Closed-loop environmental sensing and control for wireless applications

Abstract

A method, system, and vehicle are provided for controlling a wireless application provided to a wireless device via a wireless network. One or more radio frequency (RF) parameters of the wireless device in the wireless network, triggered by the wireless application, are controlled. One or more sensors generate sensor data of the wireless device in the wireless network. A processor at least contributes to determining, based on the sensor data, whether adjustment is suitable for the wireless device to mitigate interference from wireless signals outside the wireless network, wherein the determination of suitability is at least partially based on whether the wireless application is being used by the wireless device in the wireless network; and based on the determination that the adjustment is suitable, the sensitivity of the receiver of the wireless device is adjusted via instructions provided by the processor.

Description

[0001] The technical field relates generally to wireless applications and, more particularly, to closed-loop environmental sensing and control for wireless applications, such as in vehicles. Background Art

[0002] Wireless networks, such as wireless local area networks (WLANs) are typically based on the IEEE 802.11 standard, with Wi-Fi being the most popular brand on the market. Short-range wireless networks (SRWNs) typically include a local network of one or more wireless applications that may receive interference from one or more external signals. This may occur, for example, when vehicles and / or other mobile platforms are moving from one place to another. In some cases, this interference may affect the performance of wireless applications.

[0003] Therefore, it may be desirable to improve the performance of such wireless applications, for example by reducing the deleterious effects of such interference.Furthermore, other desirable features and characteristics of the present invention will become apparent from the subsequent detailed description of the invention and the appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and this background of the invention. Summary of the invention

[0004] According to an exemplary embodiment, a method for controlling a wireless application provided to a wireless device via a wireless network is provided, the method comprising: controlling one or more radio frequency (RF) parameters of a wireless device in the wireless network triggered by the wireless application; generating sensor data of the wireless device in the wireless network via one or more sensors; determining, via a processor, based on the sensor data, whether adjustment is appropriate for the wireless device in the wireless network to mitigate interference from wireless signals outside the wireless network, wherein the determination as to whether the adjustment is appropriate is based at least in part on whether the wireless application is being used for the wireless device in the wireless network; and adjusting the sensitivity of a receiver of the wireless device via instructions provided by the processor based on the determination that the adjustment is appropriate.

[0005] Also in the exemplary embodiment, the network through which the wireless network passes includes a wireless local area network (WLAN), and the wireless device includes a WLAN device using the WLAN.

[0006] Also in the exemplary embodiment, a WLAN via which wireless applications are provided is provided within the vehicle.

[0007] Also in the exemplary embodiment, the determination as to whether an adjustment is appropriate is also based at least in part on one or more external factors external to the vehicle.

[0008] Also in the exemplary embodiment, the step of generating sensor data includes measuring a signal strength of the wireless network relative to the wireless device; and the step of determining whether an adjustment is appropriate includes determining, via the processor, whether an adjustment is appropriate based at least in part on the signal strength.

[0009] Also in the exemplary embodiment: the step of determining whether adjustment is appropriate includes: determining whether adjustment is appropriate via a processor based on whether the signal strength exceeds a predetermined threshold; and the step of adjusting the sensitivity of the receiver includes reducing the sensitivity of the receiver via instructions provided by the processor when it is determined that the signal strength exceeds the predetermined threshold.

[0010] Also in an exemplary embodiment, the step of determining whether an adjustment is appropriate includes determining, via a processor, whether an adjustment is appropriate based at least in part on when the signal strength is greater than a sum of a default sensitivity level for the wireless device and a sensitivity adjustment amount for the wireless device; and the step of adjusting the sensitivity of the receiver includes reducing the sensitivity of the receiver by the sensitivity adjustment amount based at least in part on determining that the signal strength is greater than a sum of a default sensitivity level for the wireless device and a sensitivity adjustment amount for the wireless device, via instructions provided by the processor.

[0011] Also in the exemplary embodiment, the method further includes: determining, via the processor, whether the wireless network is operating via an access point (AP) mode; wherein the sensitivity of the receiver is adjusted only under another condition that the wireless network is not operating via the AP mode.

[0012] Also in an exemplary embodiment, the step of generating sensor data includes detecting an external wireless signal from outside the wireless network; wherein the step of determining whether adjustment is appropriate includes determining, via the processor, whether adjustment is appropriate based at least in part on the detected external wireless signal.

[0013] In another exemplary embodiment, a control system is provided for controlling wireless applications provided to wireless devices via a wireless network, the control system comprising: one or more sensors configured to generate sensor data of wireless devices in the wireless network; and a processor coupled to the one or more sensors and configured to at least facilitate: controlling one or more radio frequency (RF) parameters of wireless devices in the wireless network triggered by the wireless application; determining based on the sensor data whether an adjustment is appropriate for the wireless devices in the wireless network to mitigate interference from wireless signals outside the wireless network, wherein the determination as to whether the adjustment is appropriate is based at least in part on whether the wireless application is being used for the wireless devices in the wireless network; and adjusting the sensitivity of a receiver of the wireless device based on the determination that the adjustment is appropriate; determining whether the wireless network is operating via an access point (AP) mode; and adjusting the sensitivity of the receiver only under another condition where the wireless network is not operating via AP mode.

[0014] Also in the exemplary embodiment, the network through which the wireless network passes includes a wireless local area network (WLAN), and the wireless device includes a WLAN device using the WLAN.

[0015] Also in the exemplary embodiment, a WLAN providing wireless applications is provided in the vehicle.

[0016] Also in the exemplary embodiment, the determination as to whether an adjustment is appropriate is also based at least in part on one or more external factors external to the vehicle.

[0017] Also in the exemplary embodiment: the one or more sensors are configured to at least facilitate measuring a signal strength of the wireless network relative to the wireless device; and the processor is configured to at least facilitate determining whether an adjustment is appropriate based at least in part on the signal strength.

[0018] Also in the exemplary embodiment, the processor is configured to at least facilitate: determining whether adjustment is appropriate based at least in part on whether the signal strength exceeds a predetermined threshold; and providing instructions for reducing the sensitivity of the receiver when it is determined that the signal strength exceeds the predetermined threshold.

[0019] Also in an exemplary embodiment, the processor is configured to at least facilitate: determining that an adjustment is appropriate based at least in part on when the signal strength is greater than a sum of a default sensitivity level for the wireless device and a sensitivity adjustment amount for the wireless device; and providing instructions for reducing the sensitivity of the receiver by the sensitivity adjustment amount when it is determined that the signal strength is greater than the sum of the default sensitivity level for the wireless device and the sensitivity adjustment amount for the wireless device.

[0020] Also in the exemplary embodiment, the one or more sensors are configured to at least facilitate detection of external wireless signals from outside the wireless network; and the processor is configured to at least facilitate determining whether an adjustment is appropriate based at least in part on the detected external wireless signals.

[0021] In another exemplary embodiment, a vehicle is provided, comprising: a body defining a cabin within the vehicle; a wireless network for providing wireless applications to wireless devices within the cabin; and a control system comprising: one or more sensors configured to generate sensor data of wireless devices in the wireless network; and a processor coupled to the one or more sensors and configured to at least facilitate: controlling one or more radio frequency (RF) parameters of the wireless devices in the wireless network triggered by the wireless application; determining based on the sensor data whether an adjustment is appropriate for the wireless devices in the wireless network to mitigate interference from wireless signals outside the wireless network, wherein the determination as to whether the adjustment is appropriate is based at least in part on whether the wireless application is being used for the wireless devices in the wireless network; and adjusting the sensitivity of a receiver of the wireless device based on the determination that the adjustment is appropriate.

[0022] Also in the exemplary embodiment, the wireless network includes a wireless local area network (WLAN); the one or more sensors are configured to at least facilitate measuring a signal strength of the WLAN relative to the wireless device; and the processor is configured to at least facilitate determining whether an adjustment is appropriate based on the signal strength. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] Exemplary embodiments will be described below with reference to the following drawings, wherein like reference numerals represent like elements, and in which:

[0024] Figure 1 is a functional block diagram of a communication system according to an exemplary embodiment, the communication system including a wireless network, a wireless application, and a control system for controlling the wireless application via the wireless network;

[0025] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a control system for controlling a wireless network and wireless applications of an electronic device according to an exemplary embodiment, the control system can be combined with Figure 1 The communication system, control system and its wireless network are implemented;

[0026] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of an installation of a control system for controlling wireless networks and wireless applications in a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment, which shows the close range in which the short-range wireless network operates and which can be combined with Figure 1 Communication systems and vehicles and Figure 1 and 2 Use of control systems;

[0027] Figure 4 is a flow chart of a process for controlling a wireless network and a wireless application according to an exemplary embodiment, which process may be combined with Figure 1 communication systems and Figure 1-3 to implement the control system;

[0028] Figure 5 is a combination according to an exemplary embodiment Figure 1 Communication systems and vehicles and Figure 1-3 Control system Figure 4 a diagrammatic representation of an implementation of a process;

[0029] Figure 6 is an exemplary embodiment provided according to an exemplary embodiment, which depicts Figure 4 There is no de-sensing process Figure 1 The transceiver's compliance frequency (in-band); and

[0030] Figure 7 is an exemplary embodiment provided according to an exemplary embodiment, describing Figure 4 The process is desensitizing Figure 1 The compliant frequency of the transceiver. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the present disclosure or its application and uses. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any theory presented in the preceding background or the following detailed description.

[0032] Figure 1 1 is a functional block diagram of a communication system 10 according to an exemplary embodiment. As described in further detail below, the communication system 10 includes a short-range wireless network 101 , a telematics system 111 , and a control system 112 for controlling a wireless application 107 of a wireless device 102 via the short-range wireless network 101 .

[0033] In various embodiments, the short-range wireless network 101 includes a wireless local area network (WLAN), a wireless personal area network (WPAN), a Wi-Fi network, and / or one or more other closed short-range wireless networks.

[0034] Also in various embodiments, the telematics system 111 includes a main processor 110 and an upper wireless stack 130 that supports one or more wireless applications 107. In various embodiments, the main processor 110 is part of a control system 112 (e.g., a computer system), which also includes a computer memory 140. Also in various embodiments, the wireless applications 107 may include a wireless phone projection (WPP) application, a vehicle hotspot application, a web browser, audio streaming, a vehicle hotspot, hands-free phone calling, a phone book (e.g., looking up a user's call history and contacts), text / speech recognition (e.g., including audio playback of a user's message), music playback, and / or one or more other wireless applications of the wireless device 102.

[0035] In addition, in various embodiments, the wireless device 103 includes a consumer wireless device, such as a smart phone, computer, and / or other electronic device of a user (e.g., a vehicle passenger). Also in various embodiments, the wireless device 103 is wirelessly coupled to a short-range wireless device 102 (e.g., a WLAN system device) via a wireless signal 104 of the short-range wireless network 101 (in various embodiments, it corresponds to a radio frequency of a WLAN and / or other wireless network) that is integrated into a telematics system 111 (e.g., an infotainment system) of the vehicle 12.

[0036] like Figure 1 As shown, in various embodiments, the vehicle hardware 20 also includes a transceiver 105. In various embodiments, the transceiver 105 includes a wireless (e.g., WLAN) transceiver. Also in various embodiments, as shown in FIG. Figure 1 As shown, transceiver 105 includes a lower-level wireless stack 120, a radio 122, a modem 124, and a processor 126. In various embodiments, lower-level wireless stack 120 is supported by host processor 110 as described above.

[0037] In various embodiments, under appropriate conditions, the receiver sensitivity (e.g., the sensitivity of the transceiver 105) is adjusted for the short-range wireless network 101 relative to the wireless application 107, including reducing interference of external signals to the wireless application 107, such as in combination with Figure 4 The process 400 is described.

[0038] In various embodiments, the short-range wireless network 101 is a wireless component and is a subsystem integrated into the telematics system 111 (e.g., in certain embodiments, the infotainment system of the vehicle 12). Also in various embodiments, the wireless device 102 and the wireless device 103 are wirelessly connected to each other via the short-range wireless network 101, which serves as an intercommunication (data exchange between associated and connected devices) between the wireless devices 102 and 103.

[0039] In some embodiments, the performance of the wireless devices 102 and / or 103 may be affected by other wireless compliance frequency systems and / or other noise factors. In various embodiments, by reducing the receiver sensitivity (e.g., desensing) of the transceiver 105, these factors can be mitigated while improving the performance of the wireless application 107. Specifically, in various embodiments, reducing the receiver sensitivity creates a filter-like mechanism.

[0040] For example, refer to Figure 6 According to an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary implementation of a compliant frequency signal 602 of a transceiver 105 without desensing is provided. Figure 6 As shown, in an exemplary embodiment, the unwanted signal 604 may interfere with the Figure 1 The desired signal 606 of the user wireless device 103.

[0041] As a further example, see Figure 7 According to an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary implementation is provided to describe a compliant frequency signal 702 of a transceiver 105 with desensing. Figure 7 As shown, in an exemplary embodiment, by desensing, the unwanted signal 704 is less likely to interfere with the Figure 1 The desired signal 706 of the user wireless device 103. For example, in various embodiments, a large number of unwanted signals pass through the system and are Figure 7Thus, in various embodiments, by desensing, a receiver (eg, a receiver of transceiver 105) receives a smaller amount of unwanted signals and reduces the overall noise and interference level of the system.

[0042] Return to reference Figure 1 In certain non-limiting embodiments, the depicted embodiments, control system 112, wireless application 107, wireless device 103, and short-range wireless network 101 are implemented in conjunction with vehicle 12 and are disposed within a cabin within body 19 of vehicle 12. In the illustrated embodiment, vehicle 12 comprises a motor vehicle or automobile.

[0043] In various embodiments, the vehicle 12 may include any number of other vehicles, such as automobiles, motorcycles, recreational vehicles (RVs), buses, trucks, boats, airplanes, spacecraft, farm equipment, and / or one or more other mobile platforms, and be equipped with appropriate hardware and software that enables it to communicate via the communication system 10. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the control system 112, wireless applications 107, wireless devices 103, and short-range wireless network 101 may be implemented independently of any vehicle 12 and / or other mobile platform. Furthermore, in various embodiments, the control system 112, wireless applications 107, wireless devices 102, and short-range wireless network 101 may be implemented in conjunction with any number of other applications, such as one or more access points (APs), base stations, and / or any number of different types of compliant frequency signals.

[0044] like Figure 1 As shown, the communication system 10 generally also includes one or more wireless carrier systems 14, one or more land networks 16, and one or more remote servers 18. It should be understood that the overall architecture, settings, and operations of the system shown, as well as the individual components, are merely exemplary, and that communication systems of different configurations may also be used to implement examples of the methods disclosed herein. Therefore, the following paragraphs, which provide a brief overview of the communication system 10 shown, are not intended to be limiting.

[0045] like Figure 1As shown, in various embodiments, the vehicle hardware 20 is disposed within the cabin 9 within the body 19 of the vehicle 12 and includes a telematics system 111. In certain embodiments, the vehicle hardware 20 may include a user interface system 108, such as one or more microphones, speakers, audio and / or video displays, and / or buttons and / or controls connected to the telematics system 111. Also in various embodiments, a network connection or vehicle bus 106 is operably coupled to the telematics system (and / or in certain embodiments, an infotainment system) 111. Examples of suitable network connections include a controller area network (CAN), a media oriented systems transport (MOST), a local interconnect network (LIN), Ethernet, and other suitable connections, such as connections that conform to known ISO (International Organization for Standardization), SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers), TCP / IP models, and / or IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) standards and specifications.

[0046] In various embodiments, the telematics system 111 is an onboard device that provides various services through its communication with the remote server 18, and generally includes an electronic processing device (processor) 110, one or more types of electronic memory 40 and / or various other components, such as a cellular chipset / component, a wireless modem, one or more antennas and / or a navigation unit including a GPS chipset / component. It should be understood that in various embodiments, one or more of these components and / or other components of the vehicle 12 and / or the communication system 10 can be part of the control system 112 and / or the short-range wireless network 101 and / or can be coupled to the control system 112 and / or the short-range wireless network 101.

[0047] In various embodiments, the telematics system 111 may be embedded / installed within the vehicle 12 at the time of manufacture, or may be an aftermarket unit installed after the vehicle 12 is manufactured. In various embodiments, the telematics system 111 is capable of voice and / or data communications over one or more wireless networks, including the short-range wireless network 101, the wireless carrier system 14, and / or one or more other wireless networks, thereby allowing communication with a remote server 18 and / or other vehicles and / or systems. Additionally, in some embodiments, the transceiver may be stand-alone and / or within the telematics system 111.

[0048] In various embodiments, the telematics system 111 can use radio transmissions to establish a voice and / or data channel with the wireless carrier system 14 and / or other wireless networks, such that both voice and data transmissions can be sent and received via the voice and / or data channels. In addition, in various embodiments, the telematics system 111 performs wireless networking between the vehicle 12 and one or more other network devices, such as using one or more wireless protocols, such as one or more IEEE 802.11 protocols, WiMAX, or Bluetooth.

[0049] The telematics system 111 may provide a variety of different services to the user of the vehicle 12, including connectivity to the wireless device 103 of the user of the vehicle 12. In various embodiments, the electronic device may include, for example, various consumer electronic / mobile devices such as smartphones, laptops, smart wearable devices, tablet computers, network computers, and / or one or more other electronic devices and / or combinations thereof.

[0050] In various embodiments, the telematics system 111 pairs / links with one or more wireless devices 103 while connected to a wireless network within the wireless range of the vehicle 12, such as the short-range wireless network 101. In various embodiments, the telematics system 111 and each wireless device 103 exchange data (directly and / or indirectly via the remote server 18) to verify that the wireless device 103 is a known device before the telematics system 111 connects (and / or shares data) with the wireless device 103. For example, in various embodiments, the vehicle 12 periodically transmits beacons dispersed throughout the vehicle 12 (e.g., throughout the vehicle body 19). In various embodiments, once the wireless device 103 is close enough to the vehicle 12, the wireless device 103 transmits a message that it is close to the vehicle 12, and the vehicle 12 and the wireless device 103 begin to communicate.

[0051] Also in various embodiments, the remote server 18 can initiate and / or participate in the connection or association between the telematics system 111 and the wireless device 103, such as by obtaining a unique identifier for the wireless device 103 and / or verifying that the owner or user of the wireless device 103 is the same as and / or associated with the owner or user of the vehicle 12.

[0052] In various embodiments, one or more short-range wireless connection (SRWC) protocols (e.g., Bluetooth / Bluetooth low energy or Wi-Fi) may be used for the short-range wireless network 101. In various embodiments, once the SRWC is established, the wireless device 103 may be bound and / or identified as a network participant of the telematics system 111, e.g., for current and future use. For example, in certain embodiments, when the wireless device 103 is subsequently within wireless range of the telematics system 111 after an initial connection or association, the telematics system 111 (and / or remote server 18) may confirm that the wireless device 103 is identified as a network participant that has been paired or established for communicating with and receiving services from the telematics system 111. Additionally, as described above, and as further described in greater detail below, in various embodiments, under appropriate conditions, the receiver sensitivity of the transceiver 105 is adjusted relative to the wireless application 107 for the short-range wireless network 101, including reducing interference of external signals to the wireless application 107, e.g., in conjunction with Figure 4 The process 400 is described.

[0053] In various embodiments, the telematics system 111 provides various services for the identified wireless devices 103. In various embodiments, such services may include one or more wireless applications 107, such as the following, among other possible services: (i) wireless phone projection (WPP); (ii) web browser; (iii) audio streaming; (iv) vehicle hotspot; (v) hands-free phone; (vi) phone book (e.g., looking up a user's call log and contacts); (vii) text / speech recognition (e.g., including audio playback of user messages) and (viii) music playback, among other possible features and services.

[0054] In various embodiments, the telematics system 111 provides connectivity to the identified wireless device 103, and services for the wireless device 103, such as those described above, and further adjusts the receiver sensitivity of the short-range wireless network 101 relative to the wireless application 107 under appropriate conditions, including reducing interference of external signals to the wireless application 107, such as in conjunction with Figure 4 The process 400 is described.

[0055] The vehicle sensors 72 are operably connected to the vehicle bus 106. In certain embodiments, the vehicle sensors 72 may include any number of short-range wireless sensors 73 for detecting and / or communicating with the wireless devices 103. Other examples of vehicle sensors 72 may include, but are not limited to, gyroscopes, accelerometers, magnetometers, emission detection and / or control sensors, etc. Examples of sensor interface modules 44 include powertrain control, climate control, and body control, to name a few.

[0056] The wireless carrier system 14 may be any number of cellular telephone systems, satellite-based wireless systems, and / or any other suitable wireless system, such as a system that transmits signals between the vehicle hardware 20 and the land network 16 (and / or in some embodiments, directly communicates with the vehicle 12 and / or a remote server 18). According to some examples, the wireless carrier system 14 may include and / or be coupled to one or more cellular towers 48, satellites 49, base stations, and / or mobile switching centers (MSCs) 50, as well as any other networking components required to connect the wireless carrier system 14 to the land network 16. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, a variety of cellular tower / base station / MSC arrangements are possible and may be used with the wireless carrier system 14.

[0057] Land network 16 may be a conventional land-based telecommunications network that is connected to one or more landline telephones and connects wireless carrier system 14 to remote server 18. For example, land network 16 may include a public switched telephone network (PSTN) and / or an Internet Protocol (IP) network, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. Of course, one or more portions of land network 16 may be implemented in the form of a standard wired network, a fiber optic or other optical network, a cable network, other wireless networks (e.g., a wireless local area network: WLAN), or a network providing broadband wireless access (BWA), or any combination thereof.

[0058] The remote server 18 is designed to provide a number of different system back-end functions to the vehicle hardware 20, and according to the example shown here, generally includes one or more switches 52, servers 54, databases 56, advisors 58, and various other telecommunications / computer equipment 60. These various call center components are suitably coupled to each other via a network connection or bus 62, such as that described above in connection with the vehicle hardware 20. The switch 52, which may be a private branch exchange (PBX), routes incoming signals so that voice transmissions are generally sent to an advisor 58 or automated response system, and data transmissions are passed to a modem or other telecommunications / computer equipment 60 for demodulation and further signal processing.

[0059] As previously mentioned, the modem or other telecommunications / computer device 60 may include an encoder and may be connected to various devices, such as the server 54 and the database 56. For example, the database 56 may be designed to store user profile records, user behavior patterns, or any other relevant user information. Although the illustrated example has been described as being used in conjunction with an attended remote server 18, it should be understood that the remote server 18 may be any central or remote facility, attended or unattended, mobile or fixed, with which it is desired to exchange voice and data.

[0060] refer to Figure 2 According to an exemplary embodiment (for example, according to the above combined Figure 1 ), a diagram of a telematics system 111 having a control system 112 for controlling a wireless network 101 and a wireless application 107 of a wireless device 103 via a host processor 110 is provided. In various embodiments, the control system 112 is combined with Figure 1 The communication system 10 is implemented, including its vehicle 12. Also in various embodiments, Figure 2 The wireless application 107 corresponds to Figure 1 Wireless applications 107, Figure 2 The wireless device 103 corresponds to Figure 1 A wireless device 103; Figure 2 The main processor 110 corresponds to Figure 1 The main processor 110, and so on.

[0061] like Figure 2 As shown, in various embodiments, the connected device 103 (eg, corresponding to Figure 1 The user wireless device 103) via the wireless chipset 204 (eg, corresponding to Figure 1 The transceiver 105 and antenna 206 are wirelessly coupled to the telematics system 111 and present radio frequency (RF) signals 104 between them. Figure 2 As shown, additional compliance frequency signals may also be provided to the telematics system 111 via the external environment 201 , such as by one or more other wireless systems external to the telematics system 111 and the vehicle 12 .

[0062] Also in various embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, the wireless chipset 204 includes and / or is coupled to a radio device 221 having a radio frequency (RF) stage 222 and a wireless chipset core processor 126 (eg, corresponding to Figure 1 processor 126).

[0063] In addition, in various embodiments, the wireless chipset 204 is coupled to the control system 112 via a communication interface 206 (e.g., a wireless network interface), including the main processor 110, the wireless device driver 210, and one or more wireless applications 107 (e.g., corresponding to Figure 1 Wireless applications 107).

[0064] like Figure 2 As shown, in various embodiments, the wireless application 107 is in an active session with the connected device 103, and the wireless application 107 is the target application for receiver sensitivity desensing. Also in various embodiments, the control system 112 reads the signal strength (e.g., RSSI) via one or more sensors of the RF signal 104, for example, via one or more data communications (e.g., APIs), and performs the following combination Figure 4 The steps of process 400 described further herein are based at least in part thereon, via one or more processors thereof, on determining whether desensing is appropriate. Additionally, in various embodiments, computer system 112 further determines (via its processor) a new sensitivity level and sends the new configuration to wireless chipset 204 (e.g., in one exemplary embodiment, via an API). Also in various embodiments, control system 112 includes a closed system between host processor 110 and wireless device 103, such as Figure 2 shown.

[0065] refer to Figure 3 , a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment is provided (eg, corresponding to Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a diagram of an exemplary implementation of a control system 112 (including a main processor 110 and its wireless device 103) in a vehicle 12 of FIG. 1. In various embodiments, Figure 3 The illustration depicts the confined space of the target application. Also in various embodiments, the main processor 110 is disposed in or near the front console 304 of the vehicle 12; and the electronic / wireless device 102 is disposed on the headrest 308 of the passenger seat 310, all of which are within the vehicle cabin 300 of the vehicle 12 (wherein in various embodiments, the vehicle cabin 300 is composed of Figure 1 1 and 12 are defined by and disposed within the body 19 of the vehicle 12 . However, in other embodiments, the placement of such components may vary.

[0066] Back to Figure 2 ,like Figure 2 As shown, in various embodiments, a wireless device 103 (e.g., a smart phone and / or other electronic / wireless device) includes a radio device 220 that utilizes a receiver 222 having different radio frequency (RD) stages 222 coupled to and affected by a receiver signal environment 201, and also includes an integrated circuit 224, such as a system on a chip (SoC) 224.

[0067] In addition, Figure 2 As shown, in various embodiments, the host processor 110 controls and supports the wireless application 107 and the wireless device driver 210 used in conjunction therewith.

[0068] In addition, Figure 2 As shown, in various embodiments, the host processor 110 controls the operation of the wireless application 107 of the wireless device 103 by adjusting the receiver sensitivity of the radio 220 under appropriate circumstances to mitigate or reduce potential interference from the receiver signal environment.

[0069] In various embodiments, when providing wireless applications 107, the host processor 110 effectively utilizes Figure 1 The present invention provides two different methods for a short-range wireless network (or communication interface) 101, namely: (i) a first data path 204 having a relatively high signal strength for the radio device 220 (e.g., when there is little or no interference from the receiver signal environment 201); and (ii) a second data path 206 having a relatively low signal sensitivity for the radio device 220 (e.g., when there is significant interference from the receiver signal environment 201).

[0070] In various embodiments, a radio frequency (RF) signal containing data received via antenna 206 enters 222 RF stages (e.g., including any of the following: RF front end, mixer / LO, IF, baseband, etc.) that are part of 220. Also in various embodiments, the signal strength from 104 is above 204 receiver sensitivity level, which is typically defined in dBm and some other unit expression. The received signal strength value information is passed to processor 110 via communication interface 7. In various embodiments, processor 110 determines what application 107 is talking to 103, and if application 107 is designated for desensing, then 112 determines whether desensing is appropriate. If so, 112 will send a new received signal strength configuration setting level to 204 via 206. Then 126 will set a new appropriate configuration level at 220 and / or 222 to reject as many signals 2 as possible from environment 201.

[0071] Figure 4 is a flow chart of a process 400 for controlling a wireless network and wireless applications according to an exemplary embodiment, which process may be combined with Figure 1 The communication system 10 and Figure 1-3 The control system 12 is implemented.

[0072] like Figure 4As shown, in various embodiments, process 400 begins at step 402. In some embodiments, process 400 begins when a wireless device 103 is detected near a vehicle 12, and / or when one or more users of the vehicle 12 approach or enter the vehicle 12, or turn on the vehicle 12 and / or its ignition (e.g., by turning a key, engaging a key fob or a start button, etc.). In some embodiments, the steps of process 400 are performed continuously during operation of the vehicle 12. In some other embodiments, process 400 may begin when a wireless device 103 is used in connection with the use or request of a wireless application 107, regardless of whether the vehicle 12 is used.

[0073] In various embodiments, a determination is made at 404 as to whether a wireless device is connected. Specifically, in some embodiments, Figure 1 and Figure 2 The processor 110 determines whether the wireless device 103 is connected to the wireless device 103 based on the sensor data from the one or more short-range wireless sensors 73. Figure 1 and Figure 2 In some embodiments, this occurs within a vehicle or other mobile device, such as a short-range wireless network 101 (e.g., a WLAN, WiFi network, or other wireless network in various embodiments). Figure 1 of vehicle 12. In certain other embodiments, this may occur separately and / or independently from any vehicle or other mobile platform.

[0074] In various embodiments, if it is determined at step 404 that the wireless device is not connected, then at step 408 the receiver RF sensitivity is set to its default setting. In various embodiments, Figure 1 The receiver RF sensitivity of the transceiver 105 is determined by Figure 1 The processor 110 is set to its default settings.

[0075] During step 416, default settings are maintained for the wireless radio 220 based on the signal strength from the wireless device 103, and the wireless application 107 is provided to the wireless device 103 via the short-range wireless network 101 using the default settings. In various embodiments, this is performed by instructions provided by the processor 110. Furthermore, in various embodiments, the default settings are maintained because if the sensitivity is adjusted with the sensitivity adjustment, the signal strength will be considered too low.

[0076] Also in various embodiments, after step 408, a timer is started at step 410. In various embodiments, during step 410, the timer is started by the processor 110 for a predetermined amount of time. In one embodiment, the predetermined amount of time is approximately equal to one hundred milliseconds (100 ms); however, in other embodiments, this may be different. In various embodiments, after the predetermined amount of time, the process returns to step 404 as the processor 110 again checks whether the wireless device 103 is connected.

[0077] In various embodiments, once it is determined in an iteration of step 404 that the wireless device is connected, an intended wireless application (e.g., corresponding to Figure 1 In some embodiments, it can also be determined whether the short-range wireless network (or module) is operating in access point (“AP”) mode and / or station (STA) mode. In various embodiments, these determinations are made by processor 110 with respect to short-range wireless network 101.

[0078] In various embodiments, if it is determined that the wireless application is not active, the process proceeds to step 408 above, where the RF receiver sensitivity is set equal to its default setting. In addition, in some embodiments, if the short-range wireless network is operating in AP mode, the process similarly proceeds to step 408 above.

[0079] Conversely, if it is determined that the wireless application is active, the process proceeds to step 412 as described below. In addition, in some embodiments, the process proceeds to step 412 based on the further condition that the wireless network is not operating in AP mode.

[0080] During step 412, signal strength 104 is measured at 220 from device 103. In various embodiments, the signal strength is measured by one or more short-range wireless sensors 73 relative to short-range wireless network 101 and / or determined by processor 110 based on sensor data therefrom. In various embodiments, the process then proceeds to step 414, as described below.

[0081] During step 414, it is determined whether the first sensitivity adjustment of the wireless system is appropriate. In various embodiments, processor 110 determines the signal strength between short-range wireless network 101 and wireless device 103 measured or determined in step 412. Figure 2 The first sensitivity adjustment of the radio device 220 is suitable to help reduce static and / or interference from external signals, such as external noise (e.g., congestion) from other short-range wireless networks and / or devices and / or external interference from wireless protocol jammers (e.g., denial of service attacks).

[0082] In some embodiments, during step 414, a first sensitivity adjustment is deemed appropriate when the signal strength (hereinafter “SS”) of step 412 is greater than the sum of: (i) a default sensitivity level (“dRS”) of the wireless device 103; x ”); (ii) a production control error (“E”); and (iii) a first sensitivity adjustment (“Y1”) of the wireless device 103, according to the following equation:

[0083] SS>dR x +E+Y1(Equation 1)

[0084] Specifically, in various embodiments, the first sensitivity adjustment "Y1" represents Figure 2 The sensitivity of the receiver of the radio 220 is adjusted downward to a first level or magnitude, which is generally expected to significantly reduce external noise and interference while still maintaining sufficient sensitivity for the desired performance of the wireless application 107 on the wireless device 103 using the short-range wireless network 101. In some embodiments, the first sensitivity adjustment "Y1" is equal to approximately ten decibels (10 dB); however, in other embodiments, this may be different.

[0085] In various embodiments, if it is determined in step 414 that the first sensitivity adjustment is not appropriate, the process proceeds to step 416 , as further described below.

[0086] Conversely, in various embodiments, if it is instead determined in step 414 that a first sensitivity adjustment is appropriate, the process instead proceeds to step 418 , as described directly below.

[0087] During step 418, in various embodiments, the default setting of the radio 220 of the wireless device 103 is adjusted by reducing the receiver sensitivity by the amount of the first sensitivity adjustment "Y1" in Equation 1. In various embodiments, the receiver sensitivity is reduced by approximately ten decibels (10 dB); however, in other embodiments, this may be different. In various embodiments, this is performed by instructions provided by the processor 110. Also in various embodiments, the default setting is adjusted by the first sensitivity adjustment "Y1" because the signal strength is deemed high enough that the wireless application 107 can continue to be provided to the user via the wireless device 103 and the short-range wireless network 101. In various embodiments, during step 416, the processor 110 provides instructions to the wireless application 107 to provide a relatively lower signal sensitivity (compared to the default level) for the wireless radio 220 through the wireless device 103.

[0088] In various embodiments, after step 418, a delay timer is started at step 420. In various embodiments, the function of the timer at step 420 is the same or similar to that of step 410 described above, and the process then proceeds similarly to step 404.

[0089] Returning to step 414, as described above, if it is determined in step 414 that the first sensitivity adjustment is not appropriate, the process proceeds to step 416. During step 416, it is determined whether a second sensitivity adjustment of the wireless system is appropriate. In various embodiments, processor 110 determines the signal strength between short-range wireless network 101 and wireless device 103 measured or determined in step 412. Figure 2 The second sensitivity adjustment of the radio device 220 is suitable to help reduce static and / or interference from external signals, such as external noise from other short-range wireless networks and / or devices (e.g., congestion) and / or external interference from wireless protocol jammers (e.g., denial of service attacks).

[0090] In various embodiments, during step 416, a second sensitivity adjustment is deemed appropriate when the signal strength (hereinafter “SS”) of step 412 is greater than the sum of: (i) a default sensitivity level (“dRS”) of the wireless device 103; and x ”); (ii) a production control error (“E”); and (iii) a second sensitivity adjustment (“Y2”) of the wireless device 103, according to the following equation:

[0091] SS>dR x +E+Y2(Equation 2)

[0092] Specifically, in various embodiments, the second sensitivity adjustment "Y2" represents Figure 2 The sensitivity of the receiver of the wireless radio 220 is adjusted downward to a second level or magnitude, which is generally expected to significantly reduce external noise and interference while still maintaining sufficient sensitivity for the desired performance of the wireless application 107 on the wireless device 103 using the short-range wireless network 101. In various embodiments, the second sensitivity adjustment "Y2" is less than the first sensitivity adjustment "Y1" described above. In some embodiments, the second sensitivity adjustment "Y2" is approximately equal to seven decibels (7dB); however, in other embodiments, this may be different.

[0093] In various embodiments, if it is determined in step 416 that the second sensitivity adjustment is not appropriate, the process proceeds to step 424 , as further described below.

[0094] In contrast, in various embodiments, if it is determined in step 416 that a second sensitivity adjustment is appropriate, the process proceeds instead to step 422 , as described directly below.

[0095] During step 422, in various embodiments, the default setting of the radio 220 of the wireless device 102 is adjusted by reducing the receiver sensitivity by the amount of the second sensitivity adjustment "Y2" in Equation 2. In various embodiments, the receiver sensitivity is reduced by approximately 7 decibels (7dB); however, in other embodiments, this may be different. In various embodiments, this is performed by instructions provided by the processor 110. Also in various embodiments, the default setting is adjusted by the second sensitivity adjustment "Y2" because the signal strength is deemed high enough that the wireless application 107 can continue to be provided to the user via the wireless device 103 and the short-range wireless network 101. In various embodiments, during step 416, the processor 110 provides instructions to the wireless application 107 to provide a relatively lower signal sensitivity (compared to the default level) for the wireless radio 220 through the wireless device 102.

[0096] In various embodiments, after step 422, a delay timer is started in step 420. In various embodiments, the function of the timer in step 420 is the same or similar to that of step 410 described above, and the process then proceeds similarly to step 404.

[0097] Returning to step 416, as described above, if it is determined in step 416 that the second sensitivity adjustment is not appropriate, the process proceeds to step 424. During step 424, it is determined whether a third sensitivity adjustment of the wireless system is appropriate. In various embodiments, processor 110 determines the signal strength between short-range wireless network 101 and wireless device 103 measured or determined in step 412. Figure 2 The third sensitivity adjustment of the radio device 220 is suitable to help reduce static and / or interference from external signals, such as external noise from other short-range wireless networks and / or devices (e.g., congestion) and / or external interference from wireless protocol jammers (e.g., denial of service attacks).

[0098] In various embodiments, during step 424, the third sensitivity adjustment is deemed appropriate when the signal strength (hereinafter “SS”) of step 412 is greater than the sum of: (i) the default sensitivity level (“dRS”) of the wireless device 102; x ”); (ii) a production control error (“E”); and (iii) a third sensitivity adjustment (“Y3”) of the wireless device 102, according to the following equation:

[0099] SS>dR x +E+Y3(Equation 3)

[0100] Specifically, in various embodiments, the third sensitivity adjustment "Y3" represents Figure 2 The sensitivity of the receiver of the wireless radio 220 is adjusted downward to a third level or amplitude, which is generally expected to significantly reduce external noise and interference while still maintaining sufficient sensitivity for the desired performance of the wireless application 107 on the wireless device 102 within the short-range wireless network 101. In various embodiments, the third sensitivity adjustment "Y3" is less than the first sensitivity adjustment "Y1" and the second sensitivity adjustment "Y2" described above. In one embodiment, the third sensitivity adjustment "Y3" is approximately equal to three decibels (3dB). In another embodiment, the third sensitivity adjustment "Y3" is approximately equal to four decibels (4dB). However, in other embodiments, this may be different.

[0101] In various embodiments, if it is determined in step 424 that the third sensitivity adjustment is not appropriate, the process proceeds to step 408 described above, where the receiver sensitivity is set to its default setting.

[0102] In contrast, in various embodiments, if it is determined in step 424 that a third sensitivity adjustment is appropriate, the process proceeds instead to step 426 , as described directly below.

[0103] During step 426, in various embodiments, the default setting of the radio 220 of the wireless device 102 is adjusted by reducing the receiver sensitivity by the amount of the third sensitivity adjustment "Y3" in Equation 3. In various embodiments, the receiver sensitivity is reduced by approximately 3 or 4 decibels (3dB or 4dB); however, in other embodiments, this may be different. In various embodiments, this is performed by instructions provided by the processor 110. In addition, in various embodiments, the default setting is adjusted by the third sensitivity adjustment "Y3" because the signal strength is considered high enough that the wireless application 107 can continue to be provided to the user via the wireless device 102 within the short-range wireless network 101. In various embodiments, during step 416, the processor 110 provides instructions to the wireless application 107 to provide a relatively lower signal sensitivity (compared to the default level) for the wireless radio 220 through the wireless device 102.

[0104] In various embodiments, after step 426, a delay timer is started at step 420. In various embodiments, the function of the timer at step 420 is the same or similar to that of step 410 described above, and the process then proceeds similarly to step 404.

[0105] Continuing with reference to steps 412-424, in some embodiments, the decision on whether to adjust the receiver sensitivity is also based on whether external noise and / or interference is detected and the degree to which it is detected. Specifically, in some embodiments, from Figure 1 and 2The magnitude or amount of external noise and / or interference is determined by the processor 110 based at least in part on the determination. For example, in some embodiments, the signal strength is determined in steps 412-424 (as described above), and the signal strength from the processor 110 is also determined. Figure 2 external to the control system 112 (or in some embodiments, Figure 1 The magnitude of detected noise and / or interference (external to the vehicle 12).

[0106] Also in some embodiments, instead of or in addition to the above-described signal strength comparison, the suitability of the sensitivity adjustment (and the adjustment itself) is determined based on the detected noise and / or interference (and / or its amplitude). In addition, in some embodiments, one or more adjustments are made assuming that both of the following conditions are met, namely: (i) the signal strength has a sufficient value; and (ii) external noise and / or interference of at least a predetermined amplitude is detected. In some other embodiments, adjustments can be made based on (i) signal strength alone (e.g., as described above) or based on (ii) a single detected noise and / or other interference alone (e.g., in some embodiments, adjustments can be made automatically when sufficient noise and / or other interference is detected). In other embodiments, in addition to other possible variations, the presence and / or amplitude of the detected noise and / or other interference can affect the values ​​of "E" and / or "Y" (e.g., "Y1", "Y2" and / or "Y3") in equations 1, 2, and / or 3 above.

[0107] In various embodiments, a determination is made at step 418 whether the process is to continue. For example, in certain embodiments, the process is determined to continue if the wireless device 103 is still on, and / or if the user and / or wireless device 103 is still in the vehicle 12, and / or if the vehicle 12 is still on, etc. In various embodiments, this determination is made by the processor 110.

[0108] If it is determined in step 418 that the process will continue, the process returns to step 404 in a new iteration. Conversely, if it is determined in step 418 that the process will not continue, the process terminates in step 420.

[0109] Figure 5 is a combination according to an exemplary embodiment Figure 1 The communication system 10 and the vehicle 12 and Figure 1-3 Control system 112 Figure 4 400 is a diagram of an embodiment of a process 400. Figure 5 As shown, in various embodiments, the control system 112 is implemented within the vehicle 12, such as similar to Figure 1 Implementation example. Figure 5As shown, in various embodiments, the control system 112 and the vehicle 12 have a surrounding environment 500 that includes a dense environment of external wireless signals 507. For example, in various embodiments, different vehicles 502, buildings 504, and towers 505 generate wireless signals 507, such as may include interference signals 506 and other wireless signals 508 (e.g., access point (AP) or hotspot signals), creating potential noise and interference in the dense surrounding environment 500. In various embodiments, selective adjustment of the signal strength of the control system 112 of the host vehicle 12 helps reduce the adverse effects of the external wireless signals 507 on the control system 112 inside the vehicle 12.

[0110] Therefore, methods and systems for controlling wireless networks and wireless devices are provided. In various embodiments, the sensitivity of the receiver of the wireless device is reduced in appropriate circumstances, such as when the signal strength of the wireless network relative to the wireless is sufficient to be able to handle downward adjustments. As a result, noise and / or other interference from external signals is reduced for the wireless network. In various embodiments, the methods and systems disclosed herein are implemented in conjunction with a vehicle (e.g., an automobile) or other mobile platform. The methods and systems may be particularly effective and are well suited for such vehicles and other mobile applications because such mobile applications must face dynamic environments in which external interference signals will continue to change as the vehicle or other mobile platform moves.

[0111] It should be understood that the systems and methods may differ from those depicted in the figures and described herein. For example, in various embodiments, Figure 1 The communication system, including the remote server, the vehicle, the communication network and / or its components, may be different from Figure 1 Similarly, it should be understood that Figure 2 and 3 The control system and / or its various components may be different from Figure 2 and 3 It should also be understood that the processes (and / or sub-processes) disclosed herein may differ from those described and / or Figure 4 The processes depicted herein, and / or their steps may be performed simultaneously and / or in different ways than those described herein and / or Figure 4 The order of execution depicted in FIG. 1 and other possible variations are also possible. It should be understood that, for example, Figure 5 The implementation of may also vary in different embodiments.

[0112] Although at least one exemplary embodiment has been presented in the foregoing detailed description, it should be understood that there are a large number of variations. It should also be understood that one or more exemplary embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the present disclosure in any way. On the contrary, the foregoing detailed description will provide a convenient roadmap for implementing one or more examples for those skilled in the art. It should be understood that various changes may be made to the functions and arrangements of the elements without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as set forth in the attached claims and their legal equivalents.

Claims

1. A method for controlling a wireless application provided to a wireless device via a wireless network, the method comprising: controlling one or more radio frequency (RF) parameters of wireless devices in a wireless network triggered by the wireless application; generating sensor data for the wireless devices in the wireless network via one or more sensors; determining, via a processor, based on the sensor data, whether adjustments are appropriate for the wireless device in the wireless network to mitigate interference from wireless signals external to the wireless network, wherein the determination as to whether adjustments are appropriate is based at least in part on whether the wireless application is being used by the wireless device in the wireless network; and adjusting the sensitivity of a receiver of the wireless device via instructions provided by the processor based on a determination that adjustment is appropriate; The step of determining whether an adjustment is appropriate includes determining, via the processor, whether an adjustment is appropriate based at least in part on when a signal strength of the wireless network is greater than a sum of a default sensitivity level of the wireless device and a sensitivity adjustment amount of the wireless device; and The step of generating the sensor data includes measuring the signal strength of the wireless network relative to the wireless device; The step of adjusting the sensitivity of the receiver includes reducing the sensitivity of the receiver by the sensitivity adjustment amount based at least in part on determining that the signal strength is greater than the sum of the default sensitivity level of the wireless device and the sensitivity adjustment amount of the wireless device via instructions provided by the processor.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein: The network through which the wireless network passes includes a wireless local area network (WLAN), and the wireless device includes a WLAN device using the WLAN.

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein: The WLAN network providing the wireless application is disposed in a vehicle.

4. The method according to claim 3, wherein: The determination as to whether an adjustment is appropriate is also based at least in part on one or more external factors external to the vehicle.

5. The method according to claim 1, wherein: The step of determining whether adjustment is appropriate includes determining, via the processor, whether adjustment is appropriate based at least in part on the signal strength.

6. The method according to claim 5, wherein: The step of determining whether adjustment is appropriate includes determining, via the processor, whether adjustment is appropriate based on whether the signal strength exceeds a predetermined threshold; and The step of adjusting the sensitivity of the receiver includes reducing the sensitivity of the receiver via instructions provided by the processor when it is determined that the signal strength exceeds the predetermined threshold.

7. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: determining, via the processor, whether the wireless network is operating via an access point (AP) mode; Wherein the sensitivity of the receiver is adjusted only under another condition that the wireless network is not operated via AP mode.

8. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: The step of generating the sensor data includes detecting external wireless signals from outside the wireless network; Wherein the step of determining whether adjustment is appropriate includes determining, via the processor, whether adjustment is appropriate based at least in part on the detected external wireless signal.

9. A vehicle comprising: The body, which defines the interior compartment of the vehicle; A wireless network, used to provide wireless applications to wireless devices in the vehicle compartment; and Control system, including: one or more sensors configured to generate sensor data for the wireless devices in the wireless network; and a processor coupled to the one or more sensors and configured to at least facilitate: controlling one or more radio frequency (RF) parameters of the wireless device in the wireless network triggered by the wireless application; determining, based on the sensor data, whether adjustments are appropriate for the wireless device in the wireless network to mitigate interference from wireless signals external to the wireless network, wherein the determination as to whether adjustments are appropriate is based at least in part on whether the wireless application is being used by the wireless device in the wireless network; and adjusting the sensitivity of a receiver of the wireless device based on a determination that adjustment is appropriate; The step of determining whether an adjustment is appropriate includes determining, via the processor, whether an adjustment is appropriate based at least in part on when a signal strength of the wireless network is greater than a sum of a default sensitivity level of the wireless device and a sensitivity adjustment amount of the wireless device; and The step of generating the sensor data includes measuring the signal strength of the wireless network relative to the wireless device; The step of adjusting the sensitivity of the receiver includes reducing the sensitivity of the receiver by the sensitivity adjustment amount based at least in part on determining that the signal strength is greater than the sum of the default sensitivity level of the wireless device and the sensitivity adjustment amount of the wireless device via instructions provided by the processor.

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