller or the like in distinction from the lock control unit 12 is generally possible, especially if the UWB module 5 as such forms a unit, in particular as a purchased part.It is conceivable not to provide a lock control unit 12 separate from the UWB control unit 8. The lock control unit 12 and the UWB control unit 8 can share a circuit board, either as separate control units or implicitly as a common control unit, on or at which the antenna 7 can also be arranged.

[0047] As also shown in Fig. 3, the motor vehicle lock 4 can have a wet chamber 13 and a dry chamber 14. The lock control unit 12 and the UWB control unit 8 can be arranged together in the same dry chamber 14 and, for example, share a circuit board there.

[0048] As shown in several variants in Fig. 3, the antenna 7 can be arranged in the motor vehicle lock 4 at an opening in the housing 11. Preferably, the opening in the housing 11 has a further function; in particular, the opening serves as an inlet opening 15 for a locking part (Fig. 3 a)). A dedicated opening, optionally with a UWB-permeable window, can also be provided (Fig. 3 f)).

[0049] It is also conceivable for the antenna 7 to partially protrude from the housing 11 through an opening in the housing 11 (Fig. 3 b). In this case, the antenna 7 can be designed as a pin antenna.

[0050] In further variants, the antenna 7 is arranged outside the housing 11, in particular on the housing 11, and is connected to the UWB control unit 8 by means of an antenna connection 16, in particular a coaxial cable. An antenna connection 16, which can be provided independently of the arrangement of the antenna 7, is shown in Fig. 3 in all variants. The antenna 7 is outside in Fig. 3 c) to e). The antenna 7 arranged outside the housing 11 can be arranged in a recess of a sheet metal part 17 of the closure element 2 and / or in or on a seal of the closure element 2. Preferably, the antenna connection 16 protrudes through an opening in the housing 11, wherein more preferably the opening in the housing 11 has a further function, in particular as an inlet mouth 15 for a closing part (Fig. 3 e)).

[0051] Fig. 3 b) to d) show that the opening of the housing 11 is provided in a hollow screw for fastening the housing 11 to the closure element 2 or a body of the motor vehicle 1. Preferably, the antenna 7 (Fig. 3 b)) or the antenna connection 16 (Fig. 3 c) and d)) is arranged in the hollow screw, in particular by means of a sealing compound, injected, in particular cast, into the hollow screw. Alternatively, the hollow screw can be screwed into a sealing compound, which also seals it.

[0052] Furthermore, it is preferably provided here that the UWB module 5 has a further antenna 7 connected to the UWB control unit 8 for receiving measurement signals and / or for transmitting UWB signals, and that the further antenna 7 is connected to the UWB control unit 8 via a further antenna connection 16, which runs at least partially parallel to the first antenna connection 16 or is at least partially formed by the first antenna connection 16. This is shown in Fig. 3 d), wherein in Fig. 3, separate antenna connections 16 are otherwise provided for each further antenna 7. The antennas 7 can both be used for transmitting and receiving, or one can be used for transmitting and one for receiving.

[0053] Furthermore, it can be provided that together with the antenna 7 or antenna connection 16, an energy storage device 18 is injected, in particular cast, into the housing 11 (Fig. 3 d), the sealing compound not being shown).

[0054] In particular, to overcome a wet-dry room separation, the antenna connection 16 can be provided with a wireless section in which the measurement signals and / or the UWB signals are transmitted between the UWB control unit 8 and the antenna 7 via electromagnetic coupling, in particular across a section sealing the housing 11. For this purpose, coupling antennas can be provided, for example, on both sides of a wet-dry room separation, between which the antenna connection 16 runs wirelessly.

[0055] It is preferred that the local electrical connection 10 comprises a coaxial cable, in particular the antenna connection 16. As already apparent from the described variants, the UWB module 5 can also be partially integrated into the motor vehicle lock 4, for example, if the antenna 7 is arranged outside the housing 11, while the UWB control unit 8 is arranged inside the housing 11.

[0056] Furthermore, it is preferably provided here that the antenna 7 is designed to be flat, in particular foil-like, and preferably that the flat antenna 7 is glued or printed onto the housing 11.

[0057] According to a further teaching of independent significance, the use of a UWB module 5 with an antenna 7 for a closure element 2 of a motor vehicle 1, in particular the UWB module 5 of a motor vehicle lock arrangement 3, is proposed for measuring UWB signals by means of the antenna 7 through a body gap 19 of the closure element 2 in a closed state of the closure element 2 and / or for transmitting UWB signals through the body gap 19 of the closure element 2 in the closed state of the closure element 2. A body gap 19 is a gap between a closure element 2 and another body part, either another closure element 2 or a fixed part. Other gaps, such as intentional radar windows, which have no further function, are not considered body gap 19 here.

[0058] As already apparent from the preferred arrangements described in relation to Figs. 1 to 3, the antenna 7 can be arranged behind a metal sheet 17. It would be expected that the antenna 7 would be excessively shielded as a result.

[0059] However, experiments conducted with a commercially available UWB module 5 and a commercially available mobile device 9 (smartphone) on a commercially available motor vehicle 1, which are schematically reproduced in Fig. 4 above, achieved the result shown in Fig. 4. Surprisingly, a distance measurement of the smartphone using the UWB module 5 was possible with sufficient accuracy in an angular range of -90° to +90° from the body gap 19, in this case the side door gap. Fig. 4 shows the actual and measured position for a distance of up to 4 m (outermost measurement). Across the entire measuring range (approx. 0 m to approx. 4 m and -90° to +90°), the deviation of the distance measurement was less than 0.5 m. An angle measurement was not performed; therefore, the angles entered were measured manually. These experiments show that a UWB distance measurement through a body gap 19 is possible even if the mobile device 9 is shielded by the sheet metal 17.

[0060] Here and preferably, it is provided that the UWB signals are measured by means of the antenna 7 through a body gap 19 of the closure element 2 in a closed state of the closure element 2, and / or that the UWB signals are transmitted through the body gap 19 of the closure element 2 in the closed state of the closure element 2,

[0061] Preferably, the UWB signals are transmitted by means of the antenna 7 through the body gap 19 in the closed state of the closure element 2 to a receiver 20, which is arranged behind a metal sheet 17 of the closure element 2, starting from the antenna 7. Additionally or alternatively, the measurement signals are received by means of the antenna 7 through the body gap 19 in the closed state of the closure element 2 by a transmitter 21, which is arranged behind a metal sheet 17 of the closure element 2, starting from the antenna 7.

[0062] Reference may be made to all statements relating to the proposed motor vehicle lock arrangement 3.

[0063] According to a further teaching of independent significance, a locking element arrangement 22 is proposed with a locking element 2 and a motor vehicle lock arrangement 3 arranged in the locking element 2. Reference may be made to all statements relating to the proposed motor vehicle lock arrangement 3 and the proposed use.

[0064] It can be provided that the UWB control unit 8 communicates with the lock control unit 12 and / or is integrated into the motor vehicle lock 4.

[0065] One possible use of the UWB module 5 relates to the localization of an operator 23. It can be provided that the motor vehicle 1, in a localization routine, carries out a localization of an operator 23, in particular a mobile device 9 of the operator 23, who is approaching the motor vehicle 1, by means of the UWB module 5 and further UWB modules 5 of the motor vehicle 1 (Fig. 1 shows a further UWB module 5; the others can be distributed as desired).

[0066] Localization is generally understood to mean that location information of the operator 23 relative to the motor vehicle 1 is determined by means of the UWB modules 5 via UWB operation. Preferably, distance information and direction information of the operator 23 relative to the motor vehicle 1 can be determined within the scope of the localization. The localization can be performed by a main control unit 24 of the motor vehicle 1 or by the lock control unit 12.

[0067] Particularly preferably, localization is performed via UWB communication between at least one of the UWB modules 5 and a mobile device 9 assigned to the operator 23. The mobile device 9 can be configured, for example, as an electronic key, mobile phone, PDA, wearable, or the like. The UWB module 5 and the mobile device 9 are configured for localization based on bidirectional UWB communication. In particular, UWB communication is performed for this purpose in accordance with a standard such as IEEE 802.15.4z, and runtime information is exchanged between the UWB module 5 and the mobile device 9, on the basis of which localization is performed.

[0068] Localization can be triggered upon detection of mobile device 9 via another wireless communication, in particular BLE communication or the like. In particular, at least one BLE module, which may be associated with the sensor system, monitors the entry of a mobile device 9 into a detection area by sending and receiving advertising signals when UWB modules 5 are deactivated. If a mobile device 9 is detected via BLE communication, the UWB modules 5 can be activated for localization.

[0069] In principle, it can be provided that authentication of the mobile device 9 is performed using UWB communication and / or BLE communication. For example, one or more actions are only performed if the UWB communication and / or BLE communication reveals that the detected mobile device 9 is already stored as an authorized mobile device 9 for the motor vehicle 1.

[0070] In a further embodiment, it is provided that upon the approach of the operator 23 detected in the localization, the motor vehicle lock 4 is unlocked by bringing the motor vehicle lock 4 into an unlocked locked state. Accordingly, the operator 23 can also open the locking element 2 upon approaching, either by performing an operating gesture or by operating the door handle. Preferably, the approach of the operator 23 is considered detected when the localization indicates that the distance between the mobile device 9 and the motor vehicle 1 falls below a predetermined first distance. The first distance can also be predetermined depending on the direction.

[0071] Preferably, the UWB module 5, in particular the antenna 7, is additionally used for a functionality related to the locking element 2. A functionality related to the locking element 2 is a local functionality, while localization is a global functionality. Thus, a synergistic multiple use of the UWB module 5 results from the connection to the motor vehicle lock 4.

[0072] Particularly preferably and synergistically, it can be provided that the functionality relating to the locking element 2 is controlled by the lock control unit 12. Preferably, the functionality relating to the locking element 2 is carried out during the localization of the operator 23, in particular without influencing the localization of the operator 23. In one embodiment, the functionality relating to the locking element 2 relates to the targeted, in particular partial, discharging and preferably the diagnosis of an energy storage device 18 of the motor vehicle lock 4 of the motor vehicle lock arrangement 3 for the locking element 2. Such targeted discharging for an energy storage device 18, which can be a supercapacitor, is often important if the supercapacitor serves as an emergency power source in order to be able to operate, in particular open, the motor vehicle lock 4 even after a main power source of the motor vehicle 1 fails.There can then be specifications for voltage levels at certain temperatures and regular diagnostics, for example of capacity.

[0073] It is then possible for the lock control unit 12 to switch the power supply of the UWB module 5 during the localization of the operator 23, in particular to temporarily supply the UWB module 5 from the energy storage device 18 and thus selectively discharge the energy storage device 18. If the localization includes multiple localization messages, it can be provided that the UWB module 5 is only supplied from the energy storage device 18 for some of the localization messages.

[0074] Preferably, the energy storage device 18 is discharged to or below a predetermined, in particular temperature-dependent, target voltage. Additionally or alternatively, the lock control unit 12 may diagnose the energy storage device 18 while supplying the UWB module 5, or recharge it following the targeted discharging and diagnose it during charging.

[0075] In a further embodiment, it is provided that the functionality relating to the closure element 2 comprises locating the UWB module 5, in particular by the other UWB modules 5 and / or the mobile device 9. Preferably, a position and / or speed of the closure element 2 is determined from the locating of the UWB module 5, in particular by the lock control unit 12. This results in a possibility of determining an opening angle of the closure element 2, wherein known closure element kinematics can be used for the calculation. It can also be provided that the UWB module 5 is not used to locate the operator 23 while the functionality relating to the closure element 2 is being carried out. The UWB module 5 can thus be excluded from a localization process in order to carry out the functionality relating to the closure element 2, which can continue to be carried out by the other UWB modules 5 during the same time.

[0076] Furthermore, it is preferably provided here that the lock control unit 12 controls a push-out unit 25 for partially pushing open the locking element 2 and / or a locking element drive 26 for completely opening the locking element 2. A push-out unit 25 is known to create an engagement gap through which a handle can be accessed or replaced.

[0077] Further synergies arise if, as is preferred, the lock control unit 12 receives the measurement signals from the antenna 7 directly and thus without the interposition of a control unit external to the motor vehicle lock arrangement 3, such as the main control unit 24 or a separate door control unit, and based on this, controls the push-out unit 25 and / or the locking element drive 26. Thus, the latency in controlling the respective drive is reduced by connecting the UWB module 5 to the motor vehicle lock 4.

[0078] Furthermore, it is preferably provided here that the motor vehicle lock 4 supplies the UWB module 5 with voltage, and / or that the motor vehicle lock 4 provides a data connection, in particular a CAN bus connection, for the UWB control unit 8.

[0079] As shown, it can be provided that the antenna 7 is arranged on the closure element 2, preferably that the antenna 7 is arranged on an end face 6 of the closure element 2 opposite a pivot axis of the closure element 2. The antenna 7 thus pivots over a large angle, whereby the opening angle is easily detectable and, regardless of this, the antenna 7 is arranged close to the body gap 19. It can also be provided that an operator 23 is detected through the body gap 19 by the UWB module 5, in particular by means of a UWB reflection measurement. This operator detection can be the additional functionality, provided it is then used locally, as will now be described by way of example. The UWB module 5 can be switched from a mode for locating a mobile device 9 to a reflection mode when a switching condition occurs.

[0080] The motor vehicle 1, in particular the lock control unit 12, can execute a reaction routine in response to the detection of the operator 23. In the reaction routine, a reaction preferably occurs to the operator 23 as an obstacle, in particular by stopping or braking the locking element drive 26 of the locking element 2. Alternatively or additionally, a warning can be issued. The obstacle is a local obstacle to the opening of the locking element 2, for example, a cyclist approaching from behind (so-called dooring). The detection range of the proposed arrangement is particularly suitable for this purpose.

[0081] The UWB module 5 can also be used to perform general obstacle detection, especially of static obstacles such as walls and ceilings. A reaction routine can also be performed for this, to which the above applies accordingly. Especially when the closure element 2 opens upwards (e.g., as a tailgate or frunk), ceiling detection by the vehicle lock 4 can be performed particularly efficiently.

[0082] Furthermore, it is preferably provided here that a predetermined operating gesture is detected in the reaction routine. The operating gesture preferably comprises a sweep across the body gap 19 along or across the body gap 19. It is clear that the proposed arrangements are particularly sensitive for this purpose.

[0083] A reaction to the operating gesture can include unlocking the motor vehicle lock 4 and / or opening the locking element 2 by means of the locking element drive 26 and / or pushing the locking element 2 open by means of the push-out unit 25. The operating gesture can also be a foot gesture, particularly if the locking element 2 is a tailgate. Generally, the body gap 19 can be illuminated as an interaction surface, particularly by a lighting arrangement connected to the motor vehicle lock 4.

[0084] In gesture recognition, the execution of an operating gesture in an area of ​​interest is monitored using UWB radar signals. Preferably, radar sensor values ​​determined from the transmission and reception of the UWB radar signals are checked for the presence of a valid operating gesture using predefined operating gesture criteria. The operating gesture criteria can relate to predetermined characteristics of the operating gesture to be executed, for example, the position, speed, acceleration of a detected radar target, or the like. Based on the existing correspondence between the radar sensor values ​​and the characteristics, a decision can be made as to whether the detection should be classified as a valid operating gesture or rejected as invalid. A reaction is triggered if a valid operating gesture is detected.

[0085] It is also conceivable that the UWB module 5, in particular the antenna 7, could be used to detect the operator 23 in the interior of the motor vehicle 1, in particular to detect a gesture of the operator 23 in the interior. The proposed arrangements of the antenna 7 are also advantageous in that they also allow transmission to the interior. It is therefore advisable to utilize this. The gesture of the operator 23 can, in particular, be directed toward an opening of the closure element 2.

[0086] Here and preferably, depending on the position of the operator 23, in particular whether the operator is inside or outside, switching takes place between using the UWB module 5 inwards and outwards.

[0087] Here, and preferably, a seal is arranged in the body gap 19, which is partially UWB-permeable and partially UWB-attenuating, in particular UWB-impermeable. Preferably, the motor vehicle lock assembly 3 has a lighting element, in particular connected to the motor vehicle lock 4, which illuminates the body gap 19 in the UWB-permeable area of ​​the seal. Also relevant in this case is the motor vehicle 1 as such.

Claims

Patent claims 1. Motor vehicle lock arrangement for a locking element (2) of a motor vehicle (1) with a motor vehicle lock (4) and a UWB module (5), wherein the UWB module (5) has at least one antenna (7) for receiving measurement signals and / or for transmitting UWB signals and a UWB control unit (8) connected to the antenna (7) for evaluating the measurement signals and / or for generating the UWB signals, wherein the UWB module (5) is connected to the motor vehicle lock (4) via a local electrical connection (10) or is integrated into the motor vehicle lock (4).

2. Motor vehicle lock arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that the motor vehicle lock (4) has a housing (11), that the lock control unit (12) is arranged in the housing (11), and that the UWB control unit (8) is arranged in the housing (11), preferably that the lock control unit (12) and the UWB control unit (8) use a common processor.

3. Motor vehicle lock arrangement according to claim 2, characterized in that the antenna (7) is arranged in the motor vehicle lock (4) at an opening of the housing (11), preferably that the opening of the housing (11) has a further function, in particular serves as an inlet mouth (15) for a locking part.

4. Motor vehicle lock arrangement according to claim 2, characterized in that the antenna (7) partially protrudes from the housing (11) through an opening in the housing (11).

5. Motor vehicle lock arrangement according to claim 2, characterized in that the antenna (7) is arranged outside the housing (11), in particular on the housing (11), that the antenna (7) is connected to the UWB control unit (8) by means of an antenna connection (16), in particular a coaxial cable, preferably that the antenna connection (16) protrudes through an opening in the housing (11), further preferably that the opening of the housing (11) has a further function, in particular as an inlet mouth (15) for a locking part.

6. Motor vehicle lock arrangement according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the opening of the housing (11) is provided in a hollow screw for fastening the housing (11) to the closure element (2) or a body of the motor vehicle (1), preferably that the antenna (7) or the antenna connection (16) is arranged, in particular by means of a sealing compound, injected, in particular cast, in the hollow screw.

7. Motor vehicle lock arrangement according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that the UWB module (5) has a further antenna (7) connected to the UWB control unit (8) for receiving measurement signals and / or for transmitting UWB signals, that the further antenna (7) is connected to the UWB control unit (8) via a further antenna connection (16) which runs at least partially parallel to the first antenna connection (16) or is at least partially formed by the first antenna connection (16).

8. Motor vehicle lock arrangement according to claim 6 and optionally 7, characterized in that together with the antenna (7) or antenna connection (16) an energy storage device (18) is injected, in particular cast, into the housing (11).

9. Motor vehicle lock arrangement according to claim 5 and optionally one of claims 6 to 8, characterized in that the antenna connection (16) has a wireless section in which the measurement signals and / or the UWB signals are transmitted between the UWB control unit (8) and the antenna (7) by electromagnetic coupling, in particular via a section sealing the housing (11).

10. Motor vehicle lock arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the local electrical connection (10) comprises a coaxial cable, in particular the antenna connection (16), and / or that the UWB module (5) is partially integrated into the motor vehicle lock (4).

11. Motor vehicle lock arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the antenna (7) is flat, in particular foil-like, preferably that the flat antenna (7) is glued or printed onto the housing (11).

12. Use of a UWB module (5) with an antenna (7) for a closure element (2) of a motor vehicle (1), in particular the UWB module (5) of a motor vehicle lock arrangement (3) according to one of the preceding claims, for measuring UWB signals by means of the antenna (7) through a body gap (19) of the closure element (2) in a closed state of the closure element (2) and / or for transmitting UWB signals through the body gap (19) of the closure element (2) in the closed state of the closure element (2), preferably, wherein the UWB signals are transmitted by means of the antenna (7) through the body gap (19) in the closed state of the closure element (2) to a receiver (20) arranged behind a sheet metal panel (17) of the closure element (2) starting from the antenna (7), and / orwherein the measurement signals are received by means of the antenna (7) through the body gap (19) in the closed state of the closure element (2) by a transmitter (21) which is arranged behind a sheet metal (17) of the closure element (2) starting from the antenna (7).

13. Closure element arrangement with a closure element (2) and a motor vehicle lock arrangement (3) arranged in the closure element (2) according to one of claims 1 to 11.

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