Light intensity distribution control device

Abstract

A light intensity distribution control device (HSD) comprising a detection unit (NS) which detects the presence of the other vehicle and also the vehicle width of the other vehicle based on an image including another vehicle, and a control unit (SG) by which a first shielding from the detected other vehicle is carried out on an irradiation lamp (ST) when the detection unit has detected the presence of the other vehicle, and further a second shielding is carried out on the irradiation lamp, which is narrower in the vehicle width direction of the other vehicle compared to the first shield and in which the radiated light intensity is also lower when the detection unit has detected the vehicle width of the other vehicle.

Description

Technical field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a light intensity distribution control device for suppressing glare from another vehicle. Background technology

[0002] In the lighting control device disclosed in Patent Document 1, the forward luminous intensity distribution of a luminous intensity distribution pattern of the headlights of the own vehicle to be controlled with respect to a specific direction of a front vehicle is controlled based on vehicle type information of the front vehicle and the distance to the front vehicle. Prior art documentsPatent documents

[0003] Patent Document 1: JP 2019 - 127 125 A. Further light intensity distribution control devices are known from DE 10 2018 219 613 A1 and from DE 11 2013 003 278 T5. Overview of the inventionProblem to be solved by the invention

[0004] However, with this lighting control device, the forward light distribution control does not begin until the vehicle type information of the front vehicle is acquired, that is, until it is detected that the front vehicle is a large vehicle, a medium-sized vehicle, or a small vehicle. Consequently, there is a risk of glare occurring between the front vehicle and the driver's own vehicle until this time.

[0005] The present disclosure has for its object to provide a light intensity distribution control device that suppresses the risk of glare occurring between a front vehicle and the own vehicle. Means of solving the task

[0006] The light intensity distribution control device according to the present disclosure, which is intended to achieve this object, includes a detection unit that detects the presence of the other vehicle and also the vehicle width of the other vehicle based on an image including another vehicle, and a control unit that, when the detection unit has detected the presence of the other vehicle, first shields an irradiation lamp from the detected other vehicle, and further, when the detection unit has detected the vehicle width of the other vehicle, second shields the irradiation lamp, which is narrower in the vehicle width direction of the other vehicle compared to the first shield, and also has a lower irradiated light intensity. Effects of the invention

[0007] According to the light intensity distribution control device according to the present disclosure, the risk of generating glare between a front vehicle and the own vehicle can be suppressed. Brief explanation of the drawings Fig. 1 is a functional block diagram of a light intensity distribution control device HSD of a first embodiment. Fig. 2 shows the positional relationship between an own vehicle JS and another vehicle TS in the first embodiment. Fig. 3 shows the hardware structure of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the first embodiment. Fig. 4 is a flowchart showing the operation of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the first embodiment. Fig. 5 shows the positional relationship between the own vehicle JS and the other vehicle TS in a second embodiment. Fig. 6 is a functional block diagram of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of a third embodiment. Fig. 7 shows the positional relationship between the own vehicle JS and the other vehicle TS in the third embodiment. Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing the operation of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the third embodiment. Fig. 9 is a functional block diagram of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of a fourth embodiment. Fig. 10 shows the positional relationship between the own vehicle JS and the other vehicle TS in the fourth embodiment. Fig. 11 is a flowchart showing the operation of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the fourth embodiment. Fig. 12 is a functional block diagram of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of a fifth embodiment. Fig. 13 shows the positional relationship between the own vehicle JS and the other vehicle TS in the fifth embodiment. Fig. 14 is a flowchart showing the operation of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the fifth embodiment. Fig. 15 is a functional block diagram of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of a sixth embodiment. Fig. 16 shows the positional relationship between the own vehicle JS and the other vehicle TS in the sixth embodiment. Fig. 17 is a flowchart showing the operation of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the sixth embodiment. Forms for carrying out the invention

[0008] Embodiments of the light intensity distribution control device according to the present disclosure will be explained. First embodiment<Erste Ausführungsform>

[0009] A light intensity distribution control device HSD of the first embodiment will be explained. <Funktionen der ersten Ausführungsform>

[0010] Fig. 1 is a functional block diagram of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the first embodiment. The functions of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the first embodiment are explained with reference to Fig. 1 explained.

[0011] As in Fig. 1, the luminous intensity distribution control device HSD of the first embodiment, together with an imaging unit SE and an irradiation lamp ST, forms a luminous intensity distribution control system HSS.

[0012] The light intensity distribution control device HSD of the first embodiment comprises, as shown in Fig. 1, a detection unit NS and a control unit SG.

[0013] The detection unit NS corresponds to a “detection unit” and the control unit SG corresponds to a “control unit”. <Positionsbeziehung der Fahrzeuge>

[0014] Fig. 2 shows the positional relationship between the own vehicle JS and the other vehicle TS in the first embodiment.

[0015] As in Fig. 2, the own vehicle JS is driving on a road DR, while the other vehicle TS is about to turn into the road DR at an intersection KT, which the own vehicle JS is approaching.

[0016] Back to Fig. 1: The imaging unit SE is, for example, a camera mounted at the front of the vehicle JS. The imaging unit SE continuously captures images of the area in front of the vehicle JS, i.e., it takes continuous shots, and captures, for example, multiple images of the intersection KT that include the other vehicle TS.

[0017] Based on the plurality of images of the intersection KT including the other vehicle TS imaged by the imaging unit SE, the detection unit NS detects the presence of the other vehicle TS and also detects the vehicle width of the other vehicle TS.

[0018] The detection unit NS detects the presence of the other vehicle TS by assessing whether the majority of images contain a vehicle with, for example, four wheels (large vehicle or standard motor vehicle) or two wheels (motorcycle or moped).

[0019] The recognition unit NS detects the vehicle width of the other vehicle TS, for example, through time series analysis of a plurality of images. For example, if the following conditions are met, the recognition unit NS judges that the other vehicle TS has two headlights. In other words, it judges that the other vehicle TS is a four-wheeled vehicle. Therefore, according to the distance between the two headlights, it determines that the vehicle width is a four-wheeled vehicle as the other vehicle TS. That is, according to the distance between the two headlights, the vehicle type can be specified, such as a large vehicle, a standard motor vehicle, or a light motor vehicle. A general vehicle width corresponding to the vehicle type can be stored, and this general vehicle width can be read and used. (1) At a time t0, in an image in which the other vehicle TS is shown from the side (e.g. the one in Fig. 2 shown image (left figure) from the position of the own vehicle JS to the other vehicle TS), recognized that the other vehicle TS has a headlight. (2) Between time t0 and time t1, in an image in which the other vehicle TS is shown obliquely (e.g. the one in Fig. 2 indicated image (left image, middle image) seen from the position of the own vehicle JS to the other vehicle TS), recognized that the other vehicle TS has two headlights. (3) At time t1, in an image in which the other vehicle TS is shown obliquely (e.g. the one in Fig. 2 shown image (middle figure) from the position of the own vehicle JS to the other vehicle TS), recognized that the other vehicle TS has two headlights.

[0020] On the other hand, when, for example, the following conditions are satisfied, it is judged by the recognition unit NS, contrary to the above, that the other vehicle TS has a headlight, in other words, it is judged that the other vehicle TS is a two-wheeled vehicle, and therefore it is determined that the other vehicle TS has the vehicle width of a general two-wheeled vehicle. (1) At time t0 in the above figure, it is detected that the other vehicle TS has a headlight. (2) Between time t0 and time t1 in the above figure, it is detected that the other vehicle TS has a headlight. (3) At time t1 in the above figure, it is detected that the other vehicle TS has a headlight.

[0021] If the detection unit NS detects the presence of the other vehicle TS, the control unit SG performs a first screening for the detected other vehicle TS. If the detection unit NS also detects the vehicle width of the other vehicle TS, the control unit SG performs a second screening, which is narrower in the vehicle width direction of the other vehicle TS compared to the first screening and also has a lower emitted light intensity.

[0022] Here, the “first shielding control” is a control of the irradiation by the irradiation lamp ST to a slightly darker state, for example, in the road width direction of the road DR or vehicle width direction of the other vehicle TS, as in the graphic representation of a solid line in Fig. 2 (middle figure), the vehicle is shielded for a relatively long time, and the light intensity after shielding is relatively low; in other words, the emitted light intensity is relatively high. In summary, the "first shielding control" involves shielding the other vehicle TS into a somewhat darker state over a wider area.

[0023] In contrast to the above "first shielding control," the "second shielding control" is to control the irradiation of the irradiation lamp ST to a dark state, where, for example, the shielding time in the road width direction of the road DR or the vehicle width direction of the other vehicle TS is relatively short, and the light intensity after the shielding is relatively high; in other words, the emitted light intensity is relatively low. In summary, the "second shielding control" is to shield the other vehicle TS to a locally dark state.

[0024] Here, "relative" refers to a state of irradiation of either the first shielding control or the second shielding control as a reference to the state of irradiation of the other.

[0025] Hereinafter, for the convenience of explanation, the “road width direction of the road DR or the vehicle width direction of the other vehicle TS” is simply referred to as “vehicle width direction of the other vehicle TS”. <Hardware-Aufbau der ersten Ausführungsform>

[0026] Fig. 3 shows the hardware structure of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the first embodiment.

[0027] The light intensity distribution control device HSD of the first embodiment comprises, for fulfilling the functions described above, as shown in Fig. 3, a processor PR, a memory ME, a storage medium KI and optionally further comprises an input unit NY and an output unit SY.

[0028] The processor PR is the familiar core of a computer for operating hardware using software. The memory ME is made up of, for example, DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) or SRAM (Static Random Access Memory). The storage medium KI is made up of, for example, a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), or ROM (Read Only Memory). The storage medium KI stores a program PRG. The program PRG is a group of instructions that defines the content of the processing to be performed by the processor PR.

[0029] The input unit NY and the output unit SY are formed, for example, from an input / output interface for signal exchange with a location outside the light intensity distribution control device HSD.

[0030] Regarding the relationship between the functions and the hardware structure in the light intensity distribution control device HSD, the program PRG stored in the storage medium KI is executed by the processor PR in a hardware-based manner by means of the memory ME, and if necessary, the functions of the respective sections of the detection unit NS and the control unit SG are executed by controlling the operation of the input unit NY and the output unit SY. <Betrieb der ersten Ausführungsform>

[0031] Fig. 4 is a flowchart showing the operation of the luminous intensity distribution control device HSD of the first embodiment. The following will be explained with reference to the flowchart of Fig. 4 explains the operation of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the first embodiment.

[0032] Step ST11: Drives the own vehicle JS, as in Fig. 2 (left figure), on the road DR and high beam is also emitted in a normal irradiation state, as in the graphic representation in Fig. 2 (left figure) with a dashed line, when the other vehicle TS turns into the intersection KT, which is located in front of the own vehicle JS, the detection unit NS (in Fig. 1) the presence of the other vehicle TS based on a signal detected by the imaging unit SE (in Fig. 1) image of the intersection KT, which includes the other vehicle TS. If the presence of the other vehicle TS has been detected, the processing proceeds to step ST12, and if, on the other hand, the presence of the other vehicle TS has not been detected, the processing returns to step ST11. It is now assumed that the presence of the other vehicle TS, as shown in Fig. 2 (left figure).

[0033] Step ST12: By the control unit SG (in Fig. 1) the first shielding control is carried out in the direction of the other vehicle TS as shown in the graphic representation of Fig. 2 (middle figure) with a solid line. In the graphical representation of Fig. 2 (middle figure), the longitudinal axis is the light intensity and the transverse axis is the road width direction of the road DR or the vehicle width direction of the other vehicle TS (vehicle width direction of the other vehicle TS). That is, the graphical representation of Fig. According to Figure 2 (middle figure), a shielding with respect to the other vehicle TS is shown in a somewhat darker state over a wide area.

[0034] Step ST13: Based on an image of the intersection KT including the other vehicle TS imaged by the imaging unit SE as in step ST11, the detection unit NS detects the vehicle width of the other vehicle TS. If the vehicle width of the other vehicle TS has been detected, the processing proceeds to step ST14, and if, on the other hand, the vehicle width of the other vehicle TS has not been detected, the processing returns to step ST11. It is now assumed that the vehicle width of the other vehicle TS, as in Fig. 2 (right figure).

[0035] Step ST14: The control unit SG carries out the second shielding control in the direction of the other vehicle TS as shown in the graphic representation of Fig. 2 (right figure). The graphical representation of Fig. 2 (right figure), the light intensity decreases locally extensively with respect to the other vehicle TS (the light intensity can also become 0). That is, the graphic representation of Fig. According to Figure 2 (right figure), a shield with respect to the other vehicle TS is shown in a locally dark state.

[0036] If the vehicle width of the other vehicle TS is not detected in step ST13 even though the first shielding control to the other vehicle TS was started in step ST12, the processing returns to step ST11. That is, from the detection of the presence of the other vehicle TS until the detection of the vehicle width of the other vehicle TS, the first shielding control is performed, and then, when the vehicle width of the other vehicle TS is detected, the second shielding control is performed.

[0037] In the above first embodiment, an explanation was given using the intersection KT as an example, but this is not limited to this, and it may also be a road intersection including a branching road, a converging road, or an intersection (hereinafter referred to as a "branching / converging road"). The same applies to the following embodiments. <Effekte der ersten Ausführungsform>

[0038] As described above, the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the first embodiment performs first shielding control, which is different from the conventional second shielding control, at a time t1 before the conventional vehicle width of the other vehicle TS is detected and the presence of the other vehicle TS is detected. This can suppress the risk of glare generation before the conventional second shielding control is performed. Second embodiment<Zweite Ausführungsform>

[0039] The light intensity distribution control device HSD of the second embodiment will be explained. <Funktionen und Hardware-Aufbau der zweiten Ausführungsform>

[0040] The functions and hardware structure of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the second embodiment are the same as the functions and hardware structure of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the first embodiment (in Fig. 1 and Fig. 3). On the other hand, a configuration was added that allows the detection of an overtaking vehicle TS. <Positionsbeziehung der Fahrzeuge>

[0041] Fig. 5 shows the positional relationship between the own vehicle JS and the other vehicle TS in the second embodiment.

[0042] The light intensity distribution control device HSD of the second embodiment differs from the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the first embodiment, whose target object is the other vehicle TS turning into the intersection KT, in that the target object, as shown in Fig. 5, the other vehicle overtaking on the road DR is TS. <Betrieb der zweiten Ausführungsform>

[0043] The operation of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the second embodiment is basically the same as the operation of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the first embodiment (flowchart of Fig. 4). In the following, the operation of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the second embodiment will be explained with reference to Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 explained.

[0044] Step ST11: Drives the own vehicle JS, as in Fig. 5 (left figure), on the road DR and high beam is also emitted in a normal irradiation state, as in the graphic representation in Fig. 5 (left figure) with a dashed line, when the other vehicle TS attempts to overtake the own vehicle JS from behind the own vehicle JS, the detection unit NS (in Fig. 1) the presence of the other vehicle TS based on a signal detected by the imaging unit SE (in Fig. 1) is detected, which includes the other vehicle TS.

[0045] In addition to the area in front of the own vehicle JS, the imaging unit SE of the second embodiment can image the other vehicle TS attempting to overtake the own vehicle JS. Instead of the imaging unit SE, which can image the other vehicle TS attempting to overtake the own vehicle JS, it can also be a distance measuring sensor, which can detect the other vehicle TS attempting to overtake the own vehicle JS.

[0046] Step ST12: If it is detected in step ST11 that the other vehicle TS, as shown in Fig. 5 (left figure), is almost at the same height as the own vehicle JS, or has overtaken it, is carried out by the control unit SG (in Fig. 1) in the forward direction the first shield control as shown in the graphic representation of Fig. 5 (middle figure) is shown with a solid line.

[0047] Step ST13: Based on an image of the road DR including the other vehicle TS imaged by the imaging unit SE as in step ST11, the recognition unit NS recognizes the vehicle width of the other vehicle TS based, for example, on the distance between the taillights of the other vehicle TS.

[0048] Step ST14: If the vehicle width of the other vehicle TS was detected in step ST13, the control unit SG carries out the second shielding control in the direction of the other vehicle TS as shown in the graphic representation of Fig. 5 (right figure) shown by a solid line. <Effekte der zweiten Ausführungsform>

[0049] As described above, according to the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the risk of generating glare can be suppressed before the conventional second shade control is performed even when the other vehicle TS overtakes on the road DR, unlike the case where the other vehicle TS turns at the intersection KT in the first embodiment. Third embodiment<Dritte Ausführungsform>

[0050] The light intensity distribution control device HSD of the third embodiment will be explained. <Funktionen und Hardware-Aufbau der dritten Ausführungsform>

[0051] Fig. 6 is a functional block diagram of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the third embodiment. The functions of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the third embodiment are explained with reference to Fig. 6 explained.

[0052] The light intensity distribution control device HSD of the third embodiment comprises, as shown in Fig. 6, the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the first embodiment includes the detection unit NS and the control unit SG. On the other hand, the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the third embodiment, unlike the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the first embodiment, further includes a calculation unit SS.

[0053] The arithmetic unit SS corresponds to a “calculation unit”.

[0054] In the third embodiment, in addition to the above, the light intensity distribution control system HSS further includes a measuring unit SO, unlike the light intensity distribution control system HSS of the first embodiment.

[0055] The measuring unit SO is a so-called distance measuring sensor, e.g., a ToF (Time of Flight) sensor (e.g., radar, lidar, sonar) attached to the front of the vehicle JS. The measuring unit SO measures information to calculate a distance KR (in Fig. 7 (middle figure)) to the other vehicle TS, which is located in front of the own vehicle JS, whereby the time is measured which, for example, a light beam needs for the outward and return journey between the own vehicle JS and the other vehicle TS.

[0056] The hardware structure of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the third embodiment is the same as the hardware structure of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the first embodiment (in Fig. 3). <Positionsbeziehung der Fahrzeuge>

[0057] Fig. 7 shows the positional relationship between the own vehicle JS and the other vehicle TS in the third embodiment.

[0058] The light intensity distribution control device HSD of the third embodiment has, as shown in Fig. 7, as well as the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the first embodiment, a turn of the other vehicle TS at an intersection as a target object. <Betrieb der dritten Ausführungsform>

[0059] Fig. Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing the operation of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the third embodiment. The operation of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the third embodiment will be explained with reference to the flowchart in Fig. 8 explained.

[0060] Step ST21: Drives the own vehicle JS, as in Fig. 7 (left figure), on the road DR and high beam is also emitted in a normal irradiation state, as in the graphic representation in Fig. 7 (left figure) with a dashed line, when the other vehicle TS turns into the intersection KT, which is located in front of the own vehicle JS, the detection unit NS (in Fig. 6) the presence of the other vehicle TS based on a signal detected by the imaging unit SE (in Fig. 6) is detected, which includes the other vehicle TS.

[0061] Step ST22: If the presence of the other vehicle TS was detected in step ST21, the measuring unit SO (in Fig. 6), the above-mentioned required time between the own vehicle JS and the other vehicle TS is measured. The calculation unit SS calculates the distance KR between the own vehicle JS and the other vehicle TS based on the required time measured by the measuring unit SO.

[0062] Step ST23: By the control unit SG (in Fig. 6) the first shielding control is carried out to the other vehicle TS as shown in the graphic representation of Fig. 7 (middle figure) with a solid line. Here, the control unit SG adjusts the light intensity of the irradiation lamp ST based on the length of the distance KR calculated by the arithmetic unit SS generally with respect to the direction along the road DR (X-axis direction), unlike the first embodiment in which adjustment is generally performed with respect to the vehicle width direction of the other vehicle TS (Y-axis direction). For example, the control unit SG makes the light intensity emitted by the irradiation lamp ST larger, that is, brighter, the longer the distance KR is, and on the other hand, it makes the light intensity emitted by the irradiation lamp ST smaller, that is, dimmer, the shorter the distance KR is.

[0063] Step ST24: Based on an image of the intersection KT including the other vehicle TS imaged by the imaging unit SE as in step ST21, the detection unit NS detects the vehicle width of the other vehicle TS.

[0064] Step ST25: If the vehicle width of the other vehicle TS was detected in step ST24, the control unit SG performs the second shielding control to the other vehicle TS as shown in the graphical representation of Fig. 7 (right figure) by a solid line. Here, the control unit SG can also set, in accordance with the length of the distance KR, a value at which the light intensity of the irradiation lamp ST generally becomes minimum with respect to the direction along the road DR (the value at which it becomes minimum in the graphical representation in Fig. 7 (right figure)). Since the light intensity is sufficiently reduced in the second shielding control, the risk of dazzling the other vehicle TS is low, so it is not absolutely necessary to set a value at which the light intensity of the irradiation lamp ST becomes minimal (the value at which it becomes minimal in the graphic representation in Fig. 7 (right figure)). <Effekte der dritten Ausführungsform>

[0065] As described above, the light distribution control device HSD of the third embodiment, like the light distribution control device HSD of the first embodiment, can suppress the risk of glare before the conventional second shielding control is performed. In addition to the above effects, the light distribution control device HSD of the third embodiment can more precisely suppress the risk of glare by adjusting the light intensity of the irradiation lamp ST according to the distance KR between the host vehicle JS and the other vehicle TS substantially in the direction along the road DR. Furthermore, by not reducing the light intensity beyond the necessary level when the distance to the other vehicle TS is large, it contributes to ensuring sufficient visibility for the driver. Fourth embodiment<Vierte Ausführungsform>

[0066] The light intensity distribution control device HSD of the fourth embodiment will be explained. <Funktionen und Hardware-Aufbau der vierten Ausführungsform>

[0067] Fig. 9 is a functional block diagram of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the fourth embodiment. The functions of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the fourth embodiment are explained with reference to Fig. 9 explained.

[0068] The light intensity distribution control device HSD of the fourth embodiment, like the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the first embodiment, comprises, as shown in Fig. 9, the detection unit NS and the control unit SG. On the other hand, the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the fourth embodiment, unlike the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the first embodiment, as shown in Fig. 9, as well as an assessment unit YS.

[0069] The assessment unit YS estimates the presence of the other vehicle TS based on an image of the intersection KT (in Fig. 10 (left figure) which includes the other vehicle TS.

[0070] In the fourth embodiment, the light intensity distribution control system HSS includes the imaging unit SE and the irradiation lamp ST, as does the light intensity distribution control system HSS of the first embodiment, and further includes a communication unit TU, unlike the light intensity distribution control system HSS of the first embodiment.

[0071] The communication unit TU brings the position of the other vehicle TS, as in Fig. 10 (left figure), through communication between the own vehicle JS and the other vehicle TS (e.g. one-to-one communication or communication via a cloud).

[0072] The hardware structure of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the fourth embodiment is the same as the hardware structure of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the first embodiment (in Fig. 3). <Positionsbeziehung der Fahrzeuge>

[0073] Fig. 10 shows the positional relationship between the own vehicle JS and the other vehicle TS in the fourth embodiment.

[0074] The light intensity distribution control device HSD of the fourth embodiment has, as shown in Fig. 10, as well as the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the first embodiment, a turn of the other vehicle TS at the intersection KT as a target object. <Betrieb der vierten Ausführungsform>

[0075] Fig. 11 is a flowchart showing the operation of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the fourth embodiment. The operation of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the fourth embodiment will be explained with reference to the flowchart in Fig. 11 explained.

[0076] Step ST31: Drives the own vehicle JS, as in Fig. 10 (left figure), on the road DR and high beam is also emitted in a normal irradiation state, as in the graphic representation in Fig. 10 (left figure) shown with a dashed line, is represented by the assessment unit YS (in Fig. 9) the presence of the other vehicle TS based on a signal detected by the imaging unit SE (in Fig. 9) is detected, which includes the other vehicle TS. More precisely, the assessment is carried out by the assessment unit YS, as shown in Fig. 10 (left figure), based on the irradiation light by the headlights of the other vehicle TS or the road lamp light indicating the direction indicator of the other vehicle TS in the image, or by knowing the position of the other vehicle TS through communication between the own vehicle JS and the other vehicle TS.

[0077] Step ST32: If the existence of the other vehicle TS was estimated in step ST31, the control unit SG (in Fig. 9) towards the other vehicle TS the first shield control as shown in the graphic representation of Fig. 10 (middle figure) is shown by a solid line.

[0078] Step ST33: Based on an image of the intersection KT including the other vehicle TS imaged by the imaging unit SE as in step ST31 of the first embodiment, the recognition unit NS recognizes the vehicle width of the other vehicle TS.

[0079] Step ST34: If the vehicle width of the other vehicle TS was detected in step ST33, the control unit SG carries out the second shielding control in the direction of the other vehicle TS as shown in the graphic representation of Fig. 10 (right figure) is shown by a solid line. <Effekte der vierten Ausführungsform>

[0080] As described above, the light distribution control device HSD of the fourth embodiment performs the first shielding control at the time when the judging unit YS judges that the other vehicle TS is turning into the intersection KT. This allows the first shielding control to be started earlier than in the light distribution control device HSD of the first embodiment, in which the first shielding control is performed at the time when the presence of the other vehicle TS is detected. In other words, this allows the risk of glare being generated to be suppressed at an earlier stage before the conventional second shielding control is performed. Fifth embodiment<Fünfte Ausführungsform>

[0081] The light intensity distribution control device HSD of the fifth embodiment will be explained. <Funktionen und Hardware-Aufbau der fünften Ausführungsform>

[0082] Fig. 12 is a functional block diagram of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the fifth embodiment. The functions of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the fifth embodiment are explained with reference to Fig. 12 explained.

[0083] The light intensity distribution control device HSD of the fifth embodiment comprises, as shown in Fig. 12, as well as the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the fourth embodiment (in Fig. 9) the detection unit NS, the estimation unit YS and the control unit SG. On the other hand, the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the fifth embodiment comprises, as shown in Fig. 12, unlike the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the fourth embodiment, also an acquisition unit NU.

[0084] The procurement unit NU corresponds to a “procurement unit”.

[0085] The procurement unit NU (in Fig. 12) based on position data indicating the position of the own vehicle JS (not shown; e.g. acquired via GPS (Global Positioning System)), map data CD, which as in Fig. 13 (left figure), the state of a target area TR can be represented as the area approaching the host vehicle JS, specifically, as the area including the intersection KT located in front of the host vehicle JS and its surroundings. Here, the map data CD represents, for example, the presence / absence, position, etc., of buildings, businesses, or streetlights within the target area TR.

[0086] In the fifth embodiment, the light intensity distribution control system HSS includes the imaging unit SE, the irradiation lamp ST, and the communication unit TU, just like the light intensity distribution control system HSS of the fourth embodiment.

[0087] The hardware structure of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the fifth embodiment is the same as the hardware structure of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the first embodiment (in Fig. 3). <Positionsbeziehung der Fahrzeuge>

[0088] Fig. 13 shows the positional relationship between the own vehicle JS and the other vehicle TS in the fifth embodiment.

[0089] The light intensity distribution control device HSD of the fifth embodiment has, as shown in Fig. 13, as well as the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the fourth embodiment, a turn of the other vehicle TS at the intersection KT as a target object. <Betrieb der fünften Ausführungsform>

[0090] Fig. 14 is a flowchart showing the operation of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the fifth embodiment. The operation of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the fifth embodiment will be explained with reference to the flowchart in Fig. 14 explained.

[0091] Step ST41: Drives the own vehicle JS, as in Fig. 13 (left figure), on the road DR and high beam is also emitted in a normal irradiation state, as in the graphic representation in Fig. 13 (left figure) shown with a dashed line, the procurement unit NU (in Fig. 12) based on position data showing the position of the own vehicle JS, map data CD (in Fig. 12), which as in Fig. 13 (left figure) show the state of the target area TR.

[0092] Step ST42: The assessment unit YS assesses the presence of the other vehicle TS not only based on a signal from the imaging unit SE (in Fig. 12), but also by referring to the presence / absence and position of buildings, shops, streetlights, etc. represented by the map data CD within the target area TR. That is, by removing buildings, shops, streetlights, etc. represented by the map data CD from the image of the intersection KT including the other vehicle TS displayed by the imaging unit SE, detection of the other vehicle TS and detection of the vehicle width are performed after removing lighting groups that are easily misrecognized as other vehicle TS.

[0093] Steps ST43 to ST45: The light intensity distribution control device HSD performs the same operation as steps ST32 to ST34 of the fourth embodiment. Specifically, in step ST44, the recognition unit NS detects the vehicle width of the other vehicle TS not only based on an image of the intersection KT including the other vehicle TS, but also by referring to the presence / absence and position of buildings, shops, streetlights, etc. within the target area TR. <Effekte der fünften Ausführungsform>

[0094] As described above, in the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the fifth embodiment, the judging unit YS and the recognizing unit NS perform the judging of the presence of the other vehicle TS and the recognizing the vehicle width of the other vehicle TS not only based on an image of the intersection KT including the other vehicle TS, but also by referring to the presence / absence and position of buildings, shops, streetlights, etc. within the target area TR. Thereby, in addition to performing the same judging and recognizing as in the fourth embodiment, influences of irradiation from, for example, a streetlight located in the target area TR can be reduced. <abwandlung>

[0095] Instead of the assessment unit YS estimating the presence of the other vehicle TS with reference to the presence / absence and position of buildings, shops, street lighting, etc. within the target area TR, the detection unit NS can also detect the presence of the other vehicle TS with reference to the presence / absence and position of buildings, shops, street lighting, etc. within the target area TR. Sixth embodiment<Sechste Ausführungsform>

[0096] The light intensity distribution control device HSD of the sixth embodiment will be explained. <Funktionen und Hardware-Aufbau der sechsten Ausführungsform>

[0097] Fig. 15 is a functional block diagram of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the sixth embodiment. The functions of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the sixth embodiment will be explained with reference to Fig. 15 explained.

[0098] The light intensity distribution control device HSD of the sixth embodiment comprises, as shown in Fig. 15, as well as the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the first embodiment (in Fig. 1) the detection unit NS and the control unit SG, as well as the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the third embodiment (in Fig. 6), as well as the arithmetic unit SS and, like the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the fifth embodiment (in Fig. 12) also the procurement unit NU.

[0099] In the sixth embodiment, the light intensity distribution control system HSS comprises the same as the light intensity distribution control system HSS of the third embodiment (in Fig. 6), as shown in Fig. 15, the imaging unit SE, the measuring unit SO and the irradiation lamp ST.

[0100] The hardware structure of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the sixth embodiment is the same as the hardware structure of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the first embodiment (in Fig. 3). <Positionsbeziehung der Fahrzeuge>

[0101] Fig. 16 shows the positional relationship between the own vehicle JS and the other vehicle TS in the sixth embodiment.

[0102] The light intensity distribution control device HSD of the sixth embodiment has, as shown in Fig. 16, as well as the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the first embodiment, a turn of the other vehicle TS at the intersection KT as a target object. <Betrieb der sechsten Ausführungsform>

[0103] Fig. Fig. 17 is a flowchart showing the operation of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the sixth embodiment. The operation of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the sixth embodiment will be explained with reference to the flowchart in Fig. 17 explained.

[0104] Step ST51: Drives the own vehicle JS, as in Fig. 16 (left figure), on the road DR and high beam is also emitted in a normal irradiation state, as in the graphic representation in Fig. 16 (left figure) shown with a dashed line, the procurement unit NU (in Fig. 15) based on position data showing the position of the own vehicle JS, map data CD (in Fig. 15), which as in Fig. 16 (left figure) shows the state of the target area TR. Further processing in this flowchart occurs only within the target area TR. This suppresses false detection of the other vehicle TS.

[0105] Step ST52: The detection of the presence of the other vehicle TS is carried out by the detection unit NS (in Fig. 15) not only based on an image of the intersection KT including the other vehicle TS imaged by the imaging unit SE, but also by reference to the presence / absence and position of buildings, shops, street lighting, etc. represented by the map data CD within the target area TR.

[0106] Step ST53: The arithmetic unit SS (in Fig. 15) calculates the distance KR between the own vehicle JS and the other vehicle TS based on the time required measured by the measuring unit SO.

[0107] Step ST54: By the control unit SG (in Fig. 15), the first shielding control is performed in the direction of the other vehicle TS. More specifically, the control unit SG generally adjusts the light intensity of the irradiation lamp ST with respect to the direction along the road DR according to the length of the distance KR.

[0108] Step ST55: The recognition unit NS performs the recognition of the vehicle width of the other vehicle TS not only based on an image of the intersection KT including the other vehicle TS imaged by the imaging unit SE, but also by referring to the presence / absence and position of buildings, shops, street lights, etc. represented by the map data CD within the target area TR.

[0109] Step ST56: The control unit SG performs the second shielding control in the direction of the other vehicle TS. Specifically, the control unit SG can also generally adjust the light intensity of the irradiation lamp ST with respect to the direction along the road DR according to the distance KR. <Effekte der sechsten Ausführungsform>

[0110] As described above, the operation of the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the sixth embodiment is performed only in the target area TR. This suppresses false recognition of the other vehicle TS. Furthermore, the light intensity distribution control device HSD of the sixth embodiment is a combination of the structures of the first embodiment, the third embodiment, and the fifth embodiment, so that the above-described effects of the first embodiment, the third embodiment, and the fifth embodiment can be achieved. Industrial application

[0111] The light intensity distribution control device according to the present disclosure can be used to suppress the risk of glare occurring between a front vehicle and the own vehicle. Explanation of reference symbols CD map data DR Street HSD light intensity distribution control device HSS light distribution control system JS Own vehicle AI storage medium KR distance KT intersection ME storage NS detection unit NU procurement unit NY input unit PR Processor PRG program SE imaging unit SG control unit SO measuring unit SS computing unit ST irradiation lamp SY output unit TR target range TS Other vehicle TU Communication Unit YS assessment unit< / abwandlung>

Claims

[1] A light intensity distribution control device (HSD) comprising a detection unit (NS) which detects the presence of the other vehicle and also the vehicle width of the other vehicle based on an image including another vehicle, and a control unit (SG) by which a first shielding to the detected other vehicle is carried out on an irradiation lamp (ST) when the detection unit has detected the presence of the other vehicle, and further a second shielding is carried out on the irradiation lamp, which is narrower in the vehicle width direction of the other vehicle compared to the first shield and in which the radiated light intensity is also lower when the detection unit has detected the vehicle width of the other vehicle. [2] The luminous intensity distribution control device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit performs the first shielding on the irradiation lamp at least with respect to the lane on which the other vehicle is located when the presence of the other vehicle is detected by the detection unit and the vehicle width of the other vehicle is not detected. [3] The luminous intensity distribution control device according to claim 1, further comprising a calculation unit for calculating the distance between the other vehicle and the own vehicle based on information for calculating the distance between the other vehicle and the own vehicle, and the control unit adjusts the light intensity with which the irradiation lamp radiates through the first shield or the second shield in accordance with the calculated distance. [4] The luminous intensity distribution control device according to claim 1, further comprising a judging unit (YS) that judges the presence of the other vehicle based on information representing the position of the other vehicle, and the first shielding is performed by the control unit on the irradiation lamp when the presence of the other vehicle has been judged by the judging unit. [5] The luminous intensity distribution control apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the information representing the position of the other vehicle is acquired by the light emitted from the other vehicle or communication with the other vehicle. [6] The light intensity distribution control device according to claim 1, further comprising an acquisition unit (NU) that acquires data showing the state of a branch / junction road area to which a subject vehicle is approaching, and the detection area in the branch / junction road area is set by the other vehicle presence detection unit with reference to the situation represented by the data. [7] The luminous intensity distribution control device according to claim 1, wherein the classification of the other vehicle is detected by the detection unit, the irradiation lamp is subjected to the first shielding when the presence of the other vehicle has been detected by the detection unit, and further the irradiation lamp is subjected to the second shielding when the classification of the other vehicle has been detected by the detection unit. [8] The luminous intensity distribution control device according to claim 7, wherein the recognition unit recognizes the classification of the other vehicle by detecting the tail lamps of the other vehicle.

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