Antenna system for a vehicle telematics unit

Abstract

Embodiments of an example telematics system for a vehicle are disclosed. The example telematics system includes a plurality of antennas capable of transmitting and receiving wireless signals, the plurality of antennas including a main antenna and a redundant antenna positioned adjacent to the main antenna. The main antenna includes a three-dimensional antenna, and the redundant antenna includes a two-dimensional antenna.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of vehicle communication systems, and particularly to an antenna system for integrating a telematics unit. Background Art

[0002] As is well known, emergency rescue systems are used to transmit vehicle information in the event of a collision. These systems are designed such that upon detection of a collision situation, a phone call or SMS message can be initiated to a base station. The emergency system sends vehicle information to the base station, such as vehicle crash data, vehicle identification, vehicle condition, and vehicle location information. Thus, in the event of a collision, emergency units such as ambulances and / or the police can be automatically called. However, if the antenna of the emergency system is damaged during the collision, the emergency system may not be able to automatically transmit such an automatic emergency call. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Embodiments of an example telematics system for a vehicle are disclosed. The example telematics system includes a plurality of antennas capable of transmitting and receiving wireless signals, the plurality of antennas including a main antenna and a spare antenna positioned adjacent to the main antenna.

[0004] In another embodiment, a telematics system for a vehicle includes an antenna system that includes a three-dimensional main antenna and a two-dimensional spare antenna positioned adjacent to the main antenna, the antenna system being capable of wirelessly transmitting and receiving data packets according to a cellular communication protocol. The telematics system further includes: a processor communicatively coupled to the antenna system; and a storage device that stores instructions executable by the processor to: generate an emergency alert in response to detecting an alert condition; determine whether the main antenna is operating properly; if the main antenna is operating properly, transmit the emergency alert via the main antenna and the spare antenna; and if the main antenna is not operating properly, transmit the emergency alert via the spare antenna.

[0005] A method for a vehicle telematics system is also disclosed. An example method for a vehicle telematics system includes: generating an emergency alert in response to detecting an alert condition; determining whether the main antenna of the telematics system is operating properly; if the main antenna is operating properly, transmitting the emergency alert via the main antenna of the telematics system and a spare antenna positioned adjacent to the main antenna; and if the main antenna is not operating properly, transmitting the emergency alert via the spare antenna. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0006] The present disclosure may be better understood by reading the following description of non-limiting embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0007] Figure 1Shows a schematic diagram depicting an example vehicle - to - vehicle communication system according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0008] Figure 2 Shows an example partial view of a vehicle cabin according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0009] Figure 3 Shows an example in - vehicle computing system according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0010] Figure 4 Shows a block diagram depicting an example telematics unit having a primary antenna and a backup antenna according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0011] Figure 5 Shows an exploded view of an example telematics unit having a primary antenna and a backup antenna according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0012] Figure 6 Shows a perspective view of an example antenna system including a three - dimensional primary antenna and a two - dimensional backup antenna according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0013] Figure 7 Shows a high - level flowchart depicting an example method for transmitting an alert using a telematics unit according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0014] As described above, a telematics system is used to provide telecommunications and cellular connectivity for a vehicle and can also be configured to generate an emergency call in the event of a crash or accident. The present disclosure describes a telematics system for a vehicle that establishes communication between the vehicle and other vehicles in the same or a similar geographical area or an external service via a relay tower or a base station. A communication system, such as Figure 1 the system depicted in, shows one such example of a system capable of providing communication between a vehicle and an external service. In the event of one or more crashes, accidents, mechanical failures, electrical failures, and / or medical emergencies, an assistance request can be broadcast to nearby vehicles or an external service via a relay tower and / or a satellite.

[0015] In addition, as described herein, a telematics unit may include: a plurality of antennas, including at least one main antenna and at least one spare antenna; and a controller integrated therein, such as an electronic control unit (ECU). In contrast, prior telematics systems were not integrated and relied on coaxial cables to connect the ECU and the antennas, which could be located at various positions in the vehicle. The integrated telematics unit of the present disclosure provides an integrated solution by highly integrating a plurality of antennas into one package, while traditional designs only support a limited number of antennas. Additionally, the integrated telematics unit of the present disclosure provides aerodynamic improvements for vehicles configured with the telematics unit and provides additional crash protection for the telematics unit, since the main antenna is integrated inside the vehicle rather than provided as a shark fin antenna protruding from the roof. Due to the positioning of the main antenna not being limited to an external mounting location, the advantages also enable vehicle designers (e.g., glass roofs) to have more concealed designs and greater flexibility. The integrated telematics unit of the present disclosure is also capable of reducing assembly work, as installing a single antenna module saves time in the production line by reducing installation or production steps. Since all antennas are installed in one place, materials are also saved, thereby eliminating the number of cables routed through the vehicle wiring in prior systems. Cost savings can also be obtained via easier handling of spare parts and repairs. The CO2 footprint is also improved by saving the length of the antenna cables and not installing each antenna individually (e.g., housing, mounting, etc.), thereby reducing weight and improving the CO2 footprint.

[0016] Reference Figure 1 , an exemplary operating environment is shown, which includes an inter-vehicle communication system 10 that can be used to implement the methods disclosed herein. The inter-vehicle communication system 10 generally includes one or more vehicles 12 equipped with telematics, one or more wireless carrier systems 14, and one or more remote servers 16. In some examples, the inter-vehicle communication system 10 may additionally include various personal wireless devices 22 and a Short Message Service Center (SMSC) 24. It should be understood that the methods disclosed below with reference to Figure 7 can be used in any number of different systems and are not specifically limited to the operating environment shown herein. Thus, the following paragraphs simply provide a brief overview of one possible configuration for providing wireless communication between each of the vehicles 12 and between the vehicles 12 and the remote server 16. However, it should be understood that other systems not shown herein may also be used to perform the disclosed methods.

[0017] The vehicle 12 is depicted as a passenger vehicle in the illustrated embodiment, but it should be understood that any other type of transportation vehicle may also be used, including motorcycles, trucks, sport utility vehicles (SUVs), recreational vehicles (RVs), ships, airplanes, etc. InFigure 1 Generally shown therein are some vehicle electronic devices 28. Referring below to Figures 2 to 6 A more detailed description of example vehicle electronic devices that may be included in vehicle 12 is shown. The vehicle electronic device 28 may include a telematics unit 30, a microphone 32, one or more buttons or other control inputs 34, an audio system 36, a visual display 38, and a navigation module 40, as well as one or more of a plurality of vehicle system modules (VSMs) 42. Some of these devices may be directly connected to the telematics unit 30 (such as, for example, the microphone 32 and the button 34), while other devices are indirectly connected using one or more network connections (such as the communication bus 44 or the entertainment bus 46). Examples of suitable network connections include Controller Area Network (CAN), Media Oriented Systems Transport (MOST), Local Interconnect Network (LIN), Local Area Network (LAN), and other suitable connections, such as Ethernet or other connections that comply with known ISO, SAE, and IEEE standards and specifications (to name just a few).

[0018] The telematics unit 30 is an OEM-installed or aftermarket-installed device that enables vehicle 12 to receive and / or transmit wireless signals corresponding to voice, text, and / or other data. Thus, the telematics unit 30 can send and / or receive wireless signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), such as WiFi, Bluetooth, radio, cellular, and so on. The telematics unit 30 can thus be referred to as a transceiver 30 since it is capable of sending and receiving wireless signals. The wireless signals generated by the telematics unit 30 of vehicle 12 can be sent to and received by one or more of vehicle 12 and the remote server 16. Thus, each of the vehicles 12 can communicate wirelessly with one another for sending and / or receiving information between them via the telematics unit 30. In addition, each of the vehicles 12 can communicate wirelessly with the remote server 16 for sending and / or receiving information between them.

[0019] In some examples, in the event of a need for assistance in a vehicle 12 (e.g., collision, accident, mechanical / electrical failure, medical emergency, etc.), an assistance request can be wirelessly broadcast to other vehicles in the vicinity of the vehicle in need of assistance. If the wireless communication between the vehicle in need of assistance and the remote server 16 is interrupted, the vehicle in need of assistance can broadcast an assistance request via the telematics unit 30. However, in other examples, in the case where wireless communication is established between the vehicle in need of assistance and the remote server 16, the vehicle in need of assistance can send an assistance request to the remote server 16. The remote server 16 can then send an assistance request to one or more of the vehicles 12 within a threshold distance of the vehicle in need of assistance, and / or can notify one or more medical services (e.g., ambulance), towing services, public safety services, etc. depending on the type of emergency of the vehicle in need of assistance.

[0020] By including the relay towers 70, wireless communication between the remote server 16 and the vehicles 12 can be maintained even at greater distances between the server 16 and the vehicles 12. Each of the towers 70 can include transmit and receive antennas for relaying wireless signals between the remote server 16 and the vehicles 12.

[0021] However, it should be understood that in some examples, the relay towers 70 may not be included in the communication system 10, and the vehicles 12 can communicate wirelessly directly with the remote server 16. Additionally, if one or more of the vehicles 12 are separated from the remote server 16 by a sufficient distance, and / or the terrain (e.g., mountains) blocks the transmission of wireless signals therebetween, one or more of the vehicles 12 may not communicate wirelessly with the server 16.

[0022] Additionally or alternatively, the communication system 10 can utilize satellite communication to provide one-way or two-way communication between one or more of the vehicles 12 and the remote server 16. This can be accomplished using one or more communication satellites 62 and an uplink transmission station 64. One-way communication can be, for example, satellite radio service, where program content (news, music, etc.) is received by the transmission station 64, packaged for upload, and then sent to the satellite 62, which broadcasts the program to subscribers. Additionally, in some examples, each of the vehicles 12 can wirelessly transmit information to the satellite 62, which broadcasts the information to the server 16.

[0023] Accordingly, each of the vehicles 12 can communicate with one or more of a remote server 16 capable of transmitting and / or receiving wireless signals, other telematics-equipped vehicles 12, or some other entity or device. The telematics unit 30 enables the vehicle to provide a variety of different services, the variety of different services including services related to messaging, navigation, telephony, emergency assistance, diagnostics, infotainment, and the like. Data can be transmitted via a data connection (such as via a packet-switched connection), or via a voice channel, using techniques known in the art. For combined services involving both voice communication and data communication, the system can utilize a single call on the voice channel and switch between voice and data transmission on the voice channel as needed, which can be accomplished using techniques known to those skilled in the art.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the telematics unit 30 utilizes a wireless modem 50 for data transmission, an electronic processing device 52, one or more digital storage devices 54, and one or more antennas 56. It should be understood that the modem can be implemented by software, or it can be a separate hardware component located inside or outside the telematics unit 30. Any number of different standards or protocols (such as EVDO, CDMA, GPRS, and EDGE) can be used to operate the modem. The telematics unit 30 can also be used to perform a wireless network between the vehicle 12 and other networked devices. For this purpose, the telematics unit 30 can be configured to communicate wirelessly according to one or more wireless protocols (such as any one of the IEEE 802.11 protocol, WiMAX, or Bluetooth). When used for packet-switched data communication (such as TCP / IP), the telematics unit 30 can be configured with a static IP address, or it can be set to automatically receive an assigned IP address from another device on the network (such as a router or network address server).

[0025] The processor 52 can be any type of device capable of processing electronic instructions, including a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a main processor, a controller, a vehicle communication processor, and an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC). It can be a dedicated processor solely for the telematics unit 30, or it can be shared with other vehicle systems. The processor 52 executes various types of digitally stored instructions (such as software or firmware programs stored in the memory 54), which enables the telematics unit 30 to provide a wide variety of services. For example, the processor 52 can execute programs or process data to perform at least a portion of the methods discussed herein.

[0026] The telematics unit 30 can be used to provide a variety of vehicle services related to wireless communication with the vehicle 12. Such services can include: remotely controlling certain vehicle features by using the VSM 42; providing turn-by-turn guidance and other navigation-related services in combination with the navigation module 40; providing airbag deployment notifications and other emergency or roadside assistance-related services in combination with one or more collision sensor interface modules (such as a body control module (not shown)); diagnostic reporting using one or more diagnostic modules; and infotainment-related services, where music, web pages, movies, TV shows, video games, and / or other information are downloaded and stored by an infotainment module (not shown) for current or later playback. The services listed above are by no means an exhaustive list of all the capabilities of the telematics unit 30, but are merely an enumeration of some of the services that an exemplary telematics unit can provide. In addition, it should be understood that at least some of the foregoing modules can be implemented in the form of software instructions saved inside or outside the telematics unit 30, they can be hardware components located inside or outside the telematics unit 30, or they can be integrated with and / or shared with each other, or integrated with and / or shared with other systems located throughout the vehicle 12, just to list a few possibilities. In the case where the modules are implemented as the VSM 42 located outside the telematics unit 30, they can exchange data and commands with the telematics unit 30 by using the communication bus 44.

[0027] In some examples, the antenna 56 of the telematics unit 30 includes a main antenna configured as a main communication link to the base station of the relay tower 70, and a backup antenna configured to enable an emergency call or eCall in the event of damage to the main antenna. In a typical arrangement of the main antenna and the backup antenna, the main antenna is configured as a whip antenna or a shark fin antenna on the rear of the roof of the vehicle 12 (e.g., near the rear windshield of the vehicle 12), while the backup antenna is typically installed at a location inside the vehicle 12 away from the main antenna. However, such an arrangement requires the use of coaxial cables to connect the main antenna and the backup antenna to the telematics unit 30. As further discussed herein with reference to Figures 4 to 6 An improved arrangement for the telematics unit 30 includes a main antenna and a backup antenna integrated into the telematics unit 30.

[0028] The navigation module 40 can be configured to support any suitable navigation system, such as GPS, GALILEO, GLONASS, IRNSS, etc. In an example where the navigation module 40 is a GPS navigation module, the module 40 receives signals from a constellation of GPS satellites 60. Based on these signals, the module 40 can determine the vehicle's position for providing navigation and other location-related services to the vehicle driver. The navigation information can be presented on the display 38 (or other displays within the vehicle), or it can be presented orally, such as when providing turn-by-turn navigation. A dedicated in-vehicle navigation module (which can be part of the navigation module 40) can be used to provide navigation services, or some or all of the navigation services can be accomplished via the telematics unit 30, where the location information is sent to a remote location to provide the vehicle with navigation maps, map annotations (points of interest, restaurants, etc.), route calculations, etc. The location information can be supplied to the remote server 16 for other purposes, such as fleet management.

[0029] In addition to the audio system 36 and the navigation module 40, the vehicle 12 can include other vehicle system modules (VSMs) 42 in the form of electronic hardware components located throughout the vehicle, and typically receive inputs from one or more sensors and use the sensed inputs to perform diagnostics, monitoring, control, reporting, and / or other functions. Each of the VSMs 42 is preferably connected to the other VSMs and the telematics unit 30 via a communication bus 44 and can be programmed to run vehicle system and subsystem diagnostic tests and perform other functions. As an example, one VSM 42 can be an engine control module (ECM) that controls various aspects of engine operation, such as fuel ignition and ignition timing, another VSM 42 can be a powertrain control module that regulates the operation of one or more components of the vehicle's powertrain, and another VSM 42 can be a body control module that controls various electrical components located throughout the vehicle, such as the vehicle's power door locks. According to one embodiment, the ECM is equipped with on-board diagnostic (OBD) features that provide a large amount of real-time data, such as data received from various sensors including vehicle emission sensors, and provide a series of standardized diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) that enable technicians to quickly identify and remedy faults within the vehicle. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the above VSMs are only examples of some of the modules that can be used in the vehicle 12, as many other modules are possible.

[0030] The vehicle electronic device 28 may also include a plurality of vehicle user interfaces that provide means for providing and / or receiving information to vehicle occupants, such as a microphone 32, buttons 34, an audio system 36, and a visual display 38. As used herein, the term "vehicle user interface" broadly includes any suitable form of electronic device (including both hardware and software components) that is located on the vehicle 12 and enables a vehicle user to communicate with or through the components of the vehicle 12. In the description herein, a vehicle user may also be simply referred to as a user and / or a vehicle operator. The microphone 32 provides an audio input to the telematics unit 30 so that a driver or other occupant can provide voice commands and perform hands-free calls. To this end, it may be connected to an in-vehicle automatic speech processing unit using human-machine interface (HMI) techniques known in the art. The buttons 34 allow a user to manually input to the telematics unit 30 to provide data, responses, or control inputs. Separate buttons may be used to initiate an emergency call rather than a conventional service assistance call. The audio system 36 provides an audio output to vehicle occupants and may be a dedicated, stand-alone system or part of the main vehicle audio system. According to a particular embodiment shown herein, the audio system 36 is operatively coupled to the vehicle bus 44 and the entertainment bus 46 and may provide AM, FM, and satellite radio, CD, DVD, and other multimedia functions. The functions may be provided in combination with or independently of the above infotainment module. The visual display 38 is preferably a graphical display, such as a touch screen on the dashboard, a pop-up visual display, or a heads-up display reflected from the windshield, and may be used to provide a variety of input and output functions. A variety of other vehicle user interfaces may also be utilized, as Figure 1 the interface is only an example of a particular implementation.

[0031] The remote server 16 may be a computing device configured to: generate a user personalization level for a drug and calculate the drug cost based on claim data. In one example, the user personalization level may be related to the predicted effectiveness of the drug. Additionally, the user personalization level may be based on one or more of available scientific studies, clinical studies, patient reviews, care provider recommendations, etc. In different embodiments, the remote server 16 may take the form of a mainframe computer, a server computer, a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a home entertainment computer, a network computing device, a mobile computing device, a mobile communication device, a gaming device, etc.

[0032] The remote server 16 may include a logic subsystem 82 and a data storage subsystem 84. The remote server 16 may optionally include a display subsystem 86, a communication subsystem 88, and / or Figure 2Other components not shown in the figure. For example, the remote server 16 may also optionally include user input devices such as a keyboard, a mouse, a game controller, a camera, a microphone, and / or a touch screen.

[0033] The logic subsystem 82 may include one or more physical devices configured to execute one or more instructions. For example, the logic subsystem 82 may be configured to execute one or more instructions that are part of one or more applications, services, programs, routines, libraries, objects, components, data structures, or other logical configurations. Such instructions may be implemented to perform tasks, implement data types, transform the state of one or more devices, or otherwise achieve a desired result.

[0034] The logic subsystem 82 may include one or more processors configured to execute software instructions. Additionally or alternatively, the logic subsystem 82 may include one or more hardware or firmware logic machines configured to execute hardware or firmware instructions. The processors of the logic subsystem 82 may be single-core or multi-core, and the programs executed thereon may be configured for parallel or distributed processing. The logic subsystem 82 may optionally include separate components distributed among two or more devices, which may be located remotely and / or configured to coordinate processing. For example, the logic subsystem 82 may include several engines for processing and analyzing data. These engines may be wirelessly connected to one or more databases for processing data received from one or more vehicles 12. One or more aspects of the logic subsystem 82 may be virtualized and executed by a remotely accessible networked computing device configured in a cloud computing configuration.

[0035] The data holding subsystem 84 may include one or more physical, non-transitory devices configured to hold data and / or instructions executable by the logic subsystem 82 to implement the methods and processes described herein. When implementing such methods and processes, the state of the data holding subsystem 84 may be transformed (e.g., to hold different data).

[0036] The data retention subsystem 84 may include removable media and / or built-in devices. The data retention subsystem 84 may include optical memories (e.g., CD, DVD, HD-DVD, Blu-ray Disc, etc.) and / or magnetic memory devices (e.g., hard disk drive, floppy disk drive, tape drive, MRAM, etc.), and so on. The data retention subsystem 84 may include devices having one or more of the following characteristics: volatile, non-volatile, dynamic, static, read / write, read-only, random access, sequential access, location-addressable, file-addressable, and content-addressable. In some embodiments, the logic subsystem 82 and the data retention subsystem 84 may be integrated into one or more general-purpose devices, such as application-specific integrated circuits or systems-on-a-chip.

[0037] It should be understood that the data retention subsystem 84 includes one or more physical, non-transitory devices. In contrast, in some embodiments, various aspects of the instructions described herein may be propagated in a transitory manner by pure signals (e.g., electromagnetic signals) that are not held by a physical device for at least a limited duration. Additionally, data and / or other forms of information related to the present disclosure may be propagated by pure signals.

[0038] The server 16 may include one or more databases 85 in the data retention subsystem 84 for storing processed assistance requests, vehicle location data, and vehicle operator preferences.

[0039] When included, the display subsystem 86 may be used to present a visual representation of the data held by the data retention subsystem 84. Since the methods and processes described herein change the data held by the data retention subsystem 84 and thus transform the state of the data retention subsystem 84, the state of the display subsystem 86 may likewise be transformed to visually represent the changes in the underlying data. The display subsystem 86 may include one or more display devices utilizing almost any type of technology. Such display devices may be combined with the logic subsystem 82 and / or the data retention subsystem 84 in a shared enclosure, or such display devices may be peripheral display devices.

[0040] When included, the communication subsystem 88 may be configured to communicatively couple the remote server 16 with one or more other computing devices, such as the vehicle 12. The communication subsystem 88 may include wired and / or wireless communication devices compatible with one or more different communication protocols. As a non-limiting example, the communication subsystem 88 may be configured to communicate via a wireless telephone network, a wireless local area network, a wired local area network, a wireless wide area network, a wired wide area network, etc. In some embodiments, the communication subsystem 88 may allow the remote server 16 to send messages to and / or receive messages from other devices via a network such as the public Internet.

[0041] In some examples, the relay tower 70 can be configured to be part of a wireless cellular network. In such examples, the communication system 10 can include a personal wireless device 22, which can be, for example, a cellular phone or other personal portable device capable of wireless communication (including SMS messaging functionality for the illustrated embodiments). The device 22 can communicate with the relay tower 70 to send and receive voice calls, SMS messages, and possibly other communications, such as non-voice data for purposes of providing Internet access, weather information, stock information, etc. In addition, each telematics unit 30 in the vehicles 12 can be capable of sending and / or receiving SMS messages and phone calls via the cellular network provided by the relay tower 70.

[0042] Accordingly, the telematics unit 30 can utilize cellular communication according to the GSM or CDMA standards and can thus include a standard cellular chipset for voice communication such as hands-free calling.

[0043] In addition, the communication system can include one or more mobile switching centers (MSCs) 72, and any other networking components required to connect the wireless carrier system 14 and the remote server 16. Accordingly, each of the relay towers 70 can include a transmit and receive antenna and a base station, where the base stations from different cellular towers are connected to the MSC 72 directly or via intermediate equipment such as a base station controller. The wireless carrier system 14 can implement any suitable communication technology, including, for example, analog technologies such as AMPS, or newer digital technologies such as CDMA (e.g., CDMA2000) or GSM / GPRS. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, various cellular tower / base station / MSC arrangements are possible and can be used with the wireless carrier system 14. For example, the base station and the cellular tower can be located at the same location, or they can be far apart from each other, each base station can be responsible for a single cellular tower, or a single base station can serve various cellular towers, and various base stations can be coupled to a single MSC, to name just a few possible arrangements.

[0044] The Short Message Service Center (SMSC) 24 preferably communicates with the relay tower 70 and is involved in the communication of SMS messages. The SMSC 24 can operate according to the store-and-forward principle; that is, when a first user sends an SMS message to a second user, the SMS message will be stored on the SMSC until the second user can receive it. In other embodiments, the SMSC employs a store-and-forget method, where the store-and-forget method only attempts to deliver the SMS message once. These types of methods enable users to send and receive SMS messages at any time, even if they are currently engaged in a voice call. Of course, it should be understood that the exemplary representation of the SMSC 24 is merely an example of a suitable arrangement, as the SMSC can alternatively be provided according to some other configuration known in the art. Generally, SMS messages transmitted to or from the vehicle 12 or the wireless mobile device 22 are received and / or transmitted by the relay tower 70 and processed and routed through the MSC 72 and the SMSC 24 to the remote server 16.

[0045] Reference is made below to Figure 2 An example of the interior of the passenger compartment in the vehicle 12 is shown.

[0046] Figure 2 An example partial view of an environment of a type of communication system for data synchronization is shown: the interior of the passenger compartment 100 of the vehicle 102, in which the driver and / or one or more passengers can be seated. The vehicle 102 can be the same as or similar to the vehicle 12 described above with reference to Figure 1 The vehicle 102 described. Figure 2 The vehicle 102 can be a motor vehicle including drive wheels (not shown) and an internal combustion engine 104. The internal combustion engine 104 can include one or more combustion chambers, which can receive intake air via an intake passage and discharge combustion gases via an exhaust passage. In addition to other types of vehicles, the vehicle 102 can also be a road vehicle. In some examples, the vehicle 102 can include a hybrid propulsion system that includes an energy conversion device operable to absorb energy from vehicle movement and / or the engine and convert the absorbed energy into a form suitable for storage by an energy storage device. The vehicle 102 can include a fully electric vehicle incorporating a fuel cell, a solar capture element, and / or other energy storage systems that power the vehicle.

[0047] As shown, the instrument panel 106 can include various displays and controls accessible to the driver (also referred to as the user) of the vehicle 102. For example, the instrument panel 106 can include a touch screen 108 of an in-vehicle computing system 109 (e.g., an infotainment system), an audio system control panel, and an instrument cluster 110. Although in Figure 2The example system shown includes audio system controls that can be performed via a user interface of the in-vehicle computing system 109, such as a touchscreen 108 without a separate audio system control panel. However, in other embodiments, the vehicle can include an audio system control panel that can include controls for conventional vehicle audio systems, such as radios, CD players, MP3 players, etc. The audio system controls can include features for controlling one or more aspects of the audio output via the vehicle speaker system 112. For example, the in-vehicle computing system or the audio system controls can control the volume of the audio output, the sound distribution between the individual speakers of the vehicle speaker system, the equalization of the audio signal, and / or any other aspect of the audio output. In other examples, the in-vehicle computing system 109 can adjust the radio station selection, playlist selection, audio input source, etc. (e.g., from the radio or CD or MP3) based on user input received directly via the touchscreen 108 or based on data about the user (such as body state and / or the user's environment) received via the external device 150 and / or the mobile device 128.

[0048] In some embodiments, one or more hardware elements of the in-vehicle computing system 109, such as the touchscreen 108, the display screen, various control dials, knobs and buttons, the memory, one or more processors, and any interface elements (e.g., connectors or ports), can form an integrated host unit mounted in the vehicle's dashboard 106. The host unit can be fixedly or removably attached to the dashboard 106. In additional or alternative embodiments, one or more hardware elements of the in-vehicle computing system can be modular and can be mounted in multiple locations in the vehicle.

[0049] The passenger compartment 100 can include one or more sensors for monitoring the vehicle, the user, and / or the environment. For example, the passenger compartment 100 can include: one or more seat-mounted pressure sensors configured to measure the pressure applied to the seat to determine the presence of a user; door sensors configured to monitor door activity; humidity sensors that measure the humidity content of the passenger compartment; microphones that receive user input in the form of voice commands to enable the user to make a phone call and / or measure the ambient noise in the passenger compartment 100, and so on. It should be understood that the above sensors and / or one or more additional or alternative sensors can be located at any suitable location in the vehicle. For example, the sensors can be located in the engine compartment, on the outer surface of the vehicle, and / or in other suitable locations for providing information about the operation of the vehicle, the conditions around the vehicle, the users of the vehicle, etc. Information about the conditions around the vehicle, the vehicle state, or the vehicle driver can also be received from sensors external to / separate from the vehicle (i.e., not part of the vehicle system), such as sensors coupled to the external device 150 and / or the mobile device 128.

[0050] The vehicle compartment 100 may further include one or more user objects stored in the vehicle before, during, and / or after travel, such as the mobile device 128. The mobile device 128 may include a smart phone, a tablet computer, a laptop computer, a portable media player, and / or any suitable mobile computing device. The mobile device 128 may be connected to the in-vehicle computing system via a communication link 130. The communication link 130 may be wired (e.g., via Universal Serial Bus [USB], Mobile High-Definition Link [MHL], High-Definition Multimedia Interface [HDMI], Ethernet, etc.) or wireless (e.g., via Bluetooth, WIFI, WIFI Direct, Near Field Communication [NFC], cellular connection, etc.), and is configured to provide two-way communication between the mobile device and the in-vehicle computing system. The mobile device 128 may include one or more wireless communication interfaces for connecting to one or more communication links (e.g., one or more of the above exemplary communication links). The wireless communication interface may include one or more physical devices, such as one or more antennas or one or more ports coupled to data lines to carry the transmitted or received data, and one or more modules / drivers for operating the physical devices according to other devices in the mobile device. For example, the communication link 130 may provide sensor signals and / or control signals from various vehicle systems (such as the vehicle audio system, the climate control system, etc.) and the touch screen 108 to the mobile device 128, and may provide control signals and / or display signals from the mobile device 128 to the in-vehicle system and the touch screen 108. The communication link 130 may also supply power from the vehicle power source to the mobile device 128 to charge the internal battery of the mobile device.

[0051] The vehicle computing system 109 can also be communicatively coupled to additional devices that are operated and / or accessed by a user but are located external to the vehicle 102, such as one or more external devices 150. In the depicted embodiment, although the external devices are located external to the vehicle 102, it should be understood that in alternative embodiments, the external devices can be located inside the passenger compartment 100. The external devices can include server computing systems, personal computing systems, portable electronic devices, electronic wristbands, electronic headbands, portable music players, electronic activity tracking devices, pedometers, smartwatches, navigation systems, and the like. The external device 150 can be connected to the vehicle computing system via a communication link 136, which can be wired or wireless, as discussed with reference to the communication link 130, and is configured to provide two-way communication between the external device and the vehicle computing system. For example, the external device 150 can include one or more sensors, and the communication link 136 can transmit sensor outputs from the external device 150 to the vehicle computing system 109 and the touchscreen 108. The external device 150 can also store and / or receive information regarding context data, user behavior / preferences, operating rules, etc., and can transmit such information from the external device 150 to the vehicle computing system 109 and the touchscreen 108.

[0052] The vehicle computing system 109 can analyze inputs received from the external device 150, the mobile device 128, and / or other input sources, as well as selection settings of various vehicle systems, such as the climate control system or the audio system, provide outputs via the touchscreen 108 and / or the speaker 112, communicate with the mobile device 128 and / or the external device 150, and / or perform other operations based on the evaluation results. In some embodiments, all or a portion of the evaluation results can be performed by the mobile device 128 and / or the external device 150.

[0053] In some embodiments, one or more of the external devices 150 can be indirectly communicatively coupled to the vehicle computing system 109 via the mobile device 128 and / or another external device among the external devices 150. For example, the communication link 136 can communicatively couple the external device 150 to the mobile device 128 such that outputs from the external device 150 are relayed to the mobile device 128. Then, data received from the external device 150 can be aggregated at the mobile device 128 with data collected by the mobile device 128, and the aggregated data can then be transmitted via the communication link 130 to the vehicle computing system 109 and the touchscreen 108. Similar data aggregation can occur at the server system and then be transmitted via the communication links 136 / 130 to the vehicle computing system 109 and the touchscreen 108.

[0054] Figure 3A block diagram of an in-vehicle computing system 200 configured and / or integrated within a vehicle 201 is shown. The in-vehicle computing system 200 can be an example of the in-vehicle computing system 109 of Figure 2 and / or, in some embodiments, can perform one or more of the methods described herein. In some examples, the in-vehicle computing system can be an in-vehicle infotainment system configured to provide information-based media content (audio and / or video media content, including entertainment content, navigation services, etc.) to vehicle users to enhance the in-vehicle experience of the operator. The in-vehicle infotainment system can include or be coupled to various vehicle systems, subsystems, hardware components, and software applications and systems that are integrated in or can be integrated into the vehicle 201 to enhance the in-vehicle experience of the driver and / or passengers. Figure 2 Furthermore, in some examples, the vehicle user can signal the occurrence of a collision, accident, mechanical failure, etc. via user input (such as buttons, touchscreens, etc.) of the user interface 218.

[0055] The in-vehicle computing system 200 can be configured to detect the occurrence of an accident, impact, or mechanical failure of the vehicle 201 based on inputs received from various sensors of the vehicle 201.

[0056] The in-vehicle computing system 200 can include one or more processors, including an operating system processor 214 and an interface processor 220. The operating system processor 214 can execute the operating system on the in-vehicle computing system and control the input / output, display, playback, and other operations of the in-vehicle computing system. The interface processor 220 can interface with the vehicle control system 230 via the vehicle-to-vehicle system communication module 222.

[0057] The vehicle - to - vehicle communication module 222 can output data to other vehicle systems 231 and vehicle control components 261, and at the same time receive data inputs from other vehicle components and systems 231, 261 via, for example, the vehicle control system 230. When outputting data, the vehicle - to - vehicle system communication module 222 can provide a signal via a bus corresponding to the output of any state of the vehicle, the vehicle's surrounding environment, or any other information source connected to the vehicle. Vehicle data output can include, for example, analog signals (such as the current speed), digital signals provided by various information sources (such as clocks, thermometers, position sensors (such as global positioning system [GPS] sensors, etc.)), and digital signals propagated through vehicle data networks (such as: the engine controller area network [CAN] bus through which engine - related information can be transmitted; the climate control CAN bus through which climate - control - related information can be transmitted; and the multimedia data network through which multimedia data is transmitted between multimedia components in the vehicle). For example, an in - vehicle computing system can retrieve the current speed of the vehicle estimated by a wheel sensor from the engine CAN bus, the power state of the vehicle obtained via the battery and / or the vehicle's power distribution system, the ignition state of the vehicle, etc. Additionally, other docking devices such as Ethernet can also be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0058] The non - volatile storage device 208 can be included in the in - vehicle computing system 200 to store data such as instructions executable by the processors 214 and 220 in non - volatile form. The storage device 208 can store application data to enable the in - vehicle computing system 200 to run applications for connecting to a cloud - based server and / or collecting information for transmission to a cloud - based server (e.g., Figure 1 the remote server 16 shown). The application can retrieve information collected by vehicle systems / sensors, input devices (e.g., the user interface 218), devices communicating with the in - vehicle computing system (e.g., a mobile device connected via a Bluetooth link), etc. The in - vehicle computing system 200 can also include a volatile memory 216. The volatile memory 216 can be a random access memory (RAM). Non - transitory storage devices (such as the non - volatile storage device 208 and / or the volatile memory 216) can store instructions and / or code that, when executed by a processor (e.g., the operating system processor 214 and / or the interface processor 220), control the in - vehicle computing system 200 to perform one or more of the actions described in the present disclosure.

[0059] The microphone 202 may be included in the vehicle computing system 200 to receive voice commands from a user, measure ambient noise in the vehicle, and determine whether to tune the audio from the vehicle speakers based on the acoustic environment of the vehicle. The voice processing unit 204 may process voice commands, such as those received from the microphone 202. In some embodiments, the vehicle computing system 200 may also be able to use a microphone included in the vehicle's audio system 232 to receive voice commands and sample ambient vehicle noise.

[0060] One or more additional sensors may be included in the sensor subsystem 210 of the vehicle computing system 200. For example, the sensor subsystem 210 may include cameras, such as a rearview camera for assisting a user in parking the vehicle and / or a passenger compartment camera for identifying a user (e.g., using facial recognition and / or user gestures). The sensor subsystem 210 of the vehicle computing system 200 may communicate with and receive inputs from various vehicle sensors and may further receive user inputs. For example, the inputs received by the sensor subsystem 210 may include transmission gear position, transmission clutch position, accelerator pedal input, brake input, transmission selector position, vehicle speed, engine speed, mass air flow through the engine, ambient temperature, intake air temperature, etc., as well as inputs from climate control system sensors (such as heat transfer fluid temperature, antifreeze temperature, fan speed, passenger compartment temperature, desired passenger compartment temperature, ambient humidity, etc.), inputs from audio sensors that detect voice commands issued by the user, inputs from key fob sensors that receive commands from the vehicle's key fob and optionally track the geographical location / proximity of the key fob, etc. Although some vehicle system sensors may communicate with the sensor subsystem 210 individually, other sensors may communicate with both the sensor subsystem 210 and the vehicle control system 230, or may communicate with the sensor subsystem 210 indirectly via the vehicle control system 230. The navigation subsystem 211 of the vehicle computing system 200 may generate and / or receive navigation information, such as location information (e.g., via a GPS sensor and / or information from other sensors of the sensor subsystem 210), route guidance, traffic information, point of interest (POI) identification, and / or provide other navigation services to the driver.

[0061] The external device interface 212 of the in-vehicle computing system 200 may be capable of coupling to and / or communicating with one or more external devices 240 external to the vehicle 201. Although the external devices are shown as being located external to the vehicle 201, it should be understood that they may be temporarily housed within the vehicle 201, such as when a user operates the external device while operating the vehicle 201. In other words, the external devices 240 are not part of the vehicle 201. The external devices 240 may include mobile devices 242 (e.g., connected via Bluetooth, NFC, Wi-Fi Direct, or other wireless connections) or alternative Bluetooth-enabled devices 252. The mobile device 242 may be a mobile phone, smartphone, wearable device and / or sensor that can communicate with the in-vehicle computing system via wired and / or wireless communication, or one or more other portable electronic devices. Other external devices include external services 246. For example, the external devices may include out-of-vehicle devices that are separate from and located external to the vehicle. Other external devices include external storage devices 254, such as solid state drives, pen drives, USB drives, etc. For example, the external storage device 254 may include the server 16 described above with reference to Figure 1 described in

[0062] Accordingly, the external storage device 254 may receive a request for assistance from the in-vehicle computing system 200. The operating system processor 214 may determine whether an impact, accident, mechanical and / or electrical failure, occupant medical emergency, or other type of emergency has occurred based on the output received from the vehicle sensors. Additionally or alternatively, the vehicle driver or passenger may communicate the need for assistance to the operating system processor 214 via the user interface 218. In response to a determination that an impact, accident, mechanical failure, or other emergency has occurred, the operating system processor 214 may transmit a request for assistance to the external storage device 254.

[0063] The external storage device 254 may process the request and determine the intended recipient of the assistance request. In some embodiments, the storage device 254 may transmit the assistance request to vehicles located in the same geographical area or within a threshold distance of the vehicle that received the assistance request, such that nearby vehicles may assist the vehicle. Additionally, the storage device 254 may contact external services 246, such as ambulances, tow trucks, police, etc., to provide the desired assistance to the vehicle.

[0064] Without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, the external devices 240 may communicate with the in-vehicle computing system 200 wirelessly or via a connector. For example, the external devices 240 may communicate with the in-vehicle computing system 200 via the external device interface 212 via a network 260, a Universal Serial Bus (USB) connection, a direct wired connection, a direct wireless connection, and / or other communication links.

[0065] The external device interface 212 can provide a communication interface to enable the in-vehicle computing system to communicate with a mobile device associated with the driver's contacts. For example, the external device interface 212 can enable the establishment of a phone call and / or send a text message (e.g., SMS, MMS, etc.) to a mobile device associated with the driver's contacts (e.g., via a cellular communication network). The external device interface 212 can additionally or alternatively provide a wireless communication interface to enable the in-vehicle computing system to synchronize data with one or more devices in the vehicle (e.g., the driver's mobile device) via Wi-Fi Direct, as described in more detail below.

[0066] One or more applications 244 can operate on the mobile device 242. As an example, the mobile device application 244 can be operated to aggregate user data regarding the user's interaction with the mobile device. For example, the mobile device application 244 can aggregate data such as music playlists listened to by the user on the mobile device, phone call logs (including the frequency and duration of phone calls received by the user), location information including locations the user frequently visits and the amount of time spent at each location, etc. The data collected can be sent by the application 244 to the external device interface 212 over the network 260. Additionally, specific user data requests can be received at the mobile device 242 from the in-vehicle computing system 200 via the external device interface 212. Specific data requests can include requests for determining the geographical location where the user is located, the ambient noise level and / or music genre at the user's location, the ambient weather conditions (temperature, humidity, etc.) at the location where the user is located. The mobile device application 244 can send control instructions to components of the mobile device 242 (e.g., a microphone, etc.) or other applications (e.g., a navigation application) in order to be able to collect the requested data on the mobile device. Then, the mobile device application 244 can relay the information collected back to the in-vehicle computing system 200.

[0067] Similarly, one or more applications 248 can operate on the external service 246. As an example, the external service application 248 can be operated to aggregate and / or analyze data from multiple data sources. For example, the external service application 248 can aggregate data from one or more social media accounts of the user, data from the in-vehicle computing system (e.g., sensor data, log files, user input, etc.), data from Internet queries (e.g., weather data, POI data), etc. The data collected can be transmitted to another device and / or analyzed by the application to determine the context of the driver, the vehicle, and the environment, and perform actions based on the context (e.g., request data / send data to other devices).

[0068] The vehicle control system 230 can include controls for controlling aspects of various vehicle systems 231 involved in different vehicle functions. These can include, for example, controls for aspects of a vehicle audio system 232 that provides audio entertainment to vehicle occupants, aspects of a climate control system 234 that meets the cabin cooling or heating needs of vehicle occupants, and aspects of a telecommunications system 236 that enables vehicle occupants to establish telecommunication connections with others.

[0069] The audio system 232 can include one or more acoustic reproduction devices that include electromagnetic transducers such as speakers. The vehicle audio system 232 can be passive or active, such as due to including a power amplifier. In some examples, the in-vehicle computing system 200 can be the sole audio source for the acoustic reproduction devices, or there may be other audio sources connected to the audio reproduction system (e.g., an external device such as a mobile phone). Any such connection of an external device to the audio reproduction device can be analog, digital, or any combination of analog and digital technologies.

[0070] The climate control system 234 can be configured to provide a comfortable environment within the cabin or passenger compartment of the vehicle 201. The climate control system 234 includes components that implement controlled ventilation, such as vents, heaters, air conditioners, integrated heater and air conditioner systems, etc. Other components related to heating and air conditioning settings can include a windshield defrosting and defogging system that can clear the windshield and a ventilation filter for cleaning the outside air that enters the passenger compartment through a fresh air inlet.

[0071] The vehicle control system 230 may also include controls for adjusting the settings of various vehicle controls 261 (or vehicle system control elements) related to the engine and / or assistance elements within the vehicle's passenger compartment, such as steering wheel controls 262 (e.g., audio system controls, cruise controls, windshield wiper controls, headlight controls, turn signal controls, etc. mounted on the steering wheel), dashboard controls, one or more microphones, accelerator / brake / clutch pedals, gear shifters, door / window controls located in the driver's door or passenger door, seat controls, passenger compartment lighting controls, audio system controls, passenger compartment temperature controls, etc. The vehicle control devices 261 may also include internal engine and vehicle operation controls (e.g., engine controller modules, actuators, valves, etc.) configured to receive instructions via the vehicle's CAN bus to change the operation of one or more of the engine, exhaust system, transmission, and / or other vehicle systems. The control signals may also control the audio output at one or more speakers of the vehicle's audio system 232. For example, the control signals may adjust audio output characteristics such as volume, equalization, audio image (e.g., the configuration of an audio signal for producing an audio output that seems to originate from one or more defined locations for the user), audio distribution among multiple speakers, etc. Similarly, the control signals may control the vents, air conditioners, and / or heaters of the climate control system 234. For example, the control signals may increase the delivery of cooling air to a specific part of the passenger compartment.

[0072] Control elements located outside the vehicle (e.g., controls for a security system) may also be connected to the computing system 200, such as via the communication module 222. The control elements of the vehicle control system may be physically and permanently located on and / or within the vehicle for receiving user input. In addition to receiving control instructions from the on-vehicle computing system 200, the vehicle control system 230 may also receive input from one or more external devices 240 operated by the user (such as from the mobile device 242). This allows aspects of the vehicle system 231 and the vehicle controls 261 to be controlled based on user input received from the external device 240.

[0073] The in-vehicle computing system 200 may also include an antenna 206. The antenna 206 is shown as a single antenna, but in some embodiments may include one or more antennas. The in-vehicle computing system may obtain broadband wireless Internet access via the antenna 206 and may also receive broadcast signals such as radio, television, weather, traffic, etc. The in-vehicle computing system may receive positioning signals such as GPS signals via one or more antennas 206. The in-vehicle computing system may also receive wireless commands via RF (such as via the antenna 206) or via infrared or other means via a suitable receiving device. In some embodiments, the antenna 206 may be included as part of the audio system 232 or the telecommunication system 236. Additionally, the antenna 206 may provide AM / FM radio signals to an external device 240 (such as a mobile device 242) via the external device interface 212.

[0074] A user may control one or more elements of the in-vehicle computing system 200 via the user interface 218. The user interface 218 may include a graphical user interface presented on a touch screen such as Figure 2 the touch screen 108, and / or user-actuated buttons, switches, knobs, dials, sliders, etc. For example, the user-actuated elements may include steering wheel controls, door and / or window controls, dashboard controls, audio system settings, climate control system settings, etc. The user may also interact with one or more applications of the in-vehicle computing system 200 and the mobile device 242 via the user interface 218. In addition to receiving the user's vehicle setting preferences on the user interface 218, the vehicle settings selected by the vehicle control system may also be displayed to the user on the user interface 218. Notifications and other messages (e.g., received messages) as well as navigation assistance may be displayed to the user on the display of the user interface. User preferences / information and / or responses to the presented messages may be executed via user input to the user interface.

[0075] It should be understood that, as described above with respect to Figure 1 the telematics unit 30 may be formed by multiple components of the in-vehicle computing system 200, including but not limited to the antenna 206 and the external device interface 212. Additionally, the antenna 56 of the telematics unit 30 may include at least a main antenna and a backup antenna included within the telematics unit 30.

[0076] As an illustrative example, Figure 4FIG. 0 shows a block diagram depicting an exemplary telematics unit 400 having a primary antenna 422 and a backup antenna 420 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, the telematics unit 400 may be implemented as the telematics unit 30 in the vehicle 12. The telematics unit 400 includes a plurality of hardware components housed within a housing 402, such as a printed circuit board (PCB) 405 for mechanically supporting and electrically connecting electronic components of the telematics unit 400, such as a radio 407. Additionally, although not depicted in Figure 4 , the PCB 405 may also support the wireless modem 50, the electronic processing device 52, and one or more digital memory devices 54 described above with respect to Figure 1 . The telematics unit 400 further includes a plurality of connectors 480 for coupling the telematics unit 400 to other elements or components of an in-vehicle computing system, such as the in-vehicle computing system 200.

[0077] The telematics unit 400 further includes a plurality of antennas 410 for providing a communication link to a wireless carrier system (e.g., a base station including a relay station) to provide 4G / LTE or 5G services (as illustrative examples). The plurality of antennas 410 may include N antennas, including a first antenna 412, a second antenna 414, and so on up to an Nth antenna 416. As an illustrative example, each antenna of the plurality of antennas 410 may include a 5G or LTE antenna.

[0078] The telematics unit 400 may further include other types of antennas, depicted in Figure 4 as a second plurality of antennas 430 for supporting the transmission and reception of wireless signals according to different protocols. The second plurality of antennas 430 may include n antennas, including a first antenna 432 and up to an nth antenna 434.

[0079] At least one antenna 412 of the plurality of antennas 410 includes a primary antenna 422 and a backup antenna 420. The backup antenna 420 includes a two-dimensional antenna integrated into or printed onto the PCB 405. As an illustrative and non-limiting example, the backup antenna 420 may include an inverted-F antenna, such as a printed inverted-F antenna or a planar inverted-F antenna (PIFA). The backup antenna 420 may be configured such that the backup antenna 420 can at least implement the function of transmitting an emergency call or an eCall. For example, the backup antenna 420 is connected to the radio 407 via a first connection member 426. For example, the first connection member 426 may include an electrical connection line or a transmission line integrated into the PCB 405.

[0080] The main antenna 422 includes a three-dimensional antenna that is mounted to the PCB 405 at the standby antenna 420 such that the main antenna 422 and the standby antenna 420 effectively share the same physical space. Additionally, the main antenna 422 and the standby antenna 420 are combined to form a first antenna 412. The main antenna 422 is electrically coupled to the standby antenna 420 via a second coupling 428. The second coupling 428 can include, for example, spring-loaded contacts.

[0081] When an accident such as a vehicle crash or impact occurs, the telematics unit 400 may be damaged. In such cases, the housing 402 is the first element of the telematics unit 400 to withstand the damage. Depending on the severity of the crash and the magnitude of the external force on the telematics unit 400, the components housed within the housing 402 are subject to different risks of damage. To achieve optimal transmission performance, the antennas of the plurality of antennas 410 and the plurality of antennas 430 are positioned close to the inner surface of the housing 402 so as to maximize the distance from the components of the PCB 405 that may be located in the relatively central region of the telematics unit 400. Accordingly, components that are closer to the inner surface of the housing 402 (e.g., three-dimensional antennas such as the plurality of antennas 410 and the plurality of antennas 430) have a higher risk of damage compared to components that are relatively positioned in the central region of the telematics unit 400 (e.g., such as the PCB 405).

[0082] According to the design of the first antenna 412, if the main antenna 422 is damaged due to a vehicle collision or another accident such that the main antenna 422 malfunctions or the second coupling 428 is disconnected, the standby antenna 420 is still able to transmit an emergency call to, for example, a nearby wireless carrier system (e.g., wireless carrier system 14) or another vehicle 12 as described above with reference to Figure 1 an emergency call.

[0083] As another illustrative example, Figure 5 FIG. shows an exploded view of an exemplary telematics unit 500 having a main antenna 522 and a standby antenna 520 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The telematics unit 500 may include the telematics unit 400 described above with respect to Figure 4 and may be implemented in a vehicle 12 as the telematics unit 30 described above with respect to Figure 1 an emergency call.

[0084] Similar to the telematics unit 400, the telematics unit 500 includes a PCB 505 that includes circuit components 507 (such as the radio 407 and other electrical components), as well as a plurality of connectors 580 for coupling the telematics unit 500 to a vehicle computing system (such as the vehicle computing system 200). As shown, a spare antenna 520 is printed on the PCB 505 as a two-dimensional antenna or otherwise integrated into the PCB 505, while the main antenna 522 includes a three-dimensional antenna positioned above the spare antenna 520.

[0085] The telematics unit 500 also includes a top cover 530 and a bottom cover 535 that, when coupled together via a plurality of screws 538, enclose the PCB 505, the main antenna 522, the secondary antenna 520, and the circuit components 507 of the telematics unit 500. Thus, the top cover 530 and the bottom cover 535 form a housing, such as the housing 402. Although not shown in Figure 5 it should be understood that one or more additional antennas (such as additional antennas of the plurality of antennas 510 or the plurality of antennas 530 mentioned above) may be fixedly coupled to the inner surface of the top cover 530 along one or more edges of the top cover 530 such that the one or more additional antennas are positioned away from the circuit components 507 of the PCB 505.

[0086] In addition, although the main antenna 522 is depicted in Figure 5 as being positioned substantially above or across the spare antenna 520, it should be understood that the main antenna 522 may only partially cover the spare antenna 520. As an illustrative example, Figure 6 a perspective view of an example antenna system 600 including a three-dimensional main antenna 622 and a two-dimensional spare antenna 620 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. The antenna system 600 may correspond to the first antenna 412 that includes the main antenna 422 and the spare antenna 420 described above with respect to Figure 4 and the main antenna 522 and the spare antenna 520 described above with respect to Figure 5 .

[0087] As depicted, the spare antenna 620 includes a two-dimensional antenna that is printed onto or integrated into the PCB 605 of the telematics unit, while the main antenna 622 includes a three-dimensional antenna. The main antenna 622 is electrically coupled to the spare antenna 620 via a connector 628 that may include, for example, a spring-loaded contact. In addition, when a portion of the main antenna 622 is positioned across the secondary antenna 620, the remainder of the main antenna 622 is away from the edge 607 of the PCB 605.

[0088] In this manner, a telematics system for a vehicle on a road includes a plurality of antennas capable of transmitting and receiving wireless signals, the plurality of antennas including a main antenna and a spare antenna positioned adjacent to the main antenna. In a first example of the telematics system, the main antenna includes a three-dimensional antenna, and the spare antenna includes a two-dimensional antenna. In a second example of the telematics system optionally including the first example, the telematics system further includes a printed circuit board supporting the circuitry of the telematics system, wherein the spare antenna is integrated into the printed circuit board. In a third example of the telematics system optionally including one or more of the first example and the second example, the main antenna is positioned across a portion of the spare antenna. In a fourth example of the telematics system optionally including one or more of the first example to the third example, the spare antenna is positioned at an edge of the printed circuit board, and the main antenna extends away from the edge of the printed circuit board. In a fifth example of the telematics system optionally including one or more of the first example to the fourth example, the spare antenna is printed onto a surface of the printed circuit board. In some examples, the spare antenna includes a printed inverted F antenna, but it should be understood that the spare antenna may include another antenna type, such as an inverted L antenna or a loop antenna. In a sixth example of the telematics system optionally including one or more of the first example to the fifth example, the main antenna is electrically coupled to the spare antenna via a spring-loaded contact. In a seventh example of the telematics system optionally including one or more of the first example to the sixth example, the telematics system further includes a processor and a storage device, the storage device storing instructions executable by the processor to: generate an emergency alert in response to detecting an alert condition; determine whether the main antenna is operating properly; if the main antenna is operating properly, transmit the emergency alert via the main antenna and the spare antenna; and if the main antenna is not operating properly, transmit the emergency alert via the spare antenna. In an eighth example of the telematics system optionally including one or more of the first example to the seventh example, if the connection between the main antenna and the spare antenna is damaged, the main antenna is determined to be not operating properly. In a ninth example of the telematics system optionally including one or more of the first example to the eighth example, the emergency alert includes a data packet encoding one or more of the geographical location of the vehicle, road conditions, vehicle operator information, vehicle make, vehicle model, and vehicle year. In a tenth example of the telematics system optionally including one or more of the first example to the ninth example, the telematics system further includes a housing configured to enclose the plurality of antennas, the processor, and the storage device.

[0089] Figure 7FIG. 700 is a high-level flowchart showing an example method for transmitting an alert using a telematics unit in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In particular, method 700 relates to transmitting an alert using a telematics unit (such as telematics unit 30), which may be implemented in a vehicle 12, where a main antenna and a secondary antenna are housed within the telematics unit, as depicted in various examples of Figures 4 to 6 The instructions for performing method 700 may be stored in a non-transitory memory of a vehicle controller (e.g., the operating system processor 214 shown in Figure 3 or a processor of the telematics unit (e.g., the processor 52 of the telematics unit 30 shown in Figure 1 Accordingly, method 700 may be performed by a processor based on the stored instructions and in conjunction with signals received from sensors of the vehicle system (such as the sensors described above with reference to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The processor may employ an antenna system including a main antenna and a standby antenna (such as the antenna system shown in Figures 4 to 6 to transmit an alert in response to an alert condition.

[0090] Method 700 begins at 705. At 705, method 700 evaluates the vehicle operating conditions. Evaluating the vehicle operating conditions includes estimating and / or measuring the vehicle operating conditions. The vehicle operating conditions may include ambient temperature, humidity, precipitation, road surface conditions, proximity to external objects, deformation of the vehicle body in the event of an impact, engine speed, vehicle electrical and mechanical conditions, vehicle braking conditions, airbag deployment, vehicle occupant medical conditions, vehicle acceleration, impact force, etc.

[0091] At 710, method 700 determines whether an alert condition exists. The alert condition may be determined by the controller based on the outputs received from various sensors of the vehicle. For example, the alert condition may include a vehicle impact, an accident, a mechanical and / or electrical failure, etc. The vehicle impact may be detected based on the amount of deformation of the vehicle body estimated from various electronic acceleration sensors. However, in other examples, the alert condition may include road and / or traffic conditions, such as road construction, inclement weather, environmental conditions, an attempt at theft / vandalism, a riot, etc. The vehicle operator may generate an alert via an input terminal on a user interface (e.g., the user interface 218 shown in Figure 3 ), which may include various buttons (e.g., the button 34 shown in Figure 1 ), a touch screen (e.g., the touch screen 108 shown in Figure 2 ) or another input device.

[0092] If there is no alert condition (“No”), then method 700 proceeds to 715. At 715, method 700 does not transmit an alert. Then, method 700 returns. Thus, in the absence of an alert condition, method 700 does not transmit an alert.

[0093] However, referring again to 710, if an alert condition exists (“Yes”), then method 700 proceeds from 710 to 720. At 720, method 700 generates an alert based on the alert condition identified at 710. In some examples, the alert can include a request for assistance. The request for assistance can be a message, an alert, or other form of notification, which can include text, voice, audio, video, or other forms of digital information that can notify other vehicles that their assistance is needed. For example, a request for assistance can be broadcast in response to an impact, an accident, a mechanical failure, an electrical failure, or a medical emergency of a vehicle operator or passenger. The request for assistance can include the geographical coordinates or location of the vehicle that broadcasts the request for assistance, so that nearby vehicles can assist the vehicle. In addition, the request for assistance can include details about the reason for the request, the type of request, the time, the importance, the severity, etc. In some examples, services such as ambulances, tow trucks, police, etc. can be notified of the location of the vehicle requesting assistance, so that they can provide assistance.

[0094] In addition, profile information, such as information about one or more vehicle occupants and / or information about the vehicle, can be stored in the non-transitory memory of the controller and can be included in the alert. For example, a vehicle occupant can store their profile information in the non-transitory memory of the controller via an input device such as a display screen, a button, etc. The profile information can include one or more of the name, age, gender, medical condition, etc. of the vehicle occupant. In addition, the profile information can include one or more of the make, model, year, etc. of the vehicle. Thus, the alert can include any or all profile information of the vehicle occupant and / or the transmitting vehicle.

[0095] The alert can be generated based on the expected or anticipated alert recipient. In some examples, the expected recipient can be all vehicles within the wireless transmission range of the communication system. In some examples, the range of the communication system can be about 1 kilometer, or can extend anywhere from 0.5 kilometers to 4 kilometers. Thus, all vehicles equipped with a communication system capable of receiving a wireless signal (e.g., an electromagnetic wave) and within the transmission range of the communication system can receive the alert.

[0096] However, in other examples, the alert may be sent only to a subset of the vehicles within the transmission range of the communication system. In additional examples, the intended recipients may include medical services, towing services, mechanics, taxi services, etc., in addition to the vehicles within the transmission range of the communication system. For example, if a mechanical failure occurs, the alert may be transmitted to an auto repair shop or a mechanic. In the case of a medical emergency involving one of the passengers and / or drivers of the vehicle, an alert may be sent to an ambulance. Thus, depending on the nature of the alert, one or more third-party services may be notified of the vehicle's alert.

[0097] After generating an alert at 720, method 700 proceeds to 725. At 720, method 700 determines whether the main antenna is used to transmit the alert. If the connection between the main antenna and the backup antenna (e.g., the second connector 428 between the main antenna 422 and the backup antenna 420) is not disconnected and the main antenna is not damaged, then the main antenna (such as the main antenna 422) is operational. For example, during an impact, the main antenna may be damaged and / or disconnected from the backup antenna, and thus may not be operational in some cases.

[0098] If the main antenna is operational ("yes"), then method 700 proceeds to 730. At 730, method 700 transmits the alert using the main antenna and the backup antenna. Depending on the type of the alert, method 700 may transmit the alert to one or more other vehicles and one or more remote servers in the same or a similar geographical area via the main antenna and the backup antenna. In some examples, the alert may be directly transmitted from the vehicle to the remote server via the main antenna and the backup antenna at a preferred electromagnetic wave frequency and / or intensity. However, in other examples, one or more relay towers (e.g., the relay tower 70 shown in Figure 1 may propagate the alert from the vehicle to the remote server. As an example, to transmit the alert using the main antenna and the backup antenna, method 700 may transmit a wireless signal that encodes a data packet corresponding to one or more of the alert type, alert severity, vehicle operator information and / or vehicle information from the vehicle transmitting the alert, vehicle location, vehicle operating conditions (such as engine speed, vehicle speed, vehicle acceleration, impact force, vehicle body deformation, airbag deployment, etc.). After transmitting the alert using the main antenna and the backup antenna, method 700 then returns.

[0099] However, referring back to 725 again, if the main antenna is not operational ("no"), then method 700 proceeds to 735. At 735, method 700 transmits the alert using the backup antenna. The alert may include, for example, the alert generated at 720, or may include a modified or simplified alert suitable for transmission via the backup antenna. Then, method 700 returns.

[0100] In this manner, an example method for a telematics system for a vehicle includes: generating an emergency alert in response to detecting an alert condition; determining whether a primary antenna of the telematics system is operating properly; if the primary antenna is operating properly, transmitting the emergency alert via the primary antenna of the telematics system and a backup antenna positioned adjacent to the primary antenna; and if the primary antenna is not operating properly, transmitting the emergency alert via the backup antenna. In a first example of the method, the primary antenna includes a three-dimensional antenna, and the backup antenna includes a two-dimensional antenna integrated into a printed circuit board of the telematics system, wherein the primary antenna and the secondary antenna are electrically coupled via a connector, and wherein transmitting the emergency alert via the primary antenna and the backup antenna includes routing the emergency alert from a processor of the telematics system to the backup antenna via a transmission line of the printed circuit board. In a second example of the method that optionally includes the first example, when the connection between the primary antenna and the secondary antenna is damaged, the emergency alert is transmitted via the backup antenna. In a third example of the method that optionally includes one or more of the first example and the second example, the alert condition includes a vehicle impact, and wherein the emergency alert includes a data packet encoding one or more of the geographical location of the vehicle, road conditions, vehicle operator information, vehicle make, vehicle model, and vehicle year.

[0101] In another embodiment, a telematics system for a vehicle includes an antenna system that includes a three-dimensional primary antenna and a two-dimensional backup antenna positioned adjacent to the primary antenna, the antenna system being capable of wirelessly sending and receiving data packets according to a cellular communication protocol. The telematics system further includes: a processor communicatively coupled to the antenna system; and a storage device that stores instructions executable by the processor to: generate an emergency alert in response to detecting an alert condition; determine whether the primary antenna is operating properly; if the primary antenna is operating properly, transmit the emergency alert via the primary antenna and the backup antenna; and if the primary antenna is not operating properly, transmit the emergency alert via the backup antenna. In a first example of the telematics system, the telematics system further includes a printed circuit board, wherein the backup antenna is integrated into the printed circuit board, wherein the processor and the storage device are mechanically supported by the printed circuit board, and wherein the processor is communicatively coupled to the backup antenna via a transmission line of the printed circuit board. In a second example of the telematics system that optionally includes the first example, the primary antenna is positioned across a portion of the backup antenna. In a third example of the telematics system that optionally includes one or more of the first example and the second example, the backup antenna is positioned at an edge of the printed circuit board, and the primary antenna extends away from the edge of the printed circuit board. In a fourth example of the telematics system that optionally includes one or more of the first example through the third example, the telematics system further includes a housing configured to enclose the plurality of antennas, the processor, and the storage device.

[0102] In this way, in the event of a collision, accident, mechanical failure, electrical failure, or medical emergency, an assistance request can be broadcast via a wireless carrier system to nearby vehicles or emergency services to notify them that assistance is needed. The assistance request can include the geographical coordinates or location of the vehicle broadcasting the assistance request, so that nearby vehicles or emergency services can travel to the vehicle and / or assist the vehicle. In some examples, services such as ambulances, tow trucks, police, etc. can be notified of the location of the vehicle requesting assistance, so that they can provide assistance.

[0103] Accordingly, the technical effect of improving vehicle communication is achieved by providing a main antenna and a backup antenna integrated into a transceiver in one or more vehicles for supporting communication. By improving vehicle-to-vehicle communication as described herein, in the event of a collision or accident where the vehicle telematics unit is damaged, an emergency alert or call can be automatically transmitted to a nearby wireless carrier system, so that emergency services can be warned and directed to the location of the crash, accident, or medical emergency.

[0104] A description of embodiments has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. Appropriate modifications and changes to the embodiments can be made in light of the above description, or such appropriate modifications and changes can be obtained through practice. For example, unless otherwise specified, one or more of the methods described can be performed by a suitable device and / or combination of devices (such as the telematics unit 30 described with reference to Figure 1 ). The methods can be performed by executing stored instructions with a combination of one or more logic devices (e.g., processors) and one or more additional hardware elements (such as storage devices, memories, hardware network interfaces / antennas, switches, actuators, clock circuits, etc.). The methods and associated actions described can be performed in various orders in parallel and / or simultaneously, in addition to the order described in this application. The systems described are exemplary in nature and can include additional elements and / or omit elements. The subject matter of the present disclosure includes all novel and non-obvious combinations and sub-combinations of the various systems and configurations and other features, functions, and / or properties disclosed.

[0105] As used in this application, an element or step recited in the singular and preceded by the word "a / an" should be understood not to exclude a plurality of such elements or steps, unless such exclusion is specified. Further, a reference to "one embodiment" or "one example" of the present disclosure is not intended to be construed as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the recited features. The terms "first," "second," "third," etc. are used only as labels and are not intended to impose numerical requirements or a particular positional order on their objects. The appended claims particularly point out the subject matter from the foregoing disclosure that is regarded as novel and non-obvious.

Claims

1. A telematics system for a vehicle on a road, the telematics system comprising: A plurality of antennas capable of transmitting and receiving wireless signals, the plurality of antennas including a main antenna and a spare antenna positioned adjacent to the main antenna, the spare antenna being configured to transmit a signal in the event of damage to the main antenna; And A printed circuit board supporting the circuitry of the telematics system; Wherein the main antenna includes a three-dimensional antenna, the spare antenna includes a two-dimensional antenna, and wherein the spare antenna is integrated into the printed circuit board; Wherein a portion of the main antenna is positioned across a portion of the spare antenna, and the remaining portion of the main antenna extends away from the edge of the printed circuit board.

2. The telematics system according to claim 1, wherein the spare antenna is positioned at the edge of the printed circuit board.

3. The telematics system according to claim 1, wherein the spare antenna is printed on the surface of the printed circuit board.

4. The telematics system according to claim 1, wherein the main antenna is electrically coupled to the spare antenna via a spring-loaded contact.

5. The telematics system according to claim 1, further comprising a processor and a storage device, the storage device storing instructions executable by the processor to: Generate an emergency alert in response to detecting an alert condition; Determine whether the main antenna is operating properly; If the main antenna is operating properly, transmit the emergency alert via the main antenna and the spare antenna; And If the main antenna is not operating properly, transmit the emergency alert via the spare antenna.

6. The telematics system according to claim 5, wherein the main antenna is determined to be not operating properly if the connection between the main antenna and the spare antenna is damaged.

7. The telematics system according to claim 5, wherein the emergency alert includes a data packet encoding one or more of the geographical location of the vehicle, road conditions, vehicle operator information, vehicle make, vehicle model, and vehicle year.

8. The telematics system according to claim 5, further comprising a housing configured to enclose the plurality of antennas, the processor, and the storage device.

9. A method for a telematics system of a vehicle, the method comprising: Generating an emergency alert in response to detecting an alert condition; Determining whether the main antenna of the telematics system is operating properly; If the main antenna is operating properly, transmitting the emergency alert via the main antenna and a spare antenna of the telematics system positioned adjacent to the main antenna; And If the main antenna is not operating properly, transmitting the emergency alert via the spare antenna; Wherein the main antenna includes a three-dimensional antenna, the spare antenna includes a two-dimensional antenna integrated into the printed circuit board of the telematics system; and Wherein a portion of the main antenna is positioned across a portion of the spare antenna, and the remaining portion of the main antenna extends away from the edge of the printed circuit board.

10. The method according to claim 9, wherein the main antenna and the spare antenna are electrically coupled via a connector, and wherein transmitting the emergency alert via the main antenna and the spare antenna includes routing the emergency alert from a processor of the telematics system to the spare antenna via a transmission line of the printed circuit board.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein the emergency alert is transmitted via the spare antenna when a connection between the main antenna and the spare antenna is damaged.

12. The method according to claim 9, wherein the alert condition includes a vehicle impact, and wherein the emergency alert includes a data packet encoding one or more of a geographical location of the vehicle, road conditions, vehicle operator information, vehicle make, vehicle model, and vehicle year.

13. A telematics system for a vehicle, the system comprising: an antenna system including a three-dimensional main antenna and a two-dimensional spare antenna positioned adjacent to the main antenna, the antenna system being capable of wirelessly transmitting and receiving data packets according to a cellular communication protocol; a processor communicatively coupled to the antenna system; a printed circuit board supporting the circuitry of the telematics system, wherein the spare antenna is integrated into the printed circuit board; and a storage device storing instructions executable by the processor to: generate an emergency alert in response to detecting an alert condition; determine whether the main antenna is operating properly; if the main antenna is operating properly, transmit the emergency alert via the main antenna and the spare antenna; and if the main antenna is not operating properly, transmit the emergency alert via the spare antenna; wherein a portion of the main antenna is positioned across a portion of the spare antenna, and the remaining portion of the main antenna extends away from an edge of the printed circuit board.

14. The telematics system according to claim 13, wherein the processor and the storage device are mechanically supported by the printed circuit board, and wherein the processor is communicatively coupled to the spare antenna via a transmission line of the printed circuit board.

15. The telematics system according to claim 14, wherein the spare antenna is positioned at an edge of the printed circuit board.

16. The telematics system according to claim 13, further comprising a housing configured to enclose the plurality of antennas, the processor, and the storage device.

Images