Methods and systems for improving safety when driving a motor vehicle

Abstract

Method (13) for automatically improving safety when driving a motor vehicle (1), comprising the procedural steps - Detect whether a driver of the motor vehicle (1) is using a mobile electronic device (9) in the motor vehicle (1) while the motor vehicle (1) is in motion, and - upon detected use, issue a warning signal (27, 28, 29) which warns the driver against using the mobile electronic device (9) while driving, whereby - for detecting - a current speed of the motor vehicle (1) is determined, and - a position (10, 11) of the mobile electronic device (9) within the motor vehicle (1) is determined on the basis of field strength values ​​of at least one electromagnetic field generated by the mobile electronic device (9) measured by means of several spatially distributed sensors of the motor vehicle (1), and - a change in position of the mobile electronic device (9) is monitored by means of a sensor of the mobile electronic device (9), and - the warning signal (27, 28, 29) is only issued if the current speed is greater than a predetermined speed threshold and the specific position (10, 11) of the mobile electronic device (9) is located within a predetermined area (3) of the motor vehicle (1) assigned to a driver's seat of the motor vehicle (1), characterized in that the use is detected when, in at least one predetermined time interval, at least one predetermined number of exceedances of at least one predetermined threshold of an angular change of a position angle of the electronic device (9) with respect to a local gravity vector have been detected,wherein at least one threshold value for the angle change and / or a length of the specified time interval is automatically and dynamically adjusted depending on the nature of a surface currently being traveled on by the motor vehicle (1) and depending on at least one property of the motor vehicle (1) that influences its movement.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a method for automatically improving safety when driving a motor vehicle and a corresponding system for carrying out such a method.

[0002] Although the use of mobile electronic devices while driving is largely restricted or prohibited by law, it is still frequently observed. Consequently, the use of mobile electronic devices, especially smartphones, is a common cause of accidents, as it distracts the driver from the surrounding traffic. Therefore, technical measures to support existing legal regulations are desirable.

[0003] A system for modifying distracted driver behavior is already known from US patent 2018 / 0022276A1. This system involves a controller coupled with multiple radio frequency receivers and a vehicle display. In response to the presence of a mobile wireless communication device in a defined area of ​​the driver's compartment, detected by the controller, and the driver's use of the communication device, the controller interacts with the display to redirect attention to the vehicle and the driver.

[0004] US Patent 2017 / 0201619A1 describes a vehicle security system that can be operated on a driver's mobile phone. The system includes a selective blocking device for disabling certain functionalities of the mobile phone when it is in motion within the vehicle. Which functionalities are to be blocked is specified by updates received from a server.

[0005] US Patent 2016 / 0044575A1 describes a method for preventing a user from using a distracting mobile phone function. This method uses an accelerometer and a gyroscope in the mobile phone to detect the movement of a vehicle and a change in the phone's orientation. The latter is then expressed as the angle of change around a rotation vector of the mobile phone in a moving coordinate system, one axis of which coincides with the direction of the vehicle's movement. If the rotation vector remains constant over a measurement period, the distracting function of the mobile phone is deactivated.

[0006] German patent application DE 10 2016 207 353 A1 already describes a method for detecting when a driver uses an electronic device in a vehicle. In this method, a sensor signal is read from a sensor located in the vehicle, where the sensor signal represents a current parameter of the electronic device and / or the driver in the vehicle. The sensor signal is compared with a stored usage signal, which represents the driver's use of the electronic device while driving the vehicle. If a specific relationship exists between the sensor signal and the usage signal, a detection signal is output to detect the use of the electronic device.

[0007] From US patent 8,706,143 B1, a locking mechanism for a computer handheld device is known. The handheld device comprises a motion analyzer, an environmental analyzer, and the locking mechanism. The motion analyzer is configured to detect whether the handheld device is in motion exceeding a predefined threshold. The environmental analyzer is configured to determine, based on an image, whether the handheld device is located within a safe operating area of ​​the vehicle. The locking mechanism is configured to automatically and selectively disable one or more functions of the handheld device based on outputs from the motion analyzer and the environmental analyzer.

[0008] The object of the present invention is to improve safety when driving a motor vehicle.

[0009] This problem is solved according to the invention by the subject matter of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention are specified in the dependent claims, in the description, and in the drawings.

[0010] A method according to the invention serves, and is thus designed, to automatically improve safety when driving a motor vehicle. The method can therefore be executed automatically. The method detects whether a driver of the motor vehicle is using a mobile electronic device in the vehicle while it is in motion. In other words, it is designed to detect the use of the device by the driver while actively operating the vehicle. Conversely, the use of the device by the driver in the vehicle may be safe and therefore not be detected if, for example, the vehicle is parked in a parking lot. In the method according to the invention, a warning signal is issued upon detection of such use, thereby warning the driver against using the mobile electronic device while driving.This warning signal can take different forms or characteristics, which are explained in more detail below. For example, the warning signal can be a simple indication and / or a functional restriction, i.e., a corresponding control signal to trigger or initiate a functional restriction, or something similar.

[0011] According to the invention, the current speed of the motor vehicle is determined to detect its use. This current speed can be determined, for example, based on at least one sensor signal provided by a suitable sensor, or based on a corresponding data signal or the like, which indicates the speed of the motor vehicle or from which the speed of the vehicle can be derived. Furthermore, the position of the mobile electronic device within the motor vehicle is determined based on several field strength values ​​measured within the motor vehicle, specifically those of at least one electromagnetic field generated by the mobile electronic device. The field strength values ​​are measured using several sensors arranged spatially distributed within the motor vehicle.From the field strength values, i.e., the measured field strengths at the locations of the individual sensors, the position of the device can be determined by comparing and evaluating their absolute values ​​and / or their relative values, i.e., the ratio of the measured field strength values ​​to one another. A predetermined, i.e., known, transmission power with which the device generates or emits the electromagnetic field, and / or a field strength of the electromagnetic field generated or present at the location of the device itself, can also be used or taken into account. These absolute values ​​can then serve, for example, as a reference value, so that not only the ratios of the measured field strength values ​​to one another, but also their absolute values ​​in relation to the reference value, can provide information about the distance of the electronic device from the respective field strength sensor.The relevant parameters can be recorded or determined, for example, via an identification, identifier, or model number and a corresponding stored database or specification. It may also be possible to use or consider, for example, a predefined propagation characteristic of electromagnetic fields within the vehicle or a corresponding attenuation characteristic of the respective vehicle. This can be determined once by the manufacturer for different types of electromagnetic fields and stored in a corresponding memory. This propagation or attenuation characteristic can indicate how electromagnetic fields propagate or behave within the vehicle.This allows, for example, consideration of the fact that different interior configurations and / or different materials can lead to different field strengths being measured in different vehicles for the same electronic device at the same spatial distance from one of the respective sensors, despite the electronic device having the same transmission power. This enables the position to be determined with particular accuracy and reliability, tailored to the specific vehicle. Furthermore, a sensor on the mobile electronic device monitors any changes in its position.

[0012] Usage is detected when, within at least one predetermined time interval, at least one predetermined number of exceedances of at least one predetermined threshold value of an angular change of a position angle of the electronic device with respect to a local gravity vector have been recorded, wherein the at least one threshold value for the angular change and / or a length of the predetermined time interval is automatically and dynamically adjusted depending on the nature of a surface currently being traveled on by the motor vehicle and depending on at least one property of the motor vehicle that influences its movement.

[0013] Furthermore, according to the invention, the warning signal is only emitted if the current speed of the motor vehicle exceeds a predetermined speed threshold and the position of the mobile electronic device is within a predetermined area of ​​the motor vehicle associated with the driver's seat. In a typical passenger car with a driver's seat, a front passenger seat, and a rear bench seat or seating arrangement, the area associated with the driver can, for example, comprise the driver-side quadrant of the passenger compartment that is forward in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle.In a motor vehicle, such as a truck, with a driver's cab or driver's cabin that has only one row of seats, i.e., only the driver's seat and the front passenger seat, the area assigned to the driver's seat can be, for example, the driver-side half of the vehicle cab or driver's cabin or cabin, or encompass it. Generally, the area assigned to the driver's seat can be, for example, a spatial area that is within the driver's reach when seated in the driver's seat in the intended or prescribed position with the seat belt fastened.

[0014] The warning signal will therefore only be issued if use has been detected and the aforementioned conditions are met. Likewise, the detection of use within the meaning of the present invention can only be considered to have occurred if the aforementioned conditions are met.

[0015] The present invention can improve driving safety, i.e., road safety, by alerting the driver that the detected use of the mobile electronic device is dangerous or risky. Furthermore, additional measures can be provided or implemented, such as automatically blocking or deactivating the use or execution of certain functions or applications of the mobile electronic device and / or the vehicle. Overall, the present invention provides technical measures that can actively contribute to improving safety.

[0016] Activation, execution, or application of the method according to the invention can be initiated, for example, by the owner or keeper of the motor vehicle when they lend the vehicle to a third party, such as an acquaintance, particularly a novice driver. In such a case, there is a specific reason or need to ensure improved safety when driving the motor vehicle. Likewise, the method can be applied or carried out, for example, every time the motor vehicle is used, and this can be logged, for example, using an automatic electronic logbook. This allows, for example, a better understanding of the sequence of events in an accident and / or provides corresponding evidence to a responsible insurance company.In such a case, for example, a bonus or discount could be granted if the inventive method is always used when driving or using the motor vehicle. This can provide additional motivation for the – possibly voluntary – use of the inventive method, thereby further improving road safety.

[0017] At the same time, the invention offers a high degree of user-friendliness or ease of use, since, due to the position determination of the electronic device within the vehicle, the use of this and / or other electronic devices in the vehicle in other positions, for example by a passenger or other occupants, does not trigger the warning signal. Determining the position of the electronic device within the vehicle can be supported or improved by further measures or data. For example, a connection of the electronic device to a charging station, a socket, or an NFC device (NFC: "Near Field Communication") can be detected or verified. Such location-based connections can restrict or refine the position of the electronic device and / or validate the position determined based on the field strength values.This also allows for the identification or detection of a device connected to the respective charging station, holder, or other installation. For example, if several mobile electronic devices are used and detected in the vehicle, this method can be used to determine which of these devices is connected to or attached to the respective installation. This can also support, improve, or validate the vehicle's position.

[0018] To carry out the method according to the invention, i.e., to receive and process corresponding signals, to perform corresponding calculations, and to generate and output corresponding signals, for example, control signals and / or the warning signal, a data processing device can be provided. This device can be implemented in hardware, in software, and / or in a combination of hardware and software. The data processing device can, for example, be part of the mobile electronic device, such as in the form of an application or program (app) that has access to the device's corresponding sensors and communication interfaces. Likewise, the data processing device can be wholly or partially integrated into the motor vehicle.Furthermore, it is possible that the data processing device, or a part or component thereof, includes or runs on an external server. The server may be connected, at least temporarily, to the vehicle and / or the mobile electronic device via a suitable wireless data connection.

[0019] The process steps of the method according to the invention, in particular the detection of use, the determination of the vehicle's speed, the measurement of field strength values, and / or the execution of corresponding data processing measures or calculations, can be carried out regularly, especially with a predetermined frequency. This allows changes in the usage state or behavior of the mobile electronic device or the driver during the journey to also lead to detection. For example, at the beginning of the journey, the electronic device may be unused in a charging station or holder of the vehicle and only removed and used by the driver at a later point during the journey.

[0020] The frequency at which the aforementioned measures are carried out or executed, and, for example, the aforementioned conditions are checked, can depend, particularly when energy from a battery of the mobile electronic device is used or consumed, on the current state of charge of this battery or the electronic device and / or on whether the mobile electronic device is currently connected to an external power supply. If energy from the battery of the electronic device is used for the process and / or the current state of charge is less than a predefined threshold, a lower frequency, for example in the range of 0.1 Hz, can then be used.However, if no energy is being drawn from the electronic device's battery and / or the mobile electronic device is currently being powered or charged by an external power source and / or the current charge level is greater than a predefined threshold, a higher frequency, for example in the range of 1 Hz, can be used. This allows for a particularly good compromise between the process's response speed, energy consumption, and user or customer convenience.

[0021] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the mobile electronic device itself determines its usage state for detection purposes. This is achieved by monitoring and evaluating internal signals. If a usage state corresponding to active use of the mobile electronic device is determined, the device generates a corresponding usage signal indicating this. The usage state thus indicates whether the device is in use, i.e., whether it is currently being actively used or not. An active usage state means that the device is currently being used, while a passive usage state means that the device is currently not being used.To distinguish between active and passive use, data or signals from a screen or at least one input element, such as a touch sensor or button on the electronic device, can be monitored by the device itself. If, for example, touches or operations are detected, this can be interpreted or considered active use. Similarly, it is possible to monitor which programs or applications are started or executed. Starting or executing certain predefined applications or types of applications that, for example, require a high degree of the driver's attention and / or interaction, can also be considered active use.Because the mobile electronic device determines its own usage state, this state can be determined with exceptional accuracy and reliability, i.e., with very high confidence. The usage signal can be generated by the aforementioned data processing unit itself or transmitted to it or a component thereof. For example, the usage signal can be transmitted internally to another program part or component of the data processing unit. Similarly, the usage signal can be transmitted to the vehicle, for instance.

[0022] Regardless of how the data processing device is designed or where a corresponding application for carrying out the method according to the invention is executed, it may be provided that this application, i.e., the execution of the method according to the invention, can be manually triggered or started by a user, in particular by the driver. Likewise, it may be provided that the application, i.e., the execution of the method according to the invention, is started automatically. This automatic start can, for example, be subject to one or more conditions. For instance, the application or the method can be started automatically as soon as the data processing device, in particular the electronic device, detects a data network provided by the motor vehicle, such as a Bluetooth connection, a WLAN, or the like.Similarly, a condition for starting the application, i.e., the procedure, can be, for example, an operating action or the activation of a specific function of the vehicle. Automatic starting can thus occur, for instance, when the vehicle is unlocked, when a vehicle door is opened, particularly from the outside, when the ignition or engine is started or activated, when the vehicle begins to move, when the vehicle's current position is automatically determined and located on or within a public roadway, and / or similar events. Manually starting the application, i.e., the procedure, can be advantageous, for example, to increase acceptance of the procedure. Automatic starting can advantageously offer a particularly high level of customer convenience and contribute very reliably to improved safety.

[0023] In a further advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the screen lock state of the mobile electronic device and the applications or programs currently running on the mobile electronic device are determined for detection or during the detection of use. Use is then detected when the screen is unlocked according to the determined lock state, i.e., active or usable / operable, and at least one application from a predefined list of risk applications (blacklist) is running. In particular, it can be checked whether at least one of the risk applications is running in the foreground or with active focus. In other words, certain applications or certain types of applications can be predefined or defined, the execution, use, or operation of which during driving will trigger the warning signal.This can include, for example, browsers, news or messaging applications, social media applications (i.e., social media apps), video playback applications, games, and the like, as such applications can be particularly distracting to the user. Additionally or alternatively, a list of allowed or permitted applications or programs can be specified (whitelist). Running a program from this list of permitted or allowed applications will then not trigger the warning signal.

[0024] Therefore, the electronic device is considered to be in use if, with the screen active and unlocked, one of the risk applications and / or an application not on the whitelist is running. This is an additional condition to the previously explained conditions regarding the electronic device's position in the vehicle and the vehicle's current speed. This additional condition is particularly advantageous because it allows for highly reliable and detailed detection—with high granularity and accuracy—not only of whether the electronic device is being used at all, but also of different types of use. This effectively achieves a particularly good balance between increased security and user-friendliness or customer convenience.In particular, there may be certain applications or uses of the electronic device in the motor vehicle that can actually increase or support safety while driving the vehicle. Allowing the use of these applications is therefore correspondingly advantageous.

[0025] In a further advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the detection process determines whether a telephone or telephony function, i.e., a telephone or telephony connection of the mobile electronic device, is currently active. Use is detected when the telephone function or connection is active, i.e., when a telephone call is in progress or being conducted, and this call is being carried out or handled by the mobile electronic device itself without the use of an external hands-free device. In other words, it is determined whether the electronic device is connected to the external hands-free device, for example, one associated with a motor vehicle, and whether the respective telephone call is being conducted or transmitted via this hands-free device.If this is not the case, i.e., the hands-free device is not being used, this can indicate, or be interpreted as a sign of, that the driver is holding the electronic device, for example, to conduct a phone call. This is associated with an increased risk potential, so this condition can significantly improve safety. Specifically, the warning signal can be issued immediately or, for example, after a predetermined duration of the call. This way, the user can be warned to refrain from the unsafe use of the electronic device while driving. In particular, if a phone call is detected without the use of the hands-free device, the warning signal can be issued regardless of whether the screen is locked or switched on, i.e., even if the screen of the electronic device is switched off or locked.

[0026] In the present invention, a sensor monitors changes in the position or angle of the mobile electronic device to detect its use. Use is detected when, within at least a predetermined time interval, at least a predetermined number of exceedances of at least a predetermined threshold value for a change in angle or position (i.e., the change in position) of the electronic device relative to a local gravity vector are recorded. In particular, a separate or individual threshold value can be defined for each of the three spatial directions. In other words, the system detects whether the electronic device is being pivoted, rotated, or tilted in space.Manual handling or use of the electronic device almost inevitably involves such movement, i.e., a change in position or angle, which can therefore be a particularly reliable and meaningful indicator or sign of the device's use. The change in position or angle can be related to a previously recorded or measured position or angle value, in particular to a corresponding position, angle, or sensor value at the beginning of the current time interval.

[0027] After each current time interval has elapsed, a new current time interval of the same predetermined length begins. In other words, the entire execution time or duration of the method according to the invention is divided into such consecutive time intervals of the same predetermined length. The predetermined time intervals can, for example, be between one and ten seconds in length. This advantageously filters out slower or longer-term effects, such as a correspondingly slow, continuous bending or sagging of a holder for the electronic device in which it is mounted or held, sensor drift, and / or the like.

[0028] The predefined threshold also allows for the filtering out of changes in position or angle that might be caused, for example, by shocks or vibrations of the vehicle. This enables particularly reliable and accurate detection of the electronic device's usage. Changes in position or angle can be measured or determined, for example, by evaluating corresponding signals from a rotation rate, position, and / or acceleration sensor of the electronic device. This can be done, for instance, by determining the difference between the respective values ​​at the beginning or start time of the current interval and at the end or end time of the current interval. Similarly, the gradient of an inclination angle over the length of the current interval can be determined and compared with the corresponding threshold value.If the threshold is exceeded, the measurement or determination can be reset and a corresponding counter can be incremented by 1 – even within or during the current interval.

[0029] By defining individual thresholds for the three spatial directions, movement—that is, changes in the position of the electronic device—can be tracked with exceptional precision, thereby enabling more accurate and reliable detection of its use. Furthermore, it is particularly advantageous to evaluate additional sensor data or information from the vehicle, such as whether the vehicle is currently driving uphill or overcoming an obstacle. This can trigger a change in at least one angle or angular position of the electronic device that exceeds the threshold, even if the device is not being used.By using and evaluating this position or angle data provided by the motor vehicle, the use of the electronic device derived from the angle change recorded internally can be made plausible.

[0030] Particularly preferable, in addition to the number of violations, a frequency and / or a temporal pattern of these violations can be specified for typical movement patterns or operating actions such as those that occur or may occur during the use of the electronic device. This can also advantageously improve the reliability and accuracy of usage detection.

[0031] In the present invention, at least one threshold value for the change in position or angle and / or the length of the predetermined time interval is automatically and dynamically adjusted depending on the nature of the surface currently being driven on by the motor vehicle and depending on at least one property of the motor vehicle that influences its movement. The threshold value can therefore be increased, for example, when driving on a particularly uneven or rough surface, such as a gravel track as opposed to a smooth asphalt road or the like, since larger and / or more frequent changes in position or angle of the electronic device are to be expected on such an uneven or rough surface due to corresponding vibrations or shocks from the motor vehicle.Similarly, the threshold can be lowered or reduced if the vehicle has, for example, an active suspension, air suspension, and / or other features or devices that prevent or reduce vibrations and / or shocks, i.e., provide above-average damping. The vehicle's characteristics can be automatically read from a corresponding control unit or retrieved from a stored database, table, or specification using, for example, a provided identification, identifier, or model number. For this purpose, a data connection can be established or used between the vehicle and the electronic device and / or between the device and the aforementioned external server.

[0032] The current road surface and its condition can be determined, for example, by evaluating or processing environmental data, such as camera images captured and provided by the vehicle's environmental sensing device. Additionally or alternatively, the road surface and its condition can be determined or retrieved from route data from a navigation system or map, particularly in conjunction with a positioning system (e.g., satellite-based, GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, etc.) of the vehicle, either by the vehicle itself or by the electronic device.

[0033] Dynamically and automatically adjusting or setting the threshold depending on the respective environmental conditions can advantageously improve the reliability, accuracy, and consistency of the detection of the use of the electronic device.

[0034] In a further advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the current speed of the motor vehicle is determined by the mobile electronic device itself by means of a satellite-based positioning device of the mobile electronic device. Additionally or alternatively, the current speed of the motor vehicle is determined based on at least one data signal provided by the motor vehicle. This data signal can, for example, be a sensor signal from a wheel encoder, a bus signal retrieved from a control unit of the motor vehicle, a signal from a speedometer, and / or a signal from a satellite-based positioning device of the motor vehicle. Depending on the configuration of the aforementioned data processing device, the current speed can be transmitted to the data processing device in both cases.For this purpose, a data connection between the motor vehicle and the mobile electronic device can be established or used. This embodiment of the invention advantageously achieves a particularly high degree of flexibility and reliability, since the method according to the invention can be applied or implemented in a wide variety of environments, where, for example, satellite signal reception is not possible, and for different equipment variants or combinations of technical functions of the motor vehicle and the electronic device. If the current speed is determined by both the electronic device and the motor vehicle, the respective values ​​can be compared or calculated, thereby advantageously enabling a particularly accurate and reliable determination of the current speed.

[0035] In a further advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the field strength values ​​for determining the position of the mobile electronic device in the motor vehicle are measured by means of at least three sensors. These include a first sensor, which is arranged in a region of the passenger compartment of the motor vehicle located at the front in the longitudinal direction and on the left in the transverse direction. The sensors further include a second sensor, which is arranged in a region of the passenger compartment located at the front in the longitudinal direction and on the right in the transverse direction. The sensors further include a third sensor, which is arranged in a region of the passenger compartment located at the rear in the longitudinal direction and in the middle in the transverse direction. The sensors can, for example, be concealed by a panel or interior fitting of the passenger compartment.This sensor arrangement allows for a particularly advantageous compromise between component complexity and the accuracy or reliability of position determination. Specifically, the distance between the first and second sensors can differ from the distance between the first and third sensors and / or from the distance between the second and third sensors. These varying distances ensure that the position can be determined reliably with a higher probability, even when the field strength of the electromagnetic field generated or emitted by the electronic device is so high that it saturates the nearest of the three sensors. The sensors for measuring the field strength can each comprise, for example, one or more coils or antennas.The electromagnetic field generated by the electronic device can, for example, be a Bluetooth or WLAN / WiFi signal or field. These signals or fields are commonly used by today's mobile electronic devices, so the method according to the invention can be applied to a large number of mobile electronic devices available today.

[0036] In a further advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the warning signal is issued according to one of several predefined warning levels, each of which is associated with a different warning signal form. The current warning level is automatically selected from the predefined warning levels based on at least one predefined condition. In particular, a sequence of warning levels can be predefined, according to which the warning levels are sequentially cycled through or escalated if the use of the electronic device continues or is detected again, for example, during the same journey and / or within a predefined period. The process can, for example, be carried out automatically, in whole or in part, iteratively, with a warning level being increased in each iteration.The condition for escalating or increasing the warning level, i.e., for selecting a different predefined warning level than the current one, can be, for example, the elapse of a predetermined time period since the last warning signal was issued, the detection of a predetermined duration of use, and / or the exceeding of predefined speed thresholds assigned to the respective warning levels. The condition can also be that the previously issued warning signal is ignored by the driver or user, meaning that use has not ceased and therefore continues to be detected or can be detected again.

[0037] The first warning level is assigned a graphical and / or visual form of warning signal. In the first warning level, the warning signal can be displayed, for example, as a graphically represented symbol or as a text message. This warning signal can be displayed on a screen or a display of the electronic device and / or the vehicle. Similarly, the visual form of the warning signal can be activated, for example, by a lighting device – such as a flashing light or the like. The graphical and visual forms of the warning signal can also be assigned to two different warning levels. Additionally or alternatively, the first and / or, for example, a second, especially higher or escalated, warning level can be assigned an acoustic form of warning signal. In this case, the warning signal can be issued, for example, as a beeping sound or as an acoustic voice message or speech output.For this purpose, a loudspeaker system of the electronic device and / or the vehicle can be used, for example. The latter may depend, for instance, on the specific equipment and / or on whether a corresponding connection exists or can be established between the electronic device and the vehicle. According to a third or further warning level, particularly one that is higher or more escalated, a driving function of the vehicle and / or the mobile electronic device is restricted as or by means of the warning signal. In particular, this can include limiting or restricting the maximum achievable speed of the vehicle to a predetermined value, deactivating a starting function of the vehicle, and / or blocking the execution of at least one function or application of the mobile electronic device.The warning signal can therefore be or include a corresponding control signal to trigger or initiate these restrictions.

[0038] Limiting the maximum speed can advantageously reduce the impact or severity of a potential accident. Disabling the vehicle's start function prevents the vehicle from being set in motion and thus entering the surrounding traffic flow. Since a stationary vehicle generally poses less of a risk to traffic or its occupants than a moving one, overall safety can be increased. Similarly, disabling the start function can prevent the vehicle from being restarted or set in motion again after it has come to a complete stop.By blocking the execution of at least one function or application of the mobile electronic device, the aforementioned risky applications can, for example, be switched off or deactivated. Similarly, it is possible, for example, to restrict the accessible or usable functionality of the mobile electronic device to the applications listed in the whitelist. This can effectively ensure that the electronic device is used during the current journey only for predetermined purposes, or at least not for other predetermined, particularly distracting, or risky purposes. The respective restrictions can be maintained as long as the use of the electronic device is detected. In other words, the respective restrictions can be automatically lifted when the use of the electronic device, as described in the present invention, is no longer detected or can no longer be detected.

[0039] Preferably, the warning signal and / or a corresponding notification regarding the detected use of the electronic device may be stored in the motor vehicle, in the electronic device itself, and / or in a data storage device associated with the aforementioned application. The latter may then be accessible, for example, from within the application and / or via a web, backend, or service interface. This data may include, for example, a timestamp, the respective warning level, the current speed of the motor vehicle, an identifier or identifying characteristic of the electronic device, and / or similar information.Additionally or alternatively, the notification and / or this data can be transmitted to the backend, such as a cloud server or similar system linked to the application or a corresponding service, to a designated contact person's device—for example, a parent of the driver—to an insurance company, and / or other recipients. This can be done via a wireless data connection, such as a mobile network. This transmission of the notification and / or data can be assigned to one or more warning levels, meaning it can be carried out automatically upon reaching or selecting the corresponding warning level. This can effectively create an additional incentive not to use electronic devices while driving, thus ultimately further improving safety.

[0040] Each warning level can include some or all of the warning signal types and / or corresponding actions assigned to the other warning levels. The warning level designations may, but do not necessarily, correspond to the sequence in which the warning levels are accessed or selected. An escalation sequence, i.e., the order in which the warning levels are selected (i.e., accessed), a selection of which of the predefined warning levels are accessed, and / or associated parameters can be set (i.e., predefined) by the manufacturer or a user. The parameters may be, for example, the values ​​or quantities specified in connection with the condition.

[0041] Another aspect of the present invention is a system for automatically improving safety when driving a motor vehicle. The system comprises a detection device, a speed determination device, a position determination device, a warning device, and a data processing device connected to these devices. The detection device is designed and configured to detect the use of a mobile electronic device by the driver while the motor vehicle is in motion. The speed determination device is designed and configured to determine the current speed of the motor vehicle.The positioning device is designed and configured to determine the current position of the mobile electronic device within the motor vehicle based on field strength values ​​measured in the motor vehicle of at least one electromagnetic field generated by the mobile electronic device. The sensors used for this purpose can be part of the positioning device. The warning device is designed and configured to issue a warning signal. The data processing device is designed and configured to automatically execute at least one variant or embodiment of the inventive method for improving safety when driving the motor vehicle. In other words, the system according to the invention is designed and configured to execute the inventive method.

[0042] The system according to the invention can also include the electronic device and / or the motor vehicle. In particular, the system according to the invention, especially as part of the data processing unit, can include a data storage device with program code that encodes or represents the process steps of the method according to the invention. Furthermore, the system according to the invention, especially the data processing unit, can include at least one processor unit connected to this data storage device for executing this program code.The devices of the system according to the invention, as well as the mobile electronic device and / or the motor vehicle mentioned in connection with the system according to the invention, can be the corresponding devices or the mobile electronic device and / or the motor vehicle mentioned in connection with the method according to the invention. Accordingly, the system according to the invention can therefore include the components, devices, and / or properties mentioned in connection with the method according to the invention.

[0043] The invention also includes further developments of the system according to the invention, which have features as described in connection with the further developments of the method according to the invention, and vice versa. To avoid unnecessary redundancy, the corresponding further developments of the system according to the invention and the method according to the invention are not described separately here for each aspect of the invention.

[0044] An embodiment of the invention is described below. The following is shown: Fig. 1 a schematic top view of a motor vehicle with a mobile electronic device used therein; Fig. 2. A schematic overview illustrating a procedure for improving safety when driving a motor vehicle. Fig. 1; Fig. 3. A schematic overview to illustrate one aspect of Fig. 2. The embodiment described below is a preferred embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, the described components each represent individual features of the invention that can be considered independently of one another. Each of these features further develops the invention independently and can therefore be considered part of the invention individually or in a combination other than that shown. Furthermore, the described embodiment can also be supplemented by other features of the invention already described.

[0045] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic top view of a motor vehicle 1, which in this case is a passenger car with a passenger compartment 2. The passenger compartment 2 is schematically divided into several sections or quadrants. Specifically, these are a driver's area 3, which corresponds to a section of the driver's seat in the motor vehicle 1, and passenger areas 4, which correspond to the respective passenger seats in the motor vehicle 1. Furthermore, the motor vehicle 1 has three spatially distributed field strength sensors 5. Of these, a first field strength sensor 6 is located at the front left of the motor vehicle, a second field strength sensor 7 at the front right, and a third field strength sensor 8 at the rear center of the passenger compartment 2.

[0046] Furthermore, a mobile electronic device in the form of a mobile phone 9 is shown here in the passenger compartment 2 at its current position 10. The current position 10 of the mobile phone 9 is located in the driver's area 3. The mobile phone 9 is merely an example of a mobile electronic device and could just as easily be, for example, a tablet computer, a laptop, or the like. An alternative or previous position 11, which the mobile phone 9 may have occupied at an earlier time, is schematically indicated. In this case, the previous position 11 is located in the area of ​​a holder or charging station 12, into which the mobile phone 9 can be inserted for charging and / or, for example, to establish a wired connection to the vehicle 1.

[0047] The use of a mobile phone 9 by a driver of a motor vehicle 1 in the driver's area 3 while driving the motor vehicle 1 is obviously associated with dangers or risks to the safety of driving the motor vehicle. Against this background, it shows Fig. 2 a schematic overview or an exemplary schematic flow chart 13 to illustrate a procedure for improving safety when driving a motor vehicle 1.

[0048] In process step 14, the process can be activated or started by a user, for example, by starting or running a corresponding application (app) on mobile phone 9. The application can also be run, for example, on a data processing unit of the vehicle 1. Mobile phone 9 or vehicle 1 can also be connected, for example, via a wireless data connection to an external server (not shown here) that can execute at least part of the process or the corresponding application. The server can also provide, for example, a portal or interface—that is, access for the respective user, in this case, for example, the driver of vehicle 1—through which the user can start and / or configure the application.In process step 15, the application can be started automatically in a corresponding manner, especially if the user did not start the application manually in process step 14.

[0049] Once the procedure or the corresponding application is started, it is checked and, if necessary, detected whether the driver of vehicle 1 is using the mobile phone 9 while the vehicle 1 is in the driver's area 3. For this purpose, the current speed of vehicle 1 is determined in a procedure step 16. In particular, if the procedure or the corresponding application – hereinafter referred to as the security application – is running on the mobile phone 9, the speed of vehicle 1 can be advantageously determined by a GPS module of the mobile phone 9. Additionally or alternatively, the speed of vehicle 1 can be determined by the vehicle 1 itself in a procedure step 17. The respective determined speed value is then transmitted to the security application, i.e., made available to it.For this purpose, a data connection can be used or established between the mobile phone 9 and the vehicle 1. The safety application then compares the current speed of the vehicle 1 with a predefined speed threshold. This speed threshold can be, in particular, 0 km / h or higher. This is relevant because using the mobile phone 9 is less risky when the vehicle 1 is stationary or moving very slowly, for example, at walking speed.

[0050] In process step 18, the position of the mobile phone 9 is determined. This involves determining where the mobile phone 9 is located within the passenger compartment 2. Specifically, it is determined whether the mobile phone 9 is located in the driver's area 3 or in one of the passenger areas 4. For this purpose, the field strength of at least one electromagnetic field generated by the mobile phone is measured at the locations of the field strength sensors 5. The measured field strengths or field strength values ​​are then compared, i.e., related to each other, to determine the current position 10 of the mobile phone 9. If the mobile phone 9 is located in one of the passenger areas 4 and / or at least outside the driver's area 3, it can be assumed that the driver is not using the mobile phone 9, or at least not in an unauthorized manner.This can be the case, for example, if the mobile phone 9 is in the charging station 12, i.e., at the previous position 11. Procedure steps 16, 17, and 18 can be carried out or repeated continuously or regularly, for example, at a specific frequency.

[0051] To the in Fig. At the time shown in Figure 1, for this example, the vehicle 1 is supposed to be moving at a speed above the specified speed threshold, and the mobile phone is supposed to be at its current position 10. Corresponding data or status information is then forwarded or processed further, as schematically indicated here by arrows.

[0052] In process step 19, the system checks which applications are running on the mobile phone 9. It queries whether an application is running that is listed on a predefined list of high-risk applications (blacklist), which the driver is not permitted to use while driving or which should not be used for safety reasons. It can also check whether an application is running that is not on a list of approved or safe applications (whitelist). Such safe, permitted applications or functions could be, for example, a navigation application, a telephony application with the use of an external hands-free device enabled, or an application for establishing a connection between the mobile phone 9 and the vehicle 1, or similar devices. In this example, it is assumed that a high-risk application is running.The corresponding date is then also output, forwarded or temporarily stored for further processing.

[0053] In process step 20, the mobile phone 9 itself checks, by monitoring or querying internal processes, data signals, and / or switching states, whether it is in an active usage state, i.e., being used. If this is the case, a corresponding data signal or data is transmitted to the security application. Process step 21 can then be skipped.

[0054] If, in process step 20, it is not determined whether the mobile phone 9 is in active use, or if process step 20 is not executed – for example, due to functional limitations of the mobile phone 9 – then, in a further step 21, it is checked whether the mobile phone 9 is being used. This is described in Fig. 3 shown in more detail.

[0055] Procedure step 21 comprises subordinate procedure steps 22, 23, and 24. In procedure step 22, a signal from a position, rotation rate, and / or acceleration sensor of the mobile phone 9 is queried or read out, and from this, a tilt angle α of the mobile phone in three spatial directions x, y, z is determined. From this, a gradient is calculated by time differentiation. a˙x,y,z=dadt The gradient α̇ is determined by counting how many times it occurs over a given time interval T = t2 - t1 with a starting time t1 and an ending time t2. x,y,z exceeds a given threshold value G. A threshold value G is defined for the spatial direction x. x , for the spatial direction y a threshold value G y and for the spatial direction z a threshold value G z specified. Exceedances can occur for the three spatial directions x, y, z, or rather the three threshold values ​​G. x , Gy , G z They are counted separately, i.e., individually. For each such exceedance, a counter or count value Z is incremented by 1: ∑t1t2Z dt with Z = 1 for α̇ x,y,z > G x , G y , G z and Z = 0 for α̇ x,y,z ≤ G x , G y , G z.

[0056] The threshold value G or the threshold values ​​G x , G y , G zThis represents an adaptive limit for changes in the position or angle of the mobile phone 9. In other words, the threshold value G is variable, meaning it is automatically and continuously or regularly dynamically adjusted during the execution of the procedure. For this purpose, the surface currently being driven over by the vehicle 1 is taken into account, in particular its condition with regard to unevenness or smoothness. Furthermore, a vehicle characteristic of the vehicle 1 is considered, especially with regard to its damping or suspension behavior.Based on the nature of the surface and the vehicle's characteristics, an expected value for vibrations or shocks, and the associated changes in position or angle of the mobile phone 9, can be determined or estimated. These vibrations or shocks can occur independently of the driver's use of the mobile phone 9, solely due to the operation of the vehicle 1 on the respective surface. By adjusting the threshold value G, different sensitivities for detecting mobile phone use can be set, tailored to the surface and / or the specific vehicle 1. If the counter or count value Z exceeds a predefined value within the current time interval, this can be interpreted as an indication that the driver 1 is manually using or handling the mobile phone 9.For example, a change in position or angle of the mobile phone 9 is usually greater when the driver takes the mobile phone 9 out of the holder or charging station 12, i.e. from the previous position 11 and moves it manually towards himself to the current position 10, than in the case of a vibration caused by the ground or road surface.

[0057] In procedure step 23, it is checked whether the screen of the mobile phone 9 is switched on and locked, or whether a phone call is in progress, i.e., being conducted without using the device's external hands-free device.

[0058] The corresponding data or results from process steps 22 and 23 are evaluated in process step 24. For example, process steps 22 and 23 may be carried out at least essentially continuously and provide corresponding data or values. However, their verification or evaluation in process step 24 can be performed, for example, at a predetermined frequency, which may depend on the state of charge of the mobile phone 9 or the type of electrical power supply to the mobile phone 9 and can be dynamically adjusted or varied accordingly.If, in process step 24, it is determined that the corresponding conditions are met, i.e., the counter or count value Z has been exceeded for at least one time interval and the screen of the mobile phone 9 is active and unlocked and / or a telephone call is in progress without using the device's external hands-free device, a corresponding data signal or date is forwarded, in particular transmitted to the security application or a corresponding evaluation module of the security application.

[0059] In this case, at the latest at this point in a process step 25, a data connection between the mobile phone 9 and the motor vehicle 1 is established or set up, but this data connection may also have been set up at an earlier time.

[0060] In process step 26, if the aforementioned data or data signals, each indicating use of the mobile phone 9, have been received by the security application or a corresponding module or component of the security application, a corresponding usage signal is generated. Upon receiving the usage signal, a warning signal is generated and output. For this purpose, the usage signal and / or the warning signal can be transmitted, for example, via the data connection to the motor vehicle 1.

[0061] Upon initial detection of use, a warning signal is displayed in a graphical or optical form in a first escalation or warning stage (process step 27). This signal is shown as a message on the screen of the mobile phone 9 and / or on a screen or display of the vehicle 1, for example, in an instrument panel, a combination unit, or a multimedia or navigation device located in a center console or instrument panel. The warning signal can also be transmitted to the aforementioned portal, another front end, and / or another electronic device. This could be, for example, a device belonging to the owner or keeper of the vehicle 1 or a pre-defined contact person, such as a parent of the driver. This ensures that the use of the mobile phone 9 in the vehicle 1 can be verified or traced.

[0062] If this first warning signal is ignored, for example, if the use of mobile phone 9 continues or is detected again after a predetermined period, the warning level is automatically escalated or increased. Accordingly, a second warning signal is then issued in a second warning level in a process step 28. This second warning signal is issued acoustically, for example, via a speaker on the mobile phone 9 and / or a speaker system in the vehicle 1.

[0063] If the second warning signal is also ignored, i.e., if the use of the mobile phone 9 by the driver of the motor vehicle 1 in the driver area 3 is detected again after, for example, the specified time period, the warning level will be increased again.

[0064] In process step 29, a third warning signal is issued in a third warning stage. This third warning signal restricts a driving function of the vehicle 1 and / or a functionality of the mobile phone 9. In the present example, the achievable maximum speed of the vehicle 1 is limited to a predetermined value, and the execution of risk applications on the mobile phone 1 is stopped or deactivated.

[0065] Overall, the examples described show how a combination of vehicle, user and safety application can detect safety-critical use of a mobile electronic device in a vehicle and respond by performing appropriate predefined actions in the vehicle, the mobile electronic device, the safety application and / or other components or facilities to improve safety when driving the vehicle. Reference symbol list 1 motor vehicle 2 passenger compartment 3 Driver area 4 passenger areas 5 field strength sensors 6 first field strength sensor 7 second field strength sensor 8 third field strength sensor 9 Mobile phone 10 current position 11 previous position 12 charging stations 13. Schedule 14 - 24 process steps

Claims

[1] Method (13) for automatically improving safety when driving a motor vehicle (1), comprising the method steps - Detect whether a driver of the motor vehicle (1) is using a mobile electronic device (9) in the motor vehicle (1) while the motor vehicle (1) is in motion, and - upon detected use, issue a warning signal (27, 28, 29) which warns the driver against using the mobile electronic device (9) while driving, whereby - for detecting - a current speed of the motor vehicle (1) is determined, and - a position (10, 11) of the mobile electronic device (9) within the motor vehicle (1) is determined on the basis of field strength values ​​of at least one electromagnetic field generated by the mobile electronic device (9) measured by means of several spatially distributed sensors of the motor vehicle (1), and - a change in position of the mobile electronic device (9) is monitored by means of a sensor of the mobile electronic device (9), and - the warning signal (27, 28, 29) is only issued if the current speed is greater than a predetermined speed threshold and the specified position (10, 11) of the mobile electronic device (9) is within a predetermined area (3) of the motor vehicle (1) assigned to a driver's seat of the motor vehicle (1), characterized by, that the use is detected when, in at least one predetermined time interval, at least one predetermined number of exceedances of at least one predetermined threshold value of an angular change of a position angle of the electronic device (9) with respect to a local gravity vector have been detected, wherein the at least one threshold value for the angular change and / or a length of the predetermined time interval is automatically dynamically adjusted depending on the nature of a surface currently being traveled on by the motor vehicle (1) and depending on at least one property of the motor vehicle (1) that influences a movement of the motor vehicle (1). [2] Method (13) according to claim 1, characterized by, that for the purpose of detecting use, a usage state of the mobile electronic device (9) is determined by the device itself through monitoring and evaluation of internal signals, and, if a usage state corresponding to active use of the mobile electronic device (9) has been determined, a corresponding usage signal indicating this is generated by the mobile electronic device (9). [3] Method (13) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that - to detect usage, a screen lock state of the mobile electronic device (9) and applications currently running on the mobile electronic device (9) are determined, and - usage is detected when the screen is unlocked according to the determined lock state and at least one application from a predefined list of risk applications is running. [4] Method (13) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that for the purpose of detecting usage, it is determined whether a telephone function of the mobile electronic device (9) is currently active, and the usage is then detected when the telephone function is active and is carried out by the mobile electronic device (9) itself without the use of an external hands-free device. [5] Method (13) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that a separate threshold value is specified for detecting usage in all three spatial directions. [6] Method (13) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the current speed of the motor vehicle (1) is determined - by the mobile electronic device (9) itself by means of a satellite-based positioning device of the mobile electronic device (9), and / or - based on at least one data signal provided by the motor vehicle (1). [7] Method (13) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the field strength values ​​for determining the position (10, 11) of the mobile electronic device (9) in the motor vehicle (1) are measured by means of at least three sensors (5), of which - a first sensor (6) in a front area in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle and a left area in the transverse direction of the vehicle of a passenger compartment of the motor vehicle (1), - a second sensor (7) in a region of the passenger compartment that is at the front in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle and on the right in the transverse direction of the vehicle, and - a third sensor (8) in a region of the passenger compartment that is rearward in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle and central in the transverse direction of the vehicle are arranged. [8] Method (13) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the warning signal is issued according to one of several predefined warning levels, to which different forms of the warning signal are assigned, wherein the current warning level is automatically selected from the several predefined warning levels based on at least one predefined condition, and wherein - one of the specified warning levels is assigned a graphic and / or optical and / or acoustic form of the warning signal (27), and - a driving function of the motor vehicle (1) and / or a functionality of the mobile electronic device (9) is restricted according to a warning level other than the warning signal (29) or by the warning signal (27, 28, 29). [9] Method according to claim 8, characterized by, that the maximum achievable speed of the motor vehicle (1) is limited to a predetermined value and / or a starting function of the motor vehicle (1) is deactivated and / or the functionality of the mobile electronic device (9) is blocked from executing at least one function or application of the mobile electronic device (9). [10] System for automatically improving safety when driving a motor vehicle (1), comprising - a detection device for detecting the use of a mobile electronic device (9) during a journey of the motor vehicle in the motor vehicle (1) by the driver, - a speed determination device for determining the current speed of the motor vehicle (1), - a positioning device for determining a current position (10, 11) of the mobile electronic device (9) within the motor vehicle (1) on the basis of field strength values ​​measured in the motor vehicle (1) of at least one electromagnetic field generated by the mobile electronic device (9), - a warning device for issuing a warning signal (27, 28, 29), and - a data processing device connected to the detection device, the determination device, the speed determination device and the warning device, which is configured to automatically carry out a method (13) according to one of the preceding claims.

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