Accelerator pedal assembly, computing unit for an accelerator pedal assembly, vehicle having an accelerator pedal assembly, and method for monitoring a computing unit of an accelerator pedal assembly

Abstract

The invention relates to an accelerator pedal assembly (1) for a vehicle (2), the accelerator pedal assembly (1) having -- an accelerator pedal (3) which can be moved between a first position (P1) and a second position (P2); -- a position sensor (4) for detecting a position of the accelerator pedal (3); -- a computing unit (5) for processing signals from the position sensor (4); the computing unit (5) having a printed circuit board (6), a moisture sensor (7) for detecting moisture, in particular in the computing unit (5), being formed on the printed circuit board (6).

Description

[0001] R. 417310

[0002] Description

[0003] title and procedures for a computing unit of

[0004] Field of invention

[0005] The invention relates to an accelerator pedal arrangement or pedal arrangement, a computing unit for an accelerator pedal arrangement, a vehicle with an accelerator pedal arrangement or with a pedal arrangement and a method for monitoring a computing unit of an accelerator pedal arrangement.

[0006] State of the art

[0007] Accelerator pedals, or pedal assemblies in vehicles, such as gas, brake, or clutch pedals, are increasingly being used as electronic accelerator pedals or pedal assemblies. This is known, for example, as an "electronic accelerator pedal," an "e-clutch," "brake-by-wire," or an "electronic brake." With this concept, there is no direct mechanical, hydraulic, or pneumatic connection between the accelerator pedal and the component to be actuated (e.g., the throttle valve in an internal combustion engine's accelerator pedal assembly, the brake cylinder in a brake pedal assembly, or the clutch in a clutch pedal assembly). Instead, the position of an accelerator pedal, which is typically adjustable between two positions (e.g., a first position as the starting position and a second position as the end position), is detected by a position sensor.The sensor signal can be acquired or received by a processing unit located in the immediate vicinity of, or forming part of, the accelerator pedal assembly. This unit is typically located (together with the accelerator pedal) in the vehicle's interior or driver's cabin. The processing unit can, for example, further process the sensor signal. The position determined by the position sensor is then processed – for example, using the processing unit R. 417310.

[0008] - 2 - unit and as a signal processed by the processing unit - transmitted to a control unit (e.g., a driving control unit for setting torque, a brake control unit for setting braking force, a clutch control unit for setting the clutch opening). The control unit, which may be located outside the passenger compartment, receives the signal associated with the position, for example, from the processing unit. Depending on the received position or the signal associated with the position, the control unit then adjusts the corresponding actuator so that the driver's request is achieved according to the pedal position set by the driver.

[0009] Such an accelerator pedal arrangement is known from US 2013 025 271 A1.

[0010] Another such accelerator pedal arrangement is known from US patent 10 814 727 B2.

[0011] Disclosure of the invention

[0012] The invention is based on the understanding that situations may arise in which the function of the position sensor and / or the processing unit is not reliably guaranteed, and in which there is a risk that the signals received by the control unit are faulty, contradictory, or entirely absent. This can occur, for example, if moisture enters the processing unit, such as during a downpour into an open convertible, when crossing deep puddles or bodies of water (e.g., fords), or when liquids leak from containers transported in the vehicle. This can be particularly dangerous while driving, for example, at high speeds or on winding terrain.

[0013] Therefore, there may be a need to provide an accelerator pedal arrangement that recognizes such a situation in a timely manner and enables safe operation of the vehicle, especially in hazardous situations.

[0014] It is understood that the term "accelerator pedal arrangement" can, in principle, encompass any type of pedal arrangement. In particular, it includes any pedal arrangement that can be used to operate or drive a vehicle. In other words, the accelerator pedal arrangement is not limited to an accelerator pedal arrangement. It can even refer to an arrangement of pedals or accelerator pedals that does not include an accelerator pedal, but rather pedals linked to other functions. R. 417310

[0015] - 3 -

[0016] Similarly, in the context of this application, the term "accelerator pedal" is to be understood as encompassing any type of pedal, not necessarily only an accelerator pedal or a brake pedal. In particular, it can refer to any pedal that can be used to operate a vehicle.

[0017] Advantages of the invention

[0018] This need can be met by the subject matter of the present invention according to the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments of the present invention are described in the dependent claims.

[0019] According to a first aspect of the invention, an accelerator pedal arrangement or a pedal arrangement for a vehicle is proposed.

[0020] The accelerator pedal assembly includes an accelerator pedal that can be moved between a first position and a second position. It further includes a position sensor for detecting the position of the accelerator pedal and a processing unit for processing signals from the position sensor. The processing unit comprises a printed circuit board, on which a humidity sensor for detecting humidity, particularly within the processing unit, is integrated.

[0021] This advantageously ensures that a potential malfunction of the processing unit due to increased humidity (e.g., relative humidity) or due to liquid or water ingress (e.g., relative humidity or liquid level) can be detected in a timely manner. It is then possible, for example, to issue a timely warning to a user and / or a control unit, or to initiate safety measures, so that a downstream unit (e.g., an accelerator pedal control unit) does not process erroneous values ​​received from the malfunctioning processing unit. This increases safety during vehicle operation, operation of the accelerator pedal assembly, and operation of the processing unit. Furthermore, this advantageously provides a particularly cost-effective and space-saving processing unit while minimizing the risk of moisture-related malfunctions.Another possible advantage, especially when integrating the humidity sensor into or onto the circuit board, is the ability to do without a separate humidity sensor evaluation unit or, under certain circumstances, even a separate humidity sensor. At the same time, quality control of the circuit board, e.g., after the production of R. 417310, is possible.

[0022] - 4 -

[0023] The circuit board (and, if necessary, the connection of the humidity sensor) should be tested at the same time.

[0024] The computing unit or the circuit board or the humidity sensor is / are preferably located in the passenger compartment or in the driver's cabin (especially in the same space as the accelerator pedal and / or as the position sensor).

[0025] The computing unit can, for example, have a computing unit housing. The circuit board can, for example, be arranged in the computing unit housing or in a compartment within the computing unit housing. The computing unit housing can, for example, be designed to be closed. Depending on the embodiment, the computing unit housing can be sealed, for example, against the ingress of dust and dirt and / or against splashing water (e.g., IP4 class) and / or against the ingress of fluid media (e.g., according to IP5 class or IP6 class).

[0026] The position sensor can be located, for example, in the processing unit or in the processing unit housing. The processing unit can, for example, be positioned near, on, or above a pivot axis of the accelerator pedal.

[0027] In other embodiments, the position sensor can be located, for example, outside the processing unit or outside the processing unit housing. In this case, the processing unit can also be located further away from the axis of rotation of the accelerator pedal.

[0028] The circuit board can be, for example, a single-layer board. In other embodiments, it is conceivable that it is a multi-layer board, such as a two-layer, three-layer, four-layer, five-layer, six-layer, etc. board. With a multi-layer board, the electrical connection of the humidity sensor can be particularly simple, since the (supply) leads can run in different layers.

[0029] The humidity sensor can be arranged, for example, at a geodesically (i.e., relative to the direction of gravity) lower end of the circuit board (e.g., in the lower half, lower third, lower quarter, lower fifth, or at the lower edge), particularly with a normal installation position of the accelerator pedal assembly and a horizontally stationary or moving vehicle. Alternatively or additionally, the humidity sensor can be located, particularly in the normal installation position of the R. 417310

[0030] - 5 -

[0031] The accelerator pedal arrangement and, when the vehicle is horizontally stationary or moving, the position sensor must be arranged geodetically (i.e., with respect to the direction of gravity) below the position sensor and / or below an electronic circuit of the computing unit described below.

[0032] By positioning the humidity sensor in this way (low on the circuit board, or relatively lower than the position sensor or electronic circuitry, which may be separate from the processing unit), a warning or the initiation of a specific measure (e.g., to increase safety) can be advantageously triggered in a timely manner if, for example, a liquid level is steadily rising (e.g., an open convertible or a vehicle with an open sunroof filling with water; e.g., a passenger compartment or driver's cab filling with water through door gaps, e.g., during flooding or when crossing deep wet areas such as puddles, ponds, fords, etc.). This measure can be initiated, for example, before the circuit board is damaged or before the position sensor (e.g., a Hall sensor, a potentiometer, or an inductive angle sensor, etc.) fails.The electronic circuit is / are impaired in its function by increased humidity or a rising liquid level.

[0033] The humidity sensor can be, for example, resistive (electrical resistance changes depending on the humidity or liquid level) and / or capacitive (an electrical capacitance changes depending on the humidity or liquid level) and / or inductive (an electrical inductance changes depending on the humidity or liquid level).

[0034] The humidity sensor can be integrated into the circuit board, for example, but it can also be connected to and arranged on the circuit board.

[0035] In a further development, it is provided that the accelerator pedal assembly has a housing, wherein the computing unit is arranged in or on the housing, in particular attached.

[0036] This advantageously provides a particularly compact accelerator pedal arrangement. R. 417310

[0037] - 6 -

[0038] In a further development, it is provided that the computing unit has an electronic circuit for processing signals from the position sensor, wherein the humidity sensor is connected to an input of the electronic circuit, in particular to a temperature input of the electronic circuit.

[0039] This allows for the advantageous provision of a cost-effective, highly integrated computing unit. Furthermore, it allows for the use of a connector on the computing unit with very few pins or connections. This is because the computing unit can exchange signals with a control unit (see below), such as those from the position sensor. The at least one signal line provided for this purpose can also be used to transmit a signal associated with the humidity sensor (e.g., a measured value or an error signal). This results in a particularly compact and cost-effective computing unit.

[0040] The electronic circuit can be designed, for example, as an ASIC (application-specific integrated circuit).

[0041] The use of a temperature input, especially one not used for temperature measurement, can be advantageously very cost-effective, as it eliminates the need for a separate electronic circuit for evaluating the humidity sensor or for developing an electronic circuit specifically for evaluating the humidity sensor.

[0042] Typically, the electrical resistance of a temperature sensor (e.g., a PT100 element or similar) is measured at a temperature input. A humidity sensor, for example, can be designed to change its electrical resistance depending on the humidity. This change can occur (more or less) continuously, and / or the resistance can change abruptly, for example, upon reaching a defined humidity level (e.g., relative humidity) or upon reaching a liquid level that, for example, short-circuits two leads of the humidity sensor. Such a change in resistance (e.g., from the megaohm range to the kiloohm range, or even to the range of a few ohms down to milliohms) can be detected via the temperature input of the electronic circuit and evaluated accordingly.

[0043] It goes without saying that at least one other input on the electronic circuit for connecting the humidity sensor is also conceivable. R. 417310 is particularly suitable.

[0044] - 7 - if at least one input makes it possible for an electrical resistance and / or a capacitance and / or an inductance to be detected, measured or evaluated, in particular by the electronic circuit.

[0045] In a further development, it is provided that the computing unit has a connector with at least one contact element, in particular for transmitting signals to a control unit, wherein the humidity sensor is connected to one of the at least one contact element of the connector, in particular directly connected.

[0046] This results in a particularly simple and robust connection for the humidity sensor. Furthermore, redundancy is created, as the processing unit no longer needs to be responsible for further processing the humidity sensor signal (although it can optionally still handle this task), but rather another unit, such as the control unit. This control unit can, for example, be more robustly designed than the processing unit or better protected against the ingress of fluids.

[0047] If, for example, the processing unit and / or an associated electronic circuit and / or the position sensor fails, a signal regarding humidity can still be transmitted to or received by the control unit and evaluated there. In other words, even a moisture-related failure of an electronic circuit and / or the position sensor of the processing unit can still be detected reliably, and appropriate reactions or measures can be initiated.

[0048] In a further training course, it is stipulated that the humidity sensor is formed by at least one humidity conductor on the circuit board.

[0049] This results in a particularly simple, cost-effective, and robust design for the humidity sensor. A concentration and consolidation of functions on the circuit board is advantageously achieved.

[0050] It may be provided, for example, that at least one moisture detection track is at least partially exposed. This allows for particularly reliable and accurate detection of moisture (e.g., relative humidity or liquid level). Specifically, it may be provided that no (electrically insulating) varnish, solder mask, or other covering material covers the moisture detection track. R. 417310

[0051] - 8 - corrosion-inhibiting surface treatment, especially made of a metallic material, does not preclude exposure.

[0052] In a further development, it is provided that the moisture conductor track has at least a section of a shape selected from the group consisting of: a comb structure, in particular with at least three comb segments or comb teeth; a circular segment, which in particular extends over a rotation angle of at least 160°, preferably at least 250°; a serpentine line, in which in particular the changes of direction have at least 160°.

[0053] This advantageously provides a particularly sensitive humidity sensor. Depending on the location and application scenarios (e.g., at which angles the accelerator pedal assembly, the processing unit, or the circuit board is installed and / or operated, which driving situations (incline angle relative to the horizontal) are expected for the vehicle) and the desired sensitivity of the humidity sensor, the proposed structures can be used.

[0054] It may be intended, for example, that this shape in particular is exposed or has no insulating coating (such as varnish, solder resist, etc.).

[0055] In a further training course, it is stipulated that the accelerator pedal arrangement is an electronic accelerator pedal arrangement.

[0056] This advantageously eliminates the need for a mechanical connection between the accelerator pedal assembly and the corresponding actuator. Furthermore, the use of a humidity sensor in the processing unit provides a particularly reliable electronic accelerator pedal assembly.

[0057] In a further training, it is provided that the accelerator pedal arrangement is set up for use as an accelerator pedal arrangement, as a brake pedal arrangement, or as a clutch pedal arrangement.

[0058] Its use as an accelerator pedal assembly, especially as an electronic accelerator pedal assembly, advantageously results in a particularly safe accelerator pedal assembly.

[0059] Its use as a brake pedal assembly, particularly as an electronic brake pedal assembly, advantageously results in a particularly safe brake pedal assembly. R. 417310

[0060] - 9 -

[0061] Its use as a clutch pedal assembly, especially as an electronic clutch pedal assembly, advantageously results in a particularly safe clutch pedal assembly.

[0062] According to a second aspect of the invention, a vehicle with an accelerator pedal arrangement as described above is proposed.

[0063] This results in a vehicle that is cost-effective and can be manufactured with simple means. Furthermore, it results in a particularly safe vehicle.

[0064] According to a third aspect of the invention, a computing unit designed for mounting in or on a pedal assembly is proposed.

[0065] The computing unit is set up to evaluate signals from a position sensor, wherein the computing unit has a printed circuit board with an electronic circuit, wherein a moisture sensor for detecting moisture, in particular in the computing unit, is formed on the printed circuit board.

[0066] The same advantages arise as described above in connection with the first aspect of the invention. Advantageously, a cost-effective, compact computing unit is provided, in which the risk of (moisture-related) errors is minimized.

[0067] The computing unit can have a computing unit housing as described above.

[0068] The printed circuit board can be designed as a single-layer or multi-layer printed circuit board, as described above.

[0069] The humidity sensor can be arranged, for example, at a geodesically lower end of the circuit board, as described above. Alternatively or additionally, the humidity sensor can be arranged geodesically below the optional electronic circuitry of the processing unit, as described above. R. 417310

[0070] - 10 -

[0071] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, a method for monitoring or operating a pedal assembly and / or a computing unit as described above is proposed.

[0072] The procedure involves the following steps:

[0073] - Capturing an initial value that corresponds to the moisture level on the circuit board;

[0074] - Comparing the first value with a reference value;

[0075] - Initiating a measure depending on the comparison of the first value and the comparison value, in particular if the first value exceeds or falls below the comparison value.

[0076] This has the beneficial effect of reducing the risk of setting driving parameters that are ultimately not desired by the driver. The use of the accelerator pedal module becomes safer.

[0077] In a continuing education course, the chosen measure is selected from the following group:

[0078] Sending an error signal; notifying a user of the vehicle; initiating an emergency routine, in particular transferring the vehicle to a non-critical emergency mode; triggering an emergency call, in particular an external one.

[0079] Sending an error signal, especially to a downstream component, e.g. a control unit or a control module, advantageously allows the (potentially faulty) signals sent by the computing unit to be used to control the vehicle.

[0080] Notifying the user has the advantage of allowing them to recognize an impending danger from excessive moisture in a timely manner and to counteract a worsening of the situation. The user can be notified, for example, acoustically, visually, haptically, olfactorily, etc. (e.g., inside the vehicle itself). It is also conceivable that the user could be notified via an electronic device, such as a mobile phone or computer. For example, in a vehicle with an open (roof) window or door through which rain is entering, the user could be notified. R. 417310

[0081] - 11 - be informed about increased humidity in the vehicle. Linking this to other status messages from the vehicle and / or parameters in the vehicle's environment (e.g., "door is open", "window is open", "sunroof is open", "convertible top is open", "it is raining at the vehicle's location") can further enhance the procedure particularly advantageously.

[0082] Initiating an emergency routine can, for example, involve braking a moving vehicle (without being limited to the actions described below), for example, to a standstill or to a low maximum speed (e.g., no more than 80 km / h, 30 km / h, or walking pace, in order to be able to escape a dangerous situation). For a stationary vehicle, this can involve, for example, preventing the vehicle from moving or imposing a speed limit (e.g., no more than 30 km / h or walking pace) or acceleration limit (e.g., no more than 0.1 m / s²). 2 ) are specified.

[0083] Transferring the vehicle to a non-critical emergency mode can include, for example (but are not limited to the actions described below): unlocking doors (to allow safe escape from a vehicle flooding with water); securing and / or shutting down high-voltage components; switching to a driving mode (e.g., to a mode with increased recuperation) so that, for example, braking can be performed using the accelerator pedal in a "one-pedal" mode; etc.

[0084] Initiating an emergency call, particularly an external one, can involve, for example, establishing a telephone connection or sending a text and / or image message. This message can include information such as the number of occupants, the vehicle's GPS coordinates, etc. It can be sent to an authority (police, fire department, etc.), an emergency service (ADAC, vehicle manufacturer's service center, dealership, etc.), a contact specified by the user, etc. This allows for the timely recovery of the vehicle (e.g., before it is completely lost), even if the user is absent (e.g., due to flooding, cloudburst, etc.). If there are occupants in the vehicle, a connection can be established to discuss evacuation procedures or measures to resolve the situation.

[0085] It shows R. 417310

[0086] - 12 -

[0087] Fig. 1a: a schematic view of a vehicle with a

[0088] Accelerator pedal arrangement;

[0089] Fig. 1b: a schematic view of an accelerator pedal arrangement;

[0090] Fig. 2: a schematic top view of a printed circuit board;

[0091] Figs. 3a - 3d: various schematic designs of the humidity sensor;

[0092] Fig. 4: a schematic representation of a method for

[0093] Monitoring or for operating an accelerator pedal assembly and / or a computing unit.

[0094] Figure 1a schematically shows a vehicle 2 (here only an example of a passenger car) which has an accelerator pedal arrangement 1.

[0095] Vehicle 2 in Fig. 1a is horizontal and the direction of gravity is indicated by an arrow labeled “G”.

[0096] Vehicle 2 has an interior 21 in which the occupants can sit, or a driver's cab in which the driver can be located or seated. Furthermore, the vehicle has two wheels 30, two of which are shown. Each of the two wheels 30 shown here has at least one brake disc 31 and at least one brake pad 32. A brake actuator 33 is configured to move the brake pad 32 towards or away from the brake disc 31, depending on the driver's request. To brake, the brake actuator presses the brake pad 32 against the brake disc 31.

[0097] It goes without saying that (depending on the vehicle type) other braking concepts are also conceivable, e.g. the activation of an eddy current brake, the extension of airbrakes, a braking parachute, etc.

[0098] The accelerator pedal arrangement 1 is shown here as an example of an electronic accelerator pedal arrangement 19. R. 417310

[0099] - 13 -

[0100] The accelerator pedal arrangement 1 is set up here as an example for use as a brake pedal arrangement 20. In other embodiments, the accelerator pedal arrangement 1 can be used as an accelerator pedal arrangement or as a clutch pedal arrangement.

[0101] The accelerator pedal assembly 1 comprises an accelerator pedal 3 that can be moved between a first position P1 and a second position P2 (see Fig. 2). It further comprises a position sensor 4 for detecting the position of the accelerator pedal 3 and a processing unit 5 for processing signals from the position sensor 4. The processing unit 5 comprises a printed circuit board 6. A humidity sensor 7 for detecting humidity, particularly in the processing unit 5, is integrated on the printed circuit board 6.

[0102] The computing unit 5 can be a separate element that is, for example, designed to be mounted in or on the accelerator pedal assembly 1 or to complete it.

[0103] The position sensor 4 is shown here outside the processing unit 5 only as an example, primarily for the sake of clarity. In other embodiments, the position sensor 4 can be arranged, for example, within the processing unit 5 and / or, for example, within a processing unit housing 26 described below. In other embodiments (not shown here), the processing unit 5 can be arranged, for example, in the area of ​​a rotation axis of the accelerator pedal 3. In this case, the position sensor 4 can be arranged, for example, at approximately the same position as shown in Fig. 1b (it can then be arranged, for example, within the processing unit 5 or the processing unit housing 26).

[0104] The processing unit 5 transmits (wirelessly or, as shown here, via a wired connection) the processed signals from the position sensor 4 to a control unit 14. This is, for example, a brake control unit or brake control module, although the control unit 14 can also be part of a central computer or vehicle control unit.

[0105] The control unit 14 processes the received signals and derives a setpoint for the brake actuator 33 at each wheel 30. This is sent to the respective brake actuator 33, so that the driver's request for deceleration is implemented.

[0106] Figure 1a schematically illustrates a "brake-by-wire" system. R. 417310

[0107] - 14 -

[0108] If the humidity (relative humidity and / or liquid level) in the computing unit 5 increases, e.g. due to water ingress or also due to fog, hot vapors, etc., the humidity sensor 7 can detect this and the computing unit 5 and / or the control unit 14 can detect whether or that a condition is approaching in which the correct functioning of the computing unit 5 or the position sensor 4 (which is geodetically higher than the computing unit 5 and especially higher than the humidity sensor 7, see Fig. 1 b) could no longer be guaranteed or in which the transmitted values ​​could be faulty.

[0109] Figure 1b shows the accelerator pedal arrangement 1, 19, 20 in a larger and more detailed view. The accelerator pedal 3 is in an unspecified position between the first position P1 and the second position P2 (shown with dashed lines).

[0110] The accelerator pedal assembly 1 has a housing 8, wherein the computing unit 5 is arranged, in particular attached, to the housing 8. In other embodiments, it can also be arranged inside the housing 8.

[0111] The computing unit 5 has its own housing 26, which is shown here as an example of a closed design. The circuit board 6 is located within the housing 26. This housing 26 can, in principle, have a relatively low moisture protection rating (e.g., only IP2 or IP3) because it is located inside the vehicle 21. In other embodiments, it can also have a higher moisture protection rating (e.g., at least IP4). The computing unit 5, which initially exists as a separate element, is shown here as an example attached to the housing 8, e.g., by screws.

[0112] The computing unit 5 here features, by way of example, an electronic circuit 9, e.g. an ASIC, for processing signals from the position sensor 4.

[0113] Here, by way of example, the humidity sensor 7 is connected to an input 10 of the electronic circuit 9, in particular to a temperature input 11 of the electronic circuit 9.

[0114] The computing unit 5 here exemplarily includes a connector 12 with at least one contact element 13 (here: a plurality of contact elements 13), in particular for transmitting signals to the control unit 14. R. 417310

[0115] - 15 -

[0116] The humidity sensor 7 is formed by at least one humidity trace 15 on the circuit board 6. In other words, the humidity sensor 7 is formed by at least one precisely manufactured trace on the circuit board 6. This allows the humidity sensor 7 to be designed in a very space-saving and cost-effective manner, and eliminates the need for a separate component that would have to be connected to the circuit board 6.

[0117] In Fig. 1b (and also in Fig. 2) it can also be seen that the humidity sensor 7 is formed at the geodetically lower end (approx. bottom 15%) of the circuit board 6 when the circuit board 6 is in its normal installation position in the computing unit 5 or in the accelerator pedal assembly 1.

[0118] This allows the moisture sensor 7 to be triggered in the event of a rising liquid level (e.g., ingress of water), e.g., by a short circuit between two moisture conductors 15 or a short circuit between a single moisture conductor and a defined potential, e.g., GND, before the liquid level reaches the electronic circuit 9 or the position sensor 4.

[0119] It is understood that a “triggering” can also occur depending on the relative humidity, or that the values ​​of the humidity sensor 7 change depending on the relative humidity, especially continuously.

[0120] Figure 2 shows a schematic top view of an exemplary embodiment of a printed circuit board 6 of the computing unit 5.

[0121] The electronic circuit 9 is arranged on the printed circuit board 6. Several passive components 24, which are also arranged on the printed circuit board, are shown schematically.

[0122] Furthermore, several connections 25 are shown, which are arranged on the circuit board 6. They can, for example, be electrically connected to the contact elements 13 of the connector 12 of the computing unit.

[0123] The printed circuit board 5 can be single-layer or multi-layer. It can, for example, have FR4 material or be made of FR4 material. R. 417310

[0124] - 16 -

[0125] For illustrative purposes, two humidity sensors 7 are shown in Fig. 2 (both humidity sensors 7 can actually be present on the circuit board 6 simultaneously, but it is also possible that only one of the two humidity sensors 7 is present on the circuit board 6). The humidity sensor 7 visible in the lower right of Fig. 2 has two humidity traces 15, which are comb-shaped and interdigitally intertwined (without the two humidity traces 15 touching). The ends of the two humidity traces 15 are each connected to an input 10 or pin of the electronic circuit 9. At least one input 10 can be a temperature input 11, although another input 10 can also be selected.

[0126] As described above, the computing unit 5 here exemplarily has a connector 12 with at least one contact element 13 (here: a plurality of contact elements 13), in particular for transmitting signals to the control unit 14.

[0127] The second humidity sensor 7 (shown in Fig. 2: bottom left) is connected to one (or more) of the contact elements 13 of the connector 12, in particular directly (e.g., without any intermediate active or passive components). In other words, in such a case, the humidity sensor 7 can be connected directly (e.g., without going through the electronic circuit 9) to an external device, e.g., the control unit 14.

[0128] Figures 3a to 3d show various exemplary designs of a humidity sensor 7.

[0129] The depicted humidity sensors 7 all have a humidity conductor 15, wherein the humidity conductor 15 has at least a section of a shape selected from the group:

[0130] Figure 3a shows an example embodiment of the humidity sensor 7 on a single-layer printed circuit board 6. Two humidity conductors 15 are each formed sectionally as a comb structure 16. The comb teeth 27 of the two humidity conductors 15 are interdigitated without touching each other. With changing humidity, the electrical resistance changes, or a capacitance changes. R. 417310

[0131] - 17 - between the two moisture conductors 15. When the liquid level rises, a significant change in resistance Oe occurs when both moisture conductors 15 are covered (depending on the conductivity of the liquid).

[0132] In principle, a single moisture conductor 15 with (section-wise) comb structure 16 can also be used (and, for example, a measured value can be recorded against a defined reference comparison value, e.g., GND).

[0133] Preferably, such a comb structure 16 has at least two, and particularly preferably at least three, comb teeth.

[0134] Figure 3b shows an exemplary embodiment of the humidity sensor 7 on a single-layer printed circuit board 6, again with only two humidity conductors 15 provided as examples. The outer conductor forms a circular segment 17, which extends from an initial vertical downward section, here by way of example, over a rotational angle of approximately 180°. The second humidity conductor 15 extends into the circular segment 17. Here, too, a change in (relative) humidity, as well as a rise in the liquid level, causes a measurable change in resistance and / or capacitance between the two humidity conductors 15.

[0135] Figure 3c shows an exemplary embodiment of the humidity sensor 7 similar to that in Figure 3b, but here on a multilayer printed circuit board 6. The first humidity trace 15 forms a closed (circular) ring at its end, i.e., a circular segment 17 with 360°. The second humidity trace 15 is routed section by section in a different plane of the printed circuit board 6 (therefore shown as a dashed line). It enters the surface of the printed circuit board 6, or the same plane in which the circular ring of the first humidity trace 15 lies, by means of a so-called via 28 inside the circular ring of the first humidity trace 15. In this way, the humidity sensor can be designed to be particularly space-saving.

[0136] Figure 3d shows an exemplary embodiment of the humidity sensor 7, in which a humidity conductor 15 has a sectionally formed shape resembling a serpentine line 18, here by way of example with five changes of direction of approximately 180° each. The circuit board 6 is shown here only as an example of a multilayer circuit board. A second humidity conductor 15 runs sectionally in a different plane than the first humidity conductor 15. The second humidity conductor 15 connects to R. 417310

[0137] - 18 - several points by means of vias 28 into the same plane as the first moisture conductor 15, here by way of example each between the turns of the serpentine line 18.

[0138] Here too, a change in (relative) humidity, as well as an increase in liquid level, causes a measurable change in resistance and / or capacitance and / or inductance between the two moisture-affected conductors.

[0139] It is preferable that the moisture-resistant conductor(s) 15 are at least partially exposed, i.e., in particular, not covered with lacquer, solder mask, or any other coating. This allows the moisture or liquid to preferably come into contact with the moisture-resistant conductor 15 or the open section as the liquid level rises. Preferably, the comb structure 16, the circular segment 17, or the serpentine line 18 is designed to be open (see Figs. 3a to 3d).

[0140] Figure 4 shows a schematic representation of a method for monitoring or operating an accelerator pedal arrangement 1 and / or a computing unit 5.

[0141] The procedure involves the following steps:

[0142] - Detect 100 of an initial value corresponding to the moisture level on the circuit board;

[0143] - Compare 200 of the first value with a reference value;

[0144] - Initiating 300 a measure depending on the comparison of first value and comparison value, in particular if the first value exceeds or falls below the comparison value.

[0145] The measure can only be chosen as an example from the group: sending an error signal; notifying a user of the vehicle; initiating an emergency routine, in particular transferring the vehicle to a non-critical emergency mode; triggering an emergency call, in particular an external one.

[0146] As an example only – particularly in the case of electrically powered vehicles – it may be necessary to change the operating mode. This could be a so-called "one-pedal mode," in which braking is effected by pressing or releasing the accelerator pedal (C, one-pedal mode), by an electric machine acting as a generator and recuperating electrical energy. Failure of the processing unit and / or the position sensor R. 417310

[0147] - 19 - The failure of the brake pedal or the loss of confidence in the detected or processed values ​​of the accelerator pedal module can thus be compensated for (at least temporarily) in order to bring the vehicle to a safe state using another pedal, in particular to a standstill. In this way, for example, in a kind of emergency module, the vehicle can be moved out of critical situations (e.g., from a motorway without a hard shoulder).

Claims

1. R. 417310 - 20 - 1. Accelerator pedal arrangement (1) for a vehicle (2), comprising the accelerator pedal arrangement (1) - an accelerator pedal (3) that can be moved between a first position (P1) and a second position (P2); - a position sensor (4) for detecting the position of the accelerator pedal (3); - a computing unit (5) for processing signals from the position sensor (4); wherein the computing unit (5) has a printed circuit board (6) wherein a moisture sensor (7) for detecting moisture, in particular in the computing unit (5), is formed on the printed circuit board (6).

2. Accelerator pedal arrangement (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the accelerator pedal arrangement (1) has a housing (8), wherein the computing unit (5) is arranged in or on the housing (8), in particular attached.

3. Accelerator pedal arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the computing unit (5) has an electronic circuit (9) for processing signals from the position sensor (4), wherein the humidity sensor (7) is connected to an input (10) of the electronic circuit (9), in particular to a temperature input (11) of the electronic circuit (9).

4. Accelerator pedal arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the computing unit (5) has a connector (12) with at least one contact element (13), in particular for transmitting signals to a control unit (14), wherein the humidity sensor (7) is connected to one of the at least one contact element (13) of the connector (12), in particular directly connected. R. 417310 - 21 - 5. Accelerator pedal arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the humidity sensor (7) is formed by at least one humidity conductor (15) on the circuit board (6).

6. Accelerator pedal arrangement (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the moisture conductor track (15) has at least a portion of a shape selected from the group consisting of: a comb structure (16), in particular with at least three comb teeth (27); a circular segment (17), which in particular extends over a rotation angle of at least 160°, preferably at least 250°; a serpentine line (18), in which in particular the changes of direction have at least 160°.

7. Accelerator pedal arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the accelerator pedal arrangement (1) is an electronic accelerator pedal arrangement (19).

8. Accelerator pedal arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the accelerator pedal arrangement (1) is configured for use as an accelerator pedal arrangement or as a brake pedal arrangement (20) or as a clutch pedal arrangement.

9. Vehicle (2) with an accelerator pedal arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims.

10. Computing unit (5), configured for mounting in or on an accelerator pedal assembly (1), wherein the computing unit (5) is configured for evaluating signals from a position sensor (4); wherein the computing unit (5) has a printed circuit board (6) with an electronic circuit (9), wherein a moisture sensor (7) for detecting moisture, in particular in the computing unit (5), is provided on the printed circuit board (6).

11. Method for monitoring or operating an accelerator pedal arrangement (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8 and / or a computing unit (5) according to the preceding claim, wherein the method comprises the following steps: - Determining (100) a first value corresponding to moisture on the circuit board; R. 417310 - 22 - - Comparing (200) the first value with a comparison value; - Initiating (300) a measure depending on the comparison of the first value and the comparison value, in particular if the first value exceeds or falls below the comparison value.

12. Method according to the preceding claim, wherein the measure is selected from the group: Sending an error signal; notifying a user of the vehicle; initiating an emergency routine, in particular transferring the vehicle to a non-critical emergency mode; triggering an emergency call, in particular an external one.

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