Method for determining a slipstream area behind a vehicle ahead, computer program product, driver assistance system and motor vehicle

The method projects a pattern forward and uses epipolar geometry to detect slipstream areas accurately, addressing model-based inaccuracies and enhancing fuel efficiency by maintaining the vehicle in an aerodynamically favorable position.

DE102024004340B3Active Publication Date: 2025-12-11MERCEDES BENZ GROUP AG
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Patent Information

Application Number
DE102024004340
Authority / Receiving Office
DE · DE
Patent Type
Patents
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-12-19
Publication Date
2025-12-11
Estimated Expiration
2044-12-19

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing methods for determining a slipstream area behind a leading vehicle rely on model assumptions that can lead to rough estimations due to insufficient input data, often resulting in inaccurate fuel consumption predictions.

Method used

A method that projects a pattern forward using a vehicle's headlights, captures the reflected pattern with a camera, and uses epipolar geometry to determine deviations in air density fluctuations for precise slipstream detection without relying on turbulence models, utilizing precise calibration and three-dimensional measurement data.

Benefits of technology

Enables accurate detection of slipstream areas for optimal energy efficiency by minimizing wind resistance, achieving significant fuel savings when used with adaptive cruise control systems.

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Abstract

A method for determining a slipstream area behind a vehicle ahead is described, wherein a pattern is projected forward in the direction of travel by means of at least one headlight of the vehicle, wherein the pattern is generated from a plurality of headlight pixels, wherein projection lines are determined for the headlight pixels, wherein an environment located in front of the vehicle is measured three-dimensionally and three-dimensional measurement data is generated, wherein features of the pattern located in front of the vehicle, generated by reflection from the headlight pixels, are recorded by means of at least one camera pointing forward in the direction of travel and transferred as image points into a camera plane. From the distance of the image points from the epipolar pole of the camera plane, a distance of the reflected features of the pattern to the headlight is determined.Furthermore, a correspondence is established between reflected features of the captured pattern and the three-dimensional measurement data on the respective projection lines of the headlight pixels, whereby deviations between the distances of the features of the pattern to the headlight and distances to the headlight determined from corresponding three-dimensional measurement data are determined on the respective projection line, and the wind shadow area is determined on the basis of the deviations.
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