DE102022208727A1 - Method and control device for operating a windshield wiper system for a vehicle window of a vehicle, windshield wiper system and vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for operating a windshield wiper system (101) for a vehicle window (102) of a vehicle (100), comprising: (HD) are recorded, B adjusting control settings of the windshield wiper system (101) depending on the recorded brightness data (HD).

Description

Method and control device for operating a windshield wiper system for a vehicle window of a vehicle, windshield wiper system and vehicle

The invention relates to a method for operating a windshield wiper system for a vehicle window of a vehicle. The invention further relates to a corresponding computer program product. The invention further relates to a corresponding control device for carrying out a corresponding method. The invention also relates to a corresponding windshield wiper system with a corresponding control device. The invention also relates to a corresponding vehicle with a corresponding windshield wiper system.

• - „Aus“,
• - Stufe 1 (oder automatisch),
• - Stufe 2,
• - Stufe 3.

Modern windshield wipers usually include different settings, such as: E.g.:

• - "Out of",
• - Level 1 (or automatic),
• - Level 2,
• - Level 3.

Level 1 usually involves wiping as needed using an available rain/light sensor. In addition, a drop amount, often only static, can be set at which the wiper should be wiped. Static settings of the drop quantity are often not reliable for safe operation of the vehicle. When it rains, a clear view through the vehicle window is important for the safe operation of the vehicle. If the windshield wiper system is not controlled optimally when it rains, the driver usually has to manually manipulate the steering column to change the settings of the windshield wiper system. In critical driving situations and when visibility is poor (e.g. dark and rainy), the driver can be distracted by operating the steering column. Such driving situations can therefore pose a risk to the safe operation of the vehicle.

The object of the invention is therefore to provide an improved method for operating a windshield wiper system for a vehicle window of a vehicle. In particular, the object of the invention is to provide a method for operating a windshield wiper system for a vehicle window of a vehicle, which avoids manual operation of a windshield wiper system, which increases the safety in the operation of the vehicle, and which enables improved, increased visibility through a vehicle window. A further object of the invention is to provide a corresponding computer program product for carrying out a corresponding method. It is also an object of the invention to provide a corresponding control device. It is also an object of the invention to provide a corresponding windshield wiper system with a corresponding control device. It is also an object of the invention to provide a corresponding vehicle with a corresponding windshield wiper system.

The object according to the invention is achieved by: a method for operating a windshield wiper system for a vehicle window of a vehicle with the features of the independent method claim. The object according to the invention is further achieved by: a corresponding computer program product for carrying out a corresponding method with the features of the independent product claim. The object according to the invention is further solved by: a corresponding control device for carrying out a corresponding method with the features of the independent device claim. The object according to the invention is further achieved by: a corresponding windshield wiper system with a corresponding control device with the features of the independent independent device claim. The object according to the invention is also achieved by: a corresponding vehicle with a corresponding control device with the features of the further independent device claim. Further features, advantages and details of the invention emerge from the subclaims, the description and the drawings. Features and details that are described in connection with individual aspects of the invention naturally also apply in connection with the other aspects of the invention and vice versa, so that reference is or can always be made to each other with regard to the disclosure of the individual aspects of the invention.

• - Erfassen von Umgebungsbedingungen beim Betreiben des Fahrzeuges, wobei beim Erfassen von Umgebungsbedingungen Helligkeitsdaten (bzw. Lichtverhältnisse) erfasst werden, und
• - Anpassen von Steuereinstellungen der Scheibenwischeranlage in Abhängigkeit von den erfassten Helligkeitsdaten.

The invention provides: a method for operating a windshield wiper system (with at least one windshield wiper) for a vehicle window (in particular a windshield, but also a rear window or a side window) of a vehicle,
having the following actions/process steps:

• - Detecting environmental conditions when operating the vehicle, with brightness data (or lighting conditions) being recorded when detecting environmental conditions, and
• - Adjusting windshield wiper system control settings depending on the brightness data collected.

The invention recognizes that there are driving situations in which there are poor brightness data or poor lighting conditions (e.g. it is dark outside), so that they represent a risk with regard to the safe operation of the vehicle. If visibility is made difficult through the vehicle window in such driving situations (e.g. it is raining), the risk to the operation of the vehicle increases. The invention also recognizes that the lighting conditions play a significant role in such driving situations. The worse the lighting conditions, the more important it is to ensure a clear view through the vehicle window.

Consequently, it is proposed to take the brightness data into account during operation of the vehicle when setting the windshield wiper system. An adaptive wiping interval (a wiping interval means a wiping interval or a time between wiping processes) can thus be provided, which is varied in particular depending on brightness data and is preferably adjusted automatically. It can be advantageous to wipe more intensively (shorter wiping intervals) the worse the lighting conditions are and possibly the more difficult the visibility is due to the rain.

1. A) Beim Erfassen von Umgebungsbedingungen kann vorteilhafterweise vorgesehen sein:
   • A1) Erfassen von Helligkeitsdaten, bspw. durch einen Regen-Licht-Sensor. Z. B. kann bei einer bestimmten Helligkeit, bspw. < 6, grundsätzlich ein intensiveres Wischen vorgesehen sein als über dem bestimmten Helligkeitswert. Darüber hinaus können in bestimmten, insbesondere normierten, Bereichen für die Helligkeit (z. B. Tageslicht = 10, Dämmerung = 5, Nacht = 0) unterschiedliche Steuereinstellungen der Scheibenwischeranlage bereitgestellt werden.

The control settings of the windshield wiper system can therefore be different in daylight (there is less wiping) and in the dark (more wiping). Drops on the vehicle windshield can be very annoying, especially in the dark, as they can reflect the light from street lighting and oncoming traffic and reduce visibility even further. Advantageously, improved, in particular intensified, control settings of the windshield wiper system can be provided using the method, especially in the dark.

1. A) When detecting environmental conditions, the following can advantageously be provided:
   • A1) Recording brightness data, for example using a rain-light sensor. For example, at a certain brightness, for example <6, a more intensive wiping can generally be provided than above the certain brightness value. In addition, different control settings for the windshield wiper system can be provided in certain, particularly standardized, brightness ranges (e.g. daylight = 10, twilight = 5, night = 0).

• A2) Erfassen von Regendaten, bspw. durch den Regen-Licht-Sensor. Z. B. kann ab einer bestimmten Regenmenge und/oder Tropfenmenge, bspw. > 4, grundsätzlich ein intensiveres Wischen vorgesehen sein als unterhalb der bestimmten Tropfenmenge. Darüber hinaus können in bestimmten, insbesondere normierten, Bereichen für die Tropfenmenge (z. B. kein Regen = 0, Scheibe benetzt = 1, Nieselregen = 2, Regen = 3, mittlerer Regen°=°4, Starkregen = 5) unterschiedliche Steuereinstellungen der Scheibenwischeranlage bereitgestellt werden.

Furthermore, if necessary:

• A2) Recording rain data, for example through the rain-light sensor. For example, from a certain amount of rain and/or droplets, for example > 4, more intensive wiping can generally be provided than below the specific amount of drops. In addition, in certain, especially standardized, ranges for the amount of drops (e.g. no rain = 0, window wetted = 1, drizzle = 2, rain = 3, medium rain ° = ° 4, heavy rain = 5) different control settings can be used Windshield wiper system is provided.

• A3) Erfassen von Temperaturdaten, bspw. einer Außentemperatur, einer Innenraumtemperatur und/oder einer Außentemperatur im Vergleich zu einer Innenraumtemperatur. Z. B. kann in einem bestimmten Temperaturbereich, bspw. > 4 °C und ggf. < 12 °C, grundsätzlich ein einmaliges Wischen vorgesehen sein, weil Feuchtigkeit bei diesen Temperaturen dazu neigt, auf der Fahrzeugscheibe zu kondensieren. Darüber hinaus können in bestimmten Bereichen für die Temperatur, wie z. B. für die Außentemperatur, (z. B. < 4 °C, > 4 °C und < 12 °C, > 12 °C) unterschiedliche Steuereinstellungen der Scheibenwischeranlage bereitgestellt werden.

Furthermore, if necessary:

• A3) Recording temperature data, for example an outside temperature, an inside temperature and/or an outside temperature in comparison to an inside temperature. For example, in a certain temperature range, for example > 4 °C and possibly <12 °C, a one-time wipe can generally be provided because moisture tends to condense on the vehicle window at these temperatures. In addition, in certain areas for the temperature, such as. B. different control settings for the windshield wiper system are provided for the outside temperature (e.g. < 4 °C, > 4 °C and < 12 °C, > 12 °C).

• A4) Erfassen von Betriebsparametern, die bspw. Fahrzustand repräsentieren können (z. B. Stand V = 0 km/h, Zündung An/Aus, Fahrt V > 50 km/h, ...). Dabei können für verschiedene Betriebsparameter des Fahrzeuges unterschiedliche Steuereinstellungen der Scheibenwischeranlage bereitgestellt werden.
• B) Eine Reaktion auf die erfassten Umgebungsbedingungen kann bspw. vorsehen:
• B1) Wird eine benetzte Scheibe erkannt und ggf. gerade die Zündung aktiviert und die Außentemperatur ist bspw. > 4 °C, so folgt bspw. ein einmaliges Wischen.
• B1a) Ist die Außentemperatur bspw. > 4 °C und < 12 °C (dies bedeutet Neigung der Feuchtigkeit zur Kondensation auf der Frontscheibe) und ist ggf. gerade die Zündung aktiviert, so folgt bspw. ein einmaliges Wischen.
• B2) Umfassen die Lichtverhältnisse bspw. die Helligkeit < 6 und > 2; so wird z. B. das Wischintervall um 5 % reduziert, wobei unterm dem Wischintervall die Zeit gemeint ist, die zwischen den einzelnen Wischvorgängen verstreicht, wodurch ein häufigeres Wischen erreicht wird.
• B2a) Umfassen die Lichtverhältnisse bspw. die Helligkeit < 6 und > 2 und ggf. die Tropfenmenge = 1 (Scheibe benetzt) oder ggf. die Tropfenmenge >°1; so wird z. B. das Wischintervall um 10 % bzw. um 15°% reduziert.
• B2b) Umfassen die Lichtverhältnisse bspw. die Helligkeit < 6 und > 2 und ggf. die Tropfenmenge = 3 (Regen), so wird z. B. das Wischintervall um 20 % reduziert.

Additionally, if applicable:

• A4) Recording operating parameters that can represent, for example, driving status (e.g. stationary V = 0 km/h, ignition on/off, driving V > 50 km/h, ...). Different control settings of the windshield wiper system can be provided for different operating parameters of the vehicle.
• B) A reaction to the recorded environmental conditions can, for example, provide:
• B1) If a wetted window is detected and the ignition is currently activated and the outside temperature is > 4 °C, for example, a one-time wipe follows.
• B1a) If, for example, the outside temperature is > 4 °C and < 12 °C (this means that the moisture tends to condense on the windshield) and the ignition is currently activated, a one-time wipe follows, for example.
• B2) Do the lighting conditions include, for example, brightness < 6 and >2; this is how e.g. B. the wiping interval is reduced by 5%, whereby the wiping interval means the time that elapses between the individual wiping processes, which means more frequent wiping is achieved.
• B2a) Do the lighting conditions include, for example, the brightness < 6 and > 2 and, if applicable, the amount of drops = 1 (window wetted) or, if applicable, the drops quantity >°1; this is how e.g. B. the wiping interval is reduced by 10% or 15%.
• B2b) If the lighting conditions include, for example, the brightness < 6 and > 2 and possibly the amount of drops = 3 (rain), then e.g. B. the wiping interval is reduced by 20%.

In addition, the control settings of the windshield wiper system can be adjusted depending on the operating parameters of the vehicle, for example depending on the vehicle speed. For example, from a certain vehicle speed, for example V > 50km/h, more intensive wiping can generally be provided than below the certain vehicle speed.

• 1) Wischintervall verkürzen auf Basis der erfassten Lichtverhältnisse,
• 2) Wischintervall verkürzen auf Basis der erfassten Lichtverhältnisse und der erfassten Tropfenmenge,
• 3) Wischintervall verkürzen auf Basis der erfassten Lichtverhältnisse, der erfassten Tropfenmenge und der erfassten Temperatur,
• 4) Wischintervall verkürzen auf Basis der erfassten Lichtverhältnisse, der erfassten Tropfenmenge, der erfassten Temperatur und des erkannten Fahrzustands (Zündung, Fahrzeuggeschwindigkeit, usw.),
• 5) Einmaliges Wischen bei Startwunsch durch erkannte benetzte Fahrzeugscheibe (A2 = 1) oder durch erkannten Regen (A2 = 3) und/oder innerhalb eines definierten Temperaturbereichs (4 °C < A3 < 12 °C).

It can advantageously be provided:

• 1) shorten the wiping interval based on the detected lighting conditions,
• 2) shorten the wiping interval based on the detected lighting conditions and the detected droplet quantity,
• 3) shorten the wiping interval based on the detected lighting conditions, the detected drop quantity and the detected temperature,
• 4) shorten the wiping interval based on the detected lighting conditions, the detected droplet quantity, the detected temperature and the detected driving condition (ignition, vehicle speed, etc.),
• 5) Wipe once when you want to start when a wet vehicle window is detected (A2 = 1) or when rain is detected (A2 = 3) and/or within a defined temperature range (4 °C < A3 < 12 °C).

Furthermore, it can be provided that when recording environmental conditions, rain data is recorded, with the control settings of the windshield wiper system being adjusted depending on the recorded brightness data and/or the recorded rain data. In this way, improved control settings for the windshield wiper system can be provided. In addition, it is conceivable that at least one rain-light sensor, in particular the vehicle's own, is used to record brightness data and/or rain data. It is also conceivable that information from at least one weather service is taken into account when recording brightness data and/or rain data.

Furthermore, it can be provided that temperature data is recorded when ambient conditions are recorded, with the control settings of the windshield wiper system being adjusted depending on the recorded brightness data, the recorded rain data and/or the recorded temperature data. In this way, improved control settings for the windshield wiper system can also be provided. In addition, it is conceivable that information from at least one temperature sensor of the vehicle (inside and/or outside of the vehicle) is used to record temperature data. It is also conceivable that information from at least one weather service is taken into account when collecting temperature data.

• - GPS-Sensor,
• - Drehzahlsensor,
• - Geschwindigkeitssensor, usw.

Furthermore, it can be provided that, in addition to detecting environmental conditions, operating parameters of the vehicle are detected, with the control settings of the windshield wiper system being adjusted depending on the detected brightness data, the detected rain data, the detected temperature data and/or the detected operating parameters of the vehicle. In this way, improved control settings for the windshield wiper system can be provided, which are also adapted to the vehicle condition in an improved manner. In addition, it is conceivable that at least one vehicle-side sensor is used when recording operating parameters of the vehicle, such as. E.g.:

• - GPS sensor,
• - speed sensor,
• - Speed sensor, etc.

• - Wischintensität (bspw. umfassend Geschwindigkeit der Scheibenwischer bei einem Wischvorgang, Anpresskraft des Scheibenwischers auf der Fahrzeugscheibe, usw.),
• - Wischintervall bzw. die Zeit zwischen den Wischvorgängen,
• - Anzahl der Wischvorgänge in einem Zeitraum,
• - einmaliges Wischen, usw.

Furthermore, it can be provided that the adjustment of control settings of the windshield wiper system includes an adjustment of at least one of the following parameters:

• - Wiping intensity (e.g. including speed of the windshield wipers during a wiping process, contact force of the windshield wiper on the vehicle window, etc.),
• - wiping interval or the time between wiping processes,
• - Number of swipes in a period,
• - one wipe, etc.

In this way, flexible control settings for the windshield wiper system can be provided.

• - einen Mindestwert, bspw. 0 für Nacht,
• - einen Mittelwert, bspw. 5 für Dämmerung, und/oder
• - einen Maximalwert, bspw. 10, und/oder dass beim Erfassen von Helligkeitsdaten Lichtverhältnisse unterschiedlichen Bereichen auf einer, insbesondere normierten, Skala zugeordnet werden, vorzugsweise umfassend mindestens einen von den nachfolgenden Bereichen:
• - von 0 bis 2 (bzw. mathematisch abgebildet [0, 2)),
• - von 2 bis 6 (bzw. [2, 6]), und/oder
• - von 6 bis 10 (bzw. (6, 10]).

Furthermore, it can be provided that when brightness data is recorded, lighting conditions are mapped on a, in particular standardized, scale, preferably comprising at least one of the following values:

• - a minimum value, e.g. 0 for night,
• - an average value, for example 5 for twilight, and/or
• - a maximum value, for example 10, and/or that when recording brightness data, lighting conditions are assigned to different areas on a, in particular standardized, scale, preferably comprising at least one of the following areas:
• - from 0 to 2 (or mathematically represented [0, 2)),
• - from 2 to 6 (or [2, 6]), and/or
• - from 6 to 10 (or (6, 10]).

But other divisions into areas are also conceivable.

In this way, improved control settings for the windshield wiper system with regard to brightness can be provided with little computational effort for the control.

• - einen Mindestwert, bspw. 0 für trockenes Wetter,
• - einen ersten Wert, bspw. 1 für Benetzung der Fahrzeugscheibe,
• - einen zweiten Wert, bspw. 2 für Nieselregen,
• - einen dritten Wert, bspw. 3 für Regen,
• - einen vierten Wert, bspw. 4 für mittleren Regen, und/oder
• - einen fünften Wert, bspw. 5 für Starkregen, usw. und/oder dass beim Erfassen von Regendaten eine Tropfenmenge auf der Fahrzeugscheibe unterschiedlichen Bereichen auf einer, insbesondere normierten, Skala zugeordnet wird, vorzugsweise umfassend mindestens einen von den nachfolgenden Bereichen:
• - von 0 bis 2 (bzw. mathematisch abgebildet [0, 2)),
• - von 2 bis 6 (bzw. [2, 6]), und/oder
• - von 6 bis 10 (bzw. (6, 10]).

Furthermore, it can be provided that when rain data is recorded, a quantity of drops on the vehicle window is displayed on a, in particular standardized, scale,
preferably comprising at least one of the following values:

• - a minimum value, e.g. 0 for dry weather,
• - a first value, for example 1 for wetting of the vehicle window,
• - a second value, e.g. 2 for drizzle,
• - a third value, for example 3 for rain,
• - a fourth value, for example 4 for medium rain, and/or
• - a fifth value, for example 5 for heavy rain, etc. and/or that when collecting rain data, an amount of drops on the vehicle window is assigned to different areas on a, in particular standardized, scale, preferably comprising at least one of the following areas:
• - from 0 to 2 (or mathematically represented [0, 2)),
• - from 2 to 6 (or [2, 6]), and/or
• - from 6 to 10 (or (6, 10]).

But other divisions into areas are also conceivable.

In this way, improved control settings for the windshield wiper system with regard to brightness and/or rain data can be provided with little computational effort for the control.

• - von 0 C bis 4 °C (bzw. mathematisch abgebildet [0 C, 4 C)),
• - von 4 °C bis 12 °C (bzw. [4 C, 12 C]),
• - über 12 °C ((bzw. (12 C, ...)), usw.

In addition, it can be provided that when temperature data is recorded, a temperature is assigned to different areas, in particular comprising at least one of the following areas:

• - from 0 C to 4 °C (or mathematically represented [0 C, 4 C)),
• - from 4 °C to 12 °C (or [4 C, 12 C]),
• - above 12 °C ((or (12 C, ...)), etc.

In this way, improved control settings for the windshield wiper system with regard to brightness, rain data and/or temperature data can be provided with little computational effort for the control.

Advantageously, it can be provided that if wetting of the vehicle window is detected when collecting rain data and/or if a temperature in a range above 4 °C or a temperature in a range between 4 °C to 12 °C is detected when collecting temperature data is initiated, at least one wipe is initiated, preferably after starting the vehicle. A clear view when starting the vehicle can thus be made possible in a simple manner in environmental conditions in which moisture tends to condense on the vehicle window.

Furthermore, it can be advantageous that the worse the brightness data or lighting conditions are, the more intensively the control settings of the windshield wiper system are adjusted, and that in particular a wiping interval is reduced, in particular in percentage and/or staggered manner. This makes it possible to wipe more intensively when visibility is dark.

Furthermore, it can be advantageous that the higher the amount of droplets on the vehicle window, the more intensively the control settings of the windshield wiper system are adjusted, and that in particular a wiping interval is reduced, in particular in percentage and/or staggered manner. This makes it possible to wipe more intensively when the amount of drops is high.

Furthermore, it can be advantageous that the higher a vehicle speed is, the more intensively the control settings of the windshield wiper system are adjusted, and that in particular a wiping interval, in particular as a percentage and/or staggered, reduced. In this way, it is possible to wipe more intensively at high vehicle speeds.

• - dass, wenn beim Erfassen von Helligkeitsdaten Lichtverhältnisse unterhalb von einem normierten Wert in Höhe von 6 oder innerhalb eines normierten Bereichs zwischen 2 und 6 erfasst werden, ein Wischintervall, insbesondere prozentual, bspw. um 5 %, reduziert wird, und/oder
• - dass, wenn beim Erfassen von Helligkeitsdaten Lichtverhältnisse unterhalb von einem normierten Wert in Höhe von 6 oder innerhalb eines normierten Bereiches zwischen 2 und 6 erfasst werden, und wenn beim Erfassen von Regendaten (zumindest) eine Benetzung der Fahrzeugscheibe erkannt wird, ein Wischintervall, insbesondere prozentual, bspw. um 10 %, reduziert wird, und/oder
• - dass, wenn beim Erfassen von Helligkeitsdaten Lichtverhältnisse unterhalb von einem normierten Wert in Höhe von 6 oder innerhalb eines normierten Bereiches zwischen 2 und 6 erfasst werden, und wenn beim Erfassen von Regendaten Regen erkannt wird, ein Wischintervall, insbesondere prozentual, bspw. um 20 %, reduziert wird.

When adjusting the control settings of the windshield wiper system, several scenarios are conceivable, including:

• - that if, when recording brightness data, lighting conditions below a standardized value of 6 or within a standardized range between 2 and 6 are detected, a wiping interval is reduced, in particular as a percentage, for example by 5%, and / or
• - that if, when capturing brightness data, lighting conditions below a standardized value of 6 or within a standardized range between 2 and 6 are detected, and if (at least) wetting of the vehicle window is detected when capturing rain data, a wiping interval, in particular is reduced as a percentage, for example by 10%, and/or
• - that if, when capturing brightness data, lighting conditions are detected below a standardized value of 6 or within a standardized range between 2 and 6, and if rain is detected when capturing rain data, a wiping interval, in particular as a percentage, for example around 20 %, is reduced.

In this way, improved control settings of the windshield wiper system can be provided in different driving situations.

The invention further provides: a computer program product comprising instructions which, when the computer program is executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out a method which can run as described above. With the help of the computer program product according to the invention, the same advantages can be achieved that were described in connection with the method described above. These advantages are fully referenced here.

• eine Steuervorrichtung zum Betreiben einer Scheibenwischeranlage für eine Fahrzeugscheibe eines Fahrzeuges, aufweisend:
  • eine Speichereinheit und eine Recheneinheit, wobei in der Speichereinheit ein Code hinterlegt ist, und wobei beim Ausführen des Codes durch die Recheneinheit ein Verfahren durchgeführt wird, welches wie oben beschrieben ablaufen kann. Mithilfe der erfindungsgemäßen Steuervorrichtung können die gleichen Vorteile erreicht werden, die im Zusammenhang mit dem oben beschriebenen Verfahren beschrieben wurden. Auf diese Vorteile wird vorliegend vollumfänglich Bezug genommen. Die Steuervorrichtung kann bspw. in einer Steuervorrichtung einer Scheibenwischeranlage implementiert werden.

The invention further provides:

• a control device for operating a windshield wiper system for a vehicle window of a vehicle, comprising:
  • a storage unit and a computing unit, wherein a code is stored in the storage unit, and wherein when the code is executed by the computing unit, a method is carried out which can run as described above. With the help of the control device according to the invention, the same advantages can be achieved that were described in connection with the method described above. These advantages are fully referenced here. The control device can be implemented, for example, in a control device of a windshield wiper system.

The invention further provides: a windshield wiper system for a vehicle window of a vehicle, having a control device, which can be designed as described above. With the help of the windshield wiper system according to the invention, the same advantages can be achieved that were described in connection with the method described above. These advantages are fully referenced here.

The invention further provides: a vehicle, in particular a partially automated, highly automated, fully automated or autonomous vehicle, having a corresponding windshield wiper system. With the help of the vehicle according to the invention, the same advantages can be achieved that were described in connection with the method described above. These advantages are fully referenced here.

• 1 einen beispielhaften Ablauf eines Verfahrens zum Betreiben einer Scheibenwischeranlage, und
• 2 eine beispielhafte Fahrsituation aus dem Blick durch die Fahrzeugscheibe.

Further advantages, features and details of the invention emerge from the following description, in which exemplary embodiments of the invention are described in detail with reference to the drawings. The features mentioned in the claims and in the description can be essential to the invention individually or in any combination. It shows:

• 1 an exemplary sequence of a method for operating a windshield wiper system, and
• 2 an exemplary driving situation as seen through the vehicle window.

The 1 and 2 serve to explain a method which was developed for operating a windshield wiper system 101 for a vehicle window 102 of a vehicle 100.

• A Erfassen von Umgebungsbedingungen UB beim Betreiben des Fahrzeuges 100, wobei beim Erfassen von Umgebungsbedingungen UB Helligkeitsdaten HD bzw. Lichtverhältnisse erfasst werden,
• B Anpassen von Steuereinstellungen der Scheibenwischeranlage 101 in Abhängigkeit von den erfassten Helligkeitsdaten HD.

The procedure has the following actions/procedural steps:

• A Detecting ambient conditions UB when operating the vehicle 100, wherein brightness data HD or lighting conditions are recorded when detecting environmental conditions UB,
• B Adjusting control settings of the windshield wiper system 101 depending on the recorded brightness data HD.

The invention recognizes that with poor brightness data HD or poor lighting conditions A1 (it is dark, for example) and possibly with a large amount of drops A2 on the vehicle window 102 (it is rainy, for example), the safety in the operation of the vehicle 100 is at risk.

In addition, the invention recognizes that the lighting conditions A1 in driving situations like this 2 for example, suggests play a significant role. The worse the lighting conditions A1 are, the more important it is to enable a clear view through the vehicle window 102.

According to the method, the brightness data HD is taken into account in an advantageous manner in the settings of the windshield wiper system 101 during operation of the vehicle 100. An adaptive wiping interval (a wiping interval means a wiping interval or a time between wiping processes) is provided, which is varied in particular as a function of the brightness data HD. The wiping interval can preferably be adjusted automatically.

It can advantageously be provided that the more intensive the wiping is (shorter wiping interval), the worse the lighting conditions are and possibly the more difficult the visibility is due to the rain.

The control settings of the windshield wiper system 101 can therefore be different in daylight (there is less wiping) and in the dark (more wiping).

How it is 2 indicates, drops on the vehicle window 102 can be very disturbing, especially in the dark, as they reflect the light from street lighting and oncoming traffic and can significantly reduce visibility.

1. A) Beim Erfassen von Umgebungsbedingungen UB kann bspw. vorgesehen sein:
   • A1) Erfassen von Helligkeitsdaten HD, bspw. durch einen Regen-Licht-Sensor. Z. B. kann bei bestimmten Lichtverhältnissen A1, bspw. bei einer Helligkeit < 6, grundsätzlich ein intensiveres Wischen vorgesehen sein als bei einer Helligkeit > 6. Darüber hinaus können in bestimmten, insbesondere normierten, Bereichen für die Lichtverhältnisse A1 (z. B. Helligkeit bei Tageslicht = 10, Helligkeit bei Dämmerung = 5, Helligkeit bei Nacht = 0) unterschiedliche Steuereinstellungen der Scheibenwischeranlage 101 bereitgestellt werden.

Advantageously, improved, in particular intensified, control settings of the windshield wiper system 101 can be provided using the method, especially in the dark.

1. A) When recording environmental conditions UB, the following can be provided, for example:
   • A1) Acquiring HD brightness data, for example using a rain-light sensor. For example, in certain lighting conditions A1, for example with a brightness <6, a more intensive wiping can generally be provided than with a brightness >6. In addition, in certain, in particular standardized, areas for the lighting conditions A1 (e.g. brightness in daylight = 10, brightness at dusk = 5, brightness at night = 0) different control settings of the windshield wiper system 101 are provided.

• A2) Erfassen von Regendaten RD, bspw. durch den Regen-Licht-Sensor. Z. B. kann ab einer bestimmten Regenmenge und/oder Tropfenmenge A2, bspw. > 4, grundsätzlich ein intensiveres Wischen vorgesehen werden als unterhalb der bestimmten Tropfenmenge A2. Darüber hinaus können in bestimmten, insbesondere normierten, Bereichen für die Tropfenmenge A2 (z. B. kein Regen = 0, Scheibe benetzt = 1, Nieselregen = 2, Regen = 3, mittlerer Regen°=°4, Starkregen = 5) unterschiedliche Steuereinstellungen der Scheibenwischeranlage 101 bereitgestellt werden.

Furthermore, if necessary:

• A2) Acquiring rain data RD, for example through the rain-light sensor. For example, from a certain amount of rain and/or drop amount A2, for example > 4, more intensive wiping can generally be provided than below the specific amount of drop A2. In addition, different control settings can be used in certain, especially standardized, areas for the drop amount A2 (e.g. no rain = 0, window wetted = 1, drizzle = 2, rain = 3, medium rain ° = ° 4, heavy rain = 5). the windshield wiper system 101 can be provided.

• A3) Erfassen von Temperaturdaten TD oder kurz ausgedruckt Temperatur A3, bspw. einer Außentemperatur und/oder einer Außentemperatur im Vergleich zu einer Innenraumtemperatur. Z. B. kann in einem bestimmten Temperaturbereich, bspw. in einem Bereich zwischen > 4 °C und ggf. < 12 °C, grundsätzlich ein einmaliges Wischen vorgesehen sein, weil Feuchtigkeit bei diesen Temperaturen A3 dazu neigt, auf der Fahrzeugscheibe 102 zu kondensieren. Darüber hinaus können in bestimmten, insbesondere normierten, Bereichen für die Temperatur A3, insbesondere für die Außentemperatur (z. B. < 4 °C, > 4 °C und < 12 °C, > 12 °C) unterschiedliche Steuereinstellungen der Scheibenwischeranlage 101 bereitgestellt werden.

Furthermore, if necessary:

• A3) Acquiring temperature data TD or, in short, temperature A3, for example an outside temperature and/or an outside temperature in comparison to an inside temperature. For example, in a certain temperature range, for example in a range between > 4 ° C and possibly < 12 ° C, a one-time wipe can generally be provided because moisture at these temperatures A3 tends to condense on the vehicle window 102. In addition, different control settings of the windshield wiper system 101 can be provided in certain, in particular standardized, ranges for the temperature A3, in particular for the outside temperature (e.g. <4 ° C, > 4 ° C and < 12 ° C, > 12 ° C). become.

• A4) Erfassen von Betriebsparametern BP, bspw. Fahrzustand (z. B. Stand V = 0 km/h, Zündung A4 An/Aus, Fahrt V > 50 km/h, ...). Dabei können für verschiedene Betriebsparameter BP des Fahrzeuges 100 unterschiedliche Steuereinstellungen der Scheibenwischeranlage 101 bereitgestellt werden.
• B) Reaktionen auf die erfassten Umgebungsbedingungen UB können bspw. vorsehen:
• B1) Wird eine benetzte Fahrzeugscheibe 102 erkannt und ggf. gerade die Zündung A4 aktiviert und ist bspw. die Temperatur A3, insbesondere die Außentemperatur, in einem Bereich > 4°C, so folgt bspw. ein einmaliges Wischen.
• B1a) Ist die Temperatur A3, insbesondere die Außentemperatur, bspw. in einem Bereich zwischen > 4°C und < 12°C (Neigung zur Kondensation auf der Frontscheibe) und ist ggf. gerade die Zündung A4 aktiviert, so folgt bspw. ein einmaliges Wischen der Fahrzeugscheibe 102,
• B2) Umfassen die Lichtverhältnisse A1 bspw. die Helligkeit < 6 und > 2, so wird z. B. das Wischintervall um 5 % reduziert,
• B2a) Umfassen die Lichtverhältnisse A1 bspw. die Helligkeit < 6 und > 2 und ggf. die Tropfenmenge A2 = 1 (Scheibe benetzt), so wird z. B. das Wischintervall um 10 % reduziert,
• B2b) Umfassen die Lichtverhältnisse A1 bspw. die Helligkeit < 6 und > 2 und ggf. die Tropfenmenge A2 = 3 (Regen), so wird z. B. das Wischintervall um 20 % reduziert. Zusätzlich können die Steuereinstellungen der Scheibenwischeranlage 101 in Abhängigkeit von Betriebsparametern BP des Fahrzeuges 100 angepasst werden, bspw. in Abhängigkeit der Fahrzeuggeschwindigkeit V. Z. B. kann ab einer bestimmten Fahrzeuggeschwindigkeit V, bspw. V > 50 km/h grundsätzlich ein intensiveres Wischen vorgesehen sein als unterhalb der bestimmten Fahrzeuggeschwindigkeit V.

Additionally, if applicable:

• A4) Recording operating parameters BP, e.g. driving status (e.g. stationary V = 0 km/h, ignition A4 on/off, driving V > 50 km/h, ...). Different control settings of the windshield wiper system 101 can be provided for different operating parameters BP of the vehicle 100.
• B) Reactions to the recorded environmental conditions UB can, for example, provide:
• B1) If a wetted vehicle window 102 is detected and the ignition A4 is activated and if, for example, the temperature A3, in particular the outside temperature, is in a range > 4 ° C, then, for example, a one-time wipe follows.
• B1a) Is the temperature A3, in particular the outside temperature, for example in a range between > 4°C and < 12°C (tendency to condensation sation on the windshield) and if the ignition A4 is activated, the vehicle window 102 is wiped once, for example.
• B2) If the lighting conditions A1 include, for example, the brightness < 6 and > 2, then e.g. B. the wiping interval is reduced by 5%,
• B2a) If the lighting conditions A1 include, for example, the brightness < 6 and > 2 and possibly the amount of drops A2 = 1 (pane wetted), then e.g. B. the wiping interval is reduced by 10%,
• B2b) If the lighting conditions A1 include, for example, the brightness < 6 and > 2 and possibly the amount of drops A2 = 3 (rain), then e.g. B. the wiping interval is reduced by 20%. In addition, the control settings of the windshield wiper system 101 can be adjusted depending on the operating parameters BP of the vehicle 100, for example depending on the vehicle speed VZB, from a certain vehicle speed V, for example V > 50 km/h, more intensive wiping can generally be provided than below the specific one Vehicle speed V

• 1) Wischintervall verkürzen in Abhängigkeit von den erfassten Helligkeitsdaten HD bzw. Lichtverhältnissen A1,
• 2) Wischintervall verkürzen in Abhängigkeit von den erfassten Helligkeitsdaten HD bzw. Lichtverhältnissen A1 und den erfassten Regendaten RD bzw. der erfassten Tropfenmenge A2,
• 3) Wischintervall verkürzen in Abhängigkeit von den erfassten Helligkeitsdaten HD bzw. Lichtverhältnissen A1, den erfassten Regendaten RD bzw. der erfassten Tropfenmenge A2 und den erfassten Temperaturdaten TD bzw. der erfassten Temperatur A3,
• 4) Wischintervall verkürzen in Abhängigkeit von den erfassten Helligkeitsdaten HD bzw. Lichtverhältnissen A1, den erfassten Regendaten RD bzw. der erfassten Tropfenmenge A2, den erfassten Temperaturdaten TD bzw. der erfassten Temperatur A3 und den Betriebsparametern BP des Fahrzeuges 100 bzw. dem erkannten Fahrzustand (Zündung A4, Fahrzeuggeschwindigkeit V, usw.), 5) Einmaliges Wischen bei Startwunsch durch erkannte benetzte Fahrzeugscheibe 102 (A2 = 1) oder durch erkannten Regen (A2 = 3) und/oder innerhalb eines definierten Temperaturbereichs (4 °C < A3 < 12 °C).

How it is 1 schematically indicates, can advantageously be provided:

• 1) Shorten the wiping interval depending on the recorded brightness data HD or lighting conditions A1,
• 2) Shorten the wiping interval depending on the recorded brightness data HD or lighting conditions A1 and the recorded rain data RD or the recorded amount of drops A2,
• 3) Shorten the wiping interval depending on the recorded brightness data HD or lighting conditions A1, the recorded rain data RD or the recorded drop quantity A2 and the recorded temperature data TD or the recorded temperature A3,
• 4) Shorten the wiping interval depending on the recorded brightness data HD or lighting conditions A1, the recorded rain data RD or the recorded amount of drops A2, the recorded temperature data TD or the recorded temperature A3 and the operating parameters BP of the vehicle 100 or the detected driving state ( Ignition A4, vehicle speed V, etc.), 5) Wipe once when starting is desired due to detected wet vehicle window 102 (A2 = 1) or due to detected rain (A2 = 3) and/or within a defined temperature range (4 °C < A3 < 12 °C).

• - Wischintensität, bspw. umfassend Geschwindigkeit der Scheibenwischer bei einem Wischvorgang, Anpresskraft der Scheibenwischer auf der Fahrzeugscheibe, usw.,
• - Wischintervall bzw. die Zeit zwischen den Wischvorgängen,
• - Anzahl der Wischvorgänge in einem Zeitraum,
• - einmaliges Wischen, usw.

Adjusting control settings of the windshield wiper system 101 may include adjusting at least one of the following parameters:

• - Wiping intensity, for example including speed of the windshield wipers during a wiping process, contact force of the windshield wipers on the vehicle window, etc.,
• - wiping interval or the time between wiping processes,
• - Number of swipes in a period,
• - one wipe, etc.

The worse the brightness data HD or lighting conditions A1 are, the more intensively the control settings of the windshield wiper system 101 can be adjusted, in particular a wiping interval can be reduced, for example in percentage and/or staggered.

The higher the amount of drops A2 on the vehicle window 102, the more intensively the control settings of the windshield wiper system 101 can be adjusted, in particular a wiping interval can be reduced, for example in percentage and/or staggered.

The higher a vehicle speed V is, the more intensively the control settings of the windshield wiper system 101 can be adjusted, in particular a wiping interval can be reduced, for example in percentage and/or staggered.

A corresponding control device 110 for operating a windshield wiper system 101 for a vehicle window 102 of a vehicle 100 also represents an aspect of the invention. The control device 110 can be implemented, for example, in a control device of the windshield wiper system 101.

A corresponding windshield wiper system 101 for a vehicle window 102 of a vehicle 100, having a corresponding control device 110, also represents an aspect of the invention.

A corresponding vehicle 100, in particular a partially automated, highly automated, fully automated or autonomous vehicle, having a corresponding control device 110, also represents an aspect of the invention.

The above explanation of the embodiments describes the present invention solely in terms of examples. Of course, individual features of the embodiments can, if technically sensible, be freely combined with one another without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Reference symbol list

100

vehicle

101

Windshield wiper system

102

Vehicle window

110

Control device

UB

Environmental conditions

HD

Brightness data

A1

Lighting conditions

RD

Rain data

A2

Amount of drops

TD

Temperature data

A3

temperature

B.P

Operating parameters

A4

ignition

v

Vehicle speed

Claims (15)

Method for operating a windshield wiper system (101) for a vehicle window (102) of a vehicle (100), comprising: - detecting ambient conditions (UB) when operating the vehicle (100), brightness data (HD) being recorded when detecting ambient conditions (UB), - Adjusting control settings of the windshield wiper system (101) depending on the recorded brightness data (HD). Procedure according to Claim 1 , wherein rain data (RD) is recorded when detecting environmental conditions (UB), and the control settings of the windshield wiper system (101) are adjusted depending on the recorded brightness data (HD) and / or the recorded rain data (RD). Method according to one of the preceding claims, whereby temperature data (TD) is recorded when ambient conditions (UB) are recorded, and wherein the control settings of the windshield wiper system (101) are adjusted depending on the detected brightness data (HD), the detected rain data (RD) and/or the detected temperature data (TD). Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, in addition to detecting environmental conditions (UB), operating parameters (BP) of the vehicle (100) are detected, and wherein the control settings of the windshield wiper system (101) are adjusted depending on the detected brightness data (HD), the detected rain data (RD), the detected temperature data (TD) and/or the detected operating parameters (BP) of the vehicle (100). Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein adjusting control settings of the windshield wiper system (101) comprises adjusting at least one parameter: - wiping intensity, - wiping interval between wiping processes, - number of swipes, - one wipe, etc. Method according to one of the preceding claims, whereby when brightness data (HD) is recorded, lighting conditions (A1) are mapped on a, in particular standardized, scale, preferably comprising at least one of the following values: - a minimum value, e.g. 0 for night, - an average value, for example 5 for twilight, and/or - a maximum value, for example 10, and/or wherein when recording brightness data (HD), lighting conditions (A1) are assigned to different areas on a, in particular standardized, scale, preferably comprising at least one of the following areas: - from 0 to 2, - from 2 to 6, and/or - from 6 to 10. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein when collecting rain data (RD), a drop quantity (A2) on the vehicle window (102) is imaged on a, in particular standardized, scale, preferably comprising at least one of the following values: - a minimum value, for example 0 for dry weather, - a first value, for example 1 for wetting of the vehicle window (102), - a second value, for example 2 for drizzle, - a third value, for example 3 for rain, - a fourth value, for example 4 for medium rain, and/or - a fifth value, for example 5 for heavy rain, etc., and/or wherein when collecting rain data (RD) a drop quantity (A2) is deposited on the vehicle window (102) in different areas on one, in particular a standardized scale, preferably comprising at least one of the following ranges: - from 0 to 2, - from 2 to 6, and/or - from 6 to 10. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein when recording temperature data (TD), a temperature (A3) is assigned to different areas, in particular comprising at least one of the following areas: - from 0 to 4 °C, - from 4 °C to 12 °C, - over 12 °C, etc. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein when wetting of the vehicle window (102) is detected when collecting rain data (RD) and/or when when collecting temperature data (TD) a temperature (A3) is in a range above 4 ° C or a temperature (A3) is detected in a range between 4 °C to 12 °C, at least one wipe is initiated, preferably after starting the vehicle (100). Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, the worse the brightness data (HD) and/or lighting conditions (A1), the more intensively the control settings of the windshield wiper system (101) are adjusted, in particular a wiping interval is reduced, in particular in percentage and/or staggered, and/or wherein, the higher the amount of drops (A2) on the vehicle window (102), the more intensively the control settings of the windshield wiper system (101) are adjusted, in particular a wiping interval is reduced, in particular in percentage and/or staggered, and/or wherein, the higher a vehicle speed (V), the more intensively the control settings of the windshield wiper system (101) are adjusted, in particular a wiping interval is reduced, in particular in percentage and/or staggered manner. Method according to one of the preceding claims, whereby if, when recording brightness data (HD), lighting conditions (A1) are detected below a standardized value of 6 or within a standardized range between 2 and 6, a wiping interval is reduced, in particular in percentage terms, for example by 5%, and/or wherein, when capturing brightness data (HD), lighting conditions (A1) below a standardized value of 6 or within a standardized range between 2 and 6 are detected, and if wetting of the vehicle window occurs when capturing rain data (RD). (102) is recognized, a wiping interval is reduced, in particular in percentage terms, for example by 10%, and/or wherein, when capturing brightness data (HD), lighting conditions (A1) below a standardized value of 6 or within a standardized range between 2 and 6 are detected, and if rain is detected when capturing rain data (RD), a wiping interval is reduced, in particular as a percentage, for example by 20%. Computer program product, comprising instructions which, when the computer program is executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out a method according to one of the preceding claims. Control device (110) for operating a windshield wiper system (101) for a vehicle window (102) of a vehicle (100), comprising: a memory device and a computing device, a code being stored in the memory device, and wherein when the code is executed by the computing device Method according to one of the preceding Claims 1 until 11 is carried out. Windshield wiper system (101) for a vehicle window (102) of a vehicle (100), comprising a control device (110) according to the preceding claim. Vehicle (100), having a windshield wiper system (101) according to the preceding claim.

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