DE102024121166A1 - System and procedure for adjusting the horn function according to the situation - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a system for adjusting the horn function of a motor vehicle according to the situation, comprising a movable horn unit (200) with an actuating surface (220) and a switching contact (230), a sound generator (270) for generating acoustic signals, a control unit (400) with a control module (470) for controlling the sound generator (270), and at least one acceleration sensor (300) for detecting the actuating dynamics of the horn unit (200), wherein the control unit (400) is connected to the acceleration sensor (300), wherein the control unit (400) includes a software application (450) that analyzes the actuating dynamics of the actuating surface (220) of the horn unit (200) and determines adapted output parameters (275) for the sound output of the sound generator (270), wherein the output parameters (275) include volume, duration, frequency, and tone sequence of the sound output, and wherein the output parameters (275) from the control module (470) into corresponding control commands for the operation of the sound generator (270) for situation-appropriate output of acoustic signals.

Description

The invention relates to a system, a method and a computer program product for adjusting the horn function of a motor vehicle to suit the situation.

Motor vehicles are equipped with a device for producing audible signals, commonly referred to as a "horn". It is mandatory in many countries to provide acoustic warning signals in case of danger or when overtaking outside built-up areas.

The horn control is usually located in the center of the steering wheel. Typically, it consists of an integrated driver's airbag and an active push button. The user must apply a certain amount of force and move the button a certain distance to activate the horn.

The moving part of the horn, typically the entire driver's airbag, is spring-mounted and can be activated at various points. When a high force is applied to the horn, approximately 30 Newtons, the springs give way and one or more electrical switches close. The switch can only assume two states: either the actuator is activated and the switch is closed, or the actuator is not activated and the contact is open. The state of the switch is evaluated by an electronic circuit, such as a control unit in the steering wheel. The signal is then sent to the sounder, which produces the warning tone. There are also horn systems without a control unit, in which closing the switch directly activates the horn's sounder.

Activating the horn requires a relatively high amount of force from the user. This high threshold can be a hindrance in stressful situations. Furthermore, the horn always produces maximum sound pressure when activated. This is not always appropriate for the situation. In genuinely dangerous situations, a loud warning tone with maximum sound pressure is necessary, for example, to warn of a threat to life and limb. In less urgent situations, such as warning a pedestrian of a specific but non-critical situation, maximum sound pressure is inappropriate and could unsettle the pedestrian.

The current design of a vehicle horn is based on a simple and robust mechanism, but it lacks the fine-tuning and flexibility to meet the demands of different traffic situations. This is because the volume or tone sequence of the warning signal cannot be varied depending on the situation. Differentiated communication through varying volumes or tone sequences is therefore not possible.

The DE 11 2016 005 546 T5 Disclosure reveals a warning horn system with a driver airbag module that is movably mounted. The driver airbag module contains one or more force sensors. To activate the warning horn system, a cover is moved axially towards a base plate, thereby exerting force on the force sensors. The force signals received by the force sensors are processed by a processor to determine the characteristics of the received force signal with respect to force magnitude, force duration, force profile, and/or force position, and to select a control signal for the warning system based on these characteristics.

The DE 198 02 829 A1 Disclosure reveals a system for controlling the volume of a vehicle horn. The actuating device features a pressure-sensitive device with variable impedance. Increasing the force applied to the device lowers the impedance, and signal processing modulates an acoustic transducer or loudspeaker to produce a variable volume.

The object of the present invention is the development of an improved horn system for motor vehicles that allows for situation-dependent adjustment of the volume and tone sequence of the warning signal. The horn system is intended to ensure differentiated acoustic communication in order to meet the requirements of various traffic situations. The aim is to develop a horn that can produce both loud warning signals in dangerous situations and quiet, discreet tones in less urgent situations.

This problem is solved according to the invention with respect to a system by the features of claim 1, with respect to a method by the features of claim 14, and with respect to a computer program product by the features of claim 15. The further claims relate to preferred embodiments of the invention.

By recording and analyzing the horn's activation dynamics, the sound output is adjusted to the situation. This increases the effectiveness of the warning in different traffic situations, as it is optimally adapted to the respective conditions. The sound generator is located in the The invention is capable of generating a wide variety of tones and tone sequences. This versatility enables more flexible and precise communication in road traffic. Different tones can signal different warnings, improving communication between vehicles and road users. The ability to adjust the volume, duration, frequency, and sequence of the tones to the specific situation increases road safety, as it allows for situation-appropriate acoustic warnings. Overall, the present invention can significantly improve the effectiveness and safety of acoustic warning systems in road traffic.

According to a first aspect, the invention provides a system for adjusting the horn function of a motor vehicle according to the situation. The system comprises a movably mounted horn unit with an actuating surface and a switching contact, a sound generator for producing acoustic signals, a control unit with a control module for controlling the sound generator, and at least one acceleration sensor for detecting the actuation dynamics of the horn unit. The control unit is connected to the acceleration sensor. The control unit contains a software application that analyzes the actuation dynamics of the actuating surface of the horn unit and determines adapted output parameters for the sound output of the sound generator. The output parameters include volume, duration, frequency, and tone sequence of the sound output. The output parameters are converted by the control module into corresponding control commands for operating the sound generator to produce acoustic signals appropriate to the situation.

In a further training, it is planned that the control unit processes a switching signal from the switching contact and a sensor signal from the acceleration sensor simultaneously or independently of each other in order to determine and adjust the output parameters for the sound output of the sound transmitter.

In an advantageous embodiment, it is provided that the at least one acceleration sensor includes a gyrometer for detecting actuations of the horn unit.

In a further embodiment, it is provided that the at least one acceleration sensor comprises a sensor based on flexible quartz rods for measuring linear accelerations.

Advantageously, at least one accelerometer includes both a gyrometer and a sensor based on flexible quartz rods.

In particular, the horn unit is mounted on springs to allow movement, in order to ensure precise detection of the activation by the acceleration sensor.

In particular, the horn unit includes a resonator to amplify the generated sound.

In another embodiment, it is provided that a driver's airbag is integrated into the horn unit, which is housed in the horn unit together with the sound generator and the resonator.

Advantageously, by changing the current flowing through a coil of the sound transmitter, the amplitude of the vibration of a metal diaphragm and thus the volume of the sound produced is changed.

Advantageously, by changing the voltage on the coil of the sound generator, the vibration frequency of the metal diaphragm and thus the pitch of the generated sound is influenced.

In a further development, it is planned that the control module will use semiconductor components, in particular metal oxide semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETs), for efficient control of the current flow through the coil of the sound transducer.

In particular, it is intended that the control unit is equipped with a processor and a memory unit to store and process the output parameters determined by the software application.

In a further embodiment, the software application in the control unit divides the actuation dynamics of the horn unit into three threshold ranges and generates correspondingly different acoustic signals, wherein low acceleration produces a short, quiet tone with a low frequency, wherein medium acceleration produces a medium-length tone with an increasing frequency, and wherein high acceleration produces a long, loud tone with a changing frequency.

• - Erfassen eines Schaltsignals durch einen Schaltkontakt in einer beweglich gelagerten Hupeneinheit mit einer Betätigungsfläche; und/oder
• - Erfassen eines Sensorsignals durch mindestens einen Beschleunigungssensor, der in der Hupeneinheit angeordnet ist;
• - Verarbeiten des Schaltsignals und/oder des Sensorsignals durch ein Steuergerät mit einer Softwareapplikation zur Ermittlung von Ausgabeparametern für die Tonausgabe eines Schallgebers;
• - Anpassen der Ausgabeparameter, einschließlich Lautstärke, Dauer, Frequenz und Tonsequenzen der Schallausgabe, basierend auf der analysierten Betätigungsdynamik der Hupeneinheit;
• - Umwandeln der Ausgabeparameter in entsprechende Ansteuerbefehle durch ein Ansteuermodul für den Betrieb des Schallgebers;
• - Variieren der Amplitude, Frequenz und Lautstärke der Schallwellen durch Ändern der Stromstärke und/oder Spannung in einer Spule des Schallgebers, um verschiedene Tonhöhen und Lautstärken zu erzeugen;
• - Abspielen vordefinierter Töne, Tonsequenzen oder Melodien durch den Schallgeber gemäß den empfangenen Ausgabeparametern.

According to a second aspect, the invention provides a method for adjusting the horn function of a motor vehicle to suit the situation. The method comprises the following steps:

• - Detection of a switching signal by a switching contact in a movable horn unit with an actuating surface; and/or
• - Detection of a sensor signal by at least one acceleration sensor located in the horn unit;
• - Processing the switching signal and/or the sensor signal by a control unit with a software application to determine output parameters for the sound output of a sound generator;
• - Adjusting the output parameters, including volume, duration, frequency and tone sequences of the sound output, based on the analyzed actuation dynamics of the horn unit;
• - Converting the output parameters into corresponding control commands by a control module for the operation of the sound transmitter;
• - Varying the amplitude, frequency and volume of the sound waves by changing the current and/or voltage in a coil of the sound generator to produce different pitches and volumes;
• - Playing predefined tones, tone sequences or melodies by the sound transmitter according to the received output parameters.

According to a third aspect, the invention provides a computer program product with an executable program code that is configured to perform the method according to the second aspect when executed.

The invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to an embodiment shown in the drawing.

• 1 eine dem Stand der Technik entsprechende schematische Darstellung eines Lenkrads mit Hupe;
• 2 ein Blockdiagramm zur Erläuterung eines Ausführungsbeispiels eines erfindungsgemäßen Systems;
• 3 ein Flussdiagramm zur Erläuterung der einzelnen Verfahrensschritte eines erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens;
• 4 ein Blockdiagramm eines Computerprogrammprodukt gemäß einer Ausführungsform des dritten Aspekts der Erfindung.

It shows

• 1 a schematic representation of a steering wheel with horn, in accordance with the state of the art;
• 2 a block diagram to illustrate an embodiment of a system according to the invention;
• 3 a flowchart to explain the individual process steps of a process according to the invention;
• 4 a block diagram of a computer program product according to an embodiment of the third aspect of the invention.

Additional features, aspects and advantages of the invention or its embodiments become apparent from the detailed description in conjunction with the claims.

1 Figure 1 shows a horn 10 integrated into a vehicle steering wheel 20, according to the state of the art. The steering wheel 20 includes a receptacle 25 for a horn unit 30 with a driver's airbag and for a control unit 40. Cover elements 50 can also be provided on the steering wheel 20 to cover the rear area of the horn unit 30 and the control unit 40. The horn 10 is centrally integrated into the steering wheel 20 to enable simple and intuitive operation. The horn unit 30, with its integrated airbag, serves both as a safety device and as an active actuation surface 35 for the horn function, emitting an audible signal. The actuation surface 35 is designed, in particular, as a circular push button. The control unit 40 processes the signals from the actuation surface 35 and controls the output of the warning signal. The cover elements 50 protect the rear area of the horn 10 and provide an aesthetically pleasing enclosure for the steering wheel 20.

The horn unit 30 contains a sound generator as its central component, which produces the actual sound. This is often an electromagnetic horn or a horn. An electromagnetic horn uses an electromagnet to vibrate a metal diaphragm. An air horn uses compressed air to force a horn through it to produce a loud sound. This type of horn is primarily found on commercial vehicles.

In an electromagnetic horn, pressing the actuating surface closes an electrical circuit via a switching contact. This causes current to flow through a coil, which generates a magnetic field. This magnetic field attracts a metal diaphragm and interrupts the circuit, causing the diaphragm to return to its original position and the circuit to close again. The rapid movement of the diaphragm produces the sound. The diaphragm, a thin metal plate, is set into vibration by the electromagnet, and these vibrations generate sound waves that are amplified by a resonating chamber and perceived as the horn's horn sound.

2 Figure 1 shows a system 100 according to the invention for adjusting the horn function of a motor vehicle according to the situation. The system 100 comprises a horn unit 200, at least one acceleration sensor 300, and a control unit 400 with a software application 450 and a control module 470. The control unit 400 can be equipped with be equipped with a processor and a memory unit.

A module or unit is defined as a self-contained, specialized set of software and/or hardware components. A module or unit is designed to perform a specific function or task and functions as an independent and self-contained entity. A module or unit accepts specific inputs, performs internal processing, and then delivers specific outputs or results. A module or unit can communicate with other modules or units via defined interfaces. These interfaces define how data or commands are input into the module or unit and how results or information are output.

In connection with the invention, a processor can be, for example, a machine or an electronic circuit. In particular, a processor can be a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor, or a microcontroller, such as an application-specific integrated circuit or a digital signal processor, optionally in combination with a memory unit for storing program instructions. A processor can also be a virtualized processor, a virtual machine, or a soft CPU. It can also be, for example, a programmable processor equipped with configuration steps for executing the method according to the invention, or configured with configuration steps such that the programmable processor implements the features of the method, the modules, or other aspects and/or parts thereof according to the invention.

In connection with the invention, a “storage unit” or “storage module” and the like can be understood to mean, for example, volatile memory in the form of random access memory (RAM) or permanent memory such as a hard drive or data carrier, or, for example, an interchangeable storage module.

The horn unit 200 is movably mounted and comprises an actuation surface 220 and a switching contact 230. A sound generator 270 is integrated into the horn unit 200. A resonator 280, which serves to amplify the generated sound, is also arranged in the horn unit 200. In addition to the sound generator 270 and the resonator 280, a driver's airbag 290 is also housed in the horn unit 200.

The acceleration sensor 300 is attached to the movable horn unit 200 and measures the acceleration of the horn activation. The control unit 400 contains a software application 450 that analyzes the data acquired by the acceleration sensor 300 and adjusts the output parameters 275 of the sound generator 270 accordingly.

The horn unit 200 is typically mounted on springs for flexible movement. These springs ensure that the horn unit 200 returns to its initial position after each activation. The springs provide a precise and consistent return of the horn unit 200, allowing the accelerometer 300 to accurately measure the actual acceleration with each activation. The springs are attached at strategic points around the horn unit 200 to ensure an even distribution of the return force. The tension and stiffness of the springs are calibrated based on the average activation force of a driver, ensuring reliable detection of both accidental and intentional activations.

The precise mounting and uniform return of the horn unit 200 by means of springs ensures that the acceleration sensor 300 records accurate data about the activation. Through the precise detection of the activation, the system 100 according to the invention can optimally adapt the sound output to the respective traffic situation and thus increase road safety.

When the driver activates the horn button 220, the switching contact 230 closes and a switching signal 250 is sent to the control unit 400. Simultaneously, the acceleration sensor 300 in the movable horn unit 200 detects the dynamics of the activation, including acceleration and speed, and sends a sensor signal 350 to the control unit 400. The software application 450 in the control unit 400 analyzes the switching signal 250 and the sensor signal 350 to determine the force and speed of the horn activation. Based on the acceleration and activation dynamics, the urgency of the situation is assessed. Depending on the analyzed activation dynamics, the output parameters 275 for the sound output of the horn 270 are set. These output parameters 275 include the volume, the duration of the sound output (which can be varied depending on the urgency), the frequency (pitch) to produce a higher or lower tone, and the tone sequences, which can contain different patterns or melodies depending on the situation. The 270 sounder emits the appropriate warning signal, which can vary depending on the situation (e.g., a short, quiet tone when...). (low urgency or loud, penetrating tone for high urgency).

In addition to the electrical switching contact 230, which only recognizes the states "on/off", the acceleration sensor 300 is used according to the invention to measure the acceleration and dynamics of the horn actuation. This includes the speed and the actuation force with which the driver operates the actuation surface 220. The acceleration sensor 300 thus supports the assessment of the urgency of the situation and enables situation-appropriate adjustment of the output parameters 275 of the warning signal.

Various technologies can be used for the 300 accelerometer, e.g. gyrometers or sensors based on flexible quartz rods.

Gyroscopes, also called gyroscopes, measure the rotational movement of an object around one or more axes. They generally operate on the Coriolis effect, in which a moving mass within the sensor experiences forces proportional to its rotational speed. A typical gyroscope consists of a rotational mechanism or a vibration system. MEMS (Micro Electro-Mechanical Systems) gyroscopes utilize micromechanical structures fabricated on silicon chips. These gyroscopes are capable of precisely detecting rotational movements and changes in direction. They offer high accuracy and stability in horn activation detection. MEMS gyroscopes are also small and easily integrated into existing systems.

Sensors based on flexible quartz rods utilize the piezoelectric properties of quartz. When a flexible quartz rod is mechanically deformed (e.g., by acceleration or vibration), it generates an electrical charge proportional to the applied force. A flexible quartz rod is integrated into a circuit that measures the generated electrical charge and converts it into a usable signal. These sensors can directly measure the linear acceleration that occurs when the horn is activated. They are sensitive to small deformations and can therefore precisely detect acceleration forces.

The Accelerometer 300 can utilize both a gyrometer and a flexible quartz rod-based sensor. This allows the advantages of both technologies to be combined to obtain an accurate measurement signal of the actual acceleration.

The accelerometer 300 is electrically connected to the control unit 400 to transmit the acquired sensor signals 350. This connection can be wired or wireless, depending on the specific configuration of the system 100. In a wired configuration, the connection is typically made via signal cables that transmit the analog or digital sensor signals 350 from the accelerometer 300 to the control unit 400. In the control unit 400, these sensor signals 350 are converted by an analog-to-digital converter (if required) and then processed by the software application 450. In a wireless configuration, the acceleration data can be transmitted to the control unit 400, for example, via a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connection. However, wireless transmission requires additional communication components, such as a wireless transmitter in the accelerometer 300 and a corresponding receiver in the control unit 400.

Via this wired or wireless connection, the control unit 400 can continuously receive the sensor signals 350 with the acceleration data and evaluate them in real time in order to adjust the output parameters 275 of the sound transmitter 270 to the situation.

• - Bei geringer Beschleunigung: ein leiser, kurzer Ton von 1 Sekunde Dauer mit niedriger Frequenz.
• - Bei mittlerer Beschleunigung: ein mittellanger und mittellauter Ton von 2 Sekunden Dauer mit ansteigender Frequenz.
• - Bei hoher Beschleunigung: ein lauter und langer Ton von 5 Sekunden Dauer mit wechselnder Frequenz, wie er für Gefahrensituationen typisch ist.

The sensor signals 350 from the acceleration sensor 300 are evaluated by the software application 450 of the control unit 400. Specifically, the software application 450 assigns threshold ranges to the sensor signals 350. A different type of tone generation is defined for each of the different threshold ranges, so that different tones are generated depending on the measured acceleration. With three threshold ranges, this could look like this:

• - At low acceleration: a quiet, short tone lasting 1 second with a low frequency.
• - At medium acceleration: a medium-length and medium-loud tone lasting 2 seconds with increasing frequency.
• - During high acceleration: a loud and long tone lasting 5 seconds with varying frequency, as is typical for dangerous situations.

In a further development of the invention, the output parameters 275 can be individually set for a specific vehicle type or even for a specific vehicle. Adjustable output parameters 275 include, for example, the volume, which is adjustable via the sound pressure, the duration of the sound output, the frequency (i.e., the pitch), and selected sound sequences. These can be set by the user according to the vehicle type or personal preferences. Preferences for specific settings are stored in the software application 450 and can be adjusted at any time. These configured output parameters 275 are transmitted by the software application 450 to the control module 470 for controlling the sound generator 270, based on the analysis of the sensor signal 350 from the accelerometer 300. The sound generator 270 then produces the corresponding tone based on the adjusted output parameters 275.

The processor of the control unit 400 processes the incoming sensor signals 350 from the acceleration sensor 300 and/or the switching signal 250. The memory unit of the control unit 400 stores the software application 450 and the output parameters 275 of the sound generator 270. The processor enables fast and efficient processing of the sensor signals 350, resulting in a rapid response time when the actuation surface 220 of the horn unit 200 is activated. The memory unit allows for the storage of user-defined settings and adjustments, enabling the system 100 to respond flexibly to different requirements and traffic situations.

In order for the output parameters 275 determined by the software application 450 as a function of the analyzed actuation dynamics for the sound output (volume, duration of sound output, frequency (pitch), tone sequences) to be output by the sound generator 270, these output parameters 275 are converted by the control module 470 into corresponding control commands for the operation of the sound generator 270.

The sound pressure can therefore be changed by adjusting the current and/or the voltage to produce different volume levels. The current flowing through the coil primarily affects the vibration amplitude of the metal diaphragm and thus the sound pressure. A change in the voltage across the coil also affects the current and therefore the sound pressure.

A change in the current in the coil can also influence the vibration frequency of the metal diaphragm, the extent of which depends on the mechanical properties of the diaphragm. Likewise, a change in the voltage across the coil can influence the vibration frequency. The sound generator 270 can thus vary the frequency of the generated sound waves to produce different pitches. Similarly, depending on the received output parameters 275, the sound generator 270 can play various predefined tone sequences or melodies.

The control module 470 converts the received output parameters 275 into electrical signals that control the vibration of the metal diaphragm of the sound transmitter 270 and thus the generated sound waves.

The control module 470 can also use semiconductor components to control the sound transmitter 270. In particular, metal oxide semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETs) enable efficient control of the current flow through the coil.

Since the tone output is based on the detection of acceleration or movement of the horn unit 200 by pressing the actuating surface 220, a tone can be emitted even before maximum force is applied. Because the tone is selected depending on the detected hazard potential, this leads to a more appropriate response. It can be assumed that in a critical situation, the driver will actuate the horn impulsively and quickly, so that the loudest and most distinct tone is automatically produced. Inattentive touches of the actuating surface 220, characterized by slow actuation, are detected, and the triggering of a false alarm can be avoided.

In further development, several acceleration sensors 300 can be arranged at different points on the horn unit 200 to detect the location of activation on the actuation surface 220. This makes it possible to adjust the emitted tone depending on the location, so that a different tone is emitted for different hand positions. For example, an actuation in the center of the actuation surface 220 produces a loud and shrill tone, while an actuation at the edge of the horn unit 200 produces only a muffled and quiet tone. In dangerous situations with a very high force, the sound output can also last longer than the actual actuation, as the driver is occupied with vehicle control, for example during an evasive maneuver, and releases the actuation surface 220.

The system according to the invention, through the integration of an acceleration sensor 300, enables a situation-appropriate and finely tuned acoustic warning. Adapting the acoustic output to the urgency of the situation allows for an appropriate and effective warning, thus increasing safety.

In 3 The procedure steps for adjusting the horn function of a motor vehicle to suit the situation are shown.

In step S10, a switching signal 250 is detected by a switching contact 230 in a movable horn unit 200 with an actuating surface 220.

In step S20, a sensor signal 350 is detected by at least one acceleration sensor 300, which is arranged in the horn unit 200.

In step S30, the switching signal 250 and/or the sensor signal 350 are processed by a control unit 400 with a software application 450 to determine output parameters 275 for the sound output of a sound generator 270.

In step S40, the output parameters 275, including volume, duration, frequency and tone sequences of the sound output, are adjusted based on the analyzed actuation dynamics of the horn unit 200.

In step S50, the output parameters 275 are converted into corresponding control commands by a control module 470 for the operation of the sound transmitter 270.

In step S60, the amplitude, frequency and volume of the sound waves are varied by changing the current and/or voltage in a coil of the sound transmitter 270 in order to produce different pitches and volumes.

In step S70, predefined tones, tone sequences or melodies are played back by the sound generator 270 according to the received output parameters.

4 schematically represents a computer program product 900 comprising an executable program code 950 configured to perform the method according to the second aspect of the present invention.

By capturing and analyzing the horn's activation dynamics, the sound output is adapted to the specific situation. This increases the effectiveness of the warning in various traffic situations, as it is optimally tailored to the respective conditions. The sound generator is capable of producing a wide variety of tones and tone sequences. This versatility enables more flexible and precise communication in road traffic. Different tones can signal different warnings, improving communication between vehicles and other road users. The ability to adjust the volume, duration, frequency, and sequence of tones to the specific situation increases road safety, as it allows for situation-specific acoustic warnings. Overall, the present invention can significantly improve the effectiveness and safety of acoustic warning systems in road traffic.

Reference sign

10

horn

20

steering wheel

25

Recording room

30

Horn unit

40

control unit

50

Cover element

100

system

200

Horn unit

220

Operating area

230

Switching contact

250

Switching signal

270

sound generator

275

Output parameters

280

Resonating body

290

Driver airbag

300

Accelerometer

350

Sensor signal

400

control unit

450

Software application

470

Control module

900

Computer program product

950

Program code

QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• DE 11 2016 005 546 T5 [0007]
• DE 198 02 829 A1 [0008]

Claims (15)

System for situation-appropriate adjustment of the horn function of a motor vehicle, comprising a movable horn unit (200) with an actuation surface (220) and a switching contact (230), a sound generator (270) for generating acoustic signals, a control unit (400) with a control module (470) for controlling the sound generator (270), and at least one acceleration sensor (300) for detecting the actuation dynamics of the horn unit (200), wherein the control unit (400) is connected to the acceleration sensor (300), wherein the control unit (400) contains a software application (450) that analyzes the actuation dynamics of the actuation surface (220) of the horn unit (200) and determines adapted output parameters (275) for the sound output of the sound generator (270), wherein the output parameters (275) include volume, duration, frequency, and tone sequence of the sound output, and wherein the output parameters (275) are determined by the The control module (470) is converted into corresponding control commands for the operation of the sound generator (270) for the situation-appropriate output of acoustic signals. System according to Claim 1 , wherein the control unit (400) processes a switching signal (250) from the switching contact (230) and a sensor signal (350) from the acceleration sensor (300) simultaneously or independently of each other in order to determine and adjust the output parameters (275) for the sound output of the sound generator (270). System (100) according to Claim 1 or 2 , wherein the at least one accelerometer (300) comprises a gyrometer for detecting actuations of the horn unit (200). System (100) according to Claim 1 or 2 , wherein the at least one acceleration sensor (300) comprises a sensor based on flexible quartz rods for measuring linear accelerations. System (100) according to Claim 1 or 2 , wherein the at least one accelerometer (300) comprises both a gyrometer and a sensor based on flexible quartz rods. System (100) according to one of the Claims 1 until 5 , wherein the horn unit (200) is movably mounted by means of springs in order to ensure precise detection of the actuation by the acceleration sensor (300). System (100) according to one of the Claims 1 until 6 , wherein the horn unit (200) includes a resonator for amplifying the generated sound. System (100) according to one of the Claims 1 until 7 , wherein a driver airbag (290) is integrated into the horn unit (200), which is housed together with the sound generator (270) and the resonator (280) in the horn unit (200). System (100) according to one of the Claims 1 until 8 , wherein by changing the current flowing through a coil of the sound generator (270) the amplitude of the vibration of a metal diaphragm and thus the loudness of the generated sound is changed. System (100) according to one of the Claims 1 until 9 , whereby by changing the voltage on the coil of the sound generator (270) the vibration frequency of the metal diaphragm and thus the pitch of the generated sound is influenced. System (100) according to one of the Claims 1 until 10 , wherein the control module (470) uses semiconductor devices, in particular metal oxide semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETs), to efficiently control the current flow through the coil of the sound transmitter (270). System (100) according to one of the Claims 1 until 11 , wherein the control unit (400) is equipped with a processor and a memory unit to store and process the output parameters (275) determined by the software application (450). System (100) according to one of the Claims 1 until 12 , wherein the software application (450) in the control unit (400) divides the actuation dynamics of the horn unit (200) into three threshold ranges and generates correspondingly different acoustic signals, wherein low acceleration produces a short, quiet tone with a low frequency, wherein medium acceleration produces a medium-length tone with an increasing frequency, and wherein high acceleration produces a long, loud tone with a changing frequency. Method for adjusting the horn function of a motor vehicle according to the situation, comprising the following steps: - Detection (S10) of a switching signal (250) by a switching contact (230) in a movable horn unit (200) with an actuating surface (220); and/or - Detection (S20) of a sensor signal (350) by at least one acceleration sensor (300) arranged in the horn unit (200); - Processing (S30) of the switching signal (250) and/or The sensor signal (350) is received by a control unit (400) with a software application (450) to determine output parameters (275) for the sound output of a sound generator (270); - Adjusting (S40) the output parameters (275), including volume, duration, frequency, and tone sequences of the sound output, based on the analyzed actuation dynamics of the horn unit (200); - Converting (S50) the output parameters (275) into corresponding control commands by a control module (470) for the operation of the sound generator (270); - Varying (S60) the amplitude, frequency, and volume of the sound waves by changing the current and/or voltage in a coil of the sound generator (270) to generate different pitches and volumes; - Playing (S70) predefined tones, tone sequences, or melodies by the sound generator (270) according to the received output parameters. Computer program product (900) with an executable program code (950) configured to perform the procedure according to when executed Claim 14 executes.