Procedures for operating a vehicle and vehicle

Abstract

Method for operating a vehicle (12), in particular a motor vehicle, in which a user of the vehicle (12) switches on a direction indicator (14, 16) of the vehicle (12), and in which a control device (24) of the vehicle (12) checks whether maintaining a state of the direction indicator (14, 16) in which the direction indicator (14, 16) is switched on is plausible, taking into account a driving situation of the vehicle (12) existing during the switched-on state of the direction indicator (14, 16), wherein, when checking the plausibility of the switched-on state of the direction indicator (14, 16), the control device (24) takes into account at least one parameter relating to the environment of the vehicle (12), wherein the at least one parameter of the control device (24) is supplied by at least one further device (100, 102, 104) of the vehicle (12), characterized by the fact that then, if the activated state of the direction indicator (14, 16) is deemed implausible by the control device (24), at least one measure is taken, and if, despite taking at least one measure, the activated state of the direction indicator (14, 16) is maintained, the vehicle speed (12) is reduced.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a method for operating a vehicle, in which a user of the vehicle switches on a turn signal of the vehicle. In the method, a control device of the vehicle checks whether maintaining a state of the turn signal in which the turn signal is switched on is plausible, taking into account a driving situation of the vehicle that exists while the turn signal is switched on. Furthermore, the invention relates to a vehicle configured to carry out such a method.

[0002] DE 10 2013 217 776 A1 describes a method for automatically switching off a manually switched on direction indicator of a motor vehicle, in which a navigation system is used to switch off the direction indicator depending on a road geometry or road topology as well as depending on a distance of the vehicle to a turning point and an elapsed time after passing a turning point.

[0003] US Patent No. 4,333,071 describes a device for deactivating a vehicle's turn signal. Sensors detect the steering angle, distance traveled, and vehicle speed, and these variables are processed to deactivate the manually operated turn signal.

[0004] DE 103 60 263 A1 describes a method for checking whether a turn signal device in a vehicle controlled by a driver is activated. If the driver does not cancel the turn signal within a defined distance or time, a warning indicator is activated to alert the driver.

[0005] It can happen that a vehicle user, such as the driver of a motor vehicle, forgets to turn off a turn signal that they have activated. This can be due, for example, to the user being distracted by music, a conversation, a phone call, or something similar.

[0006] Furthermore, due to the driving situation or other technical reasons, such as a defect, the turn signal or indicator may not automatically deactivate after completing a maneuver. Therefore, even if there is no technical defect that prevents automatic deactivation, the driving maneuver may still prevent the turn signal from deactivating automatically.

[0007] The latter can be the case, for example, if the user makes only a very slight steering movement using a steering handle after overtaking another vehicle. This is because the automatic deactivation of the turn indicator often primarily takes into account the steering angle traveled by a steering handle such as the vehicle's steering wheel. Particularly when overtaking on a motorway or during an overtaking maneuver on a country road, comparatively small steering angles of the steering wheel can therefore lead to the automatic deactivation of the turn indicator not occurring.

[0008] As a result, the direction indicator may flash continuously. This is particularly true if the acoustic signal or sound of the activated turn signal or direction indicator is not perceived by the vehicle user. This may, in turn, be due to impaired hearing, for example, due to the user's age and / or due to driving noises or ambient noise, or for example due to music, particularly relatively loud music, within the vehicle's passenger compartment. It is also possible that the acoustic signal of the activated turn signal is not heard by the user due to driving noise in addition to music played at normal volume.

[0009] In traffic, it sometimes happens that a vehicle drives for miles with its turn signal on, even though there is no longer any reason to leave it on. This can lead to other road users misjudging the driving situation or the intended driving action of the vehicle with the turn signal on, or a maneuver planned by the driver of that vehicle. Such situations must be avoided.

[0010] DE 44 05 755 A1 describes a direction indicator device in vehicles, in which acoustic signals remind the driver to switch off a turn signal. This reminder preferably occurs when the vehicle has completed the intended maneuver, with the acoustic signal being emitted with a time delay after the turn signal is switched on. The corresponding time period after which the acoustic signal is emitted can be at least one minute.

[0011] The disadvantage here is that simply taking into account the period of time since the direction indicator was switched on does not allow the plausibility of the switched-on state of the direction indicator to be checked with sufficient reliability in view of the driving situation.

[0012] DE 20 2009 008 665 U1 describes a turn signal reminder for motorcycles or motor vehicles. This device triggers an acoustic signal after a time delay if the turn signal is activated and the driver has forgotten to turn it off. With this turn signal reminder, the time delay is reset if a brake light is activated in the meantime.

[0013] Here too, however, the checking of the plausibility of the switched-on state of the direction indicator or turn signal needs to be improved.

[0014] DE 198 47 698 C1 describes a turn signal system for motorcycles in which the motorcyclist is given an acoustic or optical indication that the turn signal is still flashing, depending on the speed of the motorcycle after a preselectable number of flashing pulses has been reached.

[0015] And DE 103 22 557 A1 describes a method for informing the driver when leaving a lane, in which an indicator of the motor vehicle is automatically switched on, whereby after the vehicle reaction is detected, the automatically switched on indicator is deactivated.

[0016] The object of the present invention is to provide a method of the type mentioned at the outset, by means of which an improved check of the plausibility of the switched-on state of the direction indicator is achieved, and to specify a vehicle designed to carry out such a method.

[0017] This object is achieved by a method having the features of patent claim 1, by a method having the features of patent claim 2, and by a vehicle having the features of patent claim 10. Advantageous embodiments with expedient further developments of the invention are specified in the dependent claims and in the following description.

[0018] According to a first aspect of the invention, in a method for operating a vehicle by a user of the vehicle, a turn indicator of the vehicle is switched on. A control device of the vehicle is used to check whether maintaining a state of the turn indicator in which the turn indicator is switched on is plausible, taking into account a driving situation of the vehicle that exists while the turn indicator is switched on. According to the first aspect of the invention, when checking the plausibility of the switched-on state of the turn indicator, the control device takes into account at least one parameter relating to an environment of the vehicle. The at least one parameter is supplied to the control device from at least one further device of the vehicle.

[0019] By taking into account the at least one parameter relating to the vehicle's environment, the control device advantageously uses data that is already present in the vehicle when checking plausibility, for example because it is present in the at least one other vehicle device or is acquired by the at least one other vehicle device. Driver assistance systems that acquire or contain parameters relating to the vehicle's environment are particularly widespread in current vehicles. Consequently, an improved verification of the plausibility of the activated state is achieved.

[0020] According to a further aspect of the invention, in a method for operating a vehicle by a user of the vehicle, a turn indicator of the vehicle is switched on. A control device of the vehicle is used to check whether maintaining a state of the turn indicator in which the turn indicator is switched on is plausible, taking into account a driving situation of the vehicle that exists while the turn indicator is switched on. According to the further aspect of the invention, when checking the plausibility of the switched-on state of the turn indicator, the control device takes into account at least one parameter that includes a distance traveled by the vehicle since the turn indicator was switched on and / or a steering angle specified by means of a steering handle of the vehicle.In this case, the at least one parameter of the control device is supplied by at least one further device of the vehicle.

[0021] This method is based on the realization that data such as the vehicle's speed and the time are already recorded by corresponding vehicle devices or are present in these devices. Therefore, a parameter such as the distance traveled by the vehicle since the turn indicator was switched on can be transmitted from these devices very easily and with little effort to the control device for plausibility checking. In this way, even with comparatively slow vehicle movement and the associated relatively long duration of the turn indicator being switched on, it can be reliably determined whether or not maintaining the switched-on state of the turn indicator is sensible or plausible in view of the driving situation.

[0022] According to the invention, if the control device classifies the activated state of the turn indicator as implausible, at least one measure is taken. This measure can, in particular, consist of alerting the vehicle user that the turn indicator is still activated. Consequently, taking at least one measure is advantageous in that it can end a situation that is confusing for other road users. This is advantageous in terms of ensuring a traffic situation that is as safe as possible and can be correctly assessed by other road users.

[0023] Furthermore, if the turn signal remains switched on despite the implementation of at least one measure, the vehicle's speed is reduced. Such a preferably gentle deceleration of the vehicle can clearly and perceptibly inform the user that the turn signal is still inadvertently switched on.

[0024] In particular, it can be provided that, when the vehicle is moving slowly, a shorter distance traveled since the turn signal was switched on is used as the basis for the plausibility check than when the vehicle is moving faster. This makes the plausibility check very situation-specific.

[0025] In a similar way, the steering angle specified or set by the vehicle's steering handle can be very easily detected using a device such as a steering angle sensor. This parameter can also be easily and inexpensively fed to the control system for evaluation. This, too, is advantageous in terms of improved verification of the plausibility of the turn signal's activated state.

[0026] For example, it may happen that the activated turn signal signals an intended change of direction of the vehicle in a first direction, but the steering angle specified by the vehicle's steering handle results in an actual change of direction in a second direction, which is opposite to the first direction. Particularly in such a case, taking into account the parameter in the form of the steering angle specified by the vehicle's steering handle leads to improved verification of the plausibility of the activated state of the turn signal.If the signalled change of direction and the actual change of direction do not match or no longer match, it can be assumed that the user forgot to switch off the direction indicator, for example, or that the direction indicator was not switched off automatically.

[0027] The consideration of the latter parameters by the vehicle's control system also leads to an improved check of the plausibility of the switched-on state of the direction indicator.

[0028] By checking the plausibility of the switched-on state of the direction indicator based on parameters or data already available in the vehicle, the process can be implemented with particularly little effort.

[0029] Furthermore, if the activated state of the turn indicator does not match the driving situation of the vehicle while it is activated, appropriate measures can be taken, for example, to remind the vehicle user to deactivate the turn indicator or even deactivate the turn indicator. This can prevent situations in road traffic in which other road users are confused by the inadvertently activated turn indicator. This can contribute to increased road safety, especially if an accident is prevented.

[0030] The method can be used in particular in a vehicle designed as a motor vehicle, such as a passenger car, a truck, a commercial vehicle, or the like. However, the method can also be advantageously used in other vehicles, such as rail-bound vehicles, construction machinery, industrial trucks, two-wheeled vehicles, wheelchairs, agricultural machinery, mining machinery, in particular mining machinery with a chassis and a drive, or the like. As long as such vehicles have at least one direction indicator that can be activated by the vehicle user, the method can therefore be advantageously used.

[0031] Preferably, one of the parameters considered by the control device includes the distance of the vehicle from a road user who is traveling ahead of the vehicle in the direction of travel when the vehicle is moving forward. This parameter, in the form of the distance, relating to the vehicle's surroundings can advantageously be used to determine in a particularly simple manner whether an overtaking maneuver has been completed or not.

[0032] If, after overtaking a first road user, the vehicle returns to a lane in which the previously overtaken first road user is also located, it can be assumed that any other road user present is located a very large distance in front of the vehicle in the direction of travel, assuming that such a road user is present at all. However, if no other road user is detected within a distance in front of the vehicle that can be detected by a corresponding device on the vehicle, or if the distance to this other road user is very large, the control device can conclude that the overtaking maneuver in which the first road user was overtaken has ended.

[0033] The distance can be detected by a suitable detection device of the vehicle, for example, by means of at least one camera and / or by means of at least one radar sensor or the like. Since such detection devices are often present in vehicles with driver assistance systems anyway, providing the distance as a parameter to be considered and relating to the vehicle's surroundings is particularly easy to implement.

[0034] Preferably, one of the parameters considered by the control device comprises map data and / or position data of the vehicle. Such parameters relating to the vehicle's surroundings are often already available in a vehicle. If the map data indicates that there is no possibility in the foreseeable future of turning the vehicle in a direction indicated by the activated turn indicator, the activated state of the turn indicator can be classified by the control device as implausible. This contributes to improved verification of the plausibility of the activated state.

[0035] It may happen that a turning option is, for example, a field path or a farmyard entrance or parking bay or similar not included in the map data. In such a case, it can be provided that the control device uses a reduction in the vehicle's driving speed, which occurs when the turn indicator is switched on, for the purpose of plausibility check. Additionally or alternatively, the presence of such a turning option not deducible from the map data can be determined by evaluating camera data that is fed to the control device. In this way, it is achieved that an unnecessary warning to the user to switch off the turn indicator, given the planned driving maneuver, is avoided.

[0036] The map data and / or position data can be provided to the control device, in particular, by a vehicle's navigation system. In this way, data in the form of map data that is already usable for guiding the motor vehicle to a destination can be advantageously used for an additional purpose.

[0037] Furthermore, the control device can take into account environmental information for the positioning of the vehicle or position data of the vehicle, which are obtained by comparing camera data captured by a camera on the vehicle while the vehicle is traveling with camera data provided by other vehicles. For example, other vehicles can capture camera data during respective journeys, which in particular include lane markings, edge buildings, prominent points, and the like. Trajectories of the other vehicles can also be determined from such camera data. Furthermore, particularly precise map data can be generated based on this camera data captured by a large number of other vehicles. This very precise map data can, for example, be generated and updated on a server external to the vehicle.The server can then make this highly accurate map data and / or camera data available to a particular vehicle.

[0038] In particular, such highly accurate map data can be advantageously taken into account by the control device as parameters relating to the vehicle's surroundings when checking plausibility.

[0039] Furthermore, by comparing the camera data captured while the vehicle is moving with the camera data obtained from the server, the vehicle's position can be determined with high precision. This allows the control system to determine with particularly high precision and reliability whether the vehicle has a turning opportunity.

[0040] When checking the plausibility of the switched-on state of the turn indicator, the control device preferably takes into account a time period since the turn indicator was switched on and / or a driving speed of the vehicle. Such parameters are also typically present in the vehicle or are readily available in the vehicle. Furthermore, taking such parameters into account is advantageous for improving the checking of the plausibility of the switched-on state.

[0041] The measure may include or be an increase in the volume of a noise emitted when the direction indicator is switched on. Typically, such a noise, in particular a clicking noise, is emitted in the vehicle at a frequency corresponding to the flashing frequency of the direction indicator. If the volume of this noise is increased, it becomes more likely that the vehicle user will notice that the direction indicator is inadvertently still switched on. This is particularly helpful when loud driving noises and / or ambient noises and / or the volume of other noises in the passenger compartment of the vehicle and / or the user's impaired hearing make it difficult to perceive the noise emitted intermittently when the direction indicator is switched on.

[0042] Additionally or alternatively, the measure may include or be the output of an acoustic and / or visual message. For example, the acoustic message may be that the turn indicator is still switched on. A text message and / or the illumination of a warning light or the like may be used as a visual message. In particular, such visual messages can be displayed to the user via a combination instrument and / or another display device such as a head-up display (head-up display) of the vehicle. This means that such visual messages are in a field of vision that is clearly visible to the driver of the vehicle.

[0043] Additionally or alternatively, the at least one measure may include or be a change in the flashing of a vehicle indicator lamp that indicates the activated state of the turn indicator. For example, the luminosity of the indicator lamp may be increased to make the flashing of the indicator lamp particularly visually perceptible to the vehicle user. Additionally or alternatively, it is possible, for example, to increase the clock frequency at which the indicator lamp flashes when the turn indicator is activated and / or to alternately decrease and increase the luminosity of the indicator lamp.

[0044] Additionally or alternatively, the at least one measure may include or be the activation of an additional light of the vehicle, wherein the additional light is provided in addition to an indicator light indicating the activated state of the turn indicator. In particular, if such an additional light is larger than the indicator light, this is particularly noticeable to the vehicle user.

[0045] The auxiliary light can be switched on in a timed fashion. This type of flashing of the auxiliary light also leads to a high level of conspicuity, which increases the user's awareness of the measure taken.

[0046] Additionally or alternatively, the at least one measure can comprise or be a reduction in the volume of sound waves emitted by at least one loudspeaker of the vehicle. If, for example, music or other entertainment content such as radio plays, audio books or the like or news is played via the at least one loudspeaker, reducing the volume of the sound waves can increase the perceptibility of the noise emitted when the turn signal is switched on. Furthermore, it focuses the user's attention if the vehicle directly intervenes in the volume control of the at least one loudspeaker. This is also expedient in terms of ensuring that the user notices the measure.

[0047] The same applies if sound waves are emitted through at least one of the vehicle's loudspeakers, for example, during a telephone conversation conducted by the vehicle's user. Here, too, reducing the conversation volume makes the activated state of the turn signal more easily perceptible to the vehicle's user.

[0048] Additionally or alternatively, it can be provided that a (particularly relatively loud) acoustic signal is emitted via the at least one loudspeaker in time with the activated turn signal. Such an acoustic signal, especially in addition to the usual clicking sound of the turn signal, can then be easily perceived by the user.

[0049] In this context, a vehicle loudspeaker also includes a loudspeaker associated with a mobile device, such as a mobile phone or the like, which is only connected to the vehicle while the vehicle is moving. Even if this loudspeaker emits sound waves, it is advantageous to reduce the volume of these sound waves to indicate that the turn signal is activated.

[0050] Preferably, a first of the measures is taken first, and then, if the turn signal remains switched on after a predetermined period of time has elapsed, at least a second of the measures is taken. In this way, the measures can be used to issue graduated reminders to the vehicle user that the turn signal remains switched on. Such a graduated implementation of the measures has the advantage that if the first measure is unsuccessful, the second measure may potentially lead to the desired result. In this way, it can be achieved in a particularly reliable manner that at least one of the measures taken is actually perceived by the vehicle user.

[0051] In principle, it is possible for the measures to be taken cumulatively. However, it is preferable that the first measure be deactivated when at least one second measure is taken. This way, the user is not overwhelmed or overwhelmed by a multitude of measures taken simultaneously.

[0052] Preferably, at least one of the measures to be taken is specified by the vehicle user. For example, it may be provided that the user can use a selection menu to define the measures to be taken according to the user's preferences to remind the user that the turn signal is activated. This makes the reminder of the activated turn signal, brought about by the at least one measure, particularly flexible and individual.

[0053] In particular, this allows the user to ensure that their personal preferences are taken into account when taking the appropriate measures. For example, if the user enjoys listening to loud music, reducing the volume during music playback may be a particularly suitable measure for this user to remind them that the turn signal is still activated. On the other hand, if the vehicle user rarely or never listens to music and also has impaired hearing, increasing the volume of the noise emitted when the turn signal is activated may be particularly beneficial for this user.

[0054] Additionally or alternatively, it can be provided that a chronological sequence of actions to be taken is specified by the vehicle user. This allows the user to specify the order in which they would like to be reminded of the activated state of the turn signal by means of a reminder that is gradual based on the actions taken. This is also advantageous with regard to a particularly highly individualized and flexible reminder for the user.

[0055] The vehicle's speed can be reduced, in particular, by a plurality of time-spaced actuations of at least one braking device of the vehicle. Such stuttering braking causes the vehicle to jerk, which is particularly well-suited to reminding the user that the turn signal is activated.

[0056] The vehicle according to the invention, which is designed in particular as a motor vehicle, has at least one turn indicator that can be switched on by a user of the vehicle. A control device of the vehicle is designed to check whether maintaining a state of the at least one turn indicator in which the at least one turn indicator is switched on is plausible, taking into account a driving situation of the vehicle that exists while the at least one turn indicator is switched on. The vehicle is designed to carry out the method according to the invention. Accordingly, the vehicle has the devices required to carry out the method according to the invention and preferably embodiments thereof.

[0057] The invention also includes further developments of the vehicle 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 vehicle according to the invention are not described again here.

[0058] The invention also encompasses combinations of the features of the described embodiments. Furthermore, all embodiments of the first aspect of the invention are also considered preferred embodiments of the further aspect of the invention, and vice versa.

[0059] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are described below. Shown are: Fig. 1 shows, by way of example, a traffic situation in which an inadvertently switched-on direction indicator of a vehicle may result in another road user not correctly assessing the traffic situation; Fig. 2 shows a highly schematic representation of a vehicle by means of which an improved verification of the plausibility of a switched-on state of the direction indicator can be achieved; and Fig. 3 a flowchart of a procedure whereby a user of the vehicle is reminded, by means of measures taken in stages or successively, that the vehicle's direction indicator is inadvertently still switched on.

[0060] The exemplary embodiments explained below are preferred exemplary embodiments of the invention. In the exemplary embodiments, the described components each represent individual, independently considered features of the invention, which also further develop the invention independently of one another and are thus also to be considered as components of the invention, either individually or in a combination other than that shown. Furthermore, the described exemplary embodiments can also be supplemented by further features of the invention already described.

[0061] In the figures, functionally identical elements are provided with the same reference numerals.

[0062] In Fig. 1 shows a highly schematic traffic situation in which it can lead to confusion of a road user 10 if a user of another vehicle 12 has forgotten to switch on a direction indicator or blinker 14 previously switched on by the user (compare Fig. 2) to turn it off again. In Fig. 1, for reasons of clarity, the indicators 14 arranged in a known manner on a right-hand side of the vehicle 12 are not shown, nor are further direction indicators or indicators 16 present on an opposite side of the vehicle 12.

[0063] If the user of the vehicle 12 forgets to turn off one of the activated indicators 14, 16, situations may arise in road traffic such as on motorways, country roads or in built-up areas that are difficult for other road users to understand. This may result in the situation being overlooked by other road users, such as the driver in Fig. 1, the road user 10 shown as an example is not correctly assessed. As a result, this may even result in a collision between road user 10 and vehicle 12.

[0064] With reference to Fig. 1 illustrates a driving situation within a built-up area. Here, road user 10 is driving on a main road 18. Vehicle 12 is approaching from the left, which, according to Fig. 2 can be designed, for example, as a passenger car. In the vehicle 12, the indicators 14 arranged on the right-hand side of the vehicle 12, as seen in the direction of travel, are flashing. In the case under consideration, however, this is not because the user or driver of the vehicle 12 actually intends to turn onto the main road 18, i.e. to the right. Rather, the driver (in Fig. 1 not shown) user of the vehicle 12, on a Fig. 1, into which the main road 18 joins.

[0065] In particular, when there is heavy traffic on priority road 20, it is difficult for road user 10 to turn left into priority road 20, as is the case in Fig. 1 is illustrated by an arrow 22.

[0066] If the priority road 20 is now clear with regard to road users coming from the right, road user 10 can use this opportunity to enter the priority road 20, as indicated by the arrow 22 in Fig. 1. However, despite the turn signals 14 being switched on, the vehicle 12 does not turn onto the main road 18 from which the road user 10 is coming. Rather, the user of the vehicle 12 had simply forgotten to switch off or deactivate the turn signal 14, or an automatic switch-off of the turn signal 14 did not work. As a result, the road user 10 misjudges the situation, namely that the user of the vehicle 12 actually wanted to turn right. The road user 10 therefore assumes that there is an opportunity for him to turn onto the priority road 20. For this reason, the road user 10 turns according to the arrow 22. This can result in the driver of the vehicle 12 being forced to brake abruptly in order to avoid a collision with the road user 10.

[0067] If the vehicle 12 is designed to detect such a situation at an early stage and to remind the user or driver of the vehicle 12 at an early stage that the turn signal 14 is still inadvertently switched on, then a situation such as abrupt braking or even a collision of the road user 10 with the vehicle 12 could have been avoided.

[0068] The following explains options for checking on the vehicle 12 side whether the switched-on state of the turn signal 14 is plausible or not, taking into account the current driving situation. For this purpose, parameters or data already present in the vehicle 12 can be taken into account, for example, a distance traveled by the vehicle 12 since the turn signal 14 was switched on and a time period or period of time elapsed since the turn signal 14 was switched on. Such parameters can be determined by a control device 24 of the vehicle 12, which is Fig. 2, are logically linked. Furthermore, the control device 24 can use the driving speed of the vehicle 12 to check the plausibility of the activated turn signal 14.

[0069] It is also possible to implement additional factors. For example, an angular position or a steering angle of a steering wheel 26 can be considered as a parameter by the control device 24 in order to check the plausibility of the switched-on state of the turn signal 14 or turn signals 14. Thus, a steering angle specified by a steering handle, in this case by the steering wheel 26 of the vehicle 12, can be considered by the control device 24 when checking the plausibility of the switched-on state of the turn signals 14.

[0070] For example, if, due to the operation of the steering wheel 26 of the vehicle 12, steerable wheels 28 of the vehicle 12 are turned to the left while the right turn signal 14 is flashing, this can be classified by the control device 24 as not being in accordance with the driving situation that exists while the turn signals 14 are switched on. Therefore, when checking the plausibility of the switched on state of the turn signals 14, it is advantageous to take into account a parameter such as the steering angle specified by means of the steering wheel 26. The steerable wheels 28 in the Fig. 2 schematically shown vehicle 12, the front wheels are provided with a respective reference symbol.

[0071] Other data or parameters, such as the driving speed of the vehicle 12, the distance traveled since the turn signal 14 was switched on, and the time elapsed since the turn signal 14 was switched on, are already available in the vehicle 12. Therefore, a plausibility check can be performed using software implemented in the control device 24 without additional hardware costs. In other words, it is very easy to check whether the switched-on state of the turn signal 14 is plausible or not, taking into account the driving situation of the vehicle 12 during the switched-on state. This makes such an implementation particularly simple and cost-effective.

[0072] In addition, difficult-to-understand or unsafe traffic situations can be reduced or avoided to a particularly large extent. In particular, accidents that could otherwise occur due to an incorrect assessment of the traffic situation can be avoided. An example of such an incorrect assessment of the traffic situation by road user 10 is shown in Fig. 1 shown.

[0073] In particular, data already present in the vehicle 12, such as the distance traveled, the duration of the activation of the indicators 14, the angular position of the steering wheel 26 and the driving speed of the vehicle 12, can be taken into account by the control device 24 when checking the plausibility.

[0074] If over a predetermined or defined time t the vehicle 12 has moved at a minimum speed v in a direction of travel 30 which is Fig. 1 and in Fig. 2 is illustrated by an arrow without the turn signals 14 being deactivated, at least one measure can be taken to draw the attention of the user or driver of the vehicle 12 to the still switched-on state of the turn signal 14.

[0075] In this way, the user or driver of the vehicle 12 in the situation according to Fig. 1 be reminded that he has failed to switch off the right indicator 14(s).

[0076] For example, the volume of a sound emitted when the turn signal 14 is activated can be increased. In other words, the volume of the flashing cycle can be increased. This is particularly useful when driving noises from the vehicle 12 make it difficult to hear such a sound.

[0077] Furthermore, an acoustic message may be given to the user, or it may be displayed in a combination instrument 32 of the vehicle 12 and / or on a (in Fig. 2 not shown) head-up display of the vehicle 12, a visual message can be issued to the user or driver of the vehicle 12 that the turn signal 14 is still switched on. In particular, a visual message can be issued by an indicator light 34, which indicates the switched-on state of the (in the example according to Fig. 1 right) indicator 14 flashes particularly conspicuously.

[0078] As in Fig. 2 is schematically illustrated, both the control lamp 34 for signaling the switched-on state of the right direction indicator or blinker 14 and a corresponding control lamp 36, by means of which a switched-on state of the Fig. 2 left turn signal 16, for example, located in the area of ​​the combined instrument 32. For example, by flashing such indicator lights 34, 36 with greater brightness, the driver of the vehicle 12 can be reminded that the turn signal 14 is still switched on.

[0079] Furthermore, the volume of music, for example, can be turned down by means of a Fig. 2 also only schematically shown loudspeaker 38 of the vehicle 12.

[0080] Additionally or alternatively, it is possible, for example, to activate an additional light 40 in the combination instrument 32, which can, in particular, flash. If such an additional light 40 is larger than the respective indicator lights 34, 36, a particularly conspicuous reminder to the driver of the activated state of the turn signal 14 is possible.

[0081] When taking the measures mentioned above as examples, it is possible to implement multiple reminder levels by initiating different reminder instances one after the other. Accordingly, these measures serving to remind the driver can be taken one after the other in a chronological sequence.

[0082] Furthermore, it can be provided that the user of the vehicle 12 can define or specify which measures are to be taken to remind the user of the switched-on state of the turn signal 14 and / or in which order these measures are to remind the user of the switched-on state of the turn signal 14. A possibility of a gradual reminder or the chronologically successive taking of measures to remind the driver of the switched-on state of the turn signal 14 is to be described with reference to Fig. 3 will be explained.

[0083] According to Fig. 3, starting from a starting block 42, the time period t and the travel distance s are first reset 44 to zero. In a next step 46, it is checked whether the driving speed of the vehicle 12 is greater than zero. For this purpose, the current driving speed of the vehicle 12 can be supplied to the control device 24 as data input 48.

[0084] In a subsequent step 50, a check is performed to determine whether one of the turn signals 14, 16—in this case, for example, the turn signals 14 located on the right side of the vehicle 12—is switched on. If this is the case, a check 52 is performed to determine whether a reminder function is active or activated in the vehicle 12. If this is the case, a next step 54 checks whether a first reminder level is activated. This reminder level can be one of the aforementioned measures that can be taken to remind the user of the vehicle 12 that the turn signal 14 is switched on.

[0085] If the first reminder level is active, the next step involves a query 56 as to whether a time period is less than a maximum time period during which the reminder in the form of the first reminder level or first action should be triggered. As long as this is the case, a time determination 58 of the active first reminder function is performed. In other words, during the time determination 58, the time during which the first reminder level is active is counted up.

[0086] If query 56 reveals that the duration for which the first reminder level was activated is no longer less than the maximum duration provided for this reminder level, a second reminder level is activated 60 in a next step. In a subsequent step 62, the duration for this second reminder level is reset to zero.

[0087] If, as in Fig. 3, starting from this step 62, the method returns to step 54 after passing through step 46 and step 50. It is determined here that the first reminder level is no longer active. Consequently, a further step 64 checks whether the second reminder level is active. If so, this step 64 is followed, in a manner analogous to that explained for the first reminder level, by a check 66, in which the control device 24 determines whether a period of time during which the second reminder level is activated is less than a maximum period of time during which the second reminder level should be activated.

[0088] If this is the case, a time determination 68 is also performed for the second reminder level, as previously described for the time determination 58. However, if the check 66 shows that the second reminder level was activated for a period of time equal to the maximum period for this second reminder level, a third reminder level is activated 70 in a further method step. Here, too, the time t is set to zero in a subsequent step 72. Fig. 3 shows a further data input 74, which can contain a configuration of the second reminder level or the third reminder level.

[0089] If the query in step 64 reveals that neither the first reminder level nor the second reminder level is activated when the reminder function is active (see step 54), a further step 76 can be used to check whether the third reminder level is activated. This query is followed by the further process steps as explained above for the second reminder level. Accordingly, a check is also carried out here to determine whether the period of time during which the third reminder level was activated is less than the maximum period of time during which this third reminder level should be activated.

[0090] As in Fig. 3, indicated by a symbol 78 in the form of three dots, a multiple-level implementation can also be provided, in which more than three reminder levels can be activated consecutively. In particular, if more than three reminder levels are provided for sequential activation, the period during which the respective reminder level is active can be shortened compared to a level implementation with fewer than three reminder levels or with up to three reminder levels.

[0091] If the check 52 reveals that the reminder function is not active, a time recording 80 is performed in a further step, during which the time period for which the turn signal 14 has been activated or switched on is recorded. In a subsequent step 82, the distance traveled by the vehicle 12 with the turn signal 14 activated or switched on is recorded. Accordingly, the distance traveled is fed to the control device 24 as data input 84.

[0092] In a query 86 following step 82, a check is performed to determine whether the duration of time the turn signal 14 is switched on is less than a maximum duration, or whether the distance traveled is less than a maximum distance since the turn signal 14 was switched on. If one of these queries 86 confirms this, the reminder function is activated 88 with the first reminder level in a subsequent step. A configuration regarding how the turn signal 14 is to be reminded of when the turn signal 14 is switched on is considered as data input 90. A predefined or user-specific or customer-specific setting is possible.

[0093] Furthermore, the control device 24 can take into account the respective distance of the vehicle 12 from a vehicle traveling ahead during the query 86. For example, if the vehicle 12, after changing lanes for overtaking, enters a lane in which the distance to the vehicle traveling ahead is relatively short, the maximum duration and the maximum travel distance can be temporarily increased. In such a situation, it takes longer to complete the overtaking maneuver than if the lane is clear.

[0094] In a subsequent step 92, the time and distance traveled are reset to zero, and the method continues at step 46. Analogously, following step 62 and step 72, the method continues at step 46.

[0095] If the query in step 46 shows that the driving speed of the vehicle 12 is not greater than zero or the vehicle 12 is at least close to a standstill, i.e. that the vehicle 12 is stationary or almost stationary, then in a Fig. In block 94 shown in Figure 3, the reminder function is deactivated or set to zero, as is the activated reminder level. Furthermore, the duration and distance traveled are also reset to zero in block 94. Similarly, if the query in step 50 reveals that the turn signal 14 is no longer active or no longer switched on, block 94 of the method is reached. From block 94, the method proceeds to an end 96.

[0096] It can be provided that the method explained above is implemented as an application in the control device 24, which can be purchased by the user of the vehicle 12 for a fee. In this way, i.e., by designing the application as a paid application, it can be ensured that the corresponding method is only used if the user of the vehicle 12 expressly requests it. This allows a specific response to a corresponding request from the user of the vehicle 12.

[0097] With reference to Fig. 2 will explain further possibilities for reminding the user of the vehicle 12 to deactivate the accidentally activated turn signal 14. For example, it may happen that all of the measures taken as explained above by way of example have not had the desired effect. In such a case, the control device 24 can activate a braking device 98 of the vehicle 12, which in Fig. 2 is only shown in a very schematic manner.

[0098] The braking device 98, designed, for example, as a service brake of the vehicle 12, can, in particular, cause braking of the wheels 28 of the vehicle 12. Such a particularly controlled braking of the vehicle 12 can, in a sense, wake up the driver or user of the vehicle 12 and thus remind them to turn off the turn signal 14. Such braking is therefore particularly useful if the driver or user of the vehicle 12 has not yet observed or noticed any of the warnings, i.e., has not reacted adequately to the measures taken.

[0099] Preferably, such braking of the vehicle 12 is only performed when the vehicle's speed is lower than a predetermined speed, for example, lower than 60 km / h. This ensures that the driver maintains control of the vehicle 12 even during such a braking operation.

[0100] Furthermore, such braking of the vehicle 12 is preferably only carried out when it is ensured that any rearward road users are sufficiently far away from the vehicle 12. The latter can be detected by means of a corresponding environment sensor of the vehicle 12, which for reasons of clarity is Fig. 2 is not shown.

[0101] In the method for checking the plausibility of the switched-on state of the turn signal 14, the control device 24 can further take into account parameters relating to the environment of the vehicle 12. Such parameters can be supplied to the control device 24 from corresponding devices of the vehicle 12, in particular if the vehicle 12 has at least one driver assistance system.

[0102] Examples of components of 12 commonly available driver assistance systems in current vehicles are shown in Fig. 2 shows, on the one hand, a camera 100, which in this case is designed as a front camera of the vehicle 12. By means of this camera 100, in particular, a partial area of ​​the surroundings of the vehicle 12 can be captured, which is arranged in front of the vehicle 12 in the direction of travel of the vehicle 12 when the vehicle is traveling forward. Furthermore, the vehicle 12 can have a radar device 102 as a component of a driver assistance system, which is also shown only schematically in Fig. 2 is shown.

[0103] Camera data can be provided to the control device 24 by the camera 100. Similarly, radar data can be provided to the control device 24 by the radar device 102. However, in addition to these environmental sensors mentioned here as examples, further devices can also be provided on the vehicle 12 by means of which parameters relating to the environment of the vehicle 12 can be detected.

[0104] Furthermore, the Fig. The vehicle 12 shown schematically in Figure 2 has a navigation system 104, which can contain parameters relating to the surroundings of the vehicle 12 in the form of map data. This map data can also be made available to the control device 24 in order to check the plausibility of the activated state of the turn signal or blinker 14.

[0105] Based on the data relating to the surroundings of the vehicle 12 mentioned here as an example, an analysis of the correctness of the activated direction indicator or blinker 14 can be carried out. The direction indicator can be classified as implausible, for example, if the Fig. 2 left indicators 16 are switched on without there being any intention to overtake. The same applies if, as in Fig. 1, there is no turning option for vehicle 12 along priority road 20. In such cases, the driver or user of vehicle 12 can be warned or informed of the activated state of turn signal 14.

[0106] Accordingly, at least one of the measures mentioned above as examples can be taken to remind the driver or user of the vehicle 12 that the direction indicator or blinker 16 which is still inadvertently switched on should be switched off again. This can be used for further (in Fig. 1 not shown) misleading situations for road users and, in particular, traffic accidents can be avoided.

[0107] As an example, the following is a situation when driving with the Fig.2. The driver of vehicle 12 intends to overtake and properly activates the turn signals or indicators 16 located on the left side of vehicle 12. Vehicle 12 then overtakes another vehicle traveling ahead (not shown here). However, when merging into the exit lane, the driver of vehicle 12 forgets to deactivate the indicator 16 due to distraction. Consequently, the indicator 16(s) remains active or activated.

[0108] At a subsequent intersection (not shown here), this may then cause confusion among other road users because they assume that vehicle 12 will turn left according to the activated turn signals 16. This may result in at least one of the other road users entering the intersection in addition to vehicle 12.

[0109] In this situation, for example, it is useful to check the plausibility of the switched-on state of the indicators 16 or of the indicator 16, taking into account at least one parameter relating to the environment of the vehicle 12.

[0110] For example, before reaching the intersection, the camera 100 and / or the radar device 102 can determine that another vehicle (not shown here) is in front of the vehicle 12, in which case the driver of the vehicle 12 then attempts to overtake. In this case, the control device 24 considers it plausible that the turn signal 16 is activated.

[0111] After the overtaking maneuver, it is determined by means of a detection device of the vehicle 12, for example in the form of the camera 100 and / or the radar device 102, for example based on the camera data and / or the radar data, that there is no other vehicle ahead in the direction of travel in front of the vehicle 12.

[0112] Additionally or alternatively, it can be determined from the map data provided by the navigation system 104 that there is no left turn option for the vehicle 12 on the upcoming section of the road.

[0113] In both cases, the control device 24 may classify it as implausible or implausible that the left turn signal 16 is set or switched on. Accordingly, a warning or reminder is issued to the driver of the vehicle 12 to switch off the turn signal 16. If the vehicle 12 subsequently enters the intersection, i.e., after the left turn signal 16 has been switched off, other road users will not be confused.

[0114] In this example, too, existing information about the current driving situation is taken into account when making a decision as to whether setting the indicator 16 is plausible or not.

[0115] In another driving situation, it may happen that vehicle 12 has reached the outer left lane during an overtaking maneuver, for example, on a highway, and then it is detected, for example by camera 100 and / or radar device 102, that a vehicle (or a line of vehicles) is traveling ahead in this lane. In this case, it takes longer to complete the overtaking maneuver than if the left lane were clear.

[0116] In this driving situation, the time period and the distance traveled since the turn signal 16 was switched on can again be taken into account by the control device 24 when checking the plausibility. Accordingly, it can be provided that the driver of the vehicle 12 is notified of the switched-on state of the turn signal 16 after a certain time period or distance. Otherwise, the driver of the vehicle may be perceived as tailgating by other road users in the left lane or in the queue of vehicles.

[0117] An analogous procedure can be followed if, for example, the vehicle 12 is back in the exit lane after an overtaking maneuver on a country road, with another vehicle traveling in the exit lane at a comparatively short distance in front of the vehicle 12. Here, too, taking into account the time elapsed since the turn signal 16 was switched on and the distance traveled since the turn signal 16 was switched on can result in the driver of the vehicle 12 being reminded to switch off the turn signal 16 and therefore not being perceived as a notorious left turn signal.

[0118] It can also be provided that the turn signal 16 that is still erroneously activated is deactivated or switched off by the control device 24, instead of issuing a corresponding warning to the driver of the vehicle 12. When the turn signal 16 is switched off, a turn signal lever or steering column switch returns to its original or zero position. Furthermore, it can be provided that such a switching off of the turn signal 16 occurs if the driver does not respond to the warning or does not respond in a timely manner.

[0119] However, issuing a reminder or warning to the driver or user of vehicle 12 is particularly advantageous. This gives the driver of vehicle 12 the opportunity to review the warning. This allows the driver of vehicle 12 to decide for themselves whether the turn signal 16 is actually still active by mistake, or whether this was a conscious decision by the user or driver of vehicle 12.

Claims

[1] Method for operating a vehicle (12), in particular a motor vehicle, in which a user of the vehicle (12) switches on a direction indicator (14, 16) of the vehicle (12), and in which a control device (24) of the vehicle (12) is used to check whether maintaining a state of the direction indicator (14, 16) in which the direction indicator (14, 16) is switched on is plausible, taking into account a driving situation of the vehicle (12) that exists during the switched-on state of the direction indicator (14, 16), wherein, when checking the plausibility of the switched-on state of the direction indicator (14, 16), at least one parameter relating to an environment of the vehicle (12) is taken into account by the control device (24), wherein the at least one parameter is supplied to the control device (24) by at least one further device (100, 102, 104) of the vehicle (12), characterized by , that if the switched-on state of the direction indicator (14, 16) is classified as implausible by the control device (24), at least one measure is taken, wherein if the switched-on state of the direction indicator (14, 16) is maintained despite the taking of the at least one measure, a driving speed of the vehicle (12) is reduced. [2] Method for operating a vehicle (12), in particular a motor vehicle, in which a user of the vehicle (12) switches on a direction indicator (14, 16) of the vehicle (12), and in which a control device (24) of the vehicle (12) is used to check whether maintaining a state of the direction indicator (14, 16) in which the direction indicator (14, 16) is switched on is plausible, taking into account a driving situation of the vehicle (12) that exists during the switched-on state of the direction indicator (14, 16), wherein, when checking the plausibility of the switched-on state of the direction indicator (14, 16), the control device (24) takes into account at least one parameter which comprises a distance travelled by the vehicle (12) since the switch-on of the direction indicator (14, 16) and / or a steering angle predetermined by means of a steering handle (26) of the vehicle (12), wherein the at least one parameter is supplied to the control device (24) by at least one further device of the vehicle (12), characterized by , that if the switched-on state of the direction indicator (14, 16) is classified as implausible by the control device (24), at least one measure is taken, wherein if the switched-on state of the direction indicator (14, 16) is maintained despite the taking of the at least one measure, a driving speed of the vehicle (12) is reduced. [3] Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that one of the parameters taken into account by the control device (24) comprises a distance of the vehicle (12) from a road user, which distance is detected in particular by means of at least one detection device (100, 102) of the vehicle (12) and which is traveling ahead of the vehicle (12) in the direction of travel (30) when the vehicle (12) is traveling forward. [4] Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that one of the parameters taken into account by the control device (24), in particular provided by a navigation system (104) of the vehicle (12), comprises map data and / or position data of the vehicle (12). [5] Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat when checking the plausibility of the switched-on state of the direction indicator (14, 16) the control device (24) takes into account a time period since the switching-on of the direction indicator (14, 16) and / or a driving speed of the vehicle (12). [6] Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that at least one measure in the form of - increasing the volume of a noise emitted when the direction indicator (14, 16) is switched on, and / or - issuing an acoustic and / or optical message, in particular displayed by means of a combination instrument (32) and / or another display device of the vehicle (12), and / or - changing the flashing of a control lamp (34, 36) of the vehicle (12) which indicates the switched-on state of the direction indicator (14, 16), and / or - a switching on, in particular in a timed manner, of an additional light (40) of the vehicle (12), which is provided in addition to a control light (34, 36) indicating the switched-on state of the direction indicator (14, 16), and / or - reducing a volume of sound waves emitted by at least one loudspeaker (38) of the vehicle (12). [7] Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that a first of the measures is taken first and then, if after a predetermined period of time the direction indicator (14, 16) continues to be switched on, at least a second of the measures is taken. [8] Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the at least one measure to be taken is specified by the user of the vehicle (12) and / or a temporal sequence of measures to be taken one after the other is specified by the user of the vehicle (12). [9] Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the driving speed of the vehicle (12) is reduced by a plurality of actuations of at least one braking device (98) of the vehicle (12) carried out at a time interval from one another. [10] Vehicle (12), in particular a motor vehicle, with at least one direction indicator (14, 16) which can be switched on by a user of the vehicle (12), and with a control device (24) which is designed to check whether maintaining a state of the at least one direction indicator (14, 16) in which the at least one direction indicator (14, 16) is switched on is plausible, taking into account a driving situation of the vehicle (12) which exists during the switched-on state of the at least one direction indicator (14, 16), characterized by that the vehicle (12) is designed to carry out a method according to one of the preceding claims.

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