Method and device for controlling a vehicle display system comprising a front headlight lighting status signaling system with glare alert on ADAS page

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method and a device for controlling a display system of a first vehicle comprising a touch screen (20), the method being implemented by a processor. For this purpose, the display of a graphic content (36) comprising a first graphic object (30) representative of the presence of a first vehicle is controlled. The first data representative of an operating state of the front headlights of the first vehicle are received. A second graphic object (32) representative of an operating state of the front headlights of the first vehicle, depending on the first data, is displayed in such a way that the first graphic object (30) comprises the second graphic object (32). Figure for abstract: Figure 3

Description

Title of the invention: Method and device for controlling a vehicle display system comprising a system for signaling the lighting status of the front headlights with glare alert on page AD AS Technical field

[0001] The invention relates to methods and devices for controlling a display system of a vehicle, in particular but not exclusively a motor vehicle. The invention relates in particular to a method and a device for controlling the display of information relating to the lighting modes of the front lights. The invention further relates to a method and a device for controlling the display of information relating both to the presence of another vehicle and to the lighting modes of the front lights. The invention also relates to a method and a device for assisting the driving of a vehicle. Technological background

[0002] Some contemporary vehicles have several screens on board to display information useful to the driver for driving the vehicle as well as comfort information, such as, for example, information for interacting with the infotainment system, also called the IVI system (from the English "In-Vehicle Infotainment" or in French "Infodivertissement embargo"), of the vehicle.

[0003] Among these screens, it is known to embed one or more LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) type screens, for example TFT (Thin-Film Transistor) type, or OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) type.

[0004] The integration of such screens makes it possible, for example, to control, via a graphical Human-Machine Interface (HMI) displayed on such screens, the operating status of the systems embedded in the vehicle, for example the AD AS systems (from the English “Advanced Driver-Assistance System” or in French “Advanced Driving Assistance System”).

[0005] In the field of advanced driver assistance systems, various technologies have been developed to improve driver safety and comfort. Examples include lane keeping assist, which detects road markings and actively keeps the vehicle centered in its lane, alerting the driver or adjusting the steering in the event of unintentional drift, or blind spot detection which uses sensors to monitor areas outside the driver's field of vision and issues an alert when a vehicle is detected there, particularly useful when changing lanes.

[0006] At night, the need for driving assistance is even greater and the transmission of relevant information to the driver in a readable and efficient manner is essential in order, on the one hand, to improve the driving experience, and on the other hand, to reduce road accidents. There are many night driving assistance systems such as, for example, night vision systems that improve night visibility beyond the range of headlights by means of thermography, or other technologies.

[0007] Glare during night driving is a significant problem that compromises the safety and comfort of drivers. This form of visual distraction occurs when an intense light source, such as the headlights of oncoming or same-way traffic from behind, interferes with the driver's vision. The sudden impact of bright light in the dark can result in a temporary reduction in visibility, a lengthened reaction time, and an altered perception of distances and road details. Glare is particularly dangerous because it can obscure pedestrians, animals, or obstacles in the road, thereby increasing the risk of accidents. In addition, repeated exposure to high levels of light can lead to eye strain, headaches, and general discomfort, reducing the driver's concentration and ability to maintain safe and controlled driving.Older drivers are even more likely to experience the effects of glare due to the natural decline in visual clarity with age. Therefore, glare poses a major challenge to nighttime road safety, requiring the development of appropriate technologies.

[0008] Some systems are particularly suited to reducing glare and improving driver visibility and comfort. Various solutions have already been developed, including anti-glare rearview mirrors that use electrochromatic technology to automatically darken in response to bright lights, or adaptive headlights optimized to minimize glare for other drivers by adjusting the direction and intensity of the light beam according to driving conditions.

[0009] However, these active (automatic) assistance systems are mainly fitted to so-called "high-end" vehicles and therefore cannot benefit the entire vehicle fleet.

[0010] In recent vehicles, particularly those in the low and medium ranges, the si- Dashboard signaling for headlight ignition and lighting status typically includes illuminated icons and colored indicators that inform the driver of the current headlight status. A green or blue headlight icon is usually displayed to indicate that the low beam (main headlights) is activated, while an additional icon, often represented by a headlight with horizontal lines, signals the activation of the high beams. Some vehicles also have indicators for daytime running lights and fog lights, illustrated by specific separate symbols. This signaling is crucial to ensure that the driver is aware of the status of their lighting, thus contributing to better visibility and increased safety on the road.

[0011] The signaling of the operating and lighting status of front headlights on the dashboards of modern cars, while useful, presents several known and potential problems. A major concern is the insufficient standardization of the symbols and colors used, which can lead to confusion among drivers, particularly when changing from one vehicle to another. Drivers may not immediately recognize the icons or may misinterpret their meaning, which delays making appropriate lighting decisions. In addition, the brightness or size of the indicators on the dashboard may be inadequate, making it difficult to read the symbols under certain lighting conditions or for drivers with visual impairments.Each of these disadvantages, taken together or separately, can distract the driver's attention from the road, contributing to distracted and potentially dangerous driving, thus increasing the risk of accidents. Summary of the present invention

[0012] An object of the present invention is to solve at least one of the problems of the technological background described above.

[0013] Another object of the present invention is, for example, to assist in the decision-making of a vehicle driver at night when approaching another vehicle.

[0014] Another object of the present invention is to improve the readability and intuitiveness of the signaling of the operating status of the lighting of the front headlights in a vehicle.

[0015] Another object of this invention is to obtain an anti-glare system adaptable and applicable to different vehicle range levels.

[0016] Another object of the invention is to improve the signaling, identification and characterization of a malfunction of the lighting of the front headlights of a vehicle.

[0017] The invention also aims to provide an increased security solution at a more reasonable cost.

[0018] Finally, the invention aims to minimize the driver's loss of attention by providing a clear and non-distracting interface, allowing the driver to remain focused on the road while being informed of the lighting status and the potential glare caused to other road users.

[0019] According to a first aspect, the present invention relates to a method for controlling a display system of a first vehicle comprising front headlights, the display system comprising a touch screen, the method being implemented by a processor and comprising the following steps: - control of display of graphic content, displayed in an area of ​​the screen, comprising a first graphic object representative of the presence of the first vehicle; - reception of first data representative of an operating state of the front headlights of the first vehicle; - display control of a second graphic object, displayed in the screen area, representative of an operating state of the front headlights of the first vehicle; wherein a graphical representation of the second graphical object is a function of the first data; and wherein the first graphical object comprises the second graphical object (X).

[0020] The use of combined graphic objects representative of the presence of the vehicle and the operating state of the front headlights of a vehicle allows the driver to immediately understand whether the headlights are on, and in particular, in which lighting mode they are, thanks to clear and understandable visual indicators.

[0021] According to a variant, the graphic representation of the second graphic object comprises: - a first representation of an operating state of the front headlights in dipped beam mode, when the first data indicates that the dipped beam headlights of the first vehicle are on; - a second representation of an operating state of the front headlights in high beam mode, when the first data indicates that the high beams of the first vehicle are on; - a third representation of an operating state of the front headlights in off mode, when the first data indicates that the main beam headlights of the first vehicle are off.

[0022] The use of graphic objects representative of the lighting mode in which the vehicle's headlights are located helps to prevent situations where the headlights are not used optimally, such as forgetting to turn on the dipped or main beam headlights, or their incorrect use, which can significantly reduce the risk of accidents due to inadequate lighting and poor visibility.

[0023] According to another variant, the method according to the invention comprises the following steps: - reception of second data representative of a malfunction of at least one of the front headlights of the first vehicle; - display control of a fourth graphic representation of the second graphic object representing said malfunction, in particular, a lighting malfunction.

[0024] By providing accurate detection and alerting of headlight failure, the driver can take corrective action quickly to avoid driving with inadequate lighting, which could endanger their safety and that of other road users.

[0025] According to another variant, the fourth graphic representation (X) of said second graphic object (X) is, in addition, representative of a location of said malfunction.

[0026] According to another variant, the representation of a location of the malfunction is associated with one of the following data: - data representative of a malfunction of one of the right or left front headlights; - data representative of a malfunction state of the two front right and left headlights.

[0027] According to another variant, the method comprises the following steps: - reception of third data representative of a tactile press on the fourth graphic representation of the second graphic object; - display control of a third graphic object including information associated with the malfunction, displayed in an area of ​​the screen. The display of the third graphic object may be in the same area of ​​the screen as the previous graphic objects, or preferably, in a separate area of ​​the screen. The display of the third graphic object may also be included in the first and / or second graphic object.

[0028] By directly pressing on the graphic object representing the malfunction, the user can easily and immediately become aware, not only of the existence of a malfunction but also of its nature, and take the necessary measures more quickly and efficiently.

[0029] According to another variant, the method of the invention comprises the following steps: - reception of fourth data representative of the presence of a second vehicle in front of the first vehicle in a direction of travel of the first vehicle; - display control of a fourth graphic object, representative of the presence of the second vehicle, and displayed in the same area of ​​the screen in front of the first graphic object according to the direction of travel of the first vehicle.

[0030] According to another variant, the method comprises a step of controlling the display of a fifth graphic object representative of a signal of a risk of dazzling when the fourth graphic object and the second representation of an operating state of the front headlights are simultaneously displayed, said fifth graphic object being displayed in the same area of ​​the screen.

[0031] The present invention therefore also makes it possible to assist the decision-making of a vehicle driver at night when approaching another vehicle. The invention allows the driver to quickly recognize the presence of other vehicles and to understand the distance between them thanks to an improved signaling system integrated into the anti-glare system. This facilitates the making of crucial safety decisions, such as adjusting speed or changing the direction of the headlights, in order to avoid and / or reduce glare for other drivers, thus improving night-time safety for all road users.

[0032] According to an additional variant, the fifth graphic object is a flashing signal accompanied or not by an audible signal, and is displayed superimposed on said second graphic object and / or fourth graphic object. The signal may flash and / or change color and / or be associated with an audible signal but must in any case attract the driver's attention without significantly distracting him from his driving.

[0033] According to another variant, the fifth graphic object comprises the second graphic object and / or the fourth graphic object.

[0034] According to a second aspect, the present invention relates to a computer program which comprises instructions adapted for executing the steps of the method according to the first aspect of the present invention, in particular when the computer program is executed by at least one processor.

[0035] Such a computer program may use any programming language, and be in the form of source code, object code, or intermediate code between source code and object code, such as in a partially compiled form, or in any other desirable form.

[0036] According to a third aspect, the present invention relates to a device for controlling a display system of a vehicle, the device comprising a memory associated with a processor configured for implementing the steps of the method according to the first aspect of the present invention.

[0037] According to a fourth aspect, the present invention relates to a vehicle, for example of the automobile type, comprising a device as described above according to the third aspect of the present invention.

[0038] According to a fifth aspect, the present invention relates to a computer-readable recording medium on which is recorded a computer program comprising instructions for carrying out the steps of the method according to the first aspect of the present invention.

[0039] On the one hand, the recording medium may be any entity or device capable of storing the program. For example, the medium may comprise a storage means, such as a ROM memory, a CD-ROM or a microelectronic circuit type ROM memory, or a magnetic recording means or a hard disk.

[0040] Furthermore, this recording medium may also be a transmissible medium such as an electrical or optical signal, such a signal being able to be conveyed via an electrical or optical cable, by conventional or hertzian radio or by self-directed laser beam or by other means. The computer program according to the present invention may in particular be downloaded from an Internet-type network.

[0041] Alternatively, the recording medium may be an integrated circuit in which the computer program is incorporated, the integrated circuit being adapted to perform or to be used in performing the method in question.

[0042] The invention makes it possible to minimize the loss of driver attention by providing a clear interface, allowing the driver to remain focused on the road while being informed of the lighting status and the potential glare caused to other road users. This reduces the risk of distractions related to the dashboard and allows the driver to maintain sustained attention on the road environment, thus improving overall driving safety.

[0043] By providing a simple, intuitive and readable solution, and by reducing the complexity of integration, the invention also makes anti-glare systems more financially accessible for manufacturers and, consequently, for consumers, contributing to a wider adoption of these vital safety devices. Brief description of the figures

[0044] Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will emerge from the description of the particular and non-limiting exemplary embodiments of the present invention below, with reference to the appended figures 1 to 11, in which:

[0045] [Fig.l] schematically illustrates a vehicle comprising front headlights, according to a particular embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] [Fig.2] schematically illustrates a part of the passenger compartment of the vehicle of [Fig.l], according to a particular embodiment of the present invention;

[0047] [Fig.3] schematically illustrates a display device of the vehicle of [Fig.l], according to a first particular and non-limiting example of embodiment of the present invention;

[0048] [Fig.4] schematically illustrates the display device of the vehicle of [Fig.l], according to a second particular and non-limiting example of embodiment of the present invention;

[0049] [Fig.5] schematically illustrates the display device of the vehicle of [Fig.l], according to a third particular and non-limiting embodiment of the present invention;

[0050] [Fig.6] schematically illustrates the display device of the vehicle of [Fig.l], according to a fourth particular and non-limiting example of embodiment of the present invention;

[0051] [Fig.7] schematically illustrates the display device of the vehicle of [Fig.l], according to a fifth particular and non-limiting example of embodiment of the present invention;

[0052] [Fig.8] schematically illustrates the display device of the vehicle of [Fig.l], according to a sixth particular and non-limiting example of embodiment of the present invention;

[0053] [Fig.9] illustrates a device configured to control a display system of the vehicle of [Fig.l], according to a particular and non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] [Fig. 10] illustrates a flowchart of the different steps of a method for controlling a display system of the vehicle of [Fig.l], according to a particular and non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] [Fig. 11] illustrates a flowchart of the different steps of a method for controlling a display system of the vehicle of [Fig.l], according to another particular and non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Description of examples of implementation

[0056] A method and a device for controlling a display system of a vehicle will now be described in the following with joint reference to Figures 1 to 11. The same elements are identified with the same reference signs throughout the description which follows.

[0057] The terms "first(s)", "second(s)" (or "first(s)", "second(s)"), etc. are used in this document by arbitrary convention to enable different elements (such as operations, means, etc.) implemented in the embodiments described below to be identified and distinguished. Such elements may be distinct or correspond to a single element, depending on the embodiment.

[0058] According to a particular and non-limiting example of embodiment of the present invention, the control of a display system on board a vehicle is for example implemented implemented by one or more vehicle computers, for example via one or more processors. The vehicle is further capable of generating a visual representation of itself in a part of a screen present in the passenger compartment of the vehicle.

[0059] Since the display of the operating status of the front headlights of current vehicles is quite rudimentary, particularly on entry-level or mid-range vehicles, it is desirable to be able to improve the user's driving experience by offering a simultaneous and combined display of his vehicle and the operating status of the two front lights (lights off, dipped or main beam headlights on, malfunction of one or the other or both headlights, etc.).

[0060] For this purpose, the display of a representation of a first vehicle is controlled so that this representation is displayed in a graphic content of an area of ​​a touch screen of the display system of the vehicle. First data representative of an operating state of the front headlights of the first vehicle are received, for example from a sensor or a switch connected to the electronic management system via an electronic control unit responsible for managing the lighting and / or the dashboard of the vehicle, and displayed on said area of ​​the screen where the representation of the vehicle is located in combination with the representation of the vehicle.When a malfunction occurs, the corresponding data is received and the display of a graphic signal is controlled so as to indicate the location of the malfunction (front left headlight, front right headlight, or both) and to allow the user to interact if desired, in particular by touch, with the graphic signal in order to obtain more precise information concerning the fault and, possibly, a protocol for resolving the problem detected.

[0061] [Fig. 1] schematically illustrates a first vehicle 10 in side view 1 and in front view 11, according to a particular and non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] The first vehicle 10 corresponds for example to a vehicle with a thermal engine, with electric motor(s) or even a hybrid vehicle with a thermal engine and one or more electric motors. The vehicle 10 thus corresponds for example to a land vehicle, for example a car, a truck, a bus.

[0063] The first vehicle 10 comprises front headlights (12) which may consist of several lights (low beam, high beam, fog, etc.) positioned, grouped or separated, at different locations on the front face of the vehicle.

[0064] [Fig. 2] schematically illustrates a part of the passenger compartment of the vehicle 10, according to a particular and non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] The vehicle 10 advantageously carries a display system comprising a screen 20 with a touch interface and a computer configured to control the display of content(s) of a graphical HMI on the touch screen 20. The computer corresponds by example to the calculator of the infotainment system, called IVI calculator (from the English “In-Vehicle Infotainment” or in French “Infodivertissement embargo”) of the vehicle 10.

[0066] The touch screen 20 corresponds for example to a screen of the LCD type (from the English “Liquid Crystal Display” or in French “Display à cristals liquide”), for example of the TFT type (from the English “Thin-Film Transistor” or in French “Transistor en film mince”), or OLED type (from the English “Organic Light-Emitting Diode” or in French “Diode électroluminescente biologique”).

[0067] The touch screen 20 is configured to display content intended for the driver and passengers of the vehicle 10. The touch screen 20 is also configured to allow the driver and / or passengers of the vehicle to interact with one or more systems embedded in the vehicle via a human-machine interface (HMI) displayed on the touch screen 20. For example, the screen 20 is configured to interact with the driver assistance system (ADAS) of the vehicle 10.

[0068] According to a particular embodiment, the display system comprises one or more other screens, for example a screen of a device or system called a head-up display corresponding for example to a transparent or semi-transparent blade arranged in such a way that a driver seated in the seat 26 sees the content displayed or projected on the transparent blade when the driver is driving the vehicle 10. The display system comprises for example furthermore a display screen called a handset or dashboard and generally arranged in an area 24 behind the steering wheel 28 in the dashboard 22.

[0069] According to a particular embodiment, the display system comprising the touch screen 20 is for example provided or configured to reduce the number of screens present in the vehicle 10, making it possible for example to eliminate the display screen(s) called the instrument panel or dashboard.

[0070] The display system of the vehicle 10 is connected in communication with the driving assistance system AD AS of the vehicle 10, for example the computer in charge of the display system is connected in communication with the computer in charge of the driving assistance system via one or more data buses of the on-board network of the vehicle 10.

[0071] A process for controlling an on-board display system in the vehicle 10 is advantageously implemented by one or more processors of the display system, for example by one or more processors of a computer of the vehicle 10 such as the computer of the infotainment system, called IVI computer (from the English “In-Vehicle Infotainment” or in French “Infodivertissement embargo”).

[0072] In a first operation of the process, the display of a graphic content 36 comprising a first graphic object 30 representative of a first vehicle 10, by example the driver's vehicle carrying a device according to the present invention, is controlled in such a way that the graphic object is displayed on the touch screen 20, in an area 34 of the touch screen 20, as illustrated in [Fig.3] according to a particular exemplary embodiment.

[0073] The zone 34 advantageously corresponds to an upper band 341 of the screen in “mini-view” mode. In this configuration, the content displayed in the lower zone 342 comprises, for example, a set of information useful to the driver for ensuring control and supervision of the vehicle 10. The set of information comprises, for example, the instantaneous speed of the vehicle 10 when the latter is in a rolling or traffic phase, that is to say in motion, driven by the engine of the vehicle 10, a rev counter, for example the remaining range (expressed for example in km), the distance traveled, a volume or level of fuel remaining in the tank when the vehicle 10 comprises a thermal engine, the charge level of the traction battery when the vehicle 10 has a traction battery, the map of the navigation system, the information from the infotainment system, etc.

[0074] A display control of graphic content or any graphic object (text, pictogram, icon, etc.) comprises a rendering of the graphic content or the graphic object, such rendering corresponding to a set of operations performed by one or more processors on the pixels of one or more images of the graphic content to be displayed on the screen 20. For example, the rendering consists of associating with a set of pixels of an image pixel data (for example color data expressed in an RGB type space (from the English "Red, Green, Blue" or in French "rouge, vert, bleu")) associated with each graphic object.

[0075] The display control of a graphic content 36 comprising first graphic object 30 thus comprises the transmission of control signals to the touch screen 20 to modify the values ​​associated with the pixels of the touch screen 20 at the location intended to display the graphic object 30 (or any graphic object), that is to say at a determined position in the zone 34.

[0076] The zone 34 can also just as advantageously correspond to a main display zone of the screen 20, in the form of a “widget”, for example in place of the display of the navigation or infotainment system.

[0077] [Fig. 3] illustrates a particular embodiment of the invention in which the area 34 corresponds to a main display area of ​​the screen 20, simply in order to improve the readability and clarity of the graphic representation.

[0078] In a following operation, first data representative of an operating state of the front headlights 12 of the vehicle 10 are received, for example, from a BCM (Body Control Module or BCM) computer, which further manages, the lighting status of a vehicle's front headlights, in association (integration) or not with an advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) depending on the vehicle.

[0079] The BCM is an electronic computer that controls and monitors various electrical and electronic functions in the vehicle, such as, but not limited to, interior and exterior lighting. Specifically with respect to the headlights, the BCM receives signals from the headlight switch (located on the dashboard or steering column), instructing the driver to turn the headlights on, off, low beam, or high beam. The BCM then turns the headlights on or off accordingly. It may also adjust the headlight intensity in some systems equipped with adaptive lighting features.

[0080] In addition, the BCM works in conjunction with other vehicle modules, including those of the AD AS system, including the aiming and intensity adjustments for adaptive or directional headlight systems. It can also report headlight failures or malfunctions to the driver via the dashboard.

[0081] An advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) for motor vehicles comprises an integrated set of sensor modules, including, but not limited to, millimeter wave radars, optical cameras, lidars and ultrasonic sensors, configured to continuously monitor the vehicle's peripheral environment. These sensor modules are strategically arranged at various locations on the vehicle's chassis to provide omnidirectional coverage. The heart of the system resides in an electronic control unit (ECU), equipped with advanced data processing capabilities, capable of interpreting the signals from the sensor modules.The ECU runs image processing, data fusion, and artificial intelligence algorithms to analyze sensory data, identify potential objects, assess collision risks, and detect road markers such as lane lines and traffic signs.

[0082] In addition, the AD AS system includes an intuitive human-machine interface (HMI), displaying real-time information and alerts on the vehicle's dashboard or other dedicated display devices. The HMI allows the driver to configure system parameters, view warnings, and receive tactile or auditory guidance for navigation and trajectory correction.

[0083] The display of a second graphical object 32 is then controlled such that the graphical object is displayed on the touch screen 20 in the same display area 34 as the graphical object 30 and the first graphical object 30 comprises the second graphical object 32. The graphical content 36 also comprises the second graphical object 32.

[0084] According to a particular and non-limiting embodiment, the contents, objects and representations The graphical representations described here are displayed on a page of the vehicle's AD AS system 10.

[0085] By "the first graphical object 30 comprises the second graphical object 32" is meant that the two objects are close enough to create a direct visual link between the two. The two objects may partially overlap or be separated by a space of suitable dimension so as to maintain direct visual interaction between the objects for the driver. Typically, a partial overlap of at least about one tenth (1 / 10) and at most about one half (1 / 2) of the surface of either of the objects or a space of a dimension equivalent to at least one tenth and at most one half of a length of the object is suitable. This definition also applies to any content, representation, or graphical object comprising another content, representation, or graphical object.

[0086] The second graphic object 32 represents the operating state of each of the front headlights 12 of the vehicle 10. The representation of the graphic object 32 varies depending on the first data received.

[0087] The display of the graphic object 30 is triggered by the reception of the first data indicating the operating state of the front headlights 12. Thus, at each change in the operating state of the front headlights, the display of the graphic object 30 is adjusted so that the graphic representation of the graphic object 30 represents the operating state of the front headlights 12 of the vehicle 10 at the location provided on the touch screen 20.

[0088] According to a variant, the graphical representation of the second graphical object 32 comprises a first representation 321 of an operating state of the front headlights in dipped beam mode, when the first data indicate that the dipped beam headlights of the vehicle 10 are on. The first graphical representation 321 is not limited in itself and must be adapted to make it intuitively clear to the driver which types of lights are on. Advantageously, the distinction between dipped beam headlights and main beam headlights is important. The first graphical representation 321 can therefore advantageously correspond to circular shapes, preferably elliptical, of oblong or oval types, sized in such a way as to make it immediately clear to the driver that his dipped beam headlights are on.Using a particular color, such as one reminiscent of dipped headlights, for example, green or yellow, can also be advantageous.

[0089] According to another variant, the graphical representation of the second graphical object 32 comprises a second representation 322 of an operating state of the front headlights in high beam mode, when the first data indicate that the high beams of the first vehicle 10 are on. The second graphical representation 322 is not limited in itself and must be adapted to make it intuitively clear to the driver which types of lights are on. Advantageously, the distinction between dipped beam and main beam is important. The second graphic representation 322 can therefore advantageously correspond to circular shapes, preferably elliptical, of oblong or oval types, dimensioned in such a way as to make it immediately clear to the driver that his main beam is on. Advantageously, the dimensioning of the second graphic representation 322 will be adapted in such a way that it is greater than the dimensioning of the first graphic representation 321. For example, in the case of circular shapes of the circle type, the diameter of the circle corresponding to the main beam is advantageously greater than the diameter of the circle corresponding to the dipped beam.In the case of circular shapes of the elliptical type, the major semi-axis and / or the minor semi-axis corresponding to the main beam headlights is advantageously greater than the major semi-axis and / or minor semi-axis corresponding to the dipped beam headlights.

[0090] The use of a particular color, such as one reminiscent of high beams, for example, the color blue, can also be advantageous.

[0091] According to another variant, the graphic representation of the second graphic object 32 comprises a second representation 323 of an operating state of the front headlights in lights off mode, when the first data indicate that the lights of the first vehicle 10 are off. The second graphic representation 323 is not limited in itself and must be adapted to make the driver understand intuitively that his lights are off. The second graphic representation 323 can therefore advantageously correspond to a non-visible graphic shape (because it is black on a black background for example) or to visible circular shapes, preferably elliptical, of oblong or oval types, of a color allowing the driver to immediately understand that his front headlights are off. Advantageously, the color of the second graphic representation 323 is chosen from dark-toned colors, advantageously chosen in shades of gray.

[0092] [Fig. 3] also schematically illustrates that the overlapping (or covering) of the graphic objects 30 and 32 is not obligatory insofar as the driver of the vehicle 10 understands that the graphic object 32 corresponds to a representation of the operating state of his front headlights. The graphic content 38 is therefore a variant of the graphic content of the zone 34. By way of example, only a variant of the graphic content comprising the first graphic representation 321 is shown and it is understood that the same variations can apply to the second and third graphic representations 322 and 323, respectively. The graphic content 38 therefore illustrates a variant in which the first graphic representation 321 of the second graphic object 32 does not cover the first graphic object 30. The distance separating the first graphic representation 321 from the first graphic object 30 is not limiting of the invention and is advantageously adapted so as to make it intuitively understandable to the driver of the vehicle 10 that the first graphic representation 321 corresponds to a representation of the lighting state of its front headlights.

[0093] In a second operation of the process, second data representative of a malfunction of at least one of the front headlights of the first vehicle 10 are received, for example from a computer monitoring the electrical flow in the lighting system such as the body control module (in English, "BCM" or "Body Control Module") or from one of the advanced on-board diagnostic systems (in English "OBD" or "On-Board Diagnostics").

[0094] Advantageously, the malfunction includes a malfunction at the lighting level, such as a light bulb (main, dipped, etc.) for example.

[0095] In another process operation, the display of a fourth graphical representation 40 of the graphical object 32 is controlled such that the graphical representation is displayed on the touch screen in place of one or other of the first, second or third graphical representations 321, 322, and 323, respectively, as illustrated in [Fig. 4] according to a particular exemplary embodiment.

[0096] The display of the graphic representation 40 is a function of the second data. When the second data are representative of a malfunction (a burnt-out bulb for example) concerning the left or right front headlight or both headlights, the graphic representation 40 is adapted to indicate by a visual signal (which can be coupled with an audible signal) the precise location of the malfunction - left or right front headlight or both headlights. The graphic representation 40 is not particularly limited and can include any signage adapted to draw the driver's attention to the lighting failure of the vehicle 10 and thus allow him to take rapid corrective measures to avoid driving with inadequate lighting.In a particular non-limiting embodiment, the fourth graphic representation 40 corresponds to a first graphic representation 321 of the graphic object 32 in which one or the other or both of the circular shapes representing the lighting of the lights comprises a modification to indicate the malfunction.

[0097] In a certain particular embodiment, said modification corresponds to a cross 41, preferably of an impactful color (red for example), crossing out the circular shape of the light(s) impacted by the malfunction. In a variant, said modification corresponds to the absence 42 of a circular shape of the light(s) impacted by the malfunction.

[0098] In another variant, said modification corresponds to a change of color, preferably by an impactful color (red for example), of the circular shape of the light(s) impacted by the malfunction.

[0099] In a further variant, said modification comprises a flashing of the circular shape of the light(s) affected by the malfunction.

[0100] In another operation of the process, and as illustrated in [Fig.6], third data representative of a touch press 50 on the graphic object 40 are received, following a touch press 50 of a user (for example the driver of the vehicle 10) on the graphic object 40. In a particular and non-limiting embodiment, the touch press 50 is on the graphic representation of the faulty light or lights.

[0101] A touch press on the graphic object 40 sends information to the IVI computer so that the latter implements one or more functions associated with the command corresponding to the touch press.

[0102] The third data representative of the touch-sensitive support are for example received via one or more data buses connecting the touch-sensitive interface of the screen (or a computer controlling such a touch-sensitive interface where appropriate) and the IVI computer.

[0103] Touch support corresponds for example to: - a short or brief tactile press according to which the duration of the press on the graphic object 40 is less than a threshold duration (for example equal to 500 or 1000 ms); or - a long touch press whereby the duration of the press on the graphic object 40 is greater than the threshold duration (for example equal to 500 or 1000 ms).

[0104] In another operation of the process, the computer in charge of the process, for example the IVI computer, controls the display of a third determined graphic object 60 comprising graphic or textual content 62 providing information related to the malfunction represented by the graphic representation 40 of the graphic object 32. The graphic or textual content 62 is a function of the third data. In a certain embodiment, the graphical content 36 also comprises the third graphical object 60.

[0105] In a particular embodiment, the textual content is a sentence written on a contrasting background of the type "Right (or left) front light bulb faulty, please replace it", the textual expression and style being of course in no way limiting.

[0106] In a certain particular and non-limiting embodiment, the third graphic object 60 is displayed in the same area 34 of the screen 20 as the previous graphic objects. Alternatively, in another particular embodiment, the third graphic object 60 is displayed in an area of ​​the screen 20 distinct from the other graphic objects. The third graphic object 60 may also be included in the first and / or the second graphic object.

[0107] By pressing directly on the graphic object representing the malfunction, the user can easily and immediately become aware not only of the existence of a malfunction but also of its nature, and take the necessary measures more quickly and effectively.

[0108] The end of the display of the third graphic object 60 is controlled by the computer in charge of the process automatically or following an action by the driver or a passenger of the vehicle 10.

[0109] The end of the display of the graphic content is thus, for example, automatically controlled after a determined display duration without any tactile action by the driver or any other user with this graphic content, for example after 5, 10, 25 seconds of display. According to a variant, the end of the display of the graphic object is implemented when the driver makes a brief tactile press on the screen 20 outside the display area of ​​the graphic content.

[0110] The first vehicle 10 furthermore carries a third-party vehicle detection system using sensors such as radars, lidars or cameras, to continuously monitor, or only once activated, the environment surrounding the first vehicle 10. As illustrated in [Fig.7], in a particular and non-limiting embodiment, the third-party vehicle detection system is adapted to detect the presence of a second vehicle 70 in front of the first vehicle 10 in a direction of travel 72 of the first vehicle 10.

[0111] In another operation of the process, fourth data representative of the presence of a second vehicle 70, in front of the first vehicle in a direction of circulation 72 of the first vehicle 10, are received, for example, by the AD AS module.

[0112] The term "ahead," as used herein, refers to the area or space within the direct and immediate field of travel of a motor vehicle moving on a traffic lane. This space is generally delimited by the longitudinal axis of the vehicle and extends from the front bumper to a predetermined distance which may vary depending on the vehicle speed, driving conditions, and the technical specifications of the detection system employed.

[0113] As illustrated in [Fig.7], when the presence of a second vehicle is detected, the computer in charge of the process, for example the IVI computer, controls the display of a fourth graphic object 74 representative of the presence of the second vehicle 70, and displayed in the same area of ​​the screen in front of the first graphic object 30 according to a direction of circulation 72 of the first vehicle 10. The display of the fourth graphic object 74 is a function of the fourth data. The graphic content 36 also comprises the fourth graphic object 74.

[0114] In another step of the process, the display of a fifth graphic object 80 representative of a signal of a risk of glare is controlled by the computer in charge of the process, for example the IVI computer, when the fourth object graphic 74 and the second representation 322 representative of an operating state of the front headlights 12 are simultaneously displayed, the fifth graphic object 80 being displayed in the same area of ​​the screen 34 as illustrated in [Fig.8] by a particular non-limiting example of the invention. The graphic content 36 also includes the fifth graphic object 80.

[0115] In a particular embodiment, the graphic content 36 comprises all of the graphic objects described here, either all or some simultaneously, or in turn.

[0116] The display of the fifth graphic object 80 is a function of at least two parameters together indicative of a potential situation of dazzling of the driver of the second vehicle 70 by the front headlights 12 of the first vehicle 10. By way of example, the computer in charge of the process does not control the display of the fifth graphic object 80 in either of the following situations: - When the fourth graphic object 74 representative of the second vehicle 70 is not displayed on the screen 20; - When the fourth graphic object 74 representative of the second vehicle 70 and the first representation 321 or the third representation 323 representative of an operating state of the front headlights 12 are displayed simultaneously on the screen 20.

[0117] The appearance of a graphic representation of the fifth graphic object 80 is not particularly limited. Advantageously, this appearance is adapted to draw the attention of the driver of the first vehicle 10 to a potential situation of dazzling of a second vehicle 70 without putting him in danger. In a particular embodiment, the graphic representation of the fifth graphic object 80 is a static shape signaling a danger of bright color such as yellow or red. The shape may be circular or include a plurality of acute angles.

[0118] According to a variant, the fifth graphic object 80 comprises a flashing signal accompanied or not by an audible signal, and is displayed superimposed on said first graphic object 30 and / or second graphic object 32 and / or fourth graphic object 74. The signal may flash and / or change color and / or be associated with an audible signal but must in any case attract the driver's attention without significantly distracting him from his driving.

[0119] The display of the fifth graphic object 80 must encourage the driver of the first vehicle 10, when using high beam, to switch to low beam, in particular, to avoid dazzling the second vehicle in front of it, particularly when the first vehicle 10 is not equipped with an adaptive and automatic front lighting system such as, for example, Matrix Beam technology.

[0120] [Fig.9] schematically illustrates a device 90 configured for controlling a display system of a vehicle, for example the vehicle 10, according to particular and non-limiting exemplary embodiments of the present invention. The device 90 corresponds for example to a device on board the vehicle 10, for example a computer.

[0121] The device 90 is for example configured for the implementation of the operations described with regard to figures 1 to 8 and / or the steps of the method described with regard to [Fig.9]. Examples of such a device 90 include, but are not limited to, on-board electronic equipment such as an on-board computer of a vehicle, an electronic calculator such as an ECU (“Electronic Control Unit”), a smartphone, a tablet, a laptop. The elements of the device 90, individually or in combination, can be integrated into a single integrated circuit, into several integrated circuits, and / or into discrete components. The device 90 can be produced in the form of electronic circuits or software (or computer) modules or even a combination of electronic circuits and software modules.

[0122] The device 90 comprises one (or more) processor(s) 900 configured to execute instructions for carrying out the steps of the method and / or for executing the instructions of the software(s) embedded in the device 90. The processor 900 may include integrated memory, an input / output interface, and various circuits known to those skilled in the art. The device 900 further comprises at least one memory 910 corresponding for example to a volatile and / or non-volatile memory and / or comprises a memory storage device which may comprise volatile and / or non-volatile memory, such as EEPROM, ROM, PROM, RAM, DRAM, SRAM, flash, magnetic or optical disk.

[0123] The computer code of the embedded software(s) comprising the instructions to be loaded and executed by the processor is for example stored in the memory 910.

[0124] According to various particular and non-limiting embodiments, the device 90 is coupled in communication with other similar devices or systems and / or with communication devices, for example a TCU (from the English “Telematic Control Unit” or in French “Telematic Control Unit”), for example via a communication bus or through dedicated input / output ports.

[0125] According to another particular and non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the device 90 comprises a communication interface 930 which makes it possible to establish communication with other devices (such as other computers of the on-board system) via a communication channel 932. The communication interface 930 corresponds for example to a transmitter configured to transmit and receive information and / or data via the communication channel 932. The communication interface 930 corresponds for example to a wired network of the CAN (Controller Area Network), CAN FD (Controller Area Network Flexible Data-Rate), FlexRay (standardized by the ISO 17458 standard) or Ethernet (standardized by the ISO / IEC 802-3 standard) type and can for example receive data from a computer of the advanced driver assistance system (ADAS).

[0126] According to a particular and non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the device 90 can provide output signals to one or more external devices, such as a display screen 942, touch-sensitive or not, one or more speakers 952 and / or other peripherals 962 (projection system) via output interfaces 940, 950 and 960 respectively. According to a variant, one or other of the external devices is integrated into the device 90.

[0127] [Fig. 10] illustrates a flowchart of the different steps of a method for controlling a display system on board a vehicle, for example the vehicle 10, according to a particular and non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The method is for example implemented by a device on board the vehicle 10 or by the device 90 of [Fig. 9].

[0128] In a first step 101, the display of a first graphic object representative of a first vehicle is controlled so that this graphic object is displayed in an area of ​​the touch screen.

[0129] In a second step 102, first data representative of an operating state of the front headlights of the first vehicle are received.

[0130] In a third step 103, the display of a second graphic object representative of an operating state of the front headlights of the first vehicle is controlled so that this graphic object is displayed in an area of ​​the touch screen and so that the first graphic object comprises the second graphic object. In a particular embodiment, the second graphic object may comprise three distinct graphic representations depending on whether first data indicates dipped headlights on, main headlights on or lights off.

[0131] In a fourth step 104, second data representative of a malfunction of at least one of the front headlights of the first vehicle are received.

[0132] In a fifth step 105, the display of a fourth graphical representation of the second graphical object representative of the malfunction is controlled as a function of the second data so that the graphical representation is displayed in an area of ​​the touch screen and indicates the presence and location of the malfunction on one or the other or both front lights.

[0133] In a sixth step 106, third data representative of a touch press on the fourth graphic representation of the second graphic object are received.

[0134] In a seventh step 107, the display of a third graphic object comprising information associated with the malfunction is controlled as a function of the third data so that the third graphic object is displayed in an area of ​​the touch screen.

[0135] [Fig. 11] illustrates a flowchart of the different steps of a method for controlling a display system on board a vehicle, for example the vehicle 10, according to another particular and non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The method is for example implemented by a device on board the vehicle 10 or by the device 90 of [Fig. 9].

[0136] In a first step 101, the display of a first graphic object representative of a first vehicle is controlled so that this graphic object is displayed in an area of ​​the touch screen.

[0137] In a second step 102, first data representative of an operating state of the front headlights of the first vehicle are received.

[0138] In a third step 1031, 1032 or 1033, the display of a graphical representation of a second graphical object representative of an operating state of the front headlights of the first vehicle is controlled so that this graphical object is displayed in an area of ​​the touch screen and so that the first graphical object comprises the second graphical object. The graphical representation of the second graphical object is a function of the first data and is representative either of the dipped headlights on (1031), or of the main headlights on (1032), or of the lights off (1033).

[0139] In a fourth step 114, second data representative of the presence of a second vehicle in front of the first vehicle in a direction of travel of the first vehicle are received. Step 114 is common to the three graphical representations of the second graphical object.

[0140] In a fifth step 115, the display of a third graphic object representative of the presence of a second vehicle is controlled so that this graphic object is displayed in the area of ​​the touch screen as the other graphic objects in front of the first graphic object according to a direction of circulation of the first vehicle. Step 115 is common to the three graphic representations of the second graphic object.

[0141] In a sixth step 116, the display of a fourth graphic object representative of a signal of a risk of dazzling is controlled so that this graphic object is displayed only when the graphic representation of the second graphic object displayed on the screen is that corresponding to the main beam headlights on. as shown in the flowchart in [Fig.l 1].

[0142] The different process steps of the flowcharts of figures 10 and 11 can of course be executed in parallel (simultaneously or alternately with different degrees of time lag), for example, a malfunction of one of the front lights can occur simultaneously with the detection of a second vehicle and the triggering of a dazzling signal.

[0143] According to a variant, the variants and examples of the operations described in relation to one of figures 1 to 9 apply to the steps of the method of figures 10 and 11.

[0144] Of course, the present invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments described above but extends to a method for displaying objects and graphic contents representative of a system for signaling an operating state of front headlights on board a vehicle which would include secondary steps without thereby departing from the scope of the present invention. The same would apply to a device configured for implementing such a method.

[0145] The present invention also relates to a vehicle, for example an automobile or more generally an autonomous land-based motor vehicle, comprising the device 90 of [Fig.9] or a display system comprising the device 90 of [Fig.9] connected in communication to a touch screen 20.

Claims

Claims

1. A method for controlling a display system of a first vehicle (10) comprising front headlights (12), said display system comprising a touch screen (20), said method being implemented by a processor and comprising the following steps: - controlling (101) the display of a graphic content (36), displayed in an area (34) of said screen (20), comprising a first graphic object (30) representative of the presence of said first vehicle (10); - receiving (102) first data representative of an operating state of the front headlights (12) of said first vehicle (10); - controlling (103) the display of a second graphic object (32), displayed in said area (34) of said screen (20), representative of an operating state of the front headlights (12) of said first vehicle (10); wherein a graphic representation of said second graphic object is a function of said first data;and wherein said first graphical object (30) comprises said second graphical object (32).;

2. The method of claim 1, wherein said graphical representation of said second graphical object comprises: - a first representation (321) of an operating state of the front headlights in dipped beam mode, when said first data indicates that the dipped beam headlights of said first vehicle are on; - a second representation (322) of an operating state of the front headlights in high beam mode, when said first data indicates that the high beam headlights of said first vehicle are on; - a third representation (323) of an operating state of the front headlights in off mode, when said first data indicates that the high beam headlights of said first vehicle are off.

3. Method according to claim 1 or 2, comprising the following steps: - reception (104) of second data representative of a malfunction of at least one of the front headlights of said first vehicle (10); - control (105) of display of a fourth graphic representation (40) of said second graphic object (32) representative of said malfunction.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein said fourth repre- graphic representation (40) of said second graphic object (32) is, furthermore, representative of a location of said malfunction.

5. Method according to claim 3 or 4, wherein said method comprises the following steps: - receiving (106) third data representative of a touch press (50) on said fourth graphic representation (40) of said second graphic object (32); - controlling (107) the display of a third graphic object (60) comprising information (62) associated with said malfunction, displayed in the area (34, 342) of said screen (20).

6. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising the following steps: - reception (114) of fourth data representative of the presence of a second vehicle (70) in front of the first vehicle (10) in a direction of travel of the first vehicle (72); - control (115) of display of a fourth graphic object (74), representative of the presence of said second vehicle (70), and displayed in said zone (34) of said screen (20) in front of said first graphic object (30) in a direction of travel of the first vehicle (72).

7. Method according to claim 6, comprising a step of controlling (116) the display of a fifth graphic object (80) representative of a signal of a risk of dazzling, when said fourth graphic object (74) and said second representation (322) of an operating state of the front headlights (12) are simultaneously displayed, said fifth graphic object (80) being displayed in said area (34) of said screen (20).

8. The method of claim 7, wherein said fifth graphical object (80) is a flashing signal, and is displayed superimposed on said second graphical object (32) and / or said fourth graphical object (74).

9. Device (90) for controlling a display system of a vehicle (10), said device (90) comprising a memory (910) associated with at least one processor (900) configured for implementing the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. Vehicle (10) comprising the device (90) according to claim 9.

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