Apparatus and method for controlling a vehicle

Abstract

Apparatuses and methods for controlling a vehicle can include at least two buttons disposed on a steering wheel, a processor electrically connected to the at least two buttons, and a memory storing instructions executed by the processor, wherein the processor can map and set vehicle functions to the at least two buttons, detect a button manipulated among the at least two buttons, and execute a vehicle function mapped to the manipulated button based on the vehicle function mapped to the manipulated button and a current vehicle state.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2021-0043374, filed on April 2, 2021, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This invention relates to apparatus and methods for controlling vehicles. Background Technology

[0004] In vehicles, control buttons for frequently used convenience devices (such as audio, air conditioning, and hands-free devices) are mounted on the steering wheel to prevent the driver from neglecting to look ahead while driving due to button operation. These control buttons are mapped to specific functions, which may result in a decrease in usage frequency depending on the user.

[0005] The information disclosed in the background section of this invention is intended only to enhance the understanding of the general background of this invention and should not be construed as an endorsement of prior art known to those skilled in the art or any form of suggestion thereof. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Various aspects of the present invention are intended to provide apparatus and methods for controlling a vehicle, which are capable of mapping desired vehicle functions to a plurality of buttons located on a steering wheel as needed by a user.

[0007] The technical problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to those described above, and any other technical problems not mentioned herein will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description of the various exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0008] According to various aspects of the present invention, an apparatus for controlling a vehicle includes: at least two buttons disposed on a steering wheel; a processor electrically connected to the at least two buttons; and a memory storing instructions executed by the processor, wherein the processor may map and set vehicle functions to the at least two buttons, detect the button being manipulated among the at least two buttons, and execute the vehicle function mapped to the manipulated button based on the vehicle function mapped to the manipulated button and the current vehicle state.

[0009] The processor can map vehicle-specific driving mode functions one-to-one to at least two buttons.

[0010] When the processor determines that the vehicle function mapped to the operation button is a driving mode function, the processor can compare the driving mode corresponding to the driving mode function with the vehicle's current driving mode. When the processor determines that the driving mode corresponding to the driving mode function is inconsistent with the current driving mode, it changes the vehicle's driving mode to the driving mode corresponding to the driving mode function.

[0011] When the processor determines that the driving mode corresponding to the driving mode function matches the current driving mode, the processor can change the vehicle's driving mode to the default driving mode or the previous driving mode that corresponds to the system logic.

[0012] When the processor determines that the driving mode corresponding to the driving mode function matches the current driving mode, the processor can change the vehicle's driving mode to the next driving mode in a predetermined order.

[0013] The processor can set the lap timer start function to one of the two buttons, and automatically set the lap timer stop and initialization functions to the remaining buttons of the two buttons.

[0014] When the processor detects an operation on a button that enables the start function of the loop timer when the loop timer is not started, the processor can start the loop timer. When the processor detects an operation on a corresponding button that enables the stop and initialization functions of the loop timer, the processor can ignore the input of the corresponding button.

[0015] When the processor detects an operation of a button that enables the start function of the loop timer while the loop timer is running, it can read and record the timer value from the loop timer. When the processor detects an operation of a button that enables the stop and initialization functions of the loop timer, it can stop the loop timer.

[0016] When the processor detects an operation of a button that enables the start function of the loop timer while the loop timer is stopped, the processor can restart the loop timer. When the processor detects an operation of a button that enables the stop and initialization functions of the loop timer, the processor can initialize the loop timer.

[0017] The processor can output information to the display device about changes in vehicle status corresponding to the execution of vehicle functions mapped to operation buttons.

[0018] According to various aspects of the present invention, a method for controlling a vehicle includes: mapping and setting vehicle functions to at least two buttons disposed on a steering wheel; detecting a button that is manipulated among the at least two buttons; identifying a vehicle function mapped to the manipulated button; and executing the vehicle function mapped to the manipulated button based on the identified vehicle function and the current vehicle state.

[0019] Vehicle function settings may include mapping driving mode functions with vehicle characteristics to at least two buttons on a one-to-one basis.

[0020] The execution of vehicle functions may include, when the processor determines that the vehicle function mapped to the operation button is a driving mode function, comparing the driving mode corresponding to the driving mode function with the vehicle's current driving mode, and when the driving mode corresponding to the driving mode function is inconsistent with the current driving mode, changing the vehicle's driving mode to the driving mode corresponding to the driving mode function.

[0021] The execution of vehicle functions may include changing the vehicle's driving mode to the default driving mode or the previous driving mode that corresponds to the system logic when the processor determines that the driving mode corresponding to the driving mode function matches the current driving mode.

[0022] The execution of vehicle functions may include changing the vehicle's driving mode to the next driving mode in a predetermined order when the processor determines that the driving mode corresponding to the driving mode function matches the current driving mode.

[0023] Vehicle function settings may include assigning the lap timer start function to one of at least two buttons, and automatically assigning the lap timer stop and initialization functions to the remaining buttons of at least two buttons.

[0024] The vehicle function settings may also include outputting a pop-up window to the display device, indicating that when the lap timer start function is set to one of the two buttons, the lap timer stop and initialization functions are automatically set to the remaining buttons.

[0025] The execution of vehicle functions may include starting the lap timer when an operation of a button that has the lap timer start function set is detected when the lap timer is not started, and ignoring the input of the corresponding button when an operation of the corresponding button that has the lap timer stop and initialization function set is detected.

[0026] The execution of vehicle functions may include reading and recording the timer value from the lap timer when an operation of a button that sets the lap timer start function is detected while the lap timer is in the start state, and stopping the lap timer when an operation of a button that sets the lap timer stop and initialization function is detected.

[0027] The execution of vehicle functions may include: restarting the lap timer when an operation of a button that has been set to start the lap timer is detected when the lap timer is stopped; and initializing the lap timer when an operation of a button that has been set to stop and initialize the lap timer is detected.

[0028] The methods and apparatus of the present invention have other features and advantages, which will become apparent or be set forth in more detail from the accompanying drawings and the following detailed description, which together serve to explain certain principles of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0029] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating a device for controlling a vehicle according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 2 and Figure 3 This is an exemplary view illustrating a button setting process according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 4 and Figure 5 This is an exemplary view illustrating a button setting process according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating a button setting method according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating a vehicle control method according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating a vehicle control method according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention; and

[0035] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating a vehicle control method according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0036] It should be understood that the accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, and present slightly simplified illustrations of various features that illustrate the basic principles of the invention. Specific design features of the invention as included herein include, for example, specific dimensions, orientations, positions, and shapes, and will be determined in part by the specific intended application and environment of use.

[0037] In the accompanying drawings, and in the various figures of the drawings, reference numerals refer to the same or equivalent parts of the invention. Detailed Implementation

[0038] Reference will now be made in detail to various embodiments of the invention, examples of which are shown in the accompanying drawings and described below. While the invention will be described in conjunction with exemplary embodiments thereof, it should be understood that this description is not intended to limit the invention to those exemplary embodiments. On the other hand, the invention is intended to cover not only the exemplary embodiments thereof, but also various alternatives, modifications, equivalents, and other embodiments that may be included within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

[0039] In the following, various exemplary embodiments of the invention will be described in detail with reference to the exemplary accompanying drawings. When adding reference numerals to components in each drawing, it should be noted that identical or equivalent components are represented by the same numerals even if shown in other drawings. Furthermore, in describing exemplary embodiments of the invention, detailed descriptions of well-known features or functions will be omitted to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the essential points of the invention.

[0040] In describing components of exemplary embodiments of the present invention, terms such as first, second, "A", "B", (a), (b), etc., may be used. These terms are intended only to distinguish one component from another, and they do not limit the nature, order, or sequence of the constituent components. Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical or scientific terms) have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the various exemplary embodiments of the present invention pertain. These terms, as defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having the same meaning as in the context of the relevant field and should not be interpreted as having an ideal or overly formal meaning unless expressly defined as having such a meaning in this application.

[0041] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating a device for controlling a vehicle according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0042] The device 100 for controlling the vehicle may include at least two buttons 110, a user interface device (HID) 120, a memory 130, a network interface device 140, and a processor 150, etc.

[0043] At least two or more buttons 110 (111 and 112) can be set (installed) on the steering wheel 10. For example... Figure 1 As shown, at least two buttons 110, namely the first button 111 and the second button 112, can be mounted on the steering wheel 10 at symmetrical positions. The at least two buttons 110 can be arranged in positions that can be operated by the thumb or the like when a user (e.g., a driver) holds the steering wheel 10.

[0044] User interface device 120 can receive data from a user or output user-readable information (data). User interface device 120 may include input devices that generate data based on user actions and output devices that output information based on operations of processor 150. Input devices may include keyboards, keypads, buttons, touchpads, and / or touchscreens. Furthermore, display devices, audio output devices (e.g., speakers), and / or haptic devices (e.g., vibrators) may be used as output devices. Display devices may include head-up displays (HUDs), audio-visual navigation (AVN), dashboards, and / or infotainment system displays.

[0045] The memory 130 can store function mapping information for each button, vehicle control information for each function, system logic, and / or setting information. The function mapping information for each button can define the vehicle function mapped to each button on the steering wheel 10. The vehicle control information for each function can define the control signals sent to at least one electronic control unit (ECU) that matches (corresponds to) each vehicle function. The function mapping information for each button and the vehicle control information for each function can be provided in tabular form. The memory 130 can store input data and / or output data corresponding to the operation of the processor 150.

[0046] Memory 130 may be a non-transitory storage medium that stores instructions executed by processor 150. Memory 130 may be implemented using at least one of the following storage media: flash memory, hard disk, solid-state drive (SSD), secure digital card (SD card), random access memory (RAM), static random access memory (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), erasable programmable ROM (EPROM), registers, network memory, etc. Memory 130 may be implemented on a separate chip or may be implemented on a single chip together with processor 150.

[0047] The network interface device 140 can connect the vehicle control device 100 to a network and support communication between devices connected to the corresponding network, such as ECUs (e.g., engine control devices, shift control devices, steering control devices, etc.), vehicle terminals (e.g., navigation devices, etc.), and mobile terminals (e.g., smartphones, computers, laptops, tablets, etc.). In this case, the network can be implemented using vehicle networks and / or wireless networks. Vehicle networks include, for example, Controller Area Network (CAN), System Transmission to Media (MOST) networks, Local Interconnect Network (LIN), Ethernet, Flexray, etc., while wireless networks include, for example, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Near Field Communication (NFC), Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), and mobile communication.

[0048] The processor 150 can control the overall operation of the device 100 used to control the vehicle. The processor 150 can be implemented using at least one of the following processing devices: application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), digital signal processor (DSP), programmable logic device (PLD), field-programmable gate array (FPGA), central processing unit (CPU), microcontroller, microprocessor, etc.

[0049] The processor 150 can identify one of at least two buttons 110 (i.e., the first button 111 and the second button 112) as the target button for setting the user's operation. The processor 150 can identify the target button and enter a button setting mode. For example, when a long press input is detected on the first button 111, the processor 150 can enter the first button setting mode, and when a long press input is detected on the second button 112, the processor 150 can enter the second button setting mode.

[0050] When entering button setup mode, processor 150 can output a button setup screen to the display device of user interface device 120. Processor 150 can select one of multiple vehicle functions displayed on the button setup screen based on user input. The multiple vehicle functions may include driving mode functions and / or infotainment functions. Driving mode functions may include a first driving mode function, a second driving mode function, a third driving mode function, a fourth driving mode function, a first custom mode function, a second custom mode function, etc.

[0051] The first driving mode function allows selection of one of several preset first driving modes corresponding to driver preferences and road conditions, such as Normal mode, Sport mode, and Eco mode, as the vehicle's driving mode. In this case, Normal mode controls the suspension, steering, and engine for comfortable driving. Sport mode controls steering force, engine, and transmission operation for sporty driving. Eco mode controls engine and transmission operation to improve fuel efficiency. The second driving mode function allows selection of a second driving mode (e.g., N mode) as the vehicle's driving mode, in which the entire vehicle system is controlled for high-performance driving. The third driving mode function allows selection of either the second driving mode or a first custom mode as the driving mode. The fourth driving mode function allows selection of either the second driving mode or a second custom mode as the driving mode. The first custom mode function and the second custom mode function allow selection of either the first custom mode or the second custom mode as the driving mode, respectively. The first and second custom modes allow users to individually adjust and set the intensity of engine, transmission, steering, suspension, rev-matching, electronic limited-slip differential (e-LSD), electronic stability control (ESC), exhaust sound, and / or dual-clutch transmission (DCT) functions according to their needs. Infotainment functions may include features such as starting, stopping, and initializing the lap timer, and navigation control.

[0052] The processor 150 can map selected vehicle functions one-to-one to a target button, either the first button 111 or the second button 112. In this case, the processor 150 can map the same or different vehicle functions to the first button 111 and the second button 112. The processor 150 can store the mapping results in the memory 130 as function mapping information for each button.

[0053] When a user operates the first button 111 or the second button 112 while the vehicle functions are respectively mapped (set) to the first button 111 and the second button 112, the processor 150 can detect the operation signal (or event) generated by the button operation. The processor 150 can identify the vehicle function mapped to the detected button (operation button) based on the function mapping information of each button stored in the memory 130, and execute the identified vehicle function. For example, when the first custom mode function is set (assigned or mapped) to the first button 111 and an operation on the first button 111 is detected, the processor 150 can switch (change) the vehicle's driving mode to the first custom mode.

[0054] When executing vehicle functions, processor 150 can control the operation of the vehicle functions based on the current vehicle state. When executing driving mode functions, processor 150 can determine the switching (change) of driving mode based on the vehicle's current driving mode. As an example, when executing the first custom mode function and the vehicle's current driving mode is not the first custom mode, processor 150 can switch (change) the vehicle's driving mode to the first custom mode. Processor 150 can control the engine, transmission, suspension, steering, etc., based on vehicle characteristics matching the first custom mode and the current vehicle state. In other words, processor 150 can transmit control signals to each electronic control unit (ECU), namely engine control unit, shift control unit, suspension control unit, steering control unit, etc., to control the engine, transmission, suspension, steering, etc.

[0055] When the driving mode function is executed and the vehicle's current driving mode is the first custom mode, the processor 150 can change the vehicle's driving mode to the default driving mode or the previous driving mode corresponding to the system logic stored in the memory 130.

[0056] As various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, when the "Custom 1" mode function is assigned (mapped) to the first button 111 and the "N-Custom 2" mode function is assigned (mapped) to the second button 112, the processor 150 can determine whether the current driving mode of the vehicle is N mode when the driver presses the second button 112. If the current driving mode is not N mode, the processor 150 can switch the driving mode to N mode. Subsequently, when the driver presses the second button 112 again, the processor 150 can switch (change) the driving mode of the vehicle from N mode to "Custom 2" mode. When driving in "Custom 2" mode, when an operation on the first button 111 is detected, the processor 150 can switch the driving mode of the vehicle from "Custom 2" mode to "Custom 1" mode.

[0057] The processor 150 can respond to the operation of the first button 111 or the second button 112 by outputting notification information (feedback information) to the display device in the form of text, images, pop-up windows, etc., to notify the vehicle function of activation.

[0058] When the loop timer function is mapped (set) to the first button 111 and the second button 112, and the loop timer start function is set to the first button 111 according to user input, the processor 150 can automatically set the loop timer stop / initialize function to the second button 112. Furthermore, when the loop timer stop / initialize function is set to the first button 111, the processor 150 can automatically set the loop timer start function to the second button 112. In this case, the processor 150 can output a pop-up window to the display device to notify that the function of the remaining button 112 or 111 has been automatically set to the function setting corresponding to one of the first button 111 and the second button 112.

[0059] When at least one of the first button 111 and the second button 112 is operated and it is recognized that the loop timer function is mapped to the corresponding operation button, and the processor 150 displays a screen other than the loop timer screen (loop timer execution screen) on the display device, the mapped screen displayed on the display device can be switched to the loop timer screen. In this case, the processor 150 may only perform the screen switching operation and may not perform any additional operations.

[0060] Figure 2 and Figure 3 This is an exemplary view illustrating a button setting process according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention. In exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the process of mapping driving mode functions to a first button 111 and a second button 112 will be described.

[0061] refer to Figure 2 When a user presses and holds the first button 111, the processor 150 can detect (recognize) the long-press input of the first button 111. When the processor 150 detects the long-press input of the first button 111, it enters the button setting mode and can output the first button setting screen 200 to a display device (e.g., HUD and / or instrument panel, etc.). On the first button setting screen 200, a vehicle function list 210 that can be mapped to the various buttons and a button setting guide 220 can be displayed.

[0062] Processor 150 can respond to user input received from first button 111, second button 112, or user interface device 120 to select a vehicle function to be mapped (assigned) to first button 111 on first button setting screen 200. For example, processor 150 can select one of the following functions based on user input: "N", "Custom 1", "Custom 2", "N-Custom 1", "N-Custom 2", "Driving Mode", "Start Lap Timer", and "Stop and Reset Lap Timer".

[0063] Subsequently, the processor 150 can map the first button 111 to the selected function and store the mapping result in the memory 130. For example, when the processor 150 detects a long press of the first button 111 again, it will recognize the current state as a setting completion command, map and set the selected function to the first button 111, and store the setting information.

[0064] refer to Figure 3 When the user presses and holds the second button 112, the processor 150 can recognize (detect) the input of the second button 112. When the processor 150 recognizes the input (operation) of the second button 112, it enters the button setting mode and outputs the second button setting screen 300 to a display device (e.g., HUD and / or instrument panel, etc.). On the second button setting screen 300, a list 310 and a button setting guide 320 can be displayed, where the list 310 lists multiple vehicle functions that can be mapped to each button.

[0065] The processor 150 can select any of the multiple vehicle functions assigned (mapped) to the second button 112 on the second button setting screen 300 based on user input. For example, the processor 150 can select one of the functions corresponding to the user input: "N", "Custom 1", "Custom 2", "N-Custom 1", "N-Custom 2", "Driving Mode", "Start Lap Timer", and "Stop and Reset Lap Timer".

[0066] Subsequently, the processor 150 can map the second button 112 and the selected function one-to-one, and store the mapping result in the memory 130.

[0067] Figure 4 and Figure 5 This is an exemplary view illustrating a button setting process according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention. In exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the process of mapping a loop timer function to a first button 111 and a second button 112 will be described.

[0068] refer to Figure 4 When a long press of the first button 111 is detected, the processor 150 can enter the button setting mode and output the first button setting screen 400 to the display device. The processor 150 can respond to user input by selecting (confirming) the loop timer stop / initialize (stop and reset loop timer) function as a function mapped to the first button 111.

[0069] Subsequently, the processor 150 can map and set the loop timer stop / initialization function to the first button 111. Furthermore, when the loop timer stop / initialization function is set to the first button 111, the processor 150 can automatically set the loop timer start (start loop timer) function as the mapped function of the second button 112. When setting the function of the first button 111, the processor 150 can output a pop-up window 410 to the display device, which guides the automatic setting of the function of the second button 112.

[0070] When the "Yes" button is selected from the "Yes" and "No" buttons included in the pop-up window 410, the processor 150 can map and set the loop timer stop / initialization function and the loop timer start function one-to-one to the first button 111 and the second button 112, and can store the function mapping information (function setting information) in the memory 130. When the "No" button of the pop-up window 410 is selected, the processor 150 can delete the new function mapping information of the first button 111 and the second button 112, and retain the previous function mapping information. In addition, when the loop timer start function is set to the first button 111, the processor 150 can automatically set the loop timer stop / initialization function to the second button 112.

[0071] refer to Figure 5 When the user presses and holds the second button 112, the processor 150 can enter the button setting mode and output the second button setting screen 500 to the display device. When the loop timer start function is selected on the second button setting screen 500, the processor 150 can map (set) the loop timer start function to the second button 112.

[0072] When the second button 112 and the loop timer start function are mapped one-to-one, the processor 150 can output a pop-up window 510 to the display device, which guides the loop timer stop / initialization function to be automatically set to the first button 111.

[0073] When the "Yes" button in pop-up window 510 is selected, processor 150 can map and set the loop timer stop / initialization function and the loop timer start function to the first button 111 and the second button 112 respectively, and can store the function mapping information in memory 130. When the "No" button in pop-up window 510 is selected, processor 150 may not execute the mapping function of the first button 111 and the second button 112, and can retain the previous function mapping information. In addition, when the loop timer stop / initialization function is mapped and set to the second button 112, processor 150 can automatically map and set the loop timer start function to the first button 111.

[0074] In the above embodiments, the process of matching and setting the loop timer start function and loop timer stop / initialization function one-to-one with the first button 111 and the second button 112 has been described, but it is not limited thereto. For example, the loop timer start function and loop timer stop / initialization function can be matched and set with the first button 111 and the second button 112. In this case, whenever the operation of the first button 111 or the second button 112 is detected, the processor 150 can alternately execute the loop timer start and loop timer stop / initialization.

[0075] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating a button setting method according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0076] In S110, the processor 150 can enter a button setting mode in response to user input. When one of the at least two buttons 110 located on the steering wheel 10 is pressed and held by the user, the processor 150 can detect it and identify the corresponding button as the setting target button. Furthermore, the processor 150 can enter the button setting mode to change and set the vehicle function mapped (matched) to the setting target button. When entering the button setting mode, the processor 150 can display a button setting screen for the setting target button (target button) on a display device such as a HUD, instrument panel, or infotainment system display.

[0077] In S120, processor 150 can select a vehicle function from multiple vehicle functions that can be mapped to a setting target button in the button setting mode. Processor 150 can display a list of vehicle functions that can be mapped to a setting target button on the button setting screen. Processor 150 can select a vehicle function from multiple vehicle functions in response to user input.

[0078] In S130, processor 150 can map target buttons and selected vehicle functions. Processor 150 can assign the same or different functions to multiple buttons. For example, processor 150 can assign a first driving mode function to first button 111 and second button 112, or assign a first custom mode function and a first driving mode function to first button 111 and second button 112 respectively. Furthermore, when assigning a specific function to one of multiple buttons, processor 150 can automatically assign functions mapped to the remaining buttons. For example, when assigning the lap timer start function to first button 111, processor 150 can assign the lap timer stop / initialize function to second button 112.

[0079] In S140, when the function mapping of the target button is completed, the processor 150 can store the mapping result in the memory 130. The processor 150 can update the function mapping information of each button stored in the memory 130 based on the mapping result.

[0080] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating a vehicle control method according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention. In various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the case in which driving mode functions are mapped to at least two or more buttons 110 provided on the steering wheel 10 is used as an example.

[0081] When the vehicle starts moving, in S210, the processor 150 can recognize that the vehicle is moving.

[0082] In S220, the processor 150 can detect the operation of one of the at least two buttons 110 located on the steering wheel 10. The processor 150 can identify the operated button (operation button) among the at least two buttons 110.

[0083] In S230, the processor 150 can compare the driving mode function mapped to the detected operation button with the vehicle's current driving mode function. In other words, the processor 150 can determine whether the driving mode function mapped to the operation button is the same as the currently active driving mode function in the vehicle.

[0084] In S240, processor 150 can determine whether two driving mode functions match each other based on the comparison results.

[0085] When two driving mode functions do not match each other, in S250, the processor 150 can switch the driving mode corresponding to the driving mode function mapped to the detected operation button.

[0086] Meanwhile, when the two driving mode functions are matched, in S260, the processor 150 can stop the driving mode function from running and switch the driving mode based on system logic.

[0087] For example, when the N mode function is set to the first button 111, the processor 150 can determine whether the vehicle's current driving mode is N mode upon receiving the operation signal from the first button 111. If the vehicle's current driving mode is not N mode, the processor 150 can switch the vehicle's driving mode to N mode. Conversely, if the vehicle's current driving mode is N mode, the processor 150 can deactivate N mode and switch to the driving mode corresponding to the system logic. In other words, the processor 150 can switch the vehicle's driving mode from N mode to the default driving mode or the previous driving mode.

[0088] As various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, when the first custom mode function is set to the second button 112 and operation of the second button 112 is detected, the processor 150 can identify the vehicle function mapped to the second button 112. The processor 150 can determine whether the identified vehicle function, i.e., the first custom mode function, is being executed. In other words, the processor 150 can determine whether the current driving mode of the vehicle is the first custom mode. When the current driving mode of the vehicle is not the first custom mode (i.e., when the first custom mode function is not executed), the processor 150 can change the driving mode of the vehicle to the first custom mode. Simultaneously, when the current driving mode of the vehicle is the first custom mode, the processor 150 can switch the first custom mode to the driving mode corresponding to the system logic. In this case, the driving mode corresponding to the system logic can be the default driving mode or the driving mode before using the first custom mode.

[0089] As another example, after setting the first button 111 to the "N-Custom 1" mode function, when the operation of the first button 111 is detected, the processor 150 can determine whether the vehicle's current driving mode is N mode or Custom 1 mode. When the vehicle's current driving mode is N mode, the processor 150 can change the driving mode from N mode to Custom 1 mode. Furthermore, when the vehicle's current driving mode is Custom 1 mode, the processor 150 can change (switch) the driving mode from Custom 1 mode back to N mode. Additionally, when the vehicle's current driving mode is neither N mode nor Custom 1 mode, the processor 150 can change the driving mode to N mode.

[0090] As another example, when the second button 112 is set to the "driving mode" function and an input is generated to the second button 112, the processor 150 can determine whether the vehicle's current driving mode is one of normal mode, sport mode, and eco mode. When the vehicle's current driving mode is not any of the normal mode, sport mode, and eco mode, the processor 150 can change the driving mode to the driving mode corresponding to the system logic. Furthermore, when the vehicle's current driving mode is one of the normal mode, sport mode, and eco mode, the processor 150 can change to the next mode in a specified order. In other words, when the current driving mode is normal mode, the processor 150 can change to sport mode. When the current driving mode is sport mode, the processor 150 can change to eco mode. When the current driving mode is eco mode, the processor 150 can change to normal mode.

[0091] Figure 8This is a flowchart illustrating a vehicle control method according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention. In various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the case where the lap timer start function and the lap timer stop / initialization function are mapped to the first button 111 and the second button 112 is used as an example.

[0092] In S310, processor 150 can execute a loop timer function in response to user input. Processor 150 can receive input data corresponding to user operation from user interface device 120. When the loop timer function is executed, processor 150 can display a loop timer execution screen on a display device.

[0093] In S320, processor 150 can detect the loop timer start event. Processor 150 can recognize the loop timer start event generated by the operation of the first button 111.

[0094] When a loop timer start event is detected, processor 150 in S330 can identify the loop timer status. The loop timer status can be divided into loop timer non-start status, loop timer start status, and loop timer stop status.

[0095] In S340, processor 150 can determine whether the loop timer state is a state where the loop timer is not started (non-started state).

[0096] When the loop timer is not started, the processor 150 in S350 can start the loop timer.

[0097] When it is determined in S340 that the loop timer state is not the state where the loop timer is not started, the processor 150 can determine in S360 whether the loop timer is stopped (stopped state).

[0098] When the cycle timer stops, the processor 150 can resume the operation of the cycle timer in S370.

[0099] When the loop timer is determined to be not in a stopped state, the processor 150 can record the current value of the loop timer in S380. When the loop timer is running, the processor 150 can read the current timer value from the loop timer and store the current timer value in the memory 130.

[0100] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating a vehicle control method according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention. In these various exemplary embodiments, the case where the lap timer start function and the lap timer stop / initialization function are mapped to a first button 111 and a second button 112 will be described as an example.

[0101] In S410, processor 150 can execute a loop timer function based on user input. Processor 150 can receive input data from user interface device 120 according to user operation. When executing the loop timer function, processor 150 can display a loop timer execution screen on a display device.

[0102] In S420, processor 150 can detect loop timer stop / initialization events. Processor 150 can recognize loop timer stop / initialization events generated by operation of the second button 112.

[0103] When a loop timer stop / initialization event is detected, the processor 150 can identify the loop timer status in S430.

[0104] In S440, processor 150 can determine whether the loop timer status is a loop timer inactive state. Processor 150 can determine whether the loop timer has not yet started running.

[0105] When the loop timer is in a non-started state, in S450, processor 150 can ignore the loop timer stop / initialization event. Processor 150 can keep the loop timer in a non-started state.

[0106] When the loop timer state in S440 is not the loop timer inactive state, the processor 150 can determine in S460 whether the loop timer has stopped.

[0107] When the cycle timer stops, the processor 150 can initialize the cycle timer in S470. The processor 150 can initialize the value of the cycle timer to "00:00:00".

[0108] When the determination loop timer is not stopped, the processor 150 can stop the loop timer in S480. When the determination loop timer is running, the processor 150 can stop the loop timer.

[0109] According to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, vehicle functions that are frequently used by the user can be mapped to multiple buttons provided on the steering wheel, thus providing convenience to the user.

[0110] Furthermore, according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the vehicle functions desired by the user can be quickly accessed simply by manipulating buttons mounted on the steering wheel.

[0111] For ease of interpretation and precise definition in the appended claims, the terms “upper,” “lower,” “inner,” “outer,” “up,” “lower,” “upward,” “downward,” “front,” “back,” “rear,” “inner side,” “outer side,” “inward,” “outer,” “internal,” “external,” “inner,” “external,” “forward,” and “backward” are used to describe features of the exemplary embodiments with reference to the positions of these features shown in the figures. It will be further understood that the term “connection” or its derivatives refer to both direct and indirect connections.

[0112] For purposes of illustration and description, the foregoing description of specific exemplary embodiments of the invention has been presented. These descriptions are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed, and it will be apparent that many modifications and variations can be made in accordance with the foregoing teachings. The exemplary embodiments were chosen and described to explain certain principles of the invention and its practical application, enabling others skilled in the art to make and utilize various exemplary embodiments of the invention and their various alternatives and modifications. The scope of the invention is intended to be defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A device for controlling a vehicle, the device comprising: at least two buttons provided on a steering wheel of the vehicle; a processor electrically connected to the at least two buttons; and a memory electrically connected to the processor and configured to store instructions executed by the processor, wherein the processor is configured to: map and set vehicle functions to the at least two buttons, detect a button operated among the at least two buttons, and based on a vehicle function mapped to the operated button and a current vehicle state, execute the vehicle function mapped to the operated button, and wherein the processor is configured to set a lap timer start function to a button among the at least two buttons and automatically set a lap timer stop and initialization function to the remaining buttons among the at least two buttons. 2.The device of claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to one-to-one map a driving mode function having a vehicle feature to the at least two buttons. 3.The device of claim 2, wherein the processor is configured to: when the processor ascertains that the vehicle function mapped to the operated button is the driving mode function, compare a driving mode corresponding to the driving mode function with a current driving mode of the vehicle, and when the processor ascertains that the driving mode corresponding to the driving mode function is not identical to the current driving mode, change the driving mode of the vehicle to the driving mode corresponding to the driving mode function. 4.The device of claim 3, wherein the processor is configured to, when the processor ascertains that the driving mode corresponding to the driving mode function matches the current driving mode, change the driving mode of the vehicle to a default driving mode or a previous driving mode corresponding to system logic. 5.The device of claim 3, wherein the processor is configured to, when the processor ascertains that the driving mode corresponding to the driving mode function matches the current driving mode, change the driving mode of the vehicle to a next driving mode in a predetermined order. 6.The device of claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to, when an operation of a button set with a lap timer start function is detected in a state in which the lap timer is not started, start the lap timer, and wherein the processor is configured to, when an operation of a corresponding button set with a lap timer stop and initialization function is detected, ignore an input of the corresponding button. 7.The device of claim 6, wherein the processor is configured to: when an operation of a button set with a lap timer start function is detected in a state in which the lap timer is started, read and record a timer value from the lap timer, and when an operation of a button set with a lap timer stop and initialization function is detected, stop the lap timer. 8.The device of claim 6, wherein the processor is configured to: when an operation of a button set with a lap timer start function is detected in a state in which the lap timer is stopped, restart the lap timer, and ​ When detecting an operation of a button to which a lap timer stop and initialization function is set, initializing the lap timer.

9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to output information to a display device regarding a change in a state of the vehicle corresponding to execution of a vehicle function mapped to a button operated.

10. A method of controlling a vehicle, the method comprising: mapping and setting, by a processor, vehicle functions to at least two buttons provided on a steering wheel of the vehicle; detecting, by the processor, a button operated among the at least two buttons; identifying, by the processor, a vehicle function mapped to the operated button; and executing, by the processor, the vehicle function mapped to the operated button based on the identified vehicle function and a current state of the vehicle, wherein the setting of the vehicle functions comprises: setting a lap timer start function to a button among the at least two buttons, and automatically setting a lap timer stop and initialization function to a remaining button among the at least two buttons.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the setting of the vehicle functions comprises: one-to-one mapping of a driving mode function having a vehicle characteristic to the at least two buttons.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the execution of the vehicle functions comprises: when the vehicle function mapped to the operated button is the driving mode function, comparing a driving mode corresponding to the driving mode function with a current driving mode of the vehicle; and when the processor ascertains that the driving mode corresponding to the driving mode function does not match the current driving mode, changing the driving mode of the vehicle to a driving mode corresponding to the driving mode function.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the execution of the vehicle functions comprises: when the processor ascertains that the driving mode corresponding to the driving mode function matches the current driving mode, changing the driving mode of the vehicle to a default driving mode or a previous driving mode corresponding to system logic.

14. The method of claim 12, wherein the execution of the vehicle functions comprises: when the processor ascertains that the driving mode corresponding to the driving mode function matches the current driving mode, changing the driving mode of the vehicle to a next driving mode in a predetermined order.

15. The method of claim 10, wherein the setting of the vehicle functions further comprises: outputting a pop-up window to a display device indicating that a lap timer stop and initialization function is automatically set to a remaining button when a lap timer start function is set to a button among the at least two buttons.

16. The method of claim 10, wherein the execution of the vehicle functions comprises: when detecting an operation of a button to which a lap timer start function is set in a state in which a lap timer is not started, starting the lap timer; and when detecting an operation of a corresponding button to which a lap timer stop and initialization function is set, ignoring an input of the corresponding button.

17. The method of claim 10, wherein the execution of the vehicle functions comprises: when an operation of the button for which the lap timer start function is set is detected in the state in which the lap timer is started, reading and recording a timer value from the lap timer; and when an operation of the button for which the lap timer stop and initialize function is set is detected, stopping the lap timer.

18. The method of claim 10, wherein the execution of the vehicle function includes: when an operation of the button for which the lap timer start function is set is detected in the state in which the lap timer is stopped, restarting the lap timer; and when an operation of the button for which the lap timer stop and initialize function is set is detected, initializing the lap timer.

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