Method of operating a switch member of a vehicle and vehicle

By sensing the user's stationary state through mobile terminal sensors, the vehicle's switching components are automatically operated, solving the problems of operational complexity and low reliability in existing technologies, and realizing convenient and accurate control of switching components.

CN116923316BActive Publication Date: 2026-06-16NISSAN MOTOR CO LTD +1
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
NISSAN MOTOR CO LTD
Filing Date
2022-03-31
Publication Date
2026-06-16

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing technologies for operating vehicle switch components are complex, have high learning costs, and low reliability. In particular, it is difficult to conveniently open or close components such as car doors and trunks when hands are occupied or when carrying heavy items.

Method used

The system uses built-in sensors in mobile terminals (such as mobile phones or car keys) to sense the user's stationary state, and uses the vehicle system to determine whether the mobile terminal is within a predetermined space and remains stationary for a period of time. It then automatically controls the switching of the switch components and issues warning signals when necessary.

Benefits of technology

This enables convenient and reliable operation of vehicle switching components without user intervention, reducing learning costs, improving detection accuracy and sensitivity, and minimizing the need for hardware upgrades.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Patent Text Reader

Abstract

At least one embodiment of the present disclosure provides a method of manipulating a switch part of a vehicle and a vehicle for performing the method. The method includes determining whether a first mobile terminal is within a predetermined spatial range with respect to the switch part, determining, by a second mobile terminal, whether the second mobile terminal remains stationary for a first predetermined time period based on a sensor signal from the second mobile terminal, transmitting, by the second mobile terminal, first stationary behavior information to the vehicle when it is determined that the second mobile terminal remains stationary for the first predetermined time period, and switching the switch part from a first state to a second state when the vehicle receives the first stationary behavior information from the second mobile terminal.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of this disclosure provide a method for operating a switching component of a vehicle and a vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] People need to issue commands to open or close vehicle switches, such as those for the front doors, rear doors, trunk, and windows. These commands can be issued by pressing a specific button on the car key, kicking a specific part of the vehicle, or making specific hand gestures. However, sometimes these operations can be difficult, such as when carrying heavy luggage or with both hands occupied. Furthermore, some methods of issuing commands to vehicle switches are complex, have high learning curves, and are unreliable.

[0003] Therefore, there is a need for a method to operate the switching components of a vehicle that allows users to operate it conveniently, is easy to learn, is highly reliable, and is low in cost. Summary of the Invention

[0004] At least one embodiment of this disclosure provides a method for operating a switching component of a vehicle. The method includes: determining whether a first mobile terminal is within a predetermined spatial range relative to the switching component; determining, by a second mobile terminal, whether the second mobile terminal remains stationary for a first predetermined time period based on sensor signals from the second mobile terminal; when it is determined that the second mobile terminal remains stationary for the first predetermined time period, sending first stationary behavior information to the vehicle by the second mobile terminal; and when the vehicle receives the first stationary behavior information from the second mobile terminal, switching the switching component from a first state to a second state. The first state is one of an on state and an off state, and the second state is the other of an on state and an off state.

[0005] For example, in some embodiments, the sensor is a motion sensor selected from the group consisting of an accelerometer, an angular velocity sensor, and a magnetometer.

[0006] For example, in some embodiments, the method further includes: when it is determined that the first mobile terminal is within a predetermined spatial range relative to the switching component, the second mobile terminal determines, based on sensor signals from the second mobile terminal, whether the second mobile terminal remains stationary for a second predetermined period of time, the second predetermined period of time being shorter than the first predetermined period of time; when it is determined that the second mobile terminal remains stationary for the second predetermined period of time, the second mobile terminal sends second stationary behavior information to the vehicle; and when the vehicle receives the second stationary behavior information, it issues a warning signal indicating that the switching component will be switched from a first state to a second state. By issuing the warning signal, the vehicle user is notified that the door or trunk is about to be opened or closed.

[0007] For example, in some embodiments, the warning signal is issued by at least one of the vehicle, the first mobile terminal, or the second mobile terminal.

[0008] For example, in some embodiments, the method further includes: when the vehicle receives the second stationary behavior information, and if the first stationary behavior information is not received within a predetermined time period, stopping the issuance of the warning signal and maintaining the first state of the switch component. If a vehicle user remains near the vehicle for a period of time but does not intend to open the door or trunk, the automatic opening or closing of the door or trunk can be canceled by canceling the stationary state after the user observes the warning signal.

[0009] For example, in some embodiments, when the first state is an "on" state, the second predetermined time period is a second "on" predetermined time period, and when the first state is a "off" state, the second predetermined time period is a second "off" predetermined time period. The second "on" predetermined time period is shorter than the second "off" predetermined time period.

[0010] For example, in some embodiments, when the first state is an "on" state, the difference between the first predetermined time period and the second predetermined time period is a third "on" predetermined time period, and when the first state is a "off" state, the difference between the first predetermined time period and the second predetermined time period is a third "off" predetermined time period. The third "on" predetermined time period is less than the third "off" predetermined time period.

[0011] For example, in some embodiments, the first mobile terminal and the second mobile terminal are the same mobile terminal.

[0012] For example, in some embodiments, the first mobile terminal and the second mobile terminal are mobile phones or car keys.

[0013] For example, in some embodiments, the first mobile terminal and the second mobile terminal are different mobile terminals.

[0014] For example, in some embodiments, the first mobile terminal is a car key; and the second mobile terminal is a mobile phone that communicates wirelessly with the vehicle.

[0015] For example, in some embodiments, the predetermined space range includes a space range at a predetermined distance from the vehicle and a space range inside the vehicle. Therefore, in cases where, for example, car keys or a mobile phone are accidentally left inside the vehicle, the door can be automatically opened, preventing inconvenience.

[0016] For example, in some embodiments, the switching component includes at least one of the front door, rear door, trunk, and window.

[0017] At least one embodiment of this disclosure provides a vehicle including a switching component and a controller configured to: determine whether a first mobile terminal is within a predetermined spatial range relative to the switching component; send position confirmation information to a second mobile terminal confirming that the first mobile terminal is within the predetermined spatial range relative to the switching component; receive first stationary behavior information from the second mobile terminal, the first stationary behavior information instructing the second mobile terminal to remain stationary for a first predetermined time period; and, in response to receiving the first stationary behavior information from the second mobile terminal, switch the switching component from a first state to a second state. The first state is one of an on state and an off state, and the second state is the other of an on state and an off state.

[0018] For example, in some embodiments, the vehicle further includes a vehicle-side warning device, and the controller is further configured to: receive second stationary behavior information from a second mobile terminal, the second stationary behavior information indicating that the second mobile terminal remains stationary for a second predetermined period of time, the second predetermined period of time being shorter than a first predetermined period of time; and, in response to receiving the second stationary behavior information from the second mobile terminal, cause the vehicle-side warning device to issue a warning signal indicating that the switching component will switch from a first state to a second state.

[0019] For example, in some embodiments, the predetermined space range includes a space range at a predetermined distance from the vehicle and a space range inside the vehicle.

[0020] For example, in some embodiments, the first mobile terminal and the second mobile terminal are either selected from a car key or a mobile phone.

[0021] For example, in some embodiments, the switching component includes at least one of the front door, rear door, trunk, and window.

[0022] With the present invention, especially when both hands are occupied, the user does not need to take any action or posture. The vehicle determines whether to open the door, trunk, etc. based on the user's car key or mobile phone sensing that the user is in a stationary state, thereby making the use of the vehicle more convenient.

[0023] Furthermore, by using sensors built into mobile devices carried by the user, such as smartphones or car keys, to sense the user's status, user information can be obtained more accurately and promptly and transmitted to the vehicle. This saves costs and speeds up detection while improving accuracy compared to polling the vehicle. Attached Figure Description

[0024] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this disclosure, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly described below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of this disclosure and should not be regarded as a limitation on the scope of protection. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0025] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a vehicle system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0026] Figure 2 A flowchart illustrating a method for operating a switching component of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0027] Figure 3 A flowchart illustrating a method for operating a switching component of a vehicle according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0028] Figure 4 A flowchart illustrating a method for operating a switch component executed by a vehicle controller according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; and

[0029] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a vehicle system according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0030] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this disclosure clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this disclosure will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of this disclosure. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the described embodiments of this disclosure without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this disclosure.

[0031] Unless otherwise defined, the technical or scientific terms used in this disclosure shall have the ordinary meaning understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. The terms “first,” “second,” and similar terms used in this disclosure do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are merely used to distinguish different components. Terms such as “comprising” or “including” mean that an element or object preceding the word encompasses the elements or objects listed following the word and their equivalents, without excluding other elements or objects.

[0032] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a vehicle system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0033] like Figure 1 As shown, the vehicle system includes a vehicle 110 and a mobile terminal 120.

[0034] Vehicle 110 includes a switch component 112, a vehicle-side communication unit 113, a vehicle-side warning device 114, and a vehicle-side controller 111. The switch component 112 may include at least one of a pair of front doors, a pair of rear doors, multiple windows, and a trunk, etc., but the invention is not limited to any one of these. The vehicle-side communication unit 113 is configured to interact with a mobile terminal and may include at least one of a low-frequency communication antenna, a Bluetooth antenna, a UWB (Ultra-Wideband) communication antenna, a UHF (Ultra-High Frequency) communication antenna, a 2G / 3G / 4G / 5G mobile communication antenna, and a WIFI antenna, etc. The vehicle-side warning device 114 is configured to transmit warning signals to a user and may include, for example, vehicle lights, a vehicle horn, and a speaker. Vehicle lights may transmit warning signals to a user by flashing. The vehicle horn may transmit warning signals to a user by sounding. The speaker may transmit warning signals to a user by playing voice prompts. The vehicle-side controller 111 is communicatively connected to the switch component 112, the vehicle-side communication unit 113, and the vehicle-side warning device 114 to send signals to or receive signals from these components. The vehicle-side controller 111 may be a vehicle electronic control unit or a separate controller, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0035] Mobile terminal 120 includes a motion sensor 122, a mobile communication unit 123, a mobile warning device 124, and a mobile controller 121. The motion sensor 122 is configured to sense whether the mobile terminal 120 is stationary, and may include at least one of an accelerometer, an angular velocity sensor, and a magnetometer. The accelerometer can detect whether the mobile terminal 120 is stationary based on its acceleration level. Specifically, when the mobile terminal 120 is stationary, the acceleration change is typically zero, while when the mobile terminal 120 is in motion, it has a certain acceleration, and the acceleration value changes over time. By continuously acquiring the acceleration values ​​of the mobile terminal 120 at a certain frequency using the accelerometer, if the change in the acceleration value on each of the three axes is less than a certain threshold within a certain time range, it can be determined that the mobile terminal 120 is stationary within that time range. The angular velocity sensor can detect whether the mobile terminal 120 is stationary based on its angular velocity level. Specifically, when the mobile terminal 120 is stationary, its angular velocity change is typically zero. However, when the mobile terminal 120 is in motion, it possesses a certain angular velocity, and this angular velocity value changes over time. An angular velocity sensor continuously acquires the angular velocity values ​​of the mobile terminal 120 at a certain frequency. If the change in the angular velocity value on each of the three axes is less than a certain threshold within a certain time range, it can be determined that the mobile terminal 120 is stationary within that time range. A magnetometer can detect whether the mobile terminal 120 is stationary based on the magnetic field strength level of the mobile terminal 120. Specifically, when the mobile terminal 120 is stationary, its magnetic field strength change is typically zero. However, when the mobile terminal 120 is in motion, it possesses a certain magnetic field strength, and this magnetic field strength value changes over time. A magnetometer continuously acquires the magnetic field strength values ​​of the mobile terminal 120 at a certain frequency. If the change in the magnetic field strength value on each of the three axes is less than a certain threshold within a certain time range, it can be determined that the mobile terminal 120 is stationary within that time range. The mobile warning device 124 is configured to deliver warning signals to a user, and may include, for example, a buzzer and a light, to deliver auditory and visual warning signals to the user, respectively. The mobile controller 121 is communicatively connected to the mobile communication unit 123, the motion sensor 122, and the mobile warning device 124 to send or receive signals to or from these components. The mobile controller 121 may include processing devices such as a microprocessor and storage devices. Corresponding to the vehicle-side communication unit 113, the mobile communication unit 123 may include at least one of a low-frequency communication antenna, a Bluetooth antenna, a UWB communication antenna, a UHF communication antenna, a 2G / 3G / 4G / 5G mobile communication antenna, and a WIFI antenna. The vehicle 110 and the mobile terminal 120 can communicate and authenticate with each other through the vehicle-side communication unit 113 and the mobile communication unit 123.In addition, the vehicle-side communication unit 113 can also determine the location of the mobile terminal 120 based on communication with the mobile-side communication unit 123, for example, by using low-frequency communication antennas, Bluetooth antennas or UWB antennas installed at multiple different locations in the vehicle 110.

[0036] Mobile terminal 120 can be a car key, mobile phone, tablet computer, or other portable mobile terminal.

[0037] Figure 2 A flowchart illustrating a method for operating a switch component 112 of a vehicle 110 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. This method may, for example, be... Figure 1 The vehicle system shown is used to perform this action. In particular, the mobile terminal 120 of the vehicle system is a car key. However, in other embodiments, the car key can be other types of mobile terminals 120, such as a mobile phone, and this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0038] like Figure 2 As shown, in step S210, the vehicle 110 determines whether the mobile terminal 120 is within a predetermined spatial range relative to the switching component 112. For example, the vehicle 110 can send a low-frequency wake-up signal to the mobile terminal 120 via its vehicle-side low-frequency communication antenna. The vehicle 110 can confirm the location of the mobile terminal 120, i.e., whether the mobile terminal 120 is within the predetermined range relative to the switching component 112, by interacting with the low-frequency wake-up signal emitted by multiple vehicle-side low-frequency communication antennas with the mobile terminal low-frequency communication antenna of the mobile terminal 120.

[0039] When the vehicle 110 determines that the mobile terminal 120 is within a predetermined spatial range relative to the switch component 112, in step S220, the vehicle 110 sends position confirmation information to the mobile terminal 120 indicating that the mobile terminal 120 is within the predetermined spatial range relative to the switch component 112.

[0040] For example, vehicle 110 can use a low-frequency antenna to send location confirmation information to mobile terminal 120. Alternatively, vehicle 110 can send the location confirmation information along with vehicle-side authentication information to mobile terminal 120 to wake up mobile terminal 120.

[0041] Upon receiving location confirmation information, in step S230, the mobile terminal 120 begins to detect whether the mobile terminal 120 remains stationary for a first predetermined time period.

[0042] For example, after receiving confirmation information from vehicle 110, mobile terminal 120 begins to use motion sensor 122 to detect whether mobile terminal 120 remains stationary for a first predetermined period of time.

[0043] Furthermore, for example, when vehicle 110 sends location confirmation information along with vehicle authentication information to mobile terminal 120 to wake up mobile terminal 120, mobile terminal 120, after receiving the location confirmation information and the correct vehicle authentication information to authenticate with vehicle 110, begins detecting stationary behavior. Mobile terminal 120 can transmit mobile authentication information to vehicle 110 via Bluetooth antenna or UHF antenna.

[0044] After the mobile terminal 120 determines that the mobile terminal 120 has remained stationary for a first predetermined period of time, in step S240, the mobile terminal 120 sends the first stationary behavior information to the vehicle 110.

[0045] For example, the mobile terminal 120 can transmit first stationary behavior information to the vehicle 110 via a Bluetooth antenna or a UHF antenna.

[0046] When the vehicle 110 receives the first stationary behavior information from the mobile terminal 120, in step S250, the vehicle 110 switches the switch component 112 between an on state and an off state.

[0047] For example, when the switch component 112 is in the open state, the vehicle 110 closes the switch component 112 after receiving the first stationary behavior information. For example, when the switch component 112 is in the closed state, the vehicle 110 opens the switch component 112 after receiving the first stationary behavior information.

[0048] In one example, the switch component 112 is the trunk, the predetermined space range is the space range outside the vehicle 110 within a predetermined distance from the trunk, and the switch component 112 is in the closed state. Since the user usually carries the mobile terminal 120 with them, for example, in a pocket or in their hand, the mobile terminal 120 remaining stationary for a first predetermined period of time means that the user remains stationary for a first predetermined period of time. In step S250, after receiving the first stationary behavior information indicating that the user remains stationary for a first predetermined period of time, the vehicle 110 opens the trunk.

[0049] In one example, the switch component 112 is the trunk, the predetermined space range is the space range outside the vehicle 110 within a predetermined distance from the trunk, and the switch component 112 is in the open state. The mobile terminal 120 remaining stationary for a first predetermined time period means that the user remains stationary for the first predetermined time period. In step S250, after receiving the first stationary behavior information indicating that the user remains stationary for the first predetermined time period, the vehicle 110 closes the trunk.

[0050] Therefore, this method only requires the user to remain stationary within a predetermined spatial range relative to the switch component 112 for a first predetermined time period to switch the switch component 112 between an on and off state. The user can conveniently and easily manipulate the switch component 112 without requiring a high learning curve. Even when carrying heavy luggage or with both hands occupied, the user can still manipulate the switch component 112. Furthermore, this method utilizes the sensors of a mobile terminal 120 carried by the user to detect whether the user is stationary. Compared to other methods of detecting user stationaryness, this method offers high accuracy, high sensitivity, low false detection rate, and low cost. For example, it reduces the possibility of detecting a stationary user while the user is moving, as well as the possibility of false detections where the user is not detected as stationary. Additionally, this method can be implemented by modifying only the mobile terminal 120, without requiring modifications to the vehicle 110, thus reducing hardware costs.

[0051] In one example, the switch component 112 is the trunk, the predetermined space range is the space range inside the vehicle 110 within a predetermined distance from the trunk, and the switch component 112 is in the closed state. In this case, the mobile terminal 120 remaining stationary for a first predetermined period of time may mean that the key has been left inside the trunk. In step S250, after receiving the first stationary behavior information indicating that the car key has been left inside the trunk, the vehicle 110 opens the trunk.

[0052] By limiting the predetermined space to the interior of vehicle 110, the switch component 112 can be automatically activated when a mobile terminal 120, such as a car key, is left inside vehicle 110. This avoids the awkward situation of the mobile terminal 120 being locked inside vehicle 110.

[0053] In addition, such as Figure 2 As shown, the method further includes steps S260, S270, and S280. After the vehicle 110 determines that the mobile terminal 120 is within a predetermined spatial range relative to the switch component 112, in step S260, the vehicle 110 determines whether the mobile terminal 120 has left the predetermined spatial range. After the vehicle 110 determines that the mobile terminal 120 has left the predetermined spatial range, in step S270, the vehicle 110 sends location departure information to the mobile terminal 120. When the mobile terminal 120 receives the location departure information, in step S280, the mobile terminal 120 stops detecting stationary behavior.

[0054] Furthermore, in one example, when the mobile terminal 120 begins detecting stationary behavior after receiving location confirmation information, it can also start a timer. After the stationary behavior detection has continued for a maximum predetermined time period (e.g., 10 minutes), the mobile terminal 120 stops detecting the stationary behavior. This avoids the situation where the mobile terminal 120 continues to detect stationary behavior due to the lack of location departure information from the vehicle 110, thus avoiding wasting battery power.

[0055] Figure 3 A flowchart illustrating a method for operating a switch component 112 of a vehicle 110 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. This method may, for example, be... Figure 1 The vehicle system shown is used to execute this. Specifically, the vehicle system's mobile terminal 120 is the car key. For simplicity, it is... Figure 2 The description of steps that are the same as or similar to those shown will not be repeated.

[0056] like Figure 3 As shown, in step S310, the vehicle 110 determines whether the mobile terminal 120 is within a predetermined spatial range relative to the switch component 112.

[0057] When the vehicle 110 determines that the mobile terminal 120 is within a predetermined spatial range relative to the switch component 112, in step S320, the vehicle 110 sends position confirmation information to the mobile terminal 120 indicating that the mobile terminal 120 is within the predetermined spatial range relative to the trunk.

[0058] Upon receiving location confirmation information, in step S330, the mobile terminal 120 begins to detect whether the mobile terminal 120 remains stationary for a second predetermined period of time.

[0059] After the mobile terminal 120 determines that the mobile terminal 120 has remained stationary for a second predetermined period of time, in step S340, the mobile terminal 120 sends a second stationary behavior information to the vehicle 110.

[0060] For example, the mobile terminal 120 can transmit second stationary behavior information to the vehicle 110 via a Bluetooth antenna or a UHF antenna.

[0061] When vehicle 110 receives the second stationary behavior information from mobile terminal 120, in step S350, vehicle 110 issues a warning signal to indicate to the user that the state of the switching component is about to be switched. For example, the warning signal issued by vehicle 110 may include flashing headlights, honking the horn, or a voice prompt from the speaker.

[0062] In addition, in step S360, the mobile terminal 120 will continue to detect whether the mobile terminal 120 continues to remain stationary for a third predetermined time period.

[0063] When it is detected that the mobile terminal 120 remains stationary for a third predetermined period of time, in step S370, the mobile terminal 120 sends a first stationary behavior information to the vehicle 110. Here, the third predetermined period of time can be understood as the difference between the first predetermined period of time and the second predetermined period of time. That is, in step S370, when it is detected that the mobile terminal 120 remains stationary for a first predetermined period of time, the mobile terminal 120 sends a first stationary behavior information.

[0064] After the vehicle 110 receives the first stationary behavior information within a predetermined time period, in step S380, the vehicle 110 switches the switch component 112 between an on state and a off state.

[0065] When no further stationary behavior of the mobile terminal 120 is detected for the third predetermined time period, that is, the vehicle does not receive the first stationary behavior information within the predetermined time period, in step S390, the vehicle 110 stops issuing warning signals and returns to step S330, whereby the mobile terminal 120 restarts to detect the stationary behavior of the mobile terminal 120.

[0066] A user may unintentionally remain stationary within a predetermined spatial area. To prevent such unintentional stationaryness from causing a change in the state of switch component 112, the method further includes issuing a warning signal to the user before the state of switch component 112 changes. When the user remains stationary within the predetermined spatial area for a second predetermined time period, the mobile terminal 120 sends a second stationary behavior information to the vehicle 110. Upon receiving the second stationary behavior information, the vehicle 110 issues a warning signal to the user, indicating that the state of switch component 112 is about to be changed. After receiving the warning signal, the user can either continue to remain stationary to communicate a command to change the state of the switch component to the vehicle, or move to communicate a command not to change the state of the switch component to the vehicle.

[0067] Furthermore, in step S350, as a supplement and alternative to the warning signal issued by vehicle 110, the warning signal can be issued by mobile terminal 120. The warning signal issued by mobile terminal 120 may include auditory or visual warning signals such as emitting a warning sound or flashing a warning light. Since mobile terminal 120 is usually carried by the user, under certain circumstances, the warning signal issued by mobile terminal 120 is more likely to be noticed by the user. When vehicle 110 and mobile terminal 120 issue warning signals simultaneously, a general redundancy method prevents the user from missing the warning signal.

[0068] By setting the second and third predetermined time periods appropriately, the user's intention can be accurately determined, incorrect judgments can be avoided, the user's waiting time can be reduced, and the system's sensitivity can be improved.

[0069] When the switch component 112 is in the open state, the second predetermined time period is the second opening predetermined time period. When the switch component 112 is in the closed state, the second predetermined time period is the second closing predetermined time period. When the switch component 112 is in the open state, the third predetermined time period is the third opening predetermined time period; when the switch component 112 is in the closed state, the third predetermined time period is the third closing predetermined time period.

[0070] In one example, the second pre-opening time interval can be shorter than the second pre-closed time interval. For example, the second pre-opening time interval can be set to 2.5 seconds, and the second pre-closed time interval to 3 seconds. When the trunk switch 112 is open, users are typically busy organizing their luggage. Therefore, compared to when the switch 112 is closed, the likelihood and duration of user stillness are lower when the switch 112 is open. Therefore, setting the second pre-opening time interval to be shorter than the second pre-closed time interval increases the sensitivity of detecting user stillness, reduces user waiting time for switching, and improves user experience.

[0071] In one example, the third pre-opening time interval can be shorter than the third pre-closing time interval. For example, the third pre-opening time interval can be set to 2 seconds, and the third pre-closing time interval to 4 seconds. When the trunk switch 112 is in the open state, the user is more likely to intend to close the switch 112, and the user can quickly realize that the trunk is about to close after seeing the warning signal and react accordingly. Therefore, setting the third pre-opening time interval to be shorter than the third pre-closing time interval increases the sensitivity of the judgment of the user's stationary behavior, reduces the user's waiting time for switching, and improves the user experience.

[0072] In another example, the second predetermined opening time period can be longer than the second predetermined closing time period. For instance, when the trunk switch 112 is in the open state, the user is often busy organizing their luggage. The user may leave the mobile terminal 120 inside the switch 112 or on a fixed device without carrying it with them. In this case, the mobile terminal 120 will be stationary, causing the switch 112 to be mistakenly switched to the closed state. Therefore, the second predetermined opening time period is set to be longer than the second predetermined closing time period to avoid erroneous operation of the switch 112.

[0073] In another example, the third pre-opening time period can be longer than the third pre-closing time period. Therefore, when a switch 112, such as the trunk switch, is open and about to close, sufficient time can be given for the user to check if any items have been left inside the switch 112. Furthermore, during the third pre-opening time period, the vehicle 110 can use voice prompts to remind the user to avoid leaving items behind.

[0074] Furthermore, when the predetermined space is outside the switch component 112, the second predetermined time period is the second external predetermined time period, and the third predetermined time period is the third external predetermined time period. When the predetermined space is inside the switch component 112, the second predetermined time period is the second internal predetermined time period, and the third predetermined time period is the third internal predetermined time period.

[0075] In one example, the second external predetermined time period can be shorter than the second internal predetermined time period, and the third external predetermined time period can be shorter than the third internal predetermined time period. For example, the second internal predetermined time period is set to 30 seconds, and the third internal predetermined time period is set to 10 seconds. Since the situation where the key is left inside the switch component 112 is infrequent, the user's waiting time is set to be relatively long in order to avoid misjudgment and improve the accuracy of judging the user's intention.

[0076] Figure 4 A schematic diagram is shown of a method of manipulating a switch component 112 performed by a controller of a vehicle 110 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0077] like Figure 4 As shown, the method includes step S410, in which the vehicle-side communication unit 113 determines whether the mobile terminal 120 is within a predetermined spatial range relative to the switch component 112 through interaction with the mobile-side communication unit 123.

[0078] In step S420, after determining that the mobile terminal 120 is within a predetermined spatial range relative to the switch component 112, the vehicle 110 sends location confirmation information to the mobile terminal 120.

[0079] After sending location confirmation information, in step S430, vehicle 110 continuously monitors the second stationary behavior information from mobile terminal 120 and receives the second stationary behavior information from mobile terminal 120, which instructs mobile terminal 120 to remain stationary for a second predetermined period of time.

[0080] Upon receiving the second stationary behavior information, in step S440, the vehicle 110 causes the vehicle-side warning device 114 to issue a warning signal, indicating that the state of the switch component 112 is about to be switched.

[0081] Furthermore, after receiving the second stationary behavior information, in step S450, the vehicle 110 continues to monitor the first stationary behavior information from the mobile terminal 120 and receives the first stationary behavior information from the mobile terminal 120, which instructs the mobile terminal 120 to remain stationary for a first predetermined period of time.

[0082] If vehicle 110 does not receive the first stationary behavior information within the predetermined time period, it returns to step S430, and vehicle 110 continues to monitor the second stationary behavior information from mobile terminal 120.

[0083] Upon receiving the first stationary behavior information, in step S460, the vehicle 110 switches the switch component 112 between an on state and a off state.

[0084] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a vehicle system according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. For the sake of brevity, it is... Figure 1 The descriptions of the same or similar steps in the system shown will not be repeated.

[0085] and Figure 1 The system shown differs in that, in addition to the vehicle, the vehicle system includes a first mobile terminal 530 and a second mobile terminal 520. For example, the first mobile terminal 530 can be a car key, and the second mobile terminal 520 can be a mobile phone.

[0086] and Figure 1 Similarly, the system shown includes a vehicle with a switch component 512, a vehicle-side communication unit 513, a vehicle-side warning device 514, and a vehicle-side controller 511.

[0087] The first mobile terminal 530 includes a first mobile communication unit 533, a first mobile warning device 534, and a first mobile controller 531. The first mobile communication unit 533 communicates with a vehicle communication unit 513 and may include multiple low-frequency communication antennas, multiple Bluetooth antennas, or multiple UWB communication antennas. The vehicle communication unit 513 can determine the location of the first mobile terminal 530 through interaction with the first mobile communication unit 533. The first mobile warning device 534 is configured to transmit warning signals to a user. The first mobile controller 531 is communicatively connected to the first mobile communication unit 533 and the first mobile warning device 534 to send signals to or receive signals from these components.

[0088] The second mobile terminal 520 includes a second motion sensor 522, a second mobile communication unit 523, a second mobile warning device 524, and a second mobile controller 521. The second motion sensor 522 is configured to sense whether the second mobile terminal 520 is stationary, and may include at least one of an accelerometer, an angular velocity sensor, and a magnetometer. The second mobile warning device 524 is configured to transmit a warning signal to a user. The second mobile communication unit 523 communicates with a vehicle-side communication unit 513, and may include at least one of a Bluetooth antenna, a UWB communication antenna, a UHF communication antenna, a 2G / 3G / 4G / 5G mobile communication antenna, and a Wi-Fi antenna. The second mobile controller 521 is communicatively connected to the second mobile communication unit 523, the second motion sensor 522, and the second mobile warning device 524 to send signals to or receive signals from these components.

[0089] It can be used as Figure 5 The vehicle system shown performs as follows Figure 2 and Figure 3 The method shown may be used as follows Figure 5 The vehicle 510 shown performs the following: Figure 4 The method shown.

[0090] like Figure 2 As shown, for example, in step S210, vehicle 510 determines whether the first mobile terminal 530 is within a predetermined spatial range relative to switch component 512. In step S220, vehicle 110 sends position confirmation information to second mobile terminal 520, indicating that the first mobile terminal 530 is within the predetermined spatial range relative to switch component 512. After receiving the position confirmation information, in step S230, second mobile terminal 520 begins detecting whether it remains stationary for a first predetermined time period. In step S240, second mobile terminal 520 sends first stationary behavior information to vehicle 510. In step S260, vehicle 510 determines whether the first mobile terminal 530 has left the predetermined spatial range. In step S270, vehicle 510 sends position departure information to second mobile terminal 520. After receiving the position departure information, in step S280, second mobile terminal 520 stops detecting stationary behavior.

[0091] like Figure 3As shown, for example, in step S310, the vehicle 510 determines whether the first mobile terminal 530 is within a predetermined spatial range relative to the switch component 512. In step S320, the vehicle 510 sends position confirmation information to the second mobile terminal 520, indicating that the first mobile terminal 530 is within a predetermined spatial range relative to the trunk. Upon receiving the position confirmation information, in step S330, the second mobile terminal 520 begins detecting whether it remains stationary for a second predetermined time period. In step S340, the second mobile terminal 520 sends second stationary behavior information to the vehicle 510. In step S360, the second mobile terminal 520 continues to detect whether it remains stationary for a third predetermined time period. In step S370, the second mobile terminal 520 sends first stationary behavior information to the vehicle 510. Furthermore, in step S350, as a supplement and alternative to the warning signal issued by the vehicle 510, the warning signal can be issued by the first mobile terminal 530 and / or the second mobile terminal 520. In one embodiment, the warning signal may also be issued simultaneously by the vehicle and the first and second mobile terminals.

[0092] like Figure 4 As shown, in step S410, the vehicle-side communication unit 513 determines whether the first mobile terminal 520 is within a predetermined spatial range relative to the switch component 512 through interaction with the first mobile terminal communication unit 533. Upon determining that the first mobile terminal 520 is within the predetermined spatial range relative to the switch component 512, in step S420, the vehicle 510 sends location confirmation information to the second mobile terminal 530. In step S430, the vehicle 110 continuously monitors the second stationary behavior information from the second mobile terminal 520 and receives the second stationary behavior information from the second mobile terminal 520. In step S450, the vehicle 510 continues to monitor the first stationary behavior information from the second mobile terminal 520 and receives the first stationary behavior information from the second mobile terminal 520. If the vehicle 510 does not receive the first stationary behavior information within a predetermined time period, it returns to step S430, and the vehicle 110 continues to continuously monitor the second stationary behavior information from the second mobile terminal 520.

[0093] In the above method, a first mobile terminal, such as a car key, can be used to determine whether the user is within a predetermined spatial range relative to the switch component, and the first mobile terminal can be used to authenticate with the vehicle. Simultaneously, a second mobile terminal, such as a mobile phone carried by the user along with the car key, can be used to sense the user's stationary behavior. Furthermore, information such as first and second stationary behavior information can be sent to the vehicle via wireless communication between the mobile phone and the vehicle. Therefore, the above method can be implemented using motion sensors and warning devices in the mobile phone without requiring modifications to existing car keys. This reduces hardware modifications and lowers costs.

[0094] The scope of this disclosure is not limited by the embodiments described above, but by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A method for operating a switching component of a vehicle, comprising: Determine whether the first mobile terminal is within a predetermined spatial range relative to the switching component; When it is determined that the first mobile terminal is within a predetermined spatial range relative to the switching component, the second mobile terminal determines whether the second mobile terminal remains stationary for a second predetermined period of time based on sensor signals from the second mobile terminal. When it is determined that the second mobile terminal remains stationary for a second predetermined period of time, the second mobile terminal sends a second stationary behavior information to the vehicle. The second mobile terminal determines whether it remains stationary for a first predetermined period of time based on sensor signals from the second mobile terminal, where the second predetermined period of time is shorter than the first predetermined period of time. When it is determined that the second mobile terminal remains stationary for a first predetermined period of time, the second mobile terminal sends the first stationary behavior information to the vehicle. as well as When the vehicle receives the first stationary behavior information from the second mobile terminal, it causes the switching component to switch from a first state to a second state. The first state is one of an on state and an off state, and the second state is the other of an on state and an off state. When the first state is the open state, the second predetermined time period is the second predetermined opening time period; When the first state is closed, the second predetermined time period is the second predetermined time period for closure; The second scheduled opening time period is shorter than the second scheduled closing time period.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The sensor is a motion sensor, selected from the group consisting of an accelerometer, an angular velocity sensor, and a magnetometer.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: When the vehicle receives the second stationary behavior information, it issues a warning signal, indicating that the switching component will be switched from the first state to the second state.

4. The method according to claim 3, wherein, The warning signal is issued by at least one of the vehicle, the first mobile terminal, or the second mobile terminal.

5. The method according to claim 3 or 4, further comprising: When the vehicle receives the second stationary behavior information, and does not receive the first stationary behavior information within a predetermined time period, the warning signal is stopped, and the first state of the switch component is maintained.

6. The method according to claim 5, wherein, When the first state is the open state, the difference between the first predetermined time period and the second predetermined time period is the third predetermined time period. When the first state is closed, the difference between the first predetermined time period and the second predetermined time period is the third predetermined time period for closing; The third scheduled opening time period is shorter than the third scheduled closing time period.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein, The first mobile terminal and the second mobile terminal are the same mobile terminal.

8. The method according to claim 7, wherein, The first mobile terminal and the second mobile terminal are mobile phones or car keys.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein, The first mobile terminal and the second mobile terminal are different mobile terminals.

10. The method according to claim 9, wherein, The first mobile terminal is a car key; and The second mobile terminal is a mobile phone. The mobile phone communicates wirelessly with the vehicle.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1-10, wherein, The predetermined space range includes the space range at a predetermined distance from the vehicle and the space range inside the vehicle.

12. The method according to any one of claims 1-11, wherein, The switching components include at least one of the front door, rear door, trunk, and window.

13. A vehicle, the vehicle including a switching component and a controller, the controller being configured to: Determine whether the first mobile terminal is within a predetermined spatial range relative to the switching component; Send a confirmation message to the second mobile terminal confirming the position of the first mobile terminal within a predetermined spatial range relative to the switch component; The second mobile terminal receives second stationary behavior information, which instructs the second mobile terminal to remain stationary for a second predetermined period of time. Receive first stationary behavior information from a second mobile terminal, wherein the first stationary behavior information instructs the second mobile terminal to remain stationary for a first predetermined time period, the second predetermined time period being shorter than the first predetermined time period; and In response to receiving first stationary behavior information from the second mobile terminal, the switching component switches from the first state to the second state. in, The first state is one of the on state and the off state, and the second state is the other of the on state and the off state, wherein, When the first state is the open state, the second predetermined time period is the second predetermined opening time period; When the first state is closed, the second predetermined time period is the second predetermined time period for closure; The second scheduled opening time period is shorter than the second scheduled closing time period.

14. The vehicle according to claim 13, wherein, The vehicle also includes a vehicle-end warning device, and the controller is further configured to: In response to receiving second stationary behavior information from the second mobile terminal, the vehicle-side warning device issues a warning signal, indicating that the switching component will switch from the first state to the second state.

15. The vehicle according to claim 13 or 14, wherein, The predetermined space range includes the space range at a predetermined distance from the vehicle and the space range inside the vehicle.

16. The vehicle according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein, The first mobile terminal and the second mobile terminal are either selected from car keys and mobile phones.

17. The vehicle according to any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein, The switching components include at least one of the front door, rear door, trunk, and window.

Citation Information

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