DE102019135410A1 - Motor vehicle with a projection device for capturing an input gesture by a user in relation to a projection and a method for operating a projection device - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a motor vehicle (1) with a projection device (2), having a data collection unit (3) for receiving data from a data source (7) and for providing projection data derived from the data for a subsequent projection and a projector unit (4) for projecting a light distribution (11) onto a projection surface (10) as a function of the projection data. In order to enable an improved user experience when operating the projection device (4), the following are provided: A sensor unit (5) which is designed to surround an evaluation area to capture the projection surface (10) and output a corresponding sensor signal, and a computing unit (6) which is designed to recognize a predetermined input gesture of a user based on the sensor signal and to derive a command signal therefrom.

Description

The invention relates to a motor vehicle with a projection device having a data collection unit for receiving data from a data source and for providing projection data derived from the data for a subsequent projection and a projector unit for projecting a light distribution onto a projection surface. A second aspect of the invention relates to a method for operating such a projection device.

The use of projectors in the exterior of a motor vehicle is known from the prior art. For example, the US 7 175 321 B1 a motor vehicle projection system with at least one light projector designed to project at least one decorative light design onto an outer surface of a motor vehicle. The system preferably uses a laser projector and a controller that can be operated by a user to select and control decorative designs that are projected onto the vehicle exterior.

US 2010/02 53 919 A1 describes a method and a system for projecting an image from a vehicle onto a surface, such as a road or a footpath. A laser diode arrangement is installed in the motor vehicle and has: a light beam source, an energy source, a chip for regulating the energy, an image generation unit and an energy activation unit. A lens is arranged at an output end of the laser diode arrangement and has a light diffraction image, which can be, for example, a message, a logo or a graphic design.

The DE 10 2018 102 175 A1 relates to a display device for projecting optical information in the area of a vehicle. The display device comprises at least one controllable optical element for projecting optical information, at least one memory for storing the projected optical information and at least one controller which is set up to control the optical element for projecting the stored optical information. A selection device can comprise a wired or wireless connection to an input device, the input device being, for example, a mobile phone and / or an on-board computer of the vehicle.

It is the object of the present invention to enable an improved user experience when operating a projection device.

According to the invention, this object is achieved by the subjects of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments with expedient developments are the subject of the subclaims.

The invention is based on a motor vehicle with a projection device having a data collection unit for receiving data from a data source and for providing projection data derived from the data for a subsequent projection and having a projection unit for projecting a light distribution onto a projection surface. To achieve the above-mentioned object, it is provided that the motor vehicle has: a sensor unit, which is designed to capture an evaluation area around the projection surface and output a corresponding sensor signal, and a computing unit, which is designed to use the sensor signal to perform a predetermined input gesture to recognize a user and to derive a command signal therefrom.

The data collection unit is, for example, a computing unit, in particular a processor device. In this case, the processor device is set up to receive the data from the data source and to provide projection data derived from the data for the subsequent projection. Accordingly, the processor device can also be designed to derive the projection data from the data. For this purpose, the processor device can have at least one microprocessor and / or a microcontroller and / or at least one FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) and / or at least one DSP (Digital Signal Processor). Furthermore, the processor device can have a corresponding program code which is designed to carry out the functions mentioned when executed by the processor device. The program code can be stored in a data memory of the processor device.

The projector unit is, in particular, a projector, that is to say preferably an optical device with which a two-dimensional template is mapped onto the projection surface. The template can be provided by a physical medium, in particular a translucent image or the like, or preferably by an electronically coded template. In particular, the projector is a so-called Eidophor system, a tube projector, an LCD projector, a DLP projector, an LED projector, an LCoS projector, a laser projector or the like. The light distribution is in particular the template shown on the projection surface. In other words, the light distribution can be the image of the two-dimensional template be. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the projector unit or its projector is arranged on an exterior mirror of the motor vehicle.

The sensor unit can have one or more sensors which are designed to output the corresponding sensor signal which describes the evaluation area around the projection surface. The sensor unit is designed in particular to acquire sensor data relating to the evaluation area. This sensor data can be output as part of the corresponding sensor signal. In particular, the sensor unit is a so-called imaging sensor unit. In other words, the sensor unit can comprise at least one imaging sensor. When the evaluation area is recorded, it can accordingly be mapped in the sensor data or the sensor signal. For example, the sensor unit comprises one or more of the sensors mentioned below: a camera, a 3D camera, a radar sensor, an infrared sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, a lidar sensor or the like.

On the basis of the sensor signal, the computing unit is able to recognize the predetermined input gesture of the user and to derive the command signal therefrom. In particular, the computing unit is designed to search for or recognize a predetermined pattern corresponding to the predetermined input gesture in the sensor signal. Corresponding predetermined input gestures or predetermined patterns can be stored in a memory of the computing unit. If such a pattern or such an input gesture is recognized, a suitable command signal can be determined in accordance with an assignment table. In general, it is provided that the command signal is related to the predetermined input gesture or the pattern. As part of the command signal, for example, a command is output which is assigned to the predetermined input gesture. Such an assignment can also be stored in the memory device. As an alternative or in addition, it can be provided that the processing unit is capable of learning, that is to say that the processing unit learns to derive appropriate command signals from unknown input gestures. In a specific embodiment, the recognition of the predetermined input gesture and the deriving of the command signal from it can be implemented in accordance with a gesture control.

The computing unit can have a processor device which is set up to recognize the predetermined input gesture of the user and / or to derive the command signal therefrom. For this purpose, the processor device can have at least one microprocessor and / or a microcontroller and / or at least one FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) and / or at least one DSP (Digital Signal Processor). Furthermore, the processor device can have a program code which is set up, when executed by the processor device, to recognize the predetermined input gesture of the user and / or to derive the command signal therefrom. The program code can be stored in a corresponding data storage device of the processor device.

In particular, it is provided that the projecting of the light distribution and / or the detection of the evaluation area only takes place if the presence of the user is detected within a predetermined radius of action around the motor vehicle. For example, a mobile terminal can be detected for this purpose. The mobile terminal can in particular be a mobile phone, preferably a so-called smartphone, or a so-called tablet PC of the user. Alternatively or additionally, a vehicle key can be identified or detected. The vehicle key can in particular be the transmitter of a keyless go system. If the mobile terminal device and / or the vehicle key is detected within the action radius, the projecting of the light distribution and / or the detection of the evaluation area can be triggered. In particular, the projection device is designed to enable the projecting of the light distribution and / or the detection of the evaluation area (only) if the vehicle key and / or the mobile terminal has been recognized in the action radius.

Overall, the invention shows how the user experience when operating a projection device in a motor vehicle can be improved. This results in particular from the fact that the user can interact with the projected light distribution. The light distribution is in particular the representation of a slogan, an image, information or the like. In accordance with the interaction of the user through the predetermined input gesture, the command signal is available in order to carry out a control process in accordance with the gesture of the user. In particular, it is provided that a large number of different predetermined input gestures can each have a different function. In the following, the invention is expanded to include suitable features and advantages.

According to a further development, it is provided that the motor vehicle or the projection device has an output interface which is designed to send the command signal on to transmit the data source or a receiving unit different from the data source. In other words, the command signal can be transmitted or sent to the data source or a receiving unit different therefrom by means of the output interface. The receiving unit, which differs from the data source, can be, for example, an on-board computer of the motor vehicle, a server device or the mobile terminal, in particular the mobile phone, of the user. Similarly, the data source can be the on-board computer, the server device or the user's mobile device. It can therefore be provided that the data from which the projection data are derived are received from the same data source to which the command signal is also transmitted. Alternatively, it can be provided that the data are received from the data source, but the command signal is transmitted to the receiving unit. The command signal is thus available in the data source or in the receiving unit after the transmission. By transmitting the command signal, a function or a control process can be triggered in the data source or the receiving unit.

According to a further development, it is provided that the output interface is designed to transmit the command signal to the data source via the same data connection via which the data is also received. In other words, the data is received and the command signal is transmitted via the same data connection. The data connection is accordingly a bidirectional data connection. In this way, the projection can be controlled both by the data source and by controlling the function of the data source in accordance with the input gesture in an uncomplicated manner.

According to a further development, it is provided that the data collection unit is designed to call up the data from a server device and a mobile terminal, in particular a mobile phone or a so-called smartphone or tablet PC. For example, the data collection unit can have a radio interface, in particular WiFi, WiFi direct or Bluetooth, for establishing a data connection with the mobile terminal device, in particular the mobile phone. This can also be the data connection via which the command signal is transmitted. In other words, the projection of the light distribution onto the projection surface is controlled in accordance with received data from the mobile terminal, in particular the mobile phone. For example, information about incoming, missed and / or made calls from the mobile phone and / or information about text messages received in the mobile phone, for example SMS, instant messaging services or e-mails, can be displayed as part of the light distribution. By capturing the input gestures of the user, the user is given the opportunity to react directly to these received messages or to the information displayed. The mobile terminal can then be controlled in relation to the information displayed in accordance with the predetermined input gesture of the user.

Alternatively or additionally, the data collection unit can have a communication unit, for example a modem, for communicating via the Internet. In this case, the data from which the projection data are derived can be called up from the server device. For example, data stored in the server device can be called up in accordance with a user preference. Examples of this are a weather forecast, news, stock prices and the like. Alternatively, the above-mentioned communication with the mobile terminal can take place indirectly via the server device. In other words, the data described above in relation to the mobile terminal, in particular the mobile phone, are not retrieved from the mobile terminal via the direct radio link, but are instead retrieved indirectly from the mobile terminal via the server device. In other words, the data collection unit is designed in this case to retrieve from the server device the data that were previously transmitted from the mobile terminal to the server device. Analogously, the output interface can be designed to transmit the command signal indirectly via the server device to the mobile terminal. The advantage of this embodiment is that the data can be transmitted from a greater distance, so that when the user or the mobile device approaches the motor vehicle, there is no need to wait for the data to be transmitted until the direct radio connection is possible. For example, the indirect transmission of the data and / or the command signal can be triggered by the fact that an approach of a vehicle key of the user is detected by the motor vehicle. In other words, the projection device or the data collection unit can be designed to call up corresponding proximity data from a locking system, in particular a so-called convenience access or keyless go system.

According to a further development, it is provided that the data collection unit is designed to collect the data from a control unit of the motor vehicle for controlling a driving function of the motor vehicle retrieve and derive the projection data in such a way that they relate to the driving function, so that the driving function is visualized when the light distribution is projected. In other words, the data collection unit has a data connection to the control unit of the motor vehicle, which is designed to control the driving function of the motor vehicle. When deriving the projection data, the projection data are created in such a way that the driving function is visualized when the light distribution is projected. The projection data thus map the driving function so that it is visualized when the light distribution is projected. In other words, the light distribution visualizes the driving function. The driving function can be, for example, a blinker, a steering system or a brake of the motor vehicle. Correspondingly, part of the light distribution of a blinker can be visualized or the light distribution of the blinker, in particular the wiper blinker, can be visualized or represented on the projection surface, in particular the roadway. Similarly, a hazard warning flasher or a hazard warning flasher can be projected onto the projection surface. Full braking can be visualized by a suitable representation, for example a projection of a braking man on the projection surface or a red border of the motor vehicle on the roadway. The steering of the motor vehicle can also be visualized in an analogous manner. Overall, this improves a level of safety, since other road users can better assess the movement of the motor vehicle.

According to a further development, it is provided that the data collection unit is designed to receive the data from a navigation system of a motor vehicle, in particular an estimated arrival time at a destination of a navigation and / or after the end of the journey to the destination navigation instructions for reaching the destination on foot as Part of the light distribution can be projected. In other words, when the user or their key approaches, the estimated time of arrival at a destination previously received via a corresponding user input can be projected onto the projection surface, in particular the roadway, as part of the light distribution. In this way, the user can be shown the estimated time of arrival when he approaches the motor vehicle. In particular, the approach of the vehicle key and / or the mobile terminal device, in particular the user's mobile phone, is detected by the motor vehicle for this purpose. If the distance falls below a predetermined distance value, the projecting of the estimated time of arrival can then be triggered as part of the light distribution. The navigation instructions for reaching the destination on foot can be projected onto the projection surface, in particular the roadway, after the journey has ended in the vicinity of the destination. For example, the projecting of the corresponding navigation instructions can be triggered by parking, switching off an engine of the motor vehicle or opening a driver's door of the motor vehicle or removing an ignition key. As a result, the user experience can be further improved by the projection device.

According to a further development, it is provided that the projector unit is arranged on the motor vehicle in such a way that the projector unit is designed as a projection surface for projection outwards and / or in the direction of a roadway. For example, the projector unit can be arranged on the inside or outside of the motor vehicle. If the projector unit is arranged on the inside, it is arranged in such a way that it can project through an opening or a window of the motor vehicle into an area outside the motor vehicle. In particular, the projector unit is oriented downward, preferably in the direction of the road surface. Accordingly, the projector unit can be designed to emit or project the light distribution onto the roadway or the roadway surface as a projection surface. In a further embodiment, it can be provided that the projector unit has a plurality of projectors, so that an illumination of 360 degrees around the motor vehicle is made possible. For example, four projectors can be arranged as part of the projector unit on four different side surfaces or corners of the motor vehicle. The four projector units ensure 360 degrees of illumination around the motor vehicle.

According to a further development, it is provided that the projector unit is designed to project at least one virtual operating element as part of the light distribution onto the projection surface and the computing unit is designed to relate the predetermined input gesture of the user to a position of the at least one virtual operating element and derive the command signal in such a way that it indicates whether the at least one operating element has been actuated in accordance with a predetermined rule. In other words, the projector unit is designed to project a symbol or the like onto the projection surface as part of the light distribution, which symbol is perceived as a virtual operating element. In other words, the virtual operating element can be represented by a symbol, which in turn is part of the light distribution. The computing unit is designed, for example, to determine a relative position in which the predetermined input gesture of the user occurs relative to the position of the virtual operating element. Alternatively or additionally, the Computing unit can be designed to determine whether a predetermined relative movement and / or a predetermined movement is recognized as part of the input gesture. The relative position, in particular the distance between the location of the input gesture and the location of the projection of the virtual operating element, movement and / or relative movement can be evaluated in accordance with the predetermined rule. If the recognized input gesture comprises a predetermined movement pattern or if the input gesture was recorded in an area around the virtual operating element, the actuation of the virtual operating element can be recognized. The predetermined input gesture is in particular in the corresponding area around the virtual operating element when a distance between the two is smaller than a predetermined threshold value. In the case of the projection of a plurality of such operating elements, in particular simultaneously, the predetermined gesture can be assigned to one of the plurality of operating elements analogously. The command signal can then indicate that the corresponding virtual operating element is considered to be actuated.

According to a further development, it is provided that the computing unit is designed to open a door, a tailgate or a convertible top of the motor vehicle when the at least one virtual operating element is actuated. As an alternative or in addition, it can also be provided that a tailgate of the motor vehicle is opened when a corresponding virtual operating element is actuated. In particular, it can be provided that the virtual operating element contains a respective symbol which virtualizes the function of the corresponding operating element. For example, the virtual operating element can represent the opening of a door, the opening of the tailgate or the opening of the convertible top. In this way, opening of the door, tailgate or convertible top can be controlled in a particularly intuitive manner.

• - Empfangen von Daten aus einer Datenquelle,
• - Bereitstellen von aus den Daten abgeleiteten Projektionsdaten für eine nachfolgende Projektion, und
• - Projizieren einer Lichtverteilung auf eine Projektionsfläche. Erfindungsgemäß ist vorgesehen, dass
• - ein Auswertebereich um die Projektionsfläche erfasst sowie ein entsprechendes Sensorsignal ausgegeben wird, und
• - anhand des Sensorsignals eine vorbestimmte Eingabegeste eines Nutzers zu erkannt und daraus ein Befehlssignal abgeleitet wird

Another aspect of the invention relates to a method for operating a projection device in a motor vehicle with the following steps:

• - receiving data from a data source,
• - Providing projection data derived from the data for a subsequent projection, and
• - Projecting a light distribution onto a projection surface. According to the invention it is provided that
• - an evaluation area around the projection surface is recorded and a corresponding sensor signal is output, and
• - A predetermined input gesture of a user is recognized on the basis of the sensor signal and a command signal is derived therefrom

The control device for the motor vehicle also belongs to the invention. The control device has a processor device which is set up to carry out an embodiment of the method according to the invention. For this purpose, the processor device can have at least one microprocessor and / or at least one microcontroller and / or at least one FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) and / or at least one DSP (Digital Signal Processor). Furthermore, the processor device can have program code which is set up to carry out the embodiment of the method according to the invention when it is executed by the processor device. The program code can be stored in a data memory of the processor device.

The invention also includes further developments of the method according to the invention which have features as they have already been described in connection with the further developments of the motor vehicle according to the invention. For this reason, the corresponding developments of the method according to the invention are not described again here.

The motor vehicle according to the invention is preferably designed as a motor vehicle, in particular as a passenger vehicle or truck, or as a passenger bus or motorcycle.

The invention also includes the combinations of the features of the described embodiments.

Exemplary embodiments of the invention are described below. For this purpose, the single figure shows, in an extremely schematic bird's eye view, a motor vehicle with a projection device for projecting a light distribution onto a projection surface.

The exemplary embodiments explained below are preferred embodiments of the invention. In the exemplary embodiments, the described components of the embodiments each represent individual features of the invention that are to be considered independently of one another and that also develop the invention independently of one another. Therefore, the disclosure is intended to include combinations of the features of the embodiments other than those shown. Furthermore, the described embodiments can also be supplemented by further features of the invention that have already been described.

In the figures, the same reference symbols denote functionally identical elements.

1 shows a motor vehicle 1 with a projection device 2 . The car 1 or the projection device 2 comprises a data collection unit 3 , a projector unit 4th , a sensor unit 5 and an arithmetic unit 6th . The data collection unit 3 is designed to take data from a data source 7th to recieve. Furthermore is the data collection unit 3 designed to derive projection data for a subsequent projection from the received data. For example, the data include any status data relating to the data source 7th . The data collection unit 3 is designed to derive the projection data therefrom, which contain, for example, a digital image of the light distribution to be projected. For example, the data from the data source are inserted into a specific graphic user interface. The projection data can then contain an image of the graphical user interface with the data.

Alternatively, symbols or slogans can be added to the data received. The projection data can then contain a visual digital image of the data with the corresponding symbols. Alternatively or additionally, it can be provided that the data contain a slogan or a text message. The projection data can then have a virtual image of the slogan or a message. For example, the data from the data source can be projection data or command data. The projection data is preferably a digital image and / or pixel-precise raw data for the subsequent projection.

The projector unit 4th is designed to provide a light distribution 11 depending on the projection data onto a projection surface 10 to project. In the present case, the projector unit 4th four on the outside of the vehicle 1 arranged projectors. The projectors can for example have a tube projector, an LCD projector, a DLP projector, an ELD projector, an LCoS projector, a laser projector or the like. Here is the projector unit 4th or their projectors are preferably aligned in such a way that they emit the light distribution onto a lane on which the motor vehicle is located 1 is located. In other words, the projectors or the projector unit 4th be designed to emit the light distribution downwards. It is advantageously provided that the projection surfaces 10 of the individual projectors of the projector unit 4th overlap. In this way, a radiation or projection is 360 degrees around the motor vehicle 1 around possible. In particular, is the projector unit 4th designed to control the light distribution 11 to emit or project according to the projection data. For example, the projector unit 4th controlled for this purpose in such a way that it uses the image transmitted as part of the projection data as the light distribution 11 onto the projection surface 10 projected.

In particular, the projector unit 4th on an outside mirror or side mirror of the motor vehicle 1 be arranged. In the present embodiment is on both side mirrors 18th of the motor vehicle 1 as well as on a front and a rear of the motor vehicle 1 a respective projector of the projector unit 4th arranged.

The sensor unit 5 is designed to have an evaluation area around the projection surface 10 to capture and output a corresponding sensor signal. The evaluation area can, for example, be deformed by a predetermined radius around the projection surface 10 around. Alternatively, a base area of the evaluation area can match that of the projection area 10 correspond and extend to a certain height, for example 2 m. It is preferably provided that only such areas of the projection surface 10 as part of the evaluation area, in which part of the light distribution 11 is projected. For example, the sensor unit 5 one or more cameras, one or more 3D cameras, one or more radar sensors, one or more ultrasonic sensors, one or more lidar sensors, one or more infrared sensors or the like. A combination of different sensors is particularly useful. The sensor signal can contain an image of the evaluation area, which is detected by one or more of the sensors mentioned.

The arithmetic unit 6th is designed to recognize a predetermined input gesture of a user based on the sensor signal and to derive a command signal therefrom. In particular, the computing unit 6th a controller or a processor for this purpose. The arithmetic unit 6th can be based on at least one processor and a data memory coupled to the at least one processor, program structures being stored in the data memory which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the latter to use the sensor signal to recognize a predetermined input gesture of a user and to generate a command signal therefrom derive. For example, in the manner of a gesture control, a predetermined movement pattern of the user can be recognized on the basis of the sensor signal. Alternatively or additionally, a relative position of the user, preferably a relative position of the movement pattern, relative to the light distribution can be used 11 to be determined. The command signal can be generated as a function of these two variables. For example, a predetermined input gesture by the user is recognized when the user the predetermined movement pattern in a predetermined area around the light distribution 11 performing around. The command signal can then contain a command assigned to the predetermined input gesture and / or trigger a function assigned to the predetermined input gesture. This can be done, for example, using an allocation table.

The data collection unit 3 can have a processor and a data memory coupled to the at least one processor, program instructions being stored in the data memory which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the processor to retrieve data from the data source 7th retrieve and / or derive the projection data from the data. In addition, the data collection unit 3 a receiving interface for receiving the data from the data source 7th include. For example, is the data collection unit 3 or their receiving interface designed for communication via the Internet. Accordingly, the data can be transmitted via a server device 19th or what is known as a cloud. For example, the data contain preference data of the user, which the user selects information for the projection. Exemplary information can be news, stock prices or a weather forecast.

Alternatively or additionally, it can be provided that via the server device 19th or the cloud, the data from a mobile device 9 , in particular a mobile phone, of the user can be accessed. It can thus be provided that the data from the mobile terminal 9 in a user profile in the server facility 19th or the cloud are stored. This data can contain, for example, data about missed, incoming or completed phone calls or calls or text messages. Alternatively, there can be direct communication between data collection units 3 and mobile device 9 respectively. This direct communication can take place, for example, via a radio link, for example Bluetooth, WiFi or WiFi direct. The advantage of indirect communication through the server facility 19th lies in the fact that the data is called up when the user approaches his mobile device 9 is already possible from a greater distance if direct communication is not yet possible due to the range of the radio link. The data source 7th the mobile device can 9 and / or the server device 19th be. For example, the data collection unit comprises 3 for this purpose, a corresponding radio modem, for example an LTE modem or a UMTS modem.

Alternatively, the data source can be 7th a functional unit 8th of the motor vehicle 1 be. With the functional unit 8th it can be, for example, a control unit for controlling a driving function of the motor vehicle 1 or a navigation system of the motor vehicle 1 act. The navigation system can work with cloud support, that is, it can call up navigation instructions and / or map data from a server device or cloud, or it can determine the navigation instructions itself based on map data stored in the navigation system. Exemplary data from a navigation system as a functional unit 8th can be retrieved are a predicted arrival time at a destination selected by the user or the destination itself. For example, when the user approaches before driving, the predicted arrival time can be displayed on the projection surface 10 or the roadway can be projected. Alternatively, after the end of a journey to the destination, information about how the destination can be reached on foot can be projected onto the roadway. This is useful, for example, when a journey to the destination is not completely possible, but instead, for example, parking is provided within walking distance of the destination. In this case it can be used as part of the data by the data collection unit 3 a corresponding navigation instruction can be called up from the navigation system. The projection device or the motor vehicle is accordingly 1 designed to retrieve a corresponding navigation instruction from the navigation system and as part of the light distribution 11 onto the projection surface 10 , especially the road surface.

As an alternative or in addition to navigation instructions for navigation on foot, information on connection mobility offers, for example taxi or public nighttime traffic, can be obtained from the server device 19th retrieved and as part of the light distribution 11 onto the projection surface 10 projected.

As part of the light distribution 11 can at least one virtual control element 12th onto the projection surface 10 projected. In the present example there are several virtual control elements 12th as part of the light distribution 11 onto the projection surface 10 projected. The virtual controls 12th can for example be provided by a respective symbol. The arithmetic unit 6th can be designed to recognize the input gesture of the user on the basis of the sensor signal and to use this with at least one of the plurality of operating elements 12th related. In particular, it is provided that the computing unit 6th the command signal as a function of the predetermined input gesture of the user and the projected virtual operating elements 12th derives. In particular, it can be determined whether in accordance with a predetermined rule actuation of one of the virtual operating elements by means of the predetermined input gesture 12th is present. This can be done, for example, by repeatedly placing a foot in the area of a corresponding operating element 12th respectively. In other words, the user can trigger a virtual control element 12th trigger by repeatedly placing the foot on the ground in the area of the respective control element 12th puts. As part of the command signal, it can then be transmitted that the corresponding virtual operating element 12th has been actuated. In other words, the command signal then shows a triggering of the respective virtual operating element 12th at.

The command signal can be transmitted through an output interface of the computing unit 6th to the data source 7th be transmitted. For example, the command signal is sent to the same data source 7th transmitted, from which the data is also transmitted by the data collection unit 3 be received. Alternatively, it can be provided that the command signal is sent to one of the corresponding data sources 7th different receiving unit is transmitted. It is preferably provided that the command signal is sent to the data source 7th is transmitted via the same data connection that is used to receive the data.

The approach of the user can, for example, be achieved by detecting the presence of his or her mobile device 9 within a predetermined radius of action around the motor vehicle 1 be done around. Alternatively or additionally, the approach of the user can be determined by detecting the presence of his vehicle key in the action radius. For example, the presence of the vehicle key is derived from a keyless go system of the motor vehicle 1 retrieved. It can be provided that the projection by means of the projection device 2 is released or activated as soon as the presence of the mobile device 9 or the vehicle key is found within the action area.

It can be provided that virtual operating elements 12th as part of the light distribution on the projection surface 10 are projected which controls for the operation of a door, tailgate or a convertible top of the motor vehicle 1 represent. In other words, it can be provided that the actuation of a corresponding virtual operating element 12th the opening of the door, the tailgate or the convertible top of the motor vehicle 1 evokes. For example, it can be provided that the computing unit 6th is designed to send a corresponding command signal to a device of the motor vehicle 1 to unlock the door, to open the tailgate or to open the convertible top.

Is it the functional unit? 8th the control unit for controlling the driving function of the motor vehicle 1 For example, it can be provided that the data are retrieved from the control unit and the projection data are derived in such a way that they relate to the driving function. In other words, it can be provided that by projecting the light distribution 11 the driving function is visualized. This is particularly true while the motor vehicle is in motion 1 makes sense. For example, according to the data, a respective pattern specific to the driving function can be used as part of the light distribution 11 onto the projection surface 10 projected. This specific pattern can be, for example, the representation of a blinker or hazard warning light, in particular the continuation of a wiper blinker on the roadway. Alternatively, a brake light can be visualized or emergency braking can be indicated by a red border around the motor vehicle 1 can be visualized to warn other road users. In a further embodiment, a state of charge of the motor vehicle 1 onto the projection surface 10 projected. This is particularly advantageous when the user is in the motor vehicle 1 approaching. In other words, the state of charge of the motor vehicle can be used as part of the data 1 , in this case in particular an electric vehicle, from a corresponding charging electronics of the motor vehicle 1 can be retrieved. A visualization of the state of charge can then be used as part of the light distribution 11 projected onto the roadway. In a further embodiment, a state of a locking system can be used as part of the light distribution 11 onto the projection surface 10 projected. For example, a symbol can be projected onto the roadway for this purpose, which symbol indicates whether the motor vehicle 1 is completed or open. Locking the motor vehicle 1 can upon actuation of a corresponding virtual control element 12th respectively.

Finally, it is also possible to address the user personally, for example by projecting a personalized greeting or projecting a general slogan. This is particularly advantageous for fleet operators. Exemplary slogans are, for example, “Welcome to Berlin”, “Thank you for choosing Audi” or a name or slogan of the fleet operator. A personalized greeting can take place, for example, by addressing a name. In this example it is provided in particular that a name of the current renter of a motor vehicle designed as a rental car 1 is retrieved from a corresponding database of the fleet operator. In other words, the data source is the same 7th in this case the database of the fleet operator. From the data retrieved therefrom, namely the name of the vehicle renter, a corresponding projection, namely the projection of his name onto the roadway, can be derived. This is particularly advantageous if a large number of vehicles belonging to the fleet operator are parked in a parking lot. Finding the motor vehicle 1 by the user or the tenant is significantly improved by the personalized approach.

• - Alleinstellungsmerkmal bezüglich des Designs des Kraftfahrzeugs 1,
• - Erweiterte Designmöglichkeiten,
• - Erweiterte Displayfläche auf der Fahrbahn für Interaktionen des Fahrers mit dem Kraftfahrzeug 1 (einige Fahrzeugfunktionen sind direkt von außen steuerbar, web-basierte Inhalte),
• - „High-Tech“ Touch der Projektionen (Image, Prestige)
• - Erhöhte Personalisierbarkeit des Kraftfahrzeugs 1,
• - Updatefähigkeit (neue Signaturen, Grafiken, Funktionen aus der Servereinrichtung beziehungsweise Cloud abrufbar oder herunterladbar),
• - Erhöhte Sicherheit für die Passanten, da eine Projektion auf die Fahrbahn bei verschiedenen Szenarien ermöglicht wird (beispielsweise ein Warnsymbol am Boden (Dooring), Pre-Sense mit roter Warnleuchte auf der Fahrbahn etc).

The following advantages can result:

• - Unique selling point with regard to the design of the motor vehicle 1 ,
• - Extended design options,
• - Extended display area on the roadway for interactions between the driver and the motor vehicle 1 (some vehicle functions can be controlled directly from the outside, web-based content),
• - "High-Tech" touch of the projections (image, prestige)
• - Increased personalization of the motor vehicle 1 ,
• - Update capability (new signatures, graphics, functions can be called up or downloaded from the server facility or cloud),
• - Increased safety for passers-by, as a projection onto the road is possible in different scenarios (for example a warning symbol on the floor (dooring), pre-sense with a red warning light on the road, etc.).

Overall, the examples show how the invention can provide an individualized floor projection.

QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

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

Patent literature cited

• US 7175321 B1 [0002]
• DE 102018102175 A1 [0004]

Claims (10)

Motor vehicle (1) having a projection device (2) - a data collection unit (3) for receiving data from a data source (7) and for providing projection data derived from the data for a subsequent projection, and - A projector unit (4) for projecting a light distribution (11) onto a projection surface (10) as a function of the projection data, characterized by - A sensor unit (5) which is designed to detect an evaluation area around the projection surface (10) and to output a corresponding sensor signal, and - A computing unit (6) which is designed to recognize a predetermined input gesture of a user on the basis of the sensor signal and to derive a command signal therefrom. Motor vehicle (1) according to Claim 1 , characterized by an output interface which is designed to transmit the command signal to the data source (7) or a receiving unit different from the data source (7). Motor vehicle (1) according to Claim 2 , characterized in that the output interface is designed to transmit the command signal to the data source (7) via the same data connection via which the data is also received. Motor vehicle according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the data collection unit (3) is designed to call up the data from a server device or a mobile phone as a data source (7). Motor vehicle (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the data collection unit (3) is designed to retrieve the data from a control unit (8) of the motor vehicle (1) for controlling a driving function of the motor vehicle (1) and to retrieve the projection data in this way derive that these relate to the driving function, so that the driving function is visualized when the light distribution (11) is projected. Motor vehicle according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the data collection unit (3) is designed to receive the data from a navigation system (8) of the motor vehicle (1), in particular an estimated arrival time at a destination of a navigation and / or after When a journey to the destination is ended, navigation instructions for reaching the destination on foot are projected as part of the light distribution (11). Motor vehicle (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the projector unit (4) is arranged on the motor vehicle (1) in such a way that the projector unit (4) for projection outwards and / or in the direction of a roadway as a projection surface (10) is trained. Motor vehicle (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that - the projector unit (4) is designed to project at least one virtual operating element (12) as part of the light distribution (11) onto the projection surface (10), and - the Computing unit (6) is designed to relate the predetermined input gesture of the user to a position of the at least one virtual operating element (12) and to derive the command signal in such a way that it indicates whether an actuation of the at least one virtual operating element according to a predetermined rule (12) is present. Motor vehicle (1) according to Claim 8 , characterized in that the computing unit (6) is designed to open a door, a tailgate or a convertible top of the motor vehicle when the at least one virtual operating element (12) is actuated. A method for operating a projection device (2) in a motor vehicle (1), with the following steps: - receiving data from a data source (7), - providing projection data derived from the data for a subsequent projection, and - projecting a light distribution (11 ) onto a projection surface (10), characterized in that - an evaluation area around the projection surface (10) is recorded and a corresponding sensor signal is output, and - a predetermined input gesture of a user is recognized on the basis of the sensor signal and a command signal is derived therefrom.

Images