Method and system for beamforming management in vehicular communications

Abstract

A method for beamforming management in vehicle communications includes: determining, within a computerized processor, a planned route for a vehicle, identifying a plurality of candidate cellular towers with which the vehicle can communicate along the planned route, and determining a signal strength at a location of each tower along the route. The method also includes determining a communication plan, the communication plan including identifying the location of each tower and segmenting the planned route into a plurality of segments based on the determined signal strength. Based on the signal strength, a tower is assigned to each segment to communicate with the vehicle. The method also includes utilizing the communication plan to alter communications between the vehicle and the towers as the vehicle traverses the route by directing a main lobe of an antenna beam toward each candidate cellular tower in turn according to the communication plan.

Description

[0001] introduction. Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to methods and systems for beamforming management in vehicular communications. Background Art

[0003] Cellular communications utilize different protocols based on evolving technologies. Different wavelengths and corresponding transmission frequencies may be used with cellular devices. Transmissions at different wavelengths have different behaviors and requirements. Operations such as establishing communications between a piece of user equipment (UE) and a cellular tower may be relatively simple for transmissions at one wavelength, while the same task may be relatively difficult for transmissions at another wavelength.

[0004] Cellular devices utilizing transmissions at frequencies of 6 GHz or less (corresponding to wavelengths of 50 mm or greater) generally have no problem establishing or switching communications from one cell tower to another. For example, a vehicle utilizing cellular communications may communicate nearly seamlessly with a series of cell towers along a roadway while driving along a roadway according to an established procedure that switches use of each cell tower based on the relative position of the cell tower with respect to the vehicle as the vehicle moves.

[0005] Cellular devices using transmission wavelengths of about 1 mm may have more difficulty establishing or switching communications from one cellular tower to another. According to an exemplary protocol, such devices may operate at transmissions of 1 mm to 10 mm wavelengths. UEs operating within this wavelength range may have a relatively increased difficulty locking onto communication signals from a particular cellular tower. As a result, for an exemplary vehicle traveling along a road, when the vehicle needs to switch communications from one cellular tower to another, it may experience significant delays or interruptions in communications. Summary of the invention

[0006] A method for beamforming management in vehicle communications is provided. The method includes, within a computerized processor, determining a planned route for a vehicle, identifying a plurality of candidate cellular towers with which the vehicle can communicate along the planned route, and determining a signal strength for each of the plurality of candidate cellular towers at a location along the planned route. The method also includes determining a communication plan that includes identifying a geographic location for each of the plurality of candidate cellular towers and segmenting the planned route into a plurality of portions based on the determined signal strengths. Based on the signal strength, for each of the plurality of portions, one of the plurality of candidate cellular towers is assigned to communicate with the vehicle. The method also includes utilizing the communication plan to alter communications between the vehicle and the plurality of candidate cellular towers as the vehicle traverses the planned route. The utilizing includes sequentially directing a main lobe of an antenna beam toward each candidate cellular tower according to the communication plan.

[0007] In some embodiments, sequentially directing the main lobe of the antenna beam toward each candidate cellular tower according to the communication plan includes, when the vehicle transitions from one of the plurality of sections to a second of the plurality of sections, determining a current location of the vehicle and determining a current orientation of the vehicle. The method further includes determining an azimuth relative to the vehicle and an elevation relative to the vehicle for the candidate cellular tower assigned to communicate with the vehicle for the second of the plurality of sections based on the geographic location of the candidate cellular tower assigned to communicate with the vehicle for the second of the plurality of sections, the current location of the vehicle, and the current orientation of the vehicle. The method further includes directing the main lobe of the antenna beam toward the candidate cellular tower assigned to communicate with the vehicle for the second of the plurality of sections based on the azimuth relative to the vehicle and the elevation relative to the vehicle for the candidate cellular tower assigned to communicate with the vehicle for the second of the plurality of sections.

[0008] In some embodiments, determining a planned route for a vehicle includes monitoring an automated route programmed for the vehicle, wherein the vehicle operates as an autonomous vehicle.

[0009] In some embodiments, determining a planned route for the vehicle includes monitoring a user input of a planned route for the vehicle, wherein the vehicle is operated as a manually operated vehicle.

[0010] In some embodiments, determining a planned route for the vehicle includes monitoring a user input of a planned destination for the vehicle and automatically estimating the planned route based on the user input of the planned destination.

[0011] In some embodiments, the method further includes monitoring for detour events that change the planned route, determining a new planned route based on the detour events, and updating the communication plan based on the new planned route.

[0012] In some embodiments, determining the communication plan includes creating, using a remote server device, a beam matrix for each of the plurality of portions, the beam matrix including a list of the plurality of candidate cellular towers and a signal strength for each of the plurality of candidate cellular towers. The method also includes transmitting the beam matrix to the vehicle.

[0013] In some embodiments, the method further includes monitoring changes to the planned route, creating a new beam matrix using a remote server device based on the changes to the planned route, and transmitting the new beam matrix to the vehicle.

[0014] In some embodiments, the method further includes monitoring a disruption in communications between the vehicle and one of the plurality of candidate cellular towers and utilizing the disruption to modify future iterations of the communication plan.

[0015] In some embodiments, segmenting the planned route into the plurality of portions is further based on reducing a total number of communication changes over the planned route.

[0016] According to an alternative embodiment, a method for beamforming management in vehicle communications is provided. The method includes, within a computerized processor, determining a planned route for a vehicle, identifying a plurality of candidate cellular towers with which the vehicle can communicate along the planned route, and determining a signal strength for each candidate cellular tower at a location along the planned route. The method also includes determining a communication plan that identifies a geographic location for each of the plurality of candidate cellular towers, including segmenting the planned route into a plurality of portions based on the determined signal strengths. The communication plan includes a list of candidate cellular towers that are ranked according to the signal strengths determined for each of the plurality of portions. The method also includes utilizing the communication plan to alter communications between the vehicle and the plurality of candidate cellular towers as the vehicle traverses the planned route. The utilizing includes sequentially directing a main lobe of an antenna beam toward each candidate cellular tower according to the communication plan.

[0017] In some embodiments, the method further includes: monitoring for a communication interruption between the vehicle and one of the plurality of candidate cellular towers when the vehicle traverses one of the plurality of sections, selecting a replacement cellular tower based on the list of candidate cellular towers, and directing a main lobe of the antenna beam toward the replacement cellular tower.

[0018] In some embodiments, the method further comprises tracking communication disruption events between the vehicle and said one of said plurality of candidate cellular towers, and utilizing the tracked events to modify future iterations of the communication plan to avoid communication disruptions between the vehicle and said one of said plurality of candidate cellular towers.

[0019] In some embodiments, modifying future iterations of the communication plan includes utilizing a machine learning algorithm to prevent communication between the vehicle and the one of the plurality of candidate cellular towers.

[0020] According to an alternative embodiment, a system for beamforming management in vehicle communications is provided. The system includes a vehicle and a computer processor. The computerized processor is operable to: determine a planned route for the vehicle, identify a plurality of candidate cellular towers with which the vehicle can communicate along the planned route, and determine the signal strength of each candidate cellular tower at a location along the planned route. The computerized processor is also operable to determine a communication plan, including identifying a geographic location of each of the plurality of candidate cellular towers, and segmenting the planned route into a plurality of portions based on the determined signal strengths. For each of the plurality of portions, one of the candidate cellular towers is assigned to communicate with the vehicle. The computerized processor is also operable to: utilize the communication plan to change communications between the vehicle and the plurality of candidate cellular towers as the vehicle traverses the planned route. Utilizing the communication plan includes determining a current location of the vehicle, determining a current direction of the vehicle, and determining an azimuth angle of one of the candidate cellular towers along the planned route relative to the vehicle and an elevation angle relative to the vehicle based on the current location of the vehicle, the current direction of the vehicle, and the geographic location of one of the candidate cellular towers. Utilizing the communication plan also includes directing a main lobe of an antenna beam toward the one of the candidate cellular towers based on the azimuth angle and the elevation angle of the one of the candidate cellular towers.

[0021] In some embodiments, the vehicle comprises an autonomous vehicle.Determining a planned route for the vehicle comprises monitoring an automated route programmed for the vehicle.

[0022] In some embodiments, the computerized processor is further operable to: monitor for detour events that change the planned route, determine a new planned route based on the detour events, and update the communication plan based on the new planned route.

[0023] In some embodiments, the system further comprises a computerized remote server device operable to: create a beam matrix for each of the plurality of portions, the beam matrix comprising a list of the plurality of candidate cellular towers and a signal strength for each of the plurality of candidate cellular towers. The computerized remote server device is further operable to transmit the beam matrix to the vehicle.

[0024] In some embodiments, the computerized remote server device is further operable to monitor changes to the planned route, create a new beam matrix using the remote server device based on the changes to the planned route, and transmit the new beam matrix to the vehicle.

[0025] The present invention provides the following technical solutions:

[0026] 1. A method for beamforming management in vehicle communications, comprising:

[0027] In a computerized processor,

[0028] determining the planned route of the vehicle;

[0029] identifying a plurality of candidate cellular towers with which the vehicle can communicate along the planned route;

[0030] determining a signal strength of each of the plurality of candidate cellular towers at a location along the planned route;

[0031] determining a communication plan, including identifying a geographic location of each of the plurality of candidate cellular towers and segmenting the planned route into a plurality of portions based on the determined signal strengths, wherein, for each of the plurality of portions, one of the plurality of candidate cellular towers is assigned to communicate with the vehicle based on the signal strengths; and

[0032] The communication plan is utilized to alter communications between the vehicle and the plurality of candidate cellular towers as the vehicle traverses the planned route, the utilizing comprising sequentially directing a main lobe of an antenna beam toward each candidate cellular tower according to the communication plan.

[0033] 2. The method according to technical solution 1, wherein directing the main lobe of the antenna beam to each candidate cellular tower in turn according to the communication plan comprises:

[0034] When the vehicle transitions from one of the plurality of sections to a second of the plurality of sections,

[0035] determining a current position of the vehicle,

[0036] determining a current position of the vehicle,

[0037] determining an azimuth angle relative to the vehicle and an elevation angle relative to the vehicle for a candidate cellular tower designated to communicate with the vehicle for a second one of the plurality of sections based on a geographic location of the candidate cellular tower designated to communicate with the vehicle for a second one of the plurality of sections, a current location of the vehicle, and a current orientation of the vehicle, and

[0038] Directing a main lobe of an antenna beam toward a second candidate cellular tower designated for communication with the vehicle in the plurality of sections based on an azimuth angle relative to the vehicle and an elevation angle relative to the vehicle of the second candidate cellular tower designated for communication with the vehicle in the plurality of sections.

[0039] 3. A method according to technical solution 1, wherein determining the planned route of the vehicle includes monitoring an automatic route programmed for the vehicle, wherein the vehicle operates as an autonomous vehicle.

[0040] 4. The method according to technical solution 1, wherein determining the planned route of the vehicle includes monitoring the planned route of the vehicle input by a user, wherein the vehicle is operated as a manually operated vehicle.

[0041] 5. The method according to technical solution 1, wherein determining the planned route of the vehicle includes monitoring a planned destination of the vehicle input by a user, and automatically estimating the planned route based on the planned destination input by the user.

[0042] 6. The method according to technical solution 1 further comprises:

[0043] monitoring for detour events that alter the planned route;

[0044] determining a new planned route based on the detour event; and

[0045] The communication plan is updated based on the new planned route.

[0046] 7. The method according to technical solution 1, wherein determining the communication plan includes using a remote server device to create a beam matrix for each of the plurality of parts, the beam matrix including a list of the plurality of candidate cellular towers and a signal strength of each of the plurality of candidate cellular towers; and

[0047] Also included is transmitting the beam matrix to the vehicle.

[0048] 8. The method according to technical solution 7 further comprises:

[0049] monitoring changes to said planned route;

[0050] creating, using the remote server device, a new beam matrix based on the change in the planned route; and

[0051] The new beam matrix is ​​transmitted to the vehicle.

[0052] 9. The method according to technical solution 1 further includes:

[0053] monitoring a plurality of interruptions in communications between the vehicle and one of the plurality of candidate cellular towers; and

[0054] The interruption is utilized to modify future iterations of the communication plan.

[0055] 10. The method according to technical solution 1, wherein dividing the planned route into the plurality of parts is also based on reducing the total number of communication changes on the planned route.

[0056] 11. A method for beamforming management in vehicle communications, comprising:

[0057] In a computerized processor,

[0058] determining the planned route of the vehicle;

[0059] identifying a plurality of candidate cellular towers with which the vehicle can communicate along the planned route;

[0060] determining the signal strength of each candidate cell tower at a location along the planned route;

[0061] determining a communication plan identifying a geographic location of each of the plurality of candidate cellular towers, including segmenting a planned route into a plurality of portions based on the determined signal strengths, wherein the communication plan includes a list of candidate cellular towers ranked according to the determined signal strengths for each of the plurality of portions;

[0062] The communication plan is utilized to alter communications between the vehicle and the plurality of candidate cellular towers as the vehicle traverses the planned route, the utilizing comprising sequentially directing a main lobe of an antenna beam toward each candidate cellular tower according to the communication plan.

[0063] 12. The method according to technical solution 11 further comprises:

[0064] When the vehicle traverses one of the plurality of sections,

[0065] monitoring for a disruption in communications between the vehicle and one of the plurality of candidate cellular towers;

[0066] selecting a replacement cellular tower based on the list of candidate cellular towers; and

[0067] Direct the main lobe of the antenna beam toward the replacement cell tower.

[0068] 13. The method according to technical solution 12 further includes:

[0069] tracking communication disruption events between the vehicle and the one of the plurality of candidate cellular towers; and

[0070] The tracked events are utilized to modify future iterations of the communication plan to avoid a communication interruption between the vehicle and the one of the plurality of candidate cellular towers.

[0071] 14. A method according to technical solution 13, wherein modifying future iterations of the communication plan includes utilizing a machine learning algorithm to block communication between the vehicle and the one of the multiple candidate cellular towers.

[0072] 15. A system for beamforming management in vehicle communications, comprising:

[0073] Vehicles; and

[0074] A computerized processor operable to:

[0075] determining the planned route of the vehicle;

[0076] identifying a plurality of candidate cellular towers with which the vehicle can communicate along the planned route;

[0077] determining a signal strength of each of the candidate cellular towers at a location along the planned route;

[0078] determining a communication plan, including identifying a geographic location of each of the plurality of candidate cellular towers, segmenting a planned route into a plurality of portions based on the determined signal strengths, wherein for each of the plurality of portions, one of the candidate cellular towers is assigned to communicate with the vehicle; and

[0079] and utilizing the communication plan to alter communications between the vehicle and the plurality of candidate cellular towers as the vehicle traverses the planned route, wherein utilizing the communication plan comprises operable to:

[0080] determining a current position of the vehicle,

[0081] determining a current position of the vehicle,

[0082] determining an azimuth angle relative to the vehicle and an elevation angle relative to the vehicle of one of the candidate cellular towers along the planned route based on the current position of the vehicle, the current orientation of the vehicle, and the geographic location of one of the candidate cellular towers, and

[0083] A main lobe of the antenna beam is directed toward the one of the candidate cellular towers based on the azimuth and elevation of the one of the candidate cellular towers.

[0084] 16. A system according to technical solution 15, wherein the vehicle includes an autonomous vehicle; and

[0085] Wherein determining a planned route for a vehicle includes monitoring an automated route programmed for the vehicle.

[0086] 17. The system according to technical solution 15, wherein the computerized processor is further operable to:

[0087] monitoring for detour events that alter the planned route;

[0088] Determining a new planned route based on the detour event; and

[0089] The communication plan is updated based on the new planned route.

[0090] 18. The system according to technical solution 15 further includes a computerized remote server device, which is operable to:

[0091] creating a beam matrix for each of the plurality of sections, the beam matrix comprising a list of the plurality of candidate cellular towers and a signal strength for each of the plurality of candidate cellular towers; and

[0092] The beam matrix is ​​transmitted to the vehicle.

[0093] 19. The system according to technical solution 18, wherein the computerized remote server device is further operable to:

[0094] monitoring changes to said planned route;

[0095] creating, using the remote server device, a new beam matrix based on the change in the planned route; and

[0096] The new beam matrix is ​​transmitted to the vehicle.

[0097] The above features and advantages and other features and advantages of the present disclosure are readily apparent from the following detailed description of the best modes for carrying out the disclosure when taken in connection with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0098] Figure 1 schematically illustrates an exemplary vehicle on a map including various roads and cellular tower locations in accordance with the present disclosure;

[0099] Figure 2 Pictured Figure 1 a vehicle and additionally illustrates a route of the vehicle planned on a map according to the present disclosure;

[0100] Figure 3 The diagram shows the Figure 2 a vehicle, identifying a first portion of a route, and a corresponding selected cellular tower with which the vehicle communicates along the first portion of the route;

[0101] Figure 4 The diagram shows the Figure 2 a map identifying a second portion of the route and a corresponding selected cellular tower with which the vehicle communicates along the second portion of the route;

[0102] Figure 5 The diagram shows the Figure 2 a map with the entire route divided into a plurality of sections and the corresponding selected cellular towers identified for each section;

[0103] Figure 6 schematically illustrates an exemplary computerized intelligent beamforming management device for use within a vehicle according to the present disclosure;

[0104] Figure 7schematically illustrates an exemplary computerized smart beamforming management remote server device according to the present disclosure; and

[0105] Figure 8 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary method for smart beamforming management in vehicle communications according to the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0106] A method and system for beamforming management in vehicle communications is provided. A route of a vehicle is analyzed and associated with provided cellular tower data. Based on the data, a communication plan for the vehicle is determined, the communication plan including a schedule for the vehicle to communicate with selected cellular towers along specific portions of the route. In one embodiment, a beam matrix may be provided to the vehicle, including the geographic locations of the associated cellular towers. The geographic location data may be coupled with other information such as the vehicle's position to efficiently establish a communication connection or beamforming between the vehicle and the selected cellular towers.

[0107] In one embodiment, a UE within a vehicle can provide parameters such as route information, direction, location, speed, and can provide a trajectory to a network element such as a remote server device, and then, based on this data, the network will respond with a beam matrix describing the signal strength of various cell towers near the planned specified route. This enables the UE to perform intelligent or improved communication beam selection or connection with a specific cell tower. This further enables optimization of communication beams after initial acquisition.

[0108] In one embodiment, the beam matrix table contains the geographical coordinates of the cell tower, the next five best cells, the best available beam in each cell, the best alternative beam in order, and a geographical high density flag. If the high density flag is on, the network may send an additional table with the best available beams. The message may be reported on PUSCH (Physical Uplink Shared Channel) / PUCCH (Physical Uplink Control Channel) or any other communication channel. The network may update the matrix at random intervals based on changing network conditions.

[0109] The disclosed method saves UE acquisition time or the time required for the UE to establish a communication link with a cellular tower. The disclosed method also enables high gain during uplink communications, especially for autonomous vehicle applications. The disclosed method enables reasonable or timely use of millimeter wave communications in high mobility applications such as in-vehicle telematics or cellular device use. The disclosed method simplifies beam acquisition, thereby saving antenna power.

[0110] If there is a detour or sudden change in route, the vehicle can inform the network. An updated matrix can be provided based on the new route.

[0111] In one embodiment, the beam is static. The directional gain of the antenna beam can be maintained by the UE while transmitting data.

[0112] The disclosed method may include notifying network elements of mobility parameters of vehicles and / or UEs, such as route information, speed, direction, location, and other mobility-related information.

[0113] The disclosed method may include the network element sending a beam index matrix table to the vehicle to make a decision.

[0114] The disclosed method may include a network element sending a high density beam matrix table to a vehicle in case of dense geographic conditions.

[0115] The disclosed method may include notifying a network about vehicle detour information and retrieving an updated beam matrix table.

[0116] Figure 1 Schematically illustrates the Figure 5 An exemplary vehicle 10 on the ground Figure 5 Includes various road and cell tower locations. Figure 5 Shown are roads 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, and 34. The various roads are provided as a network of paths or routes that vehicle 10 can take from its current location to destination 40. The locations of a plurality of cell towers are illustrated, including cell tower 51, cell tower 52, cell tower 53, cell tower 54, cell tower 55, and cell tower 56.

[0117] The vehicle 10 is equipped with a UE embodied as a telematics device or computerized device that includes a cellular communication module operable to transmit and receive data to and from a cellular tower via a communication link. The vehicle's computerized device may include user input and output devices such as a touch screen display, a map database, programming to determine the current location of the vehicle 10 based on triangulation of cellular tower signals or other similar methods, and programming to receive input from a user, estimate based on historical driving patterns, or otherwise plot a planned route. The cellular communication module is operable to communicate using transmissions in the approximately 1 mm to 10 mm wavelength band.

[0118] Each illustrated cell tower is operable to communicate with UE devices such as cellular telephones and vehicles including vehicles equipped with computerized devices including cellular communication modules. The illustrated cell towers can communicate with UEs using transmissions in the approximately 1 mm to 10 mm wavelength band.

[0119] Figure 2 Pictured Figure 1The vehicle 10 on the map is also shown. Figure 5 The route 60 of the vehicle 10 is planned. Figure 5 is shown as including Figure 1 , illustrated as dashed lines. A route 60 is illustrated, which includes a selected subset of roads and a destination 40. Figure 1 The locations of multiple cell towers, including cell tower 51, cell tower 52, cell tower 53, cell tower 54, cell tower 55, and cell tower 56, are shown in FIG. 60. Along route 60, vehicle 10 will get closer to or farther away from various cell towers. The distance from each cell tower will affect the signal strength that a UE in vehicle 10 will be able to establish with each cell tower. Additionally, other factors such as terrain, obstacles such as buildings, weather, and other similar factors may affect the signal strength of the ground. Figure 5 The signal strength of each cellular tower at any given location of the vehicle 10.

[0120] A system and method are provided for planning communications for a vehicle along a planned route using available information such as cellular tower locations and predicted signal strengths to segment the route into multiple portions of the route and assign selected cellular towers for communications to each portion of the route. Figure 3 Pictured Figure 2 The vehicle 10 on the map identifies a first portion 70 of the route and a corresponding selected cellular tower 52 with which the vehicle communicates along the first portion 70 of the route. Figure 5 is shown as including Figure 1 The roads are shown as dashed lines. A route 60 is shown, including a selected subset of roads and a destination 40. Figure 1The locations of a portion of a plurality of cellular towers, including cellular tower 51, cellular tower 52, and cellular tower 53. Based on an analysis of route 60, estimated signal strengths of various cellular towers at various points along route 60, and other factors, route 60 may be segmented into a plurality of portions, wherein a first portion 70 is identified based on cellular tower 52 being identified as an acceptable cellular tower along the entire first portion 70. A starting point 72 of the first portion 70 may be identified as the current location of the vehicle 10 or the starting point of route 60. Although cellular tower 51 may be closer to the vehicle 10 for some of the first portion 70, a determination may be made that the signal strength of cellular tower 52 is sufficient or acceptable throughout the first portion 70, and further, cellular tower 51 will only briefly have a superior signal strength to cellular tower 52. Cellular tower 52 may be selected to favor cellular tower 51 to avoid changing cellular towers too frequently. The analysis of route 60, cellular towers, and segmenting the route into a plurality of portions may include balancing the signal strengths of various cellular towers at various points along route 60 by minimizing the number of cellular towers that are changed or minimizing the total number of portions into which route 60 is divided. In one embodiment, the user may be given the option to prefer seeking the strongest signal whenever possible, the option to reduce the overall number of cell tower changes through the route, or a balance of the two. The end point 74 of the first portion 70 may be selected based on the point at which, for the next segment of route 60, the acceptable tower signal strength of cell tower 53, in this example, becomes stronger than the signal strength of cell tower 52.

[0121] Figure 4 Shows Figure 2 A map of the route 60 is shown, identifying a second portion 80 of the route 60 and a corresponding selected cellular tower 53 with which the vehicle communicates along the second portion 80 of the route 60. Figure 5 is shown as including Figure 1 Roads are shown as dashed lines. Route 60 is shown, which includes a selected subset of roads. Figure 1 The locations of a portion of a plurality of cell towers of the route 60 include cell tower 52, cell tower 53, and cell tower 55. Based on an analysis of route 60, estimated signal strengths of various cell towers at various points along route 60, and other factors, route 60 may be segmented into a plurality of portions, wherein a second portion 80 is identified based on cell tower 53 being identified as an acceptable cell tower along the entire second portion 80. A starting point 82 of the second portion 80 may be identified as being at the same point as the previous portion ( Figure 3 The end point 84 of the second portion 80 may be selected based on the point at which, for the next segment of route 60, the acceptable tower signal strength of cellular tower 55 becomes stronger than the signal strength of cellular tower 53 in this example.

[0122] Figure 5 Shows Figure 2 land Figure 5 Along with a route 60 divided into a plurality of sections, wherein a corresponding selected cellular tower is identified for each section. Figure 5 is shown as including Figure 1 , illustrated with dashed lines. A route 60 is illustrated, including a selected subset of roads and a destination 40. The route 60 is segmented into a plurality of portions, including a first portion 70, a second portion 80, a third portion 90, a fourth portion 100, a fifth portion 110, and a sixth portion 120. The first portion 70 begins at a starting point 72 and ends at a destination 74. The second portion 80 begins at a starting point 82 and ends at a destination 84. The third portion 90 is segmented from the route 60 in a process similar to how the first portion 70 and the second portion 80 are defined, and includes a starting point 92 and a destination 94. The fourth portion 100 is segmented from the route 60 in a process similar to how the first portion 70 and the second portion 80 are defined, and includes a starting point 102 and a destination 104. The fifth portion 110 is segmented from the route 60 in a process similar to how the first portion 70 and the second portion 80 are defined, and includes a starting point 112 and a destination 114. The sixth portion 120 is segmented from the route 60 in a process similar to how the first portion 70 and the second portion 80 are defined, and includes a start point 122 and an end point 40 .

[0123] Figure 6 An exemplary computerized intelligent beamforming management device 200 for use within a vehicle 10 is schematically illustrated. The computerized intelligent beamforming management device 200 includes a computerized processing device 210, a cellular communication module 220, a user input / output device 230, and a memory storage device 240. Note that the computerized intelligent beamforming management device 200 may include other components, and some components may not be present in some embodiments.

[0124] The processing device 210 may include a memory (e.g., a read-only memory (ROM) and a random access memory (RAM)) that stores processor-executable instructions and one or more processors that execute the processor-executable instructions. In embodiments where the processing device 210 includes two or more processors, the processors may operate in a parallel or distributed manner. The processing device 210 may execute an operating system of the smart beamforming management device 200. The processing device 210 may include one or more modules that execute programming code or a computerized process or method that includes executable steps. The modules shown may include functionality of a single physical device or across multiple physical devices. In an illustrative embodiment, the processing device 210 also includes a route identification module 212, a route segmentation module 214, and a communication management module 216, which will be described in more detail below.

[0125] The cellular communication module 220 may include a communication / data connection to a bus device configured to transmit data to the various components of the system and may include one or more wireless transceivers for performing wireless communications.

[0126] The user input / output device 230 includes hardware and / or software configured to enable the processing device 210 to provide information to a user (eg, a vehicle driver) and receive input from the user.

[0127] The memory storage device 240 is a device that stores data generated or received by the smart beamforming management device 200. The memory storage device 240 may include, but is not limited to, a hard disk drive, an optical disk drive, and / or a flash memory drive.

[0128] The route identification module 212 may include programming operable to enable the processing device to identify, plan, estimate, or otherwise establish a planned route for the vehicle. The route identification module 212 may receive input from a user including a planned destination. The route identification module 212 may determine or provide the user with options regarding roads to travel to reach the destination. Once selected or determined, the roads to be traveled may be used to define the route.

[0129] The route segmentation module 214 may include programming operable to segment the planned route into multiple portions according to the methods described herein. The route segmentation module 214 may access data locally or remotely regarding the location and signal strength of cellular towers in the vicinity of the planned route. The route segmentation module 214 may additionally include programming to evaluate other factors that may affect signal strength and / or communication with cellular towers.

[0130] The communication management module 216 may include programming operable to plan communications along the planned route based on the segments determined by the route segmentation module 214. The planned communications may include the location and relative positions of cellular towers, expected signal strengths, and a schedule of communication changes along the planned route. The communication management module 216 may provide all necessary data and computerized instructions to manage cellular communications between vehicles and cellular towers along the planned route.

[0131] The smart beamforming management device 200 is provided as an exemplary computerized device capable of executing programming code to operate the disclosed processes. Several different embodiments of the smart beamforming management device 200 and modules operable therein are contemplated, and the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the examples provided herein.

[0132] Figure 7An exemplary computerized smart beamforming management remote server device 300 is schematically illustrated. The computerized smart beamforming management remote server device 300 may communicate with the computerized smart beamforming management device 200. The computerized smart beamforming management remote server device 300 may provide data, computational support, and / or may duplicate determinations with the computerized smart beamforming management device 200 for the purpose of providing backup for in-vehicle processes. Several different ways of dividing computerized tasks between the computerized smart beamforming management remote server device 300 and the computerized smart beamforming management device 200 and the specific tasks and determinations described herein are intended as non-limiting examples of how the system may work.

[0133] The computerized smart beamforming management remote server device 300 may be operated and maintained by a corporate entity, such as a manufacturer of the vehicle 10 or a computerized service provider. A user may be able to subscribe to different, selectable services to manage the disclosed method. The computerized smart beamforming management remote server device 300 includes a computerized processing device 310, a cellular communication module 320, and a memory storage device 330. Note that the computerized smart beamforming management remote server device 300 may include other components, and some components are not present in some embodiments.

[0134] The processing device 310 may include a memory (e.g., a read-only memory (ROM) and a random access memory (RAM)) that stores processor-executable instructions and one or more processors that execute the processor-executable instructions. In embodiments where the processing device 310 includes two or more processors, the processors may operate in a parallel or distributed manner. The processing device 310 may execute an operating system for the smart beamforming management remote server device 300. The processing device 310 may include one or more modules that execute programming code or a computerized process or method that includes executable steps. The modules shown may include functionality of a single physical device or across multiple physical devices. In an illustrative embodiment, the processing device 310 also includes a route estimation module 312, a cellular tower location and signal strength management module 314, and a communication management module 316, which will be described in more detail below.

[0135] The cellular communication module 320 may include a communication / data connection to a bus device configured to transmit data to the various components of the system and may include one or more wireless transceivers for performing wireless communications.

[0136] The memory storage device 330 is a device that stores data generated or received by the smart beamforming management remote server device 300. The memory storage device 330 may include, but is not limited to, a hard drive, an optical drive, and / or a flash drive. The memory storage device 330 is shown as including a vehicle route history database 332, which may include historical data about the travel of a user or vehicle, so that an estimated route can be determined by analyzing the historical data. The memory storage device 330 is further shown as including a cellular tower database 334, which may include location and / or signal strength data of cellular towers. A plurality of different databases may be maintained within the memory storage device 330, and the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the examples provided herein.

[0137] The route estimation module 312 may include programming operable to enable the processing device to estimate a planned route for the vehicle. The route estimation module 312 may utilize the input destination, time and day of the week, driver identity, and other information to estimate a planned route.

[0138] The signal strength management module 314 may include programming operable to evaluate the signal strength of various cellular towers in the vicinity of the planned route. The signal strength management module 314 may include programming to compare the signal strength of a certain cellular tower at various points to a threshold signal strength to determine whether it is acceptable to use the cellular tower at the various points. The signal strength management module 314 may simultaneously evaluate the signal strength of multiple towers through a segment of the planned route to determine a schedule for switching between cellular towers. If it is determined that no cellular tower provides an acceptable usable signal strength for a segment of the planned route, the signal strength management module 314 may issue an alert message to the user of the vehicle. The signal strength management module 314 may include programming to create a beam matrix that includes a list of candidate cellular towers and the corresponding signal strength of each candidate cellular tower at a location along the planned route, which signal strength may be transmitted once or updated and sent to the vehicle multiple times.

[0139] The communication management module 316 may include a module operable to enhance and / or replicate Figure 6 In one embodiment, the communication management module 216 or the communication management module 316 can independently provide all necessary data and computerized instructions to manage cellular communications between the vehicle and the cellular towers along the planned route.

[0140] A computerized smart beamforming management remote server device 300 is provided as an exemplary computerized device capable of executing programming code to operate the disclosed processes. Several different embodiments of the smart beamforming management remote server device 300 and modules operable therein are contemplated, and the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the examples provided herein.

[0141] Figure 8 4 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary method 400 for intelligent beamforming management in vehicle communications. The method 400 begins at step 402. At step 404, a planned route is determined. At step 406, a plurality of candidate cellular towers in the vicinity of the planned route are identified. At step 408, the signal strength of each candidate cellular tower is determined and listed along the planned route. At step 410, the planned route is segmented into a plurality of sections using the planned route and the listed signal strengths of the cellular towers, wherein each section of the planned route is assigned one of the candidate cellular towers. At step 412, the sections and the assigned cellular towers are incorporated into a communication plan for the vehicle. At step 414, the communication plan is executed as the vehicle travels along the route, and communications between the vehicle and the assigned cellular towers are changed according to the communication plan. At step 416, the method 400 ends.

[0142] Method 400 is an example of how the disclosed methods and processes may be operated. Additional and / or alternative steps may be utilized. In one exemplary alternative, if the vehicle deviates from the planned route, a new planned route may be formulated according to the present disclosure, and a new communication plan may be developed.

[0143] According to the method for beamforming management in vehicle communications disclosed herein, within a computerized processor, the method may include determining a planned route for a vehicle and identifying a plurality of candidate cellular towers with which the vehicle can communicate along the planned route. The method may also include determining the signal strength of each candidate cellular tower at a location along the planned route, and determining a communication plan, including segmenting the planned route into a plurality of portions based on the determined signal strength. The communication plan includes a list of candidate cellular towers, which are sorted according to the signal strength determined for each of the plurality of portions. The method also includes: utilizing the communication plan to change the communication between the vehicle and the plurality of candidate cellular towers as the vehicle traverses the planned route. Such utilization includes sequentially directing the main lobe of the antenna beam to each of the candidate cellular towers according to the communication plan.

[0144] When the vehicle traverses one of the plurality of sections, the method may include monitoring for a disruption in communications between the vehicle and one of the plurality of candidate cellular towers. For example, such a disruption may include a large concrete and steel structure that interferes with the communication signal. The method may include selecting a replacement cellular tower based on the list of candidate cellular towers and directing a main lobe of the antenna beam toward the replacement cellular tower.

[0145] The method may further include improving the performance of the method and system over time, for example, by tracking events in which communication between the vehicle and one of the plurality of candidate cellular towers is disrupted. The tracked events may be used to modify future iterations of the communication plan to avoid communication disruption between the vehicle and one of the plurality of candidate cellular towers. Modifying future iterations of the communication plan may include utilizing a machine learning algorithm implementing a weighting factor or other modifier to prevent communication between the vehicle and one of the plurality of candidate cellular towers.

[0146] While the best modes for carrying out the disclosure have been described in detail, those familiar with the art to which this disclosure relates will recognize various alternative designs and embodiments for practicing the disclosure within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A method for beamforming management in vehicle communications, comprising: In a computerized processor, determining the planned route of the vehicle; identifying a plurality of candidate cellular towers with which the vehicle can communicate along the planned route; determining a signal strength of each of the plurality of candidate cellular towers at a location along the planned route; determining a communication plan, including identifying a geographic location of each of the plurality of candidate cellular towers and segmenting a planned route into a plurality of segments based on the determined signal strengths, wherein, based on the signal strengths, for each of the plurality of segments, one of the plurality of candidate cellular towers is assigned to communicate with the vehicle, wherein determining the communication plan includes creating, using a remote server device, a beam matrix for each of the plurality of segments, the beam matrix including a list of the plurality of candidate cellular towers and the signal strength of each of the plurality of candidate cellular towers, and including transmitting the beam matrix to the vehicle; monitoring changes to said planned route; creating, using the remote server device, a new beam matrix based on the change in the planned route; transmitting the new beam matrix to the vehicle; and The communication plan is utilized to alter communications between the vehicle and the plurality of candidate cellular towers as the vehicle traverses the planned route, the utilizing comprising sequentially directing a main lobe of an antenna beam toward each candidate cellular tower according to the communication plan.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein: Directing the main lobe of the antenna beam toward each candidate cell tower in turn according to the communication plan comprises: When the vehicle transitions from one of the plurality of sections to a second of the plurality of sections, determining a current position of the vehicle, determining a current position of the vehicle, determining an azimuth angle relative to the vehicle and an elevation angle relative to the vehicle for a candidate cellular tower designated to communicate with the vehicle for a second one of the plurality of sections based on a geographic location of the candidate cellular tower designated to communicate with the vehicle for a second one of the plurality of sections, a current location of the vehicle, and a current orientation of the vehicle, and Directing a main lobe of an antenna beam toward a second candidate cellular tower designated for communication with the vehicle in the plurality of sections based on an azimuth angle relative to the vehicle and an elevation angle relative to the vehicle of the second candidate cellular tower designated for communication with the vehicle in the plurality of sections.

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein: Determining a planned route for the vehicle includes monitoring an automated route programmed for the vehicle, wherein the vehicle is operating as an autonomous vehicle.

4. The method according to claim 1, wherein: Determining a planned route for the vehicle includes monitoring a user input of a planned route for the vehicle, wherein the vehicle is operated as a manually operated vehicle.

5. The method according to claim 1, wherein: Determining a planned route for the vehicle includes monitoring a user-input planned destination for the vehicle and automatically estimating the planned route based on the user-input planned destination.

6. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: monitoring for detour events that alter the planned route; determining a new planned route based on the detour event; as well as The communication plan is updated based on the new planned route.

7. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: monitoring a plurality of interruptions in communications between the vehicle and one of the plurality of candidate cellular towers; as well as The interruption is utilized to modify future iterations of the communication plan.

8. The method according to claim 1, wherein: Splitting the planned route into the plurality of portions is also based on reducing a total number of communication changes on the planned route.

9. A method for beamforming management in vehicle communications, comprising: In a computerized processor, determining the planned route of the vehicle; identifying a plurality of candidate cellular towers with which the vehicle can communicate along the planned route; determining the signal strength of each candidate cell tower at a location along the planned route; determining a communication plan identifying a geographic location of each of the plurality of candidate cellular towers, comprising segmenting a planned route into a plurality of portions based on the determined signal strengths, wherein the communication plan comprises a list of candidate cellular towers, the candidate cellular towers being ranked according to the signal strengths determined for each of the plurality of portions, wherein determining the communication plan comprises creating, using a remote server device, a beam matrix for each of the plurality of portions, the beam matrix comprising the list of the plurality of candidate cellular towers and the signal strength of each of the plurality of candidate cellular towers, and comprising transmitting the beam matrix to the vehicle; monitoring changes to said planned route; creating, using the remote server device, a new beam matrix based on the change in the planned route; transmitting the new beam matrix to the vehicle; and The communication plan is utilized to alter communications between the vehicle and the plurality of candidate cellular towers as the vehicle traverses the planned route, the utilizing comprising sequentially directing a main lobe of an antenna beam toward each candidate cellular tower according to the communication plan.

10. The method according to claim 9, further comprising: When the vehicle traverses one of the plurality of sections, monitoring for a disruption in communications between the vehicle and one of the plurality of candidate cellular towers; selecting a replacement cellular tower based on the list of candidate cellular towers; as well as Direct the main lobe of the antenna beam toward the replacement cell tower.

11. The method according to claim 10, further comprising: tracking a communication disruption event between the vehicle and the one of the plurality of candidate cellular towers; as well as The tracked events are utilized to modify future iterations of the communication plan to avoid a communication interruption between the vehicle and the one of the plurality of candidate cellular towers.

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein: Modifying a future iteration of the communication plan includes utilizing a machine learning algorithm to prevent communication between the vehicle and the one of the plurality of candidate cellular towers.

13. A system for beamforming management in vehicle communications, comprising: vehicle; and A computerized processor operable to: determining the planned route of the vehicle; identifying a plurality of candidate cellular towers with which the vehicle can communicate along the planned route; determining a signal strength of each of the candidate cellular towers at a location along the planned route; determining a communication plan, including identifying a geographic location of each of the plurality of candidate cellular towers, segmenting a planned route into a plurality of segments based on the determined signal strengths, wherein for each of the plurality of segments, one of the candidate cellular towers is assigned to communicate with the vehicle, determining the communication plan includes creating, using a remote server device, a beam matrix for each of the plurality of segments, the beam matrix including a list of the plurality of candidate cellular towers and a signal strength for each of the plurality of candidate cellular towers, and transmitting the beam matrix to the vehicle; monitoring changes to said planned route; creating, using the remote server device, a new beam matrix based on the change in the planned route; transmitting the new beam matrix to the vehicle; and and utilizing the communication plan to alter communications between the vehicle and the plurality of candidate cellular towers as the vehicle traverses the planned route, wherein utilizing the communication plan comprises operable to: determining a current position of the vehicle, determining a current position of the vehicle, determining an azimuth angle relative to the vehicle and an elevation angle relative to the vehicle of one of the candidate cellular towers along the planned route based on the current position of the vehicle, the current orientation of the vehicle, and the geographic location of one of the candidate cellular towers, and A main lobe of the antenna beam is directed toward the one of the candidate cellular towers based on the azimuth and elevation of the one of the candidate cellular towers.

14. The system according to claim 13, wherein: The vehicle comprises an autonomous vehicle; and Wherein determining a planned route for a vehicle includes monitoring an automated route programmed for the vehicle.

15. The system of claim 13, wherein: The computerized processor is further operable to: monitoring for detour events that alter the planned route; Determining a new planned route based on the detour event; and The communication plan is updated based on the new planned route.

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