Abstract: A method for detecting objects having a low height, using a system for obstacle detection in vehicles, the system for obstacle detection including distance sensors for ascertaining the distance from objects and an arrangement for evaluation. The method includes performing the following: (a) continually recording the distance from an object using the distance sensors or recording the distance from an object at specified intervals, (b) checking whether the object continues to be recorded by the distance sensors when approaching the vehicle, in response to falling below a specified distance, or whether it vanishes from the detection range of the distance sensors, (c) detecting the object, which vanishes from the detection range of the distance sensors, as being an object of low height. Also described is a method for supporting a driver during a driving maneuver.

Abstract: A method for detecting objects having a low height, using a system for obstacle detection in vehicles, the system for obstacle detection including distance sensors for ascertaining the distance from objects and an arrangement for evaluation. The method includes performing the following: (a) continually recording the distance from an object using the distance sensors or recording the distance from an object at specified intervals, (b) checking whether the object continues to be recorded by the distance sensors when approaching the vehicle, in response to falling below a specified distance, or whether it vanishes from the detection range of the distance sensors, (c) detecting the object, which vanishes from the detection range of the distance sensors, as being an object of low height. Also described is a method for supporting a driver during a driving maneuver.

Abstract: A distance sensor device, in particular as a component of a parking aid or reversing aid for a motor vehicle, includes one or more distance sensors and a distance sensor control device for the purpose of activating the distance sensor or sensors via a respective signal line using an activation pulse that is quasi-digital and time-analog. At least one of the distance sensors has two different modes of operation. The modes of operation may be switched by varying the duration and/or amplitude of the activation from the distance sensor control device.

Abstract: A distance sensor device is described, in particular as a component of a parking aid or reversing aid for a motor vehicle, having one or more distance sensors (US, &mgr;W) and a distance sensor control device (US-SG) for the purpose of activating the distance sensor or sensors (US, &mgr;W) via a respective signal line using an activation pulse that is preferably quasi-digital and time-analog. At least one of the distance sensors (US, &mgr;W) has two different modes of operation. It is possible to perform switchover between the modes of operation by varying the duration and/or amplitude of the activation from the distance sensor control device (US-SG).