Method for operating at least one lighting device of vehicle and lighting device

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for operating at least one lighting device (10) of a vehicle (1), in particular a headlamp and / or a ground projector of a vehicle (1), for outputting a light distribution (L1, L2) on the basis of a light image (LB), in particular generated in real time, according to the invention, the light image (LB) is generated by a light image generation device (30) of the vehicle (1), in particular based on a processor and / or a controller, at least in some regions and preferably completely from at least one non-spatial resolution light image variable (LG), preferably a plurality of non-spatial resolution light image variables (LG), the at least one light image variable (LG) characterizes at least one region of the light image (LB) to be generated, preferably characterizes the entire light image to be generated. According to the invention, a light image generation device (30) for generating a light image at least in regions receives at least one light image variable (LG) from a light image variable determination device (20) of a vehicle (1) spaced therefrom, in particular based on a processor and / or a controller.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for operating at least one lighting device of a vehicle, in particular a headlamp and / or a floor projector of the vehicle, for outputting a light distribution based on a light pattern generated, in particular in real time, and a lighting device, in particular a headlamp and / or a floor projector, for a vehicle. The present invention also relates to a vehicle comprising a lighting device and an arrangement of the lighting device and a light pattern variable determination device, in particular based on a processor and / or controller, for determining at least one light pattern variable and for transmitting the at least one light pattern variable to the lighting device or a light pattern generation device of the lighting device for generating a light pattern.

[0002] Currently, high-resolution headlights are pixel-based, meaning they are controlled by external control devices via video streams. This involves image generation algorithms based on sensor data and the rendering used to calculate individual images. With video streaming, bandwidth requirements increase proportionally with resolution. Consequently, low-cost network technologies are limited to low resolutions.

[0003] US2018 / 0334086 A1 discloses a method for headlight-specific adaptation of non-specific light image information of at least one headlight for operating at least one headlight of a vehicle and for an interface device (and / or a central control unit) of the vehicle. It is described here that the light image information includes, for example, the light distribution in a room, for example on a wall at a distance of 10 m. Such information is, for example, physically measurable values ​​and / or (pixel-independent) brightness values, or the illuminance and / or color of the desired light distribution, respectively. The processing device converts the light image information into headlight-specific information based on at least one headlight-specific parameter. This achieves the advantage that the light algorithm can be developed independently of the headlight and can therefore be used for various types of headlights without extensive modifications.

[0004] US2002 / 0156559 A1 discloses a method for controlling vehicle headlights based on a scene image obtained from an image field sensor. In this case, a first processor, which can be mounted in the reflector diaphragm, and a second processor, which can be mounted on a printed circuit board in the reflector bracket, are proposed. The second processor receives and processes image data upon input and forwards the results to the first processor for further processing. By dividing the processing power, the first processor can perform other processing tasks, such as controlling the reflectivity of the reflector.

[0005] A decentralized approach, where the control device is located in each luminaire and actuation is achieved through signal-based communication over a simple vehicle bus (CAN), is costly because each luminaire requires a control device. Another disadvantage is that this approach has more complex synchronization and very limited update capabilities, especially for on-demand functions / online remote updates.

[0006] In the central method of operating via an uncompressed video stream from an external control device, the network technology costs disadvantageously increase with the resolution of the luminaire. Another disadvantage is the high latency of the image transmission.

[0007] In the centralized approach of operating via a compressed video stream from an external control device, the limited compression factor is disadvantageous, especially in the case of lossless compression. High compression rates require a significant amount of computing power for decompression in the luminaire. Furthermore, the image transmission delay is moderate.

[0008] The object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages known from the prior art and to provide a lighting device and a method for operating a lighting device, which provide high-resolution light functions with the lowest possible latency through the lighting device.

[0009] According to the invention, this object is achieved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments and developments of the invention are the subject matter of the subclaims.

[0010] In the method according to the invention, at least one lighting device of a vehicle, in particular a vehicle headlamp and / or a floor projector, is operated to output a light distribution based on a light pattern generated in particular in real time (in particular with spatial resolution).

[0011] The lighting device preferably has a plurality of pixels for emitting light in order to achieve a variable (to be emitted) light distribution. To this end, in each case, the pixels of the lighting device can be individually controlled according to certain drive parameters, such as the brightness and / or color value of the pixel.

[0012] Thus, in addition to low beam and high beam, a lighting device (eg headlight) can also perform other light functions, such as cornering light or glare-free high beam.

[0013] A pixel is, in particular, the smallest controllable optical unit of a lighting device in order to achieve a change in the light distribution to be emitted and / or emitted by the lighting device. In this case, a pixel can be designed as a single optical device (e.g., a single light source), such as a pixel of an LED (light-emitting diode) and / or a segmented LED (micropixel LED) and / or a micromirror and / or a pixel of a display or a reflective or transmissive liquid crystal display (LCD, LCoS), and / or a shutter and / or a diaphragm and / or an optical device for modifying and / or changing and / or absorbing a single light beam. This has the advantage that the light distribution can be variably adjusted and various light functions can be realized.

[0014] The lighting device is preferably a high-resolution lighting device, i.e., a lighting device having more than 1,000 pixels, preferably more than 4,000 pixels (preferably at least 10,000 pixels), for individually controllable illumination of the pixels (via light fixtures, e.g., light sources). This offers the advantage that such a high-resolution lighting device can implement a high-resolution light function (i.e., during its implementation, more than 1,000 pixels, preferably more than 4,000 pixels, preferably at least 10,000 pixels of the lighting device are used, in particular simultaneously).

[0015] Preferably, the lighting device has at least 10,000 pixels, preferably at least 15,000 pixels, particularly preferably at least 25,000 pixels. The proposed method is particularly suitable for lighting devices with a higher number of pixels, for example at least 100,000 pixels.

[0016] One example of such a high-resolution light function is adaptive front lighting (masking), in which a headlight range controller is preferably controlled and / or the light distribution (emitted by the lighting device, in particular the headlights) is changed based on detected oncoming traffic and / or vehicles ahead (in particular as detected by a vehicle camera). In particular, the light distribution is masked, i.e., the light intensity in at least some areas is changed and / or reduced. As soon as road users are no longer detected, the lamp "slides" back to high beam.

[0017] Another example of such a high-resolution light function is adaptive front lighting (sign glare control or sign glare protection), in which the lighting of detected traffic signs is adapted in order, for example, to prevent driver glare caused by reflections of light emitted on the traffic signs.

[0018] Another example of such a high-resolution light function is lane lighting (“lane light”), in which the lane area to be driven is illuminated (in the form of a light carpet).

[0019] Another example of such a high-resolution light function is the dynamic curve light, where the light distribution also oscillates according to the curvature of the road.

[0020] Another example of such a high-resolution light function is a lane change warning light ("Side Assist"), in which road users are warned of approaching adjacent roads, in particular from behind (e.g., when an intention to change lanes is detected, such as when actuation of a lane change indicator is detected). For example, such a warning can be implemented by emitting a warning light in the form of a (continuous) lane limit between the vehicle's lane and the lane of the vehicle approaching from behind.

[0021] Another example of such a high-resolution light function is directional light, for example for displaying the width of a vehicle in narrow areas, such as construction sites, where the width and position of the vehicle are highlighted, for example, by light emitted onto the road, for example by two parallel line-shaped light sections.

[0022] Another example of such a high-resolution light function is marker lighting, with which the driver is alerted to critical situations at the wheel, such as one or more pedestrians, by means of its (relatively more intense) illumination.

[0023] Preferably, the light function implemented by the lighting function is (at least temporarily) dependent on the vehicle environment (as in the above examples).Preferably, the vehicle sensor device for detecting the vehicle environment detects the vehicle environment.

[0024] Preferably, the sensor device for detecting the vehicle environment is selected from a group of sensors including (color) cameras, front cameras, rear cameras, infrared cameras, LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging or Light Imaging, Detection and Ranging), radars, ultrasonic sensors, etc. and combinations thereof. Preferably, the sensor device for detecting the vehicle environment (from the vehicle environment of the respective vehicle) generates sensor data with local resolution (in particular 2D and / or 3D).

[0025] Preferably, the light function is performed in dependence on the detected sensor data.

[0026] In order to control individual luminaires (e.g., individual light sources) or pixels and determine the control information required for this purpose, such as brightness and / or color values ​​for each pixel (or luminaire), (light) algorithms are used. In this case, the light distribution and / or brightness and / or color values ​​and / or control information are calculated for each individual luminaire or each individual pixel of the lighting device.

[0027] Preferably, for a light function (predetermined and / or predetermined, for example, by a user of the vehicle) to be realized by the lighting device, one or more (spatial resolution) light images are determined that are required to realize the light function.

[0028] The light pattern is preferably determined or calculated based on sensor data (detected by at least one sensor device of the vehicle).

[0029] The light image is in particular a spatial resolution light image which in particular characterizes a light distribution which is suitable for realizing a light function. For example, the light image may indicate a light distribution which is suitable (and has been determined or derived) for realizing a light function.

[0030] For example, the (spatial resolution) light image can indicate which surrounding areas or which road areas and / or lane areas are to be illuminated with which color values ​​and / or brightness values.

[0031] The light image is particularly spatially resolved, since it preferably indicates the spatial and / or surface light distribution and / or the assignment of color and / or brightness values ​​to a plurality of positions (either spatially or arranged on a plane). In particular, the light image already has the corresponding color and / or brightness values ​​for the plurality of positions.

[0032] The light image preferably indicates the color and / or brightness gradient of the light distribution to be emitted to realize the light function with a specific spatial resolution. "Specifically specified" is understood to mean that these cannot be obtained solely by calculation, for example by means of a function or calculation rule, but that specific color and / or brightness values ​​are specified.

[0033] Therefore, the light image preferably has a spatially resolved representation of the color and / or brightness values.

[0034] In this case, the light image can be determined independently of the (specific hardware) of the lighting device. For example, the light image can be independent of the exact number of pixels provided by the lighting device and / or the (spatial) arrangement of the pixels. Therefore, the values ​​of the control parameters (of individual pixels) of the lighting device can be determined based on the light image. This offers the advantage that the light image can be determined independently of the specific hardware of the lighting device. In particular, the light image can be determined solely based on the light function to be implemented.

[0035] In this case, the light image can have a higher or lower resolution than the lighting device (number of pixels). It is conceivable that the values ​​of the control parameters (of individual pixels) of the lighting device, such as brightness and / or color values, can be determined by averaging (e.g., when the resolution of the light image is higher than the number of pixels of the lighting device) and / or interpolation (e.g., when the resolution of the light image is lower than the number of pixels of the lighting device). It is also conceivable that at least one or more optical properties of the lighting device (e.g., refractive properties and / or lens properties and / or imaging properties and / or aging of one or more optical devices (e.g., multiple light sources)) are taken into account when determining the values ​​of the control parameters.

[0036] For example, the light pattern may indicate a brightness and / or color distribution that is produced by outputting an adapted and / or determined and / or derived light distribution onto a predetermined surface, such as a vertical wall, at a predetermined distance from the lighting device and with a predetermined orientation, in particular the orientation of the lighting device in its installed state in the vehicle, to realize the light function.

[0037] However, it is also conceivable that the light image indicates a light distribution (suitable for and / or determining and / or deriving a light distribution for realizing a light function) in an area of ​​the lighting device (e.g. in an area of ​​the lighting device in which light fixtures (e.g. light sources) or pixels are arranged).

[0038] The light pattern may in particular describe or indicate a surface and / or spatial light distribution.

[0039] The light image is generated or calculated at least regionally and preferably completely by a light image generating device of the vehicle, in particular a light image generating device based on a processor and / or controller, based on at least one non-spatial resolution light image variable, preferably based on a plurality of non-spatial resolution light image variables (in particular in computer-implemented method steps).

[0040] In this case, the term “non-spatial resolution” is understood in particular to mean that no specific assignment, in particular a “one-to-one assignment”, of positions and / or positions to light distribution variables such as brightness and / or color values ​​has been specified.

[0041] In this case, the at least one light pattern variable characterizes at least one region of the light pattern to be generated, preferably the entire light pattern to be generated. Thus, the light pattern can be derived from the at least one light pattern variable, preferably from a plurality of light pattern variables (in particular without further variables, which characterize the light distribution to be generated in order to realize the light function and are preferably independent of the lighting device).

[0042] For example, the light pattern variables may indicate rules for how to generate or calculate the light pattern. For example, the light pattern variables may indicate which road and / or lane areas are illuminated and / or illuminated in which form and with which color gradient, without indicating spatial resolution of color and / or brightness values.

[0043] For example, the geometric profile can be indicated by one or more light pattern variables and / or characterized by these variables, wherein the (geometric) region of the light pattern to be generated is (in each case) predetermined by the geometric profile, wherein the light pattern is to be generated according to a uniform lighting specification. Preferably, the (uniform) lighting specification differs from at least one further lighting specification, particularly preferably from a plurality of further lighting specifications, by means of which or by means of which at least one different region of the light pattern is generated.

[0044] The lighting specification can be, for example, uniform lighting / illumination / emission, in particular with the same intensity or the same brightness and / or color values. However, it can also be a predetermined brightness and / or color gradient (whose value varies according to a predetermined function within a predetermined value range depending on the position).

[0045] Thus, for example, the geometric outline may define the boundaries of an area to be illuminated (eg uniformly and / or enhanced and / or reduced), such as the aforementioned light carpet and / or traffic signs to be illuminated and / or for eliminating sign glare.

[0046] Thus, light image variables can indicate the configuration of edges (hard edges, soft edges) of an output light object, the configuration of a light-dark boundary or light-dark boundary area, the configuration of transitions between at least two light objects arranged side by side and / or one above the other, the configuration of the outlet of the light distribution to be output, shading, variable indication of the light object or light distribution to be output (length and / or width), the scale of the light object to be output, and the gradient of the brightness and / or color distribution. A light object can be, for example, a geometric shape to be output (i.e., illuminated and / or projected) onto a road area (e.g., by lighting and / or projection by means of a lighting device). Light image variables can also indicate texture (the type of brightness and / or color distribution within a contour, e.g., shading, uniform brightness and / or color value, color gradients and / or brightness gradients within a contour).

[0047] It is also conceivable that one or more light image variables indicate the position and / or type and / or geometric information (width, height) and / or movement variables (speed, acceleration) of an object detected in the vehicle environment of the vehicle, on which object the realization of the light function realized by the lighting device depends.

[0048] For example, the position of oncoming traffic, the vehicle type and the speed of the oncoming traffic may be indicated so that the clearance of the oncoming traffic from the surrounding area illuminated by the high beam (corresponding to a predetermined shape) may be (dynamically) determined.

[0049] It is also conceivable that the light pattern variable indicates the position and geometric details (width, height) of a traffic sign to be marked and / or illuminated (recognized in the vehicle environment) and / or an object to be marked (eg a lane restriction).

[0050] Furthermore, the lighting variable preferably indicates the geometry of the light distribution to be emitted on the road (eg the asymmetrical shape of a high beam) or a variable characterizing the same.

[0051] According to the invention, a light pattern generating device for generating a light pattern at least regionally receives at least one light pattern variable (and preferably a plurality of light pattern variables) from a light pattern variable determining device of a vehicle spaced apart therefrom, in particular based on a processor and / or a controller.

[0052] In other words, a method for operating a luminaire by outsourcing the generation of a light image (edge ​​light image generation) is proposed. This advantageously enables positioning on two independent computing devices.

[0053] Preferably, the at least one image variable is determined by a light image variable determination device (of the vehicle) (described in more detail below), in particular a light image variable determination device based on a processor and / or controller.

[0054] Preferably, the light pattern is generated in two steps, which are performed on two independent computing devices. Preferably, in the first step, at least one light pattern variable or multiple light pattern variables are determined. Preferably, in the second step, the light pattern is determined based on the light pattern variables.

[0055] Preferably, the subdivision of the two steps results in a data volume of the at least one light image variable and / or multiple light image variables required to generate the light image being smaller than the data volume of the generated light image, preferably 1 / 10, preferably 1 / 100, preferably 1 / 1000.

[0056] The subdivision of the two steps is preferably performed in such a way that the amount of data of the at least one light pattern variable and / or the plurality of light pattern variables required for generating the light pattern is independent of the number of pixels of the lighting device.

[0057] In particular, the at least one light pattern variable or the plurality of light pattern variables are selected such that they are independent of the resolution of the light pattern to be generated and the number of pixels of the lighting device.

[0058] Thus, communication devices with a relatively small bandwidth can be advantageously used to transmit one or more light pattern variables.

[0059] The reduction in bandwidth requirements enables the use of cost-effective vehicle networks.

[0060] Another advantage is that, by transmitting light pattern variables instead of the light pattern to be generated, there is no dependence on resolution.

[0061] The resulting reduction in latency enables fast compensation algorithms, for example for image stabilization applications.

[0062] In a preferred method, the lighting device includes a light pattern generating device. Preferably, the light pattern generating device is disposed within or on the housing of the lighting device. The light pattern generating device can be directly secured to and / or in contact with the housing of the lighting device. This offers the advantage that the light pattern generated by the light pattern generating device no longer needs to be transmitted laterally through the vehicle to the lighting device, but can instead be used directly to control the pixels of the lighting device. This advantageously eliminates the need for communication equipment with sufficient bandwidth for transmitting the light pattern.

[0063] Preferably, the outsourced generation of the light pattern forms a structural unit together with the lighting device, which can be assembled and / or exchanged, in particular, as a common structural unit. Preferably, the light pattern variable determination device is not part of this structural unit.

[0064] Preferably, the light image generating device represents a network node (eg an endpoint) of a (particularly Ethernet-based) communication network of the vehicle.

[0065] In another preferred method, the light pattern generation device generates a region of the light pattern, and preferably the entire light pattern, by rendering based on at least one light pattern variable, and preferably based on a plurality of light pattern variables. This offers the advantage that the rendering step, which generates spatial resolution data and a large amount of data depending on the resolution, is performed by a computing device in the lighting device.

[0066] However, those (computationally intensive) calculation steps that do not generate a resolution-dependent amount of data can be performed by a computing device at another location on the vehicle. Thus, for example, a computing device that also performs other data processing steps for other vehicle functions can be used for these calculation steps, so that a separate computing device with the required processor power is not required for this purpose.

[0067] Preferably, at least one rendering step, and particularly preferably, all rendering steps required for generating the light image are performed by the light image generating device.

[0068] In other words, a method is proposed for manipulating luminaires to generate light images by outsourcing rendering (edge ​​rendering).

[0069] In another preferred method, at least one light pattern variable and preferably a plurality of light pattern variables characterize a geometric description of the light pattern to be generated. Preferably, the light pattern variables are selected in such a way that the light pattern to be generated can be generated (in particular exclusively) from them by the rendering step.

[0070] For example, the light image to be generated can be decomposed into (geometrically simple) light objects that are geometrically easy to describe (and therefore can be described with a small amount of data). Preferably, regions of the light image to be generated are combined and described by means of a single (geometric) (light) object.

[0071] The geometric (light) object can be a triangle, rectangle, square, circle, trapezoid, etc.

[0072] In another preferred method, the light image variable determination device determines at least one scene object (or light object) and / or scene element, and preferably determines a plurality of scene objects (or light objects) and / or scene elements for generating a light image and / or for generating at least one light image variable, and preferably determines a plurality of light image variables.

[0073] This advantageously enables separation of the algorithms for scene calculation and light image rendering and enables localization on two independent computing units connected via the vehicle network.

[0074] The scene can in particular be a virtual space model in which the light distribution and / or roads and / or lanes determined for the realization of the light function, objects from the vehicle environment (in particular their material properties, light sources) as well as the position and light direction of the lighting device (or the vehicle's lighting device) and / or environmental areas and / or environmental objects to be marked are specified.

[0075] Different partitioning of the algorithm and rendering components is also conceivable, such as partial positioning of the algorithm components in the luminaire. This advantageously achieves a loose coupling between the algorithm and rendering.

[0076] Preferably, the light image in the lamp or lighting device is calculated by software rendering on a microcontroller (MCU), system on chip (SoC) or ASIC.

[0077] Computing rendering on a graphics processing unit (GPU) or microprocessor (MPU) is also conceivable. However, software rendering on an MCU or SoC is the most cost-effective and flexible solution.

[0078] In another preferred method, at least one light pattern variable and preferably a plurality of light pattern variables each represent a command for generating a scene object and / or a command list for generating a scene. This advantageously allows image content to be transmitted between computing units via the vehicle network via the command list.

[0079] To this end, scene elements (objects) are preferably calculated in an external / central control device and transmitted as command lists via the vehicle bus (e.g., 10 MBit Ethernet) via an interface to the luminaires. In the luminaires, a light image is calculated (rendered) from the objects. This allows for transmission with low bandwidth requirements and is particularly resolution-independent.

[0080] The command list is preferably transmitted in (public) data packets via the vehicle network.

[0081] In a further preferred method, at least one light pattern variable and preferably a plurality of light pattern variables, particularly preferably data representing a command list for generating a scene, are transmitted to the light pattern generating device via a vehicle network, preferably via a vehicle bus.

[0082] Preferably, the light pattern variables are transmitted to the light pattern generating device via a communication device having a bandwidth of at least partially (and conceivably also over the entire connection) not exceeding 10 MBit / s, preferably 100 MBit / s. Preferably, all light pattern variables used for generating the light pattern are transmitted to the light pattern generating device via a communication device having a bandwidth of at least partially not exceeding 10 MBit / s, preferably 100 MBit / s.

[0083] Preferably, at least one light image variable and all light image variables are transmitted to the light image generating device at a data rate of no more than 10 MBit / s and preferably 100 MBit / s to generate the light image to be generated in particular in real time (in particular as common data packets, preferably provided by the light image variable determination device for transmission).

[0084] The invention further relates to a lighting device for a vehicle, in particular a headlamp and / or a floor projector, for outputting a light distribution based on a (spatial resolution) light image generated in particular in real time.

[0085] In this case, the light image is generated at least regionally and preferably completely by a light image generating device of the lighting device, in particular a light image generating device based on a processor and / or controller, based on at least one non-spatial resolution light image variable, preferably a plurality of non-spatial resolution light image variables.

[0086] In this case, the at least one light pattern variable characterizes at least one region of the light pattern to be generated, preferably the entire light pattern to be generated.

[0087] According to the invention, the lighting device has an interface for receiving at least one light pattern variable and preferably a plurality of light pattern variables.

[0088] Therefore, in the context of the lighting device according to the present invention, it is also proposed that part of the data processing steps for generating the light image be performed by a data processing device external to the lighting device (in particular outside the lighting device), while the completion of the light image is performed by the lighting device.

[0089] Therefore, here too, it is advantageously proposed to localize the generation of the light image on two different computing devices.

[0090] Preferably, the lighting device is configured, adapted, and / or designed to perform the above-described method, in particular all method steps described above in conjunction with the lighting device (or light pattern generating device), either individually or in combination. Conversely, the method can include all features described in the context of the lighting device, either individually or in combination.

[0091] In a preferred embodiment, the light image generation device is a rendering device for performing at least one rendering operation and preferably for performing all rendering steps to be performed during the light image generation. Therefore, edge rendering, i.e., lighting manipulation with outsourced rendering for generating the light image, is also advantageously proposed here.

[0092] In another preferred embodiment, the light pattern generating device is selected from a group of computing devices, including microcontrollers (MCUs), systems on chips (SoCs), ASICs (application-specific integrated circuits), and combinations thereof. This offers the advantage of enabling the selection of relatively cost-effective computing devices for the lighting device, compared to central control equipment.

[0093] Additionally or alternatively, it is also conceivable that the light image generating device is selected from a group of computing devices, which includes MPU (abbreviation of "microprocessor unit" in English), GPU (abbreviation of "graphics processing unit" in English), FPGA (abbreviation of "Field Programmable Gate Array", field programmable (logic) gate array), etc. and their combinations.

[0094] The present invention further relates to a light image generating device of the above-mentioned lighting device and, in particular, to an arrangement of a light image variable determining device based on a processor and / or controller for determining at least one light image variable, preferably a plurality of light image variables, and for transmitting at least one light image variable, preferably a plurality of light image variables, to the light image generating device.

[0095] According to the present invention, the light image variable determining device is arranged outside the lighting device and / or relative to the outside of the lighting device and / or spaced apart from the light image generating device (and / or spaced apart from the lighting device). For example, it is conceivable that the light image variable determining device is connected to the light image generating device via a wired communication device, the length of which exceeds at least 1m, preferably at least 2m, and preferably 5m. The light image variable determining device is preferably arranged outside the housing of the lighting device. The light image variable determining device is preferably arranged outside the housing for accommodating the multiple light fixtures of the lighting device and / or the driver for operating the multiple light fixtures (e.g., LEDs).

[0096] In a preferred embodiment, the light pattern variable determining device and the light pattern generating device can operate independently of each other. Preferably, the light pattern variable determining device and the light pattern generating device are supplied with energy (current) independently of each other, or can be supplied with energy (current) independently of each other.

[0097] The invention also relates to a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, comprising at least one lighting device as described above and comprising a light image variable determination device, in particular a light image variable determination device based on a processor or a controller, for determining at least one light image variable, preferably a plurality of light image variables, and for transmitting the at least one light image variable, preferably a plurality of light image variables, to a light image generation device.

[0098] In this case, the light image variable determining device is arranged outside the lighting device and / or spaced apart from the light image generating device. Preferably, the light image variable determining device is not arranged directly on the lighting device. Preferably, the light image variable determining device is not fixed to the housing of the lighting device. Preferably, the light image variable determining device does not contact the lighting device. Preferably, other components of the vehicle that are not part of the lighting device, in particular other electronic components (for example, at least one zone controller and / or switch and / or gateway of a communication device) are arranged between the light image variable determining device and the lighting device.

[0099] The light pattern variable determination device is preferably a computing device of the vehicle external to the lighting device.

[0100] Preferably, the vehicle has the above-described arrangement according to the preferred embodiment.

[0101] In a preferred embodiment, the light pattern variable determination device is a central computing device and / or a central control device of the vehicle.

[0102] Preferably, the light image size determination device (for example as a central computing device) is suitable and designed for determining a light distribution that is necessary and / or suitable and / or determined (in particular within the framework of computer-implemented method steps) for realizing a (predetermined and / or predeterminable) light function to be realized by the lighting device.

[0103] Preferably, the light distribution is determined based on sensor data detected and / or generated by at least one sensor device of the vehicle (as described above).

[0104] Preferably, at least one light pattern variable and preferably a plurality of light pattern variables are determined based on sensor data detected and / or generated by at least one sensor device (as described above) of the vehicle.

[0105] The light pattern variable determination device is preferentially adapted and configured to receive and / or retrieve sensor data from a storage device, such as at least one sensor device, in the vehicle.

[0106] In this case, the central computing device and / or central control device of the vehicle is preferably a component of the central vehicle electronics which actuates one or more lighting devices of the vehicle (eg headlights and / or floor projectors).

[0107] Furthermore, it can be provided that the central computing device and / or the central control device is also directly or indirectly electrically connected to other electronic components of the vehicle, such as (the above-mentioned sensor devices), such as one or more cameras and / or radar sensors and / or devices for detecting speed and / or steering direction.

[0108] In a preferred embodiment, the lighting device is a high-resolution lighting device having more than 1,000 pixels, preferably more than 4,000 pixels, for individually controllable light emission of the pixels.

[0109] In this case, the vehicle has a communication device via which at least one light pattern variable, and preferably a plurality of light pattern variables, can be transmitted to the light pattern generating device. The communication device is a CAN bus and / or an Ethernet data connection. Preferably, the communication device has a bandwidth of no more than 10 MBit, preferably 100 MBit, at least in sections.

[0110] The light pattern variable determination device (in particular designed as a central computing device and / or a central control device) can be connected to the lighting device (for transmitting the at least one light pattern variable) via end-to-end Ethernet communication.

[0111] Optionally, the light pattern variable determination device (in particular designed as a central computing device and / or central control device) can be connected to the lighting device (for transmitting the at least one light pattern variable) via a local architecture with a gateway.

[0112] The communication device preferably also comprises one or more electronic components, such as a switch and / or a zone controller (for controlling the current distribution in the vehicle).

[0113] For example, the light pattern variable determination device (in particular designed as a central computing device and / or central control device) can be connected to the zone controller via a switch (wired connection and preferably via Ethernet), in particular for transmitting at least one light pattern variable.

[0114] The switches are in turn connected to the zone controllers (wired connection, preferably via Ethernet).

[0115] The zone controller can be connected to the lighting device (wired connection, preferably via Ethernet). In this case, the zone controller can be configured as a switch so that a gateway is not required.

[0116] In an alternative embodiment, the zone controllers are connected to the lighting devices via a CAN communication link (CAN-FD). In this case, protocol conversion is required in the gateway.

[0117] The high-resolution lighting device is particularly suitable and designed for emitting light in a pixel-by-pixel and individually controllable manner into the lighting device's environment. In particular, the lighting device is suitable and designed for generating an image formed from a plurality of light pixels. Thus, the lighting device is suitable and designed for projecting patterns of essentially any desired shape.

[0118] The (high-resolution) lighting device preferably has at least one light modulator, which is preferably designed as a DMD (Digital Micromirror Device), an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), and / or Liquid Crystal on Silicon (LCoS). In this case, the individual picture elements of the light modulator are preferably controllable, thereby enabling the generation of a light distribution pattern having essentially any desired shape. The (high-resolution) lighting device preferably has imaging optics arranged in the beam path between the light source and the light modulator. The high-resolution light module preferably has projection optics for projecting the light modulated by the light modulator onto a projection surface.

[0119] Preferably, the (high-resolution) lighting device has micropixel LEDs, in particular with thousands of individually controllable pixels. It is also conceivable to use micropixel LEDs with between 1,000 and 20,000 pixels, preferably between 40,000 and 20,000 pixels. Such high-resolution lighting devices are suitable and intended for outputting content with very high resolution. The high-resolution lighting device preferably has projection optics, which are arranged downstream of the micropixel LEDs in the direction of optical emission.

[0120] A matrix module is, in particular, a lighting device having a matrix of individually controllable light-emitting pixel elements for generating an original light image formed by light pixels. A matrix module, in particular an LED matrix module, preferably has a plurality of light sources, in particular LEDs, arranged in a matrix, and a circuit board equipped with these light sources. A matrix module, in particular an LED matrix module, preferably has at least one heat sink for cooling heat generated during its operation, wherein the heat sink is preferably connected to the circuit board in a thermally conductive manner. Preferably, each light source, in particular each LED, is assigned a primary optical element for shaping and directionally coupling light, into which the light from the respective light source, in particular the respective LED, can be coupled. A matrix module preferably has at least 8 and preferably at least 100 individually activatable and / or individually controllable light segments.

[0121] Alternatively or additionally, the illumination device can be a DLP projector (Digital Light Processing, DLP), in particular having a DMD unit (DMD is an abbreviation for "Digital Micro Mirror Device," an electronic component with micromirrors). In particular, each image point or pixel is generated by a single, controllable tilting mirror. Depending on the tilt state of the respective tilting mirror, light can be projected through the objective lens or blocked (in particular, in a light trap).

[0122] DLP projectors can also be implemented as 3-chip projectors, where each DMD chip is assigned a different color.

[0123] In this case, the DLP projector can have at least three light sources (e.g., LEDs) emitting light of different colors, the light emitted by which is particularly offset in time relative to one another and directed to the DMD unit, for example, via a spectral coupler. By means of (monochrome) images output successively at short time intervals, a full-color image is generated in the human eye of the viewer.

[0124] In this case, DLP projectors can (optionally) be designed as single-chip projectors. The different colors can preferably be generated by a rotating color wheel, and the radiation generated in this way is directed onto a reflective DMD chip. The images generated in rapid succession create the impression of a full-color image due to the perceptual inertia of the human eye.

[0125] The lighting device is preferably an external lighting device of the vehicle, which in particular emits light into the external environment of the vehicle, for example into the road area around the vehicle. For example, the external lighting device can be a ground projector.

[0126] The lighting device may be a front light and / or a rear light and / or a front headlight and / or a rear headlight.

[0127] However, it is also conceivable that the lighting device is an interior lighting device of the vehicle, which emits light in the direction of the vehicle interior, for example into the vehicle cabin.

[0128] The present invention also relates to a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, comprising at least one lighting device described above for the vehicle according to one embodiment, and preferably comprising at least two lighting devices described above (e.g., arranged on different sides of the vehicle, such as the right or left side, such as right and left headlights). The vehicle may in particular be a (motor) road vehicle. Preferably, the vehicle comprises the (single) light pattern variable determination device described above. Preferably, for each of the two lighting devices, the light pattern variable determination device determines a light pattern variable to be transmitted to the respective lighting device.

[0129] The vehicle can be a motor vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle controlled by the driver himself ("driver only"), a semi-autonomous, autonomous (for example, autonomy level 3, 4, or 5 (standard SAE J3016)) or an autonomous motor vehicle. Autonomy level 5 represents a fully autonomous vehicle. Likewise, the vehicle can be an unmanned transport system. The vehicle can be driver-controlled or autonomous. Furthermore, in addition to road vehicles, the vehicle can also be an air taxi, an aircraft, or other vehicles or other means of transport, such as air, water, or rail vehicles.

[0130] The invention further relates to a computer program or a computer program product comprising program means, in particular program code, which represents or encodes at least some and preferably all method steps of the method according to the invention, in particular those steps which are performed by the light image variable determination device or the light image generation device, and preferably one of the described preferred embodiments, and is configured to be executed by a processor device.

[0131] The invention further relates to a data memory in which at least one embodiment of the computer program according to the invention or a preferred embodiment of the computer program is stored.

[0132] The invention has been described with reference to a lighting device for a vehicle. In this case, the invention can also be transferred to a lighting device for general lighting, a lighting device for aerospace and consumer electronics (CE). The applicant also reserves the right to claim subject matter related thereto.

[0133] Further advantages and embodiments can be seen from the accompanying drawings:

[0134] In the attached figure:

[0135] Figure 1 A diagram showing the use of the lighting device according to the invention for a vehicle according to a preferred embodiment;

[0136] Figure 2 A schematic diagram showing a control device for a lighting device according to the present invention according to a preferred embodiment is shown;

[0137] Figure 3a A schematic diagram showing the arrangement of a light image generating device and a light image variable determining device of an illumination device according to the prior art; and

[0138] Figure 3b A schematic diagram showing the arrangement of a light image generating device and a light image variable determining device of an illumination device according to the present invention.

[0139] Figure 1 The diagram shows the use of a lighting device 10 according to the invention (in this case a headlight) of a vehicle 1 according to a preferred embodiment in a traffic situation in which a vehicle 3 is traveling towards the vehicle 1 as an oncoming vehicle in the oncoming lane.

[0140] To prevent glare for the driver of vehicle 3 while ensuring good illumination of the lane in which vehicle 1 is traveling, lighting device 10 preferably automatically outputs one of the asymmetric light distributions that produce illumination on the roadway, denoted by reference numerals L1 and L2. The respective output light distributions are configured such that they omit the spatial region of the vehicle environment in which oncoming vehicle 3 is located. Because both vehicles 1 and 3 are in motion, determining and generating the respective light distributions output by lighting device 10 is a highly dynamic (real-time) process.

[0141] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a control device 11 (according to the present invention) for an illumination device 10 (not shown here) according to the present invention is shown according to a preferred embodiment.

[0142] In this case, the control device 11 comprises (at least) two computing devices 20 , 30 which can be operated independently of one another and which are preferably spaced apart from one another.

[0143] In this case, an external computing device relative to the lighting device 10 is preferably provided, namely a remote computer identified by reference numeral 20. This is in particular the above-mentioned (processor and / or controller-based) light image variable determination device 20. Figure 3b The description describes the purpose of the computing device in more detail.

[0144] The remote computer 20 or the light pattern variable determination device 20 is in particular arranged outside the lighting device 10 and particularly preferably outside the housing of the lighting device 10. Preferably, the light pattern variable determination device 20 does not contact the lighting device 10.

[0145] Through the communication interface or transmission interface CI, the remote computer or (processor and / or controller-based) light image variable determination device 20 is connected to another computing device 30, referred to as the light image generation device 30, for data exchange or transmission of communication data from the remote computer to another computing device or light image generation device 30.

[0146] The light pattern variable determination device 30 preferably delivers control variables for controlling individually controllable pixels of the lighting device. In particular, the control variables characterize the control of each pixel of the lighting device to be controlled for pixel-specific illumination.

[0147] The further computing device 30 is preferably a renderer computer. Preferably, the further computing device 30 (particularly a stationary one) is a component of the lighting device 10 (not shown here). For example, it is conceivable that the further computing device or light image generating device 30 comprises the housing of the lighting device, is connected to the housing and / or is arranged near the light source of the lighting device.

[0148] Reference numeral 32 denotes a runtime environment ("Runtime Environment" in English), in which a codec 33, preferably an image stabilizer 34, and a rendering engine 35 are run. The rendering engine 35 preferably includes a parser 36, a comfort function 37, and a library.

[0149] Reference numeral 40 denotes the hardware of the renderer computer 30. This comprises a non-volatile storage device NVM (short for “nonvolatile memory”), here denoted by reference numeral 41, in which parameters 42, for example, can be stored.

[0150] Another hardware component is RAM (abbreviation for Random-Access Memory), which is indicated here by reference numeral 49 . Textures 43 can be stored therein. The RAM may also include a frame buffer 45 and a shadow buffer 44 .

[0151] Furthermore, the hardware 40 preferably includes an interface for a data bus, for example an SPI (short for “Serial Peripheral Interface”) denoted by reference numeral 46 , and preferably a video interface 47 and a control interface denoted by reference numeral 48 .

[0152] The hardware 40 preferably includes a service interface for communicating with a so-called "end-of-line computer" 60 (test computer).

[0153] Preferably, the light image generating device 30, in this case a renderer computer, is adapted and designed for exchanging data with an external non-volatile memory device 50 (NVM) (relative to the light image generating device or renderer computer), in particular via an interface 46 of a data bus (e.g. SPI). This may preferably include a startup command list 52, a fail-safe command list, textures and / or texture sequences, or may be stored therein.

[0154] Figure 3a A schematic diagram shows the arrangement of the light image generating device 30 and the light image variable determining device 20 of the lighting device 10 according to the prior art.

[0155] In this case, a lighting device 10, such as a high-resolution headlamp and / or a floor projector, is controlled by an external control device 4 (ECU, short for electronic control unit) (relative to the lighting device 10) in a pixel-based manner via a video stream, for example, a plurality of light fixtures 14 configured as LEDs. In this case, the video stream is transmitted from the control device 20 via the interface 13 via the communication device 24 to the lighting device 10, in particular to the light pattern generating device 30 of the lighting device 10, preferably to a network node arranged in the lighting device, preferably to an end point (English: "end point") of the vehicle's communication network.

[0156] The external control device 4 (relative to the lighting device 10) comprises an algorithm for calculating a scene of the light distribution output by the lighting device 10, for example based on sensor data (executed by the schematically shown light image variable determination device 20), and for calculating a rendering R of a single image (executed by the schematically shown light image generation device 30).

[0157] In this case, the light pattern variable determination device 20 and the light pattern generation device 30 are both part of the external control apparatus 4 (relative to the lighting device 10 ).

[0158] Thus, a single light image LB has been transmitted via a video stream in a spatially resolved or pixel-based manner from an external (preferably central) control device to the lighting device 10, in particular to an endpoint 12 of the lighting device 10, from which individual pixel-specific control of a plurality of lamps 14 (e.g. LEDs) is performed based on the light image LB.

[0159] Figure 3b A schematic diagram shows the arrangement of the light image generating device 30 and the light image variable determining device 20 of the lighting device 10 according to the present invention.

[0160] It is proposed to separate the algorithm A for calculating the scene by the light pattern variable determination device 20 and the algorithm R for drawing the light pattern (LB) by the light pattern generation device 30, and locate them in two independent computing units, respectively connected via the vehicle network or the communication device 26. In this case, the lighting device 10 has an interface 13, through which the lighting device 10 can receive data transmitted via the communication device 26, such as the at least one light pattern variable or multiple light pattern variables mentioned above.

[0161] To this end, the scene elements (objects O1, O2) are calculated in the external / central control device 4 of the vehicle 1 (by the light image variable determination device 20) and transmitted via an interface or via a communication device 26, preferably as a command list (LG) via the communication device 26 (e.g. a vehicle bus, such as 10 Mbit Ethernet) to the lighting device 10 or the luminaire (preferably to the light image generation device 30 of the lighting device 10), in particular to a network node of the vehicle's communication network (e.g. endpoint 12).

[0162] The command list LG may include, for example, instructions or commands which objects are to be created at which location.

[0163] exist Figure 3b , an illustrative example of the command is given:

[0164] draw(circle;x,y,r):

[0165] Draw a circle with its center at position x,y and radius r

[0166] draw(line;x1,y1,x2,y2):

[0167] Draw a line from starting point x1, y1 to ending point x2, y2.

[0168] In the lighting device 10 , a light image (LB) from the objects O1 , O2 is calculated (rendered as R) by a light image generating device 30 , shown schematically here. The light image LB can therefore be transmitted with low bandwidth requirements, in particular independently of resolution.

[0169] Preferably, the light image LB in the luminaire or lighting device 10 is calculated (by the light image generating means 30 ) by software rendering on a microcontroller (MCU), system on chip (SoC) or ASIC.

[0170] Here, based on the generated (spatial resolution) light image LB, a plurality of light fixtures 14 , for example designed as LEDs 14 , are specifically driven pixel by pixel, and light is emitted pixel by pixel by the plurality of light fixtures 14 .

[0171] The applicant reserves the right to claim that all features disclosed in the application documents are essential to the present invention, to the extent that they are novel, either individually or in combination, over the prior art. It should also be noted that features that may be advantageous in themselves are depicted in the various figures. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize that a particular feature depicted in one figure may be advantageous even without the use of other features in that figure. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will recognize that advantages may be obtained by combining several features depicted in a single figure or in different figures.

[0172] Reference Signs List

[0173] 1 vehicle

[0174] 3 Oncoming vehicles

[0175] 4 External control devices

[0176] 10 lighting fixtures

[0177] 11 Control device

[0178] 12 Endpoints

[0179] 13 Interface

[0180] 14 Lighting fixtures, such as LEDs

[0181] 20 Optical image variable determination device

[0182] A algorithm

[0183] R Renderer

[0184] 24, 26 Communication Equipment

[0185] 30 Light image generating device

[0186] CI interface

[0187] 32 Runtime Environment

[0188] 33 Codecs

[0189] 34 Image Stabilizer

[0190] 35 Rendering Engine

[0191] 36 Parser

[0192] 37 Comfort Function

[0193] 38 Library

[0194] 40 Hardware

[0195] 41 Non-volatile storage devices

[0196] 42 parameters

[0197] 43 R Texture

[0198] 44 Shadow Buffer

[0199] 45 Frame Buffer

[0200] 46 Data bus interface

[0201] 47 Video Interface

[0202] 48 control interfaces

[0203] 49 RAM

[0204] 50 Non-volatile storage devices

[0205] 52 Startup Command List

[0206] 54 Fail-safe command list

[0207] 56 S Texture

[0208] 58 S texture sequence

[0209] 60 End of Line Computer

[0210] SI Service Interface

[0211] L1, L2 light distribution

[0212] LB light image

[0213] LG Light Image Variable

[0214] O1, O2 scene objects

Claims

1. A method for operating at least one lighting device (10) of a vehicle (1), in particular a headlamp and / or a floor projector of the vehicle (1), for outputting a light distribution (L1, L2) based on a light image (LB), in particular generated in real time, the light image (LB) being generated at least regionally and preferably completely by a light image generating device (30) of the vehicle (1), in particular based on a processor and / or controller, based on at least one non-spatial resolution light image variable (LG), preferably a plurality of non-spatial resolution light image variables (LG), wherein: The at least one light image variable (LG) characterizes at least one region of the light image (LB) to be generated, preferably the entire light image to be generated, characterized in that the light image generating device (30) for generating a light image at least regionally receives the at least one light image variable (LG) from a light image variable determining device (20) of the vehicle (1) spaced apart therefrom, in particular based on a processor and / or controller.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that The lighting device (10) includes the light image generating device (30).

3. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The light image generating means (30) generates a region of the light image (LB) and preferably the entire light image (LB) by rendering based on the at least one light image variable (LG) and preferably based on the plurality of light image variables.

4. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The at least one light image variable (LG) and preferably the plurality of light image variables (LG) characterize a geometric description of the light image (LB) to be generated.

5. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The light image variable determination device (20) determines at least one scene object (O1, O2), preferably a plurality of scene objects (O1, O2), for generating the light image (LB) and / or for generating the at least one light image variable (LG), preferably the plurality of light image variables (LG).

6. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The at least one light pattern variable (LG) and preferably the plurality of light pattern variables (LG) each represent a command for generating a scene object and / or a command list for generating a scene.

7. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The at least one light pattern variable (LG) and preferably the plurality of light pattern variables, particularly preferably data representing a command list for generating a scene, are transmitted to the light pattern generating device (30) via a vehicle network, preferably a vehicle bus.

8. A lighting device (10) for a vehicle (1), in particular a headlamp and / or a floor projector, for outputting a light distribution (L1, L2) based on a light image (LB) generated in particular in real time, said light image (LB) being generated at least regionally and preferably completely by a light image generating device (30) of said lighting device (10), in particular based on a processor and / or controller, based on at least one non-spatial resolution light image variable (LG), preferably a plurality of non-spatial resolution light image variables (LG), wherein: The at least one light pattern variable (LG) represents at least one region of the light pattern (LB) to be generated, preferably represents the entire light pattern to be generated, characterized in that the lighting device (10) has an interface (13) for receiving the at least one light pattern variable (LG) and preferably the plurality of light pattern variables (LG).

9. The lighting device (10) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that The light image generating device (30) is a rendering device for performing at least one rendering operation.

10. The lighting device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The light image generating device (30) is selected from a group of computing devices including a microcontroller (MCU), a system on a chip (SoC), an ASIC (application specific integrated circuit), etc. and combinations thereof.

11. A light image generating device (30) of a lighting device (10) according to the preceding claim, and an arrangement of a light image variable determining device (20), in particular based on a processor and / or controller, for determining the at least one light image variable (LG), preferably the plurality of light image variables (LG), and for transmitting the at least one light image variable (LG), preferably the plurality of light image variables (LG) to the light image generating device (30), characterized in that The light pattern variable determination device (20) is arranged outside the lighting device (10) and / or is spaced apart from the light pattern generation device (30).

12. Arrangement according to the preceding claim, characterized in that The light image variable determining means (20) and the light image generating means (30) can operate independently of each other.

13. A vehicle (1), in particular a motor vehicle, comprising at least one lighting device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, and comprising a light pattern variable determination device (20), in particular based on a processor and / or a controller, for determining the at least one light pattern variable (LG), preferably the plurality of light pattern variables (LG), and for transmitting the at least one light pattern variable (LG), preferably the plurality of light pattern variables (LG) to the light pattern generation device (30), wherein The light pattern variable determination device (20) is arranged outside the lighting device (10) and / or is spaced apart from the light pattern generation device (30).

14. Vehicle (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The light pattern variable determination device (20) is a central computing device of the vehicle (1).

15. Vehicle (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The lighting device (10) is a particularly high-resolution lighting device with more than 1,000 pixels, preferably more than 4,000 pixels, for individually controllable illumination of the pixels, wherein the vehicle has a communication device via which the at least one light pattern variable (LG) and preferably the plurality of light pattern variables (LG) can be transmitted to the light pattern generating device (30), characterized in that the communication device (26) is a CAN bus and / or Ethernet data connection.

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