GF82.10-P-3050FL Additional Functions For Driving Lights Actuation, Function
GF82.10-P-3050FL Additional Functions For Driving Lights Actuation, Function
MODEL 212.0 /2
- with CODE (608) Adaptive Highbeam Assist
- with CODE (615) Bi-xenon headlamp unit with integrated curve illumination
- with CODE (616) Bi-xenon headlamp unit with integrated asymmetric curve illumination
- with CODE (621) Intelligent Light System (left-hand traffic)
- with CODE (622) Intelligent Light System (right-hand traffic)
Function requirements, general
^ No overvoltage or undervoltage (operating voltage range U greater than or equal to 7 less than or equal to 17.5 V)
^ Low beam ON
^ "Engine running" or "drive train operational" signal on
The CDI control unit (N3/9) (with diesel engine) or the ME-SFI[ME] control unit (N3/10) (with gasoline engine) sends the "engine running" or the "drivetrain operational" signal over the chassis CAN (CAN E) to the front SAM control unit with fuse and relay module (N10/1) and to the multifunction camera (A40/11) (with code (608) Adaptive Highbeam Assist).
The front SAM control unit sends these signals over the front end CAN (CAN G) to the left xenon light control unit (E1n1) at the left front lamp unit (E1) and to the right xenon light control unit (E2n1) at the right front lamp unit (E2).
Additional functions, driving lights actuation, general
The additional functions of driving lights actuation permit optimum illumination of the roadway for different road and weather conditions.
This is achieved by increasing light output and through targeted actuation of additional light sources along with various actuators in the front lamp units.
Driving lights actuation is active during actuation of the driving lights actuation additional functions and is described in the "Driving lights actuation, function" document.
The driving lights actuation additional function is comprised of the following subfunctions:
^ Function sequence for cornering lights
^ Function sequence for dynamic curve illumination
^ Function sequence for active light distribution (with code (621) Intelligent Light System (left-hand traffic) or code (622) Intelligent Light System (right-hand traffic) or code (608) Adaptive Highbeam Assist)
Additional function prerequisites for cornering lights
^ Turn signaling active and speed v < 40 km/h (except code (494) USA version) or v < 60 km/h (with code (494) USA version) or steering angle recognized and speed v < 70 km/h
^ Radius of curve r less than or equal to 500 m
Function sequence for cornering lights
The cornering lights improve the illumination of the edge of the road on the inside of the curve.
The direct input factors of the cornering lights actuation are the steering angle, recorded by the steering angle sensor (N49), and the turn signaling function, defined by the switch position of the combination switch (S4), since they describe the driver's required direction.
The vehicle speed influences the actuation characteristic for cornering lights actuation. At slow speed, a lower switch-on point is required to ensure that the cornering lights can be activated early in urban traffic.
Schematic of light distribution for active cornering lights actuation
A Low beams light cone
B Corner-illuminating fog lamps light cone
The steering column tube module control unit (N80) reads in the data of the steering angle sensor and the switch position of the combination switch and transmits them via chassis CAN.
The vehicle speed is calculated on the basis of the wheel speeds.
To this end, the Electronic Stability Program control unit (N30/4) (without code (233) DISTRONIC PLUS, except model 212.074/077/274/277) or the Premium Electronic Stability Program control unit (N30/7) (with code (233) DISTRONIC PLUS or model 212.074/077/274/277) sends corresponding data over the chassis CAN.
The instrument cluster (A1) calculates the vehicle speed to be displayed and sends this over the interior CAN (CAN B) and chassis CAN.
The front SAM control unit sends all relevant information over the front end CAN to the xenon light control units, which then evaluate it. Finally, the left xenon light control unit actuates the left corner illuminating fog lamp (E1e9) or the right xenon light control unit actuates the right corner-illuminating fog lamp (E2e9).
Only one cornering light is actuated: the light on the inside of the curve during forward travel and the light on the outside of the curve during reverse travel. If there is a rapid change in the steering wheel angle or in the turn signaling request, both corner-illuminating fog lamps may illuminate briefly. The corresponding cornering light is switched on and off with dimming.
The request by the turn signaling function has a higher priority below a speed of v = 40 km/h compared with the request by the detection of the steering angle in order to ensure the illumination of the edge of the road on the inside of the curve when the steering wheel is turned and turning in the opposite direction (situation at traffic circles). When the reverse gear is engaged, only the data of the steering angle sensor is evaluated.
The "reverse gear engaged" status is defined as follows.
Vehicles with transmission 711, 716:
Engagement of the reverse gear is defined through the status of the backup lamp switch (S16/2), which is read in directly by the front SAM control unit.
Vehicles with transmission 722.6:
The request to engage gear range "R" is defined by the corresponding selector lever position.
The electronic selector lever module control unit (N15/5) sends the selector lever position via drive train CAN (CAN C), CDI control unit, or ME-SFI [ME] control unit and chassis CAN to the front SAM control unit.
Vehicles with transmission 722.9:
Gear range "R" is engaged through the fully integrated transmission control unit (Y3/8n4). The fully integrated transmission control unit then sends the status "gear range R engaged" to the front SAM control unit via the drive train CAN, CDI control unit or ME-SFI [ME] control unit and chassis CAN.
Located in the front SAM control unit are two microprocessors, one for control of basic functions e.g. the exterior lights, and the second for control of the central gateway functions. Both processors communicate with each other internally via interior CAN. The microprocessor for control of the central gateway functions uses all incoming information to generate the "Reverse gear engaged" signal that is independent from the type of transmission and transmits it via front end CAN to the xenon light control units.
If the cornering lights function is requested simultaneously by the detected steering angle and the turn signaling function, the actuation sensitivity is reduced. The corresponding cornering light is actuated as soon as a curve radius of r less than or equal to 500m is detected.
When the function request suddenly no longer exists, the corresponding cornering light remains switched on for a holding time of approx. t = 2 s and is switched off within t = 2 s with dimming.
Additional function requirements for dynamic curve illumination
^ "Intelligent Light System"function:" activated in "Settings", "Lights" menu in the instrument cluster
^ Vehicle moving forward
^ The "extended fog light function" (with code (621) Intelligent Light System (left-hand traffic) or code (622) Intelligent Light System (right-hand traffic)) is deactivated
Function sequence for dynamic curve illumination
Dynamic curve illumination improves the road illumination when cornering. For this the low beam cone is swiveled horizontally towards the center point of the curve.
A conventional bi-xenon headlamp serves as a basis, the headlamp unit of which is supported in a retaining frame so that it can swivel. When steering into a curve the headlamp unit on the inside of the curve is swiveled up to a = 15°, the headlamp unit on the outside of the curve up to a = 7.5°.
Schematic of light distribution for active dynamic curve illumination function
A Low beams light cone
C Dynamic curve illumination light cone
The dynamic curve light actuation function depends on the following control variables:
- Steering angle
- Vehicle speed
- Vehicle yaw behavior (vehicle movement)
The direct input factor is the steering angle, the vehicle speed influences the control response of the function (transformation of steering angle into swivel angle).
At a low vehicle speed, a smaller conversion is required so that the light pattern does not behave in a jumpy manner (e.g. in urban traffic)
At medium vehicle speeds an immediate response is given to relatively minor changes in the steering angle and at higher vehicle speeds the responses are dampened again to a greater extent. In order to compensate for the vehicle's natural pendulum motions when driving straight ahead, an area with lower sensitivity and greater damping is provided (approx. ± 6° steering angle).
The selection of the function is made manually through the operation level in the instrument cluster. The instrument cluster sends the corresponding status over the chassis CAN, front SAM control unit and front end CAN to the xenon light control units.
The steering column tube module control unit sends the data of the steering angle sensor and the Electronic Stability Program control unit sends vehicle movement information over the chassis CAN, front SAM control unit and front end CAN to the xenon light control units.
The yaw behavior of the vehicle is detected by the yaw rate sensor for lateral and longitudinal acceleration (B24/15). This transmits the corresponding information to the Electronic Stability Program control unit over the vehicle dynamics CAN (CAN H).
The instrument cluster sends the vehicle speed over the chassis CAN, front SAM control unit and front end CAN to the xenon light control units.
The xenon light control units read in all the relevant data and evaluate it. Finally, the left xenon light control unit actuates the left active curve lights actuator motor (E1m2), and the right xenon light control unit actuates the right active curve lights actuator motor (E2m2) over the Local Interconnect Network (LIN) (headlamp- internal).
The current position of the active curve lights actuator motors and any faults that occur, e.g. such as short circuits or discontinuities, are reported back to the corresponding xenon light control unit.
If the curve illumination actuation is defective, the headlamp units are, if possible, swiveled into the central position.
If an active curve lights actuator motor malfunctions, the left light distribution actuator motor (E1m3) or the right light distribution actuator motor (E2m3) is actuated to cover up the rising part of the light-dark boundary and thereby reduce the glare for oncoming traffic.
Additional function requirements for active light distribution (with code (621) Intelligent Light System (left-hand traffic) or code (622) Intelligent Light System (right-hand traffic) or code (608) Adaptive Highbeam Assist)
^ Vehicle moving forward
Function sequence for active light distribution (with code (621) Intelligent Light System (left-hand traffic) or code (622) Intelligent Light System (right-hand traffic) or code (608) Adaptive Highbeam Assist)
Active light distribution encompasses the following subfunctions:
^ Function sequence for freeway lights
^ Function sequence for extended fog light
^ Function sequence, adaptive high beams (with code (608) Adaptive Highbeam Assist)
The function sequences are described using a left-hand drive vehicle as an example.
Additional function requirements for freeway lights
^ "Intelligent Light System" function:" activated in "Settings", "Lights" menu in the instrument cluster
^ Extended fog light function inactive
^ Radius of curve r greater than or equal to 800 m
Function sequence for freeway lights
The freeway lights improve the illumination of the road by increasing the range of the low beams without blinding the preceding traffic.
This function is achieved by means of vertically deflecting the light cone and increasing the light output.
The freeway lights are activated at speeds typical for the freeway or expressway.
The freeway lights function is deactivated when it is raining.
Rain detection takes place by evaluating the windshield wiper signal (windshield wiper not in park position).
If the windshield wiper is in the park position less than t = 600 ms, this is evaluated as continuous wipe. Rain is detected if the continuous wipe function is active for t > 2 min.
Schematic of light distribution for active freeway lights function
A Low beams light cone
D Freeway lights light cone
The freeway lights function depends on the following control factors:
- Steering angle
- Yaw characteristics of the vehicle
- Vehicle speed
The selection of the function is made manually through the operation level in the instrument cluster. The instrument cluster sends the corresponding status over the chassis CAN to the front SAM control unit and over the chassis CAN, front SAM control unit and front end CAN to the xenon light control units.
The steering column tube module control unit sends the data from the steering angle sensor and the Electronic Stability Program control unit sends vehicle movement information over the chassis CAN, front SAM control unit and front end CAN to the xenon light control units.
The instrument cluster sends the vehicle speed over the chassis CAN, front SAM control unit and front end CAN to the xenon light control units.
The xenon light control units read in all the relevant data and evaluate it.
Starting at a vehicle speed of v = 90 km/h and a curve radius of r > 800 m for a driving distance of more than s = 2.5 km, the light output of the left xenon bulb with integrated ignition module (E1e10) and the right xenon bulb with integrated ignition module (E2e10) is increased linearly up to P = 38 W by the corresponding xenon light control unit.
The left xenon light control unit as from a speed of v = 110 km/h and a curve radius of r > 800 m for more than s = 1 km driving distance, actuates the left headlamp range adjustment actuator motor (E1m1). The headlamp unit of the left front lamp unit is raised. The range of the low beams is thus increased. The maximum lift is reached at v = 130 km/h.
If the vehicle speed drops down to below v = 80 km/h, the "freeway lights" function is disabled.
Additional function requirements for extended fog light function
^ "Intelligent Light System" function:" activated in "Settings", "Lights" menu in the instrument cluster
^ Rear fog lights actuation active
Extended fog light function sequence
The extended fog light function improves the illumination of the edges of the road and reduces the internal dazzling.
It is activated at speeds typical of urban traffic and rural roads.
The xenon bulb light cone in the front lamp unit facing the inside of the road is raised and swiveled outwards at vehicle speeds below v = 70 km/h.
Schematic of light distribution for active extended fog light function
A Low beams light cone
E Extended fog light function light cone
The selection of the function is made manually through the operation level in the instrument cluster. The instrument cluster sends the corresponding status and the vehicle speed over the chassis CAN, front SAM control unit and front end CAN to the left xenon light control unit.
The left xenon light control unit reads in all the relevant information, evaluates it and actuates the left light distribution actuator motor and the left active curve lights actuator motor. The headlamp unit of the left front lamp unit is swiveled outwards by a = 8° and the part of the light-dark boundary that slopes to the right is covered. Internal dazzling is reduced and illumination of the road surface at the side is improved.
If the "extended fog light function" is active, the "dynamic curve illumination" function is deactivated.
If the high beams function is requested while the "Extended fog light function" is active, the position of the headlamp unit is retained.
The left daytime running lights headlamp (E1/3) and the right daytime running lights headlamp (E2/3) (without code (498) Japan version (up to 31.5.10) and without code (835) South Korea version (up to 28.2.11)) are switched off because of possible internal dazzling.
The extended fog light function is deactivated under the following conditions:
- Failure of a lamp unit (low beam)
- Actuator motor malfunction
When testing and adjusting the front lamp unit, ensure that the extended fog light function is not active.
Additional function requirements for adaptive high beams (with code (608) Adaptive Highbeam Assist)
^ Function activated via the instrument cluster
^ Combination switch in "High beams" position
^ Exterior lights switch (S1) in position "A"
^ Vehicle speed v > 40 km/h
^ Multifunction camera signals "Darkness detected"
Function sequence for adaptive high beams (with code (608) Adaptive Highbeam Assist)
The adaptive high beams function is an assistance function.
The headlamp range of the driving lights is adapted to the distance of the nearest preceding or oncoming road user by means of actuation of various actuators in the front lamp units.
If no road users are detected, the adaptive high beams function automatically activates the high beams.
A Low beams light cone (approx. s = 65 m)
F Low beams light cone with optical headlamp range adjustment (maximum s = 300 m)
G Automatic high beams light cone
The selection of the function is made manually through the operation level in the instrument cluster. The instrument cluster transmits the corresponding status via interior CAN to the front SAM control unit.
The steering column tube module control unit sends the position of the combination switch over the chassis CAN to the front SAM control unit.
The front SAM control unit reads in the status of the exterior lights switch.
After evaluating all function requirements, the front SAM control unit sends the enabling of the adaptive high beams function via chassis CAN to the multifunction camera.
The activated adaptive high beams function is displayed by a symbol in the multifunction display (A1p13) in the instrument cluster. The front SAM control unit sends the "Adaptive high beams active" status via interior CAN to the instrument cluster for this.
The multifunction camera also evaluates the following information, among other things, to implement the adaptive high beams function:
- Rotation angle and steering angle rate of change
- Vehicle speed (wheel speed signals)
- Vehicle yaw behavior (vehicle movement)
The steering angle sensor data are sent by the steering column tube module control unit and information on the wheel speed and wheel rotation direction as indicators of vehicle speed and vehicle yaw characteristics, is sent by the Electronic Stability Program control unit over the chassis CAN to the multifunction camera.
The traffic and environment situation in front of the vehicle is detected by the multifunction camera and accordingly evaluated.
Activation of the actuators installed in the front lamp units ensures the best possible illumination of the roadway without generating any dazzling effect for other road users.
The multifunction camera uses the brightness, shape, structure, color, where applicable, and motion of detected objects to differentiate between preceding or oncoming road users, street lighting, signs or other parts of the infrastructure.
The picture recognition module integrated into the multifunction camera judges the distance to the other road users, evaluates the outside brightness level of the vehicle environment and recognizes extreme weather conditions (e.g. thick fog, heavy snowfall) or tunnels.
A distinction is made between the following functions states:
- Optical headlamp range adjustment
- Automatic high beams
Optical headlamp range adjustment:
Depending on the distance of the vehicle to other road users and the geometry of the road (differences in height, angle), the multifunction camera sends the "Optical headlamp range adjustment" request via chassis CAN, front SAM control unit and front end CAN to the xenon light control units.
The left xenon light control unit then actuates the left headlamp range adjustment actuator motor and the right xenon light control unit actuates the right headlamp range adjustment actuator motor (E2m1) over LIN (headlamp internal).
The headlamp units of the front lamp units are raised accordingly.
The road surface is better illuminated without causing a dazzling effect for other road users.
The light cone of the xenon light varies between s = 65 m (standard lighting) and s = 300 m.
If the vehicle speed drops below v = 40 km/h, the optical headlamp range adjustment is deactivated.
Automatic high beams:
The xenon bulb light cones are not fully released until vehicle speed is greater than v = 55 km/h and no other road users are detected. To this end, the xenon light control units also actuate the light distribution actuator motors over LIN (headlamp internal).
The rollers which partially cover up the xenon bulb's light cone, are turned away thereby uncovering the entire light beam to illuminate the traffic lane.
The multifunction camera sends the request for this via chassis CAN, front SAM control unit and front end CAN to the xenon light control units.
If the vehicle speed sinks below v = 45 km/h, the automatic high beams are deactivated.
The activation or deactivation speed of the automatic high beams is controlled adaptively by the multifunction camera.
As soon as the automatic high beams are activated, the high beams indicator lamp (A1e3) in the instrument cluster lights up.
On roads with street lamps positioned regularly, the automatic high beams are deactivated.
Limits of the adaptive high beams:
In tight curves, the multifunction camera may not recognize oncoming vehicles or only do so very late due to the recording angle (= 35°).
The automatic high beams are deactivated depending on the steering angle.
On streets with structural separation (e.g. guardrails on freeways) the headlamps of oncoming vehicles are often concealed. These vehicles are not recognized by the multifunction camera. The automatic high beams are not switched off.
Due to the geometry of the structural separation and the location of the headlamps on cars, the drivers of the oncoming cars are not dazzled. Truck drivers, however, are dazzled due to the high seat position. The clearance lamps on trucks are not sufficient for recognition.
When driving over crests, oncoming vehicles are not recognized until late and the automatic high beams are therefore also switched off later. In this situation, however, the driver of the oncoming vehicle is also dazzled by the low beams.
Lights that are visible for a long time and that slowly become brighter (e.g. with partial concealment of the headlamps by trees) make it more difficult to recognize oncoming vehicles.
With bright lights that appear suddenly (e.g. street lamps, traffic lights, lot illumination), the automatic high beams are deactivated.
Some reflectors cannot be clearly differentiated by road users (e.g. motorcyclists). The automatic high beams are deactivated because of the existing danger of dazzling other road users.
