DE102015224362B4 - Issuing driver information in connection with the operation of a motor vehicle with a trailer - Google Patents

Abstract

One aspect of the invention relates to a method for outputting driver information to the driver of a motor vehicle in connection with an operation of the motor vehicle with a trailer. According to the method, one or more changes of a driver assistance function of the motor vehicle are determined on the basis of the operation of the motor vehicle with the trailer. At least one driver information related to the one or more changes is output to the driver in response to the one or more detected changes.

Description

The invention relates to a method and a corresponding system for outputting driver information to the driver of a motor vehicle in connection with the operation of the motor vehicle with a trailer.

After coupling a trailer to a motor vehicle driver assistance functions can be completely or partially disturbed. Examples of driver assistance functions are lane departure warning assistants, lane change assistants, automatic parking assistants with automatic lateral and / or longitudinal guidance or rear-end collision warning systems. The reason for the disruption may be that the vehicle dynamics behavior of the vehicle is changed by the coupled trailer or that the environment detection, in particular to the rear or obliquely behind, is disturbed by the presence of the trailer. Also, different trailer, z. B. due to very different materials, shapes, etc., cause very different effects.

The occurrence of a fault, the degree of interference and also the parasitic effects that occur depend on which trailer type has been attached to the motor vehicle. The perturbing effects are difficult to predict for new trailer types; Coupling a new trailer type can lead to negative surprises.

The impairment of driver assistance functions may also be dependent on the actual angle of the trailer's longitudinal axis relative to the vehicle's longitudinal axis (eg, in the turn or turn).

For the driver, such disturbances of the driver assistance function are often also incomprehensible. It is also possible that, depending on the trailer, driver instructions relating to a fault (eg messages in a display in the vehicle cockpit) are output to the driver, which indicate a wrong cause, for example contamination of an environmental sensor, because of interference effects the wrongly assumed cause are similar to those caused by a coupled trailer.

For this reason, the trailer-influenced driver assistance functions are often completely disabled when the trailer is attached. This is often particularly disadvantageous, especially when operating with a trailer, since the driver would often help more than ever driver assistance in trailer operation.

From the publication DE 10 2011 121 279 A1 it is known that data from a trailer, z. As the size and weight of the trailer, be sent to a trailer pulling motor vehicle, and depending on the transmitted data of the trailer, a vehicle system of the motor vehicle is adjusted. The vehicle system can be, for example, a drive control system or a driver assistance system. By taking into account the data of the trailer, the vehicle system can be adapted to the conditions of the motor vehicle combination.

In the publication US 2009/0271078 A1 For example, a method is described in which a trailer is identified by means of a camera and based on this data are determined that are used to modify the operation of the vehicle. It can be compensated for the influence of a trailer.

From the publication DE 10 2014 216 635 A1 It is known that trailer parameters embedded on a tag affixed to the trailer may be used to configure a trailer backup assist system. The label may be, for example, a label with a QR code or an RFID tag.

From the publication DE 10 2012 024 613 A1 It is known to adapt a driver assistance system to a trailer-specific traffic regulation associated with a detected traffic sign in the presence of a trailer and to output information about the traffic regulation to the driver.

The publication EP 2 679 463 A1 describes an adaptation of a vehicle function in the presence of an accessory such as a roof box or trailer and informing the driver about the attached accessory.

It is an object of the invention to achieve better usability of a driver assistance function during operation of the motor vehicle with a trailer.

The object is solved by the features of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments are described in the dependent claims. It should be noted that additional features of a claim dependent on an independent claim without the features of the independent claim or only in combination with a subset of the features of the independent claim may form a separate invention independent of the combination of all features of the independent claim, the subject of an independent claim, a divisional application or a subsequent application. This applies equally to technical teaching described in the specification which may form an invention independent of the features of the independent claims.

A first aspect of the invention relates to a method for outputting driver information to the driver of a motor vehicle, in particular a passenger car, in connection with an operation of the motor vehicle with a trailer. According to the method, one or more changes of at least one driver assistance function of the motor vehicle are determined on the basis of the operation of the motor vehicle with the trailer. The following is generally spoken of a driver assistance function; However, the method can also be applied to a plurality of driver assistance functions, so that the following statements can also be transferred to a plurality of driver assistance functions. These changes are changes in the driver assistance function during operation of the motor vehicle with trailer in contrast to the operation of the motor vehicle without trailer. These may be changes already made or expected (future) changes. More preferably, the detected changes are related to the particular trailer or type of trailer. Furthermore, the changes may additionally relate to an operating mode or parameters of the trailer's own functions.

For example, the driver assistance function is adapted to trailer operation, in particular restricted. The driver assistance function may be restricted, for example, in terms of its supported operating conditions, for example with regard to a supported driving speed range or a specific surrounding area in the surroundings of the vehicle and / or the trailer. The influence of the trailer operation on the driver assistance function can for example also be largely compensated by adapting the driver assistance function.

However, the change of the driver assistance function can also be caused by the trailer operation as such, without the driver assistance function being adapted for trailer operation. The change in the driver assistance function can be understood, for example, as an effect of the trailer on the driver assistance function. The change of the driver assistance function can, for example, consist in a (specific) fault of the driver assistance function or relate to a specific change in the operation of the assistance function.

The change of the driver assistance function may be a limitation of the driver assistance function, a deviating effect of the driver assistance function and / or a change of the driver assistance function due to an adjustment of the driver assistance function recommended to the driver.

From the determined change in the driver assistance function, a modified action requirement resulting from the change in the driver assistance function, in particular new or correspondingly changed action requirement for the driver of the vehicle, can also be determined in the method. The driver information can be output depending on the determined (changed) action requirement for the driver of the vehicle.

In particular, the changes in the action requirement of the driver can be explicitly represented or highlighted in the driver information. The need for action may relate to certain applications of the driver assistance function. The need for action may also relate to specific lane areas in the vicinity of the vehicle or the trailer. The output of driver information regarding the need for action may also depend on the driver's attention, in particular on the course of attention, with respect to the respective lane areas.

Preferably, the driver assistance function can make an intervention in the drive, the brake and / or the steering of the motor vehicle. The vehicle function may, in particular, be a driver assistance function for supporting a parking or maneuvering maneuver, for supporting a lane change maneuver or for informing the driver about road users in the surroundings of the vehicle and / or the trailer. The driver assistance function can be used, for example, for the at least partial steering automation and / or for the at least partial automation of the longitudinal guidance of the vehicle. It can be a driver assistance function for at least partially automated driving. Furthermore, a driver assistance function may also include functions of the vehicle that actively control its vertical dynamics or the vertical dynamics of the trailer.

According to the method, at least one driver information related to the one or more changes is output to the driver in response to the one or more detected changes of the driver assistance function.

For example, qualitative and / or quantitative changes of the driver assistance function can be determined.

The qualitative changes may, for example, relate to a functionality or readiness of the driver assistance function in one or more specific applications. The quantitative changes may relate, for example, speed values, distance values, acceleration values, dimensions of the roadway areas or other basic values of the driver assistance function, which may be, for example, B. be changed due to trailer operation. It may also be one or more parameters representing quantitative parameters of interference of the particular trailer to a particular driver assistance function.

For example, certain quantitative changes or changed values of the required time or a required spatial area, for. B. for a specific maneuver, which result from the operation of the motor vehicle with the particular trailer for a driver assistance function.

The method provides a particularly great advantage because such quantitative changes (eg changes in so-called warning areas of a driver assistance function in their shape, dimensions, etc.) or the new quantitative relationships that arise due to the operation of the motor vehicle with the particular Make followers, very intuitively and graphically by means of graphical information, in particular by means of a picture sequence, can be conveyed to the driver.

The ascertained changes in the driver assistance function may be changes that are determined by means of the driver assistance function. B. concern a malfunction of the driver assistance function in the operation with the particular trailer under certain conditions. Alternatively, the changes in another arithmetic unit, for. B. in a mobile user device, are determined.

In this case, information which represents a relevant driver assistance function and / or a changed behavior of the driver assistance function can be transmitted to the mobile user device. The determination of the quantitative values of the change and the display of the driver information can then take place in the mobile user device. The changes identified may be changes in the qualitative and / or quantitative parameters of the driver assistance function determined in advance in particular for the near future.

In this case, the output driver information can explicitly represent and / or highlight qualitative or quantitative changes in the driver assistance function. In particular, depending on at least one determined qualitative or quantitative change of the driver assistance function, driver information can be output that represents information about a new, changed mode of operation of the driver assistance function and / or about one or more new or changed parameters of the driver assistance function.

The driver information may be an optical, acoustic and / or haptic driver information. The output of driver information to the driver is preferably via a user interface of the driver assistance system. Preferably, it is a visual driver information that is output via a display device in the vehicle cockpit. The driver information is preferably a graphic driver information.

The driver information may represent or emphasize changes in the driver assistance function as compared to operation without the trailer.

The driver information is preferably first generated and then output prior to output depending on the one or more detected changes.

The driver information may, for example, indicate a specific limitation of a driver assistance function or a (due to the trailer operation) extended extent of a vehicle function. The driver information can inform the driver, for example, about a changed range of functions or an altered mode of operation of the driver assistance function, in particular informing about a remaining functional scope of the driver assistance function.

The output driver information may relate to one or more specific maneuvers and / or one or more use cases of the driver assistance function.

The output of the driver information may in particular be such that a driver information output during operation without a trailer is replaced by driver information which is output in a trailer operation at the time of delivery.

The method has the advantage that, instead of switching off a driver assistance function when operating with a trailer, the latter can still remain in operation, the driver being informed of the changes in the driver assistance function, for example the adjustments made and / or the effects resulting from trailer operation.

The method need not be limited to a single driver assistance function, but can be applied to a plurality of driver assistance functions present in the motor vehicle.

For example, for one or more driver assistance functions affected by the trailer, concrete effects of the trailer (eg, selectively for different performance features of the driver assistance function and possibly affected road areas) can be determined. The information about the effects can be z. B. based on experience with a particular trailer type. It can also be dependent on a data record which describes features of a particular trailer (eg faults in a driver assistance function that causes it). Such a data record can be read out, for example, from a QR code, in particular attached to the trailer, or a passive RFID tag or NFC token attached in particular to the trailer. It may then in connection with the operation of the particular trailer, z. For example, prior to and / or during a trip with a particular trailer, driver information may be output that will explain to the driver whether and what effects the trailer is expected to have on the driver assistance function of the driver or should the driver correct. These effects can also be predicted and output before the journey or immediately before an actual impairment of the driver assistance function. Also, this can mean in trailer operation a waiver of an otherwise caused by the trailer hint about the pollution of an environmental sensor; This hint could also be replaced by another hint indicating a limitation of the driver assistance function due to trailer operation.

It is also possible to generate and output graphical driver information that visualizes at least one specific change in the effect of the driver assistance function or a change in quantitative parameters of the driver assistance function in this particular trailer. For example, certain areas relating to the driver assistance function are visualized around the vehicle and / or the trailer, which are changed in connection with the specific trailer operation. This can also be, for example, spatial areas in front of the vehicle into which the vehicle (because of the sensor cover behind the vehicle by the trailer) can not automatically change the lane.

There may also be applications z. B. visualized in a graphic animation, each representing a particular application, in which a driver assistance function behaves differently compared to a operation without a trailer. Causal dependencies can be displayed here.

The method may relate, for example, to one or more driver assistance functions that are disturbed by the particular trailer, without the driver assistance function being adapted or undergoing a specific change in the mode of operation of the respective driver assistance function (not necessarily a deterioration; be an improvement of the operation of the driver assistance function). The method may additionally or alternatively also inform the driver about features of one or more driver assistance functions that are specifically corrected, compensated or improved for trailer operation.

It is advantageous if at least a part of the generated driver information comprises a picture sequence, in particular a graphic animation. In this case, an altered mode of operation of a driver assistance information can particularly preferably be represented on the basis of at least two phases (temporally or causally consecutive).

In this case, for example, a new mode of operation of the driver assistance function can also be displayed or highlighted as a comparison between the function without trailer operation and with trailer operation. The driver information can be graphically modified in connection with the trailer operation, z. B. limited features, represent the driver assistance system. This is preferably done in the form of an animation (dynamic sequence of a sequence of images, the impression of a moving image being created for the viewer).

In this case, the graphical representation of the driver information may in particular include a graphic representing the own vehicle and / or the trailer. Further, the graphical representation may include a graphic representing one or more other road users (eg, pedestrians, cars, or trucks). It can be provided that the graphical representation represents a possible interaction between the own motor vehicle and another road user, in particular overtaking the other road user, maneuvering past it, too close to it or a possible collision with it. The graphical representation may also include a particular schematically depicted road course, for example, tracks, curves, intersections or the like.

The graphics of the driver information used can represent the respective circumstances at least partially schematically or symbolically. Further, the graphical driver information may also include other symbols or images useful for understanding.

In addition, the driver information may also comprise a suitable acoustic signal (eg a tone sequence), for example simulated or recorded operating noises, symbolic tones, in particular combinable speech messages.

Highlighting in the graphical representation of the driver information can be done by means of color, a transparency factor used, the contrast, framing, contour accentuation, resizing, movement and / or the like.

The graphical representation of the driver information is preferably a representation which can be quickly understood by the driver and which is a change in the vehicle function, in particular in relation to the own vehicle, the trailer, individual lane markings, an overtaking vehicle, a vehicle in front or on a vehicle Neighbor track representing traveling road users or similar objects in the environment.

It is also possible to represent a certain degree of change in the driver assistance function by means of the graphical representation.

It is advantageous if the particular graphical driver information represents a causal relationship between a cause of the driver assistance function triggering an action of the driver assistance function and an action resulting from the cause of the driver assistance function. The triggering cause forms quasi an input of the driver assistance function (for example, a just appeared other road users, which was detected by the environment sensors). The input may be a prerequisite for the vehicle function to perform an action. The resulting action of the driver assistance function can consist, for example, in an instruction to the driver, in particular a warning, and / or in engagement with the longitudinal guidance or transverse guidance of the driver's vehicle.

Particularly preferably, the causal relationship is represented by means of a picture sequence, in particular animation. The driver information may include acoustic information, in particular a sequence of (eg simulated) noises. In this context, preferably accompanied by the image sequence or animation and a matching sound, for. B. in the form of simulated noise output. In particular, together with the graphic information, certain causal dependencies of the at least one driver assistance function in certain applications by means of certain, z. B. "positive" or "negative" or attention-steering sounds will represent.

After coupling the trailer, the driver can for example be displayed on a display device in the vehicle cockpit or on his smartphone a graphic animation that explains to the driver clearly how the trailer operation compared to the operation without trailer, the changes in the driver assistance function in an action of the driver assistance system in a specific Situation fail. The driver information can represent new or changed causal relationships.

Determining one or more changes (in particular one or more restrictions) of the driver assistance function is preferably carried out as a function of a trailer-related data record that relates to a specific trailer type. In addition, the record can optionally also refer to the vehicle type of the own vehicle.

Particularly preferably, the determination of the changes is dependent on a data record that includes data of the present vehicle type and the present trailer type.

The output driver information may therefore depend on a particular combination of the present vehicle type and the trailer type.

The driver information can be determined, for example, from a z. B. readable into the vehicle, importable record representing the changes of at least one driver assistance function for a particular combination of one or more specific vehicle types and one or more specific trailer types.

If the one or more changes to the driver assistance function involve adjustments to the driver assistance function, in particular to restrictions, acts, there is a corresponding adjustment of the driver assistance function due to the operation of the motor vehicle with the trailer. The adjustment may be made depending on the trailer type present. For this purpose, in particular a related to the trailer record can be used.

A limitation of the driver assistance function may be a limitation of the driver assistance system caused by means of the vehicle depending on the particular trailer type. This can be explained to the driver by means of the in particular graphic driver information, in particular by an animation.

The driver assistance function may include a plurality of performance features. There may be an association of several features of the driver assistance system in connection with the trailer operation in at least two (for example, three) from the following groups. A group refers to features that are not or not sufficiently functional and therefore shut down. Another group concerns performance features that can be adapted to the trailer (by means of the vehicle). Another group concerns features that are (or can remain) essentially unchanged. There may also be a group dealing with features that produce a different, e.g. B. qualitatively or quantitatively deviating effect, in particular may have to be observed by the driver faulty behavior of the driver assistance function or another driver assistance function. Furthermore, there may also be a group which relates to performance features which can be changed by means of a driver's action, in particular adapted, switched off and / or activated by means of an operating procedure.

Thus, it is possible to provide a central coordinator who decides on the majority of the features, in particular decides which group the individual features belong to depending on the data set associated with the tag.

The driver assistance function may include, for example, a plurality of performance features, wherein one or more particular features of the driver assistance function may (or should be) changed or may be to some extent replaced or disabled in trailer operation in a particular manner. In this case, the particular graphical driver information may relate to performance characteristics of at least two or three of these groups of performance features. For example, the driver is informed that a specific feature is being switched off and another feature is being adapted.

It is particularly preferred for a large number of the features of the driver assistance function, for example for partially automated driving, to be grouped into at least two or three of these groups of performance characteristics, depending on a read-in data record associated with the trailer.

For example, the method then initiates a change (eg, a switch-off and / or change) associated with the feature and the output of a driver information associated with the change of the feature.

The change in the driver assistance function can for example be configured such that instead of a longitudinal or lateral dynamic intervention of the driver assistance function when operating without trailer a warning to the driver when operating with trailer (in a specific danger situation). An intervention in operation without trailer is thus converted into a warning (for example, in front of a particular road user) when operating with trailer.

The background to this is that, because of the influence of the trailer, an intervention in trailer operation, for example, would not be possible or would involve risks. However, this danger does not exist with a warning instead of an intervention. Thus, the driver assistance function may still be used in converting the engagement to a warning when used with the trailer. This is particularly important because the driver often requires a driver assistance function in trailer operation more than ever.

The driver information can accordingly indicate to the driver that an intervention of the driver assistance function in operation without a trailer is replaced by a warning to the driver when operating with a trailer.

The driver information can represent performance features of the driver assistance function and / or applications of those that will occur without the trailer operation as interventions of the driver assistance function, but which are converted in trailer operation in a warning, especially in a visual, haptic, kinaesthetic or auditory warning.

The intervention may be, for example, a brake intervention, steering intervention and / or an intervention in the drive (for the purpose of acceleration or deceleration) Delay), which is replaced by a warning.

In this case, the conversion of the intervention into a warning can be a conversion initiated in the context of the method and / or a conversion which is recommended to the driver. The recommended conversion, the driver, for example, by means of a suggested operator action, for. B. via a graphical user interface in the vehicle cockpit trigger. For a plurality of conversions, the conversions by the operator can also be triggered all at once, so that the operation is much simplified.

The driver is informed, for example, before the start of the journey by the output of the driver information, which of the features of his driver assistance function in other features, in particular mutatis mutandis corresponding performance characteristics are converted, or for which a conversion is recommended by means of a driver's action.

Thus, a driver assistance function, the intervention of which (with a trailer or a certain type of trailer) is not sufficiently reliable, nevertheless be used meaningfully.

It can be provided, for example, that a data record related to the tag is determined (eg read out), which represents a spatial dependency of at least one parameter. Depending on the data record, the driver information can be generated or adjusted.

In this case, a new driver information can be generated and / or driver information can be adapted, which would have been generated in a specific application without a trailer or without the particular trailer.

This adjustment can be dependent on a z. B. readable into the vehicle, importable record representing the changes at least one driver information in the case of a particular combination of one or more specific vehicle types and one or more specific trailer types. In this case, the appropriate driver information or changes in driver information can be determined depending on information about the particular vehicle type and the particular trailer type.

The spatial dependence of the parameter may refer to a coordinate system which is fixed with respect to the motor vehicle and / or the trailer (i.e., does not change its position with respect to the vehicle or the trailer). It can z. B. road areas in the vicinity of the vehicle or trailer be affected.

The spatial dependent parameter may represent a measure of (technically conditioned) constraint, probability of failure, expected failure or erroneous operation of the driver assistance function or one or more performance features spatially dependent, for example, for different spatial areas.

Based on a data set with a spatial dependency of at least one parameter, the driver assistance function can be spatially dependent adjusted, for example, spatially dependent limited or changed. In particular, certain features of the driver assistance function can be differently restricted and / or changed with respect to different spatial areas.

The data set can have a certain spatial resolution for one or more parameters, for example, the value of the parameter changes depending on the angle and / or distance relative to a polar coordinate system.

For example, the data set represents a spatial distribution of one or more trailer features or a spatially varying impact of the trailer on the driver assistance function, i. H. the corresponding (influencing) parameters differ according to the spatial position. The spatial dependence can also be described by a mathematical relationship, for example a function, in particular a polynomial, wherein the data set comprises, for example, the parameters of the mathematical relationship or the mathematical relationship.

Particularly preferably, the data record describes a spatial distribution of one or more restrictions of one or more functions and / or a spatial distribution of one or more correction variables which are used for adapting the driver assistance function in order to correct the driver's particular experience of the driver on the driver assistance function to neutralize or at least reduce.

For example, the spatial dependence of a parameter may be expressed as a function of a coordinate system that is fixed relative to the vehicle or trailer. For example, the origin of the coordinate system is at a reference point of the vehicle (eg, the center of the rear axle) or the trailer or related to the trailer hitch (vehicle side or trailer side).

The spatial dependency can be expressed as an at least two-dimensional distribution of quantitative (parameter) values, the parameter value depending for example on the distance from the vehicle or on the trailer coupling and / or depending on the direction to the vehicle or trailer coupling.

By way of example, the data record may comprise a two-dimensional map for a parameter which may, for example, be assigned to different two-dimensional spatial regions, eg. B. at least 4-16 areas of space indicating respective values of the parameter. The parameter can be, for example, a physical parameter of a trailer or directly specify the respective value of an influencing variable in relation to the driver assistance function to be adapted.

It is advantageous if the driver information represents one or more instructions for the driver of the vehicle in view of the one or more changes in the driver assistance function, which relate in particular to specific lane areas or spatial areas in the surroundings of the vehicle and / or the trailer. By way of example, the driver is requested, via the driver information, to monitor certain spatial areas in the vehicle environment in a particularly precise manner, since the driver assistance function provides only limited or no support in these areas.

In particular, an action instruction represents one or more specific driver actions that the driver has to additionally take over or execute in an altered form during trailer operation (deviating from the driving operation without a trailer or without the particular trailer type). In this case, a driver action may preferably be a specific concrete action in connection with the guidance of the vehicle. For example, a driver action may be a steering operation, a lane change in a specific direction, a gearshift or the like. Furthermore, an instruction may include an operation of another vehicle system, for. As horns, operation of a turn signal, etc.

In this case, the changes in the mode of action of the driver assistance function of at least one performance feature and the corresponding instructions can refer to different spatial areas, eg. B. a certain neighboring lane, a spatial area in front of the vehicle and / or behind the vehicle, a particular valid for a driver assistance function warning area, a fallback area or a target lane, in which the vehicle can or should be performed.

It is advantageous if the driver information represents one or more spatial areas in the surroundings of the vehicle and / or the trailer, in which a change of the driver assistance function occurs during operation with the trailer.

In this case, the graphical driver information (for example in the form of an animation) can represent or emphasize spatially dependent differences in the changed performance features of the driver assistance function. The spatial dependency can refer, for example, to spatial areas in which a recognized other road user resides, which triggers a warning to the driver or an intervention in the longitudinal or transverse guidance of the vehicle. A spatial dependency may, for example, relate to an angle dependency and / or a distance dependency; a height dependency is also conceivable.

If the driver assistance function is changed differently, for example with respect to different spatial areas (relative to the coordinate system of the motor vehicle and / or trailer), this different change is brought to the attention of the driver by the driver information.

The spatial dependence may, for example, relate to spatial areas in relation to the motor vehicle and / or trailer, in which in each case one or more specific features of the driver assistance function will function substantially unchanged, will not work. Spatial areas can be displayed in which errors or artifacts can occur in at least one feature of the driver assistance function. Spatial areas can be displayed in which at least one performance feature of the driver assistance function is changed, for example a chassis intervention is replaced by driver information.

It is conceivable, for example, that the driver information represents one or more spatial areas in the surroundings of the vehicle and / or the trailer in which there is another road user who leads as cause to an action of the driver assistance function.

The driver information may additionally or alternatively also represent one or more spatial areas in the surroundings of the vehicle and / or the trailer, which are movement targets of the action of the driver assistance function.

For example, a spatial area may be a spatial area adjacent to or adjacent to the vehicle or trailer and / or a spatial area required for a particular movement or maneuver of the vehicle.

It can be z. For example, a so-called driving tube, a target lane or a determined by a (predicted) target trajectory or target position of the vehicle or conditional spatial area, in particular a required for a particular movement of the vehicle space.

For example, the spatial area may also be a specific destination lane or a specific section on a destination lane or an alternate lane during a (specific) lane change maneuver or evasive maneuver.

A spatial area in which another road user is located, leading to an action of the driver assistance function as a cause, and the spatial area which is a movement destination of the driver assistance function action thereby triggered are generally different spatial areas.

Exemplary spatial areas will be related later 2 be explained.

A causal relationship between a cause triggering an action of the driver assistance function (in the sense of an input) in a first spatial area (eg occurrence of a road user in a first spatial area) and a resulting action (eg intervention in longitudinal direction) is preferred - and / or transverse guidance or a warning) shown as the output of the driver assistance function. In this case, the causal relationship is particularly preferably represented by means of a picture sequence, in particular an animation.

The above-mentioned data set is preferably determined by means of a data carrier (in particular a data label), which is preferably mounted on the trailer and whose data are stored by means of the motor vehicle (eg a reversing camera in the case of an optically readable data carrier or an RFID reader in FIG Vehicle) and / or a mobile user device (eg smartphone).

The energy-free disk may be known, developed or future systems for storing and transmitting data that do not require power itself or the energy to transfer the data z. B. from the incoming to the system electromagnetic radiation, in particular radio waves, refer. It can be, for example, a passive RFID tag or a passive NFC token. Alternatively, it can also be a data label with a machine-readable optical code (eg QR code or barcode).

The data carrier comprises the data record itself or information stored in the data carrier which is used to determine the data record. The record is stored in the second case, for example in the vehicle or on a vehicle external server.

For example, the data of the data carrier can be read by means of the vehicle. For example, the user may attach a data tag to the trailer with an optical code (eg, a QR code), the vehicle rear view camera reading it in, and based thereon, adjusting the driver assistance function. Alternatively, an RFID tag can be read out by means of a vehicle-side reading device. It may also be that the driver reads in the data carrier by means of a mobile user device (eg smartphone or tablet computer), the data record then being transmitted to the vehicle (connected to the user device). For example, the user reads the optical code or the RFID tag or NFC token with his mobile user device. Then an advantageously secured connection to the vehicle is made. The data set itself or a link for downloading the data record can be transmitted directly from the mobile user device to the vehicle. Alternatively, it can be provided that an external server is used to determine the data record, which transmits the data record itself or a link for the data record to the vehicle in response to the reading of the optical code or RFID tag or NFC token.

The data carrier can also comprise a plurality of data sources, for example both an RFID tag or NFC token and an optical machine-readable code. Thus, the compatibility is significantly increased.

In order not to overstrain the driver with too much information about the changes in the driver assistance function, the output of the driver information can be related to a specific driver maneuver or a specific application of the driver assistance function.

For this purpose, a driving maneuver of a certain kind or an application of a certain type of driver assistance function can be recognized and in connection with the detected maneuver or with the recognized application of the driver assistance function driver information to a change in the driver assistance function are determined and output. Thus, certain driver information can be output at certain points in time, in particular before or during a specific maneuver or the application of the driver assistance function.

For example, a driving maneuver (eg, a lane change) may be detected that is being performed or intended, e.g. B. on the evaluation of the turn signal or the steering angle. It can then be determined which roadway areas and / or applications of the driver assistance system are affected in connection with the detected driving maneuver. Driver information relating to spatial warning or intervention areas may then be output depending on the determined lane areas and / or applications that are affected due to operation with the particular trailer, particularly with regard to quantitative parameters. In this case, the driver information can also represent, for example, certain warning areas, in which, in particular in certain applications, a corresponding warning changes or receives another meaning.

Also, the driver information, z. B. represent specific intervention areas in which, in particular in certain applications, a corresponding intervention of the driver assistance function changed or receives another meaning.

Particularly preferably, a relationship between the warning areas and engagement areas in connection with the operation of the particular trailer can also be represented graphically, in particular in at least two successive phases of an application. The applications can z. As a so-called U-turn, parking or reverse drive with or without steering angle.

According to a preferred embodiment, an input option is offered to the driver (in particular via a user interface in the vehicle cockpit), which relates to a driver-side confirmation of the knowledge of the change of the driver assistance function in view of the trailer operation.

The input option may additionally or alternatively also relate to a driver-side decision about the respective implementation of individual changes proposed by the vehicle to one or more driver assistance functions in view of the trailer operation, for example the decision to convert certain interventions of the driver assistance function into warnings (as described above).

Particularly preferably, an operating option can appear on a display device together with the graphic driver information or be integrated into the graphical representation of the driver information. Advantageously, the driver does not have to gather together a large number of settings for one or more driver assistance functions.

The operating option can be offered along with an output of the driver information.

The input option preferably relates to certain applications of the vehicle function or certain driving maneuvers. The driver can or must confirm, for example, that the remaining reduced driver assistance function no longer protects him in certain applications or driver maneuvers, for example.

The method can therefore also be carried out as a function of an operator action, in particular an acknowledgment action, of the driver, with which the driver must, in particular, confirm a certain change (eg regarding certain performance features, in particular for his intended application).

A second aspect of the invention relates to a system for outputting driver information to the driver of a motor vehicle in connection with an operation of the motor vehicle with a trailer. The system may be a central system involving several driver assistance functions. The system comprises means for determining one or more changes of a driver assistance function of the motor vehicle due to the operation of the motor vehicle with the trailer. Furthermore, the system comprises means for outputting at least one driver information concerning the one or more changes to the driver in dependence on the one or more determined changes. The system can be completely integrated in the vehicle, wherein, for example, a display device in the vehicle cockpit is used to output the driver information. However, the output of the driver information can also take place, for example, via a smartphone or another mobile communication device.

The above statements on the method according to the invention according to the first aspect of the invention also apply correspondingly to the system according to the invention according to the second aspect of the invention. At this point and in the Claims not explicitly described advantageous embodiments of the system according to the invention correspond to the advantageous embodiments of the method described above or described in the claims.

The invention will be described below with reference to an embodiment with the aid of the accompanying drawings. In these show:

1 an embodiment of the method according to the invention;

2 an exemplary adaptation of the driver assistance function with a spatial dependence.

In 1 an embodiment of the method according to the invention is shown. In step 100 For example, a data record for the trailer type used is read in, for example, from a power supply-free data carrier (for example a machine-readable optical code or an RFID tag) with means of the vehicle or with means of a mobile user device (eg a smartphone). The disk is attached for example as a label on the trailer. Alternatively, the record can also come from a database. In step 110 Information about the type of vehicle used is determined. This can be done by means of the vehicle or the mobile user device.

• – Leistungsmerkmale, die nicht oder nicht hinreichend funktionsfähig sein werden und daher abgeschaltet werden;
• – Leistungsmerkmale, die auf den vorliegenden Anhänger angepasst werden können;
• – Leistungsmerkmale, die eine abweichende Wirkung, insbesondere ein vom Fahrer zu beachtendes Fehlverhalten, aufweisen können;
• – Leistungsmerkmale, die nicht betroffen sind und unverändert bleiben können.

In step 120 the (expected, occurred or recommended) changes in a driver assistance function in trailer operation are determined depending on the data record and / or information about the vehicle type. For this purpose, features of the driver assistance function can be divided, for example, into the following groups:

• - features that will not function or will not function properly and therefore will be shut down;
• - Features that can be adapted to the present trailer;
• - Performance characteristics that may have a deviating effect, in particular a misconduct observed by the driver;
• - Features that are not affected and can remain unchanged.

In step 130 there is an issue of particular graphic driver information.

• – durch Anhängebetrieb betroffen sind,
• – die wg. Anhängebetrieb zusätzlich aktiviert werden (sollten),
• – die automatisch abgeschaltet werden oder abzuschalten sind,

For example, features are mentioned that

• - are affected by trailer operation,
• - the shared flat. Trailer operation should be additionally activated (should),
• - which are automatically shut down or shut down,

It can be informed about certain changes of certain performance features and information about unchanged performance characteristics can be given. Instructions can be given to the driver, in particular for the operation of the functions.

In this case, graphical driver information can represent one or more spatial dependencies for at least one performance feature or specify one or more causal dependencies. The at least one performance feature may be represented by one or more information about use cases (eg, maneuver, road user arrangement, differential speeds).

In step 140 an operator action is carried out by the driver, for example an operator decision or confirmation by the driver, which is read in by the system. For example, the driver can confirm the features to be disconnected or give his consent to the shutdown. It can also be provided that the driver makes a decision about the features to be changed.

In this case, the operator action may include a confirmation of the knowledge of the new or changed relationships. For example, the driver has to confirm that the remaining driver assistance function, for example, no longer protects him in certain applications and that the driver understands the corresponding relationships.

The operating action can also be an expression of intent for a specific adaptation of the driver assistance function, for. Example, a selection of at least two variants or combinations of the features to be changed, include.

In step 150 One or more parameters are determined which control the automatic change (adaptation) of the driver assistance function, in particular adapt to the operation with the particular trailer.

In particular, at least one parameter relates to a spatial dependence, for. B. at least a certain spatial area in relation to the vehicle and / or trailer. Also, certain applications can be determined, which are affected by a change in the driver assistance function. In this example, certain parameters are determined for certain applications, which represent a modified operation of the driver assistance system.

In step 160 Depending on the determined parameters, a quantitative graphic driver information, which represents an adaptation of the parameters of at least one performance feature, is output.

In addition, in this example, depending on the determined parameters and / or depending on the input or confirmation of the driver, the switching off or adaptation of the respective feature of the driver assistance function is also initiated (see step 170 ).

2 shows different spatial areas in the environment of the vehicle 1 and trailer 2 ,

In 2 In this case, different spatial regions A, B, C are shown which have angle data φa1, φa2, φb1, φb2, φc1, φc2 and optionally distance information in a polar coordinate system or a cylindrical coordinate system of the vehicle 1 are indicated. The origin of the coordinate system corresponds to the point O in relation to the vehicle 1 is fixed (ie its position relative to the vehicle 1 does not change). For example, the point corresponds to a reference point of the vehicle 1 , z. B. the center of the rear axle or the Ankuppelpunkt the vehicle-mounted trailer hitch.

Also shown are various spatial regions D1, D2, E1, E2, F1, F2, G1, G2 that have Cartesian coordinates (see, eg, Y1, Y2, X1, X2, X3, X4) in a Cartesian coordinate system of the vehicle 1 are indicated. The origin of the coordinate system corresponds to the point 0 that in relation to the vehicle 1 is fixed.

Alternatively or additionally, the spatial areas could also be in a coordinate system of the trailer 2 be defined, wherein the origin of the coordinate system with respect to the trailer is fixed (the origin corresponds for example to the coupling point of the trailer-side trailer hitch).

The spatial areas A, B, C, D1, D2, E1, E2 are, for example, each such a spatial area in which another road user must be located so that a driver assistance system performs a specific action. Such an action can be, for example, a specific chassis intervention, an information input, in particular a warning.

If, for example, another vehicle is located in the area D2, which in this example corresponds approximately to a blind spot area, the driver assistance system triggers a specific action. The spatial areas A, B, C, D1, D2, E1, E2 can be considered as input areas of the driver assistance function.

For example, the driver assistance function based on the information of the present record of the trailer 2 with respect to the spatial areas B, D1, E1 switched off (ie if there is a road user in these areas, the function does not respond to this), with respect to the spatial areas D2, E2 adapted and with respect to the areas A, C. not changed.

However, the spatial areas can also be spatial areas that are the movement target of the action of the driver assistance function. For example, an automated evasive maneuver or lane change maneuver targets forward-left into the area F1 or F2. For example, the areas F1, F2, G1, G2 are such spatial areas. These can be regarded as output areas of the driver assistance function.

For example, the driver assistance function is based on the information of the present record of the trailer 2 with respect to the spatial areas F2, G1 changed or turned off and substantially unchanged with respect to the areas F1, G2.

Claims (18)

A method for outputting driver information to the driver of a motor vehicle in connection with an operation of the motor vehicle with a trailer, comprising the steps: - Determining one or more changes at least one driver assistance function of the motor vehicle due to the operation of the motor vehicle with the trailer; and Outputting at least one driver information related to the one or more changes to the driver as a function of the one or more determined changes of the at least one driver assistance function. The method of claim 1, wherein the driver information represents or emphasizes changes of the at least one driver assistance function as compared to operation without the trailer. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the driver information is a graphical driver information. The method of claim 3, wherein at least a part of the generated driver information comprises a picture sequence, in particular a graphic animation. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the driver information has a causal relationship between A cause of the driver assistance function which triggers an action of the at least one driver assistance function and An action resulting from the cause of the at least one driver assistance function represents. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the determination of one or more changes of the at least one driver assistance function in dependence on a trailer-related data set takes place - on a particular trailer type and - in addition, in particular, to a specific type of vehicle refers. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the change of the at least one driver assistance function is: A restriction of the at least one driver assistance function, A deviating effect of the at least one driver assistance function and / or A change in the at least one driver assistance function on the basis of a driver's recommended setting of the at least one driver assistance function. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the method comprises the further step: Changing in the form of adapting, in particular restricting, the at least one driver assistance function on the basis of the operation of the motor vehicle with the trailer, in particular as a function of a data record associated with the trailer. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the driver assistance function comprises a plurality of performance features and an assignment of several features of the driver assistance system in connection with the operation with the trailer takes place in at least two of the following groups: - features that are not or not sufficiently functional and are therefore switched off, - Features adapted to the trailer - Features that remain essentially unchanged, Performance features which have a deviating effect, in particular a faulty behavior of the at least one driver assistance function to be observed by the driver, - Features that can be changed by a driver's action. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein - The driver information makes the driver aware that instead of an intervention in the longitudinal and / or transverse guidance of the vehicle by the at least one driver assistance function when operating without a trailer, a warning to the driver when operating with trailer. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein A trailer-related data set is determined which represents a spatial dependency of at least one parameter, and - Depending on the record, the driver information is generated or adjusted. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the driver information represents one or more instructions for the driver of the vehicle in view of the one or more changes of the at least one driver assistance function, which in particular to specific lane areas or spatial areas in the environment of the vehicle and / or the trailer Respectively. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the driver information represents one or more spatial areas in the vicinity of the vehicle and / or the trailer, in which a change of the at least one driver assistance function occurs during operation with the trailer. Method according to the preceding claims, wherein the driver information represents one or more spatial areas in the surroundings of the vehicle and / or the trailer, - in which there is another road user leading to an action of the at least one driver assistance function, and / or - The movement target of the action of at least one driver assistance function. Method according to one of claims 6, 8 or 11, wherein the data record is determined by means of a particular energy supply-free data carrier, which is preferably attached to the trailer and its data by means of Motor vehicle and / or a mobile user device to be read. Method according to one of the preceding claims, with the steps: Detecting a driving maneuver of a certain kind or a use case of a certain kind of the at least one driver assistance function, and Determining a driver information for a change of the at least one driver assistance function in connection with the detected maneuver or with the recognized application of the at least one driver assistance function. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein an input possibility for the driver is offered concerning A driver-side confirmation of the knowledge of the change of the at least one driver assistance function in view of the trailer operation, and / or A driver-side decision on the implementation of vehicle-proposed changes to one or more driver assistance functions in the light of trailer operation. A system for outputting driver information to the driver of a motor vehicle in connection with an operation of the motor vehicle with a trailer, comprising: - means for determining one or more changes in a driver assistance function of the motor vehicle due to the operation of the motor vehicle with the trailer; Means for outputting at least one driver information related to the one or more changes to the driver in response to the one or more detected changes.

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