Spatially Distributed Light Source Arrangement for Vehicle Platooning
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing platooning control systems are technically complex due to the need for specialized light receivers to handle fast-changing light signals for vehicle identification data transmission between leading and following vehicles, which cannot be processed by video cameras.
Innovation Solution
A signaling device with a spatially distributed light source arrangement and an electronic control unit that sets the activity state of each light source to convey identification data, allowing cameras to extract the data from images without requiring specialized light receivers, using distinct opening angles and frames to minimize complexity and irritation to other traffic participants.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a specialized light receiver is used to receive fast-changing light signals for identification data transmission, then data transmission accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a video camera (which captures static images) to receive dynamic light signals by capturing multiple frames over time. The identification data is encoded in the temporal changes of light intensity across successive video frames, allowing a standard camera to function as a light signal receiver without requiring specialized high-speed photodetectors
Solution Approach 2:
The identification data is transmitted through periodic modulation of light intensity at frequencies within the video camera's frame rate capability. By encoding bits as presence/absence of light in sequential video frames, the system transforms continuous light signaling into discrete temporal patterns that standard video equipment can detect and process
2Reliability
If light sources with different opening angles are used to signal bits, then data transmission reliability is improved, but irritation to other traffic participants increases
Solution Approach 1:
Different light sources in the array are assigned different opening angles tailored to their specific function: some light sources use narrow beams for precise directional data transmission to following vehicles, while others use wider beams for general visibility and warning to side traffic. This localized optimization of beam characteristics allows reliable data communication without causing excessive glare or distraction to all surrounding traffic participants
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient and less technically demanding extraction of identification data using conventional cameras, reducing system complexity and ensuring accurate data transmission in platooning scenarios without disturbing other traffic participants.
Implementation Method 1
The light sources of the light source arrangement that are dedicated to sending the bits of the identification data have a predefined opening angle of light radiation
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention is concerned with a signaling device (30) for signaling identification data (28) from a first vehicle (11) to a following second vehicle (12), wherein the device (30) comprises a light source arrangement (R) for sending out light signals (29) from the first vehicle (11) to the following second vehicle (12) and an electronic control unit (23) for controlling the light source arrangement (R) in accordance with the identification data (28). The invention is characterized in that the light source arrangement (R) comprises an arrangement of several spatially distributed light sources (41) and the control unit (23) is designed to signal predefined single bits (b) of the identification data (28) by means of a respective dedicated light source (41, 45) of the light source arrangement (R).