Method for optimizing the lighting of a crossing zone between a plurality of vehicles emitting a light beam

Abstract

Method for optimizing the lighting of a crossing zone between a plurality of vehicles emitting a light beam. One aspect of the invention relates to a method for optimizing the lighting in a crossing zone (202) between a plurality of vehicles (200-1, 200-2) emitting a light beam (201-1, 201-2), comprising: Estimating a time interval in which each vehicle (200-1, 200-2) is in the crossing zone (202); Estimating the lighting in the crossing zone (202) at each instant of the estimated time interval;If there is an overlap zone (2021) in which the estimated lighting corresponds to the superposition of a plurality of light beams (201-1, 201-2): Determination, through communication between the plurality of vehicles (200-1, 200-2) and based on a set of parameters each relating to the consumption of a vehicle (200-1, 200-2), of at least one action to be performed by a vehicle (200-1, 200-2) on its light beam (201-1, 201-2); Implementation of each determined action in the crossing zone (202). Figure to be published with the abbreviation: Figure 2;

Description

Title of the invention: Method for optimizing the lighting of a crossing zone between a plurality of vehicles emitting a light beam TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The technical field of the invention is that of lighting provided by vehicles and in particular that of the optimization of lighting provided by vehicles in a crossing zone between vehicles.

[0002] The present invention relates to a method for optimizing the lighting of a crossing zone between a plurality of vehicles, each emitting a light beam. TECHNOLOGICAL BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] When the lights of a motor vehicle are switched on, a lighting module emits a beam of light which illuminates a part of the roadway located in front of the vehicle.

[0004] In the situation illustrated in [Fig. 1] in which two vehicles 200-1, 200-2 with their lights on pass each other in a crossing zone 202, there is an overlap zone 2021 between the two light beams 201-1, 201-2 emitted in which the brightness is greater than the brightness in the part of the crossing zone 202 illuminated by a single light beam. This overlap zone 2021 therefore creates an area of ​​excessive brightness in the crossing zone 202, which could be dazzling for drivers.

[0005] To remedy this drawback, a classic method consists for a vehicle to detect overlapping areas in advance and to force the extinction of the light beam in the detected overlapping areas.

[0006] However, such a method applied to both vehicles results in the overlapping areas no longer being lit at all and therefore having a brightness lower than the minimum regulatory brightness required to ensure the safety of drivers.

[0007] There is therefore a need for a method to illuminate each crossing area with a brightness greater than the minimum regulatory brightness, without creating an over-illuminated area. Summary of the invention

[0008] The invention offers a solution to the problems mentioned above, by allowing each overlap zone of a crossing zone to be illuminated in such a way as to obtain homogeneous lighting, that is to say without significant discontinuity, in the illuminated part of the crossing zone.

[0009] One aspect of the invention relates to a method for optimizing lighting in a a crossing zone between a plurality of vehicles, each comprising a lighting module emitting an associated light beam, the method comprising the following steps:

[0010] Estimation by at least one vehicle, of a location of the crossing zone and of a time interval in which each vehicle is in the crossing zone, from a set of information including at least a location, a speed and a trajectory of each vehicle;

[0011] Estimation by at least one vehicle, of the lighting in the crossing area at the estimated location and at each instant of the estimated time interval, from for each vehicle, at least one characteristic of the associated light beam;

[0012] If, for at least one instant of the estimated time interval, there exists at least one overlap zone in the crossing zone in which the estimated illumination corresponds to the superposition of a plurality of associated light beams:

[0013] Obtaining by at least one vehicle, a set of parameters comprising at least one parameter per vehicle, each parameter depending on at least one data previously sent to the vehicle, by the vehicle associated with the parameter and relating to the consumption or the state of the lighting module of the vehicle associated with the parameter;

[0014] Determination by communication between the plurality of vehicles and from the set of parameters obtained, of at least one action to be performed by a vehicle on the associated light beam, so that the lighting in the overlap zone is distributed between the plurality of vehicles in such a way as to present a predefined brightness;

[0015] Carrying out each action determined by the corresponding vehicle when the plurality of vehicles is in the crossing zone.

[0016] Thanks to the invention, the location of the crossing zone and the time interval during which the crossing between a plurality of vehicles will take place are estimated in order to reconstruct the lighting that will be in the crossing zone at the estimated location at each instant of the estimated time interval.

[0017] It is then possible to detect in advance each area of ​​overlap in which the estimated lighting corresponds to the superposition between a plurality of light beams emitted by the plurality of vehicles.

[0018] The vehicles of the plurality of vehicles then have a time period before their actual crossing in the crossing zone to jointly decide on at least one action relating to the light beam emitted by a vehicle, to be carried out in the overlap zone to ensure a predefined level of brightness.

[0019] The vehicles in the plurality of vehicles make a decision by communicating with each other, based on a set of parameters including, for each vehicle, a parameter representing the vehicle's consumption and / or a parameter representing sensing the state of the vehicle's lighting module, and once a decision is made, each decided action is carried out when the plurality of vehicles cross in the crossing zone.

[0020] The invention therefore makes it possible to ensure in the overlap zone a brightness higher than the minimum regulatory brightness but lower than the brightness that would be there if no action were taken, and therefore both to optimize lighting and to save energy and / or reduce CO2 emissions.

[0021] In addition to the characteristics mentioned in the preceding paragraph, the method according to the invention may have one or more complementary characteristics from among the following, considered individually or according to all technically possible combinations.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the method according to the invention further comprises a step of obtaining the information set by at least one vehicle, comprising for at least one piece of information from the information set relating to another vehicle of the plurality of vehicles, a substep of receiving by the vehicle the information previously sent by the other vehicle, or a substep of determining the information using a sensor of the vehicle, or a substep of estimating the information from at least one piece of information relating to traffic and / or signaling.

[0023] According to an embodiment compatible with the previous embodiment, the method according to the invention further comprises a step of receiving by at least one vehicle, at least one piece of information relating to public lighting in the crossing area at the estimated location and at each instant of the estimated time interval, the step of estimating the lighting in the crossing area being further carried out from each piece of information relating to public lighting received.

[0024] Thus, the reconstruction of the lighting in the crossing area takes into account the public lighting in the crossing area.

[0025] According to an embodiment compatible with the previous embodiments, the step of estimating the lighting in the crossing zone by at least one vehicle includes, for each characteristic of the light beam associated with another vehicle of the plurality of vehicles, a substep of receiving by the vehicle the characteristic previously sent by the other vehicle.

[0026] According to an embodiment compatible with the previous embodiments, each characteristic is chosen from the following group of characteristics: type, shape, brightness, brightness in relation to a minimum regulatory brightness.

[0027] According to an embodiment compatible with the preceding embodiments, each data point is chosen from the following data group: autonomy, remaining distance to travel, ratio between range and remaining distance to travel, fuel consumption, ratio between fuel consumption and remaining distance to travel, range, lighting module consumption, ratio between lighting module consumption and remaining distance to travel, brightness of the emitted light beam, brightness of the emitted light beam compared to a minimum regulatory brightness, lighting module temperature.

[0028] According to an embodiment compatible with the previous embodiments, each parameter is chosen from the following group of parameters: autonomy, ratio between autonomy and remaining distance to travel, fuel consumption, ratio between fuel consumption and remaining distance to travel, range, lighting module consumption, ratio between lighting module consumption and remaining distance to travel, lighting module temperature.

[0029] Thus, the decision-making process for the action to be taken takes into account the electricity or fuel used by each vehicle to illuminate the overlapping area.

[0030] According to an embodiment compatible with the previous embodiments, each action to be performed is the extinction, or the reduction of the brightness of the associated light beam by a predetermined value.

[0031] According to an embodiment compatible with the previous embodiments, each parameter in the parameter set has a type and the step of determining each action to be performed comprises the following sub-steps:

[0032] If each vehicle is associated with the same type of parameter from the parameter set:

[0033] Comparison between the set of parameters to determine at least one optimal parameter;

[0034] As long as the plurality of vehicles is not in the crossing zone and each action to be performed has not been determined, communication between the plurality of vehicles to decide on each action to be performed in order to maximize the share of lighting in the overlap zone provided by each vehicle associated with an optimal parameter of the parameter set;

[0035] Otherwise, the determined action is a first default action to be performed by each vehicle on the associated light beam;

[0036] Otherwise, the determined action is a second default action to be performed by each vehicle on the associated light beam.

[0037] Thus, vehicles associated with an optimal parameter, for example having the most electricity or fuel, make a greater effort to light the overlap area than other vehicles.

[0038] According to an embodiment compatible with the preceding embodiments, the method according to the invention further comprises a implementation step of a third default action by each vehicle on the associated light beam when the plurality of vehicles is in the crossing zone, if communication is interrupted between the plurality of vehicles before each action to be performed has been determined.

[0039] Thus, an action is taken even if communication between the plurality of vehicles is interrupted.

[0040] A second aspect of the invention relates to a vehicle for implementing the method according to the invention, comprising:

[0041] a lighting module configured to emit a beam of light;

[0042] a calculator configured for:

[0043] estimate a location of the crossing zone and a time interval in which each vehicle is in the crossing zone, from a set of information including at least a location, a speed and a trajectory of each vehicle;

[0044] estimate the lighting in the crossing area at the estimated location and at each instant of the estimated time interval, from for each vehicle, at least one characteristic of the associated light beam;

[0045] detect each overlap zone in the crossing zone in which the estimated lighting corresponds to the superposition of a plurality of light beams;

[0046] If an overlap zone is detected:

[0047] obtain a set of parameters comprising at least one parameter per vehicle, each parameter depending on at least one piece of data previously sent by the vehicle associated with the parameter;

[0048] determine by communication with the other vehicles of the plurality of vehicles and from the set of parameters obtained, at least one action to be performed by a vehicle on the associated light beam, so that the lighting in the overlap zone is distributed between the plurality of vehicles in such a way as to present a predefined brightness;

[0049] if a determined action is to be performed, perform the determined action on the light beam emitted by the lighting module when the plurality of vehicles is in the crossing zone.

[0050] A third aspect of the invention relates to a computer program product comprising instructions which, when the program is executed on a computer, lead the latter to implement the steps of the process according to the invention.

[0051] A fourth aspect of the invention relates to a computer-readable recording medium comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the steps of the process according to

[0052] The invention and its various applications will be better understood upon reading the description which follows and examination of the accompanying figures. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0053] The figures are presented for illustrative purposes only and are in no way limiting of the invention.

[0054] Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of a crossing zone between two vehicles without implementation of a method according to the invention.

[0055] Fig. 2 shows a schematic representation of the implementation of the method according to the invention for two vehicles before they cross in a crossing zone.

[0056] Fig. 3 shows a schematic representation of the crossing area between the two vehicles of Fig. 2 after implementation of the method according to the invention.

[0057] Fig. 4 is a synoptic diagram illustrating the sequence of steps of the process according to the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0058] Unless otherwise specified, the same element appearing on different figures has a unique reference.

[0059] The [Fig.1] has already been described with reference to the prior art.

[0060] The invention relates to a method for optimizing lighting in a crossing zone between a plurality of vehicles, i.e. between at least two vehicles.

[0061] Each vehicle in the plurality of vehicles is preferably a motor vehicle, such as a car, a motorcycle, a truck or a bus.

[0062] Each vehicle in the plurality of vehicles can be thermal, electric or hybrid.

[0063] Each vehicle in the plurality of vehicles can be an autonomous vehicle.

[0064] Fig. 2 shows a schematic representation of the implementation of method 100 according to the invention for two vehicles before they cross in a crossing zone 202.

[0065] In [Fig.2], the plurality of vehicles comprises a first vehicle 200-1 of grey in color and a second vehicle 200-2 in black in color.

[0066] Fig. 3 shows a schematic representation of the crossing zone 202 between the two vehicles of Fig. 2 after implementation of method 100 according to the invention.

[0067] The [Fig.2] therefore corresponds to a first instant prior to a second instant corresponding to the [Fig.3].

[0068] Between the first instant and the second instant, the first vehicle 200-1 did not move and the second vehicle 200-2 made a left turn, as represented on [Fig.2] by a curved white arrow.

[0069] Each vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles includes a lighting module configured to emit a light beam 201-1, 201-2 towards the front of the vehicle 200-1, 200-2.

[0070] In figures 2 and 3, the first vehicle 200-1 emits a first light beam 201-1 and the second vehicle 200-2 emits a second light beam 201-2.

[0071] Each light beam 201-1, 201-2 has at least one characteristic.

[0072] Each characteristic is, for example, chosen from the group of characteristics next: type of light beam 201-1, 201-2, shape of light beam 201-1, 201-2, brightness of light beam 201-1, 201-2 or brightness of light beam 201-1, 201-2 in relation to a minimum regulatory brightness.

[0073] In the case where each vehicle 200-1, 200-2 is a motor vehicle, the possible types of light beams are for example dipped headlights or "low-beam" in English and main beam headlights or "high-beam" in English.

[0074] In figures 2 and 3, the first light beam 201-1 and the second light beam 201-2 are of the dipped beam type but have a different shape.

[0075] Each vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles has a predetermined trajectory, that is to say a known route.

[0076] The predetermined trajectory was, for example, calculated from an address provided by the user of vehicle 200-1, 200-2, by a navigation system integrated or connected to vehicle 200-1, 200-2, such as a GPS navigation system for "Global Positioning System" in English, integrated into a dedicated device or into a mobile phone.

[0077] The vehicles 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles are configured to communicate with each other, that is to say that each vehicle 200-1, 200-2 is capable of communicating with the other vehicles 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles and therefore of sending and receiving data to or from the other vehicles 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles.

[0078] On [Fig.2], the communication between the first vehicle 200-1 and the second vehicle 200-2 is materialized by a double black arrow between the first vehicle 200-1 and the second vehicle 200-2.

[0079] Vehicles 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles use, for example, a common data communication protocol.

[0080] The communication protocol used is Wi-Fi, 3G, 4G or 5G.

[0081] The data communication protocol is preferably a communication protocol secure data communication.

[0082] Fig. 4 is a synoptic diagram illustrating the sequence of steps of process 100 according to the invention.

[0083] A first step 101 of the method 100 according to the invention consists, for at least one vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles, in obtaining a set of information.

[0084] The first step 101 is for example carried out by each vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles.

[0085] The information set includes at least one location, speed and trajectory of each vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles.

[0086] Each piece of information in the information set is, for example, associated with a given moment, the information set being able to include several pieces of information of the same type associated with different moments.

[0087] The information set may, for example, include the location, speed and trajectory of a vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles at a first instant and the location, speed and trajectory of the same vehicle 200-1, 200-2 at a second instant subsequent to the first instant.

[0088] The first step 101 may include a first sub-step 1011 consisting of at least one vehicle 200-1, 200-2 performing the first step 101 receiving at least one piece of information included in the set of information relating to another vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles, the information having been previously sent by the other vehicle 200-1, 200-2.

[0089] For example, each vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles sends its location, speed and trajectory to each other vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles, and each vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles then receives the location, speed and trajectory of each other vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles.

[0090] In the example illustrated in [Fig.2], the first vehicle 200-1 then receives the location, speed and trajectory of the second vehicle 200-2 and the second vehicle 200-2, the location, speed and trajectory of the first vehicle 200-1.

[0091] Each piece of information sent by another vehicle 200-1, 200-2 is, for example, sent at regular time intervals, for example every second.

[0092] The first step 101 may include a second substep 1012 consisting of at least one vehicle 200-1, 200-2 performing the first step 101, determining, using a sensor of the vehicle 200-1, 200-2, at least one piece of information included in the set of information relating to another vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles.

[0093] The sensor is for example a camera, a laser remote sensing device or LIDAR for "Laser Imaging Detection And Ranging", or a radio remote sensing device or RADAR for "Radio Detection And Ranging".

[0094] For example, a vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles estimates the location and speed of another vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles located opposite the vehicle 200-1, 200-2, a few meters or hundreds of meters from the vehicle 200-1, 200-2.

[0095] In the example illustrated in [Fig.2], the first vehicle 200-1 then estimates the location and speed of the second vehicle 200-2.

[0096] The first step 101 may include a third sub-step 1013 consisting, for at least one vehicle 200-1, 200-2 performing the first step 101, of estimating at least one piece of information included in the set of information relating to another vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles, from at least one piece of information relating to traffic and / or signage.

[0097] Each piece of information relating to traffic and / or signaling is for example received directly from the city which is then connected to vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles carrying out the third sub-step 1013. We then speak of an intelligent city or “smart city” in English.

[0098] Each piece of information relating to traffic and / or signaling sent by the city is, for example, sent at regular time intervals, for example every second, and over a circular perimeter of predetermined diameter, for example with a diameter of 500 meters.

[0099] Sending each piece of information relating to traffic and / or signaling only within a circular perimeter avoids sending the information to vehicles not concerned because they are located too far away.

[0100] Each piece of information relating to traffic and / or signage can be chosen from the following group of information relating to an area: the flow of vehicles, the location of stop signs, for example stop and / or yield signs, the location of traffic lights, the status of traffic lights, the maximum speed allowed in the area.

[0101] For example, each vehicle 200-1, 200-2 performing the first step 101 estimates the speed of each other vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles as the maximum permitted speed in the zone in which the other vehicle 200-1, 200-2 is located or a percentage of the maximum permitted speed in the zone, the value of the percentage depending on the flow of vehicles in the zone.

[0102] As illustrated in [Fig.4], the first step 101 may include the first substep 1011 for a first subset of information from the information set, the second substep 1012 for a second subset of information from the information set and the third substep 1013 for a third subset of information from the information set.

[0103] In the example illustrated in [Fig. 2], the first vehicle 200-1 receives, for example, the trajectory and location of the second vehicle 200-2 at a first instant, estimates the speed of the second vehicle 200-2 at a second instant subsequent to the first instant by receiving information relating to traffic and / or signage in an area including the previously received location, and then when the second vehicle 200-2 arrives nearby, determines the speed and location at a third instant after the second instant, for example using a camera.

[0104] A second step 102 of the method 100 according to the invention consists, for at least one vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles, in estimating a location of the crossing zone 202 and a time interval in which each vehicle 200-1, 200-2 is in the crossing zone 202.

[0105] The second step 102 is for example carried out by each vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles.

[0106] The estimation is carried out from the information set obtained in the first step 101, for example by estimating the location of each vehicle 200-1, 200-2 at each instant of a time interval subsequent to the present instant.

[0107] On [Fig.2], the crossing zone 202, the location of which was estimated during the The second step, 102, is represented by dotted lines.

[0108] Each vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles performing the second step 102 has, for example, obtained the information set in the first step 101 or received the information set from another vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles that performed the first step 101.

[0109] The second step 102 is carried out for example each time a new piece of information is added to the information set.

[0110] The method 100 according to the invention may include a third step 103 consisting of at least one vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles receiving at least one piece of information relating to public lighting in the crossing area 202 at the location estimated and over the time interval estimated in the second step 102.

[0111] The third step 103 is for example carried out by each vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles.

[0112] Each piece of information relating to public lighting is for example received directly from the city which is then connected to vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles carrying out the third step 103.

[0113] Each piece of information relating to public lighting can be chosen from the following group of information relating to an area: location of each light beam emitted by the public lighting, shape of each light beam emitted by the public lighting, brightness of each light beam emitted by the public lighting in the area.

[0114] The third step 103 is carried out for example each time the second step 102 is carried out.

[0115] A fourth step 104 of the method 100 according to the invention consists, for at least one vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles, in estimating at each instant of the time interval estimated in the second step 102, the lighting in the area of crossing 202 at the location estimated at the second stage 102.

[0116] The fourth step 104 is for example carried out by each vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles.

[0117] The estimation is carried out from, for each vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles, at least one characteristic of the light beam emitted by the vehicle 200-1, 200-2.

[0118] On [Fig.2] is represented in the crossing zone 202 the illumination estimated at the fourth step 104 for a given instant of the time interval estimated at the second step 102.

[0119] The estimated lighting includes an estimate of the first light beam 201-1 at the given time represented in grid lines and an estimate of the second light beam 201-2 at the given time represented in dotted lines.

[0120] If the third step 103 has been carried out, the estimation is also carried out from each piece of information relating to public lighting received in the third step 103.

[0121] The fourth step 104 is carried out for example each time the second step 102 or the third step 103 is carried out.

[0122] The following steps of the method 100 according to the invention are carried out only if, for at least one instant of the time interval estimated in the second step 102, there is at least one overlap zone 2021 in the crossing zone 202 in which the lighting estimated for the given instant corresponds to the superposition of a plurality of light beams 201-1, 201-2 each emitted by a vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of different vehicles.

[0123] In the example illustrated in Figures 2 and 3, there is therefore an overlap zone 2021 if the estimated illumination for at least one instant of the estimated time interval in the second step 102 corresponds to the superposition of the first light beam 201-1 and the second light beam 201-2.

[0124] On [Fig.2], the overlap zone 2021 between the estimation of the first light beam 201-1 and the estimation of the second light beam 201-2 at the given time is represented in hatching.

[0125] A fifth step 105 of the method 100 according to the invention consists, for at least one vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles, in obtaining a set of parameters comprising at least one parameter per vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles, that is to say at least one parameter associated with the vehicle 200-1, 200-2.

[0126] Each parameter associated with a vehicle 200-1, 200-2 relates to the consumption of the associated vehicle 200-1, 200-2 or to the state of the lighting module of the associated vehicle 200-1, 200-2.

[0127] If vehicle 200-1, 200-2 is electric, each parameter associated with vehicle 200-1, 200-2 is, for example, related to the electrical consumption of vehicle 200-1, 200-2 and if vehicle 200-1, 200-2 is thermal, each parameter associated with vehicle 200-1, 200-2 is for example related to the fuel consumption of vehicle 200-1, 200-2 or to the temperature of the lighting module.

[0128] The parameter set includes, for example, one parameter per vehicle 200-1, 200-2.

[0129] Each parameter associated with a vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles depends on at least one data sent by the vehicle 200-1, 200-2 associated with the parameter, to the vehicle 200-1, 200-2 performing the fifth step 105.

[0130] If vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles is an electric vehicle, each data sent by vehicle 200-1, 200-2 is for example chosen from the following data group: range of vehicle 200-1, 200-2, remaining distance to be covered by vehicle 200-1, 200-2, ratio between the range of vehicle 200-1, 200-2 and the remaining distance to be covered by vehicle 200-1, 200-2, range of vehicle 200-1, 200-2, brightness of the light beam 201-1, 201-2 emitted by vehicle 200-1, 200-2, brightness of the light beam 201-1, 201-2 emitted by vehicle 200-1, 200-2 compared to a minimum regulatory brightness.

[0131] If vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles is a combustion engine vehicle, each data point sent by vehicle 200-1, 200-2 is, for example, chosen from the following data group: fuel consumption of vehicle 200-1, 200-2, remaining distance to be traveled by vehicle 200-1, 200-2, ratio between the fuel consumption of vehicle 200-1, 200-2 and the remaining distance to be traveled by vehicle 200-1, 200-2, range of vehicle 200-1, 200-2, power consumption of the lighting module of vehicle 200-1, 200-2, ratio between the power consumption of the lighting module of vehicle 200-1, 200-2 and the remaining distance to be traveled by vehicle 200-1, 200-2, brightness of the light beam 201-1, 201-2 emitted by vehicle 200-1, 200-2, brightness of light beam 201-1, 201-2 emitted by vehicle 200-1, 200-2 compared to minimum regulatory brightness, temperature of vehicle lighting module 200-1, 200-2.

[0132] If vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles is a hybrid vehicle, each data sent by vehicle 200-1, 200-2 is for example chosen from the data group previously described for an electric vehicle and / or from the data group previously described for a thermal vehicle.

[0133] Each parameter associated with a vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles can be equal to a data sent by the vehicle 200-1, 200-2 or calculated from at least one data sent by the vehicle 200-1, 200-2.

[0134] If vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles is an electric vehicle, each parameter associated with vehicle 200-1, 200-2 is, for example, chosen from the following group of parameters: range of vehicle 200-1, 200-2, ratio between the range of vehicle 200-1, 200-2 and the remaining distance to be traveled by vehicle 200-1, 200-2, range of vehicle 200-1, 200-2.

[0135] If the vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles is a thermal vehicle, each parameter associated with the vehicle 200-1, 200-2 is for example chosen from the following group of parameters: fuel consumption of the vehicle 200-1, 200-2, ratio between the fuel consumption of the vehicle 200-1, 200-2 and the remaining distance to be traveled by the vehicle 200-1, 200-2, range of the vehicle 200-1, 200-2, consumption of the lighting module of the vehicle 200-1, 200-2, ratio between the consumption of the lighting module of the vehicle 200-1, 200-2 and the remaining distance to be traveled by the vehicle 200-1, 200-2, temperature of the lighting module of the vehicle 200-1, 200-2.

[0136] If vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles is a hybrid vehicle, each parameter associated with vehicle 200-1, 200-2 is for example chosen from the group of parameters previously described for an electric vehicle and / or from the group of parameters previously described for a thermal vehicle.

[0137] A sixth step 106 of the method 100 according to the invention consists of determining at least one action to be performed by a vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles so that the lighting in the overlap zone 2021 is distributed between the plurality of vehicles 200-1, 200-2 so as to present a predefined brightness.

[0138] The determination is carried out from the set of parameters obtained in the sixth step 106 and collectively between the plurality of vehicles.

[0139] Each action to be performed by a vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles is relative to the light beam 201-1, 201-2 emitted by the vehicle 200-1, 200-2.

[0140] Each action to be performed by a vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles is for example chosen from the following group of actions: extinction of the light beam 201-1, 201-2 in the overlap zone 202, or reduction of the brightness of the light beam 201-1, 201-2 by a predetermined value in the overlap zone 202.

[0141] The lighting module of each vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles includes, for example, a semiconductor light source having a plurality of elementary emitters individually current-controlled by pulse width modulation, i.e., the luminous intensity of each elementary emitter corresponds to the average current through it which depends on an applied peak current value and duty cycle.

[0142] The brightness of the light beam 201-1, 201-2 emitted by the lighting module can then be reduced, for example by reducing the peak current value or the duty cycle applied to at least one elementary emitter of the lighting module.

[0143] The preset brightness is, for example, defined according to the brightness minimum regulatory, and / or the brightness of at least one light beam 201-1, 201-2 superimposed in the overlap zone 2021.

[0144] In the case where only a first light beam 201-1 and a second light beam 201-2 overlap in the overlap zone 2021, the predefined brightness is for example the average between the brightness of the first light beam 201-1 and the brightness of the second light beam 201-2.

[0145] The sixth step 106 may include a first sub-step 1061 consisting of vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles having carried out the fifth step 105, comparing the set of parameters obtained in the fifth step 105 to determine at least one optimal parameter.

[0146] The first substep 1061 is only carried out if each vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles is associated with the same type of parameter in the parameter set.

[0147] For example, each vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles is electric and is associated in the parameter set with a ratio type parameter between the range of vehicle 200-1, 200-2 and the remaining distance to be traveled by vehicle 200-1, 200-2.

[0148] The optimal parameter can be the minimum parameter or the maximum parameter of the parameter set depending on the parameter type.

[0149] The optimal parameter is for example the maximum parameter if the parameter is of type ratio between the autonomy of vehicle 200-1, 200-2 and the remaining distance to be covered by vehicle 200-1, 200-2 and the minimum parameter if the parameter is of type ratio between the fuel consumption of vehicle 200-1, 200-2 and the remaining distance to be covered by vehicle 200-1, 200-2.

[0150] The sixth step 106 may include a second substep 1062 consisting of each vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles communicating with the other vehicles 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles to jointly decide on each action to be carried out.

[0151] The second substep 1062 is carried out as long as the plurality of vehicles is not in the crossing zone 202 and each action to be carried out has not been determined.

[0152] The decision is made so as to maximize the share of lighting in the overlap zone 202 provided by each vehicle 200-1, 200-2 associated with an optimal parameter determined in the first substep 1061 in the parameter set.

[0153] For example, in the case where the ratio between the optimal parameter associated with a vehicle 200-1, 200-2 and the parameter associated with each other vehicle 200-1, 200-2 in the plurality of vehicles is greater than a first threshold, the plurality of vehicles communicate so that the action to be determined consists, for example, for each other Vehicle 200-1, 200-2 to switch off its headlight beam 201-1, 201-2. In the case where the ratio is between a second threshold and a first threshold, the plurality of vehicles communicate so that the action to be taken consists, for example, for each other vehicle 200-1, 200-2 to reduce the brightness of its headlight beam 201-1, 201-2 so that the proportion of lighting of vehicle 200-1, 200-2 is greater than the proportion of lighting of all the other vehicles 200-1, 200-2, for example 70% for vehicle 200-1, 200-2 and 30% for all the other vehicles 200-1, 200-2. And in the case where the ratio is less than the second threshold, the plurality of vehicles communicate so that the action to be determined consists, for example, of distributing the lighting equally between each vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles.

[0154] On [Fig.3], the overlap zone 2021 is only illuminated by the first light beam 201-1 and the first vehicle 200-1 and the second vehicle 200-2 have therefore agreed that the action to be carried out is for the second vehicle 200-2 to turn off its light beam 201-2 in the overlap zone 2021.

[0155] If each action to be carried out has not been determined, i.e. no common decision has been made, before the plurality of vehicles is in the crossing zone 202, the action to be carried out is for example a first default action to be carried out by each vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles.

[0156] The first default action consists, for example, for each vehicle 200-1, 200-2 in the plurality of vehicles, of providing an equal share of lighting in the overlap zone 202, that is to say, a brightness equal to the predefined brightness divided by the number of vehicles 200-1, 200-2 in the plurality of vehicles.

[0157] If each vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles is not associated with the same type of parameter in the parameter set, the first substep 1061 cannot be carried out and the action to be carried out is then, for example, a second default action to be carried out by each vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles.

[0158] The second default action is, for example, identical to the first default action.

[0159] For example, at least one vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles is electric and is associated in the parameter set with a ratio-type parameter between the range of vehicle 200-1, 200-2 and the remaining distance to be traveled by vehicle 200-1, 200-2, and at least one vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles is internal combustion and is associated in the parameter set with a ratio-type parameter between the fuel consumption of 200-1, 200-2 and the remaining distance to be traveled by vehicle 200-1, 200-2

[0160] A seventh step 107 of the process 100 consists in the performance of each action determined in the sixth step 106 by the vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the corresponding plurality of vehicles, when the plurality of vehicles is in the area of cross 202.

[0161] On [Fig.3], the overlap zone 2021 is only illuminated by the first light beam 201-1 and the second vehicle 200-2 has therefore carried out the action of turning off its light beam 201-2 in the overlap zone 2021.

[0162] The method 100 according to the invention may include an eighth step 108 carried out if a first condition Cl according to which communication between the plurality of vehicles is interrupted is verified, before each action to be carried out has been determined.

[0163] The eighth step 108 consists, for each vehicle 200-1, 200-2 of the plurality of vehicles, in performing a third default action when the plurality of vehicles is in the crossing zone 202.

[0164] The third default action is, for example, identical to the first default action.

Claims

Claims

1. Method (100) for optimizing lighting in a crossing zone (202) between a plurality of vehicles (200-1, 200-2) each comprising a lighting module emitting an associated light beam (201-1, 201-2), the method (100) comprising the following steps: - Estimation by at least one vehicle (200-1, 200-2), of a location of the crossing zone (202) and of a time interval in which each vehicle (200-1, 200-2) is in the crossing zone (202), from a set of information comprising at least a location, a speed and a trajectory of each vehicle (200-1, 200-2, 102); - Estimation by at least one vehicle (200-1, 200-2), of the lighting in the crossing zone (202) at the estimated location and at each instant of the estimated time interval, from for each vehicle (200-1, 200-2), at least one characteristic of the associated light beam (201-1, 201-2) (104); the method (100) being characterized in that it further comprises the following steps: - If for at least one instant of the estimated time interval, there is at least one overlap zone (2021) in the crossing zone (202) in which the estimated illumination corresponds to the superposition of a plurality of associated light beams (201-1, 201-2): • Obtaining by at least one vehicle (200-1, 200-2), a set of parameters comprising at least one parameter per vehicle (200-1, 200-2), each parameter depending on at least one data item previously sent to the vehicle (200-1, 200-2), by the vehicle (200-1, 200-2) associated with the parameter and relating to the state of the lighting module of the vehicle (200-1, 200-2) associated with the parameter (105); • Determination by communication between the plurality of vehicles (200-1, 200-2) and from the set of parameters obtained, at least one action to be carried out by a vehicle (200-1, 200-2) on the associated light beam (201-1, 201-2), so that the lighting in the overlapping zone (2021) is distributed between the plurality of vehicles (200-1, 200-2) so as to have a predefined brightness (106); • Carrying out each action determined by the corresponding vehicle (200-1, 200-2) when the plurality of vehicles (200-1, 200-2) is in the crossing zone (202, 107).

2. Method (100) according to claim 1, further comprising a step (101) of obtaining the set of information by at least one vehicle (200-1, 200-2), comprising for at least one piece of information of the set of information relating to another vehicle (200-1, 200-2) of the plurality of vehicles (200-1, 200-2), a sub-step (1011) of reception by the vehicle (200-1, 200-2), of the information previously sent by the other vehicle (200-1, 200-2), or a sub-step (1012) of determining the information using a sensor of the vehicle (200-1, 200-2), or a sub-step (1013) of estimating the information from at least one piece of information relating to traffic and / or signaling.

3. Method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a step (103) of receiving by at least one vehicle (200-1, 200-2), at least one piece of information relating to the public lighting in the crossing zone (202) at the estimated location and at each instant of the estimated time interval, the step (104) of estimating the lighting in the crossing zone (202) being further carried out from each piece of information relating to the public lighting received.

4. Method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the step (104) of estimating the lighting in the crossing zone (202) by at least one vehicle (200-1, 200-2) comprises for each characteristic of the light beam (201-1, 201-2) associated with another vehicle (200-1, 200-2) of the plurality of vehicles (200-1, 200-2), a sub-step (1041) of reception by the vehicle (200-1, 200-2), of the characteristic previously sent by the other vehicle (200-1, 200-2).

5. Method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each characteristic is selected from the following group of characteristics: type, shape, brightness, brightness relative to a regulatory minimum brightness.

6. Method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which each data item is chosen from the following group of data: autonomy, distance remaining to be traveled, ratio between autonomy and distance remaining to be traveled, fuel consumption, ratio between fuel consumption and distance remaining to be traveled, range, consumption of the lighting module, ratio between consumption of the lighting module and distance remaining to be traveled, brightness of the light beam (201-1, 201-2) emitted, brightness of the light beam (201-1, 201-2) emitted relative to a minimum regulatory brightness, temperature of the lighting module.

7. Method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which each parameter is chosen from the following group of parameters: autonomy, ratio between autonomy and the distance remaining to be traveled, fuel consumption, ratio between fuel consumption and the distance remaining to be traveled, range, consumption of the lighting module, ratio between the consumption of the lighting module and the distance remaining to be traveled, temperature of the lighting module.

8. Method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which each action to be carried out is the extinction, or the reduction of the brightness of the associated light beam (201-1, 201-2) by a predetermined value.

9. Method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which each parameter of the parameter set has a type and the step (106) of determining each action to be carried out comprises the following sub-steps: - If each vehicle (200-1, 200-2) is associated with the same type of parameter of the parameter set: • Comparison between the parameter set to determine at least one optimal parameter (1061); • As long as the plurality of vehicles (200-1, 200-2) is not in the crossing zone (202) and that

10.

11. each action to be performed has not been determined, communication between the plurality of vehicles (200-1, 200-2) to decide each action to be performed so as to maximize the share of lighting in the overlapping area (202) provided by each vehicle (200-1, 200-2) associated with an optimal parameter of the set of parameters (1062); • If each action to be performed has not been determined before the plurality of vehicles are in the crossing zone, the determined action is a first default action to be performed by each vehicle (200-1, 200-2) on the associated light beam (201-1, 201-2); - If each vehicle of the plurality of vehicles is not associated with the same type in the set of parameters, the determined action is a second default action to be carried out by each vehicle (200-1, 200-2) on the associated light beam (201-1, 201-2). Method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a step (108) of performing a third default action by each vehicle (200-1, 200-2) on the associated light beam (201-1, 201-2) when the plurality of vehicles (200-1, 200-2) are in the crossing zone (202), if communication is interrupted between the plurality of vehicles (200-1, 200-2) before each action to be performed has been determined (Cl). Vehicle (200-1, 200-2) for implementing the method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising: - a lighting module configured to emit a light beam (201-1, 201-2); - a calculator configured for: • estimate a location of the crossing zone (202) and a time interval in which each vehicle (200-1, 200-2) is in the crossing zone (202), from a set of information comprising at least a location, a speed and a trajectory of each vehicle (200-1, 200-2); • estimate the lighting in the crossing zone (202) at the estimated location and at each instant of the estimated time interval, based for each vehicle (200-1, 200-2), on at least one characteristic of the associated light beam (201-1, 201-2); • detecting each overlapping zone (2021) in the crossing zone (202) in which the estimated illumination corresponds to the superposition of a plurality of light beams (201-1, 201-2); • If an overlapping area (2021) is detected: • obtain a set of parameters comprising at least one parameter per vehicle (200-1, 200-2), each parameter depending on at least one piece of data previously sent by the vehicle (200-1, 200-2) associated with the parameter; • determining by communication with the other vehicles (200-1, 200-2) of the plurality of vehicles (200-1, 200-2) and from the set of parameters obtained, at least one action to be carried out by a vehicle (200-1, 200-2) on the associated light beam (201-1, 201-2), so that the lighting in the overlapping zone (2021) is distributed between the plurality of vehicles (200-1, 200-2) so as to have a predefined brightness; • if a determined action is to be carried out, carry out the determined action on the light beam (201-1, 201-2) emitted by the lighting module when the plurality of vehicles (200-1, 200-2) is in the crossing zone (202).

12. A computer program product comprising instructions which, when the program is executed on a computer, cause the computer to put implementing the steps of the method (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

13. A computer-readable recording medium comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the steps of the method (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

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