Patent Description:
Some vehicles comprise rear spoilers. In examples, rear spoilers of a vehicle can comprise a light or lights. However, lights of a rear spoiler may not be used effectively or efficiently.

<CIT> relates generally to a vehicle display device and, more particularly, to a lighting device configured to output a message. <CIT> relates to a vehicle lighting system with good lighting effects. <CIT> relates to an aerodynamic spoiler for a pickup truck and a method for facilitating the provision of such aerodynamic spoilers for pickup trucks of various makes and models and further an aerodynamic spoiler having LED lights with power and signals extending from the original lighting system of the vehicle. <CIT> generally relates to vehicle lighting systems, and more particularly, to vehicle lighting systems employing one or more photoluminescent structure. <CIT> generally relates to vehicular lighting, and more particularly to vehicle lighting assemblies disposed on an exterior portion of the vehicle. <CIT> relates to a method and an apparatus for preventing collisions between traveling vehicles, and more specifically, to a method and an apparatus for preventing collisions between vehicles, which dynamically control luminance of tail lights of vehicle tail lamps in response to a speed difference between a vehicle and a following vehicle.

According to an aspect of the invention there is provided a control system for a vehicle with the features of independent claim <NUM>.

An advantage is efficient and effective use of one or more rear spoiler down lights. An advantage is use of one or more rear spoiler down lights to assist in user actions outside and/or proximate a vehicle such as trailer hitching and so on.

In some examples, the control system is configured to control a change in colour and intensity of the one or more rear spoiler down lights from a first colour and intensity to a second colour and intensity in dependence on the determination. In some examples, the control system is configured to control at least one of colour and a change in intensity from a first non-zero intensity to a second, different non-zero intensity of the one or more rear spoiler down lights in dependence on the determination. In some examples, colour of the one or more rear spoiler down lights is user selectable. In some examples, the control system is configured to change colour of the one or more rear spoiler down lights in dependence on the selected travel direction. In some examples, the control system is configured to control the one or more rear spoiler down lights to have a red colour when a forward travel direction is selected. In some examples, the control system is configured to activate the one or more rear spoiler down lights on selection of a travel direction. The control system is configured to determine an ambient light level and to activate the one or more rear spoiler down lights on selection of a reverse travel direction and the determined ambient light level being above or below a threshold. In some examples, the control system is configured to control the one or more rear spoiler down lights to have a red colour when the vehicle is in a forward travel direction and the vehicle speed is below a threshold.

In some examples, the control system is configured to determine driving conditions of the vehicle and wherein the threshold is dependent on one or more of the determined driving mode of the vehicle and the determined driving conditions.

In some examples, the control system is configured to change colour of the one or more rear spoiler down lights when the vehicle speed exceeds the threshold.

In some examples, the control system is configured to determine sensor information from at least one sensor signal and to determine, in dependence on the determined sensor information, at least one of trailer light plug connection, trailer proximate rear of the vehicle, and ambient light level;
and the control system is configured to activate the one or more rear spoiler down lights in dependence on the determination made in dependence on the determined sensor information.

In some examples, the control system is configured to maintain activation of the one or more rear spoiler down lights for a predetermined period after at least one drive unit of the vehicle has been turned off.

In some examples, the control system is configured to reduce the intensity of the one or more rear spoiler down lights in dependence on a reduction in determined ambient light level.

In some examples, the control system is configured to activate the one or more rear spoiler down lights during one or more autonomous slow speed manoeuvres.

In some examples, the control system is configured to control orientation of the one or more rear spoiler down lights to point the one or more rear spoiler down lights in a substantially rearward direction relative to the vehicle.

In some examples, the control system is configured to control, when the vehicle is stationary, the one or more rear spoiler downlights in dependence on at least one of: use of one or more further lights of the vehicle and music being played by the vehicle.

According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a vehicle comprising a control system as described herein and one or more rear spoiler down lights.

According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a method of controlling one or more rear spoiler down lights of a vehicle with the features of method claim <NUM>.

In some examples, the method comprises activating the one or more rear spoiler down lights during one or more autonomous slow speed manoeuvres.

According to a further aspect there is provided computer software that, when executed, is arranged to perform at least a part of any one or more of the methods described herein.

According to an aspect there is provided a control system for a vehicle, the control system comprising one or more controllers, wherein the control system is configured to:.

Within the scope of the invention, which is defined by the appended claims, it is expressly intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings, and in particular the individual features thereof, may be taken independently or in any combination within the scope of the claims. That is, all embodiments and/or features of any embodiment can be combined in any way and/or combination within the scope of the claims, unless such features are incompatible.

<FIG> illustrates an example of a vehicle <NUM> in which embodiments of the invention can be implemented. In some, but not necessarily all examples, the vehicle <NUM> is a passenger vehicle <NUM>, also referred to as a passenger car or as an automobile. In other examples, embodiments of the invention can be implemented for other applications, such as commercial vehicles <NUM>.

The vehicle <NUM> can be any suitable type of vehicle for example a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) such as a plugin hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), an electric vehicle (EV) and/or a vehicle comprising an internal combustion engine (ICE).

The vehicle <NUM> comprises a plurality of systems including a control system <NUM> and one or more human machine interfaces. The human machine interfaces of the vehicle <NUM> comprise one or more controls usable by a driver of the vehicle <NUM>, including one or more interfaces allowing the driver and/or another user of the vehicle <NUM> to input information and/or make one or more selections and/or to control one or more systems of the vehicle <NUM>.

The control system <NUM> is configured to implement any one or more of the methods described herein.

In the example of <FIG>, the vehicle <NUM> comprises one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM>. Consequently, <FIG> illustrates a vehicle <NUM> comprising a control system <NUM> as described herein and one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM>.

In examples, a rear spoiler down light <NUM> can be considered a rear spoiler light, a light on the underside of a rear spoiler <NUM>, a generally downward pointing light located on a rear spoiler <NUM> and/or a light located on a rear spoiler <NUM> configured to illuminate an area proximate and/or adjacent to the rear of the vehicle <NUM>. For example, a rear spoiler down light <NUM> can be considered a light located on the underside of a rear spoiler <NUM> of a vehicle <NUM>. See, for example, <FIG> which illustrates an example of the rear of a vehicle <NUM> comprising a rear spoiler down light <NUM>.

In the example of <FIG>, the vehicle <NUM> comprises a rear spoiler <NUM> comprising a light <NUM>, which can be considered a rear spoiler down light <NUM>. As illustrated in the example of <FIG>, the rear spoiler down light <NUM> is configured/arranged to direct light <NUM> in a generally downwards direction. This is illustrated in the example of <FIG> by the solid arrow pointing from the rear spoiler down light <NUM> in a generally downward direction. As can be seen in the example of <FIG>, the rear spoiler down light <NUM> is configured to illuminate an area <NUM> proximate/adjacent to the rear of the vehicle <NUM>.

In some examples, one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can be adjusted to point in a generally backwards direction relative to the vehicle <NUM> as indicated in the example of <FIG> by the dotted arrows. In some examples, one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can be adjusted to direct light <NUM> internally to the vehicle <NUM>, for example into one or more load carrying spaces of the vehicle <NUM>. This is indicated in the example of <FIG> by the dot-dashed arrow.

In examples the direction of one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can be adjusted in dependence on one or more factors. For example, depending on the vehicle <NUM> being stationary and the rear access being open light <NUM> can be directed internally to the vehicle <NUM>.

In examples, a rear spoiler down light can comprise any suitable light emitting element or elements. For example, a rear spoiler down light can comprise one or more of one or more light emitting diodes, one or more incandescent bulbs, one or more halogen compact fluorescent lamps and so on. In examples, the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can be single colour or multi colour. In examples, the vehicle <NUM> can comprise any suitable number of rear spoiler down lights <NUM> in any suitable location and/or arrangement.

<FIG> illustrates how the control system <NUM> may be implemented. The control system <NUM> of <FIG> illustrates a controller <NUM>. In other examples, the control system <NUM> may comprise a plurality of controllers <NUM> onboard and/or offboard the vehicle <NUM>. In examples any suitable control system <NUM> can be used.

The controller <NUM> of <FIG> includes at least one processor <NUM>; and at least one memory device <NUM> electrically coupled to the electronic processor <NUM> and having instructions <NUM> (for example a computer program) stored therein, the at least one memory device <NUM> and the instructions <NUM> configured to, with the at least one processor <NUM>, cause any one or more of the methods described herein to be performed.

<FIG> therefore illustrates a control system <NUM>, wherein the one or more electronic controllers <NUM> collectively comprise:.

Also illustrated in <FIG> are one or more vehicle systems <NUM>. In examples, the vehicle system(s) <NUM> can comprise any suitable vehicle system(s). For example, the vehicle system(s) <NUM> can comprise any suitable vehicle system(s) <NUM> from which the control system <NUM> can receive, directly or indirectly, one or more signals <NUM>, for example comprising sensor information <NUM>, and/or to which the control system <NUM> can transmit, directly or indirectly, one or more signals <NUM>.

In the example of <FIG>, the one or more vehicle systems <NUM> comprise one or more systems involved in control of one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM>. In the example of <FIG>, the one or more vehicle systems <NUM> comprise one or more systems involved in determining one or more of vehicle travel direction selection, vehicle speed, and vehicle driving mode. In the example of <FIG>, the one or more vehicle systems <NUM> comprise one or more sensors, and/or one or more systems from which sensor information <NUM> can be received by the control system <NUM>. For example, one or more systems configured to sense ambient conditions exterior to the vehicle <NUM>.

In examples, one or more cameras of the vehicle <NUM> can be considered to be and/or comprise one or more sensors of the vehicle <NUM>.

In some examples, the one or more vehicle systems <NUM> also comprise one or more human machine interfaces. In the illustrated example, the one or more human machine interfaces comprise one or more interfaces allowing a driver and/or user of the vehicle <NUM> to control one or more features, such as colour and/or intensity of the rear spoiler down light(s) <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a non-transitory computer readable storage medium <NUM> comprising the instructions <NUM> (computer software). Accordingly, <FIG> illustrates a non-transitory computer readable medium <NUM> comprising computer readable instructions <NUM> that, when executed by a processor <NUM>, cause performance of at least the method of one or more of <FIG> and/or as described herein.

<FIG> illustrates an example of a method <NUM>. The method <NUM> can be considered a method <NUM> of controlling one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> of a vehicle <NUM>. In examples, the method <NUM> is performed by the control system <NUM> of <FIG>. That is, in examples, the control system <NUM> described herein comprises and/or provides means for performing the method <NUM>. However, any suitable means may be used to perform the method <NUM>. In examples, the method <NUM> can be considered a computer implemented method <NUM> for a vehicle <NUM>. One or more of the features discussed in relation to <FIG> can be found in one or more of the other figures.

At block <NUM> the method <NUM> comprises determining one or more of vehicle travel direction selection, vehicle speed, and vehicle driving mode. As used herein, the term "determining" (and grammatical variants thereof) can include, not least: calculating, computing, processing, deriving, investigating, looking up (for example, looking up in a table, a database or another data structure), ascertaining and the like. Also, "determining" can include receiving (for example, receiving information), accessing (for example, accessing data in a memory) and the like. Also "determining" can include resolving, selecting, choosing, establishing, and the like. In examples, determining one or more of vehicle travel direction selection, vehicle speed, and vehicle driving mode can be performed in any suitable way using any suitable method. For example, determining one or more of vehicle travel direction selection, vehicle speed, and vehicle driving mode comprises receiving one or more signals <NUM> from one or more vehicle systems <NUM>. See, for example, <FIG>. In some examples, determining one or more of vehicle travel direction selection, vehicle speed, and vehicle driving mode comprises determining one or more inputs made by a driver of the vehicle <NUM> using one or more human machine interfaces of the vehicle <NUM>. However, in some examples, determining one or more of vehicle travel direction selection, vehicle speed, and vehicle driving mode does not comprise determining one or more inputs made by a driver of the vehicle <NUM>, for example some, but not necessarily all, examples involving one or more advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) functions.

In examples, vehicle travel direction selection can be considered a selection of forward or reverse travel direction for the vehicle <NUM>. In some examples, vehicle travel direction selection can be considered a selection of a vehicle configuration to enable the vehicle <NUM> to travel in a forward or reverse direction. In examples, vehicle travel direction selection can be considered direction of travel selection, vehicle gear selection, vehicle operating mode selection, and/or forward or reverse selection and so on. In some examples, vehicle travel direction selection can be considered selection of direction of rotation of one or more electric motors of the vehicle <NUM>.

In examples, vehicle gear selection can be considered selection of a forward or reverse gear. In some examples, vehicle gear selection can be considered selection of a particular gear.

In examples, a vehicle operating mode can be considered an operating mode of a vehicle <NUM> comprising an automatic gearbox. In examples, vehicle operating mode can comprise, at least, drive, reverse, park, neutral, sport and so on.

In examples, any suitable measurement or measurements of vehicle speed can be used. In some examples, vehicle speed can be considered a speed of a vehicle <NUM> across the ground rather than, for example, speed of one or more of the wheels of the vehicle <NUM>.

In examples, vehicle driving mode can be considered a selection of a driving mode of the vehicle <NUM> that configures the vehicle <NUM> for one or more different driving scenarios and/or circumstances. In examples, vehicle driving mode can comprise road driving, off-road driving, sand driving, and/or autonomous driving and so on. For example, vehicle driving mode can comprise one or more ADAS functions.

At block <NUM> method <NUM> comprises controlling one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> to illuminate at a first colour and intensity in dependence on the determination.

Consequently, <FIG> illustrates a method of controlling one or more rear spoiler downlights <NUM> of a vehicle <NUM>, comprising:.

In examples, the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can be controlled to illuminate at a first colour and intensity in any suitable way in dependence on the determination. For example, the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can be controlled to illuminate at any suitable colour or colours and at any suitable intensity or intensities in dependence on the determination. In examples, controlling the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> to illuminate at a first colour and intensity comprises changing the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> from an off state to an illuminated state.

In some examples, changing the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> from an off state to an illuminated state can be considered activating the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM>. In examples, the first colour of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can be and/or comprise any suitable colour or colours including colour(s) outside of the visible spectrum. For example, the one or more rear spoiler downlights <NUM> of the vehicle <NUM> can emit infrared length wavelengths, near ultraviolet wavelengths, ultraviolet wavelengths and/or radio wavelengths and so on. In some examples, controlling the one or more rear spoiler downlights <NUM> to illuminate at a colour can be considered controlling wavelength(s) of emission of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM>. In examples, controlling the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> to illuminate at an intensity can comprise increasing and/or decreasing intensity of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM>. For example, the intensity of one or more of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can be increased or decreased. In some examples, the intensity of one or more of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> of the vehicle <NUM> can be increased while the intensity of one or more of the one or more rear spoiler down lights are decreased and so on. In examples, the intensity of one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can be considered brightness, luminosity and/or radiance of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM>.

In examples, controlling the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> in dependence on the determination can be considered controlling the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> based on and/or in response to the determination.

In examples, at block <NUM> method <NUM> comprises controlling at least one of colour and a change in intensity from a first non-zero intensity to a second, different non-zero intensity of one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> in dependence on the determination. The colour and/or change in intensity from a first non-zero intensity to a second, different non-zero intensity of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> of the vehicle <NUM> can be controlled in any suitable way in dependence of the determination. In some examples, changing intensity from a first non-zero intensity to a second, different non-zero intensity can be and/or comprise any suitable change in intensity. For example, the one or more rear spoiler down lights can be at any suitable non-zero intensity and can change to any other suitable, different non-zero intensity.

In some examples, at block <NUM> method <NUM> comprises controlling at least one of colour and a change in intensity from a non-zero intensity of one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> of the vehicle <NUM> in dependence on the determination. In some examples, method <NUM> comprises controlling a change in colour and intensity of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> from a first colour and intensity to a second colour and intensity in dependence on the determination. That is, in some examples, the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> are controlled in dependence on the determination to change from a first colour and intensity to a second, different colour and intensity. Accordingly, in such examples controlling one or more rear spoiler downlights <NUM> to illuminate at a first colour and intensity can be considered to comprise controlling one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> to change from a first colour and intensity to a second, different colour and intensity.

In examples, the colour of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> is user selectable. For example, the colour of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> to be used in dependence on one or more different determinations can be selected by the user. Accordingly, in some examples, the colour(s) that the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> will illuminate at under different circumstances can be user selectable.

In examples, a colour or colours of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> to be used can be selected in any suitable way using any suitable method. In some examples, a user, such a driver of the vehicle <NUM>, can use one or more human machine interfaces of the vehicle <NUM> to select one or more colours for the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM>. For example, one or more buttons at any suitable location or locations in and/or on the vehicle <NUM> can be used to select one or more colours for the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM>. In some examples, a user can select one or more colours of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> using a personal device, such as a mobile telephone, connected, directly or indirectly, to the vehicle <NUM> to select one or more colours of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM>.

In some examples, the method <NUM> comprises changing colour of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> in dependence on the selected travel direction. In examples, the colour of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can be changed in dependence on the selected travel direction in any suitable way. For example, colour of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can be changed in dependence on the selected vehicle gear or operating mode. In some examples, the colour of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can be changed from a first colour to a second, different colour upon a change in selected travel direction.

In some examples, the method <NUM> comprises controlling the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> to have a red colour when a forward travel direction is selected. In examples, the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> having a red colour can be considered the rear spoiler down lights <NUM> emitting and/or displaying a red colour. In some examples, the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> having a red colour can be considered the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> emitting light in a frequency range corresponding to a red colour.

In examples, method <NUM> comprises activating the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> on selection of a travel direction. For example, the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can be activated on selection of a vehicle gear or vehicle operating mode.

In examples, activating one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can be considered switching on and/or illuminating and/or increasing the intensity of the one or more rear spoiler down lights from zero intensity and so on.

In some examples, activating the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> on selection of a travel direction can be considered activating the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> upon selection, and/or in response to selection, and/or in dependence on selection and/or based on selection of a travel direction and so on.

In examples, method <NUM> comprises activating the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> on selection of a reverse travel direction. The one or more rear spoiler down lights can, for example, be activated to be/have a white colour on selection of a reverse travel direction.

In some examples, method <NUM> comprises determining an ambient light level and activating the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> on selection of a reverse travel direction and the determined ambient light level being above or below a threshold. In examples, the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can be activated having any suitable colour or colours based on determined ambient light level. In examples, an ambient light level can be considered a light level outside the vehicle <NUM>. In some examples, an ambient light level can be determined in any suitable way using any suitable method. For example, an ambient light level can be determined from one or more sensor signals <NUM>, comprising sensor information <NUM>. See, for example, <FIG>. Any suitable threshold for the ambient light level can be used. Additionally, or alternatively, the threshold to be used for the ambient light level can be determined and/or set in any suitable way. In some examples, the threshold for the ambient light level can be user selectable. This is advantageous as, for example, activating one or more rear spoiler down lights when the ambient light level is below a threshold improves rear camera visibility.

In examples, method <NUM> comprises controlling the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> to have a red colour when the vehicle <NUM> is in a forward travel direction and the vehicle speed is below a threshold. In examples, any suitable speed threshold can be used and can be determined in any suitable way using any suitable method. For example, a threshold in the range <NUM> kilometers per hour (kph) to <NUM> kph can be used. In some examples, a threshold in the range <NUM> kph to <NUM> kph can be used. In some examples, a threshold in the range 10kph to <NUM> kph can be used. In examples, the threshold can be dependent on one or more factors and/or variables. For example, the threshold can be dependent on driving conditions of the vehicle <NUM> and/or a determined driving mode of the vehicle <NUM>.

Accordingly, in some examples, method <NUM> comprises determining driving conditions of the vehicle <NUM>, wherein the threshold is dependent on one or more of the determined driving mode of the vehicle <NUM> and the determined driving conditions. The driving conditions of the vehicle <NUM> can be determined in any suitable way using any suitable method. For example, determining driving conditions of the vehicle <NUM> can comprise using sensor information <NUM> from one or more signals <NUM>. Additionally, or alternatively, determining driving conditions of a vehicle <NUM> can comprise receiving information, in any suitable way, to allow a determination of the driving conditions of a vehicle <NUM>. For example, for on road driving conditions, a threshold of <NUM> kph can be used. For example, for off road driving conditions, a threshold of <NUM> kph can be used. For example, in lower visibility conditions, such as sand driving, a threshold of <NUM> kph can be used. For example, in conditions such as convoy driving, a threshold of <NUM> kph can be used and so on.

In some examples, method <NUM> comprises changing colour of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> when the vehicle speed exceeds the threshold. In examples, the colour of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can change from any suitable colour to any suitable, different colour when the vehicle speed exceeds the threshold. For example, the colour of the one or more rear spoiler down lights can change from red to white or white to red when the vehicle speed exceeds the threshold.

In some examples, the colours involved can be dependent on the vehicle driving mode. For example, when the vehicle is in a first vehicle driving mode the colour of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can change differently when the vehicle speed exceeds the threshold compared to when the vehicle <NUM> is in a different vehicle driving mode.

In examples, vehicle driving mode can be TR mode or ADAS level/ autonomous drive mode.

In some examples, when the vehicle is parking it may need to maintain white lights on the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> in both drive and reverse to ensure cameras of the vehicle <NUM> have clear sight of obstacles.

Additionally, or alternatively, when in an off-road trail white or red may be used in drive or used if below a speed threshold so as not to keep changing colour of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> when trying to rock the car out of ruts for example.

In some examples, method <NUM> comprises determining sensor information <NUM> from at least one sensor signal <NUM> and determining in dependence on the determined sensor information <NUM>, at least one of trailer light plug connection, trailer proximate to the rear of a vehicle, and ambient light level and activating the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> in dependence on the determination made in dependence on the determined sensor information <NUM>. In some examples, sensor information can comprise any suitable information from any suitable sensor(s). For example, connection of at least one trailer light can cause at least one signal to be transmitted to the control system <NUM> to cause activation of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM>.

In examples, sensor information can comprise images from one or more cameras, such as rear cameras of the vehicle <NUM> upon which object detection and/or QR code detection can be performed.

In some examples, a trailer being proximate to the rear of the vehicle can be considered a trailer being close enough to the vehicle to indicate that the vehicle <NUM> is likely to be connected to the trailer.

Activation of the one or more rear spoiler down lights in dependence on such determination can allow a user working at the rear of the vehicle to carry out one or more tasks, such as attaching a trailer to the rear of the vehicle, more easily, effectively and/or safely. For example, as the vehicle <NUM> reverses up to the trailer, for example when it is dark or in low light levels, (vehicle is moving in R) one or more rear spoiler lights <NUM> are white, as the vehicle <NUM> is stopped and the driver is on the brake but still in R the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can go to red to help anyone outside the vehicle <NUM> complete the hitching of the trailer and retain their night vision.

In some examples, the method <NUM> comprises receiving one or more light feedback sensor signals and controlling the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> in dependence on the one or more light feedback sensor signals. In examples, one or more light feedback sensors <NUM> can be positioned at any suitable location or locations of the vehicle <NUM>. For example, one or more light feedback sensors can be positioned on the rear spoiler <NUM> of the vehicle <NUM> and/or on and/or near one or more rear view cameras of the vehicle <NUM>. See, for example, <FIG>. In some examples, one or more rear view cameras of the vehicle <NUM> can be considered to be and/or comprise one or more light feedback sensors <NUM>. For example, light contrast feedback from the one or more rear view cameras can be used as light feedback signal(s). In examples, the one or more rear spoiler downlights <NUM> can be controlled in any suitable way in dependence on the one or more light feedback sensor signals.

In some examples, the one or more light feedback sensor signals can be used to determine higher levels of reflective surfaces so that the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can be adjusted in intensity to reduce the reflection but, for example, still assist the rear-view camera(s). This would provide, for example, fewer overexposed parts of the image(s) from the rear view cameras.

In examples, one or more of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can be controlled differently compared to one or more of the one or more rear spoiler downlights <NUM> in dependence on the one or more light feedback sensor signals.

If after a reversing manoeuvre a trailer is detected (for example, via camera, QR code, tow bar mounted bike carrier plugged in - trailer plug/ connection detected) and the vehicle <NUM> is then put in P then the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can remain on even if the ignition is switched off for a time to assist with trailer hitching
Accordingly, in some examples, the method <NUM> comprises maintaining activation of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> for a predetermined period after at least one drive unit of the vehicle <NUM> has been turned off. In examples, a drive unit of the vehicle <NUM> can be considered any unit of the vehicle <NUM> that provides tractive force to drive the vehicle <NUM>. For example, an internal combustion engine and/or electric motor of the vehicle <NUM>.

Any suitable predetermined time period for maintaining activation of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> after at least one drive unit of the vehicle <NUM> has been turned off can be used. In some examples, the period can be user selectable.

In examples, method <NUM> comprises controlling the intensity of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> in the dependence on determined ambient light level. The intensity of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can be controlled and/or changed in dependence upon the determined ambient light level in any suitable way. For example, the intensity of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can be reduced and/or increased in dependence on the determined ambient light level. Accordingly, in some examples, method <NUM> comprises reducing the intensity of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> in dependence on a reduction in determined ambient light level. In examples, an amount of one or more wavelengths of light of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can be controlled in dependence on determined ambient light level. For example, one or more wavelengths of light of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can be reduced in intensity in dependence on a reduction in determined ambient light level. For example, an amount of blue light produced by the one or more rear spoiler down lights can be reduced in dependence on a reduction in determined ambient light level. This is advantageous as, for example, it can aid better sleep during camping or outdoor activities with use of the one or more rear spoiler down lights, if for example the one or more rear spoiler downlights are providing additional lighting.

In some examples, method <NUM> comprise activating the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> during one or more autonomous slow speed maneuvers. In examples, the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can be white during one or more autonomous slow speed maneuvers. For example, one or more ADAS functions such as vehicle summoning, autonomous parking, and/or remote driving via user controlled device and so on.

In some examples, method <NUM> comprises controlling orientation of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> to point to the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> in a substantially rearward direction relative to the vehicle <NUM>. In examples, orientation of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can be controlled in any suitable way using any suitable method. For example, control system <NUM> can transmit and/or provide one or more control signals to control orientation of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM>. In some examples, the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can be controlled to pivot on one or more hinges so that they are more visible to traffic or people at a distance to the rear of the vehicle <NUM> and/or directed to the inside of the vehicle <NUM> to provide lighting inside the vehicle, such as in the load space of the vehicle, and can automatically be returned to an original orientation on road speed detection or door open/closed condition. See, for example, <FIG> and <FIG>. Additionally or alternatively, one or more lenses of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can be designed to direct light <NUM> to be visible at a distance to the rear of the vehicle <NUM> and/or in the load space. In examples, the lens or lenses are configured to be activated separately if needed. See, for example, <FIG>.

As illustrated by the dashed arrows in the example of <FIG> the direction of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can be rotated upwards to be substantially rearward facing, and therefore more visible to traffic or people at a distance, compared to the initial downward facing direction.

In some examples, orientation of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can be controlled in dependence on any suitable situation and/or circumstances. For example, orientation of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can be controlled in dependence on detection of a tow bar mounted storage unit being connected/fitted. This is advantageous as, for example, bike wheels and so on can obscure some part of other rear lights and such functionality allows for the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> to operate as additional substantially rear facing light(s) in such circumstances.

Additionally, or alternatively, orientation of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can be controlled in dependence on driver condition response, for example when the vehicle <NUM> is controlled to stop upon drive hands leaving the steering wheel. Additionally, or alternatively, orientation of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can be controlled in dependence on detecting a potential rear impact. For example, the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can be activated, such as in any high visibility format, on detecting a vehicle travelling fast relative to the vehicle <NUM> indicating a potential impact to the rear of the vehicle <NUM>. This is advantageous as it provides additional visibility and/or warning to drivers of other vehicles. Additionally, or alternatively, orientation of the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can be controlled in dependence on braking of the vehicle <NUM>. For example, the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can be used to provide additional braking warning lights, such as in any high visibility format, when an autonomous emergency braking (AEB) event occurs.

Additionally, or alternatively, one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> with rear facing visibility could be used in indicator colour for high level indicators when a trailer light is plugged in.

In some examples, the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> are/can be configured to direct light <NUM> in a substantially downward direction and also in a substantially rearward direction. See, for example, <FIG>.

In some examples, the method <NUM> comprises controlling, when the vehicle <NUM> is stationary, the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> in dependence on at least one of: use of one or more further lights of the vehicle <NUM> and music being played by the vehicle <NUM>. In examples, the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can be controlled, in any suitable way, in dependence on at least one of: use of one or more further lights of the vehicle <NUM> and music being played by the vehicle <NUM>. In some examples, the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can be controlled to align with one or more other lights, such as internal lights, of the vehicle <NUM>.

In examples, the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can be controlled with a strobe and/or flash function with or without colour change.

In some examples, the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can be controlled to illuminate with a sequence of intensities and/or colours. For example, a user can input a sequence of intensities and/or colours using one or more human-machine interfaces of the vehicle <NUM>. In some examples, the one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> can be controlled and/or programmed with a sequence of intensities and/or colours using a personal device of a user, such as a mobile telephone.

<FIG> schematically illustrates an example of a rear spoiler down light <NUM>. In the example of <FIG>, a spoiler <NUM> is illustrated comprising a rear spoiler down light <NUM>. In the illustrated example, the rear spoiler down light <NUM> comprises a light emitting diode (LED) <NUM> and a lens <NUM>. In the example of <FIG> the rear spoiler down light <NUM> is configured to pivot to be substantially rearward facing and to direct light <NUM> in a substantially rearward direction. In <FIG>, the rear spoiler down light <NUM> is controlled by at least one motor to change orientation, to allow the rear spoiler down light <NUM>, for example, to move between a generally downward facing direction and a generally rearward facing direction. However, in examples, any suitable orientation and/or change in orientation of a rear spoiler down light <NUM> can be used. Accordingly, in the example of <FIG>, the rear spoiler down light <NUM> can be positioned via a motor or motors so that the rear spoiler down light <NUM> can be used as a down light or a high-level light for use when towing, for example.

In the example of <FIG> the rear spoiler down light <NUM> comprises a light feedback sensor <NUM>. In the example of <FIG> the light feedback sensor <NUM> is configured to detect light reflected back from a surface, for example a higher loaded trailer or a caravan and so on. In the illustrated example, if a higher loaded trailer or a vehicle or caravan is detected due to the light levels picked up from the light feedback sensor <NUM> the high-level lights are switched off so there is no light reflected at the cabin of the vehicle <NUM>.

In some examples, the determination of reflected light can be done in relation to the light <NUM> being output. For example, this could be a solid colour and/or intensity or a flicker in the light that is output to allow a determination that the light detected by the light feedback sensor is indeed reflected light.

In examples, the rear spoiler downlight <NUM> is configured to go from a downward position for hitching a trailer to a rear visibility position once a speed threshold is reached, for example above 10kph.

In some examples, the rear spoiler downlight <NUM> can be configured to operate as an additional fog light.

<FIG> schematically illustrates an example of a rear spoiler down light <NUM>. In the example of <FIG>, a spoiler <NUM> is illustrated comprising a rear spoiler down light <NUM>. The spoiler <NUM> and rear spoiler down light <NUM> of <FIG> are similar to the spoiler and rear spoiler down light <NUM> of <FIG>. However, in the example of <FIG> the rear spoiler down light is not configured to change orientation and comprises a lens portion <NUM> configured to direct light <NUM> from the rear spoiler down light <NUM> in a substantially rearward direction. In examples, any suitable lens portion <NUM> having any suitable configuration and/or properties can to direct light from the LED <NUM> in a generally rearward direction can be used. In examples, the lens portion <NUM> can be part of lens <NUM> or separate from it. Accordingly, in the example of <FIG> the rear spoiler down light <NUM> is configured to direct light <NUM> in a generally downward direction and also a generally rearward direction simultaneously.

In the example of <FIG>, the rear spoiler down light <NUM> can direct multi coloured light <NUM> downwards and to the rear of the vehicle <NUM>. In examples, this can be one or more LED's <NUM> at one or more light locations across the spoiler <NUM>.

In the example of <FIG>, the light <NUM> to the rear of the vehicle <NUM> is the same colour and intensity as the downwards light <NUM>.

In examples, the downwards light <NUM> can be in infrared wavelength(s) if, for example, the rear camera works in near infrared so that the camera pick up is improved but without additional rear lighting. This may be preferable, for example, should the owner of the vehicle <NUM> have a drive way that is close to the house/ windows and so on. Infrared LED's can also help illumination and visibility for house hold cameras at night and as such provide better visibility for overall security systems.

<FIG> schematically illustrates an example of a rear spoiler down light <NUM>. In the example of <FIG>, a spoiler <NUM> is illustrated comprising a rear spoiler down light <NUM>. The spoiler <NUM> and rear spoiler down light <NUM> of <FIG> are similar to the spoiler and rear spoiler down light <NUM> of <FIG>. However, in the example of <FIG> the rear spoiler down light <NUM> comprises an LED 28a for providing generally downward facing light <NUM> and a separate LED 22b for providing generally rearward facing light <NUM>. In this configuration the rear facing part of the lens <NUM> can be configured to provide either the same light colour and intensity as the downwards light, for example, for illumination and camera hazard recognition when in reverse, or a separate colour/intensity sequence, for example flashing, to that of the downwards light, for example, during autonomous parking and so on.

In examples, for towing a low-level trailer the rear direction light may be the only light active during driving above 10kph to support the visibility of the car in case the trailer impedes visibility of the tail lights.

<FIG> schematically illustrates an example of a rear spoiler down light <NUM>. In the example of <FIG>, a spoiler <NUM> is illustrated comprising a rear spoiler down light <NUM>. The spoiler <NUM> and rear spoiler down light <NUM> of <FIG> are similar to the spoiler and rear spoiler down light <NUM> of <FIG>. However, in the example of <FIG> the rear spoiler down light <NUM> comprises an LED 28c and a lens portion <NUM> configured to direct light <NUM> from the rear spoiler down light <NUM> into a load space of the vehicle <NUM>.

In this configuration the rear facing part of the lens <NUM> can be configured to provide either the same light colour and intensity as the downwards light, for example, for illumination and camera hazard recognition when in reverse, or a separate colour/intensity sequence, for example flashing, to that of the downwards light, for example during autonomous parking and so on.

Additionally, or alternatively, the internal facing part of the lens <NUM> can be configured to provide either the same light colour and intensity as the downwards light or a separate colour/intensity sequence to that of the downwards light, for example during loading or unloading of the internal load space.

Examples of the disclosure are advantageous. For example, examples of the disclosure provide for efficient and effective use of one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM>.

For example, examples provide for use of one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> to assist in user actions outside and/or proximate a vehicle <NUM> such as trailer hitching and so on.

For example, examples provide for use of one or more rear spoiler down lights <NUM> to assist in use of one or more rear cameras of a vehicle <NUM> for enhanced operation such as enhanced object detection and so on.

As used herein "for" should be considered to also include "configured or arranged to". For example, "a control system for" should be considered to also include "a control system configured or arranged to".

For purposes of this disclosure, it is to be understood that the controller(s) described herein can each comprise a control unit or computational device having one or more electronic processors. A vehicle and/or a system thereof may comprise a single control unit or electronic controller or alternatively different functions of the controller(s) may be embodied in, or hosted in, different control units or controllers. A set of instructions could be provided which, when executed, cause said controller(s) or control unit(s) to implement the control techniques described herein (including the described method(s)). The set of instructions may be embedded in one or more electronic processors, or alternatively, the set of instructions could be provided as software to be executed by one or more electronic processor(s). For example, a first controller may be implemented in software run on one or more electronic processors, and one or more other controllers may also be implemented in software run on one or more electronic processors, optionally the same one or more processors as the first controller. It will be appreciated, however, that other arrangements are also useful, and therefore, the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to any particular arrangement. In any event, the set of instructions described above may be embedded in a computer-readable storage medium (e.g., a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium) that may comprise any mechanism for storing information in a form readable by a machine or electronic processors/computational device, including, without limitation: a magnetic storage medium (e.g., floppy diskette); optical storage medium (e.g., CD-ROM); magneto optical storage medium; read only memory (ROM); random access memory (RAM); erasable programmable memory (e.g., EPROM and EEPROM); flash memory; or electrical or other types of medium for storing such information/instructions.

It will be appreciated that various changes and modifications can be made to the present invention without departing from the scope of the present application. As used here 'module' refers to a unit or apparatus that excludes certain parts/components that would be added by an end manufacturer or a user. The blocks illustrated in the <FIG> may represent steps in a method and/or sections of code in the computer program <NUM>. The illustration of a particular order to the blocks does not necessarily imply that there is a required or preferred order for the blocks and the order and arrangement of the block may be varied. Furthermore, it may be possible for some steps to be omitted.

Claim 1:
A control system (<NUM>) for a vehicle (<NUM>), the control system (<NUM>) comprising one or more controllers (<NUM>), wherein the control system (<NUM>) is configured to:
determine one or more of
selection of a forward or reverse vehicle travel direction,
vehicle speed, and
vehicle driving mode that configures the vehicle for one or more driving scenarios; and
control one or more rear spoiler down lights (<NUM>) to illuminate at a colour and intensity in dependence on the determination,
characterized in that,
the control system (<NUM>) is further configured, when mounted in the vehicle, to:
determine an ambient light level, the ambient light level being exterior to the vehicle,
and to activate the one or more rear spoiler down lights (<NUM>) on selection of a reverse travel direction and the determined ambient light level being above or below a threshold.