Camera-based positioning of a headlight adjustment tester

Abstract

The present invention relates to a headlight adjustment tester comprising a light-detection unit and a camera, and to a method for positioning such a headlight adjustment tester.

Description

[0001] Camera-assisted positioning of a headlight alignment tester

[0002] The present invention relates to a headlight adjustment test device, SEP, with a light detection unit and a camera, as well as a method for positioning such an SEP.

[0003] In many cases, vehicle headlights must be aimed in a specific way and meet other certain conditions, such as legal requirements. For example, the light distribution produced by the headlight must be within a certain height range, and in some cases the light distribution should also have a certain shape. The light emitted by the headlight should also be at a certain angle to the roadway. To measure the light distribution produced by the headlight, headlight alignment test devices (SEPs) are typically used. These are positioned in front of the headlight and are designed to record the light emitted by the headlight and, if necessary, measure the produced light distribution. The headlight can then be adjusted based on the measurement results.

[0004] For reliable and accurate measurement of the light distribution generated by the headlight using a SEP, it is necessary that the SEP is correctly positioned relative to the vehicle, especially the headlight. This includes both the distance of the SEP from the headlight and the horizontal and vertical positioning of the SEP in front of the headlight.

[0005] Traditionally, the SEP is manually positioned in front of a headlight, with the distance of the SEP from the headlight and / or the horizontal and vertical positioning of the SEP in front of the headlight being estimated by the user. This results in inaccurate positioning of the SEP in front of the headlight. Other conventional methods use cross-line lasers that project points or lines onto the surface of the headlight. However, these points or lines can be difficult to see on the glass surface of the headlights and also do not provide a way to determine the distance between the SEP and the headlight.

[0006] Further prior art is known from DE 43 22 917 A1 and DE 10 2014 016116 A1. Instead of a laser, a camera system is disclosed in these two documents, which is intended to be suitable as a positioning aid.

[0007] The object of the present invention is therefore to improve and / or simplify the positioning of a SEP relative to a vehicle. This object is achieved by a headlight alignment test device according to claim 1 and by a method according to the independent claim.

[0008] According to one aspect, a headlight adjustment device (SEP) is proposed, comprising a light detection unit configured to detect a light distribution generated by a headlight of a vehicle, and a first camera configured to detect the headlight and generate a first image of the headlight. A vehicle can be a means of transport or traffic that has at least one headlight, for example, a single- and / or two-track motor vehicle or, for example, a train.

[0009] The SEP, in particular the light detection unit, can be positioned in front of the headlight using the first image of the headlight, or the actual position of the SEP can be brought to a desired target position. The first camera can be connected to the light detection unit in a positionally and rotationally fixed manner, so that changes in the position of the light detection unit result in changes in the imaged headlight in the first image. If the light detection unit is moved horizontally or vertically, for example, the position of the imaged headlight in the first image can change. The size of the image of the headlight in the first image can also change, for example, if the light detection unit is moved towards or away from the headlight.Furthermore, perspective distortions in the image of the headlight in the first shot can change if the light detection unit is moved in front of the headlight. Based on the position, size and / or perspective distortions, the position of the SEP or actual position of the SEP, in particular of the light detection unit, in relation to the headlight can be determined or at least estimated. By knowing the current position of the SEP in relation to the headlight, the positioning of the SEP in front of the headlight can be simplified and / or improved. For example, positioning instructions can be generated based on the position of the SEP, which can be executed by a technical device, for example an actuator, or a user in order to convert the actual position of the SEP into a target position.

[0010] The light detection unit can, for example, comprise a camera, in particular an imaging lens for imaging onto a screen or a sensor, for example a CCD or CMOS sensor, or can be formed by these units. The light detection unit can, for example, be a light collecting box. The light detection unit can be designed to image light generated by the spotlight onto the screen or the sensor using the imaging lens. At least a portion of the light distribution generated by the spotlight can be captured by the light detection unit. The imaging lens can, for example, be or comprise a Fresnel lens, see below. The imaging lens generally has a positive effective refractive power. In most embodiments, the light detection unit is designed such that the angle of incidence at which a light beam or bundle of rays strikes the light detection unit can be measured.In some embodiments, the screen or sensor is arranged in the focal plane of the imaging optics. This can mean, for example, that the screen or sensor is aligned perpendicular to the optical axis of the imaging optics, and the distance from the screen or sensor to the main plane of the imaging optics is equal to the focal length of the imaging optics. The imaging optics can, for example, be a Fresnel lens, and the distance between the screen or sensor and the Fresnel lens can correspond to the focal length of the Fresnel lens.

[0011] The following describes the properties of the first camera. These properties can also apply to a second camera. Therefore, when a camera is mentioned below, this can refer to either the first camera or the second camera. This also applies when describing features of a shot. These features apply both to a first shot taken by the first camera and to a second shot taken by the second camera.

[0012] In most embodiments, the first and / or second camera of the SEP has an imaging lens and a camera sensor, for example a CCD or CMOS sensor. The camera sensor can be arranged in the image plane of the imaging lens, so that the camera images an image of an object, in particular the headlight, onto the camera sensor. The camera can also have an aperture arranged in the camera's beam path, the aperture size of which can be changed in some cases. The image data generated by the camera sensor, for example, can be used to create the image. The headlight can therefore be imaged onto the camera sensor by the imaging lens, and the data from the camera sensor can subsequently be used as an image. The camera creates an image, i.e. an image point in an image plane of an object point arranged in an object plane.This is done by combining light emanating from the object point into an image point. The imaging optics of the camera can be arranged in front of the camera sensor in such a way that it creates an image for an object that is less than 2 m away from the camera. This can mean that the object distance when the camera is imaging is shorter than 5 m, or preferably less than 3 m. In other words, the camera focuses on an object, in particular the headlight, that is closer than 5 m, in particular closer than 3 m or in particular closer than 1 m, in particular in a range between 0.3 m and 0.7 m in front of the camera. The light detection unit, on the other hand, is designed to combine all light rays that enter the light detection unit at a certain angle into one image point. In other words, the light detection unit creates an image of an object with an object distance equal to infinity.The headlight detected by the camera is the same headlight that can produce the light distribution detected by the light detection unit.

[0013] In contrast to the light detection unit, the camera is designed to image the headlight itself, whereas the light detection unit is designed to capture and image a light distribution actively generated by the headlight. The camera and light detection unit can differ, for example, in the optical elements and the arrangement of the optical elements used to generate the image. For example, the camera sensor can be arranged at a distance from the imaging optics that is shorter or greater than the focal length of the imaging optics. The camera sensor is therefore not arranged in the focal plane of the imaging optics. Instead, the sensor of the light detection unit can be arranged, for example, in the focal plane of the imaging optics of the light detection unit.

[0014] The relative position and / or relative orientation of the light detection unit and the camera is fixed, determinable, or at least determinable, determined, and / or known. In some embodiments, the light detection unit and the camera are fixed relative to one another and / or connected to one another in a rotationally fixed manner. The relative position of the light detection unit and the camera can include translational degrees of freedom, i.e., in particular, the following information: distances between the light detection unit and the camera in at least one, preferably two, and particularly preferably three spatial directions.

[0015] The relative alignment of the light detection unit and camera can comprise the alignment, i.e. rotational degrees of freedom, of the light detection unit with respect to the camera, wherein the alignment particularly comprises the alignment of the optical axis of the light detection unit to the optical axis of the camera. The alignment can be described by an angular value that indicates the included angle between the two optical axes or preferably two angular values ​​that indicate a yaw and a pitch angle. In some embodiments, for example, a roll angle of the camera or the camera sensor can be fixed or determinable. The roll angle of the camera is the angle of rotation of the camera about its optical axis. The alignment can also comprise the yaw, pitch, or roll angle of the optical axis with respect to a plumb line or another reference.The roll angle of the camera with respect to a plumb line or other reference can be determined, for example, using an inclinometer attached to the camera.

[0016] In the context of this disclosure, an optical axis can be considered the optical axis of the first object-side optical element of a device. Using the camera as an example, this can be, for example, the optical axis of the camera's input lens. In the light capture unit, the optical axis can, in some embodiments, be the optical axis of the Fresnel lens. The optical axis of an optical element can be defined, for example, by a rotational symmetry axis of that optical element, for example, the rotational symmetry axis of the input lens of a camera lens or, for example, by the rotational symmetry axis of the Fresnel lens.

[0017] In advantageous embodiments, the SEP has a second camera configured to capture the headlight and generate a second image of the headlight. As explained below, the second camera can further simplify the positioning of the SEP relative to the headlight or the vehicle. The same applies to the second camera as to the first camera. Furthermore, the relative position of the first camera to the second camera can be fixed or determined, or at least determinable.

[0018] According to a further embodiment, the SEP has a processor configured to determine the distance between the headlight alignment test device and the headlight based on the first image and the second image. Here and below, "determining" means determining within an error tolerance. The error tolerance may be less than 20%, in some cases less than 10%. Advantageously, the first image and the second image are taken at the same time and / or at least at times when the vehicle or the headlight is in the same position. The first and second images may also be taken at different times and subsequently used by the processor.

[0019] The processor can, for example, be configured to determine the distance based on the first image and the second image using a stereoscopy method. For this purpose, a stereoscopy method can be implemented on the processor. The processor can, for example, be configured to use triangulation to determine the distance of the two cameras to an area of ​​the headlight using the first image and the second image and the positions of the first camera and the position of the second camera. The area of ​​the headlight to which the distance is determined using triangulation can, for example, be determined by a user or automatically detected using pattern recognition in both images based on predefined conditions.

[0020] The processor can, for example, comprise at least one of a CPU, an FPGA, an ASIC, or an integrated circuit. In some embodiments, the SEP can further comprise a memory unit that can communicate with the processor and on which a program is stored, upon execution of which program the processor can determine the distance between the headlight alignment tester and the headlight. In particularly advantageous embodiments, the relative positions of the first camera and the second camera to one another are known at least at the time the first and second images are taken. The processor can then determine the distance between the headlight alignment tester based on the first image, the second image, and the relative position of the first camera and the second camera.

[0021] In some embodiments of the headlight alignment test device, the first camera is arranged in a vertical plane that runs through the optical axis of the light detection unit, and / or the second camera is arranged in a horizontal plane that runs through the optical axis of the light detection unit. In some embodiments, the first camera is arranged above or below the light detection unit, and the second camera is arranged next to the light detection unit. This enables easy determination of the horizontal or vertical position of the light detection unit with respect to the headlight. In some embodiments, the first camera, the second camera, and the light detection unit can be arranged in a plane that is perpendicular to the optical axis of the light detection unit.

[0022] In some optional embodiments of the headlight adjustment test device, the first camera is arranged relative to the light detection unit such that an optical axis of the first camera lies in a first common plane with the optical axis of the light detection unit. Alternatively or additionally, the second camera can be arranged relative to the light detection unit such that an optical axis of the second camera lies in a second common plane with the optical axis of the light detection unit. This means that the optical axis of the first camera and / or the optical axis of the second camera are not arranged skewed to the optical axis of the light detection unit. This embodiment enables simple determination of the position of the light detection unit relative to the headlight along a direction perpendicular to the common plane.In particular, the determination of the position of the light detection unit along that direction can be carried out independently of the distance between the light detection unit or the first or second camera and the headlight.

[0023] Embodiments are also possible in which the headlight adjustment tester has a display device. In some embodiments, the display device is not part of the SEP, but forms a system together with the SEP. Regardless of whether the display device is part of the SEP or forms a system with the SEP, the display device is configured to display the first image generated by the first camera and / or the second image generated by the second camera and / or a positioning aid and / or positioning instruction. The display device can, for example, be a screen or at least comprise a screen on which the first image is displayed and / or on which the second image is displayed and / or on which a positioning aid is displayed and / or on which a positioning instruction is displayed.The display device can also be implemented, for example, by an external device such as a smartphone or tablet, which forms a system with the SEP and can receive and display corresponding data from the headlight alignment test device. In some of these embodiments, the positioning aid and / or the positioning instruction can be displayed in such a way that they overlay the first and / or second image.

[0024] A positioning instruction can, for example, comprise an instruction to move the headlight adjustment test device, in particular the light detection unit of the headlight adjustment test device. The positioning instruction can, for example, be implemented by an arrow or similar device pointing in the direction in which the headlight adjustment test device or the light detection unit is to be moved in order to be positioned in a target position in front of the headlight. The target position can be predetermined or entered by a user via an input unit, or determined based on vehicle data described further below. The input unit can be a component of the SEP or form a system with the SEP. The input unit can, for example, be or comprise a smartphone or tablet.The positioning instruction can generally be an instruction for positioning the SEP, with the help of which the SEP can be positioned in the intended target position. Positioning can be performed manually by a user or by motors or other technical devices that execute the positioning instructions and thus move the SEP to the intended position.

[0025] In some further embodiments of the headlight adjustment test device with a display device, the positioning aid is a straight line that is an image of the first common plane onto an image plane of the first camera, or that is an image of the second common plane onto an image plane of the second camera. In these embodiments, the positioning aid, which is an image of the first / second common plane, in which an optical axis of the first / second camera and the optical axis of the light detection unit lie, onto the image plane of the first / second camera, can be displayed on the display device, for example, together with the first / second image. The positioning aid can thus be used as an indicator for the position of the optical axis of the light detection unit, in particular along a direction that is perpendicular to the common plane or the positioning aid.

[0026] The mapping of the first / second common plane onto the image plane of the first / second camera can be calculated, for example, by a processor. The processor can, for example, be configured to calculate image data of that image based on the relative position of the first / second camera to the light detection unit and the orientation of the first / second camera with respect to the light detection unit. This image data can be transmitted to the display device. The image data can also be displayed by the display device together with the first / second image. The headlight device can therefore have a processor configured to calculate the mapping of the first / second common plane onto the image plane of the first / second camera.

[0027] In some embodiments, independently of this, the optical axis of the first camera and the optical axis of the light detection unit are arranged such that they enclose an angle of less than 30°, or less than 15°, or are parallel to each other.

[0028] In further embodiments, the first camera and / or the second camera can be adaptively configured to the recording conditions, in particular the light distribution generated by the headlight. The recording conditions are to be understood as meaning, in particular, the brightness of the recorded area. In some cases, it may happen that the first camera and / or the second camera captures at least or at most a portion of the light generated by the headlight. This can be done, for example, by directly capturing a section of the light distribution or by capturing scattered light. Configuring the first and / or second camera can, for example, comprise reducing the exposure time or adjusting an aperture size of the first camera and / or second camera. This can, for example, prevent saturation of the respective camera sensor or at least reduce the proportion of saturated areas of the camera sensor.Adaptive configuration of the camera to the shooting conditions can therefore be understood as, for example, adjusting the camera's exposure time to the brightness conditions, in particular to the brightness of the generated light distribution.

[0029] Regardless of this, in some embodiments the headlight adjustment test device can have a processor that is configured to generate headlight information of the headlight based on the first image and / or the second image. The processor can be the same or the same processor as described above. The processor can also be configured, for example, to derive data from the headlight information, in particular a headlight type, a vehicle type, a target distance and / or a target position of the headlight adjustment test device in front of the vehicle. The processor can therefore also be configured, in particular, to identify the vehicle based on the captured first and / or second image of the headlight. The headlight information can also include, for example, damage to the headlights.This information can be used, for example, to assist the user in positioning the headlight alignment tester. This information can also be used to determine the target distances between the headlight alignment tester and the headlight and, for example, to issue instructions for positioning the SEP, which can be used to position the SEP in the intended position. Positioning can be performed manually by a user or by motors or other technical devices that execute the positioning instructions.

[0030] In some embodiments, the headlight alignment tester may include a storage unit configured to store the headlight information of the headlight and / or the derived data. Independently of this, in further embodiments, the headlight alignment tester may include a storage unit configured to store a first image and / or a second image and / or to store determined distances. The storage unit may be the same as the storage unit described above.

[0031] According to a further aspect of the present application, a method for positioning a previously described headlight alignment tester in front of a headlight is proposed, comprising the steps of: generating one or more first images of the headlight with the first camera; and using the generated first image(s) to position the headlight alignment tester in front of the headlight. In some embodiments, the headlight is switched off when the first or more first images are generated, or is in an operating mode in which the headlight generates the light distribution that can be measured by the light detection unit.

[0032] In embodiments in which the headlight alignment test device has a second camera, the method may further comprise the following steps:

[0033] Creating one or more second images of the headlamp with the second camera; and using the first image(s) and the second image(s) to position the headlamp alignment tester in front of the headlamp.

[0034] Optionally, the method may further comprise the steps of determining a distance between the headlight and the light detection unit based on the first image(s) and the second image(s). A further optional step may include positioning the headlight alignment test device such that the distance between the headlight and the light detection unit corresponds to a desired distance.

[0035] Determining a distance can be carried out, for example, by a processor. In most embodiments, the distance between the headlight and the light detection unit is determined, in particular determined, by a processor, based on the first and second recordings and the relative positions of the first camera, second camera, and light detection unit to one another. A further step can, for example, also be the detection of relative positions of the first camera, second camera, and light detection unit to one another. The relative positions can, for example, be defined and stored in a memory unit that the processor can access. Relative positions can, for example, also be partially detectable by position sensors or entered by a user.

[0036] Positioning can be performed manually by a user, for example, or by suitable motors or other technical devices that position the headlight alignment tester so that the distance between the headlight alignment tester and the headlight corresponds to the target distance. For example, a difference between the actual distance and the target distance can be determined. Based on this difference, the distance the SEP must be moved can be determined so that the distance corresponds to the target distance. Based on the sign of this difference, the direction of movement can be determined, for example, to reduce the difference.

[0037] Independently thereof, the method may comprise the following steps: displaying the generated first image(s) and / or second image(s) and a first positioning aid and / or second positioning aid by means of a display device, wherein the positioning aids are straight lines. The method may further comprise the steps: positioning the headlight alignment test device in front of the headlight such that the first positioning aid intersects a predetermined section in the first image(s) of the headlight, and / or such that the second positioning aid intersects the predetermined section in the second image(s) of the headlight.

[0038] Here too, positioning can be performed by a user or by technical devices, such as actuators, that execute positioning instructions.

[0039] In some embodiments, the method further comprises the following steps:

[0040] Generating a light distribution by the headlight; detecting the light distribution generated by the headlight by the light detection unit; and aligning the headlight such that the detected light distribution meets predetermined criteria. Predetermined criteria can, for example, be the position of a cut-off line in the detected light distribution.

[0041] Features of the headlight alignment tester can be combined with the features of the procedure and vice versa.

[0042] The invention will be explained below with reference to eight figures.

[0043] It shows

[0044] Fig. 1 shows a first embodiment of a headlight adjustment test device, with a first camera and a second camera.

[0045] Fig. 2 shows a second embodiment of a headlight adjustment test device arranged in front of a vehicle, in plan view.

[0046] Fig. 3 shows a third embodiment of a headlight adjustment test device arranged in front of a vehicle, in plan view.

[0047] Fig. 4 shows a side view of the third embodiment of a headlight alignment tester arranged in front of a vehicle, viewed along the optical axis of the light detection unit. Fig. 5 shows a fourth embodiment of a headlight alignment tester arranged in front of a vehicle, viewed along the optical axis of the light detection unit.

[0048] Fig. 6 shows a fifth embodiment of a headlight adjustment test device arranged in different positions in front of a vehicle, in a side view, looking along the optical axis of the light detection unit.

[0049] Fig. 7 is a block diagram showing steps of an embodiment of the proposed method.

[0050] Fig. 8 is a block diagram showing steps of another embodiment of the proposed method.

[0051] Fig. 1 shows a headlight adjustment test device, SEP, 1 with a first camera 10, a second camera 20 and a light detection unit 2. In Fig. 1, the optical axis 3 of the light detection unit 2, the optical axis 13 of the first camera 10 and the optical axis 23 of the second camera 20 are each shown as a dashed line.

[0052] In the illustrated embodiment, the first camera 10 is arranged in a vertical plane that runs through the optical axis 3 of the light detection unit 2. The first camera 10 is arranged in a fixed position and rotationally fixed manner relative to the light detection unit 2. This means that the relative position between the light detection unit 2 and the first camera 10 is fixed.

[0053] The two optical axes 3, 13 are arranged in a common plane 12, which in this embodiment is a vertical plane. The first camera 10 is aligned such that its optical axis 13 runs parallel to the optical axis 3 of the light detection unit 2. However, embodiments are also possible in which the optical axis 13 of the first camera 10 forms an angle with the optical axis 3 of the light detection unit 2, for example, in which the first camera 10 is tilted downwards or upwards. In general, all positionings of the first camera 10 with respect to the light detection unit 2 are possible in which the light detection unit 2 can detect the light generated by a headlight 5 and the first camera 10 can detect the headlight 5 that generates this light. The first camera 10 can detect the side of the headlight 5 from which the generated light is emitted.The first camera 10 has an imaging lens and a sensor and is configured to image the headlight 5 onto the sensor of the camera 10. The first camera 10 can, for example, also have an aperture arranged in the beam path of the first camera 10.

[0054] In the embodiment of Fig. 1, the second camera 20 is arranged in a horizontal plane that runs through the optical axis 3 of the light detection unit 2. The second camera 20 is arranged in a positionally and rotationally fixed manner relative to the light detection unit 2. This means that the relative position and relative alignment between the light detection unit 2 and the second camera 20 is fixed. The second camera 20 is aligned such that its optical axis 23 runs parallel to the optical axis 3 of the light detection unit 2. However, embodiments are also possible in which the optical axis 23 of the second camera 20 forms an angle with the optical axis 3 of the light detection unit 2, for example in which the second camera 20 is rotated towards the optical axis 3 of the light detection unit 2 or away from it. Both optical axes 3, 23 are arranged in a common plane 22, which in this embodiment is a horizontal plane.In general, all positions of the second camera 20 relative to the light detection unit 2 are possible in which the light detection unit 2 can detect the light generated by a headlight 5 and the second camera 20 can detect the headlight 5. The second camera 20 can detect the side of the headlight 5 from which the generated light is emitted. The second camera 20 has imaging optics and a sensor and is configured to image the headlight 5 onto the sensor of the second camera 20. The second camera 20 can, for example, also have an aperture arranged in the beam path of the second camera 20.

[0055] The first camera 10 and / or the second camera 20 can be adaptively configured to the recording conditions, in particular the light distribution generated by the headlight 5 or its brightness. This can be achieved, for example, by adjusting the exposure time or the aperture size of the first camera 10 and / or the second camera 20 to the brightness conditions.

[0056] The SEP 1 of Fig. 1 further comprises a stand assembly 31 on which the light detection unit 2 is mounted in a rotationally and height-adjustable manner. The stand assembly comprises displacement means 32 with which the entire SEP 1 can be displaced in a lateral direction. In the embodiment of Fig. 1, the displacement means 32 are implemented as rollers. Rail systems are also possible, for example, on which the SEP 1 can slide or on which the rollers of the SEP 1 can roll.

[0057] Fig. 2 shows a schematic representation of an embodiment of the SEP 1 in plan view. The SEP 1 is arranged in front of a headlight 5 of a vehicle 4. The SEP 1 has a light detection unit 2, a first camera 10 and a second camera 20. The SEP 1 further has a processor 7 and / or a display device 8. The first camera 10 and the second camera 20 are connected to the processor 7 and / or the display device 8 via signal lines. The first camera 10 and / or the second camera 20 can send data via the signal lines to the processor 7 or to the display device 8. However, embodiments are also possible in which such data can be transmitted wirelessly to the display device 8 or to the processor 7. The display device 8 can, for example, be configured to display a first image taken by the first camera 10 and / or a second image taken by the second camera 20.The display device 8 can, for example, also be configured to display a positioning instruction. The positioning instruction can, for example, be implemented by an arrow or the like, pointing in the direction in which the headlight adjustment test device 1 or the light detection unit 2 should be moved in order to be positioned in a desired position in front of the headlight 5. In some embodiments, the display device 8 can also be implemented by a mobile device, for example a smartphone or tablet. In these cases, the display device 8 is not part of the SEP 1, but forms a system together with the SEP 1.

[0058] The processor 7 can, for example, be configured to calculate a distance between the cameras 10, 20 and the vehicle 4, in particular the headlight 5, based on the first image 11 of the first camera 10 and / or the second image 21 of the second camera 20. Such a distance calculation can be carried out, for example, using triangulation methods, if the relative position of the two cameras 10, 20 to one another is known. The processor 7 can further be configured to calculate the distance of the light detection unit 2 from the vehicle 4, in particular the headlight 5. This distance can be determined using the relative position of the two cameras, i.e., the first camera 10 and the second camera 20, to the light detection unit 2. The display device 8 can, for example, be configured to display the calculated distance.The processor 7 can, for example, also be configured to generate headlight information of the headlight 5 based on the first image 11 and / or the second image 21. The processor 7 can further be configured to derive data from the headlight information, in particular a headlight type, a vehicle type, a target distance and / or a target position of the headlight adjustment test device 1 in front of the vehicle 4. The processor 7 can therefore, in particular, also be configured to identify the vehicle 4 based on the captured first image 11 and / or second image 21 of the headlight 5. The headlight information can, for example, also include damage to the headlight 5.

[0059] The SEP 1 can, for example, also have a memory unit with which the processor 8 can communicate and on which a program is stored, when executed by the processor 8, for example, to determine the distance between the headlight adjustment test device 1 and the headlight 5. Furthermore, the memory unit can be configured to store the headlight information or the data derived by the processor 8 from the headlight information and / or to store the first recording 11 and / or the second recording 21. Fig. 3 shows a further embodiment of an SEP 1 in plan view. The embodiment of Fig. 3 is essentially the same as the embodiment of Fig. 1 and is described below with regard to the differences. The SEP 1 is positioned in Fig. 3 in front of a headlight 5 of a vehicle 4. The SEP 1 has a light detection unit 2 and a first camera 10 and, in contrast to the embodiment of Fig.1 does not have a second camera 20, but only a first camera 10. The first camera 10 is fixed in position and rotation to the light detection unit 2, which is visualized in Fig. 3 by a black bar that connects the light detection unit 2 and the first camera 10. The light detection unit 2 and the first camera 10 are aligned towards the same half-space. In contrast to the embodiment in Figure 1, the optical axis 3 of the light detection unit 2 and the optical axis 13 of the first camera 10 form an angle in plan view and are not arranged parallel to one another. In this embodiment, the first camera 10 is therefore arranged relative to the light detection unit 2 such that their optical axes 3, 13 are arranged at an angle to one another.

[0060] Fig. 4a shows a further embodiment of an SEP 1 in a side view. The viewing axis runs along the optical axis 3 of the light detection unit 2. The SEP 1 is positioned in front of a vehicle 4. The SEP 1 has a first camera 10, which is arranged on the light detection unit 2 in a positionally and rotationally fixed manner. In the illustrated embodiment, the first camera 10 is arranged in a horizontal plane that runs through the optical axis 3 of the light detection unit 2. The first camera 10 is aligned such that the optical axis 13 of the first camera 10 lies in a common plane 12 with the optical axis 3 of the light detection unit 2. The optical axis 13 of the first camera 10 can be aligned parallel to the optical axis 3 of the light detection unit 2, or can enclose an angle with the optical axis 3 of the light detection unit 2.

[0061] Fig. 4b shows a first image 11 of the headlight 5, 6 of the first camera 10 and a positioning aid 14 superimposed on the first image 11. The positioning aid 14 represents an image of the common plane 12 onto the image plane of the first camera 10. The positioning aid 14 makes it possible to determine the position of the optical axis 3 of the light detection unit 2 in a direction perpendicular to the common plane 12 with respect to the vehicle 4. In the embodiment of Fig. 4, the common plane 12 is arranged horizontally, and the positioning aid 14 thus makes it possible to determine the position of the light detection unit 3 and its optical axis 13 in the vertical direction. This can be used, for example, to generate a positioning instruction or can itself serve as a positioning instruction.

[0062] In the illustration in Fig. 4, the light detection unit 2 is arranged below the headlight 5, so that the optical axis 3 of the light detection unit 2 does not intersect the headlight 5. If the SEP 1, in particular the light detection unit 2 with the first camera 10 attached to it, is now moved upward, the image of the headlight 6 in the captured image 11 moves downward and toward the positioning aid 14. If the positioning aid 14 intersects the image of the headlight 6 in the first shot 11, the optical axis of the light detection unit 3 is also vertically level with the headlight 5.

[0063] Figures 5a and 5b show a similar embodiment of the SEP. In contrast to Figures 4a and 4b, the common plane 12, in which the optical axis of the first camera 13 and the optical axis of the light detection unit 3 are arranged, is not aligned horizontally. The common plane 12 thus forms an angle with the horizontal. Consequently, the positioning aid 14 makes it possible to determine the position of the light detection unit 3 and its optical axis 13 in a direction that is not vertical, but perpendicular to the common plane 12.

[0064] Fig. 6 shows a further embodiment of an SEP 1. In contrast to the previous embodiments of Figures 3-5, the SEP 1 has a first camera 10 and a second camera 20 and essentially corresponds to the SEP of Figure 1. The SEP 1 is shown in a side view. The viewing axis runs, as in Figures 4 and 5, along the optical axis 3 of the light detection unit 2. The SEP 1 is positioned in front of a vehicle 4. The first camera 10 and the second camera 20 are arranged on the light detection unit 2 in a positionally and rotationally fixed manner. In the embodiment shown, the first camera 10 is arranged in a horizontal plane that runs through the optical axis 3 of the light detection unit 2. The first camera 10 is aligned such that the optical axis 13 of the first camera 10 lies in a common plane 12 with the optical axis 3 of the light detection unit 2.The second camera 20 is arranged in a vertical plane that runs through the optical axis 3 of the light detection unit. The second camera 20 is aligned such that the optical axis 23 of the second camera 20 lies in a common plane 22 with the optical axis 3 of the light detection unit 2.

[0065] Figures 6b and 6d each show a first image 11 of the headlight 5, 6 of the first camera 10 and a second image 21 of the headlight 5, 6 of the second camera 20. The first image 11 is superimposed by a first positioning aid 14. The first positioning aid 14 represents an image of the common plane 12 onto the image plane of the first camera 13. The first positioning aid 14 makes it possible to determine the position of the optical axis 3 of the light detection unit 2 in a direction perpendicular to the first common plane 12 with respect to the vehicle 4. In the embodiment of Fig. 6, the first common plane 12 is arranged horizontally and the first positioning aid 14 thus makes it possible to determine the position of the light detection unit 2 and its optical axis 3 in the vertical direction.

[0066] The second image 21 is superimposed by a second positioning aid 24. The second positioning aid 24 represents an image of the second common plane 22 onto the image plane of the second camera 23. The second positioning aid 24 makes it possible to determine the position of the optical axis 3 of the light detection unit 2 in a direction perpendicular to the second common plane 12 with respect to the vehicle 4. In the embodiment of Fig. 6, the second common plane 22 is arranged vertically, and the second positioning aid 24 thus makes it possible to determine the position of the light detection unit 2 and its optical axis 3 in the horizontal direction.

[0067] Embodiments are also possible in which neither of the two common planes 12, 22 are aligned horizontally or vertically. Embodiments are also possible in which the optical axes 13, 23 of the first and / or second cameras 10, 20 are not aligned parallel or are aligned parallel to the optical axis of the light detection unit 3.

[0068] Figures 6a to 6d illustrate how the SEP can be positioned in front of the headlight 5 of the vehicle 4. In Fig. 6a, the optical axis 3 of the light detection unit 2 does not intersect the headlight because the light detection unit 2 is arranged too far to the left and too high. In Figure 6b, the SEP 1 has been shifted to the right with respect to Fig. 6a, so that the second positioning aid 24 intersects the image of the headlight 6. The light detection unit 2 is thus positioned as intended in the horizontal direction, i.e. in the desired position in the horizontal direction. In Figure 6c, the SEP 1 has been shifted downwards in the vertical direction, starting from the position shown in Fig. 6a, so that the first positioning aid 14 intersects the image of the headlight 5. The light detection unit 2 is thus positioned as intended in the vertical direction, i.e. in the desired position in the vertical direction.Figure 6d shows the light detection unit 2 in a position in which the first positioning aid 14 intersects the image of the headlight 6 in the first shot 11, and the second positioning aid 24 intersects the image of the headlight 6 in the second shot 21. Thus, the light detection unit 3 is positioned as intended in the horizontal and vertical directions, i.e., in the desired position in both the vertical and horizontal directions. It is also possible to generate a shot 35 in which both the first positioning aid 14 and the second positioning aid 24 are displayed.Such a recording 35 with first positioning aid 14 and second positioning aid 24 can be calculated, for example, by a processor 7 based on the distance between light detection unit 2 and headlight 5 in the direction of the viewing axis, as well as the first recording 10 and second recording 20, and displayed by a display device 7. The positioning aids 14, 24 can optionally be shown together with the first recording 10 or with the second recording 20. A recording 35 with the first 14 and second positioning aid 24 is shown in Figure 6d.

[0069] The distance between the light detection unit 2 and the headlight 5 in the direction of the line of sight can be determined, for example, by stereoscopy or triangulation on the basis of the captured first and second images 21, 22, as well as the relative positions of the first camera 10, the second camera 20 and the light detection unit 2.

[0070] Fig. 7 shows a block diagram illustrating the steps of one embodiment of a method for positioning the headlight alignment test device. In a first step S1, one or more first images 11 of the headlight 5 are generated using the first camera 10. In a further step S2, these images 11 are used to position the SEP 1 relative to the headlight.

[0071] Fig. 8 shows a further block diagram with steps of a further embodiment of a method for positioning the headlight adjustment test device. The method comprises a first step S1 in which one or more first images 11 of a headlight 5 are generated with a first camera 10. In a next step S1b, one or more second images 21 of a headlight 5 are generated with a second camera 20. In a further step S2a, a distance between the headlight s and the light detection unit 2 is determined on the basis of the first images 11 and the second images 21, and the relative positions of the first camera 10, the second camera 20, and the light detection unit 2. The distance can be determined, for example, by a processor 7. A further step can, for example, be the detection of relative positions of the first camera 10, the second camera 20, and the light detection unit 2 to one another.The relative positions can, for example, be fixed and stored in a storage medium. Relative positions can also be detected by position sensors or entered by a user.

[0072] Subsequently, in a next step S2b, the light detection unit 2 can be positioned such that the distance between the headlight 5 and the light detection unit 2 corresponds to a target distance. The positioning can be performed, for example, by positioning instructions that are transmitted to a user or to a technical device and move the light detection unit 2 according to the instructions. The instructions can be determined, for example, based on a difference between the actual position determined in step S2a and a target position, which can be predetermined. The instructions can be displayed, for example, in the form of arrows pointing in the direction in which the SEP is to be moved.

[0073] List of reference symbols

[0074] 1 headlight adjustment tester

[0075] 2 light detection unit

[0076] 3 optical axis of the light detection unit

[0077] 4 vehicle

[0078] 5 headlights

[0079] 6 Mounting the headlight

[0080] 7 processor

[0081] 8 Display device

[0082] 10 first camera

[0083] 11 first recording

[0084] 12 first level

[0085] 13 first optical axis

[0086] 14 (first) positioning aid

[0087] 20 second camera

[0088] 21 second shot

[0089] 22 second level

[0090] 23 second optical axis

[0091] 24 (second) positioning aid

[0092] 31 Tripod arrangement

[0093] 32 shifting devices

[0094] 35 Recording with first and second positioning aid

Claims

Patent claims 1. Headlight adjustment test device (1), comprising a light detection unit (2) which is designed to detect a light distribution generated by a headlight (5) of a vehicle (4), a first camera (10) which is designed to detect the headlight (5) and to generate a first image (11) of the headlight (5), characterized in that the first camera (10) is arranged in relation to the light detection unit (2) such that an optical axis (13) of the first camera (10) lies in a first common plane (12) with the optical axis (3) of the light detection unit (2).

2. Headlight adjustment test device (1) according to the preceding claim, further comprising a second camera (20) which is configured to detect the headlight (5) and to generate a second image (20) of the headlight (5).

3. Headlight adjustment test device (1) according to the preceding claim, further comprising a processor (7) which is configured to determine the distance between the headlight adjustment test device (1) and the headlight (5) on the basis of the first recording (10) and the second recording (20).

4. Headlight adjustment test device (1) according to one of the two preceding claims, wherein the first camera (10) is arranged in a vertical or horizontal plane passing through the optical axis (3) of the light detection unit (2); and / or the second camera (20) is optionally arranged complementarily in a horizontal or vertical plane passing through the optical axis (3) of the light detection unit (2).

5. Headlight adjustment test device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the second camera (10) is arranged in relation to the light detection unit (2) such that an optical axis (23) of the second camera (20) lies in a second common plane (22) with the optical axis (3) of the light detection unit (2).

6. Headlight adjustment test device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a display device (8) which is configured to display the first image (11) generated by the first camera (10) and / or the second image (21) generated by the second camera (20) and / or a positioning aid (14, 24) and / or positioning instruction.

7. Headlight adjustment test device (1) according to claim 6, wherein the positioning aid (14, 24) is a straight line which is an image of the first common plane (12) on an image plane of the first camera (10), and / or which is an image of the second common plane (22) on an image plane of the second camera (20).

8. Headlight adjustment test device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the optical axis (13) of the first camera (10) and the optical axis (3) of the light detection unit (2) are parallel to one another, or enclose an angle of less than 30°, preferably less than 15°.

9. Headlight adjustment test device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first camera (10) and / or the second camera (20) is / are adaptively configurable to the recording conditions, in particular the light distribution generated by the headlight (5).

10. Headlight adjustment test device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a processor (7) which is configured to generate headlight information of the headlight (5) on the basis of the first recording (11) and / or the second recording (21).

11. Headlight adjustment test device (1) according to claim 10, wherein the processor (7) is configured to derive data from the headlight information, in particular a headlight type, a vehicle type, a desired distance and / or a desired position of the headlight adjustment test device (1) in front of a vehicle (4).

12. Headlight adjustment test device (1) according to claim 10 or 11, further comprising a storage unit which is configured to store the headlight information of the headlight (5) and / or first recording (11) and / or second recording (21) and / or determined distances and / or the derived data.

13. A method for positioning a headlight adjustment test device (1) according to one of the preceding claims in front of a headlight (5) of a vehicle (4), comprising the steps: Creating one or more first images (11) of the headlight (5) with the first camera (10), Use the first image(s) (11) created to position the headlight alignment tester (1) in front of the headlight (5).

14. Method according to the preceding claim, wherein the headlight adjustment test device (1) has a second camera (20), further comprising the steps: Creating one or more second images (21) of the headlight (5) with the second camera (20), Use the first holder(s) (11) and the second holder(s) (21) to position the headlight alignment tester (1) in front of the headlight (5).

15. The method according to the preceding claim, further comprising the steps: Determining a distance between the headlight (5) and the light detection unit (2) on the basis of the first image(s) (11) and the second image(s) (21), Positioning the headlight adjustment test device (1) such that the distance between the headlight (5) and the light detection unit (2) corresponds to a target distance.

16. The method according to any one of claims 13-15, further comprising the steps: Displaying the generated first image(s) (11) and / or second image(s) (21) and a first positioning aid (14) and / or second positioning aid (24) by means of a display device (8), wherein the positioning aids (14, 24) are straight lines, Positioning the headlight adjustment test device (1) in front of the headlight (5) such that the first positioning aid (14) intersects a predetermined section in the first receptacle(s) of the headlight, and / or that the second positioning aid (24) intersects the predetermined section in the second receptacle(s) of the headlight.

17. The method according to any one of claims 13-16, further comprising the steps: Generating a light distribution through the headlight (5), Detecting the light distribution generated by the headlight (5) by the light detection unit (2), and Aligning the headlight (5) such that the detected light distribution meets predetermined criteria.

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