Procedure for operating a motor vehicle assistance system

Abstract

Method (14) for operating an assistance system (6) of a motor vehicle (2) which is moving on a roadway (18) in a direction of travel (20), in which - in the direction of travel (20) in front of the motor vehicle (2) a second motor vehicle (30) is detected which is moving in the opposite direction of travel (28) on an adjacent roadway (26), and - a warning (40) is transmitted by radio to a fourth motor vehicle (24) overtaking a third motor vehicle (22), which is moving in the direction of travel (20) and is located behind the second motor vehicle (30) in the direction of travel (20), wherein the distance between the fourth motor vehicle (24) and the motor vehicle (2) is greater than 500m.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a method for operating an assistance system of a motor vehicle as well as an assistance system of a motor vehicle and a motor vehicle.

[0002] Motor vehicles, such as passenger cars, are typically driven along a roadway. It is possible that these vehicles may be traveling at different speeds. Consequently, overtaking maneuvers usually occur, in which a slower-moving vehicle is overtaken by a faster-moving vehicle. If there are two lanes intended for travel in the same direction, the driver of the overtaking vehicle must move into the other lane. In doing so, they must ensure that no other road users are present or approaching in the other lane. Side mirrors are typically provided for this purpose, allowing a relatively large section of the other lane to be monitored. This type of situation is commonly found, for example, on relatively straight highways.

[0003] On secondary roads, especially those that are not straight, it is usually intended that traffic on the other lane is typically traveling in the opposite direction. When changing lanes to overtake, it is therefore possible that another vehicle is already traveling in the opposite direction on the other lane. Since this vehicle is moving against the direction of travel of the overtaking vehicle, the distance between them closes relatively quickly. This creates a risk of accidents. Furthermore, it is not always possible for the driver of the overtaking vehicle to see the entire road ahead of the vehicle in front.

[0004] German patent application DE 10 2018 002 239 A1 discloses a method for issuing a warning to road users in the vicinity of a vehicle. This method detects the overtaking maneuver of a vehicle immediately following the vehicle in question.

[0005] German patent DE 10 2015 207 977 A1 describes a method for transmitting traffic-relevant information. It records the properties of objects belonging to multiple road users.

[0006] German patent DE 10 2014 008 980 A1 discloses a method for avoiding collisions between vehicles in overtaking situations with oncoming traffic. A following vehicle is detected and the risk of collision with an oncoming vehicle is assessed.

[0007] German patent application DE 10 2016 010 017 A1 discloses a method for assisting the driver of a vehicle during an overtaking maneuver, in which the first vehicle communicates with a second vehicle via a wireless network. In this method, the vehicles drive one behind the other, and the following first vehicle, which is about to begin the overtaking maneuver, accesses data from the preceding second vehicle via the wireless network and displays this data in the first vehicle.

[0008] DE 10 2009 027 755 A1 relates to a method for supporting the operation of a motor vehicle. The current position of an obstacle, at least partially obscured, is transmitted from an external device to the motor vehicle, and the driver of the motor vehicle is shown the current and / or future position of the obstacle.

[0009] From DE 10 2016 203 725 A1, a method is known in which the surroundings of a first motor vehicle are optically scanned. A message is determined based on the scanned information, and the message is transmitted from the first motor vehicle to a second motor vehicle, whereby the distance between the first and the second motor vehicle does not exceed a predetermined maximum value.

[0010] German patent application DE 10 2018 004 573 A1 describes a method for informing the driver of a vehicle. In this method, the driver is informed about another vehicle approaching from behind and / or another vehicle traveling slowly ahead by determining the speed of the respective other vehicle and displaying it to the driver via a display unit in the vehicle.

[0011] The invention is based on the objective of providing a particularly suitable method for operating an assistance system of a motor vehicle, as well as a particularly suitable assistance system of a motor vehicle and a particularly suitable motor vehicle, advantageously increasing safety.

[0012] With regard to the method, this problem is solved according to the invention by the features of claim 1, with regard to the assistance system by the features of claim 8, and with regard to the motor vehicle by the features of claim 9. Advantageous further developments and embodiments are the subject of the respective dependent claims.

[0013] The method serves to operate a motor vehicle assistance system. The motor vehicle is, in particular, a land-based vehicle and can therefore be positioned on a roadway. Specifically, it is possible to position the motor vehicle on the roadway essentially independently of other constraints. In other words, the motor vehicle is not guided by rails or the like. The motor vehicle is, for example, a commercial vehicle such as a truck or a bus. However, a passenger car is particularly preferred. The assistance system itself does not directly propel the motor vehicle but provides an additional (secondary) function. Specifically, the assistance system enhances safety in a traffic flow and / or traffic situation in which the motor vehicle is located.Preferably, the assistance system is an overtaking warning system and thus serves to warn during an overtaking maneuver, especially if there is an increased risk of an accident.

[0014] The motor vehicle itself is moved along a roadway in one direction, for example at a constant speed or a varying speed. It is also possible for the motor vehicle to be stopped, so that its speed is 0 km / h. In particular, "moving" is understood to mean that the motor vehicle is ready for operation, and especially that the ignition or similar mechanism is engaged.

[0015] The procedure involves detecting a second vehicle in a first step. This second vehicle is a separate road user from the vehicle equipped with the assistance system and is traveling in the opposite direction on an adjacent lane. Specifically, a change between the two lanes is possible, and there are no physical barriers or similar obstacles between them. Ideally, the two lanes form a single road and are designed for use in opposite directions.

[0016] Furthermore, a warning is transmitted via radio to a fourth vehicle overtaking a third vehicle. The fourth vehicle, and in particular the third vehicle as well, are moving in the direction of travel of the vehicle equipped with the assistance system and are positioned behind the second vehicle in the direction of travel. Suitablely, the fourth and third vehicles are positioned behind the vehicle equipped with the assistance system in the direction of travel. For example, the third and fourth vehicles are moving at the same speed, which is, for instance, equal to the speed of the vehicle. Alternatively, their respective speeds differ. Preferably, the third vehicle is also on the roadway.

[0017] For example, the fourth vehicle is controlled by its driver or by means of a pilot system. Due to the overtaking maneuver, the fourth vehicle moves into the adjacent lane, which is specifically intended for use in the opposite direction. Specifically, the road on which the vehicles are located consists solely of the roadway and the adjacent lane.

[0018] For example, the second vehicle may not yet be perceptible to the driver or an assistance system of the fourth vehicle, which is why the overtaking maneuver is carried out. Similarly, the fourth vehicle may not be perceptible to the driver of the second vehicle or any pilot / assistance system, for example, due to the shape of the road, which might be a curve.

[0019] Specifically, the fourth vehicle is in the process of overtaking the third vehicle, although the overtaking maneuver itself has not yet begun, but preparations for it are already underway. Suitablely, the fourth vehicle is also still on the roadway. For example, the fourth vehicle has activated its turn signal. Alternatively, the fourth vehicle has already begun to cross a lane divider between the two lanes. For example, a certain percentage of the fourth vehicle is already on the adjacent lane, such as 25%, 50%, 75%, or 100%. In another alternative, the fourth vehicle is already essentially alongside the third vehicle.

[0020] The warning alerts the driver of the fourth vehicle and / or any pilot / assistance system in that vehicle that the second vehicle is in the adjacent lane. This allows the driver of the fourth vehicle, or its pilot / assistance system, to increase speed and complete the overtaking maneuver more quickly, or to brake and pull back in behind the third vehicle / remain in the lane. In this way, a collision between the second and fourth vehicles can be avoided or at least mitigated, even if the second vehicle is not yet perceptible, especially visible. Consequently, safety is increased.

[0021] Because the warning is transmitted via radio to the fourth vehicle, it is not necessary for the fourth vehicle to be within sight or earshot. This makes it possible to transmit the warning even on a relatively obscured road and / or over a relatively large distance to the fourth vehicle. This increases safety.

[0022] For example, the second vehicle is detected by means of a sensor or sensors of the vehicle, in particular directly. Preferably, a sensor of the assistance system or an existing sensor of the vehicle is used for this purpose, with which the assistance system is connected via a signal, in particular via a bus system such as a CAN bus system or a FlexRay bus system. This reduces the manufacturing costs of the assistance system. Preferably, the assistance system includes a corresponding interface for this purpose.

[0023] The sensor is, for example, an optical sensor, allowing the second vehicle to be detected optically, particularly by means of a camera. Alternatively, or in combination with this, the second vehicle can be detected using waves, such as sound waves like ultrasound. In this case, the sensor emits a corresponding sound wave, which is then reflected by the second vehicle. The reflected / scattered sound waves are subsequently received by the sensor. Alternatively, electromagnetic waves, particularly radar waves, are used. These are emitted by the sensor during operation and reflected and / or scattered by the second vehicle. These reflected / scattered waves are then detected by the sensor. Specifically, the distance, and preferably the position, of the second vehicle is determined using a time-of-flight analysis.

[0024] The second vehicle is detected in front of the first vehicle in the direction of travel. With this type of detection, a comparatively favorable field of view and detection area is available for the second vehicle, and sensors can be used to detect the second vehicle that are also used elsewhere to enhance the safety of the vehicle itself. A sensor from a lane departure warning system or an emergency braking system is suitable for this purpose. This improves detection and reduces manufacturing costs. Furthermore, when the second vehicle is detected, the distance between it and the fourth vehicle is increased, thus extending the reaction time for the driver of the fourth vehicle after receiving the warning.

[0025] For example, a warning is always issued if the second vehicle is detected. This increases safety, and it's possible that the fourth vehicle will receive multiple warnings if several vehicles are equipped with such an assistance system. Alternatively, the system checks for an additional condition. Specifically, it verifies that the second vehicle is not wirelessly connected to the fourth vehicle, nor capable of being wirelessly connected. In particular, it determines that the second vehicle is not capable of establishing a wireless connection with the fourth vehicle. For example, the second vehicle lacks a suitable interface for this purpose.

[0026] Determining that the second vehicle is not wirelessly connected to the fourth vehicle is achieved, for example, by sending a corresponding request to the second vehicle. If the second vehicle does not have a suitable radio interface, it will not receive the request and therefore will not respond. In other words, the second vehicle is not configured according to a C2C (Car-to-Car) standard or any other C2X (Car-to-X) standard. Alternatively, the second vehicle may respond to the request, but the response may specify that no radio connection to the fourth vehicle exists, for example, due to interference. In this case as well, the fourth vehicle will be warned about the second vehicle by its assistance system.If the second vehicle is wirelessly connected to the fourth vehicle, the fourth vehicle will either warn the second vehicle itself, or at least the fourth vehicle, its driver, or any assistance system will be notified of the second vehicle's presence. For example, in this case, the warning will not be transmitted by the vehicle itself.

[0027] Preferably, however, the fourth vehicle is detected wirelessly. For this purpose, a C2X standard or, more preferably, a C2C standard is used. Thus, the assistance system is aware of the presence of the fourth vehicle, which is to be warned of the approaching second vehicle. It is not necessary for the fourth vehicle to be within line of sight of the second vehicle. In this case, the warning time before a potential collision would be significantly reduced. Furthermore, the fourth vehicle could detect the second vehicle itself. The distance between the fourth vehicle and the second vehicle is greater than 500 meters or 1 kilometer. Preferably, this distance is determined by the maximum range of the radio signal used. Suitablely, the fourth vehicle is located outside the line of sight of the second vehicle and / or the first vehicle.Consequently, the warning time before a potential collision is increased.

[0028] The warning is only transmitted, and therefore only sent out, when the fourth vehicle has been detected – that is, a vehicle moving in the direction of travel and located behind the vehicle in question. Consequently, the warning is not issued if the fourth vehicle has not been detected. This reduces the required bandwidth.

[0029] For example, the warning is also transmitted generally and thus received and / or processed by all motor vehicles. However, it is particularly preferred that the warning be transmitted in a targeted manner, with the fourth motor vehicle designated as the recipient. Consequently, the warning is not detected or at least not processed by the third or second motor vehicle, for example. In this way, a separate check to determine whether the warning is intended for the fourth motor vehicle based on its position on the road is unnecessary, and further processing by the fourth motor vehicle is simplified and accelerated.

[0030] Alternatively, the warning can be sent out generally by the assistance system, without defining a specific recipient, i.e., not specifically the fourth vehicle. In this case, the position of the vehicle and / or the second vehicle on the road, as well as its direction of travel, is transmitted. This allows the fourth vehicle to check whether a collision with the second vehicle is possible. Consequently, the warning applies to multiple vehicles, which increases safety. However, the fourth vehicle, as well as any other vehicles, must then verify whether the warning is intended for them.

[0031] For example, the speed of the third vehicle and the speed of the fourth vehicle are recorded and compared with the position of the second vehicle. For example, the position, and preferably also the speed, of the second vehicle is recorded using certain sensors on the vehicle itself, such as an optical sensor and / or radar sensor. Alternatively, the speed of the fourth vehicle, and preferably also its position, is transmitted wirelessly to the assistance system.

[0032] In particular, the position of the fourth vehicle is transmitted wirelessly to the vehicle and consequently to the assistance system. For example, the speed and / or position of the third vehicle is also transmitted wirelessly to the vehicle. For instance, the vehicle is wirelessly connected to the third vehicle for this purpose. Alternatively, the speed / position of the third vehicle is detected / determined by the fourth vehicle and transmitted wirelessly to the vehicle.

[0033] It is useful to determine, based on the speed of the third and fourth vehicles, when and at what position the overtaking maneuver is expected to be completed. In other words, the required overtaking distance is determined, specifically the minimum required overtaking distance. Based on this, the positions of the third and fourth vehicles at the end of the overtaking maneuver are determined. Furthermore, the position of the second vehicle at that time is checked. These two positions are then compared.

[0034] In summary, the comparison assesses, in particular, whether the overtaking maneuver is physically possible, i.e., whether it is possible to complete the maneuver without a collision between the second and fourth vehicles. The warning is then issued based on the results of this comparison. For example, if the overtaking maneuver is possible without a collision, the warning is not issued. The warning is especially likely to be withheld if a safety margin exists, specifically if a certain distance between the second and fourth vehicles is likely to be maintained upon completion of the overtaking maneuver.

[0035] In a further embodiment of the invention, the speed of the second vehicle is detected. This is done, for example, using the vehicle's own sensors, particularly the optical and / or radar sensors. Alternatively, the speed is exchanged between the vehicles, for example, via a radio connection. The speed of the second vehicle is suitably integrated into the warning and thus transmitted. Preferably, the position of the second vehicle is also transmitted to the fourth vehicle along with or within the warning. This allows the fourth vehicle to verify whether a collision is likely to occur or whether it can be avoided. In particular, the speed of the fourth vehicle is adjusted depending on the warning.

[0036] The driver assistance system is a component of a motor vehicle and includes a control unit. The control unit comprises, for example, a microprocessor, which is expediently designed to be programmable. Alternatively or in combination with this, the control unit includes an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC). Preferably, the driver assistance system has an interface for signal communication with a bus system of the motor vehicle. This interface is suitable, and in particular designed and configured, to communicate via the bus system and is preferably operated in accordance with the relevant standard. The bus system is, for example, a CAN bus system or a FlexRay bus system.

[0037] The assistance system operates according to a procedure in which a second vehicle is detected traveling in the opposite direction on an adjacent lane. Preferably, the second vehicle is detected directly, so that there is a line of sight between the two vehicles. A warning is then transmitted wirelessly to a fourth vehicle. The fourth vehicle is traveling in the same direction and is positioned behind the second vehicle. The fourth vehicle overtakes a third vehicle, which is also traveling in the same direction and is therefore positioned ahead of the fourth vehicle. Consequently, the fourth vehicle begins to move into the adjacent lane or has already at least partially moved into it.The procedure is expediently carried out using the control unit, which is thus operated in accordance with the procedure. The control unit is therefore suitable for carrying out the procedure, in particular designed and equipped for it.

[0038] Preferably, in its installed state, the assistance system is signal-linked to a suitable radio device so that the warning can be issued. Alternatively, or particularly preferably in combination with this, the assistance system is linked to sensors of the vehicle in its installed state, by means of which the second vehicle can be detected. The linkage is preferably achieved via the bus system.

[0039] The motor vehicle is expediently a land-based vehicle and preferably has a number of wheels by means of which contact with a road surface is established. For example, at least one, preferably two or four, of the wheels of the motor vehicle is driven, preferably by means of a main drive. The main drive comprises, for example, an internal combustion engine, an electric motor, or a combination thereof. The motor vehicle is, for example, a commercial vehicle such as a truck or a bus. However, it is particularly preferred that the motor vehicle be a passenger car.

[0040] Furthermore, the vehicle includes an assistance system with a control unit that operates according to a procedure whereby a second vehicle traveling in the opposite direction on an adjacent lane is detected. Additionally, a warning is transmitted via radio to a fourth vehicle overtaking a third vehicle, traveling in the same direction, and positioned behind the second vehicle. Thus, the fourth vehicle would collide with the second vehicle within a specific timeframe.

[0041] The motor vehicle preferably includes a radio device by means of which the warning is transmitted to the fourth motor vehicle. The radio device preferably operates according to a C2X standard. Particularly preferably, the motor vehicle has a number of sensors, for example radar sensors, ultrasonic sensors and / or optical sensors, by means of which the second motor vehicle can be detected, in particular directly.

[0042] The advantages and further training described in connection with the procedure can also be applied analogously to the assistance system / motor vehicle and vice versa.

[0043] An embodiment of the invention is explained in more detail below with reference to a drawing. The drawing shows: Fig. 1 schematically simplified motor vehicle with an assistance system, Fig. 2 a procedure for operating the assistance system, and Fig. 3 a number of motor vehicles on roadways.

[0044] Corresponding parts are marked with the same reference symbols in all figures.

[0045] In Fig. Figure 1 schematically simplifies the representation of a motor vehicle 2 with a number of wheels 4, some of which are driven by a main drive (not shown in detail). The motor vehicle 2 includes an assistance system 6, which has a control unit 8 comprising a microprocessor (not shown in detail) and memory. The control unit 8 is connected to a number of sensors 10 via a signal connection, for example, a bus system. Alternatively, or in combination with this, the sensors 10 are directly connected to the control unit 8 via a signal connection.

[0046] The sensors 10 enable the direct detection of other road users. These sensors 10 are, for example, radar or ultrasonic sensors. When operating, the sensors 10 emit corresponding waves, in particular ultrasonic or radar waves, which are reflected / scattered by any other road users present. The reflected / scattered waves are then detected again by the sensors 10, and the position and presence of each road user are determined based on this data. Alternatively, or in combination with this, at least one of the sensors 10 is designed as an optical sensor, in particular as a camera. In this case, an image is created during operation, which is then checked for the presence and position of the road user.In particular, the sensors 10 are used by other assistance systems, for example by a lane keeping assistant, a cruise control assistant, an emergency braking assistant and / or a parking assistant.

[0047] Furthermore, the motor vehicle 2 includes a radio device 12, which is also connected to the control unit 8 via a signal connection. The radio device 12 operates in particular according to a C2C standard or at least another C2X standard.

[0048] In Fig. Figure 2 shows a procedure 14 for operating the assistance system 6, which is carried out by means of the control unit 8, which is thus operated according to procedure 14. Procedure 14 is carried out when the motor vehicle 2 is on a road 16 which is in Fig. 3 is shown.

[0049] Road 16 comprises a carriageway 18 on which motor vehicle 2 is traveling in a direction 20. A third motor vehicle 22 and a fourth motor vehicle 24 are also traveling in the direction 20 on carriageway 18, with the third motor vehicle 22 positioned ahead of the fourth motor vehicle 24 in the direction 20. Motor vehicle 2 is located outside the line of sight of the third motor vehicle 22 in the direction 20 ahead of it. For example, the distance between these vehicles is greater than 400 m and preferably less than 1 km.

[0050] Road 16 also includes an adjacent carriageway 26, which borders carriageway 18 and is intended for travel in the opposite direction 30. The opposite direction 30 is opposite to the direction 20. On the adjacent carriageway 26, a second motor vehicle 30 is moving in the opposite direction 30, with the second motor vehicle 30 (still) in front of motor vehicle 2 and within its line of sight. The second motor vehicle 30 is not within the line of sight of the third and fourth motor vehicles 20 and 24, for example, due to a curve in road 16 (not shown in detail) and / or due to a comparatively large distance between them.

[0051] In a first step 32, the second vehicle 30 is detected by the sensors 10. Detection is direct, primarily using radar waves and / or optical means. The sensors 10 mainly detect vehicles that are in front of vehicle 2 in the direction of travel 18, as a relatively large number of sensors 10 are available for this purpose, making detection comparatively reliable. Specifically, any vehicle moving in the opposite direction 28 on the adjacent lane 26 that can be directly detected by the sensors 10 is considered the second vehicle 30.

[0052] Furthermore, the speed of the second vehicle 30 and its position on the adjacent lane 26 are also recorded, for which sensors 10 and a GPS receiver (not shown) are used. Thus, vehicle 2 has knowledge of the position and speed of the second vehicle 22.

[0053] Furthermore, in the first step 34, the fourth vehicle 24 is detected by radio. For this purpose, radio signals are received by the radio equipment 12, which are generated by a corresponding radio equipment of the fourth vehicle 24. The radio signals are transmitted periodically by the fourth vehicle 24 and have a specific maximum range, for example, half a kilometer. Thus, the fourth vehicle 30 is detected by vehicle 2 as soon as they are less than 0.5 km apart. The radio signals specify the position of the fourth vehicle 24. The speed of the fourth vehicle 24 is also transmitted to vehicle 2 by radio.

[0054] Furthermore, radio signals indicate that an overtaking maneuver has been initiated, meaning that the third vehicle 22 will be overtaken by the fourth vehicle 24. Specifically, the fourth vehicle 24 is still on lane 18, but preparations for overtaking are already underway, such as increasing speed and / or activating a turn signal. The speed and position of the third vehicle 22 are also transmitted to vehicle 2 via radio. For example, vehicle 2 is connected to the third vehicle 22 via radio. Alternatively, the speed / position of the third vehicle 22 is determined by the fourth vehicle 24 and transmitted to vehicle 2 via radio.

[0055] In a subsequent second step 38, the position of the second vehicle 30 is compared with the position and speed of the third vehicle 22 and the fourth vehicle 24. Based on the position and speed of the third and fourth vehicles 22 and 24 transmitted by radio, the overtaking distance is calculated—that is, the distance required to complete the overtaking maneuver. This calculation determines the expected position of the third and fourth vehicles 22 and 24 on road 16 when the overtaking maneuver is complete. The position of the second vehicle 30, based on its position and speed, is also used to determine the position it would be at upon completion of the overtaking maneuver.

[0056] The next step is to check whether, at the end of the overtaking maneuver, there is a distance greater than 100 m or 50 m between the two (assumed) positions, i.e., the position of the second vehicle 30 and the position of the fourth vehicle 24, respectively, where the assumed position of the second vehicle 30 remains ahead of the assumed position of the fourth vehicle 22 in the direction of travel 20. This assesses whether the overtaking maneuver of the fourth vehicle 22 is physically possible without a collision with the second vehicle 30.

[0057] If the overtaking maneuver can be completed without a collision, procedure 14 is aborted. Otherwise, a third step 36 is performed, in which an attempt is made to contact the second vehicle 30 using the radio device 12. During this contact attempt, a query is sent to the second vehicle 30 to determine whether it is connected to the fourth vehicle 24 via radio. In particular, it is checked whether the second vehicle 30 is Car2X-enabled, i.e., whether the query from vehicle 2 is also received. In other words, it is checked whether a response from the second vehicle 30 to the query is received. If no response is received, it is assumed that the second vehicle 30 does not have a suitable radio device and is therefore not connected to the fourth vehicle 24 via radio.

[0058] If a response is received specifying that the second vehicle 30 is connected to the fourth vehicle 24 via signaling, it is ensured that the second vehicle 30 has knowledge of the fourth vehicle 24 and vice versa. Thus, the overtaking maneuver can be coordinated accordingly with the second vehicle 30. However, it is also possible that the second vehicle 30 has a radio device, but that due to interference, the radio connection to the fourth vehicle 24 is disrupted or non-existent. In this case, the fourth vehicle 24 also lacks knowledge of the fourth vehicle 30, and therefore they are not connected via radio signaling.

[0059] In a subsequent fourth step 38, a warning 40 is transmitted by radio to the fourth vehicle 24 if the second vehicle 30 is not connected to the fourth vehicle 24 by radio signal. The warning 40 is directed specifically to the fourth vehicle 24, so that it is not mistakenly processed by the third vehicle 22 or any other vehicle. Based on the warning 40, the fourth vehicle 24, or at least its driver, is warned of the second vehicle 30, allowing the driver to take appropriate countermeasures. The speed and position of the second vehicle 30 are also integrated into the warning 40. Therefore, a suitable assistance system in the fourth vehicle 24 can adjust its speed accordingly, thus preventing a collision.

[0060] If a radio connection to the second motor vehicle 30 has been established in the third work step 36, the warning 40 is also transmitted to the second motor vehicle 30, so that the driver of the second motor vehicle 30 is also informed about the fourth motor vehicle 24 and its overtaking maneuver.

[0061] In summary, warning 40 results in the driver of the second vehicle 24 being warned by the comparatively far ahead vehicle 2. The distance between the two vehicles 2, 24 is expediently greater than 500 m, and they are, for example, not within sight of each other.

[0062] Due to procedure 14, collisions during overtaking maneuvers are avoided, even at comparatively high speeds of the second and fourth vehicles 30, 24. Furthermore, a direct line of sight between the second and fourth vehicles 30, 24 is neither required nor available.

[0063] In procedure 14, the overtaking vehicle, namely the fourth vehicle 24, is warned of the oncoming second vehicle 30, which, for example, is not Car2X-enabled. The information about the oncoming second vehicle 30, i.e., the warning 40, is provided by vehicle 2. The second vehicle 30 is detected by vehicle 2, specifically by its assistance system 6, using its environmental sensors, i.e., sensors 10.

[0064] This information is transmitted, in particular via a direct Car2X radio link, to all motor vehicles in the vicinity or, with special preference, to the fourth motor vehicle 24. Based on the warning 40, it is possible that an assistance system of the fourth motor vehicle 24, in particular an overtaking warning system, warns the driver of the fourth motor vehicle 24 of the dangerous overtaking maneuver, which, for example, is physically impossible to carry out due to the time required for the overtaking maneuver.

[0065] For procedure 14, and in particular for generating warning 10, radio signals are used, preferably Car2X messages. These relate, for example, to the second vehicle 30 or the third and fourth vehicles 22 and 24. The messages include, in particular, the type of each vehicle 2, 20, 24, 30 and / or its position and kinematics, i.e., its speed. From this, a time until a possible collision between the second vehicle 30 and the fourth vehicle 24 is calculated, as well as the time required by the fourth vehicle 24 to overtake the third vehicle 22. If the overtaking time is greater than the time until a potential collision, warning 40 is appropriately transmitted.

[0066] For warning 40, the minimum required overtaking distance is first calculated, and from this, the location, i.e., the position, of the overtaking vehicle, i.e., the fourth vehicle 24, is determined. This location is compared with the expected location, i.e., the expected position, of the second vehicle 30 and, if applicable, also of vehicle 2 itself, and in this way, it is assessed whether the overtaking maneuver is physically possible. Depending on the comparison, warning 40 is transmitted to the fourth vehicle 24, in particular to its driver. For example, warning 44 is displayed on a screen of the fourth vehicle 24. The fourth vehicle 24 includes, in particular, a suitable assistance system, such as an overtaking warning system, by means of which warning 44 is issued.

[0067] The invention is not limited to the embodiment described above. Rather, other variants of the invention can also be derived by a person skilled in the art without departing from the subject matter of the invention. In particular, all individual features described in connection with the embodiment can also be combined with one another in other ways without departing from the subject matter of the invention. REFERENCE MARK LIST: 2 motor vehicles 4-wheeler 6 Assistance systems 8 Control unit 10 Sensor 12 Radio equipment 14 Procedures for operating an assistance system 16th Street 18 lanes 20 Direction of travel 22 third motor vehicle 24 fourth motor vehicle 26 adjacent lane 28 opposite direction of travel 30 second motor vehicle 32 First step 34 second step 36 third step 38 fourth step 40 Warning

Claims

[1] Method (14) for operating an assistance system (6) of a motor vehicle (2) which is moving on a roadway (18) in a direction of travel (20), in which - in the direction of travel (20) in front of the motor vehicle (2) a second motor vehicle (30) is detected which is moving in the opposite direction of travel (28) on an adjacent roadway (26), and - a warning (40) is transmitted by radio to a fourth motor vehicle (24) overtaking a third motor vehicle (22), which is moving in the direction of travel (20) and is located behind the second motor vehicle (30) in the direction of travel (20), wherein the distance between the fourth motor vehicle (24) and the motor vehicle (2) is greater than 500m. [2] Method (14) according to claim 1, characterized by that the second motor vehicle (30) is detected optically or by means of sound waves or radar waves. [3] Method (14) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by, that it is established that the second motor vehicle (30) is not connected to the fourth motor vehicle (24) by means of a radio signal. [4] Method (14) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by , that the fourth motor vehicle (24) is detected by means of radio. [5] Method (14) according to claim 4, characterized by , that the warning (40) is transmitted in a directed manner. [6] Method (14) according to claim 4 or 5, characterized by , that a speed of the third motor vehicle (22) and / or the fourth motor vehicle (24) is detected and compared with a position of the second motor vehicle (30), and that the warning (40) is transmitted depending on the comparison. [7] Method (14) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the speed and position of the second motor vehicle (30) are detected and integrated into the warning (40). [8] Assistance system (6) of a motor vehicle (2), comprising a control unit (8) which is operated according to a method (14) according to any one of claims 1 to 7. [9] Motor vehicle (2) with an assistance system (6) according to claim 8.

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