Method for operating a motor vehicle when searching for a parking space, parking space allocation device, storage medium, server device, and motor vehicle

Abstract

A method for operating a first motor vehicle (10), the method comprising the following steps performed by a parking space allocation device (22): - Determining that a user of the first motor vehicle (10) is looking for a parking space (S1), - Determining a plurality of further motor vehicles (16) which are located within a predetermined radius around the predetermined comparison coordinates (S14), - specifying the identified motor vehicle (16) from the plurality of identified further motor vehicles (16) which is the closest further motor vehicle (16) to the first motor vehicle (10) (S15), - transmitting a request signal to a transmitting and receiving device of the specified further motor vehicle (16), the request signal requesting a parking space location signal (S16), - if the specified further motor vehicle (16) does not send a parking space location signal describing a free parking space detected by the specified further motor vehicle (16): transmitting the request signal (S16) to another of the determined further motor vehicles (16) which is the closest of the other determined motor vehicles (16) to the first motor vehicle (10), - in the case of a detected parking space search: receiving at least one parking space location signal of the specified further motor vehicle (16), wherein the received parking space location signal describes a free parking space detected by the at least one further motor vehicle (16), a geographical position of the free parking space and a value of a parking space parameter of the free parking space (S6), wherein the parking space parameter describes the dimensions of the free parking space, - comparing the geographical position of the respective free parking space with predetermined geographical comparison coordinates that describe a travel destination of the first motor vehicle (10) and / or a current position of the first motor vehicle (10) (S7), - if the comparison shows that the respective free parking space is located within a specified radius around the specified comparison coordinates: Check whether the parking space parameter meets a specified parking criterion, whereby the specified parking criterion describes a design of the free parking space and thus specifies a parking space size that is suitable for the first motor vehicle (S8), - if the checked parking space parameter meets the specified parking criterion: providing a navigation signal that describes the free parking space (S9) and - transmitting the provided navigation signal to a navigation device and / or a driver assistance system of the first motor vehicle (10, S10).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a method for operating a motor vehicle when searching for a parking space.

[0002] In most cities, finding parking spaces is a daily problem. Without local knowledge, finding one is rarely successful. Most often, you drive lost through the streets, try to find "insider tips" on relevant online forums, and ultimately end up at the signposted parking garage.

[0003] Often there are free parking spaces, but you walk past them after you've parked. Large parking garages are usually centrally located, but depending on your destination, you still have to walk unnecessarily far. You often find that if you only wanted to park for a limited time, there might have been a similar parking space a few streets away. The motorist ends up paying money that could often have been avoided and is wasting time.

[0004] EP 2 330 580 A1 describes a motor vehicle parking locating system comprising a database storing data representing the locations of motor vehicle parking spaces, including locations of available parking spaces, and a communication link for communicating with motor vehicles and other sources.

[0005] A method for identifying available parking spaces is known from US 2007 / 0040701 A1.

[0006] DE 10 2011 003 772 A1 describes a method for assisting a driver of a first motor vehicle to find a parking space.

[0007] US 10 109 197 B2 relates to a system and method for automatic parking space search (AVPPL) that allows a community member to obtain (manually or automatically) information about a free parking space in an area in which they are searching for a parking space. Furthermore, an AVPPL community member can share information about free parking spaces in various areas they drive through with other AVPPL community members and / or to a shared AVPPL database.

[0008] One of the tasks underlying the invention is to make the search for a parking space more efficient.

[0009] The stated object is achieved by the method and devices according to the invention according to the independent claims. Advantageous further developments are provided by the dependent claims.

[0010] The invention is based on the idea of using information from other nearby vehicles rather than a centrally stored database as the information source. Combined with the recognition of a user's search for a parking space, the parking search is made very efficient, and user-specific conditions are taken into account. The disadvantages mentioned above are greatly reduced.

[0011] The method according to the invention for operating a first motor vehicle can also be referred to as a computer-implemented method for operating the motor vehicle. A navigation device and / or a driver assistance system can be operated in the method.

[0012] The method comprises the following steps, which are performed by a parking space allocation device. A parking space allocation device is understood to be a device, device component, or device group configured for electronic data processing, for receiving and evaluating signals, and for generating control signals, and in particular for evaluating geographical information described by the signals. The parking space allocation device can be configured, for example, as a control unit or control chip and can be located, for example, in the first motor vehicle and / or in a data server external to the motor vehicle.

[0013] First, it is determined that a user of the first motor vehicle is looking for a parking space. This can be done, for example, by determining that a driver assistance system of the vehicle is set to detect available parking spaces.

[0014] It is determined that a user of the first motor vehicle is looking for a parking space. This can be determined, for example, by determining that a driver assistance system of the first motor vehicle is activated to detect available parking spaces or, for example, based on a GPS signal, that the first motor vehicle is on a street with parking spaces and, in addition, is driving very slowly.

[0015] When a parking space search is detected, a parking space location signal from another motor vehicle is received, wherein the received parking space location signal describes a free parking space detected by the at least one other motor vehicle, a geographical position of the free parking space, and a value of a parking garage parameter of the free parking space, wherein the parking space parameter describes the dimensions of the free parking space. The parking space parameter can preferably be a predefined parking space parameter. The parking space parameter can optionally contain a special designation or restriction of the free parking space, for example, marking the free parking space as a parking space for people with special needs or physical limitations.

[0016] The parking space allocation device compares the geographical position of the respective free parking space, i.e., the geographical location of the respective free parking space, with predefined geographical comparison coordinates that describe a destination of the first motor vehicle and / or a current position of the first motor vehicle. From this, it can be deduced, for example, whether the free parking space detected by the other motor vehicle is close to the destination or to the first motor vehicle, and, for example, how far the distance is.

[0017] If the comparison shows that the respective free parking space is located within a specified radius around the specified comparison coordinates, a check is carried out to determine whether the parking space parameter fulfills a specified parking criterion.

[0018] The specified parking criterion describes a configuration of the free parking space that is suitable for the first motor vehicle, or more precisely, specifies a parking space size that is suitable for the first motor vehicle. In other words, the specified parking criterion can, for example, describe that the free parking space is large enough for the first motor vehicle and can, for example, specify minimum dimensions; and / or, if the user of the first motor vehicle can, for example, use a specially equipped parking space or only a parking space for people with physical disabilities, the specified parking criterion can describe that the free parking space should, for example, be reserved for these people.

[0019] If the checked parking space parameter meets the specified parking criteria, a navigation signal describing the free parking space is provided and transmitted to a driver assistance system of the first motor vehicle and / or the navigation device of the first motor vehicle. The navigation device can then, for example, mark the free parking space on a map and / or set the free parking space as the new navigation destination. Alternatively, the generated navigation signal can, for example, describe control data for controlling the first motor vehicle and transmit it to the driver assistance system.

[0020] This results in the aforementioned advantages. For example, it is possible to query one or more parking location signals from multiple vehicles, for example, simultaneously. With simultaneous querying from multiple vehicles, the time required for data retrieval is minimized, and there is no "continuous transmission" from the perspective of the other vehicle, which has electrical limitations.

[0021] Such a system can be easily integrated into autonomous systems. For example, the parking space search can be activated by a control unit. Thus, a journey can be autonomous from start to finish (parking).

[0022] According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, the parking space allocation device can determine a plurality of additional motor vehicles located within a predetermined radius around the predetermined comparison coordinates. This allows a selection of those additional motor vehicles from which a parking space location signal can be received.

[0023] This can be followed by specifying the additional motor vehicle identified from the plurality of additional motor vehicles that is closest to the first motor vehicle. In other words, the additional motor vehicle identified from the plurality of additional motor vehicles is specified that is closest to the first motor vehicle. This is followed by transmitting a request signal to a transmitting and receiving device of the specified additional motor vehicle, wherein the transmitted request signal can request a parking space location signal. In other words, this makes it possible to first check whether the additional motor vehicle identified as being closest to a free parking space. This reduces the travel time for the first motor vehicle to the free parking space.

[0024] If the specified additional motor vehicle does not send a parking space location signal that describes a free parking space detected by the specified additional motor vehicle with a parking space parameter that meets the parking criterion, the parking space allocation device transmits the request signal to another of the identified additional motor vehicles, wherein the other identified additional motor vehicle is the closest of the other identified motor vehicles to the first motor vehicle.If the nearest motor vehicle cannot report a free parking space that meets the parking criteria - for example, because the nearest motor vehicle does not transmit a parking space location signal, or a parking space location signal transmitted by the nearest motor vehicle does not describe a free parking space (or describes a free parking space that does not meet the parking criteria) - the next motor vehicle following is asked whether it transmits a parking space location signal that reports a suitable free parking space.

[0025] This creates a practical network so that not every vehicle has consumers on board at all times. The next closest vehicle can always be queried in a wave-like manner. This means that moving vehicles can also be queried if necessary; they can then share this information, for example, that they left the parking space at location Y x minutes ago, or that they have registered an empty parking space at location Z. For the first vehicle, possible parking positions that are in its immediate vicinity and / or very close to the destination can be checked. This advantageously shortens information paths, as only data from other vehicles in the surrounding area is retrieved and used.

[0026] Determining that the user of the motor vehicle is looking for a parking space, i.e. determining that a parking space is being sought, can preferably be done using the following variants - alone or in any combination: In a first variant, a current geographical position (i.e. a current geographical location) of the first motor vehicle can be determined, and the determined position can be compared, for example, with map data in which, for example, parking spaces or street parking opportunities can be marked, or a comparison can be made with the help of the current position with a travel destination of the first motor vehicle.

[0027] Additionally or alternatively, it can be determined that the first motor vehicle may be located in a geographical area designated as a parking area. This variant can be easily combined with the first variant.

[0028] Alternatively or additionally, current driving data may be detected that describe a parking space search, and for this purpose, for example, slow stop-and-go driving may be detected, or for example a slow, unexplained speed deceleration (for example, a current speed that is lower than a current speed limit and / or no or only few other road users and / or good visibility).

[0029] The specified parking criterion can, for example, describe a possible parking duration within a specified time period and / or a parking space size suitable for the first motor vehicle. If the parking criterion describes the parking space size, the dimensions of the first motor vehicle, for example, preferably including standard tolerances to enable the vehicle doors to be opened, can be stored in the parking space allocation device. The received parking space location signal can then, as a parking space parameter, describe, for example, the dimensions of the free parking space. The dimensions of the free parking space can be detected and determined by the other motor vehicle, for example, using its sensors, e.g., external cameras. Information on a possible parking duration can, for example, be read from map material.

[0030] To increase comfort and reduce travel effort, according to a further embodiment of the method according to the invention, the parking space allocation device can check whether the parking space parameter described by the received parking space location signal fulfills a predefined advantage criterion, wherein the predefined advantage criterion can describe an added value of a temporal, monetary, and / or safety-related nature that can arise for the user when parking in the free parking space. The added value can be, for example, proximity to the destination, parking space costs, or, for example, safety-relevant information about whether the parking space is located on a brightly lit street or not. The navigation signal can then only be provided if the parking space parameter also fulfills the predefined advantage criterion.

[0031] In a further development, the specified advantage criterion can specify the following as added value: a) a cost indication for a parking fee within a specified price range; and / or b) that the available parking space is less than or equal to a specified maximum distance from the destination and / or the first motor vehicle; and / or c) meets a specified safety standard. In each case, the advantages already mentioned arise.

[0032] According to a further embodiment of the method according to the invention, a particularly dynamic adaptation of the navigation occurs when the parking space allocation device determines the parking space occupancy of a parking infrastructure that provides a plurality of parking spaces (for example, a parking garage or a parking lot). Furthermore, the parking space allocation device can then determine the number of motor vehicles leaving the parking infrastructure and the number of motor vehicles entering the parking infrastructure. In addition, the parking space allocation device can determine at least one free parking space in the parking infrastructure that provides a plurality of parking spaces depending on the determined number of motor vehicles leaving and entering. The provided navigation signal can then additionally describe location data of the parking infrastructure.

[0033] The provided navigation signal can optionally describe control data for steering the first motor vehicle from a current position to the geographical location of the free parking space. The parking space allocation device can preferably transmit the provided navigation signal to a driver assistance system of the first motor vehicle. A parking space search can thus be carried out completely autonomously.

[0034] The above-mentioned object is achieved by a storage medium with program code which, when executed by a processor device, is configured to carry out a method according to one of the preceding claims. A storage medium is understood to be a storage device or a component for storing data, which can be designed, for example, as a memory card or memory chip. A processor device is understood to be a device or a device component for electronic data processing, which can preferably have at least one microcontroller and / or at least one microprocessor. The processor device can preferably be a processor device of the first motor vehicle, a server device external to the motor vehicle, or a mobile terminal. The advantages mentioned above result.

[0035] The above-mentioned object is achieved, while achieving the aforementioned advantages, by a parking space allocation device configured to implement an embodiment of the method according to the invention. The parking space allocation device can, for example, be part of a driver assistance system of the first motor vehicle. The parking space allocation device can, for example, be configured as a control chip or control unit.

[0036] The above-mentioned object is achieved by a server device for operation on the Internet, preferably a vehicle-external server device for operation on the Internet, comprising an embodiment of the storage medium according to the invention and / or an embodiment of the parking space allocation device according to the invention.

[0037] The above-mentioned object is achieved by a motor vehicle having an embodiment of the storage medium according to the invention and / or an embodiment of the parking space allocation device according to the invention.

[0038] The motor vehicle according to the invention is preferably designed as a motor vehicle, in particular as a passenger car or truck, or as a passenger bus or motorcycle.

[0039] The invention also includes further developments of the devices according to the invention that have features already described in connection with the further developments of the method according to the invention. For this reason, the corresponding further developments of the devices according to the invention are not described again here.

[0040] The invention also includes combinations of the features of the described embodiments.

[0041] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are described below. Shown are: Fig. 1 a schematic representation of a first embodiment of the method according to the invention and the devices according to the invention; and Fig. 2 a schematic representation of a further embodiment of the method according to the invention.

[0042] The exemplary embodiments explained below are preferred embodiments of the invention. In the exemplary embodiments, the described components of the embodiments each represent individual features of the invention that can be considered independently of one another, each of which also develops the invention independently of one another. Therefore, the disclosure is intended to encompass combinations of the features of the embodiments other than those shown. Furthermore, the described embodiments can also be supplemented by further features of the invention already described.

[0043] In the figures, the same reference symbols denote elements with the same function.

[0044] The Fig. Figure 1 illustrates the principle of the method and device according to the invention using a first embodiment. Fig. 1 a first motor vehicle 10 which is currently looking for a parking space.

[0045] The first motor vehicle 10 has, for example, a navigation device 12, for example a navigation system, and can have an optional driver assistance system 14. The driver assistance system 14 can, for example, be designed as a conventional driver assistance system. The navigation device 12 can have a communication unit, i.e. a module for sending and receiving signals. Alternatively, signals can be transmitted by a communication unit that is structurally separate from the navigation device 12 (in the Fig. 1 not shown). The motor vehicle 10 can be configured, for example, as a passenger car.

[0046] The Fig. 1 further shows, by way of example, two further motor vehicles 16, which may also be designed as passenger cars or other types of motor vehicles 16.

[0047] The additional motor vehicles 16 can either be parking themselves and / or driving past a parking space and / or parking straight ahead. The additional motor vehicles 16 preferably have a sensor system 17 with which the respective additional motor vehicle 16 can detect a free parking space and / or another motor vehicle occupying a parking space and which can transmit a corresponding signal to a server device 18 external to the motor vehicle. The data communication can take place via a common, preferably wireless, data communication connection 20, for example via an internet connection and / or a mobile radio connection, preferably a 5G connection. Optional motor vehicle-to-motor vehicle communication has the advantage that the transmission requires little bandwidth.The communication between the optional driver assistance system 14 and the navigation device 12 in the first motor vehicle 10 can take place, for example, via a wired data communication connection 20, for example via a data bus of the first motor vehicle 10.

[0048] The vehicle-external server device 18 is in the example of Fig. 1 the component that can comprise the parking space allocation device 22. Alternatively, the parking space allocation device 22 can be a component of the first motor vehicle 10, or of a mobile terminal (in the Fig. 1 not shown).

[0049] The parking space allocation device 22 can preferably have a processor device 24 with, for example, multiple microprocessors and / or a storage medium 26 on which a program code for carrying out the method according to the invention can be stored. The parking space allocation device 22 can be configured, for example, as a control board or control unit, and the optional storage medium 26 can be configured, for example, as a memory card or memory chip.

[0050] In the example of Fig. 1 can preferably be all motor vehicles 10, 16 motor vehicles of a group, i.e. of a motor vehicle manufacturer and / or a brand, which are networked with each other.

[0051] In method step S1, the parking space allocation device 22 determines that the first motor vehicle 10 is searching for a parking space. For this purpose, the parking space allocation device 22 can, for example, determine a current geographical position of the first motor vehicle 10 (S2), for example by evaluating a location signal, for example a GPS signal or GLONASS signal, and for this purpose, for example, compare the received location signal with information in a digital map that identifies the current location of the first motor vehicle 10 as a parking space or street with parking spaces. In other words, it can alternatively or additionally be determined that the first motor vehicle 10 is currently located near an infrastructure with parking spaces (S3).Alternatively or additionally, based on current driving data, for example, data provided by the driver assistance system 14 describing a stop-and-go situation, it can be determined (S4) that the first motor vehicle 10 is likely currently searching for a parking space. Alternatively or additionally, the parking space allocation device 22 can determine (S5) that the first motor vehicle 10 may be located within a predetermined radius of a travel destination of a current navigation route. To this end, the parking space allocation device 22 can, for example, query the route-relevant data from the navigation device 12.

[0052] Alternatively or additionally, the parking space search can be announced and / or triggered, for example, via a voice command via a user interface. If the motor vehicle 16 is operated fully autonomously, for example, the parking space search can be reported by the driver assistance system 14.

[0053] To determine that the first motor vehicle 10 is located in a geographical area marked as a parking opportunity (S3), it can be determined, for example, that the first motor vehicle 10 reaches a signposted area, for example a parking lot or parking garage, or a location that the user usually visits for parking at the current time. For example, the parking space allocation device 22 can determine (S3) that the motor vehicle is arriving at the coordinates of a shopping center or, for example, has just passed through a light barrier of the shopping center. For this purpose, a signal from the light barrier can be received, for example. In other words, according to this example, direct communication can take place between the parking space allocation device 22 and a corresponding sensor / device of the shopping center.

[0054] The parking space allocation device 22 receives at least one parking space location signal (S6), according to the example of Fig. 1, for example, a parking location signal from one of the two further motor vehicles 16, and a further parking location signal from the other of the further motor vehicles 16 (S6). One of the two further motor vehicles 16 of the example of Fig. 1 can, for example, transmit a parking space location signal that can describe that a parking space located next to said further motor vehicle 16 is free, and the geographical coordinates of the free parking space, or a relative indication of the position of the free parking space to the geographical coordinates of the motor vehicle 16. The other of the two further motor vehicles 16 can, for example, transmit a parking space location signal that can also describe the free parking space. Alternatively, for example, one of the motor vehicles 16 itself can be pulling out of a parking space and report its own parking space as having become free. The parking space location signals can each describe the dimensions of the free parking spaces.

[0055] As a parking criterion, it can be specified, for example, and stored for this purpose in the storage medium 26, that a suitable parking space has the dimensions of the first motor vehicle 10 plus a tolerance of 20 centimeters on each side, and optionally an additional advantage criterion can be specified that the proximity of the parking space to a current travel destination of the first motor vehicle 10 is a maximum of 200 meters.

[0056] If the comparison S7 shows that the first motor vehicle 10 or the destination of the first motor vehicle 10 is located, for example, within a specified radius of the free parking space, a check is carried out to determine whether the respective parking space parameter fulfills the specified parking criterion (S8), i.e., whether the design, i.e. the exemplary specified dimensions, of the free parking space are suitable for the motor vehicle (S8). In the case of the example of the Fig. 1, it may be determined, for example, that both parking spaces are suitable for the first motor vehicle 10. As a navigation signal, a signal can be provided (S9), for example, that can describe both free parking spaces and, for example, both parking spaces are to be displayed on a screen by the navigation device 12. After the provided navigation signal has been transmitted to the first motor vehicle 10 (S10), i.e., for example, to the navigation device 12, the two free parking spaces can then be displayed.If the navigation signal describes only one of the two free parking spaces, which has been selected, for example, due to greater proximity to the travel destination and / or to the first motor vehicle 10, and the provided navigation signal is transmitted to the driver assistance system 14 (S10), the first motor vehicle 10, if it is an at least partially autonomously driving, preferably a fully autonomous or piloted motor vehicle 10, can be steered directly to the free parking space.

[0057] When checking whether the parking space parameter meets the optional, predefined advantage criterion (S11), a corresponding filter can be stored in the parking space allocation device 22, which makes the provision of the navigation signal (S9) dependent on the predefined advantage criterion being met. The advantage criterion can be set as a default setting, for example, by the user in a user profile or via the navigation device 12.

[0058] Optionally, the parking space allocation device 22 can provide a digital parking space model (S12), in which, for example, map data can be described, and the locations where, for example, a parking garage or parking lot is located can be marked as such. Additionally, the optional parking space model can describe the data of the received parking space location signals, preferably including information on the dimensions of the free parking spaces and, for example, a security standard of the parking lot. Based on such a digital parking space model, the parking space allocation device 22 can determine a suitable free parking space (S13).

[0059] Preferably, in order to minimize bandwidth requirements and conserve power consumption of the additional motor vehicles, for example, the parking location signals of the additional motor vehicles 16 can be considered and evaluated sequentially rather than simultaneously. For example, the parking location signals can be retrieved from the additional motor vehicles 16 in a wave-like manner. This means that, first, a parking location signal from the additional motor vehicle 16 closest to the first motor vehicle 10 can be queried. If it turns out that the additional motor vehicle 16 is not transmitting a parking location signal that describes a free parking space, or that describes a free parking space that does not meet the parking criterion (optionally the predefined advantage criterion), a parking location signal from another motor vehicle 16 can be checked (S8).The search for a free parking space is simplified and made more specific by determining the majority of other motor vehicles (S14), all of which are positioned within a predetermined radius around the predetermined comparison coordinates, i.e., only those other motor vehicles 16 are taken into account that are parked or driving within a radius of 200 meters of the travel destination and / or the first motor vehicle 10. Based on the travel destination or the location of the first motor vehicle 10, it can be determined, for example, by comparing coordinates, which of the other motor vehicles 10 is most conveniently located, and this can be specified as the other motor vehicle (S15) to which a request signal is transmitted (S16).If the evaluation of its parking space location signal does not reveal a suitable free parking space for the first motor vehicle 10, the request signal can be transmitted to the next of the other motor vehicles 16 (S16).

[0060] To determine even more precisely whether / where a free parking space is available, the parking space allocation device 22 can optionally determine a parking space occupancy of a parking infrastructure (S17), for example an occupancy of a parking garage.

[0061] For example, parking space occupancy can be queried from a server in the exemplary parking garage. Using a signal from a light barrier or a monitoring system in the exemplary parking garage, it can be determined how many vehicles have left the parking garage and how many have re-entered in the last five minutes (S18).

[0062] In method step S19, it can be determined whether at least one parking space is likely to be free; in other words, the presence of a free parking space can be predicted. The navigation signal can then, for example, describe the location data of the exemplary parking garage. The fourth parking deck can then be specified as the new navigation destination, or, if the first motor vehicle 10 is a piloted vehicle, the first motor vehicle 10 can then be steered directly to the deck on which the free parking space is likely to be located.

[0063] The Fig. 2 shows a further embodiment of the method according to the invention, which preferably corresponds to that of the description Fig. 1, whereby only deviations, additions or other features are discussed below. Fig. 2 shows the system from the perspective of another motor vehicle 16, which can, for example, simultaneously collect data about parking space occupancy on, for example, a street, which can be used by motor vehicles 10 looking for parking spaces. In other words, the Fig. 2, the parking motor vehicle 10 can also simultaneously be another motor vehicle 16 for other parking space seekers, which can provide data on a free parking space.

[0064] The example of Fig. Figure 2 shows four additional, already parked vehicles, which can optionally also detect whether the parking spaces to the left and right of them are free or occupied. In other words, the parked vehicles can also be considered additional vehicles 16.

[0065] The parking space allocation device 22 may, for example, be a component of a server device 18 (in the Fig. 2 not shown), which can be designed, for example, as a data cloud.

[0066] The arrows from the parked vehicles represent a transmission of respective parking space location signals and / or the information from the motor vehicle 10, 16 that these parking spaces are occupied. The arrows from the free parking spaces to the parking space allocation device 22 represent the information transmitted by the motor vehicle 10, 16 that these parking spaces are free. The motor vehicle 10, 16 of the Fig. 2 can, for example, be configured and designed for sign recognition in road traffic, for example, for recognizing signs regarding parking conditions or a display of free parking spaces in a parking garage. The motor vehicle 10, 16 of the example of Fig.2 can, for example, already park itself, meaning it is capable of classifying a parking space as such and recognizing its size, for example, by measuring it. Optionally, all different types of parking spaces can be reliably recognized, such as accessible parking spaces. The motor vehicle 10, 16 can, for example, have cameras arranged all around its outer shell and / or can have one or more infrared sensors and / or lidar sensors that can, for example, monitor motor vehicles driving ahead in traffic. Such sensors and the camera can then be used for the purpose of scanning parking spaces and parking rows and programmed accordingly.

[0067] Overall, the examples show how the invention can provide a service for a comprehensive evaluation of the parking space offer.

[0068] A prerequisite, for example, might be that all vehicles (10, 16) of a single brand (i.e., a corporation or vehicle manufacturer) can be networked with each other. One component is to harness this collective intelligence of the masses to shorten information channels and make them more innovative. This idea could begin with the use of existing navigation and information materials. By choosing to participate in the parking service, the user can also allow the use of their data.

[0069] For example, each participating vehicle 10, 16 can update and improve the existing data. For example, the location of parking spaces and the parking conditions are entered into the system, both while the vehicle is in operation and while parked. In particular, parking spaces vacated by other vehicles and parking slots that have been "vacated" by the vehicle itself are reported.

[0070] At this point, a certain logic can preferably be implemented so that multiple road users do not aim for just one parking space. This way, the closest motor vehicle 10 preferably receives the message.

[0071] The first motor vehicle 10 can remember a search for a parking space, i.e. determine it (S1): for example, independently of the network, the first motor vehicle 10 can draw logical conclusions and process data more quickly. If the first motor vehicle 10 drives into a shopping center, for example, it can be clear that a parking space is being sought. The first motor vehicle 10 can now actively search for available parking spaces. The parking space search can also be explicitly activated, for example, via a control panel or voice command. For example, an illogically regulated speed along a row of parking spaces, reaching a signposted parking space / parking garage or a location within a certain time frame in which the user usually parks there can also activate the parking space search.

[0072] The motor vehicle can detect parking spaces and / or parking maneuvers: For example, it can detect free parking spaces and vehicles that are currently or likely to be vacating parking spaces using image and possibly audio recordings. Infrared sensors / lidar sensors (general sensor technology) and cameras (available for autonomous driving) can also detect free parking spaces. In addition to the obvious detection, If a vehicle is parked in a parking space, e.g., based on its body, a more extensive detection can be provided. For example, along a long road or in large parking areas, possible parking spaces can be determined based on the distance between the visible pairs of tires. The vehicle can also observe the behavior of other road users in order to be able to estimate at an early stage whether a vehicle intends to park in the parking space or not.

[0073] Vehicle can detect parking spaces in the parking garage: In addition, optional data such as the number of free parking spaces in a parking garage can be entered into the system by participating vehicles even without cooperation with the parking provider. For example, the motor vehicle 16 can recognize parking signage with a digital display and / or the number of free parking spaces and can assign them. Depending on the time intervals at which a participating vehicle has driven through the parking garage, even fully parked parking garage levels can be directly incorporated into the driving style.

[0074] User interface: When the user enters the first motor vehicle 10, they can communicate their destination to the first motor vehicle 10 via the navigation system. By providing certain information such as the desired parking duration, the maximum distance between the destination and the parking space, a cost specification, the parking space size, and / or parking security, the suggested parking positions can be filtered according to the user's needs. For example, by comparing the arrival time with the typical density of free parking spaces at that time, the reported data on free parking spaces the closer the first motor vehicle 10 gets to the destination, and the desired conditions, the user can choose from a number of suggested parking options (cost, time limit, distance to the destination, parking security, parking space size).Finally, a corresponding visualization of the parking space / parking garage with the free parking slots can preferably be provided in order to enable the user to choose the most attractive parking space for him, regardless of whether the first motor vehicle 10 or he himself is driving.

[0075] Among the advantages: All aspects of the idea are particularly interesting for the suitability of autonomous systems in urban traffic and everyday use. Parking space detection is important here. In this case, the decision to possibly drive another lap "around the block" can be made by the first vehicle, for example, taking the specified parking parameters into account.

[0076] Due to the incredibly broad range of vehicles, the automotive manufacturer has enormous potential for such ideas surrounding vehicle networking. The more vehicles participate in the described idea, the more up-to-date the information in the system will be. If the system is integrated into road users such as taxis, buses, or possibly autonomous passenger transporters, the data can be provided even more regularly and predictably.

[0077] Ultimately, every participating vehicle 10, 16 is searching for parking spaces while moving or stationary, resulting in an incredible amount of current information.

[0078] If the parking space allocation device 22, for example, a parking space allocation device 22 of the first motor vehicle 10, detects a parking space search (S1) but can identify a cheaper / closer / safer parking option within the specified parking parameters, additional revenue can be generated through this service offering. If the user navigates to a parking space (but this is different from the specified destination, for example), the first motor vehicle 10 can send the message to the user, "X other suitable parking options have been detected near your destination. Would you like to use the parking service (...) for a fee?"

[0079] In addition, the choice of parking space is tailored directly to the user, making it more user-friendly and innovative.

[0080] A technical implementation of a further exemplary embodiment can, for example, provide for a large portion of the necessary systems to already be integrated into the other motor vehicle 16. For example, the sign recognition function in road traffic could then also recognize signs regarding parking conditions or the display of free parking spaces in a parking garage. Furthermore, vehicles can already park themselves, meaning they are able to classify a parking space as such and recognize its size. This logic can be expanded if necessary to reliably recognize all different types of parking spaces. Cameras are already present around the vehicle; these must then also be usable when stationary.For example, infrared sensors and lidar sensors, which monitor vehicles ahead in traffic, are already available, so they can only be used for the purpose of scanning parking spaces and rows of parking spaces and programmed accordingly.

[0081] In other words, the motor vehicle 10 and / or the additional motor vehicle 16 can "know" where other motor vehicles are parked, i.e., whether there is a parking space to the left / right / front / rear, for example, and whether this space is occupied by another vehicle. Information about the relative position of other parking spaces to a parked motor vehicle 16 can be acquired either from the interaction of map material / GPS or by using existing systems. The additional motor vehicle 16 can already recognize a parking space, as well as a series of parking spaces, using the parking assistant. Whether these are occupied can also be determined, for example, by a parking aid with an "extended" field of view (e.g., ultrasound or radar) or a camera. Significant points can be, for example, the wheels, a license plate, or simply the detection that something is parked there.Further possibilities to determine whether a parking space is occupied / free would be possible by using, for example, an infrared sensor and / or an acoustic sensor.

[0082] What is interesting about these types of sensors is that, unlike a camera, they are not as data-protection-intensive, meaning they only capture the environment for a short time.

[0083] If the other motor vehicle 16 knows, for example, that there are parking spaces to the left and right of the vehicle, it can only check these for availability. For example, if the acoustic sensor receives a signal on the left side whose frequency components (or frequency sequence) correspond to the process "door(s) open, door(s) closed, and engine on," then, depending on the reliability of the system, this can be immediately reported as free. Otherwise, the parking space is checked for availability, for example, using a camera / infrared sensor.

[0084] To ensure that not every additional motor vehicle 16 constantly has consumers on board, the system can be networked in an even more practical way. If a first motor vehicle 10 is looking for a parking space, it can activate the parking space search. Based on the position of the first motor vehicle 10 and / or the destination, the next closest additional motor vehicle 16 can be queried, preferably in waves, and if necessary also other moving motor vehicles 16. These can then, for example, share the information that they left the parking space at location Y X minutes ago. It would also be conceivable to share the information that they registered an empty parking space at location Z. For the parked vehicle, this would mean that they check the possible parking positions (reference to the above explanation) in their immediate vicinity.For example, the following may apply: The next closest motor vehicle 16 to the first motor vehicle 10 may only have a parking space to its left. This space is checked, but is occupied. The next motor vehicle 16 is then queried (S15, S16) until a free parking space is registered.

[0085] Simultaneous querying of several other vehicles (16) would also be conceivable. This would eliminate the need for extended parking situation monitoring, nor would a "continuous transmission" be required, which would have power limitations. Another interesting feature is that this system is so well integrated into autonomous systems. The parking space search can also be activated by a control unit. Thus, a journey can, at least theoretically, be autonomous from start to finish (parking).

Claims

[1] Method for operating a first motor vehicle (10), the method comprising the following steps carried out by a parking space allocation device (22): - Determining that a user of the first motor vehicle (10) is looking for a parking space (S1), - Determining a plurality of further motor vehicles (16) which are located within a predetermined radius around the predetermined comparison coordinates (S14), - specifying the identified motor vehicle (16) from the plurality of identified further motor vehicles (16) which is the closest further motor vehicle (16) to the first motor vehicle (10) (S15), - transmitting a request signal to a transmitting and receiving device of the specified further motor vehicle (16), the request signal requesting a parking space location signal (S16), - if the specified further motor vehicle (16) does not send a parking space location signal describing a free parking space detected by the specified further motor vehicle (16): transmitting the request signal (S16) to another of the determined further motor vehicles (16) which is the closest of the other determined motor vehicles (16) to the first motor vehicle (10), - in the case of a parking space search: receiving at least one parking space location signal of the specified further motor vehicle (16), wherein the received parking space location signal describes a free parking space detected by the at least one further motor vehicle (16), a geographical position of the free parking space and a value of a parking space parameter of the free parking space (S6), wherein the parking space parameter describes the dimensions of the free parking space, - comparing the geographical position of the respective free parking space with predetermined geographical comparison coordinates which describe a travel destination of the first motor vehicle (10) and / or a current position of the first motor vehicle (10) (S7), - if the comparison shows that the respective free parking space is located within a specified radius around the specified comparison coordinates: Check whether the parking space parameter meets a specified parking criterion, whereby the specified parking criterion describes a design of the free parking space and thus specifies a parking space size that is suitable for the first motor vehicle (S8), - if the checked parking space parameter meets the specified parking criterion: providing a navigation signal that describes the free parking space (S9) and - transmitting the provided navigation signal to a navigation device and / or a driver assistance system of the first motor vehicle (10, S10). [2] Method according to claim 1, wherein the determination that the user of the first motor vehicle (10) is looking for a parking space (S1) is carried out by: - determining a current geographical position of the first motor vehicle (10, S2), and / or - determining that the first motor vehicle (10) is located in a geographical area designated as a parking space (S3); and / or - Determining current driving data describing a parking space search (S4). [3] Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the predetermined parking criterion describes a possible parking duration within a predetermined time range. [4] Method according to one of the preceding claims, comprising the following step carried out by the parking space allocation device (22): - Checking whether the parking space parameter fulfills a predetermined advantage criterion (S11), whereby the predetermined advantage criterion describes an added value of a temporal, monetary and / or safety-related nature that results for the user when parking in the free parking space, whereby the provision of the navigation signal (S9) only occurs if the parking space parameter additionally fulfills the predetermined advantage criterion. [5] Method according to claim 4, wherein the predetermined advantage criterion specifies as added value: a) a cost indication for a parking fee within a predetermined price range; and / or b) that the free parking space is less than a predetermined maximum distance from the travel destination and / or the first motor vehicle (10), or corresponds to the predetermined maximum distance; and / or c) meets a predetermined safety standard. [6] Method according to one of the preceding claims, comprising the following steps carried out by the parking space allocation device (22): - Determining the parking occupancy of a parking infrastructure that provides a plurality of parking spaces (S17), - Determining the number of motor vehicles leaving the parking infrastructure and determining the number of motor vehicles entering the parking infrastructure (S18), and - depending on the detected number of leaving and entering motor vehicles: detecting at least one free parking space of the parking infrastructure which provides a plurality of parking spaces (S19), whereby the provided navigation signal additionally describes location data of the parking infrastructure. [7] Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the provided navigation signal additionally describes control data for controlling the first motor vehicle (10) from a current position to the geographical location of the free parking space, and wherein the parking space allocation device (22) transmits the provided navigation signal to a driver assistance system (14) of the first motor vehicle (10) (S10). [8] Storage medium (26) with a program code which is adapted to carry out a method according to one of the preceding claims when executed by a processor device (24). [9] Parking space allocation device (22) which is arranged to carry out a method according to one of claims 1 to 7. [10] Server device (18) for operation on the Internet, comprising a storage medium (26) according to claim 8 and / or a parking space allocation device (22) according to claim 9. [11] Motor vehicle (10) comprising a storage medium (26) according to claim 8 and / or a parking space allocation device according to claim 9.

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