Arrangement and method for controlling a plurality of lights arranged on a vehicle, and a vehicle comprising the arrangement

Abstract

Arrangement (3) for controlling a plurality of lights (2) arranged on a vehicle (1), wherein the plurality of lights (2) are divided into groups (21, 22, 23), and the arrangement (3) comprises: a plurality of first input devices (41, 42, 43), wherein each first input device (41, 42, 43) is associated with one of the groups (21, 22, 23) and is configured to allow the lights (2) in the associated group (21, 22, 23) to be switched on and off, and a second input device (5) associated with the entire plurality of lights (2) and configured to allow the selection of one or more of a plurality of zones (L, R) of the vehicle (1) as to be illuminated, wherein the arrangement (3) is configured such that any light (2) belonging to a group (21, 22, 23) to which the current is supplied by the respective first input device (41, 42, 43) was switched on, and which is connected to a zone (L,R) of the vehicle (1), wherein the zone (L, R) is selected by the second input device (5) as being illuminated, is switched on, while the other lights of the plurality of lights (2) are switched off, characterized in that the lights (2) of a group (21, 22, 23) are assigned to at least two different zones (L, R) of the plurality of zones (L, R), such that the lights (2) of this one group (21, 22, 23) can be controlled differently by the first input devices (41, 42, 43) and the second input device (5) in combination.

Description

Technical field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to techniques relating to vehicles, and in particular to an arrangement and a method for controlling the lighting from a plurality of lights, such as work lights, arranged on a vehicle. background

[0002] The use of work lights to illuminate the loading area, etc., of a truck is known, allowing work processes such as loading and unloading goods to be carried out even in darkness. Work lights can be placed on various sections of the vehicle and are designed to be switched on and off by the driver or another operator.

[0003] A conventional solution involves using one switch per work light. The number of switches required then equals the number of lights to be controlled. Six lights, for example, would require six individual switches. If the number of lights increases, as may be the case in future applications, then the number of switches must also increase by the same amount, which is ergonomically impractical and can be time-consuming for the driver (or worker) due to the number of button presses.

[0004] Numerous alternatives for controlling vehicle lighting are known. US Patent 5,442,527 A discloses how to control work lights on a tractor unit using a pair of switches. The first light control switch is a rotary switch that controls the macro positions of the lighting process from an off position to selected combinations of light groups (for example, headlights or work lights) on the vehicle. The second light control switch can be operated to select individual lights within each group.

[0005] An alternative to using a separate switch for each light is to use a single switch to turn all the lights on and off. However, if only one switch is used, all the lights will be turned on / off simultaneously, which may not be desirable. One reason for this is that work lights typically draw power from the vehicle's battery. Therefore, unnecessarily activating a work light can drain the battery. In some scenarios, it is also counterproductive to activate certain work lights because they could obstruct traffic. This can be the case, for example, when a vehicle is parked at the roadside.

[0006] An alternative solution is presented in US 2015 / 334806 A1, which discloses a lighting control device for construction machinery. The control of multiple lights (for example, a work light, a deck light, a cab light, and a taillight) provided in the construction machinery can be accomplished by a primary push-button input device, typically a single switch, and a secondary push-button input device equipped with multiple subordinate control buttons, thus eliminating unnecessary switches from inside the cab. Although the lighting control device in US 2015 / 334806 A1 can provide a more convenient and simplified operating environment for workers, it still requires equally complex components, such as a display and a control unit. Summary of the invention

[0007] One objective of the disclosure is to eliminate at least some of the disadvantages of the prior art. Thus, one objective is to provide a device that offers the user (for example, a driver or a worker) flexibility without requiring the addition of extra buttons to the dashboard. Another objective is to provide a simpler solution than the prior art, one that is simultaneously ergonomically feasible, intuitive, and still allows for the desired on / off operation.

[0008] This task and other tasks are achieved at least partially by the method and apparatus according to the independent claims, and by the embodiments according to the dependent claims.

[0009] According to one embodiment, the disclosure relates to an arrangement for controlling a plurality of lights arranged in a vehicle, wherein the plurality of lights are divided into groups. The arrangement comprises a plurality of first input devices. Each first input device is associated with one of the groups and is configured to enable a switching-on and switching-off operation of the lights in the associated group. The arrangement further comprises a second input device, which is associated with the entire plurality of lights. The second input device is configured to enable the selection of one or more zones of the vehicle to be illuminated.The arrangement is configured such that any light belonging to a group to which the power was switched on by the respective first input device, and which is associated with a zone of the vehicle, the zone being selected as to be illuminated by the second input device, is switched on, while the other lights of the plurality of lights are switched off.

[0010] By using two different types of input devices in combination to control the multiple lights, a simpler solution than the prior art can be achieved. The solution is also ergonomically feasible, as it does not require a separate switch for each light, and intuitive, since the two different input devices allow the lights to be switched on and off in a desired manner, thus facilitating work on and around the vehicle in the dark. There is also no need to add complex components such as a display. The underlying principle is that the number of possible input combinations that can be configured using the first and second input devices is greater than the number of input devices themselves. This provides flexibility while requiring fewer switches.The groups and zones are typically defined based on how the driver is assumed to want to activate the lights in typical scenarios.

[0011] In some embodiments, the multiple zones comprise a left zone and a right zone of the vehicle. The driver or another user can then select, for example, to illuminate only one side of the vehicle (e.g., the left or the right). This can be useful when the vehicle is parked along a road and traffic might be disrupted if lights on the side of the vehicle facing the road were activated.

[0012] According to some embodiments, the lights in a group can be associated with the same section of the vehicle. The driver can then select to illuminate only the section of the vehicle where the work operation will be carried out.

[0013] According to some embodiments, the lights in a group are arranged, for example, to shine in the same direction or in corresponding directions relative to the vehicle. The driver can then select all the lights to shine in one direction, or in corresponding directions, using only a single switch.

[0014] According to some embodiments, the group comprises at least one of: lights arranged to illuminate the rear section of the vehicle, lights arranged to illuminate a side section of the vehicle, and lights arranged to illuminate an upper section of the vehicle.

[0015] According to some embodiments, the arrangement includes wiring for connecting the plurality of luminaires to the arrangement, wherein the first input devices are configured to control a power supply to the luminaires via the wiring, and the second input device is configured to control the ground to the luminaires via the wiring.

[0016] According to some embodiments, the multitude of lights are arranged to be powered by a common electrical power supply.

[0017] According to some embodiments, the first input devices are 2-way switches, the second input device is a 3-way selector switch, and the plurality of 2-way switches is configured to open and close a power supply path to the common electrical power supply. Likewise, the 3-way selector switch is arranged to control a connection of a common ground to the lights of the respective associated groups.

[0018] According to some embodiments, the 2-way switches are configured to close and open a path between the common electrical power supply and the lights of the respective associated groups.

[0019] According to some embodiments, the selector switch is configured to interrupt a path between the common ground and luminaires associated with one or more of the different zones.

[0020] According to some embodiments, the plurality of luminaires comprises a number N of luminaires, and the arrangement comprises a number N / 2 of first input devices and a single second input device.

[0021] According to a second embodiment, the disclosure relates to a vehicle comprising a plurality of lights arranged on the vehicle and a power supply configured to provide current to the plurality of lights. The plurality of lights is divided into groups. The vehicle further comprises an arrangement configured to control current from the power supply to the plurality of lights according to at least one of the embodiments described above.

[0022] According to some embodiments, the vehicle includes a dashboard, wherein the first input devices and the second input device are included in the dashboard.

[0023] According to some examples, the lights are work lights.

[0024] According to a third embodiment, the disclosure relates to a method for controlling a plurality of lights arranged in a vehicle, wherein the plurality of lights are divided into groups. The method comprises receiving, for each group, a first input indicating whether the lights in the group are to be switched on or off.The method further comprises receiving a second input specifying one or more of the plurality of zones of the vehicle to be illuminated, and switching on or off the plurality of lights based on the received first input and the second input such that any light belonging to a group to which the current was switched on by the respective first input device and associated with a zone selected by the second input device as being to be illuminated is switched on, while the other lights of the plurality of lights are switched off. List of characters

[0025] They show: Fig. 1 a vehicle in which the proposed arrangement and procedure can be used; Fig. 2 a top view of a vehicle including work lights; Fig. 3 a vehicle comprising work lights which are divided into groups, the groups comprising lights which are positioned in a plurality of zones (L, R) of the vehicle; Fig. 4. An arrangement for controlling a plurality of lights, arranged in a vehicle, according to some embodiments; Fig. 5A a 2-way switch; Fig. 5B a 3-way switch; Fig. 6A to Fig. 6C Various examples of how the lights of a side group in a left and a right zone of a vehicle can be switched on and off using the proposed arrangement; Fig. 7A to Fig. 7C Various examples of how the lights of a side group and a rear group in a left and a right zone of a vehicle can be switched on and off using the proposed arrangement; Fig. 8A to Fig. 8C Various examples of how the lights of a side group, a rear group and a top group in a left and a right zone of a vehicle can be switched on and off using the proposed arrangement; Fig. 9 an exemplary implementation of the arrangement according to Fig. 4; Fig. 10 a schematic representation of an alternative implementation of the arrangement according to Fig. 4; and Fig. 11 a flowchart of a procedure according to some exemplary embodiments. Detailed description

[0026] Heavy-duty vehicles, such as trucks, often include work lights. Work lights are generally used when the vehicle is stationary to facilitate work processes inside and around the vehicle. Work lights that illuminate the area behind the vehicle are used, for example, when the vehicle is reversing to couple to a trailer. Additionally, work lights positioned on top of the vehicle and directed to illuminate the tractor unit can be used when the vehicle is being loaded or when a trailer is being coupled to the tractor.

[0027] A work light comprises one or more light sources enclosed in a housing. Examples of light sources used in work lights include light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and halogen lamps. Typical work lights emit white light. The power output of a work light used in a truck is typically around 70 W for halogen lamps (or about one-third, ~20 W, for LED lamps). The work lights are connected to an internal power source, such as a battery located in the vehicle. The power to the lights is generally controlled by switches located on the dashboard. The number of work lights can vary between different vehicles.

[0028] The proposed arrangement and its effects are described below using the example of a vehicle that includes work lights designed to illuminate the exterior of the vehicle. However, it should be noted that the arrangement can also be used to control other types of lights fitted to the vehicle. For example, the arrangement can be used to control reading lights inside the cab. The lighting can be controlled, for instance, depending on where (on which side) in the cab the driver is sleeping or resting, which can be useful if the driver wants to read before going to sleep. If additional light is desired inside the cab, then either side of the cab can be selected for illumination.It should also be noted that the vehicle may include other lights that are not controlled by the proposed arrangement, for example headlights or other work lights.

[0029] A light, particularly a work light, headlight, or spotlight, can be positioned to emit light in a specific direction. The direction is defined, for example, in relation to the center line of a light cone emitted by the work light. If a light contains more than one light source, the direction of the light is typically defined in relation to the center line of a combined light cone of the light sources. Many work lights are flexible enough to be reoriented by a driver. This can be achieved by the driver rotating or moving the work light.

[0030] Fig. 1 shows a vehicle 1 , here a truck comprising a tractor unit with a cab and an attached semi-trailer in which the proposed arrangement can be used. Generally speaking, the vehicle features 1 a top, which is the uppermost section of the cab, two long sides of the tractor, referred to below as cab sides, and a rear end, which is the rearmost section of the tractor. Fig. 2 shows the vehicle 1 according to Fig. 1. Top view without the trailer. The truck includes work lights. 2 The work lights 2 can occur in various sections of the vehicle 1 are located. In this example, there are two work lights. 2 They are located at the top of the cab and are designed to form an upper section 11 of the vehicle 1To illuminate, two work lights are needed. 2 arranged at the rear end and are designed to be used in a rear section 13 to illuminate the rear of the tractor unit, and there are two work lights. 2 They are arranged on the sides of the cab and are designed to form two side sections. 12 to illuminate the tractor unit.

[0031] As described above, a common way to control the work lights is to use a single switch for each work light. For the truck according to Fig. 1. Six switches would be required. In such a solution, a single button can be used for each work light. This disclosure proposes an arrangement that makes it possible to use only four switches instead of six to control six lights, for example, work lights. The idea is based on the understanding that when selecting which lights to turn on, it is generally a single section of the vehicle that needs to be illuminated. Furthermore, each such section generally includes lights associated with different zones of the vehicle body.

[0032] An example of groups and zones is in Fig. 3 shown. Fig. 3 shows the vehicle 1 , the work lights 2 includes, which are divided into groups, namely a group 21 , the work lights 2 includes those that are set up to cover the upper section 11of the vehicle 1 to illuminate, a group 22 , the work lights 2 includes those that are set up to cover the side sections 12 of the vehicle 1 to illuminate, and a group 23 , the work lights 2 includes those that are set up to operate in the rear section 13 of the vehicle 1 to illuminate all respective groups 21 , 22 , 23 include work lights 2 , which are located in a left zone L and a right zone R of the vehicle 1 are positioned in Fig. 2, the left and right zones are a left and a right zone with respect to a center line C of the vehicle. 1 in one direction of travel D.

[0033] Various conditions can be used to group the groups 21 , 22 , 23to train. A group can be selected, for example, in such a way that the lights 2 the group with the same section of the vehicle 1 are associated. Examples of such groups are: lights 2 , which are set up to the upper section 11 of the vehicle 1 to illuminate, lights 2 , which are set up to create a side section 12 of the vehicle 1 to illuminate, and lights 2 , which are set up to be located in the rear section 13 of the vehicle 1 to illuminate.

[0034] Alternatively, the grouping can be based on the direction of the lights. 2 depend. For example, all lights that shine in a single direction, for example direction D2, can be considered. Fig. 2, selected to belong to the same group. In other words, a group can be selected in such a way that the lights 2are set up in the group to shine in the same direction. Alternatively, all lights can be set up. 2 , which are set up to travel in the same direction with respect to the vehicle 1 to illuminate, can be grouped. For example, all lights can be grouped. 2 , which shine diagonally backwards, for example 40° from a center line of the vehicle 1 from, be grouped. This condition would apply to directions D1 and D1' according to Fig. 2. In other words, a group can be selected such that the lights 2 the group are set up to direct the vehicle in the appropriate directions 1 to shine.

[0035] In Fig. 4 is the principle of the proposed arrangement 3 to control a large number of lights 2 shown, which were shown in the vehicle 1 are arranged. The representation according to Fig. Figure 4 serves the purpose of introducing the concept. Therefore, the circuit and its components are not described in detail. The lines in Fig. Figure 4 thus shows relationships between the devices instead of physical connections. An exemplary implementation is presented in conjunction with Fig. 10 are described below.

[0036] To the arrangement 3 To use, the multitude of lights will be grouped together. 21 , 22 , 23 subdivided, for example into Fig. Figure 3 shows that the input devices can then be represented by various symbols that depict the section. Consequently, each light belongs to 2 , which is due to the arrangement 3 is controlled, to one of the groups 21 , 22 , 23 and likewise to one of zones L, R. The arrangement 3includes a variety of, more precisely three, initial input devices. 41 , 42 , 43 and the second input device 5 The first and second input devices 5 , 41 , 42 , 43 are on the dashboard in this example 6 of the vehicle 1 arranged.

[0037] The first input devices 41 , 42 , 43 control the current that powers the lights 2 in a respective group 21 , 22 , 23 Power is supplied. The power supply can be achieved, for example, by connecting the lights. 2 in a group with or by separating the lights 2 in a group of one (in Fig. The power supply (not shown) is controlled by the 4 input devices. The solid lines between the first input devices 41 , 42 , 43 and the lights 2show that the first input devices 41 , 42 , 43 Power to the lights 2 control. The first input devices 41 , 42 , 43 Examples include 2-way switches with two positions. Typically, a single position corresponds to turning the lights on. 2 in a corresponding group, and the other position corresponds to switching off the lights. 2 in the group. Fig. Figure 5A shows an example of a 2-way switch, which is in an on position (to the left) and in an off position (to the right). Each first input device 41 , 42 , 43 In other words, it is associated with one of the groups and is configured to turn the lights on and off. 2 to enable this in the associated group.

[0038] The second input device 5controls the current that powers the lights 2 in the different zones L, R of the vehicle 1 Power is supplied. The power supply can be achieved, for example, by connecting the lights. 2 in a selected zone L, R with the (in Fig. 4 (not shown) masses are controlled. The dashed lines between the second input device 5 and the lights 2 show that the second input device 5 Power to the lights 2 controls. As described above, the vehicle can 1 It can be assumed that different zones exist, such as a right zone R and a left zone L of the vehicle, cf. Fig. 3. It should be noted that this means that each light fixture 2 to a single group 21 , 22 , 23 and belongs to a single zone L, R, as in Fig. 4 is shown. The fact that a light fixture 2Belonging to or associated with a zone means, for example, that the light fixture 2 is positioned in the zone and / or is set up to illuminate in the zone. Thus, the second input device 5 with the entire range of lights 2 associated and configured to select one or more of the vehicle's multiple zones 1 Select which zones are to be illuminated. The zones can also be defined in other ways if this serves the purpose of a specific implementation.

[0039] The second input device 5For example, a 3-way switch with three positions. For example, a first position (which indicates, for example, a left zone “<”) corresponds to selecting the lights in a first zone, a second position (which indicates, for example, a right zone ">”) corresponds to selecting the lights in a second zone, while a third position (which indicates, for example, both a left and a purely right zone “<>”) corresponds to selecting the lights in both the first and the second zone. Fig. Figure 5B shows an example of a 3-way selector switch 5 that is configurable to select a left zone (L), to select a right zone (R), and to select both a left and a right zone (L & R).

[0040] If the arrangement 3 according to Fig. If 3 is used, then each individual light will be 2 through a first input device 41 , 42 , 43 and a second input device 5controlled in combination, as will be described below. Thus, a single light is 2 It only switches on, meaning it only lights up, when two conditions are met simultaneously. First, the group 21 , 22 , 23 , to which the light 2 belongs, through a corresponding first input device 41 , 42 , 43 must be live. Secondly, the vehicle's zone must 1 , to which the light 2 includes the illumination provided by the second input device 5 be selected. The arrangement 3 In other words, it is configured in such a way that any light 2 , which belongs to a group to which the current passes through the respective first input device 41 , 42 , 43 was switched on, and which is connected to a zone of the vehicle 1is associated with the second input device 5 The light selected for lighting is switched on, while the other lights are not. 2 the multitude of lights 2 be switched off. The arrangement 3 Wiring can also be used. 8 to connect the multitude of lights 2 with the arrangement 3 include the wiring. 8 will be discussed in detail below in connection with Fig. 10 will be described.

[0041] The operation of the lights 2 using the arrangement 3 will be used below to describe Fig. 6 to Fig. 8 are described, which show various examples of how the lights 2 the different groups 21 , 22 , 23 according to Fig. 3 in the left and right zones L, R of the vehicle 1 using the proposed arrangement 3can be switched on and off. In the examples according to Fig. 6 to Fig. 8 gives a white light, a light 2 on, which is switched off, while a black light is a light 2 indicates which one is switched on.

[0042] In one example, the user wants to light up first. 2 Switch on on both sides of the cab. For this, the user must use the first input device. 42 , which is associated with the cab sides, to the switched-on position. In this way, the user switches the power to the lights. 2 on the cab sides. Now, through the second input device 5 The user can select on which side of the cab the lights 2 should shine, as in Fig. 6A to Fig. 6C is shown. If the user selects a left position, '<', then only the light is displayed. 2on the left side of the vehicle 1 Lights, as in Fig. 6A is shown. If the user selects a right position ,>', then only the light will be illuminated. 2 on the right side of the vehicle 1 shine, as in Fig. 6C is shown. If the user selects a neutral position '<>' instead, then both lights will be 2 (one on each side of the cab) lights, as in Fig. 6B is shown. If the user no longer wishes the lights to 2 If the lights on the sides of the cab are illuminated, the user can then control them directly by switching the input device. 42 switch to an off position.

[0043] If the lights 2 are switched on on the cab sides and the user also wants the lights to be switched on 2If the lights on the top of the cab are illuminated, the user can switch them on by using the first input device. 41 , which is associated with the top of the driver's cab, is switched into an activated position. Fig. 7A to Fig. 7C shows various examples of how the lights 2 a group 22 on the cab sides of the vehicle 1 and the group 21 on the top of the cab in the left and right zones L, R of the vehicle 1 using the proposed arrangement 3 They can be switched on and off. Thus, in the same way as if only a single group were switched on, the user can then use the second input device. 5 Select again which side (or both sides) of the vehicle 1 the lights 2 They should light up on the top of the cab.

[0044] Then, if the user wishes, the same light can be turned on at the rear end of the vehicle. 1 The user can then activate the lights via the corresponding first input device. 43 switch it on and can then be accessed via the second input device 5 select which side (or both sides) of the vehicle 1 the lights 2 They should shine. Fig. 8A to Fig. 8C shows various examples of how the lights 2 the lateral group 22 , the rear group 23 and the top group 21 through the second input device 5 can be switched on and off.

[0045] The operation described here was for illustrative purposes only. It is immediately apparent that the first and second input devices 41 , 42 , 43 , 5They can be switched on and off in any combination and in any order, depending on the scenario. The proposed solution is also not suitable for a fixed number of lights. 2 in the vehicle 1 is specific. If the vehicle 1 for example, has six work lights (as in the example according to Fig. 6 to Fig. 8), then only 3 + 1 = 4 switches are required. Of these 4 switches, three are used to control (turn on / off) the work lights on the top of the cab, the sides of the cab, and the rear end, and one (selector switch) is used to control which zone (or side) of the vehicle is illuminated. 1The light(s) should / should be illuminated (either on the left or right or on both sides). A conventional solution would have required six switches to control six lights. Compared to a conventional solution, the proposed solution therefore saves two switches.

[0046] Similarly, if the vehicle 1 instead, it has 20 lights, which would be used in the conventional solution 20 Lights 2 20 Switches are required. However, with the proposed solution, only 10 + 1 = 11 switches are needed to control all the lights. 2 to control (switch on / off). These 11 switches are used to control ten groups of lights. 2 control (switch on / off) and a single (selection switch) will control which side of the vehicle 1 The light(s) 2 should / should be lit (either left or right or in both zones).

[0047] Generally, for 'N' lights that are fitted to the vehicle 1 If the arrangement were as follows, (N / 2 + 1) switches would be required, and (N / 2 - 1) switches would be saved. In other words, if the arrangement were as follows: 3 is set up to provide N lights 2 To control, then the arrangement comprises 3 N / 2 first input devices. 41 , 42 , 43 and a single second input device 5 .

[0048] An exemplary implementation of the arrangement 3 according to Fig. 4 is referred to below with reference to Fig. 9 will be described. Here it shows Fig. 9 an arrangement 3 , which in this embodiment is referred to as the circuit, and which is set up to control a large number of lights 2 to control the vehicle 1 is arranged. In Fig. There are 9 lights 2 Designated 2a to 2f. The multitude of lights 2auntil 2f are in the groups 21 , 22 , 23 subdivided (see below). Fig. 3) The group 21 includes two lights 2a , 2b , which are set up to be in the upper section 11 to illuminate. The group 22 includes two lights 2c , 2d , which are set up to display the respective side section 12 to illuminate, and the group 23 includes two lights 2e , 2f , which are set up to be located in the rear section 13 to illuminate three lights 2a , 2c , 2e (one in each group) 21 , 22 , 23 ) illuminate in the right zone R of the vehicle 1 , and three lights 2b , 2d , 2f (one in each group) 21 , 22 , 23 ) illuminate in the left zone L of the vehicle 1The multitude of lights 2a until 2f is set up to be powered by a common electrical power supply 7 to be supplied with electricity. The lights 2a until 2f are electrically between the ground 14 and the power supply 7 arranged in such a way that the power supply 7 electricity generated by the lights 2a until 2f can flow. The circuit is set up to allow the current that powers the lights to flow. 2a until 2f The current supplied is controlled by opening and closing the path through which the current flows, as will be described below.

[0049] The circuit includes the first three input devices. 41 , 42 , 43 and the second input device 5 The switch also includes a variety of electrical wires. 15a until 15hfor the electrical connections of the first input devices 41, 42, 43 and the second input device 5 the circuit with the common power supply 7 , with a common mass potential 14 and with the lights 2a until 2f In the example according to Fig. 9 are the first input devices 41 , 42 , 43 Two-way switches. Each two-way switch controls a corresponding group. 21 , 22 , 23 the lights. Each first input device 41 , 42 , 43 is connected to the common power supply 7 and with the lights in a corresponding group 21 , 22 , 23 tied together.

[0050] The first three input devices according to Fig. 9 include a top-mounted switch 41 , a side switch 42 and a rear switch 43The top switch 41 Provides power to work lights on top of the cab. This allows work lights to be used. 2a , 2b The lights on the top of the cab can be switched on and off independently via this switch, without regard to the other lights. The side switch 42 provides the power supply to work lights 2c , 2d ready on the cab sides. This allows work lights to be installed. 2c , 2d The lights on the cab sides can be switched on and off independently via this switch, without regard to the other lights. The rear switch 43 provides the power supply to the work lights 2e , 2f Ready at the rear end. This allows the work lights to be used. 2e , 2f The lights can be switched on and off independently via this switch, without regard to the other lights. The input devices41 , 42 , 43 In other words, they are electrically connected to the power supply 7 and the lights 2 the respective groups 21 , 22 , 23 switched. In particular, a first electrical line 15a between the power supply 7 and the top switch 41 arranged and connects the power supply 7 electrically with the top switch 41 A second electrical line 15b is between the top switch 41 and the lights 2a , 2b arranged, which are set up to illuminate the top of the cab, and connects the top switch 41 electrically with the lights 2a , 2b , which are designed to illuminate the top of the driver's cab. A third electrical line 15c is between the power supply 7 and the side switch 42arranged and connects the power supply 7 electrically with the side switch 42 A fourth electrical line 15d is between the side switch 42 and the lights 2c , 2b arranged, which are set up to illuminate the cab sides, and connects the side switch 42 electrically with the lights 2c , 2d , which are set up to illuminate the sides of the cab. A fifth electrical line 15e is between the power supply 7 and the rear switch 43 arranged and connects the power supply 7 electrically with the rear switch 43 A sixth electrical line 15f is between the rear switch 43 and the lights 2e , 2f arranged, which are set up to be positioned behind the rear end of the vehicle 1to illuminate, and connects to rear switches 43 electrically with the lights 2e , 2f , which are designed to be positioned behind the rear end of the vehicle 1 to illuminate. Therefore, if one of the 2-way switches 41, 42, 43 is "open", then no current can flow through the lights. 2a until 2f in the relevant group 21 , 22 , 23 flow. In other words, the multitude of 2-way switches 41, 42, 43 is configured to direct the power supply path to the common electrical power supply. 7 to interrupt and close. 2 -Way switches 41, 42, 43 are specifically configured to provide a path between the common electrical power supply 7 and the lights 2 the respective associated groups 21 , 22 , 23 to close and interrupt.

[0051] The second input device 5This is a 3-way selector switch, referred to here as the selector switch. The selector switch is configured to select one or more zones L, R of the vehicle. 1 to select the power supply. The selection switch is connected to the common ground. 14 and with all the lights 2 connected by the arrangement 3 to be controlled. In other words, the selector switch is electrically connected between the common ground. 14 and the lights 2 The selector switch can be set to three positions: < (left), > (right), and <> (both). In the < (left) position, the selector switch activates all left side marker lights. 2 The ground is ready. The selector switch, in the '>' (right) position, activates all right side lights. 2 The ground is provided. The selector switch, in the '<>' (both) position, activates all lights. 2The mass is prepared on both the left (L) and right (R) sides. In this way, as its name suggests, it selects in which zone the light(s) should illuminate.

[0052] The selection switch 5 It has four contact points: a first contact point (referred to here as ground, G), a second contact point (referred to here as left, L), a third contact point (referred to here as right, R), and a fourth contact point (referred to here as both, B). The selector switch 5 is set up to electrically connect the first contact point G with one of the other contact points L, R, B depending on the position of the switch.

[0053] A seventh electrical line 15g is between the mass 14 and the first contact point G and connects the first contact point G of the selector switch 5 electrically connected to the ground14 An eighth electrical line 15j is between the lights 2b , 2d , 2f the left zone and the second contact point L of the selection switch 5 arranged and connects the lights 2b , 2d , 2f the left zone with the second contact point L. A ninth electrical line 15h is between the lights 2a , 2c , 2e the right zone and the third contact point R of the selection switch 5 arranged and connects the lights 2a , 2c , 2e the right zone with the third contact point R. A tenth electrical line 15i is between all the lights 2a until 2f (i.e., the lights of both zones) and the fourth contact point B of the selection switch 5 arranged and connects all the lights 2a until 2fwith the fourth contact point B. It should be noted that the electrical lines 15a until 15j can be arranged in various ways and have branches (for example, a branch to each light). 2a until 2f ) and deflectors may be included to provide the connections. Therefore, if a zone L, R is selected, then the electrical path between ground and the lights is... 2 The electrical path is closed in the selected zone. If only a single zone is selected, or if not all zones are selected, then the electrical path between ground and the selected zone is closed. 14 and the lights 2 open in the unselected zone. If the selection switch 5If an electrical path to a single zone has been opened, then no current can flow through the luminaires in that zone, even if they are switched to live by their respective first input devices. In other words, the 3-way selector switch 5 is configured to prevent a connection of a common ground to the luminaires. 2 the respective associated groups 21 , 22 , 23 to control the selection switch 5 is specifically configured to provide a path between the common mass 14 and the lights 2 to interrupt those associated with one or more of the different zones L, R.

[0054] The arrangement 3 This allows for wiring 8 to connect the multitude of lights 2 with the arrangement 3 This includes, for example, the cabling, which consists of physical cables that carry electrical wires. 15a until15j for the electrical connection of the lights to the arrangement 3 include. Such cables can be several meters long. The cabling 8 For example, a single cable could be used for each light. 2 The cables include, for example, an electrical conductor. 15b , 15d , 15f to provide electricity and an electrical line 15h , 15i , 15j for connection to ground. The wiring 8 It can also include specific connectors for connecting the wiring. 8 including the lights. The wiring. 8 , and especially these connectors, can be used for various types of lights 2 It must be adapted. The wiring 8 and the first and second input devices 41 , 42 , 43 , 5 are arranged in such a way that when the lights are connected 2 with the wiring8 , then the power supply to the lights is controlled by the first and second input devices. According to some embodiments, the first input devices are 41 , 42 , 43 set up to illuminate the lights 2 about the cabling 8 to control the supplied current, and is the second input device 5 set up to direct the mass to the lights 2 about the cabling 8 to control.

[0055] The proposed arrangement 3 It can be implemented in other ways. Theoretically, the polarity in the example implementation can be implemented according to Fig. 9. The reverse would occur, i.e., the current would be supplied through the 3-way switch 5. However, with the currently available components, this may not be desirable, as it is generally undesirable to supply current through the 3-way selector switch 5, since if the switch has a fault in the form of a short circuit, this could result in the lights being switched on unintentionally.

[0056] In general, other possible implementations exist as well. Even computer-based implementations are possible. One such example is in Fig. Figure 10 shows that in this example, the first and second input devices are digital buttons that generate digital control signals. To process the digital control signals, the arrangement includes... 3 In this example implementation, a relay control circuit 9 , which is a digitally controlled switching arrangement 16controls, which in turn include, for example, one switch per light. The individual lights 2 They are thus controlled based on the control signals generated by the first and second input devices. The relay control circuit 9 It can be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination thereof. The control signals can use 1 bit (high, '1', and low, '0') to represent the power status for the corresponding group. For example, '0' represents off and '1' represents on. In this example, each first input device generates a signal indicating whether a corresponding group should be turned on or off. In the same way, the second input device generates a signal indicating which zones should be turned on. This can be achieved using 1 bit per zone, as shown in Fig. Figure 10 shows that this solution requires additional hardware in terms of individual switches and a control circuit, but offers flexibility because the relay control unit can be reprogrammed to redefine the groups and zones without changing the hardware connection between the lights and switches.

[0057] The revelation also concerns a vehicle 1 , which includes a variety of lights 2 , which is attached to the vehicle 1 is arranged to provide a power supply 7 , which is set up to accommodate the multitude of lights 2 to supply electricity, and any of the arrangements described above 3 includes the lights. 2 of the vehicle 1 are in groups 21 , 22 , 23 subdivided. The vehicle 1 can a dashboard 6 include, which in turn include the first input device 41 , 42 ,43 and the second input device 5 includes the lights. 2 , which is due to the arrangement 3 Work lights, for example, can be controlled. The work lights can be mounted on the vehicle. 1 be attached by retaining devices. The vehicle 1 may also include work lights that are not arranged 3 They can be controlled, for example, a light for a fifth wheel coupling. These other lights can also be work lights. The work lights are typically attached to the vehicle. 1 added after manufacturing and then connected to the wiring described above. 8 connected.

[0058] The disclosure also relates to a method for controlling a large number of lights. 2 , which is attached to the vehicle 1is arranged, with the multitude of lights divided into groups. The procedure is described below with reference to the flowchart shown in Fig. Figure 11 shows the procedure, and the representations in the other figures illustrate it. 3 The procedure is performed in response to user input. The user, for example a driver, typically provides input by setting the first and second input devices to desired positions. For each group, the procedure includes receiving, in step A1, a first input indicating whether the lights in the group should be turned on or off. The first input typically corresponds to the position of the first input device. 41 , 42 , 43Thus, an input can be provided even if the user does not change the position of the first input devices, as they may already be in the desired position. The procedure further includes, in step A2, receiving a second input, which may be from one or more of the vehicle's multiple zones. 1 indicates which is or are to be illuminated. The second input typically corresponds to the position of the second input device. 5 . Similarly, input can be provided here even if the user does not change the position of the second input device, as it may already be in a desired position.

[0059] It should be noted that the sequence of step A1 in step A2 is not fixed. The input is typically received continuously, and the steps would then be executed concurrently. The procedure further includes switching the multitude of lights on and off (A3) based on the received first and second inputs. In other words, each of the multitude of lights can either be switched on or off (or remain in its previous state) when the first and / or second input device is set to a new position. The switching (A3) is performed such that any light belonging to a group to which power was switched on by the respective first input device and associated with a zone selected for illumination by the second input device is switched on, while the other lights of the multitude are switched off.With the circuit according to . Fig. 9. This is carried out autonomously by the switches, by opening and closing the power supply path. This step is then carried out continuously in such a way that if the position of one of the input devices changes, the lights are switched immediately accordingly.

[0060] The present disclosure is not limited to the preferred embodiments described above. Various alternatives, modifications, and equivalents may be used. Therefore, the embodiments described above should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of protection of the disclosure, which is defined solely by the pending claims. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] US 5442527 A

[0004] US 2015334806 A1

[0006]

Claims

[1] Arrangement (3) for controlling a plurality of lights (2) arranged on a vehicle (1), wherein the plurality of lights (2) is divided into groups (21, 22, 23), and the arrangement (3) comprises: a plurality of first input devices (41, 42, 43), each first input device (41, 42, 43) being associated with one of the groups (21, 22, 23) and configured to allow the lights (2) in the associated group (21, 22, 23) to be switched on and off, and a second input device (5) associated with the entire plurality of lights (2) and configured to allow selection of one or more of a plurality of zones (L, R) of the vehicle (1) as to be illuminated, wherein the arrangement (3) is configured such that any light (2) belonging to a group (21, 22, 23) to which the current was switched on by the respective first input device (41, 42, 43) and which is associated with a zone (L, R) of the vehicle (1), wherein the zone (L, R) was selected by the second input device (5) as to be illuminated, is switched on, while the other lights of the plurality of lights (2) are switched off. [2] Arrangement (3) according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of zones (L, R) comprises a left zone (L) and a right zone (R) of the vehicle (1). [3] Arrangement (3) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the lights of a group (21, 22, 23) are associated with the same section (11, 12, 13) of the vehicle (1). [4] Arrangement (3) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the lights (2) of a group (21, 22, 23) are arranged to shine in the same direction (D2) or in corresponding directions (D1, D1') with respect to the vehicle (1). [5] Arrangement (3) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the groups (21, 22, 23) comprise at least one of: lights (2) configured to illuminate the rear section (13) of the vehicle (1), lights (2) configured to illuminate a side section (12) of the vehicle (1), and lights (2) configured to illuminate an upper section (11) of the vehicle (1). [6] Arrangement (3) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the arrangement (3) comprises a wiring (8) for connecting the plurality of lights (2) to the arrangement (3), and wherein the first input devices (41, 42, 43) are configured to control a power supply to the lights (2) via the wiring (8), and the second input device (5) is configured to control a ground to the lights (2) via the wiring (8). [7] Arrangement (3) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of lights (2) is arranged to be supplied with power by a common electrical power supply (7). [8] Arrangement (3) according to claim 7, wherein the first input devices (41, 42, 43) are 2-way switches and wherein the second input device (5) is a 3-way selector switch (5) and wherein the plurality of 2-way switches is configured to interrupt and close a power supply path to the common electrical power supply (7), and wherein the 3-way selector switch (5) is configured to control a connection of a common ground with the luminaires (2) of the respective associated groups (21, 22, 23). [9] Arrangement (3) according to claim 8, wherein the 2-way switches are configured to close and open a path between the common electrical power supply (7) and the luminaires (2) of the respective associated groups (21, 22, 23). [10] Arrangement (3) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the selector switch (5) is configured to interrupt a path between the common ground and the luminaires (2) associated with one or more of the different zones (L, R). [11] Arrangement (3) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of lights (2) comprises a number N of lights, and wherein the arrangement (3) comprises a number N / 2 of first input devices (41, 42, 43) and a single second input device (5). [12] Vehicle (1), comprising: a plurality of lights (2) arranged on the vehicle (1), wherein the plurality of lights (2) is divided into groups (21, 22, 23), a power supply (7) configured to supply power to the plurality of lights (2), and an arrangement (3) according to at least one of the preceding claims 1 to 11, configured to control the current from the power supply (7) to the plurality of lights (2). [13] Vehicle (1) according to claim 12, wherein the vehicle (1) comprises a dashboard (6), and wherein the first input devices (41, 42, 43) and the second input device (5) are included in the dashboard (6). [14] Vehicle (1) according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the lights (2) are work lights. [15] Method for controlling a plurality of lights arranged on a vehicle (1), wherein the plurality of lights is divided into groups, the method comprising: Receive (A1), for each group, an initial input indicating whether the lights in the group are to be switched on or off; Receiving (A2) a second input specifying one or more of the multiple zones of the vehicle (1) to be illuminated, and Switching on or off (A3) the plurality of luminaires on the basis of the received first input and the second input such that any luminaire belonging to a group to which the current was switched on with the respective first input device and which is associated with a zone selected by the second input device as being to be illuminated is switched on, while the other luminaires of the plurality of luminaires are switched off.

Images