Concept for predicting the remaining duration of a signal aspect of at least one signal group of a traffic light system

Abstract

Method for predicting the remaining duration of a signal aspect of at least one signal group (303, 305) of a traffic signal system (301), wherein the traffic signal system (301) is controlled based on a signal program which specifies several phases (401, 407) for a cycle time and a separate phase permission range for each of the several phases (401, 407), wherein for immediately successive phases (401, 407) the associated phase permission ranges (503, 505) seamlessly connect or overlap, so that the phase permission ranges (503, 505) cover the entire cycle time (607), wherein a phase transition between two immediately successive phases (401, 407) is specified by means of a phase sequence plan (405), wherein the signal aspect is specified by a currently running phase (401) of the signal program.comprising the following steps: Determining (101) a minimum phase remaining time and a maximum phase remaining time of the currently running phase (401) for a current cycle time point (717) of the cycle time (607) based on the phase permission range (503) of the currently running phase (401) and on the phase permission range (505) of the phase (407) that immediately follows the currently running phase (401); Determining (103) a minimum and a maximum remaining time of the signal aspect of the signal group (303, 305) for the current cycle time point (717) based on the minimum phase remaining time, on the maximum phase remaining time and on the respective phase sequence plan (405) that specifies the phase transition between the currently running phase (401) and the immediately following phase (407), wherein, in the case that the respective phase sequence plan (405),which specifies the phase transition between the currently running phase (401) and the immediately following phase (407) for the signal group (303, 305), does not specify a change in the signal aspect, successively searches for a change in the signal aspect of the signal group (303, 305) in phase sequence plans that follow the respective phase sequence plan (405) until a change is found in one of the following phase sequence plans, whereby the steps of determining (101) a minimum remaining phase duration and a maximum remaining phase duration for the current cycle time point (717) of the cycle time (607) are repeated for each of the phases until the signal aspect changes, wherein a first sum of all determined minimum remaining phase durations is calculated and wherein a second sum of all determined maximum remaining phase durations is calculated, wherein the minimum remaining phase duration of the signal aspect of the signal group (303,305) is determined based on the first sum and on the phase sequence plan in which the change of the signal aspect was found, and wherein the maximum remaining duration of the signal aspect of the signal group (303, 305) is determined based on the second sum and on the phase sequence plan in which the change of the signal aspect was found.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a method and a device for predicting the remaining duration of a signal pattern of at least one signal group of a traffic light system. The invention further relates to a traffic light system. The invention further relates to a computer program.

[0002] The patent specification DE 10 2010 052 702 B4 shows a method for controlling a traffic light system and an associated traffic light system.

[0003] The patent DE 10 2012 110 099 B3 describes a prediction unit of a traffic light system for traffic control.

[0004] The published patent application DE 10 2012 006 706 A1 describes supporting a driver of a motor vehicle to use green phases at traffic lights.

[0005] The published patent application EP 3 113 143 A2 describes a method for determining a switching time forecast.

[0006] The published patent application DE 10 2015 218 942 A1 describes a method for controlling a display of a remaining time of a signal of a traffic junction signal system.

[0007] The object underlying the invention is to provide an efficient concept for efficiently predicting a remaining time duration of a signal image of at least one signal group of a traffic light system.

[0008] This object is achieved by means of the respective subject matter of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are the subject matter of the respective dependent subclaims.

[0009] According to one aspect, a method is provided for predicting a remaining duration of a signal image of at least one signal group of a traffic light system, wherein the traffic light system is controlled based on a signal program which specifies several phases for a cycle time and a separate phase permission range for each of the several phases, wherein for immediately consecutive phases the associated phase permission ranges adjoin one another without gaps or overlap so that the phase permission ranges cover the entire cycle time, wherein a phase transition between two immediately consecutive phases is specified in each case by means of a phase sequence plan, wherein the signal image is specified by a currently running phase of the signal program, comprising the following steps: • Determining a minimum remaining phase duration and a maximum remaining phase duration of the currently running phase for a current round trip time point of the round trip time based on the phase permission range of the currently running phase and on the phase permission range of the phase that immediately follows the currently running phase, • Determination of a minimum and a maximum remaining time duration of the signal aspect of the signal group for the current cycle time point based on the minimum remaining phase time duration, the maximum remaining phase time duration and the respective phase sequence plan that specifies the phase transition between the currently running phase and the immediately following phase.

[0010] In the event that the respective phase sequence plan that specifies the phase transition between the currently running phase and the immediately following phase for the signal group does not specify a change in the signal appearance, a successive search is carried out for a change in the signal appearance of the signal group in phase sequence plans that follow the respective phase sequence plan until a change is found in one of the following phase sequence plans, wherein the steps of determining a minimum remaining phase time and a maximum remaining phase time for the current cycle time point of the cycle time are repeated for each of the phases until the change in the signal appearance, wherein a first sum is calculated from all determined minimum remaining phase times and wherein a second sum is calculated from all determined maximum remaining phase times, wherein the minimum remaining time of the signal image of the signal group is determined based on the first sum and on that phase sequence plan,in which the change of the signal aspect was found, and wherein the maximum remaining time duration of the signal aspect of the signal group is determined based on the second sum and on the phase sequence plan in which the change of the signal aspect was found.

[0011] This provides the technical advantage, for example, that the minimum or maximum remaining time of the signal aspect of the signal group can be determined efficiently even if the respective phase sequence plan does not yet specify a change in the signal aspect.

[0012] According to another aspect, a device for predicting a remaining duration of a signal image of at least one signal group of a traffic light system is provided, comprising: • a memory in which a signal program for controlling the traffic light system is stored, which program specifies several phases for a cycle time and a separate phase permission area for each of the several phases, wherein for immediately consecutive phases the associated phase permission areas adjoin one another without gaps or overlap so that the phase permission areas cover the entire cycle time, wherein a phase transition between two immediately consecutive phases is specified by means of a phase sequence plan, wherein the signal image is specified by a currently running phase of the signal program, • a processor for determining a minimum remaining phase time and a maximum remaining phase time of the currently running phase for a current cycle time point of the cycle time based on the phase permission range of the currently running phase and on the phase permission range of the phase that immediately follows the currently running phase, and for determining a minimum and a maximum remaining time of the signal image of the signal group for the current cycle time point based on the minimum remaining phase time, on the maximum remaining phase time and on the respective phase sequence plan that specifies the phase transition between the currently running phase and the immediately following phase.

[0013] In the event that the respective phase sequence plan that specifies the phase transition between the currently running phase and the immediately following phase for the signal group does not specify a change in the signal appearance, a successive search is carried out for a change in the signal appearance of the signal group in phase sequence plans that follow the respective phase sequence plan until a change is found in one of the following phase sequence plans, wherein the steps of determining a minimum remaining phase time and a maximum remaining phase time for the current cycle time point of the cycle time are repeated for each of the phases until the change in the signal appearance, wherein a first sum is calculated from all determined minimum remaining phase times and wherein a second sum is calculated from all determined maximum remaining phase times, wherein the minimum remaining time of the signal image of the signal group is determined based on the first sum and on that phase sequence plan,in which the change of the signal aspect was found, and wherein the maximum remaining time duration of the signal aspect of the signal group is determined based on the second sum and on the phase sequence plan in which the change of the signal aspect was found.

[0014] This provides the technical advantage, for example, that the minimum or maximum remaining time of the signal aspect of the signal group can be determined efficiently even if the respective phase sequence plan does not yet specify a change in the signal aspect.

[0015] According to another aspect, a traffic signal system is provided which comprises the device for predicting a remaining time duration of a signal image of at least one signal group of a traffic signal system.

[0016] According to a further aspect, a computer program is provided which comprises program code for carrying out the method for predicting a remaining time duration of a signal image of at least one signal group of a traffic signal system when the computer program is executed on a computer, in particular on the processor of the device for predicting a remaining time duration of a signal image of at least one signal group of a traffic signal system.

[0017] The invention is based on the finding that the above-mentioned problem can be solved by using the phase permission ranges of the phases to determine an earliest and a latest start or end time for the currently running phase. From these determined times, the minimum or maximum remaining duration of the signal aspect of the signal group for the current cycle time is then determined using the corresponding phase sequence plan.

[0018] This provides, for example, the technical advantage that the remaining duration of the signal pattern can be efficiently predicted, provided it lies between the determined minimum and maximum remaining duration of the signal pattern. Unlike complex stochastic forecasting methods, the inventive concept does not calculate probability values ​​and provide them to a user, such as road users. Rather, the inventive concept is based, among other things, on the use of parameters (phase permit ranges) and the use of phase sequence plans, which are known at the time of the forecast.

[0019] Because the inventive concept advantageously makes use of properties of already existing phase-based traffic-dependent control methods, the inventive concept can be implemented simply and efficiently in already existing control systems for traffic signal systems without the need for complex reprogramming.

[0020] Because the inventive concept provides minimum and maximum values ​​for the remaining duration of the signal appearance, these determined values ​​can be efficiently controlled, for example, by a traffic engineer using control logic. This offers the advantage that, for specific application cases, the determined values ​​for the remaining duration of the signal appearance can be filtered accordingly and forwarded, for example, to a screen or display.

[0021] The fact that the phase permission zones are seamlessly connected or overlapped provides the technical advantage that the minimum and maximum remaining time durations of the signal group's signal appearance can be efficiently calculated or determined. Gaps between the permission zones would lead to an incorrect calculation of the remaining time durations of the signal appearance.

[0022] After all, the technical advantage is achieved in particular that an efficient concept for efficiently predicting a remaining time duration of a signal image of at least one signal group of a traffic light system is provided.

[0023] The terms used in this description, such as signal program, signal group, phase, and phase sequence plan, are defined, for example, in the "Guidelines for Traffic Signal Systems," 2010 edition, published by the Research Association for Road and Traffic Engineering, Traffic Management Working Group. These guidelines for traffic signal systems are part of the specialist knowledge.

[0024] In this respect, a signal program within the meaning of the description is understood to mean the signal times of a traffic light system defined in terms of duration and allocation.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the signal program comprises program code for a phase-based, traffic-dependent control method for controlling the traffic signal system. This means, in particular, that the traffic signal system is controlled based on a phase-based, traffic-dependent control method.

[0026] A signal group in the sense of the description is understood to be one or more signal heads that jointly control certain traffic flows and display the same signal image at all times.

[0027] A phase, as defined in this description, is the part of a signaling program during which a specific basic signaling state remains unchanged. The release times for the released traffic flows can begin or end at different times.

[0028] This means that the phases are defined by the signal patterns for all signal groups of a traffic junction or sub-junction. The signaling remains unchanged for the duration of a phase.

[0029] A change between phases is represented by a phase transition. The phase transition is the time between the end of the release time of the signal group in the ending phase whose release time ends first and the start of the release time of the signal group in the beginning phase whose release time begins last.

[0030] This means that the phase transitions define the sequences of required signal patterns for the transitions between phases. Only the phase transitions for the permitted transitions from an initial phase to a target phase are considered. To trigger a phase change, for example, certain temporal and logical conditions are checked by a traffic-dependent control system of the traffic signal system.

[0031] The sequence of phases and phase transitions is referred to in this description as the phase sequence. The permitted possible phase sequences are defined or specified by the phase sequence plan. Particularly with traffic-dependent control of the traffic signal system, the controlled phase sequence and the resulting signaling vary from cycle to cycle, i.e., specifically per cycle of a phase sequence.

[0032] A phase permission range defines a time range within the cycle time in which an action (for example, extending a phase, starting a phase transition, starting a signal group) is permitted.

[0033] The multiple phase permit areas are encompassed, for example, by a framework plan. A framework plan can also be referred to as a permit plan, phase permit plan, or structure plan. A framework plan is used, for example, in traffic-dependent coordinated control systems.

[0034] The phase permission areas therefore represent the temporal conditions for traffic-dependent control, which ensure coordination.

[0035] In a control logic of a control device of the traffic signal system, for example, before an action is carried out, a query is then made as to whether the current cycle time lies within the permission range associated with the action, i.e. whether the action is permissible at this cycle time.

[0036] If the action is permitted at this time, it will be executed. If the action is not permitted at this time, it will not be executed.

[0037] According to one embodiment, it is provided that, based on the phase sequence plan, a reaction time is determined which specifies from when, after starting the phase transition, the signal image of the signal group changes according to the phase sequence plan, wherein the minimum and maximum remaining time duration of the signal image of the signal group for the current cycle time point are determined based on the reaction time.

[0038] This provides the technical advantage, for example, that the minimum and maximum remaining time of the signal pattern can be determined efficiently.

[0039] Typically, for example, a signal aspect does not change immediately upon the start of the phase transition, but remains unchanged for a predetermined period of time, the reaction time. However, since this reaction time is known from the phase sequence plan, the minimum and maximum remaining durations of the signal aspect of the signal group can be determined or calculated using this reaction time and the determined minimum and maximum remaining durations of the phases.

[0040] In one embodiment, it is provided that the signal program comprises a plurality of parallel phases which can immediately follow the currently running phase, wherein for each of the plurality of parallel phases the minimum and the maximum remaining phase time of the currently running phase are determined for the current orbital time point, such that a first set of minimum remaining phase time durations is determined and such that a second set of maximum remaining phase time durations is determined, wherein the minimum is determined from the first set and wherein the maximum is determined from the second set, and wherein for determining the minimum remaining time duration of the signal image of the signal group it is specified that the minimum is the minimum remaining phase time duration of the currently running phase, and wherein for determining the maximum remaining time duration of the signal image of the signal group it is specified that the maximum is the maximum remaining phase time duration of the currently running phase.

[0041] This results in the technical advantage that the minimum and maximum remaining time of the signal image of the signal group can be determined efficiently.

[0042] Parallel phases are particularly intended when different specific situations need to be responded to.

[0043] In the event that the respective phase sequence plan that specifies the phase transition between the currently running phase and the immediately following phase for the signal group does not specify a change in the signal appearance, a successive search is carried out for a change in the signal appearance of the signal group in phase sequence plans that follow the respective phase sequence plan until a change is found in one of the following phase sequence plans, wherein the steps of determining a minimum remaining phase time and a maximum remaining phase time for the current cycle time point of the cycle time are repeated for each of the phases until the change in the signal appearance, wherein a first sum is calculated from all determined minimum remaining phase times and wherein a second sum is calculated from all determined maximum remaining phase times, wherein the minimum remaining time of the signal image of the signal group is determined based on the first sum and on that phase sequence plan,in which the change of the signal aspect was found, and wherein the maximum remaining time duration of the signal aspect of the signal group is determined based on the second sum and on the phase sequence plan in which the change of the signal aspect was found.

[0044] This provides the technical advantage, for example, that the minimum or maximum remaining time of the signal aspect of the signal group can be determined efficiently even if the respective phase sequence plan does not yet specify a change in the signal aspect.

[0045] According to one embodiment, it is provided that the at least one signal group comprises a motor vehicle signal group, wherein, when the signal image of the motor vehicle signal group signals a closure, the minimum remaining time duration of the signal image of the motor vehicle signal group is made available to road users.

[0046] This provides the technical advantage, for example, that road users can be efficiently informed of the minimum length of time for which the signal pattern will signal a road closure.

[0047] The minimum remaining duration of the signal pattern indicating a road closure corresponds to the waiting time of the motor vehicles. Any reduction in the actual duration is usually perceived negatively by motor vehicle drivers. Therefore, according to this embodiment, it is particularly advantageous and sensible to provide road users with only the minimum remaining duration of the signal pattern of the motor vehicle signal group indicating a road closure.

[0048] According to one embodiment, if the permission ranges of the currently running phase and the immediately following phase overlap in an overlap area having a start time and an end time, the minimum remaining phase time is equal to the start time minus the current orbit time, and the maximum remaining phase time is equal to the end time minus the current orbit time if the current orbit time is before the start time, wherein if the current orbit time is within the overlap area, the minimum remaining phase time is equal to zero, and the maximum remaining phase time is equal to the end time minus the current orbit time.

[0049] This provides the technical advantage, for example, that the minimum remaining phase time and the maximum remaining phase time can be determined efficiently.

[0050] In one embodiment, it is provided that the at least one signal group comprises a motor vehicle signal group, wherein, when the signal image of the motor vehicle signal group signals a release, the minimum remaining time duration of the signal image of the motor vehicle signal group is made available to road users.

[0051] This provides the technical advantage, for example, of efficiently informing road users how long the signal pattern of the motor vehicle signal group will signal clear. The minimum remaining time determined here therefore corresponds to the minimum time remaining for motor vehicles to cross the intersection. Any reduction in the actual time is typically perceived as strongly negative by motor vehicle drivers.

[0052] In one embodiment, it is provided that the at least one signal group comprises a pedestrian signal group, wherein, when the signal image of the pedestrian signal group signals a closure, the maximum remaining time duration of the signal image of the pedestrian signal group is made available to road users.

[0053] This provides the technical advantage, for example, that road users can be efficiently informed of how long the signal pattern of the pedestrian signal group will continue to signal a closure.

[0054] In this case, the reported time corresponds to the maximum waiting time for pedestrians. Any reduction in the actual waiting time is usually perceived as positive by pedestrians.

[0055] According to one embodiment, it is provided that the at least one signal group comprises a pedestrian signal group, wherein, when the signal image of the pedestrian signal group signals a release, the minimum remaining time duration of the signal image of the pedestrian signal group is made available to road users.

[0056] This provides the technical advantage, for example, that the minimum remaining time can be communicated to road users efficiently.

[0057] In this case, the minimum remaining time provided corresponds to the minimum time remaining for pedestrians to cross the pedestrian crossing. Any reduction in the actual time is typically perceived as strongly negative by pedestrians.

[0058] The above-described provision of the minimum or maximum remaining time comprises, for example, according to one embodiment, displaying the provided minimum or maximum remaining time by means of a display device.

[0059] According to one embodiment, the display device is included in the traffic light system.

[0060] According to a further embodiment, the display device is included in the device.

[0061] Providing includes, for example, sending the minimum or maximum remaining time via a communications network. Participants in the communications network can thus receive the minimum or maximum remaining time via the communications network.

[0062] For example, the minimum or maximum remaining time is sent to one or more end devices, such as mobile phones, via the communications network. For example, such end devices are included in motor vehicles, so the minimum or maximum remaining time is sent to motor vehicles via the communications network.

[0063] For example, road users, such as pedestrians, each carry a terminal device that receives or can receive the minimum or maximum remaining time via the communication network.

[0064] A communications network within the meaning of the description includes, for example, a wireless communications network. A wireless communications network includes, for example, a WLAN communications network and / or a mobile radio network.

[0065] The phrase "at least one signal group" particularly encompasses the phrase "one or more signal groups." This means, for example, that according to one embodiment, several signal groups are provided.

[0066] One signal group, for example, is a pedestrian signal group. Another signal group, for example, is a motor vehicle signal group.

[0067] According to one embodiment, a control device is provided which is designed to control the traffic signal system based on the signal program.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the control device is comprised by the device for predicting a remaining time duration of a signal image of at least one signal group of a traffic light system.

[0069] According to another embodiment, the control device is included in the traffic light system.

[0070] According to one embodiment, the processor is designed to control the traffic light system based on the signal program.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the traffic light system comprises at least one signal group, in particular one or more signal groups.

[0072] In one embodiment, it is provided that the device for predicting a remaining time duration of a signal image of at least one signal group of a traffic signal system is designed or configured to carry out or implement the method for predicting a remaining time duration of a signal image of at least one signal group of a traffic signal system.

[0073] According to one embodiment, it is provided that the method for predicting a remaining time duration of a signal image of at least one signal group of a traffic signal system is carried out or implemented by means of the device for predicting a remaining time duration of a signal image of at least one signal group of a traffic signal system.

[0074] Technical functionalities of the process result analogously from corresponding technical functionalities of the device, and vice versa. This means, in particular, that device features result from corresponding process features, and vice versa.

[0075] The wording “respectively” includes in particular the wording “and / or”.

[0076] The above-described properties, features and advantages of this invention, as well as the manner in which they are achieved, will become clearer and more clearly understood in connection with the following description of the embodiments, which are explained in more detail in connection with the drawings, in which • Fig. 1 a flowchart of a method for predicting a remaining time duration of a signal image of at least one signal group of a traffic signal system, • Fig. 2 a device for predicting a remaining time duration of a signal image of at least one signal group of a traffic light system, • Fig. 3 a traffic light system, • Fig. 4 a phase sequence plan, • Fig. 5 two phase permit areas, • Fig. 6 multiple phase permit areas and • Fig. 7 schematically shows a calculation of a minimum and maximum remaining time duration of a signal image of a signal group of a traffic signal system.

[0077] Fig. 1 shows a flowchart of a method for predicting a remaining duration of a signal image of at least one signal group of a traffic light system, wherein the traffic light system is controlled based on a signal program which specifies several phases for a cycle time and a separate phase permission range for each of the several phases, wherein for immediately consecutive phases the associated phase permission ranges adjoin one another without gaps or overlap so that the phase permission ranges cover the entire cycle time, wherein a phase transition between two immediately consecutive phases is specified in each case by means of a phase sequence plan, wherein the signal image is specified by a currently running phase of the signal program, comprising the following steps: • Determining 101 a minimum remaining phase duration and a maximum remaining phase duration of the currently running phase for a current round trip time point of the round trip time based on the phase permission range of the currently running phase and on the phase permission range of the phase that immediately follows the currently running phase, • Determining 103 a minimum and a maximum remaining time duration of the signal aspect of the signal group for the current cycle time point based on the minimum remaining phase time duration, on the maximum remaining phase time duration and on the respective phase sequence plan that specifies the phase transition between the currently running phase and the immediately following phase.

[0078] Fig. 2 shows a device 201 for predicting a remaining time duration of a signal image of at least one signal group of a traffic signal system, comprising: • a memory 203 in which a signal program for controlling the traffic light system is stored, which program specifies several phases for a cycle time and a separate phase permission area for each of the several phases, wherein for immediately successive phases the associated phase permission areas adjoin one another without gaps or overlap so that the phase permission areas cover the entire cycle time, wherein a phase transition between two immediately successive phases is specified in each case by means of a phase sequence plan, wherein the signal image is specified by a currently running phase of the signal program, • a processor 205 for determining a minimum remaining phase time and a maximum remaining phase time of the currently running phase for a current cycle time point of the cycle time based on the phase permission range of the currently running phase and on the phase permission range of the phase that immediately follows the currently running phase, and for determining a minimum and a maximum remaining time of the signal image of the signal group for the current cycle time point based on the minimum remaining phase time, on the maximum remaining phase time and on the respective phase sequence plan that specifies the phase transition between the currently running phase and the immediately following phase.

[0079] Fig. 3 shows a traffic light system 301 .

[0080] The traffic signal system 301 comprises two signal groups 303, 305. The traffic signal system 301 further comprises the device 201 according to Fig. 2.

[0081] Fig. 4 shows two successive phases 401, 407 (first phase 401 and second phase 407) with associated phase sequence plan 405, which specifies a phase transition between the first phase 401 and the second phase 407, which immediately follows the first phase 401.

[0082] According to the first phase 401, there is a released traffic flow, which is symbolically indicated by an arrow with the reference number 403. The signal group that controls this traffic flow therefore signals a release.

[0083] According to the second phase 407, this traffic flow is no longer permitted but blocked. In the second phase 407, the signal group signals a blockage. A phase transition between these two phases is specified by the phase sequence plan 405.

[0084] The phase sequence plan defines a time axis 409. On the time axis 409, several points in time 411, 419, 421, and 423 are plotted one after the other.

[0085] At the first time 411, the first phase 401 ends and the phase transition begins.

[0086] Up to the first time 411, the signaling thus corresponds to a release, which is symbolically indicated by an unfilled rectangle with the reference number 413 in the phase sequence plan 405.

[0087] The phase sequence plan 405 specifies that after the start of the phase transition, which corresponds to the end of the first phase 401, i.e., the first time 411, the signal group continues to signal a release, thus allowing the corresponding traffic flow to continue. This is symbolically indicated by a rectangle with the reference number 415 in the phase sequence plan 405.

[0088] This means that the corresponding signal group continues to emit a green light signal, for example.

[0089] However, this green light signal then ends at the second time 419 when the signal group switches from “green to yellow,” for example, when the signal group then emits or outputs a yellow light signal.

[0090] The time between the first time 411 and the second time 419 is specified by the phase sequence plan 405.

[0091] Thus, it is known when the green light signal ends after the phase transition has begun. The yellow light signal is schematically depicted in the phase sequence plan 405 using a symbol known to those skilled in the art, reference numeral 417. The corresponding signaling lasts until the third time 421.

[0092] The signaling of the yellow light signal is then followed by the signaling of a red signal, i.e. a signaling of a closure, which is symbolically marked with a line with the reference number 425 according to the phase sequence plan 405.

[0093] At the fourth time 423, the phase transition ends and the second phase 407 begins, according to which the signal group continues to signal red, which is symbolically represented here by a line with the reference number 427.

[0094] According to the second phase 407, a blocking of the traffic flow 403 released according to the first phase 401 is therefore provided.

[0095] However, in a traffic-dependent phase-based control method, the end of the first phase 401 is typically not fixed. Furthermore, the beginning of the second phase 407 is typically not fixed in a traffic-dependent phase-based control method.

[0096] However, based on the phase permission ranges associated with phases 401, 407, it can be determined when the first phase 401 will end at the earliest and when the first phase 401 will end at the latest.

[0097] This means that based on the phase permission ranges of the first and second phases 401, 407, a minimum phase remaining time and a maximum phase remaining time of the first phase 401 can be determined.

[0098] This means that the first time 411, i.e. the start of the phase transition, will be between the determined minimum remaining phase time and the determined maximum remaining phase time.

[0099] The time after which the signal group's signal appearance changes is specified according to the phase sequence plan 405. In this case, the signal appearance, i.e., the signaling, changes from green to yellow at the second time 419.

[0100] This means that the time between times 419 and 411 is known. This time is also called a reaction time.

[0101] Thus, in this case, the minimum remaining time of the signal image of the signal group corresponds to the minimum phase remaining time of the first phase 401 plus the reaction time.

[0102] Accordingly, the maximum remaining time of the signal aspect of the signal group corresponds to the maximum remaining time of the first phase 401 plus the reaction time. These times are, of course, relative to the current cycle time of the traffic signal system.

[0103] Thus, a remaining duration of a signal pattern of at least one signal group of a traffic light system can be predicted in an efficient manner.

[0104] Fig. 5 shows a time axis 501 with two phase permission ranges 503, 505 which are used by a control device of a traffic signal system for control.

[0105] The first phase permission range 503 is assigned to a first phase. The second phase permission range 505 is assigned to a second phase.

[0106] The two phase permission areas 503, 505 overlap in an overlap area, which is symbolically marked with a curly bracket with the reference number 507.

[0107] A beginning of the overlap region 507 is marked on the time axis 501 with the reference symbol 509. An end of the overlap region 507 is marked on the time axis 501 with the reference symbol 511.

[0108] A portion of the first phase permission range 503 before the time 509 is symbolically marked with a curly bracket with the reference number 513.

[0109] The time period between the two times 509, 511 is symbolically marked with a curly bracket with the reference number 515.

[0110] A portion of the second phase permission range 505 after the time 511 is symbolically marked with a curly bracket with the reference number 517.

[0111] Within the overlap area 507, the control device of the traffic signal system can change at any time from the first phase to the second phase according to a phase transition specified by a phase sequence plan.

[0112] This means that the earliest possible end of the first phase 503 is time 509.

[0113] This means that the latest possible end of the first phase is time 511.

[0114] Depending on where the current orbital time point is located on the time axis 501, the minimum or maximum remaining phase time of the first phase can be calculated as follows: • If the current orbital time is within section 513, the first phase 503 can be aborted at the earliest at time 509 and ends at the latest when time 511 is reached.

[0115] The minimum remaining phase duration of the first phase 503 for the current orbital time point is therefore equal to the time 509 minus the current orbital time point.

[0116] The maximum remaining phase time of the first phase 503 is then equal to the time 511 minus the current orbital time.

[0117] Provided the current orbital time is within the overlap area 507, i.e., within the section 515, the first phase 503 can be terminated at any time. The latest possible phase end is time 511.

[0118] Thus, the minimum remaining phase duration of the first phase 503 for the current orbital time is zero.

[0119] The maximum remaining phase time of the first phase 503 is then equal to the time 511 minus the current orbital time.

[0120] If the current orbit time point is within section 517 and provided that both phase permission areas 503 , 505 are still active for the orbit following the current orbit, the earliest and latest possible termination of the first phase can be calculated analogously to the calculation according to section 513: • The minimum remaining phase time is then equal to time 509 plus the orbital time minus the current orbital time point. • The maximum remaining phase time is then equal to time 511 plus the orbital time minus the current orbital time point.

[0121] From the minimum and maximum remaining phase times of the first phase, the corresponding minimum and maximum remaining times of the corresponding signal aspects of the corresponding signal groups can then be derived using the associated phase sequence plan.

[0122] Fig. 6 shows a time axis 601 with several phase permission areas 609, 611, 613, 615.

[0123] On the time axis 601, two points in time 603, 605 are shown one after the other.

[0124] Time 603 marks the beginning of a cycle. Time 605 marks the end of a cycle.

[0125] The orbital period, i.e. the time between the two times 603 , 605 , is symbolically marked with a curly bracket with the reference number 607.

[0126] The phase permission areas 609, 611, 613, 615 cover the entire orbital time 607 without gaps.

[0127] It is provided that the first phase permission area 609 and the second phase permission area 611 overlap in an overlap area 617.

[0128] The second phase permission area 611 and the third phase permission area 613 adjoin one another without gaps, i.e. they do not overlap.

[0129] The third phase permission area 613 and the fourth phase permission area 615 overlap within an overlap area 619.

[0130] Fig. 7 shows a time axis 701 on which several points in time 703, 705, 707 and 709 are plotted one after the other.

[0131] The first time 703 marks the start of a first phase. The second time 705 marks the end of the first phase and thus also the beginning of a phase transition.

[0132] The time between the two points in time 703, 705 is symbolically represented by a curly bracket with the reference symbol 711. Time 711 thus indicates a duration of the first phase.

[0133] The phase transition thus starts at the second time 705 and ends at the third time 707. A time between the two times 705, 707 is symbolically marked with a curly bracket with the reference symbol 713.

[0134] After the end of the phase transition, i.e., after the third time 707, a second phase begins. This means that the second phase starts at the third time 707. The second phase ends at the fourth time 709.

[0135] A time between the two times 707, 709 is symbolically marked by means of a curly bracket with the reference number 715.

[0136] A current orbital time point is identified by the reference numeral 717.

[0137] The current orbital time point 717 is located within the time 711 .

[0138] It is a block with the reference symbol in the Fig. 7 is shown, which is intended to schematically represent a specific signal pattern of a signal group according to the first phase. For example, the signal group signals a release. A corresponding traffic status (VT status) for the first phase is symbolically identified by a block with reference number 735.

[0139] Analogously, the signal image during the phase transition, i.e., during time 713, is identified by a block with reference numeral 731. The corresponding VT state is symbolically identified by a block with reference numeral 737. Analogously, the signal image for the second phase is identified by a block with reference numeral 733. The VT state for the second phase is symbolically identified by a block with reference numeral 739.

[0140] Furthermore, a curly bracket with the reference symbol 719 indicates a time between the current orbital time point 717 and the second time point 705, i.e. the end of the first phase.

[0141] Furthermore, a fifth point in time, designated by reference numeral 721, is shown on time axis 701. At this point in time, a signal pattern changes according to the phase sequence plan. This point in time is fixed by the phase sequence plan relative to the start point of the phase transition, i.e., the second point in time 705. For example, the signal pattern changes from a green light signal to a yellow light signal.

[0142] The second time 705 can be determined as described above in that the minimum phase remaining time and the maximum phase remaining time of the first phase can be determined based on the phase allowable ranges of the first and second phases.

[0143] This means that the second time 705 marks either the earliest possible end or the latest possible end of the first phase, depending on the calculation.

[0144] Depending on the calculation, time 719 indicates the minimum or maximum remaining phase time of the first phase.

[0145] A time between the fifth time 721 and the current orbital time point 717 is according to Fig. 7 is marked with a curly bracket with the reference number 725. This time corresponds, depending on the calculation, to the minimum or maximum remaining time of the signal aspect of the signal group for the current cycle time point 717.

[0146] Furthermore, a sixth point in time with the reference number 723 is shown on the time axis 701.

[0147] At this sixth point in time 723, a traffic condition then changes. For example, at this sixth point in time 723, the signaling is scheduled to change from a yellow light signal to a red light signal.

[0148] This sixth time 723 is known relative to the start of the phase transition, i.e., the start time 705.

[0149] Accordingly, depending on the calculation, a minimum or maximum time until the traffic state change can be calculated relative to the current orbit time point 717.

[0150] The time from the current orbital time point 717 to the time 723, i.e. until the state change, is symbolically represented by a curly bracket with the reference symbol 727.

[0151] In summary, the inventive concept utilizes special properties of phase-based traffic-dependent control: the phase permission ranges. First, it is specifically provided that the earliest and latest start and end times for the currently running phase are determined. This determination is carried out, in particular, using the phase permission ranges of the currently running phase and the immediately following phase.

[0152] In a subsequent step, these times are then converted to the times for the individual signal groups.

[0153] The calculation for the remaining durations of signal images and traffic conditions is therefore based in particular on the phase permission areas configured in advance, which can also be referred to as phase permission frames.

[0154] Any overlapping area between two phase permission areas determines the earliest and latest possible end of the currently running phase (see Fig. 5).

[0155] The minimum and maximum phase remaining time depend on the current orbital time (see the Fig. 5 related calculations).

[0156] The corresponding values ​​for the signal patterns and traffic conditions can then be derived from the minimum and maximum remaining phase durations. The times for the earliest and latest possible phase changes serve as the starting point. The transition to the next phase begins at these times, thus the phase transition begins.

[0157] The traffic status and the associated signal pattern may change. The corresponding times are determined according to the phase sequence plan. Together with the minimum and maximum remaining duration of the current phase, the minimum and maximum remaining durations of the signal patterns and traffic statuses can be calculated.

[0158] Depending on the specific phase sequence plan, no change in the signal pattern and / or traffic status needs to occur during the phase transition. This applies, for example, to phase transitions with a duration of 0. In such a case, the process is repeated step by step. Starting from the earliest or latest possible phase end, a search is then made for a change in the next phase. If no change occurs there either, the next phase transition(s) is checked until a change is found.

[0159] For example, if a phase change request is known for the remaining time calculation, the remaining time durations of the signal aspects of the signal groups may be known precisely. This is particularly evident in the fact that the minimum and maximum remaining time durations for the signal aspect and the traffic status each assume the same value. A basic prerequisite for this is, in particular, that the signal aspect or the traffic status of the signal group changes during the phase transition.

[0160] The inventive concept is based, in particular, on compliance with certain boundary conditions. For example, it is stipulated that, in principle, a clear sequence of phase allowable ranges must be present for each run of the remaining time calculation. This leads, in particular, to the following requirements.

[0161] First, the specified phase allowable ranges must be observed. This is because they form the basis for calculating the minimum and maximum remaining time of the signal group's signal appearance. If the phase allowable ranges actually used deviate from the specified ones, this will lead to incorrectly determined remaining time.

[0162] Furthermore, the phase-permitting zones must at least connect seamlessly, i.e., without gaps. They may, but do not have to, overlap. Gaps between the phase-permitting zones, however, lead, in particular, to incorrect calculation of the minimum and maximum remaining time of the signal pattern.

[0163] Furthermore, uniqueness is only required under certain conditions. This means, for example, that in the case of an overlap, it should be unique, but not necessarily. If parallel phases are planned, for example, they must be made invisible for the remaining time calculation, for example by using the corresponding TL commands in the user logic. This requirement for strict uniqueness can, however, also be relaxed. To do so, all phase allowable ranges existing in a specific time range are simply included in the consideration of the minimum and maximum remaining phase time duration or the remaining time duration of the signal aspect.

[0164] In order to calculate meaningful remaining time durations for the signal pattern, it is particularly important that the phase permit ranges of the current phase sequence cover or overlap the entire cycle. Omitting phases from the remaining time duration calculation should therefore not create any gaps.

[0165] For example, in the case of a signal program change or signal program synchronization using a defined switchover time, these special situations must be taken into account accordingly. However, this is generally possible from the moment the signal plan change request is known.

[0166] The concept described above is particularly advantageous due to the following properties and thus offers added value compared to previously known approaches: Usability:

[0167] The described method utilizes properties of existing phase-based traffic-dependent control methods. It can therefore be used for existing control systems without the need for complex reprogramming. Only the two non-optional preconditions (compliance with the specified phase permission ranges and no gaps between the phase permission ranges) must be met. These represent a certain, but not significant, limitation of its applicability. Transparency:

[0168] Unlike complex stochastic forecasting methods, the present method does not calculate probability values ​​and provide them to the user. This circumvents two major problems: Probability statements must first be converted into a form understandable to road users. Furthermore, the calculation of the values ​​itself is not very transparent and therefore usually difficult for traffic engineers to understand or influence. Controllability:

[0169] The method described here provides minimum and maximum values ​​for signal durations (remaining durations). These durations can be controlled by the traffic engineer from the control logic. This offers the advantage that, for specific use cases, the predicted values ​​can be filtered accordingly and forwarded for display, as further illustrated by the following examples: Pedestrian signal group: Continuous-Rest-Red

[0170] The duration of the remaining red light corresponds to the pedestrian's waiting time. Displaying the maximum waiting time (maximum remaining time) is useful and is, for example, provided. Any reduction in the actual waiting time is perceived as positive. Pedestrian signal group: Permanent-Rest-Green

[0171] The duration of the remaining green light corresponds to the time remaining to cross the pedestrian crossing. Displaying the minimum duration (minimum remaining time) is useful and, for example, is provided for. Any reduction in the actual duration is perceived as strongly negative. Motor vehicle signal group: permanent-residual-red

[0172] The duration of the remaining red light corresponds to the waiting time of the vehicles. In this case, displaying the minimum waiting time (minimum remaining time) is useful and, for example, is provided for. Any reduction in the actual time is perceived as negative. Motor vehicle signal group: permanent-residual-green

[0173] The duration of the remaining green light corresponds to the time remaining to cross the intersection. Displaying the minimum duration (minimum remaining time) is useful and, for example, is provided for. Any reduction in the actual duration is perceived as strongly negative.

[0174] Although the invention has been illustrated and described in detail by the preferred embodiments, the invention is not limited by the disclosed examples and other variations may be derived therefrom by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention. QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0175] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature • DE 102010052702 B4

[0002] • DE 102012110099 B3

[0003] • DE 102012006706 A1

[0004]

Claims

[1] Method for predicting a remaining duration of a signal image of at least one signal group (303, 305) of a traffic light system (301), wherein the traffic light system (301) is controlled based on a signal program which specifies a plurality of phases (401, 407) for a cycle time and a separate phase permission range for each of the plurality of phases (401, 407), wherein for immediately successive phases (401, 407), the associated phase permission ranges (503, 505) adjoin one another without gaps or overlap, so that the phase permission ranges (503, 505) cover the entire cycle time (607), wherein a phase transition between two immediately successive phases (401, 407) is respectively specified by means of a phase sequence plan (405), wherein the signal image is specified by a currently running phase (401) of the signal program,comprising the following steps: determining (101) a minimum remaining phase time and a maximum remaining phase time of the currently running phase (401) for a current cycle time point (717) of the cycle time (607) based on the phase permission range (503) of the currently running phase (401) and on the phase permission range (505) of the phase (407) that immediately follows the currently running phase (401), determining (103) a minimum and a maximum remaining time of the signal image of the signal group (303, 305) for the current cycle time point (717) based on the minimum remaining phase time, on the maximum remaining phase time and on the respective phase sequence plan (405) that specifies the phase transition between the currently running phase (401) and the immediately following phase (407), wherein in the event that the respective phase sequence plan (405),which specifies the phase transition between the currently running phase (401) and the immediately following phase (407) for the signal group (303, 305), does not specify a change in the signal image, a change in the signal image of the signal group (303, 305) is successively searched for in phase sequence plans that follow the respective phase sequence plan (405) until a change is found in one of the following phase sequence plans, wherein the steps of determining (101) a minimum remaining phase time and a maximum remaining phase time for the current rotation time point (717) of the rotation time (607) are repeated for each of the phases until the change in the signal image, wherein a first sum is calculated from all determined minimum remaining phase time periods and wherein a second sum is calculated from all determined maximum remaining phase time periods, wherein the minimum remaining time period of the signal image of the signal group (303,305) is determined based on the first sum and on the phase sequence plan in which the change of the signal image was found, and wherein the maximum remaining time duration of the signal image of the signal group (303, 305) is determined based on the second sum and on the phase sequence plan in which the change of the signal image was found., [2] Method according to claim 1, wherein based on the phase sequence plan (405) a reaction time is determined which specifies from when after starting the phase transition the signal image of the signal group (303, 305) changes according to the phase sequence plan (405), wherein the minimum and the maximum remaining time duration of the signal image of the signal group (303, 305) for the current round trip time point (717) are determined based on the reaction time. [3] Method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the signal program comprises a plurality of parallel phases which can immediately follow the currently running phase (401), wherein for each of the plurality of parallel phases, the minimum and the maximum remaining phase time of the currently running phase (401) for the current orbital time point (717) are determined, so that a first set of minimum remaining phase time is determined and so that a second set of maximum remaining phase time is determined, wherein the minimum is determined from the first set and wherein the maximum is determined from the second set, and wherein for determining the minimum remaining time of the signal image of the signal group (303, 305), it is determined that the minimum is the minimum remaining phase time of the currently running phase (401), and wherein for determining the maximum remaining time of the signal image of the signal group (303, 305),that the maximum is the maximum remaining phase time of the currently running phase (401)., [4] Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, if the permission ranges of the currently running phase (401) and the immediately following phase (407) overlap in an overlap range having a start time and an end time, the minimum phase remaining time is equal to the start time minus the current orbit time, and the maximum phase remaining time is equal to the end time minus the current orbit time if the current orbit time is before the start time, wherein, if the current orbit time is within the overlap range, the minimum phase remaining time is equal to zero, and the maximum phase remaining time is equal to the end time minus the current orbit time. [5] Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one signal group (303, 305) comprises a motor vehicle signal group, wherein, when the signal image of the motor vehicle signal group signals a closure, the minimum remaining time duration of the signal image of the motor vehicle signal group is provided to road users. [6] Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one signal group (303, 305) comprises a motor vehicle signal group, wherein, when the signal image of the motor vehicle signal group signals a release, the minimum remaining time duration of the signal image of the motor vehicle signal group is made available to road users. [7] Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one signal group (303, 305) comprises a pedestrian signal group, wherein, when the signal image of the pedestrian signal group signals a closure, the maximum remaining time duration of the signal image of the pedestrian signal group is provided to road users. [8] Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one signal group (303, 305) comprises a pedestrian signal group, wherein, when the signal image of the pedestrian signal group signals a release, the minimum remaining time duration of the signal image of the pedestrian signal group is provided to road users. [9] Device (201) for predicting a remaining duration of a signal image of at least one signal group of a traffic light system (301), comprising: a memory (203) in which a signal program for controlling the traffic light system (301) is stored, which program prescribes a plurality of phases (401, 407) for a cycle time (607) and a separate phase permission range (503, 505) for each of the plurality of phases (401, 407), wherein for immediately successive phases (401, 407) the associated phase permission ranges (503, 505) adjoin one another without gaps or overlap, so that the phase permission ranges (503, 505) cover the entire cycle time (607), wherein a phase transition between two immediately successive phases (401, 407) is in each case prescribed by means of a phase sequence plan (405), wherein the signal image is determined by a currently running phase (401) of the signal program is specified,a processor (205) for determining a minimum remaining phase time and a maximum remaining phase time of the currently running phase (401) for a current rotation time point (717) of the rotation time (607) based on the phase permission range (503) of the currently running phase (401) and on the phase permission range (505) of the phase (407) that immediately follows the currently running phase (401), and for determining a minimum and a maximum remaining time of the signal image of the signal group (303, 305) for the current rotation time point (717) based on the minimum remaining phase time, on the maximum remaining phase time and on the respective phase sequence plan (405) that specifies the phase transition between the currently running phase (401) and the immediately following phase (407), wherein in the event that the respective phase sequence plan (405),which specifies the phase transition between the currently running phase (401) and the immediately following phase (407) for the signal group (303, 305), does not specify a change in the signal image, a change in the signal image of the signal group (303, 305) is successively searched for in phase sequence plans that follow the respective phase sequence plan (405) until a change is found in one of the following phase sequence plans, wherein the steps of determining (101) a minimum remaining phase time and a maximum remaining phase time for the current rotation time point (717) of the rotation time (607) are repeated for each of the phases until the change in the signal image, wherein a first sum is calculated from all determined minimum remaining phase time periods and wherein a second sum is calculated from all determined maximum remaining phase time periods, wherein the minimum remaining time period of the signal image of the signal group (303,305) is determined based on the first sum and on the phase sequence plan in which the change of the signal image was found, and wherein the maximum remaining time duration of the signal image of the signal group (303, 305) is determined based on the second sum and on the phase sequence plan in which the change of the signal image was found., [10] Traffic light system (301) comprising the device (201) according to claim 9. [11] Computer program comprising program code for carrying out the method according to one of claims 1 to 8 when the computer program is executed on a computer.

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