DE102016122686A1 - Method for informing a road user about a traffic situation - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a method (100) for informing (105) a road user about a traffic situation, a mobile device (5) for informing (105) the road user and a control unit in a vehicle (1, 2) for informing (105) a road user. The method comprises the following steps: receiving (101) a transmitted radio signal by a receiving unit of a first vehicle (1) mapping a first traffic situation, the radio signal being emitted by an autonomously operated second vehicle (2); Receiving (102) sensor data from at least one sensor unit (12, 13, 14, 18) of the first vehicle (1) to image a second traffic situation; Comparing (103) the first traffic situation with the second traffic situation; and informing (105) the road user of the comparison result (104) of the comparison (103).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a method for informing a road user about a traffic situation, a mobile device for informing the road user and a control unit in a vehicle for informing a road user.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In vehicle technology, systems are known which detect their environment with sensors and can thus produce an image of the traffic environment of the own vehicle. These systems operate, for example, with ultrasonic sensors, radar, lidar and / or at least one camera. The sensors provide information about the environment of the vehicle, in particular about the presence of other vehicles and obstacles that are relative to the vehicle and move. By transmitting vehicle data from and to other vehicles in their respective environment, the vehicles receive an image of their respective vehicle environment, corresponding to the image of the environmental sensors. These systems therefore depict a traffic situation.

In addition, there are systems in vehicle technology that transmit vehicle information, such as the GPS position, the speed and direction of travel over a radio channel and make other vehicles available. In vehicle technology, this is also referred to as Car2Car or Car2X technology. In contrast to environmental sensors, which have a directed opening angle, for example to the front or to the side, have a limited range and require direct visual contact, with the Car2Car or Car2X technology also hidden road users can be detected over long distances. These systems also form a traffic situation.

In the DE 10 2010 013 402 A1 is a diagram described, which is displayed by means of Head-Up Display (HUP). Here, a lane change signal of a threading vehicle is monitored by the host vehicle.

In the DE 10 2010 011 496 A1 A method for avoiding a collision between a vehicle traveling on a first lane and a vehicle traveling on a second lane during a lane change is described. In this case, a warning message is issued to the second vehicle when falling below a predetermined threshold value.

From the DE 103 34 203 A1 an accident prevention system is known in which two road users are informed about a direct intercommunication on their current movement and the information is automatically evaluated from respective view with the determined data, as a result of an automatically determined dangerous situation, an automatic intervention on the driving of the respective vehicle he follows.

From the DE 101 49 206 A1 In turn, it is known that a vehicle transmits a message to surrounding vehicles when the lane change is planned. These surrounding vehicles then reduce their speed to allow the vehicle to change lanes.

From the WO 2014/082698 A1 In turn, it is known that a lane change intention of a first vehicle is reported to at least one second vehicle by means of a Car2Car communication. Then the at least one second vehicle responds by means of a second Car2Car communication. Depending on a content of the response, a measure is executed in the first vehicle, which breaks off a lane change, or helps to avoid it. Radar, lidar, camera, etc. are used to evaluate a driving situation.

From the DE 101 49 206 A1 is an accident prevention system is known in which the driver and his environment is warned of a potential danger situation and the car so-called pre-crash measures, such as hazard lights, closing windows performs.

From the DE 10 2012 201 513 A1 an accident prevention system is known, wherein a warning device is provided in a self-driving motor vehicle for warning a driver in response to a trigger signal of a driver assistance system in response to a specific event requiring a driver takeover. In this case, a mobile terminal is present in the vehicle, which prompts the driver to take over the driver, wherein the mobile terminal is equipped with an application that warns the driver of dangers.

From the EP 2 618 596 A1 a communication network for increasing traffic safety is known, which is used to detect dangerous situations. In this case, when a dangerous situation is detected, a first mobile communication unit sends out a warning to a second mobile communication unit located in the vicinity. The warning may include GPS data, acceleration data, position data. The communication unit may be a fixed unit in a vehicle and the warning may be displayed on the dashboard of a second car.

The problem with all the known traffic systems and the traffic situations depicted is that they start from the correctness or the plausibility of the sensor data determined and / or the correctness or the plausibility of the transmitted radio signal. This problem increases when a vehicle is used in an autonomous operation. Autonomous driving means the movement of vehicles that behave largely autonomously. For example, while the vehicle is permanently guided by an electronic system and only when a driving task can no longer be handled by the system, a driver is prompted to take over the vehicle. This is also known as the fourth level of autonomy according to the classification SEAJ3016.

An autonomously driving vehicle can sometimes receive faulty sensor data of the own vehicle and / or misinterpret proper sensor data and then make a wrong decision regarding a traffic situation, which in turn represents a traffic hazard. If, for example, a camera evaluation does not detect that another vehicle is located next to the autonomously-operated vehicle, a collision can no longer be prevented by an automatically generated lane change of the autonomous vehicle.

The object of the present invention is to design the traffic operation safer. In particular, in a mixed operation of autonomously operated vehicles and manually operated vehicles, a secure traffic execution is to be ensured.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The object is achieved with the technical measures described in the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments are described in the respective dependent claims.

In particular, the object is achieved by a method for informing a road user. In this case, the method comprises a receiving step, in which a transmitted radio signal is received by a receiving unit of a first vehicle to image a first traffic situation. The radio signal is emitted by an autonomously operated second vehicle. Receiving takes place, for example, as soon as a communication range between the first vehicle and the second vehicle has fallen below with respect to the transmission of the radio signal and the first vehicle is in communication with the second vehicle. The radio signal is preferably transmitted at defined time intervals from the second vehicle. The radio signal is for example a broadcast signal. This radio signal is sent unsolicited and requires no response. For example, the radio signal does not request for surrounding vehicles.

The radio signal forms, for example, the current position of the second vehicle (absolute) or relative to the first vehicle as the first traffic situation. The radio signal is the first traffic situation, for example, the current speed of the second vehicle (absolute) or relative to the first vehicle. The radio signal is the first traffic situation, for example, the use of a guideway, the extension of an entrance / exit, the departure of a highway, and the changing of a lane on a multi-lane track.

The radio signal is used, for example, in the first vehicle to determine the current position of the second vehicle. The radio signal is used in the first vehicle for locating the second vehicle. For this purpose, for example, the second vehicle could be formed with a high-frequency transmitter. By means of a radio bearing, English radio direction-finding, can now be determined, for example, by simply receiving the radio waves of the radio signal, the direction from which the radio waves are received. This radio signal can preferably be transmitted without sensor data of the second vehicle, that is, without further information of the second vehicle. In the first vehicle, this radio signal is received, for example, by means of one or more directional antennas in order to determine the direction of the radio signal.

The method according to the invention comprises a further receiving step, in which sensor data of at least one sensor unit of the first vehicle is imaged to receive a second traffic situation. Here, the temporal relationship between the received radio signal and the received sensor data is irrelevant. For example, the first vehicle can permanently receive sensor data, whereas the radio signal is received by a second vehicle only when a communication range is undershot. Alternatively, sensor data may be received after the radio signal has been received.

The method also includes a comparing step to compare the first traffic situation with the second traffic situation. A result of the comparison is forwarded to the road user in an informing step. In particular, the road user is informed if the first traffic situation does not match the second traffic situation.

The method described here has the advantage that a calculation and assessment of the respective traffic situation of each vehicle is carried out automatically. In this case, the radio signal information of a second vehicle in communication connection imaging a first traffic situation is used and checked for plausibility in the first vehicle, in which they are compared with sensor data of the sensor unit imaging a second traffic situation.

Thus, an independent calculation of the respective traffic situation is also carried out by the first vehicle using and checking the traffic situation depicted by the second vehicle. This makes it possible that errors of sensor data or incorrect interpretations of sensor data in the second vehicle are recognized by other road users by a separate plausibility check is performed. If there is no plausibility, the road user is informed in good time by generating a corresponding information signal.

During the comparison, the route planned by the first vehicle is also checked. It is checked by the comparison of whether a separate (planned) infrastructure of the first vehicle can be used without risking other road users with the current sensor data or if necessary changes to the sensor data are needed to safely use the planned infrastructure.

This method is preferably fully automatic and in particular without the influence of a driver. If, for example, the second vehicle is operated autonomously, the traffic can be monitored by surrounding vehicles.

In addition, it can be determined based on the information or the mere radio signal of an autonomously driving vehicle, whether the planned route can be traveled without obstacles and without danger.

In this way, an early and quick information is provided in the absence of plausibility. In addition, the route of the second vehicle is controlled. A success or a failure with respect to a planned driving maneuver of an autonomously operated vehicle can thus be indicated.

Furthermore, in this way, a timely planned driving maneuver can be checked for success and, if necessary, a correction of the driving behavior of the first vehicle be made, for example, correcting the current speed to overtake a vehicle in time or changing a guideway.

The illustrated first traffic situation represents, for example, a desired signal of a traffic situation. This target signal is generated by the second vehicle and transmitted to the first vehicle. The illustrated second traffic situation represents, for example, an actual signal of the same traffic situation and is generated by the first vehicle. In this case, the first traffic situation and the second traffic situation relate to the same traffic situation, this being mapped once by the second vehicle (first traffic situation) and once by the first vehicle (second traffic situation) and being referred to below as two traffic situations due to possible differences.

By using a mere radio signal to locate the second vehicle, the Car2Car communication is extended by another safety system. In addition to the already known ultrasound, lidar, radar or camera location, the pure radio signal can now also be used. In this way, the traffic safety increases.

The emitted radio signal preferably contains sensor data from at least one sensor unit of the second vehicle. These sensor data are transmitted in particular as data packets via a radio signal. In this way, erroneous sensor data that was not detected as faulty by the second vehicle can be detected by a comparison in an adjacent vehicle.

In a preferred embodiment, the depicted first traffic situation (the target signal) comprises at least one position, speed, direction and / or route information of the second vehicle determined by the second vehicle. This information may be used to determine the absolute and relative position and speed and direction of the second vehicle by the first vehicle.

In a preferred embodiment, the depicted second traffic situation (actual signal) includes at least one position, speed, direction and / or route information of the second vehicle determined by the first vehicle. In this way, the same parameters can be used to compare the first traffic situation with the second traffic situation, which considerably simplifies the comparison step.

By knowing your own GPS position, speed and other movement data of the vehicle and by receiving the data of other vehicles, each vehicle can know the relative position and relative speed compared to other road users be made. These relative positions can be achieved, for example, by a transformation of the GPS data. If, in addition, the transmitted speeds and directions of travel are considered, relative speeds can be calculated. In this way, an image of the traffic environment in real time is given at all times.

Ultrasonic, radar, lidar, and / or camera systems are available for this purpose. In addition, sensor systems are provided on the wheels of the vehicles or on other structural units of the vehicle. In addition, instrument signals, such as tachometer signal, acceleration data, brake data, etc. can be used. Thus, the transmitted via the radio signal first traffic situation (target signal) of the second vehicle in the first vehicle is checked for plausibility and a deviation is simplified by comparison.

In this case, a threshold value can be predefined which still rates a deviation within certain tolerance limits, for example +/- 5%, as plausible.

The sensor data of the first and / or the second vehicle are transmitted as data packets via radio. Alternatively, the second vehicle transmits a pure radio signal without sensor data, which is used to locate the second vehicle in the first vehicle.

In a further preferred refinement, the depicted second traffic situation (actual signal) includes at least one position, speed, direction and / or route information of the first vehicle determined by the first vehicle. This allows a determination of relative positions and relative speed between the two vehicles and can be closed to possible traffic hazards.

Preferably, the comparison shows whether the depicted first traffic situation (desired signal) is not plausible. In this case, the radio signal of the imaged first traffic situation (desired signal) is compared with the illustrated second traffic situation (actual signal) and generates an information message in the event of a lack of agreement of the determined data. This represents that the two traffic situations do not match and / or a future traffic situation is possible only with changed parameters in order to prevent a corresponding dangerous situation if necessary.

Preferably, the comparison takes place in a control unit of the first vehicle, a mobile device of the road user in the first vehicle, and / or a communication link with the first vehicle and / or in a traffic monitoring center in communication with the first vehicle. In this way, the information about a traffic situation to the road user can be determined via different computing instances. These can in particular work in parallel to inform the road user about several channels.

In a preferred embodiment, informing takes place via an on-board display unit of the first vehicle, a mobile device of the traffic participant in the first vehicle, an audio signal generated by the first vehicle, a haptic signal generated by the first vehicle, and / or a signal generated by the first vehicle Warning signal for the second vehicle. This allows a driver to be quickly alerted to the result of the comparison to take appropriate action, such as evasion, acceleration, deceleration and / or driveway adjustments, if necessary.

In a preferred embodiment, the warning signal includes a request for control transfer to the driver of the second vehicle. Thus, a driver of the second vehicle is made aware of the comparison result. In this case, for example, the autonomous vehicle is switched over to manual vehicle operation, in order to prevent a dangerous situation if necessary.

The informing preferably includes a driving instruction to the driver of the first vehicle. A driving instruction may include, for example, accelerating, braking and / or dodging.

The driving instruction to the driver of the first vehicle may also include a driveway change over this. This is desirable, for example, when a planned infrastructure in this form has been made more difficult, takes much more time (stowage) or is impossible in this form (full closure).

Preferably, the radio signal transmitted by the second vehicle is sent to a traffic control center, which in turn transmits the emitted radio signal to at least the second vehicle. This allows an increase in security, since the traffic monitoring center is considered a trustworthy entity in the traffic monitoring system. In addition, the traffic monitoring center can transmit the information to several vehicles at the same time, so that not only the first vehicle but also other vehicles in the immediate vicinity of the second vehicle are informed in a simplified manner.

According to the invention, a control unit in a vehicle is also proposed for informing a road user about a traffic situation. The control unit has an interface to a receiving unit of the vehicle for receiving a radio signal of a first vehicle, imaging a first traffic situation, wherein the radio signal is emitted by an autonomously operated second vehicle. In addition, the control unit has an interface to at least one sensor unit of the vehicle for receiving sensor data of the first vehicle to image a second traffic situation. The control unit has a comparison unit which is set up to compare the first traffic situation with the second traffic situation. An output unit of the control unit is submitted to inform the road user about the comparison result of the comparing.

According to the invention, a mobile device is also proposed for informing a road user about traffic information. The mobile radio device has a receiving unit which is set up to receive a radio signal of a first vehicle imaging a first traffic situation, wherein the radio signal is emitted by an autonomously operated second vehicle and for receiving sensor data from at least one sensor unit of the first vehicle imaging a second traffic situation. The mobile device also has a comparison unit which is set up to compare the first traffic situation with the second traffic situation. An output unit of the mobile device is set up to output information about the comparison result of the traffic situation to the road user.

According to the invention, a computer program product for informing road users about a traffic situation is also proposed, wherein program parts can be retrieved from a program memory which support the execution of the preceding method.

list of figures

The invention or further embodiments and advantages of the invention will be explained in more detail with reference to figures, the figures only describe embodiments of the invention. Identical components in the figures are given the same reference numerals. The figures are not to be considered as true to scale, it can be exaggerated large or exaggerated simplified individual elements of the figures.

• 1 ein Ausführungsbeispiel eines Verfahrensablaufdiagramms eines erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens;
• 2 ein Ausführungsbeispiel einer Prinzipdarstellung eines Fahrzeugs zum Durchführen des erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens;
• 3 ein erstes Ausführungsbeispiel einer Verkehrssituation zum Anwenden des erfindungsgemäßen Verfahren;
• 4 ein zweites Ausführungsbeispiel einer Verkehrssituation zum Anwenden des erfindungsgemäßen Verfahren;
• 5 ein drittes Ausführungsbeispiel einer Verkehrssituation zum Anwenden des erfindungsgemäßen Verfahren;
• 6 ein viertes Ausführungsbeispiel einer Verkehrssituation zum Anwenden des erfindungsgemäßen Verfahren;
• 7 ein fünftes Ausführungsbeispiel einer Verkehrssituation zum Anwenden des erfindungsgemäßen Verfahren; und
• 8 ein erfindungsgemäßes Mobilfunkgerät.

Show it:

• 1 an embodiment of a process flow diagram of a method according to the invention;
• 2 an embodiment of a schematic diagram of a vehicle for carrying out the method according to the invention;
• 3 a first embodiment of a traffic situation for applying the method according to the invention;
• 4 a second embodiment of a traffic situation for applying the method according to the invention;
• 5 A third embodiment of a traffic situation for applying the method according to the invention;
• 6 A fourth embodiment of a traffic situation for applying the method according to the invention;
• 7 A fifth embodiment of a traffic situation for applying the method according to the invention; and
• 8th an inventive mobile device.

DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

In 1 Embodiment of a process flow diagram for the inventive method is shown. Here is in the step 101 receiving a radio signal in a first vehicle 1 depicting a first traffic situation (desired signal). It comes in the process step 101 in particular a Car2Car communication, also C2C or Car2X or V2V communication is used. Car2Car communication is the exchange of information and data between a first vehicle 1 and a second vehicle 2 with the background to inform the driver early critical and dangerous situations. The second vehicle sends to a radio signal to surrounding vehicles, such as the first vehicle 1 , out. The radio signal includes data such as steering angle, position, direction, speed. In addition, conditions of the second vehicle are received by the radio signal, such as the response of the ABS, the response of a distance warning signal, etc. The second vehicle collects this data, evaluates this data if necessary and outputs this data by means of the radio signal, for example WLAN, UMTS LTE or via a vehicle-specific (proprietary) radio system to the first vehicle 1 further. In this case, for example, the visibility of the driver of the first vehicle 1 be extended by electronic means. Thus, for example, emergency braking, ice and aquaplaning, lane changes, threats, etc. of the second vehicle can be received.

The second vehicle 2 is in particular operated autonomously. Autonomous driving, also referred to as piloted driving, is to be understood as the movement of vehicles which behave largely autonomously, with processor systems, sensors and actuators interacting in order to make it possible for the vehicle not to guide the driver but to the vehicle 2 drives independently.

Due to the large amount of data and the high complexity of sensors, it is especially useful for autonomous vehicles 2 an error occurs. For example, a sensor provides erroneous data, such as speed, position, etc. whereupon the vehicle performs a faulty driving maneuver and possibly endangers participating road users. In addition, correct sensor data may be misinterpreted or evaluated. In addition, a scored driving situation due to fast events may now be invalid, with the autonomous vehicle responding too slowly to avert danger.

According to the invention, a pure radio signal in addition to the already known ultrasound, Lidar, radar or camera location of the second vehicle 2 for locating or bearing of the second vehicle 2 used to increase traffic safety. The radio signal is, for example, in the first vehicle 1 used to the current position of the second vehicle 2 to determine. This is indicated by the second vehicle 2 a high frequency transmitter. By simply receiving the radio waves of the radio signal, the direction from which the radio waves are received is now determined. This radio signal can, in one embodiment of the invention, without sensor data of the second vehicle 2 , ie without further information of the second vehicle 2 to be sent out. In the first vehicle 1 This radio signal is received by means of one or more directional antennas.

In one process step 102 Therefore, the sensor data is received from at least one sensor unit 12 . 13 . 14 . 18 of the first vehicle 1 depicting a second traffic situation (actual signal). In one process step 103 the received traffic situations are compared with each other, for example, the target signal is compared with the actual signal. It is in one process step 104 checked whether the two traffic situations are identical, that is, whether the target signal with the actual signal is identical or whether a deviation of the actual signal and target signal within predefined thresholds, for example, a tolerance of ± 5%. In one process step 105 the road user is about the comparison result 104 informed.

Thus, a plausibility check can be made and a dangerous situation prevented, but at least a road user to be sufficiently informed.

2 shows an exemplary schematic diagram of a vehicle according to the invention 1 , The vehicle 1 Here is a vehicle with four wheels 11 , In this type of vehicle, the invention is not limited. In particular, vehicles such as passenger cars, trucks, motorcycles, buses are used as vehicles. Furthermore, vehicles such as bicycles, scooters, etc. can also be used.

In 2 becomes the vehicle 1 shown in principle from above. The vehicle has a plurality of sensors. The sensors record physical quantities such as temperatures, speeds, angles, pressures.

The four wheels 11 are each with speed sensors 12 fitted. Based on the speed sensors 12 recorded speeds can be determined how fast the vehicle drives. The two front wheels also have directional sensors 13 on. By means of the directional sensors 13 can be determined if a change of direction of the vehicle 1 is carried out. In addition, acceleration and / or brake sensors, axial sensor, can be attached to the wheels 11 be arranged.

In addition, other sensors (not shown) may be provided, for example, crankshaft sensor, oil pressure sensor, temperature sensor, transmission sensor oil level sensor rain sensor, distance sensor, tank level sensor and / or steering angle sensor.

In addition, a position sensor unit 14 , for example GPS position unit, and a radar, lidar, camera unit 18 intended.

The illustrated sensor units 12 . 13 . 14 . 18 may have further subunits and be connected to other sensor units.

The signals of the sensors 12 . 13 . 14 . 18 become a central unit 15 , For example, by means of a wireless or a wired communication provided. In part, these data are already available via an output unit 17 provided to the driver. For example, a speed and / or a position can be displayed with these sensor data. These sensor data are referred to here as actual signals.

According to the invention, the vehicle 1 a transmitting unit and a receiving unit to exchange data with the environment can. In 2 the transmitting unit and the receiving unit are as a common transmitting and receiver unit 16 shown. The receiving unit 16 of the vehicle 1 is adapted to receive a radio signal from a second vehicle 2 to receive and send this to the central unit 15 of the vehicle 1 forward. In the central unit 15 Then, a comparison of the received radio signal, which via the receiving unit 16 was received with the signals of the sensor data of the individual sensor units 12 . 13 . 14 and 18 , If the comparison reveals that the depicted first traffic situation (desired signal) does not coincide with the second traffic situation (actual signal), then it is assumed that the first traffic situation is implausible. The comparison result is the road user via an output unit 17 shown. When comparing, for example, the same parameters from the setpoint signal and the actual signal are compared with one another, in particular a current absolute / relative position of the vehicles and / or a current absolute / relative speed.

As output unit 17 For example, an on-board display can be used in the vehicle. As output unit 17 For example, a speaker can be used in the vehicle. As output unit 17 For example, a vibration signal in the vehicle, such as steering wheel vibration or seat vibration can be used as a haptic signal. As output unit 17 For example, the speaker and / or the display of a mobile device 5 one in the vehicle 1 used by the road user.

In 3 a first embodiment of a traffic situation for applying the method according to the invention is shown. This is in 3 a multi-lane road 6 shown. On this multi-lane road 6 There are four autonomous vehicles 2 , These four autonomous-powered vehicles 2 are for example trucks. These trucks move in particular with the help of a technical control system at a very small distance behind each other, without affecting the traffic safety is affected. This control system is called platooning, colloquially referred to as a truck-train. The four trucks with a small distance to each other drive in a platooning network. This small distance leads at highway-usual speeds to a significant reduction in fuel consumption. As a result, platooning systems contribute significantly to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and more cost-effective transport of goods or people. The risk of stowage is greatly reduced by the platooning. This will massively increase the efficiency and utilization of motorways.

The Platooning Association is on the right lane of the two-lane road 6 on road. All four vehicles 2 will be operated autonomously by means of platooning, and have a relatively small distance from each other. This results in the efficient use of wind shadow effects, which can save fuel for each of the vehicles. In addition, on the left lane of this street 6 a manually operated vehicle 1 shown. This vehicle 1 would like to continue a planned route and must do the exit 7 the street 6 depart. The problem here is that it is in the Platooning composite because of its small distances of the individual vehicles 2 with each other is not possible that the vehicle 1 between the individual vehicles 2 without impairing the platooning and without reducing traffic safety. By crossing the individual vehicles 2 through the first vehicle 1 For example, the benefits of leeward effects would be prevented, and the lack of distance between the vehicles would lead to significant road traffic risks. Additional braking and acceleration would result in increased fuel consumption, which is undesirable.

The manually operated vehicle 1 receives radio signals of the platooning network via a receiving unit 16 , The radio signal provides a desired signal of the traffic situation. The desired signal of the traffic situation includes, for example, the position and the speed of the platooning network or can be determined from the radio signal, the relative position and the relative speed.

In addition, the manually operated vehicle determines 1 its own position based on sensor data from one of the sensor unit 12 . 13 . 14 . 18 of the vehicle 1 be determined.

These sensor data are received as an actual signal of the traffic situation. The actual signal of the traffic situation includes, for example, the position and the speed of the vehicle 1 , According to the traffic situation in 3 is the current position of the manually operated vehicle 1 at the beginning of the platooning network.

Now the target signal and the actual signal are in the first vehicle 1 compared. Based on the comparison of desired signal and actual signal it is determined that at the current speed of the vehicle 1 , the exit 7 can not be driven without provoking a traffic hazard. This is the road user in the vehicle 1 informed and it is suggested to his vehicle 1 to accelerate. Thus, according to 3 described a traffic situation in which the planned route can not be met if the current speed is not varied. The information to the road user about the traffic situation represents here in particular a warning that with the current sensor data as the actual signal no safe route is possible and only with changed sensor data a traffic hazard is excluded.

This will be the information of the platooning network in the first vehicle 1 evaluated to take the appropriate action. By analyzing the driving speeds, the recommendation for acceleration now becomes information about the comparison to the driver of the first vehicle 1 and it is proposed to the vehicle 1 to accelerate in order to be able to depart from the platooning network.

In 4 a second embodiment of a traffic situation for applying the method according to the invention is shown. In the 4 illustrated traffic situation resembles the in 3 As far as the description applies to 3 also for them 4 , In the following, therefore, only the differences become 3 set out in more detail. The only difference to the traffic situation in 3 is the current position of the manually operated vehicle 1 at the end of the platooning network. This is determined by evaluating the actual signal. The comparison between the desired signal and the actual signal then shows that the speed is too high to the planned departure 7 to depart. The driver of the first vehicle 1 is informed and advised to reduce his speed to the departure 7 to be able to use it as its planned route without endangering traffic.

In 5 a third embodiment of a traffic situation for applying the method according to the invention is shown. Here is a single lane road 6 represented, which can be traveled in both directions. An autonomous vehicle 2 drives in front of a manually operated vehicle 1 in the street 6 in the same direction. The first vehicle 1 receives radio signals of the second vehicle 2 as a target signal. In addition, the first vehicle receives 1 Sensor data from own vehicle as actual signal. When comparing the desired and actual signal determines the first vehicle 1 in that the actual position is "is" of the second vehicle 2 does not coincide with the "target" position obtained from the radio signal. This is in 5 by the dashed position of the second vehicle 2 shown.

The faulty position of the second vehicle 2 is used as a comparison result the road user, here the driver of the first vehicle 1 communicated. This may be recommended to reduce its speed and / or a warning signal to the second vehicle 2 send out. For example, this warning signal may be automatically given by the first vehicle 1 generated to the driver of the second vehicle 2 to inform accordingly and if necessary to prevent a dangerous traffic situation. By means of this warning signal becomes the driver of the second vehicle 2 may be asked to correct his current position. Alternatively or additionally, the vehicle 2 without driver action, for example, due to the warning signal moves to the desired position in the context of autonomous operation.

Moreover, it is also possible for the comparison result to be provided via a traffic monitoring center Ü. In this case, the radio signal of the second vehicle 2 received in the monitoring center Ü and then to the first vehicle 1 Posted. The first vehicle 1 accordingly does not receive the radio signal directly from the second vehicle 2 but by means of the monitoring center Ü. This increases the trustworthiness of the radio signal and consequently the security of the system.

As in 5 is shown, the first vehicle 1 also be an oncoming vehicle. Additionally or alternatively, third vehicle receives the radio signal and can then reassess the traffic situation and take measures to prevent an accident, if necessary. In the case of the oncoming vehicle 1 , this could include the initiation of a braking process, which is suggested to the road user based on the information about the result of the comparison.

In 6 a fourth embodiment of a traffic situation for applying the method according to the invention is shown. Here is a two lane street 6 shown in the case of an autonomous vehicle 2 plans a lane change to overtake a preceding traveling vehicle M. The autonomously driving vehicle overlooks this 2 due to faulty sensor data or due to incorrect evaluation of the sensor data, a first vehicle traveling on the left lane 1 , The comparison between the desired signal and the actual signal again makes it possible for the faster-moving first vehicle 1 a planned change of direction of the second vehicle 2 recognizes, although this has not yet indicated a change of direction.

In the 6 illustrated traffic situation has arisen from an error in the sensor and / or based on a bug in the autonomous vehicle and can generate an accident in this way. This becomes the road user in the first vehicle 1 transmitted and based on this information, the road user of the first vehicle can slow down his vehicle and avoid an accident situation.

Here, the first vehicle analyzed 1 the driving decision of the autonomously driving vehicle, which in his view is not plausible 2 and informs the road user about it. In addition, if necessary, a corresponding warning signal is generated. The warning signal is sent to the driver of the first vehicle 1 and possibly also to the driver of the second vehicle 2 transmitted. For example, the warning signal is also sent to a central instance Ü. For example, a central unit calculates for all traffic situations 15 in the first vehicle 1 or a peripheral unit of that vehicle 1 - For example, a mobile device - the comparison of the desired signal and actual signal. The comparison then determines the implausible driving decision and alerts the vehicles in the event of significant deviations 1 . 2 with each other and possibly also the traffic control center Ü.

In 7 a fifth embodiment of a traffic situation for applying the method according to the invention is shown. Here are 12 vehicles 1 . 2 the same destination, for example a parking garage P1 in a first traffic area 3 , Parking garage P1 has only 4 parking spaces. In addition, the first traffic area 3 a high traffic volume, so that considerable delays have to be expected. The estimated time of arrival is for all 12 vehicles 1 . 2 equal in a certain time corridor. With the radio signal of the other vehicles 1 . 2 is proposed for the best traffic situation and the optimal driving speed. Alternatively, with the method according to the invention, the vehicles 1 . 2 be prompted to select an alternative route or an alternative destination. This is communicated to the respective road user as information of the comparison result. Here, for example, receives a navigation system and / or the driver through his mobile device, the information, the second traffic area 4 to use with additional parking garages P2 and P3. In this way, traffic jams in the respective traffic area 3 . 4 minimizes and effectively saves time.

In 8th is a mobile device according to the invention 5 shown. On the mobile device 5 is a mobile device application active, which makes it possible to communicate the comparison result as information about the traffic situation to the road user. For example, appears on the display of the mobile device 5 the information "warning ahead vehicle shears off". This is a radio unit in the mobile device 5 provided, which is set, the radio signal of the second vehicle 2 as well as sensor data of a sensor unit 12 . 13 . 14 . 18 of the first vehicle 1 to recieve. This is done in an evaluation of the mobile device 5 a comparison between the desired signal and the actual signal and corresponding information to the road user about the comparison result. Alternatively, the reception and evaluation takes place in the central unit 15 of the vehicle and the information about the comparison result is via the mobile device 5 shown. In addition, an audio signal from the mobile device 5 be sent out to inform and / or warn the road user.

To capture the data of the first vehicle 1 and the second vehicle 2 Network technologies of the WLAN standard can also be used. The performance, availability and reliability of all traffic control, traffic information and driver assistance systems, which rely on the radio technology is thus significantly improved.

The depicted traffic situation is, for example, a planned (future) traffic situation, in particular a planned infrastructure and the necessary position of the individual vehicles of this traffic situation. Accordingly, a risk can be prevented with the method according to the invention.

In addition, with the method according to the invention, a current traffic situation can be imaged by two vehicles, wherein a plausibility check is checked by a traffic situation received by means of radio signals in order to avoid the danger.

In the context of the invention, all described and / or drawn and / or claimed elements can be combined with each other as desired.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1 vehicle 11 wheel 12 Speed sensor 13 direction sensor 14 position sensor 15 central processing unit 16 Receiving and transmitting unit 1 7 output unit 18 Radar, Lidar - unit 2 Second vehicle 3 First traffic area 4 Second traffic area 5 mobile device 6 Street 7 exit A Autonomously operated vehicle M Manually operated vehicle S Target position of the second vehicle I Actual position of the second vehicle Ü Traffic monitoring center 101-105 steps

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• DE 102010013402 A1 [0004]
• DE 102010011496 A1 [0005]
• DE 10334203 A1 [0006]
• DE 10149206 A1 [0007, 0009]
• WO 2014/082698 A1 [0008]
• DE 102012201513 A1 [0010]
• EP 2618596 A1 [0011]

Claims (15)

A method (100) for informing a road user about a traffic situation, the method (100) comprising the following steps: - Receiving (101) of a transmitted radio signal by a receiving unit (16) of a first vehicle (1) imaging a first traffic situation, wherein the radio signal from an autonomously operated second vehicle (2) is emitted; Receiving (102) sensor data from at least one sensor unit (12, 13, 14, 18) of the first vehicle (1) to image a second traffic situation; Comparing (103) the first traffic situation with the second traffic situation; and Informing (105) the road user about the comparison result (104) of the comparison. Method (100) according to Claim 1 wherein the emitted radio signal includes sensor data from at least one sensor unit (12, 13, 14, 18) of the second vehicle (2). Method (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the depicted first traffic situation comprises at least one position, speed, direction and / or route information of the second vehicle (2) determined by the second vehicle (2). Method (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the depicted second traffic situation comprises at least one position, speed, direction and / or route information of the second vehicle (2) determined by the first vehicle (1). Method (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the depicted second traffic situation comprises at least one position, speed, direction and / or route information of the first vehicle (1) determined by the first vehicle (1). Method (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the comparison (103) reveals that the depicted first traffic situation is implausible. Method (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the comparison (103) takes place in: a control unit (15) of the first vehicle (1); - A mobile device (5) of the road user in the first vehicle (1); and or - One in communication with the first vehicle (1) located traffic control center (Ü). Method (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the informing (105) takes place via: an on-board display of the first vehicle (1); - A mobile device (5) of the road user in the first vehicle (1); an audio signal generated by the first vehicle (1); - A haptic signal generated by the first vehicle (1); and or - A warning signal generated for the second vehicle (2). Method (100) according to Claim 8 , wherein the warning signal includes a request to take over control to the driver of the second vehicle (2). Method (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the informing (105) includes a driving instruction to the driver of the first vehicle (1). Method (100) according to Claim 10 wherein the driving instruction to the driver of the first vehicle (1) includes a driveway change. Method (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the radio signal emitted by the second vehicle (2) is sent to a traffic monitoring center (Ü), which transmits the emitted radio signal to at least the second vehicle (2). Control unit (15) in a vehicle (1, 2) for informing (105) a road user about traffic information comprising: - an interface to a receiving unit (16) of the vehicle (1, 2) for receiving a radio signal of a first vehicle (1) depicting a first Traffic situation, wherein the radio signal from an autonomously operated second vehicle (2) is emitted; an interface to at least one sensor unit (12, 13, 14, 18) for receiving sensor data of the first vehicle (1) depicting a second traffic situation; a comparison unit configured to compare the first traffic situation with the second traffic situation and an output unit configured to inform the road user about the comparison result of the comparing. Mobile radio device (5) for informing (105) a road user about traffic information comprising: - a receiving unit set up for: Receiving (101) a radio signal of a first vehicle (1) image forming a first traffic situation, wherein the radio signal from an autonomously operated second vehicle (2) is emitted; and Receiving (102) sensor data from at least one sensor unit (12, 13, 14, 18) of the first vehicle (1) as a mapping of a second traffic situation; a comparison unit configured to compare (103) the first traffic situation with the second traffic situation; and - An output unit, arranged to inform (105) of the road user about the comparison result (104) of the comparison (103). Computer program product for informing road users about a traffic situation, wherein program parts are retrievable from a program memory, the execution of the method (100) according to one of Claims 1 to 12 support.

Images