Methods for warning a vulnerable road user

Abstract

Procedure for warning a vulnerable road user (401), comprising the following steps: Receiving (101) of ambient signals representing the environment of the road user (401) and the road user (401), Receiving (103) communication address signals representing a communication address of a mobile communication device (407) carried by the road user (401), Determine (105) based on the surrounding signals whether the road user (401) is in danger, in the event of a danger threatening the road user (401), generating (107) communication message signals which represent a communication message to be sent to the communication address of the mobile communication device (407) for the mobile communication device (407), wherein the communication message includes a warning to the road user (401), Output (109) of the generated communication message signals to send the communication message to the communication address of the mobile communication device (407), receiving safety condition signals which represent at least one safety condition which must be met in order for the road user (401) to be warned, checking whether the at least one safety condition is met, and generating the communication message signals based on a result of checking whether the at least one safety condition is met.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a method for warning a vulnerable road user. The invention further relates to a device, a computer program, and a machine-readable storage medium. State of the art

[0002] The patent application DE 10 2017 214 258 A1 discloses a safety system for an electric bicycle.

[0003] The patent application DE 10 2018 000 303 A1 discloses a method and a system for taking into account safety aspects relating to the operation of a vehicle in an environment with vulnerable road users.

[0004] The patent application DE 10 2018 107 756 A1 discloses systems for issuing a warning signal from a vehicle to warn nearby entities.

[0005] Disclosure document DE 10 2017 122 084 A1 discloses a method for preventing accidents involving vulnerable road users.

[0006] The patent application DE 10 2017 200 842 A1 discloses a method for operating a traffic control infrastructure.

[0007] The patent application DE 10 2016 226 051 A1 discloses a method for providing a warning signal. Disclosure of the invention

[0008] The object underlying the invention is to provide a concept for efficiently warning an unprotected road user.

[0009] This problem is solved by means of the respective subject matter of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are the subject matter of dependent claims.

[0010] Following a first aspect, a procedure for warning an unprotected road user is provided, comprising the following steps: receiving environmental signals representing the road user's surroundings and the road user themselves; receiving communication address signals representing the communication address of a mobile communication device carried by the road user; Determine, based on environmental signals, whether the road user is in danger, In the event of a danger threatening the road user, generating communication message signals which represent a communication message to be sent to the communication address of the mobile communication device, wherein the communication message includes a warning to the road user. Outputting the generated communication message signals to send the communication message to the communication address of the mobile communication device.

[0011] According to a second aspect, a device is provided which is set up to carry out all steps of the procedure according to the first aspect.

[0012] According to a third aspect, a computer program is provided which includes instructions that, when the computer program is executed by a computer, for example by the device according to the second aspect, cause it to execute a procedure according to the first aspect.

[0013] According to a fourth aspect, a machine-readable storage medium is provided on which the computer program is stored according to the third aspect.

[0014] The invention is based on the finding and includes the fact that the above problem can be solved by sending a warning to the road user's mobile communication device via a communication network, in particular a wireless communication network, for example a mobile network and / or WLAN communication network, when a danger threatens the road user. This provides the particular technical advantage that the road user can be warned efficiently from a distance.

[0015] This means, in particular, that the communication message can be sent from an infrastructure to the mobile communication device, for example, with the road user being located within this infrastructure.

[0016] This means, in particular, that while the road user is within the infrastructure, the infrastructure monitors whether they are at risk due to their own behavior and / or the behavior of other road users in their vicinity. If this is the case, the vulnerable road user is warned via their mobile communication device.

[0017] This results, for example, in the technical advantage that the unprotected road user can react to the danger threatening him himself.

[0018] Thus, for example, the vulnerable road user can take action to at least minimize or avert the danger threatening him.

[0019] Ultimately, this results in the particular technical advantage of providing a concept for efficiently warning an unprotected road user.

[0020] An unprotected road user, as defined in this description, refers in particular to a road user who is not protected by a covering, such as a vehicle body. An unprotected road user is therefore, for example, a pedestrian, a cyclist, a scooter rider, a kick scooter rider, or a motorcyclist, especially a moped rider or motorcyclist, or a rider of a two-wheeler.

[0021] This means, in particular, that the unprotected road user is, for example, an element selected from the following group of unprotected road users: pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, two-wheeler riders, moped riders, motorcyclists, kick scooter riders, scooter riders.

[0022] The abbreviation "VRU" can be used below to refer to vulnerable road users. "VRU" stands for "Vulnerable Road User".

[0023] A protective shell could be, for example, a driver's cab.

[0024] Unprotected road users generally face a higher risk of being injured or killed, as they are not surrounded by a protective shell.

[0025] By providing a concept for efficiently warning a vulnerable road user, the corresponding risk of the vulnerable road user being injured or killed can be reduced or eliminated.

[0026] Where the singular is used for vulnerable road users, the plural should always be implied, and vice versa. Statements made in connection with one vulnerable road user apply analogously to multiple vulnerable road users and vice versa.

[0027] This means, in particular, that several vulnerable road users can also be warned according to the concept described here.

[0028] A mobile communication device as defined in the description is, for example, one of the following mobile communication devices: mobile phone, for example a smartphone, tablet, a smart watch (also referred to as a "smartwatch" in English).

[0029] A mobile communication device is, for example, integrated into or encompassed by clothing. Such clothing can also be referred to as smart clothing.

[0030] A mobile communication device is, for example, integrated into or encompassed by eyeglasses. For instance, the eyeglasses might include lenses with an integrated screen. The warning can then be conveniently displayed visually on such a screen.

[0031] A mobile communication device is, for example, designed to be implanted in a person. Therefore, an unprotected road user may, for example, have an implanted mobile communication device.

[0032] A mobile communication device is, for example, integrated into or encompassed by jewelry, such as a ring.

[0033] The mobile communication device is, for example, carried on the person of the unprotected road user.

[0034] For example, it is intended that the mobile communication device is located in a vehicle driven by the vulnerable road user.

[0035] For example, it is planned that the mobile communication device will be implemented or integrated into the vehicle.

[0036] For example, it is intended that the mobile communication device is enclosed within the vehicle.

[0037] The mobile communication device can, for example, be formed as a so-called "connectivity unit", i.e. as a connection or communication unit of the vehicle.

[0038] For example, the mobile communication device is integrated into a main control unit of the vehicle or into a control unit of the vehicle.

[0039] For example, multiple mobile communication devices are provided for. For example, a first mobile communication device may be enclosed by the vehicle, and a second mobile communication device may be enclosed by or carried by the vulnerable road user.

[0040] Statements made in connection with one mobile communication device apply analogously to multiple mobile communication devices and vice versa.

[0041] A vehicle within the meaning of the description is, for example, one of the following vehicles: motorcycle, bicycle, scooter, e-scooter, e-bike, generally motor vehicle or motor vehicle, two-wheeler, kick scooter, moped.

[0042] According to one embodiment, the unprotected road user is supposed to drive a vehicle.

[0043] For example, the vehicle is designed to include an engine. The engine could be, for example, an electric motor or an internal combustion engine.

[0044] For example, the vehicle includes several engines, such as an internal combustion engine and an electric motor.

[0045] For example, the vehicle is equipped to be driven at least semi-automatically. This means, in particular, that the vehicle's lateral and / or longitudinal guidance can be at least partially automated.

[0046] According to one embodiment, it is provided that, in the event of a danger threatening the road user, an instruction for action is determined for the road user based on the environmental signals in order to reduce the risk posed by the danger threatening the road user, wherein the communication message includes the instruction for action.

[0047] This results, for example, in the technical advantage that road users can be efficiently provided with instructions for action, which, if followed by the road user, can lead to an efficient reduction in the danger posed to the road user.

[0048] Reducing the risk must be seen in particular in relation to the case in which the road user himself takes no action to reduce the risk.

[0049] According to one embodiment, in the event of a danger threatening the road user, control commands for controlling the mobile communication device are determined in such a way that, when the mobile communication device is controlled based on the control commands, the mobile communication device outputs the communication message via a loudspeaker of the mobile communication device at maximum volume and / or that the mobile communication device plays a ringtone at maximum volume and / or that the warning is displayed on a screen of the mobile communication device (407) and / or that the mobile communication device vibrates.

[0050] This results, for example, in the technical advantage that the communication message, and in particular the warning, can be efficiently output acoustically. By outputting it at maximum volume, or by the mobile telecommunications device playing a ringtone at maximum volume, the technical advantage is achieved, for example, that vulnerable road users can potentially perceive this communication message or ringtone even in noisy environments.

[0051] According to one embodiment, it is provided that, in the event of a danger threatening the road user, control commands for controlling the mobile communication device are determined in such a way that, when the mobile communication device is controlled based on the control commands, the mobile communication device issues the warning visually and / or audibly and / or haptically.

[0052] According to one embodiment, in the event of a danger threatening a road user and while the road user is driving a motor-driven vehicle, remote control signals are generated for remotely controlling the lateral and / or longitudinal guidance of the vehicle in such a way that, when the lateral and / or longitudinal guidance of the vehicle is controlled based on the remote control signals, the vehicle performs a driving maneuver that reduces the danger posed to the road user, with the remote control signals being output.

[0053] This results, for example, in the technical advantage that the risk posed to road users can be efficiently reduced.

[0054] Here too, the reduction should be seen in relation to the case in which the road user does not perform any actions himself.

[0055] In one embodiment, the at least one safety condition is selected from the following groups of safety conditions: the presence of a predetermined Safety Integrity Level (SIL or Automotive Safety Integrity Level ASIL) of at least the vehicle and the infrastructure, in particular including a communication link and / or communication components, especially with regard to the overall systems in the vehicle and infrastructure, and in particular parts; e.g., components, algorithms, interfaces, etc.; the presence of a maximum latency of communication between the mobile communication device or the vehicle and the infrastructure; the presence of a predetermined computer protection level of a device for carrying out the steps of the method according to the first aspect; and the presence of predetermined components and / or algorithms and / or communication capabilities.which are used to execute the steps of the procedure according to the first aspect, the existence of redundancy and / or diversity in predetermined components and / or algorithms and / or communication options, which are used to execute the steps of the procedure according to the first aspect, the existence of predetermined availability information indicating the availability of predetermined components and / or algorithms and / or communication options, the existence of predetermined quality criteria for the predetermined components and / or algorithms and / or communication options, the existence of a plan that includes measures to reduce errors and / or measures in case of failure of predetermined components and / or algorithms and / or communication options and / or measures for misanalysis and / or measures in case of misinterpretation, the existence of one or more fallback scenarios, the existence of a predetermined function,The existence of a predetermined traffic situation, the existence of predetermined weather conditions, the maximum possible time for each execution of one or more steps of the procedure according to the first aspect, and the existence of a test result confirming that elements or functions used to execute the procedure according to the first aspect are currently functioning correctly.

[0056] A communication link is, for example, a communication link between the device described in the second aspect and the motor vehicle or mobile communication device. A communication link comprises, for example, one or more communication channels.

[0057] In one embodiment, a component used to carry out the method according to the first aspect is an element selected from the following group of components: environment sensor, vehicle, infrastructure, device according to the second aspect, vehicle system, in particular drive system, clutch system, brake system, driver assistance system, communication interface of the vehicle or the infrastructure, processor, input, output of the device according to the second aspect, control unit, in particular main control unit of the vehicle.

[0058] A computer protection level is defined in particular as follows: an activated firewall and / or a valid encryption certificate for encrypting communication between the vehicle or mobile communication device and the infrastructure, and / or an activated virus program with current virus signatures, and / or the presence of protection, in particular mechanical protection, especially burglary protection, for the computer, in particular the device according to the second aspect, and / or the presence of a means of verification that signals, in particular infrastructure data signals, were transmitted correctly, i.e., without errors.

[0059] An algorithm, for example, includes the computer program according to the third aspect.

[0060] By specifically checking that redundancy and / or diversity exists in predetermined components and / or algorithms and / or communication options, the technical advantage is achieved, for example, that if the corresponding component, such as a computer, or the corresponding algorithm or communication option fails, a safe function can still be executed.

[0061] To ensure the accuracy of results, one embodiment allows them to be calculated multiple times and the corresponding results to be compared. Only if the results match is it determined that the results are correct. If an odd number occurs multiple times, it can be stipulated, for example, that the result with the highest number of identical results is considered correct.

[0062] According to one embodiment, it is provided that one or more process steps are documented, in particular documented in a blockchain.

[0063] This results, for example, in the technical advantage that the process can be analyzed retrospectively after it has been carried out or executed, due to the documentation. Documenting in a blockchain offers the particular technical advantage that the documentation is tamper-proof and forgery-proof.

[0064] A blockchain (also called a block chain) is, in particular, a continuously expanding list of data records, called "blocks," that are linked together using one or more cryptographic methods. Each block contains, in particular, a cryptographically secure hash (value) of the previous block, a timestamp, and transaction data.

[0065] In one embodiment, it is provided that it is verified whether an entirety consisting of a vehicle or mobile communication device and infrastructure involved in the method according to the first aspect, including communication between infrastructure and vehicle or mobile communication device, is secure, so that the vehicle and / or a local and / or a global infrastructure encompassed by the infrastructure, and / or communication between vehicle and infrastructure are checked accordingly.

[0066] This means, in particular, that the components used in the execution of the procedure according to the first aspect are checked for safety, i.e., whether they meet certain safety conditions, before the road user may be warned or the vehicle may be remotely controlled.

[0067] Important or dependent criteria include, for example, one or more of the safety conditions described above.

[0068] In this context, "Sicher" (safe) specifically means "safe" and "secure." While these two English terms are usually translated into German as "sicher," they have slightly different meanings in English.

[0069] The term "safe" refers specifically to the topic of accidents and accident prevention. A warning or remote control function, which determines whether a system is "safe," ensures that the probability of an accident or collision is less than or equal to a predetermined probability threshold.

[0070] The term "secure" is specifically directed towards the topic of computer protection or hacker protection, i.e., how secure a (computer) infrastructure and / or a communication infrastructure, in particular a communication link between a vehicle or mobile communication device and a device according to the second aspect, is against unauthorized access or data manipulation by third parties ("hackers").

[0071] A warning or remote control, which is "secure", therefore relies in particular on adequate and sufficient computer protection or hacker protection.

[0072] In one embodiment, an area is defined which is monitored by means of one or more environmental sensors.

[0073] An unprotected road user can also be abbreviated as "VRU" below.

[0074] An exemplary use case may include one or more of the following embodiments, features, or examples: In one embodiment, it is provided that the unprotected road user drives or moves into an area which is monitored by means of one or more environmental sensors.

[0075] In one embodiment, it is determined that the VRU moves or travels into the area.

[0076] For example, information signals are received indicating that the VRU is approaching the area. These information signals are transmitted by the VRU's mobile communication device or vehicle. Based on these signals, it is determined that the VRU is approaching or moving towards the area. For example, the vehicle or mobile communication device transmits a signal and is thereby detected. This means, in particular, that the vehicle or mobile communication device can transmit a signal, such as a position signal. For example, it is intended that, in response to such a signal, it is determined that the VRU is approaching or moving towards the area.

[0077] For example, environmental signals are processed, particularly using the infrastructure, to detect a VRU vehicle approaching or moving within the area. The vehicle can be detected, for example, via its license plate. Processing the environmental signals includes, in particular, license plate recognition. The infrastructure can detect the VRU or its vehicle, for example, using at least one visual environmental sensor, especially a video sensor.

[0078] For example, the vehicle or mobile communication device is connected to the infrastructure via communication technology or is (automatically) connected to the infrastructure in front of the area (especially automatically).

[0079] The infrastructure includes, for example, the device described in the second aspect.

[0080] The mobile communication device can, for example, be part of the vehicle. For instance, the vehicle contains a mobile communication device, and the road user also has a mobile communication device. Thus, for example, two mobile communication devices can be provided: a first mobile communication device carried by the road user, and a second mobile communication device is part of the vehicle, specifically integrated or installed within it.

[0081] For example, the VRU is located, meaning its position is determined.

[0082] Data is sent by the mobile communication device, for example automatically or upon request. This data includes, for example, location data, especially GPS data, and / or speed data.

[0083] The position of the VRU and / or its direction of movement is, in particular regularly, further detected and / or predicted.

[0084] For example, a traffic situation is analyzed, in particular using the construction site infrastructure, especially using the device according to the second aspect.

[0085] Analyzing traffic events includes, for example, processing data sent by other road users, especially motor vehicles, such as position data and / or speed data, and / or processing, for example, visual evaluation, of the environmental sensor data from the infrastructure's environmental sensors.

[0086] The infrastructure analyzes, for example, traffic patterns to determine whether the VRU is at risk.

[0087] If an imminent danger to the VRU is identified, then according to one embodiment at least one of the following actions is triggered or steps are carried out: The VRU is informed or warned.

[0088] For example, the VRU (Vehicle Control Unit) can remotely intervene in the operation of the vehicle. This means, for example, that the vehicle's lateral and / or longitudinal guidance can be remotely controlled. For instance, the vehicle can be braked remotely, or even brought to a complete stop. Depending on the analysis of the traffic situation, remote evasive maneuvers, for example to avoid an obstacle, and / or acceleration may be implemented as additional or alternative steps to remote braking.

[0089] For example, other road users, especially motor vehicles, in the vicinity of the VRU (Vehicle Safety Unit) are informed about the danger threatening the VRU. This information is disseminated, for example, via V21 communication systems. Information is also disseminated, for example, via external road user information systems, especially those external to motor vehicles, such as signs and / or audio systems.

[0090] If another road user is a remotely controlled vehicle, the system may intervene remotely in the operation of the remotely controlled vehicle. This means, for example, that the lateral and / or longitudinal control of the remotely controlled vehicle can be remotely controlled. For example, the remotely controlled vehicle may be braked remotely, or even brought to a stop. Depending on the analysis of the traffic situation, additional or alternative measures to remote braking may include remote evasive action, for example, to avoid a collision, and / or acceleration.

[0091] For example, a traffic management system comprehensively uses, i.e., controls, traffic facilities, in particular traffic signal systems and / or display systems, to neutralize or reduce the danger threatening road users.

[0092] The process steps are preferably documented in a tamper-proof and traceable manner, especially in a blockchain.

[0093] According to one embodiment, it is provided that, firstly, the entire system (vehicle or mobile communication device, infrastructure, communication link, cloud ...) is checked with regard to at least one safety condition.

[0094] According to one embodiment, it is provided that the individual parts are also checked to ensure they meet at least one safety requirement. This is done in particular before the vehicle is remotely controlled.

[0095] The testing step(s) are carried out in one embodiment internally within the vehicle or by means of the mobile communication device and / or externally outside the vehicle or outside of the mobile communication device, in particular in an infrastructure.

[0096] In one embodiment, the verification step(s) are subsequently checked, i.e., at a later time, for example, regularly. For instance, the verification step(s) are subsequently checked at a predetermined frequency, for example, every 100 ms.

[0097] For example, according to one embodiment, this verification, i.e., checking whether at least one safety condition is met, takes place before and / or after and / or during one or more predetermined process steps.

[0098] According to one embodiment, the checking process is carried out or performed in case of problems.

[0099] The phrase "at least partially automated leadership" includes one or more of the following cases: assisted leadership, semi-automated leadership, highly automated leadership, fully automated leadership.

[0100] Assisted driving means that the driver of the vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, permanently performs either the lateral or longitudinal control of the vehicle. The other driving task (i.e., controlling the longitudinal or lateral movement of the vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle) is performed automatically. This means that with assisted driving, either the lateral or the longitudinal control is automatic.

[0101] Partially automated driving means that in a specific situation (for example: driving on a highway, driving within a parking lot, overtaking an object, driving within a lane defined by lane markings) and / or for a certain period of time, the longitudinal and lateral control of the vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, is automatically controlled. The driver of the vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, does not need to manually control the longitudinal and lateral control of the vehicle. However, the driver must continuously monitor the automatic control of the longitudinal and lateral control in order to be able to intervene manually if necessary. The driver must be ready to fully take over control of the vehicle, in particular the motor vehicle, at any time.

[0102] Highly automated driving means that, for a certain period of time in a specific situation (for example: driving on a highway, driving within a parking lot, overtaking an object, driving within a lane defined by lane markings), the longitudinal and lateral control of the vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, is automatically managed. The driver of the vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, does not need to manually control the longitudinal and lateral control. The driver does not need to continuously monitor the automatic control of the longitudinal and lateral control in order to be able to intervene manually if necessary. If required, a takeover request is automatically issued to the driver to assume control of the longitudinal and lateral control, in particular with a sufficient time buffer. The driver must therefore be potentially capable of taking over the control of the longitudinal and lateral control.The limits of automatic control of lateral and longitudinal guidance are automatically detected. With highly automated guidance, it is not possible to automatically create a risk-minimizing state in every initial situation.

[0103] Fully automated driving means that in a specific situation (for example: driving on a highway, driving within a parking lot, overtaking an object, driving within a lane defined by lane markings), the longitudinal and lateral control of the vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, is automated. The driver of the vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, does not need to manually control the longitudinal and lateral control of the vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle. The driver does not need to monitor the automated control of longitudinal and lateral control in order to be able to intervene manually if necessary. Before the automated control of longitudinal and lateral control ends, the driver is automatically prompted to take over the driving task (controlling the lateral and longitudinal control of the vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle), in particular with a sufficient time buffer.If the driver does not take over the driving task, the system automatically returns to a low-risk state. Limits of the automatic control of lateral and longitudinal guidance are automatically detected. In all situations, it is possible to automatically return to a low-risk system state.

[0104] The unprotected road user, when operating a vehicle, can also be referred to as the driver of the vehicle.

[0105] According to one embodiment, the method according to the first aspect is a computer-implemented method.

[0106] According to one embodiment, the method according to the first aspect is carried out or performed by means of the device according to the second aspect.

[0107] Device features are derived analogously from corresponding process features, and vice versa. This means, in particular, that the technical functionalities of the device according to the second aspect are derived analogously from corresponding technical functionalities of the process according to the first aspect, and vice versa.

[0108] The phrase “at least one” specifically means “one or more”.

[0109] The abbreviation "bzw." stands for "beziehungsweise", which in particular stands for "respective".

[0110] The phrase “respective” stands in particular for “and / or”.

[0111] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings and explained in more detail in the following description. They show: Fig. 1. A flowchart of a procedure for the safe execution of a function provided by means of a motor vehicle, Fig. 2 a device, Fig. 3 a machine-readable storage medium and Fig. 4 a road user.

[0112] Fig. Figure 1 shows a flowchart of a procedure for warning a vulnerable road user, comprising the following steps: Receiving 101 environmental signals representing the road user's environment and the road user; Receiving 103 communication address signals representing the communication address of a mobile communication device carried by the road user; Determining 105, based on the environmental signals, whether the road user is at risk; if the road user is at risk, generating 107 communication message signals representing a communication message to be sent to the communication address of the mobile communication device, the communication message comprising a warning to the road user.

[0113] Output 109 of the generated communication message signals to send the communication message to the communication address of the mobile communication device.

[0114] According to one embodiment, the communication address includes, for example, an IP address.

[0115] In one embodiment, the communication address includes an IMEI number. IMEI stands for "International Mobile Equipment Identity" and refers to a unique 15-digit serial number that can be used to uniquely identify the mobile communication device.

[0116] According to one embodiment, the method according to the first aspect comprises sending the communication message or communication message signals to the communication address of the mobile communication device via a communication network.

[0117] The communication network includes, for example, a wireless communication network, such as a WLAN communication network and / or a mobile network.

[0118] According to one embodiment, the method according to the first aspect includes remote control of a lateral and / or longitudinal guidance of the vehicle based on the remote control signals.

[0119] According to one embodiment, the method according to the first aspect includes controlling the mobile communication device based on the control commands.

[0120] Fig. Figure 2 shows a device 201 which is set up to perform all steps of the procedure according to the first aspect.

[0121] The device 201 includes an input 203, which is configured to receive the environmental signals and the communication address signals.

[0122] The device 201 includes a processor 205, which is configured to determine, based on the environmental signals, whether the road user is in danger.

[0123] The processor 205 is further configured to generate communication message signals in the event of a danger threatening the road user, which represent a communication message to be sent to the communication address of the mobile communication device, the communication message comprising a warning to the road user.

[0124] The device 201 includes an output 207, which is configured to output the generated communication message signals in order to send the communication message to the communication address of the mobile communication device.

[0125] For example, output 207 is connected to a wireless communication interface (not shown) which is set up to send the communication message or communication message signals via a wireless communication network to the communication address of the mobile communication device.

[0126] Generally, signals are received via input 203. Input 203 is therefore specifically configured to receive the corresponding signals.

[0127] For example, it is intended that signals which are to be output will be output via output 207. This means, in particular, that output 207 is specifically configured to output the corresponding signals.

[0128] According to one embodiment, the processor 205 is configured to execute or perform the step described above and / or below of determining the instruction for action, the step of determining the control commands for controlling the mobile communication device, the step of generating the remote control signals, and the step of checking whether at least one safety condition is met.

[0129] For example, processor 205 is set up to perform or execute the step of documenting one or more process steps.

[0130] In an embodiment not shown, several processors are provided instead of the single processor 205.

[0131] According to one embodiment, a remote control device (not shown) is provided which is configured to remotely control or steer the lateral and / or longitudinal guidance of the vehicle based on the remote control signals.

[0132] Fig. Figure 3 shows a machine-readable storage medium 301.

[0133] A computer program 303 is stored on the machine-readable storage medium 301. The computer program 303 comprises instructions that are executed by a computer, for example by the device 201 according to Fig. 2, cause them to carry out a procedure in accordance with the first aspect.

[0134] Fig. Figure 4 shows a road user, 401.

[0135] The road user 401 is driving an electric bicycle 403 comprising an electric motor 405.

[0136] Road user 401 is therefore, in the sense of this description, an unprotected road user.

[0137] The road user 401 includes or carries a mobile communication device 407.

[0138] The road user 401 is riding his electric bicycle 403 on a road 409.

[0139] An area 411 of road 409 is defined, which is monitored by means of a first video camera 413 comprising a video sensor (not shown) and a second video camera 415 comprising a video sensor (not shown).

[0140] One direction of travel of the electric bicycle 403 is indicated by an arrow with the reference symbol 417, which runs from left to right with respect to the plane of the paper.

[0141] A motor vehicle 419 continues to travel on road 409, with one direction of travel of the motor vehicle 419 indicated by an arrow with the reference sign 421. The direction of travel 421 of the motor vehicle 419 runs from right to left relative to the plane of the paper.

[0142] The road user 401 is therefore on a collision course with the motor vehicle 419.

[0143] In an embodiment not shown, it may be provided that, in addition to or instead of the two video cameras 413, 415, each comprising a video sensor, further environmental sensors are provided which monitor the area 411.

[0144] According to one embodiment, an environmental sensor as described is, for example, one of the following environmental sensors: radar sensor, video sensor, infrared sensor, magnetic field sensor, ultrasonic sensor, and lidar sensor.

[0145] Furthermore, the device 201 is in accordance with Fig. 2 are planned.

[0146] The video signals from video cameras 413, 415 are provided to input 203 of device 201.

[0147] In the present embodiment, these video signals therefore constitute the ambient signals.

[0148] If, for example, additional environmental sensors, such as a radar sensor, are provided, environmental signals within the meaning of the description may include corresponding environmental sensor signals, in particular radar signals, in addition to the video signals from the video sensors.

[0149] Based on the video signals, processor 205 determines that road user 401 is on a collision course with motor vehicle 419.

[0150] Accordingly, it then generates a communication message or corresponding communication message signals, whereby the communication message includes a warning to road user 401.

[0151] These generated communication message signals are output via output 207 to a wireless communication interface 423.

[0152] This sends the communication message to the mobile communication device 407 of the road user 401 via a wireless communication network.

[0153] For example, the mobile communication device 407 is configured or set up such that when a communication message is received, a signal, such as a haptic and / or an optical and / or an acoustic signal, is output.

[0154] The road user 401 can thus efficiently become aware of the warning and, for example, change his course, such as by performing an evasive maneuver.

[0155] For example, the processor 205 can also generate a corresponding warning for the driver of the vehicle 419 and output it via output 207. The wireless communication interface 423 can then also send this warning to the driver of the vehicle 419, enabling the driver to take evasive action. For example, instructions can also be sent to the driver of the vehicle 419 via the wireless communication network.

[0156] For example, it can be provided that, if the motor vehicle 419 can be remotely controlled, corresponding remote control commands for remotely controlling the lateral and / or longitudinal guidance of the motor vehicle 419 are generated by the processor 205 and output via the output 207. These remote control signals are sent to the motor vehicle 419 via the wireless communication interface 423 for remote control. Thus, based on such remote control, the motor vehicle 419 can also perform an evasive maneuver or come to a remote stop.

[0157] If, for example, the electric bicycle 403 can be remotely controlled, corresponding remote control signals for remotely controlling a lateral and / or longitudinal guidance of the electric bicycle 403 can be generated and output and sent to the electric bicycle 403 via the wireless communication interface 423 in order to control a driving maneuver at such a distance that the electric bicycle, for example, stops or performs an evasive maneuver.

[0158] The device 201, the first and second video cameras 413, 415 and the wireless communication interface 423 form, for example, an infrastructure 425 which is set up to monitor the area 411.

[0159] In order for the motor vehicle 419 and / or the electric bicycle 403 to be remotely controlled, at least one safety condition must be met according to one embodiment.

[0160] For example, it must be ensured that the latency of communication between the wireless communication interface 423 and the electric bicycle 403 or motor vehicle 419 is less than or equal to a predetermined latency threshold.

[0161] Further exemplary safety conditions that must be met in order to remotely control the motor vehicle 419 or the electric bicycle 403 and / or generally to warn road users are described above by way of example.

Claims

[1] Method for warning a vulnerable road user (401), comprising the following steps: Receiving (101) of ambient signals representing the environment of the road user (401) and the road user (401), Receiving (103) communication address signals representing a communication address of a mobile communication device (407) carried by the road user (401), Determine (105) based on the surrounding signals whether the road user (401) is in danger, in the event of a danger threatening the road user (401), generating (107) communication message signals which represent a communication message to be sent to the communication address of the mobile communication device (407) for the mobile communication device (407), wherein the communication message includes a warning to the road user (401), Output (109) of the generated communication message signals to send the communication message to the communication address of the mobile communication device (407), receiving safety condition signals which represent at least one safety condition which must be met in order for the road user (401) to be warned, checking whether the at least one safety condition is met, and generating the communication message signals based on a result of checking whether the at least one safety condition is met. [2] Method according to claim 1, wherein, in the event of a danger threatening the road user (401), an instruction for action is determined for the road user (401) based on the environmental signals in order to reduce a hazard posed to the road user (401), wherein the communication message includes the instruction for action. [3] Method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, in the event of a danger threatening the road user (401), control commands for controlling the mobile communication device (407) are determined such that, when the mobile communication device (407) is controlled based on the control commands, the mobile communication device (407) outputs the communication message via a loudspeaker of the mobile communication device (407) at maximum volume and / or the mobile communication device (407) plays a ringtone at maximum volume and / or the warning is displayed on a screen of the mobile communication device (407) and / or the mobile communication device vibrates. [4] Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, in the event of a danger threatening the road user (401) and when the road user (401) is driving a vehicle (403) driven by a motor (405), remote control signals are generated for remote control of a lateral and / or longitudinal guidance of the vehicle (403) such that, when the lateral and / or longitudinal guidance of the vehicle (403) is controlled based on the remote control signals, the vehicle (403) performs a driving maneuver that reduces the danger posed to the road user (401), wherein the remote control signals are output. [5] Method according to claim 4, wherein the at least one safety condition must be met in order for the vehicle (403) to be remotely controlled, wherein the remote control signals are generated based on a result of checking whether the at least one safety condition is met. [6] Method according to claim 5, wherein the at least one safety condition is selected from the following groups of safety conditions: the presence of a predetermined safety integrity level (SIL or Automotive Safety Integrity Level ASIL) of at least the vehicle (403) and the infrastructure (425), in particular including a communication link and / or communication components, especially with regard to the overall systems in the vehicle (403) and infrastructure (425) and in particular parts; e.g. components, algorithms, interfaces, etc., the presence of a maximum latency of communication between the mobile communication device (407) or the vehicle (403) and the infrastructure (425), the presence of a predetermined computer protection level of a device for carrying out the steps of the method according to one of the preceding claims,The existence of predetermined components and / or algorithms and / or communication capabilities used to execute the steps of the method according to one of the preceding claims; the existence of redundancy and / or diversity in predetermined components and / or algorithms and / or communication capabilities used to execute the steps of the method according to one of the preceding claims; the existence of predetermined availability information indicating the availability of predetermined components and / or algorithms and / or communication capabilities; the existence of predetermined quality criteria for the predetermined components and / or algorithms and / or communication capabilities; and the existence of a plan.which includes measures for reducing errors and / or measures in case of failure of predetermined components and / or algorithms and / or communication possibilities and / or measures for misanalysis and / or measures in case of misinterpretation, the existence of one or more fallback scenarios, the existence of a predetermined function, the existence of a predetermined traffic situation, the existence of predetermined weather, the maximum possible time for a respective execution of one or more steps of the method according to one of the preceding claims, and the existence of a test result that elements or functions used to execute the method according to one of the preceding claims are currently functioning without errors. [7] Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein one or more method steps are documented, in particular documented in a blockchain. [8] Device (201) configured to perform all steps of the method according to any of the preceding claims. [9] Computer program (303) comprising instructions which, when the computer program (303) is executed by a computer, cause it to execute a method according to any one of claims 1 to 7. [10] Machine-readable storage medium (301) on which the computer program (303) according to claim 9 is stored.

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