Method and system for displaying at least one operating mode of a motor vehicle

Abstract

Method for displaying at least one operating mode of a motor vehicle (10) in which the motor vehicle (10) is operated at least semi-automatically by means of a driver assistance system, wherein environmental sensors are used to determine data from the environment of the motor vehicle and a display strategy for the operating mode of the motor vehicle is determined from the environmental data, characterized in that the motor vehicle (10) emits at least one characteristic light signal at predefined time intervals in at least one driving operating mode, wherein the at least one characteristic light signal is emitted by at least two light sources present in the motor vehicle (11.1, 11.2, 11.3, 11.4) is generated depending on the environmental data, wherein the at least one characteristic light signal is generated at least cyclically or rotatingly or alternatingly depending on the operating mode, wherein a continuous transition between at least the cyclical or rotating or alternating control is enabled when the operating mode of the motor vehicle (10) changes.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for displaying at least one operating mode of a motor vehicle according to the preamble of independent method claim 1. Furthermore, the invention relates to a system for displaying at least one operating mode of a motor vehicle according to the preamble of independent system claim 8.

[0002] Driver assistance systems are known for motor vehicles that can perform partially or fully automated driving. With fully automated driving, the vehicle moves independently while the driver remains in their seat but does not intervene in the driving process, or the driver has left the vehicle. Well-known examples of driver assistance systems include the ABS system, which supports the driver during emergency braking, and the ESP system, which prevents the vehicle from swerving from its lane. Parking assistants are also known as driver assistance systems. These assist with parking and reversing maneuvers or other maneuvering maneuvers at the driver's request or perform them completely independently.The disadvantage that has emerged is that other road users do not receive any feedback as to whether a particular motor vehicle is being controlled by a driver or is in a partially or fully automated driving process.

[0003] DE 10 2012 013 602 A1 shows a signaling of an emergency stop procedure of a motor vehicle in which a hazard warning signal is given.

[0004] DE 10 2009 052 589 A1 describes a device and a method for reducing the risk of accidents during a critical situation of one's own vehicle.

[0005] DE 10 2010 001 264 A1 discloses a device for warning a driver of a second vehicle approaching a first vehicle, comprising at least one distance sensor that can be mounted on the first vehicle, wherein the distance sensor is connected to a lighting means.

[0006] According to DE 10 2014 209 984 A1, the following steps are performed to identify an automatically driving vehicle: Operating the vehicle in an automatic mode in which the vehicle drives automatically. Signaling the automatic mode to a road user outside the vehicle.

[0007] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a method for displaying at least one operating mode of a motor vehicle and a system for displaying at least one operating mode of a motor vehicle, which reliably display the current operating mode of the motor vehicle in particular in a simple and cost-effective manner.

[0008] The above object is achieved by a method for displaying at least one operating mode of a motor vehicle having the features of independent method claim 1. Furthermore, the object is achieved by a system for displaying at least one operating mode of a motor vehicle having the features of independent system claim 8. Further features and details of the invention emerge from the subclaims, the description, and the drawings. Features and details described in connection with the method according to the invention naturally also apply in connection with the system according to the invention, and vice versa, so that with regard to the disclosure of the individual aspects of the invention, reference is always made to each other.

[0009] According to a first aspect of the invention, the object is achieved by a method for displaying at least one operating mode of a motor vehicle, in which the motor vehicle can be driven at least partially automatically by means of a driver assistance system. Furthermore, data of the surroundings of the motor vehicle can be determined by means of an environmental sensor system, and a display strategy for the operating mode of the motor vehicle can be determined from this environmental data. A method according to the invention is characterized in that the motor vehicle can emit at least one characteristic light signal at predefined time intervals in at least one operating mode, wherein the at least one characteristic light signal can be generated by at least two light sources present in the motor vehicle, wherein the sequence of light signals can occur at time intervals depending on the environmental data.

[0010] The method according to the invention can be used to display the operating mode of a motor vehicle. The operating mode of a motor vehicle is the state in which the motor vehicle is at the respective current point in time. The operating mode can therefore comprise both driving, in particular semi-automatically or fully automatically, of the motor vehicle, and also the standstill of the motor vehicle. Furthermore, all intermediate stages can also be included, such as braking, abrupt braking or emergency braking, or even acceleration. In the present operating mode, the motor vehicle can be driven at least semi-automatically by means of a driver assistance system. With at least partially automated driving, it is also possible for the motor vehicle to drive completely fully automatically.

[0011] Partially automated driving can be understood as meaning that it is not necessary for a person, especially a driver, to take over the entire driving process. The driver assistance system assumes at least one driving function that a driver would normally perform. Instead, parts of the driving process are taken over by a driver assistance system. However, during partially automated driving, a driver must continuously monitor the driver assistance system. In particular, the driver assistance system takes over longitudinal and lateral guidance in certain application cases. Furthermore, partially automated driving can also be understood as highly automated driving. In this case, a driver no longer has to continuously monitor the driver assistance system, but must potentially be able to take over the driving.In particular, during a highly automated journey, the driver assistance system takes over longitudinal and lateral guidance in certain application cases and recognizes the limits of the driver assistance system and requests a person to take over the journey within a sufficient time reserve.

[0012] Fully automated driving can be understood as meaning that it is not necessary for a driver to intervene in individual driving processes. The driving process is essentially taken over by a driver assistance system. A driver is not required in a specific application. The driver assistance system can handle all driving situations automatically in the specific application. Furthermore, fully automated driving can also be understood as driverless driving. In driverless driving, the driver assistance system can handle all situations automatically throughout the entire journey. No driver is required.

[0013] These driving functions, which are performed by the driver assistance system, can include, among others, driving itself, braking or acceleration, and steering. The driver assistance system can also react to the current driving or traffic situation. In fully automated driving, the driver assistance system can take over all driving functions. Furthermore, environmental sensors can collect data from the vehicle's surroundings. A display strategy for the vehicle's operating mode can also be determined from this environmental data.

[0014] An environmental sensor system can preferably consist of sensors that can collect and process data from the environment. Such environmental data can include, for example, traffic volume, obstacles, road signs, road surface conditions, weather conditions (especially rain, snow, or sun), and lighting conditions. From this data, a suitable operating mode of the motor vehicle can be determined, into which the vehicle can then be switched.

[0015] Furthermore, a display strategy can be used to indicate the current operating mode of the vehicle. A distinction can be made between semi-automatic and fully automatic driving, which can be displayed in different ways. Furthermore, a distinction can be made between various states of the vehicle, such as steady driving, acceleration, emergency braking, deceleration, starting, or a complete standstill.

[0016] This allows the current operating mode of the vehicle to be visibly displayed to the outside at any time. Likewise, a high safety standard for vehicles with at least partially automated driving behavior can be achieved, particularly by making the driving behavior visible to other road users or pedestrians.

[0017] According to the invention, it can be provided that when carrying out a method according to the invention, the motor vehicle can emit a characteristic light signal at predefined time intervals in at least one driving operating mode. These predefined time intervals can be 0.1 to 10 s long, preferably 0.25 to 5 s, particularly preferably 0.6 to 1 s long. A characteristic light signal can also be represented by an interrupted or a continuous light signal. Furthermore, the light signal can be generated by at least two light sources present in the motor vehicle. The light sources can of course be arranged or installed not only in the vehicle but also on the motor vehicle. This can ensure that the characteristic light signals can be generated by light sources that are commonly used in motor vehicles.Likewise, there is no need to resort to other light sources, which are not typically used in motor vehicles due to different vehicle designs and equipment rates. This allows for cost efficiency. Furthermore, it can also be provided that the characteristic light signal is projected by at least one light source in an environment / area outside the vehicle, in particular onto the ground near the vehicle. Existing light sources could also advantageously be used for this projection.

[0018] Furthermore, the sequence of light signals can be dependent on the ambient data. For example, if the ambient data triggers acceleration, the characteristic light signals can differ significantly from the light signals the vehicle might exhibit when decelerating or during steady driving. This can provide other road users with immediate information about the vehicle's subsequent behavior. This ensures a higher level of safety.

[0019] Preferably, a method according to the invention can furthermore be provided for the predefined time intervals of the sequence of light signals to occur in parallel. With a parallel time sequence of light signals, it is preferred that the motor vehicle is driving in an optimal condition. Optimal condition can preferably be defined as driving without impairments, heavy traffic, or poor weather conditions or lighting conditions. A parallel sequence can be defined as the simultaneous switching on and off of at least two light sources. With more than two light sources, it can be sufficient in the parallel sequence for two light sources to light up simultaneously and the other light sources to light up alternately or at least at different times. Furthermore, a time-staggered sequence of the time intervals of the light signals can occur. Time-staggered means that they light up one after the other, not at the same time.

[0020] Furthermore, a method according to the invention can be designed such that a frequency of the at least one characteristic light signal is adjusted depending on the ambient data. Advantageously, the frequency can be from 0.5 to 2.5 Hz, preferably 1.0 to 1.5 Hz, particularly preferably 1.2 to 1.3 Hz. The respective frequency of the at least one characteristic light signal can be dependent on the ambient data. Changing ambient data, such as traffic volume, speed, weather conditions, the number of people in the motor vehicle, and / or lighting conditions, can change the frequency of the at least one characteristic light signal.

[0021] For example, it is possible that due to adverse weather conditions, the motor vehicle is not traveling at the permitted maximum speed. In this case, the frequency of the light signals may be reduced or increased compared to the characteristic light signals of driving under optimal conditions, in order to alert other road users that the motor vehicle is not traveling in optimal condition, but that a special circumstance exists. The same increase or reduction in frequency in response to a frequency under optimal conditions can also occur under other special environmental conditions, such as heavy traffic, a high payload or increased total weight, a poor road surface, or special lighting conditions, such as strong sunlight or darkness.

[0022] Particularly preferably, a method according to the invention can further provide that the frequency of the at least one characteristic light signal deviates from at least one regular frequency of the light sources of the turn signal and / or hazard warning lights. With a regular frequency of the light sources of the turn signal and / or hazard warning lights, a light source can illuminate between 1.0 Hz and 1.5 Hz, preferably between 1.2 Hz and 1.3 Hz, and particularly preferably at 1.25 Hz. A total regular period T can be between 200 ms and 1200 ms, preferably between 500 ms and 1000 ms, and particularly preferably 800 ms. The period T is a time interval after which a process is repeated.At the regular frequency of at least one light source of the indicator and / or hazard warning light, the period T is composed of half a period T / 2 for the switched-on state of the light source and half a period T / 2 for the switched-off state of the light source.

[0023] Depending on the environmental data, the frequency of at least one characteristic light signal may deviate from the regular frequency. The period T of at least one light source can be T / 100 to T / 2 for when the light source is switched on or off. The current frequency of a characteristic light signal can therefore deviate from the usual frequency. The period of a characteristic light signal can also deviate from the regular time of a period. This means that both the frequency and the period can deviate significantly from a regular frequency of the light sources of the indicators and / or hazard warning lights or a regular period of the indicators and / or hazard warning lights, thus indicating to other road users a dangerous situation on the one hand and driving using a driver assistance system on the other.

[0024] Furthermore, the method according to the invention can provide for the at least one characteristic light signal to be generated using the light sources for the turn signals and / or hazard warning lights. Advantageously, the light sources for the turn signals and / or hazard warning lights are already present in all motor vehicles. Therefore, no additional light sources need to be installed in the vehicle. In contrast to the regular frequency of the light sources for the turn signals or hazard warning lights, a different frequency or period of the light sources for the turn signals or hazard warning lights can be used to generate a characteristic light signal.

[0025] It can also be provided that the light sources of the brake lights and / or headlights generate a characteristic light signal of the motor vehicle. Advantageously, the light sources of the brake lights and headlights are also already present in a motor vehicle. Characteristic light signals such as a headlight flasher or an alternating, time-delayed illumination of the brake lights can also be generated with the help of brake lights or headlights. The light sources of approach lighting can also be used to generate characteristic light signals, in particular in the form of projections or license plate lighting. It is also possible for characteristic light signals to be generated not just from one type of light source, but from a combination of at least two of the light sources of indicators, hazard lights, brake lights, approach lighting or headlights.This allows a larger number of different characteristic light signals to be generated.

[0026] A light source could comprise multiple light sources, such as incandescent bulbs, LEDs, OLEDs, SMDs, etc. These can be controlled and / or regulated individually or in any combination, in particular at any intensity, to generate a characteristic light signal. For example, it is possible for a round spotlight with LEDs arranged in a circle to be controlled in such a way that a symbol or a characteristic sequence of the switched-on light sources can be created. Furthermore, it is also possible for vertically or horizontally arranged light sources to be controlled one after the other, creating a symbol or a characteristic sequence of the switched-on light sources.

[0027] Furthermore, a method according to the invention can be designed such that the at least one characteristic light signal is generated cyclically and / or rotatingly and / or alternately depending on the operating mode. The respective operating mode depends on the respective driving situation, which can depend, for example, on weather conditions, lighting conditions, traffic situation, speed or load of the motor vehicle. The operating mode can further be represented by the characteristic light signal from at least two light sources. These can be illuminated cyclically and / or rotatingly and / or alternately. A cyclic light signal can consist of an illuminated and an unilluminated period, with the various illuminated and unilluminated periods running in a recurring sequence. It is also possible for the characteristic light signal to be generated in rotation.A rotating sequence provides alternating illumination from several, at least two, light sources, which are switched on and off one after the other in a specific order. An alternating sequence provides for one light source to be switched on and off, in contrast to the staggered switching on and off of at least one other light source. This creates a wide variety of different light signals, allowing multiple operating modes to be displayed in different ways.

[0028] Furthermore, a method according to the invention can provide for the at least one characteristic light signal to change when the operating mode changes. For example, a specific characteristic light signal can be generated when the motor vehicle is in optimal driving condition, at a recommended speed appropriate to the weather conditions, traffic volume, road conditions, etc. If the environmental data, such as traffic volume, weather conditions, road conditions, speed limits or speed approval, change, or if a sudden obstacle arises, the operating mode can be changed accordingly. It is useful to generate characteristic light signals for similar operating modes.In particular, this can mean that, for example, a first characteristic light signal can be generated when a suddenly appearing obstacle and the associated abrupt deceleration of the motor vehicle occur, whereas a different characteristic light signal can be generated when decelerating slowly due to increased traffic volume or a speed limit. Furthermore, it is also possible that, in addition to the characteristic light signals of the specific operating modes, additional light signals can be generated to indicate a hazardous situation to the road users involved.

[0029] In particular, the various characteristic light signals can be important in operating modes that represent a hazardous situation, such as a sudden obstacle or abrupt braking by other motor vehicles. The characteristic light signal should serve as a warning to other road users. Another characteristic light signal can be generated when the journey is terminated, indicating to other road users that the at least partially automated journey of the motor vehicle is being terminated. Furthermore, an additional characteristic light signal can be useful, for example, during a parking maneuver, since the motor vehicle can also reverse against the direction of travel, particularly during a parking maneuver.

[0030] Particularly preferably, a method according to the invention can be further developed to enable a continuous transition between the cyclic and / or rotating and / or alternating activation. This continuous transition between the various activations can occur, in particular, when the individual operating modes of the motor vehicle change. During a transition between two operating modes, the transition between the various activations, which constitute the respective characteristic light signal of the operating mode, can adapt to the speed or road conditions or similar factors. A continuous transition can mean that, depending on the period over which the operating modes change, the various activations for the respective operating mode can also change.In the case of a slow transition between two operating modes, the transition of the characteristic light signals can also be slow and represent a continuous transition. In the case of an abrupt transition between two operating modes, the continuous transition, i.e. the change from one characteristic light signal to the other, can be correspondingly shorter. If, for example, the motor vehicle has to brake slowly due to speed limits, the operating mode can change continuously from regular driving to braking mode. On the other hand, if an abrupt obstacle appears in the path of the motor vehicle and the regular driving mode abruptly changes to braking mode, the transition between the characteristic light signals also changes abruptly.It is also possible to generate an additional characteristic light signal in the event of a change in the operating mode that is unexpected for other road users, which can serve as a warning of a sudden change in the operating mode.

[0031] Particularly preferably, a method according to the invention can be further developed such that at least one characteristic light signal can be varied depending on various factors. These factors can include, for example, speed, weather, obstacle, time of day, number of occupants, weight, traffic volume, route, and road conditions. This list is not exhaustive, so that, where necessary or appropriate, other factors can also serve as the basis for characteristic light signals.

[0032] For example, a characteristic light signal may be different at high speed than a characteristic light signal at low speed. In addition, another characteristic light signal can be used to indicate a braking maneuver or an acceleration maneuver between two speeds. Furthermore, a different characteristic light signal can be used depending on the weather in sunny weather compared to rain and poor visibility, as well as the associated difficult road conditions. If an obstacle is encountered, the motor vehicle can be braked to avoid it, or an evasive maneuver can be carried out if there is not enough space and time to brake. A characteristic light signal can also be used for this evasive or braking maneuver in relation to an obstacle.Furthermore, characteristic light signals can be used depending on the time of day, which, for example, appear different in the dark than in daylight. In addition, the number of occupants can also be a decisive factor for characteristic light signals, whereby it can be indicated how many people are in the vehicle or whether, for example, children are traveling with it. In addition, the load can also be a decisive factor for a characteristic light signal, since with increasing load the driving behavior of vehicles changes, for example the braking distance or the type of acceleration. The volume of traffic can also be a decisive factor, whereby in heavy traffic the braking readiness can be set higher or the speed can be reduced.Another factor can be the route, which varies, for example, between highways, country roads, city traffic, or play streets, whereby the characteristic light signals can adapt to the respective road. Another factor is also different road conditions, whereby a well-maintained road may produce a different characteristic light signal than an unmaintained, difficult-to-access road.

[0033] According to a second aspect of the invention, the object is achieved by a system for displaying at least one operating mode of a motor vehicle, comprising at least two light sources for emitting at least one characteristic light signal, at least one environmental sensor system for determining data from the environment of the motor vehicle, and at least one electronic unit for controlling at least the light sources and / or the environmental sensor system. A characteristic light signal is generated by the light sources, e.g., by switching them on or off, dimming them, and / or by adjusting the light intensity. The environmental sensor system serves to determine data from the environment so that the driving behavior of the motor vehicle can adapt to the environmental sensor system. This is particularly necessary when the motor vehicle is driven fully automatically, so that it can adapt to the ambient conditions.Furthermore, the system comprises an electronic unit that controls and / or regulates at least the light sources or the ambient sensors. In particular, the electronic unit is provided to process data from the ambient sensors and transmit a corresponding signal to the light sources to generate the characteristic light signal. The electronic unit serves to implement the method according to the invention. Accordingly, the described system provides all the advantages already described for the method according to the invention.

[0034] In a further aspect of the invention, a computer program for a system for operating at least two light sources of a motor vehicle is claimed, wherein the computer program has an algorithm that is processed by an electronic unit of the system, wherein the algorithm of the method is implemented according to the independent method claim and / or one of the dependent claims dependent thereon. The computer program has an algorithm and / or a heuristic that serves to check the plausibility of the switching of the light source from an on to an off state or vice versa. The algorithm and / or the heuristic is designed such that, taking into account the recorded environmental data, it is checked whether the recorded data emit at least one characteristic light signal after the comparison of the further parameters at predefined time intervals.

[0035] Further advantages, features, and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description, in which exemplary embodiments of the invention are described in detail with reference to the drawings. The features mentioned in the claims and in the description may be essential to the invention individually or in any combination. Elements with the same function and mode of operation are provided with the same reference numerals in the individual figures. They schematically show: Fig. 1 a schematic representation of a motor vehicle, Fig. 2 examples of characteristic light signals, Fig. 3 examples of characteristic light signals, Fig. 4 a graphical representation of the system for indicating an operating mode.

[0036] In Fig. 1 shows a motor vehicle 10 according to the invention. The motor vehicle 10 has various light sources 11.1, 11.2, 11.3, and 11.4. The light sources can advantageously be at least indicators and / or hazard lights 11.2, 11.4 and / or headlights 11.1 and / or brake lights 11.3.

[0037] Fig. 2a further shows light signals from at least two light sources that emit alternating characteristic light signals. When at least one first light source is switched on, at least another second light source is switched off simultaneously. If the first light source is subsequently switched off, the second light source is switched on. If there are multiple light sources, several light sources can be switched on or off simultaneously, so that at least one light source is switched on and one light source is switched off in alternating sequence. These periods can repeat continuously. The period duration of an alternating characteristic light signal can preferably be 800 ms.

[0038] Fig. Figure 2b shows light signals from at least two light sources emitting a rotating characteristic light signal. When at least the first light source 11.1, 11.2, 11.3, 11.4 is switched off, at least the second light source 11.1, 11.2, 11.3, 11.4 is switched on. With more than two light sources 11.1, 11.2, 11.3, 11.4, all light sources are switched on one after the other, whereby when one light source 11.1, 11.2, 11.3, 11.4 is switched on, the others are switched off at the same time. By switching light sources 11.1, 11.2, 11.3, 11.4 on and off in such a sequence that the spatially closest light source is switched on as soon as the previous light source is switched off, a rotating character of the light signals can be generated. These periods can repeat continuously. A period duration of an alternating characteristic light signal can preferably be 800 ms.

[0039] Fig. 2c further shows light signals from at least two light sources emitting cyclical characteristic light signals, wherein the at least two light sources 11.1, 11.2, 11.3, 11.4 are switched on and off simultaneously. With multiple light sources 11.1, 11.2, 11.3, 11.4, multiple light sources 11.1, 11.2, 11.3, 11.4 can also be switched on or off simultaneously. These periods can repeat continuously. The period duration of an alternating characteristic light signal can preferably be 800 ms.

[0040] Fig. 2d shows a further embodiment of light signals from at least two possible light sources 11.1, 11.2, 11.3, 11.4, wherein first, at least one first light source 11.1, 11.2, 11.3, 11.4 is switched on and off repeatedly, and subsequently, at least one second light source 11.1, 11.2, 11.3, 11.4 is switched on and off repeatedly. With multiple light sources 11.1, 11.2, 11.3, 11.4, multiple light sources can also be switched on and off simultaneously, with at least one light source being switched off when at least one other light source exhibits a specific sequence of light signals. These periods can repeat continuously. The period of an alternating characteristic light signal can preferably be 800 ms.

[0041] Fig. 3 shows transitions between different characteristic light signals. Fig. 3a shows an embodiment in which an alternating light signal transitions into a cyclic light signal. As soon as an operating mode of the motor vehicle 10 changes, this can be indicated by a change in the characteristic light signals. Such a change can occur between all operating modes. Furthermore, the change can occur continuously or abruptly, depending on the temporal sequence. The type of transition of the characteristic light signals can therefore depend on the temporal sequence of the change in the operating modes. For example, an abrupt change can occur if the motor vehicle 10 must be braked abruptly, e.g., if an obstacle suddenly appears in the path. Furthermore, a continuous change in the characteristic light signals can occur, for example, if the motor vehicle 10 accelerates due to a speed limit. Fig. 3b further shows a cyclic light signal that is abruptly stopped, for example, when a motor vehicle stops or even the at least partially automated driving process is terminated. It is also possible for the motor vehicle 10 to have, in addition to the characteristic light signals that depend on the respective operating mode, further characteristic light signals that indicate, for example, that the at least partially automated driving process has ended or that a dangerous situation is imminent.

[0042] Fig.4 schematically shows a motor vehicle 10 with at least two light sources 11.1, 11.4 as well as sensors 12.1, 12.2, 12.3 and at least one electronic unit 13. The light sources 11.1, 11.4 in this case are turn signals and / or hazard warning lights 11.2, 11.4, whereby the at least two light sources can also be supplemented by headlights 11.1, brake lights 11.3 or further turn signals and / or hazard warning lights 11.2, 11.4. In the present exemplary embodiment, the sensors 12.1, 12.2, 12.3 are arranged laterally on the motor vehicle 10, whereby they can advantageously be arranged around the motor vehicle 10 at different levels. Sensors 12.1, 12.2, 12.3 collect environmental data and form the environmental sensor system, which measures, for example, weather conditions, road conditions, traffic situation, speed limits, etc.Furthermore, additional sensors are possible inside the vehicle, which can determine the number of passengers or the payload. The electronics unit 13 connects the light sources 11.1, 11.3 and the sensors 12.1, 12.2, 12.3 by evaluating or accepting the data from the sensors and then having the various light sources 11.1, 11.2, 11.3, 11.4 generate the characteristic light signals. This connection between the individual components allows different characteristic light signals to be generated based on different operating modes and / or hazardous situations. List of reference symbols 10 motor vehicle 11.1 Headlights 11.2 Turn signals / hazard warning lights 11.3 Brake light 11.4 Turn signals / hazard warning lights 12.1 Sensor 12.2 Sensor 12.3 Sensor 13 Electronic unit t1 time of an entire cycle t2 Time of a characteristic light signal

Claims

[1] Method for displaying at least one operating mode of a motor vehicle (10), in which the motor vehicle (10) is operated at least partially automatically by means of a driver assistance system, wherein data of the environment of the motor vehicle are determined by means of an environmental sensor system and a display strategy of the operating mode of the motor vehicle is determined from the environmental data, characterized byin that the motor vehicle (10) emits at least one characteristic light signal at predefined time intervals in at least one driving operating mode, wherein the at least one characteristic light signal is generated by at least two light sources (11.1, 11.2, 11.3, 11.4) present in the motor vehicle as a function of the ambient data, wherein the at least one characteristic light signal is generated at least cyclically or rotatingly or alternately as a function of the operating mode, wherein a continuous transition between at least the cyclical or rotating or alternating control is possible when the operating mode of the motor vehicle (10) changes. [2] Method according to the preceding claim, characterized by that the predefined time intervals of the sequence of light signals occur in parallel or with a time delay. [3] Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat a frequency of the at least one characteristic light signal is adjusted depending on the environmental data. [4] Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the frequency of the at least one characteristic light signal deviates from a frequency of the light sources of the indicators and / or hazard warning lights (11.2, 11.4). [5] Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the at least one characteristic light signal is generated by means of at least one light source in the indicator and / or hazard warning lights (11.2, 11.4) and / or brake light (11.3) and / or headlights (11.1) of the motor vehicle (10). [6] Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that when the operating mode changes, at least one characteristic light signal changes. [7] Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the at least one characteristic light signal can be varied depending on at least one of the following factors: speed, weather, time of day, obstacle, number of occupants, weight, traffic volume, route, road conditions. [8] System for displaying at least one operating mode of a motor vehicle (10), comprising at least two light sources (11.1, 11.2, 11.3, 11.4) for emitting at least one characteristic light signal, at least one environmental sensor system for determining data from the environment of the motor vehicle, and at least one electronic unit (13) at least for controlling and / or regulating the light sources (11.1, 11.2, 11.3, 11.4) and / or the environmental sensor system, characterized by that the electronic unit (13) is designed to carry out the method according to one of the preceding claims. [9] Computer program for a system having the features according to the preceding claim for operating at least two light sources (11.1, 11.2, 11.3, 11.4) of a motor vehicle (10), characterized by that the program comprises an algorithm which is processed by an electronic unit (13) of the system, the algorithm implementing the method according to one of claims 1 to 7.

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