DE102018128894A1 - Method, system and computer program for providing information for operating a vehicle, in particular by means of a digital map - Google Patents

Abstract

A method, system and computer program for providing information for operating a vehicle (20, 21, 22) is proposed, comprising: actuating (S1) at least one actuator of one or more first vehicles (10, 11, 12) with a first stimulus Control signal when driving on a first lane section, determining (S2) one or more first parameters characterizing an effect of the actuator of the one or more first vehicles (10, 11, 12) in response to the first stimulus control signal in the first lane section Evaluating (S3) at least one parameter characterizes the determined effect of the actuator of the one or more vehicles (10, 11, 12) on the at least one stimulus control signal, and providing (S4) the information on the basis of the evaluation (S3).

Description

The invention relates to a method, system and computer program for providing information for operating a vehicle, in particular by means of a digital map. The invention also relates to a corresponding digital card.

An exchange of information in the form of Car-2-Car or Car-2-X communication is known from the prior art, which relates to specific events. A modern vehicle is a highly complex structure. With increasing complexity and varied combinations of input data and influencing variables on the operation of a vehicle, the number of conceivable faults or unexpected effects can also increase.

It is therefore an object of this invention to provide a method, system and computer program product for providing information for operating a vehicle, by means of which an improved functioning of the vehicle or various functionalities of the vehicle can take place. In particular, it is the object of the invention to provide a method for providing information by means of a digital map or for operating a digital map, various functions of one or more vehicles or a traffic system being operated depending on the map. In particular, it is the object of the invention to increase safety, reliability, predictability and quality of a vehicle functionality, as well as to automatically identify and prevent unwanted trends at an early stage and to recognize and support desired trends.

The object is achieved by the features of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments are described in the dependent claims. It is pointed out 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 can form a separate invention that is independent of the combination of all features of the independent claim can be made the subject of an independent claim, a divisional application or a late application. This applies in the same way to the technical teachings described in the description, which can form an invention that is independent of the features of the independent claims.

The following explanations regarding the method according to the invention also apply in a corresponding manner to the system according to the invention and to the corresponding computer program. Further features and advantages of the invention result from the following description of exemplary embodiments of the invention, with reference to the figures, the details according to the invention, e.g. System components or process steps shows, and from the claims. The individual features can each be implemented individually or in groups in any combination in a variant of the invention.

According to a first aspect of the invention, a method for providing information for operating a vehicle is provided, comprising actuating at least one actuator of one or more first vehicles with a first stimulus control signal when driving on a first road section, identifying determining one or more first parameters an effect of the actuator of the one or more first vehicles in response to the first stimulus control signal in the first lane section, an evaluation of at least one parameter characterizing the determined effect of the actuator of the one or more vehicles on the at least one stimulus control signal, and a provision the information based on the evaluation. The information for operating at least one first vehicle and / or a second vehicle can then be provided. Furthermore, the information to be provided can be provided to a backend and / or a mobile user device.

Within the scope of this document, the route sections, in particular road sections, can be sections which, for example, 1, 5, 10, 30, 50, 100 meters in length and / or with the accuracy of, e.g. 1, 5, 10, 30, 50, 100 meters are defined. Route sections, in particular road sections, can be determined by certain, e.g. global or local position information, coordinates and / or certain local features.

The information to be provided or provided can be determined depending on the evaluation, preferably on the basis of the evaluation. The determination of the information to be provided can essentially be determined during or after execution of the control. The provision can e.g. in the next time interval, e.g. after a few seconds, with or before the next use of a functionality of the vehicle, with a next terminal cycle or change in an operating mode (of the vehicle or a functionality of the vehicle).

The evaluation of the one or more first parameters characterizing an effect of the actuator of the one or more first vehicles can include a comparison of the first parameters of the same types and / or the parameters of at least two different types.

• - zumindest zwei Wirkungen des Aktors bei unterschiedlichen Randbedingungen und/oder auf unterschiedlichen Fahrstrecken,
• - zumindest zwei Wirkungen des Aktors zu unterschiedlichen Zeitintervallen, und/oder
• - zumindest zwei Wirkungen des Aktors in Reaktion unterschiedliche Stimulus-Steuersignale, und/oder
• - zumindest zwei Wirkungen der zwei oder mehreren Aktoren in unterschiedlichen ersten Fahrzeugen.

For example, at least two parameters that are characteristic of:

• at least two effects of the actuator under different boundary conditions and / or on different routes,
• - At least two effects of the actuator at different time intervals, and / or
• - At least two effects of the actuator in response to different stimulus control signals, and / or
• - At least two effects of the two or more actuators in different first vehicles.

Identify the first parameters and / or second parameters of the effect of the ascertained (measured as the first parameter data) signal, in particular parameters of the signal representing an effect of the actuator. For example, the first parameter and / or second parameter can identify an oscillation (e.g., as a frequency value or frequency value range, amplitude value or amplitude value range, phase value or phase value range) that occurs as an effect in response to the actuation of the actuator. For example, a vibration pattern, pressure sequence pattern, frequency pattern, amplitude pattern, phase pattern of an effect, or a time gradient of one of the quantities mentioned, etc. (for example as the first parameter and / or second parameter or as information from the first parameter and / or second parameter is identified).

The evaluation of the one or more first parameters characterizing an effect of the actuator of the one or more first vehicles can include a comparison of the first parameters of the different types and / or the first parameters of the same type of different first vehicles, time intervals or driving routes. Mathematical relationships, e.g. a measure of a correlation and / or a similarity between the first parameters of the at least two different types and / or the first parameters of the same type of different first vehicles, time intervals or routes are determined and taken into account.

In a simplified case, the evaluation can be a comparison of the information on the basis of the one or more first parameters with at least one first predetermined condition.

The one or more parameters characterizing a physical effect of the actuator can characterize a pattern of parameter values of a physical reaction, which were recorded in response to a specific stimulus control signal. Pattern recognition and assignment to one or more predetermined patterns can be carried out.

In one example, an occurrence of an unexpected first parameter of the effect of the actuator can be recognized and taken into account during the evaluation. Such an unexpected can be a significantly different from an expectation or an expected value, not expressly corresponding to a defined standard (from theory, practice or simulation), which is not yet known, e.g. not adequately matching or an extraordinary parameter (parameter value) of the effect of the actuator for any known pattern. In the event of the detection of such an unexpected first parameter (even if there is no known indication of a particular disadvantage or defect), corresponding information can be determined and made available. For example, the information provided may indicate that a first stimulus control signal, e.g. on a certain route section and / or time interval) to an unexpected, in particular a certain (qualitative and / or quantitative) deviation of the first parameter from an expected value, or (as a result, (certain) deviations can be expected in a certain route section The behavior of the first vehicles and / or second vehicles can then be changed depending on the information provided, for example they can be switched to a more secure operating mode.

For example, influencing, in particular adapting a functionality, comprising automated and / or remote-controlled actuation of an actuator of the one or more second vehicles, can take place depending on the information provided.

The said evaluation can be based on one or more comparison values, patterns and / or mathematical relationships. These can be applied to the first parameters when evaluating (this means that the first data are also based on the first parameters or parameter values). For example, when evaluating, a permissible and / or impermissible range of values for the first data based on the and / or the first parameters or their permissible and / or impermissible deviation (from a value, pattern and / or mathematical relationship) of the one or more first parameters are determined.

During the evaluation, it is checked, for example, whether or to what extent the first parameters characterize the effect of the actuator on a pattern, in particular on one of several patterns, a predetermined mathematical relationship, e.g. Formula, table, etc. fit, resemble or correlate with one.

The at least one stimulus control signal can e.g. comprise a predefined sequence of different control signals or control variables (of the same or different types) which are diverse, in particular dynamic, e.g. depending on a specific need. The one or more stimulus control signals can, for example, be selected in such a way that a resultant effect which can be perceived by a user of the vehicle (for example also on the movement of the vehicle, background noise, etc.) is limited. Alternatively, a test procedure can be carried out easily perceptible to the user, in particular staged or accompanied by a staging.

• - einen Parameter kennzeichnend eine Bewegung der Bremsbelege. Beispielsweise kann eine Sequenz oder ein Muster der Annäherung, Entfernung oder des Anliegens der Bremsbelege an die entsprechende Bremsscheibe verwendet werden. Daraufhin kann ein Abgleich des ermittelten (gemessenen) Musters mit einem oder mehreren vorausbestimmten Mustern erfolgen.
• - einen Parameter kennzeichnend eine Auswirkung eines kurzen Lenkimpulses an den Vorderrädern und/oder Hinterrädern auf eine Querbewegung oder Querbeschleunigung und/oder Gierbewegung oder Gierbeschleunigung des Fahrzeugs.
• - einen Parameter kennzeichnend eine Betriebsgröße eines Fahrstabilitätssystems, wie z.B. DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), sowie bestimmter einzelner Funktionalitäten, z.B. ABS = Anti-Blocker-System, ASR = Anti-Schlupf-Regelung, MSR = Motor Schlupf-Regelung, etc.
• - einen oder mehrere Zeitparameter, beispielsweise Verzögerungszeiten, Totzeiten, etc.

The stimulus control signal preferably differs from a control signal for a functional actuation of the actuator of the vehicle. This can be identified separately (for example by a corresponding identifier or header) or contain values, for example control variables or combinations of control variables, which differ significantly from those in a typical control signal. A non-functional actuation of the actuator is preferably initiated with the stimulus control signal. Alternatively or additionally, a stimulus control signal can (also) cause a functional effect and / or a specific change in the effect, for example a specific change in a vehicle functionality. It can be a control of the actuator that (in particular additionally) temporarily changes a vehicle function, for example a parameter of the vehicle function. The stimulus control signal can preferably be used to initiate an operation which differs from an actual (for example functional, function-related) use of the actuator and / or from a functional effect of the actuator (which results from the purpose of the actuator) (qualitative and / or quantitative). For example, an actuator of a braking system or an actuator of the steering system of the vehicle can be actuated in such a way that no or no significant braking or steering results. For example, the stimulus control signal can be used for a brief actuation of the brake pads, a (very short, low) steering torque, a short lifting and / or lowering, swaying and / or nodding of the chassis or the passenger compartment of the vehicle, and a hydraulic and / or pneumatic one Effect can be initiated in a hydraulic or pneumatic system of the vehicle. The corresponding first parameters of the effect can then be evaluated (for example using means of the vehicle, the mobile user device and / or baking). These can be compared, for example, with values and patterns based on corresponding statistical data and / or a result of a simulation. The one or more parameters characterizing an effect of the actuator on a stimulus control signal can be characteristic of: a hydraulic variable, in particular a sequence or a pattern of the pressure change in the braking system, steering system or in a vertical dynamic actuator. The determined (measured) pressure sequence pattern can then be compared with one or more predetermined patterns.

• - A parameter characterizing a movement of the brake pads. For example, a sequence or a pattern of the approach, distance or application of the brake pads to the corresponding brake disc can be used. The determined (measured) pattern can then be compared with one or more predetermined patterns.
• - A parameter characterizing an effect of a short steering pulse on the front wheels and / or rear wheels on a transverse movement or lateral acceleration and / or yaw movement or yaw acceleration of the vehicle.
• - A parameter characterizing an operating variable of a driving stability system, such as DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), as well as certain individual functionalities, for example ABS = anti-blocker system, ASR = anti-slip control, MSR = engine slip control, etc.
• one or more time parameters, for example delay times, dead times, etc.

• - ein Maß eines Schalls und/oder Körperschalls, der auf die Ansteuerung mit dem Stimulus-Steuersignal gemessen wird. Daraufhin kann ein Abgleich des als Parameter der Wirkung des ermittelten (gemessenen, als die ersten Parameterdaten erfassten) Vibrationsmusters, Druckfolgemusters, Frequenzmusters, Amplitudenmusters, Phasenmusters, eines zeitlichen Gradient einer der genannten Größen, etc. , mit einem oder mehreren vorausbestimmten Mustern erfolgen. Dabei können die Daten kennzeichnend die Wirkung des Aktors beispielsweise mit einem Fahrzeugmikrofon (z.B. auch Sprechmikrofon im Innenraum) und/oder einem Körperschall-Sensor ermittelt werden. Es können Körperschall-Sensoren verwendet werden, die z.B. für die Erkennung und Crash und Auslösung von Airbags im Fahrzeug verbaut sind.

For example, a parameter of the effect of the actuator in the case of a stimulus control signal can characterize a time interval between a specific stimulus control signal or a combination of stimulus signals and the achievement of a specific physical effect of the actuator.

• - A measure of a sound and / or structure-borne sound, which is measured for activation with the stimulus control signal. Then a comparison of the vibration pattern, pressure sequence pattern, frequency pattern, amplitude pattern, phase pattern, as a parameter of the effect of the ascertained (measured as the first parameter data), a time gradient of a of the sizes mentioned, etc., with one or more predetermined patterns. The data characterizing the effect of the actuator can be determined, for example, with a vehicle microphone (for example, also a speech microphone in the interior) and / or a structure-borne noise sensor. Structure-borne noise sensors can be used, which are installed in the vehicle, for example, for the detection and crash and deployment of airbags.

For example, an evaluation of several determined parameters characterizing an effect of the actuator on one or more specific stimulus control signals (also among one another) can be carried out. The evaluation can be a comparison of the determined parameters of the effect of the actuator, in particular a pattern recognized therein (time characteristic, mathematical relationships between at least two relevant parameters, variables, etc. in relation to the effect of the actuator), with certain limit values and / or certain patterns include.

For example, the evaluation can determine, e.g. Estimating a measure of operational readiness of the expected performance and / or a probability of failure of the respective actuator or of a type of the actuator. This can refer to certain boundary conditions and / or routes.

In a simplified case, one or more first parameters can be subjected to a comparison with a first limit value or a first data pattern, which is used to identify a state, a trend (a specific trend and / or measure of a trend), and / or a trend for undergo a condition of at least part of the vehicle. For example, a specific state, trend or a measure of a state or trend can be identified in the information provided and / or determined from the information provided. For example, at least one particular, e.g. one or more limit values or ranges of values of one or more conditions and / or trends in one or more first vehicles are taken into account. For example, an operation, operating mode, operating parameters of at least one second vehicle can then be changed. This can e.g. if it is determined that in one or more first vehicles, preferably in a certain proportion of the first vehicles, a certain state and / or trend falls below and / or exceeds a certain limit value. Alternatively or additionally, one or more first parameters can be subjected to a comparison with a second limit value or a second data pattern, which is used for the detection of a specific state and / or trend, e.g. a state or trend outside a norm, especially a norm value. If a deviation or measure of the deviation from a standard is found in a number of the first vehicles, an operation or operating parameters of the second vehicle can then be influenced.

The evaluation of the first parameters of the first action of the (respective) actuator in one or more first vehicles on one or more stimulus control signals can, for example, determine one or more excessively non-linear effects and / or delays in the action of the actuator, e.g. compared to predetermined limits.

For example, a characteristic, in particular a time characteristic, e.g. Delay, subsequent time, dead time of an actuator of a first vehicle can already be determined as a first parameter and / or as part of the evaluation of the first parameter.

For example, a second vehicle or a second actuator of a second vehicle (based on the determination, e.g. reception of the information provided based on one or more first vehicles) can be operated depending on the information provided. A parameter for operating a second actuator of a second vehicle can preferably be selected depending on the information provided. For example, one or more points in time for controlling a second actuator of a second vehicle can be selected such that an improved time characteristic (compared to the time characteristic of one or more first vehicles) is aimed for or achieved in the second vehicle.

The evaluation can take place inside the vehicle and / or outside the vehicle, e.g. be carried out in the smartphone or backend, e.g. based on the data transmitted for this.

Activation of the actuator with the stimulus control signal in the vehicle, selection of the one or more parameters of the stimulus control signal can be carried out in the method from a mobile user device or a backend. The actuation of the actuator can then be carried out with a stimulus control signal, in particular with a stimulus control signal with predetermined parameters in a relevant first vehicle, depending on information transmitted to the vehicle from a backend or a mobile user device. In the context of this patent application, the mobile user device also includes a home PC or a computer unit for managing a fleet, car sharing, etc.

For example, a request to execute a control of the at least one actuator in the vehicle and / or one or more parameters of the stimulus control signal, for example the stimulus control signal itself from the backend or from the mobile user device of the user, can be received. This results in a very high degree of flexibility, which makes it possible, for example, to stimulate vehicles already at customers' premises (possibly imperceptible to the user or staged for a certain perceptibility by the user) to provide information, for example the first parameters, the information to be provided, to generate or provide (to deliver).

For example, in the backend or in the mobile user device, depending on various criteria, e.g. depending on an evaluation of various usage data, data on the vehicle and / or the user of the vehicle, a need to determine the usefulness of certain information to be provided for one or more second vehicles and / or a specific actuation of the actuator of a first vehicle. Advantageously, the evaluation can also be compared or aggregated with diverse, vehicle-specific and / or non-vehicle-specific data, customer data, further “big data”, etc. In other words, certain actuations of the actuators and / or stimulus control signals for a number of first vehicles can be determined and initiated depending on a further data evaluation (for example on other big data).

For example, it can be determined which information to be provided (for example what type of information, in relation to which system of the vehicle, etc.) is desired, useful or necessary for a specific purpose. Then one or more actuators in one or more first vehicles can be actuated (in order to provide the required information). Depending on a first piece of information provided (with a repeated sequence of one or more method steps), a second piece of information (for example, more precise or suitable for a specific purpose) can be determined and made available. The method can be carried out iteratively, as it were, with two or more passes.

The determination of the necessity, the usefulness of a specific test procedure outside the vehicle can be carried out taking into account various data. Thereupon one or more requirements can be checked in the vehicle (also according to their safe feasibility) and can be initiated (at suitable time intervals or at unsuitable time intervals).

The actuator of the vehicle can be activated on the basis of receipt of specific information from a mobile user device or a backend. The information need not (but can) correspond to the stimulus control signal. The at least one stimulus control signal is preferably selected depending on information received from a mobile user device or a backend. For example, one or more parameters of the effect of the actuator can be evaluated from a mobile user device or a backend.

As the backend, a computing unit is arranged at a distance from the vehicle (in particular statically), e.g. Understand servers, mainframes, etc. The backend is set up in particular to aggregate the data for executing the method, in particular data from larger periods and / or a large number of vehicles. An action carried out from the backend, e.g. the initiation of a stimulus control signal in one or more first vehicles can also be directly or indirectly based on an action by a person, e.g. a dispatcher.

The method can be an aggregation of the data identified in this document, the similar or additional data, e.g. include further vehicle data and / or user data of the user or users of the one or more vehicles from a plurality of the time intervals and / or vehicles. The backend and / or the mobile user device belong to the scope of the invention.

A control of the actuator can preferably be carried out with a sequence of several, step-by-step control variables for controlling the actuator, or a request from a step-by-step increasing action of the actuator until a certain physical effect is achieved. The at least one stimulus control signal can characterize or comprise a sequence of control variables which increase step-by-step to control the actuator or a request for a step-increasing effect of the actuator. For example, such a sequence is identified in the stimulus control signal, e.g. encoded, or is responsive to receipt of the stimulus control signal, e.g. determined by means of a predetermined function, allocation table, etc.

In a simplified case, a stimulus control signal can be used to initiate a sequence of test braking, test steering and / or vertical dynamic (for example predefined for the execution of the method) test movements of a part of the vehicle which (at least tend to) have increasing operating parameters. In particular, that is gradually increasing Stimulus control signal or the requested effect up to a certain detected or measured physical effect used until a certain state transition, a certain reaction and / or a certain measure, for example intensity of the reaction in the vehicle and / or in an environment of the vehicle becomes.

For example, the requested braking torque and / or time interval of the braking torque is increased, in particular step by step, until a certain effect is recognized. For example, several operating parameters that tend to increase are initiated for test purposes until e.g. a certain wheel slip occurs and / or an actual braking acceleration is reached. The parameters requested by the stimulus control signal can (also) be compared with the predetermined condition until a certain effect is reached.

In a further embodiment, a parameter of a first boundary condition is specified in which the actuation of the actuator of the vehicle is to be carried out with the stimulus control signal.

The at least one first parameter of the boundary condition can characterize a predetermined time interval, position information and / or a parameter of an environmental condition. The boundary condition for controlling an actuator of the vehicle with a certain stimulus control signal can also relate to a certain boundary condition inside the vehicle and / or a boundary condition in the surroundings of the vehicle. Such a boundary condition can e.g. a range of values of vehicle speed, inside temperature, outside temperature, humidity, a certain type of road, precipitation, etc.

For example, the at least one (desired) parameter of a boundary condition can be determined in a backend, in a mobile user device and / or in the vehicle itself or manually by a person (user of the vehicle, a dispatcher, etc.). For example, parameters (in each case expedient) can be predefined for a number of vehicles in which a certain test braking, test steering and / or test actuation of a vertical dynamic actuator is carried out, in particular in a certain road section, moisture and / or if the outside temperature falls below a certain threshold value , is possible.

Then when the at least one constraint, e.g. such a test braking can be carried out with means of the vehicle (on the spot). Such a parameter of the boundary condition can e.g. an outside temperature in a certain range of values: e.g. <+ 3 ° C, <0 ° C, <-3 ° C, a detection that no vehicle traveling behind (e.g. according to sensor data or so-called environment model data), no vehicle in front, or no vehicle in front is closer than a certain (fixed or speed-dependent) distance, are present, etc.

A request (or a corresponding specification) for the control (also called actuation) of an actuator of the one or more first vehicles can be determined by a first vehicle at a first time interval, transmitted to the first vehicle, and / or received by the first vehicle and then executed in the vehicle at a (later appropriate or suitable, later) second time interval at which the at least one boundary condition is met and / or a predefined criterion, for example regarding adequate security is fulfilled.

The parameters of a (physical) effect, which arise during test braking, test steering and / or test actuation of a vertical dynamic actuator, which have arisen within the framework of predefined boundary conditions, can be determined and automatically evaluated. For example, one or more physical parameters can be determined which are characteristic of odometric quantities. With test braking and / or test steering, e.g. a value or value difference in the wheel slip on at least two wheels, an activation of a driving stability system are recognized and taken into account.

In one embodiment, first data characterizing an effect of the actuator in the at least one stimulus control signal with second data characterizing an effect of the actuator in the past, in particular in the case of the same or a comparable stimulus control signal, and / or for example, the evaluation can include features The changes that take place in a comparatively long-term manner, for example in the order of magnitude of a few months or years, are determined, in particular a measure of the aging or wear of part of one or more first vehicles, in particular in the form of qualitative and / or quantitative parameters. For example, one or more (for example correspondingly corresponding) statistical measures can be determined from a large number of the first vehicles on the basis of the parameters. Furthermore, one or more such features, for example as second parameters of the same type, of the at least one second vehicle can be determined. Furthermore, a comparison of a second feature, in particular a second parameter of a second vehicle, with a measure of one or more first features, in particular Parameters based on a number of the first vehicles (from the large number of first vehicles). The operation of the second vehicle can then be influenced depending on the result of the comparison.

For example, one or more second identifiers for long-term changes to a second vehicle can in turn have an aggregated measure based on a plurality of the first identifier, e.g. in relation to a certain period of time. A measure can then be carried out in the at least one second vehicle if the comparison lies outside a specified standard value or if a deviation exceeds a certain dimension.

For example, depending on the comparison of the data, an influencing of a functionality of the vehicle, including at least one release, restriction, change and / or blocking of at least one performance feature of the functionality, in particular with respect to certain routes, is carried out.

For example, the actuator of the vehicle is activated under two different boundary conditions, in particular positions of the vehicle and / or operating parameters of the actuator. The parameters (parameter data) can then be compared to characterize the effects of the actuator in the at least two actuations of the actuator. This information provided can contain information about the boundary conditions under which the actuator was actuated.

For example, two or more different specifications for controlling the at least one actuator can be generated. These can refer to different parameter values of the boundary conditions and / or different routes, which can be identified in the specifications. When the respective boundary conditions corresponding to the at least two different specifications are recognized, the respective actuations of the actuator are carried out in the at least one vehicle and / or a number of vehicles.

For example, the activation of at least one actuator with the stimulus control signal has a specific effect in relation to the local environment of the vehicle, and the determination of the one or more parameters characterizes the corresponding effect of the actuator on the local environment of the vehicle and / or the environment of the vehicle reacts to the action of the actuator. Thereupon, information identifying a local property of the environment can be determined from the effect of the actuator on the local environment of the vehicle and / or a reaction of the environment of the vehicle to the effect of the actuator. This can be provided as part of the information to be provided or as further information provided.

In the context of this document, the at least one second vehicle is to be understood as a vehicle other than the at least one first vehicle. The information for operating a second vehicle is preferably provided on the basis of the evaluation of the one or more parameters characterizing the determined effect of the actuator of a plurality of the first vehicles. Exceptionally, a second vehicle with a first vehicle from the past, e.g. from previous use, journey, terminal cycle, etc. match.

The method can be used to provide a number of (first and / or second) vehicles with a type of “swarm intelligence”. In this case, actuations of their actuators can be arranged in the first vehicles (possibly not functionally necessary or relatively “senseless” for the first vehicles), thereby determining and providing useful information (at least for one or more second vehicles).

According to a further embodiment, the information to be provided is related to one or more first road sections, i.e. in particular or on the basis of the first parameters, characterizing the action of the actuator in response to the first stimulus control signal, assigned to the corresponding section or sections of a digital map. A respective data section of the information to be provided can preferably be assigned to a respective section of the digital map, in particular uniquely. For example, a data section or the corresponding values of the information to be provided can be assigned with a resolution of 1, 2, 5, 10, 50, 100 meters.

For example, the said information can be provided by means of a so-called card layer. Such a map layer can be set up as a more or less dynamically manageable data section. Certain data sections (here: the information to be provided) can be assigned to certain position information and / or object information in the digital map, to put it simply, they can be linked.

For example, the information to be provided can be determined and made available by means of a map layer of a digital map, which is directly or indirectly determined by a number of the (vehicles participating in the method) and / or the second vehicles (for example, if necessary by means of the mobile user device and / or the backend) is writable and / or readable. The provision of the information, for example as the description or assignment of the corresponding data sections to a digital map, can take place when driving on or shortly after driving on a corresponding route section. The determination of the information provided, for example as reading or assigning the corresponding data sections from a digital map, can take place before driving on or while driving on a corresponding route section.

The information provided can also be obtained from the digital map, e.g. by a user, e.g. can be read by a first vehicle and / or a second vehicle. The information can be provided, in particular the information can also be determined (also read in) from the card, e.g. if it is recognized that the first vehicle or the second vehicle is at least likely to be operated in a specific or the first route section and / or a second route section (or will soon be operated in the near future). Depending on a determined or predicted position of the first vehicle or the second vehicle, an appropriate, e.g. data section of the information associated with a specific route section or part of the route can be determined.

The information provided can be further processed in the method prior to the assignment to the card while it is assigned to the card and / or when determining, in particular reading in the information from the card, e.g. aggregated with another piece of information, compressed, decompressed into another form or format, divided into data sections or summarized. In the context of this document, the resulting information is nevertheless referred to in a simplifying manner as the information provided. In other words, the method can include further (expedient) information processing steps.

According to a further embodiment, depending on the information provided, a first route section and / or a second route section, which has a specific relationship (relation, relationship, for example relationship of the features) to the first route section, is released for the operation of at least one vehicle functionality of a first vehicle or a second vehicle.

A specific release information can be transmitted to the first vehicle and / or second vehicle and / or determined depending on the information provided for the first vehicle and / or second vehicle. For example, depending on a determined or predicted position of the first vehicle or the second vehicle, an appropriate, e.g. Release information assigned to a specific route section or part of the route is determined and taken into account.

According to a further embodiment, the release of a first route section and / or a second route section relates to an at least partially automated and / or at least partially remote-controlled driving operation of at least one vehicle, which in particular achieves or exceeds a certain degree of automation and / or degree of remote control.

In the following, the terms of the degree of automation and / or the degree of remote control applicable in the context of this document are additionally explained (this also means a variable representing the degree of automation or a variable representing the degree of remote control). In a simplified case, the degree of automation can be the dimensions or category values that are defined according to VDA (= Association of the German Automobile Industry) or BASt (= Federal Highway Research Institute).

Furthermore, part of the invention includes that the variable representing the degree of automation takes into account certain aspects of the degree of automation individually, selectively or in certain combinations. For example, a quantity of the journey representing the degree of automation can also be selective, with respect to at least two different aspects of the automation of the movement of the vehicle and / or for two or more different driver assistance functions of the vehicle, in particular in connection with the vehicle guidance. For example, a distinction is made in the method between a degree of automation and / or a degree of remote control with respect to a longitudinal guidance of the vehicle and / or lateral guidance of the vehicle and / or certain driving maneuvers (for example: performing a lane change and / or performing an overtaking process and / or driver information). All of the described features of the invention can be applied separately and differently for different aspects of automation. In an example of the method, a variable can also be taken into account characterizing a variable representing the desired degree of automation or degree of remote control (from the user = driver, passenger, client of the journey). A desired degree of automation or degree of remote control can depend on the specifications of the Users and / or from a stored operating history of one or more users, and / or determined and / or taken into account depending on the parameters stored in a backend and accessible by the vehicle. For example, a desired degree of automation and / or degree of remote control can (also) be determined depending on other appropriate criteria.

The degree of remote control can be understood in the context of the present invention as a proportion of the driving tasks when driving a vehicle that directly or indirectly influences from a distance from the vehicle, e.g. prompted, prevented, controlled. Such influencing can be understood in the method as an additional or (at least temporarily) alternative influence on the guidance of the vehicle, in particular a remote control, to a driver's driving activity. According to a further embodiment, depending on the information provided, there is a determination, in particular adaptation of a degree of automation and / or degree of remote control for the operation of a functionality of a second vehicle, in particular in relation to one or more specific route sections.

For example, a degree of automation and / or a degree of remote control can be adapted for the operation of at least part of a functionality of the second vehicle. The degree of automation and / or degree of remote control can relate to the so-called at least partially automated driving or at least partially remote-controlled driving. Alternatively or additionally, the degree of automation and / or degree of remote control can relate to a functionality of the vehicle that does not directly affect driving.

In particular, a degree of automation and / or degree of remote control of part of the functionality can be adapted, which may require a possible, at least partially automated and / or remote-controlled actuation of the actuator of the vehicle (at least if corresponding criteria are met).

For example, it can be inferred from vehicle settings or it can be assumed that the highest possible degree of automation is desired for an automated and / or remote-controlled movement of the at least one second vehicle. The said functionality can then be influenced in such a way that the highest possible degree of automation is set, which is possible if the risk is still permissible (e.g. with regard to functional safety or safety in use). E.g. for a risk that is a predetermined condition with respect to a measure of the risk, e.g. a probability of occurrence and / or consequence. The adaptation of the degree of automation can relate in particular to a specific automated and / or remote-controlled movement of the second vehicle.

In an example of the method, a desired degree of automation or desired degree of remote control, for example as a tendency and / or possible desired restrictions, can be determined. This can be determined depending on a limitation by the traffic situation, the type of road, position information, settings for the operation of the vehicle, a statement of will by the user of information received by the vehicle. Furthermore, a release information characterizing a release of a first route section and / or a second route section to an at least partially automated and / or at least partially remote-controlled driving operation of a vehicle, in particular with or without a specific requirement, can be determined. Depending on the desired degree of automation or degree of remote control and the release information (based on the information provided), a specific value of the degree of automation or degree of remote control for the at least one first and / or second route section can be determined, in particular adapted. For example, depending on the information provided, it can be determined that it is possible or necessary to increase or decrease the degree of automation and / or a degree of remote control at least for a specific route section.
In other words, the degree of automation and / or a degree of remote control, at least one limit value and / or condition for executing a certain one for this depending on the information provided, in particular for certain first and / or second route sections. A requirement for a degree of automation and / or a degree of remote control may, for example, consist in the fact that a certain minimum level of willingness to act, attention, state of a user is required to carry out a certain degree of automation and / or degree of remote control. Such a support can also be controlled depending on the information provided, in particular for certain first and / or second route sections.

In one example of the method, an essentially constant or slowly or rarely changing degree of automation and / or degree of remote control is carried out, the corresponding requirement depending on the information provided, in particular for certain first and / or second route section varies, in particular is adapted. Sufficiently safe, for example automated or remote-controlled operation of the vehicles, for example under a certain risk level, can thus be ensured.

According to a further embodiment, the second route section is a route section which is in a predetermined relationship to the first route section with regard to its position, its feature, a pattern of features and / or is recognized as such.

For example, said second route section is in a predetermined relationship to the first route section, wherein the at least one second route section is such a route section or is recognized as a second route section that lies in the vicinity of the first road section and / or a first measure of similarity with exceeds the first lane section or does not fall below a second measure of dissimilarity with the first lane section.

According to a further embodiment, at least one functionality of a first vehicle or a second vehicle is operated when driving on a first lane section and / or a second lane section depending on the information provided. This can, in particular, depend on a section of the information provided, which is determined in each case and is valid for part of the route section, e.g. varies in terms of their functional mode and / or their functional parameters, in particular they can be adapted. In this case, a step-by-step and / or continuous control or adaptation of the at least one functionality of the first or of the second vehicle can be carried out as a function of a road section that is being traveled on (as it were: from road section to road section).

According to a further embodiment, the evaluation relates to a large number of actuations of the actuator of one or more first vehicles and / or to a large number of actuators of different first vehicles. A plurality of the operations are preferably carried out with different first stimulus control signals in the one or more first vehicles. A large number of operations are preferably carried out under different boundary conditions and / or on different routes.

For example, when evaluating parameters, the effect of identically identical or different actuators, e.g. different models, production data, firmware version taken into account, e.g. compared, i.e. also: are aggregated within a number of the first vehicles.

According to a further embodiment, the method comprises controlling the actuator of the second vehicle with a second stimulus control signal, determining one or more second parameters characterizing an effect of the actuator of the second vehicle in response to the second stimulus control signal, comparing information Basis of the one or more second parameters with the information provided based on a first vehicle. Thereupon a (certain) influencing of a functionality of the vehicle can depend on the result of the comparison. For example, an influencing parameter, e.g. Intensity, strength, etc., depending on the result of the comparison. In particular, influencing can be carried out which depends on the result of the comparison according to a certain logic.

The second stimulus control signal can be the same, similar, or provided with a certain deviation, the first stimulus control signal. When evaluating (if desired) a very simple and meaningful comparison of the parameters to the respective effects of the actuator can be carried out. A comparison can also be carried out which, under normal circumstances or operating conditions, e.g. in normal use of the first vehicle and / or the second vehicle would not be possible. Furthermore, a second stimulus control signal can have a specific (e.g. selected according to predetermined conditions) deviation from the first stimulus control signal. A result of the deviation can also be considered in the evaluation. For example, it can be taken into account how the effect of the deviation on the parameters was characteristic of the effect of the actuators.

For example, depending on the information provided, the functionality of a second vehicle can be influenced, including at least one release, restriction, change and / or blocking of at least one performance feature of the functionality of a second vehicle. The influencing of the functionality of the second vehicle can be carried out in particular in relation to one or more specific route sections. This can be done by (almost) continuous and / or gradual influencing during the journey over the route sections.

• - ein Starten oder Fortführen einer Fernsteuerung zumindest einer Funktionalität des Fahrzeugs, insbesondere einer ferngesteuerten Bewegung des Fahrzeugs,
• - eine Auswahl eines oder mehrerer Leistungsmerkmale, insbesondere einer Kombination mehrerer Leistungsmerkmale des zweiten Fahrzeugs, die aktiviert, aktivierbar gemacht, verändert oder gesperrt werden,
• - Anpassen oder Kalibrieren eines Parameters zum weiteren Betrieb des Aktors eines zweiten Fahrzeugs,
• - Anpassen oder Kalibrieren eines Parameters zum Betrieb einer Funktionalität eines zweiten Fahrzeugs, wobei eine Wahrscheinlichkeit für eine Betätigung des Aktors verändert wird,
• - Ansteuern einer bestimmten Signalisierung des zweiten Fahrzeugs nach außen,
• - Ausgabe einer Information an einen Nutzer in einem zweiten Fahrzeug.

According to a further embodiment, one or more entries from the following list are carried out depending on the evaluation:

• - starting or continuing remote control of at least one functionality of the vehicle, in particular remote-controlled movement of the vehicle,
• a selection of one or more performance features, in particular a combination of several performance features of the second vehicle, which are activated, activated, changed or blocked,
• Adapting or calibrating a parameter for further operation of the actuator of a second vehicle,
• Adapting or calibrating a parameter for operating a functionality of a second vehicle, a probability of actuation of the actuator being changed,
• Triggering a specific signaling of the second vehicle to the outside,
• - Output of information to a user in a second vehicle.

According to a further embodiment, the actuator of a first vehicle is controlled with the stimulus control signal and / or the one or more parameters of the stimulus control signal are selected for controlling the actuator of the first vehicle from a mobile user device or a backend.

According to a further embodiment, the actuation of the actuator of the first vehicle and / or of the actuator of the second vehicle is carried out with a sequence of a plurality of control variables which increase step by step, in particular control variables which determine an intensity of the actuation of the actuator, or a sequence of the request of a stepwise increasing effect of the actuator.

According to a further embodiment, a parameter of a first boundary condition is specified in which the actuation of the actuator of the one or more first vehicles is to be carried out with the first stimulus control signal and / or is not to be carried out (for example not to be carried out). A parameter of a second boundary condition can also be specified in which the actuation of the actuator of the second vehicle is to be carried out with the second stimulus control signal and / or is not to be carried out (for example not to be carried out).

According to a further embodiment, one or more first parameters characterizing an effect of the actuator of a first vehicle on the at least one stimulus control signal, with one or more first parameters characterizing an effect of the actuator of the first vehicle at one or more earlier time intervals and / or adjusted one or more other first vehicles. The result of the comparison can be in the process, e.g. when operating a second vehicle.

According to a further embodiment, two or more first parameters characterizing an effect of the actuator of the first vehicle are compared at different time intervals and / or in different first vehicles. The result of the comparison can be taken into account in the process.

For example, when evaluating, one or more first parameters can be compared which characterize an effect in response to the same, the same, comparable or different stimulus control signals. For example, one or more first parameters can be compared, which characterize an effect of the actuator of the first vehicle on the same stimulus control signal. Thereupon, a mathematical, in particular a statistical relationship regarding the first parameters, e.g. be determined in one or more first vehicles on a stimulus control signal and / or on different routes with different boundary conditions. The information which is dependent on, preferably on the basis of, the determined mathematical ratio can be provided in one or more second vehicles. The one or more second vehicles can then be operated depending on the information provided.

According to a further embodiment, the actuator of one or more first vehicles is controlled under two different boundary conditions and / or with two different operating parameters of the actuator, and the first parameters characterize the effects of the actuator of one or more vehicles under the two or more boundary conditions and / or operating parameters considered.

According to a further embodiment, the method comprises actuating at least one actuator of the first vehicle with the stimulus control signal, the actuator of the first vehicle having a specific effect in relation to the local environment of the vehicle, and identifying the determination of the one or more parameters the effect of the actuator on the local environment of the first vehicle and / or on a reaction of the environment of the first vehicle to the effect of the actuator takes place. The effect on the local environment can include, for example, a braking process and / or a steering process. Information about the operation of a second vehicle can then be determined and made available.

In particular, a performance feature of the functionality for a specific second vehicle, for a specific group or number of second vehicles or for all second vehicles that are, for example, in the environment or in a specific environment, can be released, restricted, changed, for example adapted and / or be blocked. Performance feature or a number of the performance features can preferably be influenced (for example in a certain way), which may make possible a possible at least partially automated and / or remote-controlled actuation of the actuator of the vehicle (at least if corresponding criteria are met).

For example, depending on a result of evaluating the at least one parameter, the effect of the actuator of the one or more first vehicles, a release, restriction, modification and / or blocking of at least one performance feature of the corresponding functionality, e.g. certain operations are carried out in a remote-controlled parking, parking or maneuvering in a second vehicle.

For example, a specific specification or regulation for influencing a functionality of the one or more second vehicles for several boundary conditions can be determined in this way and (immediately or again later) when (later) the respective wheel conditions apply. On this basis e.g. a route release or a map for the release, restriction, change and / or blocking of at least one feature of the corresponding functionality is determined and taken into account. In particular, it can be a functionality of the vehicle, including an automated and / or remote-controlled movement of the vehicle. A graded differentiation can be carried out, which can be done in appropriately fine steps. In other words, the entire functionality of the second vehicle does not have to be deactivated in the event of a slight increase in the risk or in the smallest suspicion. Rather, it should be adapted adaptively. Depending on the parameter determined for the operational readiness and / or failure probability of the actuator, e.g. on the basis of a stored regulation, the most favorable or best combination of flawlessly executable performance characteristics is selected. This has the advantage that the best possible functionality (e.g. based on the user's perspective) can be offered that could be carried out under given boundary conditions.

For example, depending on the information provided, a measure can be carried out in one or more second vehicles which, in particular with regard to an expected boundary condition and / or to a specific route section, limits an especially predicted or expected degree of risk to an acceptable level. For example, depending on the evaluation, an adaptive change or blocking of at least one performance feature or a specific selection of the performance features of a functionality of a second vehicle can be carried out. A graded distinction can be made, which is carried out in appropriately fine steps. For example, a functionality of the at least one second vehicle can be adapted in such a way that a predetermined measure of the risk (for example, generally expected in operation or in an upcoming operation) is not exceeded.

To carry out the method, a database can be created, for example in a backend, which comprises comparison data on the effects of the at least one actuator or one type of actuator in one or more types of the vehicle on specific stimulus control signals. These can e.g. Comparative values for normal, deviating, conspicuous values relating to specific use, wear or age of the components or vehicles include. In this context, a “value” is preferably a pattern. The sections of the comparison data can preferably be linked (linked) to the respectively applicable boundary conditions. Depending on the boundary conditions of a vehicle in the field, suitable comparison data can then be determined for evaluating one or more test requirements. In particular, the data can characterize the effect of the at least one actuator or certain types, models of the actuator, in particular in a certain number of vehicles, as a basis for a so-called product-based development, ML (= machine learning), AI (= artificial intelligence) will. Information for the development, operation, maintenance and / or influencing the behavior of the number of vehicles already delivered (different or the same number of vehicles) in the near future, e.g. Days, weeks, months.

The method can be used, for example, in connection with at least partially automated and / or at least partially remote-controlled driving or parking, parking or maneuvering. For example, in relation to controlling the vehicle with a mobile user device, for example smartphone, smart close or with the vehicle key, in which the user is outside the vehicle in an environment of the vehicle. The procedure also applies to such an automated and / or remote-controlled actuation of the actuator, which is remotely controlled (with or without the presence and / or willingness to act of a driver inside the vehicle) from a great distance, for example by a dispatcher and / or an algorithm located outside the vehicle. The automated and / or remote-controlled actuation of the actuator can be initiated, released or provided from outside the vehicle. The actuation of the actuator can take place more or less immediately, ie with a corresponding control command which is interpreted in the vehicle as a command for actuating the actuator, or only indirectly, for example with a control command which, in combination with another condition, leads to a Operation of the at least one actuator leads.

The method can be carried out more or less regularly and at appropriate times, preferably under certain boundary conditions and / or on certain routes, with respect to the control of at least one actuator of one or more first vehicles with a stimulus control signal.
Providing the information for operating the at least one second vehicle on the basis of the evaluation and / or influencing a functionality of the at least one second vehicle can preferably be carried out if necessary. For example, depending on the existence or expectation of a certain boundary condition and / or on the driving of a (certain, first, second) route section, a (suitable) section of the information provided is determined, for example retrieved or read in, and taken into account in the operation of the second vehicle.

In an example that can be combined with further features of the invention, an actuator of the vehicle is actuated with a special test sequence, in particular in response to a message from the backend or when a test requirement is identified. The data that characterize the effect of the actuator in the test sequence are evaluated. A statement can then be made about a large number of the parameters, e.g. the current operational readiness, performance, wear and / or probability of failure of the actuator (for certain boundary conditions). For example, in the case of an actuator, the test sequence can be used to initiate an operating parameter whose value is above an expected value of the operating parameter in an (upcoming) operation, e.g. in an automated journey. This does not necessarily mean a particularly strong effect. For example, the test sequence can be a rapid change in a physical effect, e.g. trigger a rapid succession of opposite changes. In this form, a test procedure for a steering system would also be harmless, since almost no effect e.g. at the wheel angle adjuster or on the steering wheel. The determined information about how quickly and / or how precisely the actuator is based on the test sequence, e.g. reacting to a sequence of certain "micro movements" can be used as a basis for a statement about its current operational readiness, performance, wear and / or probability of failure of the actuator. This is much more meaningful than, for example, information gathered about normal operation of the actuator.

This results in a very high degree of flexibility, which allows, e.g. vehicles that are already at the customer's side (possibly imperceptibly or together with a staging as "visible technology" for the customer) must always be subjected to new tests. The result of the (always new) tests e.g. sent back to the backend and further evaluated in the backend if necessary. A special option is also to apply the test procedures, which are only carried out later (each time the respective test condition and possibly a safety requirement is correct). For example, certain (critical) trends can be identified in the method before a critical effect can become critical in the (normal) operating parameters. The respectively determined (reported back) data on the effect of the actuator on the test sequence can be compared with certain limit values or patterns when they are evaluated. For example, the corresponding comparison data can be selected depending on the situation or dynamically. These can e.g. with the results obtained with such or similar stimulus control signals from other (identical or similar) vehicles. For example, the comparison data can also be selected, e.g. depending on which functionalities, in particular an automated and / or remote-controlled actuation of an actuator, is at least likely to be imminent. Thus, data retrieval and comparison can relate to relevant data and can be carried out without a delay or a disadvantage perceptible to the user. For example, it can also be predicted that a risk increases in connection with a specific, in particular automated and / or remote-controlled functionality of the vehicle. Then e.g. a degree of automation of the functionality can be reduced and / or the output of driver information can be initiated or changed.

In particular, a measure of operational readiness, probability of failure and / or performance in relation to a first vehicle can be determined in the method. Such a measure of operational readiness, probability of failure and / or performance as or with the one to be provided Information is determined and provided. This can be taken into account to influence at least one functionality or behavior of the at least one first vehicle and / or second vehicle. For example, such a measure can be determined and / or updated dynamically, depending on the one or more parameters of the action of the actuator, for example as part of the evaluation, or depending on the information provided.

As an alternative or in addition, the method can include: providing said information and / or one or more of the mathematical relationships or based on the information from a number (in particular large number) of vehicles and processing the data for data-supported development (so-called: data-aided development) . A comparison can be carried out on the basis of the data from a large number of mathematical relationships. Information can be compared on the basis of the large number of said mathematical relationships with one another and / or with further data in connection with the respective vehicle, driver, customer, and boundary conditions for the use of the vehicles. Depending on the result of the comparison, at least one feature, in particular a design feature of a second further (new, to be developed or configured) vehicle and / or a computer program for executing at least one functionality in connection with vehicles, mobility, a traffic system and / or a characteristic of further data that is made available to vehicles is changed, in particular appropriately adapted. For example, on the basis of the information provided, configuration data, e.g. So-called application data, coding data, program code data determined and on a number of the second vehicles, e.g. via a so-called remote software update. The configuration data can then permanently change or update the properties or behavior of the other vehicles.

In another aspect, the invention includes a system. The system can include a device provided in a vehicle and a backend and / or a mobile user device, the device in the vehicle and the backend and / or the mobile user device being set up to establish or carry out an active connection. The system can be configured to perform the method according to one or more features of the method.

According to a further aspect, the invention is characterized by a computer program, the computer program being designed to operate the device according to one or more features described in this document and / or to carry out said operating method according to one or more features described in this document. In particular, the computer program is a software program which, e.g. as an app (= “application”) for one or more types of electronic computing units, preferably executable on said electronic control unit. The computer program is preferably also designed to take into account, aggregate a large amount of further information for operating the system and / or for executing the method.

According to a further aspect, the invention is characterized by a computer program product, an executable program code and / or data sections, the program code and / or data sections being designed to enable the electronic unit to carry out the operating method according to one or more features of the device or the method .

The computer program product includes, in particular, a medium that can be read by the data processing device or storage areas on a medium or in a backend or cloud on which the program code and / or data sections are stored. According to a further aspect, the invention is characterized by a product which comprises a permanent or limited authorized right of access to stored data of the computer program product. The computer program product can be designed as an update of a previous computer program, which includes the parts of the computer program or the corresponding program code, for example as part of a functional expansion, for example as part of a so-called “remote software update”. The method can therefore also be a non-restricted, restricted, e.g. restricted access to the program code and / or data sections, for example for a group of vehicles and / or the corresponding users, restricted to specific applications or conditions.

The vehicle in the context of this document is preferably a motor vehicle. This results in several advantages which are explicitly described in the context of this document and several further advantages which can be understood by the skilled person. The vehicle can also be an amphibious vehicle, a flying vehicle, a watercraft, a spacecraft, for example a probe, an agricultural machine, a construction vehicle or a special vehicle. For example, the vehicle can be at least partially, preferably predominantly, remote-controlled and / or can be operated automatically (traveling, flying) vehicle. The vehicle can be a mobile robot or a drone. In a With a special exception, the vehicle can be any type of machine.

The resulting features of a corresponding traffic system based on features of the invention or a resulting swarm of the number of vehicles also belong to the invention. A result of the method can be a (comparatively easy to implement) variant of a learning card, a swarm intelligence or an improved traffic system.

A particularly great advantage of the invention results when applied to a number of vehicles (motor vehicles, special vehicles, robots, etc.) selected according to predetermined criteria, e.g. belonging to one or more, e.g. cooperating brands or members of an organization, a group of users, a group of a social network and so on. The method can include or the system can also be designed for an expedient exchange of information based on the data of other vehicles from the number of vehicles.

Furthermore, the invention also includes all other systems or functionalities of the second vehicles that can be used in the second vehicles and that are based on the invention, e.g. can be expediently operated with the system or depending on the information determined in the method, in particular on the information provided. For example, the invention comprises a traffic system or a method of controlling a traffic system, with a plurality of routes, manually, at least partially automatically, or at least secondly remotely controlled vehicles. The invention also includes a corresponding digital card for operating the method.

• 1 zeigt eine schematische Darstellung der Erfindung. Diese bezieht sich auf mehrere erste Fahrzeuge 10,11,12, ..., ein Backend 30 und/oder ein mobiles Anwendergerät 40, 40', und mehrere zweiten Fahrzeuge 20, 21, 22, ....
• 2 zeigt ein Ablaufdiagramm des Verfahrens gemäß einer Ausführung der vorliegenden Erfindung.

Exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained below without restricting the generality with reference to the accompanying drawing. The features of the examples can be combined in a variety of ways with one another and / or with all the other features described in this document.

• 1 shows a schematic representation of the invention. This refers to several first vehicles 10th , 11 , 12 , ..., a backend 30th and / or a mobile user device 40 , 40 ' , and several second vehicles 20th , 21st , 22 , ....
• 2nd shows a flowchart of the method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

This is (symbolically by its arrangement) related to the corresponding computing units that are proposed (only by way of example) for the respective steps of the invention.

In the following description of the figures, the same elements or functions are provided with the same reference symbols. In the invention, features of 1 with the characteristics of 2nd be combined.

The described method for providing information for operating a vehicle 10th , 11 , 12 , 13 includes control S1 at least one actuator of the vehicle 10th with a stimulus control signal when driving on a first route section S2 one or more parameters characterizing a physical effect of the actuator in response to the stimulus control signal when driving on a first route section, an evaluation S3 at least one parameter characterizes the determined effect of the actuator in the at least one stimulus control signal with at least one first predetermined condition, and then a provision S4 the information based on the comparison.

The information to be provided (this also includes information based on the information to be provided) can be sent to the same first vehicle 10th , 11 , 12 and / or directly or indirectly to the one or more second vehicles 20th , 21st , 22 ..., to be provided. Furthermore, the information to be provided is also on or via a backend 30th and / or mobile user device 40 provided. In one example, the information is obtained using a mobile user device 40 , 40 ' and / or a backend 30th provided. One or more (expedient) steps for processing, aggregation, preparation of the information in a user device can be carried out 40 , 40 ' and / or a backend 30th be carried out.

In this example, the information to be provided for one or more first road sections is assigned to the corresponding section or sections to the respective sections of a digital map, in particular to a so-called map layer.

The information to be provided, in particular information based on the information to be provided, is (also) at least partially transferred or made valid to second route sections which are in a predetermined relationship with the first route section in terms of their position, features, pattern of features. For example, the second route sections are recognized as such by the fact that they have at least a first degree of similarity to the first route section and / or at most a second degree of dissimilarity with the first road section. The second end of the route can be recognized in the backend 30th , by means of a first vehicle 10th , 11 , 12 , a second vehicle 20th , 21st , 22 , and / or the mobile user device 40 be recognized.

Depending on the information provided, a first route section and / or a second route section which is in a specific relationship with the first section of the road is released for the operation of at least one vehicle functionality of a first vehicle 10th , 11 , 12 or a second vehicle 20th , 21st , 21st .

In this case, a first route section and / or a second route section can (optionally) be released for at least partially automated and / or at least partially remote-controlled driving operation of at least one vehicle. One or more such releases can relate to the operation with a certain degree of automation and / or degree of remote control.

Furthermore, depending on the information provided, at least one functionality of a first vehicle 10th , 11 , 12 or a second vehicle 20th , 21st , 21st is operated when driving on a first lane section and / or a second lane section, in particular with regard to its functional mode and / or functional parameters, is varied, in particular adapted.

In a first example, a number of first vehicles are used 10th , 11 , 12 distributes a stimulus control signal and / or a request to execute a stimulus control signal. This can affect a specific control of certain actuators S1 relate, or initiate such control. For example, control of the braking systems, the steering systems, the vertical dynamics systems, various stability systems, for example certain parts of DSC, MSR, ABS or their so-called warp chains, and / or certain warp chains or devices of the vehicles 10th , 11 , 12 etc. are initiated.

A number of first vehicles 10th , 11 , 12 for control S1 The actuator or actuators can be selected based on a feature that depends, for example, on a geographical criterion, user group (customer group, customer segment, etc.) and / or certain boundary conditions in which the vehicles are operated (e.g. type or quality of the roads, temperature range, Etc.). For example, a number of vehicles 10th , 11 , 12 be defined that operate in rural areas of Northern Siberia and a different number of vehicles are operated in major Japanese cities. In this example, these steps of the method can take place in a specific area (delimited by position coordinates) that is or is not affected, for example, by a specific problem or question in connection with the operation of the vehicles.

In an example that can be combined with further features of the invention, it depends on the evaluation S3 at least one first parameter from one or more first vehicles 10th , 11 , 12 and from a measure of the risk that is acceptable for a specific application, a combination of perfectly executable (combinable) performance features of a functionality of one or more first vehicles and / or second vehicle (according to predefined criteria) 20th , 21st , 22 to be chosen.

Combinations of performance features of the functionality can be based on a stored rule, e.g. as a prioritization of different combinations according to their (predetermined or adaptively determined) value for the user. This has the advantage that the best possible functionality (e.g. based on the user's perspective) can be offered, which, under given boundary conditions, involves a risk that is reduced to a certain level and / or that does not exceed a limit value, e.g. a certain norm fulfilling, risk is executable.

In a further example there is an at least anticipated need for actuation of a specific actuator of the vehicle 20th , 21st , 22 determined if this is remotely controlled and / or if there is no driver presence or driver attention. In the simplest case, such a prediction can be dependent on the activation of a corresponding functionality in the vehicle 20th , 21st , 22 or on the mobile user device 40 ' to be hit. A case can also be determined in which a driver is in the vehicle 20th , 21st , 22 is located, but (at least currently) is not sufficiently involved in the driving task, for example, no attention to the surroundings of the vehicle 20th , 21st , 22 dedicated or wound in the last few seconds.

• - Ansteuern S5 des Aktors des zweiten Fahrzeugs 20, 21, 22 mit einem zweiten Stimulus-Steuersignal,
• - Ermitteln S6 eines oder mehrerer zweiten Parameter kennzeichnend eine Wirkung des Aktors des zweiten Fahrzeugs 20, 21, 22, ... in Reaktion auf das zweite Stimulus-Steuersignal,
• - Abgleich S7 einer Information auf Basis des einen oder mehreren zweiten Parameter mit der bereitgestellter Information auf Basis eines ersten Fahrzeuges 10, 11, 12 und daraufhin:
  • - Beeinflussen S8 einer Funktionalität des Fahrzeugs 20, 21, 22 abhängig von dem Ergebnis des Abgleichs.

Depending on the need to operate a particular actuator of the vehicle 20th , 21st , 22 , especially in combination with the cases marked above, one or more entries can be made from the following list:

• - Control S5 the actuator of the second vehicle 20th , 21st , 22 with a second stimulus control signal,
• - Determine S6 one or more second parameters characterizing an effect of the actuator of the second vehicle 20th , 21st , 22 , ... in response to the second stimulus control signal,
• - Adjustment S7 information based on the one or more second parameters with the information provided based on a first vehicle 10th , 11 , 12 and then:
  • - Influence S8 functionality of the vehicle 20th , 21st , 22 depending on the result of the comparison.

For example, a section of the first data identifies on the basis of the first parameters from one or more first vehicles 10th , 11 , 12 a certain undesirable effect (e.g. marked as one of 2, 4, 8, ... gradations), which occurs when several (certain) controls of the at least one certain actuator, for example the brake system, a steering system of one or more vehicles 10th , 11 , 12 has resulted. The selected section of the first data is then evaluated. In a variant of the method, a change characteristic of the measure of the undesired effect can be determined in the course of several actuations of the actuator. For example, if it is determined that a change characteristic, for example a corresponding time curve of the undesired effect, has an unfavorable tendency, for example within a few weeks or months, the relevant functionality which requires actuation of the actuator, for example in a remote-controlled process, can be influenced or one (Further) appropriate measure can be initiated. D. In a variant of the method, the predetermined condition can be determined on the basis of the second data. Such a predetermined condition can be adjusted continuously, for example, once a week or event-driven, for example in the event of a specific event.

In an example that can be combined with further features of the invention, a (certain) risk, in particular a risk that exceeds a threshold, is associated with a specific actuation of a remote-controlled and / or automated functionality of another vehicle 20th , 21st , 22 is determined or estimated in a specific application. For example, the degree of risk is evaluated in appropriately chosen 2, 4, 8, ... levels. The determination of the degree of risk can be estimated, for example, on the basis of the data from the external sensor system and the position of the user in the case of remote-controlled processes. For example, an (at least rudimentary) algorithm for determining specific risks is carried out for an upcoming application and one or more identified, in particular predicted, risks, for example for a specific application, are taken into account. As a measure of the risk, a product can be determined from a probability of occurrence and a consequence. A measure of the functional safety or safety of use for each specific application can be taken into account (on the spot if all boundary conditions for operation are known). If a measure of probability of executing a certain remote controlled movement of the vehicle 20th , 21st , 22 , comprising an automated and / or remote-controlled actuation of an actuator of the vehicle 20th , 21st , 22 , fulfills a predetermined condition and / or if the degree of risk in connection with a significant part of the functionality, e.g. with a certain driving maneuver or parking or maneuvering maneuver, or the degree of risk relating to the proportion of automated and / or remote-controlled operation of the actuator occurs, exceeds a certain threshold (or a corresponding reciprocal value falls below a corresponding threshold), the data can be compared.

• - Einlesen eines Abschnitts der bereitgestellter Information auf Basis der Auswertung S3 durch das zweite Fahrzeug 20, 21, 22, und
• - Beeinflussen (S8) einer Funktionalität des Fahrzeugs (20, 21, 22) abhängig von der eingelesenen Information;

In this example, the following steps described by way of example are then carried out:

• - Reading in a section of the information provided on the basis of the evaluation S3 through the second vehicle 20th , 21st , 22 , and
• - Influence ( S8 ) functionality of the vehicle ( 20th , 21st , 22 ) depending on the information read;

• - Ansteuern (S5) des Aktors des zweiten Fahrzeugs (20, 21, 22) mit einem zweiten Stimulus-Steuersignal,
• - Ermitteln (S6) eines oder mehrerer zweiten Parameter kennzeichnend eine Wirkung des Aktors des zweiten Fahrzeugs (20, 21, 22, ...) in Reaktion auf das zweite Stimulus-Steuersignal.
• - Berücksichtigung des einen oder mehrerer zweiten Parameters beim Beeinflussen der Funktionalität des Fahrzeugs 20, 21, 22.

Optionally, one or more of the following steps can also be carried out:

• - control ( S5 ) of the actuator of the second vehicle ( 20th , 21st , 22 ) with a second stimulus control signal,
• - Determine ( S6 ) one or more second parameters characterizing an effect of the actuator of the second vehicle ( 20th , 21st , 22 , ...) in response to the second stimulus control signal.
• - Taking into account the one or more second parameters when influencing the functionality of the vehicle 20th , 21st , 22 .

A comparison ( S7 ) information based on the one or more second parameters with the information provided based on a first vehicle ( 10th , 11 , 12 ) are carried out.

One or more steps of the method can be selected and / or configured, depending on the range of values in which an expected measure of the risk, e.g. for an upcoming application (use of the vehicle, vehicle functionality, system of the vehicle) lies or is expected.

The evaluation S3 of the at least one parameter characterizes the determined effect of the actuator of the at least one first vehicle 10th , 11 , 12 , or the at least one second vehicle 20th , 21st , 22 may include comparison to a predetermined condition.

The predetermined condition can include, for example, one or more predefined mathematical relationships in the form of a law, rule, regulation and / or relation. These can identify or represent relationships between one or more of the corresponding operating parameters (also to be understood as corresponding values of the parameters). The mathematical relationship can represent coefficients for one or more, in particular predetermined, equations, polynomials or a simulation. This is preferably an appropriately defined mathematical relationship. The mathematical relationship particularly preferably comprises at least one function which characterizes a time dependency of a variable and / or a dependency with respect to a route section of the vehicle (change in a variable within a braking distance, curve, maneuver). In particular, the mathematical relationship can characterize at least one function that a gradient of an operating parameter according to a size related to the space (relative space-related sizes, e.g. characterizing distance, distance and / or absolute sizes, e.g. characterizing certain position sequence) and / or according to a time-related variable (Relative sizes, eg time intervals, and / or absolute sizes, such as a sequence of certain times). The first data of one or more first operating parameters in the vehicle can be aggregated, for example statistically evaluated, data based on the one or more first operating parameters, in particular on the basis of a longer period of time.
The proposed method enables reliable monitoring of the component status of the vehicles. It replaces a de facto infinite variety of boundary conditions as part of a test and a validation. Furthermore, a very precise, and therefore very valuable, prediction of a failure, a need for service, the admissibility or non-admissibility of certain operating modes of the vehicle, certain vehicle components or vehicle functions.

The invention can provide information on the operation of the vehicles or enable the operation of the vehicles that could not be predetermined, programmed, or described by logical relationships. This can close certain deficits or gaps in an automated vehicle functionalities that are more or less executable according to the prior art. The behavior of the vehicle can also do justice to the real properties of certain routes (which may be unknown or can be adequately described on the basis of a map or assumptions). Real aspects of an interaction of the vehicle with certain road sections can also be taken into account, in particular before or instead of a (possibly surprising, uncontrolled) interaction or an interaction at an unfavorable time.

Among other things, an advantage in terms of security, reliability, predictability, quality and a cost advantage can also be achieved. A quantified, justified and / or optimized release, restriction, blocking and / or change, e.g. an expedient adaptation of at least one performance feature of the functionality, in particular for certain route sections, time intervals, boundary conditions, requirements, are carried out.

The release, restriction, blocking and / or change, e.g. an expedient adaptation, at least one performance feature of the functionality can be for certain vehicles, certain groups of vehicles, e.g. for certain vehicle models, certain users, etc. For example, the method can include control, in particular management of a traffic system, with a large number of routes, vehicles, etc.

A functional benefit for an increased number of usable performance features of a vehicle functionality can be achieved with a limited risk.

Claims (19)

A method for providing information for operating a vehicle (20, 21, 22), comprising: - controlling (S1) at least one actuator of one or more first vehicles (10, 11, 12) with a first stimulus control signal when driving on a first route section , - determining (S2) one or more first parameters characterizing an effect of the actuator of the one or more first vehicles (10, 11, 12) in response to the first test control signal in the first route section, - evaluating (S3) at least one parameter characterizing the determined effect of the actuator of the one or more vehicles (10, 11, 12) for the at least one stimulus control signal, and - providing (S4) the information on the basis of the evaluation (S3). Procedure according to Claim 1 , in which the information to be provided in relation to one or more corresponding first lane sections is assigned to the corresponding section or sections of a digital map. Procedure according to Claim 1 or 2nd , in which, depending on the information provided, a release of a first route section and / or a second route section which is in a specific relationship with the first section of road, for the operation of at least one vehicle functionality of a first vehicle (10, 11, 12) or a second vehicle ( 20, 21, 21). Procedure according to the Claim 3 , in which the release of a first route section and / or a second route section relates to an at least partially automated and / or at least partially remote-controlled driving operation of at least one vehicle which in particular reaches or exceeds a certain degree of automation and / or degree of remote control. Method according to one of the preceding claims, in which determining, in particular adapting a degree of automation and / or degree of remote control for the operation of a functionality of a first vehicle (10, 11, 12) and / or a second vehicle (20, 21, 22), in particular in relation to one or more specific route sections. Procedure according to the Claim 3 or 4th , in which the second route section is a route section which is in a predetermined relationship to the first route section with regard to its position, its feature, or a pattern of features or is recognized as such. Method according to one of the preceding claims, in which, depending on the information provided, at least one functionality of a first vehicle (10, 11, 12) or a second vehicle (20, 21, 21) is operated when driving on a first road section and / or a second road section is varied, in particular with regard to its functional mode and / or its functional parameter. Procedure according to Claim 1 , in which the evaluation (S3) relates to a large number of actuations of the actuator of one or more first vehicles (10, 11, 12) and / or to a large number of actuators of different first vehicles (10, 11, 12). Method according to one of the preceding claims, also comprising: - controlling (S5) the actuator of the second vehicle (20, 21, 22) with a second stimulus control signal, Determining (S6) one or more second parameters characterizing an effect of the actuator of the second vehicle (20, 21, 22, ...) in response to the second stimulus control signal, - Comparison (S7) of information based on the one or more second parameters with the information provided based on a first vehicle (10, 11, 12) and then: Influencing (S8) a functionality of the second vehicle (20, 21, 22) depending on the result of the comparison. Method according to one of the preceding claims, in which in the first vehicle (10, 11, 12) and / or in a second vehicle (20, 21, 22) when driving on the first route section and / or a second route section depending on the evaluation ( S3) one or more entries from the following list are executed: starting or continuing remote control of at least one functionality of the vehicle (20, 21, 22), in particular remote-controlled movement of the vehicle (20, 21, 22), a selection of one or more performance features, in particular a combination of several performance features of the second vehicle (20, 21, 22), which are activated, made activatable, changed or blocked, Adapting or calibrating a parameter for further operation of the actuator of a second vehicle (20, 21, 22), - adapting or calibrating a parameter for operating a functionality of a second vehicle (20, 21, 22), wherein a probability of actuation of the actuator is changed, - triggering a specific signaling of the second vehicle (20, 21, 22) to the outside, - Output of information to a user in a second vehicle (20, 21, 22). Method according to one of the preceding claims, in which actuation of the actuator of a first vehicle (10, 11, 12) with the stimulus control signal and / or selection of one or more parameters of the stimulus control signal for actuation of the actuator of the first vehicle (10, 11, 12), and / or the provision of the information for operating the first vehicle (10, 11, 12) and / or second vehicle (20, 21, 22) from a mobile user device (40) or a backend ( 30) takes place. Method according to one of the preceding claims, in which the actuation of the actuator of the first vehicle (10, 11, 12) and / or the actuator of the second vehicle (20, 21, 21) with a sequence of a plurality of step-wise increasing control variables, in particular for Actuation of the actuator, or a sequence of the request from a step-wise increasing effect of the actuator is executed. Method according to one of the preceding claims, in which a parameter of a first boundary condition is specified, in which the actuation of the actuator of the one or more first vehicles (10, 11, 12) is to and / or should not be carried out with the first stimulus control signal , and in particular a parameter of a second boundary condition is specified in which the actuation of the actuator of the second vehicle (10, 11, 12) is to be and / or is not to be carried out with the second stimulus control signal. Method according to one of the preceding claims, in which the evaluation (S3) characterizing one or more first parameters characterizing an effect of the actuator of a first vehicle (10, 11, 12) in the at least one stimulus control signal with one or more first parameters characterizing an effect of the actuator of the first vehicle (10, 11, 12) at one or more earlier time intervals and / or one or more further first vehicles (10, 11, 12). Method according to one of the preceding claims, in which two or more first parameters characterizing an effect of the actuator of the first vehicle (10, 11, 12) are compared at different time intervals and / or in different first vehicles (10, 11, 12). Method according to one of the preceding claims, in which the actuator of one or more first vehicles (10, 11, 12) is controlled under two different boundary conditions and / or with two different operating parameters of the actuator, and the first parameters characterize the effects of the actuator or several first vehicles (10, 11, 12) are taken into account in the two or more boundary conditions and / or operating parameters. Method according to one of the preceding claims, comprising: - actuating at least one actuator of a first vehicle (10, 11, 12) with the stimulus control signal, the actuator of the first vehicle (10, 11, 12) having a specific effect with respect to the local environment of the first vehicle (10, 11, 12) and - Determining the one or more parameters characterizing the effect of the actuator on the local environment of the first vehicle (10, 11, 12) and / or on a reaction of the environment of the first vehicle (10, 11, 12) to the effect of the Actuator takes place. System comprising at least one device provided in the vehicle (10, 11, 12) and a backend 30 and / or a mobile user device (40), the device in the vehicle (10, 11, 12) and the backend (30) and / or the mobile user device (40) is set up to carry out an active connection, the system being designed to execute the method according to one of the preceding claims, and in particular according to a further feature of the method. Computer program, the computer program being designed, when it is executed on one, in particular to the system Claim 18 belonging computing unit, one or more steps of the method according to one or more Claims 1 to 17th to execute.

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