Fault detection for vehicles

Abstract

In an exemplary embodiment, a method for detecting an interference event for a vehicle is provided, the method comprising: transmitting a plurality of zero packets via vehicle-internal communication from a first short-range wireless communication system of the vehicle to a second short-range wireless communication system of the vehicle; monitoring, via a processor of the vehicle, using sensor data from one or more sensors of the vehicle, which of the zero packets transmitted by the first short-range wireless communication system are actually received by the second short-range wireless communication system; determining, via the processor, a frequency at which the zero packets transmitted by the first short-range wireless communication system are actually received by the second short-range wireless communication system;and determine, via the processor, whether a traffic jam event has occurred for the vehicle, based on the frequency.

Description

[0001] The technical field generally relates to vehicles and in particular to methods and systems for detecting disturbances affecting vehicles and for implementing vehicle control measures in response to such detected disturbances.

[0002] Nowadays, certain individuals may attempt to disrupt a vehicle's communication by interfering with its signal. However, existing technologies do not always allow for optimal detection and response to such disruptions.

[0003] Accordingly, it may be desirable to provide improved procedures and systems for detecting disturbances in vehicle communication and for implementing vehicle control measures in response to such a detected disturbance.

[0004] According to an exemplary embodiment, a method for detecting an interference event for a vehicle is provided, the method comprising: transmitting a plurality of zero packets via vehicle-internal communication from a first short-range wireless communication system of the vehicle to a second short-range wireless communication system of the vehicle; monitoring, via a processor of the vehicle, by using sensor data from one or more sensors of the vehicle, which of the zero packets transmitted by the first short-range wireless communication system are actually received by the second short-range wireless communication system; determining, via the processor, a frequency at which the zero packets transmitted by the first short-range wireless communication system are actually received by the second short-range wireless communication system;and determine, via the processor, whether a fault event has occurred for the vehicle, based on whether the null packets are received.

[0005] In an exemplary embodiment, the method also includes performing a vehicle control measure in accordance with the instructions provided by the processor when the processor detects that a fault event has occurred.

[0006] In another exemplary embodiment, the first wireless short-range communication system uses a first antenna located at a front end of the vehicle; and the second wireless short-range communication system uses a second antenna located at a rear end of the vehicle, opposite the front end.

[0007] Also in an exemplary embodiment, the transmission of the plurality of zero packets comprises the transmission of the plurality of zero packets via in-vehicle communication under several different communication conditions from the first wireless short-range communication system of the vehicle to the second wireless short-range communication system of the vehicle; the monitoring comprises monitoring, via the processor using the sensor data from the one or more sensors of the vehicle, which of the zero packets transmitted by the first wireless short-range communication system are actually received by the second wireless short-range communication system under each of the several different communication conditions;Determining the frequency involves determining, via the processor, the frequency at which the null packets transmitted by the first short-range wireless communication system are actually received by the second short-range wireless communication system under each of the several different communication conditions; and determining whether an interference event has occurred involves determining, via the processor, whether an interference event has occurred for the vehicle, based on the frequency under each of the several different communication conditions.

[0008] In an exemplary embodiment, the disturbance event is also determined to have occurred if the frequency is less than fifty percent or a calibratable threshold.

[0009] Also in an exemplary embodiment, the first short-range wireless communication system comprises a first Wi-Fi radio system; the second short-range wireless communication system comprises a second Wi-Fi radio system; and the multiple different communication conditions have a variety of different operating frequencies for the first and second Wi-Fi radio systems.

[0010] In another exemplary embodiment, the zero packets are transmitted from the first Wi-Fi radio system to the second Wi-Fi radio system inside the vehicle when the vehicle's engine is switched on.

[0011] In an exemplary embodiment, the various communication conditions also feature a first operating frequency of 2.4 GHz for the first and second Wi-Fi radio systems and a second operating frequency of 5 GHz for the first and second Wi-Fi radio systems.

[0012] Also in an exemplary embodiment, the first short-range wireless communication system comprises a first Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) radio system; the second short-range wireless communication system comprises a second BLE radio system; and the multiple different communication conditions have a variety of different operating channels for the first and second BLE radio systems.

[0013] In another exemplary embodiment, the zero packets are transmitted from the first BLE radio system to the second BLE radio system when one of the vehicle's engines is switched off.

[0014] Also in an exemplary embodiment, the several different communication conditions have a first operating channel 37, corresponding to 2402 MHz, for the first and second BLE radio systems; and a second operating channel 38 or 39, corresponding to 2426 or 2480 MHz, for the first and second BLE radio systems.

[0015] Also in an exemplary embodiment, the several different communication conditions have a first operating channel 37, corresponding to 2402 MHz, for the first and second BLE radio systems; and several second operating channels 38 and 39, corresponding to both 2426 and 2480 MHz, for the first and second BLE radio systems.

[0016] In an exemplary embodiment, the method further comprises initiating a communication channel between the vehicle and a remote server located away from the vehicle, via a cellular communication system of the vehicle, which uses a cellular network in accordance with instructions provided by the processor; monitoring a heartbeat of the continuous communication between the vehicle and the remote server along the cellular network by the processor; and confirming whether the disturbance event has actually occurred or not, based on monitoring the heartbeat of the continuous communication between the vehicle and the remote server along the cellular network by the processor.

[0017] In another exemplary embodiment, a method for detecting a disturbance event for a vehicle is provided, wherein the method comprises providing communications between the vehicle and a remote server located away from the vehicle via a long-range communication system of the vehicle using a wireless network in accordance with instructions provided by a processor of the vehicle; monitoring a heartbeat of the continuous communications between the vehicle and the remote server along the wireless network by the processor; and determining, by the processor using sensor data obtained from one or more sensors of the vehicle, one or more quantitative measures relating to the heartbeat of continuous communications between the vehicle and the remote server along the wireless network.and determining, by the processor, whether a disturbance event has occurred against the vehicle, based on one or more quantitative measures relating to the heartbeat of continuous communications between the vehicle and the remote server along the wireless network.

[0018] In an exemplary embodiment, the method further includes the execution of a vehicle control measure in accordance with the instructions provided by the processor when the processor detects that a fault event has occurred.

[0019] In another exemplary embodiment, the heartbeat of the continuous communication between a cellular communication system of the vehicle and the remote server is provided using a cellular network in accordance with the instructions of the processor.

[0020] In an exemplary embodiment, the one or more quantitative measurements used to determine whether a disturbance event has occurred include one or more of the received signal strength indicator (RSSI), the reference signal received quality (RSRQ), or both of the signals sent by the vehicle's cellular communication system to the remote server via the cellular network.

[0021] In an exemplary embodiment, the one or more quantitative measurements used to determine whether a disturbance event has occurred include both (i) an indicator of received signal strength (RSSI) and (ii) a reference signal reception quality (RSRQ), or both, of signals sent from the vehicle's cellular communication system to the remote server via the cellular network.

[0022] In an exemplary embodiment, the method further includes confirmation by the processor as to whether a disturbance event has occurred against the vehicle, based on monitoring vehicle-internal transmissions between several short-range wireless communication systems of the vehicle, which are arranged on opposite sides of the vehicle.

[0023] In another exemplary embodiment, a vehicle is provided comprising: a body; a first short-range wireless communication system with a first antenna located at a front end of the body, wherein the first short-range wireless communication system comprises a Wi-Fi radio system or a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) system; a second short-range wireless communication system with a second antenna located at a rear end of the body opposite the front end, wherein the first short-range wireless communication system also comprises a Wi-Fi radio system or a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) system; a long-range cellular communication system comprising a cellular antenna located on the body;a large number of sensors configured to monitor the communication of the first wireless short-range communication system, the second wireless short-range communication system, and the cellular long-range communication system, and to generate sensor data based on the monitoring;and a processor coupled to the first wireless short-range communication system, the second wireless short-range communication system, the cellular long-range communication system, and the plurality of sensors, wherein the processor is configured to at least enable the first wireless short-range communication system to instruct a plurality of null packets to transmit, via in-vehicle communication, to the vehicle's second wireless short-range communication system under several different communication conditions, including several different transmission frequency levels, several different operating channels, or both;Monitoring, using sensor data, to determine which of the null packets transmitted by the first wireless short-range communication system are actually received by the second wireless short-range communication system under each of the several different communication conditions; determining a frequency at which the null packets sent by the first wireless short-range communication system are actually received by the second wireless short-range communication system; performing, by the processor, an initial determination of whether a disturbance event has occurred for the vehicle, based on the frequency, by monitoring under each of the several different communication conditions;Initiating a communication channel between the vehicle and a remote server located away from the vehicle via the vehicle's long-range cellular communication system using a cellular network in accordance with instructions provided by the processor; monitoring a heartbeat of continuous communications comprising signals between the vehicle and the remote server along the cellular network; and determining a variety of quantitative measures, including both (i) a received signal strength indicator (RSSI); and (ii) a reference signal received quality (RSRQ), of the signals transmitted from the vehicle's long-range cellular communication system to the remote server using the cellular network;Confirming whether the disturbance event actually occurred or not, based on monitoring the heartbeat of continuous communications between the vehicle and the remote server over the cellular network, including based on the RSSI and RSRQ; and performing a vehicle control action, including by locking the operation of a steering column, engine, or both of the vehicle, when the processor determines that a disturbance event has occurred against the vehicle.

[0024] The present disclosure is described below in conjunction with the following drawings, where identical numbers denote identical elements: Fig. Figure 1 is a functional block diagram of a communication system comprising a vehicle with a control system configured to detect vehicle malfunctions and to initiate a vehicle control action in response to a detected vehicle malfunction, according to an exemplary embodiment; Fig. Figure 2 is a functional block diagram that represents the vehicle's control system and communication system. Fig. 1 according to an exemplary embodiment; and Fig. 3 is a method for detecting vehicle malfunctions and initiating vehicle control measures in response to a detected vehicle malfunction, which, according to an exemplary embodiment, in conjunction with the communication system of Fig. 1 and the tax system of Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 can be implemented.

[0025] Fig. Figure 1 is a functional block diagram of a communication system 100 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. As described in more detail below, the communication system 100 includes a vehicle with a control system 120 configured to detect a disturbance event 108 for the vehicle 102 (e.g., from a disturbance device 110 of a third party in the vicinity of the vehicle 102, which is used against the vehicle 102) and to take measures for vehicle control in response to such a detected disturbance.

[0026] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the communication system 100 generally comprises the vehicle 102 together with one or more wireless communication networks 106 and a remote server 104. It should be noted that the overall architecture, structure, operation, and individual components of the communication system 100 shown are merely exemplary and that differently configured communication systems can also be used to implement the examples of the method disclosed here. Therefore, the following sections, which provide a brief overview of the communication system 100 shown, should not be understood as a limitation.

[0027] Vehicle 102 can be any type of mobile vehicle, such as an automobile, motorcycle, car, truck, camper van, boat, aircraft, agricultural machine, watercraft, airplane, spacecraft or similar, and it is equipped with suitable hardware and software that enables it to communicate via the Communication System 100.

[0028] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the vehicle 102 has a body 122 and various antennas 111, 112(1) and 112(2) arranged on the body 122. In the illustrated embodiment, the antennas comprise a long-range antenna 111, a first short-range antenna 112(1) and a second short-range antenna 112(2). As shown in Figure 1, the vehicle 102 has a body 122 and various antennas 111, 112(1) and 112(2). Fig. As shown in Figure 1, in various embodiments the long-range antenna 111 and the first and second short-range antennas 112(1) and 112(2) are each arranged on or near a roof or upper part of the body 122 of the vehicle 102; however, this may vary in other embodiments. As also shown in Figure 1, the long-range antenna 111 and the first and second short-range antennas 112(1) and 112(2) are arranged on or near a roof or upper part of the body 122 of the vehicle 102; however, this may vary in other embodiments. Fig. As shown in Figure 1, in various embodiments the first and second short-range antennas 112(1) and 112(2) are arranged at or near opposite ends of the vehicle 102. In particular, in the illustrated embodiment, the first short-range antenna 112(1) is arranged at or near a rear end of the vehicle 102, while the second short-range antenna 112(2) is arranged at or near a front end of the vehicle 102.

[0029] In various embodiments, the long-range antenna 111 includes a mobile communication antenna 111 configured for communication between the vehicle 102 and the remote server 104 via the communication network 106. In various embodiments, the communication network 106 also includes a cellular communication network 106, which provides cellular connections 119 for wireless communication between the vehicle 102 and the remote server 104.

[0030] In various embodiments, the first short-range antenna 112(1) and the second short-range antenna 112(2) are configured for in-vehicle communication 114 between them for the vehicle 102, including encrypted communication 116 with the exchange of zero packets 118 between them, which are used to detect a jamming event 108 against the vehicle 102 from a jamming device 110 of a third party, as further described below in conjunction with Fig. 3 described in more detail. In one embodiment, the first short-range antenna 112(1) and the second short-range antenna 112(2) have a first and a second Wi-Fi antenna. In a second embodiment, the first short-range antenna 112(1) and the second short-range antenna 112(2) have a first and a second Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) antenna.

[0031] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the vehicle 102 also has a plurality of wheels 124, each rotatably coupled to a chassis near a corresponding corner of the superstructure 122 to enable the movement of the vehicle 102.

[0032] Furthermore, the vehicle 102 features various embodiments, as in Fig. Figure 1 shows the vehicle hardware 121 (e.g., including various systems, devices, and equipment of the vehicle 102) which is arranged within the body 122 of the vehicle 102. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the vehicle hardware 121 in various embodiments includes the above-mentioned control system 120, in addition to a drive system 126, a steering system 128, a braking system 130, a locking module 132, a display system 133 and an alarm system 134 with an alarm control module 136, alongside various other modules 138.

[0033] In various embodiments, the drive system 126 powers the wheels 124 to move the vehicle 102. In certain embodiments, the drive system 126 comprises a drive system with one or more motors 127.

[0034] In various embodiments, the locking module 132 controls and locks the movement and operation of the vehicle 102 when a fault event is detected. In certain embodiments, the locking module 132 locks the motor 127 and / or the steering column 129 and / or otherwise restricts or prevents their operation when a fault event of the vehicle 102 is detected.

[0035] In various embodiments, the display system 133 provides notifications about vehicle conditions and events, including for a driver and / or other passengers of the vehicle 102 and / or for other persons in the vicinity of the vehicle 102. In various embodiments, the display system 133 can provide acoustic, visual, haptic and / or other types of notifications, including when a traffic jam event is detected for the vehicle 102.

[0036] In various embodiments, the alarm system 134 provides notifications about vehicle states and events, including malfunctions affecting the vehicle 102. In certain embodiments, the alarm system 134 can be part of or coupled to the display system 133. In certain embodiments, the alarm system 134 is also wholly or partially controlled by the alarm control module 136.

[0037] In various embodiments, the other modules 138 can include any number of other vehicle systems, such as an engine control module, as well as one or more infotainment systems, climate control systems, lighting systems, etc. for the vehicle 102.

[0038] Fig. Figure 2 is a functional block diagram that shows the control system 120 of the vehicle 102 and the communication system 100. Fig. 1 according to an exemplary embodiment. In certain embodiments, the control system 120 comprises a telematics system for the vehicle 102 and / or is coupled to it.

[0039] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the control system 120 in various embodiments has a multitude of wireless communication networks, including a first short-range communication system 202, a second short-range communication system 204 and a long-range communication system 206, as well as a control system 208 coupled to it.

[0040] In particular, the first short-range communication system 202 with the first short-range antenna 112(1) is available in various embodiments. Fig. 1 coupled and / or has these; the second short-range communication system 204 is connected to the second short-range antenna 112(2) of Fig. 1 coupled and / or has these; and the long-range communication system 206 is connected to the long-range antenna 111 of Fig. 1 coupled and / or exhibits these.

[0041] In various embodiments, the first short-range communication system 202 and the second short-range communication system 204 are configured to communicate with each other via in-vehicle communication, including the exchange of packets between them to detect interference events affecting the vehicle 102. In various embodiments, the long-range communication system 206 is also configured to communicate with the remote server 104 via the cellular communication network 106, also to confirm whether an interference event directed against the vehicle 102 has occurred.

[0042] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the control system 208 in various embodiments has various sensors 210 as well as a transceiver 212 and a controller 214.

[0043] In various embodiments, the sensors 210 have different antennas and / or are coupled to different antennas, such as the long-range antenna 111, the first short-range antenna 112(1) and the second short-range antenna 112(2) of Fig. 1. In various embodiments, the sensors 210 further measure and / or evaluate various parameters corresponding to or related to the communication of the control system 120, including parameters relating to the strength, intensity and / or quality of signals of the long-range communication system 206, and in particular including values ​​of the received signal strength indicator (RSSI) and the reference signal received quality (RSRQ) of the signals, as well as a power level and / or other parameters related to in-vehicle signals that are transmitted between the first short-range communication system 202 and the second short-range communication system 204. Fig. 2. In various embodiments, the sensors 210 are also configured to detect transmission and operating states of the vehicle 102 (including whether the engine 127 is switched on or off), along with the driver's actuation of the braking system 130 and the steering system 128, in addition to whether the doors of the vehicle 102 are open or closed and whether devices such as an on-board diagnostic (OBD) device are connected to the vehicle 102, along with various other potential sensor data. In certain embodiments, the sensors 210 also include one or more cameras (e.g., video cameras) and / or microphones for recording activities related to the vehicle 102 when a disturbance event is detected.

[0044] In various embodiments, the transceiver 212 also performs and / or enables communication for the control system 120, for example, inside the vehicle 102 and / or outside the vehicle 102, such as with the remote server 104 and / or one or more other locations and / or parties outside the vehicle 102 (e.g., one or more emergency responders, law enforcement agencies, and so on).

[0045] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the control unit 214 is coupled in various embodiments together with the drive system 126, the display system 133 and other vehicle systems with the sensors 210 and performs the steps of process 300. Fig. 3, as described in more detail below.

[0046] As in Fig. Figure 2 shows that the control system 214 in various embodiments comprises a computer system (here also referred to as computer system 214) which has a processor 216, a memory 218, an interface 220, a device 222 and a computer bus 224.

[0047] The processor 216 performs the calculation and control functions of the controller 214 and can comprise any type of processor or multiple processors, single integrated devices such as a microprocessor, or any number of integrated circuit devices and / or printed circuit boards working together to perform the functions of a processing unit. During operation, the processor 216 executes one or more programs 228 contained in the memory 218 and, as such, controls the general operation of the controller 214 and the controller 214's computer system, generally when performing the processes described herein, such as process 300 of Fig. 3, as described below in connection therewith.

[0048] The memory 218 can be any type of suitable memory, including various types of non-volatile, computer-readable storage media. In certain examples, the memory 218 is located on the same computer chip as the processor 216 and / or is arranged on it. In the illustrated embodiment, the memory 218 stores the aforementioned program 228 together with stored values ​​230 (e.g., lookup tables, thresholds, and / or other values ​​relating to the process 300).

[0049] Interface 220 enables communication with the computer system of the controller 214, for example, from a system driver and / or another computer system, and can be implemented using any suitable method and device. In one embodiment, interface 220 receives various data from sensors 210, among other possible data sources. Interface 220 can include one or more network interfaces for communication with other systems or components. Interface 220 can also include one or more network interfaces for communication with technicians and / or one or more memory interfaces for connection to storage devices, such as device 222.

[0050] The storage device 222 can be any suitable type of storage device, including various types of random-access memories and / or other storage devices. In an exemplary embodiment, the device 222 comprises a program product from which the memory 218 can receive a program 228 that executes one or more embodiments of one or more processes of the present disclosure, such as the steps of process 300 of Fig. 3, as described below in connection therewith. In another exemplary embodiment, the program product can be stored directly in memory 218 and / or on a disk (e.g. disk 226), as described below, and / or otherwise accessed.

[0051] Bus 224 is used to transfer programs, data, status, and other information or signals between the various components of the controller 214's computer system. Bus 224 can employ any suitable physical or logical means for connecting computer systems and components. This includes, but is not limited to, direct, hard-wired connections, fiber optic technology, infrared, and wireless bus technologies. During operation, the program 228 is stored in memory 218 and executed by processor 216.

[0052] While this exemplary embodiment is described in the context of a fully functional computer system, the person skilled in the art will recognize that the mechanisms of the present disclosure can be distributed as a program product with one or more types of non-volatile, computer-readable, signal-carrying media used to store the program and its instructions and to execute its distribution, such as a non-volatile, computer-readable medium carrying the program and containing computer instructions stored therein to cause a computer processor (such as processor 216) to carry out and execute the program.

[0053] Fig. Figure 3 is a flowchart of a process 300 for detecting vehicle malfunctions and initiating vehicle control measures in response to a detected vehicle malfunction, according to an exemplary embodiment. In various embodiments, the process 300 can be used in conjunction with the communication system 100 of Fig. 1 to be implemented, including vehicle 102 and control system 120 of Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, along with other components of the vehicle 102 and the communication system 100.

[0054] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the process 300 begins at 302 in various embodiments. In a first exemplary embodiment (e.g., where the first and second short-range communication systems 202 and 204 of Fig. If two Wi-Fi communication systems are present (with in-vehicle communication in between), process 300 begins when a condition “ignition on” for vehicle 102 at 304 is met (e.g., when engine 127 is switched on).

[0055] With continued reference to Fig. 3. Data are acquired in various embodiments (step 306). In various embodiments, sensor data from sensors 210 are acquired during step 306. Fig. 2. Received, including communication signals within the vehicle 102 (e.g., from an engine control module and / or other modules 138 of the vehicle 102) and between the vehicle 102 and the remote server 104, together with associated data, including signal strength, intensity, and quality relating to the communication between the vehicle 102 and the remote server 104. In certain embodiments, data can also be received from the remote server 104 and / or one or more other systems and / or devices from within and / or outside the vehicle 102, including via the transceiver 212.

[0056] In certain embodiments, it is determined whether the data from step 306 corresponds to a preliminary health check pass (step 307). In certain embodiments, in step 307, one or more processors (e.g., processor 216 of) Fig. 2) found that communication by using the long-range communication system 206 of Fig. 2 via the long-range antenna 111 from Fig. 1. fulfills a health inspection certificate (e.g., that this communication is considered to be in order and free from interference), and that the vehicle's internal communication (e.g., from an engine control module) also fulfills a health inspection certificate.

[0057] In certain embodiments, the health checks may also relate to whether one or more triggers are fulfilled. In such an embodiment, a trigger condition is fulfilled if (1) an alarm is triggered, e.g., via the alarm system 134 and / or the alarm control module 136 of Fig. 1, and furthermore provided that (2) one or more of the following additional conditions are also met: (a) a door of the vehicle 102 is opened or closed; (b) a brake pedal of the braking system 130 of the vehicle 102 is actuated; and / or (c) an on-board diagnostic (OBD) device is connected to the vehicle 102. In certain embodiments, if such a trigger condition is met, a corresponding health check pass is not completed.

[0058] In various embodiments, the process proceeds to step 308 if it is determined in step 307 that one or more of the health checks are not met. In various embodiments, a counter is started in step 308. In various embodiments, after a predetermined time interval, the process returns to step 304 in a new iteration, and steps 304-308 are then repeated in new iterations until it is determined in an iteration of step 307 that each of the health checks is met. In one embodiment, the predetermined time interval for step 308 is ten seconds; however, this may vary in other embodiments.

[0059] In various embodiments, once it is determined in an iteration of step 307 that each of the health checks is satisfied, step 310 is proceeded, in which a first short-range communication system is set to a first setting. In various embodiments, during step 310, the first short-range communication system 202 is Fig. 2 about instructions issued by processor 216 of Fig. 2 will be provided and set to an initial operating configuration.

[0060] In a first exemplary embodiment, where the first and second short-range communication systems 202 and 204 correspond to Wi-Fi radio systems, step 310 configures the first short-range communication system 202 to operate at a first operating frequency. In such an exemplary embodiment, the first operating frequency is 2.4 GHz. However, this can vary in other embodiments.

[0061] In various embodiments, a second short-range communication system is also set to the first setting during step 312. In various embodiments, the second short-range communication system 204 is set to the first setting during step 312. Fig. 2 set to the same initial operating setting as the first short-range communication system 202, via instructions from processor 216 of Fig. 2 will be provided.

[0062] In a first exemplary embodiment, where the first and second short-range communication systems 202 and 204 correspond to Wi-Fi radio systems, the second short-range communication system 204 is also configured during step 312 to operate at the aforementioned first operating frequency. As mentioned above, in such an exemplary embodiment, the first operating frequency is 2.4 GHz. However, this may vary in other embodiments.

[0063] In various embodiments, zero packets are exchanged between the first short-range communication system 202 and the second short-range communication system 204 (step 314). In various embodiments, zero packets are periodically sent between the first short-range communication system 202 and the second short-range communication system 204. In various embodiments, this is done in accordance with instructions provided by the processor 216 to the first short-range communication system 202 to periodically send zero packets to the second short-range communication system 204, and to the second short-range communication system 204 to receive the zero packets by leaving the channel corresponding to that of the first short-range communication system 202.

[0064] In various embodiments, an average power level is determined for the zero packets received by the second short-range communication system 204 (step 316). In certain embodiments, the average power level is measured via one or more of the sensors 210. Fig. 2 measured. In certain other embodiments, the average power level across the processor 216 is measured by Fig. 2 using sensor data from sensors 210 of Fig. 2 determined.

[0065] In various embodiments, a counter is started during the sending and receiving of packets in steps 314-316, and in step 318 it is continuously checked whether the counter has exceeded a predetermined number "N". In various embodiments, this is done via processor 216. Fig. 2 carried out.

[0066] In various embodiments, if step 318 determines that the counter has not exceeded the predetermined number "N", the process proceeds to step 320, in which a predetermined waiting period is observed. In certain embodiments, the predetermined waiting period for step 320 is one second; however, this may vary in other embodiments. Also in various embodiments, after the waiting period of step 320, the counter is incremented at step 322, whereupon the process returns to step 314. In various embodiments, steps 314-322 are repeated in this manner until, during an iteration of step 318, it is determined that the counter has exceeded the predetermined number "N".

[0067] In various embodiments, as soon as it is determined in an iteration of step 318 that the counter has exceeded the predetermined number "N", step 324 is proceeded. In various embodiments, during step 324, a first short-range communication system is set to a second setting. In various embodiments, during step 324, the first short-range communication system 202 is Fig. 2 about instructions issued by processor 216 of Fig. 2 will be provided, set to a second operating setting.

[0068] In a first exemplary embodiment, where the first and second short-range communication systems 202 and 204 correspond to Wi-Fi radio systems, during step 324 the first short-range communication system 202 is configured to operate at a second operating frequency higher than the first operating frequency of step 310. In such an exemplary embodiment, the second operating frequency is 5 GHz. However, this may vary in other embodiments.

[0069] In various embodiments, a second short-range communication system is also set to the second setting during step 326. In various embodiments, the second short-range communication system 204 is set to the second setting during step 326. Fig. 2 set to the same second operating setting as the first short-range communication system 202, via instructions from processor 216 of Fig. 2 will be provided.

[0070] In a first exemplary embodiment, in which the first and second short-range communication systems 202 and 204 correspond to Wi-Fi radio systems, the second short-range communication system 204 is also configured in step 326 to operate at the aforementioned second operating frequency. As mentioned above, in such an exemplary embodiment, the second operating frequency is 5 GHz. However, this may vary in other embodiments.

[0071] In various embodiments, zero packets are exchanged between the first short-range communication system 202 and the second short-range communication system 204 (step 328). In various embodiments, zero packets are periodically sent between the first short-range communication system 202 and the second short-range communication system 204. In various embodiments, this is done in accordance with instructions provided by the processor 216 to the first short-range communication system 202 to periodically send zero packets to the second short-range communication system 204, and to the second short-range communication system 204 to receive the zero packets by leaving the channel corresponding to that of the first short-range communication system 202.

[0072] In various embodiments, an average power level is determined for the zero packets received by the second short-range communication system 204 (step 330). In certain embodiments, the average power level is measured via one or more of the sensors 210. Fig. 2 measured. In certain other embodiments, the average power level across the processor 216 is measured by Fig. 2 using sensor data from sensors 210 of Fig. 2 determined.

[0073] In various embodiments, a counter is started during the sending and receiving of packets in steps 328-330, and in step 331 it is continuously checked whether the counter has exceeded a predetermined number "N". In various embodiments, this is done via processor 216. Fig. 2 carried out.

[0074] In various embodiments, if it is determined in step 331 that the counter has not exceeded the predetermined number "N", the process proceeds to step 332, in which a predetermined waiting period is observed. In certain embodiments, the predetermined waiting period of step 332 is one second; however, this can vary in other embodiments. Also in various embodiments, after the waiting period of step 332, the counter is incremented at step 333, after which the process returns to step 328. In various embodiments, steps 328-333 are repeated in this manner until, during an iteration of step 331, it is determined that the counter has exceeded the predetermined number "N".

[0075] In various embodiments, as soon as it is determined in an iteration of step 331 that the counter has exceeded the predetermined number “N”, the process continues with step 334.

[0076] In various embodiments, during step 334, it is determined whether the frequency of zero packets received with the initial communication settings of steps 310 and 312 exceeds a predetermined threshold. In various embodiments, this determination is performed by processor 216. Fig. 2 based on the sensor data corresponding to the communication transmissions and the associated actions of steps 310-322. In one exemplary embodiment, the predetermined threshold corresponds to at least fifty percent of the zero packets sent by the first short-range communication system 202 being successfully received by the second short-range communication system 204, resulting in a ratio of successfully transmitted zero packets to the total number of transmitted zero packets greater than 0.5. However, the predetermined threshold may differ in other embodiments, for example, by using one or more other calibratable thresholds.

[0077] In various embodiments, the process returns to step 307 if the frequency of successfully transmitted zero packets with the initial communication settings exceeds the specified threshold of step 334, and the process then continues in a new iteration.

[0078] Conversely, in various embodiments, if the frequency of successfully sent zero packets for the initial communication settings does not exceed the predetermined threshold of step 334, the process instead proceeds to step 336, which is described directly below.

[0079] In various embodiments, during step 336, it is determined whether the frequency of zero packets received with the second communication settings of steps 324 and 326 exceeds a predetermined threshold. In various embodiments, this determination is performed by processor 216. Fig. 2 based on the sensor data corresponding to the communication transmissions and the associated actions of steps 324-333. In one exemplary embodiment, the predetermined threshold is that at least fifty percent of the zero packets sent by the first short-range communication system 202 are successfully received by the second short-range communication system 204, resulting in a ratio of successfully transmitted zero packets to the total number of zero packets sent that is greater than 0.5. However, the predetermined threshold may differ in other embodiments.

[0080] In various embodiments, the process returns to step 307 if the frequency of successfully transmitted zero packets with the second communication settings exceeds the predetermined threshold of step 334, and the process then continues in a new iteration.

[0081] Conversely, in various embodiments, if the frequency of successfully sent zero packets for the second communication settings does not exceed the predetermined threshold of step 334, the process instead continues to step 336, which is described directly below.

[0082] In various embodiments, during step 336, it is determined whether the frequency of zero packets received with the second communication settings of steps 324 and 326 exceeds a predetermined threshold. In various embodiments, this determination is performed by processor 216. Fig. 2 based on the sensor data corresponding to the communication transmissions and the associated actions of steps 324-333. In one exemplary embodiment, the predetermined threshold is that at least fifty percent of the zero packets sent by the first short-range communication system 202 are successfully received by the second short-range communication system 204, resulting in a ratio of successfully transmitted zero packets to the total number of zero packets sent that is greater than 0.5. However, the predetermined threshold may differ in other embodiments.

[0083] In various embodiments, the process returns to step 307 if the frequency of successfully transmitted zero packets with the second communication settings exceeds the predetermined threshold of step 336, and the process then continues in a new iteration.

[0084] Conversely, in various embodiments, if the frequency of successfully sent zero packets for the second communication settings does not exceed the predetermined threshold of step 336, the process instead continues to step 338, which is described directly below.

[0085] In various embodiments, during step 338, it is determined whether a first quantitative measure of signals is transmitted between the long-range communication system 206 of Fig. 2 and the remote server 104 from Fig. 2 is less than a predetermined threshold. In various embodiments, this determination is made by the processor 216 of Fig. 2 based on the sensor data, which the cellular communication from the long-range communication system 206 to the remote server 104 via the communication network 106 of Fig. 1 (e.g., via a cellular network). In one embodiment, the first quantitative measure corresponds to a received signal strength indicator (RSSI) of the cellular communication. However, this may differ in other embodiments.

[0086] In various embodiments, the process returns to step 307 if the first quantitative measurement (e.g. RSSI) is greater than or equal to the predetermined threshold of step 338, and the process then continues in a new iteration.

[0087] Conversely, in various embodiments, if the first quantitative measurement (e.g. RSSI) is below the predetermined threshold of step 338, the process proceeds instead to step 340, which is described directly below.

[0088] In various embodiments, during step 340, it is determined whether a second quantitative measure of signals exists between the long-range communication system 206 of Fig. 2 and the remote server 104 from Fig. 2 is less than a predetermined threshold. In various embodiments, this determination is made by processor 216 of Fig. 2 based on the sensor data that the cellular communication from the long-range communication system 206 to the remote server 104 via the communication network 106 of Fig. 1 corresponds to (e.g., via a cellular network). In one embodiment, the second quantitative measure also corresponds to a reference signal reception quality (RSRQ) of the cellular communication. However, this may differ in other embodiments.

[0089] In various embodiments, the process returns to step 307 if the second quantitative measure (e.g., RSRQ) is greater than or equal to the predetermined threshold of step 340, and the process then continues in a new iteration.

[0090] Conversely, in various embodiments, if the second quantitative measure (e.g., RSRQ) is below the predetermined threshold of step 340, the process proceeds instead to step 342, which is described directly below.

[0091] In various embodiments, a data channel is opened with the remote server 104 during step 342. In various embodiments, the long-range communication system 206 performs a heartbeat communication sequence with the remote server 104 during step 342 in accordance with instructions issued by the processor 216. Fig. 2 are provided, and the heartbeat communication is monitored by processor 216 using sensor data regarding the heartbeat communication sequence. In various embodiments, it is determined whether the communication with the remote server is correctly established (step 344). In particular, in various embodiments, processor 216 determines whether the heartbeat communication sequence of step 342 is correct (i.e., that the communication between the vehicle 102 and the remote server 104 via the channel of step 342 is successful).In certain embodiments, the findings of steps 334-340 include one or more initial findings as to whether a disturbance event against the vehicle 102 is likely, and the communication and monitoring of steps 342 and 344, following the initial findings of steps 334-340, provide confirmation as to whether a jamming event against the vehicle 102 actually occurs or not.

[0092] In various embodiments, the process returns to step 307 if step 344 determines that communication with the remote server is functioning correctly, and the process then continues in a new iteration.

[0093] If, however, in various embodiments step 344 detects that communication with the remote server is not functioning correctly, one or more vehicle control actions are performed in various embodiments (step 346). In various embodiments, the vehicle control actions are implemented via instructions issued by processor 216. Fig. 2 will be provided.

[0094] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the vehicle control actions in various embodiments involve the activation of one or more alarms in step 348, such as by honking, flashing, or other actions of the vehicle via the alarm system 134, the alarm control module 136, and / or the display system 133. Fig. 1, and / or by providing communications to law enforcement agencies and / or other authorities via Transceiver 212 of Fig. 2, in accordance with instructions issued by processor 216 of Fig. 2 will be provided.

[0095] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the vehicle control actions in various embodiments can also include blocking vehicle operation in step 350, e.g. by prohibiting or blocking the starting of the engine 127 and / or the movement of the steering column 129. Fig. 1 via the lock module 132 according to the instructions given by processor 216 from Fig. 2 will be provided.

[0096] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the vehicle control actions in various embodiments can also include initiating the recording of activities relating to the vehicle 102 in step 352, for example by performing audio and / or video recordings. In various embodiments, this is achieved via cameras and / or microphones of the sensors 210. Fig. 2 carried out, in accordance with instructions issued by processor 216 of Fig. 2 will be provided

[0097] In various embodiments, the process then ends at 354.

[0098] Accordingly, various embodiments provide methods and systems to detect disturbances affecting a vehicle and to take appropriate measures for vehicle control in response to the disturbance.

[0099] With further reference to Fig. Figure 3 shows a second exemplary embodiment, in which the first and second short-range communication systems 202 and 204 of Fig. Two BLE communication systems are included instead of Wi-Fi systems. This second embodiment may have some differences for Process 300, as described below.

[0100] In this second exemplary embodiment, in which the first and second short-range communication systems 202 and 204 are Fig. 2 BLE communication systems, the process 300 can instead start when an “ignition off” condition for the vehicle 102 at 304 is met (e.g., when the engine 127 is switched off), and / or regardless of whether the engine 127 is switched on or off in certain embodiments (e.g., with continuous monitoring of BLE communication in certain embodiments).

[0101] In this second exemplary embodiment, where the first and second short-range communication systems 202 and 204 correspond to BLE radio systems, step 310 also configures the first short-range communication system 202 to operate on a first operating channel. In such an exemplary embodiment, the first operating channel corresponds to channel 37, which is 2402 MHz. However, this may vary in other embodiments.

[0102] In this second exemplary embodiment, where the first and second short-range communication systems 202 and 204 correspond to BLE radio systems, step 312 also configures the second short-range communication system 204 to operate on the first operating channel (i.e., on the same channel as the first short-range communication system 202). As mentioned above, in such an exemplary embodiment, the first operating channel corresponds to channel 37. However, this may vary in other embodiments.

[0103] In this second exemplary embodiment, where the first and second short-range communication systems 202 and 204 correspond to BLE radio systems, the first short-range communication system 202 is configured during step 324 to operate on one or more secondary operating channels that differ from the operating channel of step 310. In such an exemplary embodiment, the secondary operating channels correspond to channel 38 (corresponding to 2426 MHz), channel 39 (corresponding to 2480 MHz), or both. However, this may vary in other embodiments.

[0104] In this second exemplary embodiment, where the first and second short-range communication systems 202 and 204 correspond to BLE radio systems, the second short-range communication system 204 is configured during step 326 to operate on the same second operating channel or channels (i.e., the same channel(s) as the first short-range communication system 202). As mentioned above, in such an exemplary embodiment, the second operating channel(s) corresponds to channel 37, channel 38, or both. However, this may vary in other embodiments.

[0105] It is clear that the systems and procedures may differ from those depicted in the figures and described here. For example, the communication system 100 may differ from those shown in the figures. Fig. 1, including the vehicle 102 and the control system 120 and other components thereof, and including the details of the control system 120 of Fig. 2, in various embodiments of the one in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. The system shown and / or described herein may differ. It is also acknowledged that the process (and / or subprocesses) disclosed here may differ from those described herein and / or in Fig. 3 can be distinguished from those shown, and / or that steps thereof occur simultaneously and / or in a different order than described herein and / or in Fig. 3 can be carried out as shown, in addition to other possible variants.

Claims

[1] Method (300) for detecting a disturbance event (108) for a vehicle (102), the method (300) comprising: Transmitting (314, 328) a plurality of null packets (118) via in-vehicle communication from a first short-range wireless communication system (202) of the vehicle (102) to a second short-range wireless communication system (204) of the vehicle; Monitoring (306), via a processor (216) of the vehicle by using sensor data from one or more sensors (210) of the vehicle, which of the null packets (118) transmitted by the first short-range wireless communication system (202) were actually received by the second short-range wireless communication system (204); Determine (340), via the processor (216), a frequency at which the zero packets (118) transmitted by the first short-range wireless communication system (202) were actually received by the second short-range wireless communication system (204); and Determine (344), via the processor (216), whether a disturbance event (108) has occurred for the vehicle (102), based on the frequency. [2] Method (300) according to claim 1, further comprising: Perform (346) a vehicle control action in accordance with instructions provided by the processor (216) when the processor (216) has determined that a fault event (108) has occurred. [3] Method (300) according to claim 1, wherein: the first short-range wireless communication system (202) uses a first antenna (112(1)) arranged at a front end of the vehicle (102); and the second short-range wireless communication system (204) uses a second antenna (112(2)) which is located at a rear end of the vehicle (102), opposite the front end. [4] Method (300) according to claim 1, wherein: the transmission (314, 328) of the plurality of zero packets (118) includes the transmission of the plurality of zero packets (118) via in-vehicle communication under several different communication conditions from the first short-range wireless communication system (202) of the vehicle to the second short-range wireless communication system (204) of the vehicle; The monitoring (306) includes monitoring via the processor (216) using sensor data from the one or more sensors (210) of the vehicle to determine which of the null packets (118) transmitted by the first short-range wireless communication system (202) are actually received by the second short-range wireless communication system (204) under each of the several different communication conditions; Determining (340) the frequency includes determining, via the processor (216), the frequency at which the null packets (118) transmitted by the first short-range wireless communication system (202) are actually received by the second short-range wireless communication system (204) under each of the several different communication conditions; and Determining (344) whether a disturbance event (108) has occurred, via the processor (216), includes whether a disturbance event (108) has occurred for the vehicle (102), based on the frequency at each of the several different communication conditions. [5] Method (300) according to claim 4, wherein it is determined that the interference event (108) has occurred when the frequency is less than fifty percent of the successfully transmitted zero packets to the total transmitted zero packets. [6] Method (300) according to claim 4, wherein: the first wireless short-range communication system (202) includes a first Wi-Fi radio system; the second short-range wireless communication system (204) includes a second Wi-Fi radio system; and The multiple different communication conditions include a variety of different operating frequencies for the first and second Wi-Fi radio systems. [7] Method (300) according to claim 6, wherein the zero packets (118) are transmitted from the first Wi-Fi radio system to the second Wi-Fi radio system when a motor (127) of the vehicle (102) is switched on. [8] Method (300) according to claim 6, comprising several different communication conditions: a first operating frequency of 2.4 GHz for the first and second Wi-Fi radio systems; and a second operating frequency of 5 GHz for the first and second Wi-Fi radio systems. [9] Method (300) according to claim 1, further comprising: Initiating (342) a communication channel between the vehicle (102) and a remote server (104) located away from the vehicle, via a cellular communication system (206) of the vehicle, which uses a cellular network (106) in accordance with instructions provided by the processor (216); Monitoring (344) a heartbeat of the continuous communication between the vehicle (102) and the remote server (104) over the cellular network (106) via the processor (216); and Confirming whether the disturbance event (108) has actually occurred or not, based on monitoring the heartbeat of the continuous communication between the vehicle (102) and the remote server (104) via the cellular network (106) by the processor (216). [10] Vehicle (102), comprising: a body (122); a first short-range wireless communication system (202) with a first antenna (112(1)) arranged at a front end of the body (122), wherein the first short-range wireless communication system (202) comprises a Wi-Fi radio system or a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) system; a second short-range wireless communication system (204) with a second antenna (112(2)) located at a rear end of the body (122) opposite the front end, wherein the second short-range wireless communication system (204) also comprises a Wi-Fi radio system or a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) system; a cellular long-range communication system (206) comprising a cellular antenna (111) mounted on the body (122); a multitude of sensors (210) configured to monitor the communication of the first wireless short-range communication system (202), the second wireless short-range communication system (204), and the cellular long-range communication system (206), and to generate sensor data based on the monitoring; and a processor (216) coupled with the first short-range wireless communication system (202), the second short-range wireless communication system (204), the long-range cellular communication system (206) and the plurality of sensors (210), wherein the processor (216) is configured to at least enable: Instructing the first short-range wireless communication system (202) to transmit a plurality of null packets (118) via in-vehicle communication to the second short-range wireless communication system (204) of the vehicle (102) under several different communication conditions, including several different transmission frequency levels, several different operating channels, or both; Monitor (306), using the sensor data, which of the null packets (118) transmitted by the first short-range wireless communication system (202) are actually received by the second short-range wireless communication system (204), under each of the several different communication conditions; Determining (340) a frequency at which the null packets (118) sent by the first short-range wireless communication system (202) are actually received by the second short-range wireless communication system (204); Performing, via the processor (216), an initial determination of whether a disturbance event (108) has occurred for the vehicle (102), based on the frequency, by monitoring each of the several different communication conditions; Initiating (342) a communication channel between the vehicle (102) and a remote server (104) located away from the vehicle, via the vehicle's (102) long-range cellular communication system (206), which uses a cellular network (106) in accordance with the instructions provided by the processor (216); Monitoring (344) a heartbeat of the continuous communication, which includes signals between the vehicle (102) and the remote server (104) via the cellular network (106); and Determining a variety of quantitative measurements, including both (i) a received signal strength indicator (RSSI) and (ii) a reference signal received quality (RSRQ) of the signals sent by the vehicle's (102) long-range cellular communication system (206) to the remote server (104) using the cellular network (106); Confirm (344) whether the fault event (108) actually occurred or not, based on monitoring the heartbeat of the continuous communication between the vehicle (102) and the remote server (104) over the cellular network (106), including based on the RSSI and the RSRQ; and Performing (346) a vehicle control action, including by locking the operation of a steering column (129), an engine (127) or both, of the vehicle (102), when the processor (216) detects that a disturbance event (108) has occurred against the vehicle (102).

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