DE102022205742A1 - Lighting device for an illuminating vehicle, a reading device for a reading vehicle, a communication system for the two vehicles, and a communication method for the two vehicles - Google Patents

Abstract

In order to create a lighting device (100) for a vehicle (200), a lighting device (100) is proposed, in which a computer code (21) generated by the processor can be output using the light beam (LB) using the light projector (11). and the computer code (21) is output as a projection (20) onto a projection surface (PA) in the vicinity of the vehicle (200) and can be optically read from the projection surface (PA).

Description

The invention relates to a lighting device for an illuminating vehicle according to claim 1, a reading device for a reading vehicle according to claim 3, a communication system for the two vehicles according to claim 6 and a communication method for the two vehicles according to claim 14.

The invention relates to a lighting device for a vehicle, comprising a light projector for outputting a light beam for illuminating a projection surface in the surroundings of the vehicle, and a processor for controlling the light beam of the light projector for controlled lighting, with the light beam being used to produce one of the Processor generated computer code can be output.

It is known that a vehicle is equipped with a light projector and/or an environment sensor system, the former for example for illuminating a driver's field of vision and the latter for example for a driver assistance system and/or autonomous driving. It is also known that it is desirable for vehicles to communicate with one another, preferably by means of a computer-readable communication system, for example optically transmitted in direct line of sight using a light projector and environmental sensors.

For example, from the summary of DE 10 2020 201 357 A1 a method and a device for carrying out optical wireless communication with a means of transport are known. The method comprises the steps: establishing an optical wireless communication connection (50) between the means of transport (80) and another wireless communication participant (90) in the vicinity of the means of transport (80) using an outwardly directed light emitter (30) and/or an outwardly directed Light detector (40) of the means of transport (80), transmitting automatically generated first information between the means of transport (80) and the further wireless communication participant (90), the first information not being perceptible to the human eye.

Furthermore, from the summary of the DE 10 2018 114 130 A1 a mobile-related communication system is known, wherein the communication system includes a first information transmission body with a first wireless communication unit, a first control unit and a first optical communication unit and a second information transmission body with a second wireless communication unit, a second control unit and a second optical communication unit. The first control unit causes the first optical communication unit to acquire ID information of the second information transmission body and an encryption key via the second optical communication unit, and causes the first wireless communication unit to wirelessly transmit a provision request for transmission body-related information regarding the second information transmission body to the second information transmission body. The second control unit causes the encrypted transmission body-related information to be wirelessly transmitted using the encryption key based on the provision request, and the first control unit decrypts the received transmission body-related information using the encryption key. In an embodiment according to claim 3, the first optical communication unit and the second optical communication unit include a light source unit and a light receiving element unit.

Furthermore, from the summary of the EP 3 595 197 A1 an optical wireless communication system for a vehicle is known, the system comprising a photonic device and control electronics configured to control the photonic device. The photonic device includes a plurality of photonic components arranged in a two-dimensional matrix array, and the control electronics are configured to control the photonic components of the plurality of photonic components individually or in groups. Each photonic component or group of photonic components is configured, optionally together with optics, to transmit and/or receive at least one optical wireless communication signal in a propagation direction that is distinguishable relative to a propagation direction of optical wireless communication signals that is determined by at least one another photonic component or by at least one other group of photonic components of the plurality of photonic components.

Compared to previously known lighting devices, the invention is based on the task of solving the following problem with the simplest and most cost-effective means possible: If there is no visual contact with other road users, communication should be made possible, whereby, if possible, an existing infrastructure of a vehicle equipment should be used and at the same time a high level of security in signal transmission should be achieved.

According to claim 1, the above task is solved by outputting the computer code as a projection onto a projection surface in the vicinity of the illuminating vehicle and being optically readable from the projection surface.

Advantageous developments of the invention are characterized in the subclaims.

According to a first embodiment of the invention, a lighting device for an illuminating vehicle is proposed, which includes a light projector for outputting a light beam for illuminating a projection surface in the vicinity of the illuminating vehicle, and a processor for controlling the light beam of the light projector for controlled lighting, by means of of the light projector with the light beam a computer code generated by the processor can be output.

According to claim 1, this task is solved with the following features: The lighting device is primarily characterized in that the computer code is output as a projection onto a projection surface in the surroundings of the illuminating vehicle and can be optically read from the projection surface.

The light projector is set up to emit light.

The environment is at an illuminated distance from the vehicle or from the respective light projector.

The computer code is preferably generated based on already known transmission methods from the field of mobile communications, i.e. modulated spatially, temporally and/or in terms of frequencies, and can be read out accordingly.

The projection is an image which, as a result of the reflection of the projection surface illuminated with the controlled light beam, can be detected by a correspondingly equipped readout device, which is set up for the same light spectrums.

In an advantageous embodiment, the projection onto the projection surface is output according to the ground conditions. For this purpose, the projection of the illuminating vehicle is preferably checked and adjusted if necessary.

• - einem zu befahrenden Untergrund;
• - einer an einen zu befahrenden Untergrund angrenzenden, bevorzugt zumindest näherungsweise horizontalen, Oberfläche; und/oder
• - einer nahe bei einem zu befahrenden Untergrund angeordneten, bevorzugt zumindest näherungsweise vertikalen, Oberfläche.

It is further proposed in an advantageous embodiment of the lighting device that the projection surface is formed by:

• - a surface to be driven on;
• - a surface adjacent to a surface to be driven on, preferably at least approximately horizontal; and or
• - A surface arranged close to a surface to be driven on, preferably at least approximately vertical.

Furthermore, according to claim 3, the object is achieved in that a vehicle includes a reading device with an optical sensor for detecting an illuminated projection surface in the surroundings of the illuminating vehicle and a processor for interpreting the detected illuminated projection surface.

The reading device is primarily characterized in that a projection of an optically readable computer code can be detected by means of the optical sensor and can be interpreted by means of the processor, the projection of a light beam from a lighting device according to an embodiment according to the above description of another vehicle onto a projection surface is issued in the vicinity of the vehicle being read.

In one embodiment, the processor is also the processor of the lighting device. Alternatively, the processor is designed and/or used in the same or similar manner.

In one embodiment, the reading device or its optical sensor is integrated into the lighting device.

In one embodiment, the optical sensor is, for example, also set up for conventional control or regulation of the light beam of the lighting device.

According to a further aspect, a communication system for two vehicles is proposed, wherein a communication system includes a lighting device according to an embodiment according to the above description for an illuminating vehicle and a reading device according to an embodiment according to the above description for a reading vehicle, wherein the optical sensor the reading device is set up to detect the projection of the optically readable computer code output by the light projector of the lighting device onto a projection surface in the vicinity of the two vehicles involved.

In an advantageous embodiment of the communication system, both vehicles are each equipped with a lighting device according to an embodiment according to the above description and with a reading device according to an embodiment according to the above description.

• - für Infrarot-Licht im für Menschen nicht-sichtbaren Bereich, und
• - für Ausleuchtlicht eines Scheinwerfers eines Fahrzeugs.

It is further proposed in an advantageous embodiment of the communication system that the light projector and the optical sensor are set up for at least one of the following light spectrums:

• - for infrared light in the range that is not visible to humans, and
• - for the illumination of a headlight of a vehicle.

In an advantageous embodiment of the communication system, the light projector is formed by a headlight for a vehicle.

In the embodiment with illuminated light, which is therefore in the light spectrum of the range visible to humans, the projection is nevertheless not necessarily visible to the driver and possibly other people in the environment, preferably invisible or imperceptible, due to the modulation of the computer code.

• - Puls-Weiten-Modulation;
• - Amplitudenmodulation;
• - Polarisationsmodulation; und
• - Wellenlängenmodulation.

In an advantageous embodiment of the communication system, at least one of the following modulation methods is used for the optically readable computer code:

• - Pulse width modulation;
• - Amplitude modulation;
• - polarization modulation; and
• - Wavelength modulation.

A modulation is a deviation from a carrier wave, in this case a light wave. With pulse width modulation, a change is timed, in the simplest case the carrier wave is switched on and off, alternatively a deviation is present, here referred to as the on state, and not present, here referred to as the off state. The information results from the length of the on state and/or the off state.

With amplitude modulation, the brightness of the light beam or an individual pixel is changed. Polarization modulation uses the two physically possible states as the on state and the off state, which can also be used spatially and/or temporally. Wavelength modulation exploits the spectrum of the light beam.

• - eine Verkehrsinformation;
• - eine Fahrzeug-bezogene Information;
• - eine aktuelle und/oder geplante Geschwindigkeit;
• - ein aktuelles und/oder geplantes Manöver;
• - eine Rangfolge;
• - eine Sicherheitsinformation; und
• - eine Nachricht eines Insassen des beleuchtenden Fahrzeugs.

In an advantageous embodiment of the communication system, the optically readable computer code includes at least one of the following pieces of information from the vehicle being illuminated:

• - traffic information;
• - vehicle-related information;
• - a current and/or planned speed;
• - a current and/or planned maneuver;
• - a ranking;
• - a safety information; and
• - a message from an occupant of the illuminating vehicle.

• - Navigationseinrichtung;
• - Bremsanlage;
• - Vortriebsaggregat;
• - Mensch-Maschine-Schnittstelle; und
• - zumindest ein externes Kommunikationsmittel.

According to a further aspect, a vehicle for a communication system according to an embodiment according to the above description is proposed, wherein the vehicle comprises a lighting device according to an embodiment according to the above description and a reading device according to an embodiment according to the above description,
wherein the processor of the reading device is communicatively connected to at least one interface of the vehicle from the following group:

• - navigation facility;
• - braking system;
• - Propulsion unit;
• - Human-machine interface; and
• - at least one external means of communication.

In an advantageous embodiment of the vehicle, the lighting device is comprised by a headlight of the vehicle.

In an advantageous embodiment of the vehicle, the reading device is encompassed by an environmental sensor system of the vehicle.

In one embodiment, the reading vehicle is accelerated by means of the propulsion unit due to a dangerous situation or a priority of the reading vehicle.

In one embodiment, other road users are informed of a planned maneuver by the reading vehicle using external communication means based on the information recorded Projection communicated. This communication is preferably uni-directional.

In an advantageous embodiment of the vehicle, interventions at the respective interface are possible directly or indirectly using the information from the projection.

In one embodiment, a detour is planned and/or a delay in arrival is communicated using the navigation device.

In one embodiment, a message based on the information from the captured projection is displayed to the occupants, or only the driver, of the reading vehicle using the human-machine interface.

• i) mittels des Lichtprojektors des beleuchtenden Fahrzeugs, Ausgeben eines optisch auslesbaren Computer-Codes als Projektion auf eine Projektionsfläche in der Umgebung des beleuchtenden Fahrzeugs;
• ii) mittels der Auslesevorrichtung des auslesenden Fahrzeugs auf einer Projektionsfläche in einer Umgebung des auslesenden Fahrzeugs, Suchen einer Projektion eines optisch auslesbaren Computer-Codes;
• iii) bei Vorliegen einer Projektion eines optisch auslesbaren Computer-Codes des beleuchtenden Fahrzeugs auf einer potenziellen Projektionsfläche in der Umgebung des auslesenden Fahrzeugs, mittels des Prozessors der Auslesevorrichtung, Erfassen und Interpretieren der zumindest einen Information desjenigen optisch auslesbaren Computer-Codes; und
• iv) auf Basis der zumindest einen Information mittels des Prozessors der Auslesevorrichtung, Ausgeben eines Befehls für zumindest eine korrespondierende Schnittstelle des auslesenden Fahrzeugs.

According to a further aspect, a communication method for two vehicles according to an embodiment according to the above description is proposed in a communication system according to an embodiment according to the above description, comprising the following steps:

• i) by means of the light projector of the illuminating vehicle, outputting an optically readable computer code as a projection onto a projection surface in the vicinity of the illuminating vehicle;
• ii) by means of the reading device of the reading vehicle on a projection surface in an environment of the reading vehicle, searching for a projection of an optically readable computer code;
• iii) in the presence of a projection of an optically readable computer code of the illuminating vehicle on a potential projection surface in the vicinity of the vehicle being read, by means of the processor of the readout device, detecting and interpreting the at least one piece of information from that optically readable computer code; and
• iv) based on the at least one piece of information by means of the processor of the reading device, issuing a command for at least one corresponding interface of the vehicle being read.

In an advantageous embodiment, the vehicles participating in the communication process are both a reading vehicle and an illuminating vehicle. In an advantageous embodiment, the mutual communication between two vehicles takes place at the same time, preferably by means of spatially separate projections, and/or synchronized with one another in time.

In an advantageous embodiment, different wavelengths are used, for example 850 nm and 950 nm. In one embodiment, the wavelength is permanently assigned to a vehicle. In one embodiment, the wavelength is assigned to a function of the information, the vehicle type, the vehicle position or the type of projection surface, if necessary fixed.

In one embodiment, the projection surface is fixed in the environment and is thus tracked during vehicle movements and/or the projection surface is tracked by the vehicle being read out in such a way that the information contained in the projection continues to be visible to the vehicle being read out and can therefore be read out.

In one embodiment, in addition to this communication method, communication takes place via a system which does not require a line of sight. For example, the other system is a mobile radio system and/or a Wi-Fi system for direct or indirect communication between the vehicles.

In an advantageous embodiment, the illuminating vehicle simultaneously records its own projection using its own reading device and interprets it using its own processor. An error in the projection on the projection surface is preferably compensated for on the basis of this reading of the own projection, for example by moving all or part of the projection to another projection surface or to another area of a projection surface and/or at least adapting the light beam to the respective areas Circumstances, for example a reflection behavior as described above or a different reflection angle.

In an advantageous embodiment, the interface, which receives a command from the processor based on the information read out from the projection, is part of the communication system, with the interface in a preferred embodiment for outputting information to the processor for transmission by means of the projection and/or embedding in the projection is set up for another reading vehicle. In one embodiment, the interface is a human-machine interface that is set up to receive information or commands from an occupant of the illuminating vehicle.

In one embodiment, the interface is that of an on-board computer, the on-board computer preferably having a plurality of controllable and/or controllable units of the vehicle.

• - raumorientiert und/oder adressiert für ein potenziell vorhandenes auslesendes Fahrzeug;
• - induziert infolge eines Erfassens eines auslesenden Fahrzeugs und/oder zumindest einer Information und/oder einer Einladung von einem anderen auslesenden Fahrzeug, welches bevorzugt zugleich ein beleuchtendes Fahrzeug ist; und
• - auf Erkennung eines Verkehrsbereichs mit erhöhter Gefahr und/oder mit potenziell erhöhtem Verkehrsaufkommen.

In an advantageous embodiment of the communication method, the lighting device of an illuminating vehicle outputs a projection of an optically readable computer code onto a projection surface in the area surrounding the vehicle under at least one of the following conditions:

• - spatially oriented and/or addressed for a potentially existing reading vehicle;
• - induced as a result of detection of a reading vehicle and/or at least information and/or an invitation from another reading vehicle, which is preferably also an illuminating vehicle; and
• - to identify a traffic area with increased danger and/or with potentially increased traffic volume.

In an advantageous embodiment of the communication method, the projection is output in a stationary manner.

• 1: in einer Ansicht von oben einen Verkehrsbereich mit einem Kommunikationssystem mit zwei kommunizierenden Fahrzeugen, und
• 2: ein Flussdiagramm eines Kommunikationsverfahrens.

Exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to the drawings. Show it:

• 1 : in a view from above, a traffic area with a communication system with two communicating vehicles, and
• 2 : a flowchart of a communication procedure.

1 shows a view from above of a traffic area TA with a communication system 500 with an illuminating vehicle 200 and a reading vehicle 400.

The light projector 11 is set up to emit light, for example laser light. For example, the light projector 11 is set up for matrix illumination, i.e. with pixel-based control of the emitted light field. More specifically, such an output light beam LB consists of a plurality of individual beams.

In one embodiment, the projection surface PA is a traveled surface, such as a road surface, and/or an adjacent, preferably at least approximately horizontal, surface, such as a sidewalk, and/or a nearby, preferably at least approximately vertical, surface, such as for example, a curb or a house wall.

The environment is at an illuminable distance from the vehicle 200 or from the respective light projector 11. For example, the environment in the direction of travel of the vehicle 200 is in front of it, for example at a distance of 0.5 m to 40 m, preferably from 2 m to 30 m , particularly preferably from 5 m to 25 m. Alternatively or additionally, the environment comprises a projection surface PA in the direction of travel to the side of and/or behind the vehicle 200.

The computer code 21 is, for example, a QR code, a bar code or, at least not yet, a generally standardized code. A computer code 21 is preferably generated based on already known transmission methods from the field of mobile communications, i.e. modulated spatially, temporally and/or with regard to frequencies, and can be read out accordingly.

The projection 20 is an image which, as a result of the reflection of the projection surface PA illuminated with the controlled light beam LB, can be detected by a correspondingly equipped readout device 300, which is set up for the same light spectrums.

In an advantageous embodiment, the projection 20 onto the projection surface PA is output according to the ground conditions. For this purpose, the projection 20 of the illuminating vehicle 200 is preferably checked and, if necessary, adjusted, for example by means of its own readout device 300 and/or environmental sensor system 30.

An adaptation is adapted, for example, to a ripple, a floor slope and/or reflection errors, i.e. strong absorption or, on the contrary, strong reflection and/or deviating reflection angles. An adjustment includes, for example, a corrective distortion and/or spatial displacement of the projection 20.

In one embodiment, the light projector 11 is included in the headlight 10, for example as a separate unit. In another embodiment, the generation of the computer code 21 can be carried out by the headlight 10 itself, i.e. the light projector 11 is formed by the headlight 10.

In an embodiment using infrared light, the output projection 20 is not visible to a human. Nevertheless, most materials of potential PA projection surfaces are also reflective for infrared light. Furthermore, optical sensors 31 are already well tested, inexpensive and already used in most vehicles 400, and above all also set up for infrared light.

In an embodiment with illuminated light 41, the output projection 20 is visible to people. Nevertheless, in an advantageous embodiment, due to a short time and/or fine grading of the modulation method, the computer code 21 is not perceptible to humans without aids. In another embodiment, perceptibility is explicitly desired or accepted. Here too, suitable optical sensors 31 have already been well tested, cost-effective and are already used in most vehicles 400.

With amplitude modulation, the brightness of the light beam LB or an individual pixel is changed. This can be represented as a spatial resolution, for example in two states as light and dark in a QR code, and/or temporally resolved as part of the pulse width modulation. It should be noted that more than two states can also be represented using finer gradations of the degree of brightness.

Polarization modulation uses the two physically possible states as the on state and the off state, which can also be used spatially and/or temporally.

The wavelength modulation uses the spectrum of the light beam LB, for example in a projection 20 with a light beam LB in the spectrum visible to humans, up to a visible color change. This means that significantly more than two states can potentially be created, which in turn can also be used spatially and/or temporally.

In an advantageous embodiment of the vehicle 200, 400, interventions at the respective interface are possible directly or indirectly using the information from the projection 20, for example braking using the brake system due to a dangerous situation or a subordinate status of the vehicle 400 being read.

In one embodiment, a detour is planned and/or a delay in arrival is communicated using the navigation device. In one embodiment, the navigation device is set up for planning and executing a column journey, so that a vehicle 200 follows the other vehicle 400, for example to save propulsion energy by driving in the slipstream and/or when physically coupling a propulsion unit of one of the vehicles traveling in a column 200, 400.

In one embodiment, the reading vehicle 400 is accelerated by means of the propulsion unit, comprising, for example, at least one internal combustion engine and/or at least one electric drive machine, due to a dangerous situation or a priority of the reading vehicle 400.

In one embodiment, a message is displayed to the occupants, or only the driver, of the reading vehicle 400 using the human-machine interface based on the information from the captured projection 20, for example by means of a display on a screen, a change in the interior lighting and/or or an acoustic signal.

In one embodiment, other road users are informed of a planned maneuver by the reading vehicle 400 based on the information from the captured projection 20 using external communication means 36, for example a turn signal, a brake light, a high beam and/or wireless communication. This communication is, for example, uni-directional. This means that the vehicle 200 does not receive any information from the reading vehicle.

The processor or processors are, for example, part of one or more computers. Such a processor is, for example, a general purpose processor (CPU) or microprocessor, RISC processor, GPU and/or DSP. For example, such a computer has additional elements such as memory interfaces. Optionally or additionally, the terms refer to such a device that is capable of executing a provided or embedded program, preferably with a standardized programming language, such as C++, JavaScript or Python, and/or data storage devices and/or other devices such as input interfaces and output interfaces to control and/or access. The term computer also refers to a plurality of processors or a plurality of (sub)computers which are interconnected and/or otherwise communicatively connected and may share one or more other resources, such as memory.

• - eine Verkehrsinformation, beispielsweise einen potenziell in Anspruch genommenen Zebrastreifen, eine Ampelstörung und/oder ein Hindernis;
• - eine Fahrzeug-bezogene Information, beispielsweise, ob es sich um ein Kraftfahrzeug, einen Lastkraftwagen oder ein Fahrzeug mit Vorrang, wie beispielsweise einen Feuerwehrwagen, handelt;
• - eine aktuelle und/oder geplante Geschwindigkeit, womit beispielsweise eine Bremsmöglichkeit bestimmbar ist;
• - ein aktuelles und/oder geplantes Manöver, also beispielsweise Geradeausfahrt, Abbiegen nach links oder rechts, oder ein längerer Routenabschnitt zum Anbahnen einer Kolonnenfahrt;
• - eine Rangfolge, wobei diese auf der Art des Fahrzeugs oder auf der wahrgenommenen Verkehrsregel beruht, wobei diese auch fehlerhaft sein kann, worauf dann über die Kommunikation gefahrlos reagierbar ist;
• - eine Sicherheitsinformation, wie beispielsweise von Schäden verursacht, also beispielsweise eine beschädigte Bremsanlage oder ein Betriebszustand, also ob das beleuchtende Fahrzeug 200 autonom fahrend oder menschlich gesteuert unterwegs ist; und
• - eine Nachricht eines Insassen des beleuchtenden Fahrzeugs 200, beispielsweise privater Natur, also an einen Bekannten des Insassen des beleuchtenden Fahrzeugs 200, aber auch eine Werbeanzeige oder ein Hinweis auf eine Verkehrssituation beziehungsweise Gefahr auf der für das beleuchtende Fahrzeug 200 zurückliegenden und für das auslesende Fahrzeug 400 potenziell vorausliegenden Strecke.

For example, the optically readable computer code 21 includes at least one of the following information from the illuminating vehicle 200:

• - traffic information, for example a potentially used zebra crossing, a traffic light disruption and/or an obstacle;
• - vehicle-related information, for example whether it is a motor vehicle, a truck or a priority vehicle such as a fire engine;
• - a current and/or planned speed, with which, for example, a braking option can be determined;
• - a current and/or planned maneuver, for example driving straight ahead, turning left or right, or a longer route section to initiate a convoy journey;
• - a ranking, which is based on the type of vehicle or on the perceived traffic rule, although this can also be incorrect, which can then be reacted to safely via communication;
• - Safety information, such as damage caused, for example a damaged brake system or an operating state, i.e. whether the lighting vehicle 200 is driving autonomously or under human control; and
• - a message from an occupant of the illuminating vehicle 200, for example of a private nature, i.e. to an acquaintance of the occupant of the illuminating vehicle 200, but also an advertisement or a reference to a traffic situation or danger in the past for the illuminating vehicle 200 and for the vehicle being read out 400 potential route ahead.

In a first example situation, the lighting vehicle 200 is a priority vehicle, such as an ambulance or a police car. The reading vehicle 400 receives the information via the projection 20 that it should remain stationary despite the traffic light signal being green.

In a second situation example, the lighting vehicle 200 is a vehicle that has priority among vehicles of the same rank due to the general traffic rules, for example due to signage and/or right-before-left regulations. The reading vehicle 400 receives the information via the projection 20 that an illuminating vehicle 200, for example not yet in the field of vision, is approaching.

In a third situation example, the illuminating vehicle 200 is a vehicle with priority over the reading vehicle 400. However, the illuminating vehicle 200 is traveling at an unreasonably excessive speed. The reading vehicle 400 receives the information via the projection 20 that it should remain stationary despite priority in order to avoid endangering the occupants.

In one embodiment, in the three situation examples described above, the command from the processor of the reading device 300 is passed on directly to the brake system, which brakes the reading vehicle 400, preferably together with the rear brake lighting of the reading vehicle 400 lighting up for potentially following road users .

In a fourth situation example, the route of at least the illuminating vehicle 200, and preferably also the reading vehicle 400, is planned and thus a corresponding maneuver is planned in the traffic area TA. For example, the illuminating vehicle 200 wants to turn right and the reading vehicle 400 wants to go right or left or straight ahead. It is recognized that at the current speeds of the two vehicles 200, 400 no collision is to be expected, and a ride that is generally perceived as pleasant by occupants can be carried out with low accelerations, both little braking and little increase in speed. This is particularly advantageous for autonomous driving, where accelerations disturb the occupants more than in self-controlled driving.

In a fifth situation example, the route of at least the illuminating vehicle 200 and also the reading vehicle 400 is planned and thus a corresponding maneuver is planned in the traffic area TA and beyond. For example, the reading vehicle 400 wants to follow the same route as the illuminating vehicle 200 and can therefore start a convoy journey, i.e. follow the illuminating vehicle 200, preferably driving closely. It should be noted that, unlike the simplified representation shown here, the environment at the rear or side of the illuminating vehicle 200 is also suitable for a projection 20. During a convoy journey, for example, such projection-based communication is carried out in the same way for the duration of the convoy journey. Alternatively or additionally, a form of communication and/or a communication key is transmitted for recording a convoy journey, with the convoy travel communication taking place in a different way, preferably standardized, for example via a PAN, a W-LAN and/or a mobile radio channel .

In a sixth situation example, an occupant of the illuminating vehicle 200 is an acquaintance of an occupant of the reading vehicle 400. This information is, for example, ver encoded and therefore only interpretable by a friend, contained in the projection 20 or the optically readable computer code 21. For example, a communication channel between the two vehicles 200, 400 is then opened, using the communication method shown here or using a channel such as that described previously with reference to convoy travel.

2 shows a flowchart of a communication method, with the following purely exemplary and without excluding the general public, purely for the sake of clarity, based on the traffic area TA 1 is referred to.

• - raumorientiert, also ausgerichtet beispielsweise nach links für ein potenziell links erscheinendes auslesendes Fahrzeug 400, in einem spezifischen Feldabschnitt in der Projektion 20, und zwar adressiert für ein potenziell vorhandenes auslesendes Fahrzeug 400;
• - induziert infolge eines Erfassens eines auslesenden Fahrzeugs 400 und/oder zumindest einer Information und/oder einer Einladung von einem anderen auslesenden Fahrzeug 400, welches bevorzugt zugleich ein beleuchtendes Fahrzeug 200 ist, also auf ein Erkennen eines Fahrzeugs, wobei dieses Fahrzeug 400 bevorzugt als auslesefähig erkannt ist, und wobei das Erkennen bevorzugt in wechselseitiger Kommunikation mittels des hier vorgeschlagenen Kommunikationsverfahrens ausgeführt oder über einen anderen Kommunikationskanal ausgeführt wird; und
• - auf Erkennung eines Verkehrsbereichs TA mit erhöhter Gefahr und/oder mit potenziell erhöhtem Verkehrsaufkommen, beispielsweise einen Kreuzungsbereich, eine Auffahrt beziehungsweise Ausfahrt auf einer Autobahn.

An optional step 0) is shown here. In this optional step, the lighting device 100 of an illuminating vehicle 200 outputs a projection 20 of an optically readable computer code 21 on a projection surface PA in the surroundings of the vehicle 200 only under at least one of the following conditions:

• - spatially oriented, i.e. aligned, for example, to the left for a reading vehicle 400 that potentially appears to the left, in a specific field section in the projection 20, specifically addressed for a potentially existing reading vehicle 400;
• - induced as a result of a detection of a reading vehicle 400 and/or at least one piece of information and/or an invitation from another reading vehicle 400, which is preferably also an illuminating vehicle 200, i.e. upon recognition of a vehicle, this vehicle 400 preferably being capable of being read out is recognized, and wherein the recognition is preferably carried out in mutual communication using the communication method proposed here or carried out via another communication channel; and
• - to detect a traffic area TA with increased danger and/or with potentially increased traffic volume, for example an intersection area, an entrance or exit on a motorway.

In an advantageous embodiment, the projection 20 is output in a stationary manner, i.e. when the illuminating vehicle 200 is moving, the projection 20 remains at one point, for example in the middle of an intersection area as in 1 shown.

In an advantageous embodiment, the projection 20 is thrown onto an area of the projection surface PA, which is arranged in an easily readable position for a potentially or detected reading vehicle 400, for example on the vertical surface of a curb.

In the first or step 0) subsequent step i), an optically readable computer code 21 is output as a projection 20 onto a projection surface PA in the surroundings of the illuminating vehicle 200 by means of the light projector 11 of the illuminating vehicle 200, for example onto a road surface. At the same time, independently or triggered by a communication that takes place in advance between the two vehicles 200, 400, in a step ii) a projection 20 of an optically readable computer is created on a projection surface PA in an environment of the reading vehicle 400 by means of the reading device 300 of the reading vehicle 400 -Codes 21 searched, preferably targeted if communication has taken place beforehand.

If a projection 20 of an optically readable computer code 21 of the illuminating vehicle 200 is present on a potential projection surface PA in the vicinity of the vehicle 400 being read, in the subsequent step iii) the projection 20 is detected by means of the optical sensor 31 of the readout device 300 and by means of the processor of the readout device 300, which interprets at least one piece of information from the optically readable computer code 21 of the captured projection 20.

In the subsequent step iv), based on the at least one piece of information, a command is issued for at least one corresponding interface of the reading vehicle 400 by means of the processor of the reading device 300, for example in order to brake and/or warn occupants or prepare for a maneuver. For example*, based on the information, a switch is made from an autonomous driving operation to a human-controlled operation and the occupants of the reading vehicle 400 are informed accordingly.

Reference symbol list

100

Lighting device

200

lighting vehicle

300

Reading device

400

reading vehicle

500

Communication system

10

Headlight

11

Light projector

20

projection

21

Computer code

30

Environmental sensors

31

optical sensor

36

external means of communication

41

Illuminated light

L.B

Ray of light

P.A

Projection surface

TA

Transport area

QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of 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.

Cited patent literature

• DE 102020201357 A1 [0004]
• DE 102018114130 A1 [0005]
• EP 3595197 A1 [0006]

Claims (15)

Lighting device (100) for a vehicle (200), comprising a light projector (11) for outputting a light beam (LB) for illuminating a projection surface (PA) in the surroundings of the vehicle (200), and a processor for controlling the light beam (LB) of the light projector (11) for controlled lighting, wherein a computer code (21) generated by the processor can be output by means of the light projector (11) with the light beam (LB), characterized in that the computer code (21) is used as a projection (20) is output on a projection surface (PA) in the vicinity of the vehicle (200) and can be optically read from the projection surface (PA). Lighting device (100). Claim 1 , whereby the projection surface (PA) is formed by: - a surface to be driven on; - a surface adjacent to a surface to be driven on, preferably at least approximately horizontal; and/or - a surface arranged close to a surface to be driven on, preferably at least approximately vertical. Reading device (300) for a vehicle (400), comprising an optical sensor (31) for detecting an illuminated projection surface (PA) in the surroundings of the vehicle (400) and a processor for interpreting the detected illuminated projection surface (PA), characterized in that a projection (20) of an optically readable computer code (21) can be detected by means of the optical sensor (31) and can be interpreted by means of the processor, the projection (20) being emitted by a light beam (LB) from a lighting device (100). Claim 1 or Claim 2 another vehicle (200) is output onto a projection surface (PA) in the vicinity of the reading vehicle (400). Readout device (300). Claim 3 , wherein the reading device (300) or its optical sensor (31) is integrated into the lighting device (100). Readout device (300). Claim 3 or Claim 4 , wherein the optical sensor (10) is also set up for conventional control or regulation of the light beam (LB) of the lighting device (100). Communication system (500) for two vehicles (200, 400), having a lighting device (100). Claim 1 for an illuminating vehicle (200) and a reading device (300) according to one of Claim 3 until 5 for a reading vehicle (400), the optical sensor (31) of the reading device (300) for detecting the projection (20) of the optically readable computer code (21) output by means of the light projector (11) of the lighting device (100). a projection surface (PA) is set up in the vicinity of the two vehicles (200, 400) involved, with both vehicles (200, 400) preferably being equipped with a lighting device (100). Claim 1 as well as with a reading device (300). Claim 3 are equipped. Communication system (500). Claim 6 , wherein the light projector (11) and the optical sensor (31) are set up for at least one of the following light spectrums: - for infrared light in the range that is not visible to humans, and - for the illumination light (41) of a headlight (10) of a vehicle (200), wherein the light projector (11) is preferably formed by a headlight (10) for a vehicle (200). Communication system (500). Claim 6 or Claim 7 , wherein at least one of the following modulation methods is used for the optically readable computer code (21): - pulse width modulation; - Amplitude modulation; - polarization modulation; and - wavelength modulation. Communication system (500) according to one of Claim 6 until 8th , wherein the optically readable computer code (21) comprises at least one of the following information from the illuminating vehicle (200): - traffic information; - vehicle-related information; - a current and/or planned speed; - a current and/or planned maneuver; - a ranking; - a safety information; and - a message from an occupant of the illuminating vehicle (200). Vehicle (200, 400) for a communication system (500) according to one of Claim 6 until 9 , wherein the vehicle (200, 400) has a lighting device (100). Claim 1 and a readout device (300) according to one of Claim 3 until 5 comprises, wherein the processor of the reading device (300) is communicatively connected to at least one interface of the vehicle (400) from the following group: - navigation device; - braking system; - Propulsion unit; - Human-machine interface; and - at least one external communication means (36), wherein preferably the lighting device (100) is comprised by a headlight (10) of the vehicle (200), and/or wherein preferably the readout device (300) is comprised of an environmental sensor system (30) of the vehicle (400 ) is included. Vehicle (200, 400) after Claim 10 , whereby interventions at the respective interface are possible directly or indirectly using the information from the projection (20). Vehicle (200, 400) after Claim 10 or Claim 11 , whereby a detour is planned and/or a delay in arrival is communicated using the navigation device. Vehicle (200, 400) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a message based on the information from the captured projection (20) is displayed to the occupants, or only the driver, of the reading vehicle (400) by means of the human-machine interface. Communication method for two vehicles (200, 400). Claim 10 until 13 in a communication system (500) according to one of Claim 6 until Claim 9 , comprising the following steps: i) by means of the light projector (11) of the illuminating vehicle (200), outputting an optically readable computer code (21) as a projection (20) onto a projection surface (PA) in the surroundings of the illuminating vehicle (200 ); ii) by means of the reading device (300) of the reading vehicle (400) on a projection surface (PA) in an environment of the reading vehicle (400), searching for a projection (20) of an optically readable computer code (21); iii) in the presence of a projection (20) of an optically readable computer code (21) of the illuminating vehicle (200) on a potential projection surface (PA) in the vicinity of the vehicle (400) being read, by means of the processor of the reading device (300), Detecting and interpreting the at least one piece of information from the optically readable computer code (21); and iv) based on the at least one piece of information by means of the processor of the reading device (300), issuing a command for at least one corresponding interface of the reading vehicle (400). communication procedures Claim 14 , wherein the lighting device (100) of an illuminating vehicle (200) outputs a projection (20) of an optically readable computer code (21) on a projection surface (PA) in the surroundings of the vehicle (200) under at least one of the following conditions : - spatially oriented and/or addressed for a potentially existing reading vehicle (400); - induced as a result of detection of a reading vehicle (400) and/or at least one piece of information and/or an invitation from another reading vehicle (400), which is preferably also an illuminating vehicle (200); and - to detect a traffic area (TA) with increased danger and/or with potentially increased traffic volume, the projection (20) preferably being output in a stationary manner.

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