DE102018213732A1 - Apparatus and method for determining information of subsequent vehicles - Google Patents

Abstract

Embodiments of the present invention provide a method (300, 400) for determining information of subsequent vehicles, comprising determining (310, 430) information of subsequent vehicles by one or more detection devices (230, 240), which possibly further comprise a vehicle (120). associated with subsequent vehicles (130, 140), and transmitting (320, 450) a representation of the information of subsequent vehicles from first communication means (250) to second communication means (250).

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

The present disclosure relates to an apparatus and method for determining information of subsequent vehicles. Aspects of the invention relate to a method, a module, a system, and a vehicle. In particular, although not exclusively, aspects of the invention relate to a method for determining information of subsequent vehicles, an information module of subsequent vehicles, a system for determining information of subsequent vehicles, a vehicle, and computer software.

STATE OF THE ART

It is desirable to provide increased situational awareness with respect to vehicles. Situation knowledge includes information about vehicles in the vicinity of a vehicle. Such situation knowledge can be made available to the traffic infrastructure in order, for example, to control a traffic flow. The situation knowledge can also be used by the vehicles themselves, for example, to reduce the probability of an accident. Situational awareness may refer to a number or length of vehicles that follow a vehicle, which may be a leading vehicle, that is, is at the head of a train of vehicles or may be part of the train of vehicles. However, it is often difficult for a vehicle to determine information about subsequent vehicles. This can be partly due to the fact that following vehicles cover each other.

It is an object of embodiments of the invention to at least mitigate one or more problems of the prior art.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The aspects and embodiments of the present invention provide a method, module, system, vehicle, and computer software as claimed in the appended claims.

According to one aspect of the invention, a method of determining subsequent vehicle information is provided, comprising determining, by one or more detectors, information from subsequent vehicles associated with one or more other vehicles following a vehicle and transmitting a representation of the information subsequent vehicles from a first communication means, which is associated with the first detection means, to a second communication means.

The first detection device can be connected to a first vehicle or to a stationary system. The stationary installation may be a stationary installation connected to the traffic infrastructure, for example traffic lights.

According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of determining, by one or more detectors, vehicle information associated with one or more vehicles following a first vehicle and transmitting a representation of the information of subsequent vehicles from a first communication medium a second communication means associated with the first vehicle or the stationary installation. Advantageously, the first vehicle or the first stationary installation is supplied with information about subsequent vehicles.

According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of determining, by one or more detectors associated with a first vehicle or stationary facility, vehicle information associated with one or more vehicles following a second vehicle and transmitting a representation of the information of subsequent vehicles from the first vehicle or the stationary system associated with the first communication means to the second vehicle associated with the second communication means.

Advantageously, the second vehicle receives information from subsequent vehicles from another source, e.g. the first vehicle or stationary plant, which reduces the need for the second vehicle to include reverse sensors and improves the reliability of the evaluation of information about the following vehicles.

According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of determining subsequent vehicle information, comprising determining, by one or more detection devices associated with a first vehicle or stationary facility, information from subsequent vehicles that track another vehicle following a second vehicle , and transmitting a representation of the information of subsequent vehicles from first communication means associated with the first vehicle or the stationary plant are assigned to second communication means associated with the second vehicle.

• die Erfassungseinrichtung ein oder mehrere Erfassungsgeräte umfassen kann,
• das erste Kommunikationsmittel ein Kommunikationsmodul oder ein Kommunikationsgerät sein kann, und
• das zweite Kommunikationsmittel ein Kommunikationsmodul oder eine - Kommunikationsanlage sein kann.

A method as described above, wherein:

• the detection device may comprise one or more detection devices,
• the first communication means may be a communication module or a communication device, and
• the second communication means may be a communication module or a communication system.

Optionally, the method comprises transmitting a request for the information of subsequent vehicles by the second communication means. Advantageously, the calculation and communication can be reduced by determining the information of subsequent vehicles only on request. The method may be to receive the request for the information of subsequent vehicles at the first communication means. The method may be performed depending on the request.

The method may include an illustration of information associated with the vehicle of existing subsequent vehicles. Advantageously, the vehicle provides information about his knowledge of subsequent vehicles.

The method optionally comprises comparing the received information of existing following vehicles with the determined information of subsequent vehicles to determine differential information of subsequent vehicles. Advantageously, only the differential information of subsequent vehicles may need to be processed.

The transmitting the presentation of the information of subsequent vehicles may include transmitting a representation of the differential information of subsequent vehicles to the second communication means associated with the vehicle. Advantageously, the amount of data to be transmitted can be reduced.

The method may include transmitting the representation of the information of subsequent vehicles from the second communication means to a communication means associated with the traffic infrastructure. Advantageously, the information of subsequent vehicles may be made available for use by more than other vehicles.

The communication means associated with the traffic infrastructure may be connected to one or more traffic flow control devices. The or a single traffic flow control device may be one or more traffic lights. Advantageously, the information of subsequent vehicles can be used to improve the flow of traffic.

The information of subsequent vehicles may indicate a number of vehicles following the vehicle. Advantageously, information is provided on the presence and the number of subsequent vehicles.

The information of subsequent vehicles may give indications of the length of vehicles following the vehicle. Advantageously, the length of the following vehicles may be used to determine, for example, whether a maneuver, e.g. Overtaking is possible.

The information of subsequent vehicles may give indications of a time for the passage of any further vehicles. Optionally, the time is a time to pass a stationary point. Advantageously, the time to pass may be an aid to traffic flow control, such as e.g. operating traffic lights according to the time to pass a stationary point.

The detection device associated with the first vehicle may be a forward detection device with respect to the first vehicle. Advantageously, the detection device can determine information about approaching vehicles.

Optionally, the information of subsequent vehicles is determined when the vehicle and the one or more vehicles following the vehicle pass near a first vehicle or stationary facility. Advantageously, the detection device may only require a short operating range when passing the vehicles.

In embodiments, determining the information of subsequent vehicles may be performed while the vehicle and the one or more other vehicles following the vehicle are moving in an opposite direction to the first vehicle.

According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided an information module of subsequent vehicles, the input means for receiving data from one or more detection means having a presence of indicate a vehicle to subsequent vehicles; control means for determining information of subsequent vehicles indicating any further vehicles following the second vehicle; and output means for outputting a representation of the information of subsequent vehicles for wireless transmission to a communication means.

• das Eingabemittel einen elektrischen Eingang zum Empfangen von Daten umfasst,
• die Steuereinrichtung eine oder mehrere elektronische Verarbeitungseinrichtungen umfasst, und
• das Ausgabemittel einen elektrischen Ausgang zum Ausgeben von Daten umfasst.

Module as described above, wherein:

• the input means comprises an electrical input for receiving data,
• the control device comprises one or more electronic processing devices, and
• the output means comprises an electrical output for outputting data.

Optionally, the control device is arranged so that it receives a request for information of subsequent vehicles from the vehicle via the input means. The control device can be arranged so that, depending on the requirement, information of subsequent vehicles is determined.

The method may include an illustration of information associated with the vehicle of existing subsequent vehicles.

The controller may be arranged to compare the received information of existing succeeding vehicles with the determined information of subsequent vehicles to determine differential information of subsequent vehicles.

The control device is optionally arranged so that it outputs via output means a representation of the differential information of subsequent vehicles for wireless transmission.

The information of subsequent vehicles may give an indication of a number of other vehicles following the vehicle.

The information of subsequent vehicles may give an indication of the length of other vehicles following the vehicle.

The information of subsequent vehicles may give indications of a time for the passage of the following vehicles. Time can be a time to pass a stationary point.

According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a subsequent vehicle information determining system comprising one or more detection means for outputting data indicative of a presence of a vehicle and an information module of subsequent vehicles for receiving the data from the detection means and for determining information of subsequent vehicles following a vehicle and for outputting a representation of the information of subsequent vehicles.

• die eine oder mehreren Erfassungseinrichtungen eine oder mehrere Erfassungsgeräte umfassen, und
• das Fahrzeuginformationsmodul eine oder mehrere elektronische Verarbeitungsvorrichtungen umfasst.

System as described above, wherein:

• the one or more detection devices comprise one or more detection devices, and
• the vehicle information module comprises one or more electronic processing devices.

The one or more detection means may comprise an acoustic, radiative or optical detection means for determining a distance to an object.

The one or more detection devices may include an imaging device for outputting image data.

According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vehicle comprising: one or more detection means for outputting data indicative of a presence of a vehicle; an information module of subsequent vehicles arranged to receive the data from the detection means and to determine information of subsequent vehicles indicating any further vehicle following a vehicle, and to output a representation of the information of subsequent vehicles; and communication means arranged to receive the presentation from the information module of subsequent vehicles and wirelessly transmit the presentation.

• die eine oder mehreren Erfassungseinrichtungen eine oder mehrere Erfassungsgeräte umfassen,
• das Fahrzeuginformationsmodul eine oder mehrere elektronische Verarbeitungseinrichtungen umfasst, und
• das Kommunikationsmittel ein Kommunikationsmodul oder Kommunikationsgerät umfasst.

Vehicle as described above, wherein:

• the one or more detection devices comprise one or more detection devices,
• the vehicle information module comprises one or more electronic processing devices, and
• the communication means comprises a communication module or communication device.

The detection device can be assigned to a first vehicle, the detection device can be a detection device directed forward with respect to the first vehicle.

If appropriate, the detection device can be assigned to a stationary system. The stationary installation can be assigned to the traffic infrastructure.

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, computer software is provided which, when executed by a computer, performs a method according to one aspect of the invention. Optionally, the computer software is stored on a computer readable medium. The computer software may be materially stored on the computer-readable medium. The computer-readable medium may be non-transient.

According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vehicle arranged to perform a method according to one aspect of the invention or to comprise a module or system according to one aspect of the invention.

According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for determining information of subsequent vehicles, comprising determining, by one or more detection devices associated with a first vehicle, information of subsequent vehicles associated with another vehicle that is a second vehicle follows; and transmitting a representation of the information of subsequent vehicles from first communication means associated with the first vehicle to second communication means associated with the second vehicle.

According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided an information module of subsequent vehicles for a vehicle, comprising: input means for receiving data from one or more detectors associated with a first vehicle; and indicate the presence of further vehicles following a second vehicle; a control device for determining information of subsequent vehicles which indicate further vehicles following the second vehicle, and output means for outputting a representation of the information of subsequent vehicles for wireless transmission to a communication means.

list of figures

• 1 beispielhafte Fahrzeugsituationen zeigt,
• 2 ein Fahrzeug und eine Vorrichtung nach einer Ausführungsform der Erfindung zeigt,
• 3 ein Verfahren nach einer Ausführungsform der Erfindung zeigt, und
• 4 ein Verfahren nach einer anderen Ausführungsform der Erfindung zeigt.

The embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

• 1 shows exemplary vehicle situations,
• 2 shows a vehicle and a device according to an embodiment of the invention,
• 3 shows a method according to an embodiment of the invention, and
• 4 shows a method according to another embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

1 shows exemplary vehicle situations in which a first vehicle 110 or a stationary plant 150 located near a second vehicle, otherwise here as an examined vehicle 120 referred to as. Embodiments of the present invention provide the second vehicle 120 an improved situational awareness, as explained below. The stationary plant 150 can be a fixed asset or a portable asset.

In 1 (a) the first vehicle moves 110 in a generally opposite direction to the second or examined vehicle 120 as indicated by the corresponding arrows 111 . 121 displayed. It is understood that it is not necessary for the first vehicle 110 is in motion, and that it may alternatively be stationary. At a certain time, the second vehicle passes 120 the first vehicle 110 , In 1 (a) is the first vehicle 110 generally the oncoming second vehicle 120 facing.

In 1 (b) is the first vehicle 110 generally perpendicular to the second vehicle 120 if this is before the first vehicle 110 moved past. The first vehicle 110 may be waiting at a branching point or intersection as shown. As explained below, in both in 1 (a) u , (b) illustrated situations that the first vehicle 110 associated detection device 230 . 240 a situation of the second vehicle 120 assess while the two vehicles 110 . 120 are close to each other. In particular, the forward detection means of the first vehicle 110 capable of the situation of the second vehicle 120 assess. It also becomes clear that the first vehicle 110 alternatively or additionally may have detection means to the second vehicle 120 and other vehicles that are one side of the first vehicle 110 happen to estimate.

In 1 (c) the second vehicle moves near the stationary facility 150 For example, past her. The stationary plant 150 can be located near a roadway on which the second vehicle 120 emotional.

As in the 1 (a) (b) and (c) are followed by one or more other vehicles which are otherwise referred to herein as subsequent vehicles or object vehicles 130 . 140 designated be, the second vehicle 120 to. Although two consecutive vehicles 130 . 140 It should be understood that this is merely exemplary. In other examples, the second vehicle may 120 follow several vehicles or no vehicle. For the second vehicle 120 For example, it is desirable to obtain situational awareness as to whether vehicles are the second vehicle 120 following and, if so, information on the following vehicle (s) 130 . 140 , The situation knowledge may include information of subsequent vehicles that are for the one or more the second vehicle 120 following vehicles 130 . 140 are characteristic. In some embodiments of the invention, the information of subsequent vehicles from the first vehicle 110 delivered. In some embodiments of the invention, the information of subsequent vehicles from the stationary plant 150 made available. The information of subsequent vehicles is provided by detection means 230 . 240 determines the first vehicle 110 or the stationary plant 150 are assigned, either while the first and second vehicle 110 . 120 or the stationary plant 150 and the second vehicle 120 are close to each other, such as in the in the 1 (a) , (b) and (c) illustrated situations with the arrows 115 . 170 that captures the vehicles 120 . 130 . 140 Show. The information of subsequent vehicles is information about the one or more vehicles 130 . 140 that the second vehicle 120 follow. In some embodiments, the information of subsequent vehicles is an indication of one or more of a number of vehicles that are the second vehicle 120 follow, to a total length of the second vehicle 120 following vehicles 130 . 140 and at a time for passing the second vehicle 120 following vehicles 130 . 140 , Time can be a time when the second vehicle 120 following vehicles 130 . 140 a stationary point, ie a point on the roadside happen.

In 1 (c) are one or more detection devices of the stationary system 150 assigned. The second vehicle 120 moves near the stationary plant 150 , In one situation, the second vehicle is moving 120 near the stationary facility 150 like arrow 121 displays. The stationary plant 150 associated detection device is arranged so that it is the situation of the second vehicle 120 appraises while the stationary plant 150 and the second vehicle 120 are close to each other. It also becomes clear that the stationary plant 150 alternatively or additionally has detection means for assessing other vehicles located in the vicinity of the stationary plant 150 move past. The detection device can be in the stationary system 150 be integrated or communicatively coupled with it, such as by means of a wired or wireless data connection. For example, the detection device can be mounted on a roadway on which the second vehicle 120 and the second vehicle 120 following vehicles 130 . 140 move.

2 (a) shows a vehicle 110 according to an embodiment of the invention. The vehicle 110 may be the first in 1 illustrated vehicle 110 be. The vehicle shown may also be the second vehicle 120 be. The vehicle 110 includes information on subsequent vehicles (FVI) in the form of an FVI module 200 according to an embodiment of the invention. The FVI module 200 serves to determine and make available information about subsequent vehicles. The information of subsequent vehicles may be another vehicle, as described above, for example, the second vehicle 120 , to provide.

The FVI module 200 consists of a control device 210 which may include one or more processing devices. The one or more processing devices may, in operation, execute computer instructions in the form of computer software. The FVI module 200 includes storage means 220 which may comprise one or more electronic storage devices communicatively coupled to the one or more processing devices. The storage device (s) may store the computer software executable by the processing device (s) and, during execution of the computer software, data such as data relating to the FVI of the second vehicle 120 refer, save. The FVI module 200 includes input means associated with the control device 210 are communicatively coupled, wherein the input means of one or more detection devices ( 230 . 240 ) Receive information about other vehicles. The FVI module 200 Also includes output means associated with the controller 210 communicatively coupled, the output means for outputting information from the control means to a communication means ( 250 ) for wireless transmission.

The vehicle 110 consists of one or more detection devices 230 . 240 , The detection devices are suitable for determining information about other vehicles in the vicinity of the vehicle 110 , In the 2 illustrated one or more detection devices 230 . 240 are forward looking, taking into account the use of otherwise oriented detectors. For example, one or more Detection devices may be arranged to provide information about others generally adjacent to the vehicle 110 to determine located vehicles, ie lateral detection device. The detection device 230 . 240 includes one or more detection devices 230 . 240 for determining one or more features of an environment in the vicinity of the vehicle 110 , The environment may be at a predetermined distance from the vehicle, eg at a distance of 500 meters or 250 meters from the vehicle, although other distances may be considered and the respective detection means 230 . 240 can be connected to a corresponding, ie different detection distance. The detection device 230 . 240 may be an existing detection device of the vehicle 110 be, ie used for other purposes such as safety or steering purposes. At least part of the one or more detection devices 230 . 240 can be on a front of the vehicle 110 be arranged, for. One or more behind a grille on a front of the vehicle 110 or in an area of a windshield of the vehicle 110 are attached. It is understood that when using a variety of detection devices 230 . 240 no collocation is required.

The detection device 230 . 240 may also be, for example, with one or more emergency braking systems of the vehicle 110 or a cruise control system of the vehicle. A first detection device 230 can be a first device 230 As a radar or laser device to be a distance to an object, such as another vehicle, generally in front of the vehicle 110 to determine. It goes without saying that in general in front of the vehicle 110 also objects in front of the vehicle 110 may be included, but before, but on a different lane of a multi-lane road or highway, as the second vehicle 120 ,

The first device 230 is arranged to emit radiation during operation and receive radiation reflected from the object or vehicle to firstly determine the existence of the object or vehicle and secondly to determine a distance therefrom. A second detection device 240 can be a second device 240 be, for example, an imaging device 240 , The imaging device 240 For determining image data, for example with a series of images that can form video data, a region of the environment in the vicinity of the vehicle 110 be arranged. The imaging device 240 For example, supplied image data may be used to determine traffic signs such as speed limit information and to detect the presence of people, ie pedestrians, in a path of the vehicle 110 , but other applications of the imaging device 240 are provided. Other detection means may be arranged to detect the presence of another vehicle generally adjacent to the vehicle 110 to determine. It goes without saying that the phrase "generally beside" the vehicle 110 Also may include objects that are next to the vehicle 110 are located, but not aligned with, ie in front of or behind, but in a different lane of a multi-lane road or highway, such as the second vehicle 120 ,

The vehicle 110 includes a means of communication 250 , The communication means enables the wireless communication to display the information of subsequent vehicles to another vehicle, eg the second vehicle 120 , The means of communication 250 does not necessarily have to be directly with a means of communication of the second vehicle 120 communicate. The means of communication 250 can operatively communicate with one or more intermediate communication systems, networks or computer systems. For example, the communication means 250 of the vehicle 110 be configured to operate in communication with a communication infrastructure associated with the traffic infrastructure, which may include one or more server computers configured to control the traffic infrastructure including one or more traffic flow control devices. For example, although it will be appreciated that other traffic flow control devices, including the server computers, may be used, the traffic flow control device may consist of one or more traffic lights. For example, the traffic flow controller may consist of one or more traffic lights, although it will be appreciated that other traffic flow controllers, including server computers, may be used arranged to give instructions to vehicles within a predetermined region or zone as to how these vehicles to move through the zone, ie a travel speed etc. for these vehicles.

In some embodiments, as in 2 B) shown, the FVI module 200 , the detection device 230 . 240 and the means of communication 250 the stationary plant 150 be assigned. The FVI module 200 serves to determine and make available information of subsequent vehicles. The information of subsequent vehicles may be a vehicle, as described above, for example, the second vehicle 120 or another vehicle. The stationary plant 150 may be connected to a traffic infrastructure that may include one or more server computers, which are set up to regulate the traffic infrastructure including one or more traffic flow control devices. For example, the traffic flow control device may consist of one or more traffic lights, although it will be appreciated that other traffic flow control devices, including server computers, may be used arranged to direct the vehicles within a predetermined region or zone as these vehicles pass through to move the zone, ie a travel speed etc. for these vehicles.

As in 1 (c) shown, the stationary plant 150 the FVI to another vehicle, for example to the first vehicle 110 , convey as by means of arrow 160 shown. In other embodiments, the stationary plant 150 transmit the FVI to the transport infrastructure, as in this example to the traffic lights 190 represented by arrow 165 , or to the second vehicle 120 for which the FVI is determined, as indicated by arrow 170 shown.

Coming back to 1 (b) is arrow 180 an indication of the transmission of information from the second vehicle 120 to the infrastructure, in this case to the traffic lights 190 , A more detailed description of this transmission can be found below.

In the further described embodiments of the invention, the communication means 250 as operably described communicating directly with a corresponding communication means of another vehicle, it being clear from the preceding that this is not absolutely necessary. The means of communication 250 may work according to a wireless communication protocol. The wireless communication protocol may be WLAN or a protocol based thereon. For example, the communication means may proceed according to a vehicle-to-vehicle protocol (V2V), which may be a form of ad hoc networking of vehicles (VANET). The wireless communication protocol may be, for example, IEEE 802.11p or a standard based thereon. While some specific protocols are mentioned, it is clear that these are merely illustrative and that the means of communication 250 can work according to another protocol. The means of communication 250 may be formed by a communication module or a system of the vehicle, the one or more around the vehicle 110 connected for wireless communication attached antennas.

The one or more detection devices 230 . 240 and the communication device 250 are with the FVI module 200 communicatively coupled. The coupling can be done using a communication bus (not shown) of the vehicle 110 be achieved. The communication bus of the vehicle may be an IP-based communication bus, with components and systems of the vehicle 110 Represent nodes in a local area network (LAN) of the vehicle to allow data communication between them. The communication bus of the vehicle may be Ethernet based; however, it is clear that the bus can be based on other LAN protocols.

In operation is the FVI module 200 arranged so that it is from one or more detection devices 230 . 240 Receive data indicating one or more attributes of the environment in the vicinity of the vehicle. The FVI module determines from the received data 200 Information of subsequent vehicles that one or more other vehicles following another vehicle 130 . 140 , for example, the in 1 illustrated second vehicle 120 , assigned. The FVI module 200 is further arranged so that it via the communication device 250 of the vehicle 110 a representation of the information transmitted by subsequent vehicles. The representation is, as described above, directly or indirectly to the other vehicle, eg the second vehicle 120 , transmitted. The representation may be at the request of the second vehicle 120 for information of subsequent vehicles.

3 shows a method 300 according to an embodiment of the invention. The procedure 300 is a method for determining information of subsequent vehicles according to an embodiment of the invention.

The procedure 300 includes determining 310 the information of subsequent vehicles (FVI). The determining 310 takes place when the first vehicle 110 within a detection distance to the second vehicle 120 located. It goes without saying that the detection distance refers to a distance over which the detection devices are capable of determining the existence or the presence of the second vehicle 120 and one or more subsequent vehicles.

While in the in 1 (a) illustrated situation, the first and the second vehicle 110 . 120 approach each other, or while the second vehicle 120 the stationary first vehicle 110 approaching, is the FVI module 200 of the first vehicle 110 arranged to determine the FVI, referring to one or more of the second vehicle 120 following vehicles 130 . 140 refer as by arrow 115 shown. In the in 1 (b) The situation presented is the FVI module 200 of the first vehicle 110 arranged so that the FVI 120 be determined while the second vehicle and subsequent vehicles 130 . 140 on the first vehicle 110 move and then pass this.

In one embodiment, determining 310 the FVI performed as soon as the stationary facility 150 at a detection distance to the second vehicle 120 located. It goes without saying that the detection distance refers to a distance over which the detection devices are capable of determining the existence or the presence of the second vehicle 120 and one or more subsequent vehicles.

In the in 1 (c) illustrated situation in which the second vehicle 120 near the stationary facility 150 located, such. B. when approaching or passing, as indicated by arrow 121 is the FVI module 200 the stationary plant 150 arranged to the FVI with respect to the one or more the second vehicle 120 following vehicles 130 . 140 to determine.

While determining the information of subsequent vehicles 310 receives the FVI module 200 Data from one or more detection devices 230 . 240 containing the one or more subsequent vehicles 130 . 140 Show. From those of the detection devices 230 . 240 supplied data determines the FVI module 200 the presence of one or more of the second vehicle 120 subsequent vehicles, ie that subsequent vehicles 130 . 140 available. In some embodiments, the FVI module determines 200 optionally a number of the second vehicle 120 following vehicles. The number of vehicles may be based on the presence of gaps between each of the following vehicles 130 . 140 determined, with indicative data z. B. by the radar or laser device 230 or the imaging device 240 can be delivered. In some embodiments, the FVI module determines 200 the total length of the following vehicles 130 . 140 that is, a distance from a front side of a first of the following vehicles 130 to a back of a last of the following vehicles 140 , or a time taken by the following vehicles 130 . 140 is required to pass a stationary point, ie a time in seconds required by the following vehicles to pass the stationary point.

After determining 310 The information of subsequent vehicles is accompanied by the presentation of the FVI 320 transmitted. In some embodiments, the representation of the FVI is from the first vehicle 110 transmitted. As described above, the representation of the first vehicle 110 via the communication device 250 from the FVI module 200 be communicated. The presentation can be a message with the FVI. The message may contain information indicating the number of the second vehicle 120 following vehicles 130 . 140 , a total length of the following vehicles 130 . 140 and a time for passing the second vehicle 120 following vehicles 130 . 140 specify. Time can be a time when the second vehicle 120 following vehicles 130 . 140 a stationary point, ie a point on the roadside happen. The communication of the FVI 320 Can be done when the first vehicle 110 in communication range of the second vehicle 120 ie within a distance at which direct wireless communication between the vehicles is effective. In some embodiments, where indirect communication is used, the communication may be 320 however after the determination process 310 be carried out, ie without the first and the second vehicle 110 . 120 capable of direct communication, but using one or more intermediary communication systems.

In some embodiments, the representation of the FVI is from the stationary plant 150 transmitted 320th The representation can from the stationary plant 150 via the communication device 250 from the FVI module 200 be transmitted. The communication 320 can be done when the stationary plant 150 in communication range of the second vehicle 120 ie, within a distance at which direct wireless communication between them is effective. In some cases, where indirect communication is used, communication may be 320 however, following step 310 be carried out, ie without the stationary system 150 and the second vehicle 120 communicate directly, but instead using one or more intermediary communication systems. In other embodiments, the representation of the FVI is from the stationary plant 150 transmitted to the transport infrastructure. The representation of the FVI may be from the stationary facility 150 to a computer associated with the traffic infrastructure, such as one or more traffic lights, are transmitted to control a traffic flow based thereon.

As a result of the procedure 300 will become one or both of the second vehicle 120 and the transport infrastructure with information about any subsequent vehicles supplies. The second vehicle 120 can use this information for yourself. For example, the second vehicle may determine a driving performance based on the FVI, such as determining a braking force to be applied depending on the number of following vehicles. The second vehicle 120 The FVI can also provide a traffic infrastructure system.

As in 1 (b) shown, the second vehicle 120 the FVI over the connection 180 to one of the transport infrastructure 190 assigned receiving device. In one embodiment, as in 1 (c) shown, the stationary plant 150 the FVI over the connection 165 transmitted to a receiving device assigned to the traffic infrastructure. In one embodiment, the stationary plant 150 be assigned to the transport infrastructure. In this embodiment, the FVI may be handed over from the stationary plant directly to the traffic infrastructure. The traffic infrastructure may consist of one or more traffic flow control devices such as the traffic lights 190 consist. The FVI may be the infrastructure 190 tell you how many consecutive vehicles 130 . 140 are present or how long it takes for the following vehicles 130 . 140 happen. In this way, the transport infrastructure can adapt according to the FVI. In 1 (b) or 1 (c) For example, the state of traffic lights may change due to the received FVI. The change of state may be to set a period of time to green so that subsequent vehicles 130 . 140 the traffic lights 190 can happen.

4 shows a method 400 according to an embodiment of the invention. The procedure 400 is a method for determining information of subsequent vehicles according to an embodiment of the invention.

The procedure 400 involves transmitting a request 410 , The request is transmitted in response to a desire for improved situational awareness. The request may be from a vehicle, in particular from the second vehicle 120 , be transmitted. The request is from a wireless communication device of the vehicle 120 transfer. The requirement refers to information of subsequent vehicles (FVI). The request may include, in some embodiments, a representation of existing or current downstream vehicle information (cFVI). The cFVI can come from a vehicle 120 associated memory, such as the memory 220 of the VFI module 200 , be related. The cFVI deliver for the vehicle 120 accessible information about currently following vehicles. For example, the cFVI can identify a number of vehicles that are believed to be in the vehicle 120 follow. As you can see, the cFVI may be outdated as it was previously from the second vehicle 120 related, for example, received. Therefore, the FVI module can 200 of the second vehicle 120 try to update the FVI. The request may also include information for identifying the second vehicle 120 included, thus the second vehicle 120 Updated FVI can be delivered.

The procedure 400 also includes receiving the request 420 , The request may be at the first vehicle 110 received. The request may be indirect from the second vehicle 120 after passing through one or more intermediate communication networks or systems to the first vehicle 110 was transferred. The first vehicle 110 receives the request via the communication device 250 ; the request is then sent to the FVI module 200 made available. The FVI module 200 can determine from the information contained in the request which vehicle the request came from.

In some embodiments, the requirement is at the stationary plant 150 420. The request may be indirect from the second vehicle 120 after being sent to the stationary facility via one or more intermediate communication networks or systems 150 was transferred. The stationary plant 150 receives the request via the communication device 250 ; the request is then sent to the FVI module 200 made available. The FVI module 200 can determine from the information contained in the request which equipment or vehicle originated the request.

The first vehicle 110 certainly 430 FVI for the second vehicle 120 as described above. The FVI module 200 of the first vehicle 110 may detect the presence of one or more subsequent vehicles, eg one or more of the second vehicle 120 subsequent vehicles 130 . 140 ie, that subsequent vehicles 130 . 140 available. The FVI module 200 may determine that no vehicles are following the second vehicle. In some embodiments, the FVI module may 200 the number of the second vehicle 120 determine subsequent vehicles. In some embodiments, the FVI module may 200 of the first vehicle 110 the total length of the following vehicles 130 determine, ie the distance from a front of the first of the following vehicles 130 to the back of a last of the following vehicles 140 , or a time to pass a stationary point by the following vehicles 130 . 140 ie the time in seconds that the following ones vehicles 130 . 140 need to pass the stationary point. As described above, the FVI module determines 200 the FVI based on the data obtained from one or more the first vehicle 110 associated detection devices 230 . 240 received.

In some embodiments, the FVI module may 200 the stationary plant 150 determine the presence of any subsequent vehicle 430, such as one or more of the second vehicle 120 subsequent vehicles 130 . 140 ie, that subsequent vehicles 130 . 140 available. The FVI module 200 may determine that no vehicles are following the second vehicle. In some embodiments, the FVI module may 200 the number of the second vehicle 120 determine subsequent vehicles. In some embodiments, the FVI module may 200 the stationary plant 150 the total length of the following vehicles 130 determine, ie the distance from a front of the first of the following vehicles 130 to the back of a last of the following vehicles 140 , or a time to pass a stationary point by the following vehicles 130 . 140 ie the time in seconds that the following vehicles 130 . 140 need to pass the stationary point. As described above, 430 determines the FVI module 200 the FVI based on data obtained from one or more of the stationary facility 150 associated detection devices 230 . 240 received.

It becomes a provision 440 carried out whether the newly determined information of subsequent vehicles nFVI with the cFVI, during the request 420 were received, match, ie are the same. If the newly determined information of subsequent vehicles nFVI is equal to the received cFVI, then the procedure can 400 end, because the second vehicle 120 has applicable or current FVI. In some embodiments, the FVI module may 200 of the first vehicle 110 a confirmation to the second vehicle 120 that indicates the accuracy or timeliness of the cFVI. In some embodiments, the FVI module may 200 the stationary plant 150 a confirmation to the second vehicle 120 indicating that the cFVI is accurate or up-to-date. If the newly determined information of subsequent vehicles, nFVI, does not match the received cFVI, the procedure moves to the next stage 450 above.

wobei nFVI die neuen FVI, d.h. die in Stufe 430 ermittelten FVI sind.During the stage 450 determines the FVI module 200 of the first vehicle 110 the differential information of subsequent vehicles (dFVI). The dFVI represent a difference between the one in stage 430 newly determined information of subsequent vehicles, nFVI, and the one from step 420 received cFVI. The dFVI can be determined as follows: $$\text{dFVI}=\text{nFVI}-\text{cFVI}$$

where nFVI is the new FVI, ie the in stage 430 determined FVI.

The dFVIs are from the FVI module 200 the communication device 250 of the first vehicle 110 transmitted 450 and to the second vehicle 120 transfer. In this way, the second vehicle receives information for updating the existing FVI of the second vehicle 120 that is, the previous to the first vehicle 110 sent and from the first vehicle 110 cFVIs that are not considered up-to-date will be replaced or updated. Subsequently, the second vehicle 120 the FVI one or more receiving devices, such as one of the transport infrastructure 190 assigned receiving device, such as traffic lights, as described above, provide.

In one embodiment, the in step 450 specific dFVI through the FVI module 200 the stationary plant 150 certainly. The dFVIs are from the FVI module 200 to the communication device 250 the stationary plant 150 transmitted and to the second vehicle 120 transfer. The previously to the stationary plant 150 sent and from the stationary facility 150 cFVIs that are not considered up-to-date may be replaced or updated.

It is understood that the embodiments of the present invention allow for a better situational awareness by the vehicles, in particular information about subsequent vehicles that can be used by the vehicles or the traffic infrastructure.

It is understood that embodiments of the invention may be implemented in the form of hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software. Any such software may be stored in the form of volatile or nonvolatile memory, such as a memory device such as a read only memory (ROM), whether erasable or overwritable or not, or in the form of a memory such as random access memory (RAM). , in the form of memory chips, devices or integrated circuits, or an optically or magnetically readable medium (otherwise referred to herein as a computer-readable medium), such as a CD, DVD, magnetic disk or magnetic tape. It is understood that memory devices and storage media are embodiments of a machine-readable memory that are capable of storing one or more programs that implement embodiments of the invention. Accordingly, embodiments provide a program that includes code to implement a system or method as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, and a machine-readable memory in which that program is stored. Furthermore, embodiments of the invention may be transmitted electronically via a data carrier, such as via a communication signal transmitted via a wired connection or a wireless connection, and embodiments may include the same.

All of the features disclosed herein (including any appended claims, summaries, and drawings) and / or all of the steps of any such disclosed methods and acts may be combined as desired, except for combinations in which at least some of these features and / or steps are interrelated exclude each other.

Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any appended claims, abstracts, and drawings) may be substituted for alternative features that serve the same or a similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is but one example of a common set of corresponding or similar features.

The invention is not limited to the details of the above embodiments. The invention extends to any novel feature or combination of features disclosed in this specification (including any appended claims, summaries and drawings) or any novel or novel combination of the steps of any such disclosed methods and procedures. The claims should not be construed to cover only the above embodiments, but any embodiments falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims (15)

A method (300, 400) for determining information of subsequent vehicles, comprising: Determining (310, 430) information of subsequent vehicles, nFVI, which relate to one or more object vehicles (130, 140) following a vehicle (120) by one or more detection devices (230, 240) associated with a first vehicle (110 ) or a stationary plant (150) are assigned, and Transmitting (320, 450) a representation of the information of subsequent vehicles from a first communication means (250), which is associated with the first vehicle (110) or the stationary plant (150), to a second communication means (250), which the respective vehicle ( 120) is assigned. Method (300, 400) after Claim 1 transceiver (410) transmitting (410) a request for the information of subsequent vehicles, nFVI, from the second communication means (250) associated with the examined vehicle (120) and receiving (420) the request for the information of subsequent vehicles, nFVI, at the first Communication means (250) associated with the first vehicle (110) or the stationary facility (150). Method (300, 400) after Claim 2 wherein the request comprises presentation of information of existing following vehicles, cFVI, associated with the particular vehicle, the method (300, 400) optionally comprising: comparing (440) the received information of existing following vehicles, cFVI, with the determined ones Information of subsequent vehicles, nFVI, by a controller (210) to determine the differential information of subsequent vehicles, dFVI, wherein transmitting the representation of the information of subsequent vehicles comprises transmitting (320, 450) a representation of the differential information of subsequent vehicles, dFVI to the second communication means (250) associated with the examined vehicle (120). The method (300, 400) of any preceding claim wherein the vehicle under test (120) is a second vehicle. Method (300, 400) one of Claims 1 to 4 wherein the one or more detection means (230, 240) and control means (210) are associated with a stationary plant (150), optionally the stationary plant (150) being associated with a traffic infrastructure. The method (300, 400) of any preceding claim comprising transmitting (320, 450) the presentation of the information of subsequent vehicles from the second communication means (250) associated with the examined vehicle (120) to a communication means (250) associated with the traffic infrastructure, optionally the communication means (250) associated with the traffic infrastructure is associated with one or more traffic flow control devices; where appropriate, the Traffic flow control device consists of one or more traffic lights (190); or where appropriate, if it is directly or indirectly from Claim 5 depending on the traffic infrastructure associated communication means (250) of the stationary system (150) are assigned. The method (300, 400) of any preceding claim, wherein the presentation of the information of subsequent vehicles indicates a number of object vehicles (130, 140) following the vehicle (120) under investigation, and / or wherein the representation of the information of subsequent vehicles is a length of that one Vehicle (120) subsequent object vehicles (130, 140) displays, and / or wherein the representation of the information of subsequent vehicles displays a time for the object vehicles (130, 140) can pass, where appropriate, the time is a time to a stationary point and / or wherein the one or more detectors (230, 240) are associated with the first vehicle (110) and are front-facing detectors with respect to the first vehicle (110), and / or wherein determining the information is subsequent Vehicles by one or more detection means (230, 240) is performed when the examined te vehicle (120) and any of the examined vehicle (120) subsequent object vehicles (130, 140) a first vehicle (110) or a stationary system (150) to pass in close proximity. Method (300, 400) after Claim 4 wherein determining the information of subsequent vehicles is performed by one or more detectors (230, 240) when the inspected vehicle (120) and the one or more object vehicles (130, 140) following the inspected vehicle (102) in one of first vehicle (110) opposite direction. Information module (200) of subsequent vehicles, comprising: Input means for receiving data from one or more detectors (230, 240) associated with a first vehicle (110) or a stationary unit (150) indicating presence of any one of the examined vehicles (120) of subsequent object vehicles (130, 140), a controller (210) for determining information of subsequent vehicles, nFVI, associated with any object vehicles (130, 140) following the vehicle under test (120), and Output means for outputting a representation of the information of subsequent vehicles to a wireless communication means (250) associated with the first vehicle (110) or the stationary equipment (150). Module (200) after Claim 9 wherein the control device (210) is arranged to receive (420) via the input means a request for the information of subsequent vehicles (420) and to determine the information of subsequent vehicles in dependence on the request, wherein the request may be a representation of the information of existing subsequent vehicles, cFVI, associated with the respective vehicle (120); wherein the controller (210) is optionally arranged to compare (440) the received information of existing following vehicles, cFVI, with the determined information of subsequent vehicles, nFVI, to determine the subsequent vehicle differential information, dFVI. Module after Claim 9 or 10 wherein the controller (210) is arranged to output, via an output device, a representation of the differential information of subsequent wireless transmission vehicles (320, 450), optionally displaying the information of subsequent vehicles indicating one or more of the following: a number of object vehicles (130, 140) following the inspected vehicle (120), a length of object vehicles (130, 140) following the inspected vehicle (120), and a time for passing the subsequent object vehicles (130, 140) ; if necessary, the time is a time for passing a stationary point. A system for determining information of subsequent vehicles, comprising: one or more detection devices (230, 240) associated with a first vehicle (110) or a stationary facility (150) for outputting data indicative of a presence of a vehicle, and Information module (200) of subsequent vehicles arranged to receive the data from the one or more detection devices (230, 240) associated with a first vehicle (110) or a stationary facility (150), and information subsequent thereto To determine vehicles indicative of any object vehicle (130, 140) following an inspected vehicle (120) and to output a representation of the information of subsequent vehicles, optionally including the one or more detectors (230, 240) corresponding to a first vehicle Vehicle (110) or a stationary plant (150) are assigned, one or more of the following include: an acoustic, radiative or optical detection device for determining a distance to an object. Vehicle (110) comprising: one or more detection means (230, 240) for outputting data indicating the presence of a vehicle, a subsequent vehicle information module (200) configured to receive the data from the detection devices (230, 240) and to determine information of subsequent vehicles indicative of further vehicles (130, 140) following a second vehicle (120), and output a representation of the information of subsequent vehicles, and Communication means (250) arranged to receive the presentation of subsequent vehicles from the information module (200) and transmit the presentation wirelessly, wherein if so, when the detection means (230, 240) are associated with the vehicle (110), the detection means (230, 240) are front-facing detectors with respect to the vehicle (110). Computer software adapted, when executed by a computer, to perform a method according to any one of Claims 1 to 8th perform; optionally, the computer software is stored on a computer readable medium. Vehicle (110) arranged to perform a method according to any one of Claims 1 to 8th comprising an information module (200) of subsequent vehicles according to one of Claims 9 to 11 or a system according to Claim 12 ,

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