Lighting control system and method for light control

Abstract

A lighting control system (100), a street lamp device (900) and a method (1000) are provided for an arterial road traveled by at least one vehicle. The lighting control system comprises a plurality of street lamps (115), j = 1,..., k, comprising a light source and a processor configured to obtain at least one environmental condition, obtain at least one distance di, j between a street lamp j and at least one vehicle, and obtain a plurality of street lamps j = 1,..., k according to the obtained at least one environmental condition, the obtained at least one distance di, j between the street lamp j and the vehicle, and the plurality of street lamps j = 1,..., k. The setting Sj of the light output of the street lamp j is determined according to the setting Si not equal to j of the light output of at least one street lamp different from the street lamp j among k.

Description

Technical Field

[0002] This invention generally relates to systems and methods for lighting control. More specifically, this invention relates to systems and methods for lighting control of streets trafficked by (multiple) vehicles via streetlights. Background Technology

[0004] As cities become smarter and more environmentally friendly, smart street lighting infrastructure can help reduce energy consumption while making cities safer and easier to navigate, especially at night.

[0005] The expectation of developing smart street lighting infrastructure has been particularly driven by environmental (weather) conditions that could negatively impact traffic (such as impaired visibility for drivers). Traffic may experience compromised safety during these conditions.

[0006] In the existing technology, street lighting infrastructure exists and has been implemented in an attempt to provide street lighting that is both traffic-safe and environmentally friendly. However, there remains an urgent need to develop systems and methods in this field that can provide efficient street lighting that addresses both energy and safety, especially during challenging environmental conditions.

[0007] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a system and method for efficient street lighting that takes into account both energy efficiency and safety during challenging environmental conditions. Summary of the Invention

[0009] It is of interest to overcome at least some of the shortcomings of current systems and methods related to street lighting for energy-efficient street lighting that further provides traffic safety during challenging environmental conditions.

[0010] This and other objectives are achieved by providing systems, street lighting devices, and methods having the features of the independent claims. Preferred embodiments are defined in the dependent claims.

[0011] According to a first aspect of the invention, a lighting control system for a main road traversed by at least one vehicle is provided. The lighting control system includes a plurality of streetlights arranged adjacent to the main road. j=1,…,k Each of the multiple streetlights includes a light source arranged to provide light output. The light output of each streetlight defines a light output area. That is, the light source is configured to illuminate a specific area, namely the light output area. Each of the multiple streetlights includes at least one sensor and a processor communicatively coupled to the at least one sensor. The processor is configured to obtain indications from the multiple streetlights. j= 1,…, kAt least one street light j Data indicating the presence of fog in the vicinity. This data can be obtained via at least one sensor. The processor is also configured to obtain the position p of at least one vehicle via at least one sensor. i,j The location can be relative to multiple streetlights. j=1,…,k The relative position. The processor is configured to operate according to setting S j Control the light output of each street lamp j in a plurality of street lamps, such that it corresponds to the obtained position p of at least one vehicle. i,j The first light output region, which at least partially overlaps with the obtained position p of at least one vehicle, has a higher position than the obtained position p of the first light output region. i,j The overlapping second light output region has a lower light intensity.

[0012] Because the lighting control system can adapt to the light intensity of streetlights, the light area including vehicles has a lower intensity compared to the light area excluding vehicles, resulting in more light being projected onto the road and less light being projected towards vehicle windows. This reduces direct horizontal glare entering the driver's eyes while still allowing for good road lighting conditions. Therefore, it improves driver visibility.

[0013] According to a first aspect of the invention, a lighting control system for a main road traversed by at least one vehicle is provided. The lighting control system includes a plurality of streetlights arranged adjacent to the main road. j=1,…,k Each of the multiple streetlights includes a light source arranged to provide light output and a processor configured to operate on multiple streetlights. j=1,…,k Each street light j Obtain at least one environmental condition, and obtain streetlights. j At least one distance d between at least one vehicle i,j Based on at least one environmental condition obtained, and the obtained streetlights j At least one distance d between the vehicle and i,j and multiple streetlights j=1,…,k Central and streetlights j Setting S of the light output of at least one different street light i≠j To determine the setting S for the light output of street light j. j The lighting control system also includes control units connected to the processor and multiple streetlights, wherein the control units are configured to operate according to determined settings S j Control the light output of each of the multiple streetlights.

[0014] According to a second aspect of the invention, a street lighting device is provided for a main road traversed by at least one vehicle. The street lighting device comprises a plurality of streetlights arranged adjacent to the main road. j=1,…,k Each of the multiple streetlights jIt includes a light source arranged to provide light output, and a processor configured to obtain at least one environmental condition and at least one distance d between the street light j and at least one vehicle. i,j Based on at least one environmental condition obtained, and at least one distance d between the streetlight j and the vehicle obtained. i,j and multiple streetlights j=1,…,k The setting S of the light output of at least one street lamp that is different from street lamp j i≠j To determine the setting S for the light output of street light j. j The streetlight unit also includes a control unit connected to the processor and multiple streetlights, wherein the control unit is configured to operate according to determined settings S j Control the light output of multiple streetlights.

[0015] According to a third aspect of the invention, a plurality of streetlights arranged via an adjacent main road are provided. j=1,…, k A method for controlling the light on a main road traversed by at least one vehicle, wherein each of a plurality of streetlights includes a light source arranged to provide light output. The method includes the step of obtaining at least one environmental condition. The method further includes the step of: targeting the plurality of streetlights... j=1,…,k Each street light j Obtain streetlights j At least one distance d between at least one vehicle i,j Based on at least one environmental condition obtained, and the obtained streetlights j At least one distance d between the vehicle and i,j and multiple streetlights j=1,…,k Central and streetlights j Setting S of the light output of at least one different street light i≠j To determine the streetlights j Light output settings S j The method also includes adjusting the settings S as determined. j The steps to control the light output of each of a group of streetlights.

[0016] The arterial road can be traversed by multiple vehicles. The method may further include obtaining data indicating the driving complexity of at least one of the multiple vehicles. A processor may be configured to obtain said data indicating the complexity (associated with complexity) of driving conditions for the multiple vehicles via at least one sensor. The data may include at least one of the following: the speed of at least one vehicle, the traffic density of the arterial road, the relative positioning of at least one vehicle relative to a turn on the arterial road, the relative positioning of at least one vehicle relative to a pedestrian crossing, and the relative positioning of at least one vehicle relative to a second vehicle from the multiple vehicles. The processor method may further include: determining a priority value associated with each of the multiple vehicles based on the obtained data, and determining each streetlight according to the determined priority value. j Light output settings S j In other words, higher priority is assigned to vehicles for which a higher priority value is determined. In that way, street lighting is adjusted so that each streetlight is adjusted according to the vehicle with the highest priority value. j Light output settings S j .

[0017] Therefore, this invention is based on the idea of ​​a lighting control system for main road (street) lighting, comprising multiple streetlights with corresponding light sources, wherein the light output of the streetlights is set based on multiple environmental conditions, multiple distances between multiple vehicles and multiple streetlights, and the settings of other streetlights. The lighting control system is thus able to adapt the light output for safety reasons (e.g., to prevent vehicle drivers from being dazzled by the light output), and the lighting control system achieves energy efficiency through its optimized / adapted lighting. It should be noted that the lighting control system of the first aspect of this invention, the streetlight device of the second aspect of this invention, and the method of the third aspect of this invention share the same common overall inventive concept of vehicle traffic safety and energy efficiency through their common features, functions, and / or operation.

[0018] Because of the ability of the lighting control system to adapt to the light output from the streetlights in this design, the present invention has the advantage of significantly improving visibility for vehicle drivers in challenging environments (e.g., foggy conditions), thereby providing improved safety for traffic.

[0019] A further advantage of the invention is that the lighting control system can limit the light that directly enters the driver's eyes at a horizontal level, while still providing the driver with good lighting conditions to view / observe the main road and possible obstacles.

[0020] A further advantage of this invention regarding its energy efficiency lies in the fact that the lighting control system controls the light output in relation to passing vehicles and / or (multiple) vehicle traffic patterns. In other words, the lighting control system can effectively adapt the light output to traffic and can limit (i.e., reduce intensity) or even turn off the light output of one or more streetlights when light output would be unnecessary. It should be understood that when the lighting control system reduces the light output intensity, a minimum light level (e.g., 10%) can be maintained at the background level, for example, to provide sufficient illumination for areas along the road (e.g., sidewalks, pedestrian walkways) to improve safety, etc.

[0021] A further advantage of the present invention is that its light output is effectively and conveniently customized to depend on (multiple) environmental conditions, (multiple) distances between (multiple) vehicles and (multiple) streetlights, the setting of (other) streetlights, the speed of the vehicle or multiple vehicles, etc.

[0022] A further advantage of the present invention is that the lighting control system provides (individual) control of each street lamp in the streetlights, which emphasizes the optimization of light output during operation.

[0023] A lighting control system is provided for a main road through which at least one vehicle travels. The term "main road" herein refers to streets, roads, highway lanes, expressways, tunnels, bridges, etc. The term "vehicle" herein can refer to a motor-driven vehicle operated by a driver, such as a car, motorcycle, truck, etc. However, the term "vehicle" can also encompass bicycles, and particularly electric bicycles. The lighting control system includes multiple streetlights arranged adjacent to the main road. j=1,…,k For example, streetlights j =1,…, k It can be a light pole j=1,…,k It should be understood that the (total) number k of streetlights is arbitrary. Furthermore, the number of streetlights included in the lighting control system can be a subset of all streetlights along the main road (street, road). Therefore, within the total number of streetlights on the main road, there can exist a subset of these streetlights included in the lighting control system. Each of the multiple streetlights includes a light source arranged to provide light output. "Light source" refers to virtually any kind of light source suitable for street lighting purposes. For example, a light source may include one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs). The lighting control system also includes a processor configured to obtain at least one environmental condition. The term "environmental condition" here refers to virtually any environmental or weather condition, such as, for example, fog, humidity, drizzle (rain), smoke, etc. It should be noted that the term "environmental condition" can also encompass darkness, ambiguity, etc., such as darkness at night. Furthermore, "environmental condition" can be a combination of two or more of the above conditions, such as darkness and rain. For multiple streetlights... j=1,…,k Each street light j The processor is configured to obtain streetlightsj At least one distance d between at least one vehicle i,j Therefore, the processor is configured or arranged to acquire, receive, sense, calculate, and / or register streetlights. j The distances d between the vehicle(s) passing on the main road and the vehicle(s) passing on the main road. i,j The processor is also configured to work with multiple streetlights. j= 1，…，k Each street light j Determine the streetlights j Light output settings S j The term "settings" here refers to configuration, mode, etc. Therefore, "streetlights" j Light output settings S j " refers to streetlights" j The settings, configurations, or modes of the light output characteristics, parameters, and / or features. Streetlights j Light output settings S j The processor determines the location of the streetlights based on the obtained environmental conditions (multiple) and the streetlights. j The distance d between the vehicle and (multiple) other vehicles i,j and multiple streetlights j=1,…,k Unlike streetlights j Setting S the light output of at least one street lamp i≠j To determine. Therefore, streetlights j The light output depends on the street and ambient (weather) conditions near the streetlights, the vehicle-to-pole distance, and the light output settings of the other streetlights. The lighting control system also includes control units connected to the processor and the multiple streetlights. "Control unit" refers to any device, unit, etc., configured to electronically and / or mechanically control and / or operate the streetlights. The control unit is configured to operate according to determined settings S j This is used to control the light output of each of the multiple streetlights. Therefore, the control unit is configured to control the light output of each streetlight according to a determined setting S. j Based on the obtained environmental conditions (multiple), and the obtained streetlights j The distances d between the vehicle and (multiple) other vehicles i,j And the settings for the light output of one or more other streetlights, to control the light output of each of the multiple streetlights.

[0024] According to an embodiment of the present invention, streetlights j Light output settings S j This can include setting property C s Set property C sThis includes at least one of the following: light output intensity I, light output polarization P, light output correlated color temperature CCT, light output beam angle α, and light output beam direction B. An advantage of this embodiment is that the setting characteristic C constituting one or a combination of two or more of the above parameters... s This can significantly contribute to the safety and / or energy efficiency of lighting control systems. For example, certain colors can penetrate environmental conditions such as fog more easily, an effect that may be more emphasized when using polarized light.

[0025] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the control unit may further be configured to divide the light output of each of the plurality of streetlights into a plurality of light output regions, wherein each light output region in the plurality of light output regions is spatially different from any other light output region in the plurality of light output regions, wherein at least a first light output region in the plurality of light output regions includes a first setting characteristic C. s1 And at least the second optical output region among the plurality of optical output regions includes the second setting feature C. s2 The first setting feature C s1 Unlike the second setting feature C s2 Therefore, a lighting control system can provide two or more light output zones with different setting characteristics. It should be understood that the second setting characteristic C... s2 This can be a lighting setup suitable for preparing for oncoming vehicles, thereby further improving the light output for traffic. An advantage of this embodiment is that the lighting control system effectively and conveniently provides multiple light output zones with different characteristics (e.g., intensity, beam direction / angle, etc.), which further facilitates optimization, customization, and / or adaptation to vehicle traffic. A further advantage of this embodiment is that the lighting control system can be adapted to the type of vehicle (e.g., car, truck, bus) and / or the perception of the vehicle driver (i.e., the driver's eye level within the vehicle).

[0026] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the processor can also be configured to target multiple streetlights. j=1,…,k Each street light j Obtain the position p of at least one vehicle i,j The control unit is also configured to guide at least a first light output area to the acquired position p of at least one vehicle. i,j They overlap at least partially, where the first setting feature C s1 Including the first intensity I1 of the light output, wherein the second setting characteristic C s2including a second intensity I2 of the light output, where I1 < I2. Thus, the lighting control system can thereby provide a first light output area with a first (e.g., reduced) intensity I1 for the vehicle (driver) compared to a second light output area with a second (e.g., full) intensity I2. The advantage of this embodiment is that it results in a safer and / or more energy-efficient operation of the lighting control system.

[0027] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the processor may further be configured to: for each street lamp among a plurality of street lamps j=1,…,k obtain at least one vehicle's position p j , at least one vehicle's speed sp i,j , at least one vehicle's acceleration ap i,j , at least one vehicle's driving direction dd i,j , the light output lo from the headlights of at least one vehicle i,j , at least one vehicle's type tt i,j and at least one of the information f from the driver of at least one vehicle i,j , and determine the setting S of the light output of the street lamp i,j according to at least one of the obtained at least one vehicle's position p i,j , the obtained at least one vehicle's speed sp i,j , the obtained at least one vehicle's acceleration ap i,j , the obtained at least one vehicle's driving direction dd i,j , and the obtained light output lo from the headlights of at least one vehicle i,j , at least one vehicle's type tt [[ID=3I]] i,j and at least one of the information f from the driver of at least one vehicle i,j . Thus, the processor may be configured to, for each street lamp j = 1,..., k among a plurality of street lamps j , obtain from the headlights of at least one vehicle the position p j , speed, sp j , acceleration, ap i,j , driving direction, dd i,j and / or one or more parameters of the light output lo i,j , and determine the setting S of the light output of the street lamp i,j according to the one or more parameters. Thus, the processor may be configured to, for each street lamp among a plurality of street lamps i、j \obtain from the headlights of at least one vehicle the position p j , speed sp j , acceleration ap j=1,…,k for each street lamp j , obtain from the headlights of at least one vehicle the position p i,j , speed sp i,j , acceleration ap i,j, driving direction dd i,j and / or optical output lo i,j One or more parameters, and determine the street light based on these parameters. j Light output settings S j It should be understood that much information about the vehicle's driving characteristics can thus be obtained by the lighting control system, and the advantage of this embodiment is that the control unit can achieve more precise and customized control of the light output. The advantage of this embodiment lies in considering the ease of obtaining information from the vehicle (e.g., an automobile), as modern vehicles can almost be considered as mobile sensor units from which a great deal of information can be collected. Therefore, this further enhances the safety and / or energy efficiency of the lighting control system during operation. It should be understood that, taking into account the light output lo from the headlights (e.g., fog lights) i、j streetlights j Light output settings S j In this case, the synergistic effect between street light output and vehicle (fog) lights was advantageously achieved.

[0028] According to embodiments of the present invention, the processor can also be configured to obtain historical vehicle traffic information for the main road and for multiple streetlights. j=1,…,k Each street light j The streetlights are determined based on the historical vehicle traffic information obtained from the main roads. j Light output settings S j The term "historical vehicle traffic" here refers to historical data on vehicle traffic and / or (multiple) traffic (data) patterns, such as vehicle traffic based on time (e.g., daytime and / or nighttime). For example, "historical vehicle traffic" could encompass higher (lower) vehicle traffic density based on daytime and / or nighttime. An advantage of this embodiment is that streetlights based on the obtained (prior) information of historical vehicle traffic on the arterial road... j Light output settings S j This can further contribute to the safety and / or energy efficiency of lighting control systems.

[0029] According to an embodiment of the present invention, streetlights j Light output settings S j Can be used with multiple pre-defined levels L k Associated, wherein the control unit is configured to: according to the determined setting S j Multiple associated pre-defined levels L k To control the light output of each of multiple streetlights. For example, multiple predetermined levels L k It can be configured to, for example, 10%, 25%, 50%, 75%, 90%, and 100% of the total strength. An advantage of this embodiment is that its predetermined (preset) level L... kConvenience, Booking Level L k It can help improve the operational efficiency of lighting control systems.

[0030] According to embodiments of the present invention, the lighting control system may further include at least one sensor communicatively coupled to the processor, wherein the at least one sensor is configured to acquire at least one environmental condition, street light j At least one distance d between at least one vehicle i,j and multiple streetlights j=1,…,k Unlike streetlights j Setting S the light output of at least one street lamp i≠j At least one of them. The term "sensor" here refers to essentially any sensing device, unit, etc., configured or arranged to acquire, register, sense, and / or receive (multiple) environmental conditions, streetlights, etc. j The distances d between (multiple) vehicles i,j and multiple streetlights j=1,…,k Unlike streetlights j Street light output settings S i≠j At least one of them. The term "sensor" can also cover a transceiver used for (intelligent) two-way communication with the vehicle. An advantage of this embodiment is that the sensors (multiple sensors) can accurately obtain the aforementioned parameters of the lighting control system used to control the light output.

[0031] According to an embodiment of the invention, the lighting control system may further include at least one memory communicatively coupled to at least one sensor and coupled to a processor, wherein the at least one sensor is configured to register vehicle traffic information of the arterial road via the at least one memory, and wherein the processor is further configured to target multiple streetlights. j=1,…,k Each street light j The streetlights are determined based on the obtained vehicle traffic information of the main road. j Light output settings S j Therefore, the lighting control system can control the light output via the control unit by using the stored information of vehicle traffic on the main road.

[0032] According to an embodiment of the present invention, at least one sensor includes at least one of an image capture device, a magnetometer configured for vehicle detection, a (directional) microphone, radar, a laser scanner, a lidar, and an antenna configured to monitor vehicle radio frequency (RF) signals. "Image capture device" herein refers to a camera, video camera, thermal camera, time-of-flight camera, 3D camera, etc. An advantage of this embodiment is that the mentioned devices, units, and components are particularly suitable for acquiring information about environmental conditions (multiple), streetlights, etc. j The distances d between (multiple) vehicles i,j and multiple streetlights j=1,…,kUnlike streetlights j Street light output settings S i≠j .

[0033] According to an embodiment of the invention, each of the plurality of streetlights may further include an actuator coupled to a light source and communicatively coupled to a control unit, wherein the control unit is further configured to, according to a determined setting S j The light output of each of a plurality of streetlights is controlled via actuators. "Actuator" here refers to any device or element that is inherently capable of (mechanically and / or electrically) altering any settings, parameters, etc., of a light source. An advantage of this embodiment is that the control unit can conveniently and efficiently set and / or adjust (multiple) light sources to obtain the desired light output.

[0034] According to an embodiment of the invention, the processor is further configured to obtain at least one environmental condition based on weather forecast information. An advantage of this embodiment is that the lighting control system can control light output and / or even obtain multiple environmental conditions, even more accurately. For example, the lighting control system can control light output solely via weather forecast information, and thus the lighting control system can operate without multiple sensors, etc.

[0035] According to embodiments of the invention, at least one environmental condition may include at least one of fog, humidity, rain, and smoke. It should be understood that the lighting control system's ability to control the light output via streetlights is particularly effective in foggy, humid, rainy, and / or smokey conditions.

[0036] According to an example of the present invention, a computer program product including computer-readable code is provided, which, when executed on a computer, causes the computer to perform the method described in the second aspect of the present invention.

[0037] It should be understood that the street light device of the second aspect of the present invention and / or the method of the third aspect of the present invention may have similar and / or the same embodiments and / or advantages as the lighting control system of the first aspect of the present invention.

[0038] Other objects, features, and advantages of the invention will become apparent upon studying the following detailed disclosure, drawings, and appended claims. Those skilled in the art will recognize that different features of the invention can be combined to create embodiments other than those described below. Attached Figure Description

[0040] This and other aspects of the invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate (multiple) embodiments of the invention.

[0041] Figure 1-4A lighting control system according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated schematically. Figure 5 A method for lighting control according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated schematically. Detailed Implementation

[0043] Figure 1 A lighting control system 100 for a main road 105 traversed by at least one vehicle 110 is schematically shown. The main road 105 can be any type of street, road, highway lane, expressway, etc. The vehicle 110 can be a car, truck, etc. It should be noted that multiple vehicles 110 can be present in one or more lanes traversing the main road 105, and the vehicles 110 can move in different directions, etc. Figure 1 This simplified view is presented to enhance understanding of the invention.

[0044] The lighting control system 100 includes multiple streetlights 115. j=1,…,k For example, lamp post 115. j=1,…,k (In the following text, streetlight 115,) j=1,…,k It will be referred to as lamppost 115. j=1,…,k The streetlights are arranged adjacent to the main road 105. Streetlights can be any type of lighting equipment used to illuminate the street (main road), such as light poles, bollards, wall-mounted fixtures, overhead lights, etc. Here, a portion or section of the main road 105 includes 5 light poles 115, i.e., k=5, but it should be noted that the number of light poles 115 is arbitrary. Therefore, the number of light poles 115 included in the lighting control system 100 can be a subset of all light poles along the main road 105 (street, road). Each of the multiple light poles 115 includes light poles j arranged to provide light output 130. j Light source 120 j Light source 120 j It can be virtually any kind of light source suitable for street lighting purposes, and may include, for example, one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs).

[0045] The lighting control system 100 also includes a processor 200. It should be understood that the processor 200 is schematically indicated, and its location can be substantially anywhere within the lighting control system 100, such as being provided (embedded) in one or more light poles 115. The processor 200 is configured to obtain information on at least one environmental condition 210. Environmental condition 210 can be substantially any environmental or weather condition, such as, for example, fog, humidity, drizzle (rain), smoke, darkness, haze, etc. For multiple light poles... j=1,…,k Each lamppost j The processor 200 is configured to acquire the light pole. jAt least one distance d between at least one vehicle 110 and at least one vehicle 110 i,j Therefore, the processor 200 is configured or arranged to acquire, receive, and / or calculate the light poles on the main road 105. j The distances d between (multiple) vehicles 110 i,j .like Figure 1 As illustrated in the example, for (index) i =1) Vehicle 110, indicating the light pole j =1 and the distance d between vehicle 110 i,1 and light poles j =2 and the distance d between vehicle 110 i,2 (Vehicle 110 and corresponding light poles) j =3、 j =4、 j The distances between (multiple) points equal to 5, i.e., d i,3 d i,4 and / or d i,5 exist Figure 1 (Not explicitly indicated in the text).

[0046] The processor 200 is also configured to handle multiple light poles. j=1,…,k For each light pole j in the diagram, determine the light pole. j Light output 130 j Settings S j It should be noted that the light output of light pole j is 130. j Settings S j It can cover light poles j Light output 130 j The settings, configurations, or modes of the characteristics, parameters, and / or features. Light pole j Light output 130 j Settings S j The processor 200 determines the light pole based on the obtained environmental conditions 210 (multiple) and the obtained light pole information. j The distances d between vehicle 110 and (multiple) other vehicles i,j and multiple light poles j=1,…,k Unlike light poles j Setting S of light output of at least one lamp post i≠j To determine. Therefore, the light pole j Light output 130 j Depending on the street and the ambient (weather) conditions 210 of (multiple) light poles 115 (nearby), (multiple) vehicle-to-pole distances and (multiple) light output settings of (multiple) other light poles.

[0047] The lighting control system 100 also includes a control unit 300 connected to the processor 200 and the plurality of lamp posts 115. The control unit 300 can be connected (coupled) to the processor 200 and the plurality of lamp posts 115 via wired or wireless technology. The control unit 300 can be any device, unit, etc., configured to electronically and / or mechanically control and / or operate the lamp posts 115. For example, the plurality of lamp posts 115 may include lamps coupled to a light source 120. j An actuator (not shown) is communicatively coupled to the control unit 300, wherein the control unit 300 is further configured to, according to a determined setting S j Each of the multiple light poles 115 is controlled by an actuator. j Light output 130 j The control unit 300 is configured to operate according to the determined settings S j To control each of the multiple light poles 115 j The light output. It should be noted that the control unit 300 is schematically indicated and can be provided virtually anywhere in the lighting control system 100.

[0048] Figure 1 The indicator is the light pole determined by the lighting control system 100 during operation. j Light output 130 j Settings S j Example. Vehicle 110 in Figure 1 The example is shown as moving from left to right along main road 105 (on main road 105). This is due to the setting S of the light output of lamp post j. j The processor 200 determines the distance between the light pole j and the vehicle 110 based on the obtained environmental conditions 210 and the obtained distances d between the light pole j and the vehicle 110. i,j and multiple light poles j=1,…,k The setting S of the light output of at least one lamp post different from lamp post j i≠j The setting S of the light pole j=1 is determined. j When vehicle 110 had passed the lamppost j When =1, the light output of the lamp post with j=1 can be 130. j Full strength. For example... Figure 1 As illustrated in the diagram, when vehicle 110 is on the light pole j =2 and j When the light pole is near or at a specific angle relative to the light pole, these light poles can be turned off / cut off, for example, by the lighting control system 100. When the vehicle 110 approaches the light pole... j=4 At that time, the light pole can have a light output of 130 j A portion of the total intensity (e.g., 50%) of the setting S j The light output is schematically shown as a dashed line. Further away from the approaching vehicle 110, the light pole...j=5 Settings S j It can be the light output of the lamp post, 130. j Full strength. It should be understood that the light pole... j Light output settings S j Can be used with multiple pre-defined levels L k Associated with, for example, 10%, 25%, 50%, 75%, 90%, and 100% of the total strength, wherein the control unit 300 is configured to adjust according to the determined settings S j These associated predetermined levels L k Multiple controls are used to control the light output of each of the multiple light poles, 130. j The processor 200 can also be configured to work on multiple light poles. j=1,…,k For each lamp post j, obtain the position p. i,j Speed ​​sp i,j , acceleration AP i,j , driving direction i,j The light output lo from the vehicle's headlights 110 i,j At least one type of vehicle t i,j And / or information from the driver of at least one vehicle. i,j And determine the light pole based on one or more of these parameters. j Light output 130 j Settings S j .

[0049] According to an embodiment, the lighting control system 100 may further include at least one sensor 500 communicatively coupled to the processor 200. Here, the sensor 500 is schematically indicated on the lamp post. j=2 However, it should be noted that the (multiple) sensors 500 can be provided virtually anywhere within the lighting control system 100. The sensors 500 are configured to obtain environmental conditions 210, light pole information, etc. j Multiple distances d between vehicle 110 and vehicle 110 i,j and / or multiple light poles j=1,…,k Unlike light poles j Setting S of light output of at least one lamp post i≠j .

[0050] It should be noted that the driver's location can be estimated by the processor 200 based on the vehicle's location. Furthermore, the processor 200 can estimate the driver's location relative to the multiple light poles 115, and use the driver's experience of the light output 130 to determine the location. jThis information. It should be noted that the observation position from a truck differs from that of a normal car; therefore, the vehicle type is known from the proximity to the vehicle's location, and thus the driver's seating height can be useful information for the processor 200. Furthermore, the control unit 300 can also operate via algorithms to infer the light output 130 of multiple lampposts 115 based on the presence (and dynamics) of (multiple) vehicles 110. j The optimal overall settings.

[0051] Regarding traffic situations involving more than one vehicle 110 (i.e., multiple vehicles within the range (within the line of sight of the lighting control system 100)), it should be noted that the lighting control system 100 can be configured to control the light pole based on the multiple vehicles and vehicle parameters (e.g., distance between vehicles, relative speed, etc.). j Light output settings S j .

[0052] Figure 2 A lighting control system 100 for a main road 105 traversed by at least one vehicle 110 is schematically shown. It should be noted that, as Figure 2 The lighting control system 100 illustrated in the example has the following characteristics: Figure 1 The lighting control system 100 shown shares many common features and functions, and it references Figure 1 And related text to enhance understanding of the lighting control system 100. It should also be noted that, in Figure 2 The middle part is omitted Figure 1 Some of the attached figures are labeled.

[0053] Figure 2 An embodiment of a lighting control system 100 is disclosed, wherein the light pole j Light output 130 j Settings S j It is dynamically adapted. More specifically, the light output of light pole j is 130. j Settings S j Including setting feature C s Set property C s Including intensity I, polarization P, correlated color temperature CCT, and light output 130 j Beam angle α and light output 130 j At least one of the beam directions B. Furthermore, the spectrum and / or beam profile can be set as characteristic C. s Part of it. More specifically, Figure 2 Explicitly indicates the light output of multiple light poles 130 j The intensity I and beam angle α. The control unit of the lighting control system 100 is configured to output 130° of light from each of the multiple lamp posts. jDivided into a plurality of light output regions 350. Each light output region in the plurality of light output regions 350 is spatially different from any other light output region in the plurality of light output regions 350, where at least the first light output region 350a includes a first setting characteristic C s1 , and at least the second light output region 350b includes a second setting characteristic C s2 , where the first setting characteristic C s1 is different from the second setting characteristic C s2 . According to this embodiment, the processor is configured to obtain the position p of the vehicle 110 for each of the plurality of light poles j=1,…,k among the plurality of light poles j . The control unit is further configured to direct at least the first light output region 350a to at least partially overlap with the obtained position p of the vehicle 110 i,j . The first setting characteristic C i,j includes a first intensity I1 of the light output, where the second setting characteristic C s1 includes a second intensity I2 of the light output, where I1 < I2. Thus, the lighting control system 100 provides a light output with a reduced intensity for the first light output region 350a according to the position p of the vehicle 110 s2 , while a light output with a full intensity can be provided for the second light output region 350b, which is schematically indicated in i,j . For the light pole Figure 2 j = 2, where the distance d between the obtained light pole j = 2 and the vehicle 110 j is longer than the distance d between the obtained light pole j = 1 and the vehicle 110 i,j , the setting S of the light output of the light pole j = 2 i,j includes the setting characteristic C j , where the first light output region 350a (with a reduced intensity) is smaller than the second light output region 350b (with a full intensity). For the light pole j = 3, where the distance d between the obtained light pole j = 3 and the vehicle 110 s is relatively long, the setting S of the light output of the light pole j = 3 i,j is such that there is no division of the light output, and the light output has a full intensity. Thus, according to j , based on splitting the light engine into segments or parts, each of the light poles can have various beam options (regarding angle and / or direction). Each of these segments can be driven at various intensity levels, and even (if applicable) driven in their spectral settings Figure 2 .

[0054] Figure 3 Schematically shows the lighting control system 100 for the arterial road 105 traveled by at least one vehicle 110. It should be noted that as Figure 3 ​The lighting control system 100 illustrated in the example has the following characteristics: Figure 1 and Figure 2 The lighting control system 100 shown shares many common features and functions, and it references Figure 1 and Figure 2 And related text to enhance understanding of the lighting control system 100. However, it should be noted that, as Figure 1 and Figure 2 The dynamic adaptation of the lighting control system 100 shown Figure 3 The significant difference between the lighting control systems 100 shown is that the latter discloses an embodiment of the lighting control system 100 in which the light output of the lamp post j is 130. j Settings S j This includes at least one fixed (parameter) setting. More specifically, and as an example, instead of the adaptive beam angle and / or direction for areas with lower intensity, the setting S of the light output of lamp post j is... j Including setting feature C s This includes fixed areas with lower strength, such as Figure 2 The information is illustrative. This can be provided under specific environmental conditions (e.g., fog).

[0055] Figure 4 A lighting control system 100 for a main road 105 traversed by at least one vehicle 110 is schematically shown. It should be noted that, as Figure 4 The lighting control system 100 illustrated in the example has the following characteristics: Figure 1-3 The lighting control system 100 shown in one or more of the figures shares many common features and functions, and it refers to the figures and associated text to enhance understanding of the lighting control system 100. Similar to Figure 3 The lighting control system 100 may include areas with lower intensity, which can be created, for example, in foggy conditions. Additionally, the lighting control system 100 can provide (intense) vertical lighting above traffic, comparable to the light generated by a lighthouse.

[0056] Figure 5 This schematically illustrates a plurality of light poles arranged along an adjacent main road according to an embodiment of the present invention. j= 1,…, k A method 1000 for lighting control of a main road used by at least one vehicle, wherein each of a plurality of light poles includes a light source arranged to provide light output. Method 1000 includes the step of obtaining 1010 at least one environmental condition. Method 1000 further includes the step of: for the plurality of light poles... j=1,…,k For each light pole j in the diagram, obtain at least one distance d between light pole j and at least one vehicle. i,jBased on at least one environmental condition obtained, and at least one distance d between the light pole j and the vehicle obtained. i,j and multiple light poles j=1,…,k The setting S of the light output of at least one lamp post that is different from lamp post j i≠j To determine the light output setting S for light pole j of type 1030. j Method 1000 also includes setting S according to the determined settings. j The steps to control the light output of each of the more than 1,040 light poles.

[0057] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the present invention is by no means limited to the preferred embodiments described above. Rather, many modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the appended claims. For example, the arrangement of the processor 200 on or relative to the lampposts 115 may differ from those shown.

Claims

1. A lighting control system (100) for a main road (105) traversed by at least one vehicle (110), comprising: Multiple streetlights (115) j=1, …, k Arranged adjacent to the main road, each of the plurality of streetlights includes a light source (120). j ), the light source (120 j ) is arranged to provide light output (130) for a defined light output area (350). j ), At least one sensor (500). A processor (200) communicatively coupled to the at least one sensor, the processor being configured to Obtain indication at the multiple streetlights j=1, …, k At least one street light j Data showing fog in the vicinity (210). The position p of the at least one vehicle is obtained via the at least one sensor. i,j , According to setting S j Control each of the plurality of streetlights j The light output, such that it corresponds to the obtained position p of the at least one vehicle. i,j The first light output region, which at least partially overlaps with the position p of the at least one vehicle obtained, has a higher position than the first light output region. i,j The overlapping second light output region has a lower light intensity.

2. The lighting control system according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of streetlights j=1, …, k Each street light j Light output settings S j Including setting feature C s The setting feature C s It includes at least one of the following: light output intensity I, light output polarization P, light output correlated color temperature CCT, light output beam angle α, and light output beam direction B.

3. The lighting control system of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of streetlights includes a light engine having segments that allow its light output to be divided, wherein the processor is further configured to: The light output of each of the plurality of streetlights is divided into a plurality of light output sub-regions, wherein each of the plurality of light output sub-regions is spatially different from any other light output sub-region among the plurality of light output sub-regions. At least the first optical output sub-region (350a) of the plurality of optical output sub-regions includes a first intensity I1, and At least the second optical output sub-region (350b) of the plurality of optical output sub-regions includes a second intensity I2, and wherein The processor is also configured to guide at least the first light output sub-region to the obtained position p of at least one vehicle. i,j At least partially overlapping, The first intensity I s1 Less than the second strength I s2 .

4. The lighting control system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the processor is further configured to: for the plurality of streetlights j=1, …, k Each street light j , Obtain the speed sp of the at least one vehicle i,j The acceleration ap of at least one vehicle i,j The driving direction of the at least one vehicle dd i,j The light output lo from the headlights of at least one of the vehicles i,j The type of the at least one vehicle tt i,j and information f from the driver of said at least one vehicle i,j At least one of them, Based on the obtained position p of the at least one vehicle i,j The speed sp of the at least one vehicle obtained i,j The obtained acceleration ap of at least one vehicle i,j The obtained driving direction of at least one vehicle dd i,j The obtained light output lo from the headlights of at least one of the vehicles i,j The type of the at least one vehicle tt i,j and information f from the driver of said at least one vehicle i,j At least one of them, determine each street light j Light output settings S j .

5. The lighting control system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the processor is further configured to: Obtain historical vehicle traffic information for the main road, and for the multiple streetlights j=1, …, k Each street light j , The location of each street light is determined based on historical vehicle traffic information obtained from the main road. j Light output settings S j .

6. The lighting control system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each street light j Each setting of the light output S j With multiple predetermined levels L k Associatedly, the control unit is configured to: According to the determined settings S j Multiple associated pre-defined levels L k To control the light output of each of the multiple streetlights.

7. The lighting control system of claim 1, further comprising at least one memory communicatively coupled to the at least one sensor and coupled to the processor, wherein the at least one sensor is configured to register vehicle traffic information of the arterial road via the at least one memory, and wherein the processor is further configured to target the plurality of streetlights. j=1,…,k Each street light j , The streetlights are determined based on the obtained vehicle traffic information of the main road. j Light output settings S j .

8. The lighting control system of claim 1, wherein the at least one sensor comprises at least one of an image capture device, a magnetometer configured for vehicle detection, a microphone, a radar, a laser scanner, a lidar, and an antenna configured to monitor vehicle radio frequency (RF) signals.

9. The lighting control system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the processor is further configured to obtain data (210) indicating the presence of fog based on weather forecast information.

10. A street lighting device (900) for use on a main road (105) traversed by at least one vehicle (110), comprising: Multiple streetlights (115) are arranged adjacent to the main road. j=1, …, k Each of the plurality of streetlights j include Light source (120) j ), which is arranged to provide light output (130) for a defined light output area. j ), At least one sensor (500), communicatively coupled to a processor (200) of the at least one sensor, the processor being configured to Obtain indication at the multiple streetlights j=1, …, k At least one street light j Data showing fog in the vicinity (210). The position p of the at least one vehicle is obtained via the at least one sensor. i,j , According to setting S j Control each of the plurality of streetlights j The light output, such that it corresponds to the obtained position p of the at least one vehicle. i,j The first light output region, which at least partially overlaps with the position p of the at least one vehicle obtained, has a higher position than the first light output region. i,j The overlapping second light output region has a lower light intensity.

11. A method (1000) for light control of a main road (105) traversed by at least one vehicle (110), via a plurality of streetlights (115). j=1, …, k Arranged adjacent to the main road, each of the plurality of streetlights includes a light source (120). j ), the light source (120 j ) is arranged to provide optical output (130 j The method includes the following steps: (and defines the light output area) Obtain (1010) indication at the multiple streetlights j=1, …, k At least one street light j Data showing fog in the vicinity (210). The position p of the at least one vehicle is obtained via at least one sensor (1020). i,j ,as well as According to setting S j Control (1040) each of the plurality of streetlights j The light output, such that it corresponds to the obtained position p of the at least one vehicle. i,j The first light output region, which at least partially overlaps with the position p of the at least one vehicle obtained, has a higher position than the first light output region. i,j The overlapping second light output region has a lower light intensity.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the main road is used by multiple vehicles, and wherein the method further comprises: Obtain data indicating the driving complexity of at least one of the plurality of vehicles; Based on the obtained data, a priority value is determined for each of the plurality of vehicles; Each street light is determined based on its priority value. j Light output settings S j .

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the obtained data includes at least one of the following: the speed of the at least one vehicle, the traffic density of the arterial road, the relative positioning of the at least one vehicle relative to the turning point of the arterial road, the relative positioning of the at least one vehicle relative to the pedestrian crossing, and the relative positioning of the at least one vehicle relative to a second vehicle from the plurality of vehicles. Obtain the speed sp of the at least one vehicle i,j The acceleration ap of at least one vehicle i,j The driving direction of the at least one vehicle dd i,j The light output lo from the headlights of at least one of the vehicles i,j The type of the at least one vehicle tt i,j and information f from the driver of said at least one vehicle i,j At least one of them, based on the obtained position p of the at least one vehicle i,j The speed sp of the at least one vehicle obtained i,j The obtained acceleration ap of at least one vehicle i,j The obtained driving direction of at least one vehicle dd i,j The obtained light output lo from the headlights of at least one of the vehicles i,j The type of the at least one vehicle tt i,j and information f from the driver of said at least one vehicle i,j At least one of them, determine each street light j Light output settings S j .

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