DETERMINATION OF SUN RAYS INSIDE A VEHICLE

Abstract

Procedure (200), comprising: Obtaining (201) information regarding an instantaneous angle of the sun; Determine (216) the position of the sun using the information obtained in a Cartesian coordinate system; Defining (218) a ray (500) from a point of particular importance (400) within a vehicle (100) in the direction of the sun's position; and Determine (220) whether the ray (500) penetrates a transparent surface (110) of the vehicle (100), for use in determining (226, 228) whether the spot of particular importance (400) is irradiated by the sun's rays when the ray (500) penetrates the transparent surface (110); wherein the transparent area (110) comprises a plurality of glass surfaces (112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124) of the vehicle (100), wherein the method (200) further comprises: Define (220) a plurality of planar, bounded area regions (600, 700, 800) for the plurality of glass surfaces (112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124); wherein the step of determining (220) whether the ray (500) penetrates the transparent surface (110) includes determining (221) whether the ray (500) passes through a region consisting of the majority of substantially planar, enclosed planar areas (600, 700, 800) permeate, for use in determining (226, 228) whether the area of ​​particular importance (400) is irradiated by the sun's rays if the ray (500) penetrates the transparent surface (110); wherein the method (200) comprises determining (222) a point of penetration in the form of an intersection point between the ray (500) and at least one of the plurality of planar, bounded, two-dimensional areas (600, 700, 800); and wherein the procedure (200) includes determining (224) whether the intersection point is located within a triangle formed by boundary points which defines the corresponding area (600, 700, 800) of the plurality of planar, bounded area regions (600, 700, 800).

Description

Technical field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of vehicles, and in particular to methods and systems for determining the presence of sunlight inside a vehicle. background

[0002] Many vehicles contain components or systems that can be exposed to sunlight. For example, control systems related to the vehicle's environment may function differently depending on the presence of sunlight and its impact on different interior surfaces. Similarly, the display screen of the vehicle's navigation and / or infotainment system can also be affected by sunlight.

[0003] DE 102 53 507 A1 describes a method and a system for automatically controlling at least one sun protection device and / or at least one air conditioning device assigned to a means of transport, in particular a motor vehicle, such that the control can be carried out without manual intervention by an occupant, in particular the driver, of the means of transport. It is described that the sun protection device and / or the air conditioning device is adaptively controlled depending on and / or taking into account, in particular, the current position of the sun and / or, in particular, current route data and route information, such as the current orientation and / or the current route and / or the current position of the means of transport relative to the sun.

[0004] DE 100 18 176 A1 describes a system for enabling precise climate control, comprising an image acquisition unit, a module for determining reflectances which is connected to the image acquisition unit, and an evaluation unit which calculates irradiance data by calculating the image data with the determined reflectances.

[0005] US Patent 2011 / 0163866A1 describes a sunshade system for a transport vehicle with multiple LCD zones laminated into one or more of the vehicle's glazing panels. An occupant sensor detects the presence of at least one occupant inside the vehicle. A navigation system determines the vehicle's location, date and time, and course. Exterior and interior temperature sensors measure the outside and inside temperatures. A control unit generates control signals for each LCD zone in both manual and automatic modes. The control unit compares the temperature difference between the outside and inside temperatures to a temperature threshold. In automatic mode, the control signals are attenuated to essentially zero when the temperature difference is below the temperature threshold.

[0006] EP 2 003 005 A2 describes a motor vehicle in which, for the implementation of an automatic sunshade for a partially and / or segmentally dimmable windshield and / or side window, a control system is included for automatically selecting the position of the partial and / or segmental dimming of the windshield and / or side window based on a value for the position of the sun and a value for the eye position of an occupant of the vehicle. The eye position value of an occupant of the vehicle can be adjusted by manually correcting the position of the partial and / or segmental dimming of the windshield and / or side window.

[0007] US Patent 2008 / 0046151A1 describes a system for adjusting components in a motor vehicle to compensate for incident sunlight. The system includes a solar data generator configured to produce solar data related to the vehicle's current location, heading, date, and time. A solar data computer is coupled to the solar data generator and configured to receive solar data and identify a vehicle component affected by incident sunlight. A body control manager is coupled to the solar data computer and can control the vehicle component to compensate for incident sunlight.

[0008] DE 199 61 268 C1 describes a device for raising and lowering a vehicle window. For the force-guided, path-controlled raising and lowering of a vehicle window, a number of drive units, controllable by a programmable logic controller (PLC), are provided. These drive units drive the vehicle window along a predetermined path that runs on a barrel-shaped, curved surface replicating the vehicle's outer contour. Preferably, only linear drives are used as drive units, the control of which is expediently based on path profiles projected onto the base planes.

[0009] DE 100 63 697 A1 describes how, for optical image processing methods used to determine the occupancy of a vehicle seat, it is advantageous to know the position of the vehicle seat even when it is occupied. The document proposes that the side surface of the seat back, as seen by the camera, forms part of a boundary plane. Between a dividing plane that cuts vertically through the vehicle seat and the boundary plane, a section is created that is at least partially not obscured by a vehicle occupant in the direction of the camera. Using optical image processing methods, the position of the vehicle seat can thus be determined.

[0010] WO 02 / 040 320 A1 describes a system for determining the occupancy of a vehicle's interior. The system comprises a recording device for capturing an area of ​​the vehicle's interior, a recording image data generation unit for generating recording image data in which each captured pixel of a three-dimensional surface image is represented as a vector in a recording coordinate system of the recording device, and a conversion unit that converts the recording image data into vehicle image data. The vehicle image data describes each pixel as a vector in a vehicle-fixed coordinate system.

[0011] Accordingly, the object of the invention is to provide improved methods for determining the irradiance by sunlight on specific interior surfaces in the vehicle. It is further an object of the invention to provide improved systems for such determination of sunlight irradiance.

[0012] Furthermore, other desirable features and properties of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description and the attached claims in conjunction with the associated drawings and the preceding technical field and background. Description of the invention

[0013] According to a first aspect of the invention, a method is provided. The method comprises the steps of obtaining information regarding a momentary angle of the sun, determining the position of the sun using the obtained information, and defining a ray from a so-called point of particular importance in a vehicle in the direction of the sun's position. The method then determines whether the ray penetrates a transparent surface of the vehicle and, if so, whether the point of particular importance is illuminated by sunlight. The transparent surface comprises a plurality of glass surfaces of the vehicle. The method further comprises defining a plurality of planar, bounded areas for the plurality of glass surfaces.The step of determining whether the ray penetrates the transparent surface comprises determining whether the ray penetrates a region comprising the plurality of substantially planar, bounded areas, for use in determining whether the spot of particular importance is illuminated by the sun's rays if the ray penetrates the transparent surface. The procedure further comprises determining a point of penetration in the form of an intersection between the ray and at least one of the plurality of planar, bounded areas, and determining whether the intersection lies within a triangle formed by boundary points, which defines the corresponding region comprising the plurality of planar, bounded areas.

[0014] According to a second aspect of the invention, a system is provided. The system comprises a communication device and a processor. The communication device is configured to receive information regarding the instantaneous angle of the sun. The processor is coupled to the communication device and is configured to determine the position of the sun in a Cartesian coordinate system using the received information, to define a ray from a point of particular importance within a vehicle in the direction of the sun's position, and to determine whether the ray penetrates a transparent surface of the vehicle. The processor also determines whether the point of particular importance is illuminated by the sun's rays if the ray penetrates the transparent surface. The transparent surface comprises a plurality of glass surfaces of the vehicle.The processor is further configured to define a plurality of planar, bounded areas for the plurality of glass surfaces, to determine whether the ray penetrates an area of ​​the plurality of substantially planar, bounded areas, for use in determining whether the location of particular importance is illuminated by the sun's rays if the ray penetrates the transparent surface, and to determine whether the ray penetrates the transparent surface. The processor is further configured to determine a point of penetration in the form of an intersection between the ray and at least one of the plurality of planar, bounded areas, and to determine whether the intersection lies within a triangle formed by boundary points, which defines the corresponding area of ​​the plurality of planar, bounded areas.

[0015] According to a third aspect of the invention, a vehicle is provided. The vehicle comprises a body, a drive system, and a control system. The drive system is arranged within the body. The control system is also arranged within the body. The control system comprises a system described above according to the second aspect of the invention. Brief description of the drawings

[0016] The present disclosure is hereby explained in connection with the following drawing figures, where the same reference symbols signify the same elements, and where: Fig. 1 a functional block diagram of a vehicle which contains a control system that determines the presence of sunlight inside the vehicle and selects appropriate measures based on the determinations or specifications regarding sunlight according to an exemplary embodiment; Fig. 2. A flowchart of a procedure for determining the presence of sunlight inside the vehicle and provides suitable measures based on the provisions or specifications regarding sunlight, in conjunction with the vehicle and the control system. Fig. 1 can be used according to an exemplary embodiment; and Fig. 3-8 graphical representations of exemplary implementations of certain steps of the procedure from Fig. 2 provide according to an exemplary embodiment. Detailed description

[0017] The following detailed description is merely exemplary and is not intended to limit the invention or its applications and uses. Furthermore, it is not intended to impose any limitation by any theory, express or implied, presented in the preceding technical field, background, summary, or the following detailed description.

[0018] Fig. Figure 1 shows a vehicle 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. The vehicle 100 can be any one of a number of different types of automobiles, such as a sedan, a station wagon, a truck or a sports utility vehicle (SUV), and can have two-wheel drive (2WD) (i.e. with rear-wheel or front-wheel drive), four-wheel drive (4WD) or all-wheel drive (AWD).

[0019] As explained below, the vehicle 100 includes a control unit 101, which detects or determines the presence of sunlight inside the vehicle 100. The control unit 101 also initiates one or more suitable measures using one or more vehicle systems based on the detected presence of sunlight, as also explained below.

[0020] The vehicle 100 comprises a body 102, which is mounted on a chassis 104. The body 102 essentially surrounds the other components of the vehicle 100. The body 102 and the chassis 104 can form a connecting frame. A plurality of transparent surfaces 110, each preferably made of a glass material, are located on the body 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the transparent surfaces 110 comprise a front windshield 112, a rear window 114, a front passenger side window 116, a rear passenger side window 118, a front driver's side window 120, a glass (sliding) roof 124, and a rear side window 122 located on the driver's side.

[0021] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the vehicle 100 also comprises a plurality of wheels 106, a drive system 107, an environmental control system 108, and one or more vehicle entertainment and / or information systems (hereinafter referred to as "infotainment systems") 109. The wheels 106 are each rotatably arranged with the body 104 near a corresponding corner of the body 102 to enable propulsion of the vehicle 100. In a preferred embodiment, the vehicle 100 comprises four wheels, although this may vary in other embodiments (e.g., in the case of trucks and certain other vehicles).

[0022] The drive system 107 is attached to the chassis 104 and drives the wheels 106. The drive system 107 preferably comprises a propulsion system. In certain exemplary embodiments, the drive system 107 comprises an internal combustion engine 132 and / or an electric motor / generator coupled to a transmission 134. In certain embodiments, the drive system 107 can vary, and / or two or more drive systems 107 can be used. For example, the vehicle 100 can also comprise any type or combination of several different types of electric propulsion systems, such as an internal combustion engine powered by gasoline or diesel fuel, a mixed-fuel vehicle (FFV) engine (i.e., using a mixture of gasoline and ethanol), an engine powered by a gas mixture (e.g.,including hydrogen and / or natural gas), a hybrid engine as a combination of an internal combustion engine and an electric motor, and an electric motor only.

[0023] The ambient control system 108 uses outside air to heat or cool the vehicle 100. In a preferred embodiment, the ambient control system 108 comprises an air conditioning / heating system for the vehicle 100. Additionally, in an exemplary embodiment, the ambient control system 108 comprises a compressor 136 and a heat exchanger 138.

[0024] The vehicle infotainment systems 109 provide information and / or entertainment for a driver and / or other vehicle occupants. In the illustrated embodiment, the vehicle infotainment systems 109 comprise a navigation system and a video entertainment system, each with corresponding display screens 140, 142.

[0025] The control unit 101 is coupled to the drive system 107, the ambient control system 108, and one or more infotainment systems 109. The control unit 101 determines the presence of sunlight at various specific locations within the vehicle and, based on this detection, controls various vehicle actions via the drive system 107, the ambient control system 108, and the one or more infotainment systems 109. The control unit 101 preferably performs these and other functions while implementing the steps of the procedure 200, which is described below in conjunction with Fig. 2-8 is explained.

[0026] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the control unit 101 is preferably arranged within the body 102 of the vehicle and comprises a communication system 150, a sensor arrangement 152, and a computer system 154. The communication system 150 receives information regarding the vehicle 100, preferably information regarding the geographical location of the vehicle 100, the current time of day and date, and the current destination of the vehicle 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the communication system 150 comprises a global navigation system (GPS) with a transmitter 156, a receiver 158, and an antenna 159, wherein the system communicates via a wireless communication network (not shown here).

[0027] The sensor arrangement 152 comprises one or more solar sensors 160. In a preferred embodiment, one or more solar sensors 160 are arranged on or attached to an instrument panel 161 in a front section of the vehicle 100 near the front windshield 112. The solar sensors 160 measure the presence and intensity of sunlight with respect to the front section and / or other points of interest within the vehicle 100. In certain embodiments, the sensor arrangement 152 also comprises an ambient temperature sensor 162 and / or one or more other sensors 164, which are preferably arranged within the body of the vehicle 100.The various sensors of the sensor arrangement 152 provide signals and / or information regarding the measurement of the sun rays for the control unit 101, for processing and use in determining and executing certain measures when the sun rays are present inside the vehicle 100.

[0028] In the illustrated embodiment, the computer system 154 comprises a processor 165, a memory 166, an interface 168, a storage device 170, and a bus 172. The processor 165 executes the computer instructions and controls the functions of the controller 101 and can comprise any type of processor or multiple processors, individual integrated circuits, such as a microprocessor, or any suitable number of integrated circuit devices and / or circuit boards that work together to achieve the functions of a processing unit. During operation, the processor 165 executes one or more programs 174 contained in the memory 166 and thus controls the general operation of the controller 101 and the computer system 154, preferably by executing the process steps described herein, such as the steps of method 200, which is further described below in conjunction with Fig. 2-8 is described.

[0029] The memory 166 can be any type of suitable memory. This would include the various types of dynamic random access memory (DRAM), such as SDRAM, the various types of static RAM (SRAM), and the various types of non-volatile memory (PROM, EPROM, and flash memory). The bus 172 serves to transmit programs, data, state, and other information or signals between the various components of the computer system 154. In a preferred embodiment, the memory 166 stores the aforementioned program 174 together with one or more stored values ​​176 for use in determining the sunlight inside the vehicle 100. In certain examples, the memory 166 is located on a computer chip and / or is located on the same computer chip as the processor 165.

[0030] Interface 168 allows communication with computer system 154, for example from a system driver and / or another computer system, and can be implemented using any suitable method or device. This can include one or more network interfaces for communication with other systems or components. Interface 168 can also include one or more network interfaces for communication with technical personnel and / or one or more storage interfaces for connection to storage devices, such as storage device 170.

[0031] The storage device 170 can be any suitable type of storage device, including direct-access storage devices such as hard disk drives, flash memory systems, floppy disk drives, and optical drives. In an exemplary embodiment, the storage device 170 comprises a program product from which the memory 166 can receive a program 174 that executes one or more embodiments of one or more methods of the present disclosure, such as the steps of method 200 in Fig. 2-8, which are explained further below. In another exemplary embodiment, the program output can be stored directly in memory 166 and / or memory 166 and / or a drive (e.g. drive 178) can be accessed in another way, as is explained below.

[0032] Bus 172 can include any suitable physical or logical means for connecting computer systems and components. This includes, without limitation, wired connections, fiber optics, infrared, and wireless bus technologies. During operation, program 174 is stored in memory 166 and executed by processor 165.

[0033] It is preferred that, while this exemplary embodiment is described in the context of a fully functioning computer system, the person skilled in the art recognizes that the mechanisms and methods of the present disclosure can be distributed as a program product using one or more types of non-volatile, computer-readable, and signal-carrying media, wherein the media are used to store the program and its instructions and to carry out the distribution thereof, such as a non-volatile, computer-readable medium which stores the program and contains computer instructions stored therein, so that a computer processor (such as processor 165) can run and execute the program.Such a program product can take a variety of forms, with the present disclosure applying equally regardless of the specific type of computer-readable signal-carrying media used to execute the distribution. Examples of signal-carrying media include: recordable media, such as floppy disk drives, hard disk drives, memory cards, and optical drives, and transmission media, such as digital and analog communication links. It is also preferred that the computer system 154 differ in other ways from the one described in [reference to be added]. Fig. 1 can differ in the embodiment shown, for example in that the computer system 154 can be coupled to one or more remote computer systems and / or other control systems or can access them in some other way.

[0034] Fig. Figure 2 is a flowchart of a procedure 200 for determining solar radiation inside a vehicle and for providing a suitable measure based on such determinations. The procedure 200 can be used in conjunction with the vehicle 100 and the control unit 101. Fig. 1. Method 200 is also used below with reference to Fig. 2-8 explains which exemplary information regarding various steps of procedure 200 is presented in a graphic manner.

[0035] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the method 200 starts with the step of obtaining data (step 201). In one embodiment, the data in step 201 is obtained from a remote processor (e.g., a solar sensor with the properties of a processor) and can include measured values ​​regarding the intensity of the sun's rays as well as the elevation, zenith, and / or azimuth angle of the sun. In another embodiment, the data from step 201 includes communication data, which comprises geographical information regarding the vehicle's current geographical location (including the vehicle's latitude and longitude relative to the Earth), time information regarding the current time of day, and date information regarding the current day of the present year. The communication data is preferably transmitted using the communication system 150. Fig. 1 (preferably via a GPS system) and the processor 165 in Fig. 1 provided for processing.

[0036] Additionally, the vehicle's direction of travel (e.g., north, south, east, west, or directions in between) is determined (step 202). The direction of travel is preferably determined by processor 165 using communication data (e.g., from a compass or GPS system), in the same way as the communication data mentioned above in conjunction with step 201.

[0037] An elevation angle (h) of the sun (explained in detail below) is determined (step 204). In one embodiment, the elevation angle is part of the data in step 201. In another embodiment, the elevation angle is determined by processor 165 in Fig. 1. Based on the data in step 201 (in particular from the geographical information, the time information, and the date information from step 201). In such an embodiment, the elevation angle is preferably determined based on the known (or approximately known) elevation of the sun at the vehicle's current geographical location and the current date and time, for example, based on a lookup table and / or other stored values ​​176, which are stored in memory 166. Fig. 1 are stored.

[0038] The azimuth elevation angle (A) of the sun is also determined (step 206) (explained in more detail below). In one embodiment, the azimuth angle is part of the data from step 201. In another embodiment, the azimuth angle is determined by processor 165 in Fig. 1. Based on the data from step 201 (in particular, based on the geographical, time, and date information from step 201, together with the destination direction information determined in step 202). In particular, the azimuth angle is preferably determined based on the known elevation of the sun at the specified geographical location, date, and time for the vehicle at the present time, given the vehicle's current destination direction, for example, based on a lookup table and / or other stored values ​​176, which are stored in memory 166. Fig. 1 are stored.

[0039] Additionally, in certain embodiments, a zenith angle (z) (described in detail below) is also determined (step 208). In one embodiment, the zenith angle is part of the data from step 201. In another embodiment, the zenith angle is determined by processor 165 in Fig. 1 determined on the basis of the data from step 201 (in particular on the basis of the geographical information, the time information and the date information obtained in step 201).

[0040] In certain embodiments, the presence and intensity of sunlight striking the vehicle are also determined (step 210). In one embodiment, the intensity of the sunlight is determined based on measurements from one or more solar sensors (160). Fig. 1. The intensity can also be part of the data obtained in step 201, as explained above. In one embodiment, the communication data, the driving direction, the elevation angle, the azimuth angle, the zenith angle, and the intensity are obtained, generated, and / or determined from steps 201-210 using techniques described in the parallel, concurrently granted U.S. patent application No. 11 / 296,987 entitled "Vehicle Position Data with Enhanced Solar Measurement for Vehicle Air Conditioning Applications," filed on December 8, 2005, and hereby incorporated by reference.

[0041] Additionally, in certain embodiments an ambient temperature is measured (step 212). The ambient temperature preferably includes a temperature inside the vehicle 100. Fig. 1. In one embodiment, the ambient temperature is preferably measured using the ambient temperature sensor 162. Fig. 1 measured, with representative values ​​preferably taken from processor 165 Fig. 1. The ambient temperature can also be part of the data from step 201.

[0042] The elevation angle from step 206 and the azimuth angle from step 208 are determined using a spatial coordinate system (step 214). Step 214 is preferably performed by processor 165 in Fig. 1 executed. With reference to Fig. Figure 3 shows a first north-pointing axis 302, as well as a second axis 304, which is shown in an upward or vertical direction (with reference to the vehicle). Fig. 3 also includes a reference point 306 for the sun. Additionally, it shows Fig. 3 the elevation angle (h) (with reference numeral 308 in Fig. 3), the azimuth angle (A) (with reference numeral 312 in Fig. 3) and a zenith angle (z) (with reference numeral 310 in Fig. (3). The elevation angle (h) is preferably measured in an upward direction from the horizon. The zenith angle (z) is preferably measured in the vertical direction or second axis 304. The azimuth angle (A) is preferably measured clockwise from north or first axis 302.

[0043] With reference to Fig. Figure 4 shows a spatial coordinate system comprising an x-axis 402, a y-axis 404, and a z-axis 406. The x-axis preferably points in the direction of an instantaneous destination of the vehicle, as determined in step 202. The origin 400 of the spatial coordinate system comprises a point within the vehicle (such as the location of a vehicle passenger or a display screen for an infotainment device), which is necessary for determining whether such a specific point (a point of particular importance) within the vehicle is illuminated by sunlight.

[0044] The position of the sun is given in the local spatial coordinate system in Fig. 4 is determined using the following three coordinates (r, θ, φ). The coordinate r is given by the numerical value 422 in Fig. 4 represents. It also represents, as in Fig. Figure 4 shows an angle 418 (8) representing the "local east" direction and an angle 420 (φ) representing the "local north" direction, in this coordinate system. The coordinate θ is shown in Fig. 4 is represented by reference symbol 408 and is calculated using the following equation: θ=90−h where h represents the elevation angle, as mentioned above with reference to Fig. 3 has been described. The coordinate φ is in Fig. 4 is represented by reference symbol 410 and is calculated using the following equation: φ=360−A where A represents the azimuth angle, as above with reference to Fig. 3 has been described.

[0045] The position of the sun is then determined using a Cartesian coordinate system (step 216). In particular, with reference to Fig. 5 the three coordinates (r, θ, φ) of the reference point (306) for the sun in the spatial coordinate system in the Cartesian coordinate system are determined as Cartesian coordinates (x, y, z), where: x=r cosφ sinθ y=r sinφ sinθ and z=r cosθ

[0046] Step 216 is preferably performed by processor 165 in Fig. 1 executed.

[0047] A beam is defined from the point of particular importance (with reference to step 213 above) inside the vehicle in the direction of the sun (step 218). Fig. The beam is designated with reference numeral 500. The beam preferably assumes the form given by the following equation: XL=YM=ZN=k where: L=xx2+y2+z2=cosφ*sinθ M=yx2+y2+z2=sinφ sinθ N=zx2+y2+z2=cosθ

[0048] Step 218 is preferably performed by processor 165. Fig. 1 carried out.

[0049] A plurality of essentially flat, framed areas are defined as transparent surfaces of the vehicle (step 220). In particular, in a preferred embodiment, the transparent surfaces 110 are made of Fig. 1 (including the front windscreen 112, the rear windscreen 114, the front side passenger windows 116, the rear side passenger windows 118, the front driver's side window 120, the roof window 124 and the rear driver's side window 122) Fig. 1) divided into corresponding groups of triangular areas, which are essentially flat and defined by corresponding multiples of boundary points. Fig. Figure 6 represents four triangular areas 600, which are defined by a plurality of boundary points 602 along the front windscreen 112. Fig. Figure 7 shows two triangular areas 700, which are defined by a plurality of boundary points 702 along the front side driver's window 120. Similarly, Figure 7 shows... Fig. 8 two triangular areas 800, which are defined by a plurality of boundary points 802 along the front side passenger window 116. In a preferred embodiment, in step 220 such bounded planes for each of the transparent surfaces of the vehicle 100 are generated by the processor 165 in Fig. 1 defined in a three-dimensional coordinate system (such as the one mentioned above in conjunction with Fig. 5 explained), namely as follows: f(x,y,z)=0

[0050] In one embodiment, step 220 is performed by processor 165 in Fig. 1 executed. In certain embodiments, step 220 can be performed once and then stored in memory 166. Fig. 1 are stored as data values ​​176. In certain other embodiments, such data values ​​176 from step 220 can be stored from memory 166 in Fig. 1. be charged by a manufacturer of the vehicle.

[0051] A determination is performed to see whether the beam (500) in step 218 penetrates one of the outlined planar areas (600, 700, or 800) in step 220 (step or subordinate method 221). The subordinate method 221 is preferably carried out by the processor 165 in Fig. 1. In one embodiment, a so-called "BaryCentric" technique is used. In the embodiment from Fig. Step 220 comprises two steps, namely step 222 and step 224, both of which are described below.

[0052] During step 222, a point of intersection x(x1, y1, z1) is identified between the ray (500) from step 218 and one of the planes assigned to the bounded planar regions from step 220, without reference to the boundary points. In one embodiment, in step 222, the point of intersection is determined by substituting x=Lk, y=Mk, z=Nk (as explained above with reference to equations 6-9 of this description) in the plane equation f(x, y, z) = 0 in equation 10, where the resulting point of intersection is x(x1, y1, z1).

[0053] In step 224, a subsequent determination is made as to whether the intersection point from step 222 lies within a triangle formed by the boundary points that define the corresponding bounded plane region. Specifically, in step 224, a determination is made as to whether the intersection point (x) between the plane and the ray lies within the triangle formed by the three adjacent points of the plane (for example, three adjacent points 602, which form a triangular region 600). Fig. 6 define three adjacent points 702, which form a triangular area 700. Fig. 7 define, or three adjacent points 802, which form a triangular area 800 from Fig. 8 define) defined triangle (P0, P1, P2). In one embodiment, this is done by calculating α and β for the following equation: (x−P0)=α(P1−P0)+β(P2−P0)

[0054] Point x is determined to lie within the triangle if α, β > 0 and α + β < 1. If none of these conditions apply, point x is determined to lie outside the triangle. In certain embodiments, step 224 determines whether the ray is a so-called "backray," i.e., whether the sunbeam would first pass through the interior of the vehicle before striking the bounded flat area (as determined by the parameter "k" in the equations above, but with a negative value for "k," which is intended to represent a backray). Any such backrays are filtered out, as explained below with reference to steps 226-228.

[0055] If it has been determined that the intersection point lies within one of the bounded planar areas (and further assuming that a ray striking the spot of particular importance is not a backscatter, as determined in step 224), then it is determined that the spot of particular importance is irradiated by the sun's rays through the transparent surface represented by the corresponding bounded planar area currently being analyzed (step 226).In contrast, if it has been determined that the intersection point does not lie within the bounded planar region (or if the only ray striking the spot of particular importance is a backscatter, as determined in step 224), then it is determined that the spot of particular importance is not illuminated by the sun's rays through the transparent surface represented by the corresponding bounded planar region currently being analyzed (step 228). Steps 226 and 228 are preferably performed by processor 165. Fig. 1 carried out.

[0056] Following steps 226 and 228, a determination is carried out in step 230 as to whether there are any additional bounded planar areas in step 220 that need to be analyzed with reference to the beam from step 218 (and the corresponding point of particular importance within the vehicle). This determination is preferably carried out by processor 165. Fig. 1. If it has been determined that additional bounded planar areas need to be analyzed, then steps 222-228 are repeated several times until each bounded planar area has been analyzed.

[0057] Once it has been determined in a pass that all bounded planar areas have been analyzed, an appropriate action is taken based on whether the area of ​​particular importance is irradiated by sunlight through one or more of the bounded planar areas (step 232). In one embodiment, step 232 involves the operation of an environmental control system (108 in Fig. 1) adjusted in such a way (for example, by lowering the air conditioning temperature or increasing the amount of air-conditioned airflow) based on whether the area of ​​particular importance is exposed to sunlight (e.g., based on whether the sun's rays strike a vehicle occupant, so that the vehicle occupant may feel relatively warm compared to when the sun's rays do not strike the vehicle occupant), as well as other possible factors (such as the ambient temperature inside the vehicle, the intensity of the sunlight measured by the solar sensor, or the like), by means of one or more of the sensors of the sensor arrangement 152 in Fig. 1) In a further embodiment, in step 232 a brightness level of a display screen of an infotainment system (109 in Fig. 1) of the vehicle, based on whether the area of ​​particular importance is illuminated by sunlight (for example, the content displayed on the screen can be made brighter for easier reading if it has been determined that sunlight strikes the screen through one or more of the transparent surfaces). In yet another embodiment, the area of ​​particular importance is the solar sensor (160 in Fig. 1) of the environmental control system (108 in Fig. 1), wherein the system can then take appropriate measures if the solar sensor is in the shade of the vehicle body and cannot measure the current solar intensity (preferably, in this embodiment, the system has a time-averaged earlier intensity as an input to the control system until the solar sensor is no longer in the shade).

[0058] It is preferred that the disclosed methods, systems, and vehicles may differ from those shown in the figures and described herein. For example, the vehicle 100, the control system 101, and / or various components thereof may differ from those shown in Fig. 1. In addition, it is preferred that certain steps of procedure 200 differ from those shown and described in connection therewith. Fig. 2-8 may differ from those shown and / or described above in connection therewith. It is also preferred that certain steps of the procedure described above be carried out simultaneously or in a different order than those shown in the Fig. 2-8 are described, can be carried out and / or have been explained above in connection with them.

Claims

[1] Procedure (200), comprising: Obtaining (201) information regarding an instantaneous angle of the sun; Determine (216) the position of the sun using the information obtained in a Cartesian coordinate system; Defining (218) a ray (500) from a point of particular importance (400) within a vehicle (100) in the direction of the sun's position; and Determine (220) whether the ray (500) penetrates a transparent surface (110) of the vehicle (100), for use in determining (226, 228) whether the spot of particular importance (400) is irradiated by the sun's rays when the ray (500) penetrates the transparent surface (110); wherein the transparent area (110) comprises a plurality of glass surfaces (112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124) of the vehicle (100), wherein the method (200) further comprises: Define (220) a plurality of planar, bounded area regions (600, 700, 800) for the plurality of glass surfaces (112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124); wherein the step of determining (220) whether the ray (500) penetrates the transparent surface (110) includes determining (221) whether the ray (500) passes through a region consisting of the majority of substantially planar, enclosed planar areas (600, 700, 800) permeate, for use in determining (226, 228) whether the area of ​​particular importance (400) is irradiated by the sun's rays if the ray (500) penetrates the transparent surface (110); wherein the method (200) comprises determining (222) a point of penetration in the form of an intersection point between the ray (500) and at least one of the plurality of planar, bounded, two-dimensional areas (600, 700, 800); and wherein the procedure (200) includes determining (224) whether the intersection point is located within a triangle formed by boundary points which defines the corresponding area (600, 700, 800) of the plurality of planar, bounded area regions (600, 700, 800). [2] Method (200) according to claim 1, wherein: the procedure (200) further comprises determining (204, 206) an azimuth angle (312) and an elevation angle (308) of the sun using the information; and where defining (218) the beam (500) includes defining the beam (500) from the point of particular importance (400) within the vehicle (100) with respect to the sun using the azimuth angle (312) and the elevation angle (308). [3] Method (200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The step of obtaining (201) information regarding the instantaneous angle of the sun includes obtaining (202) geographical information regarding a geographical location of the vehicle (100), time information regarding an instantaneous time of day, and heading information regarding an instantaneous heading of the vehicle (100) using a global positioning system (GPS) device; and The step of determining (204, 206) the azimuth angle (312) and the elevation angle (308) includes determining the azimuth angle (312) and the elevation angle (308) using the geographic information, the time information, and the target direction information. [4] Method (200) according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising the following steps: Determine (214) the azimuth angle (312) and the elevation angle (308) in a spatial coordinate system; Determine (216) a position of the sun in the Cartesian coordinate system; and Defining (218) the ray (500) on the basis of determining the azimuth angle (312) and the elevation angle (308) in the spatial coordinate system and determining (216) the position of the sun in the Cartesian coordinate system. [5] Method (200) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: Adapting (232) the operation of an environmental control system (108) of the vehicle (100) on the basis of whether the area of ​​particular importance (400) is illuminated by the sun's rays if the ray (500) penetrates the transparent surface (110). [6] Method (200) according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising: Adjusting (232) a brightness level of a display screen (140, 142) of an infotainment system (109) of the vehicle (100) on the basis of whether the area of ​​particular importance (400) is illuminated by the sun's rays if the ray (500) penetrates the transparent surface (110). [7] System (101), in particular for carrying out a method (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising: a communication device (150) which is designed to receive information regarding a current angle of the sun; and a processor (165) which is coupled to and designed for the communication device (150): To determine the position of the sun using the information obtained in a Cartesian coordinate system; to define a ray (500) from a point of particular importance (400) inside a vehicle (100) in the direction of the sun's position; and to determine whether the ray (500) penetrates a transparent surface (110) of the vehicle (100), for use in determining (226, 228) whether the spot of particular importance (400) is irradiated by the sun's rays when the ray (500) penetrates the transparent surface (110); wherein the transparent surface (110) comprises a plurality of glass surfaces (112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124) of the vehicle (100), wherein the processor (165) is further configured as follows: to define a plurality of flat, bounded planar areas (600, 700, 800) for the plurality of glass surfaces (112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124); to determine whether the ray (500) penetrates an area of ​​the majority of substantially planar, bounded planar areas (600, 700, 800), for use in determining (226, 228) whether the spot of particular importance (400) is irradiated by the sun's rays if the ray (500) penetrates the transparent surface (110), in order to determine whether the ray (500) penetrates the transparent surface (110); to determine a point of intersection in the form of a point of intersection between the ray (500) and at least one of the majority of planar, bounded, two-dimensional areas (600, 700, 800); and to determine whether the intersection point is located within a triangle formed by boundary points, which defines the corresponding area (600, 700, 800) of the majority of flat, bounded planar areas (600, 700, 800). [8] Vehicle (100), comprising: a body (102); a drive system (107) arranged within the body (102); and a control unit (101) arranged within the body (102), wherein the control unit (101) comprises a system (101) according to claim 7.

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