Procedure for providing a driver training mode

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for providing a driver training mode (Tr) for a vehicle (200), comprising: - Providing (110) a vehicle (200) with a control unit (ECU) and an actuator (20) for actuating a functionally essential component (10) of the vehicle (200), wherein the actuator (20) can be controlled by a control unit (40) by a driver of the vehicle (200), - Received (120), by the control unit (ECU), an activation signal (A) to start a driver training mode (Tr), - Disconnecting (130), by the control unit (ECU), an electrical connection between the actuator (20) and a supply unit (50) depending on the driving training mode (Tr), - Detection (140) by the control unit (ECU) of an operating action (B) of the driver at the control unit (40), wherein the operating action (B) can be performed by the driver at the control unit (40) within the framework of the driver training mode (Tr), - Operation (150) by the control unit (ECU) of the actuator (20) depending on the detection (140). Furthermore, the invention relates to a corresponding computer program product, a computer-readable data carrier, a control unit (ECU) and a vehicle (200).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a method with the features of the independent method claim, a computer program product with the features of the independent patent claim relating to a computer program product, a computer-readable data carrier with the features of the independent patent claim relating to a computer-readable data carrier, a control unit with the features of the independent patent claim relating to a control unit, and a vehicle with the features of the independent vehicle claim.

[0002] Vehicles are known to have essential functional components such as brakes or braking systems, steering or steering systems, and the like. These components and / or their actuators, which are designed to operate them, are increasingly electrically powered and / or assisted, particularly by support units (e.g., brake boosters, ESP, etc.). This can increase safety. A (purely) electrical and / or electronic connection between controls (e.g., steering wheel) and actuators and / or essential functional components may also exist (generally x-to-wire, specifically steer-by-wire). Furthermore, it may be possible to operate vehicles at least partially autonomously and / or automatically, which can significantly increase user comfort.

[0003] The current state of the art has some drawbacks. Drivers may gain less experience, especially if the vehicles are predominantly operated autonomously. Furthermore, the driver's skill level may be reduced, at least partially, due to the use of actuators and / or assistance units, particularly if these units fail partially or completely. Additionally, the actuators and / or assistance units may not be tested frequently or thoroughly enough. Consequently, safety (overall and / or in emergency situations) may be reduced, especially since the driver taking over the vehicle (from autonomous operation) is less experienced and / or unfamiliar with specific situations (e.g., failure of the brake booster and / or power steering).Furthermore, reliable operation of the actuators and / or support units cannot be adequately ensured. Alternative approaches in this area are disclosed by CN 117 743 524 A and WO 2023 233 625 A1.

[0004] It is therefore an object of the present invention to overcome at least one of the disadvantages described above, at least partially. In particular, it is an object of the invention to increase safety, to enable training in different driving situations, to enable more frequent or in-depth testing, to reduce costs, to increase flexibility, to reduce effort, to increase reliability and / or to optimize efficiency.

[0005] The foregoing problem is solved by a method with the features of the independent method claim, a computer program product with the features of the independent patent claim relating to a computer program product, a computer-readable data carrier with the features of the independent patent claim relating to a computer-readable data carrier, a control unit with the features of the independent patent claim relating to a control unit, and a vehicle with the features of the independent vehicle claim. Further features and details of the invention will become apparent from the dependent claims, the description, and the drawings.Features and details described in connection with the method according to the invention naturally also apply in connection with the computer program product according to the invention and / or in connection with the computer-readable data carrier according to the invention and / or in connection with the control unit according to the invention and / or in connection with the vehicle according to the invention, and vice versa, so that the disclosure relating to the individual aspects of the invention always refers to each other. In particular, advantages described within the first, second, third, fourth and / or fifth aspect also apply to the first, second, third, fourth and / or fifth aspect.

[0006] The above problem is solved according to a first aspect by a method for providing a driver training mode for a vehicle, comprising: - Providing a vehicle with a control unit and an actuator for operating a functionally essential component of the vehicle, wherein the actuator can be controlled by a driver of the vehicle via a control unit, - Received, by the control unit, an activation signal to start a driving training mode, - Disconnecting, via the control unit, an electrical connection between the actuator and a power supply unit depending on the driving training mode, - Detection, by the control unit, of an operating action by the driver at the control unit, wherein the operating action can be performed by the driver at the control unit within the framework of the driving training mode, - Operation, by the control unit, of the actuator depending on the detection.

[0007] The method described in the first aspect can be computer-implemented and / or performed repeatedly and / or continuously. Preferably, the method can be performed during, before, and / or (preferably) during the operation or use of a vehicle and / or control unit. Operation can include (manual) driving, autonomous driving, and / or (at least partially) automated driving. It can be provided that the driver must (suddenly) take over the operation of the vehicle, with the control unit in particular initiating a switch from at least partially autonomous driving to manual driving. Alternatively or additionally, the method can be performed at (regular) intervals (e.g., once a week).It is conceivable that the procedure could be carried out, for example, while a vehicle is in a traffic-calmed and / or safe location, such as an empty parking lot. It is also conceivable that the procedure could be activated when the driver starts the vehicle, particularly through user input, which would generate the activation signal and transmit it to the control unit. The control unit could then implement the procedure (at least partially), for example, by (combining) performing the steps mentioned above and / or controlling corresponding components (e.g., actuators). This procedure could enable a vehicle's driving safety mode to be more efficient, precise, reliable, cost-effective, flexible, space-saving, and / or faster.

[0008] Within the scope of the invention, a vehicle can comprise a motor vehicle and / or a truck. A vehicle can be equipped for operation, in particular for autonomous and / or (at least partially) automated driving.

[0009] The driver training mode can be configured for testing essential components, actuators, and / or support units. It can also be configured for driver training. In driver training mode, the driver and / or the control unit can be exposed to various driving situations, preferably those specific to different configurations (e.g., disconnecting) of the actuators and / or support units. A simple example might involve partially disconnecting (e.g., reducing the supply current) a brake booster. This allows the driver to practice driving and braking with reduced assistance from the support unit (in this case, the brake booster).Alternatively or additionally, the support unit can preferably be tested; in particular, the driver and / or the control unit can detect a malfunction by comparing partial and full support from the support unit.

[0010] Providing a vehicle with a control unit and an actuator for actuating (e.g. via a mechanical connection) a functionally essential component of the vehicle, wherein the actuator can be controlled by a driver of the vehicle via an operating unit, may, for example, include the following operating unit(s): - a steering wheel, wherein in particular one operating action involves changing the steering wheel angle, - a gear lever, wherein in particular an operating action involves changing the gear lever (e.g. engaging a different gear / changing gears), - a brake pedal, wherein in particular an operating action involves changing the brake pedal (e.g. the pedal position), - an accelerator pedal, wherein in particular an operating action involves changing the accelerator pedal (e.g. the pedal position), - a clutch pedal, wherein in particular an operating action involves changing the clutch pedal (e.g. the pedal position), and / or - a lighting system, wherein in particular an operating action involves changing the lighting system (e.g. switching on / off dipped beam, main beam and / or flashing light).

[0011] An operating action can involve changing the position and / or orientation of the control unit. The driver can actuate the control unit via an operating action. An operating action can be characterized by parameters such as the timing, duration, force, speed, and / or acceleration with which the driver moves the control unit. The control unit can be directly and / or indirectly (mechanically and / or electrically) connected to the actuator (e.g., via a steering system and / or a steer-by-wire system).

[0012] A functionally essential component may therefore have: - a steering system, e.g. comprising a steering column, a rack and / or corresponding connecting elements (alternatively a steer-by-wire system), - a circuit or switching system, - a brake or braking system, - a gearbox or gearbox system, and / or - a headlight designed for operation as low beam and / or high beam, - a flashing light.

[0013] The actuator can be configured to actuate the vehicle's essential functional component. The actuator can be controlled by the driver via a control unit. For example, in a steer-by-wire system, the control element can be the steering wheel, which the driver can turn. The steering wheel angle can be transmitted to the actuator, particularly via a data connection and / or the control unit. The actuator can, for example, include an electric motor that actuates the essential functional component, such as the steering (of the wheels), for instance (e.g., via a rack and pinion). The actuator can therefore be designed as an active component and / or a transmission element.

[0014] Receiving an activation signal to start a driver training mode can be done by the control unit, for example, via a data connection between the control unit and an input device, whereby the driver can initiate the activation signal, particularly via the input device. Alternatively or additionally, the activation signal can be initiated by the control unit itself, for example, based on a predefined training plan specific to the driver. It is also possible for the control unit to receive the activation signal via a data connection (e.g., the internet) from a backend (e.g., the manufacturer's). Depending on the activation signal, and especially on its successful reception, the driver training mode can be started by the control unit.

[0015] The disconnection, by the control unit, of an electrical connection between the actuator and a power supply unit, depending on the driving training mode, can involve a complete or partial interruption of the power supply (voltage and / or current). This allows the actuator to be de-energized, which can simulate a total failure. Consequently, the driver can be placed in an emergency situation in which, for example, the brakes can no longer be controlled by the actuator (e.g., the driver must then maintain the lane and / or avoid obstacles by steering). The disconnection can be carried out, for example, by the control unit activating the actuator and / or the power supply unit, preferably the power distributor (see below). Thus, the power supply can be interrupted completely or partially (temporarily and / or deliberately). This can be achieved, for example, by switching a switching unit, e.g.,...a MOSFET. The disconnection can be performed for at least one, preferably two or three or more actuators and / or support units, in particular simultaneously and / or sequentially. The disconnection can be enabled by (at least partially) interrupting an electrical and / or mechanical connection, for example by a switching element designed for this purpose, which can preferably be controlled by the control unit. The power supply unit can be configured to provide electrical power, in particular current and / or voltage, to the actuator, a support unit of the actuator, the operating unit, and / or a support unit of the operating unit. The power supply unit can include a battery, in particular a rechargeable one. Alternatively or additionally, the power supply unit can include a generator.It can be provided that the disconnection is performed (precisely) when the actuator, the actuator's support unit, the control unit, and / or the control unit's support unit are (currently) in use and / or affecting the vehicle's movement (noticeably to the driver). This can be detected, for example, by sensors, particularly those of the power distributor, which are designed to measure current and / or voltage. The control unit can then infer (current) use from an increased power demand. It can also be provided that the disconnection occurs randomly, with the control unit randomly determining, in particular, the actuator, the time of disconnection, the time interval of disconnection, and / or the extent of the disconnection (e.g., partial or complete).

[0016] The detection by the control unit of a driver's operation at the control unit, where the operation can be performed by the driver at the control unit within the framework of the driver training mode, can be configured in particular to monitor the driver's reaction to disconnecting the vehicle. This detection can preferably be carried out via (already existing) sensors on the control unit, which transmit corresponding sensor signals to the control unit via a data connection. For example, a sensor can be provided on the steering wheel that can measure actual parameters, e.g., actual angle, actual direction of rotation, actual speed, actual acceleration, and / or the (respective) temporal progression.Accordingly, the control unit can record the actual parameters of the operating action during data acquisition, in particular the actual time, the actual time progression, the actual speed, the actual acceleration, the actual force, the actual torque, and / or the actual direction of rotation (of the operating action or the control unit). Alternatively or additionally, further operating actions (or their parameters) can be determined during data acquisition; for example, the steering wheel operation can be recorded when the actuator of the brake system is disconnected. By comparing actual parameters with (predefined) target parameters, the control unit can then assess and / or evaluate the driver's driving skills and / or abilities (in handling the situation).The driver training mode, in particular the target parameters and / or a list of actuators, support units and / or time points that characterize the driver training mode, can be stored in the control unit, for example, during commissioning. It can also be provided that the control unit receives the relevant information (e.g., new training modules) via a data connection (e.g., the internet) (e.g., from a manufacturer).

[0017] The operation of the actuator by the control unit, depending on the detected input, can specifically involve controlling the actuator based on the user's actions. The actuator can receive a control signal depending on the (actual) user action, particularly the current parameter(s). Thus, for example, understeer of the steering system (or the vehicle) can occur if the user action (e.g., due to disconnecting a power steering unit) is insufficient. This allows the effect to be directly illustrated to the driver, which can increase overall safety. Alternatively or additionally, the control unit can be designed to at least partially compensate for the user action. This can prevent overreactions by the driver and, in particular, still provide feedback to the driver that the user action was insufficient.

[0018] Within the scope of the invention, it can be advantageous that the activation signal is output depending on the location of the vehicle, wherein in particular the disconnection and / or detection is only carried out if the control unit has released the location by means of a check.

[0019] This ensures safety when using the driver training mode. For example, the location (for sufficient safety) could be a remote stretch of road, an (empty) parking lot, and / or private property. The control unit can then perform the verification. In doing so, the control unit can retrieve data from third-party providers and / or a backend (e.g., the manufacturer's) via a data connection (e.g., the internet). Alternatively or additionally, sensor data from the vehicle's sensors, which are designed to detect the vehicle's surroundings, can be used. If, for example, few or no other road users are detected, the location can be deemed suitable and / or safe (within the scope of the verification). It can also be provided that the control unit receives the locations of other vehicles (e.g.,...via the internet and / or car-to-car communication), which have (already) found or driven to suitable locations. In the simplest case, an empty parking space (e.g., after closing time), especially one without obstacles, can be used as a location.

[0020] Within the scope of the invention, it is conceivable that the disconnection of an electrical connection by the control unit includes a partial interruption and / or reduction of a power supply and / or voltage supply to and / or with the supply unit.

[0021] Preferably, a complete disconnection and / or interruption can be performed. The disconnection can preferably be temporary and / or time-limited, for example, for 5 seconds. Preferably, a similar driving situation can be provided before and / or after, without disconnection and / or with a complete connection (i.e., full power and / or voltage supply). This allows, on the one hand, the effect of the disconnection to be illustrated and / or, on the other hand, enables testing of the actuator, the support unit, the control unit, the support unit of the control unit, and / or the functionally essential component.

[0022] Within the scope of the invention, it may be provided that the disconnection of an electrical connection by the control unit includes a (re-)switching of a power distributor, wherein the power distributor connects the supply unit to the actuator, in particular a support unit of the actuator, and / or the operating unit, in particular a support unit of the operating unit, in a switchable manner.

[0023] Accordingly, the power distributor can be configured as a (central) distributor for power, in particular for voltage and / or current. The power distributor can be connected to the control unit, in particular via a data connection, enabling data communication, whereby the control unit controls the power distributor. The power distributor can have at least one, preferably several, means for performing (at least partial) disconnection. These means can, for example, include mechanical, electrical, and / or electromechanical switches. For example, the means can include a MOSFET and / or a (switchable) diode. Each actuator, an actuator support unit, an operating unit, and / or an operating unit support unit (e.g., via a respective connection) can be connected to the power distributor. For example, each connection includes a corresponding means.Thus, the control unit can actuate the power distributor to disconnect a (specific) actuator, an actuator support unit, an operating unit, and / or an operating unit support unit. This disconnection can involve switching, particularly of the means. The disconnection and / or switching can be continuous and / or staged. In other words, the disconnection can be complete or partial. This allows the power supply unit to be at least partially (or completely) disconnected. It can be provided that the disconnection, detection, and / or operation for one or more actuators, actuator support units, operating units, and / or operating unit support units can be performed. - completely and / or partially, - simultaneously or at different times, and / or - depending on the operating action(s) and / or the route.

[0024] An actuator may include an actuator support unit (e.g., a power steering booster, electronic brake booster, and the like). This support unit may be mechanically attached to the actuator and / or assist the actuator (e.g., by providing additional braking force). Similarly, a control unit may include an actuator support unit (e.g., a power steering booster on the steering wheel, particularly in a steer-by-wire system, an electronic pedal booster, and the like). This support unit may be mechanically attached to the control unit and / or assist the control unit (e.g., by providing additional steering torque at the steering wheel). The power supply unit may be connected to the power distributor via a power connection (configured to supply current and / or voltage).The power distributor can be connected via a data connection and / or power connection (configured to supply current and / or voltage) to the functionally essential component, the actuator, the actuator support unit, the control unit, the control unit support unit, the feedback actuator, and / or the power supply unit. The power distributor can include a logic circuit that can be controlled, in particular, depending on current pulses, and preferably provides functions (e.g., ESP) and / or (electrical) power depending on the current pulses.

[0025] It is also conceivable that the disconnection of an electrical connection by the control unit includes, in particular, a partial disconnection of an actuator support unit, wherein the actuator support unit, for example a power steering booster, is configured to provide mechanical and / or electrical support to the actuator. Accordingly, these components can be in an electrical and / or mechanical operative connection.

[0026] It is also conceivable that the disconnection of an electrical connection by the control unit includes, in particular, a partial disconnection of a support unit of the operating unit, wherein the support unit of the operating unit, for example a power steering booster, is configured to provide mechanical and / or electrical support to the operating unit. Accordingly, these components can be in an electrical and / or mechanical functional connection.

[0027] It may be possible to disconnect (first) a support unit of the actuator and (subsequently and / or additionally) a support unit of the control unit, which is specific to an identical functionally essential component. Accordingly, the disconnection can be multi-stage and / or graduated. The disconnection can be partial, particularly with varying timing, and / or complete. For example, in a steering system, especially a steer-by-wire system, the support can first be reduced and / or completely disconnected at the steering wheel (control unit), and then at the actuator.

[0028] Within the scope of the invention, it is optionally possible that the functionally essential component has a steering system and the actuator is configured to provide a steering angle of at least one wheel of the vehicle, wherein the operating action includes actuating the control unit (steering wheel), in particular a rotational movement on a steering wheel.

[0029] In particular, a steering column, steering gear, and / or steering rod may be arranged between the steering wheel and the actuator, specifically designed for power transmission. A steer-by-wire system may also be provided, with the steering wheel and / or the steering wheel support unit arranged at the top and the actuator and / or the actuator support unit at the bottom.

[0030] Furthermore, within the scope of the invention, it may be provided that the operation by the control unit includes controlling a feedback actuator of the operating unit depending on the detection, wherein in particular the feedback actuator outputs a force depending on the operating action, especially the actual parameters.

[0031] The force can be supportive, particularly encouraging the operating action, thereby demonstrating to the driver how to optimize their operation. Alternatively or additionally, the force can be designed, for example, as a jolt, to communicate insufficient and / or incorrect operation to the driver, especially an (excessive, e.g., more than 20%) deviation between (at least one) target parameter and actual parameter. Alternatively or additionally, an audible signal can be emitted depending on the deviation, for example, via a dedicated output device. For instance, the volume of the audible signal could vary depending on the deviation between the target value and the actual value.

[0032] With regard to the present invention, it is conceivable that the operation by the control unit includes at least a partial, preferably a complete, restoration of the electrical connection.

[0033] In other words, the disconnection can be at least partially reversed. This involves restoring the connection between the actuator and the power supply unit, particularly between the actuator's support unit (e.g., a power steering booster) and the power supply unit, depending on the operating action. Restoration can be gradual and / or stepwise. The speed of restoration can be adjusted depending on the degree of deviation between the target parameter(s) and the actual parameter(s). This can improve (or make more noticeable) the learning success and / or robustness during testing, thereby increasing safety.

[0034] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the separation, recording and / or operation by the control unit is carried out repeatedly in order to generate a driver-specific rating depending on the recording.

[0035] Accordingly, the control unit can evaluate the operating action(s), particularly by repeatedly comparing deviations between target parameter(s) and actual parameter(s). The driver evaluation can, for example, specifically assess the driver's braking and / or steering skills.

[0036] Within the scope of the invention, it can be advantageous for the control unit to select a (navigation) route and / or a difficulty level of the driving training mode depending on the driver's assessment, particularly when receiving the activation signal.

[0037] The level of difficulty can be increased if - the separation is preferably fully developed, - at least two actuators and / or support units of the actuator are separated, - at least two control units and / or support units of the control units are separated, and / or - the separation is unexpected and / or varies (more) over time.

[0038] It may also be possible for the control unit to maintain a history of driver evaluations, including a comprehensive record of deviations. This would allow for the disconnection process to be repeated, particularly depending on a previous disconnection where the driver evaluation was deemed in need of improvement.

[0039] The above problem is solved according to a second aspect by a computer program product according to the invention, comprising instructions which, when the computer program product is executed by a computer, in particular a control unit, cause it to implement the method according to the first aspect.

[0040] This results in the same advantages with regard to a computer program product according to the invention as have already been described with regard to a method according to the first aspect.

[0041] The above problem is solved according to a third aspect by a computer-readable data carrier according to the invention, in which instructions are stored which, when executed by a computer, in particular a control unit, cause it to carry out the method according to the first aspect.

[0042] This results in the same advantages with regard to a computer-readable data carrier according to the invention as have already been described with regard to a method according to the first aspect and / or a computer program product according to the second aspect.

[0043] The above problem is solved according to a fourth aspect by a control unit according to the invention, comprising a computing unit and / or a storage unit in which instructions are stored which, when at least partially executed by the computing unit, carry out a method according to the first aspect.

[0044] The ECU (Electronic Control Unit) can be connected to the functionally essential component, the actuator, the actuator's support unit, the power distributor, the operator unit, the operator unit's support unit, the feedback actuator, and / or the supply unit, particularly via a data connection. Accordingly, the ECU can control these components, for example, via a control signal, and / or receive data (e.g., sensor data) from them.

[0045] This results in the same advantages with regard to a control unit according to the invention as have already been described with regard to a method according to the first aspect and / or a computer program product according to the second aspect and / or a computer-readable data carrier according to the third aspect.

[0046] The above problem is solved according to a fifth aspect by a vehicle according to the invention, comprising a control unit according to the fourth aspect.

[0047] This results in the same advantages with regard to a vehicle according to the invention as have already been described with regard to a method according to the first aspect and / or a computer program product according to the second aspect and / or a computer-readable data carrier according to the third aspect and / or a control unit according to the fourth aspect.

[0048] Further advantages, features, and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description, in which several exemplary embodiments of the invention are described in detail with reference to the drawings. The features mentioned in the claims and in the description can be essential to the invention individually or in any combination. The drawings schematically illustrate each of these features by way of example. Fig. 1 a method for providing a driver training mode for a vehicle and Fig. 2 a vehicle.

[0049] The figures use identical reference numerals for the same technical features, even for different embodiments.

[0050] Fig. Figure 1 shows a method for providing a driver training mode Tr for a vehicle 200, comprising: - Providing 110 of a vehicle 200 with a control unit ECU and an actuator 20 for actuating a functionally essential component 10 of the vehicle 200, wherein the actuator 20 can be controlled by a control unit 40 by a driver of the vehicle 200, - Received 120, by the control unit ECU, an activation signal A to start a driver training mode Tr, - Disconnect 130, by the control unit ECU, an electrical connection between the actuator 20 and a supply unit 50 depending on the driving training mode Tr, - Detection 140, by the control unit ECU, of an operating action B of the driver at the control unit 40, wherein the operating action B can be carried out by the driver at the control unit 40 within the framework of the driving training mode Tr, - Operation 150, by the control unit ECU, of the actuator 20 depending on the detection 140.

[0051] Within the scope of the invention, it can be advantageous that the activation signal A is output depending on the location of the vehicle 200, wherein in particular the disconnection 130 and / or detection 140 is only carried out if the control unit ECU has released the location by checking.

[0052] Within the scope of the invention, it is conceivable that the disconnection 130 by the control unit ECU of an electrical connection comprises a partial interruption and / or reduction of a power supply to the supply unit 50.

[0053] Within the scope of the invention, it may be provided that the disconnection 130 by the control unit ECU of an electrical connection comprises a switching 131 of a power distributor 30, wherein the power distributor 30 connects the supply unit 50 with the actuator 20, in particular a support unit 21 of the actuator 20, and / or the operating unit 40, in particular a support unit 41 of the operating unit 40, in a switchable manner.

[0054] It is also conceivable that the disconnection 130 by the control unit ECU of an electrical connection includes a, in particular partial, disconnection 132 of a support unit 21 of the actuator 20, wherein the support unit 21 of the actuator 20, for example a steering booster 21, is configured to provide mechanical and / or electrical support to the actuator 20.

[0055] It is also conceivable that the disconnection 130 by the control unit ECU of an electrical connection includes a, in particular partial, disconnection 133 of a support unit 41 of the control unit 40, wherein the support unit 41 of the control unit 40, for example a steering booster 41, is configured to provide mechanical and / or electrical support to the control unit 40.

[0056] Within the scope of the invention, it is optionally possible that the functionally essential component 10 has a steering system and the actuator 20 is configured to provide a steering angle of at least one wheel of the vehicle 200, wherein the operating action B comprises actuating the control unit 40, in particular a rotational movement on a steering wheel.

[0057] Furthermore, it may be provided within the scope of the invention that the operation 150 by the control unit ECU comprises controlling 151 a feedback actuator 42 of the operating unit 40 depending on the detection 140, wherein in particular the feedback actuator 42 outputs a force depending on the operating action B.

[0058] With regard to the present invention, it is conceivable that the operation 150 by the control unit ECU includes at least a partial, preferably complete, restoration 152 of the electrical connection.

[0059] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the disconnect 130, capture 140 and / or operate 150 is repeatedly performed by the control unit ECU in order to generate a driver-specific rating depending on the capture 140.

[0060] Within the scope of the invention, it can be advantageous for the control unit ECU to select a route and / or a difficulty level of the driving training mode Tr depending on the driver rating, in particular when receiving the activation signal A.

[0061] Fig.Figure 2 shows an exemplary vehicle 200 comprising a control unit (ECU) with a processing unit (CU) and / or a storage unit (MU). In this case, the vehicle 200 includes a steering system, which serves as an example to illustrate the invention. The control unit (ECU) can be connected, in particular via a data connection, to the functionally essential component 10, the actuator 20, the actuator support unit 21, the power distributor 30, the operating unit 40, the operating unit support unit 41, the feedback actuator 42, and / or the supply unit 50. Accordingly, the control unit (ECU) can control these components, e.g., via a control signal, and / or receive data (e.g., sensor data) from them. The supply unit 50 can be connected to the power distributor 30 via a power connection (configured to provide current and / or voltage).The power distributor 30 can be connected via a data connection and / or power connection (configured to provide current and / or voltage) to the functional component 10, the actuator 20, the actuator support unit 21, the operating unit 40, the operating unit support unit 41, the feedback actuator 42 and / or the supply unit 50. Reference symbol list 10 essential functional components 20 actuator 21 Actuator support unit 30 power distributors 40 Control unit 41 Support unit of the control unit, e.g. power steering booster 42 Feedback actuator 50 supply units 110 Provide 120 Receiving an activation signal 130 Disconnecting an electrical connection 131 Switching a power distributor 132 Disconnecting an actuator support unit 133 Disconnecting a support unit from the control unit 140 Recording an operating action 150 Operating the actuator 151 Controlling a feedback actuator 152 Restoring the electrical connection 200 vehicles An activation signal B Operating procedure ECU control unit CU computing unit MU storage unit Driving training mode QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

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

[0000] CN 117 743 524 A

[0003] WO 2023 233 625 A1

[0003]

Claims

[1] Method for providing a driver training mode (Tr) for a vehicle (200), comprising: - Providing (110) a vehicle (200) with a control unit (ECU) and an actuator (20) for actuating a functionally essential component (10) of the vehicle (200), wherein the actuator (20) can be controlled by a control unit (40) by a driver of the vehicle (200), - Received (120), by the control unit (ECU), an activation signal (A) to start a driver training mode (Tr), - Disconnect (130), by the control unit (ECU), an electrical connection between the actuator (20) and a supply unit (50) depending on the driving training mode (Tr), - Detection (140) by the control unit (ECU) of an operating action (B) of the driver at the control unit (40), wherein the operating action (B) can be performed by the driver at the control unit (40) within the framework of the driver training mode (Tr), - Operation (150) by the control unit (ECU) of the actuator (20) depending on the detection (140). [2] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the activation signal (A) is output depending on the location of the vehicle (200), wherein in particular the disconnection (130) and / or detection (140) is only carried out if the control unit (ECU) has released the location by checking. [3] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the disconnection (130) by the control unit (ECU) of an electrical connection includes a partial interruption and / or reduction of a power supply to the supply unit (50). [4] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the disconnection (130) of an electrical connection by the control unit (ECU) includes switching (131) of a power distributor (30), wherein the power distributor (30) connects the supply unit (50) to the actuator (20), in particular a support unit (21) of the actuator (20), and / or the control unit (40), in particular a support unit (41) of the control unit (40). [5] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the disconnection (130) of an electrical connection by the control unit (ECU) includes, in particular, a partial disconnection (132) of a support unit (21) of the actuator (20), wherein the support unit (21) of the actuator (20), for example a power steering booster (21), is configured to provide mechanical and / or electrical support to the actuator (20). [6] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the disconnection (130) of an electrical connection by the control unit (ECU) includes, in particular, a partial disconnection (133) of a support unit (41) of the control unit (40), wherein the support unit (41) of the control unit (40), for example a power steering booster (41), is configured to provide mechanical and / or electrical support to the control unit (40). [7] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the functionally essential component (10) has a steering system and the actuator (20) is configured to provide a steering angle of at least one wheel of the vehicle (200), wherein the operating action (B) includes actuating the control unit (40), in particular a rotational movement on a steering wheel. [8] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the operation (150) by the control unit (ECU) includes controlling (151) a feedback actuator (42) of the operating unit (40) depending on the detection (140), wherein in particular the feedback actuator (42) outputs a force depending on the operating action (B). [9] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the operation (150) by the control unit (ECU) involves at least a partial, preferably complete, restoration (152) of the electrical connection. [10] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the disconnection (130), detection (140) and / or operation (150) is repeatedly performed by the control unit (ECU) in order to generate a driver-specific rating depending on the detection (140). [11] Method according to the preceding claim, characterized by, that the control unit (ECU) selects a route and / or a difficulty level of the driver training mode (Tr) depending on the driver rating, especially when receiving (120) the activation signal (A). [12] Computer program product comprising instructions which, when the computer program product is executed by a computer, cause it to implement the method according to any of the preceding claims. [13] A computer-readable data carrier in which instructions are stored which, when executed by a computer, cause it to carry out the method according to one of the preceding claims. [14] Electronic control unit (ECU) comprising a computing unit (CU) and / or a storage unit (MU) in which instructions are stored which, when at least partially executed by the computing unit (CU), perform a method according to one of the preceding claims. [15] Vehicle (200) comprising a control unit (ECU) according to the preceding claim.

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