EP1224097A2 - Device for automatically switching lighting installations of motor vehicles - Google Patents

Device for automatically switching lighting installations of motor vehicles

Info

Publication number
EP1224097A2
EP1224097A2 EP01921218A EP01921218A EP1224097A2 EP 1224097 A2 EP1224097 A2 EP 1224097A2 EP 01921218 A EP01921218 A EP 01921218A EP 01921218 A EP01921218 A EP 01921218A EP 1224097 A2 EP1224097 A2 EP 1224097A2
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
switched
sensor
sensor device
signals
light intensity
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP01921218A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Patrick Schmitt
Norbert Hog
Bruno Hodapp
Rainer Pientka
Hans Meier
Henry Blitzke
Manfred Burkart
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Robert Bosch GmbH
Original Assignee
Robert Bosch GmbH
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Robert Bosch GmbH filed Critical Robert Bosch GmbH
Publication of EP1224097A2 publication Critical patent/EP1224097A2/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q1/00—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor
    • B60Q1/02—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to illuminate the way ahead or to illuminate other areas of way or environments
    • B60Q1/04—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to illuminate the way ahead or to illuminate other areas of way or environments the devices being headlights
    • B60Q1/14—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to illuminate the way ahead or to illuminate other areas of way or environments the devices being headlights having dimming means
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q1/00—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor
    • B60Q1/0017—Devices integrating an element dedicated to another function
    • B60Q1/0023—Devices integrating an element dedicated to another function the element being a sensor, e.g. distance sensor, camera
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q1/00—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor
    • B60Q1/02—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to illuminate the way ahead or to illuminate other areas of way or environments
    • B60Q1/04—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to illuminate the way ahead or to illuminate other areas of way or environments the devices being headlights
    • B60Q1/14—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to illuminate the way ahead or to illuminate other areas of way or environments the devices being headlights having dimming means
    • B60Q1/1415—Dimming circuits
    • B60Q1/1423—Automatic dimming circuits, i.e. switching between high beam and low beam due to change of ambient light or light level in road traffic
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q2300/00—Indexing codes for automatically adjustable headlamps or automatically dimmable headlamps
    • B60Q2300/10—Indexing codes relating to particular vehicle conditions
    • B60Q2300/11—Linear movements of the vehicle
    • B60Q2300/112—Vehicle speed
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q2300/00—Indexing codes for automatically adjustable headlamps or automatically dimmable headlamps
    • B60Q2300/30—Indexing codes relating to the vehicle environment
    • B60Q2300/31—Atmospheric conditions
    • B60Q2300/314—Ambient light
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q2300/00—Indexing codes for automatically adjustable headlamps or automatically dimmable headlamps
    • B60Q2300/30—Indexing codes relating to the vehicle environment
    • B60Q2300/33—Driving situation
    • B60Q2300/332—Driving situation on city roads
    • B60Q2300/3321—Detection of streetlights
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q2300/00—Indexing codes for automatically adjustable headlamps or automatically dimmable headlamps
    • B60Q2300/30—Indexing codes relating to the vehicle environment
    • B60Q2300/33—Driving situation
    • B60Q2300/337—Tunnels or bridges

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a device for the automatic switching of lighting devices in vehicles according to the preamble of claim 1.
  • Such a device is known from DE 195 23 262 AI.
  • This device has a sensor device by means of which the light intensity m of the surroundings of the vehicle is detected.
  • the sensor device is connected to an evaluation device by means of which the signals of the sensor device for the light intensity are compared with at least one threshold value and from which it is determined whether a change in the switching state of the lighting devices is necessary, that is to say whether they have to be switched on or can be switched off ,
  • no distinction is made between light intensity, which comes from natural sunlight and light intensity, which comes from artificial light sources.
  • the erfmdungsgedorfe device having the features of claim 1 has, in contrast, that a distinction between the light intensity of the natural Sonnenlic h t-derived light component and the light intensity of an originating from artificial light sources light portion is carried out to advantage.
  • artificial light sources are usually operated with an alternating voltage and thus, according to the frequency of the alternating voltage, result in periodic changes in the intensity of the light emitted by the light sources, which reliably distinguish this light component from a light component originating from the natural sun.
  • FIG. 1 shows a vehicle with lighting devices and with a device for automatically switching the lighting devices
  • FIG. 2 shows the time course of the light intensity of one of Sunlight originating light portion
  • Figure 3 shows the time course of the light intensity of a light portion originating from artificial light sources
  • FIG. 1 A vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, is shown in a highly simplified manner in FIG. 1, which is provided with lighting devices which include headlights 10 arranged on the front of the vehicle and rear lights 12 arranged on the rear of the vehicle.
  • the headlights 10 can be pure low beam headlights or Combined low beam and high beam headlights that can be switched between their two operating positions.
  • a device is provided which is arranged on the vehicle.
  • This device shown in simplified form in FIG. 2, has at least one sensor device 20, by means of which the light intensity m in the surroundings of the vehicle is detected.
  • the sensor device 20 can have two sensors 22, 24, the sensor 22 being a global sensor through which the
  • the sensor 24 is a direction sensor, which only detects the light intensity of the light hitting it from a certain direction.
  • the direction sensor 24 is arranged such that it detects the light intensity from the direction of travel 14 of the vehicle hitting the light.
  • the direction sensor 24 can be a sensor Have imaging optics 26 through the incident light 14 against the direction of travel the direction sensor 24 is bundled.
  • the sensor device 20 can also have only one sensor.
  • the global sensor 22 and the direction sensor 24 each have at least one light-sensitive element 28 and 30, respectively.
  • the light-sensitive elements 28, 30 are, for example, photocells or photoresistors or other elements in which at least one electrical property changes depending on the intensity of the light striking them. The change in electrical
  • the property is a measure of the intensity of the light striking the elements 28, 30.
  • the sensor device 20 can be arranged in the interior of the vehicle, for example behind the windshield. Alternatively, the sensor device 20 can also be integrated in one of the headlights 10 or arranged at another suitable location on the vehicle.
  • the device also has an electronic evaluation device 32 to which the sensor device 20 is connected.
  • the signals from the sensor device 20 are compared with at least one threshold value by the evaluation device 32 and the lighting devices 10, 12 are switched as a function thereof. If the signals of the sensor device 20 fall below a certain switch-on threshold value, the evaluation device 32 causes the lighting devices 10, 12 to be switched on or the lighting devices 10, 12 remain switched on when they are already switched on. If the signals of the
  • the evaluation device 32 switches off the lighting devices 10, 12.
  • the switch-off threshold value is preferably higher than the switch-on threshold value by an alternating switching on and off Avoid switching off the lighting devices 10, 12 if the signals of the sensor device 20 fluctuate around the switch-on threshold value.
  • the switch-on and switch-off threshold values can be constant or variable, for example depending on the operating parameters of the vehicle such as the speed.
  • the signals of the global sensor 22 and the direction sensor 24 of the sensor device 20 can be evaluated separately by the evaluation device 32, with different threshold values for the signals of the
  • Global sensor 22 and the signals of the direction sensor 24 are used as a basis. Switching on the
  • Illumination devices 10, 12 are only brought about when the signals of both the global sensor 22 and the direction sensor 24 fall below the respective switch-on threshold values and the switch-off
  • Illumination devices 10, 12 are only brought about when the signals of both the global sensor 22 and the direction sensor 24 exceed the respective switch-off threshold values.
  • FIG. 3 shows, by way of example, a course of a signal S from the sensor device 20 over time t while the vehicle is running.
  • the course of the signal S of the global sensor 22 is shown in FIG. 3, the course of the signal from the direction sensor 24 being qualitatively acceptable.
  • the signal has irregular changes, which are caused, for example, by the shadows of trees, buildings, bridges or elevations. As the intensity of the sunlight decreases, for example at dusk, nothing changes in this irregular course of the signal over time, but overall the level of the signal decreases. If the vehicle is traveling, for example, in a tunnel, an underground car park or a parking garage, with artificial light sources being present which produce a high light intensity, the lighting devices 10, 12 of the vehicle should nevertheless be switched on and remain switched on there. According to the invention, it is also provided that light intensity originating from artificial light sources is recognized by the evaluation device and, in this case, a light intensity which may be above the switch-on threshold value
  • Switching on the lighting devices 10, 12 is effected or the lighting devices 10, 12 remain switched on.
  • FIG. 4 shows a course of a signal Sk of the sensor device 20 over time t, which is represented by the light intensity of the light emitted by artificial light sources, which are operated with AC voltage.
  • the light intensity generated by artificial light sources has periodic fluctuations which are caused by the AC voltage and have the same frequency as the AC voltage.
  • the AC voltage of the public electricity network has a frequency between about 20 Hz and 100 Hz, preferably of about 50 Hz, so that the signal Sk for the light intensity also changes accordingly and with twice the frequency as the AC voltage, that is to say with one frequency changes between about 40 Hz and 200 Hz, preferably about 100 Hz.
  • the light intensity has a maximum every 10 ms.
  • the periodic change in the light intensity of the light originating from artificial light sources thus makes it possible to distinguish it from the light intensity which is generated by the sun as a natural light source and which, as shown in FIG. 3, has at most irregular fluctuations.
  • the signals of the sensor device 20 are first evaluated by the evaluation device 32 for the presence of a periodically changing signal component. If such a periodically changing signal component is present, the level of this signal component is determined and if this exceeds a certain switch-on threshold value, the evaluation device 32 switches the lighting devices 10, 12 on or they remain switched on.
  • the evaluation device 32 can also determine the amount of the remaining, non-periodically changing signal component.
  • the evaluation device 32 can compare the level of the periodically changing signal component with the level of the remaining signal component, with the evaluation device 32 causing the lighting devices 10, 12 to be switched on or remain on when the level of the periodically changing signal part is greater than the level of the remaining signal component. This ensures that the lighting devices 10, 12 are switched on or remain switched on when the intensity of the artificial light detected by the sensor device 20 is higher than the intensity of the natural light detected by the sensor device 20.
  • the lighting devices 10, 12 are switched on or remain in the switched-on state even when the signals from the sensor device 20 are above the underlying switch-on threshold or switch-off threshold.
  • the evaluation explained above is carried out for the presence of a periodically changing signal component, at least in the case of the Signals from the global sensor 22 or the signals from both sensors 22, 24.
  • the evaluation of the signals of the sensor device 20 by the evaluation device 32 is carried out in a clocked manner, the evaluation device 32 having an analog / digital converter which is equipped with a
  • Sampling frequency works, which is greater than the frequency of the periodically changing signal component
  • Sensor device 20 This ensures that the periodically variable signal component of sensor device 20 is recognized by evaluation device 32.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Lighting Device Outwards From Vehicle And Optical Signal (AREA)
  • Circuit Arrangement For Electric Light Sources In General (AREA)

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for automatically switching lighting installations, comprising a sensor device (20) that detects the light intensity in the surroundings of the motor vehicle and that is linked with an evaluation device (32) that compares the signals (S) of the sensor device (20) for the light intensity with at least one threshold value and decides whether it is necessary to change the switch state of the lighting installations (10, 12). The evaluation device (32) analyzes the signals (S) of the sensor device (20) for the presence of at least one periodically modifiable signal portion (Sk). At a certain level of such a signal portion (Sk), the lighting installations are switched on or remain switched on. Light emitted from artificial light sources that has a changing intensity according to the alternating voltage at which they are operated can be detected on the basis of this evaluation and it can be made sure that the lighting installations are switched on or remain switched on when the vehicle travels in a tunnel or in an underground car park illuminated by artificial light sources.

Description

Einrichtung zur automatischen Schaltung von Beleuchtunαsemπchtungen be FahrzeugenDevice for the automatic switching of lighting units in vehicles
Stand der TechnikState of the art
Die Erfindung geht aus von einer Einrichtung zur automatischen Schaltung von Beleuchtungseinrichtungen bei Fahrzeugen nach der Gattung des Anspruchs 1.The invention relates to a device for the automatic switching of lighting devices in vehicles according to the preamble of claim 1.
Eine solche Einrichtung st durch die DE 195 23 262 AI bekannt. Diese Einrichtung weist eine Sensoreinrichtung auf, durch die die Lichtintensität m der Umgebung des Fahrzeugs erfaßt wird. Die Sensoreinrichtung ist mit einer Auswerteeinrichtung verbunden, durch die die Signale der Sensoreinrichtung für die Lichtintensität mit wenigstens einem Schwellenwert verglichen wird und hieraus ermittelt wird, ob eine Änderung des Schaltzustands der Beleuchtungseinrichtungen erforderlich ist, das heißt, ob diese eingeschaltet werden müssen oder ausgeschaltet werden können. Bei dieser bekannten Einrichtung wird nicht unterschieden zwischen Lichtintensitat, d e vom natürlichen Sonnenlicht stammt und Lichtintensität, die von künstlichen Lichtquellen stammt. Aus diesem Grund kann es bei der bekannten Einrichtung vorkommen, daß die Beleuchtungsemnchtungen des Fahrzeugs ausgeschaltet oder nicht eingeschaltet werden, wenn das Fahrzeug m einem Bereich mit starker Lichtintensitat unterwegs ist, die von künstlichen Lichtquellen stammt, wie beispielsweise m einem Tunnel oder einer Tiefgarage. In diesen Bereichen sollen die Beleuchtungseinrichtungen des Fahrzeugs jedoch eingeschaltet werden bzw eingeschaltet bleiben, was mit der bekannten Einrichtung nicht sichergestellt istSuch a device is known from DE 195 23 262 AI. This device has a sensor device by means of which the light intensity m of the surroundings of the vehicle is detected. The sensor device is connected to an evaluation device by means of which the signals of the sensor device for the light intensity are compared with at least one threshold value and from which it is determined whether a change in the switching state of the lighting devices is necessary, that is to say whether they have to be switched on or can be switched off , In this known device no distinction is made between light intensity, which comes from natural sunlight and light intensity, which comes from artificial light sources. For this reason, it can happen in the known device that the lighting of the vehicle is switched off or not switched on when the vehicle is in a position Area with strong light intensity that comes from artificial light sources, such as in a tunnel or an underground car park. In these areas, however, the lighting devices of the vehicle are to be switched on or remain switched on, which is not ensured with the known device
Vorteile der ErfindungAdvantages of the invention
Die erfmdungsgemaße Einrichtung mit den Merkmalen gemäß Anspruch 1 hat demgegenüber den Vorteil, daß eine Unterscheidung zwischen der Lichtintensitat eines vom natürlichen Sonnenlicht stammenden Lichtanteils und der Lichtintensitat eines von künstlichen Lichtquellen stammenden Lichtanteils erfolgt. Hierbei wird die Tatsache genutzt, daß kunstlicne Lichtquellen üblicherweise mit WechselSpannung betrieben werden und s ch somit entsprechend der Frequenz der Wecnselspannung periodische Änderungen der Intensität des von den Lichtquellen ausgesandten Lichts ergeben, die diesen Lichtanteil zuverlässig von einem vom natürlichen Sonnenlicπt herrührenden Lichtanteil unterscheiden .The erfmdungsgemaße device having the features of claim 1 has, in contrast, that a distinction between the light intensity of the natural Sonnenlic h t-derived light component and the light intensity of an originating from artificial light sources light portion is carried out to advantage. Here, the fact is used that artificial light sources are usually operated with an alternating voltage and thus, according to the frequency of the alternating voltage, result in periodic changes in the intensity of the light emitted by the light sources, which reliably distinguish this light component from a light component originating from the natural sun.
In den abhangigen Ansprüchen sind vorteilhafte Ausgestaltungen und Weiterbildungen der erfmdungsgemaßen Einrichtung angegebenAdvantageous refinements and developments of the device according to the invention are specified in the dependent claims
Zeichnungdrawing
Ein Ausfuhrungsbeispiel der Erfindung ist m der Zeichnung dargestellt und m der nachfolgenden Beschreibung naher erläutert. Es zeigen Figur 1 ein Fahrzeug mit Beleuchtungseinrichtungen und mit einer Einrichtung zur automatischen Schaltung der Beleuchtungseinrichtungen, Figur 2 den zeitlichen Verlauf der Lichtintensitat eines von Sonnenlicht stammenden Lichtanteils und Figur 3 den zeitlichen Verlauf der Lichtintensitat eines von künstlichen Lichtquellen stammenden LichtanteilsAn exemplary embodiment of the invention is shown in the drawing and explained in more detail in the description below. FIG. 1 shows a vehicle with lighting devices and with a device for automatically switching the lighting devices, FIG. 2 shows the time course of the light intensity of one of Sunlight originating light portion and Figure 3 shows the time course of the light intensity of a light portion originating from artificial light sources
Beschreibung des AusfuhrungsbeispielsDescription of the exemplary embodiment
In Figur 1 ist stark vereinfacht ein Fahrzeug, insbesondere ein Kraftfahrzeug dargestellt, das mit Beleuchtungseinrichtungen versehen ist, die unter anderem an der Vorderseite des Fahrzeugs angeordnete Scheinwerfer 10 und an der Rückseite des Fahrzeugs angeordnete Ruckleuchten 12 umfassen Die Scheinwerfer 10 können dabei reine Abblendlichtscnεmwerfer sein oder kombinierte Abblendlicht- und Fernlichtschemwerfer, die zwischen ihren beiden Betriebsstellungen umschaltbar sind Zur automatischen Schaltung der Beleuchtungseinrichtungen, das heißt der Abblendlichtfunktion der Scheinwerfer 10 und der Ruckleuchten 12, ist eine Einrichtung vorgesehen, die am Fahrzeug angeordnet ist.A vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, is shown in a highly simplified manner in FIG. 1, which is provided with lighting devices which include headlights 10 arranged on the front of the vehicle and rear lights 12 arranged on the rear of the vehicle. The headlights 10 can be pure low beam headlights or Combined low beam and high beam headlights that can be switched between their two operating positions. For automatic switching of the lighting devices, that is, the low beam function of the headlights 10 and the rear lights 12, a device is provided which is arranged on the vehicle.
Diese m Figur 2 vereinfacht dargestellte Einrichtung weist wenigstens eine Sensoreinrichtung 20 auf, durch die die Lichtintensitat m der Umgebung des Fahrzeugs erfaßt wird Die Sensoreinrichtung 20 kann zwei Sensoren 22,24 aufweisen, wobei der Sensor 22 ein Globalsensor ist, durch den dieThis device, shown in simplified form in FIG. 2, has at least one sensor device 20, by means of which the light intensity m in the surroundings of the vehicle is detected. The sensor device 20 can have two sensors 22, 24, the sensor 22 being a global sensor through which the
Lichtintensitat m verschiedenen Richtungen m der Umgebung des Fahrzeugs ungerichtet erfaßt wird. Der Sensor 24 ist ein Richtungssensor, der nur die Lichtintensitat des aus einer bestimmten Richtung auf diesen treffenden Lichts erfaßt Der Richtungssensor 24 ist derart angeordnet, daß durch diesen die Lichtintensitat von entgegen Fahrtrichtung 14 des Fahrzeugs auf diesen treffendem Licht erfaßt wird Der Richtungssensor 24 kann eine Abbildungsoptik 26 aufweisen, durch die entgegen Fahrtrichtung 14 einfallendes Licht auf den Richtungssensor 24 gebündelt wird. Die Sensoreinrichtung 20 kann auch nur einen Sensor aufweisen.Light intensity m different directions m the direction of the vehicle is detected undirected. The sensor 24 is a direction sensor, which only detects the light intensity of the light hitting it from a certain direction. The direction sensor 24 is arranged such that it detects the light intensity from the direction of travel 14 of the vehicle hitting the light. The direction sensor 24 can be a sensor Have imaging optics 26 through the incident light 14 against the direction of travel the direction sensor 24 is bundled. The sensor device 20 can also have only one sensor.
Der Globalsensor 22 und der Richtungssensor 24 weisen jeweils wenigstens ein lichtempfindliches Element 28 bzw. 30 auf. Die lichtempfindlichen Elemente 28,30 sind beispielsweise Photozellen oder Photowiderstände oder andere Elemente, bei denen sich abhängig von der Intensität des auf diese treffenden Lichts wenigstens eine elektrische Eigenschaft verändert. Die Änderung der elektrischenThe global sensor 22 and the direction sensor 24 each have at least one light-sensitive element 28 and 30, respectively. The light-sensitive elements 28, 30 are, for example, photocells or photoresistors or other elements in which at least one electrical property changes depending on the intensity of the light striking them. The change in electrical
Eigenschaft ist dabei ein Maß für die Intensität des auf die Elemente 28,30 treffenden Lichts. Die Sensoreinrichtung 20 kann im Innenraum des Fahrzeugs angeordnet sein, beispielsweise hinter der Windschutzscheibe. Alternativ kann die Sensoreinrichtung 20 auch in einem der Scheinwerfer 10 integriert sein oder an einer anderen geeigneten Stelle am Fahrzeug angeordnet sein.The property is a measure of the intensity of the light striking the elements 28, 30. The sensor device 20 can be arranged in the interior of the vehicle, for example behind the windshield. Alternatively, the sensor device 20 can also be integrated in one of the headlights 10 or arranged at another suitable location on the vehicle.
Die Einrichtung weist außer der Sensoreinrichtung 20 auch eine elektronische Auswerteeinrichtung 32 auf, mit der die Sensoreinrichtung 20 verbunden ist. Durch die Auswerteeinrichtung 32 werden die Signale der Sensoreinrichtung 20 mit wenigstens einem Schwellenwert verglichen und abhängig davon die Beleuchtungseinrichtungen 10,12 geschaltet. Wenn die Signale der Sensoreinrichtung 20 einen bestimmten Einschaltschwellenwert unterschreiten, so wird durch die Auswerteeinrichtung 32 ein Einschalten der Beleuchtungseinrichtungen 10,12 bewirkt bzw. bleiben die Beleuchtungseinrichtungen 10,12 eingeschaltet, wenn sie schon eingeschaltet sind. Wenn die Signale derIn addition to the sensor device 20, the device also has an electronic evaluation device 32 to which the sensor device 20 is connected. The signals from the sensor device 20 are compared with at least one threshold value by the evaluation device 32 and the lighting devices 10, 12 are switched as a function thereof. If the signals of the sensor device 20 fall below a certain switch-on threshold value, the evaluation device 32 causes the lighting devices 10, 12 to be switched on or the lighting devices 10, 12 remain switched on when they are already switched on. If the signals of the
Sensoreinrichtung 20 einen bestimmten Ausschaltschwellen erc überschreiten, so wird durch die Auswerteeinrichtung 32 ein Ausschalten der Beleuchtungseinrichtungen 10,12 bewirkt. Der Ausschaltschwellenwert ist vorzugsweise höher als der Einschaltschwellenwert, um ein wechselndes Ein- und Ausschalten der Beleuchtungeinrichtungen 10,12 zu vermeiden, wenn die Signale der Sensoreinrichtung 20 um den Einschaltschwellenwert schwanken. Die Ein- und Ausschaltschwellenwerte können konstant sein oder variabel sein, beispielsweise abhangig von Betriebsparametern des Fahrzeugs wie der Geschwindigkeit. Die Signale des Globalsensors 22 und des Richtungssensors 24 der Sensoreinrichtung 20 können getrennt durch die Auswerteeinrichtung 32 ausgewertet werden, wobei unterschiedliche Schwellenwerte für die Signale desIf the sensor device 20 exceeds a certain switch-off threshold erc, the evaluation device 32 switches off the lighting devices 10, 12. The switch-off threshold value is preferably higher than the switch-on threshold value by an alternating switching on and off Avoid switching off the lighting devices 10, 12 if the signals of the sensor device 20 fluctuate around the switch-on threshold value. The switch-on and switch-off threshold values can be constant or variable, for example depending on the operating parameters of the vehicle such as the speed. The signals of the global sensor 22 and the direction sensor 24 of the sensor device 20 can be evaluated separately by the evaluation device 32, with different threshold values for the signals of the
Globalsensors 22 und die Signale des Richtungssensors 24 zugrundegelegt werden. Ein Einschalten derGlobal sensor 22 and the signals of the direction sensor 24 are used as a basis. Switching on the
Beleuchtungseinrichtungen 10,12 wird nur bewirkt, wenn die Signale sowohl des Globalsensors 22 als auch des Richtungssensors 24 die jeweiligen Einschaltschwellenwerte unterschreiten und ein Ausscnalten derIllumination devices 10, 12 are only brought about when the signals of both the global sensor 22 and the direction sensor 24 fall below the respective switch-on threshold values and the switch-off
Beleuchtungseinrichtungen 10,12 wird nur bewirkt, wenn die Signale sowohl des Globalsensors 22 als auch des Richtungssensors 24 die jeweiligen Ausschaltschwellenwerte überschreiten.Illumination devices 10, 12 are only brought about when the signals of both the global sensor 22 and the direction sensor 24 exceed the respective switch-off threshold values.
In Figur 3 ist beispielhaft ein Verlauf eines Signals S der Sensoreinrichtung 20 über der Zeit t wahrend der Fanrt des Fahrzeugs dargestellt. In Figur 3 ist der Verlauf des Signals S des Globalsensors 22 dargestellt, wobei sich für das Signal des Richtungssensors 24 ein qualitativ annlicher Verlauf ergeben wurde. Das Signal weist unregelmäßige Änderungen auf, die beispielsweise durch den Schatten von Bäumen, Gebäuden, Brücken oder Erhebungen verursacht werden Bei abnehmender Intensität des Sonnenlichts, beispielsweise m der Dämmerung ändert sich an diesem unregelmäßigen zeitlichen Verlauf des Signals nichts, wobei jedoch insgesamt d e Hohe des Signals abnimmt. Wenn das Fahrzeug beispielsweise m einem Tunnel, einer Tiefgarage oder einem Parkhaus unterwegs ist, wobei künstliche Lichtquellen vorhanden sind, die eine hohe Lichtintensitat erzeugen, so sollen dort trotzdem die Beleuchtungseinrichtungen 10,12 des Fahrzeugs eingeschaltet werden und eingeschaltet bleiben. Erfmdungsgemaß ist daner vorgesehen, daß durch die Auswerteeinrichtung von künstlichen Lichtquellen stammende Lichtintensitat erkannt wird und m diesem Fall trotz unter Umstanden über dem Einschaltschwellenwert liegender Lichtintensitat einFIG. 3 shows, by way of example, a course of a signal S from the sensor device 20 over time t while the vehicle is running. The course of the signal S of the global sensor 22 is shown in FIG. 3, the course of the signal from the direction sensor 24 being qualitatively acceptable. The signal has irregular changes, which are caused, for example, by the shadows of trees, buildings, bridges or elevations. As the intensity of the sunlight decreases, for example at dusk, nothing changes in this irregular course of the signal over time, but overall the level of the signal decreases. If the vehicle is traveling, for example, in a tunnel, an underground car park or a parking garage, with artificial light sources being present which produce a high light intensity, the lighting devices 10, 12 of the vehicle should nevertheless be switched on and remain switched on there. According to the invention, it is also provided that light intensity originating from artificial light sources is recognized by the evaluation device and, in this case, a light intensity which may be above the switch-on threshold value
Einschalten der Beleuchtungseinrichtungen 10,12 bewirkt wird bzw die Beleuchtungsemπchtungen 10,12 eingeschaltet bleiben.Switching on the lighting devices 10, 12 is effected or the lighting devices 10, 12 remain switched on.
In Figur 4 ist Deispiεlhaft ein Verlauf eines Signals Sk der Sensoreinrichtung 20 über der Zeit t dargestellt, der durch die Lichtintensitat des von kunstlichen Lichtquellen ausgesandten Lichts dargestellt, die mit WechselSpannung betrieben werden. Die von künstlichen Lichtquellen erzeugte Lichtintensitat weist periodische Schankungen auf, die durch die WechselSpannung verursacht werden und diεselcε Frequenz aufweisen wie die Wechselspannung . Üblicherweise weist die WechselSpannung des öffentlichen Stromnetzes eine Frequenz zwischen etwa 20 Hz und 100 Hz, vorzugsweise von etwa 50 Hz auf, so daß sicn das Signal Sk für die Lichtintensitat entsprechend ebenfalls ändert und zwar mit der doppelten Frequenz wie die WechselSpannung, also mit einer Frequenz zwischen etwa 40 Hz und 200 Hz, vorzugsweise etwa 100 Hz ändert. Die Lichtintensität weist dabei alle 10 ms ein Maximum auf. Die periodische Änderung der Lichtintensitat des von künstlichen Lichtquellen stammenden Lichts ermöglicht somit eine Unterscheidung von der Lichtintensitat, die von der Sonne als natürliche Lichtquelle erzeugt wird und die wie in Figur 3 dargestellt allenfalls unregelmaßigε Schankungen aufweist. Durch die Auswerteeinrichtung 32 werden die Signale der Sensoreinrichtung 20 zunächst auf das Vorliegen eines periodisch sich ändernden Signalanteils ausgewertet. Wenn ein solcher sich periodisch ändernder Signalanteil vorliegt, so wird die Höhe dieses Signalanteils ermittelt und wenn dieser einen bestimmten Einschaltschwellenwert überschreitet, so wird durch die Auswerteeinrichtung 32 eine Einschaltung der Beleuchtungseinrichtungen 10,12 bewirkt bzw. bleiben diese eingeschaltet. Durch dieFIG. 4 shows a course of a signal Sk of the sensor device 20 over time t, which is represented by the light intensity of the light emitted by artificial light sources, which are operated with AC voltage. The light intensity generated by artificial light sources has periodic fluctuations which are caused by the AC voltage and have the same frequency as the AC voltage. Usually, the AC voltage of the public electricity network has a frequency between about 20 Hz and 100 Hz, preferably of about 50 Hz, so that the signal Sk for the light intensity also changes accordingly and with twice the frequency as the AC voltage, that is to say with one frequency changes between about 40 Hz and 200 Hz, preferably about 100 Hz. The light intensity has a maximum every 10 ms. The periodic change in the light intensity of the light originating from artificial light sources thus makes it possible to distinguish it from the light intensity which is generated by the sun as a natural light source and which, as shown in FIG. 3, has at most irregular fluctuations. The signals of the sensor device 20 are first evaluated by the evaluation device 32 for the presence of a periodically changing signal component. If such a periodically changing signal component is present, the level of this signal component is determined and if this exceeds a certain switch-on threshold value, the evaluation device 32 switches the lighting devices 10, 12 on or they remain switched on. Through the
Auswerteeinrichtung 32 kann außerdem auch die Höhe des verbleibenden, sich nicht periodisch ändernden Signalanteils ermittelt werden. Durch die Auswerteeinrichtung 32 kann ein Vergleich der Höhe des periodisch sich änderndεn Signalanteils mit der Höhe dεs verbleibenden Signalanteils erfolgen, wobei durch die Auswerteeinrichtung 32 eine Einschaltung der Beleuchtungseinrichtungen 10,12 bewirkt wird bzw. diese eingeschaltet bleiben, wenn die Höhe des sich periodisch ändernden Signalanteils größer ist als die Höhe des verbleibenden Signalanteils. Hierdurch ist sichergestellt, daß die Beleuchtungseinrichtungen 10,12 eingeschaltet werden bzw. eingeschaltet bleiben, wenn die Intensität des von der Sensoreinrichtung 20 erfaßten Kunstlichts höher ist als die Intensität des von der Sensoreinrichtung 20 erfaßten natürlichen Lichts ist. DieThe evaluation device 32 can also determine the amount of the remaining, non-periodically changing signal component. The evaluation device 32 can compare the level of the periodically changing signal component with the level of the remaining signal component, with the evaluation device 32 causing the lighting devices 10, 12 to be switched on or remain on when the level of the periodically changing signal part is greater than the level of the remaining signal component. This ensures that the lighting devices 10, 12 are switched on or remain switched on when the intensity of the artificial light detected by the sensor device 20 is higher than the intensity of the natural light detected by the sensor device 20. The
Einschaltung dεr Beleuchtungseinrichtungen 10,12 bzw. deren weiterer Verbleib in eingeschaltetem Zustand erfolgt auch dann, wenn die Signale der Sensoreinrichtung 20 über dem zugrundegelegten Einschaltschwellenwert bzw. dem Ausschaltschwellenwert liegen.The lighting devices 10, 12 are switched on or remain in the switched-on state even when the signals from the sensor device 20 are above the underlying switch-on threshold or switch-off threshold.
Wenn die Sensoreinrichtung 20 den Globalsensor 22 und den Richtungssensor 24 aufweist, so erfolgt die vorstehend erläuterte Auswertung auf das Vorliegen eines sich periodisch ändernden Signalanteils zumindest bei den Signalen des Globalsensors 22 oder bei den Signalen beider Sensoren 22,24. Die Auswertung der Signale der Sensoreinrichtung 20 durch die Auswerteeinrichtung 32 erfolgt getaktet, wobei die Auswerteeinrichtung 32 einen Analog/Digital -Wandler aufweist, der mit einerIf the sensor device 20 has the global sensor 22 and the direction sensor 24, the evaluation explained above is carried out for the presence of a periodically changing signal component, at least in the case of the Signals from the global sensor 22 or the signals from both sensors 22, 24. The evaluation of the signals of the sensor device 20 by the evaluation device 32 is carried out in a clocked manner, the evaluation device 32 having an analog / digital converter which is equipped with a
Abtastfrequenz arbeitet, die größer ist als die Frequenz des periodisch veränderlichen Signalanteils derSampling frequency works, which is greater than the frequency of the periodically changing signal component
Sensoreinrichtung 20. Hierdurch ist sichergestellt, daß der periodisch veränderliche Signalanteil der Sensoreinrichtung 20 durch die Auswerteeinrichtung 32 erkannt wird. Sensor device 20. This ensures that the periodically variable signal component of sensor device 20 is recognized by evaluation device 32.

Claims

Ansprüche Expectations
1. Einrichtung zur automatischen Schaltung von Beleuchtungseinrichtungen bei Fahrzeugen mit einer Sensoreinrichtung (20), durch die die Lichtintensitat m der Umgebung des Fahrzeugs erfaßt wird und die mit einer Auswerteeinrichtung (32) verbunden ist, durch die die Signale (S) der Sensoreinrichtung (20) für die Lichtintensität mit wenigstens einem Schwellenwert verglichen werden und hieraus ermittelt wird, ob eine Änderung des Schaltzustands der Beleuchtungseinrichtungen1. Device for the automatic switching of lighting devices in vehicles with a sensor device (20) through which the light intensity m of the surroundings of the vehicle is detected and which is connected to an evaluation device (32) through which the signals (S) of the sensor device (20 ) are compared for the light intensity with at least one threshold value and from this it is determined whether a change in the switching state of the lighting devices
(10,12) erforderlich ist, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß durch die Auswerteeinrichtung (32) die Signale (S) der Sensoreinrichtung (20) auf das Vorliegen wenigstens eines periodisch veränderlichen Signalanteils (Sk) ausgewertet wird und bei Vorliegen eines solchen Signalanteils (Sk) mit einer bestimmten Höhe die Beleuchtungseinrichtungen (10,12) eingeschaltet werden bzw. eingeschaltet bleiben.(10, 12) is required, characterized in that the evaluation device (32) evaluates the signals (S) of the sensor device (20) for the presence of at least one periodically variable signal component (Sk) and for the presence of such a signal component (Sk) with a certain height the lighting devices (10, 12) are switched on or remain switched on.
2. Einrichtung nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Beleuchtungseinrichtungen (10,12) eingeschaltet werden bzw. eingeschaltet bleiben, wenn der periodisch veränderliche Signalanteil (Sk) höher als der verbleioende, nicht periodisch veränderliche Signalanteil ist. 2. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the lighting devices (10, 12) are switched on or remain switched on when the periodically variable signal component (Sk) is higher than the remaining, non-periodically variable signal component.
3. Einrichtung nach Anspruch 1 oder 2, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß durch die Auswerteeinrichtung (32) ein periodisch veränderlicher Signalanteil (Sk) mit einer Frequenz zwischen 40 und 200 Hz, vorzugsweise mit einer Frequenz von etwa 100 Hz ausgewertet wird. 3. Device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that a periodically variable signal component (Sk) with a frequency between 40 and 200 Hz, preferably with a frequency of about 100 Hz is evaluated by the evaluation device (32).
EP01921218A 2000-03-23 2001-03-20 Device for automatically switching lighting installations of motor vehicles Withdrawn EP1224097A2 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE10014549A DE10014549A1 (en) 2000-03-23 2000-03-23 Device for automatic switching of vehicle illumination devices switches them on or keeps them on if periodically varying light intensity signal component detected with certain amplitude
DE10014549 2000-03-23
PCT/DE2001/001058 WO2001071389A2 (en) 2000-03-23 2001-03-20 Device for automatically switching lighting installations of motor vehicles

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1224097A2 true EP1224097A2 (en) 2002-07-24

Family

ID=7636126

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP01921218A Withdrawn EP1224097A2 (en) 2000-03-23 2001-03-20 Device for automatically switching lighting installations of motor vehicles

Country Status (8)

Country Link
US (1) US6727653B2 (en)
EP (1) EP1224097A2 (en)
JP (1) JP2003528006A (en)
KR (1) KR100781909B1 (en)
CN (1) CN1211226C (en)
BR (1) BR0105314A (en)
DE (1) DE10014549A1 (en)
WO (1) WO2001071389A2 (en)

Families Citing this family (10)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE102005008850B4 (en) * 2005-02-26 2022-10-06 Kostal Automobil Elektrik Gmbh & Co. Kg Device for automatically switching lighting devices of a motor vehicle on and off
DE102007051979A1 (en) * 2007-10-31 2009-05-07 Leuze Electronic Gmbh & Co Kg sensor
JP5555562B2 (en) * 2010-07-12 2014-07-23 株式会社ヴァレオジャパン Light on / off control device
RU2010137887A (en) * 2010-09-14 2012-03-20 Владимир Витальевич Мирошниченко (RU) METHOD FOR LIGHTING SPACE WITH FRONT HEADLIGHTS OF A VEHICLE
JP5224195B2 (en) * 2011-02-18 2013-07-03 株式会社デンソー Vehicle light control device
JP2013086784A (en) * 2011-10-24 2013-05-13 Alps Electric Co Ltd Light source identification apparatus and light source identification method
CN102951069B (en) * 2012-11-16 2015-02-18 郑州宇通客车股份有限公司 Method and system for intelligently controlling automobile headlamp
CN106696814A (en) * 2015-07-22 2017-05-24 上海汽车集团股份有限公司 Car light control method and device
TWI614154B (en) * 2017-03-22 2018-02-11 Intelligent light source control system
CN110316043B (en) * 2018-03-29 2021-10-22 长城汽车股份有限公司 High beam control method and device

Citations (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB1328789A (en) * 1969-11-06 1973-09-05 Moore R L Appatatus for controlling the intensity of vehicle headlamps
FR2559282A1 (en) * 1984-02-02 1985-08-09 Honda Motor Co Ltd APPARATUS FOR THE AUTOMATIC CONTROL OF LANTERNS FOR A VEHICLE

Family Cites Families (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB2060163A (en) * 1979-09-28 1981-04-29 Lenvil James Supplies Electron Automatic control of vehicle lighting
DE19523262A1 (en) * 1995-06-27 1997-01-02 Bosch Gmbh Robert Automatic switching device for automobile lights
FR2769557B1 (en) * 1997-10-15 1999-12-31 Peugeot AUTOMATIC LIGHTING SYSTEM OF A MOTOR VEHICLE

Patent Citations (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB1328789A (en) * 1969-11-06 1973-09-05 Moore R L Appatatus for controlling the intensity of vehicle headlamps
FR2559282A1 (en) * 1984-02-02 1985-08-09 Honda Motor Co Ltd APPARATUS FOR THE AUTOMATIC CONTROL OF LANTERNS FOR A VEHICLE

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
CN1211226C (en) 2005-07-20
WO2001071389A2 (en) 2001-09-27
US6727653B2 (en) 2004-04-27
DE10014549A1 (en) 2001-09-27
CN1404448A (en) 2003-03-19
BR0105314A (en) 2002-02-26
WO2001071389A3 (en) 2002-05-23
US20020105415A1 (en) 2002-08-08
JP2003528006A (en) 2003-09-24
KR20020060071A (en) 2002-07-16
KR100781909B1 (en) 2007-12-04

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
DE3503451C2 (en)
DE4313914C2 (en) Motor vehicle headlight device with variable illuminance distribution
WO1999011968A1 (en) Lighting system for vehicles and method for operating a lighting system of this type
WO2001071389A2 (en) Device for automatically switching lighting installations of motor vehicles
DE19523262A1 (en) Automatic switching device for automobile lights
DE19961942A1 (en) Vehicle headlamp arrangement; has headlamps with several units for use in combination to generate different light beams, where basic headlamp unit can be altered to generate dipped and full beams
DE3132207C2 (en) Control device for automatically switching at least one light on and off
DE19822142C2 (en) Method and device for generating a light beam striking the road in front of a motor vehicle
DE112010003800T5 (en) VEHICLE LIGHTING DEVICE
DE102008032345A1 (en) Headlight for use in motor vehicle, has LED source corresponding to responding sensor element, which is switched-off or dimmed down in dimmed beam position for forming dimmed region, where traffic object is located in region
EP1163128B1 (en) Device for automatically switching lamps of vehicles
DE19950505A1 (en) Device for controlling the light distribution of a headlight arrangement of a vehicle
DE102017217736B4 (en) Animatable cascade light guide
DE3808965A1 (en) Combined device for warning of the onset of dusk and monitoring lights, in particular for vehicles
DE3040555C2 (en) Vehicle lighting
DE102017129291A1 (en) Lighting device of a motor vehicle with matrix-like arranged light-emitting diodes and method for operating light-emitting diodes of such a lighting device arranged in a matrix
DE2209338A1 (en) LIGHTING SYSTEM FOR MOTOR VEHICLES
DE2118968B2 (en) Lighting device for headlights and dipped headlights of vehicles
DE4111210A1 (en) Automatic headlamp dipping circuit for motor vehicle - uses measured incident light intensity to switch between main and dipped headlamp beam
EP3778359A1 (en) Bicycle light distribution system and bicycle light having such a bicycle light distribution system
DE102013005083A1 (en) Headlamp and method for reducing glare from a road vehicle due to ground reflections
DE10209266B4 (en) Device for the automatic switching of lighting devices in vehicles
DE10249817A1 (en) Switching arrangement for actuating lighting systems on a motor vehicle
DE112014003141T5 (en) Optical sensor
DE19645184A1 (en) Switching device for staircase lighting

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A2

Designated state(s): AT BE CH CY DE DK ES FI FR GB GR IE IT LI LU MC NL PT SE TR

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20021125

RBV Designated contracting states (corrected)

Designated state(s): DE ES FR GB IT SE

17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 20070523

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE APPLICATION IS DEEMED TO BE WITHDRAWN

18D Application deemed to be withdrawn

Effective date: 20071204