METHOD AND EQUIPMENT FOR AN INTERIOR VEHICLE TEST OF AN ADB LIGHT

Abstract

A method and a setup comprise a test track of predefined length and a test procedure comprising a plurality of scenarios, each with a predefined distance range, wherein at least one scenario has a predefined distance range greater than the predefined length, and wherein the at least one scenario is subdivided into a plurality of test segments with lengths less than the predefined length. A test vehicle with at least one ADB light is located at a fixed position on the test track. A data collection vehicle with a plurality of stimulus lights and a plurality of sensors is mobile on the test track relative to the test vehicle and collects ADB data for each test segment of the plurality of test segments.One or more controllers receive ADB data from the data collection vehicle for each test segment and combine the ADB data from each test segment to provide an ADB test result for at least one scenario.

Description

AREA OF TECHNOLOGY

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to a method and apparatus for testing an adaptive driving beam (ADB) luminaire in indoor environments. GENERAL STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Vehicles often include ADB lights, which automatically adjust the headlight beams in response to certain inputs. These types of lights often require intensive certification processes. BRIEF OVERVIEW

[0003] An apparatus according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, among other things: a test track having a predefined length; a test procedure comprising a plurality of scenarios, each having a predefined distance range, wherein at least one scenario has the predefined distance range greater than the predefined length of the test track, and wherein the at least one scenario is subdivided into a plurality of test segments with lengths less than the predefined length; a test vehicle with at least one ADB light, wherein the test vehicle is located at a fixed position on the test track; a data collection vehicle with a plurality of stimulus lights and a plurality of sensors, wherein the data collection vehicle is movable on the test track relative to the test vehicle and collects ADB data for each test segment of the plurality of test segments;and one or more controllers that receive ADB data from the data collection vehicle for each test segment of the multitude of test segments and combine the ADB data from each test segment to provide an ADB test result for at least one scenario.

[0004] In another non-restrictive embodiment of any facility, the test track is located within an indoor facility.

[0005] In another non-restrictive embodiment of any device, the data collection vehicle is driven autonomously via a programmable machine.

[0006] In another non-restrictive embodiment of any device, the plurality of stimulus lights comprises one or more front headlights and one or more rear lights.

[0007] In another non-restrictive embodiment of any device, the test vehicle includes at least one vehicle sensor that responds to the one or more headlights or the one or more taillights.

[0008] In another non-restrictive embodiment of any device, the at least one vehicle sensor comprises at least one camera.

[0009] In a further non-restrictive embodiment of any device, the plurality of test segments includes the following: at least a first segment and a second segment, wherein the first segment has an initial start position for the data collection vehicle and a stop position for the data collection vehicle; and wherein the second segment has a shifted starting position, which is shifted relative to the initial starting position for the first segment in order to maintain a perceived camera angle that would be experienced during a non-segmented test run for at least one scenario.

[0010] In a further non-restrictive embodiment of any device, the test road comprises a first lane and a second lane separated by a dividing line, wherein the test vehicle is at a fixed position on the first lane and the data collection vehicle moves towards the test vehicle along the second lane during the first segment, and wherein the shifted starting position for the second segment is shifted in one direction towards the first lane.

[0011] In a further non-restrictive embodiment of any device, the plurality of test segments includes at least a first segment for a first predefined length corresponding to a first section of the predefined distance range, and a second segment for a second predefined length corresponding to a second section of the predefined distance range that is farther from the test vehicle than the first section, and wherein the one or more controllers apply a weighting factor to set an illuminance value for the second segment such that it corresponds to an illuminance value that would be experienced at the second section of the predefined distance range for a non-segmented test run for the at least one scenario.

[0012] An installation according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, among other things: a test track having a predefined length, wherein the test track is located within an indoor facility; a test procedure comprising a plurality of scenarios, each having a predefined distance range, wherein at least one scenario has the predefined distance range being greater than the predefined length, and wherein the at least one scenario is subdivided into a plurality of test segments having lengths that are less than the predefined length; a test vehicle with at least one ADB light, wherein the test vehicle is located at a fixed position on the test track;A data collection vehicle, autonomously driven by a programmable machine, comprising a plurality of stimulus lights and a plurality of sensors, wherein the data collection vehicle is mobile on the test track relative to the test vehicle and collects ADB data for each test segment of the plurality of test segments; wherein the plurality of stimulus lights comprises one or more headlights and one or more taillights; wherein the test vehicle includes at least one vehicle sensor that responds to the one or more headlights or the one or more taillights; and one or more controllers that receive ADB data from the data collection vehicle for each test segment of the plurality of test segments and combine the ADB data from each test segment to provide an ADB test result for the at least one scenario.

[0013] In a further non-restrictive embodiment of any device, the plurality of test segments includes the following: at least a first segment and a second segment, wherein the first segment has an initial start position for the data collection vehicle and a stop position for the data collection vehicle; and the second segment has a shifted start position that is shifted relative to the initial start position for the first segment in order to maintain a perceived camera angle that would be experienced during a non-segmented test run for the at least one scenario.

[0014] In a further non-restrictive embodiment of any device, the test road comprises a first lane and a second lane separated by a dividing line, wherein the test vehicle is at a fixed position on the first lane and the data collection vehicle moves towards the test vehicle along the second lane during the first segment, and wherein the shifted starting position for the second segment is shifted in one direction towards the first lane.

[0015] In a further non-restrictive embodiment of any device, the plurality of test segments includes at least a first segment for a first predefined length corresponding to a first section of the predefined distance range, and a second segment for a second predefined length corresponding to a second section of the predefined distance range that is farther from the test vehicle than the first section, and wherein the one or more controllers apply a weighting factor to set an illuminance value for the second segment such that it corresponds to an illuminance value that would be experienced at the second section of the predefined distance range for a non-segmented test run for the at least one scenario.

[0016] A method according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, among other things: providing a test track having a predefined length; providing a test procedure comprising a plurality of scenarios, each having a predefined distance range, wherein at least one scenario has a predefined distance range greater than the predefined length, and wherein the at least one scenario is subdivided into a plurality of test segments having lengths less than the predefined length; locating a test vehicle with at least one ADB light at a fixed location on the test track; moving a data collection vehicle with a plurality of stimulus lights and a plurality of sensors on the test track relative to the test vehicle; collecting ADB data for each test segment of the plurality of test segments from the plurality of sensors;and receiving ADB data from the data collection vehicle for each test segment of the multitude of test segments and combining the ADB data from each test segment to provide an ADB test result for at least one scenario.

[0017] In another non-restrictive embodiment of any method, the method involves placing the test lane within an indoor facility.

[0018] In another non-restrictive embodiment of any method, the method involves autonomous driving of the data collection vehicle via a programmable machine.

[0019] In a further non-restrictive embodiment of any method, the plurality of stimulus lights comprises one or more headlights and one or more taillights and includes the method of providing at least one vehicle sensor of the test vehicle that responds to the one or more headlights or the one or more taillights.

[0020] In a further non-restrictive embodiment of any method, the plurality of test segments includes at least a first segment and a second segment, wherein the first segment has an initial start position for the data collection vehicle and a stop position for the data collection vehicle, and includes the method of: maintaining a perceived camera angle that would be experienced during a non-segmented test run for the at least one scenario, for at least one scenario by moving the second segment to a shifted start position that is shifted relative to the initial start position for the first segment.

[0021] In a further non-restrictive embodiment of any method, the test road comprises a first lane and a second lane separated by a dividing line, wherein the test vehicle is at a fixed position on the first lane and the data collection vehicle moves towards the test vehicle along the second lane during the first segment, and wherein the shifted starting position for the second segment is shifted in one direction towards the first lane.

[0022] In a further non-restrictive embodiment of any method, the plurality of test segments includes at least a first segment for a first predefined length corresponding to a first section of the predefined distance range, and a second segment for a second predefined length corresponding to a second section of the predefined distance range that is farther from the test vehicle than the first section, and includes the method of: applying a weighting factor to set an illuminance value for the second segment such that it corresponds to an illuminance value that would be experienced at the second section of the predefined distance range for a non-segmented test run for the at least one scenario.

[0023] The embodiments, examples, and alternatives described in the preceding paragraphs, the claims, or the following description and drawings, which may include any of their various aspects or individual features, can be considered independently or in any combination. Features described in connection with one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments, provided such features are not incompatible. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0024] The various features and advantages of the disclosed examples will be apparent to the person skilled in the art from the detailed description. The figures accompanying the detailed description can be briefly described as follows: Fig. Figure 1A is a schematic illustration of a vehicle with ADB lights approaching an oncoming vehicle. Fig. Figure 1B is a schematic illustration of a vehicle with ADB lights approaching another vehicle that is driving in front of the vehicle with ADB lights. Fig. Figure 2 shows an example table of ADB photometry requirements. Fig. Figure 3 shows an example table of an ADB system test matrix. Fig. Figure 4 is a schematic illustration of a test vehicle with ADB lights and sensors. Fig. Figure 5 is a schematic illustration of a data collection vehicle with stimulus lights and sensors. Fig. Figure 6 is a schematic illustration of a test track example for segments 1 and 3 of the first scenario. Fig. Figure 7 is a schematic illustration of a test track example for segment 2 of the first scenario. Fig. Figure 8 shows an example graph of a glare threshold value over the test distance, e.g. illuminance versus distance, for the first scenario. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] This disclosure describes in detail a method and a device for testing an adaptive driving beam (ADB) luminaire in indoor environments. Fig. Figure 1A shows an example of a vehicle 10 with ADB lights 12 approaching an oncoming vehicle 14. Fig. Figure 1B shows an example of vehicle 10 with ADB lights 12 approaching another vehicle 16 that is driving in front of vehicle 10 with ADB lights 12.

[0026] ADB technology is a highly advanced feature provided in headlights that enables night driving by automatically adjusting the headlight beams for situations such as those in the Fig. The system shown in Figures 1A-B is improved. This system enhances visibility, and the ADB system uses sensors and cameras to detect traffic signs, oncoming vehicles, the presence of vehicles ahead of a assigned vehicle on the road, and other environmental factors. In practice, the ADB system provides dynamic light control based on the data it collects by adjusting the shape and range of the headlights. For example, it can reduce the intensity of the high beams when it detects oncoming traffic or adjust the beam pattern to better illuminate curves and road edges. By continuously adjusting the headlights, the ADB system provides optimal lighting for varying driving conditions, thereby reducing glare and improving visibility.

[0027] These ADB luminaires 12 often require intensive certification processes. Fig. Figure 2 shows an example table of ADB photometry requirements. This table describes maximum illuminance levels for different directions, e.g., opposite direction and same direction, for various distance intervals.

[0028] Fig. Figure 3 shows an example table of an ADB system test matrix. This table describes eight different test scenarios. In this example, each scenario includes a vehicle speed range, a vehicle orientation, a radius of curvature range, a curve direction, a superelevation percentage, and a distance range.

[0029] In order to certify an ADB luminaire 12, the luminaire should meet the ADB photometry requirements of the table in Fig. 2 and the vehicle road test as shown in the table in Fig. 3. Additional road test requirements may include any of the following: the test road has a longitudinal gradient (slope) not exceeding 2%; testing should be carried out on a dry road surface without precipitation; and testing should be carried out when the ambient lighting at the test road, as recorded by the sensors, e.g., photometer, is at or below 0.2 lux.

[0030] Accordingly, conducting the ADB vehicle test is a complicated, time-consuming, and expensive process; and many factors must be controlled to obtain a valid test result. The present disclosure provides a test for the ADB lamp 12 that reduces costs and can be performed indoors at any time of day. In implementations, this test is used as a preliminary step to obtaining official certification of the ADB lamp. This allows for assessments and adjustments to be made before the more complex and expensive certification tests are undertaken.

[0031] As shown in the vehicle-road test table, the highest vehicle speed requirement is 60-70 mph and the longest road test distance is 220 meters. For a vehicle to reach 60-70 mph in a reverse-direction test scenario on a straight road, the road length would need to be longer than 220 meters. Finding this within the test area presents a challenge. Additionally, driving a test vehicle with ADB within the test area on both a straight and a curved lane is challenging. To address these issues, the present disclosure reduces the test distance into several sub-segments such that the test is performed over relatively short distances, with the test results from each segment being combined to produce a test result for each scenario. The test segments also accommodate requirements for both straight and curved lanes.

[0032] In implementations, a test vehicle 20 ( Fig. 4) with ADB lights to be certified 22 provided and a data collection vehicle 24 ( Fig. 5) provided with a variety of sensors 26 and stimulus lights 28, e.g. front headlights 28a, rear lights 28b.

[0033] In implementations, the test vehicle 20 is stationary in position on lane 30, as in Fig. Figure 6 shows the data collection vehicle 24 moving towards the test vehicle 20 in lane 32. Lanes 30 and 32 are separated by a dividing line 36. In one example, the data collection vehicle 24 comprises a small electric vehicle (EV) so that exhaust fumes are not emitted indoors. In other implementations, a programmable machine 34 ( Fig. 4), e.g., a robot, designed and programmed to operate autonomously to drive the EV at a consistent speed and in a consistent lane, eliminating potential human driver error. When the data collection vehicle 24 reaches the required speed range for the selected segment, it drives to a test starting point and performs the test.

[0034] In practice, the ADB lights 22 on the test vehicle are activated, as an ADB system is normally switched on when the vehicle speed is above 20 mph.

[0035] In the implementations, all eight test scenarios can be executed using the segmented method. Based on the different test lengths and road curvatures, each test scenario has a different set of test segments. In the implementations, GPS is used to determine the position of the data collection vehicle 24, and the programmable machine 34 is used to drive the data collection vehicle 24 with the test sensors 26 and stimulus headlights / taillights 28. In the implementations, all test scenarios can be programmed and executed automatically using one or more controllers C. A person skilled in the art, having the benefit of this description, is able to determine the programming requirements that would be applied for these purposes.

[0036] The first scenario is used as an example. This scenario involves a two-way driving condition on a straight road, with a speed of 60-70 mph and a distance range of 15-220 meters. In implementations, this test scenario is divided into several different segments, and different lane settings are applied to maintain the same camera angle position despite the shortened segments. In one example, an illuminance measurement (E = I / d^2) is performed for each segment. "E" represents the illuminance, "I" is the intensity, and "d" is the distance between sensor 26 and ADB light 22. The different segment results are then combined (using E = I / d^2) to generate a combined, complete test result for the first scenario.

[0037] In implementations, the test vehicle 20 is equipped with an ADB light 22 on a test track 40 ( Fig. 6) parked in lane 30 and the ADB light 22 is activated. Test track 40 is divided into several segments per available test space, e.g., segment 1, segment 2, segment 3, etc. (see Fig. 6-7). In one example, the lane width can be any width from 3.05 m (10 ft) to 3.66 m (12 ft) with road surface markings; however, road 40 must be free of any back-reflective material or other elements that could affect the result of the test.

[0038] For the first scenario, test track 40 is divided into four segments due to the long overall length of the distance range. For example, segment 1 could be 15 m to 60 m, segment 2 could be 60 m to 105 m, segment 3 could be 105 m to 150 m, and segment 4 could be 150 m to 195 m. As shown in Fig. Figure 6 shows a sensor 42 for segment 1 ( Fig. 4), e.g., a camera on the test vehicle 20, the stimulus lights 28 with a wider angle than segment 2. In implementations, the camera 42 communicates with the one or more controllers C via a network to cause the ADB lights 22 to open and close different pixels to prevent light from reaching the eyes of a driver, e.g., a sensor 26 on the data collection vehicle 24.

[0039] In implementations, for segment 2, as in Fig. Figure 7 shows the data collection vehicle 24 on the same test track; however, due to the reduced number of segments, the angle perceived by the camera does not match the angle that would occur for the test on the real road of the first scenario, e.g., a single test drive along a straight road over 220 meters long. To address this issue, the data collection vehicle 24 moves to a new lane position for segment 2 to achieve the desired angle perceived by the camera. Fig. Figure 7 shows the initial position 50 of the data collection vehicle 24 for segment 1 compared to the vertically shifted lane position 52 for segment 2.

[0040] By vertically moving the data collection vehicle 24, the vehicle travels on a new lane for segment 2, e.g. a shifted lane relative to the stationary test vehicle 20, and maintains the same camera angle for segment 2 that would be experienced in the open-air road test.

[0041] In implementations, the data collection vehicle 24 shifts the lane position relative to the stationary test vehicle 20 for additional segments, e.g., segments 3+, in order to maintain the perceived camera angle.

[0042] Additionally, in implementations for segment 2 and any subsequent segments, when the data collection vehicle 24 moves closer to the test vehicle 20 with the ADB lights 22, the stimulus headlight or stimulus taillight 28 exhibits a higher illuminance on the camera 42 of the test vehicle 20. However, the camera 42 has a large dynamic range, which should not affect the test result; however, if a noticeable effect is present, a neutral density filter can be installed in front of the stimulus headlight or stimulus taillight 28 if necessary.

[0043] Additionally, in some implementations, the data collection vehicle 24 moves closer to the test vehicle 20 in segment 2 and beyond, and the sensor 26 receives a higher illuminance than would be the case in segment 2 during the open-air road vehicle test. Therefore, the glare value received by the sensor 26 in segment 2 and beyond may need to be adjusted. In some implementations, a weighting factor can be set to automatically adjust the sensor test value. For example, in segment 1, when the distance is 15 m, the illuminance (E) on the sensor is equal to I / 15^2, where "I" is the luminous intensity from the ADB lights 22 of the test vehicle 20. In segment 2, the 60-meter illuminance should be I / 60^2; however, when segment 2 moves to the position of segment 1, the data collection vehicle 24 is closer to the test vehicle 20, and the illuminance is artificially increased.

[0044] Thus, the illuminance value can be adjusted according to the weighting factor (E = I / d^2). As discussed above, for the first scenario, the distance of base road segment 1 is 15-60 meters. The distance of segment 2 is 60-105 meters, and after sensor 26 has measured the illuminance, the system controllers C automatically multiply the weighting factor and calculate the actual illuminance for the distance of segment 2 (60-105 meters). The illuminance value can then be readjusted to match the distance in the outdoor test.

[0045] Fig. Figure 8 shows an example graph of a glare threshold value versus the test distance, e.g., illuminance versus distance, for the first scenario, compared to the requirements. The upper stepped line 60 represents the ADB glare threshold value for the requirements, as shown in the example table from Fig. 2 are shown. The lower line 62 represents the combined set test blend values ​​for all of the reduced test segments of the first scenario. Since the lower line 62 is below the upper threshold line 60, this indicates that this test result meets the ADB requirement.

[0046] Once the first scenario is completed, the remaining scenarios can be tested sequentially in a manner similar to that described above with respect to the first scenario.

[0047] Since the test vehicle is stationary with the ADB light on, no dynamic vehicle data is collected using this interior test procedure. The vehicle pitch and roll angles should be obtained by the vehicle manufacturer based on the elevation profiles of the test track for all road test scenarios and the vehicle dynamics, and these pitch and roll angles should be included in the interior segment test data.

[0048] In implementations, once all segment tests are completed, the entered data is combined to produce a test result for the first scenario. It should be noted that for scenarios 2, 5, and 6, for example, the number of required segments can be reduced, as these scenarios cover shorter distance ranges compared to scenarios 1, 3, 4, and 7-8.

[0049] In implementations, once all segment tests are completed, any necessary adjustments can be easily made to the ADB 22 luminaires to ensure compliance with the requirements for official certification. Once all adjustments have been made, the outdoor road test can be completed to certify the ADB luminaires themselves.

[0050] A person skilled in the art, having the benefit of this description, is able to determine the programming requirements for the one or more controllers C for the test vehicle 20 and the data collection vehicle 24 that would be used for these purposes. The one or more controllers C may include a processor, memory, and one or more input and / or output (I / O) device interface(s) communicatively coupled via a local interface. The local interface may include, for example, one or more buses and / or other wired or wireless connections. The local interface may include additional elements, omitted for simplicity, such as controllers, buffers (caches), drivers, amplifiers, and receivers to enable communication.Furthermore, the local interface may include address, control and / or data connections to enable appropriate communication between the aforementioned components.

[0051] The controllers can be a hardware device for executing software, especially software stored in memory. The controllers can be a custom-built or commercially available processor, a central processing unit (CPU), an auxiliary processor among several processors connected to the computing device, a semiconductor-based microprocessor (in the form of a microchip or chipset), or, more generally, any device for executing software instructions.

[0052] Memory can consist of any type or combination of volatile memory elements (e.g., random access memory (RAM, such as DRAM, SRAM, SDRAM, VRAM, etc.)) and / or non-volatile memory elements (e.g., ROM, hard disk, tape, CD-ROM, etc.). Furthermore, memory can include electronic, magnetic, optical, and / or other types of storage media. It should be noted that memory can also have a distributed architecture, where different components are located remotely but can be accessed by the processor.

[0053] The software in memory can contain one or more separate programs, each containing an ordered list of executable instructions for carrying out logical functions. A system component running as software can also be designed as a source program, an executable program (object code), a script, or any other unit comprising a set of instructions to be executed. If constructed as a source program, the program is translated by a compiler, assembler, interpreter, or the like, which may or may not be contained within memory.

[0054] The input / output devices that can be connected to the system's I / O interface(s) may include input devices, such as a keyboard, mouse, scanner, microphone, camera, proximity sensor, etc. Furthermore, the input / output devices may also include output devices, such as a printer, display, etc. Finally, the input / output devices may also include devices that communicate both inputs and outputs, such as a modulator / demodulator (modem; for accessing another device, system, or network), a radio frequency (RF) or other transceiver, a telephone interface, a bridge, a router, etc.

[0055] The controllers can be configured to execute software stored in memory, communicate data to and from memory, and generally control operations of the computing device according to the software. Software in memory is read, in whole or in part, by the processor, perhaps buffered within the processor, and then executed.

[0056] The preceding description is exemplary and not limiting. Variations and modifications of the disclosed examples may be apparent to a person skilled in the art, which do not necessarily deviate from the core of this disclosure. Therefore, the scope of protection granted by this disclosure can only be determined by reading the following patent claims.

[0057] A setup comprising: a test track having a predefined length; a test procedure comprising a plurality of scenarios, each having a predefined distance range, wherein at least one scenario has the predefined distance range greater than the predefined length of the test track, and wherein the at least one scenario is subdivided into a plurality of test segments with lengths less than the predefined length; a test vehicle with at least one ADB light, wherein the test vehicle is located at a fixed position on the test track; a data collection vehicle with a plurality of stimulus lights and a plurality of sensors, wherein the data collection vehicle is mobile on the test track relative to the test vehicle and collects ADB data for each test segment of the plurality of test segments;and one or more controllers that receive ADB data from the data collection vehicle for each test segment of the multitude of test segments and combine the ADB data from each test segment to provide an ADB test result for at least one scenario.

[0058] The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the test track is located within an indoor facility.

[0059] Device according to claim 1, wherein the data collection vehicle is driven autonomously via a programmable machine.

[0060] Device according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of stimulus lamps comprises one or more front headlights and one or more rear lights.

[0061] Device according to claim 4, wherein the test vehicle includes at least one vehicle sensor that responds to one or more headlights or one or more taillights.

[0062] Device according to claim 5, wherein the at least one vehicle sensor comprises at least one camera.

[0063] The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of test segments comprises: at least a first segment and a second segment, wherein the first segment has an initial start position for the data collection vehicle and a stop position for the data collection vehicle; and the second segment has a shifted start position which is shifted relative to the initial start position for the first segment in order to maintain a perceived camera angle which would be experienced during a non-segmented test run for the at least one scenario.

[0064] The device according to claim 7, wherein the test road comprises a first lane and a second lane separated by a dividing line, and wherein the test vehicle is located at a fixed position on the first lane and the data collection vehicle moves towards the test vehicle along the second lane during the first segment, and wherein the shifted starting position for the second segment is shifted in a direction towards the first lane.

[0065] The device according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of test segments includes at least a first segment for a first predefined length corresponding to a first section of the predefined distance range, and a second segment for a second predefined length corresponding to a second section of the predefined distance range which is further away from the test vehicle than the first section, and wherein the one or more controllers apply a weighting factor to set an illuminance value for the second segment such that it corresponds to an illuminance value that would be experienced at the second section of the predefined distance range for a non-segmented test run for the at least one scenario.

[0066] A facility comprising: a test track having a predefined length, wherein the test track is located within an indoor facility; a test procedure comprising a plurality of scenarios, each having a predefined distance range, wherein at least one scenario has a predefined distance range greater than the predefined length, and wherein the at least one scenario is subdivided into a plurality of test segments having lengths less than the predefined length; a test vehicle with at least one ADB light, wherein the test vehicle is located at a fixed position on the test track;A data collection vehicle, autonomously driven by a programmable machine, comprising a plurality of stimulus lights and a plurality of sensors, wherein the data collection vehicle is mobile on the test track relative to the test vehicle and collects ADB data for each test segment of the plurality of test segments; wherein the plurality of stimulus lights comprises one or more headlights and one or more taillights; wherein the test vehicle includes at least one vehicle sensor that responds to the one or more headlights or the one or more taillights; and one or more controllers that receive ADB data from the data collection vehicle for each test segment of the plurality of test segments and combine the ADB data from each test segment to provide an ADB test result for the at least one scenario.

[0067] The apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the plurality of test segments comprises: at least a first segment and a second segment, wherein the first segment has an initial start position for the data collection vehicle and a stop position for the data collection vehicle; and the second segment has a shifted start position which is shifted relative to the initial start position for the first segment in order to maintain a perceived camera angle which would be experienced during a non-segmented test run for the at least one scenario.

[0068] The device according to claim 11, wherein the test road comprises a first lane and a second lane separated by a dividing line, and wherein the test vehicle is located at a fixed position on the first lane and the data collection vehicle moves towards the test vehicle along the second lane during the first segment, and wherein the shifted starting position for the second segment is shifted in a direction towards the first lane.

[0069] The device according to claim 10, wherein the plurality of test segments includes at least a first segment for a first predefined length corresponding to a first section of the predefined distance range, and a second segment for a second predefined length corresponding to a second section of the predefined distance range which is farther from the test vehicle than the first section, and wherein the one or more controllers apply a weighting factor to set an illuminance value for the second segment such that it corresponds to an illuminance value that would be experienced at the second section of the predefined distance range for a non-segmented test run for the at least one scenario.

[0070] Method comprising: providing a test track having a predefined length; providing a test procedure comprising a plurality of scenarios, each having a predefined distance range, wherein at least one scenario has a predefined distance range greater than the predefined length, and wherein the at least one scenario is subdivided into a plurality of test segments having lengths less than the predefined length; locating a test vehicle with at least one ADB light at a fixed location on the test track; moving a data collection vehicle with a plurality of stimulus lights and a plurality of sensors on the test track relative to the test vehicle; collecting ADB data for each test segment of the plurality of test segments from the plurality of sensors;and receiving ADB data from the data collection vehicle for each test segment of the multitude of test segments and combining the ADB data from each test segment to provide an ADB test result for at least one scenario.

[0071] The method according to claim 14, which includes placing the test lane within an indoor facility.

[0072] The method according to claim 14, which includes autonomous driving of the data collection vehicle via a programmable machine.

[0073] Method according to claim 14, wherein the plurality of stimulus lights comprises one or more front headlights and one or more rear lights and includes providing at least one vehicle sensor of the test vehicle which responds to the one or more front headlights or the one or more rear lights.

[0074] The method of claim 14, wherein the plurality of test segments includes at least a first segment and a second segment, wherein the first segment has an initial start position for the data collection vehicle and a stop position for the data collection vehicle, and comprising: maintaining a perceived camera angle that would be experienced during a non-segmented test run for the at least one scenario, for at least one scenario by moving the second segment to a displaced start position that is displaced relative to the initial start position for the first segment.

[0075] The method of claim 18, wherein the test road comprises a first lane and a second lane separated by a dividing line, and wherein the test vehicle is located at a fixed position on the first lane and the data collection vehicle moves towards the test vehicle along the second lane during the first segment, and wherein the shifted starting position for the second segment is shifted in a direction towards the first lane.

[0076] The method of claim 14, wherein the plurality of test segments comprises at least a first segment for a first predefined length corresponding to a first section of the predefined distance range, and a second segment for a second predefined length corresponding to a second section of the predefined distance range which is farther from the test vehicle than the first section, and comprising: applying a weighting factor to set an illuminance value for the second segment such that it corresponds to an illuminance value that would be experienced at the second section of the predefined distance range for a non-segmented test run for the at least one scenario.

Claims

[1] Institution, encompassing: a test track that has a predefined length; a test procedure comprising a multitude of scenarios, each having a predefined distance range, wherein at least one scenario has the predefined distance range being greater than the predefined length of the test track, and wherein the at least one scenario is subdivided into a multitude of test segments with lengths less than the predefined length; a test vehicle with at least one ADB light, wherein the test vehicle is located at a fixed location on the test track; a data collection vehicle with a multitude of stimulus lights and a multitude of sensors, wherein the data collection vehicle is mobile on the test track relative to the test vehicle and collects ADB data for each of the multitude of test segments; and one or more controllers that receive ADB data from the data collection vehicle for each test segment of the multitude of test segments and combine the ADB data from each test segment to provide an ADB test result for at least one scenario. [2] Device according to claim 1, wherein the test lane is located within an indoor facility. [3] Device according to claim 1, wherein the data collection vehicle is driven autonomously via a programmable machine. [4] Device according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of stimulus lamps comprises one or more front headlights and one or more rear lights. [5] Device according to claim 4, wherein the test vehicle includes at least one vehicle sensor that responds to the one or more headlights or the one or more rear lights, and optionally the at least one vehicle sensor includes at least one camera. [6] Device according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of test segments comprises the following: at least one first segment and one second segment, wherein the first segment has an initial start position for the data collection vehicle and a stop position for the data collection vehicle; and wherein the second segment has a shifted starting position, which is shifted relative to the initial starting position for the first segment in order to maintain a perceived camera angle that would be experienced during a non-segmented test run for at least one scenario; and wherein the test road comprises a first lane and a second lane separated by a dividing line, and wherein the test vehicle is at a fixed position on the first lane and the data collection vehicle moves towards the test vehicle along the second lane during the first segment, and wherein the offset starting position for the second segment is shifted in one direction towards the first lane. [7] Device according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of test segments includes at least a first segment for a first predefined length corresponding to a first section of the predefined distance range, and a second segment for a second predefined length corresponding to a second section of the predefined distance range which is farther from the test vehicle than the first section, and wherein the one or more controllers apply a weighting factor to set an illuminance value for the second segment such that it corresponds to an illuminance value that would be experienced at the second section of the predefined distance range for a non-segmented test run for the at least one scenario. [8] Institution, comprehensive: a test track of a predefined length, the test track being located within an indoor facility; a test procedure comprising a plurality of scenarios, each having a predefined distance range, wherein at least one scenario has the predefined distance range being greater than the predefined length, and wherein the at least one scenario is subdivided into a plurality of test segments having lengths that are less than the predefined length; a test vehicle with at least one ADB light, wherein the test vehicle is located at a fixed location on the test track; a data collection vehicle that is autonomously driven by a programmable machine and includes a variety of stimulus lights and a variety of sensors, wherein the data collection vehicle is mobile on the test track relative to the test vehicle and collects ADB data for each of the multitude of test segments; wherein the multitude of stimulus lights comprises one or more front headlights and one or more rear lights; wherein the test vehicle includes at least one vehicle sensor that responds to one or more headlights or one or more taillights; and one or more controllers that receive ADB data from the data collection vehicle for each test segment of the multitude of test segments and combine the ADB data from each test segment to provide an ADB test result for at least one scenario. [9] Device according to claim 8, wherein: The numerous test segments include the following: at least one first segment and one second segment, wherein the first segment has an initial start position for the data collection vehicle and a stop position for the data collection vehicle; and wherein the second segment has a shifted starting position, which is shifted relative to the initial starting position for the first segment in order to maintain a perceived camera angle that would be experienced during a non-segmented test run for at least one scenario; and wherein the test road comprises a first lane and a second lane separated by a dividing line, and wherein the test vehicle is at a fixed position on the first lane and the data collection vehicle moves towards the test vehicle along the second lane during the first segment, and wherein the offset starting position for the second segment is shifted in one direction towards the first lane. [10] Device according to claim 8, wherein the plurality of test segments includes at least a first segment for a first predefined length corresponding to a first section of the predefined distance range, and a second segment for a second predefined length corresponding to a second section of the predefined distance range which is farther from the test vehicle than the first section, and wherein the one or more controllers apply a weighting factor to set an illuminance value for the second segment such that it corresponds to an illuminance value that would be experienced at the second section of the predefined distance range for a non-segmented test run for the at least one scenario. [11] Procedure, encompassing: Providing a test track of a predefined length; Providing a test procedure that includes a variety of scenarios, each with a predefined distance range, wherein at least one scenario has a predefined distance range that is greater than the predefined length, and where at least one scenario is divided into a multitude of test segments, which have lengths that are less than the predefined length; Securing a test vehicle with at least one ADB light at a fixed location on the test track; Moving a data collection vehicle with a variety of stimulus lights and a variety of sensors on the test track relative to the test vehicle; Collecting ADB data for each test segment of the multitude of test segments from the multitude of sensors; and Receiving ADB data from the data collection vehicle for each test segment of the multitude of test segments and combining the ADB data from each test segment to provide an ADB test result for at least one scenario. [12] The method of claim 11, comprising the following: Placing the test lane within an indoor facility; and / or Autonomous driving of the data collection vehicle via a programmable machine. [13] Method according to claim 11, wherein the plurality of stimulus lights comprises one or more front headlights and one or more rear lights and includes providing at least one vehicle sensor of the test vehicle which responds to the one or more front headlights or the one or more rear lights. [14] Method according to claim 11, wherein the plurality of test segments includes at least a first segment and a second segment, wherein the first segment has an initial start position for the data collection vehicle and a stop position for the data collection vehicle and: Maintaining a perceived camera angle that would be experienced during a non-segmented test run for at least one scenario by shifting the second segment to a displaced starting position relative to the initial starting position for the first segment; and wherein the test track comprises a first lane and a second lane separated by a dividing line, and wherein the test vehicle is at a fixed position in the first lane and the data collection vehicle moves towards the test vehicle along the second lane during the first segment, and where the shifted starting position for the second segment is moved in one direction towards the first lane. [15] Method according to claim 11, wherein the plurality of test segments includes at least a first segment for a first predefined length corresponding to a first section of the predefined distance range, and a second segment for a second predefined length corresponding to a second section of the predefined distance range which is further away from the test vehicle than the first section, and comprising: Applying a weighting factor to set an illuminance value for the second segment so that it corresponds to an illuminance value that would be experienced in the second section of the predefined distance range for a non-segmented test run for at least one scenario.

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