Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[001] Present invention relates to a system for operating a Turn Signal Lamp (TSL) of a vehicle. Embodiments of the present invention also disclose a method for operating the TSL of the vehicle.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[002] Typically, a Turn Signal Lamp (TSL) unit is a common feature provided in a vehicle. The TSL unit is operable by a rider for indicating turning of the vehicle or for indicating intention of turning of the vehicle to other vehicles. This is particularly important when operating the vehicle in traffic, as operation of the TSL unit by the rider informs the other vehicles and/or pedestrians in the traffic to be aware of the vehicle movement, thereby minimising the risk of an accident. However, some of the negligent riders fail to use the TSL unit, and thus may increase the risk of accidents in the traffic.
[003] To overcome the aforementioned problem, systems for automatic operation of the TSL unit have been developed. These systems are adapted to automatically operate the TSL unit when a turning of the vehicle is detected. Thus, the dependency on the rider to operate the TSL unit is eliminated. However, these systems are configured such that the TSL unit is operated to an OFF condition only after 30 seconds. In such scenarios, the rider is required to notice ON condition of the TSL unit and operate the TSL unit to OFF condition, which is inconvenient. Additionally, such a delay in operating the TSL unit to the OFF-condition results in a cumulative effect and adds on to the delay in operating the TSL unit, which is undesirable. Moreover, prolonged operation of the TSL unit in ON-condition may confuse other vehicles and/pedestrians in traffic, which may increase the risk of accident, which is catastrophic.
[004] Thus, there is a need for a system and a method for operating a Turn Signal Lamp (TSL) of a vehicle which addresses at least one or more aforementioned problems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[005] In one aspect, a system for operating a Turn Signal Lamp (TSL) of a vehicle is disclosed. The system comprises a steering angle sensor coupled to a steering unit of the vehicle. The steering angle sensor is adapted to procure steering angle data of the steering unit. One or more vision sensors are disposed in the vehicle, which are adapted to procure vision data pertaining to a dashed line provided on a travel path on one of a left-side and a right-side of the vehicle. A navigation unit is disposed in the vehicle and is adapted to procure route data of the vehicle. Further, a control unit is disposed in the vehicle. The control unit is communicably coupled to the TSL, the steering angle sensor, the one or more vision sensors and the navigation unit. The control unit is adapted to receive, the steering angle data from the steering angle sensor, the vision data from the one or more vision sensors and the route data from the navigation unit. A steering angle based on the steering data, a dashed line on the travel path of the vehicle based on the vision data and a route of the vehicle based on the route data are then determined by the control unit. Thereafter, a state of operation of the TSL is controlled by the control unit between an ON condition and an OFF condition based on one of the route travelled by the vehicle, the vision data and the steering data.
[006] In an embodiment, the control unit is configured to operate the TSL to the ON condition for providing a turn indication of the vehicle when one of the route indicating a turning of the vehicle within a predetermined time, the dashed line is detected on one of the left-side and the right-side of the vehicle for a predefined time and the steering angle of the steering unit exceeds a threshold value for a preset time.
[007] In an embodiment, the control unit is configured to operate the TSL to the OFF condition for cutting-OFF the turn indication of the vehicle, when the steering angle of the steering unit is within the threshold value.
[008] In an embodiment, each of the one or more vision sensors is disposed proximal to a front wheel of the vehicle. Each of the one or more vision sensors are configured to procure vision data pertaining to the dashed lines on the travel path traversed by the front wheel.
[009] In an embodiment, the steering angle sensor is a rheostat coupled to the steering unit of the vehicle and to the control unit. The rheostat comprises a resistor element fixedly mounted to a front frame of the vehicle. A conducting member is movably mounted on the resistor element and positioned above a front fender of the vehicle. The conducting member is coupled to the steering unit and is adapted to move on the resistor element corresponding to the steering angle of the steering unit, wherein movement of the conducting member on the resistor element correspondingly varies resistance offered by the rheostat.
[010] In an embodiment, the control unit is communicably coupled to the resistor element and the conducting member. The control unit is adapted to determine the steering angle of the steering unit based on the resistance offered by the rheostat.
[011] In an embodiment, the TSL of the vehicle comprises a left TSL and a right TSL. Each of the left TSL and the right TSL being communicably coupled to the control unit. The control unit is adapted to operate one of the left TSL and the right TSL corresponding to the steering angle of the steering unit.
[012] In another aspect, a method for operating the TSL of the vehicle is disclosed. The method comprises receiving by the control unit, steering angle data from the steering angle sensor, vision data from the one or more vision sensors and route data from the navigation unit and the steering angle sensor being coupled to the steering unit. The one or more vision sensors are disposed in the vehicle and the navigation unit is disposed in the vehicle. The control unit further determines a steering angle based on the steering data, a dashed line on the travel path of the vehicle based on the vision data and a route of the vehicle based on the route data. Thereafter, a state of operation of the TSL is controlled by the control unit between an ON condition and an OFF condition based on at least one of the route travelled by the vehicle, the vision data and the steering data.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[013] Reference will be made to embodiments of the invention, examples of which may be illustrated in accompanying figures. These figures are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. Although the invention is generally described in context of these embodiments, it should be understood that it is not intended to limit the scope of the invention to these particular embodiments.
Figure 1 is a schematic view of a system for operating a Turn Signal Lamp (TSL) of a vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 2 is a schematic view of a steering angle sensor mounted to a steering unit of the vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 3 is a flow diagram of a method of operating the TSL based on a route data, a vision data and a steering data received by a control unit of the system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 4 is a flow diagram of a method of operating the TSL by the system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[014] The present invention relates to a system and a method for operating a Turn Signal Lamp (TSL) of a vehicle. In an embodiment, the vehicle may be a one-wheeled vehicle, a two-wheeled vehicle, a three-wheeled vehicle or a multi-wheeled vehicle as per requirement. The system and the method are adapted to ensure operation of the TSL between an ON condition and an OFF condition without need for intervention of a rider, thereby enhancing rider comfort and convenience.
[015] Figure 1 is a block diagram of a system 100 for operating a Turn Signal Lamp (TSL) 102 of a vehicle, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. In an embodiment, the vehicle (not shown) may be a one-wheeled vehicle, a two-wheeled vehicle, a three-wheeled vehicle or a multi-wheeled vehicle. The system 100 is adapted to operate the TSL 102 between an ON condition and an OFF condition without need for intervention of a rider, thereby enhancing rider comfort and convenience. In an embodiment, the ON condition of the TSL 102 refers to an illuminated condition of the TSL 102, while the OFF condition of the TSL 102 refers to an extinguished condition of the TSL 102.
[016] In an embodiment, the TSL 102 comprises a left TSL 102a mounted to a left-side (not shown) of the vehicle and a right TSL 102b mounted to a right-side (not shown) of the vehicle. In another embodiment, the TSL 102 is mounted at a front portion (not shown) and at a rear portion (not shown) of the vehicle. In other words the left TSL 102a and the right TSL 102b are mounted at the front portion and the rear portion of the vehicle. As such, vehicles and/or pedestrians that are approaching to the front portion and the rear portion of the vehicle are alerted through operation of the TSL 102.
[017] The system 100 comprises a steering angle sensor 104 coupled to a steering unit (not shown) of the vehicle. The steering angle sensor 104 is adapted to procure steering data of the steering unit. The term “steering data” pertains to rotation of the steering unit, with respect to a mean position (not shown) of the steering unit. As such, the steering angle sensor 104 is adapted to procure data pertaining to extent of rotation of the steering unit with respect to the mean position of the steering unit.
[018] In an embodiment, the steering angle sensor 104 may be a rheostat coupled to the steering unit of the vehicle. The rheostat comprises a resistor element 112 (as shown in Figure 2) fixedly mounted on a front frame of the vehicle. A conducting member 114 (as shown in Figure 2) is movably mounted on the resistor element 112 and is adapted to move on the resistor element 112 corresponding to the rotation of the steering unit. As such, when the steering angle sensor 104 is the rheostat, the steering data would be in terms of change in resistance offered by the rheostat.
[019] The system 100 also comprises one or more vision sensors 106 (hereinafter selectively referred to as ‘vision sensors 106’) disposed in the vehicle. The vision sensors 106 are adapted to procure vision data of a travel path of the vehicle. Particularly, the vision sensors are adapted to provide vision data pertaining to a dashed line provided on the travel path of the vehicle. In the present embodiment, each vision sensor 106 is disposed or positioned proximal to a front wheel of the vehicle. As such, each vision sensor 106 is configured to procure vision data pertaining to the dashed line on the travel path traversed by the front wheel.
[020] In an embodiment, the vision sensors 106 are positioned proximal to the front wheel, as the front wheel is coupled to the steering wheel for maneuverability of the vehicle. Thus, traversal of the front wheel towards the dashed line on the travel path may be indicative of the rider turning the vehicle or shifting a lane or may be an intention to shift the lane of the vehicle. In an embodiment, the vision sensors 106 may be an image sensor.
[021] Further, the system 100 comprises a navigation unit 108 disposed in the vehicle. The navigation unit 108 may be adapted to procure a route data of the vehicle. The term “route data” may pertain to information of the route traversed or to be traversed by the vehicle for reaching a destination location. As such, the navigation unit 108 may be adapted to procure information pertaining to the route traversed or the route to be traversed by the vehicle for reaching the destination location. In an embodiment, the navigation unit 108 may be a Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) unit or a telematics unit.
[022] Further, the system 100 comprises a control unit 110 disposed in the vehicle. The control unit 110 is communicably coupled to the TSL 102, the steering angle sensor 104, the vision sensors 106 and the navigation unit 108. The control unit 110 is adapted to control operation of the TSL 102 based on the information received from the steering angle sensor 104, the vision sensors 106 and the navigation unit 108. Accordingly, the control unit 110 is adapted to operate the TSL 102 between the ON condition and the OFF condition without need for intervention of a rider, thereby enhancing rider comfort and convenience.
[023] In an embodiment, the control unit 110 is adapted to receive information pertaining to the steering data of the steering unit from the steering angle sensor 104. Based on the information received from the steering angle sensor 104, the control unit 110 is adapted to determine a steering angle of the steering unit. In the present embodiment, the control unit 110 receives resistance offered by the rheostat as the information pertaining to the steering data of the steering unit. Based on the resistance offered by the rheostat, the control unit 110 is adapted to determine the steering angle of the steering unit. The control unit 110 may be configured to operate the TSL 102 to an ON condition, when the steering angle of the steering unit exceeds a threshold value for a preset time.
[024] In the present embodiment, when the steering angle sensor 104 is the rheostat, the threshold value of the steering angle may be B1 Ohm (as shown in Figure 2) when the steering unit is turned towards a left direction and B2 Ohm (as shown in Figure 2) when the steering unit is turned towards a right direction. In an embodiment, the steering angle of the steering unit between the B1 Ohm and B2 Ohm may be a dead zone (indicated as ‘DZ’ in Figure 2) for the system 100, and accordingly, the system 100 overlooks tilting of the steering unit between the B1 Ohm and B2 Ohm. As such, when the rider tilts (within B1 Ohm and B2 Ohm) the steering unit for minor adjustments in direction of travel on the travel path, the system 100 overlooks the tilting of the steering unit and thereby retains OFF condition of the TSL 102. Therefore, incorrect indication for other vehicles or pedestrians around the vehicle is mitigated, thereby enhancing accuracy of the system 100 in operating the TSL 102.
[025] In an embodiment, the control unit 110 is adapted to receive vision data from the vision sensors 106. Based on the vision data from the vision sensors 106, the control unit 110 is adapted to determine the dashed line in the travel path of the vehicle. In an embodiment, the control unit 110 may perform image analysis to determine the dashed line in the travel path of the vehicle. In an embodiment, the control unit 110 may operate the TSL 102 to the ON condition when the control unit 110 determines the dashed lines for a predetermined time. As an example, the control unit 110 may operate the TSL 102 to the ON condition when the control unit 110 determines the dashed lines for 2 seconds.
[026] In an embodiment, the control unit 110 is adapted receive the route data from the navigation unit 108. Based on the route data, the control unit 110 is adapted to determine a route considered by the vehicle for reaching the destination location. In an embodiment, the control unit 110 may operate the TSL 102 to the ON condition, when the route data indicates a turning within a predetermined time. As an example, the control unit 110 may operate the TSL 102 to the ON condition, when the route data indicates the turning of the vehicle within 10 seconds. In an embodiment, the control unit 110 determines time required for taking the turn indicated by the navigation unit 108 based on speed of the vehicle. Accordingly, the control unit 110 operates the TSL 102, so that TSL indication is provided for suitable duration of time, say 10 seconds. In other words, irrespective of speed of the vehicle, the control unit 110 operates the TSL 102 for 10 seconds before turning of the vehicle.
[027] The control unit 110 is configured to control the state of operation of the TSL 102 based on at least one of the route travelled by the vehicle, the vision data and the steering data. In an embodiment, the control unit is configured to operate the TSL 102 to the ON condition for providing the turn indication or intention of change of lane of the vehicle when at least one of the route indicating the turning of the vehicle is within a predetermined time, the dashed line is detected on one of the left-side and the right side of the vehicle for a predefined time, and the steering angle of the steering unit exceeds a threshold value for the preset time.
[028] In an embodiment, the control unit 110 may be embodied as a multi-core processor, a single core processor or a combination of one or more multi-core processors and one or more single core processors. For example, the control unit 110 is embodied as one or more of various processing devices or modules, such as a coprocessor, a microprocessor, a controller, a digital signal processor (DSP), a processing circuitry with or without an accompanying DSP, or various other processing devices including integrated circuits such as but not limited to, for example, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a microcontroller unit (MCU), a hardware accelerator, a special-purpose computer chip, or the like. In an embodiment, the control unit 110 may be configured to execute hard-coded functionality. In still another embodiment, the control unit 110 may be embodied as an executor of instructions, where the instructions are specifically configured to the control unit 110 to perform steps or operations described herein for operating the TSL 102 of the vehicle.
[029] Referring to Figure 3 in conjunction with Figures 1 and 2, a flow diagram of a method 300 depicting operation of the TSL 102 by the system 100 is provided.
[030] At step 302, the control unit 110 determines the route based on the route data received from the navigation unit 108. Upon determining the route, the control unit 110 estimates the vehicle is required to be turned for reaching the destination, within the predetermined time. As an example, the route determined by the control unit 110 may indicate a left turn within 10 seconds. If the route indicates turning of the vehicle within the predetermined time, the control unit 110 moves to step 304. Else, the control unit 110 moves to step 306, wherein at step 306 the TSL 102 is retained in the OFF condition by the control unit 110.
[031] At step 304, the control unit 110 determines if the dashed line is detected along the direction of turning of the vehicle for the predefined time. As an example, the control unit 110 determines if the route indicates the left turn and if the dashed line is detected on the left-side of the vehicle for 2 seconds. If the dashed line is detected along the direction of turning of the vehicle for the predefined time, the control unit 110 proceeds to step 308. Else, the control unit 110 moves to step 310, wherein at step 310 the TSL 102 is retained in the OFF condition by the control unit 110.
[032] At step 308, the control unit 110 determines if the steering angle of the steering unit exceeds the threshold value for the preset time. As an example, the control unit 110 determines if the steering angle of the steering unit is beyond the dead zone for 2 seconds, when the steering unit is rotated towards the left side of the vehicle. If the steering angle exceeds the threshold value for the preset time, the control unit 110 moves to step 312. Else, the control unit 110 moves to step 314, wherein at step 314 the TSL 102 is retained in the OFF condition by the control unit 110.
[033] At step 310, the control unit 110 operates the TSL 102 to the ON condition for indicating turning of the vehicle. From the example described in steps 302-308, the control unit 110 operates the left TSL 102a for indicating left turning of the vehicle. As such, the control unit 110 operates the TSL 102 to the ON condition, when the route indicates turning of the vehicle within the predetermined time, the dashed line is detected along the direction of turning of the vehicle for the predefined time and the steering angle exceeds the threshold value for the preset time.
[034] Figure 4 illustrates a flow diagram of a method 400 of operating the TSL 102, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
[035] At step 402, the control unit 110 receives the steering angle data from the steering angle sensor 104, the vision data from the vision sensors 106 and the route data from the navigation unit 108. Upon receiving the data, the control unit 110 moves to step 404.
[036] At step 404, the control unit 110 determines the steering angle of the steering unit, the dashed line on the travel path of the vehicle based on the vision data and the route of the vehicle based on the route data, as described in description pertaining to Figure 1.
[037] At step 406, the control unit 110 controls the state of operation of the TSL 102, based on determination of steering angle of the steering unit, the dashed line on the travel path of the vehicle based on the vision data and the route of the vehicle based on the route data. The control unit 110 is adapted to operate the TSL 102 to the ON condition, when at least one of the route indicates turning of the vehicle within the predetermined time, the dashed line is detected on the turning side of the vehicle for a predefined time and the steering angle of the steering unit exceeds the threshold value for the present time. Else, the control unit 110 is adapted to retain the OFF condition the TSL 102.
[038] The claimed invention as disclosed above is not routine, conventional or well understood in the art, as the claimed aspects enable the following solutions to the existing problems in conventional technologies. Specifically, the claimed aspect of the control unit operating the TSL to the ON condition when at least one of route indicates turning of the vehicle within the predetermined time, the dashed line is detected on the turning side of the vehicle for a predefined time and the steering angle of the steering unit exceeds the threshold value for the present time, ensure accuracy of indication through the TSL. As such, incorrect indication to other vehicles and/or pedestrians by the vehicle is prevented. Consequently, the risk of accidents is minimized. Additionally, the control unit instantaneously operates the TSL to the OFF condition, thereby minimizing delay in operation of the system. Moreover, the system ensures minimal distractions to the rider due to instantaneous operation of the TSL, thereby enhancing rider safety.
[039] While the present invention has been described with respect to certain embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modification may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the following claims.

List of Reference Numerals and Characters
100 System
102 Turn Signal Lamp (TSL)
102a Left TSL
102b Right TSL
104 Steering angle sensor
106 One or more vision sensors
108 Navigation unit
110 Control unit
DZ Dead Zone
112 Resistor element
114 Conducting element
 
, Claims:1. A system (100) for operating a Turn Signal Lamp (TSL) (102) of a vehicle, the system (100) comprising:
a steering angle sensor (104) coupled to a steering unit of the vehicle, the steering angle sensor (104) being adapted to procure steering angle data of the steering unit;
one or more vision sensors (106) disposed in the vehicle, the one or more vision sensors (106) being adapted to procure vision data pertaining to a dashed line provided on a travel path on one of a left-side and a right-side of the vehicle;
a navigation unit (108) disposed in the vehicle, the navigation unit (108) being adapted to procure route data of the vehicle; and
a control unit (110) disposed in the vehicle, the control unit (110) being communicably coupled to the TSL (102), the steering angle sensor (104), the one or more vision sensors (106) and the navigation unit (108), wherein the control unit (110) being adapted to:
receive, the steering angle data from the steering angle sensor (104), the vision data from the one or more vision sensors (106) and the route data from the navigation unit (108),
determine, a steering angle based on the steering data, a dashed line on the travel path of the vehicle based on the vision data and a route of the vehicle based on the route data, and
control, a state of operation of the TSL (102) between an ON condition and an OFF condition based on at least one of the route travelled by the vehicle, the dashed line in the vision data and the steering angle.

2. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit (110) is configured to operate the TSL (102) to the ON condition for providing a turn indication of the vehicle when at least one of:
the route indicates a turning of the vehicle within a predetermined time;
the dashed line is detected on one of the left-side and the right-side of the vehicle for a predefined time; and
the steering angle of the steering unit exceeds a threshold value for a preset time.

3. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit (110) is configured to operate the TSL (102) to the OFF condition for cutting-OFF the turn indication of the vehicle, when the steering angle of the steering unit is within the threshold value.

4. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the one or more vision sensors (106) is disposed proximal to a front wheel of the vehicle, each of the one or more vision sensors (106) being configured to procure vision data pertaining to the dashed lines on the travel path traversed by the front wheel.

5. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the steering angle sensor (104) is a rheostat coupled to the steering unit of the vehicle and to the control unit (110), the rheostat comprising:
a resistor element (112) fixedly mounted to a front frame of the vehicle; and
a conducting member (114) movably mounted on the resistor element (112) and positioned above a front fender of the vehicle, the conducting member (114) being coupled to the steering unit and being adapted to move on the resistor element (112) corresponding to the steering angle of the steering unit,
wherein movement of the conducting member (114) on the resistor element (112) correspondingly varies resistance offered by the rheostat.

6. The system (100) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the control unit (110) is communicably coupled to the resistor element (112) and the conducting member (114), the control unit (110) being adapted to determine the steering angle of the steering unit based on the resistance offered by the rheostat.

7. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the TSL (102) of the vehicle comprises a left TSL (102a) and a right TSL (102b), each of the left TSL (102a) and the right TSL (102b) being communicably coupled to the control unit (110),
wherein the control unit (110) is adapted to operate one of the left TSL (102a) and the right TSL (102b) corresponding to the steering angle of the steering unit.

8. A method for operating a Turn Signal Lamp (TSL) (102) of a vehicle, the method comprising:
receiving, by a control unit (110), steering angle data from a steering angle sensor (104), vision data from one or more vision sensors (106) and route data from a navigation unit (108), the steering angle sensor (104) being coupled to a steering unit, the one or more vision sensors (106) being disposed in the vehicle and the navigation unit (108) being disposed in the vehicle,
determining, by the control unit (110), a steering angle based on the steering data, a dashed line on the travel path of the vehicle based on the vision data and a route of the vehicle based on the route data, and
controlling, by the control unit (110), a state of operation of the TSL (102) between an ON condition and an OFF condition based on at least one of the route travelled by the vehicle, the vision data and the steering data.

9. The method as claimed in claim 8 comprising operating, by the control unit (110), the TSL (102) to the ON condition for providing a turn indication of the vehicle when at least one of:
the route indicating a turning of the vehicle within a predetermined time,
the dashed line is detected on one of the left-side and the right-side of the vehicle for a predefined time; and
the steering angle of the steering unit exceeds a threshold value for a preset time.

10. The method as claimed in claim 8 comprising operating, by the control unit (110), the TSL (102) to the OFF condition for cutting-OFF the turn indication of the vehicle, when the steering angle of the steering unit is within the threshold value.

11. The method as claimed in claim 8, wherein each of the one or more vision sensors (106) being configured to determine the dashed lines on the travel path traversed by a front wheel of the vehicle.

12. The method as claimed in claim 8 comprising determining, by the control unit (110), the steering angle of the steering unit based on resistance offered by a rheostat, the rheostat being coupled to the steering unit and to the control unit (110).

13. The method as claimed in claim 8 comprising operating, by the control unit (110), one of a left TSL (102a) and a right TSL (102b) disposed in the vehicle and being communicably coupled to the control unit (110), corresponding to a direction of turning of the vehicle.

Dated this 08 day of March 2023

TVS MOTOR COMPANY LIMITED
By their Agent & Attorney

(Nikhil Ranjan)
of Khaitan & Co
Reg No IN/PA-1471