Method for Predicting at Least One Traffic Light Switching State During Operation of a Motor Vehicle, and Control Device, Motor Vehicle and Server Device

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention relates to a method and system for predicting the switching status (e.g., red or green light) of a traffic light for a motor vehicle as it approaches the intersection. The system works by detecting an event (such as starting from a stop) at a predetermined point before the traffic light, then uses statistical data—collected from prior observations and from multiple vehicles via networked servers—to estimate what the light's status will be upon arrival. The system can update its predictions based on both individual and crowdsourced data, and uses this to optimize vehicle operations or inform the driver.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Integration into vehicle driver-assistance systems to optimize engine start/stop functions based on predicted traffic light phases.
• Predictive energy management for hybrid and electric vehicles, such as deciding when to initiate regenerative braking or sailing/coasting mode.
• Providing real-time advice or warnings to drivers, such as indicating when a red light is expected so the driver can engage in non-driving activities safely.
• Fleet management and logistics route optimization using aggregated predictive traffic light information.
• Urban traffic flow optimization via connected infrastructure exchanging real-time traffic light status predictions with vehicles.
• Assisting software in autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles with smoother and more efficient navigation through city streets.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Improves traffic flow and driving comfort by reducing unnecessary stops and starts.
• Enables energy savings and emission reduction, especially for hybrid and electric vehicles by optimizing start/stop and energy recuperation strategies.
• Increases predictive accuracy by learning from both individual vehicle experiences and crowdsourced data from multiple vehicles.
• Supports safer and more relaxed driving by giving real-time information about upcoming traffic light statuses.
• Adaptable to varying traffic patterns, times of day, or changes in traffic density, as predictions incorporate contextual data.
• Can be easily updated over-the-air, leveraging infrastructure and Car-2-X communications, ensuring up-to-date traffic predictions.

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a method for predicting a switching status (S) of a traffic light (32) for an expected direction of through travel (A2) in which the traffic light (32) will be passed by a motor vehicle (10) during a journey, wherein: a trigger event (14) is defined for a predetermined stopping point (13) on a driving route (11) in front of the traffic light (32); a frequency distribution (16) which indicates the number (31) of previously observed traffic light switching statuses (S) for various time intervals (ΔΤ) that have elapsed since the trigger event (14) is provided for the trigger event (14) and the expected direction of through travel (A2); the trigger event (14) is actually detected at the stopping point (13); an arrival time (33) at the traffic light (32) is calculated; and the traffic light switching status (S) for the direction of through travel (A2) in question is predicted for the arrival time (33) on the basis of the frequency distribution (16).