DE102018222321B4 - communication system - Google Patents

Abstract

Method for determining a meeting time of a first mobile object with a second object with the following steps: - determining (S1) a destination, a position and a speed of the first object by means of a communication unit (12; 16); - determining (S2) first route-related data of a route from the position to the destination of the first object;- determining (S3) a point in time or a time interval and a location at which the first object and the second object meet; - the first and/or the second object is a pedestrian or a cyclist, - the communication unit (12; 16) is part of a traffic signal system (18) or is connected to a traffic signal system (18), - the target of the pedestrian is one end of a Pedestrian crossing and the second object is connected to the traffic signal system (18), the method further comprising the following steps: - determining an end time of a red phase for vehicle traffic; - determining whether the pedestrian will reach the destination before the end of the red phase; - determining a reaction signal from the communication unit, based on determining whether the pedestrian will reach the destination before the end of the red phase, - the communication unit transmitting the reaction signal to the traffic signal system, whereupon a red phase for vehicle traffic is to be extended in such a way that the pedestrian will reach the target before the end of the red phase.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a method for determining a meeting time of a first mobile object with a second object. The invention also relates to a communication system for transmitting data and a communication unit.

TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

Smartphones are well known and offer an opportunity to increase the safety of other road users. To this end, the applicant has presented the X2Safe algorithm for use in vehicles and, for example, on smartphones and smartwatches. The application connects road users in a cloud. On the basis of sensed data, it is possible to determine whether a collision is imminent and, if necessary, to warn road users. More information about X2Safe can be found on the Internet at https://www.zf.com/corporate/de de/magazine/magazin artikel viewpaqe 22220328.html.

the DE 10 2006 057 942 A1 relates to a communication device with a first and a second transceiver, which are designed for wireless communication via a radio network and at least the first transceiver includes a location determination device, wherein at least the first transceiver has an operating function when it is activated using an input device, automatically generates a status message with a data profile that can be specified and is stored in the transceiver, comprising information to be generated about one's current location and/or the time it takes to arrive at a meeting point provided for with the owner of the second transceiver, and is sent to the second transceiver. The invention also relates to a method for exchanging messages relating to a meeting place agreement.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Against this background, the object of the invention is to improve the interaction possibilities of human and/or machine-supported road users.

According to the invention, this object is achieved by a method for determining a meeting time of a first mobile object with a second object having the features of patent claim 1 and/or by a communication system for transmitting data having the features of patent claim 10 .

• - ein Verfahren zum Ermitteln eines Treffzeitpunkts eines ersten mobilen Objekts mit einem zweiten Objekt mit den folgenden Schritten: Ermitteln eines Ziels, einer Position und einer Geschwindigkeit des ersten Objekts; Ermitteln von ersten routenbezogenen Daten einer Route von der Position zu dem Ziel des ersten Objekts; Ermitteln eines Zeitpunkts oder eines Zeitintervalls, in dem sich das erste Objekts und das zweite Objekt treffen; Ermitteln eines Endzeitpunkts einer Grünphase für Fußgänger; Ermitteln, ob der Fußgänger das Ziel vor dem Ende der Grünphase erreichen wird; Ermitteln eines Reaktionssignals der ersten und/oder der zweiten Kommunikationseinheit, aufgrund des Ermittelns, ob der Fußgänger das Ziel vor dem Ende der Grünphase erreichen wird, sowie
• - ein Kommunikationssystem zum Übertragen von Daten mit wenigstens einer ersten tragbaren Kommunikationseinheit, wenigstens einer zweiten Kommunikationseinheit und mit wenigstens einer Recheneinheit, wobei die erste Kommunikationseinheit ein Eingabemittel zum Eingeben eines Ziels eines ersten Objekts und Mittel zum Erfassen einer Position und einer Geschwindigkeit des ersten Objekts sowie eine Schnittstelle zum Übermitteln der Position, der Geschwindigkeit und des Ziels aufweist, die Recheneinheit eine Schnittstelle zum Empfangen der Position, der Geschwindigkeit und des Ziels aufweist und eingerichtet ist, erste routenbezogene Daten aufgrund der Position, der Geschwindigkeit und des Ziels des ersten Objekts zu ermitteln und eingerichtet ist, die routenbezogenen Daten an eine zweite Kommunikationseinheit zu übermitteln, die zweite Kommunikationseinheit eine Schnittstelle aufweist, um routenbezogenen Daten von der Recheneinheit zu empfangen, und eingerichtet ist, einen Zeitpunkt oder ein Zeitintervall, in dem sich das erste Objekts und das zweite Objekt treffen, zu ermitteln; sowie
• - eine Kommunikationseinheit mit einem ersten Eingabemittel zum Eingeben eines Ziels eines ersten Objekts und Mittel zum Erfassen einer Position und einer Geschwindigkeit des ersten Objekts sowie eine Schnittstelle zum Übermitteln der Position, der Geschwindigkeit und des Ziels, welche eingerichtet ist, die Position und die Geschwindigkeit an eine Recheneinheit zu übermitteln, wobei die Kommunikationseinheit eingerichtet ist, einen Zeitpunkt oder ein Zeitintervall, in dem sich das erste Objekt und ein zweites Objekt treffen, zu empfangen.

Accordingly, it is provided:

• - A method for determining a meeting time of a first mobile object with a second object with the following steps: determining a destination, a position and a speed of the first object; determining first route-related data of a route from the position to the destination of the first object; determining a point in time or a time interval at which the first object and the second object meet; determining an end time of a green phase for pedestrians; determining whether the pedestrian will reach the destination before the end of the green phase; Determining a reaction signal from the first and/or the second communication unit based on determining whether the pedestrian will reach the destination before the end of the green phase, and
• - a communication system for transmitting data with at least one first portable communication unit, at least one second communication unit and with at least one computing unit, wherein the first communication unit has an input means for entering a destination of a first object and means for detecting a position and a speed of the first object as well has an interface for transmitting the position, the speed and the destination, the processing unit has an interface for receiving the position, the speed and the destination and is set up to determine first route-related data based on the position, the speed and the destination of the first object and is set up to transmit the route-related data to a second communication unit, the second communication unit has an interface to receive route-related data from the computing unit, and is set up to specify a point in time or ei determine n time interval in which the first object and the second object meet; as
• - a communication unit having a first input means for inputting a destination of a first object and means for detecting a position and a speed of the first object, and an interface for communicating the position, the speed and the destination, which is set up to indicate the position and the speed to transmit a computing unit, wherein the communication unit is set up to receive a point in time or a time interval in which the first object and a second object meet.

Objects within the meaning of this application are objects or people between which an interaction exists or is to be organized. For example, an object can be a person, transport vehicle, car, truck or public transport. These objects are also referred to as mobile objects in this application. A non-mobile object is, for example, a traffic signal system. This application relates to first, second and further objects. Second objects differ from a first object. Third objects differ from a first and second object.

A goal can be a final goal or an intermediate goal. For example, a human road user can enter a destination, such as a place of work, into a navigation system. The workplace is a final destination. An intermediate destination can be a gas station on the way to work or a pedestrian path that has to be crossed. In a logistics center, a destination can also be a storage address for a product, e.g. a row and a shelf.

A position is an indication of the location of an object. Position information can also be area information. Positions can be determined on the basis of satellite positioning systems such as GPS.

A speed is the change in position within a unit of time, e.g. one hour.

A route is a path connection between a starting point and a destination.

Route related data is any information related to a route between a starting point and a destination and may include one or more paths from a starting point to a destination. Route-related data may also include information about start time, arrival time, duration, object traversing the route, and the like.

A meeting point is a place where two or more objects meet. In the case of mobile objects, the meeting point can be a common point in the objects' routes or a point close to the objects' routes. If an object is not mobile, the meeting point does not have to be determined, but is determined by the position of the non-mobile object. A meeting point can also be an area such as a parking lot or the like.

A meeting time can be a specific point in time or a time interval and refers to the time at which two objects reach a meeting point.

An alternative option regarding meeting two objects may relate to meeting a first object with an alternative third object instead of meeting a second object. An alternative option may also refer to alternative meeting points or meeting times.

An internet-enabled small device is, for example, an internet-enabled telephone (smartphone), an internet-enabled watch (smartwatch), a tablet, an internet-enabled bicycle speedometer or the like.

Delays or accelerations with regard to a meeting time relate to the shifting forwards or backwards of a determined meeting time.

A pedestrian is a person who walks. Inline skaters, roller skaters, skateboarders, wheelchair users and the like are also pedestrians. A cyclist, short cyclist, Swiss German Velofahrer, is a person who uses a bicycle to get around.

A pedestrian crossing is a crossing facility on streets for pedestrians. A pedestrian crossing is marked by wide lines on the roadway, which also serve as traffic signs, in addition to the notice with the appropriate signage. A pedestrian crossing may contain a traffic signal system.

In this patent application, the wording that an object is connected to another object refers to a data connection between two objects. This includes in particular Internet connections and wireless connections.

A traffic signal system is colloquially referred to as a traffic light. This serves to control road traffic. Light signal systems order road users to behave in a certain way by emitting controlled signals. These traffic signs, which vary in shape and color, each have a different meaning and only act in the opposite direction to the traffic to be controlled. This patent application assumes that a traffic light system emits red or yellow or green signals. A traffic signal system often directs signals to a selection of road users. As a rule, a traffic signal system differentiates according to the direction from which road users are coming and according to the direction in which road users are moving. If a traffic signal system sends a red/gel particular road user, one speaks of a red phase/amber phase/green phase of the traffic signal system for these road users.

A response signal is a signal that is generated as a result of a specific event or a specific finding. A reaction signal can be a warning signal, for example, when a computing unit or communication unit recognizes that a dangerous situation is present.

A recommendation is a non-binding support or decision-making aid. It can come from a person or from a technical device with or without a request.

A start time is an indication of time when an object embarks on a route between a start and a destination. A start time can refer to the beginning of a route or to its continuation after reaching an intermediate destination.

In this patent application, history refers to recorded data relating to the past, e.g., detected events or detected properties.

Vehicles within the meaning of this patent application are motor-driven land vehicles. This also includes rail vehicles and robot-controlled trucks on rails or wheels.

Autonomous operation is the operation of devices, e.g. vehicles or mobile robots, without human intervention. For vehicles, “autonomous operation” means that no human intervention is required other than setting a start or destination.

An interface is a device between at least two functional units, at which an exchange of logical quantities, e.g. data, or physical quantities, e.g. electrical signals, takes place, either unidirectionally or bidirectionally. The exchange can be analogue or digital. The exchange can also be wired or wireless.

A processing unit is a device that processes incoming information and outputs a result of this processing. The computing unit can form an independent functional unit, be part of another device, such as a smartphone or vehicle, or be implemented in a cloud. It is understood that these variants are included within the scope of protection of this application. Accordingly, the application uses the phrase “communication unit connected to a computing unit”. A cloud is an IT infrastructure that can be accessed via the Internet.

Position systems are used for position estimation, i.e. the estimation of a location in relation to a defined fixed point. An example of a positioning system is GPS (global positioning system).

An artificial neural network (ANN) is in particular a network of networked artificial neurons that is simulated in a computer program. The artificial neurons are typically arranged on different layers. Usually, the artificial neural network comprises an input layer and an output layer (output layer), whose neuron output is the only one of the artificial neural network that is visible. Layers lying between the input layer and the output layer are typically referred to as hidden layers. Typically, an architecture or

Initiated topology of an artificial neural network and then trained in a training phase for a specific task or for multiple tasks in a training phase.

The term "topology of an ANN" includes all aspects relating to the structure of an ANN. This includes, for example, the number of neurons in the ANN, the allocation of the neurons to the individual layers of the ANN, the number of layers in an ANN, the networking of the neurons and the weighting of the networking.

The training of the artificial neural network typically includes changing a weight of a connection between two artificial neurons of the artificial neural network. The weight contains information about the strength of the consideration of an input of a neuron. The training of the artificial neural network can also include developing new connections between artificial neurons, deleting existing connections between artificial neurons, adjusting threshold values of the artificial neurons and/or adding or deleting artificial neurons.

An example of an artificial neural network is a shallow artificial neural network, which often contains only a single hidden layer between the input layer and the output layer and is therefore relatively easy to train. Another one An example is a deep artificial neural network that contains multiple nested hidden layers of artificial neurons between the input layer and the output layer. The deep artificial neural network enables improved recognition of patterns and complex relationships

For example, the artificial neural network can be a single or multi-layer feedforward network or a recurrent network. Feedforward networks have neurons that are fed exclusively forward, i.e. a neuron is fed exclusively from higher layers.

A recurrent network has bidirectionally connected neurons, i.e. a neuron is also fed from deeper layers. In this way, when the ANN is run later, information from an earlier run can be taken into account, which creates the ability to remember.

A training system is a computing unit on which an ANN is trained.

In this application, training data are data pairs consisting of input data that are to be processed by the ANN and target result data that are to be determined by the ANN. During the training, the ANN is adjusted on the basis of a comparison of target result data with the actual result data determined by the ANN, as a result of which a training effect occurs.

The input data with which the ANN is fed in this application is route-related data that can contain information about a first and/or second object.

An evaluation unit is a device that processes incoming information and outputs a result of this processing. Electronic circuits such as central processing units or graphics processors are evaluation units.

Computer program products typically include a sequence of instructions that, when the program is loaded, cause the hardware to perform a specific method that leads to a specific result.

A communication unit is used for data exchange between technical units. A communication unit can be part of a terminal device or be embodied as a central communication unit that exchanges data between a number of terminal devices. It goes without saying that a communication unit does not have to be part of a terminal device, but can also be connected to it. A communication unit can be portable. Portable means that the communication unit can be functionally attached to an object. The supporting object can be an object, e.g. public transport.

In a communication system, data is exchanged between several technical units. Accordingly, a communication system comprises at least two communication units and a computing unit for processing the exchanged data.

An input means is an interface between a user and a technical device. An input means can, for example, be in the form of a button, touchpad, camera, voice input means or the like.

The basic idea of the invention is to record road users with regard to a destination and a speed and to use the recorded data to optimize interactions between road users.

In this way, numerous interactions between different road users can be improved.

Advantageous refinements and developments result from the further dependent claims and from the description with reference to the figures of the drawing.

For example, it can be provided that the first communication unit is part of a vehicle, e.g. a truck in a storage system or logistics center. Trucks of this type are often controlled at least partially autonomously, in that the trucks drive autonomously to a pickup location for goods, pick up goods autonomously at the destination and bring the goods autonomously to a pickup location. The processing unit can be embodied as a central processing unit that determines routes for a number of trucks, or as a processing unit that is part of the truck. The second communication unit can be embodied as a robot that picks up the goods at the pick-up location, or as a computer that supports a person with regard to the planning of work steps.

As a further alternative, the invention can also contribute to increasing the utilization of transport vehicles by the first and/or the second communication unit being part of a truck and the processing unit being designed as a cloud. Alternatively, one of the communication units as a planning computer that plans routes for one or more trucks, and the other communication unit can be part of a truck. This makes it possible to determine whether goods from one truck can be transported on at least part of the route in another truck with free loading capacity. In this way, an automatically controlled “carpooling opportunity for goods” can be implemented.

Furthermore, it can be provided that the first communication unit is designed as a smartphone or as a smartwatch. In this case, the computing unit can be part of the smartphone or the smartwatch or a cloud to which the smartphone or the smartwatch is connected. According to the invention, the second communication unit is part of a traffic signal system or is connected to the traffic signal system. This would allow a smartphone or watch to recognize that a traffic signal system is approaching along the route. This means, for example, that pedestrians who are slow or who have difficulty walking can be warned based on their speed if they do not have enough time to cross the pedestrian crossing despite a green traffic light. In addition, it can be provided that the traffic signal system recognizes that there is still a pedestrian on the pedestrian crossing and correspondingly extends a red phase for motor vehicle traffic. Alternatively, it is conceivable to signal to vehicle drivers that a red traffic signal, which may not be visible behind a curve, is imminent. Vehicle drivers can thus plan acceleration maneuvers better. Thus, the fuel consumption can be reduced.

Alternatively, the second communication unit can also be in the form of a smartphone or smartwatch, i.e. the smartphone or watch determines the meeting point and the time or time interval (meeting time) at which the first and second objects meet. In this case, the first communication unit can be part of a vehicle, which is a ride for the user of the smartphone or watch. The vehicle can be, for example, a private car or public transport. The computing unit can be part of the vehicle or be designed as a cloud. Thus, for example, private carpooling opportunities can be organized more flexibly, since a large number of carpooling opportunities can be suggested to a passenger if there is sufficient user coverage.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the method detects decelerations or accelerations with regard to the point in time or the time interval in which the first object and/or the second object reach the destination and reacts to the detected deceleration or acceleration. In this way, for example, delays or irregularities during the operation of public transport can be taken into account directly and automatically for a traveler's individual route planning.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the second object is a mobile object and second route-related data of a route from a position to a destination of the second object are determined in order to determine a meeting time and a meeting point at which the first object and the second object meet, to determine. For example, it is conceivable that both objects are a vehicle and the meeting time and of the vehicles is determined in order to load cargo from the first vehicle into the second vehicle. This allows the utilization of vehicles to be increased. This reduces traffic. Cargo includes not only goods, but also passengers.

Alternatively, the first object can be designed as a means of public transport and the second object can be designed as a terminal device, e.g. a smartphone, of a passenger. Irregularities in the timetable of public transport can thus be recognized early on by a passenger, so that the passenger can react to them in good time. This reduces waiting times for using public transport. Thus, the acceptance of public transport can be increased.

According to the invention, the first and/or the second object is a pedestrian. Pedestrians often carry smartphones or smartwatches with them. Thus, the advantages and application possibilities of the invention as described above can also be used on the go. It is thus possible for pedestrians to interact with other road users in order to improve their route planning.

According to the invention, the target of the first object is an end of a pedestrian crossing and the second object is connected to a traffic signal system.
It is also advantageous if the first communication unit is in the form of a smartphone or watch. In this case, the computing unit can be part of the smartphone or the smartwatch or a cloud to which the smartphone or the smartwatch is connected. According to the invention, the second communication unit is part of a traffic signal system or is connected to the traffic signal system. This means that a smartphone or watch can see that a traffic light system is approaching along the route.

Alternatively, it is conceivable to signal drivers that a red traffic signal system, the may not be visible behind a curve is imminent. Thus, vehicle drivers can plan acceleration maneuvers better. Thus, the fuel consumption can be reduced.

According to the invention, the second communication unit transmits a reaction signal to the traffic signal system, whereupon a traffic signal system phase is extended in such a way that the pedestrian will reach the destination safely. It can thus be provided that the traffic signal system recognizes that there is still a pedestrian on the pedestrian crossing and correspondingly extends a red phase for vehicle traffic.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the reaction signal is a recommendation to cross a pedestrian crossing or a recommendation not to cross the pedestrian crossing. This means, for example, that slow pedestrians or pedestrians with walking disabilities can be warned based on their speed if they do not have enough time to cross the pedestrian crossing despite a green traffic light.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, a starting time for the first object is determined on the basis of a known history, which is stored as a topology in an artificial neural network. Accordingly, a communication unit or a computing unit can be set up to learn a user's habits and to take the habits into account when planning the route. In the case of pedestrians, it is conceivable, for example, that they move at different speeds depending on the time and/or destination, for example in order to drink a coffee in the morning while walking or to accompany a child to a care facility. In addition, pedestrians can have habits, such as going to a bakery in the morning, which can be taken into account when planning a route, especially when determining a starting time.

Time-related fluctuations in speed can be taken into account for vehicles.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the method detects alternative options with regard to hitting the first object with a third object. This allows road users to improve their route planning in real time.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, a second object is selected based on properties of the first object or based on properties of the second object. For vehicles, properties of a first or second object are, for example, a maximum payload, dimensions of a free loading area, an average speed, authorization to transport dangerous goods and the like. However, the properties can also relate to people, for example the gender of a driver/passenger, a smoking trait or a characteristic variable that describes the driving behavior of a driver.

For example, a passenger with the characteristics female and non-smoker who is looking for a ride has the option to indicate that they are only interested in rides with female drivers who do not smoke.

The computer program product according to an embodiment of the invention executes the steps of a method according to the preceding description when the computer program product runs on a computer, in particular an in-vehicle computer. When the program in question is used on a computer, the computer program product produces an effect by creating an opportunity for road users to interact.

character list

• 1 ein schematisches Blockschaltbild einer Ausführungsform der Erfindung;
• 2 eine schematische Prinzipskizze einer Ausführungsform der Erfindung;
• 3 eine schematische Prinzipskizze einer Ausführungsform der Erfindung;
• 4 eine schematische Prinzipskizze einer Ausführungsform der Erfindung;
• 5 eine schematische Prinzipskizze einer Ausführungsform der Erfindung;

The present invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the exemplary embodiments given in the schematic figures of the drawings. They show:

• 1 a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of the invention;
• 2 a schematic outline sketch of an embodiment of the invention;
• 3 a schematic outline sketch of an embodiment of the invention;
• 4 a schematic outline sketch of an embodiment of the invention;
• 5 a schematic outline sketch of an embodiment of the invention;

The accompanying drawings are provided to provide a further understanding of embodiments of the invention. They illustrate embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain principles and concepts of the invention. Other embodiments and many of the foregoing advantages will become apparent by reference to the drawings. The elements of the drawings are not necessarily shown to scale with respect to one another.

In the figures of the drawings, elements, features and components that are identical, have the same function and have the same effect--unless stated otherwise--are each provided with the same reference symbols.

DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

1 shows a schematic block diagram of a method according to an embodiment of the invention. In step S1, a destination, a position and a speed of the first object are determined using a communication unit. In step S2, first route-related data of a route from the position to the destination of the first object are determined. In step S3, a point in time or a time interval and a location at which the first object and the second object meet are determined. In step S4, second route-related data of a route from a position to a destination of the second object are determined in order to determine a point in time or a time interval and a location at which the first object and the second object meet. In step S5, decelerations or accelerations with regard to the point in time or the time interval in which the first object and/or the second object reach the destination are detected.

2 shows a schematic outline of a communication system 10.1 with a first communication unit 12, which is carried by public transport 101, namely a subway, a central processing unit 14, which is mapped in a cloud, and a second communication unit 16, which is part of a smartphone 103 is. The first communication unit is designed as a tachograph for the subway. Accordingly, the communication system is configured to enhance interactions between passengers using a smartphone 103 and a subway. Accordingly, provision is made for the first communication unit to be able to access route-related data on the subway. The route-related data provide information, for example, about when the subway will reach or leave which station. This information can be based on a timetable and/or real-time estimation of the data. The data are transmitted from the communication unit to the arithmetic unit 14 . The computing unit forwards the data to a large number of mobile terminals if a user of a mobile terminal requests this information. If there are delays in the subway timetable, the operator of the subway has the option of informing passengers in good time and conveniently, so that passengers can postpone their starting time if necessary. This reduces waiting times for passengers. This improves passenger comfort. It goes without saying that this aspect of the invention can be applied to any means of public transport, such as trains, suburban trains, buses, taxis, trams and the like, and is not limited to subways.

In addition, the smartphone 103 can be set up to transmit data about an impending boarding or alighting of a passenger via the processing unit 16 to the communication unit 12 of the subway. The communication unit 12 can be set up to display this information to the driver. A driver thus has the opportunity to recognize that one or more passengers are already in the vicinity of the subway and will board at a determined meeting time. A subway driver or an autonomous subway control system can therefore wait if there is still room for maneuver. In this way, passengers can avoid the impression that the subway may even intentionally leave the subway station a moment too early. This improves passenger satisfaction.

2 shows a schematic outline sketch of a communication system 10.2 with a first communication unit 12 and a computing unit, which are each part of a smartphone 103, and a second communication unit 16, which is part of a traffic light system 18. Accordingly, it can be provided that the computing unit 14 of the smartphone 103 determines and recognizes a route when the user of the smartphone approaches a traffic light system that shows or will show the user of the smartphone a red signal. This functionality can be provided, for example, by connecting the traffic signal system to the smartphone via the Internet. The connection between the traffic signal system 18 and the smartphone 103 can also be established via a cloud. If the user of the smartphone 103 steers a vehicle, the red signal can be transmitted to the driver of the vehicle at an early stage, so that he can initiate a deceleration of the vehicle by braking or coasting. This reduces fuel consumption, especially in cities due to stop-and-go traffic. This also improves the air quality.

Furthermore, it can be provided that the light signal system 18 transmits a remaining time until the forthcoming next phase change, for example between a green phase and a yellow phase or red phase. The specification of a remaining time can be evaluated by the smartphone 103 in that the smartphone transmits to its user a recommendation to stop or cross an intersection or a pedestrian crossing based on the user's current speed. This particularly increases safety for the disabled Pedestrians, as they often do not manage to cross a pedestrian crossing in the remaining time of a green phase.

It can also be provided that the communication unit 12 of the smartphone 103 transmits a signal to the light signal system 18 that pedestrians are currently on the pedestrian crossing. It is thus possible to extend a red phase for vehicles until the pedestrian crossing has been cleared of all pedestrians.

Alternatively, provision can be made for a light signal system 18 to change phase, but to send an additional warning signal to road users if the light signal system receives a signal that a pedestrian crossing has not yet been cleared.

5 shows a schematic diagram of a communication system 10.4 according to a further embodiment of the invention. The communication system 10.4 comprises a multiplicity of first communication units 12, each of which is carried by a car 109. The communication units 12 are each connected to a computing unit 14 of a cloud. The cloud is also connected to a large number of second communication units 16 which are each part of a smartphone 103 . The communication system 10.4 is set up to provide an interaction between car drivers and smartphone users, in that the communication unit 12 of the car receives a destination. It can be provided that a user has entered a destination via a navigation system and the navigation system has transmitted the destination to the communication unit 12 . Alternatively, it can be provided that the communication unit recognizes a destination based on a history, for example because the car 109 drives a route regularly. The route can be recognized on the basis of specific detected route-related data, such as a number of passengers, a time, a specific driver, a specific payload or the like.

The destination that the communication unit has received is transmitted to the processing unit 14, possibly with a route plan. Alternatively, the computing unit 14 can also carry out the route planning.

Furthermore, each of the communication units 16 is set up to receive a destination of a user. The user can enter the destination into a smartphone 103 via application software (app), for example. The communication unit transmits the destination from the smartphone to the computing unit in the cloud. The cloud then determines a suitable car that has free capacity to transport the smartphone user. The destination of the smartphone user is preferably on the route taken by the car driver, so that he does not have to make a detour. Alternatively, it can be provided that an intermediate destination of the smartphone user is on the route taken by the car driver, so that the smartphone user can continue a journey elsewhere after leaving the car. Accordingly, the starting point of the route of the smartphone user is preferably on the route of the car driver. Alternatively it can be provided that the meeting point of the smartphone user and the car driver forms an intermediate destination for the car driver and/or the smartphone user. In this case, the smartphone user can get to the meeting point by other means.

It goes without saying that the smartphone can also be any other Internet-enabled device and this aspect of the invention is not limited to smartphones. It is also understood that a combination of the communication systems 10.1, 10.2 and/or 10.4 is also covered by the disclosure of this patent application.

If the computing unit 14 determines a car driver and a smartphone user who are doing at least part of a trip together, this patent application uses the term “assignment”

Furthermore, the smartphone user or the car driver can specify preferences regarding an assignment to be selected. For example, a user of the communication system 10.4 has the option of specifying that an association should only be made with non-smokers or with women.

It goes without saying that this aspect of the invention can be applied not only to ride-sharing opportunities for people, but rather that “ride-sharing opportunities for goods” can also be organized accordingly. Accordingly, it can be provided that a truck (ego truck) transports goods with different destinations. A communication unit, which is connected to the ego truck, is set up to receive the various destinations and to transmit them to a central processing unit in a cloud. The processing unit is set up to receive a large number of destinations from trucks and can accordingly determine whether goods can be transferred to another truck in a sensible manner, so that the destination does not have to be approached by the ego truck. Instead of reloading goods from one ego truck to another truck, it can also be provided to uncouple an entire truck trailer from the ego truck and attach it to another truck.

Furthermore, preferences regarding an assignment to be selected can be specified. For example, packing dimensions, weight or hazard classes of goods to be transported can be specified. The computing unit or a driver can thus determine whether another truck is also suitable for transporting the goods of the ego truck.

Reference List

10.1

communication system

10.2

communication system

10.3

communication system

10.4

communication system

12

communication unit

14

unit of account

16

communication unit

18

traffic signal system

101

Public transportation

103

smart phone

105

transport trolley

107

portable computer

109

vehicle

S1-S5

process steps

Claims (11)

Method for determining a meeting time of a first mobile object with a second object with the following steps: - determining (S1) a destination, a position and a speed of the first object by means of a communication unit (12; 16); - determining (S2) first route-related data of a route from the position to the destination of the first object; - determining (S3) a point in time or a time interval and a location at which the first object and the second object meet; whereby - the first and/or the second object is a pedestrian or a cyclist, - the communication unit (12; 16) is part of a traffic signal system (18) or is connected to a traffic signal system (18), - the pedestrian's destination is an end of a pedestrian crossing and the second object is connected to the traffic light (18), the method further comprising the steps of: - determining an end time of a red phase for vehicle traffic; - determining whether the pedestrian will reach the destination before the end of the red phase; - determining a reaction signal from the communication unit based on determining whether the pedestrian will reach the destination before the end of the red phase, - wherein the communication unit transmits the reaction signal to the light signal system, whereupon a red phase for vehicle traffic is to be extended in such a way that the pedestrian will reach the destination before the end of the red phase. procedure after claim 1 , wherein the second object is a mobile object and second route-related data of a route from a position to a destination of the second object are determined (S4) at a point in time or a time interval and a location at which the first object and the second object are meet to find out. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the communication unit (12; 16) is part of an internet-enabled small device (103) or is connected to an internet-enabled small device (103). Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the method detects delays or accelerations with regard to the point in time or the time interval in which the first object and/or the second object reach the destination (S5) and in particular a changed point in time or time interval and/or Place where the first and the second object meet due to the detected deceleration or acceleration is determined. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first and/or the second object is a vehicle (101; 105; 109) and the first communication unit (12) and/or the second communication unit (16) is part of the vehicle (101; 105; 109) or is connected to the vehicle (101; 105; 109), the vehicle being designed in particular as a car, truck, public transport vehicle or transport vehicle. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the response signal is a recommendation to cross a pedestrian crossing or a recommendation not to cross the pedestrian crossing. Method according to one of the preceding claims, in which a start time for the first object is determined on the basis of a known history which is stored as a topology in an artificial neural network. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the method detects alternative options with regard to hitting the first object with another object. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a second object is selected on the basis of properties of the first object or on the basis of properties of the second object. Communication system for transmitting data with at least one first portable communication unit, at least one second communication unit and at least one computing unit, wherein the first communication unit has input means for entering a destination of a first object and means for detecting a position and a speed of the first object and an interface for transmitting the position, the speed and the destination, the second communication unit is part of a traffic signal system or is connected to the traffic signal system and transmits a reaction signal to the traffic signal system, whereupon a traffic signal system phase is extended in such a way that a pedestrian will reach the destination safely, the reaction signal being a recommendation to cross a pedestrian crossing or a recommendation not to cross the pedestrian crossing is, the processing unit has an interface for receiving the position, the speed and the destination and is set up to determine first route-related data based on the position, the speed and the destination of the first object and is set up to transmit the route-related data to a second communication unit, the second communication unit has an interface to receive route-related data from the processing unit, and is set up to determine a point in time or a time interval and a location at which the first object and the second object meet. Computer program product with program code means for a method according to one of the above Claims 1 - 9 to perform.

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