Method for implementation by a control unit, computer program, device and vehicle

Abstract

Exemplary embodiments relate to a method 100 for implementation by a vehicle control unit. The method 100 comprises receiving 110 light data indicative of a light wave in the vehicle's environment and receiving 120 reference data indicative of a light wave in a predefined vehicle environment. Furthermore, the method 100 comprises determining 130 environmental data indicative of the vehicle's environment based on the light data and the reference data. The method 100 further comprises checking 140 a communication link between the vehicle and a base station and storing 150 the environmental data for transmission to a base station if the communication link is faulty.

Description

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a method for implementation by a control unit, a computer program, a device and a vehicle, in particular but not exclusively to a concept for storing environmental data for transmission to a base station.

[0002] To provide digital services in vehicles, it is necessary to reliably monitor the connection status to a base station. There are various possible reasons for a lack of connectivity between the vehicle and a base station. For example, the distance to the base station may be too great; an obstacle such as buildings, mountains, or dense vegetation may weaken or block the radio signal; electronic interference may impair connectivity; or congestion caused by too many devices simultaneously may occur. Therefore, the cause of a lack of connectivity between the vehicle and the base station can be difficult to identify.

[0003] There is therefore a need to provide an improved method for determining the cause of a faulty communication connection between a vehicle and a base station. The method, device, computer program, and vehicle according to the independent claims address this need.

[0004] Embodiments are based on the core idea that a method for determining the cause of a faulty communication connection can be based on environmental data. This allows an obstacle that could weaken or block a radio signal to be identified. Optionally, the location of this obstacle can also be determined.

[0005] Embodiments relate to a method for implementation by a control unit of a vehicle. The method comprises obtaining light data indicative of a light wave in an environment of the vehicle and obtaining reference data indicative of a light wave in a predefined environment of the vehicle. The method further comprises determining environmental data indicative of an environment of the vehicle based on the light data and the reference data. The method further comprises checking a communication connection between the vehicle and a base station and storing the environmental data for transmission to a base station if the communication connection is faulty. Determining the environmental data and storing it in the case of a faulty communication connection can make it possible to inform the base station about an environment in which a faulty communication connection has occurred.This allows a determination of a fault for a faulty communication link to be checked on an environment of the vehicle.

[0006] In one embodiment, the light data can be indicative of the light intensity in the vehicle's surroundings. Based on the light intensity, for example, it can be determined whether the vehicle is outdoors or in a building, such as a parking garage or underground car park, at a specific time (e.g., during the day). Using the light intensity, information about the surroundings can be determined more easily.

[0007] In one embodiment, the light data can be indicative of a light wavelength in the vehicle's surroundings. Based on the light wavelength, for example, it can be determined whether the vehicle is outdoors or indoors. For example, a wavelength of the light wave can be used to determine information about the vehicle's surroundings. This can simplify the determination of the environmental data.

[0008] In one embodiment, measuring the light data may include periodic measurements. Periodic measurements may improve the accuracy of determining the ambient data.

[0009] In one embodiment, the reference data may further be indicative of a temporal change in the light source in the predefined environment of the vehicle. Furthermore, the determination may include comparing the temporal change in the reference data with the periodically measured light data. This allows the ambient data to be determined, for example, based on a daylight profile.

[0010] In one embodiment, the reference data may also be indicative of circadian light exposure. By taking circadian light exposure into account, differentiation between an outdoor and indoor location can be improved.

[0011] In one embodiment, obtaining the reference data may further comprise obtaining a vehicle position and reading the reference data from a storage unit based on the vehicle position. Using the vehicle position, the circadian light exposure for a location of the vehicle can be determined. This advantageously allows the reference data to be determined.

[0012] Embodiments relate to a method for implementation by a control unit of a vehicle. The method comprises obtaining light data indicative of a light wave in an environment of the vehicle and obtaining reference data indicative of a light wave in a predefined environment of the vehicle. The method further comprises determining, based on the light data and the reference data, whether the vehicle is located in a closed environment or not. If the vehicle is located in a closed environment, the method further comprises generating environmental data indicative of an environment of the vehicle and storing the environmental data for transmission to a base station. Determining the environmental data and storing it for a closed environment can make it possible to inform a base station about a closed environment.For example, a communication link may be disrupted in a closed environment. This allows the determination of a fault for a faulty communication link to be verified within the closed environment of the vehicle. In particular, the vehicle can send environmental data or information about the environment to a backend. This allows a backend to determine a faulty communication link based on the closed environment.

[0013] In one embodiment, the method may further comprise checking a communication connection between the vehicle and a base station and storing the environmental data for transmission to a base station if the communication connection is faulty. This allows the environmental data to be stored, for example, only for a faulty communication connection. For example, the vehicle may be located in a closed environment where there is no faulty communication connection, i.e., where no significant disruption to the communication connection is caused by the closed environment.

[0014] Embodiments relate to a method for implementation by a base station device. The method comprises determining a status of a communication connection between the base station and a vehicle, and if a faulty communication connection has been determined, storing fault data indicative of a time of the faulty communication connection. Furthermore, the method comprises establishing a communication connection with the vehicle, sending, based on the fault data, a request for environmental data indicative of an environment, and receiving the environmental data. By receiving the environmental data, the base station can determine a possible cause for the faulty communication connection, for example, a closed environment in which the vehicle was located.

[0015] Embodiments also provide a computer program for performing one of the methods described herein when the computer program runs on a computer, a processor, or a programmable hardware component.

[0016] Another embodiment is a device for determining the cause of a faulty communication connection. The device comprises an interface for communication with a base station and a data processing circuit configured to perform at least one of the methods described herein. Embodiments further provide a vehicle with a device as described herein.

[0017] Exemplary embodiments are explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying figures. They show: Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of a method for a vehicle; Fig. 2 shows a schematic representation of another method for a vehicle; Fig. 3 shows a schematic representation of a method for a base station; and Fig. 4 shows a block diagram of an embodiment of a device for determining environmental data.

[0018] Various embodiments will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some embodiments are illustrated. In the figures, the thickness dimensions of lines, layers, and / or regions may be exaggerated for clarity.

[0019] Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of a method 100 for a vehicle. The method 100 can, for example, be used to determine the cause of a faulty communication connection between a vehicle and a base station. For example, the method 100 can be used to determine a position and / or environment in areas where there is no connectivity in the sense of a global positioning system (GPS) or a mobile radio connection, for example, with a base station or a backend. The method 100 can be carried out by a control unit of a vehicle. The control unit can be a device according to Fig. 4 and include an interface and a data processing circuit. The method 100 is for implementation by a control unit of a vehicle.

[0020] The method 100 includes obtaining 110 light data indicative of a light wave in an environment of the vehicle. The light wave can, for example, be daylight, i.e., a light wave emitted by the sun. The light wave emitted by the sun can optionally have been reflected by an object in the environment of the vehicle. The light wave can, for example, be a light wave emitted by an artificial light source, such as a lamp. Optionally, the light wave emitted by an artificial light source can have been reflected by objects in the environment of the vehicle. The light wave can therefore be a natural light wave (e.g., emitted by the sun) and / or an artificial light wave (e.g., emitted by a lamp), which has optionally been reflected by objects in the environment of the vehicle.

[0021] The light wave can be measured, for example, by an environmental sensor, such as a camera and / or a light detection and ranging sensor. The environmental sensor can generate the light data based on the measured light wave. The environmental sensor can be external to the control unit. The light data can therefore be received from an environmental sensor. Alternatively, the light data can be measured. For example, the environmental sensor can be part of the control unit for carrying out method 100. The control unit can then measure the light data or control a measurement using the environmental sensor. Alternatively, the light data can also be read from or received from a storage unit.

[0022] Furthermore, the method 100 includes obtaining 120 reference data indicative of a light wave in a predefined environment of the vehicle. The reference data can be read from a storage unit. For example, the storage unit can be part of the control unit. Additionally or alternatively, the reference data can be received. The reference data can be received, for example, from a base station or a storage unit external to the control unit.

[0023] The reference data can be particularly indicative of different vehicle environments. For example, a light wave can be different in different environments.

[0024] The different light waves for the different predefined environments can be contained in the reference data. Based on the reference data and the light data, the vehicle's environment can therefore be determined. The vehicle's environment can, in particular, include information about whether the vehicle is parked outdoors or in a building or a closed room. In particular, based on the light wave, a structure surrounding the vehicle that shields the vehicle from a light wave can be determined. The structure surrounding the vehicle that shields the vehicle from the light wave can also cause a shielding of a communication connection between the vehicle and the base station. Thus, by using the light data and the reference data, a cause for an error in the communication connection between the vehicle and the base station can be determined.The shielding structure surrounding the vehicle may be an artificial structure, such as a house and / or an underground parking garage, and / or a natural structure, such as a forest, a valley and / or a mountain.

[0025] The surroundings of the vehicle can be defined, for example, by a lighting condition. For example, the lighting condition outdoors is different from the lighting condition in an underground parking garage or in a forest or ravine. The method 100 further includes determining 130 environmental data indicative of the surroundings of the vehicle based on the lighting data and the reference data. The determination 130 can be performed, for example, by comparing the lighting data with the reference data.

[0026] Furthermore, the method 100 includes checking 140 a communication connection between the vehicle and a base station. By checking 140, a faulty state of the communication connection, for example, a faulty communication connection, can be determined. If a faulty communication connection exists, the environment of the vehicle may be a cause of the faulty communication connection.

[0027] Accordingly, the method 100 further includes storing 150 the environmental data for transmission to a base station. The base station may be the same base station to which a faulty communication connection exists. For example, the environmental data may be sent to the base station once a communication connection between the vehicle and the base station has been restored. Alternatively, the base station may be a different base station that is not affected by the faulty communication connection between the vehicle and the base station.

[0028] The error states detected by a control unit, such as a telematics control unit (TCU), of a vehicle can only partially take the vehicle's environmental parameters into account. Accordingly, it can be difficult or impossible to reliably determine whether a vehicle is located in an (underground) garage or an otherwise (e.g., structurally) shielded environment. This makes it more difficult to determine whether a faulty communication connection represents a fault or is physically caused. In order to detect anomalies in fleet behavior and disruptions in a customer's service availability and to proactively initiate countermeasures, detailed knowledge of occurring error states can be advantageous. By determining 130 the environmental data based on the light data and reference data, information about a communication connection-shielding environment of the vehicle can be obtained.Furthermore, by storing 150 the environmental data, transmission to the base station can occur when a communication connection can be re-established. This allows the base station to receive the vehicle's environmental data. This allows the base station to receive information about the environment, particularly about an environment with a shielding effect on communication signals. This can improve the determination of the cause of a faulty communication connection.

[0029] Method 100 thus enables technically secure detection, storage, and transmission of structurally shielded environments, for example, parking locations of the vehicle. In particular, this also allows for cataloging of structurally shielded environments for a vehicle. For example, various positions for which a faulty communication connection exists can be recorded. The various positions can be stored on a map. This can, for example, improve fleet management. For example, it can prevent a vehicle from being parked in a shielded environment.

[0030] If the control unit, for example, the TCU, is defective, the recorded error states can only be trusted to a limited extent. Therefore, an evaluation of a secondary source can optionally be performed. The secondary source could be, for example, a rain / light sensor. Recorded error patterns regarding connectivity can thus be further differentiated. Thus, method 100 can, in particular, enable a precise determination of the cause of a faulty communication connection.

[0031] For example, by continuously measuring the prevailing light intensity at the vehicle (i.e., by measuring the light wave in the vehicle's surroundings) and comparing it with reference data, such as an expected circadian rhythm, it can be determined whether the vehicle is in a structurally shielded environment. The result of this periodic evaluation (e.g., the environmental data) can be stored on the control unit or on a storage unit external to the control unit for transmission to the base station. When a connection to the base station is re-established, the stored result can be sent to the base station. This can inform the base station about a structurally shielded environment.

[0032] In one embodiment, the light data can be indicative of a light intensity in the vehicle's surroundings. The light intensity can provide an indication of a shielding object or structure in the vehicle's surroundings. For example, the light intensity in a garage can be reduced, in particular approximately 0. Outside a garage, however, the light intensity can be increased, e.g., due to sunlight, street lighting, or house lighting. Based on the light intensity, it can therefore be determined whether or not a vehicle is located in an environment sealed off from light, which can also impair a communication connection.

[0033] However, since a garage may also contain artificial light sources that permanently emit light waves, e.g., in a public, illuminated underground car park, the analysis of the light wavelength can be used to determine the vehicle's surroundings. Accordingly, in one embodiment, the light data can be indicative of a light wavelength in the vehicle's surroundings. Based on the light wavelength, it can be determined, for example, whether the light wave was emitted by the sun or an artificial source. If, for example, the light wave has a spectral distribution that does not match solar radiation, it can be assumed that the vehicle is in a shielded environment (or that it is nighttime). Using the light wavelength can therefore improve the determination of a shielding environment.

[0034] Furthermore, the light wave emitted by the sun may be weak or nonexistent due to the time of day. Therefore, in one embodiment, measuring the light data may involve periodic measurements. Periodic measurements can improve the accuracy of determining the ambient data. Furthermore, periodic measurements can reduce or eliminate the influence of time of day.

[0035] Optionally or alternatively, the change in the light wave emitted by the sun throughout the day can also be used to more accurately determine the vehicle's surroundings. In one embodiment, the reference data can also be indicative of a temporal change in the light source in the predefined surroundings of the vehicle. Furthermore, the determination can include comparing the temporal change in the reference data with the periodically measured light data. This can improve the determination of whether the vehicle is in a daylight environment.

[0036] In one embodiment, the reference data may also be indicative of circadian light exposure. By taking circadian light exposure into account, differentiation between an outdoor and indoor location can be improved.

[0037] In one embodiment, obtaining the reference data may further comprise obtaining a vehicle position and reading the reference data from a storage unit based on the vehicle position. Using the vehicle position, the circadian light exposure for a location of the vehicle can be determined. This advantageously allows the reference data to be determined.

[0038] Further details and aspects are mentioned in connection with the embodiments described below. Fig. 1 may comprise one or more optional additional features corresponding to one or more aspects related to the proposed concept or one or more embodiments described below (e.g. Fig. 2-4) were mentioned.

[0039] Fig. 2 shows a schematic representation of another method 200 for a vehicle. The method 200 can, for example, be for determining a cause of a faulty communication connection between a vehicle and a base station. For example, the method 200 can be for determining a position and / or environment in areas where there is no connectivity in the sense of a global positioning system (GPS) or a mobile radio connection, for example with a base station or a backend. The method 200 can be carried out by a control unit of a vehicle. The control unit can be a device according to Fig. 4 and include an interface and a data processing circuit. The method 200 is for implementation by a control unit of a vehicle.

[0040] The method 200 includes obtaining 210 light data indicative of a light wave in an environment of the vehicle. The light wave can, for example, be daylight, i.e., a light wave emitted by the sun. The light wave emitted by the sun can optionally have been reflected by an object in the environment of the vehicle. The light wave can, for example, be a light wave emitted by an artificial light source, such as a lamp. Optionally, the light wave emitted by an artificial light source can have been reflected by objects in the environment of the vehicle. The light wave can therefore be a natural light wave (e.g., emitted by the sun) and / or an artificial light wave (e.g., emitted by a lamp), which has optionally been reflected by objects in the environment of the vehicle.

[0041] The light wave can be measured, for example, by an environmental sensor, such as a camera and / or a light detection and ranging sensor. The environmental sensor can generate the light data based on the measured light wave. The environmental sensor can be external to the control unit. The light data can therefore be received from an environmental sensor. Alternatively, the light data can be measured. For example, the environmental sensor can be part of the control unit for carrying out method 200. The control unit can then measure the light data or control a measurement using the environmental sensor. Alternatively, the light data can also be read from or received from a storage unit.

[0042] Furthermore, the method 200 includes obtaining 220 reference data indicative of a light wave in a predefined environment of the vehicle. The reference data can be read from a storage unit. For example, the storage unit can be part of the control unit. Additionally or alternatively, the reference data can be received. The reference data can be received, for example, from a base station or a storage unit external to the control unit.

[0043] The reference data can in particular be indicative of different environments of the vehicle. For example, a light wave can be different in different environments. The different light waves for the different predefined environments can be contained in the reference data. Based on the reference data and the light data, an environment of the vehicle can therefore be determined. An environment of the vehicle can in particular include information about whether the vehicle is parked in the open air or in a closed environment, for example a building, a garage or a closed room. In particular, based on the light wave, a determination of a structure surrounding the vehicle which shields the vehicle against a light wave can be made. In the closed environment, the vehicle can be completely surrounded by a surrounding structure.The enclosed environment can shield the vehicle from a natural light wave. The structure surrounding the vehicle can be an artificial structure, such as a house and / or an underground parking garage.

[0044] By comparing the reference data with the light data, it can be determined whether the vehicle is in a closed environment. The closed environment can contribute to or lead to shielding of a vehicle's communication link. This means that the closed environment can be the cause of a faulty communication link. By determining whether the vehicle is in a closed environment, a possible source of error for a faulty communication link can be identified. For example, by using the light data and the reference data, a cause for an error in the communication link between the vehicle and a base station, e.g., a backend, can be determined.

[0045] The surroundings of the vehicle can be defined, for example, by a lighting condition. For example, the lighting condition outdoors is different from the lighting condition in an underground car park. The method 200 further comprises determining 230 environmental data indicative of whether the vehicle is located in a closed environment or not. The determination 230 is carried out based on the light data and the reference data. The determination 230 can be carried out, for example, by comparing the light data with the reference data. For example, a light wavelength or a light wavelength range can be compared. For example, the vehicle can be parked in an underground car park with halogen lamps. The light data can then be indicative of the spectrum of a halogen lamp. By comparing it with the reference data of a halogen lamp, it can therefore be determined that the vehicle could be located in a closed environment.Optionally or alternatively, a time of day can also be used for comparison with an expected brightness in the vehicle's surroundings. If the brightness in an environment deviates significantly from the brightness of the reference data, the vehicle may be in an enclosed environment. Optionally or alternatively, circadian light exposure can also be used to determine an enclosed environment. This can increase the accuracy of determining whether the vehicle is in an enclosed environment.

[0046] Furthermore, if the vehicle is located in a closed environment, the method includes generating 240 environmental data indicative of the vehicle's environment. The environmental data may be indicative of a closed environment of the vehicle. The environmental data may include, for example, the lighting data. Optionally or alternatively, the environmental data may contain direct information about whether the vehicle is located in a closed environment. This may reduce storage requirements and / or data transfer.

[0047] Furthermore, the method 200 includes storing 250 the environmental data for transmission to a base station. By storing the environmental data, it can be sent to a base station, for example, a backend, at a suitable time. For example, the base station can detect a faulty communication connection to the vehicle for a period of time. If the base station can re-establish a communication connection to the vehicle at a later time, the base station can request the environmental data. The vehicle can then send the environmental data in response to the base station's request. As described above, the environmental data can include the light data. In this case, the base station can determine the vehicle's environment based on the environmental data. The environment can therefore be determined both by the vehicle and by the base station.Optionally or alternatively, the environmental data can only include information about the vehicle's enclosed environment. This can reduce data transfer. Furthermore, the transmission of sensor data can be omitted, thus increasing data security.

[0048] Optionally, method 200 may include checking 240 a communication connection between the vehicle and a base station. Checking 240 may determine a faulty state of the communication connection, for example, a faulty communication connection. If a faulty communication connection exists, the vehicle's environment may be a cause of the faulty communication connection.

[0049] The base station can be the same base station with which a faulty communication link exists. For example, the environmental data can be sent to the base station as soon as a communication link between the vehicle and the base station has been restored. Alternatively, the base station can be a different base station that is not affected by the faulty communication link between the vehicle and the base station.

[0050] The error states detected by a control unit, such as a telematics control unit (TCU), of a vehicle can only partially take the vehicle's environmental parameters into account. Accordingly, it can be difficult or impossible to reliably determine whether a vehicle is located in an (underground) garage or an otherwise (e.g., structurally) shielded environment. This makes it more difficult to determine whether a faulty communication connection represents a fault or is physically caused. In order to detect anomalies in fleet behavior and disruptions in a customer's service availability and to proactively initiate countermeasures, detailed knowledge of occurring error states can be advantageous. By determining 230 the environmental data based on the light data and reference data, information about a communication connection-shielding environment of the vehicle can be obtained.Furthermore, by storing 250 the environmental data, transmission to the base station can occur when a communication connection can be re-established. This allows the base station to receive the vehicle's environmental data. This allows the base station to receive information about the environment, particularly about an environment with a shielding effect on communication signals. This can improve the determination of the cause of a faulty communication connection.

[0051] Method 200 thus enables technically secure detection, storage, and transmission of structurally shielded environments, for example, parking locations of the vehicle. In particular, this also allows for cataloging of structurally shielded environments for a vehicle. For example, various positions for which a faulty communication connection exists can be recorded. The various positions can be stored on a map. This can, for example, improve fleet management. For example, it can prevent a vehicle from being parked in a shielded environment.

[0052] If the control unit, for example, the TCU, is defective, the recorded error states can only be trusted to a limited extent. Therefore, an evaluation of a secondary source can optionally be performed. The secondary source could be, for example, a rain / light sensor. Recorded error patterns regarding connectivity can thus be further differentiated. Thus, method 200 can, in particular, enable a precise determination of the cause of a faulty communication connection.

[0053] Alternatively, as described above, the environmental data can be sent to the base station after receiving a request from the base station. This means that the transmission of the environmental data can be triggered by the base station. The base station can determine a faulty communication connection to a vehicle more reliably than the vehicle itself. For example, the vehicle can incorrectly determine that the communication connection is functional. In this case, the vehicle would not send the environmental data to the base station on its own. However, the environmental data can still be stored temporarily in a memory unit of the vehicle. Accordingly, the vehicle can send the environmental data to the base station after receiving a request from the base station. This can reduce or eliminate false positive events from the vehicle.

[0054] For example, by continuously measuring the light intensity prevailing on the vehicle, i.e. by measuring the light wave in the vehicle's surroundings, and comparing it with reference data, such as an expected circadian rhythm, it can be determined whether the vehicle is in a closed environment, such as a structurally shielded environment. The result of this periodic evaluation, i.e. the environmental data, can be stored in the control unit or a storage unit external to the control unit for transmission to the base station. When a connection to the base station is re-established, the stored environmental data can be sent to the base station. As described above, transmission can be triggered by the base station and / or a faulty communication connection. This can inform the base station about a closed environment.

[0055] In one embodiment, the light data can be indicative of a light intensity in the surroundings of the vehicle. The light intensity can provide an indication of a shielding object or a shielding structure in the surroundings of the vehicle. For example, the light intensity in a garage can be reduced, in particular approximately 0. Outside a garage, however, the light intensity can be increased, e.g., natural light. Based on the light intensity, it can therefore be determined whether or not a vehicle is located in a closed environment protected from natural light, which can also impair a communication connection.

[0056] However, since a garage can also contain artificial light sources that constantly emit a light wave, e.g. in a public, illuminated underground car park, the analysis of the light wavelength can also be used to determine the vehicle's surroundings. Accordingly, in one embodiment, the light data can be indicative of a light wavelength in the vehicle's surroundings. Based on the light wavelength, it can be determined, for example, whether the light wave was emitted by the sun, i.e., natural light, or an artificial source. If, for example, the light wave has a spectral distribution that does not match solar radiation, i.e., natural light, it can be assumed that the vehicle is in a closed environment. Using the light wavelength can therefore improve the determination of a closed environment.

[0057] Furthermore, the light wave emitted by the sun may be weak or nonexistent due to the time of day. This can increase the susceptibility to error in a determination. Therefore, in one embodiment, measuring the light data can include periodic measurements. By performing periodic measurements, the accuracy of determining whether the vehicle is in a closed environment can be improved. Furthermore, by performing periodic measurements, the influence of the time of day can be reduced or eliminated.

[0058] Optionally or alternatively, the change in the light wave emitted by the sun throughout the day can also be used to more accurately determine the vehicle's surroundings. In one embodiment, the reference data can also be indicative of a temporal change in the light source in the predefined surroundings of the vehicle. Furthermore, the determination can include comparing the temporal change in the reference data with the periodically measured light data. This can improve the determination of whether the vehicle is in a daylight environment.

[0059] In one embodiment, the reference data may also be indicative of circadian light exposure. By taking circadian light exposure into account, differentiation between an outdoor and indoor location can be improved.

[0060] In one embodiment, obtaining the reference data may further comprise obtaining a vehicle position and reading the reference data from a storage unit based on the vehicle position. Using the vehicle position, the circadian light exposure for a location of the vehicle can be determined. This advantageously allows the reference data to be determined.

[0061] Further details and aspects are mentioned in connection with the embodiments described above and / or below. Fig. 2 may comprise one or more optional additional features corresponding to one or more aspects related to the proposed concept or one or more embodiments described above (e.g. Fig. 1) and / or embodiments described below (e.g. Fig. 3-4) were mentioned.

[0062] Fig. Figure 3 shows a schematic representation of a method 300 for a base station. The method 300 is to be carried out by a device of a base station. For example, the method can be carried out by a device according to Fig. 4. The method 300 includes determining 310 a status of a communication connection between the base station and a vehicle and, if a faulty communication connection has been determined, storing 320 fault data indicative of a time of the faulty communication connection. The method 300 further includes establishing 330 a communication connection with the vehicle, sending 340, based on the fault data, a request for environmental data indicative of an environment (of the vehicle), and receiving 350 the environmental data. By receiving the environmental data, the base station can determine a possible cause for the faulty communication connection, for example, a closed environment, a wall, or a ravine in or near which the vehicle was located. The environmental data can be received, for example, from the vehicle or a relay system.The request can be sent, for example, to the vehicle or a relay system. The base station can then request environmental data based on the fault data, such as the time of a faulty communication link. This allows the base station to determine the vehicle's environment at the time of a faulty communication link. If the environment was one with a shielding structure, such as a closed environment or a canyon, the base station can establish a correlation with the closed environment. This can improve the determination of a faulty communication link.

[0063] As described above, a determination of a faulty communication connection by the base station can be more accurate than by the vehicle. Accordingly, the base station can request the environmental data. This allows the base station to determine a possible cause of a faulty communication connection. The environmental data can be indicative of sensor data as described above. In this case, the base station can evaluate the sensor data to determine whether the vehicle was in a closed environment. Optionally or alternatively, the environmental data can directly include information about a closed environment. This means that processing of the environmental data, for example a comparison with reference data, by the base station can be omitted. In this case, data transfer can be reduced.

[0064] The base station can be a counterpart to the vehicle which carries out the method according to Fig. 1 and / or Fig. 2. For example, the base station can implement the method 300 in the context of transmitter and receiver in conjunction with the method from Fig. 1 and / or Fig. 2 carry out.

[0065] Further details and aspects are mentioned in connection with the embodiments described above and / or below. Fig. 3 may comprise one or more optional additional features corresponding to one or more aspects related to the proposed concept or one or more embodiments described above (e.g. Fig. 1 - 2) and / or embodiments described below (e.g. Fig. 4) were mentioned.

[0066] Fig. Figure 4 shows a block diagram of an embodiment of a device 30 for determining environmental data. The device may be a control unit of the vehicle 40. The device 30 may be a processor, e.g., a central control unit, of a base station, e.g., a backend, a cloud server. The device 30 comprises an interface 32 for communication with a base station for carrying out the method according to Fig. 1 and / or Fig. 2 or a vehicle for carrying out the procedure according to Fig. 3. The device 30 further comprises a data processing circuit 34 which is designed to carry out at least one of the methods described herein, for example the method which is described with reference to Fig. 1 and / or Fig. 2 for the control unit of the vehicle or the method which is related to Fig. 3 for the backend. Further embodiments include a vehicle 40 with a device 30 or a base station with a device 30.

[0067] The Fig. The interface 32 shown in Figure 4 can, for example, correspond to one or more inputs and / or one or more outputs for receiving and / or transmitting information, for example in digital bit values, based on a code, within a module, between modules, or between modules of different entities. The interface 32 can, for example, be configured to communicate with other network components via a (radio) network or a local area network.

[0068] In exemplary embodiments, the data processing circuit 34 can correspond to any controller or processor or a programmable hardware component. For example, the data processing circuit 34 can also be implemented as software programmed for a corresponding hardware component. In this respect, the data processing circuit 34 can be implemented as programmable hardware with appropriately adapted software. Any processors, such as digital signal processors (DSPs), can be used. Exemplary embodiments are not limited to a specific type of processor. Any processor or even multiple processors are conceivable for implementing the data processing circuit 34.

[0069] As in Fig. 4, the interface 32 may be coupled to the respective data processing circuitry 34 of the device 30. In examples, the device 30 may be implemented by one or more processing units, one or more processing devices, any means of processing, such as a processor, a computer, or a programmable hardware component operable with appropriately adapted software. Likewise, the described functions of the data processing circuitry 34 may also be implemented in software, which is then executed on one or more programmable hardware components. Such hardware components may be a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), a microcontroller, etc.The data processing circuit 34 may be capable of controlling the interface 32 such that any data transfer that occurs over the interface 32 and / or any interaction that the interface 32 may be involved in can be controlled by the data processing circuit 34.

[0070] In one embodiment, the device 30 may include a memory and at least one data processing circuit 34 operatively coupled to the memory and configured to perform one of the methods described above.

[0071] In examples, interface 32 may correspond to any means for obtaining, receiving, transmitting, or providing analog or digital signals or information, e.g., any terminal, contact, pin, register, input terminal, output terminal, conductor, trace, etc., that enables the provision or receipt of a signal or information. Interface 32 may be wireless or wired and may be configured to communicate with other internal or external components, e.g., to send or receive signals or information.

[0072] In at least some embodiments, the vehicle 40 may, for example, correspond to a land vehicle, a watercraft, an aircraft, a rail vehicle, a road vehicle, a car, a bus, a motorcycle, an off-road vehicle, a motor vehicle, or a truck. The device 30 may, for example, be a part of or a control unit of the vehicle 40.

[0073] Further details and aspects are mentioned in connection with the embodiments described above. Fig. 4 may comprise one or more optional additional features corresponding to one or more aspects related to the proposed concept or one or more of the above (e.g. Fig. 1-3) described embodiments.

[0074] Further embodiments are computer programs for carrying out one of the methods described herein when the computer program runs on a computer, a processor, or a programmable hardware component. Depending on specific implementation requirements, embodiments of the invention can be implemented in hardware or in software. The implementation can be carried out using a digital storage medium, for example a floppy disk, a DVD, a Blu-ray disc, a CD, a ROM, a PROM, an EPROM, an EEPROM or a FLASH memory, a hard disk, or another magnetic or optical storage device on which electronically readable control signals are stored that can interact or interact with a programmable hardware component in such a way that the respective method is carried out.

[0075] A programmable hardware component can be formed by a processor, a computer processor (CPU = Central Processing Unit), a graphics processor (GPU = Graphics Processing Unit), a computer, a computer system, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC = Application-Specific Integrated Circuit), an integrated circuit (IC = Integrated Circuit), a single-chip system (SOC = System on Chip), a programmable logic element or a field-programmable gate array with a microprocessor (FPGA = Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0076] The digital storage medium can therefore be machine- or computer-readable. Some embodiments thus comprise a data carrier having electronically readable control signals capable of interacting with a programmable computer system or a programmable hardware component such that one of the methods described herein is performed. One embodiment is thus a data carrier (or a digital storage medium or a computer-readable medium) on which the program for performing one of the methods described herein is recorded.

[0077] In general, embodiments of the present invention can be implemented as a program, firmware, computer program, or computer program product with program code or data, wherein the program code or data is effective to perform one of the methods when the program runs on a processor or a programmable hardware component. The program code or data can also be stored, for example, on a machine-readable medium or data carrier. The program code or data can be present, among other things, as source code, machine code, or bytecode, as well as other intermediate code. List of reference symbols 30 Device 32 interface 34 Data processing circuit 40 vehicles 100 Methods for implementation by a control unit of a vehicle 110 Obtaining light data 120 Obtaining reference data 130 Determining environmental data 140 Checking a communication connection 150 Saving the environmental data 200 Methods for implementation by a control unit of a vehicle 210 Obtaining light data 220 Obtaining reference data 230 Determine whether the vehicle is in a closed environment or not 240 Generating environmental data 250 Saving the environment data for sending 300 Method for implementation by a device of a base station 310 Determining a status of a communication connection 320 Saving fault data 330 Establishing a communication link 340 Sending a request for environmental data 350 Receiving environmental data

Claims

[1] A method (100) for implementation by a control unit of a vehicle, comprising: Obtaining (110) light data indicative of a light wave in an environment of the vehicle; Obtaining (120) reference data indicative of a light wave in a predefined environment of the vehicle; Determining (130) environmental data indicative of an environment of the vehicle based on the light data and the reference data; Checking (140) a communication connection between the vehicle and a base station; and Storing (150) the environmental data for sending to a base station if the communication link is faulty. [2] The method (100) of claim 1, wherein the light data is indicative of a light intensity in the environment of the vehicle. [3] The method (100) of any preceding claim, wherein the light data is indicative of a wavelength of light in the environment of the vehicle. [4] The method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the measurement of the light data comprises a periodic measurement, whereby the reference data are further indicative of a temporal change of the light wave in the predefined environment of the vehicle; and determining comprises comparing the temporal change of the reference data with the periodically measured light data. [5] The method (100) of claim 4, wherein the reference data is further indicative of circadian light exposure. [6] A method (200) for implementation by a control unit of a vehicle, comprising: Obtaining (210) light data indicative of a light wave in an environment of the vehicle; Obtaining (220) reference data indicative of a light wave in a predefined environment of the vehicle; Determining (230) whether or not the vehicle is in a closed environment based on the light data and the reference data; when the vehicle is in a closed environment, generating (240) environmental data indicative of an environment of the vehicle; and Storing (250) the environmental data for sending to a base station. [7] A method (300) for performing by a base station device, comprising: Determining (310) a status of a communication link between the base station and a vehicle; if a faulty communication connection has been determined, storing (320) fault data indicative of a time of the faulty communication connection; Establishing (330) a communication link with the vehicle; Sending (340), based on the disturbance data, a request for environmental data indicative of a closed environment; and Receiving (350) the environmental data. [8] A computer program for carrying out one of the methods (100) according to one of the preceding claims, when the computer program runs on a computer, a processor, or a programmable hardware component. [9] An apparatus (30) for determining a cause of a faulty communication link, comprising: an interface (32) for communication with a base station; and a data processing circuit (34) configured to carry out at least one of the methods (100) according to any one of claims 1-7. [10] A vehicle (40) having a device (30) according to claim 9.

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