Procedure for adjusting a seat position in a motor vehicle

Abstract

Method (1) for adjusting a seat position in a motor vehicle comprising the steps: - Positioning (2) a mobile device with a camera such that the camera is directed towards a seat (30) of the motor vehicle, - Capturing (8) the actual positions of a number of seat elements (42, 44) of the seat (30) using the camera, with reference to the interior of the motor vehicle, - Comparison (10), by a processor of the mobile device, of the determined actual positions with the target positions of the seat elements stored in the mobile device (42, 44), - Determining (12) by the processor, adjustment direction information for a seat element (42, 44) where the actual and target positions differ, wherein the adjustment direction information specifies an adjustment direction from the actual position towards the target position, and - Output (14) of the adjustment direction information through an interface of the mobile device, whereby the target position stored in the mobile device was determined using the following steps: - Positioning (18) the mobile device with a camera such that the camera is directed towards a seat of the motor vehicle, - Capturing (24) actual positions of a number of seat elements (42, 44) of the seat (30) using the camera with reference to the interior of the motor vehicle, and - (26) Storing the recorded actual positions as target positions.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a method for adjusting a seating position in a motor vehicle.

[0002] Vehicle seats usually need to be readjusted after a change of occupant to ensure optimal safety and ergonomics. Although electric seat adjustments are becoming increasingly common, they are still rarely equipped with a memory function (save button) for saving and recalling a specific position.

[0003] This results in the problem with the vast majority of vehicle seats that, after a change of user, they can only be readjusted to a previously optimal seating position with considerable trial and error. Sometimes it is impossible to find a comfortable position that was used for a long time. The more adjustment levels the seat has, the more difficult it becomes to find a previously chosen seating position.

[0004] In order to find a previously set position of a vehicle seat, the current state of the art requires that the seat has a memory function as described above; that is, only seats equipped with memory systems can repeatedly return to a specific set position.

[0005] US Patent 2018 / 0222350A1 discloses a vehicle seat control system comprising a first backrest section rotatably connected to a seat section by a first connecting unit, a second backrest section rotatably connected to the first backrest section by a second connecting unit, a folding adjustment unit that sets an angle of the second connecting unit, a seat surface adjustment unit that sets a height of the seat section, a first angle detection unit that detects a first angle formed between the first backrest section and a floor surface, a second angle detection unit that detects a second angle formed between the second backrest section and the first backrest section, and a control unit that controls the folding adjustment unit based on the first angle at the time of automatic vehicle operation to set the second angle.and the seat adjustment unit controls to maintain the height of a reference position in the second backrest section equal to or greater than a reference height when the height of the reference position in the second backrest section is less than the reference height.

[0006] EP 2 957 193 A1 shows a system for adjusting body posture, comprising a series of sensors connected to a chair on which a person can sit.

[0007] The posture adjustment system collects data from sensors and generates a posture model that reflects the seated person's posture. The system then identifies corrections to the person's posture that could potentially improve it. The posture adjustment system then displays these corrections to the person or, alternatively, applies a series of chair adjustments to encourage the person to adopt a new posture that corresponds to the corrections.

[0008] US Patent 2017 / 0 291 548 A1 discloses an indoor camera device comprising a frame body and a stereo camera, which is provided within the frame body and includes a first camera and a second camera. The indoor camera device also includes a light module, which is provided within the frame body and configured to emit infrared light, and a circuit board connected to the stereo camera and the light module. The light module comprises a first light-emitting element and a second light-emitting element. The indoor camera device is configured to direct the infrared light emitted by the first light-emitting element in a first direction of radiation and the infrared light emitted by the second light-emitting element in a second direction of radiation, which differs from the first direction of radiation.

[0009] US Patent 2007 / 0290554A1 describes portable devices provided to occupants who frequently use a vehicle. Based on the verification of an ID code of the respective portable devices through communication between the devices and a vehicle-side unit, a number and location of the occupant approaching the vehicle to enter a passenger compartment are recorded. Based on this recorded result, the position of a seat predicted to be occupied by that occupant is changed.

[0010] German patent DE 10 2012 208 644 A1 discloses a device for adjusting the seating position of a vehicle seat. According to the invention, the device enables automatic or automated adjustment of the seating position of the vehicle seat in question, comprising at least one vehicle seat, at least one first sensor unit for determining physical parameters of a potential vehicle occupant located outside the vehicle, and / or at least one input means, and / or at least one second sensor unit for determining the seating position of the vehicle seat, and at least one control unit. The invention further relates to a method for automatically or automatically adjusting the seating position of a vehicle seat by means of a device.

[0011] German patent DE 10 2017 100 482 A1 discloses a vehicle comprising a seat, a first sensor connected to the seat for detecting a seat angle, and a processor that is communicatively connected to the first sensor and the seat and configured to output a control signal to correct the seat angle if the seat angle is not within a predetermined range of values. Embodiments also include a method for correcting the position of a vehicle seat with an occupant seated thereon. The method comprises receiving an output detected by a sensor unit connected to the seat at a processor, comparing the output with a predetermined threshold, using the processor to determine whether an alarm condition exists, and, if so, outputting a control signal to correct the seat position, wherein the sensor unit includes an angle position sensor.

[0012] Based on this, the object of the invention is therefore to provide a method of the type mentioned above which makes it possible to easily find a previously set seating position in any motor vehicle, even for existing motor vehicles.

[0013] This problem is solved according to the invention by the following steps: - Positioning a mobile device with a camera in such a way that the camera is pointed at a seat of the motor vehicle, - Capturing the actual positions of a number of seat elements using the camera and the vehicle interior as a reference, - Comparison, by a processor of the mobile device, of the determined actual positions with the target positions of the seating elements stored in the mobile device, - Determine, by the processor, adjustment direction information for a seat element where the actual and target positions differ, wherein the adjustment direction information specifies an adjustment direction from the actual position towards the target position, and - Output of the adjustment direction information via an interface of the mobile device, whereby the target position stored in the mobile device was determined using the following steps: - Positioning the mobile device with a camera in such a way that the camera is pointed at a seat of the motor vehicle, - Capturing the actual positions of a number of seat elements of the seat (30) using the camera and the interior of the motor vehicle as a reference, and - (26) Storing the recorded actual positions as target positions.

[0014] The invention is based on the premise that such a return to a specific seating position should be achieved through additional technical measures. This would initially involve retrofitting the vehicle seat itself, for both manually and electrically adjustable seats. For manual seat adjustments, complex mechanical systems could be used, such as those that move and lock a memo block as a stop. Such systems are known and in use in front seat systems for comfortable access to the rear seats in three-door vehicles.

[0015] In addition to the aforementioned disadvantages regarding the retrofitting effort, the main drawback is that these mechanical memory systems can only be used with manual seats in the primary adjustment areas, such as longitudinal adjustment and backrest tilt adjustment. Implementing such a mechanical add-on system for other comfort adjustments (height, tilt) would be extremely complex and costly.

[0016] With electrically adjustable seats, analog memory function can be achieved if appropriate sensors are installed. Hall-effect IC and magnet-based sensor systems could be used for this purpose. Other sensors that utilize different physical effects, ultimately converting them into an electrical signal, could also be employed. A disadvantage of all these systems is the mandatory presence of electrical sensors, sensor signal generation devices (magnets or pins), electrical signal input and output, wiring, etc. Furthermore, the vehicle must have an ECU / control unit connected to the sensors and motors via wiring. Output devices for the signals to the user must also be present in the vehicle. Therefore, a significant technical effort is required.

[0017] The positional accuracy of the aforementioned manual and electrical systems also depends on the effort involved, so that manual systems usually only use a very coarse grid, while electrical seats require a large number of sensors to achieve the necessary accuracy.

[0018] It has thus become clear that such a technical retrofit is ultimately not practical and alternatives should be found that minimize the corresponding effort.

[0019] Surprisingly, the search for alternatives revealed that modern mobile devices such as smartphones or tablets offer a solution. The processors in these devices possess sufficient computing power to compare images of actual seating positions, typically captured by a built-in camera, with pre-stored seating positions. As a first step, the user positions the mobile device and its camera so that the camera is pointed at the vehicle's seat. Using appropriate methods such as pattern recognition and 3D scanning, the camera determines the current positions of seat components, such as the backrest and seat cushion. The vehicle's interior serves as the reference for this process.

[0020] The mobile device's processor then compares the determined actual positions with the target positions of the seat elements stored on the device. The processor subsequently determines adjustment direction information for any seat element where the actual and target positions have been identified as differing. This adjustment direction information specifies a direction of movement from the actual position towards the target position. The determined adjustment direction information is then output via an interface of the mobile device and can be used to set the desired target position. In all the versions described below, this process occurs in real time; that is, the described steps are carried out continuously until the actual and target positions match.

[0021] Furthermore, the storage and determination of the target position stored on the mobile device can also be carried out using the mobile device itself. This is done by positioning the mobile device with its camera pointed at a seat in the vehicle after assuming the desired seating position. Then, as described above, the actual positions of the seat components are determined using the camera and the vehicle's interior as a reference. The recorded actual positions are then stored on the mobile device as the target position for the procedure described above.

[0022] In a first advantageous embodiment, the interface is connected to the vehicle's signal network, and the adjustment direction information is transmitted via the interface to the signal network as a control signal for the drive of the respective seat element. The determined deviation between the target and actual position thus automatically leads to an automatic seat adjustment to the stored target position. This is, of course, only possible if the vehicle already has an electric seat adjustment system.

[0023] In a second advantageous embodiment, which can also be used for manual seat adjustments, the interface is a display unit of the mobile device, and the adjustment direction information is graphically displayed to the user on this unit. After comparing the desired and actual positions, the user is shown whether, for example, the backrest needs to be moved forward or the seat cushion lowered. This can occur in an active or passive mode, depending on whether the camera is front-facing or rear-facing. With a front-facing camera, the user can actively sit in the seat, operate the seat adjustment with one hand, and hold the mobile device with the other hand to follow the display. In a passive mode, however, an assistant holds the mobile device and relays the displayed adjustment information.

[0024] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, an augmented reality (AR) method can be used, whereby a live image from the camera is displayed on the display unit and the adjustment direction information is shown to the user in the form of three-dimensional objects embedded in the image. This allows the adjustment direction information to be displayed particularly intuitively for the user directly on the seat element shown in the image.

[0025] The three-dimensional object is particularly advantageously displayed as an arrow positioned within the area of ​​the respective seat element, pointing in the adjustment direction determined for that element. For example, if the seat surface is to be adjusted upwards according to a comparison of the target and actual positions, an arrow pointing upwards from the seat surface is superimposed on the camera image of the seat. This makes the information immediately and unambiguously understandable to the user.

[0026] Optical detection of the seating position can be particularly accurate when the camera's viewing angle is optimally aligned with the seat. Therefore, both saving the target position and subsequently achieving it are advantageously performed in two steps. Specifically, when positioning the mobile device, the processor uses the camera to determine whether a suitable position has been reached before proceeding with further steps of the process. Then, advantageously, prompts to change the mobile device's position are issued via a user interface until a suitable position is achieved.

[0027] For mobile devices with multiple cameras, i.e., front and rear cameras, it is advantageous to use several cameras simultaneously when capturing positions. Analyzing both images (e.g., the rear camera showing the dashboard and the front camera showing the interior) allows for even more accurate position determination of the mobile device.

[0028] Furthermore, it is advantageous to activate a light unit on the mobile device when detecting positions. This is done automatically by the mobile device's processor as needed. This can lead to improved contrast indoors and better image capture, especially in poor lighting conditions.

[0029] Furthermore, direct light exposure, for example through reflection off the inner pane, produces relatively clear silhouettes of the seat and the user sitting on it. According to the intercept theorem, these silhouettes are even magnified at a certain distance behind the seat / user. Advantageously, these silhouettes are also used as a reference when determining positions.

[0030] To further optimize lighting conditions for position detection, a display unit of the mobile device is activated – again as needed and automatically – and high-luminosity images are displayed. These images can even incorporate light of different wavelengths (colors), depending on the general lighting conditions in the vehicle. This can be done for varying durations and even stroboscopically. With stroboscopic illumination, the images with and without additional lighting are compared, thus achieving additional contrast in the image.

[0031] In a further advantageous embodiment, a vibration unit of the mobile device is activated automatically and as needed when positions are being recorded. The resulting changes in the mobile device's position are advantageously used for position recording. For example, shifts in the silhouette caused by the camera's vibration can, via the intercept theorem, lead to measurable image differences that can be evaluated to determine the actual position.

[0032] A computer program product advantageously comprises software code sections which, when executed on a processor of a mobile device, cause the mobile device to execute the method according to one of the claims above. Such a computer program product is, for example, an app that can be downloaded to the mobile device.

[0033] Advantageously, such a computer program is loaded into the memory of such a mobile device. This is preferably a smartphone or tablet.

[0034] Such a mobile device advantageously has an interface designed for connecting to the vehicle's signaling network. This could, for example, be an interface from smartphone connectors such as Lightning or USB-C to a vehicle bus interface, which can be connected to the mobile device. The interface can also be wireless.

[0035] The advantages achieved with the invention lie particularly in the fact that, by using a mobile app that employs augmented reality to provide a reference system with the real vehicle system, the seat position to be saved, and the interior as a reference, as well as a corresponding target / actual comparison with correction, i.e., adjustment instructions until the target position is reached, a memory function can be implemented even in vehicles not equipped for it and even in vehicles with manual seat adjustment. This ensures a safe and quick retrieval of a previous seat position.

[0036] While the use of augmented reality to find seating positions on chairs or bicycles is generally known, it typically aims for optimization based on the anatomy or anthropology of the person's position. This approach does not focus on the individually perceived optimum in terms of comfort, visibility, and perceived long-term ease of use of a chosen body (seating) position. However, this individual optimum is crucial for relaxed, attentive, and therefore safe driving over extended periods. In contrast to such systems, the invention begins with the individual identification of a desired position, allowing the individually discovered advantages of a proven and comfortable seating position to be quickly and easily (re)discovered.This provides particularly advantageous support for people who do not have an average body contour or other highly individual anatomical features that cannot be optimally positioned using anatomy / anthropology database-based system data.

[0037] The invention offers particular advantages in the context of increasingly piloted driving options, as the expanded seating position possibilities in the vehicle allow manual adjustment functions to continue to be used over very long adjustment ranges. Alternatively, in such scenarios, a combination of electric comfort adjustment with manual quick adjustment can be expected, e.g., a driving position of "normal front" or "utilizing the free rear interior space." Manually saving these very long adjustment ranges involves considerable technical and material effort, which is minimized by the described measures. Multiple occupant profiles can be saved in such an app and accessed very quickly and efficiently.

[0038] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained with reference to the drawings. These show: Fig. 1. A flowchart of a procedure for adjusting a seat position in a motor vehicle, Fig. 2. A flowchart for determining a target position stored in the mobile device, and Fig. 3-8 different displays on a mobile device's display unit during the execution of the procedure according to Fig. 1.

[0039] Identical parts are marked with the same reference symbols in all figures.

[0040] The flowchart according to Fig. Figure 1 shows a method 1 for adjusting a seat position in a motor vehicle. In a first step, a mobile device with a camera is positioned 2 so that the camera is directed at a seat in the motor vehicle. Before proceeding with further steps of the method 1, the processor 4 uses the camera to determine whether a suitable position of the mobile device has been reached. If the mobile device is not positioned sufficiently well, prompts to change the position of the mobile device are issued via a user interface 6 until a suitable position is achieved.

[0041] Procedure 1, like all the steps described below, will be carried out. - In the described embodiments, this is achieved by launching a corresponding app on a smartphone. In one embodiment, as described above, the smartphone initially provides the aforementioned positioning instructions itself after the app is launched. In this embodiment, the user is prompted to place the smartphone on the dashboard with the screen in "selfie" mode, with the screen in portrait or landscape orientation. The smartphone's camera then captures interior reference points and seat / person reference points. In this first step, instructions for adjusting (improving) the smartphone position are provided. This forms the basis for optimizing the subsequent seat position analysis. If necessary, this process also involves re-locating the position that was used to capture the target seat position as the camera / smartphone position, which further contributes to... Fig. 2 is described in more detail.

[0042] Once the smartphone is (re)positioned correctly, the next step involves capturing the current positions of several seat components using the camera and the vehicle's interior as a reference. These seat components include, for example, the backrest, seat cushion, etc.

[0043] The smartphone's processor then compares the determined actual positions with the target positions of the seat elements stored on the mobile device. It also determines adjustment direction information for any seat element where the actual and target positions differ. This adjustment direction information indicates the direction of movement from the actual position towards the target position. Finally, the adjustment direction information is output via an interface on the mobile device. These steps occur in real time, meaning they are repeated cyclically while the app is active.

[0044] Saving / determining the target position stored in the mobile device is carried out in a similar manner to that described above in a procedure 16, which is described in Fig. Figure 2 shows that the user first assumes their optimal sitting position and then performs procedure 16 using the app. Steps 18, 20, and 22 serve to find a suitable position for the mobile device and correspond to steps 2, 4, and 6 in Figure 2. Fig. 1 and are therefore not described separately.

[0045] Subsequently, the actual positions of 24 seat elements are recorded using the camera, with the vehicle's interior serving as a reference. These recorded actual positions are then stored as target positions in the mobile device.

[0046] In a first embodiment of method 1 according to Fig. Interface 1, used to output the adjustment direction information, is an interface to the vehicle's signaling network. The app establishes a connection to the vehicle's signaling network (CAN / LIN / SSG). Through the described target / actual difference analysis, the app sends a corresponding adjustment signal to the vehicle's signaling network, and the (electric) seat is adjusted immediately. The seat adjusts to the target position, and corrections when exceeding this position are possible automatically.

[0047] In a second embodiment, the adjustment direction information is displayed to the user on the smartphone's display. Fig. Figures 3-8 show different views of sections of the smartphone display during the execution of procedure 1 according to Fig. 1. Fig. Figure 3 shows an image in the passive mode of an embodiment, i.e., the user 28 is sitting on seat 30, while an assistant from outside the vehicle shows the seat with the camera of the smartphone. Fig. Figure 3 shows a grid (32) that is superimposed on the image. In addition to the grid, other information can be displayed (not shown) based on the combination of information, such as minimum distances, safety instructions, operating aids, vehicle status information, etc. Additional information can also be displayed upon initial recording. Furthermore, the app features a magnifying function for fine-tuning the position.

[0048] The adjustment direction information can be output acoustically and / or visually. In this embodiment, output is provided via augmented reality by displaying arrows 34, 36, 38, 40 on the respective seat elements to be adjusted. In this embodiment, two arrows 34, 36, 38, 40 are displayed on each seat element, indicating the adjustment axis by their positioning and the adjustment direction by color coding. For example, a green arrow 34, 36, 38, 40 can point in the direction of adjustment towards the desired position. These arrows 34, 36, 38, 40 can be displayed, in particular, when the camera is focused and moved towards the respective seat element.

[0049] Fig. Figure 4 shows an example of a side view focusing on the seat surface 42 of the seat 30. Arrows 34 and 36 indicate the direction of height adjustment of the seat surface 42. Fig. Figure 5 shows an example of a side view focusing on the seat back 44 of the seat 30. Arrows 34 and 36 indicate the tilt adjustment direction of the seat back 44.

[0050] Alternatively, the app can be used in active mode, i.e., by the driver themselves. Fig. Figure 6 shows an example of a focus on the seat surface 42 of the seat 30 from the perspective of the user 28 sitting on the seat 30. Arrows 34 and 36 indicate the longitudinal adjustment direction of the seat surface 42. Fig. Figure 7 shows the same view, however, arrows 34 and 36 indicate the height adjustment direction of the seat 42. Alternatively, the user 28 can also point the camera at the unoccupied seat 28, as shown in Fig. Figure 8 shows the direction of tilt adjustment of the seat backrest 44, and the direction of height adjustment of the seat surface 42.

[0051] In the embodiment described above, where the mobile device is positioned on the dashboard in "selfie" mode, further advantageous aspects are utilized. If the mobile phone has two cameras and a light / flash, a further optimization of image capture and image data analysis is employed, which will be described below.

[0052] The forward-facing camera allows for easy image analysis of the phone's position on the dashboard, significantly improving the detection of relative positions and contours by analyzing both images – one facing forward (dashboard) and the other backward (interior). The standard image is captured in each case.

[0053] In poor lighting conditions, the lamp or flash can be automatically activated by the app to obtain a sufficiently high-contrast image. Since the windshield in front of the smartphone also has reflective properties, and depending on the angle between the smartphone and the vehicle windshield, conditions close to total internal reflection can even occur, the amount of light entering the vehicle is definitely sufficient.

[0054] This even results in another circumstance that can be used positively: Due to the spread of the light rays from the smartphone lamp, the interior is illuminated both directly (reflected light) and indirectly (diffusion component).

[0055] Direct illumination through reflection produces relatively clear shadow outlines behind seat 30 and user 28, defined by the latter's contour boundaries. According to the intercept theorem, these shadow outlines are even magnified at a certain distance behind seat 30 / user 28.

[0056] With the additional image analysis of these enlarged silhouettes, even a better overall accuracy of the combined image analysis measurement method can be achieved, despite the same measurement inaccuracy of the basic method. The relative distances of the silhouettes from the seat contour to the occupant contour even represent an indirect approach to 3D position analysis on the 2D image, which can deliver even more precise results.

[0057] As previously described, both the direct image and shadow areas can be used for analysis. This possibility (shadows) exists when the camera and the additional light source are not at the same point with respect to the projection rays. Since the main camera is oriented towards the occupant and the additional light source is directed forward (reflection to the rear), this is the case, and in daylight, an additional area of ​​light incidence is also present.

[0058] To achieve further visually perceptible effects, the mobile phone's display (facing the interior) can be temporarily illuminated with images of high brightness. This makes it possible to introduce light of different wavelengths (colors), even depending on the general lighting conditions in the vehicle. This can be done for varying durations and even stroboscopically. With stroboscopic illumination, the images with and without the additional lighting are compared, and an increased contrast in the image becomes apparent.

[0059] Another way to achieve a near-3D effect is to make the mobile phone vibrate at a frequency and time-dependent rate using its built-in vibration alarm. This causes small movements of the light source and camera, which, according to the principle of intercepts, can lead to measurable image differences at a sufficient distance from the object. These differences can then be further analyzed. Reference symbol list 1 Procedure 2. Positioning the mobile device 4. Determine whether a suitable position for the mobile device has been reached. 6 Issuing requests to change position 8. Recording actual positions 10. Comparing actual and target positions 12 Determining adjustment direction information 14 Outputting the adjustment direction information 16 procedures 18 Positioning the mobile device 20. Determine whether a suitable position for the mobile device has been reached. 22 Issuing requests for change of position 24 Recording actual positions 26. Entering target positions 28 users 30 seats 32 grids 34, 36, 38, 40 Arrow 42 Seating area 44 seat back

Claims

[1] Method (1) for adjusting a seat position in a motor vehicle comprising the steps: - Positioning (2) a mobile device with a camera such that the camera is directed towards a seat (30) of the motor vehicle, - Capturing (8) the actual positions of a number of seat elements (42, 44) of the seat (30) using the camera, with reference to the interior of the motor vehicle, - Comparison (10), by a processor of the mobile device, of the determined actual positions with the target positions of the seat elements stored in the mobile device (42, 44), - Determining (12) by the processor of adjustment direction information for a seat element (42, 44) where the actual and target positions differ, wherein the adjustment direction information specifies an adjustment direction from the actual position towards the target position, and - Output (14) of the adjustment direction information through an interface of the mobile device, whereby the target position stored in the mobile device was determined using the following steps: - Positioning (18) the mobile device with a camera such that the camera is directed towards a seat of the motor vehicle, - Capturing (24) actual positions of a number of seat elements (42, 44) of the seat (30) using the camera with reference to the interior of the motor vehicle, and - (26) Storing the recorded actual positions as target positions. [2] Method (1) according to claim 1, wherein the interface is connected to a signal network of the motor vehicle and the adjustment direction information is given to the signal network via the interface as a control signal for a drive of the respective seat element (42, 44). [3] Method (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the interface is a display unit of the mobile device and the adjustment direction information is graphically displayed to the user (28) on the display unit. [4] Method (1) according to claim 3, wherein a current image of the camera is displayed on the display unit and the adjustment direction information is displayed to the user (28) in the form of three-dimensional objects (34, 36, 38, 40) embedded in the image. [5] Method (1) according to claim 4, wherein the three-dimensional object (34, 36, 38, 40) is represented in the form of an arrow (34, 36, 38, 40) which is arranged in the area of ​​the respective seat element (42, 44) and points in the adjustment direction determined for the respective seat element (42, 44). [6] Method (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, when positioning (2, 18) the mobile device, the processor determines (4, 20) whether a suitable position of the mobile device has been reached before proceeding with further steps of the method using the camera, and requests to change the position of the mobile device are issued via a user interface (6, 22) until a suitable position of the mobile device is reached. [7] Method (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein several cameras of the mobile device are used simultaneously when capturing (8, 24) positions. [8] Method (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a light unit of the mobile device is switched on when positions are detected (8, 24). [9] Method according to claim 8, wherein shadows caused by the luminaire unit when detecting positions (8, 24) are used as a reference. [10] Method (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein when positions are detected (8, 24) a display unit of the mobile device is switched on and high-luminosity images are displayed on the display unit. [11] Method (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a vibration unit of the mobile device is switched on when detecting (8, 24) positions and the resulting changes in the position of the mobile device are used when detecting (8, 24) positions. [12] Computer program product comprising software code sections which, when executed on a processor of a mobile device, cause the mobile device to perform the method (1) according to any of the claims above. [13] Mobile device in whose memory a computer program product according to claim 12 is loaded. [14] Mobile device according to claim 13 with an interface designed to connect to a signal network of the motor vehicle.

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