DE102017112634B4 - Motor vehicle with driving mode and simulation mode - Google Patents

Abstract

Motor vehicle (1), which can be operated in a driving mode and in a simulation mode, with a computer unit (3), a control device (5), a display device (7), at least one assistance system (8) set up to carry out an assistance function and a number of operating devices (11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16) for operating the motor vehicle (1) by a driver (9), the motor vehicle (1) being set up to receive input from the driver (9) in the driving mode Operating devices (11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16) are to be interpreted as driving commands and converted into movements of the motor vehicle (1) and the motor vehicle (1) is set up to receive all inputs from the driver (9) on the operating devices (in simulation mode). 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16) not to be interpreted as driving commands and not to be implemented in movements of the motor vehicle (1), - at least some of the operating devices (11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16) for operating at least one assistance function of the motor vehicle (1) is set up, - the control device (5) of the motor vehicle (1) is set up to receive a switching signal and, upon receipt of the switching signal, to switch an operating mode of the motor vehicle (1) between the driving mode and the simulation mode, - the computer unit (3) of the motor vehicle (1) is set up to carry out an interactive simulation in the simulation mode, the interactive simulation being a journey with the motor vehicle (1), in which at least one assistance function of the motor vehicle (1) is used simulates a virtual journey with a virtual motor vehicle, and the computer unit (3) is set up to interpret inputs from the driver (9) on the operating devices (11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16) in the simulation mode as simulation commands with which the virtual motor vehicle (1) is controlled in the simulation, - the display device (7) of the motor vehicle (1) is set up to display the virtual trip to the driver (9) in the simulation mode as a simulation output (21) of the interactive simulation, the driver ( 9) with the aid of the display device (7) of the motor vehicle (1), a virtual environment is displayed, which reproduces the virtual journey with the virtual motor vehicle (1) and an environment of the motor vehicle (1) that is visible to the driver (9) during a real journey ), whereby the interactive simulation of the virtual trip includes training videos preceding it, in which functions of the motor vehicle (1) relevant to the virtual trip are explained to the driver (9), - the computer unit (3) is set up to operate in the simulation mode as an interactive simulation to carry out virtual driver training, which trains the driver (9) in the operation of the assistance functions of the motor vehicle (1), and - the interactive simulation includes an integrated evaluation function with which the behavior of the driver (9) is evaluated in the virtual driver training.

Description

The invention relates to a motor vehicle.

Motor vehicles of the current vehicle generation have a variety of complex functions, the number of which will continue to grow in future vehicle generations. In particular, the number, distribution, complexity and performance of assistance functions in motor vehicles has increased significantly in recent years and will continue to increase in the coming years. This is particularly true given the introduction of series-ready motor vehicles that support partially automated or fully automated driving.

Such assistance functions are implemented by driver assistance systems (referred to as assistance systems for short) of the motor vehicle, which are also referred to as Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).

With the variety of functions and complexity of such systems in motor vehicles, the complexity of their operation and the associated demands on the driver also increase. What is particularly problematic is that both the operation and the system limits of such driving assistance systems are usually manufacturer-specific, in many cases vehicle model-specific and in some cases even dependent on the software version of the driver assistance system.

Before using an unfamiliar driver assistance system or a version of such a driver assistance system with which he is unfamiliar, the driver should therefore always first consult at least the associated operating instructions. However, in many cases, due to the complexity of driver assistance systems, conventional operating instructions are not suitable for adequately familiarizing the driver with the functionality and operation of these systems.

In addition, in many cases it can happen that conventional operating instructions are available in an outdated form, especially if subsequent functional changes to the driver assistance systems have been made through software updates. The driver is then dependent on testing and getting to know the assistance functions of the motor vehicle during normal operation, i.e. while driving. This can lead to significant dangers for the driver and other road users, especially if the assistance systems are tested within their system limits.

Alternatives to conventional operating instructions are training films, computer simulations and driving training, with the help of which the driver can get to know and understand the driver assistance systems available in the motor vehicle and the assistance functions implemented thereby, their range of functions, their operation and their system limits.

However, training films have the disadvantage that the driver can see the situations to be trained, but cannot drive through them himself. The driver therefore has to carry out a considerable amount of transfer in order to transfer his understanding of the functions and in particular the assistance functions to a real journey in the motor vehicle.

In comparison, the user can drive through various driving situations themselves in computer simulations and thus test them in practice. Such computer simulations are usually carried out in driving simulators that simulate a motor vehicle with the operating devices necessary to operate its functions.

Such a driving simulator is, for example, from the utility model specification DE 20 2009 002 247 U1 known. The driving simulator has, among other components, a cockpit with a seat for a driver and with controls of a vehicle as well as a vision system for displaying the surroundings of the moving vehicle that are visible to the driver during simulation operation.

However, satisfactory training success can only be achieved through such computer simulations in a driving simulator if the operating devices of the real motor vehicle, in particular the operating devices for operating the assistance functions of the motor vehicle, are realistically reproduced in the computer simulation. Otherwise, a considerable transfer effort from the driver is required in order to transfer what has been learned in the computer simulation to the operation and handling of the real motor vehicle. Due to the variety of available driver assistance systems, manufacturers, vehicle models and software versions and the associated variety of input and operating concepts, a realistic simulation of the operating devices requires very extensive hardware and software of different types and requires a lot of space and very high costs.

Carrying out driving training courses has the disadvantage that, on the one hand, you need a suitable driving trainer and, on the other hand, a A suitable training route is required. Furthermore, driving training courses have the disadvantage that, in particular, more complex scenarios can only be reproduced in a reproducible form to a limited extent or only with great effort. Driving training also has the disadvantage that training the driver in the area of the system limits of the motor vehicle and its assistance functions is associated with major challenges and is not possible in many cases because of the associated risks.

From the DE 101 14 433 A1 a simulation system for a vehicle for simulating at least one function of the vehicle is known, the simulation system comprising at least one central unit which is connected to at least one functional unit for exchanging information, the functional unit representing a functional unit of the vehicle.

From the DE 103 09 934 A1 a driving simulator for simulating the vehicle status of a vehicle is known, which comprises at least one simulation unit, has at least one central unit, a vision simulator and an interface via which the simulation unit is connected to a control unit in the operating state.

From the DE 10 2006 050 549 A1 a method for supporting the driver of a motor vehicle in carrying out a driving maneuver is known, in which in a decoupling phase, in which at least one control element of the motor vehicle, which is used for control during normal operation of the motor vehicle, is decoupled from the at least one drive system.

In the DE 100 33 442 A1 A method for operating a driving simulator is disclosed, which trains a learner driver in certain driving behavior, the driving behavior of the learner driver being recorded and, in the event of a deviation from the intended driving behavior, the learner driver's attention is visually and acoustically made aware of the deviation.

From the DE 10 2006 044 086 A1 a system and a method for the virtual simulation of traffic situations are disclosed, with a display unit for the pictorial display of the virtual traffic situation and an input unit, and with at least one modeled reference vehicle and at least one further modeled road user, the reference vehicle having a modeled detection device for detecting the virtual environment of the reference vehicle and the behavior of the reference vehicle during a simulated traffic situation takes place at least temporarily taking into account the information recorded by the detection device.

From the DE 10 2004 057 947 A1 Finally, a method for testing the functionality of a driver assistance system depending on at least one sensor that monitors the traffic situation in the vehicle environment is known.

The object of the present invention is therefore to provide the driver of a motor vehicle with an opportunity to learn the individual functions of the motor vehicle in an effective manner with little effort.

The task is solved by a motor vehicle that can be operated in a driving mode and in a simulation mode, with the features of patent claim 1. Advantageous embodiments are described in the subclaims.

The motor vehicle according to the invention has a computer unit, a control device, a display device and a number of operating devices for operating the motor vehicle by a driver. Such operating devices for operating the motor vehicle can, for example, a steering wheel, an accelerator pedal, a brake pedal, and/or various forms of operating levers, in particular steering wheel operating levers (steering column switches), operating buttons, operating controllers, operating switches and/or touchscreens and/or others be operating devices. Such operating devices for operating the motor vehicle can in particular also be operating devices for receiving voice inputs and/or for receiving inputs through gestures.

According to the invention, the motor vehicle is set up to be operated in at least two different operating modes, namely in a driving mode and in a simulation mode. The driving mode and the simulation mode cannot be active at the same time.

It is proposed that the motor vehicle is set up to interpret inputs from the driver on the operating devices as driving commands and convert them into movements of the motor vehicle when the motor vehicle is in driving mode, and is further set up to interpret all of the driver's inputs on the operating devices not to be interpreted as driving commands and not to be converted into movements of the motor vehicle when the motor vehicle is in simulation mode.

Such an operating device on which the driver can make entries that are called driving Commands are interpreted and converted into movements of the motor vehicle, for example, can be an accelerator pedal of the motor vehicle, by actuating which the motor vehicle can be accelerated in driving mode. However, such an operating device can also be, for example, a clutch pedal, whose actuation in driving mode results in the clutch being engaged and thus the vehicle being accelerated. However, such an operating device can also be the operating lever of a cruise control system or any other operating device of the motor vehicle, on which the driver can make inputs in driving mode, which are interpreted as driving commands and converted into movements of the motor vehicle.

According to the invention, the motor vehicle is thus set up to prevent inputs from the driver on the operating devices from being converted into movements of the motor vehicle when the motor vehicle is in simulation mode. The driver cannot therefore drive the motor vehicle in simulation mode, i.e. he cannot move the vehicle or accelerate it. This prevents a stationary vehicle from being set in motion by input from the driver on the operating devices.

The control device of the motor vehicle according to the invention is set up to receive a switching signal and, upon receipt of the switching signal, to switch the operating mode of the motor vehicle between the driving mode and the simulation mode. For example, if the motor vehicle is currently in driving mode, the control device switches the operating mode of the motor vehicle from driving mode to simulation mode upon receipt of the switching signal. However, if the motor vehicle is currently in simulation mode, the control device switches the operating mode of the motor vehicle upon receipt of the switching signal from simulation mode to driving mode.

Furthermore, the invention provides that the computer unit of the motor vehicle is set up to carry out an interactive simulation in simulation mode. The interactive simulation recreates a journey with the motor vehicle as a virtual journey with a virtual motor vehicle. The computer unit is also set up to interpret inputs from the driver on the operating devices in the simulation mode as simulation commands with which the virtual motor vehicle is controlled in the simulation.

An interactive simulation is understood to be a simulation that includes an interaction between the user, i.e. the driver, and the simulation. It is envisaged that the user of the simulation, i.e. the driver of the motor vehicle, can use the already existing operating devices of the motor vehicle to control the virtual motor vehicle in the simulation. In the simulation mode, in contrast to the driving mode, the driver's inputs on the operating devices of the motor vehicle are not interpreted as driving commands that are implemented in movements of the motor vehicle, in particular in an acceleration of the motor vehicle, but rather the driver's inputs on the operating devices are interpreted by the computer unit as Simulation commands are interpreted, which are implemented into controlling the functions of the virtual motor vehicle.

The motor vehicle is modeled as a virtual motor vehicle in the interactive simulation. The motor vehicle can be replicated as a virtual motor vehicle in particular in a very realistic manner. In particular, the assistance functions and other functions of the motor vehicle, the operation of the motor vehicle and the behavior of the motor vehicle in various driving situations can be simulated realistically. In a similar way, the virtual vehicle environment and the virtual journey as such can also be realistically reproduced. This makes it easier for the driver to transfer what he has learned in the simulation to real journeys in the real vehicle.

In addition, it is provided that the display device of the motor vehicle is set up to display the virtual trip to the driver as a simulation output of the interactive simulation when the operating mode of the motor vehicle is the simulation mode, i.e. when the motor vehicle is operated in the simulation mode.

The driver is thus shown a virtual environment with the help of the display device of the motor vehicle, which reproduces the virtual journey with the virtual vehicle. The simulation output of the interactive simulation can in particular include a visual output, for example on a monitor, a screen, a display or a similar visual display device. The simulation output of the interactive simulation may further include an audio output and/or a haptic output and/or another output. The simulation output of the interactive simulation enables the driver to record the course of the virtual journey in the simulation mode based on the simulation output. On this basis, the driver can control the virtual vehicle as part of the virtual journey by making entries on the operating devices.

According to the invention, it is therefore proposed that a computer-aided, interactive driving simulation be integrated into a motor vehicle. The motor vehicle can be a motor vehicle whose functional scope, apart from the simulation mode, corresponds to the functional scope of a conventional motor vehicle. The motor vehicle is completely ready to drive when it is in driving mode and can be driven by the driver like a conventional motor vehicle.

The invention expands the conventional range of functions of the motor vehicle by a simulation mode by carrying out an interactive simulation in which the driver can test the functions, in particular the assistance functions, of the motor vehicle and learn and train how to use these functions. The motor vehicle itself is thus set up to carry out a simulation, i.e. in contrast to conventional driving simulators, a motor vehicle that is basically ready to drive is used as a simulation environment by adding an option for switching between a driving mode and a simulation mode.

A driving mode is generally understood to mean an operating mode of the motor vehicle in which the vehicle is not in simulation mode. The motor vehicle is immediately or indirectly ready to drive in driving mode. A motor vehicle that is immediately ready to drive is understood to be a motor vehicle with which a driver can start driving the motor vehicle without further intermediate steps by making entries on the control devices. This is the case, for example, if the engine of a motor vehicle with an internal combustion engine has already started and actuation of the accelerator pedal is immediately converted into an acceleration of the motor vehicle. A motor vehicle that is indirectly ready to drive is understood to mean that further intermediate steps are required before the vehicle is immediately ready to drive. This is the case, for example, if activation of the power supply to the motor vehicle and/or the engine of the motor vehicle is necessary before the vehicle is immediately ready to drive, i.e. inputs to the corresponding operating devices are immediately converted into movements of the motor vehicle.

A particular advantage of the invention is that, according to the invention, the driver can use the already existing operating devices, which are used to operate the motor vehicle in the driving mode, to operate the virtual motor vehicle in the interactive simulation. This advantageously ensures that the driver can transfer the experience and skills gained in the simulation mode to real journeys with the real motor vehicle without any significant transfer effort. Rather, the driver can immediately put the contents of the interactive simulation into practice in the driving mode of the motor vehicle.

In addition, the motor vehicle according to the invention ensures that the driving mode and the simulation mode cannot be active at the same time. According to the invention, it is not possible for the driver to move the motor vehicle operated in simulation mode by making entries on the operating devices. This prevents a stationary motor vehicle from being set in motion by inputs to the operating devices, so that the interactive simulation can be carried out while the vehicle is stationary. For this purpose, the motor vehicle can, for example, be set up not to convert at least the inputs on the operating devices of the motor vehicle used to control the drive train into control commands for controlling the drive train of the motor vehicle.

In this way, it is advantageously achieved that the driver can test all functions of the motor vehicle, including within the system limits of the motor vehicle and its assistance functions, and gain appropriate experience and skills without creating a safety risk for the driver or other road users.

With the help of the motor vehicle according to the invention, the driver can test and learn its functions, particularly in simulation mode, wherever the motor vehicle is, i.e. H. can stand still and/or park. Learning the functions is possible, for example, in parking lots, but theoretically even while waiting in front of a closed railway barrier or at a red light.

In an advantageous development of the motor vehicle according to the invention, it is provided that each operating device is assigned at least one function of the motor vehicle in driving mode and at least one operating device is assigned the same at least one function of the virtual motor vehicle in simulation mode. In particular, each operating device can advantageously be assigned the same at least one function of the virtual motor vehicle in the simulation mode.

It is therefore proposed that the functions that are operated with the respective operating devices of the motor vehicle in driving mode are identical to the functions of the virtual motor vehicle that are operated with the respective operating device operated in simulation mode. For example, an accelerator pedal can be used to accelerate the motor vehicle in driving mode and to accelerate the virtual motor vehicle in simulation mode, or a steering wheel control lever can be used to operate an assistance function of the motor vehicle in driving mode and to operate the same assistance function in simulation mode. In general, in this way, an operating device can be used to operate at least one function of the motor vehicle in driving mode and to operate the same at least one function of the virtual motor vehicle in simulation mode.

This offers the advantage according to the invention that the knowledge gained in the context of the interactive simulation can be transferred particularly easily to reality, i.e. to driving the motor vehicle in driving mode. In this way, the driver does not have to make any significant transfer effort in order to transfer the knowledge gained during the interactive simulation to reality, i.e. to driving the motor vehicle in driving mode.

In a further advantageous development of the invention it is provided that the display device comprises a display integrated into a combination instrument of the motor vehicle. A combination instrument, or combination instrument for short, is understood to mean an instrument block of the motor vehicle, which is created by putting together several instruments, for example by putting together a speedometer, odometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, coolant temperature gauge, indicator lights and/or direction indicators (turn signals). Such a display device offers the advantage that the simulation output can be elegantly integrated into the motor vehicle and displayed in an intuitive way for the driver near the instruments of the motor vehicle.

Alternatively or in addition to this, the display device can include a display integrated into a center console of the motor vehicle. This offers the advantage that simulation output can also be realized on a larger display.

Alternatively or in addition to this, the display device can include a head-up display. This offers the advantage that the simulation output can be displayed to the driver in a particularly realistic and intuitive manner, since the simulation output is displayed in the area of the driver's field of vision while driving, i.e. in the area of the windshield, and the driver is not looking must lower or rotate to capture the simulation output in simulation mode. Such a display device based on a head-up display also offers the advantage that a particularly large area is available for a visual display.

Alternatively or in addition to this, the display device can comprise a head-mounted display. Such a head-mounted display can in particular be virtual reality glasses or augmented reality glasses. Such a display device based on a head-mounted display offers the advantage that the simulation output can be displayed to the driver in a particularly realistic and detailed manner.

The display device can alternatively or in addition to this include another display. The display can in particular be a media monitor, i.e. a media display. The display can in particular be a media monitor integrated into the center console of the motor vehicle.

In a further advantageous development of the invention it is provided that the motor vehicle has an operating mode selection device which is set up to send the switching signal to the control device when the motor vehicle is in driving mode and the driver operates the operating mode selection device. It is therefore proposed that the driver can trigger the switch from the driving mode to the simulation mode by actuating the operating mode selection device. Alternatively or in addition to this, it is provided that the operating mode selection device is set up to send the switching signal to the control device when the motor vehicle is in simulation mode and the driver operates the operating mode selection device. It is therefore proposed that the driver can trigger the switch from the simulation mode to the driving mode by actuating the operating mode selection device.

The operating mode selection device can be, for example, a switch, a controller and/or another control element. The operating mode selection device can in particular also be implemented as software, for example in the form of a menu that is displayed to the driver on a display and/or acoustically.

In a further advantageous development of the invention it is provided that the control device of the motor vehicle is set up to only switch to the simulation mode when the motor vehicle is stationary.

In this way, risky situations that may arise can be advantageously avoided ten if the driver uses the interactive simulation option while driving and is distracted by it.

In a further advantageous development of the invention it is provided that the control device is set up to end the simulation mode when the motor vehicle is switched off. This offers the advantage that the simulation mode can be ended in a particularly simple manner.

Alternatively or in addition to this, the control device can be set up to end the simulation mode when the motor vehicle is set in motion and/or to end the simulation mode when a parking lock of a transmission of the motor vehicle is released and/or to end the simulation mode when a The parking brake of the motor vehicle is released. This offers the advantage that risky situations can be avoided that could arise if the motor vehicle is moving while the driver is using the interactive simulation option and is thereby distracted.

In a further advantageous development of the invention it is provided that the operating devices have an accelerator pedal and/or a brake pedal and/or a steering wheel and/or a number of operating levers, in particular a number of steering wheel operating levers (steering column switches), and/or a number of Include control buttons and/or a number of control knobs and/or a number of other control devices.

This offers the advantage according to the invention that the driver is able to test the functionality and operation of those operating devices within the framework of the simulation mode, which are also usually used to operate the motor vehicle in driving mode.

In a further advantageous development of the invention, it is provided that the control device is set up to leave operating components of the motor vehicle, which are relevant for controlling the motor vehicle in driving mode, in an activated state in the simulation mode and / or to switch these operating components of the motor vehicle in the simulation mode to put it into an activated state. Such operating components of the motor vehicle can in particular include a brake booster and/or a power steering system of the motor vehicle.

It is therefore proposed that the operating components of the motor vehicle relevant for controlling the motor vehicle in driving mode are in an activated state in simulation mode. An activated state is understood to mean a state of the respective operating component of the motor vehicle, which the operating component also assumes while the motor vehicle is driving in driving mode. For this purpose, for example, a suction pump of a brake booster and/or a hydraulic pump of a power steering system of the motor vehicle can be placed in an activated state or left in an activated state.

This offers the advantage according to the invention that the operating devices assigned to the respective operating components of the motor vehicle, for example a steering wheel and/or a brake pedal, have a behavior that corresponds to the behavior during a real journey when the operating device is actuated by the driver in simulation mode. In this way, a particularly high level of realism of the interactive simulation in simulation mode can advantageously be achieved.

According to the invention it is further provided that the motor vehicle has at least one assistance system set up to carry out an assistance function. The computer unit of the motor vehicle is set up to recreate a journey with the motor vehicle in simulation mode as a virtual journey, in which at least one assistance function of the motor vehicle is used.

It is therefore proposed that, as part of the interactive simulation, in particular the use of the assistance functions of the motor vehicle is simulated. In this way, it is advantageously possible for the driver to learn the behavior, operation and in particular the system limits of the assistance functions implemented by the assistance systems of the motor vehicle, which can have a particularly high level of complexity, as part of the interactive simulation and to train how to use them.

According to the invention it is further provided that at least some of the operating devices of the motor vehicle are set up to operate at least one assistance function of the motor vehicle. This offers the advantage according to the invention that the driver can learn and train how to operate the assistance function with the help of the operating devices within the framework of the simulation mode.

In a further advantageous development of the invention, it is provided that the computer unit is set up to carry out sensor emulation to simulate the at least one assistance function. The computer unit sends this Sensor emulation Sensor signals, which depend on the course of the virtual journey, to the at least one assistance system of the motor vehicle.

Such sensor signals are in particular signals that are also generated in driving mode by sensors installed in the motor vehicle and sent to the respective assistance system. Examples of this are radar, lidar and/or camera systems that send sensor signals to an assistance system, for example an adaptive cruise control system (ACC system) and/or to a lane keeping assistance system.

This offers the advantage according to the invention that the real assistance systems installed in the motor vehicle can be used in simulation mode, so that the functionality of the assistance functions of the motor vehicle is conveyed to the driver in a particularly realistic manner.

Alternatively or in addition to this, the computer unit can be set up to simulate the at least one assistance function using a virtual assistance function model. A virtual assistance function model is understood to be a replica of the assistance function as a simulation model within the framework of the simulation.

It is therefore proposed that in the simulation mode the driver assistance systems installed in the real motor vehicle are not used, but rather an associated model is used as part of the simulation. This offers the advantage that a comprehensive simulation of the assistance functions of the motor vehicle is possible in a particularly simple manner.

According to the invention, it is further provided that the interactive simulation includes training videos in which functions of the motor vehicle relevant to the virtual journey are explained to the driver. The training videos precede the virtual journey, i.e. they are shown to the driver before the virtual journey.

In this way, it is advantageously possible to provide the driver with the necessary knowledge before carrying out the virtual journey, which enables him to correctly operate the motor vehicle and its functions as part of the virtual journey, so that the driver can learn quickly is made possible.

Advantageously, the interactive simulation can in particular include a control option that allows the driver to skip the training videos of the interactive simulation. The interactive simulation can advantageously provide this control option to the driver, particularly if the driver repeatedly tests a specific function of the motor vehicle as part of the interactive simulation, e.g. B. especially in the case of follow-up training.

According to the invention, it is further provided that the computer unit is set up to carry out virtual driver training in simulation mode as an interactive simulation. The virtual driver training trains the driver in the operation of the functions of the motor vehicle, in particular in the operation of the assistance functions of the motor vehicle.

Virtual driver training is understood to be an interactive simulation, which, based on real driver training with a real motor vehicle, specifically trains the driver in the operation of the motor vehicle and its functions by replicating selected driving situations. The virtual driver training can include, in particular as virtual trips, driving situations that are particularly complex or are associated with a particularly high risk potential. This may in particular include driving situations in which the assistance functions of the motor vehicle reach their system limits and/or manual intervention by the driver becomes necessary during partially automated or fully automated driving.

This offers the advantage according to the invention that the driver can be trained in a particularly effective and efficient manner in dealing with the functions of the motor vehicle and in particular in dealing with the assistance functions of the motor vehicle.

According to the invention it is further provided that the interactive simulation includes an integrated evaluation function with which the behavior of the driver in the virtual driver training is evaluated.

It is therefore proposed that the interactive simulation evaluates how well the driver has mastered the driving situations simulated in the virtual drive and/or to what extent the operation of the motor vehicle he performs corresponds to ideal operation of the motor vehicle. In particular, it is conceivable that long-term motivating gamification approaches are used, which offer the driver additional incentives to improve their skills as part of virtual driver training through points, skill levels, badges and/or other success systems.

This offers the advantage according to the invention that the driver receives direct feedback about his learning success and any need for improvement as part of the simulation and can thus estimate how far his personal training has progressed in dealing with the motor vehicle and its functions.

In a further advantageous development of the invention it is provided that the control device of the motor vehicle is set up to only activate at least one function of the motor vehicle for use by the driver when the driver has completed at least part of the virtual driver training, which teaches the driver how to operate the has successfully completed at least one function.

This offers the advantage according to the invention that the driver can be prevented from using functions of the motor vehicle whose operation and handling he has not yet adequately mastered.

In a further advantageous development of the invention, it is provided that the control device and/or the computer unit of the motor vehicle is set up to provide and manage at least one user account that is assigned to exactly one driver and includes information about the training progress of this driver. The information on training progress can indicate how far the personal training of the respective driver has progressed in handling the motor vehicle and its functions.

This offers the advantage according to the invention that several drivers can also use the motor vehicle to carry out individual virtual driver training and to track their progress in this regard.

In a further advantageous development of the invention, it is provided that the control device and/or the computer unit of the motor vehicle is set up to store the data describing the user account on an external memory. An external memory is understood to mean a memory that is spatially separated from the motor vehicle or which the driver can spatially separate from the motor vehicle. Such an external memory can in particular be a mobile memory, for example in the form of a chip card or another memory card.

This offers the advantage according to the invention that the driver can transfer his individual user account from a first motor vehicle to a second motor vehicle, in particular to a rental motor vehicle. For this purpose, the driver can, for example, insert a chip card, on which the data describing his user account (user account data) is stored, into the second motor vehicle, so that the control device and/or the computer unit of the second motor vehicle can read out the user account data.

In a further advantageous development of the invention it is provided that the virtual driver training includes an overview course as a training option. Such an overview course can, for example, include a selected number of driving situations, with each driving situation involving the use of a specific assistance function. This offers the advantage that the driver can be given a quick overview of the relevant functions of the motor vehicle as part of the interactive simulation.

Alternatively or in addition to this, virtual driver training can include training in special driving situations as a training option. Such driving situations can in particular be driving situations that are associated with particular complexity and/or have a particular potential for danger and/or illustrate the behavior of the functions of the motor vehicle in the area of the system limits. Such training in special driving situations offers the advantage that the driver can make a selection as to which special driving situations that he considers to be particularly relevant he wants to test and learn as part of the interactive simulation.

Alternatively or in addition to this, virtual driver training can include individual training as a training option. Individual training is understood to be a training course whose content depends on the behavior of the individual driver in the course of the virtual driver training so far. For example, if the driver has revealed weaknesses in dealing with a specific assistance function and/or a specific driving situation in the course of the virtual driver training so far, follow-up training can be carried out in this regard as part of the interactive simulation, in which the driver is explained what to pay attention to and how he has to react and in which he is given the opportunity to further train his skills within the framework of the same virtual ride or similar virtual rides.

This offers the advantage according to the invention that the driver's weaknesses in handling the motor vehicle and its functions can be overcome particularly effectively within the framework of the interactive simulation.

Furthermore, the invention provides that the driver is able to choose between the existing training options in the simulation mode.

• 1 - eine schematische Darstellung eines erfindungsgemäßen Kraftfahrzeuges;
• 2 - eine schematische Darstellung des Innenraums eines erfindungsgemäßen Kraftfahrzeuges.

The invention is explained in more detail below using exemplary embodiments with the accompanying drawings. Show it:

• 1 - a schematic representation of a motor vehicle according to the invention;
• 2 - A schematic representation of the interior of a motor vehicle according to the invention.

The 1 shows a schematic representation of a motor vehicle 1 according to the invention, which can be operated in a driving mode and in a simulation mode. The motor vehicle 1 has a computer unit 3 designed as a vehicle computer, which is connected to a control device 5. The motor vehicle 1 also has a display device 7, which in this exemplary embodiment is designed as a screen. The exemplary embodiment advantageously uses a media monitor that is already installed in the motor vehicle as the display device 7, ie a media display. The display device 7 is connected to the computer unit 3.

The motor vehicle 1 also has a number of operating devices 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 for operating the motor vehicle 1 by the driver 9. The operating devices shown in this exemplary embodiment are a steering wheel 11, an accelerator pedal 12, a brake pedal 13, two steering wheel control levers (steering column switch) 14 and a key control panel 15, the key control panel 15 having six control buttons. The operating devices 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 are connected to the control device 5.

In the exemplary embodiment 1 All inputs from the driver 9 on the operating devices 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 are interpreted by the control device 5. The motor vehicle 1 is thus set up by its control device 5 to interpret inputs from the driver 9 on the operating devices 11, 12, 13, 14, 15.

If the motor vehicle 1 is in driving mode, at least some of the inputs from the driver 9 on the operating devices 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 are interpreted by the control device 5 as driving commands and converted into movements of the motor vehicle 1. For example, if the driver 9 presses the accelerator pedal 12, the control device 5 interprets this input as a driving command, namely as an acceleration command, and the motor vehicle 1 converts this driving command into an acceleration of the motor vehicle 1.

However, if the motor vehicle is in simulation mode, all inputs from the driver 9 on the operating devices 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 are not interpreted by the control device 5 as driving commands, so that the motor vehicle 1 does not convert these into a movement of the motor vehicle 1 . If the motor vehicle 1 is, for example, in simulation mode and the driver 9 presses the accelerator pedal 12, this input is not interpreted by the control device 5 as a driving command and the motor vehicle 1 does not convert this actuation of the accelerator pedal 12 into an acceleration of the motor vehicle 1.

The motor vehicle 1 cannot be in driving mode and simulation mode at the same time.

The motor vehicle 1 also has an assistance system 8 set up to carry out an assistance function, which is connected to the control device 5. In this exemplary embodiment, this assistance function is a partially automated driving of the motor vehicle 1. The assistance system 8 is equipped with several, in the 1 Sensors, not shown, of the motor vehicle 1 in the form of a distance radar and a camera system, which send sensor signals to the assistance system 8. The assistance function realized by the assistance system 8 can be operated by the driver 9 by operating the steering wheel control lever 14.

The control device 5 of the motor vehicle 1 is further set up to receive a switching signal and, upon receipt of the switching signal, to switch the operating mode of the motor vehicle 1 between the driving mode and the simulation mode. For example, if the motor vehicle is in driving mode and the driver operates an operating mode selection device (in 1 not shown) of the vehicle 1, which in the exemplary embodiment of 1 can be operated by the keys of the keypad 15, the operating mode selection device sends the switching signal to the control device 5, so that the control device 5 switches the operating mode of the motor vehicle 1 from the driving mode to the simulation mode.

The control device 5 of the motor vehicle 1 is set up to only switch to the simulation mode when the motor vehicle 1 is stationary, ie when the motor vehicle 1 is not moving. This is done in the exemplary embodiment 1 realized in that the control device 5 of the motor vehicle 1 is set up only in to switch the simulation mode when an automatic transmission (in 1 not shown) of the motor vehicle 1 is in a parking position (“P” position).

If the motor vehicle 1 is in simulation mode and the driver 9 operates the operating mode selection device using the keys on the keypad 15, the operating mode selection device sends the switching signal to the control device 5, so that the control device 5 switches the operating mode of the motor vehicle from the simulation mode the driving mode.

The motor vehicle 1 is fully ready to drive in driving mode 1 and can be driven in a conventional manner and, in particular, accelerated and set in motion by the driver 9 through inputs on the operating devices 11, 12, 13, 14, 15. However, if the motor vehicle 1 is in simulation mode, the motor vehicle 1 is not ready to drive, since all of the driver 9's inputs to the operating devices 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 are not interpreted as driving commands. The driver 9 can therefore not drive the motor vehicle 1 in simulation mode, i.e. in particular cannot accelerate or set it in motion.

The control device 5 is furthermore set up to control the operating components of the motor vehicle 1 that are relevant for the control of the motor vehicle 1 in the driving mode, namely an in 1 Suction pump, not shown, of a brake booster of the motor vehicle 1 and a hydraulic pump, also not shown, of a power steering system of the motor vehicle 1, to be left in an activated state when the motor vehicle is in simulation mode. This advantageously ensures that the driver 9 in the simulation mode is able to handle the steering wheel 11 and the brake pedal 13 in a way that corresponds to real driving with the motor vehicle 1 in the driving mode. In this way, the driver 9 can advantageously be given a realistic driving experience in the simulation mode.

The control device 5 is also set up to end the simulation mode when the driver 9 releases a parking lock of the automatic transmission of the motor vehicle 1, i.e. when the driver 9 moves the automatic transmission of the motor vehicle 1 from a parking position to another position, such as a Driving position, transferred.

The computer unit 3 of the motor vehicle 1 is set up to carry out an inactive simulation in the simulation mode. A journey in the motor vehicle 1 is simulated as a virtual journey with a virtual motor vehicle. At least one trip with the motor vehicle 1 is simulated as a virtual trip, in which the assistance function implemented by the assistance system 8 is used in the form of partially automated driving. In this way, the driver 9 is advantageously given the opportunity to test the assistance function of the partially automated driving of the motor vehicle 1 as part of the virtual drive in simulation mode.

The computer unit 3 is also set up to interpret inputs from the driver 9 on the operating devices 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 in the simulation mode as simulation commands with which the virtual motor vehicle is controlled in the simulation.

Each operating device 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 is assigned at least one function of the motor vehicle 1 in driving mode and each operating device 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 is assigned the same at least one function of the virtual motor vehicle in simulation mode. For example, the steering wheel control lever 14 is assigned the assistance function of partially automated driving realized by the assistance system 8, i.e. the assistance function can be operated by operating the steering wheel control lever 14. In the simulation mode, the same assistance function of partially automated driving of the virtual motor vehicle can then also be operated by the steering wheel control lever 14.

To simulate the assistance function realized by the assistance system 8 in the simulation mode, the computer unit 3 carries out a sensor emulation. The computer unit 3 simulates the sensor signals of the sensors of the motor vehicle 1 connected to the assistance system 8 and sends these sensor signals to the assistance system 8. The sensor signals depend on the course of the virtual journey in the simulation mode. For example, the computer unit 3 sends a distance signal to the assistance system 8 as a sensor signal, which depends on how large the distance is between the virtual motor vehicle and an object in the virtual environment in the surroundings of the virtual motor vehicle in the virtual journey. The assistance function implemented by the assistance system 8 can be tested by the driver in a realistic manner in simulation mode and how to use this assistance function can be learned.

The display device 7 of the motor vehicle 1 is set up to display the virtual trip to the driver 9 as a simulation output 21 of the interactive simulation in the simulation mode. For this purpose, the driver can, for example, be shown a virtual environment that replicates an environment of the motor vehicle that is visible to the driver during a real journey For example, the perspective of the driver 9 through the windshield of the motor vehicle 1 corresponds.

The 2 shows the interior of a motor vehicle 1 according to the invention, which can be operated in a driving mode and in a simulation mode.

The interior has a steering wheel 11, an accelerator pedal 12, a brake pedal 13, as operating devices for operating the motor vehicle 1 2 steering wheel control lever 14, not shown, a button control panel 15 with six buttons and a number of four control knobs 16. The operating controls 16 and the keypad 15 are integrated into a center console 23 of the motor vehicle 1.

The display device of the motor vehicle 1 includes in the in 2 shown embodiment, a display 35 integrated into a combination instrument of the motor vehicle 1, a display 37 integrated into the center console 23 of the motor vehicle 1, a head-mounted display in the form of augmented reality glasses 31, which is connected to the motor vehicle 1, and a head-up display 33. The display devices 31, 33, 35, 37 are set up to display the virtual trip to the driver 9 in simulation mode as a simulation output 21 of the interactive simulation.

The interactive simulation of the virtual trip 21 includes upstream training videos in which functions of the motor vehicle 1 relevant to the virtual trip are explained to the driver 9. Before a virtual journey, which simulates a journey with the motor vehicle in which the assistance function of partially automated driving is used, the driver is shown how to deal with this assistance function and how to operate the assistance function with the operating devices 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 , 16 explained.

In the simulation mode, a virtual driver training is then carried out as an interactive simulation, which trains the driver in the operation of the assistance function of partially automated driving implemented by the assistance system 8. The virtual driver training includes, as training options, an overview course in which the driver 9 is taught the basic handling of the assistance function of partially automated driving in a brief overview, training in special driving situations, which in particular include the operation of the assistance function of partially automated driving in the area of its system limits and an individual training course, the content of which depends on the driver's behavior in the course of the virtual driver training so far. The computer unit 3 is set up to allow the driver 9 to choose between the training options in simulation mode.

The interactive simulation includes an integrated evaluation function with which the behavior of the driver 9 is evaluated in the virtual driver training.

It is now assumed that the driver would like to learn more about the assistance functions implemented by the assistance systems of his motor vehicle and to train his handling of the motor vehicle and its functions, in particular its assistance functions. To do this, the driver parks his vehicle, activates the parking lock of the vehicle's automatic transmission by moving the automatic transmission into the parking position, and activates the training mode via a vehicle menu displayed to him using the motor vehicle's display device.

In training mode, the driver now has the opportunity to choose whether he would like to complete an overview course or take part in training for specific driving situations or to reduce possible deficits as part of an individual training course based on his previous training successes. After selection, the selected type of simulation starts. As part of the interactive simulation, the virtual journeys are supplemented by upstream training videos (tutoring videos) in which the relevant elements of the upcoming virtual journey and the driving situations contained therein are explained to the driver before the driver drives through them himself in the virtual journey and the associated ones Functions of the motor vehicle used.

During the interactive simulation, the driver is shown a virtual environment as a simulation output in which he can complete a virtual journey with the virtual motor vehicle, which represents a realistic replica of the motor vehicle.

The operating components of the motor vehicle that are relevant for controlling the motor vehicle in driving mode are in an activated state during the interactive simulation in order to give the driver a realistic driving experience. However, inputs from the driver on the motor vehicle's operating devices are not interpreted as driving commands and are not converted into movements of the motor vehicle. In the simulation, since the motor vehicle does not move in reality, the driver can safely and extensively learn the available assistance functions of the motor vehicle and train how to use the assistance functions within the area of their system limits. The driver can use the knowledge and skills acquired in the interactive simulation Then you can easily use it during a real journey in a motor vehicle without having to make any significant transfer effort.

In the virtual driver training, the driver is informed about a system limit in a training video, for example. Such a system limit can, for example, consist in the fact that the motor vehicle's assistance system does not reliably detect standing obstacles if they are in the immediate vicinity of guardrails. Directly following the training video, the driver can drive through the situation as an interactive simulation as part of a virtual drive in the virtual motor vehicle.

Such a virtual journey can, for example, include a special driving situation of the following type: In the interactive simulation, the driver drives on a motorway using the assistance function of partially automated driving towards another vehicle that is on the left lane in the immediate vicinity of the guardrail due to a defect had to stop. As was previously explained to the driver in the training video, the assistance function of your own vehicle does not react to the stationary vehicle. Since the driver has no previous experience in dealing with the assistance function of the motor vehicle, he does not intervene in a timely manner and does not take over manual control of the motor vehicle in a timely manner. An accident therefore occurs. The virtual journey that recreated the special driving situation is ended.

The driver is then given suitable additional training as individual training, in which the driver is explained how he should react correctly in the driving situation and how he can improve his ability to use the motor vehicle in this regard. The driver can then drive through the same driving situation again as a virtual drive or, alternatively, continue the virtual driver training with another virtual drive and/or testing another special driving situation. In this way, the driver can drive through the same driving situation again and is given the opportunity to react appropriately to the driving situation and to take over manual control of the virtual motor vehicle so that an accident can be prevented.

If the driver wants to end the simulation mode and thus the virtual driver training, he can exit the simulation mode, for example, by making a corresponding selection in a menu, i.e. by activating the operating mode selection device, by switching the automatic transmission to a position other than the parking position or by Turn off the vehicle and leave it. If the driver ends the simulation mode using one of the first two options mentioned, the motor vehicle is then immediately ready to drive again.

Claims (10)

Motor vehicle (1), which can be operated in a driving mode and in a simulation mode, with a computer unit (3), a control device (5), a display device (7), at least one assistance system (8) set up to carry out an assistance function and a number of operating devices (11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16) for operating the motor vehicle (1) by a driver (9), wherein - the motor vehicle (1) is set up to receive input from the driver (9) in the driving mode Operating devices (11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16) are to be interpreted as driving commands and converted into movements of the motor vehicle (1) and the motor vehicle (1) is set up to receive all inputs from the driver (9) on the operating devices (in simulation mode). 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16) not to be interpreted as driving commands and not to be implemented in movements of the motor vehicle (1), - at least some of the operating devices (11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16) for operating at least one assistance function of the motor vehicle (1) is set up, - the control device (5) of the motor vehicle (1) is set up to receive a switching signal and, upon receipt of the switching signal, to switch an operating mode of the motor vehicle (1) between the driving mode and the simulation mode, - the computer unit (3) of the motor vehicle (1) is set up to carry out an interactive simulation in the simulation mode, the interactive simulation being a journey with the motor vehicle (1), in which at least one assistance function of the motor vehicle (1) is used simulates a virtual journey with a virtual motor vehicle, and the computer unit (3) is set up to interpret inputs from the driver (9) on the operating devices (11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16) in the simulation mode as simulation commands with which the virtual motor vehicle (1) is controlled in the simulation, - the display device (7) of the motor vehicle (1) is set up to display the virtual trip to the driver (9) in the simulation mode as a simulation output (21) of the interactive simulation, the driver ( 9) with the aid of the display device (7) of the motor vehicle (1), a virtual environment is displayed, which reproduces the virtual journey with the virtual motor vehicle (1) and an environment of the motor vehicle (1) that is visible to the driver (9) during a real journey ), whereby the interactive simulation of the virtual ride includes training videos preceding it, in which the Functions of the motor vehicle (1) relevant to the virtual journey are explained to the driver (9), - the computer unit (3) is set up to carry out virtual driver training in simulation mode as an interactive simulation, which teaches the driver (9) how to operate the assistance functions of the Motor vehicle (1) trains, and - the interactive simulation includes an integrated evaluation function with which the behavior of the driver (9) is evaluated in the virtual driver training. Motor vehicle (1). Claim 1 , characterized in that each operating device (11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16) is assigned at least one function of the motor vehicle (1) in driving mode and at least one operating device (11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16), in particular each operating device (11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16), which is assigned the same at least one function of the virtual motor vehicle in simulation mode. Motor vehicle (1). Claim 1 or 2 , characterized in that the display device (7) has a display (35) integrated into a combination instrument of the motor vehicle (1) and/or a display (37) integrated into a center console (23) of the motor vehicle (1) and/or a head Up-display (33) and/or a head-mounted display, in particular virtual reality glasses or augmented reality glasses (31). Motor vehicle (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the motor vehicle (1) has an operating mode selection device which is set up to send the switching signal to the control device (5) when the motor vehicle (1) is in driving mode and the driver (9) operates the operating mode selection device, and/or is set up to send the switching signal to the control device (5) when the motor vehicle (1) is in simulation mode and the driver (9) selects the operating mode. Selection device activated. Motor vehicle (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control device (5) of the motor vehicle (1) is set up to only switch to the simulation mode when the motor vehicle (1) is stationary. Motor vehicle (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control device (5) is set up to end the simulation mode when the motor vehicle (1) is switched off and/or to end the simulation mode when the motor vehicle (1) is set in motion and/or to end the simulation mode when a parking lock of a transmission of the motor vehicle (1) is released and/or to end the simulation mode when a parking brake of the motor vehicle (1) is released. Motor vehicle (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the operating devices (11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16) are an accelerator pedal (12) and/or a brake pedal (13) and/or a steering wheel (11). and/or a number of control levers, in particular a number of steering wheel control levers (14), and/or a number of control buttons (15) and/or a number of control knobs (16) and/or a number of other control devices. Motor vehicle (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control device (5) is set up to control the operating components of the motor vehicle (1) relevant to the control of the motor vehicle (1) in the driving mode, in particular a brake amplifier and/or a power steering system Motor vehicle (1), to leave it in an activated state in the simulation mode and / or to put it in an activated state in the simulation mode. Motor vehicle (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the computer unit (3) is set up to simulate the at least one assistance function using a virtual assistance function model and / or to carry out sensor emulation to simulate the at least one assistance function, wherein the computer unit (3 ) for sensor emulation, sensor signals dependent on a course of the virtual journey are sent to the at least one assistance system (8) of the motor vehicle (1). Motor vehicle (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the virtual driver training includes, as training options, an overview course and/or training in special driving situations and/or individual training, the content of the individual training depending on the behavior of the driver (9). The previous course of the virtual driver training depends, and the computer unit (3) is set up to enable the driver (9) to choose between the training options in simulation mode.

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