Method for operating a lighting device for illuminating a motor vehicle passenger compartment, lighting device and motor vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for operating a lighting device for illuminating the interior of a motor vehicle, - wherein the lighting device has a luminous area comprising light sources through which light is emitted into the interior, - wherein the lighting device includes a luminaire unit by means of which the light is generated that is emitted via the luminaires, - wherein the light sources can be switched to a dark mode and a light mode, such that the light emitted from the light source in the light mode is brighter than the light emitted from the light source in the dark mode, - where a user specifies a light distribution that indicates whether the light source should be in bright mode or dark mode, - wherein a sensing area of ​​a sensor device arranged on or at the illuminating area is provided to specify the light distribution, wherein a desired bright area of ​​the illuminating area, in which the illuminating point or all illuminating points arranged therein are to be in bright mode, can be specified by the user touching an area of ​​the sensing area corresponding to the bright area, - whereby control signals are generated based on the light distribution and output to the lighting unit, so that the light distribution is implemented.

Description

[0001] Method for operating a lighting device for illuminating the passenger compartment of a motor vehicle.

[0002] Especially in modern vehicles, lighting systems in the passenger compartment no longer serve merely as illumination for getting in and out. The aspect of well-being is increasingly coming into focus. Thus, so-called ambient lighting is frequently used recently, generating a soft light that facilitates orientation within the passenger compartment. Particularly in vehicles with automated or autonomous driving capabilities, interior lighting also becomes relevant for occupant activities unrelated to driving. For example, it is conceivable that the lighting system could generate switchable reading lights that illuminate only a specific area of ​​the passenger compartment, such as for reading a book.

[0003] DE 10 2017 061 A1 discloses a concept for a lighting device mounted on a vehicle's headliner, comprising array-like light sources and a touch-sensitive surface. Light sources can be selectively switched on and off by tapping the surface.

[0004] DE 103 36 283 A1 discloses a roof panel for a motor vehicle, comprising a light field and a separate light element by means of which targeted light emission can be generated. The light element can be switched separately, for example by means of a touch-screen switch integrated into a panel assembly of the surface light element.

[0005] The present invention aims to provide an improved concept for a lighting device for illuminating the passenger compartment of a motor vehicle, particularly with regard to low-effort implementation and ease of use.

[0006] According to the invention, the problem is solved by means of the method of the type mentioned at the outset, - wherein the lighting device has a lighting area comprising several differently positioned light sources, each of which emits light into the occupant compartment, - wherein the lighting device has at least one luminaire by means of which the light is generated which is emitted from at least one of the luminaires, - wherein each of the light sources can be switched to a dark mode and a light mode such that the light emitted from the light source in the light mode is brighter than the light emitted from the light source in the dark mode, - where a user specifies a desired light distribution, which indicates for each light source whether the respective light source should be in bright mode or dark mode, - wherein a sensing area of ​​a sensor device arranged on or at the illuminating area is provided to specify the desired light distribution, wherein a desired bright area of ​​the illuminating area, in which the luminaire or all luminaires arranged therein are to be in bright mode, can be specified by the user touching an area of ​​the sensing area corresponding to the bright area, - wherein at least one control signal is generated by means of a control device and based on the desired light distribution and output to at least one lighting unit, so that the desired light distribution is implemented.

[0007] The invention is based on the idea that, by means of the lighting device and its various operating modes (dark mode and light mode), different functionalities can be realized via one and the same lighting device, which can be controlled by the user or occupant present in the passenger compartment. Thus, with the present invention, it is not necessary to provide a separate lighting device for each of these functionalities. Instead, the lighting device can be used synergistically for several functionalities. This results in a saving of required components and consequently a reduction in the required installation space, resulting weight, and costs.

[0008] The passenger compartment refers to the interior space of a motor vehicle where the occupants typically sit while the vehicle is in motion. It can also be called the passenger cell. The passenger compartment contains seats and, if applicable, a rear bench seat. It also typically includes a console, such as a dashboard and / or a center console located between the driver and front passenger seats. Access to the passenger compartment is usually via the vehicle doors. A view to the outside is provided by the vehicle's windows, such as the windshield, rear window, and side windows.

[0009] The lighting device comprises several light sources. Light is emitted from the lighting device via each of these light sources, and the total light emitted from all light sources constitutes the total light generated by the lighting device. To emit the light generated by the lighting device into the passenger compartment, each light source preferably forms part of a surface of the lighting device facing the passenger compartment. This part of the surface of the lighting device, in particular, defines the illuminated area. The illuminated area can be defined either by being composed of all the light sources or by the arrangement of the light sources within the illuminated area. It is essential that the light sources are arranged at different locations or positions within the illuminated area. The light sources can be planar or point-like sections of the illuminated area.

[0010] The light sources can each be implemented using a transparent disc. The disc can be made of glass or plastic. The disc can be a diffusing disc, which diffusely scatters the light passing through it. To achieve a desired degree of diffusion, the disc can have a corresponding scattering property. The disc can be designed such that the light passes through it with virtually no scattering or, in particular, is scattered uniformly in all directions of emission. At least one common disc can be provided for at least two of the light sources, preferably for all light sources.

[0011] It is also conceivable that the light generated in dark mode and the light generated in light mode exit the lighting device with different degrees of diffusion. For example, only the light generated in dark mode or only the light generated in light mode could exit through a single disc. It is also conceivable that different discs or disc sections with different diffusion properties are provided for the light generated in dark mode and the light generated in light mode.

[0012] The light emitted into the passenger compartment is generated beneath the lighting unit. The lighting unit therefore comprises at least one light source, which may be a light-emitting diode (LED). Preferably, several lighting units are provided, each assigned to at least one light point. If a lighting unit is assigned to a light point, this means that the light generated by this lighting unit, or at least a portion thereof, is emitted via this light point. Preferably, the number of lighting units corresponds to the number of light points, with the lighting units being bijectively assigned to the light points. The light generated by each light point can be produced directly at or within the light point, or it can be generated at a location spaced away from the respective light point and then directed to the light point.

[0013] The light sources can be set to either dark mode or light mode. These modes differ in the brightness of the light generated by the respective light source. Brightness can be understood as radiant power, for example, relative to the visually visible range of the electromagnetic spectrum. It is conceivable that the lighting unit can generate light of different colors. Thus, the modes could also differ in terms of the color of the light.

[0014] By means of at least one lighting unit, the light can be generated in such a way that different lighting points can be in different operating modes simultaneously. Specifically, at least two, and in particular all, lighting points can be operated simultaneously in different operating modes.

[0015] The user specifies the desired light distribution. This assigns a mapping value to each light source, indicating whether the respective light source should be in bright mode or dark mode. In the first case, the mapping value is a brightness value, and in the second, a dark value. The mapping value can be binary. The desired light distribution can also be referred to as a mapping rule. The desired light distribution can be represented as a data set in which the mapping value is assigned to each light source.The control device, which may be a component of the motor vehicle or the lighting device, is designed to generate at least one control signal based on the existing, desired light distribution and to output it to the at least one lighting unit, so that a light distribution actually generated by means of the lighting device corresponds to the desired light distribution.

[0016] The control device can include a storage medium on which executable instructions, i.e., a computer program, are stored. Specifically, the executable instructions can be executed by means of an execution unit of the control device, which is in particular a computer. This execution unit generates and outputs the at least one control signal, taking into account or depending on the desired light distribution.

[0017] To define the desired light distribution, it is conceivable that this is initially based on an output distribution in which all light sources can be in dark mode. In the output distribution, the dark value is thus available as the assignment information for each light source. Based on a user-defined specification regarding the desired light distribution, at least one bright area is determined, which in particular represents a section of the illuminated area in which all light sources should be in bright mode. Given the user-defined specification, an existing light distribution or the output distribution is modified to generate the desired light distribution such that the assignment information for the light sources located within the sub-area is changed from dark value to bright value or remains at the bright value.

[0018] To define the light distribution, a sensor device or sensing area is provided, which implements a touch sensor. The sensor device comprises the sensing area and, if necessary, a control unit connected to the sensing area. When the user touches the sensing area, corresponding sensor signals are generated and sent to the control unit or control device. The sensor signals indicate the location or position within the sensing area where the touch occurred. The control unit or control device is then configured to generate the desired light distribution based on these sensor signals.

[0019] The sensing area preferably comprises several sensing points, wherein, upon contact with one of the sensing points by the sensor device, at least one sensor signal specific to the respective sensing point is generated. The respective specific sensor signal not only provides information that contact with the sensing area has occurred, but also indicates which sensing point was specifically affected. Preferably, each sensing point is assigned to one of the light sources. Specifically, each sensing point can be assigned to exactly one of the light sources, particularly according to a bijective assignment. In particular, if each of the light sources is assigned to exactly one light source, it is conceivable that each sensing point is assigned to one of the light sources. This assignment can be stored as a lookup table.This assignment allows the user to determine which light points selected via touch are to be assigned to the bright area. In this way, the light points of the bright area can be determined using the specific sensor signals and this assignment.

[0020] According to the invention, the sensing area is arranged on or adjacent to the illumination area. Thus, the sensing area and the illumination area correspond to each other, such that each point or section of the sensing area is assigned to a point or section of the illumination area. The sensing area and the illumination area can be identical. In particular, if the illumination area is designed as a strip or band, then the sensing area can also be designed as a strip or band and be arranged directly next to the illumination area or, in other words, extend alongside the illumination area. The proximity between the illumination area and the sensing area allows the user to intuitively specify or select specific points or areas of the illumination area by means of a corresponding touch of the sensing area.

[0021] By touching the sensor area, the user can increase the brightness of the light emitted by the lighting device in the specifically selectable section of the illuminated area that defines the bright zone. The ability to adjust the brightness levels for different areas of the illuminated zone and to flexibly define sections with increased brightness realizes the aforementioned advantage of using the lighting device for various functional purposes.

[0022] It is therefore conceivable that ambient lighting or contour lighting could be generated using the light source(s) operating in dark mode. Ambient lighting creates a lighting situation in the passenger compartment that is sufficiently dim to create a relaxed atmosphere, yet bright enough to allow the occupant to orient themselves and find their way around. The light generated by the lighting system can be a color, particularly a relaxing one, such as blue or violet. The light generated in dark mode can be diffused into the passenger compartment. Contour lighting highlights the edges of the passenger compartment, thus also aiding orientation.

[0023] It is conceivable that a reading light could be generated by means of the light source(s) that are in bright mode. The reading light is sufficiently bright to allow reading in at least one section of the passenger compartment. The reading light is preferably white. The reading light can be emitted directed into the passenger compartment. In this way, the direction of propagation of the reading light can be specifically directed from the lighting device to the seat in the passenger compartment that is closest to the respective light source.

[0024] According to the invention, the control device can generate at least one control signal upon the presence of a dark signal and output it to at least one lighting unit such that all lighting units are switched to dark mode or remain in dark mode. The dark signal, which implements a reset function, causes a state to be reached in which all lighting units are operating in dark mode. Specifically, the presence of the dark signal can cause the currently desired light distribution to be changed such that the assignment information for all lighting units is changed from the light value to the dark value or remains in the dark value. Specifically, the presence of the dark signal can cause the currently desired light distribution to be replaced by the output distribution.According to this design, in particular, all bright areas or all sections of the illuminated area that provide a reading light are switched back to dark mode, so that only ambient lighting or contour lighting is generated.

[0025] Similarly, it is conceivable that, by means of the control device and upon the presence of a light signal, at least one control signal is generated and output to the at least one lighting unit in such a way that all lighting units are switched to bright mode or remain in bright mode. The light signal causes a state to be reached in which all existing lighting units are operated in bright mode, so that the lighting device generates the greatest possible brightness. This is useful, for example, when searching for an object indoors and a bright lighting situation is required. Specifically, the presence of the light signal can cause the currently existing, desired light distribution to be changed such that the assignment information for all lighting units is changed from dark value to light value or remains in light value.

[0026] An input device implementing a human-machine interface may be provided and used. The user can generate control commands or specifications via this input device. The input device may be a touchscreen or include other components. It may be a component of the vehicle, located, for example, in the passenger compartment, such as on a vehicle console. It is conceivable that the dark signal and / or the light signal are generated by the input device when the user performs an action on the device aimed at generating the dark signal or the light signal.The user can be enabled to specify the dark signal or the light signal by displaying a control menu for the operation of the lighting device via the input device, whereby the dark signal or the light signal is generated by tapping a corresponding button via the input device.

[0027] If the desired lighting pattern is currently such that at least one bright section is created, it may be desirable to switch at least one light source within that bright section, or one of the bright sections, to dark mode. It is conceivable that, by means of the control device and upon the presence of a switch-off signal directed at the bright section, the at least one control signal is generated and output to the at least one lighting unit in such a way that all light sources within this bright section are switched to dark mode. Thus, the presence of the switch-off signal can cause the currently existing, desired light distribution to be changed such that the assignment information for all light sources within the respective bright section is changed from a light value to a dark value. Within this embodiment, the user is enabled to switch off the currently available reading light and thus terminate the reading light function.

[0028] Especially when multiple illuminated areas are present, the switch-off signal also serves as an information carrier regarding the illuminated area whose at least one light source is to be switched to dark mode. Specifically, it is conceivable that the switch-off signal is generated by the sensor device and output to the control device when the user performs a specific action within the sensing area that corresponds to this illuminated area. Thus, performing this specific action at any point within the sensing area corresponding to the illuminated area can trigger the generation of the switch-off signal. The specific action that leads to the generation of the switch-off signal can consist of multiple, particularly double, taps on the sensing area.

[0029] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a lighting device for illuminating the passenger compartment of a motor vehicle. According to the invention, the objective is achieved in such a lighting device by… - that it has a luminous area comprising several differently positioned light sources, each of which can emit light, - wherein the lighting device has at least one luminaire by means of which the light can be generated which can be emitted via at least one of the luminaires, - wherein each of the light sources can be switched to a dark mode and a light mode such that the light emitted from the light source in the light mode is brighter than the light emitted from the light source in the dark mode, - where a user can specify a desired light distribution, which indicates for each light source whether the respective light source should be in bright mode or dark mode, - wherein a sensing area of ​​a sensor device of the lighting device is provided on or at the illuminating area to specify the desired light distribution, wherein a desired bright area of ​​the illuminating area, in which the luminaire or all luminaires arranged therein are to be in bright mode, can be specified by the user touching an area of ​​the sensing area corresponding to the bright area, - wherein a control device of the lighting device or of the motor vehicle is configured to generate at least one control signal based on the desired light distribution and to output it to at least one lighting unit, so that the desired light distribution is implemented.

[0030] All advantages, features and aspects explained in connection with the method according to the invention are equally transferable to the lighting device according to the invention and vice versa.

[0031] In the lighting device according to the invention, the illuminated area can be designed as a strip or band. In other words, the illuminated area has a longitudinal dimension that is significantly larger than its lateral dimension. The longitudinal dimension can be more than ten times, and in particular more than one hundred times, the lateral dimension. Preferably, the light sources are arranged side by side and along a row, so that the illuminated area as a whole forms a light strip. The illuminated area can also branch out. Particularly preferably, the illuminated area has a U-shape extending along a longitudinal direction of the vehicle, and is particularly symmetrical, with the open end facing the front of the vehicle. The crossbar of this U-shape facing the rear of the vehicle can extend over passenger seats located in the rear of the vehicle.The U-shape can have an additional crossbar that runs over passenger seats located in the front of the vehicle, such as a driver's and a passenger's seat.

[0032] It is conceivable that at least one of the lighting units has a light source that can generate light of varying brightness to implement dark and light modes. The brightness of the light source is determined by the control signals. The light source could be a light-emitting diode (LED), in particular a multicolor LED.

[0033] Alternatively or additionally, at least one of the lighting units can have multiple light sources that can be selectively operated to implement dark mode and light mode. Here, too, the control signals determine which of the light sources should currently be switched on or off. A dark light source can be provided to implement dark mode. A bright light source can be provided to implement light mode. While only the dark light source can be switched on in dark mode, only the bright light source or both the bright light source and the dark light source can be switched on in light mode. Light of a specific color can be generated using the bright light source and the dark light source. The dark light source can produce colored light, and the bright light source can produce white light.

[0034] It is conceivable that at least one of the lighting units has at least one light guide by means of which the light generated by the light source(s) can be directed to the respective assigned lighting point. The light guide can be a transparent component, in particular an optical fiber, into which the light generated by the respective light source is coupled and which is coupled out in the area of ​​the respective lighting point. If the bright light source and the dark light source are provided in the lighting unit, their light can be guided via a common light guide or via separate light guides. If separate light guides are provided in the lighting unit, their light exit points are both located within the same lighting point.

[0035] At least some of the lighting units can be arranged in a common housing, wherein the lighting areas assigned to these lighting units are formed by means of at least one opening or at least one transparent section of the housing. Alternatively, at least one of the lighting units can be arranged in a separate housing, wherein the lighting area assigned to this lighting unit is formed by means of at least one opening or at least one transparent section of the housing. The transparent section can be the aforementioned disc, in particular the diffuser. Alternatively, the transparent section can be formed by a lens, in particular a diffusing lens. Alternatively, the lens can be arranged in the region of the opening of the housing.

[0036] Preferably, the sensing area is formed by means of at least one touch-sensitive sensor film. The sensor film can be capacitive, so that a touch leads to a change in the electrical capacitance of a capacitor located on the sensor film, which in turn is detectable. In particular, if the sensing area corresponds at least partially to the illumination area and the light emitted by the illumination area at least partially passes through the sensor film, the film can be transparent, for example, semi-transparent or completely transparent. In this case, the sensor film can be arranged on the disc, in particular adhered to it.

[0037] The invention further relates to a motor vehicle, the problem being solved by the fact that this vehicle comprises at least one lighting device arranged in or on a passenger compartment, as described in the preceding passages. All advantages, features, and aspects explained in connection with the method and lighting device according to the invention are equally transferable to the motor vehicle according to the invention, and vice versa.

[0038] In the motor vehicle according to the invention, it is particularly preferred that the passenger compartment comprises several passenger zones, wherein in each of the passenger zones there is one of several passenger seats, and wherein the lighting area extends over several or along several passenger zones.

[0039] It is conceivable that the illuminated area is located on the vehicle's headliner or on a section adjacent to the headliner. Alternatively, or in addition, the illuminated area can extend laterally around the passenger compartment, at least partially, particularly in the U-shape described above.

[0040] Further advantages, features and details of the present invention will become apparent from the exemplary embodiments described below and from the figures. These show schematically: Fig. 1: A side view of a motor vehicle according to an embodiment according to the invention, comprising a lighting device according to an embodiment according to the invention, Fig. 2: A bottom-up view of the headliner of the motor vehicle of the Fig. 1, Fig. 3: An enlarged representation of part of a lighting area of ​​the motor vehicle's lighting system Fig. 1, wherein the depicted part of the illuminated area in Fig. 2 is indicated by box III, Fig. 4: a representation analogous to Fig. 3, where part of the illuminated area forms a bright area, Fig. 5: a sectional view of the lighting device in the area of ​​a lighting unit according to a first embodiment alternative, wherein the section plane is in Fig. 3 is indicated by the line V - V, and Fig. 6: a sectional view analogous to Fig. 5, wherein the lighting unit is implemented according to a second design alternative.

[0041] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic, side view of a motor vehicle 1 according to an embodiment of the invention, comprising a lighting device 2 according to an embodiment of the invention, by means of which a passenger compartment 3 of the motor vehicle 1 can be illuminated. The lighting device 2 is arranged on a vehicle headliner 4 of the motor vehicle 1, with details relating thereto shown in the Fig. Figure 2 illustrates a view from bottom to top of the vehicle's roof.

[0042] For better orientation, a coordinate system is shown in each figure, with a vehicle longitudinal direction 5 pointing rearward along a vehicle longitudinal axis, a vehicle vertical direction 6 pointing upwards along a vehicle vertical axis, and a vehicle transverse direction 7 pointing to the right along a vehicle transverse axis.

[0043] The Fig. 3 and Fig. Figures 4 each show an enlarged part of a luminous area 8 of the lighting device 2, wherein this part is in the Fig. 2 is indicated as a dashed box III. The lighting area 8 has several differently positioned light sources 9, which are arranged next to each other along a row and through which light is emitted into the occupant compartment 3. The lighting area 8 thus forms a light strip. As can be seen in particular from the Fig. As can be seen in Figure 2, the lighting area 8 has a U-shape extending symmetrically along the longitudinal direction 5 of the vehicle and branching out. This U-shape comprises two longitudinal bars 10, 11 and two transverse bars 12, 13. The transverse bar 12 facing the rear of the vehicle extends over passenger seats located in the area of ​​a rear bench seat of the vehicle 1. The transverse bar 13 facing the front of the vehicle extends over passenger seats located in the area of ​​a driver's and a front passenger's seat of the vehicle 1.

[0044] The lighting device 2 comprises luminaire units 14, each assigned to one of the luminaires 9. The light emitted from one of the luminaires 9 is emitted by means of the respective assigned luminaire unit 14. Fig. Figure 5 shows a sectional view of the lighting device 2 in the area of ​​one of the lighting units 14, with the section plane in Fig. 3 is indicated by the line V - V. Details regarding the lighting units 14 will be explained later.

[0045] An embodiment of a method according to the invention, carried out with the previously described motor vehicle 1 and the lighting device 2, will now be explained. To carry out the steps of the method, a control device 15 of the motor vehicle 1 is provided, which can also be a component of the lighting device 2. The control device 15 is connected to the components provided for this purpose via signal lines (not shown in the figures) for the transmission of control signals. Furthermore, the control device 15 is connected via a signal line to an input device 16, which implements a human-machine interface. A user 17 can specify control commands or parameters using the input device 16. In this case, the input device is a touchscreen arranged on the dashboard of the motor vehicle 1.

[0046] Regarding the procedure, it is initially assumed that an operating menu is displayed via the input device 16, from which the user 17, who can be an occupant or a driver of the motor vehicle 1, selects a corresponding menu item, thereby causing the control device 15 to generate control signals such that ambient lighting is produced by means of the entire illumination area 8 of the lighting device 2. The light sources 9 can be operated in a dark mode and a light mode, whereby the dark mode is provided for the implementation of the ambient lighting by means of colored light, for example blue, emitted by the respective light source 9. The light sources 9 operated in the dark mode are in the Fig. 3. The area is marked by dotted lines. Specifically, a light distribution is specified for generating the ambient lighting. This distribution represents a data set indicating which of the light sources 9 are operated in bright mode and which in dark mode. The light distribution assigns each of the light sources 9 an assignment information that specifies whether the respective light source 9 should be in bright mode or dark mode. This assignment information, which is primarily binary, can be a brightness value in the first case and a dark value in the second. In this case, an initial light distribution is specified, according to which all light sources 9 are operated in dark mode. The control commands for implementing this light distribution are generated by a control unit 15 and output to the light units 14.

[0047] Regarding the next step of the procedure, it is assumed that the vehicle 1 is operating in an autonomous driving mode, so that the user 17 does not have to attend to the driving process but can instead read a book. The ambient lighting in the passenger compartment 3 is insufficient for this purpose, so a reading light function can be implemented using the lighting device 2. For this, the user can selectively change a section of the illuminated area 8 so that the light emitted there is brighter than in the ambient lighting and has a white color. As in the Fig. As indicated in 3, the user 17 strokes the affected section of the lighting area 8 with his finger, which causes the light points 9 located there to be switched to light mode, in which the emitted light is brighter than in dark mode and has a white color.

[0048] The following explains the specific technical aspects by which the user's touch 17 results in the generation of a reading light in the area covered by the user's touch. The lighting device 2 includes, in addition to the illuminated area 8, a sensing area 18 of a sensor device, which corresponds to the illuminated area 8 or can alternatively be located directly adjacent to it. The geometric shape of the sensing area 18 corresponds to the geometric shape of the illuminated area 8. The sensing area 18 is formed by a touch-sensitive, capacitive, and optionally transparent sensor film 27, which is connected to the control device 15 for the transmission of sensor signals.

[0049] The sensing area 18 comprises several sensing points 19, which correspond to the light points 9. Each of the sensing points 19 is assigned to exactly one of the light points 18 and thus to one of the light units 14. When one of the sensing points 19 is touched, a sensor signal specific to that sensing point 19 is generated and output to the control unit 15. Based on the sensor signals, the control unit 15 then detects that the sensing area 18 has been touched and also determines which of the sensing points 19 were specifically touched.

[0050] Based on the sensor signals and by means of the control unit 15, a light distribution desired by the user 17 is specified such that those light points 9 which the user 17 has covered with their hand are to be switched from dark mode to light mode, with these light points 9 forming a light area 20 of the light area 8. The light area 20 thus realizes the reading light desired by the user. To generate the desired light distribution, the output distribution is changed such that all light points 9 located within the light area 20 are changed from dark mode to light mode. The control unit 15 then generates the control commands and outputs them to the lighting device 2 or the light units 14, so that the desired light distribution specified by the user 17 is implemented. The resulting situation is in Fig. Figure 4 shows the illuminated areas 9 in bright mode, which are therefore assigned to the bright area 20, marked by hatching. It is evident that these are precisely the illuminated areas 9 that the user 17 has covered with his hand.

[0051] The procedure described above for generating the bright area 20 can also be carried out by other users 17, so that further bright areas 20 can be generated, for example, in the area of ​​additional seating. This allows users 17 to specify the brightness generated by the reading light by defining the extent of the bright area 20 or the number of light sources 9 to be switched to bright mode. The brightness is higher the longer the bright area 20 is or the more light sources 9 it includes.

[0052] For the next step of the process, it is assumed that user 17 wants to switch off the reading light. To do this, user 17 performs a specific operating action related to the bright area 20, defined by the fact that it is performed in the part of the sensing area 18 that corresponds to, or is equivalent to, this bright area 20. The operating action consists of repeatedly tapping, for example, twice, one of the sensing points 19 located in the bright area 20. In this case, the control device 15 recognizes the corresponding sensor signals as a switch-off signal when this operating action is performed. The desired light distribution is then changed so that all light points 9 located within the bright area 20 are switched to dark mode.The control unit 15 then generates the control signals and outputs them to the lighting units 14, thus producing this light distribution. Any other existing bright areas 20, such as those located in other seating areas, remain unaffected.

[0053] In a further conceivable step of the process, a dark signal is generated by the user 17 using the input device 16. For this purpose, a control menu for the operation of the lighting device 2 is displayed via the input device 16. The dark signal is generated by the input device 16 when a button labeled "Reset" is tapped. The dark signal is transmitted to the control device 15, which then changes the desired light distribution such that all light points 9 of the lighting area 8 are switched to dark mode or remain in this mode. Subsequently, the control device 15 generates the control signals and outputs them to the light units 14 to produce this light distribution. The entire lighting device 2 thus returns to the state in which only ambient lighting is generated.

[0054] In a further conceivable step of the process, a bright signal is generated by the user 17 using the input device 16. For this purpose, a control menu for the operation of the lighting device 2 is displayed via the input device 16. The bright signal is generated by the input device 16 when a button labeled "Full Brightness" is tapped. The bright signal is transmitted to the control device 15, which then modifies the desired light distribution such that all light sources 9 of the lighting area 8 are switched to or remain in bright mode. Subsequently, the control device 15 generates the control signals and outputs them to the lighting units 14 to produce this light distribution.In this case, the entire lighting device 2 therefore switches to a state in which a maximum possible brightness is generated by means of the lighting device 2.

[0055] Now, based on the Fig. 5. Details regarding the specific design of the lighting units 14 according to a first embodiment alternative are set forth below. Each of the lighting units 14 comprises a housing 21 in which the components of the respective lighting unit 14 are arranged. The lighting unit 14 has a light source 23 designed as a light-emitting diode (LED), which is arranged on a carrier 22 designed as a circuit board and by means of which light of different brightness and different color can be generated. The light source 23 can generate both the light intended for the bright mode and the light intended for the dark mode of the respective lighting point 9.

[0056] The lighting units 14 each comprise a light guide 24, by means of which the light generated by the light source 23 is guided to the respective lighting point 9. The light guide 24 is a transparent body made of plastic; alternatively, optical fibers can also be used.

[0057] The housing 21 has an opening 25, which provides the respective light source 9. A diffusing lens 26 is provided in the area of ​​the opening 25, by means of which the light to be emitted into the passenger compartment 3 is dispersed. A diffusing disc can also be provided instead of the diffusing lens 26. The ribbon-like sensor film 27 is arranged directly next to the opening 25.

[0058] It is further noted that instead of the separate housings 21, the lighting units 14 or their components can be arranged in a common housing 21 that forms an outer structure of the light strip.

[0059] The following will be based on the Fig. 5. Details regarding the specific design of the lighting units 14 are explained within the framework of a second embodiment. Each of the lighting units 14 comprises several light sources 23, namely a dark light source 28 and a bright light source 29. The dark light source 28 and the bright light source 29 are operated selectively to implement the dark mode and the bright mode. While only the dark light source 28 is switched on in the dark mode, only the bright light source 29 is switched on in the bright mode. Light of a specific color can be generated by means of the light sources 23. Thus, colored light is generated by means of the dark light source 28 and white light by means of the bright light source 29. The light generated by means of the bright light source 29 is brighter than the light generated by the dark light source 28. The control signals determine which of the light sources 23 should currently be switched on or off.

[0060] Although the light generated by the two light sources 23 can be guided by a common light guide 24, in the present embodiment each of the light sources 23 is assigned a separate light guide 24. The light guide 24 assigned to the dark light source 28 guides the corresponding light to the opening 25 of the housing 21, where the diffusing lens 26 is provided. The light guide 24 assigned to the bright light source 29 guides the corresponding light to another opening 25 of the housing 21, where a lens 30 is provided. This lens directs the reading light from the light source 9 to the seat in the passenger compartment that is closest to the light source 9. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DE 10 2017 061 A1

[0003] DE 103 36 283 A1

[0004]

Claims

[1] Method for operating a lighting device (2) for lighting a passenger compartment (3) of a motor vehicle (1), - wherein the lighting device (2) has a lighting area (8) comprising several differently positioned light sources (9) through which light is emitted into the passenger compartment (3), - wherein the lighting device (2) has at least one luminaire (14) by means of which the light is generated which is emitted via at least one of the luminaires (9), - wherein each of the light sources (9) can be switched to a dark mode and a light mode such that the light emitted from the light source (9) in the light mode is brighter than the light emitted from the light source (9) in the dark mode, - wherein a user (17) specifies a desired light distribution, which indicates for each of the light sources (9) whether the respective light source (9) should be in the bright mode or in the dark mode, - wherein a sensing area (18) of a sensor device is provided on or at the luminous area (8) to specify the desired light distribution, wherein a desired bright area (20) of the luminous area (8), in which the luminaire (9) or all luminaires (9) arranged therein are to be in bright mode, can be specified by the user (17) touching an area of ​​the sensing area (18) corresponding to the bright area (20), - wherein at least one control signal is generated by means of a control device (15) and based on the desired light distribution and is output to the at least one lighting unit (14) so ​​that the desired light distribution is implemented. [2] Method according to claim 1, characterized by , that - ambient lighting or contour lighting is generated by means of the light source(s) (9) or light sources (9) that are in dark mode, and / or - a reading light is produced by means of the light source (9) or light sources (9) that are in bright mode. [3] Method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by, that the sensing area (18) comprises several sensing points (19), wherein when one of the sensing points (19) is touched by means of the sensor device at least one sensor signal specific to the respective sensing point (19) is generated, wherein each of the sensing points (19) is assigned one of the light points (9), wherein the light points (9) of the bright area (20) are determined by means of the specific sensor signals and the assignment. [4] Method according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that - by means of the control device (15) and in the presence of a dark signal, at least one control signal is generated and output to the at least one lighting unit (14) such that all lighting points (9) are switched to dark mode or remain in dark mode, and / or - by means of the control device (15) and in the presence of a bright signal, at least one control signal is generated and output to the at least one lighting unit (14) in such a way that all lighting points (9) are switched to bright mode or remain in bright mode. [5] Method according to claim 4, characterized by , that the dark signal and / or the light signal is generated by means of an input device (16) and output to the control device (15) when the user (17) performs an operating action on the input device (16) aimed at generating the dark signal or the light signal. [6] Method according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by, that by means of the control device (15) and in the presence of a switch-off signal directed towards the bright area (20) the at least one control signal is generated and output to the at least one lighting unit (14) in such a way that all lighting points (9) of this bright area (20) are switched to dark mode. [7] Method according to claim 6, characterized by , that the switch-off signal is generated by the sensor device and output to the control device (15) by the user (17) performing an operating action specific for the generation of the switch-off signal in an area of ​​the sensing area (18) that corresponds to this light area (20). [8] Lighting device (2) for lighting a passenger compartment (3) of a motor vehicle (1), - having a luminous area (8) comprising several differently positioned luminous points (9) from which light can be emitted, - wherein the lighting device (2) has at least one luminaire (14) by means of which the light can be generated which can be emitted via at least one of the luminaires (9), - wherein each of the light sources (9) can be switched to a dark mode and a light mode such that the light emitted from the light source (9) in the light mode is brighter than the light emitted from the light source (9) in the dark mode, - wherein a user (17) can specify a desired light distribution, which indicates for each of the light sources (9) whether the respective light source (9) should be in the bright mode or in the dark mode, - wherein a sensing area (18) of a sensor device of the lighting device (2) is provided on or at the luminous area (8) to specify the desired light distribution, wherein a desired bright area (20) of the luminous area (8), in which the light source (9) or all light sources (9) arranged therein are to be in bright mode, can be specified by the user (17) touching an area of ​​the sensing area (18) corresponding to the bright area (20), - wherein a control device (15) of the lighting device (2) or of the motor vehicle (1) is configured to generate at least one control signal based on the desired light distribution and to output it to the at least one lighting unit (14) so ​​that the desired light distribution is implemented. [9] Lighting device (2) according to claim 8, characterized by, that the luminous area (8) is formed in a strip-like or band-like manner, wherein the luminous area (8) in particular branches out. [10] Lighting device (2) according to claim 8 or 9, characterized by , that at least one of the lighting units (14) has a light source (23) by means of which light of different brightness can be generated to realize the dark mode and the light mode, and / or that at least one of the lighting units (14) has several light sources (23) which can be operated selectively to realize the dark mode and the light mode. [11] Lighting device (2) according to any one of claims 8 to 10, characterized by , that at least one of the luminaire units (14) has at least one light guide (24) by means of which the light that can be generated by means of the or by means of at least one light source (23) can be directed to the respective assigned luminaire point (9). [12] Lighting device (2) according to any one of claims 8 to 11, characterized by , - that at least some of the luminaire units (14) are arranged in a common housing (21), wherein the luminaire points (9) assigned to these luminaire units (14) are formed by means of at least one opening (25) or at least one transparent section of the housing (21), and / or - that at least one of the luminaire units (14) is arranged in a separate housing (21), wherein the luminaire point (9) associated with this luminaire unit (14) is formed by means of at least one opening (25) or at least one transparent section of the housing (21). [13] Lighting device (2) according to any one of claims 8 to 12, characterized by , that the sensing area (18) is formed by means of at least one touch-sensitive, in particular capacitive and / or transparent, sensor film (27). [14] Motor vehicle (1) comprising at least one lighting device (2) arranged in or on a passenger compartment (3) according to one of claims 8 to 13. [15] Motor vehicle (1) according to claim 14, characterized by , that the lighting area (8) is arranged on a vehicle roof (4) or on a section adjacent to the vehicle roof (4) and / or surrounds the passenger compartment (3), at least sectionally, laterally.

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