Method and device for communication in road traffic

Abstract

Method (400) for determining allocation information (301) for at least one road user (110, 120) in a roadway area, wherein the method (400) comprises, - Sending (401) a trigger message (123) via a wireless communication link to one or more road users (110, 120) in the roadway area; wherein the trigger message (123) is designed to cause a function (111, 121) of a road user (110, 120) to be performed in a predetermined manner; wherein the activation of the function (111, 121) of a road user (110, 120) causes an effect that can be detected by a sensor outside the road user (110, 120); - Detecting (402) that a first road user (110) is operating the function (111) in the predetermined manner; wherein the detection (402) comprises acquiring environmental data with one or more environmental sensors (102); wherein, based on the environmental data, it is detected that the first road user (110) has operated the function; wherein the environmental data indicates the first road user (110); determining (403) a property (304) of the first road user (110) based on the environmental data; and - Determine (404) an assignment information (301) indicating that communication via the wireless communication link is possible with a road user (110) with the determined property (304).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a method and a corresponding device for improving, in particular targeted, wireless communication between road users or between a road user and another device, in particular an infrastructure device, via a telecommunications network.

[0002] Currently, various initiatives on the topic of "Intelligent Transportation Systems" (ITS) are standardizing communication protocols and cooperative safety applications, including those at the European standardization bodies ETSI and CEN, as well as in the USA at ISO, SAE, and IEEE. These initiatives aim to enable cooperative, cross-manufacturer, and, ideally, accident-free driving in the future. The addressed safety applications, as well as the associated transmission protocols and data formats, are documented, among other places, in the ETSI standard EN 302 637 and the SAE standard SAEJ2735. For example, the standard EN 302 637-2 defines a so-called Cooperative Awareness Message (CAM), which is sent periodically by an ITS station (e.g., a vehicle) to inform another ITS station (e.g., a so-called ego vehicle) in the vicinity about selected information (e.g.,to inform the sending ITS station of its speed, acceleration, and / or position. The information exchanged between the ITS stations, e.g., via CAM messages (also known as vehicle-to-vehicle or vehicle-to-infrastructure communication), can be used in the respective ITS stations to detect collision hazards and, if necessary, to initiate appropriate countermeasures (e.g., warnings).

[0003] The messages exchanged within the framework of ITS are typically broadcast to a large number of different road users. It is typically unknown which other road user receives a message or with which specific road user communication is taking place. Targeted and / or direct communication between road users is typically not possible. This can result in relatively high data traffic and relatively long communication times.

[0004] DE 10 2009 026 464 A1 describes a method for providing vehicle-to-vehicle communication. DE 10 2013 021 841 A1 describes a method for assigning operating information to a third-party motor vehicle. DE 10 2012 003 776 B3 describes a method for identifying a vehicle during vehicle-to-vehicle communication. DE 10 2010 029 744 A1 describes a method for positioning.

[0005] This document therefore addresses the technical task of enabling direct, targeted communication between road users in an efficient and / or safe manner.

[0006] The problem is solved by the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments are described, among other things, in the dependent claims.

[0007] According to one aspect, a method for determining assignment information for at least one first road user in a roadway area is described. The method can be executed, for example, by a vehicle (also referred to as an ego-vehicle) or by an infrastructure device in the roadway area. Furthermore, the method can be executed, at least partially, by a mobile user device and / or by a device integrated into clothing. The assignment information can enable the vehicle, the infrastructure device, or another communication partner to establish direct (wireless) communication (via a telecommunications network, such as a UMTS, LTE, and / or WLAN network) with the first road user. The first road user can then, for example,They can be addressed directly using a communication identifier, without the content of a message to the first road user being evaluated or even being evaluated by another road user. This can, for example, reduce reaction time in certain traffic situations, especially since the first road user can immediately recognize, based on the communication identifier, that a received message is intended for them.

[0008] The procedure involves sending a trigger message (also known as a communication request) via a wireless communication link to one or more road users in the roadway area. The trigger message aims to cause a road user to perform a predetermined action. In particular, the trigger message can be flooded to multiple road users in the roadway area.

[0009] The procedure further includes detecting that a first road user activates the function in the predetermined manner. Activating the function can, for example, involve generating radiation, particularly in the visible or infrared range. This could include, for instance, activating a lighting function of the first road user (e.g., a headlight, brake light, signal light, etc.). Specifically, activating the function can include activating a non-switched-on lighting function of the first road user and / or activating a switched-on lighting function of the first road user (e.g., by briefly activating or deactivating the lighting function).

[0010] Furthermore, activating the function in a predetermined manner can include generating a (specific) pattern. During generation, a specific pattern can be displayed, or a pattern can be determined and displayed (according to specific criteria). The pattern can be one of a variety of predefined patterns. This helps avoid false detections.

[0011] The pattern can depend on the trigger message, thus enabling a unique association between the activated function and the trigger message. Furthermore, the pattern can depend on information that the first road user wishes to transmit in response to the trigger message. Therefore, the activation of a function can potentially be used to communicate information from the first road user to the sender of the trigger message.

[0012] The pattern can include at least a part indicating that it is directly related to the trigger message. Furthermore, the pattern can include at least a part that allows the first road user to be identified among a large number of different road users. For example, a communication identifier of the first road user can be transmitted in part of the pattern.

[0013] Activating a function by a road user can, in particular, cause an effect that can be detected by a sensor outside the road user. On the other hand, the effect may not be perceptible to a person. Detection can then involve capturing environmental data with one or more sensors. Based on this environmental data, it can then be detected that the first road user activated the function.

[0014] The activation of the function may preferably involve an activation of a function (already present in the vehicle) that is specifically designed or configured for carrying out the procedure. Such activation of the function may have a physical effect from the vehicle to the outside.

[0015] Activating the function can, for example, include temporally and / or spatially modulated light and / or sound or ultrasound emitted by the vehicle. In particular, activating the function can include direction-dependent light, a light projection, or the display of a specific pattern on an external display device of the vehicle. Furthermore, activating the function can include emitting radar waves or ultrasound waves, especially according to a specific pattern. Certain parameters can be maintained, for example, by means of sensors installed in the vehicle. A particularly preferred function is a signal from a road user to the outside, especially by means of a display device or a light projection.

[0016] The pattern can consist of a symbol or a machine-readable code (e.g., a so-called quick response code). The advantage of this is that a specific symbol, chosen from a multitude of possible symbols, allows for the activation of a vehicle function in a way that is reliably identifiable and distinguishable. Furthermore, a displayed symbol can convey information or a message visible to other road users, and thus directly perceptible to humans. Additionally, a displayed symbol or a machine-readable code can transmit, for example, encryption information or information relating to further, exclusive communication.

[0017] The method further includes determining a property of the first road user. Preferably, this property is a recognition property that identifies the first road user. This recognition property can be a property by which the first road user can be recognized or assigned from a limited set of other road users. Determining a property of the first road user can involve acquiring environmental data with one or more environmental sensors, whereby the environmental data can indicate the presence of the first road user. The property of the first road user can then be determined based on the environmental data. Determining a property of the first road user makes it possible to select the first road user for communication without requiring precise identification of the first road user.

[0018] The property of the first road user can, in particular, include a position of the first road user relative to a sender of the trigger message, relative to another road user and / or relative to a reference point.

[0019] Alternatively or additionally, the characteristic of the first road user may include a permanent characteristic of the first road user, in particular a dimension of the first road user; a contour of the first road user; a class or type of the first road user; and / or a distinguishing mark of the first road user.

[0020] Alternatively or additionally, the property of the first road user may include a variable property of the first road user, in particular position and / or movement data relating to the first road user; information about an active function of the first road user; information about a driving maneuver carried out by the first road user; and / or a status of a signaling of the first road user.

[0021] Alternatively or additionally, the characteristic of the first road user may include a relative characteristic of the road user in relation to another road user, in particular a specific maneuver or a maneuver of a specific type, especially an overtaking maneuver with the other road user; approaching a common roadway point with the other road user; and / or relative movement data in relation to the other road user.

[0022] Furthermore, the procedure includes determining an assignment information that indicates that targeted communication via the wireless communication link is possible with a road user possessing the identified characteristic. Subsequently, targeted communication, in particular the targeted transmission of useful information, can take place with the first road user, depending on the determined assignment information. This enables targeted, secure, and rapid communication (e.g., in critical situations). Specifically, it ensures that a particular road user is available for targeted communication.

[0023] The trigger message can be sent with a communication identifier, which indicates one or more possible recipients of the trigger message. The assignment information can then display the communication identifier for targeted communication. In this way, the first road user can be addressed specifically using the communication identifier.

[0024] The process can be executed by a (self-driving) road user, in particular a vehicle or a pedestrian in the roadway, and / or by an infrastructure device within the roadway. Specifically, a vehicle in the roadway can send the trigger message. Alternatively, a pedestrian in the roadway or adjacent pedestrian areas can send the trigger message, in particular using a mobile device (smartphone, smartwatch, smart clothes). Furthermore, an infrastructure device within the roadway can detect that the first road user has activated the function. The infrastructure device can then determine the assignment information and provide it to the (self-driving) road user and / or the first road user. Integrating the infrastructure device can make the determination of assignment information more reliable.

[0025] The process can further include, based on the assignment information, determining whether the first road user is relevant for a driving maneuver and / or vehicle movement. If relevance is determined, maneuver information and / or movement intention information and / or priority information can be sent directly to the first road user. This allows critical traffic situations to be defused efficiently.

[0026] The term "roadway area" as used in this document can refer in particular to an area of ​​a roadway, road surface, special roadway arrangement, etc., in which interaction between road users (such as right-of-way, maneuvers, mutual interference) is possible or is relatively likely to occur. In particular, this can refer to a spatial area of ​​less than 100 or 200 meters.

[0027] Communication can preferably involve direct or targeted communication between at least one or more road users and one or more other road users, particularly those selected according to specific criteria. For example, it can involve communication between a pedestrian crossing a road at an intersection or pedestrian crossing and one or more other road users.

[0028] Furthermore, the communication can be direct or targeted, and in particular exclusive, communication between an infrastructure device and one or more road users, especially those selected according to specific criteria. In particular, it can be bidirectional and / or event-driven communication.

[0029] Furthermore, it can be exclusive communication, in particular communication restricted to two or more specific road users. This can take place, for example, in a specially agreed or allocated transmission channel, or by means of additional communication IDs or provisionally or dynamically assigned transaction numbers. Such a transmission channel or transaction numbers can be assigned to the road user for each new communication.

[0030] Depending on the activation of the function, further exclusive and / or encrypted communication with the first road user can also be arranged. Furthermore, a password sequence or key can be generated, used, or agreed upon between the communication partners, particularly depending on the road user's activation of the function.

[0031] Depending on the activation of a function determined in the described procedure and / or the resulting assignment information, one or more communication parameters may be varied. Examples of such parameters include: one or more directions of communication, preconditions for communication with specific road users or devices, etc.

[0032] Sending the trigger message or any subsequent communication can take place via one or more at least partially wireless routers, repeaters and / or other such communication devices.

[0033] According to the described procedure, at least an initial communication identifier can be sent. Continuing the communication can also be enabled by means of a second communication identifier, which is determined based on the first communication identifier and / or from further wirelessly transmitted information. In particular, the communication identifier of a road user can be changed during communication, if necessary.

[0034] The assignment information or information dependent on it may only be distributed to participants in the process who are identified, for example, by the use of a specific computer product, e.g., an app (= application).

[0035] At least part of the process can be carried out in a mobile user device, e.g. carried in and / or connected to a vehicle.

[0036] Determining a characteristic of the first road user within the procedure can be based on data from one or more sensors of the (ego) road user or another road user within the roadway. This can be done, for example, based on data from at least one sensor of a vehicle and at least one further sensor carried by another road user, and / or a sensor that is essentially stationary and attached to an infrastructure device, and / or from a sensor of a pedestrian's mobile device.

[0037] The method can be applied to multiple road users, particularly almost simultaneously, where at least two road users generate different patterns when activating the function. This also allows for the establishment of a particularly secure and clearly (i.e., uniquely) addressable multidirectional communication system for transmitting useful information.

[0038] Communication, and in particular the subsequent communication with a road user dependent on the assignment information, can relate to the exchange of useful information. Specifically, information can be transmitted to an occupant within the road user, and / or control information can be transmitted to a remote control of at least one device of the road user. This can, for example, directly or indirectly influence the movement of a road user. Alternatively or additionally, at least semi-automatically, the determination or influencing of right-of-way rules or the sequence of one or more driving maneuvers can occur.

[0039] The described method can include conducting wireless communication, depending on the determined assignment information, between at least two road users or between an infrastructure device and at least two road users. The described method can include conducting wireless communication, in particular between a pedestrian with a suitably configured user device and a road user and / or an infrastructure device, depending on the determined assignment information. The communication can relate, in particular, to traffic safety or more efficient traffic flow. Depending on the communication, for example, at least partially automated, mutual adjustment of the movements of the at least two road users can take place.

[0040] Within the framework of the described procedure, it is possible to verify the influence on the on-board network of a (specific) road user, particularly with regard to a subsequent, especially safety-critical, influence on at least one further (safety-critical) function of the first road user. The first predetermined activation of the function may be a non-safety-relevant activation (with non-critical effects). After detecting the first predetermined activation and determining the attribution information, a second safety-relevant activation can occur (within the framework of subsequent communication). Thus, it can be assumed with increased certainty that a subsequent (safety-relevant) influence on a (further) function of the road user, e.g.,an intervention in the chassis or in an active safety system, or an influence on the movement of at least one road user, is correctly addressed or carried out as desired.

[0041] According to another aspect, a device (e.g., a vehicle or infrastructure device) for determining attribution information for at least one road user in a roadway area is described. The device is configured to send a trigger message via a wireless communication link to one or more road users in the roadway area, the trigger message being designed to cause a road user to perform a function in a predetermined manner. The device is further configured to detect that a first road user has activated the function in the predetermined manner. This can be done, for example, by means of a camera and an image processing unit. The device is also configured to determine a property of the first road user.Furthermore, the device is set up to determine an assignment information indicating that communication via the wireless communication link is possible with a road user possessing the determined characteristic.

[0042] According to another aspect, a computer program, in particular a computer program product, is described. The computer program can optionally be loaded directly into the internal memory of a digital device (in particular an electronic control unit of a driver assistance system in a vehicle with a processing unit). Furthermore, the computer program can include software code sections with which the steps of the method according to one of the described method claims are executed when the computer product is running on the digital device. Different computer programs can be provided for an infrastructure device, for an ego vehicle, for a road user, and / or for an application device.

[0043] According to another aspect, a vehicle (e.g. a passenger car, a truck or a motorcycle) is described that is equipped to carry out the procedure described in this document (at least partially, in particular a corresponding part of the procedure).

[0044] According to another aspect, a device (e.g., a device that can be carried in a vehicle, a user device that can be carried by a road user, a pedestrian's smart clothes or smartwatch) is described that is set up to carry out the procedure described in this document (at least partially, in particular a corresponding part of the procedure).

[0045] It should be noted that the methods, devices, and systems described in this document can be used both alone and in combination with other methods, devices, and systems described in this document. Furthermore, any aspect of the methods, devices, and systems described in this document can be combined with one another in a variety of ways. In particular, the features of the claims can be combined with one another in a variety of ways.

[0046] The invention will now be described in more detail using exemplary embodiments. Fig. 1 a block diagram showing communicating road users in a roadway area; Fig. 2. Exemplary assignment information for identifying a communication partner; Fig. 3. A flowchart of an exemplary procedure for determining allocation information.

[0047] As stated at the outset, this document deals with the technical task of enabling targeted and / or direct communication between road users (especially between vehicles) in an efficient and reliable manner.

[0048] Vehicle-to-vehicle communication methods typically use broadcast methods to exchange messages between road users. It is generally not possible to send a communication message to only one specific road user, for example, to a road user with a particular geometric position relative to an ego-vehicle that wishes to send the communication message. Sending a targeted communication message typically requires knowledge of an individual network identifier or communication identifier (network ID) of the road user, which is usually unknown to the ego-vehicle.

[0049] Wireless communication (e.g. via WLAN, LTE, G3, etc.) typically does not have sufficient directional dependency to allow communication with only one specific other road user and to ensure that the other road user receives and processes a communication message.

[0050] Typically, a road user in a vehicle-to-vehicle communication network has a unique network ID. However, an ego-vehicle typically does not know which road user has which network ID. Therefore, the ego-vehicle is usually unable to send a message directly to a specific road user. This document describes a method that enables an automatic mapping between road users and network IDs.

[0051] Direct communication between individual road users enables, for example, automatic pacing of a communicating vehicle (even simultaneously) to several specific vehicles. Vehicles can then largely coordinate their current maneuvers autonomously (e.g., via Wi-Fi), thus achieving coordinated behavior in road traffic. Mutual obstructions, delays, deadlocks at intersections, and / or risky maneuvers (overtaking, lane changes, etc.) can be reliably resolved by quickly and automatically finding a suitable communication partner.

[0052] If needed, and if the network ID of a relevant road user is known, a specific (possibly automatically generated) message can be addressed directly to that road user. As a starting point, it is sufficient to know the position of the relevant road user. Then, automatically or in response to manual input from the driver, a specific communication message can be sent from the ego-vehicle to that particular road user, ensuring that only that specific road user (or only specific road users with a particular selected characteristic) receives the message. Furthermore, targeted communication with one or more specific road users can be combined with Vehicle-to-X (V2X) communication (where X represents either vehicle or infrastructure).

[0053] This document describes a method for communication between a vehicle or infrastructure device and at least one road user, as well as a corresponding device, further means and a corresponding computer product.

[0054] Fig. Figure 1 shows a block diagram with a vehicle 100 (also referred to in this document as the ego vehicle), several (other) road users 110, 120 (in particular, several other vehicles), and an infrastructure device 130. The road users 110, 120 can be configured to receive a trigger message 123 from the vehicle 100 (or from the infrastructure device 130) via a wireless communication connection (e.g., via a WLAN, a UMTS, or an LTE connection). The trigger message 123 can be sent via a communication module 103 of the ego vehicle 100. Furthermore, the road users 110, 120 can be configured to trigger a function in response to the trigger message 123, which can be detected by one or more environmental sensors 103 of the vehicle 100 (or the infrastructure device 130). The road users 110, 120 can thus resolve an externally detectable function 111, 121.

[0055] The one or more environmental sensors 102 (e.g., a camera, a radar sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, a LiDAR sensor, etc.) of the ego-vehicle 100 are configured to acquire environmental data relating to the surroundings of the ego-vehicle 100. The function 111 triggered by a road user 110 can be detected based on the environmental data by means of a control unit 101 of the ego-vehicle 100. Furthermore, the ego-vehicle 100 includes a memory module 104 on which digital map information relating to the surroundings of the ego-vehicle 100 (e.g., the road layout of a currently traveled lane) can be stored.

[0056] The control unit 101 of the ego vehicle 100 is further configured to create an assignment between a network ID of a road user 110, 120 and the road user 110, 120, based on the trigger message 123 and on the basis of the environmental data (in particular based on a detected function 111, 121). In particular, the control unit 101 is configured to assign a network ID to at least one of the road users 110, 120 in the vicinity of the ego vehicle 100, with which a message can be sent directly to this road user 110, 120 via a wireless communication connection.

[0057] Fig. Figure 3 shows a flowchart of an exemplary procedure 400 for determining assignment information for at least one road user 110, 120 in a roadway area. The procedure 400 comprises sending 401 a trigger message 123 (referred to as a communication request) via a wireless communication link to one or more road users 110, 120 in the roadway area. The trigger message 123 can be designed to cause a function 111, 121 of a road user 110, 120 in a predetermined manner. The procedure 400 further comprises detecting 402 that a first road user 110 is activating the function 111 in the predetermined manner. The procedure 400 also comprises determining 403 a property of the first road user 110.Furthermore, procedure 400 includes determining 404 an assignment information indicating that communication via the wireless communication link is possible with a road user 110 who possesses the determined characteristic. The assignment information may also include a communication identifier (or network ID) for communication with road user 110.

[0058] A method 400 for communication between a vehicle 100 or an infrastructure device 130 and at least one road user 110 is described. Within the framework of method 400, a wireless communication link is established between at least one vehicle 100 or an infrastructure device 130 and another road user 110. Furthermore, a function 111 of the road user 110 is wirelessly activated in a predetermined manner, in particular such that this function 111 of the road user 110 represents a specific behavior pattern of the road user 110. The wireless activation of the function 111 of the road user 110 can be effected by sending a trigger message 123 (or a communication request) to the road user 110 via the wireless communication link.

[0059] Method 400 further comprises recognizing the predetermined activation of function 111 of road user 110. In particular, method 400 comprises recognizing the behavior pattern of road user 110 using means 102 of the vehicle 100 (especially with the environmental sensors 102) and / or with means of the infrastructure device 130. Method 400 also comprises generating assignment information for road user 110 for subsequent communication with road user 110. The assignment information can, in particular, indicate an assignment between a network ID of road user 110 and a property of road user 110 (detectable via environmental sensors).

[0060] Communication can primarily involve communication via a wireless network (Wi-Fi, LTE, 3G, mobile data, etc.). Alternatively or additionally, communication can include communication via light, radio waves, etc.

[0061] The establishment of a wireless communication connection typically does not occur in a targeted manner, but rather by flooding the system with a communication request (i.e., a trigger message 123). The function 111 of the road user 110 activated by the trigger message 123 can be any function (existing or specifically designed for the process) with an effect that is detectable or measurable from the outside (at least sensorially), in particular with a distinguishable pattern. Specifically, the function can include a lighting function of the road user 110 (e.g., a headlight, a parking light, a signal light, etc.).

[0062] The function of the road user 110 can be designed in such a way that, although detectable by a sensor 102, it is not perceptible to human perception or at least not disruptive. For example, the function can cause a brief change in the state of the road user 110, which can (possibly only) be detected by a sensor 102.

[0063] The activation of function 111 of road user 110 can be detected, confirmed or recognizable as such, in particular by sensor 102 of vehicle 100 and / or by the driver of the vehicle.

[0064] The activation of function 111 by road user 110 in a predetermined manner can include activation of function 111 by road user 110 within a specific time interval, e.g., immediately following the receipt of the communication request 123, and / or activation of function 111 with a pattern, particularly a temporal one. In particular, it can be detected that function 111 occurs within a predetermined time period after sending the communication request 123 (e.g., 1 second or less after sending the communication request 123).

[0065] The pattern can be detected, for example, by vehicle 100, e.g., with its front or rear camera, or by infrastructure device 130, e.g., with a camera on a motorway bridge. Subsequently, a logical link (i.e., mapping information) can be created between the network addresses of one or more (physically existing) road users 110 and one or more properties of these road users 110.

[0066] Depending on the identified allocation information, information can be sent or exchanged for one or more specific road users (110).

[0067] Road users (110) can be vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, etc. In particular, procedure 400 can be carried out on a pedestrian, cyclist and / or motorcyclist using means integrated into clothing (smart closes) and / or at least partially carried out by a user device.

[0068] The assignment information 301 can indicate a logical connection between a property 304 of the road user 110, detected by means 102 of the vehicle 100 or the infrastructure device 130, and its network ID 303 (see Fig. 2).

[0069] Depending on the detection of the activation of function 111 by road user 110 in a predetermined way (e.g. by pattern recognition), one or more receivers of the communication can be identified as receivers of the trigger message 123 by the communicating vehicle 100 or by the infrastructure device 130 based on the predetermined way (possibly together with the time interval of the activation, which is suitable for sending the trigger message 123).

[0070] In response to the detected activation of function 111 and in response to the detection of at least one property of the road user 110, which is detected e.g. by sensor 102, the pattern or function 111, the further property of the road user 110 and the wireless network ID of the road user 111 can be assigned to each other in order to provide assignment information 301.

[0071] For example, road user 110 can be assigned an additional ID, which is logically linked to the network ID. Whenever the ego vehicle 100 or the infrastructure device 130 wants to communicate with this road user 110, the road user 110 can be correctly addressed via this assignment or the assigned ID. This can also be done if a property of road user 110 has changed in the meantime.

[0072] The assignment information 301 can be a logical link, such as an entry in a lookup table, between the (automatically assigned) network ID 303 of the road user 110 and another property or combination of properties of the road user 110, determined in particular by means 102 of the vehicle 100 or the infrastructure device 130. A property can comprise a combination of characteristic properties of the road user 110 and / or identification information of the road user 110.

[0073] The assignment information 301 can, as in Fig. 2 shown, a logical assignment or linking of (absolute, relative, and / or dynamic) position information 302, of (absolute, relative, and / or dynamic) network IDs 303, and of (permanent, variable, and / or relative) properties 304 for at least one road user 110.

[0074] After a one-time generation of the assignment information 301 for a road user 110, 120, further assignment (if required) can be maintained through existing communication and / or (sensory) tracking.

[0075] The property of the road user 110 can, for example, represent the (spatial) arrangement of the road user 110 relative to the ego-vehicle 100 or to a specific other road user 120 or to a specific physical position or to the infrastructure device 130, in particular with regard to a specific time interval.

[0076] The arrangement can be relative (e.g., a relative angle, distance, etc.) and / or absolute. The arrangement can be represented by quantitative and / or qualitative scientific relationships (e.g., by specific sequences or formations in road traffic).

[0077] For example, if a road user 110, who is driving in a blind spot area of ​​the ego vehicle 100, is to be specifically warned that the ego vehicle 100 intends to change lanes (this can also be automatically linked to the turn signal signal), then the network ID of such road user 110 can be determined using the described procedure 400. This involves determining an assignment information that links a network ID of road user 110 or a driver assistance function of road user 110 with the road user 110's position. This ensures that only the correct road user 110 receives a warning from the ego vehicle 100.

[0078] The characteristics of a road user 110, 120 may include a permanent characteristic and / or a variable characteristic and / or a relative characteristic in relation to a specific other vehicle.

[0079] Permanent characteristics of road users 110, 120 can include, for example: technical characteristics such as the (external) contour, weight, maneuverability, a fixed or variable shape (e.g., a variable contour in the case of caravans or semi-trailer trucks), a make, an official registration number of a road user 110, 120 and / or a model, etc. of the road user 110, 120. This can also include information on a class of road user 110, 120 (car, truck, motorcyclist, pedestrian, animal, etc.).

[0080] For example, a reversing camera 102 on vehicle 100 can detect the license plate of a (potentially tailgating) vehicle 110 or 120 behind it. Vehicle 100 then sends a communication request via a (local) Wi-Fi network. Nearby vehicles 110 and 120 then display their respective patterns (i.e., they transmit road user data 111 and 121 with their associated properties). The reversing camera 102 on vehicle 100 detects the pattern of the vehicle 110 behind it and, depending on the pattern, can assign the network ID of the vehicle 110 behind it and send targeted information to the driver of the vehicle 110 behind it or to an automatic driving function of the vehicle 110 behind it, such as an adaptive cruise control system.

[0081] Variable (current) characteristics of a road user 110, 120 may include: the position and / or movement data of the road user 110, 120; relative movement data of the road user 110, 120, in particular relative to the ego-vehicle 100; the current driving style (e.g., gradations from a position that changes little in relation to surrounding road users to active, constant maneuvering, etc.) of the road user 110, 120; a safety distance appropriate to the current traffic situation or driving operation; information about active functions of the road user 110, 120, in particular with regard to lighting functions; maneuver information, in particular automatically detected maneuvers performed by the road user 110, 120, or the detected intention to perform a (specific) maneuver; and / or a signaling status of the road user 110, 120 (turn signal activation, light or audio signals, etc.).

[0082] Relative (in relation to a specific vehicle) characteristics of road user 110, 120 may include: road user 110, 120 driving in a specific arrangement, e.g., in a blind spot, parallel, etc., to another vehicle; road user 110, 120 overtaking another vehicle (or vice versa); road user 110, 120 approaching the same point in the roadway as another vehicle at the same time; relative movement data in relation to road user 110, 120, e.g., a relative speed; a safety distance to road user 110, 120 that is, for example, not appropriate to the current traffic situation or driving operation; a right-of-way position or yield position relative to a specific vehicle; etc.

[0083] Information representing the assignment information can be provided to emergency services (110) (whose function 111 was activated in a predetermined manner), particularly for a targeted wireless response message. In this way, emergency services (110) can also benefit from the assignment information.

[0084] In addition to the mapping between a property and a network ID of road user 110, road user 110 can receive information for a return mapping to the network ID of the sender (i.e., the ego vehicle 100 or the infrastructure device 130). This return mapping can, for example, display information about a property of the ego vehicle 100 or the infrastructure device 130. Using this information, road user 110 can then communicate directly with the ego vehicle 110 or the infrastructure device 130.

[0085] Alternatively or additionally, the ego vehicle 100 or the infrastructure device 130 can assign itself an ID and send this ID, in particular via the communication request 123, directly or indirectly to the road user 110. This ID can have the same format as an ID that can be used for later communication. Alternatively, the ID can comprise a sequence of characters with which the vehicle 100 or the infrastructure device 130 identifies itself and which can be used for further identification.

[0086] The function 111 of the road user 110 can include a (light) pattern, particularly in a visible and / or infrared spectrum. However, it can also activate other vehicle functions (e.g., for further external signaling) or influence driving behavior (e.g., brief braking, pitching, swaying, etc.).

[0087] The pattern used to activate a vehicle function can include a sequence of changes in a physical quantity, such as a sequence of pulses. Furthermore, the pattern can be generated using infrared light. Alternatively or additionally, a sound signal, particularly an ultrasonic signal, can be generated. The activation of the vehicle function may also include a (wireless radio) response in a different frequency band.

[0088] The activation of function 111 by road user 110 can comprise one or more (combinable) patterns. Using means 102 of the vehicle 100, e.g., with the vehicle sensors 102, quantitative information can be captured from the pattern. The pattern thus displayed or captured can then be assigned a communication ID.

[0089] In an example pattern, certain lights of the vehicle's emergency lights (e.g., vehicle 110) can be activated briefly several times (e.g., three times) within one second. Such activation can also be designed to be almost imperceptible to human perception, if necessary. A "pattern" can also be defined by a texture, a frequency or frequency combination, a projection, or by a specific combination of the aforementioned parameters.

[0090] Typically, the pattern capture and detection is not performed by a driver of the ego vehicle 100, but by the sensor system 102 and the control unit 101 of the vehicle 100.

[0091] Procedure 400 can be designed in such a way that a driver of vehicle 100 can notice a successful "registration" of road user 110 by the (very brief) change in a function 111 of road user 110 and can thus be certain that communication / assignment has taken place. On the other hand, procedure 400 can be designed to be invisible or imperceptible to humans, or at least not disruptive.

[0092] The (light) function of road user 110 can represent a pattern that depends, at least in part, on the received communication request and / or a communication response from road user 110. This allows the pattern to be assigned to a specific request and / or associated with the specific (responding) road user 110. For example, the pattern can be composed of two sequences, each representing part of an identifier (of the sender of the communication request 123 or of road user 110). This enables efficient assignment, as it avoids the need to generate many distinguishable patterns.

[0093] Activating a function 111, in particular activating a lighting function that is not switched on, can include (repeatedly and briefly) switching on or increasing the light intensity and / or (repeatedly and briefly) switching off (i.e., briefly interrupting) or reducing the light intensity of the lighting function. The transmission and reliable recognition of a pattern can also be designed in such a way that pattern generation can occur equally well with lights that are already switched on or off. This can be implemented particularly well with LED light sources, which typically have short switching-on and switching-off times.

[0094] At least one vehicle 100 can send a communication request (in particular via the infrastructure device 130). The infrastructure device 130 can then identify one or more road users 110 who, in response, activate a (lighting) function in a predetermined manner. Furthermore, the infrastructure device 130 can determine assignment information 301 (in particular based on recognized patterns). The assignment information 301 can be sent to the vehicle 100 and / or to a road user 110. The assignment information can be detected by means 102 of the vehicle 100 and / or by means (sensors) of the infrastructure device 130.

[0095] The procedure 400 may, in particular, include flooding a communication request 123 to several road users 110 in the vicinity of the vehicle 100 or the infrastructure device 130. At least part of the subsequently generated pattern of function activation may confirm to the vehicle 100 or the infrastructure device 130 a direct connection with the communication request 123. Furthermore, at least part of the pattern of function activation may include a pattern specific to (unmistakable for) the road user 110.

[0096] Depending on the pattern detected (by the vehicle 100 or the infrastructure device 130), an assignment information 301 can then be generated between the network IDs and respective properties of several road users 110. The assignment information 301 and / or the network IDs 303 can be sent to the vehicle 100 and / or to one or more road users 110, preferably together with information representing the respective properties 304 of one or more road users 110.

[0097] The "flooding" can occur, for example, directly from vehicle 100, or from vehicle 100 via a (Wi-Fi) router on a nearby highway bridge, for example, to all road users 110 within a radius of, say, + / - 200 meters. Subsequently, the functions 111 of the road users 110, preferably using a light-emitting function, provide feedback with the communication IDs by which they can be reached from a specific time and, for example, for a certain period. Communication "pacing" can be implemented, which also enables targeted and, if necessary, encrypted communication.

[0098] The specific "unique" pattern can be a pattern that depends at least partially on the identity information. This identity information can, for example, depend on the vehicle identification number (license plate number, chassis number, etc.) and / or be generated in such a way that the identity information occurs only once (at least in the vicinity).

[0099] At least part of the pattern can include a random component that also allows for a clear assignment to the road user (but not vice versa).

[0100] At least part of the pattern can also be generated based on an ID that road user 110 assigns to the requesting vehicle 100. Furthermore, the assignment information can assign new IDs or include a relationship for determining a new ID each time (e.g., in the case of dynamic ID assignment).

[0101] Using means 102 within the vehicle 100 and / or using means of the infrastructure device 130, road users 110 with one or more predetermined properties can be identified. Furthermore, targeted wireless communication with the identified road users 110 can be carried out using the assignment information 301. Examples of a predetermined property are: a specific arrangement, in particular with respect to the ego-vehicle 100 or to a specific other road user 120; and / or a differential speed, in particular with respect to the ego-vehicle 100 or to a specific other road user 120.

[0102] The generation of the assignment information 301 can be carried out by the infrastructure device 130. Furthermore, subsequent wireless communication can be carried out directly or indirectly between the road users 110. This allows communication paths to be shortened if necessary.

[0103] The assignment information allows maneuver information or movement intention information, for which an order / assignment of a specific road user 110, 120 (possibly relative to the ego vehicle 100) is relevant, to be transmitted and / or coordinated. This can be used particularly in connection with (possibly autonomous) vehicle functions.

[0104] Alternatively or additionally, based on the assignment information, priority information for a specific movement of at least one road user (110,120) can be transmitted, particularly with regard to one or more time intervals or spatial segments. This priority information can relate in particular to: a right-of-way sequence between at least two vehicles, especially at a traffic light-free intersection; an overtaking sequence between at least two vehicles (both in the case of oncoming vehicles and vehicles traveling in succession that intend to overtake the front of the line); a parking intention, e.g., an intention to occupy a parking space; at least a partially automated maneuver involving two or more vehicles, etc. The priority information can be related to one or more time intervals.This means that the assignment information can be used in particular for partially and highly automated driving.

[0105] The described method offers numerous advantages. It enables targeted wireless communication with specific road users, including direction-based communication. In particular, it allows for the secure assignment of communication IDs to specific road users. This enables the targeted identification and communication of certain road users, or road users with specific characteristics, based on their IDs or assignment information. Furthermore, the method facilitates real-time communication directly between vehicle systems. It can support assisted, partially automated, and highly automated driving (HAD). The method can be implemented on existing hardware and is cost-effective.

[0106] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments shown. In particular, it should be noted that the description and the figures are intended only to illustrate the principle of the proposed methods, devices, and systems.

Claims

[1] Method (400) for determining allocation information (301) for at least one road user (110, 120) in a roadway area, wherein the method (400) comprises, - Sending (401) a trigger message (123) via a wireless communication link to one or more road users (110, 120) in the roadway area; wherein the trigger message (123) is designed to cause a function (111, 121) of a road user (110, 120) to be performed in a predetermined manner; wherein the activation of the function (111, 121) of a road user (110, 120) causes an effect that can be detected by a sensor outside the road user (110, 120); - Detecting (402) that a first road user (110) is operating the function (111) in the predetermined manner; wherein the detection (402) comprises acquiring environmental data with one or more environmental sensors (102); wherein, based on the environmental data, it is detected that the first road user (110) has operated the function; wherein the environmental data indicates the first road user (110); determining (403) a property (304) of the first road user (110) based on the environmental data; and - Determine (404) an assignment information (301) indicating that communication via the wireless communication link is possible with a road user (110) with the determined property (304). [2] Method (400) according to claim 1, wherein - the trigger message (123) is sent with a communication identifier (303); - the communication identifier (303) indicates one or more possible recipients of the trigger message (123); and - the mapping information (301) displays the communication identifier (303) for targeted communication. [3] Method (400) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the property (304) of the first road user (110) determines the position of the first road user (110) relative to - to a sender (100, 130) of the trigger message (123); - to another road user (120); and / or - encompasses a reference point. [4] Method (400) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the property (304) of the first road user (110) comprises a permanent property of the first road user (110), in particular - a measurement of the first road user (110); - a contour of the first road user (110); - a class or type of the first road user (110); and / or - a license plate number of the first road user (110). [5] Method (400) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the property (304) of the first road user (110) comprises a variable property of the first road user (110), in particular - Position and / or movement data relating to the first road user (110); - Information about an active function of the first road user (110); - Information about a driving maneuver carried out by the first road user (110); and / or - a status of a signaling of the first road user (110). [6] Method (400) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the property (304) of the first road user (110) comprises a relative property of the road user in relation to another road user (120), in particular - an overtaking maneuver with the other road user (120); - approaching a shared lane with the other road user (120); and / or - relative movement data in relation to the other road user (120). [7] Method (400) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the method (400) further comprises providing the allocation information for targeted communication with the first road user (110). [8] Method (400) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the actuation of the function comprises generating radiation, in particular in the visible or infrared range. [9] Method (400) according to claim 8, comprising actuating the function, - activating a non-switched-on light function of the first road user (110); and / or - the activation of a switched-on light function by the first road user (110). [10] Method (400) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the activation of the function comprises generating a pattern in a predetermined manner. [11] Method (400) according to claim 10, wherein the pattern comprises a pattern from a plurality of predetermined patterns. [12] Method (400) according to one of claims 10 to 11, wherein the pattern depends on: - from the trigger message (123); and / or - of information that the first road user (110) wants to send in response to the trigger message (123). [13] Method (400) according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the pattern comprises, - at least a part indicating that the pattern is directly related to the trigger message (123); and / or - at least a part that makes it possible to identify the first road user (110) among a multitude of road users (110, 120). [14] Method (400) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein - a vehicle (100) in the roadway area sends the trigger message (123); - an infrastructure device (130) of the roadway area detects that the first road user (110) activates the function (111); and - the infrastructure device (130) determines the allocation information (301) and provides it to the vehicle (100) and / or the first road user (110). [15] Method (400) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the trigger message (123) is flooded to several road users (110, 120) in the roadway area. [16] Method (400) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the method (400) further comprises, based on the allocation information, - Determine whether the first road user (110) is relevant to a driving maneuver and / or to a movement of a vehicle (100); and - if relevance is determined, send a maneuver information and / or a movement intention information and / or a priority information directly to the first road user (110). [17] Computer program designed to be executed on a processor carried on a vehicle (100) or located within an infrastructure device (130) and to thereby perform a substantial part of the method (400) according to any one of the preceding claims. [18] Device (100, 130) for determining assignment information (301) for at least one road user (110, 120) in a roadway area, wherein the device (100, 130) is set up, - to send a trigger message (123) via a wireless communication link to one or more road users (110, 120) in the roadway area; wherein the trigger message (123) is designed to cause a function (111, 121) of a road user (110, 120) to be performed in a predetermined manner; wherein the activation of the function (111, 121) of a road user (110, 120) causes an effect that can be detected by a sensor outside the road user (110, 120); - to detect that a first road user (110) activates the function (111) in the predetermined manner; wherein the detection includes acquiring environmental data with one or more environmental sensors (102); wherein, based on the environmental data, it is detected that the first road user (110) has activated the function; wherein the environmental data indicates the first road user (110); - to determine a property (304) of the first road user (110) based on the environmental data; and - to determine an assignment information (301) indicating that communication via the wireless communication link is possible with a road user (110) with the determined property (304).

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