DE19818114A1 - Central control system for lighting equipment of motor vehicles - Google Patents

Abstract

The vehicle is equipped with a microprocessor controller for controlling individual vehicle lights. A detection system detects if any light fails. A program is stored in the controller, which, in the event of a light failing activates one of the other healthy lamps to take over the function of the failed lamp

Description

The meaning and meaning of lighting systems for vehicles are general known.

This invention relates to electrical lighting systems for vehicles all kinds.

The protection circuit described in this invention can cause failures of individual functions and / or individual elements of these Lighting systems are compensated so that the other Road users also receive the necessary information and messages Partial failures can be transmitted.

1. Vehicle lighting systems

The lighting of vehicles serves the following different purposes:

1.1 Improved visibility

In the dark, the driver of a vehicle on the way ahead enlighten. Low beam, fog lights and high beam are used for this.

1.2 Information about a vehicle

Inform the other road users that at the point where the lighting system lights up, there is a vehicle. Parking lights serve Taillight, license plate lights, and the parking lights. The other lights reinforce this information during operation.

1.3 Direction indicators

When actuated, the direction indicators inform those in sight road users in which direction you want to turn.

1.4 Brake lights

When braking, the brake lights come on, signaling this slowing down of the vehicle.

1.5 hazard warning lights

When the "hazard warning lights" function is switched on, the others Road users are warned of a critical situation.  

1.6 Rear fog lamp

The activated rear fog light not only signals that there is a vehicle is, but also that his driver sees fog or fog banks, which one himself has not seen.

1.7 The license plate light

The rear license plate light can be switched on when it is dark Indicate that a stranger who is probably not driving is driving in front of you knows so well.

1.8 The interior lighting

The switched on interior lighting can be in the dark in front of this vehicles that have been left behind warn of total failure of the entire exterior lighting system. Reflective license plates reinforce this Warning effect. The dashboard lighting does not play with this invention Role.

1.9 This invention relates to vehicle lighting systems with the usual various functions, each of which individual either isolated or with one or more others Functions can be performed simultaneously

With the help of previously designed, installed and connected Protection circuits are - by this invention - in the event of failure of individual or multiple lights, switches, leads, etc. others still working Elements from the existing inventory of the respective lighting system turned on that they - at least temporarily - as a replacement for the or failed parts serve.

As a result, the other road users continue to receive the in sight necessary information about this vehicle with a usual Lighting system that has been upgraded in accordance with our invention.

Lighting systems internally ensures an electronic component - a control unit that has at least one microprocessor and a non-volatile memory, and which is coupled to a detection device for determining whether one or several of the light sources are defective, as well as for signaling one Defects - for defects in all elements of the lighting system are immediately signaled to this control unit.

The information and knowledge of the detection devices will be forwarded to the central control unit. This control unit ensures partial failure quickly and according to the situation for a suitable switch to suitable ones Replacement elements of the lighting system in accordance with the specifications for this individual cases are stored in the non-volatile memory.  

The basic principles of this invention are explained below using the example the "hazard warning lights" function in an exemplary manner. Both other functions of the vehicle lighting system, also by this Invention are concerned, it will then also in the necessary Verbosity done.

With the help of this invention, malfunctions in the entire range of Lighting system of a vehicle through the use of protective circuits be compensated for that the other road users thanks to the effort entirely certain and previously selected of the still functioning parts of the Lighting system received all the necessary information.

The consequent use of this invention in as many vehicles as possible (and Lighting systems) will significantly increase road safety.

2. The individual elements of the lighting systems from Vehicles 2.1 Hazard warning lights

In road traffic it is important to keep broken down vehicles and / or Seeing accident spots in time and realizing that an extraordinary Situation.

In the past, at the time of horse-drawn carriages, when only driving in daylight anyway was not a problem because of the relatively low Locomotion speeds back then.

2.1.1 History of the creation of warning devices

Thanks to today's traffic density (1998) with driving times around the clock electric reflectors, the retro reflectors invented in the 1920s the so-called "cat eyes", no longer. The collapsible was invented transportable warning triangle and the hazard warning system permanently installed on the vehicle.

2.1.2 Intended use

Other road users should - especially in the dark - on one Danger situation. The nature of this danger is first not important at all. Because of today's high speeds and which - compared to this - the reaction of normal road users must be much too slow one is content with the mere reference to a danger. More than this one Information all of a sudden would make far too many car drivers slow down and other necessary quick reactions such as driving the tax, etc. just keep out. Many would - while still having more than one piece of information sort - drive into the accident site without braking.

Therefore, a sensible hazard warning system may only pass on one piece of information: "Warning, here is a danger point!"  

2.1.2.1 moving vehicles

In the case of motor vehicles, all direction indicators light up for this purpose (today mostly yellow flashing lights) evenly, synchronously and with constant Flashing frequency on.

2.1.2.2 immovable objects, e.g. B. construction sites

To secure construction sites in the area of public roads and sidewalks yellow flashing lights are also used, depending on the location of battery, battery or Mains operated.

2.1.3 Human Physiology and Psychology in the Perception of Hazard warning lights of today's design

Lighting systems are best perceived when used as Hazard warning lights if they (a) flash (b) flash at a constant rhythm (c) shine or blink with a striking color like yellow or red. (d) Stroboscopic flash lamps are also very effective in this regard.

2.1.4 System-related defects of conventional hazard warning lights and their possible consequences

In order to inform other road users of dangerous situations, The hazard lights for all types of moving vehicles were invented.

This generally known invention not only signals the presence of one Danger emanating from the signaling vehicle, but also shows Dangers in the visible environment of the traffic area out of the signaling vehicle can be recognized, but for from behind and / or oncoming vehicles are not visible.

It becomes fatal if one or more of the at the respective "corners" of the vehicle and / or their pendant lamps - mostly those lights that otherwise used as direction indicators - fail.

This should be described using an example:
A careful driver sees a new unsecured accident site in front of him while driving. He immediately switches on the hazard warning lights in his vehicle to warn the traffic ahead. All 4 direction indicators at the respective "corners" of the vehicle or its trailers light up in a constant rhythm. . . at least that's what the driver thinks.

However, in this example, if the rearmost left lamp is switched on Hazard warning lights do not light up, subsequent traffic becomes a complete one gives the wrong impression. The other road users think you want  turn right, overtake left and drive promptly to the scene of the accident inside.

In order to avoid such fatal consequences of a defect in the hazard warning lights, this invention described herein has been made.

Each lamp of a hazard warning system will be out of stock one or more others each in close proximity to each other Luminaires assigned as a "reserve", whereby - when using several Luminaires as a reserve - the order in which they are used as replacement luminaires beforehand must be defined and programmed.

In the event of failure of one or more of the regular lights of the hazard warning system the control unit of the central control for the lighting system quickly and Switch to suitable replacement elements of the lighting system according to the situation in accordance with the requirements that apply to these individual cases in the non-volatile Memory are stored.

The luminosity of the replacement light source must be controlled by an electronic component Luminosity of the defective light source to be replaced can be adjusted so that the subjectively other road users have the same impression of brightness. The control device described in this invention is particularly suitable for this purpose central control for the vehicle lighting system.

A color different from the "original" is used for reasons that are in physiology of the human eye and in the human psyche, not at first perceived.

The intended signal effect "Warning, danger point here!" takes precedence over the information processing in the brain of the randomly passing Road users.

And that is the all-important factor in such exceptional situations.

In retrospect, one or the other road user will surely become aware of it be that one or more of the lights of this hazard warning system not at all originally intended and expected shade.

But at this point, the modified hazard warning lights are already on duty fulfilled and the intended warning function exercised.

And in exceptional situations like that, that's what really matters.

2.1.5 How should an improved, error-free hazard warning system be constructed? his?

What a normal hazard warning system looks like is known. The word "flawless" in the above heading means that by that described in this invention Safety device a defective light source by an intact replacement light source is replaced, the luminosity of the defective light source to be replaced is adjusted.  

The modified hazard warning system is thus in a position to: to take over the original function of the partially defective hazard warning system and to perform the necessary warning function of a hazard warning system.

2.1.5.1 It must be recognizable that the light signals emitted are one contain a special message, namely the warning "Warning! Here Danger point! "

The replacement lights must be in the same rhythm, synchronously and at exactly the same Time lights up like the functional lights of the original ones Hazard warning flashers, only then is the "message" recognized. In addition, the Luminous intensity of the reserve lamp subjectively as equally strong by the observer be felt.

2.1.5.2 Negligible inaccuracies in the self-correcting Hazard warning lights

The following lights can be used as reserve lights in the event of failure of the yellow flashing light that is normally used in the hazard warning lights in vehicles with standard equipment from current ongoing production:
Usually: rear left turn signal, right rear turn signal.
If there are defects at the rear of the vehicle:

• (a) Taillight
• (b) brake light
• (c) Rear fog lamp
• (d) Reversing lights
• (e) Rear license plate light
• (f) conditional: interior lighting.

In the event of defects on the front of the vehicle or defects on the front part of the hazard warning system, the following reserve lights are available:
Usually: turn signals at the front left, front right.
Lamp that can be used as a "reserve":

• (a) Parking lights left - right
• (b) Low beam left - right
• (c) High beam left - right
• (d) Fog lights left - right

3. Principle of our invention: Central control for vehicle loading lighting systems

The principle consists of the installation, the electrical connections and the use of a safety device with a control device ( 30 ) for activating the lighting system of a motor vehicle ( 1 ) in accordance with control signals through which one or more light sources ( 11 , 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 20 ) are switched on permanently and / or periodically, and with a detection device for determining whether one or more light sources ( 11 , 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 20 ) are defective, and for signaling such a defect, the detection device is coupled to the control device ( 30 ), and that the control device ( 30 ) in the event of failure of one of the light sources ( 11 , 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 20 ) causes another of the still intact light sources ( 11 , 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 20 ) as an alternative light source ( 11 , 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 20 ) is activated.

This control device ( 30 ) has at least one microprocessor and a non-volatile memory, in which the specification is stored which of the light sources ( 11 , 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 20 ) in which order for the failure of one of the light sources ( 11 , 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 20 ) is to be controlled by the control unit ( 30 ).

In principle, such a device would also have many electromechanical relays and Vacuum radio tubes conceivable, as was the case in the early 1940s Calculating machines was made.

Because of the susceptibility to faults observed at the time, it is used today Microprocessors for the realization of electronic components like the one in this Central lighting control described invention.

We have described the basic theoretical ideas leading to this Have led invention. There were also considerations about anatomy and Physiology of the human eye as well as the psychology of the optical Perception and the associated information processing in the brain of the Observer. This is what makes this invention, especially in terms of function Hazard warning lights, understandable and possible in the first place.

This chapter -3- deals with the basic technical ideas of the whole Invention. The self-correcting hazard warning system is only part of the entire lighting system.

We describe which framework conditions and special details are available must be to put this invention into the "normal" lighting system today commercial vehicles to be able to install, so that they their positive Can have effects as described in this overall text.

3.1 Definition and storage of the specification which of the Light sources in what order for the failure of one of the Control the light sources from the control unit

At the rear of a vehicle there are usually several lights as a replacement or Reserve for the defective flashing lights of a normal lighting system Available. These turn signals normally serve either as Direction indicators or as hazard warning lights.

It makes sense - both in terms of color and from the proximity to originally intended lamp - first the rear light, and if that is also defective, the dimmed brake light, and if that is also defective, only then the nearest reversing light as a replacement light to program.

If all fail, you can still use a dimmed flashing synchronous License plate lighting as a partner for the functioning flashing light on Add the rear if it is necessary to use the hazard warning lights.

Because the desired goal - to exercise a warning function - is based on the Physiology of the human eye and the psychology of optical  Perception and its information processing in the human brain achieved when two - or more - neighboring lamps synchronously and rhythmically light up.

Possible color differences between the two flashing lights and slight Deviations from the expected position are ignored by the brain, as soon as the message "hazard warning lights on = danger" is recognized by the other road users.

3.2 Installation of a safety device with control unit for Activate the light sources in the lights

Because of the physiology and psychology of humans, the message "Hazard warning lights on = danger" only recognized if all as hazard warning lights used lights switched on periodically with constant flashing frequency become.

As a driver or designer of the lighting system one Vehicle does not know when dangerous situations occur In the direction of the other road users, you have to do that in the paragraph above Take the described into account.

No matter from which direction you look at the vehicle in a critical situation look, one has to be able to see - seen from all sides - that the Lights that flash, do this evenly, synchronously and in the same cycle.

This can only be achieved with a central control for the lighting system. Therefore, such a must here at least for the function "hazard warning lights" installed and used.

3.3 Individual control of the use of replacement lamps

The signaling for the lighting of the originally provided flashing lights or for the "replacement lights" - as explained above - must be done centrally. The Switching from defective lamps can bypass the central one Lighting control and its control unit from the failed light source themselves triggered, e.g. B. by using electromagnetic relays in close proximity of these lamps.

3.4 The live lines to each of the Light sources come with at least one own fuse secured

For reasons of cost saving and rationalization, vehicles are out current production of the circuit to supply the hazard lights often with only one fuse, which is sometimes also used for the circuit of the entire lighting system or one or more individual subcircuits this lighting system is responsible. If it fails then nothing works more. The same applies to the rest of the lighting system. If their only  The fuse fails - in the middle of the interchange at midnight - it will dangerous.

Because of the outstanding importance of the hazard warning lights and the rest We have the lighting system described below for this problem worked out different solutions. You can do both individually - each for themselves - as well as combined and used.

3.4.1 First solution

The power lines from the car battery or alternator as the main electrical energy source to each of the light sources are constructed and installed in such a way that each of the light sources ( 11 , 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 20 ) is protected with at least one separate fuse ( 60 ).

The power lines lead to the individual light sources via the fuse box with as many individual fuses as possible and then via the control unit ( 30 ) of the safety device "central lighting control" with the at least one microprocessor and non-volatile memory.

This order is interchangeable. There is also the option of any single light source (or at least as many of them as possible) directly on site (no condition) separately with at least one own fuse.

The physical laws allow, instead of every one of those in this Text mentioned fuses to connect at least two fuses in parallel if one of these fuses fails for reasons such as material fatigue, faulty manufacturing in the factory and the like power supply Ensure light source over one of the other intact fuses.

3.4.2 Second solution

For each individual fuse there is at least one built-in and ready to use Backup ready as a replacement, which in the event of a defect in the primary backup immediately electrically equivalent replacement is switched on.

These backup fuses can vary depending on the vehicle type and size Lighting system in the original fuse box next to each "their" backup or in a separate compartment or compartment of the common Fuse box can be installed.

However, they can also be accommodated in their own separate fuse box if the size of the plant and, consequently, the number of Fuses make the whole thing confusing.

3.4.3 Third solution

The fuses for the electrical system of the vehicle are so summarized that responsible for neighboring electrical consumers Fuses in the fuse box form an adjacent group. To replace defective fuses - especially in poor light and / or Weather conditions - to make it easier to secure a group  install in a closed mechanical block, e.g. B. made of ceramic external contacts and connections and with fuses that are (1) either on the surface of this block, (2) in an externally visible manner Depressions on the surface of this block or (3) - to protect against Damage - located inside this block. The possibility (1) and (2) allow the condition and operational readiness of the fuses to be checked by mere inspection.

In the event of a defect in at least one fuse, one can be found in this Invention just described and confusion-shaped Take out the fuse block as a whole and replace it with an intact (brand new or repaired) fuse block - according to this invention.

Anyone at the fuse box in the dark and rain or snow fumbled around and the defective fuse for lighting, for example who is looking to replace it with a suitable intact fuse knows how valuable this invention of the ready-to-use fuse block for quick Exchange is.

The fuses of a group are installed in a box, and the respective reserve fuses are right next to it. This shortens the cable routes and makes the whole thing clear. This applies analogously to the Lighting system as part of the entire electrical system of a vehicle.

3.4.4 Switching on the backup as a backup in the event of a defect in the fuse originally switched on

The automatic switchover from a defective fuse to the intended electrically equivalent fuse can take place in the manner described below:
During operation of the vehicle, the fuses of the light sources ( 11 , 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 20 ) are constantly flowed through by a minimum current which is supplied by the alternator, but which flows through the light sources ( 11 , 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 20 ) does not light up.

If a fuse is defective, its circuit will be at the minimum current interrupted. The central lighting control recognizes this and reacts in a predefined manner Wise.

3.5 Protection of the lamps and thus improvement of their Operating time by constantly in the operating state "hazard warning lights on" a minimum current flows, whether "Blink - On" or "Blink - Off" is switched on

Knowledge of the physical laws in the field of "electrical engineering" and the Make material properties of the materials used in this area this circuit is required. Lenz's rule for Alternating current, which is also valid here, because direct current is the Limit case of an alternating current with a particularly long phase.  

3.6 Adjustment of the luminosity of the replacement light source to the luminosity of the defective light source to be replaced by the control unit ( 30 )

Due to the known laws of human senses in "Optical signals" area knows that two neighboring flashing synchronously Lights are perceived and interpreted as "hazard warning lights on Danger".

Color differences between the two lights when perceived by one People don't matter. But the luminosities should be largely the same to avoid misinterpretation.

3.7 Lamp change mechanisms (automatic)

Instead of using predefined replacement lights in the event of failure of one of the original lights of a hazard warning system there is another - prin zipiell different - method to the functionality of a hazard warning system secure and maintain.

Lamp replacement mechanisms are used which are activated by the control unit ( 30 ) via control signals after a built-in detection device for determining whether one of the light sources is defective has signaled such a defect to the control unit. The control unit then takes from the non-volatile memory the information stored as a specification as to which control signals have to be sent to which lamp mechanism.

A particularly clever reaction to the failure of a lamp in one The lamps of the lighting system is the mechanical change or exchange this defective illuminant by means of an automatically running one Lamp changing mechanism. The lamp housing keeps its function and Position at.

None of these three fundamentally different options, which are described below in their basic structure, presuppose the existence of a control device ( 30 ), which has at least one microprocessor and a non-volatile memory, and a detection device for determining whether one or more of the light sources in these lamps ( 11 , 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 29 ) are defective, and for signaling such a defect to the control unit ( 30 ).

This detection device is coupled to the control unit ( 30 ).

3.7.1 The replacement light source is housed in the luminaire housing of the respective light source ( 11 , 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 20 ) and sits on a rotatable base plate

In place of a base with a single lamp, there is a rotatable one Base plate with at least 2 lamps. If the lamp fails, the provides light in the lamp, the base plate rotates until another of the lamp located on the base plate in the center of the lamp has moved. The electrical contact is made and the lamp is on ready to light up.  

3.7.2 The replacement light source is housed in the luminaire housing of the respective light source ( 11 , 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 20 ) and sits in a revolver-like rotating holder

Instead of a flat rotatable base plate with at least one lamp you can also use a revolver-like swivel mount. In the tubes one Revolver drum sticks several light bulbs. In the event of failure of the If the intended illuminant is used, it is pulled back into the drum.

The drum rotates until the next lamp comes out of the tube Deployment position can be pressed, which then happens. The electric one Contact is established and the lamp is ready to light up.

3.7.3 The replacement light source is housed in the luminaire housing of the respective light source ( 11 , 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 20 ) and sits in the loops of a "cartridge belt-like" holder

Instead of a conventional holder for a single lamp in one Lamp enters a device as used in the military when by the Locking a machine gun (MG) of the cartridge belt with the parallel cartridges facing each other in the same direction are inserted and drawn through becomes.

In the same way, the mechanically and electrically suitable replacement lamps should be to be ordered. In the lamp housing is the one with the replacement lamps equipped "cartridge belt" also arranged so that if the Original bulb of the cartridge belt is pulled so that the Replacement lamp takes the position of the original lamp and - after making the electrical connections - thus also its function takes over.

This principle works even if only one or a few replacement lights be kept in stock in this cartridge belt arrangement.

3.8 Replacement lamps

The basic idea of this invention is the use of other lights Vehicle, if the lighting system, especially the hazard lights one or more of the original lights fail.

The effectiveness of this circuit can be increased if both lights provided for the hazard warning lights as well as for the replacement lights automatic lamp replacement mechanisms installed, which in the event of failure of a Bulb immediately a new one in the position of the failed bulb Bring effort.

Offer for the constructive preparation of the use of replacement illuminants in addition to the lamp replacement mechanisms above or instead following options.  

3.8.1 The replacement light source is formed by a replacement filament in the Bulb of the light source

The bulb of the illuminant intended for use contains - elec tronically and / or electrically controlled separately - one or more Replacement filaments that turn on when the original filament fails and take over the desired function.

3.8.2 The substitute light source is formed by a substitute illuminant (e.g. Light bulb) in the same lamp housing

There are one or more - elek in the same lamp housing of the lighting system tri separately controlled - replacement light bulbs, if the original provided illuminants are switched on and take over their function.

3.8.3 The substitute light source is formed by a substitute illuminant in a separate lamp housing

The lighting system of a vehicle can also be double or even multiple be interpreted. The particular because of the importance of the hazard warning lights important yellow flashing lights are duplicated as lamps. At Failure of one or more lamps is taken over by the respective second copy Function.

3.8.4 Combination of two or more of these options 3.9 Automatic verification of the readiness of everyone Functions of the lighting system immediately after commissioning the Vehicle through the control unit and the coupled with it Detection devices

Many modern cars have an automatic check control system built in, that automatically checks many important functions as soon as the key is in the Ignition lock is in place.

The control of the lights ( 14 , 18 ) intended for the hazard warning lights as well as all other existing lights of the lighting system must be built into the program for this automatic check-control system.

3.10 lamp switching when almost all lamps fail are (... if only one or a few lamps are left for To be available)

If you want to prepare for all eventualities, you also have to think make the few, as in the event of failure of a significant part of all lights remaining operational lights should flash. The other Road users must be sent the "Message" "Caution! Here Danger spot! ".  

3.10.1 "Short-long" as a flashing signal

For example, if all the lights on a certain corner fail the conventional circuit of a vehicle, which all lights one Hazard warning flashers synchronously and in time with the specified flashing frequency of the vehicle lights up.

Then a different signal must be selected, one that is also available with one-sided Flashing the other road users reliably warns and on the Indicates the presence of a danger point.

A simple flashing signal, e.g. B. short-long, or a complex flashing signal, which represents the SOS signal developed from the Morse code by the Light sources in succession three times short, three times long and again three times short light up are suitable for this.

3.10.2 The blinking of the light source gives the signal: one - two - three

You also get the attention of other road users "intelligent" flashing signals such as B. the beginning of the arithmetic series of natural numbers = 1 × short, 2 × short, 3 × short.

3.10.3 Signaling in the vehicle team

The following situation occurs more frequently in the everyday life of the team drivers: The The lighting system of the tractor is intact, that of the trailer or semitrailer partially defective or vice versa.

In this case, the intact flashing system should be "normal" like a hazard warning system conventional design flash.

The partially defective lighting system should be programmed as it is in the Sub-items have been described immediately before this paragraph.

Under the circumstances, this is the optimal way to get the effect of one to achieve normal hazard warning lights.

3.10.4 The bulbs intentionally blink "chaotically" to indicate that To indicate the presence of a hazard

If the central control system does not receive any clear, unambiguous signals from the hazard warning system, there is the possibility of achieving a kind of warning effect. All existing lights are controlled and supplied with power so that they light up - as far as possible - in accordance with the requirements provided for this case in the non-volatile memory of the control unit ( 30 ).

The situation is different in countries with residents from other countries Cultural circles. There the strict system of our VDE regulations etc.  not fully understood. There you love it colorful and striking. Therefore, in the case of motor vehicles, which are intended for export to such countries, the installation of modules be prepared that achieve different lighting effects through a different circuit, that are more in line with the understanding of other peoples.

4. Subsidiary claims for extensions of this invention: Central control for vehicle lighting systems, especially hazard warning lights 4.1 The control unit automatically switches on the hazard warning lights as soon as the responsible detection facilities at least one Have reported airbag deployment in the vehicle

If one or more airbags are triggered in a vehicle, it always lies a dangerous situation in which as the driver of a vehicle Hazard lights would turn on if you can still. That is in the case of accidents etc. not always the case. It is therefore imperative that everyone Airbag deployment automatically switches on the hazard warning lights.

Corresponding circuits should already be in the redesign of Vehicles are planned and prepared.

Corresponding retrofit kits should be offered in the automotive accessories trade. With millions of accidents every year, it's high time for one Invention. Of course, a switch with "reset" function must also be installed will!

4.2 Ensuring operability in the event of failure Alternator and / or car battery

Because of the importance of the hazard lights and the circuitry they use at Air bag triggering switches on, dry batteries should perform the useful function on site Ensure both in the event of a circuit failure. Another dry cell on site the central control module also ensures the function of this control unit in the event a breakdown, a defect or an accident.

An extended variant would be the direct control of the lights of the Lighting system, so if the central control unit fails, none Would show reaction from the airbags. Thanks to existing Dry batteries can perform their warm function, even if the car battery, Vehicle network and / or central control unit have failed after an accident.

4.3 Operation using a backup power supply is always ready for use

This applies here under point 3.2. said, only that rechargeable batteries instead Dry cell batteries are used. A central battery can be the central one Control unit can be assigned. Even with each individual lamp you can there are also batteries to increase operational safety.  

4.4 Partial failure of the hazard warning lights that the system module does not can be identified exactly

If the light check control module in the central lighting control can not find out exactly whether and which lights of the hazard lights are defective, there is still a possibility, such as the desired warning function can be achieved so that it is unique from all other road users is recognized as a warning signal.

4.4.1 "Flashing fireworks" to achieve a signal effect

In this case, all lamps must be switched to flashing quickly, at least twice as fast as with the standard hazard warning lights. Also if many lamps fail, a single lamp that flashes extra quickly is sufficient to to other road users who only see this one light signal: Warning, there is a critical situation! Drive up carefully!

4.4.2 "SOS" flashing signal in Morse code

Another variant would be the blinking of the lights in the operating mode Hazard warning system to control so that the international emergency signal SOS in Morse code arises, d. H. 3 × short, 3 × long, 3 × short.

Interpreting this signal correctly requires intelligent and educated people Road users ahead. Such a circuit is safe for watercraft particularly useful because in seafaring, where "Mayday" is common today, the old "SOS" is not forgotten.

4.4.3 Flashing signal "short - long" repeated periodically

This flashing signal attracts everyone's attention, even inexperienced and / or mentally simple structured people.

4.4.4 Flashing signal "1 - 2 - 3" repeated periodically

If primarily professional drivers, commercial shipping or flying personnel is addressed, an intelligent signal is "once briefly, twice briefly, three times briefly "and that periodically permanently repeated certainly suitable to as Warning signal to be recognized.

4.5 The control unit initiates an independent hazard warning lamp, as soon as a detection device brakes him hard signals

Anyone who sees a critical situation in front of them as a driver is performing one Full braking to a standstill. Because of the basic psychological structure In such cases, people hold onto the steering wheel with both hands and forgets to turn on the hazard lights to follow the ones below  To warn traffic. In this situation, which occurs frequently every day our invention a real help. The hazard warning lights can be switched off done manually as soon as the situation is no longer critical or dangerous. Out For ergonomic reasons, the corresponding switch with "reset function" should be in near the steering wheel.

4.5.1 The control unit initiates an independent hazard warning lamp Full braking down to a predetermined speed limit

The statements made above can be modified. The hazard warning lights will not triggered only when the vehicle has come to a standstill, but before that, if you hit the brakes as hard as you can programmed speed is undershot. That increases security in the traffic.

During normal braking, this automatic hazard warning lights system is not allowed triggered, otherwise no one takes the hazard warning lights seriously afterwards! A switch with "reset function" must not be forgotten either. He must be easily accessible from the driver's seat.

5. The details for turning on the replacement lights 5.1 The central lighting control

In the description section of this overall invention, the special section now follows every single function of the lighting system will be discussed.

At this point we would like to introduce the term "central lighting control". From here on we use this term quite often in the text. This means a control device for activating the lighting system of vehicles on land, water, in the air and in space in accordance with control signals, by means of which one or more light sources (here in the example of a motor vehicle: 11 , 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 20 ) are switched on permanently and / or periodically, and with a detection device for determining whether one or more of the light sources (in this example: 11 , 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 20 ) are defective, and for signaling such a defect .

This control unit, expediently in a modular design based on the modular principle to facilitate repairs and / or desired extensions, applies to the entire lighting system controls everything centrally and has everything under control. At This is the use of slots with locking options for the modules particularly user-friendly.

To avoid confusion when exchanging, the base plates of the Modules from which the contacts (e.g. pins or induction loops) stand out, have different layouts according to shape, size and color, so that the normal vehicle user who uses the module for a particular Want to replace the type of lighting (e.g. the brake light) because it is on the border to a neighboring country with a different legal situation, where - as an example - only two  may light up instead of three brake lights when replacing the modules can't make a mistake.

If a driver has the same shape for the different modules, Find the size and color of all the bases, and then - for example - the brake light module in the slot for the low beam module, would come probably nothing sensible.

A further improvement in user friendliness can be achieved if one of Side by side space for two or more complete central units Provides lighting controls.

This allows vehicle users who often travel between countries to in which a different legal situation with regard to the technical circuit of Vehicle lighting systems prevail easily between two or more switch central lighting controls. To do this, build in the dashboard (Example, not condition) a switching device that is a problem Switch to another of the built-in central lighting controls enables so that the driver with a simple switch operation Vehicle lighting in accordance with the laws and regulations applicable in the respective country Can adjust provisions.

5.2 All components of the lighting system

This special part of the description of our invention comprises in fourteen points all components of the lighting system:

• a) The hazard warning lights
• b) The parking light
• c) The low beam
• d) The high beam
• e) The flasher
• f) The front fog lights
• g) The rear fog lamp
• h) The turn signals at the front
• i) The turn signals at the rear
• k) The reversing lights
• l) The parking light (left, right)
• m) The license plate light
• n) The interior lighting
• o) The searchlights.

5.2.1 The hazard warning lights

"The hazard lights" has been sufficient in the previous text described. Now the other components of the lighting system are Discussed one after the other as they were listed a few lines before.

5.2.2 The parking light

The parking light as part of the electric lighting system serves the following purposes:
It gives other road users the hint that there is a vehicle.

It used to help car occupants to find their vehicle in the dark; because street lighting was still in the first decades of the automobile not as common as it is today.

Today, the following applies: even when the low beam is switched on, the position remains light - additionally - switched on.

The reason for this: If a low beam bulb fails, the other road users in the twilight or darkness still two see glowing lamps at the same height to recognize that there is a Vehicle stands or drives, the width of which is slightly larger than the distance between two glowing lamps.

Whether the vehicle is parked only for a short time or is parked for a longer period, you can switches on the parking light on unlit paths, but of course the Capacity limit of the car battery must be taken into account, after all, the Engine can then start. Or you can build two Car batteries, one of which is only used as a starter battery.

If one or both parking lights fail, the important one Of course, there is no information function for a vehicle parked here.

This also applies if one of the two parking lights is still working. Because then some road users think there is only a motorcycle, and they promptly drive into the part of the vehicle that is no longer illuminated.

This shows how important it is, in any way, to be usable Find a replacement for the failed light (s) of the parking lights.

Instead of the respective failed parking light bulb, the light source ( 14 ), which is usually installed in the same or adjacent lamp housing and is intended as a high beam, is switched on by the control unit ( 30 ) and dimmed so that it is perceived by observers as part of the parking light. This also applies if the high-beam lamp has its own lamp housing.

The neighboring low beam bulb is only a second replacement. Reason: due to the design, the filament only shines on the low beam the upper part of the reflector and is reflected from there onto the street a light range of a few meters.

With a dipped beam dimmed down to the position of the luminous intensity, a different impression from the observer than from normal parking lights. A dimmed high beam is already clear to normal parking lights closer.

If both parking lights and high beams fail, it is of course better to do that to use dimmed dipped headlights instead of standing in the dark.  

If the low beam also fails, only the fog lights remain, to - dimmed down - to serve as a replacement for the defective parking lights.

If the fog lights fail, the following remains Possibility: In addition to the still functioning parking light the two front turn signals are switched to continuous operation by the central lighting control.

At the back, the two taillights at the rear shine with constant brightness, so as is the case with a normal functioning parking light.

If all lights except the two turn signals fail in the front, you go in the same way: at the front, the two turn indicators light up constantly, and at the rear, the two taillights light up constantly.

Technically, all of this is feasible thanks to the use of microprocessors that are built in the electronic components of the central lighting control and control are installed, and also the current flow through the switched on lights check. You therefore know which lights have failed and can therefore on the correct replacement lights according to the one previously programmed Switch order.

If one or all of the rear lights in the rear of the vehicle fail Normal operation with the lighting system switched on in the switch position "Sidelights" shine, the procedure is as follows: As possible Replacement lights are available (1) the brake lights, (2) the Direction indicators, (3) the rear fog lamp, (4) the reversing lights, (5) the rear license plate light.

If one of the two taillights at the rear of the vehicle fails, the lamp closest to the defective lamp of the 5 replacement lamps listed above are switched on, dimmed to the rear light intensity. The luminaires intended as replacements should - if the first replacement luminaire fails and then other replacement lights - in the order given above as Replacement can be switched on.

5.2.3 The low beam

The low beam usually includes the two headlights dimmed light. If one or both of these light bulbs fail, stand the driver almost entirely in the dark. They light up when both fail Low beam bulbs only the two parking lights, which are also in the Low beam operating status always light up. The other road users can recognize that there is a vehicle. But the illumination of the front roadway lying there no longer takes place. As replacement lights come in Principle in question the two fog lights and the two High beam headlights. For us, the fog lights are the first choice as a replacement, because they illuminate the road like the low beam, but without the To dazzle oncoming traffic, as is the case with the high beam.

A microprocessor-controlled automatic system detects the operation of the Lighting system with a weak permanent test current the failure of a dipped bulb. The neighboring fog lamp bulb is activated immediately  and turned on. The driver can continue driving if the lighting is usable The road ahead and oncoming traffic are not dazzled either.

As soon as the second dipped bulb fails, the side will also be the Fog lights switched on as a replacement. Should also be the fog lamp fail like the low beam bulb in front of him, the closest one can High beam headlights should be switched on, but it should be on about half Luminous intensity can be dimmed to minimize the glare of oncoming traffic to keep low.

In addition, each switch to a spare spare bulb on the dashboard are displayed.

The possibility of installing in front of lamp change mechanisms expressly pointed out (see the corresponding chapters in this text).

Of course, you should take the next opportunity to visit a workshop to have the defective lights of the lighting system repaired. Hence the Need to be displayed on the dashboard.

5.2.4 The high beam

The high beam - as the name suggests - is switched on to the one in the distance (100 m and further) lying part of the road. Mostly it will used at night when you are alone on a country road. Should be on the highway you can only use it for short-distance traffic signs of all kinds illuminate and thereby receive important information in good time. Man otherwise dazzles oncoming traffic, which is now also found on all motorways deep night and in remote areas is permanently present.

Should one of the high beam bulbs fail, the remaining one in the is enough Rule out to be able to recognize and read distant traffic signs.

The additional possibility of high beam, namely to serve as a flashing light can also work with just one high beam lamp.

According to the principle of this invention, for any lamp that has failed due to a defect a reasonably suitable replacement lamp for the entire lighting system we would put the neighboring one here if one high beam lamp failed Let the dipped-light bulb switch on automatically. If both fail High beam headlights both low beam and then the two Fog lights.

What has been said in this point applies analogously even when there is low beam and High beam both filaments can be controlled separately in the same bulb are located. (previously common)

5.2.5 The flasher

The headlight flasher can be activated both if no light is switched on at all is as well as when the low beam and / or the parking light and / or the Fog lights are switched on.  

When the high beam is switched on, you can achieve a flickering effect by you briefly switch to low beam several times.

The effect of the flasher is essentially due to the fact that lamps on the Illuminate the front of the vehicle briefly and brightly. If one of the two for The headlight provided for the high-beam lamps is defective, the central one Lighting control instead of the defective lamp the neighboring one Supply the low beam bulb with electricity so that it stays with the one intact High beam lamp lights up together at the same time. With that the other Road users compared to the one aimed at with normal headlights Effect achieved.

If both high beam bulbs are defective, both can be supplied with power when pressing the flasher button (or the lever), but only when switched off lighting makes sense.

The other road users will already understand this substitute signal as what it should be, namely a warning signal. Shouldn't just be the high beam but if they fail, the two fog lights remain in front. There each flickering effect, as mentioned at the beginning, essentially on the short Illumination is based, this flickering effect can at least temporarily, too can be achieved by also supplying the two fog lights with power if and as long as the light horn lever or switch is operated.

The individual switchovers are also carried out by the central one Lighting control.

5.2.6 The front fog lights

The fog lights are usually two in the bumper integrated or directly attached auxiliary lights. The reason for this position can be seen in the fact that they should shine under the fog. Because usually the lower edge of the fog banks is about 20-30 cm above the road.

A sensible replacement is not possible if the fog lights fail, because the other headlights are above the lower edge of the fog for structural reasons. You just have to use the normal low beam plus the rest satisfied remaining functional fog lamp. The yellow flashing light on continuous operation (separate switch required) increases the Contrast visibility of the immediate area and would be helpful, unfortunately so far not yet provided for anywhere in the traffic regulations.

The installation of lamp changing mechanisms shows his example Importance and need to incorporate this invention.

An alternative would be to switch on the neighboring ones instead Dipped beam when a fog lamp fails due to a defect. Then you drive with a glowing fog lamp on one and a glowing one Low beam on the other corner of the front. The parking light bulbs light up both of them because this is so common today, although it would make sense in fog, to be able to switch off these parking light bulbs with a separate switch, because they only light up the fog, which then reflects this light. Thereby  the driver's visibility through the fog deteriorates. When switching off the fog lights, this separate switching off of the Parking lights are automatically canceled again.

5.2.7 The rear fog lamp

When used as intended, the rear fog lamp serves the following purposes:

• 1. For another warning that a car is driving in front.
• 2. To prevent yourself from getting hit by a car from behind.

Technically, this problem is solved in that the attached to the rear Rear fog lamp shines many times brighter than the brake lights when it are switched on, which in turn are brighter than the rear light. In addition, the Diameter of reflector and red glass on the reflector clearly bigger than the other lamps in the back.

If this bright red lamp fails, its function should only be taken over by a red or yellow lamp. The taillights ( 20 ) offer themselves first, but their normal brightness is not sufficient for this purpose. In our invention, light bulbs are installed in the taillights, which are operated in normal operation only with reduced power and are only as bright as normal taillights. However, if the rear fog lamp fails, they can be operated at full power and then shine as brightly as a rear fog lamp (e.g. 2 filaments - bulb in the same bulb).

In countries with a right-hand drive requirement, you first take the rear light ( 20 ) at the rear left and after the failure that at the rear right. As a result, the function of the brake light is fully retained. Only when both taillights are defective do you take the brake lights, because when weighing up the goods it is more important to warn the others in fog.

5.2.8 Front turn signal

For vehicles in German and European series production there is Turn signal system - which can be used either as a direction indicator or as Hazard warning flashers serve - at the front of the vehicle only from a yellow light on each two outer corners of the front section. If one of these two lights fails, there is no similarly colored light available as at the rear, where one can take a red taillight or red brake light as a replacement light.

We therefore recommend programming the non-volatile memory of the central lighting control with the following specifications: As soon as the detection devices of the central lighting control signal a defect in one or even both front turn signals, the light sources in the turn signal housing ( 14 ) are replaced by the neighboring low beam ( 10 ) and the neighboring fog lamp ( 16 ) periodically switched on and off together by the control unit in time with the predetermined flashing frequency of the motor vehicle ( 1 ), so that they both ( 10 , 16 ) flash together. This also signals those of the other road users who do not know this invention, what is going on and in which direction you want to turn.

If one of these two replacement lights should fail, it remains remained in their function and thus works until reaching the Workshop as a replacement lamp.

This switchover applies mutatis mutandis "low beam and fog lights flash at the same time instead of the defective neighboring turn signal lamp "for each of the two Front turn signals in the event of a defect and failure of the hazard warning lights for this as well, by using both the low beam lamp and the fog lamp at the same time, flash synchronously and at a constant rhythm.

5.2.9 Turn signals at the rear

For standard German and European production vehicles, there is Turn signal system, either as a direction indicator or as a hazard warning system serves, at the rear of the vehicle from a mostly yellow light on each of the two outer corners of the rear section.

Should one of these two yellow flashing lights fail, we recommend the Use one of the two red lights right next to it, which as Taillight or brake light do their job, as a replacement light.

First, the red taillight should be used as a direction indicator. It must light up (blink) in the same rhythm as the corresponding front one Direction indicator, regardless of whether it is the original direction indicator or is a replacement lamp according to this invention. It also has to be dimmed so that the other road users have the same objective Have the impression of brightness that is caused by the currently defective flashing light would.

For the preference of the rear light as a replacement light for the defective Turn signal light opposite the brake light speaks the following: planned turning, which you can do by pressing the flashing light on the other want to display, you need a working brake light, so that the others can brake in time and not hit their car in front.

If the turn signal lamp and the neighboring rear light are defective at the same time, the following circuit is recommended: the neighboring brake light is - on suitable light intensity dimmed - used as a flashing light. When braking is on in its place the rear fog lamp in its normal luminosity as a brake light used, which lights up when the brake pedal is pressed simultaneously with the remaining brake light. That shows the sensible other Road users, what's going on and what you're up to.

The use of lamp replacement mechanisms, as found elsewhere This invention has been described, remains unaffected and does not change anything inventive value of this invention / idea hereby patented / Utility model is registered.

5.2.10 Reversing lights

In older models z. B. the VW Beetle, the reversing light was mostly a chunky something that was subsequently screwed onto the rear bumper was.

In modern cars from today's series production there are 2 reversing lights available, which are integrated in the rear lights so that the rear light, brake light, Rear fog lamp and reversing light together a constructive Form a unit in an often one-piece housing, two to each other Mirror-symmetrical designs are located at the respective corners of the Rear section.

The reversing light (s) are only for your own information about what is going on behind you, e.g. B. when parking backwards in a parking space or when Reverse to turn on a poorly or not lit at all Property. Of course you could also get out and have a look yourself, what it looks like behind the rear of the vehicle. But in the rain or even No one wants thunderstorms. The same applies to the need for Reverse driving in dubious surroundings.

So it would be good to have something in the back of the rear that is immediately The surroundings are somewhat lit behind you.

From this point of view, there is a simple solution to what to do if one or both reversing lights have failed.

The solution to this problem: All lights located at the rear of the rear are switched on. This gives a rather funny looking red-yellow light mixture behind the vehicle. But it serves its purpose, despite its originality. Of the Drivers can look in the rear view mirror, in the exterior mirrors or even when turn backwards to see what is going on behind him, where Vehicles, walls or other obstacles stand and lie.

Before you get behind you because of the broken reversing lights nothing sees, this is always the better solution.

What if you want to blink when reversing? For example, um to indicate that you want to turn backwards to the right (or left)? Then the yellow direction indicators have to perform their original function again. This happens automatically as soon as the driver releases the direction indicator lever operated.

If the gear lever for the direction indicators is brought into the rest position, while the reverse gear is still engaged and the lighting system is also still switched on, then the yellow flashing lights should come on again permanently lit. However, there must be a separate switch for this in the Dashboard installed, e.g. B. if you drive your car to countries, in for whom this is not permitted or intended.

In the bright hours of the day it is sufficient if you engage reverse gear only the reversing lights are on. Then they don't serve Lighting purposes, but to get the other road users over it inform that you want to drive in reverse.  

Technically, this is solved in such a way that the ones we have described Connection options for the lights on the rear of the vehicle with the An on / off switch for the lighting couples in such a way that when the The other lights are also illuminated - with the exception of the reversing lights and the yellow direction indicator - are de-energized.

In the dark, i.e. H. when the vehicle’s lighting system is on, when engaging reverse gear, the two rear ones are also added Turn signal lights turned on evenly because of their yellow light has a contrast-enhancing effect and thus the visibility to the rear for the Driver is better, more detailed and more contrast than without it Trick.

Optionally there should be the possibility (a) of this yellow flashing light without "Blinking", (b) all lights at the rear when reverse gear is engaged additionally let it shine to improve the view to the rear.

When removing the reverse gear they should be switched on additionally Lights are switched off fully automatically each time to prevent you start them all by mistake and thus irritate other road users.

For the two options (a) and (b) separate on and off switches be present with automatic reset to "Off" (Reset) at Take out the reverse gear.

5.2.11 Parking lights, left and right

Parking light in Germany means that you have two at the two outer corners of the Lamps located along the side of a vehicle with relatively little Power consumption can be switched on permanently. In the majority of cases it is Parking light at the front left and the rear light at the rear left, if a vehicle due to the with us usual right-hand driving on the right side of the road in the dark is turned off. When parking on the left side of the road in the direction of travel the right parking light and the right rear light switched on.

It also makes sense here, starting with the construction, but at the latest with a retrofit - to think about which of the in the Overall lighting system existing lights come into question as a replacement in the event of failure of one or more parking light lamps.

Secondly, it has to be determined beforehand which of the possible substitutes Lights in which order are switched on as a replacement. Because like everyone the "original" lights can break, can also be used as a "1st replacement" provided lamps break. And then it’s good if you take precautions and has planned another luminaire as a 2nd replacement for the 1st replacement luminaire and in terms of circuitry to the central lighting control connected.

For the front parking light we recommend the following lights in the replacement specified order: 1. the dimmed low beam, 2. the dimmed Fog lights, 3. the dimmed high beam, 4. the permanently switched on Flashing light.

What is meant as a replacement is of course the closest to the defective one Luminaire lying other lights.  

At the rear, the following lights make the most sense as a replacement in the order listed:

• 1. the dimmed brake light
• 2. the dimmed and permanently flashing light
• 3. the dimmed rear fog lamp
• 4. the dimmed reversing light
• 5. the license plate light, possibly with a higher (variable adjustable) luminosity.

Additional possibility: All lights of the whole can be shown on one display Display and call up the lighting system individually using the factory-set one Luminosity in normal operation as well as that provided in reserve operation Luminosity. When programming by pressing this dis play - as is the case with today's high-quality laser color copiers when zooming is possible, for example, the luminosity of individual lamps both in Program normal and backup operation to other brightness values (with pressure-sensitive areas on the display; which is a particularly convenient Programming enabled). This programming unit must be supplemented by a central reset button, with the help of the changed programming a single push of a button on the factory-set basic or Normal setting can be reduced.

5.2.12 License plate lighting

It serves as a warning to motorists for non-local road users One should react with increased understanding when this suddenly occurs display unconventional driving behavior during the day (or at night) because they Have lost orientation.

In the context of my invention, we only find those elsewhere in this text lamp replacement mechanisms listed, the installation of which ensures that when the parking light, low beam or high beam is switched on always one license plate light is actually illuminated.

5.2.13 Lamps with a small installation depth 5.2.13.1 Interior lighting (also for the trunk and glove compartment etc.)

The purpose of interior lighting need not be explained. Out The lamp housings are safety reasons so that you don't hit your head flat and in the "sky" or in the side paneling of the passenger compartment integrated.

As a result, the lamp replacement mechanisms are difficult to install here. It unless in the "cartridge belt" variant (for details see relevant Extra chapter under "Lamp replacement mechanisms").  

5.2.13.2 residual glow wire light source

Instead, the use of another one made by us is recommended Invention with the same main claim. We call them "Lamp filament residual light source".

Every light bulb, regardless of whether it's the "Edison" principle or the "halogen lamp" or "Noble gas lamp" (krypton, xenon) has inside the oxygen and Nitrogen-free pistons (to prevent oxide or nitride formation) Metal filament hanging between two massive metal strips that serve both as a suspension and for power supply. Between these The two outer pins have several other pins with a large one Loop at the top, through which the today mostly in the form of a "double wendel "manufactured glow wire. These additional pins are the mechanical basis of this invention "incandescent wire lamp".

According to this description of the mechanical structure of each filament lamp let's ask ourselves what exactly happens when the filament burns out a light bulb?

Flashlight bulbs and others who are concerned about the brevity of the Filament only two pins in the flask anyway, do not fall under this Considerations.

Experience has shown that the filament burns through only at one point. Thanks to our invention, this defect is curable. And this is how it works:
The additional stilts between the terminal pins are designed as vertical hollow tubes. The loops formed at the upper end can be pulled into the hollow tube, so that - when or immediately after the filament has burned through - they take the remaining piece into a kind of "stranglehold". As a result, the remnant filament thus detected can no longer fall out. These stilts can be switched to be electrically conductive. This requires an electronic / electrical combination component. We call it "Automatic lamp single control and control" as part of the central control of vehicle lighting systems; or as a separate individual component that can be installed in each individual light bulb.

We describe the processes from turning on such a light bulb through that Burning of the filament until it continues to shine after the automatic Turn on this special circuit, invented for just such cases have been.

The lighting system of a vehicle is switched on. Every light bulb, at which the filament by at least 1 stilt between the terminal Foundations could be used as an example to demonstrate this Serve invention.

For the sake of clarity, we take a light bulb as an example, whose glow wire is led through two stilts on their "path" between the two terminal pins.  

• 1. This example light bulb is turned on. The lamp control and Control unit registers the flow of current between the two pins what means: the lamp lights up.
• 2. Suddenly the filament burns out. This is also from the lamp con troll and control unit registered. There is the command to the stilts, the loops so tight pull together that the filament segments are tightly enclosed and not can fall more. This is the electrical contact between the stilts and their loops and filament segment.

Now test currents are sent (a) left pin - left loop, (b) left Stilt - right stilt, (c) right stilt right - pin.

As a result of this test program, the lamp control and control unit knows where the filament has blown. Let's say he's between the two right stilts and the right pin blown, then you can do that remaining segment between the left pin and the right one Let the stilt shine, the tip of which the filament is clamped on.

To do this, you send a current with 2/3 of the original voltage through the intact segment between the left pin and the right stilts. And the lamp lights up again.

The amount of light emitted by the filament is now less than before. But there the human eye has a logarithmic sensitivity curve for that Registering brightness impressions doesn't really matter that much.

So you can do this with all light bulbs where the filament between the terminal pins are led through at least one stilts. There must be this Invention can be applied analogously. It works with all filament Lamps, regardless of whether they are conventional, contain halogen and / or contain noble gas.

5.2.14 Searchlight

In the 80s, many cars had the inside of the windshield a so-called searchlight that could be turned in all directions. It was used to find house numbers on the roadside even in the dark recognize and read. At that time the general street lighting was not as good and well developed as it is today.

We only mention these searchlights, which have become unusual today, because we with this invention a complete overview of the whole Wanted to give lighting system of vehicles before we went to it to demonstrate how with the help of our invention - as described in this text - at Failure of one or more lights with skillful - run automatically dem - improvise the function of defective lights by other neighboring lights can be taken over so that on the one hand the other road users can still see what's going on and on the other hand you can also "see" yourself can.  

Reference list

1

Motor vehicle

10th

Headlights

11

Normal light lamp

12th

High beam lamp

14

front turn signal lamp

16

Fog lights

18th

rear turn signal lamp

20th

Reversing light, brake light light

30th

Control unit

40

counter

50

battery

60

Fuses

Claims (21)

1. Safety device for a motor vehicle ( 1 ) with a control device ( 30 ) for activating the lighting system of the motor vehicle ( 1 ) in accordance with control signals through which one or more light sources ( 11 , 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 20 ) permanently and / or be switched on periodically, and with a detection device for determining whether one or more of the light sources ( 11 , 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 20 ) are defective, and for signaling such a defect, characterized in that the detection device with the Control unit ( 30 ) is coupled, and that by the control unit ( 30 ) in the event of failure of one of the light sources ( 11 , 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 20 ) another of the still intact light sources ( 11 , 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 20 ) is activated as a substitute light source ( 11 , 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 20 ). 2. Safety device according to claim 1, characterized in that the control device ( 30 ) has at least one microprocessor and a non-volatile memory in which the specification is stored, which of the light sources ( 11 , 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 20 ) in which The sequence for the failure of one of the light sources ( 11 , 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 20 ) must be controlled by the control unit. 3. Safety device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the luminous intensity of the substitute light source can be adapted to the luminous intensity of the defective light source to be replaced by the control device ( 30 ). 4. Safety device according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the light sources by the Control unit are dimmable. 5. Safety device according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the one or more defective flashing lights ( 14 , 18 ) replacing light sources ( 11 , 12 , 16 , 20 ) can be periodically switched on and off by the control unit in time with the predetermined flashing frequency of the vehicle ( 1 ). 6. Safety device according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the one or more defective flashing lights ( 14 , 18 ) replacing light sources ( 11 , 12 , 16 , 20 ) can be periodically switched on and off by the control device in time with a faster Flashing frequency. 7. Safety device according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that each of the light sources ( 11 , 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 20 ) are secured with at least one own fuse ( 60 ). 8. Safety device according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the light sources ( 11 , 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 20 ) are continuously flowed through by a minimum current, which the light sources ( 11 , 12 , 14 , 16 , 18th , 20 ) but does not light up. 9. Safety device according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that at least some of the light sources ( 11 , 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 20 ) present in the motor vehicle ( 1 ) have their own separate replacement light source. 10. Safety device according to claim 9, characterized in that the replacement light source is housed in the lamp housing of the respective light source ( 11 , 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 20 ) and sits on a rotatable base plate. 11. Safety device according to claim 9, characterized in that the replacement light source in the lamp housing of the respective light source ( 11 , 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 20 ) is housed and are housed on or in a revolver-like rotary holder. 12. Safety device according to claim 9, characterized in that the replacement light source is housed in the lamp housing of the respective light source ( 11 , 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 20 ) and sits in or on a cartridge-like belt. 13. Safety device according to claim 9, characterized in that the replacement light source is formed by a replacement filament in the bulb of the light source ( 11 , 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 20 ). 14. Safety device according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that a flashing of the controlled light sources ( 11 , 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 20 ) in the manner of an SOS signal can be initiated by the control device ( 30 ). 15. Safety device according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that a detection device is provided for detecting full braking of the motor vehicle ( 1 ) and for emitting a signal to the control unit ( 30 ) which initiates an automatic hazard warning lights until the full braking stops is. 16. Safety device according to one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that a detection device is provided for detecting the airbag deployment within and for emitting a signal to the control unit ( 30 ) which initiates an automatic hazard warning lights. 17. Safety device according to one of claims 1-16, characterized in that a detection device is provided for detecting a movement of the vehicle when it starts to move unintentionally and for emitting a signal to the control unit ( 30 ) which initiates an independent hazard warning lamp. until the vehicle comes to a standstill. 18. Safety device according to one of claims 1-17, characterized in that a detection device is provided for detecting unplanned deformations of the outer vehicle shell and for emitting a signal to the control unit ( 30 ) which initiates an automatic hazard warning lights until (a) the deformation ceases, (b) a specific period of time previously entered in the non-volatile memory of the control device has passed as a specification either after the beginning or after the end of the deformation. 19. Safety device according to one of claims 1-18, characterized in that the light bulbs one Have glow wire hanging between two pins, not just the one mechanical fastening, but also the power supply, the glow wire additionally guided over at least one stilt is formed as a hollow tube and through the hollow body electrically conductive wire is guided twice, so that it is above the top exit forms a loop, which by control signals starting from the control unit, looping around the filament pulls around so that it (a) is held mechanically and (b) by the loop and / or stilt is supplied with current, so that the Glow wire - albeit with reduced output - its original In principle, function can execute again, a process that then occurs when the filament is split, be it mechanical breaks or blows electrically, what from a detection device is detected, which is then according to that in the non-volatile memory stored specifications and corrects them "Loop formation" triggers.   20. Safety device according to one of claims 1-19, characterized in that by the presence of at least one fuse in the individual power supply lines to the light sources ( 11 , 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 20 ), which are connected as individual fuses or as parallel A fuse combination of at least two fuses for each power supply line is available and is installed in at least one fuse box in such a way that it can be removed as a divisible block consisting of at least one part with the integrated fuses to be replaced and can be exchanged for an electrically equivalent or freshly repaired fuse block can, each of these at least one fuse blocks is shaped so that they cannot be mixed up, so that even if there is more than one sub-block, it is not possible to insert the replaced fuse blocks incorrectly even in poor visibility conditions. 21. Safety device according to one of claims 1-20, characterized in that a control device ( 30 ) which has at least one microprocessor and a non-volatile memory in which the specification is stored, which of the light sources ( 11 , 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 20 ) in which sequence the control unit ( 30 ) is to be activated if a detection device connected to the control unit ( 30 ) causes the failure of at least one fuse in the power supply lines to the light sources ( 11 , 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 20 ) and thus the (repairable) failure of the associated luminaire is signaled to the control unit ( 30 ) and this then takes from the non-volatile memory the specifications as to which of the reserve fuses and which of the other light sources ( 11 , 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 20 ) in what order in case of failure of one or more of the fuses in the power supply lines to the light sources ( 11 , 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 20 ) from the control control device ( 30 ).