Description:FORM 2

THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 OF 1970)
&
THE PATENTS RULES, 2003

COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(See Section 10 and Rule 13)

A SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING ONE OR MORE LIGHTING UNITS OF A VEHICLE

APPLICANT:

TVS MOTOR COMPANY LIMITED, (an Indian Company)

at: “Chaitanya”, No. 12, Khader Nawaz Khan Road, Nungambakkam, Chennai – 600034, Tamil Nadu, India.

The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner in which it is to be performed.

TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to a system for controlling one or more lighting units of a vehicle.

BACKGROUND
[0002] In contemporary vehicles, lighting units are control by one or more toggle switches. These toggle switches are operated manually by the user of the vehicle to toggle between a high-beam or a low-beam mode of the one or more lighting units, based on the operational requirements. However, on highways or in heavy traffic, the manual operation of the one or more toggle switches become cumbersome and challenging. Manual toggling of switches pulls the focus of the user from the road and toward toggling the switches which compromises the safety of user and can lead to an accident. This is not just true for four or three-wheelers but particularly crucial for two wheelers where the user also has to maintain balance in varying road conditions. Similarly, if a driving environment involves varying conditions such as a well-lit road followed by darker areas or vice-versa, the manual adjustment of the toggle switches becomes problematic.
[0003] Further, if the user of the vehicle forgets to change from a high beam mode to a low beam mode of the lighting units, then it may pose danger not only to the user but also to approaching vehicles, as this will hamper their visibility. Some users unintentionally use the high-beam mode even in situations where a sufficient ambient light is present in the surroundings of the vehicle, that do not require the high-beam mode. In such scenario toggling to the low-beam is preferred. Further, in a medium to heavy highway traffic situations, constant toggling between one or more toggling switches becomes tiring for the user.
[0004] Therefore, there is a need for an automatic system for toggling between the high-beam and the low-beam beam mode is required. Where there is no requirement of any manual intervention and which can control the lighting units based on the surrounding environment. Such system on detection of objects in its predefined vicinity and based on some other parameters, shall be able to able to toggle between high-beam mode to the low-beam mode. Further, the system shall inhibit the user of the vehicle from using a high-mode where it is not required.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0005] The proposed invention is described with reference to an exemplary embodiment of a system for controlling one or more lighting units and a vehicle comprising such one or lighting units. The same reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to reference similar features and components. Description of certain details and implementations follow, including a description below, as well as a discussion of other potential embodiments described below, as well as a discussion of other potential embodiments or implementations of the inventive concepts provided below, followed by a more detailed description with reference to the drawings.
[0006] Figure 1a illustrates a vehicle with one or more lighting units.
[0007] Figure 1b: illustrates a system for controlling one or more lighting units of a vehicle as per one embodiment of the present invention.
[0008] Figure 2: illustrates a method for controlling one or more lighting units of the vehicle as per another embodiment of the present invention.
[0009] Figure 3: illustrates a method for controlling one or more lighting units of the vehicle as per first condition of the system.
[0010] Figure 4: illustrates a method for controlling one or more lighting unit of the vehicle as per second condition of the system.
[0011] Figure 5: illustrates a method for controlling one or more lighting unit of the vehicle as per third condition of the system.
[0012] Figure 6: illustrates a method for controlling one or more lighting unit of the vehicle as per fourth condition of the system.
[0013] Figure 7: illustrates a method for controlling one or more lighting unit of the vehicle as per fifth condition of the system.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0014] A system for controlling one or more lighting units of a vehicle. The system comprises a plurality of sensing units and a control unit. The plurality of sensing units is configured to detect a plurality of real-time parameters of at least one of the vehicle and one or more objects in a predefined vicinity of the vehicle. The control unit is configured to receive inputs from the plurality of sensing units and operate the plurality of lighting units in one or more modes based on a comparison of a plurality of predefined parameters with the plurality of real-time parameters. The one or more modes of the one or more lighting units being based on at least a required luminous intensity, an angle of orientation and a field of view.
[0015] The present subject matter also pertains to a vehicle having one or more lighting units configured to operate in one or more modes. The vehicle also comprises a plurality of sensing units being configured to be disposed in a predefined configuration on the vehicle to detect a plurality of real-time parameters of at least the vehicle and one or more objects in a predefined vicinity of the vehicle. Further, a control unit (202) is provided which is configured to receive an input from the plurality of sensing units and the control unit to operate the plurality of lighting units in one or more modes of a plurality of predefined parameters with the plurality of real-time parameters. The one or more modes of the one or more lighting units being based on at least a required luminous intensity, an angle of orientation and a field of view.
[0016] The present subject matter also pertains a to a method for controlling one or more lighting units of the vehicle. The method comprises various steps including, sensing, by a plurality of sensing units disposed on the vehicle, a plurality of real-time parameters of at least one of the vehicle and one or more objects in a predefined vicinity of the vehicle. The method further involves comparing by a control unit, the plurality of real-time parameters with a plurality of predefined parameters and thereafter operating one or more lighting units in one or more modes based on the comparison of the plurality of predefined parameters with the plurality of real-time parameters under one or more conditions.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0017] While the present invention has been shown and described with reference to the foregoing preferred embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that changes in form, connection, and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
[0018] This written description uses examples to provide details on the disclosure, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the disclosure is defined by the claims and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.
[0019] It is to be understood that the aspects of the embodiments are not necessarily limited to the features described herein. Many modifications and variations of the present subject matter are possible in light of the above disclosure.
[0020] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize, however, that the techniques described herein can be practised without one or more of the specific details, or with other methods, components, materials, etc. In other instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring certain aspects.
[0021] Various features and embodiments of the present invention here will be discernible from the following further description thereof, set out hereunder. Further “front” and “rear”, and “left” and “right” referred to in the ensuing description of the illustrated embodiment refer to front and rear, and left and right directions as seen from a rear portion of the vehicle and looking forward. However, it is contemplated that the disclosure in the present invention may be applied to any vehicle without defeating the spirit of the present subject matter. The detailed explanation of the constitution of parts other than the present invention which constitutes an essential part has been omitted at suitable places.
[0022] In order to address the one or more of the above-mentioned problems, the present invention provides a system for controlling one or more lighting units of a vehicle.
[0023] As per one embodiment of the present invention, a system for controlling one or more lighting units of a vehicle is provided. In one embodiment the one or more lighting units may include but not limited to a headlight of the vehicle, one or more indicators light etc. The system comprises a plurality of sensing units, and a control unit. In one embodiment the plurality of sensing units may include but not limited to a RADAR, a LIDAR, an image capturing sensor, a GPS module etc. The plurality of sensing units is configured to be disposed in a predefined configuration on the vehicle. In a preferred embodiment the predefined configuration may include a front portion of the vehicle. The plurality of sensing units is configured to detect a plurality of real-time parameters of at least one of the vehicle and one or more objects in a predefined vicinity of the vehicle. The predefined vicinity, in a preferred embodiment can be within a radius of 200 metres. However, depending on vehicular or geography specific requirements, this predefined vicinity can be varied. In one embodiment the plurality of real-time parameters may include but not limited to a distance of one or more objects from the vehicle, an intensity of ambient light present in the vicinity of the vehicle, a lean angle of the vehicle from a horizontal plane, a state of one or more object in the vicinity of the vehicle, a time period of operation of the vehicle etc. The control unit is configured to receive inputs from the plurality of sensing units and operate the plurality of lighting units in one or more modes based on a comparison of a plurality of predefined parameters with the plurality of real-time parameters. The one or more modes of the one or more lighting units is based on at least a required luminous intensity, an angle of orientation and a field of view.
[0024] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the one or more modes of the one or more lighting units comprise a first mode and second mode. The first mode is configured to have a wide field of view and a high pre-set luminous intensity and the second mode is configured to have a narrow field of view and a low-preset luminous intensity. In one embodiment, the first mode may include but not limited to a high beam mode of the one or more lighting units, where the projection of light via one or more lighting units have a maximum projection distance of 400 feet ahead of the vehicle and an angle of orientation of the projection is straight ahead and for safety reasons the high-beam may include a luminous intensity of 50,000 candelas. In one embodiment the second mode may include but not limited to a low-beam mode of the lighting units where the projection of light via one or more lighting units have a maximum projection distance of 160 feet ahead of the vehicle and the projection angled toward the road and for safety reasons the low-beam may include a luminous intensity of 30,000 candelas.
[0025] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the predefined configuration of the one or more lighting units on the vehicle is a front portion of the vehicle.
[0026] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of real-time parameters comprises at least one or more real-time distance parameters of the one or more object (300), one or more real-time state parameters of the one or more objects, one or more real-time lean angle parameters of the vehicle, one or more real-time ambient parameters, and one or more time parameter. The one or more real-time distance parameters are indicative of an instantaneous value of distance between the one or more objects and the vehicle. The one or more real-time state parameters are indicative of at least one of a moving object and a stationary object.
[0027] In one embodiment, the moving object may include an approaching vehicle and a moving person. In one embodiment the stationary object may include a person standing or sitting stationary in the direction of motion of the vehicle. The one or more real-time lean angle parameters are a plurality of angles formed by a vertical axis of the vehicle with a ground plane. In one embodiment the real time lean angle may include an angle formed by the vehicle with the road while overtaking another vehicle. The one or more real-time ambient parameters are an intensity of ambient light of an external environment during the vehicle operation. The one or more time parameters are indicative of a duration of operation of the vehicle.
[0028] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of predefined parameters (204) comprising at least one or more predefined distance parameters (213), one or more predefined profile parameters (214), a predefined lean angle parameter (215), a predefined ambient light parameter (216), and a predefined time parameter (217). In one embodiment, the one or more distance parameter is the distance of 400 feet between the vehicle and the one or more objects. In one embodiment the one or more predefined profile parameters may include but are not limited to approaching vehicles and one or persons in a moving and a stationary state. In one embodiment the predefined lean angle parameter is a preset value of an angel of inclination of the vehicle with the ground plane. In one embodiment the predefined ambient light parameter is a preset value of the intensity of ambient light of an external environment in the vicinity of the vehicle. In one embodiment the predefined time parameter is a time of 30 minutes of vehicle operation.
[0029] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the control unit comprises a memory unit, a receiver unit, a processor unit, and a transmitter unit. The memory unit is configured to store the plurality of predefined parameters. The receiver unit is configured to receive the plurality of real-time parameters from the plurality of sensing units. The processor unit is configured to compare the plurality of predefined parameters with the plurality of real-time parameters and the processor unit is configured to generate a signal based on one or more conditions. Each signal generated is associated with a pre-set mode of the one or more modes. The transmitter unit is configured to send the generated signal to enable the one or more modes through the one or more lighting units.
[0030] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the one or more conditions comprise at least a first condition, a second condition, a third condition, a fourth condition, and a fifth condition. The first condition is fulfilled when one or more predefined distance parameters exceed the one or more real-time distance parameters. In one embodiment the first condition may illustrate a situation where the distance between a moving object and the vehicle is less than 400 feet. The second condition is fulfilled when the one or more real-time state parameters of the one or more objects are indicative of the moving object. In one embodiment the moving object may include an approaching vehicle and a moving person. The third condition is fulfilled when the one or more real-time lean angle parameters exceed the predefined lean angle parameter. In one embodiment the third condition illustrates the triggering of the signal by the control unit during an overtaking scenario, where the angle of inclination of the vehicle is more than the preset angle. The fourth condition is fulfilled when the one or more real-time ambient parameters exceed the predefined ambient light parameter. In one embodiment the fourth condition illustrates the triggering of the signal by the control unit in a situation where the intensity of ambient light such as sunlight or a street light is more than a preset value of ambient light in the memory unit. The fifth condition is fulfilled when the one or more time parameters exceed the predefined time parameter. In one embodiment fifth condition illustrates the triggering of the signal by the control unit at an interval of 30 minutes in a preset frequency.
[0031] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the control unit is configured to switch from a first mode of one or more modes to a second mode of one or more modes when at least one of the first condition, the second condition and the third condition is fulfilled.
[0032] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the control unit is configured to inhibit a user of the vehicle from manually switching from a second mode of one or more modes to a first mode of one or more modes when the fourth condition is fulfilled.
[0033] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the control unit is configured to operate the one or more lighting units at a predefined frequency between the one or more modes, when the fifth condition is fulfilled.
[0034] As per another embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle is provided. In one embodiment the vehicle may include a two-wheeled vehicle, a three-wheeled vehicle, a four-wheeled vehicle and any multi-axle vehicle. The vehicle comprises one or more lighting units, a plurality of sensing units, a control unit. The one or more lighting units are configured to enable one or more modes. The plurality of sensing units is configured to be disposed in a predefined configuration on the vehicle. The plurality of sensing units is configured to detect a plurality of real-time parameters of at least the vehicle and one or more objects in a predefined vicinity of the vehicle. The control unit is configured to receive an input from the plurality of sensing units and the control unit operate the plurality of lighting units in one or more modes based on a comparison of a plurality of predefined parameters with the plurality of real-time parameters. The one or more modes are based on at least a required luminous intensity, an angle of orientation and a field of view.
[0035] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the vehicle comprises a switch. The switch is configured to enable a user of the vehicle to select the one or more modes manually.
[0036] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the vehicle comprises a plurality of indicator lights, the plurality of indicator lights is configured to indicate a turning direction of the vehicle. The plurality of indicator lights comprises one or more left indicators and one or more right indicators. The one or more left indicators are configured to be mounted on a left side of the vehicle. The one or more right indicators are configured to be mounted on a right side of the vehicle. The control unit is configured to switch back and forth between one or more mode at a predefined frequency based on activation of the plurality of indicator lights.
[0037] As per another embodiment of the present invention, a method for controlling one or more lighting units of the vehicle is provided. The method comprises a sensing step, a comparing step and an operating step. In the sensing step a plurality of sensing units disposed on the vehicle detects a plurality of real-time parameters of at least one of the vehicle and one or more objects in a predefined vicinity of the vehicle. In the comparing step, a control unit compares the plurality of real-time parameters with a plurality of predefined parameters. In the operating step, the control unit operates one or more lighting units in one or more modes based on the comparison of the plurality of predefined parameters with the plurality of real-time parameters under one or more conditions.
[0038] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the one or more modes of the one or more lighting units comprises a first mode and a second mode. The first mode has a wide field of view and a high pre-set luminous intensity. the second mode has a narrow field of view and a low-preset luminous intensity.
[0039] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of real-time parameters comprises one or more real-time distance parameters of the one or more objects, one or more real-time state parameters of the one or more objects, one or more real-time lean angle parameters of the vehicle, one or more real-time ambient parameters, and a time parameter. The one or more real time distance parameter is an instantaneous value of the distance between the one or more objects and the vehicle. The one or more real-time state parameters in one configuration are indicative of a moving object and in another configuration are indicative of a stationary object. The one or more real-time lean angle parameters are the angles formed by a vertical axis of the vehicle with a ground plane. The one or more real-time ambient parameters is an intensity of light of an external environment during the vehicle operations. The time parameter is the duration of operation of the vehicle.
[0040] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of predefined parameters comprises at least one or more predefined distance parameters, one or more predefined profile parameters, a predefined lean angle parameter, a predefined ambient light parameter, and a predefined time parameter.
[0041] As per another embodiment of the present invention, one or more conditions comprises at least a first condition, a second condition, a third condition, a fourth condition and a fifth condition. The first condition is fulfilled when one or more predefined distance parameters exceed the one or more real-time distance parameters. The second condition is fulfilled when one or more real-time state parameters of the one or more objects is indicative of a moving object. The third condition is fulfilled when the one or more real-time lean angle parameters exceeds a predefined lean angle parameter. The fourth condition is fulfilled when the one or more real-time ambient parameters exceed a predefined ambient light parameter. The fifth condition is fulfilled when the one or more time parameters exceed the predefined time parameter.
[0042] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the control unit switches from the first mode to the second mode when at least one of the first condition, the second condition and the third condition is fulfilled.
[0043] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the control unit inhibits a user of the vehicle from manually switching from a second mode to a first mode when the fourth condition is fulfilled.
[0044] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the control unit operates the one or more lighting units at a predefined frequency between one or more modes, when the fifth condition is fulfilled.
[0045] The present subject matter is further described with reference to the accompanying figures. It should be noted that the description and figures merely illustrate the principles of the present subject matter. Various configurations may be devised that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, encompass the principles of the present subject matter. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects and examples of the present subject matter, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass equivalents thereof.
[0046] The foregoing disclosure is not intended to limit the present disclosure to the precise forms of particular fields of use disclosed. As such, it is contemplated that various alternate embodiments and/or modifications to the present disclosure, whether explicitly described or implied herein, are possible in light of the disclosure. Having thus described embodiments of the present disclosure, a person of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
[0047] In the foregoing specification, the disclosure has been described with reference to specific embodiments disclosed herein can be modified or otherwise implemented in various other ways without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, this description is to be considered illustrative and is for the purpose of teaching those skilled in the art the manner of making and using various embodiments of the disclosure. It is to be understood that the forms of the disclosure herein shown and described are to be taken as representative embodiments. Equivalent elements, materials processed or steps may be substituted for those representatively illustrated and described herein. Moreover, certain features of the disclosure may be utilized independently of the use of other features, all as would be apparent to one skilled in the art after having the benefit of this description of the disclosure. Expressions such as “including”, “comprising”, “incorporating”, “consisting of”, “have”, and “is”, used to describe and claim the present disclosure are intended to be construed in a non-exclusive manner, namely allowing for items, components, or elements not explicitly described also to be present. Reference to the singular is also to be construed to relate to the plural.
[0048] Further, various embodiments disclosed herein are to be taken in the illustrative and explanatory sense, and would in no way be construed as limiting the present disclosure. All joinder references (e.g., attached, affixed, coupled, connected, etc.) are only used to aid the reader’s understanding of the present invention, and may not create limitations, particularly as to the position orientation, or use of the system and/or methods disclosed herein. Therefore, joinder references, if any, are to be construed broadly. Moreover, such joinder references do not necessarily infer that two elements are directly connected to each other.
[0049] Additionally, all numerical terms, such as, but not limited to, “first”, “second”, “primary”, “secondary”, “main” or any other ordinary and/or numerical terms, should also be taken as identifiers, to assist the reader’s understanding of the various elements, embodiments, variations and/or modifications of the present disclosure, and may not create any limitations, particularly as to the order, or preference, of any element, embodiment, variation, and/or modification relative to, or over, another element, embodiment, variation and/or modification.
[0050] It will also be appreciated that one or more of the elements depicted in the drawings/ figures can also be implemented in a more separated or integrated manner, or even removed, or rendered as inoperable in certain cases, as is useful in accordance with a particular application. The embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the disclosed invention is not limited to the present embodiments.
[0051] Figure 1a illustrates a vehicle (100) with one or more lighting units (101). Figure 1b illustrates a system (200) for controlling one or more lighting units (101) of a vehicle (100). Figure 1a and 1b are taken together for discussion. The system (200) for controlling one or more lighting units (101) of a vehicle (100) comprises a plurality of sensing units (201), and a control unit (202). The plurality of sensing units (201) are configured to be disposed of in a predefined configuration on the vehicle (100). The plurality of sensing units (201) is configured to detect a plurality of real-time parameters (203) of at least one of the vehicle (100) and one or more objects (300) in a predefined vicinity of the vehicle (100). The control unit (202) is configured to receive inputs from the plurality of sensing units (201) and operate the plurality of lighting units (101) in one or more modes (205) based on a comparison of a plurality of predefined parameters (204) with the plurality of real-time parameters (203). The one or more modes (205) of the one or more lighting units (101) are based on at least a required luminous intensity, an angle of orientation and a field of view. For example, in one embodiment, the one or modes (205) can be a high beam mode having high angle of orientation and larger field of view with high intensity and a low beam mode having low angle of orientation and smaller field of view with low intensity. In another embodiment, the one or modes (105) can include more than to modes with varying degrees of angle of orientation, field of view and intensity. A skilled person will appreciate that the specific values of these ranges may change from vehicle to vehicle but may also be governed using governmental regulations.
[0052] The one or more modes (205) of the one or more lighting units (101) comprise a first mode (206), the first mode (206) being configured to have a wide field of view and a high pre-set luminous intensity; a second mode (207), the second mode (207) being configured to have a narrow field of view and a low-preset luminous intensity. The predefined configuration of the one or more lighting units (101) is a front portion of the vehicle (100).
[0053] The plurality of real-time parameters (203) comprise at least one or more real-time distance parameters (208) of the one or more object (300), one or more real-time state parameters (209) of the one or more objects (300), one or more real-time lean angle parameters (210) of the vehicle (100), one or more real-time ambient parameters (211), and one or more time parameter (212). The one or more real-time distance parameters (208) are indicative of an instantaneous value of distance between the one or more objects (300) and the vehicle (100). The one or more real-time state parameters (209) are indicative of at least one of a moving object (301) and a stationary object (302). The one or more real-time lean angle parameters (210) are a plurality of angles formed by a vertical axis of the vehicle (100) with a ground plane. The one or more real-time ambient parameters (211) are an intensity of ambient light of an external environment during the vehicle (100) operation. The one or more time parameter (212) is indicative of a duration of operation of the vehicle (100).
[0054] The plurality of predefined parameters (204) comprising at least one or more predefined distance parameters (213), one or more predefined profile parameters (214), a predefined lean angle parameter (215), a predefined ambient light parameter (216), and a predefined time parameter (217).
[0055] The control unit (202) comprises a memory unit (218), a receiver unit (219), a processor unit (220), and a transmitter unit (221). The memory unit (218) is configured to store the plurality of predefined parameters (204). The receiver unit (219) is configured to receive the plurality real-time parameters (203) from the plurality of sensing unit (201). The processor unit (220) is configured to compare the plurality of predefined parameters (204) with the plurality of real-time parameters (203) and configured to generate a signal (222) based on one or more conditions (223). Each signal (222) generated is associated with a pre-set mode of the one or more modes (205). The transmitter unit (221) is configured to send the generated signal (222) to enable the one or more modes (205) through the one or more lighting units (101).
[0056] The one or more conditions (223) comprise at least a first condition (224), a second condition (225), a third condition (226), a fourth condition (227), and a fifth condition (228). The first condition (224) is fulfilled when one or more predefined distance parameters (213) exceed the one or more real-time distance parameters (208). The second condition (225) is fulfilled when the one or more real-time state parameters (209) of the one or more objects (300) are indicative of the moving object (301). The third condition (226) is fulfilled when the one or more real-time lean angle parameters (210) exceed the predefined lean angle parameter (215). The fourth condition (227) is fulfilled when the one or more real-time ambient parameters (211) exceed the predefined ambient light parameter (216). The fifth condition (228) is fulfilled when the one or more time parameter (212) exceed the predefined time parameter (217).
[0057] The control unit (202) is configured to switch from a first mode (206) to a second mode (207) when at least one of the first condition (224), the second condition (225) and the third condition (226) is fulfilled. The control unit (202) is configured to inhibit a user of the vehicle (100) from manually switching from the second mode (207) to the first mode (206) when the fourth condition (227) is fulfilled. The control unit (202) is configured to operate the one or more lighting units (101) at a predefined frequency between the one or more modes (205), when the fifth condition (228) is fulfilled.
[0058] The vehicle (100) comprises a switch (230). The switch (230) is configured to enable a user of the straddle type vehicle (100) to select the one or more modes (205) manually.
[0059] The vehicle (100) comprises a plurality of indicator lights (231). the plurality of indicator lights (231) are configured to indicate a turning direction of the vehicle (100). The plurality of indicator lights (231) comprises one or more left indicators (232) and one or more right indicators (233). The one or more left indicators (232) are configured to be mounted on a left side of the vehicle (100). The one or more right indicators (233) are configured to be mounted on a right side of the vehicle (100).
[0060] Figure 2 illustrates a method (500) for controlling one or more lighting units (101) of a vehicle (100). The method (500) comprises a sensing step (501), comparing step (502) and an operating (503) step. In sensing step (501), a plurality of sensing unit (201) disposed on the vehicle (100) detects a plurality of real-time parameters (203) of at least one of the vehicle (100) and one or more objects (300) in a predefined vicinity of the vehicle the vehicle (100). In comparing step (502), a control unit (202) compares the plurality of real-time parameters (203) with a plurality of predefined parameters (204). In operating step (503), the control unit (202) operates one or more lighting units (101) in one or more modes (205) based on the comparison (502) of the plurality of predefined parameters (204) with the plurality of real-time parameters (203) under one or more conditions (223).
[0061] The one or more modes (205) of the one or more lighting units (101) comprises a first mode (206) and a second mode (207). The first mode (206) is configured to have a wide field of view and a high pre-set luminous intensity and the second mode (207) is configured to have a narrow field of view and a low-preset luminous intensity.
[0062] The plurality of real-time parameters (203) comprises one or more real-time distance parameters (208) of the one or more objects (300), one or more real-time state parameters (209) of the one or more objects (300), one or more real-time lean angle parameters (210) of the vehicle (100), one or more real-time ambient parameters (211) and a time parameter (212). The one or more real time parameter is indicative of an instantaneous value of the distance between the more or more objects (300) and the vehicle (100). The one or more real-time state parameters (209) in one configuration are indicative of a moving object (301) and in another configuration are indicative of a stationary object (302). The one or more real-time lean angle parameters (210) are the angles formed by a vertical axis of the vehicle (100) with a ground plane. The one or more real-time ambient parameters (211) is the intensity of light of an external environment during the vehicle (100) operations. The time parameter is the duration of operation of the vehicle (100).
[0063] The plurality of predefined parameters (204) comprises at least one or more predefined distance parameters (213), one or more predefined profile parameters (214), a predefined lean angle parameter (215), a predefined ambient light parameter (216), and a predefined time parameter (217).
[0064] The one or more conditions (223) comprise at least a first condition (224), a second condition (225), a third condition (226), a fourth condition (227) and a fifth condition (228). The first condition (224) is fulfilled when one or more predefined distance parameters (213) exceed the one or more real-time distance parameters (208). The second condition (225) is fulfilled when one or more real-time state parameters (209) of the one or more objects (300) is indicative of a moving object (301). The third condition is fulfilled when the one or more real-time lean angle parameters (210) exceed a predefined lean angle parameter (215). The fourth condition (227) is fulfilled when the one or more real-time ambient parameters (211) exceed a predefined ambient light parameter (216). The fifth condition (228) is fulfilled when the one or more time parameter (212) exceeds the predefined time parameter (217).
[0065] The control unit (202) is configured to switch from the first mode (206) to the second mode (207) when at least one of the first condition (224), the second condition (225) and the third condition (226) is fulfilled. The control unit (202) is configured to inhibit a user of the vehicle (100) from manually switching from a second mode (207) of the one or more modes (205) to a first mode (206) of the one or modes (205) when fourth condition (227) is fulfilled. The control unit (202) is configured to operate the one or more lighting units (101) at a predefined frequency between one or more modes, when fifth condition (228) is fulfilled.
[0066] Figure 3 illustrates a method (500) for controlling one or more lighting units (101) of the vehicle (100) as per a first condition (224). In one embodiment of the present invention the one or more lighting units (101) may include but not limited to a front headlight of the vehicle having various configurations such a halogen light, a LED light or a projector light etc. In first condition (224), a system (200) checks whether a first mode (206) of one or more modes (205) is enabled through the one or more lighting units (101). If the first mode (206) is not enabled then the system (200) stops and the first mode (206) remains enabled. If the first mode (206) is enabled then the system (200) via a control unit (202) of the system (200) detects the presence of one or more objects (300) in the vicinity of the vehicle (100) via plurality of sensing units (201). If an object is detected via the one or more objects (300), then the control unit (202) compares the one or more predefined distance parameters (213) with the one or more real time parameters (208). In an embodiment of the present invention the one or more predefined distance parameter (213) is the preset distance of 400 feet of the one or more objects (300) from the vehicle (100) and the one or more real-time distance parameters (208) are the instantaneous distance of one or more objects (300) from the vehicle (100). After comparison, if the predefined distance parameters (213) exceed the one or more real-time distance parameters (208), then the control unit (202) generates a signal (222) to disable the first mode (206) and enable a second mode (207). However, if the predefined distance parameters (213) do not exceed the one or more real-time distance parameters (208), then the system (200) stops and the first mode (206) remains enabled.
[0067] Figure 4 illustrates a method (500) for controlling one or more lighting units (101) of the vehicle (100) as per a second condition (225). In the second condition (225), a system (200) checks whether a first mode (206) of one or more modes (205) is enabled through the one or more lighting units (101). If the first mode (206) is not enabled then the system (200) stops. If the first mode is enabled then the system (200) via a control unit (202) of the system (200) detects the presence of one or more objects (300) in the vicinity of the vehicle (100) via plurality of sensing units (201). After detection of the one or more objects (300), the control unit checks the one or more real-time state parameters (209) of the one or more objects (300). If the one or more real time state parameter (209) indicates a moving object (301), then control unit (202) generates a signal (202) to disable the first mode (206) and to enable a second mode (207). If the real-time state parameters (209) indicates a stationary object (302) then the system (200) stops and the first mode (206) remains enabled. In one embodiment the real-time state parameters (209) of the one or more objects (300) is a state of the objects in the direction of motion of the vehicle. In an embodiment of the present invention the moving object (301) may include but not limited to an approaching vehicle and a moving person, present in the direction of motion of the vehicle (100).
[0068] Figure 5 illustrates a method (500) for controlling one or more lighting units (101) of the vehicle (100) as per a third condition (226). In the third condition (226), a system (200) checks whether a first mode (206) of one or more modes (205) is enabled through the one or more lighting units (101). If the first mode (206) is not enabled then the system (200) stops. If the first mode is enabled then the system (200) via a control unit (202) of the system (200) detects one or more real-time lean angle parameters (210) of the vehicle (100) via a plurality of sensing units (201). In an embodiment of the present invention the one or more real-time lean angle parameters (210) indicates an angle of inclination of a vertical axis of the vehicle (100) with a ground plane. After detection of the one or more real-time lean angle parameters (210), the control unit (202) compares the one or more real-time lean angle parameters (210) with a predefined lean angle parameter (215). After comparison, if the one or more real-time lean angle parameters (210) exceed the predefined lean angle parameter (215) then the control unit (202) generates a first signal (222) to disable the first mode (206) and enable a second mode (207) of the one or more modes (205). After comparison, if the one or more real-time lean angle parameters (210) exceed the predefined lean angle parameter (215) then the system (200) stops and the first mode (206) remains enabled.
[0069] Figure 6 illustrates a method (500) for controlling one or more lighting units (101) of the vehicle (100) as per a fourth condition (227). In the fourth condition, a system (200) checks whether a first mode (206) of one or more modes (205) of the one or more lighting units (101) is enabled. If the first mode (206) is not enabled then the system (200) stops. If the first mode is enabled then the system (200) via a control unit (202) of the system (200) detects one or more real-time ambient parameters (211) via a plurality of sensing units (201). In an embodiment of the present invention the one or more real time ambient parameters (211) represent a luminous intensity of the light present in the external environment of the vehicle (100). After detection of one or more real-time ambient parameters (211), the control unit (202) compares the one or more real-time ambient parameters (211) with a predefined ambient light parameter (216). After comparison, if the one or more real-time ambient parameters (211) exceed the predefined ambient light parameter (216), then the control unit (202) generates a signal (222) to disable the first mode (206) and to enable a second mode (207) of the one or more modes (205). If after comparison, the one or more real-time ambient parameters (211) do not exceed the predefined ambient light parameter (216), then system (200) stops and the first mode (206) remains enabled.
[0070] Figure 7 illustrates a method (500) for controlling one or more lighting units (101) of the vehicle (100) as per a fifth condition (228). In the fifth mode (228), a first mode (206) of one or more modes (205) is enabled through the one or more lighting units (101). The control unit (202) detects the presence of one or more objects (300) in the vicinity of the vehicle (100) via a plurality of sensing units (201) detects. If the first mode is enabled then the system (200) via a control unit (202) of the system (200) detects one or more time parameters (212) of the vehicle (100) operation via a plurality of sensing units (201). After detection of the one or more time parameters (212), the control unit (202) compares the one or more time parameters (212) with a predefined time parameter (217). In an embodiment of the predefined time parameter (217) may be 30 minutes. After comparison, if the one or more time parameters (212) exceed the predefined time parameter (217) then the control unit (202) generates a signal (222) to disable the first mode (206) and enable a second mode (207) of the one or more modes (205). After comparison, if the one or more time parameters (212) do not exceed the predefined time parameters (217) then the system (200) stops and the first mode (206) remains enabled.
[0071] According to the above disclosure, the present invention provides various advantages. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the system (200) enable the control unit (202) to toggle between one or more modes (205) of the one or more lighting units (101) of the vehicle (100) thereby freeing the user of the vehicle (100) from manually operating one or more modes (205). This enables the user of the vehicle (100) to focus more on the road rather than on the toggling of the between one or more modes (205) of the lighting units.
[0072] Since the system (200) is capable of automatically detecting the presence of the one or more objects (300) which may be a vehicle or a person and capable of comparing the one or more real-time parameters (208) with one or more predefined parameters (204). Through this comparison the system (200) is capable of generating a signal (222) to operate the one or more lighting units (101) via one or more modes (205), where the one or more modes (205) may include a high-beam mode and a low beam mode. Hence, in a scenario where a moving object (301) is present in the direction of the motion of the vehicle (100) and the high-beam mode is activated, the system (200) is capable of switching to a low beam mode. This reduces the glare and enable an optimum visibility for the moving object (301). Here, the moving object (301) may include a vehicle, a person and a cyclist etc.
[0073] Since the system (200) is capable of automatically operating the one or more lighting units (101) the user of the vehicle (100) can focus on the road while driving rather than on manually switching between one or more modes (205) of the one or more lighting units (101) and there will be a reduction in rider fatigue. Additionally, the automatic switching of one or more modes improves the road safety as the oncoming vehicles have a better visibility and can avoid any unnecessary risk.
[0074] Since the one or more lighting units (101) are operated by the system (200) the speed of operation is instantaneous compared to a manual operation of the one or more modes (205). Additionally, the system (200) is capable of having different configurations to operate one or more lighting units (101) depending upon the legal compliances of various jurisdictions.
[0075] The system (200) is capable of the switching back and forth between one or more modes (205) of the lighting units (100) in an overtaking scenario, where a plurality of turn signals (231) is activated and rider of the vehicle (100) wants to overtake another vehicle. In such scenarios the user of the vehicle (100) can focus on overtaking as the one or more lighting units (101) are operated by the system (200).
[0076] Lastly, the present invention enables the user of the vehicle to focus on the road, freeing the rider from manually operating the one or more modes of the vehicle thereby reducing user fatigue, improves the visibility for the oncoming vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists, complying with the various jurisdictions, helps in reduction in accidents etc.
[0077] While the present invention has been shown and described with reference to the foregoing preferred embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that changes in form, connection, and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
[0078] This written description uses examples to provide details on the disclosure, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the disclosure is defined by the claims and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.
[0079] It is to be understood that the aspects of the embodiments are not necessarily limited to the features described herein. Many modifications and variations of the present subject matter are possible in light of the above disclosure.

LIST OF REFERENCES

Reference numerals Meaning
100 A vehicle
101 One or more lighting units
200 A system
201 A plurality of sensing units
202 A control unit
203 A plurality of real-time parameters
204 A plurality of predefined parameters
205 One or more modes
206 A First mode
207 A second mode
208 one or more real-time distance parameters
209 One or more real-time state parameters
210 One or more real-time lean angle parameter
211 One or more real-time ambient parameters
212 One or more time parameter
213 One or more predefined distance parameters
214 One or more predefined profile parameters
215 A predefined lean angle parameter
216 A predefined ambient light parameter
217 A predefined time parameter
218 A memory unit
219 A receiver unit
220 A processor unit
221 A transmitter unit
222 A signal
223 One or more conditions
224 A first condition
225 A second condition
226 A third condition
227 A fourth condition
228 A fifth condition
230 A switch
231 A plurality of indicator lights
232 One or more left indicators
233 One or more right indicators
300 One or more moving objects
301 A moving object
302 A stationary object
, Claims:We claim:
1. A system (200) for controlling one or more lighting units (101) of a vehicle (100), the system (200) comprising:
a plurality of sensing units (201), the plurality of sensing units (201) being configured to be disposed in a predefined configuration on the vehicle (100), the plurality of sensing units (201) being configured to detect a plurality of real-time parameters (203) of at least one of the vehicle (100) and one or more objects (300) in a predefined vicinity of the vehicle (100); and
a control unit (202), the control unit (202) being configured to:
receive inputs from the plurality of sensing units (201); and operate the plurality of lighting units (101) in one or more modes (205) based on a comparison of a plurality of predefined parameters (204) with the plurality of real-time parameters (203),
the one or more modes (205) of the one or more lighting units (101) being based on at least a required luminous intensity, an angle of orientation and a field of view.
2. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more modes (205) of the one or more lighting units (101) comprising:
a first mode (206), the first mode (206) being configured to have a wide field of view and a high pre-set luminous intensity; and
a second mode (207), the second mode (207) being configured to have a narrow field of view and a low-preset luminous intensity.
3. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the predefined configuration of the one or more lighting units (101) on the vehicle (100), being a front portion of the vehicle (100).
4. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of real-time parameters (203) comprise at least two of:
one or more real-time distance parameters (208) of the one or more object (300), the one or more real-time distance parameters (208) being indicative of an instantaneous value of distance between the one or more objects (300) and the vehicle (100);
one or more real-time state parameters (209) of the one or more objects (300), the one or more real-time state parameters (209) being indicative of at least one of a moving object (301) and a stationary object (302);
one or more real-time lean angle parameters (210) of the vehicle (100), the one or more real-time lean angle parameters (210) being an angle formed by a vertical axis of the vehicle (100) with a ground plane;
one or more real-time ambient parameters (211), the one or more real-time ambient parameters (211) being an intensity of ambient light of an external environment during operation of the vehicle (100); and
one or more time parameter (212), the one or more time parameter (212) being indicative of a duration of operation of the vehicle (100).
5. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of predefined parameters (204) comprising at least two of: one or more predefined distance parameters (213), one or more predefined profile parameters (214), a predefined lean angle parameter (215), a predefined ambient light parameter (216), and a predefined time parameter (217).
6. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit (202) comprising:
a memory unit (218), the memory unit (218) being configured to store the plurality of predefined parameters (204);
a receiver unit (219), the receiver unit (219) being configured to receive the plurality real-time parameters (203) from the plurality of sensing unit (201);
a processor unit (220), the processor unit (220) being configured to compare the plurality of predefined parameters (204) with the plurality of real-time parameters (203); and being configured to generate a signal (222) based on one or more conditions (223), each signal (222) generated being associated with a pre-set mode of the one or more modes (205);
a transmitter unit (221), the transmitter unit (221) being configured to send the generated signal (222) to enable the one or more modes (205) through the one or more lighting units (101).
7. The system (200) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the one or more conditions (223) comprising at least:
a first condition (224), the first condition (224) being fulfilled when one or more predefined distance parameters (213) exceeding one or more real-time distance parameters (208);
a second condition (225), the second condition (225) being fulfilled when one or more real-time state parameters (209) of one or more objects (300) being indicative of the moving object (301);
a third condition (226), the third condition (226) being fulfilled when one or more real-time lean angle parameters (210) exceeding predefined lean angle parameter (215);
a fourth condition (227), the fourth condition (227) being fulfilled when one or more real-time ambient parameters (211) exceeding a predefined ambient light parameter (216); and
a fifth condition (228), the fifth condition (228) being fulfilled when one or more time parameter (212) exceeding a predefined time parameter (217).
8. The system (200) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the control unit (202) being configured to switch from a first mode (206) of one or more modes (205) to a second mode (207) of one or more modes (205) when at least one of the first condition (224), the second condition (225) and the third condition (226) being fulfilled.
9. The system (200) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the control unit (202) being configured to inhibit a user of the vehicle (100) from manually switching from a second mode (207) of one or more modes (205) to a first mode (206) of one or more modes (205) when the fourth condition (227) being fulfilled.
10. The system (200) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the control unit (202) being configured to operate the one or more lighting units (101) at a predefined frequency between the one or more modes (205), when the fifth condition (228) being fulfilled.
11. A vehicle (100), the vehicle the (100) comprising:
one or more lighting units (101), the one or more lighting units (101) configured to enable one or more modes (205);
a plurality of sensing units (201), the plurality of sensing units (201) being configured to be disposed in a predefined configuration on the vehicle (100), the plurality of sensing units (201) being configured to detect a plurality of real-time parameters (203) of at least the vehicle (100) and one or more objects (300) in a predefined vicinity of the vehicle (100);
a control unit (202), the control unit (202) being configured to:
receive an input from the plurality of sensing units (201) and the control unit (202);
operate the plurality of lighting units (101) in one or more modes (205) based on a comparison of a plurality of predefined parameters (204) with the plurality of real-time parameters (203), the one or more modes (205) being based on at least a required luminous intensity, an angle of orientation and a field of view.
12. A method (500) for controlling one or more lighting units (101) of a vehicle (100), the method (500) comprising:
sensing (501), by a plurality of sensing unit (201) disposed on the vehicle (100), a plurality of real-time parameters (203) of at least one of the vehicle (100) and one or more objects (300) in a predefined vicinity of the vehicle the vehicle (100);
comparing (502), by a control unit (202) the plurality of real-time parameters (203) with a plurality of predefined parameters (204);
operating (503), by the control unit (202) one or more lighting units (101) in one or more modes (205) based on the comparison (502) of the plurality of predefined parameters (204) with the plurality of real-time parameters (203) under one or more conditions (223).
13. The method (500) as claimed in claim 12, wherein the one or more modes (205) of the one or more lighting units (101) comprises:
a first mode (206), the first mode (206) is configured to have a wide field of view and a high pre-set luminous intensity;
a second mode (207), the second mode (207) is configured to have a narrow field of view and a low-preset luminous intensity.
14. The method (500) as claimed in claim 12 wherein the plurality of real-time parameters (203) comprises:
one or more real-time distance parameters (208) of the one or more objects (300), the one or more real time parameter is indicative of an instantaneous value of the distance between the more or more objects (300) and the vehicle (100);
one or more real-time state parameters (209) of the one or more objects (300), the one or more real-time state parameters (209) in one configuration are indicative of a moving object (301) and in another configuration are indicative of a stationary object (302);
one or more real-time lean angle parameters (210) of the vehicle (100), the one or more real-time lean angle parameters (210) are the angles formed by a vertical axis of the vehicle (100) with a ground plane;
one or more real-time ambient parameters (211), the one or more real-time ambient parameters (211) is an intensity of light of an external environment during the vehicle (100) operations; and
a time parameter (212), the time parameter is the duration of operation of the vehicle (100).
15. The method (500) as claimed in claim 12, wherein the plurality of predefined parameters (204) comprises at least: one or more predefined distance parameters (213), one or more predefined profile parameters (214), a predefined lean angle parameter (215), a predefined ambient light parameter (216), and a predefined time parameter (217).
16. The method (500) as claimed in claim 12, wherein one or more conditions (223) comprises at least:
a first condition (224), the first condition (224) is fulfilled when one or more predefined distance parameters (213) exceeds one or more real-time distance parameters (208);
a second condition (225), the second condition (225) is fulfilled when one or more real-time state parameters (209) of the one or more objects (300) is indicative of a moving object (301),
a third condition (226), the third condition (226) is fulfilled when the one or more real-time lean angle parameters (210) exceeds a predefined lean angle parameter (215);
a fourth condition (227), the fourth condition (227) is fulfilled when the one or more real-time ambient parameters (211) exceeds a predefined ambient light parameter (216);
a fifth condition (228), the fifth condition (228) is fulfilled when one or more time parameter (212) exceeds a predefined time parameter (217).
17. The method (500) as claimed in claim 16, wherein the control unit (202) is configured to switch from the first mode (206) to the second mode (207) when at least one of the first condition (224), the second condition (225) and the third condition (226) is fulfilled.
18. The method (500) as claimed in claim 16, wherein the control unit (202) is configured to inhibit a user of the vehicle (100) from manually switching from a second mode (207) of the one or more modes (205) to a first mode (206) of the one or modes (205) when fourth condition (227) is fulfilled.
19. The method (500) as claimed in claim 16, wherein the control unit (202) is configured to operate the one or more lighting units (101) at a predefined frequency between one or more modes, when fifth condition (228) is fulfilled.
Dated this 24th day of January 2024

(Digitally Signed)
Sudarshan Singh Shekhawat
IN/PA-1611
Agent for the Applicant