Method for operating a coupled system with a wiper system and a direction indicator system for a vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for operating a coupled system (100) for a vehicle (F), wherein the coupled system (100) has the following system components: - a windscreen wiper system (10) with a windscreen wiper (11), for example in the form of a rear window wiper, and a preferably dynamically controllable lighting device (12), - and a direction indicator system (20) with at least one, preferably dynamically controllable, direction indicator unit (21, 22), for example in the form of a rear light unit, comprising the method: - detecting a display request for the direction indicator system (20), - Operating the windscreen wiper system (10) in different operating modes (I, II, III, IV, V) depending on the display request.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a method for operating a coupled system with a wiper system and a turn signal system for a vehicle. Furthermore, the invention relates to a corresponding computer program product, a corresponding data carrier signal, a corresponding control unit, and a corresponding system for implementing the corresponding method.

[0002] Wiper systems and direction indicators (or, in other words, direction indicator systems) for vehicles are generally well known. Modern wiper systems can have extended functions, such as lighting functions, as is known, for example, from document DE102020205614A1. Direction indicator systems also have lighting functions. Currently, existing wiper systems and direction indicator systems operate independently of each other.

[0003] It is therefore an object of the present invention to at least partially overcome at least one of the disadvantages described above. In particular, it is an object of the invention to provide a method for operating a coupled system with a wiper system and a direction indicator system for a vehicle, which method ensures improved functionality of the coupled system, provides expanded functions for the wiper system and the direction indicator system, enables interaction with a user, ensures improved customer comfort and safety, and increases safety during operation of the vehicle. Furthermore, it is an object of the invention to provide a corresponding computer program product, a corresponding data carrier signal, a corresponding control unit, and a corresponding system for carrying out the corresponding method.

[0004] The problem is solved by a method for operating a coupled system for a vehicle.

[0005] The coupled system has the following system components: - a windscreen wiper system with a windscreen wiper, e.g. in the form of a rear window wiper, and a lighting device, preferably dynamically controllable, - and a direction indicator system with at least one, preferably dynamically controllable, direction indicator unit, for example in the form of a rear light unit.

[0006] A rear light unit may be provided with a left direction indicator unit and a right direction indicator unit.

[0007] The lighting device of the windscreen wiper system can have several point light sources that can be arranged along the windscreen wiper in one or more rows.

[0008] The lighting device of the windscreen wiper system can have one or more light strips, for example one or more optical fibers, which can be arranged along the windscreen wiper.

[0009] In principle, different designs and types of lighting devices are conceivable, which can be arranged on the windscreen wiper or near the windscreen wiper.

[0010] The procedure comprises the following steps: - Detection of a display request for the direction indicator system, wherein in particular the display request may comprise different requirements, preferably in addition to displaying a turning direction of the vehicle, to which reference is made in detail below, and - Operating the windscreen wiper system in different operating modes depending on the display request, whereby preferably different operating modes can be provided for different requirements.

[0011] When detecting a display request for the direction indicator system, at least one of the following parameters can be taken into account: - an operating parameter of the vehicle, such as a turning direction of the vehicle, - a traffic parameter, such as a traffic jam report, and / or - a function of a vehicle locking system, such as locking function or unlocking function, etc.

[0012] To detect a display request for the direction indicator system, at least one vehicle system (e.g. steering system, navigation system, vehicle locking system, etc.) can be queried, e.g. by a control unit specially designed for a corresponding coupled system, to which reference will be made in detail below.

[0013] A notification request may include at least one of the following requirements: - Displaying a turning direction of the vehicle, - Hazard warning lights, - Welcome function (e.g. as part of a Leaving Home function), - Lighting function (e.g. as part of a coming home function), etc.

[0014] The lighting function may advantageously include a farewell function.

[0015] But the greeting function can also include a lighting function.

[0016] In order to improve the lighting functions depending on the different display prompts, the method proposes to operate the windshield wiper system depending on the display prompt.

[0017] On the one hand, this can improve the visibility of the lighting functions.

[0018] On the other hand, this can ensure improved functionality of the coupled system so that the system components can support each other in a synergistic manner when providing lighting functions.

[0019] Furthermore, this can provide extended functions for the wiper system and the direction indicator system, such as greeting or saying goodbye to the user, extending leaving home functions and / or coming home functions, etc.

[0020] Furthermore, this can enable interaction with a user, for example by allowing the user to select the functions (moving the windscreen wiper and / or individually controlling the lighting device) when operating the windscreen wiper system depending on the display prompt.

[0021] Furthermore, this can enable improved customer convenience by, for example, transmitting information to the user, e.g. as a greeting, in particular to signal a detected approach of the user, a positive authentication of the user and / or an unlocking confirmation for a vehicle locking system.

[0022] In addition, this can ensure improved customer safety, for example by illuminating the area surrounding the vehicle and / or a footpath after leaving the vehicle, especially in a dark and / or unlit area.

[0023] This can advantageously increase safety in the operation of the vehicle, both for the customer and for other road users.

[0024] Furthermore, it can be provided that the display prompt for the direction indicator system can include indicating the vehicle's turning direction. This can be referred to as a primary lighting function of the direction indicator system. This lighting function can be supported in a specific advantageous manner by the windshield wiper system. The manner in which this lighting function is supported by the windshield wiper system can also be specifically adjusted for certain weather conditions and / or customer requirements. Furthermore, this can take into account the gentle operation of the windshield wiper system.

[0025] Advantageously, after detecting a display request for the direction indicator system to indicate a turning direction of the vehicle, it can be provided that the windscreen wiper system is operated in at least two different operating modes: - in a first mode when no rain is detected, or - in a second mode when rain is detected.

[0026] Sensor data from at least one on-board sensor, such as a rain sensor, a humidity sensor, or similar, can be taken into account. Data from at least one external sensor, such as a sensor from another vehicle, a sensor from an infrastructure device (at a traffic light, in a tunnel, etc.), or a sensor from an external device (at a weather service, an information service, etc.), can also be used. Whether or not rain is detected can be predictively determined, so that the first or second mode of the windshield wiper system can be set in advance. If no rain is detected, the windshield wiper does not necessarily have to be moved, but can be used to indicate the turning direction or turn signal direction, for example, by having the windshield wiper flash in the respective direction.If rain is detected, the windshield wiper can be activated, but it can illuminate not only with every movement, but, for example, only when the vehicle moves in the direction of the turn or the indicator. Advantageously, it can be configured so that the second mode is automatically activated when rain is detected.

[0027] Furthermore, it may be advantageous if, in the first mode, the windscreen wiper system performs at least one of the following functions: - Indication of the turning direction by a mechanical movement of the (preferably illuminated) windscreen wiper in the turning direction, e.g. by a single swivel in the turning direction, and / or - Indication of the turning direction by controlling the lighting device with a, preferably dynamic, lighting pattern in the turning direction (so-called wiping flashing), e.g. by dynamically controlling a brightness from right to left or from left to right, depending on the turning direction.

[0028] The two functions can be performed individually or in combination with one another. Advantageously, a vehicle user can be given the option of selecting which function they would like to perform when no rain is detected. The first function (movement) can attract the attention of road users, thus providing increased visibility during the lighting function. The second function (control of the lighting device) can selectively prevent the windshield wiper from pivoting and thus prevent wear on a windshield wiper blade. This allows the windshield wiper to operate gently while still supporting the lighting function of the direction indicator system. The first and second functions can also be combined to further attract the attention of road users and further improve visibility during the lighting function.

[0029] Furthermore, it may be advantageous if, in the second mode, the windscreen wiper is operated to wipe a vehicle window and the windscreen wiper system performs at least one of the following functions: - Indication of the turning direction by a mechanical movement of the windscreen wiper in the turning direction, - Control of the lighting device, in particular with a preferably dynamic lighting pattern in the turning direction or with a uniform light pattern when the windscreen wiper is moved in the turning direction, so that preferably a repeated flashing or wiping in the direction of turn is generated each time the windscreen wiper is moved in the direction of turn, - Switching off the lighting device when the windscreen wiper is moved in the opposite direction, in particular to highlight only the direction of turn by illuminating or wiping and not the opposite direction.

[0030] In this way, the primary function of the wiper system can be ensured in rain and advantageously combined with the lighting function for indicating the vehicle's turning direction. Especially in wet conditions, the lighting function for indicating the vehicle's turning direction can be provided with increased visibility. This can significantly increase traffic safety.

[0031] Furthermore, it can be provided that the display prompt for the direction indicator system can include hazard warning flashing, for example, when a traffic jam and / or construction site and / or another hazard and / or a warning situation is / is detected. This can be considered an additional (warning) lighting function of the direction indicator system. This lighting function can also be supported in a specific advantageous way by the windshield wiper system. The manner in which this lighting function is supported by the windshield wiper system can also be individually adjusted according to customer requirements.

[0032] Advantageously, after detecting a display request for the direction indicator system to flash hazard warning lights, the windshield wiper system can be operated in a third mode, in particular a hazard warning mode. In this way, the warning lighting function of the direction indicator system can be advantageously supported by the windshield wiper system. The lighting function for the hazard warning lights can thus be provided with increased visibility.

[0033] Furthermore, it may be advantageous if in the third mode, in particular in a hazard warning mode, the windscreen wiper system performs at least one of the following functions: - Movement of the windscreen wiper, and / or - Control of the lighting device, in particular with a preferably dynamic lighting pattern or with a uniform lighting pattern.

[0034] The two functions can be performed individually or in combination. Advantageously, a vehicle user can be given the option to select which function(s) and how they would like to perform them.

[0035] Furthermore, it can be provided that the display prompt for the direction indicator system can include a welcome function. This can be considered an additional (information technology and / or communication technology) lighting function of the direction indicator system. This lighting function can also be supported in a specific advantageous manner by the windshield wiper system. The manner in which this lighting function is supported by the windshield wiper system can also be individually adjusted according to customer requirements.

[0036] Advantageously, after detecting a welcoming function for the direction indicator system, it can be provided that the windshield wiper system is operated in a fourth mode, in particular in a welcoming mode, for communicating with a user, in particular to signal a detected approach of the user, positive authentication of the user, and / or an unlocking confirmation for a vehicle locking system. In this way, the information-transmitting and / or communicating lighting function of the direction indicator system can be advantageously supported by the windshield wiper system. The lighting function for information transmission and / or communication can thus be provided with increased visibility and / or perceptibility for the user.

[0037] The welcome function may further include a lighting function. The lighting function may be advantageous when approaching the vehicle, when unlocking the vehicle, or for easier locating the vehicle, for example, in a parking garage or with a rental car where the exact parking location may not be known.

[0038] Furthermore, it may be advantageous if in the fourth mode, in particular in a welcome mode, the windscreen wiper system performs at least one of the following functions: - Movement, e.g. a back and forth movement, of the windscreen wiper, and / or - Control of the lighting device, in particular with a preferably dynamic and / or flashing lighting pattern or with a uniform lighting pattern.

[0039] The two functions can be performed individually or in combination. Advantageously, a vehicle user can be provided with a choice of which function(s) and how they wish to perform them, in particular to signal a detected approach, positive authentication, and / or unlocking confirmation of the vehicle locking system.

[0040] Furthermore, it can be provided that the display prompt for the direction indicator system can include a lighting function. This can be considered an additional (comfort-related and / or safety-related) lighting function of the direction indicator system. This lighting function can also be supported in a specific advantageous way by the windshield wiper system. The manner in which this lighting function is supported by the windshield wiper system can also be individually adjusted according to customer requirements.

[0041] Advantageously, after detecting a lighting function for the direction indicator system, it can be provided that the windshield wiper system is operated in a fifth mode, in particular in a lighting mode, to illuminate the vehicle's surroundings, in particular in the dark, in order to illuminate a section of the path for a user after leaving the vehicle. The lighting function can advantageously provide a farewell function. In this way, the comfort-related and / or safety-relevant lighting function of the direction indicator system can be advantageously supported by the windshield wiper system. The lighting function for illuminating the vehicle's surroundings can thus be provided with increased comfort and / or increased safety for the user.This can be advantageous for illuminating the area around the vehicle and / or a footpath after leaving the vehicle, particularly in a dark and / or unlit area, e.g. in a parking garage, on a dark side of the street, in an underpass, or similar. But it can also be advantageous on the way in front of the garage to the house entrance if the windscreen wiper system illuminates the footpath to the house entrance.

[0042] Furthermore, it may be advantageous if in the fifth mode, in particular in a lighting mode, the windscreen wiper system performs at least one of the following functions: - Movement of the windscreen wiper, and / or - Control of the lighting device, in particular with a preferably dynamic and / or flashing lighting pattern or with a uniform lighting pattern.

[0043] The two functions can be performed individually or in combination. Advantageously, a vehicle user can be provided with a selection option as to which function(s) they wish to perform and how, in particular to illuminate the area surrounding the vehicle and / or a footpath after exiting the vehicle in a particularly customized manner.

[0044] In addition, it may be provided that the display request for the direction indicator system is detected depending on at least one of the following parameters: - an operating parameter of the vehicle, such as a turning direction of the vehicle, - a traffic parameter, such as a traffic jam report, and / or - a function of a vehicle locking system, such as a locking function or unlocking function.

[0045] In this way, different lighting functions can be provided in a targeted manner by the direction indicator system, which can also be advantageously supported by the wiper system.

[0046] Furthermore, the windshield wiper system can be operated in a first mode or a second mode depending on an environmental parameter, such as the probability of rain. In this way, it can be taken into account whether the windshield wiper needs to be moved to wipe a vehicle window, so that the direction indicator system's support for the lighting function can be provided in an advantageous manner in each case.

[0047] Furthermore, it can be provided that the windshield wiper system is operated in a fifth mode, in particular in a lighting mode, depending on an environmental parameter, such as brightness. In this way, the lighting function of the direction indicator system can be advantageously supported by the windshield wiper system.

[0048] Advantageously, the functions of the windscreen wiper system, in particular in a first mode, in a third mode, in a fourth mode and / or a fifth mode, can be individually adjusted, preferably by a user of the vehicle, preferably via a vehicle-side interface, e.g. a display and / or control unit, and / or a user-side interface, e.g. an app on a mobile device, so that a selection of the following functions can be provided: - Movement (single or repeated movement) of the windscreen wiper, and / or - Control (with light sequence and / or single and / or multiple and / or continuous flashing) of the lighting device.

[0049] This allows customer requests to be taken into account in an improved manner and increases trust in the system.

[0050] It can also be advantageous if the functions of the windscreen wiper system are automatically set in a second mode for safety reasons (and cannot be changed by the customer).

[0051] The above object is further achieved by a computer program product comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform a method which can proceed as described above. This achieves the same advantages as those described above in connection with the method. These advantages are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0052] The above object is further achieved by a data carrier signal that transmits or activates the computer program product described above. This achieves the same advantages as those described above in connection with the method. These advantages are incorporated herein by reference.

[0053] The above object is further achieved by a control unit according to the invention, comprising a computing unit and a memory unit in which a code is stored which, when at least partially executed by the computing unit, carries out a method that can proceed as described above. The same advantages are achieved that were described above in connection with the method. These advantages are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0054] The above object is further achieved by a coupled system according to the invention for a vehicle, comprising: - a windscreen wiper system with a windscreen wiper, e.g. in the form of a rear window wiper, and a preferably dynamic lighting device, - a direction indicator system with at least one, preferably dynamically controllable, direction indicator unit, e.g. in the form of a rear light unit, - and a control unit, which can be designed as described above.

[0055] This achieves the same advantages as those described above in connection with the process. These advantages are fully incorporated herein by reference.

[0056] Advantageously, the control unit can be designed to receive, query and / or detect at least one operating parameter of the vehicle, a traffic parameter, an environmental parameter and / or a function of a vehicle locking system.

[0057] Furthermore, it may be advantageous if the control unit is designed to interact with a user of the vehicle, preferably via a vehicle-side interface, for example a display and / or operating unit, and / or a user-side interface, for example a mobile device, in order to individually adjust the functions of the windscreen wiper system, in particular in a first mode, in a third mode, in a fourth mode and / or a fifth mode. so that a selection of the following functions can be provided: - Movement (single or repeated movement) of the windscreen wiper, and / or - Control (with light sequence and / or single and / or multiple and / or continuous flashing) of the lighting device.

[0058] Further advantages, features, and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description, which describes exemplary embodiments of the invention in detail with reference to the drawings. The features mentioned in the claims and in the description may be advantageous individually or in any combination. They show: Fig. 1 a schematic representation of a coupled system and a possible operation of a windscreen wiper system in a first mode when no rain is detected, Fig. 2 is a schematic representation of a coupled system and a further possible operation of a windscreen wiper system in a first mode when no rain is detected, and Fig. 3 a schematic representation of a coupled system and a possible operation of a windscreen wiper system in a second mode when rain is detected.

[0059] The Fig. 1 to 3 serve to explain a method which was developed for operating a coupled system 100 for a vehicle F, wherein the coupled system 100 has the following system components: - a windscreen wiper system 10 with a windscreen wiper 11, for example in the form of a rear window wiper, and a preferably dynamically controllable lighting device 12, - and a direction indicator system 20 with at least one, preferably dynamically controllable, direction indicator unit 21, 22, for example in the form of a rear light unit.

[0060] As the Fig. 1 to 3, a rear light unit can be provided with a right direction indicator unit 21 and a left direction indicator unit 22.

[0061] The lighting device 12 in the windscreen wiper system 10 can have several point light sources that can be arranged along the windscreen wiper 11, in one or more rows.

[0062] The lighting device 12 in the windshield wiper system 10 can have one or more light strips, for example, one or more optical fibers, which can be arranged along the windshield wiper 11. At least one optical fiber can have a surface structure so that the light can escape laterally to create a light strip.

[0063] In principle, different embodiments and types of the lighting device 12 are conceivable, which can be arranged on the windscreen wiper 11 or in the vicinity of the windscreen wiper 11.

[0064] The procedure comprises the following steps: - detecting a display request for the direction indicator system 20, wherein in particular the display request contains various requirements, preferably in addition to indicating a turning direction of the vehicle F, to which reference is made in detail below, and - Operating the windscreen wiper system 10 in different operating modes I, II, III, IV, V depending on the display request, Preferably, different operating modes I, II, III, IV, V can be provided specifically for different requirements.

[0065] Advantageously, when detecting a display request for the direction indicator system 20, at least one of the following parameters can be taken into account: - an operating parameter BP of the vehicle F, such as a turning direction of the vehicle F, - a traffic parameter VP, such as a traffic jam report, and / or - a function of a vehicle locking system, such as locking function or unlocking function, etc.

[0066] To detect a display request for the direction indicator system 20, at least one vehicle system (e.g. steering system, navigation system, vehicle locking system, etc.) can be queried / contacted, e.g. by a control unit ECU specially designed for a corresponding coupled system 100, which is schematically shown in the Fig. 1 to 3 is indicated.

[0067] A notification request may include at least one of the following requirements: - Display of a turning direction of vehicle F, - Hazard warning lights, - Welcome function (e.g. as part of a Leaving Home function), - Lighting function (e.g. as part of a coming home function), etc.

[0068] In order to improve the various lighting functions of the direction indicator system 20 depending on the different display requests to the direction indicator system 20, the method now proposes that the windshield wiper system 10 can be operated depending on the specific display request in order to support the direction indicator system 20.

[0069] Advantageously, the visibility of the lighting functions can be improved by supporting the direction indicator system 20 with the windscreen wiper system 10.

[0070] On the other hand, by supporting the direction indicator system 20 by the windscreen wiper system 10, an improved functioning of the coupled system 100 can be ensured, so that the system components 10, 20 can support each other in a synergistic manner when providing lighting functions.

[0071] Furthermore, by supporting the direction indicator system 20 with the windshield wiper system 10, extended functions can be provided for the wiper system 10 and the direction indicator system 20, such as for extending leaving home functions and / or coming home functions.

[0072] Furthermore, by supporting the direction indicator system 20 by the windscreen wiper system 10, interaction with a user can be enabled, for example by allowing the user to select the functions (moving the windscreen wiper 11 and / or individually controlling the lighting device 12) when operating the windscreen wiper system 10 depending on the display prompt.

[0073] Furthermore, by supporting the direction indicator system 20 with the windshield wiper system 10, improved customer comfort can be enabled by, for example, transmitting information to the user, for example as a greeting, in particular to signal a detected approach of the user, a positive authentication of the user and / or an unlocking confirmation for a vehicle locking system.

[0074] Furthermore, by supporting the direction indicator system 20 by the windshield wiper system 10, improved customer safety can be ensured, for example for illuminating the surroundings of the vehicle F and / or a footpath after leaving the vehicle F, in particular in a dark and / or unlit area.

[0075] Advantageously, by supporting the direction indicator system 20 by the windscreen wiper system 10, the safety in the operation of the vehicle F can be increased, both on the customer side and on the side of other road users.

[0076] First, the display request for the direction indicator system 20 may include displaying a turning direction of the vehicle F, the so-called primary lighting function of the direction indicator system 20. Advantageously, the manner in which this lighting function is supported by the windshield wiper system 10 can be specifically adjusted for certain weather conditions and / or customer requirements and / or service life of the windshield wiper system 10.

[0077] The display prompt for the direction indicator system 20 to indicate a turning direction of the vehicle F can provide a check to determine whether rain is detected. This allows a check to be made as to whether the windshield wiper 11 should be used to wipe a vehicle windshield. Depending on the check, the windshield wiper system 10 can be operated in at least two different operating modes I, II: - in a first mode I ( Fig. 1 and Fig. 2) if no rain is recorded, or - in a second mode II ( Fig. 3) when rain is detected.

[0078] To check whether rain is detected, sensor data from at least one vehicle-mounted sensor, such as a rain sensor, a humidity sensor, or similar, can be taken into account. In addition, data from at least one vehicle-external sensor, such as a sensor from another vehicle, a sensor from an infrastructure device (at a traffic light, in a tunnel, etc.), and / or a sensor from an external device (at a weather service, an information service, etc.) can be taken into account. The probability of rain can be predictively determined so that the first mode I or the second mode II of the windshield wiper system 10 can be set in advance.

[0079] If no rain is detected, the windscreen wiper 11 does not have to be moved to wipe the vehicle windows, but can be moved (see Fig. 1) to indicate, for example, the turning direction or indicator direction.

[0080] If rain is detected, the windscreen wiper 11 must be moved to wipe the vehicle windows, but it may not only light up with every movement, but for example only with a movement in the turning direction or indicator direction (see. Fig. 3).

[0081] Preferably, for safety reasons, it can be provided that when rain is detected, the second mode II is automatically set when operating the windscreen wiper system 10 to support the direction indicator system 20 to indicate a turning direction of the vehicle F.

[0082] As the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, in the first mode I the windscreen wiper system 10 can perform at least one of the following functions 1, 2: - Indication of the turning direction by a mechanical movement 1 of the windscreen wiper 11 in the turning direction, e.g. by a single pivoting in the turning direction (cf. Fig. 1), and / or - Indication of the turning direction by means of a control 2 of the lighting device 12 with a preferably dynamic lighting pattern in the turning direction (so-called wiping flashing), for example by means of a dynamic control 2 of a brightness from right to left or from left to right (cf. Fig. 1 and Fig. 2).

[0083] The two functions 1, 2 can be executed individually or in combination as desired by the user.

[0084] The Fig. Figure 1 shows the first function 1 and the second function 2 in combination. For example, the windshield wiper 11 can move once to the side in which the turn signal is being signaled, and can also perform a flickering flash in this direction, particularly with the aid of the lighting device 12, which generates a preferably dynamic lighting pattern in the turning direction.

[0085] The Fig. Figure 2 shows the second function 2. The windshield wiper 11 can, for example, remain stationary in its current position, even when the indicator is flashing in the opposite direction. The windshield wiper 11 can only flash in the correct direction, in particular with the aid of the lighting device 12, which generates a preferably dynamic light pattern in the turning direction. This can protect the wiper blades.

[0086] As the Fig. 3, in the second mode II, the windscreen wiper 11 can be operated to wipe a vehicle window and the windscreen wiper system 10 can perform at least one of the following functions: - Indication of the turning direction by a mechanical movement 1 of the windscreen wiper 11 in the turning direction, - Control 2 of the lighting device 12, in particular with a, preferably dynamic, lighting pattern in the turning direction or with a uniform light pattern when the windscreen wiper 11 is moved in the turning direction, so that preferably a repeated flashing or wiping in the turning direction is generated each time the windscreen wiper 11 is moved in the turning direction, - Switching off the lighting device 12 when the windscreen wiper 11 is moved in an opposite direction, in particular to only highlight the turning direction by illuminating or wiping flashing and not the opposite direction.

[0087] In this way, the primary function of the wiper system 10 can be ensured in rain and advantageously combined with the lighting function for indicating a turning direction of the vehicle F. Particularly in wet conditions, the lighting function for indicating a turning direction of the vehicle F can be provided with increased visibility. Traffic safety can thereby be significantly increased.

[0088] In other words, in the second mode II, the windshield wiper 11 can illuminate when it wipes in the direction in which the turn signal is being signaled and not illuminate when it wipes back. How the windshield wiper 11 can illuminate can be determined by the control 2 of the lighting device 12. For example, the lighting device 12 can illuminate evenly.

[0089] Second, the display prompt for the direction indicator system 20 can include hazard warning flashing, for example, when a traffic jam and / or construction site is detected. This embodiment is not shown in the figures for simplicity. This can be considered an additional (warning) lighting function of the direction indicator system 20. The manner in which this lighting function is supported by the windshield wiper system 10 can be individually adjusted according to customer requirements.

[0090] The windshield wiper system 10 can be operated in a third mode III, in particular a hazard warning mode. In the third mode III, in particular a hazard warning mode, the windshield wiper system 10 can perform at least one of the following functions: - Movement 1 (single or repeated movement in a specific time interval) of the windscreen wiper 11, and / or - Control 2 (with light progression and / or single and / or multiple and / or continuous flashing) of the lighting device.

[0091] The two functions 1, 2 can be executed individually or in combination with each other as desired by the user.

[0092] The hazard warning mode can be activated using the Fig. 3 can be explained, with the difference that the windscreen wiper 11 is moved back and forth and, for example, is constantly lit.

[0093] Third, the display prompt for the direction indicator system 20 can include a welcome function. For simplicity, this embodiment is not shown in the figures. This can be referred to as a further (information technology and / or communication technology) lighting function of the direction indicator system 20. The manner in which this lighting function is supported by the windshield wiper system 10 can be individually adjusted according to customer requirements.

[0094] The windshield wiper system 10 can be operated to communicate with a user in a fourth mode IV, in particular in a welcome mode, in order to signal, in particular, a detected approach of the user, a positive authentication of the user, and / or an unlocking confirmation for a vehicle locking system. In this way, the information-transmitting and / or communicating lighting function of the direction indicator system 20 can be advantageously supported by the windshield wiper system 10. In the fourth mode IV, in particular in a welcome mode, the windshield wiper system 10 can perform at least one of the following functions: - Movement 1, e.g. a single back and forth movement of the windscreen wiper 11, and / or - Control 2 of the lighting device 12, in particular with a preferably dynamic and / or flashing lighting pattern or with a uniform lighting pattern.

[0095] The two functions 1, 2 can be executed individually or in combination with each other as desired by the user.

[0096] Fourth, the display prompt for the direction indicator system 20 can include a lighting function. For simplicity, this embodiment is not shown in the figures. This can be considered a further (comfort-related and / or safety-related) lighting function of the direction indicator system 20. The manner in which this lighting function is supported by the windshield wiper system 10 can be individually adjusted according to customer requirements.

[0097] In this case, the windshield wiper system 10 can be operated in a fifth mode V, in particular in a lighting mode, to illuminate the surroundings of the vehicle, in particular in the dark, in order to illuminate in particular a section of the path for a user after leaving the vehicle F. In this way, the comfort-related and / or safety-relevant lighting function of the direction indicator system 20 can be advantageously supported by the windshield wiper system 10. The lighting function for illuminating the surroundings of the vehicle can thus be provided with increased comfort and / or increased safety for the user. This can be advantageous for illuminating the surroundings of the vehicle F and / or a footpath after leaving the vehicle F, in particular in a dark and / or unlit area, e.g. in a parking garage, on a dark side of the street, in an underpass, or the like.But this can also be advantageous on the way in front of the garage / parking lot to the house entrance if the windscreen wiper system 10 illuminates the footpath to the house entrance.

[0098] Furthermore, it may be advantageous if in the fifth mode V, in particular in a lighting mode, the windscreen wiper system 10 performs at least one of the following functions: - Movement 1 (single or repeated movement in a specific time interval) of the windscreen wiper 11, and / or - Control 2 of the lighting device 12, in particular with a preferably dynamic and / or flashing lighting pattern or with a uniform lighting pattern.

[0099] The two functions 1, 2 can be executed individually or in combination with each other as desired by the user.

[0100] A corresponding computer program product, a corresponding data carrier signal that transmits or enables the computer program product described above, and a control unit ECU according to the invention also represent aspects of the invention.

[0101] A coupled system 100 according to the invention for a vehicle F also represents an aspect of the invention, comprising: - a windscreen wiper system 10 with a windscreen wiper 11, for example in the form of a rear window wiper, and a preferably dynamic lighting device 12, - a direction indicator system 20 with at least one, preferably dynamically controllable, direction indicator unit 21, 22, for example in the form of a rear light unit, - and a control unit which is specially designed to carry out a method which can take place as described above.

[0102] Advantageously, the control unit can be designed to receive, query and / or detect at least one operating parameter of the vehicle F, a traffic parameter, an environmental parameter and / or a function of a vehicle locking system.

[0103] Advantageously, the control unit can be designed to interact with a user of the vehicle F. This can occur, for example, via a vehicle-side interface, e.g., a display and / or operating unit, and / or a user-side interface, e.g., a mobile device. The interaction can serve to individually adjust the functions of the windshield wiper system 10, in particular in a first mode I, a third mode III, a fourth mode IV, and / or a fifth mode V.

[0104] In this way, a selection of the following functions can be provided for the windscreen wiper system 10: - Movement 1 (single or repeated movement) of the windscreen wiper, and / or - Control 2 (with light progression and / or single and / or multiple and / or continuous flashing) of the lighting device.

[0105] The above explanation of the embodiments describes the present invention exclusively within the scope of examples. Of course, individual features of the embodiments can be freely combined with one another, provided they are technically feasible, without departing from the scope of the present invention. List of reference symbols F vehicle 100 systems 10 Windscreen wiper system 11 windshield wipers 12 lighting device 20 Direction indicator system 21 Direction indicator unit 22 Direction indicator unit 1 function, movement of the windshield wiper 2 Function, control of the lighting device I first mode II second mode III third mode IV fourth mode V fifth mode ECU control unit QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DE 102020205614A1

[0002]

Claims

[1] Method for operating a coupled system (100) for a vehicle (F), wherein the coupled system (100) has the following system components: - a windscreen wiper system (10) with a windscreen wiper (11), for example in the form of a rear window wiper, and a preferably dynamically controllable lighting device (12), - and a direction indicator system (20) with at least one, preferably dynamically controllable, direction indicator unit (21, 22), for example in the form of a rear light unit, comprising the method: - detecting a display request for the direction indicator system (20), - Operating the windscreen wiper system (10) in different operating modes (I, II, III, IV, V) depending on the display request. [2] Method according to claim 1, wherein the display request for the direction indicator system (20) may comprise displaying a turning direction of the vehicle (F), and / or wherein after detecting a display request for the direction indicator system (20) to display a turning direction of the vehicle (F) the windscreen wiper system (10) is operated in at least two different operating modes (I, II): - in a first mode (I), when no rain is detected, or - in a second mode (II) when rain is detected. [3] Method according to claim 2, wherein in the first mode (I) the windscreen wiper system (10) performs at least one of the following functions (1, 2): - Indicating the turning direction by a mechanical movement (1) of the windscreen wiper (11) in the turning direction, and / or - Indication of the turning direction by controlling (2) the lighting device (12) with a preferably dynamic lighting pattern in the turning direction. [4] Method according to one of the preceding claims 2 or 3, wherein in the second mode (II) the windscreen wiper (11) is operated to wipe a vehicle windscreen and the windscreen wiper system (10) performs at least one of the following functions (1, 2): - Indicating the turning direction by a mechanical movement (1) of the windscreen wiper (11) in the turning direction, - control (2) of the lighting device (12), in particular with a, preferably dynamic, lighting pattern in the turning direction or with a uniform light pattern when the windscreen wiper (11) is moved in the turning direction, - Switching off the lighting device (12) when the windscreen wiper (11) is moved in the opposite direction. [5] Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the display request for the direction indicator system (20) may comprise a hazard warning flashing, and / or wherein after detecting a display request for the direction indicator system (20) to flash hazard warning lights the windscreen wiper system (10) is operated in a third mode (III), in particular a hazard warning mode, in particular in the third mode (III), in particular in a hazard warning mode, the windscreen wiper system (10) performs at least one of the following functions: - movement (1) of the windscreen wiper (11), and / or - Control (2) of the lighting device (12), in particular with a, preferably dynamic, lighting pattern or with a uniform lighting image. [6] Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the display request for the direction indicator system (20) may comprise a greeting function, and / or wherein after detecting a welcome function for the direction indicator system (20) the windscreen wiper system (10) is operated to communicate with a user in a fourth mode (IV), in particular in a greeting mode, in particular to signal a detected approach of the user, a positive authentication of the user and / or an unlocking confirmation for a vehicle locking system, in particular in the fourth mode (IV), in particular in a welcome mode, the windscreen wiper system (10) performs at least one of the following functions: - Movement (1), e.g. a back and forth movement, of the windscreen wiper (11), and / or - Control (2) of the lighting device (12), in particular with a preferably dynamic and / or flashing lighting pattern or with a uniform lighting pattern. [7] Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the display request for the direction indicator system (20) may comprise a lighting function, and / or wherein after detecting a lighting function for the direction indicator system (20) the windscreen wiper system (10) is operated in a fifth mode (V), in particular in a lighting mode, to illuminate a vehicle's surroundings, in particular in the dark, in particular to illuminate a section of the path for a user after leaving the vehicle (F), in particular in the fifth mode (V), in particular in a lighting mode, the windscreen wiper system (10) performs at least one of the following functions: - movement (1) of the windscreen wiper (11), and / or - Control (2) of the lighting device (12), in particular with a preferably dynamic and / or flashing lighting pattern or with a uniform lighting pattern. [8] Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the display request for the direction indicator system (20) is detected as a function of at least one of the following parameters: - an operating parameter (BP) of the vehicle (F), such as a turning direction of the vehicle (F), - a traffic parameter (VP), such as a traffic jam report, and / or - a function of a vehicle locking system, such as locking or unlocking function, and / or wherein the windscreen wiper system (10) is operated in a first mode (I) or in a second mode (II) depending on an environmental parameter (UP), such as the probability of rain, and / or wherein the windscreen wiper system (10) is operated in a fifth mode (V), in particular in a lighting mode, depending on an environmental parameter (UP), such as brightness, and / or wherein the functions (1, 2) of the windscreen wiper system (10), in particular in a first mode (I), in a third mode (III), in a fourth mode (IV) and / or a fifth mode (V), are individually adjusted, preferably by a user of the vehicle (F), preferably via a vehicle-side interface, e.g. a display and / or control unit, and / or a user-side interface, e.g. a mobile device, so that a selection of the following functions (1, 2) can be provided: - movement (1) of the windscreen wiper (11), and / or - Control (2) of the lighting device (12). [9] Computer program product comprising instructions which, when the computer program product is executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the method according to one of the preceding method claims. [10] Data carrier signal which transmits or enables the computer program product according to the preceding claim. [11] Control unit (ECU), comprising a computing unit and a memory unit in which instructions are stored which, when at least partially executed by the computing unit (CU), carry out a method according to one of the preceding method claims. [12] Coupled system (100) for a vehicle (F), comprising: - a windscreen wiper system (10) with a windscreen wiper (11), for example in the form of a rear window wiper, and a preferably dynamic lighting device (12), - a direction indicator system (20) with at least one, preferably dynamically controllable, direction indicator unit (21, 22), for example in the form of a rear light unit, and - a control unit (ECU) according to the preceding device claim. [13] System (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein the control unit (ECU) is designed to receive, query and / or detect at least one operating parameter (BP) of the vehicle (F), a traffic parameter (VP), an environmental parameter (UP) and / or a function of a vehicle locking system, and / or wherein the control unit (ECU) is designed to interact with a user of the vehicle (F), preferably via a vehicle-side interface, e.g. a display and / or operating unit, and / or a user-side interface, e.g. a mobile device, to individually adjust the functions (1, 2) of the windscreen wiper system (10), in particular in a first mode (I), in a third mode (III), in a fourth mode (IV) and / or a fifth mode (V), so that a selection of the following functions (1, 2) can be provided: - movement (1) of the windscreen wiper (11), and / or - Control (2) of the lighting device (12).

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