Method for extending the operating domain using pre-download of tiles for non or low cellular signal areas

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method of extending the operational domain using pre-download of tiles for non or low cellular signal areas. In an exemplary embodiment, a method and system for downloading geographic information is provided. According to an exemplary embodiment, a method is provided comprising the steps of: identifying, via a processor, a plurality of geographic areas in which a vehicle will travel along a selected route to a destination using map data; identifying, via a processor, a plurality of map tiles corresponding to the plurality of geographic areas using map data such that each of the plurality of map tiles corresponds to a different one of the plurality of geographic areas; obtaining data access information for each of the plurality of geographic areas; and determining, via a processor, a prioritized sequence for downloading the plurality of map tiles based on the data access information for the plurality of geographic areas.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The technical field generally relates to vehicles, and more specifically to methods and systems for downloading geographic information (e.g., for upcoming areas where cellular signal may be low or nonexistent). Background Technology

[0002] Some modern vehicles have sensors and systems to download geographic information, such as for use in controlling one or more vehicle systems. However, such existing systems may not always be optimal, including for geographic areas where cellular reception may be low or nonexistent.

[0003] Therefore, it is desirable to provide improved methods and systems for downloading geographic information, such as for geographic areas where cellular reception may be low or nonexistent. Furthermore, other desirable features and characteristics of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and this background of the invention. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to an exemplary embodiment, a method is provided, comprising the steps of: identifying, via a processor, multiple geographic areas in which a vehicle will travel along a selected route to a destination using map data; identifying, via a processor, multiple map tiles corresponding to the multiple geographic areas, such that each of the multiple map tiles corresponds to a different one of the multiple geographic areas; obtaining data access information for each of the multiple geographic areas; and determining, via a processor, a priority sequence for downloading the multiple map tiles based on the data access information of the multiple geographic areas.

[0005] Furthermore, in an exemplary embodiment, the method further includes downloading the plurality of map tiles to the vehicle according to a priority sequence via instructions provided by the processor.

[0006] Furthermore, in an exemplary embodiment, the method also includes controlling vehicle movement using geographic information from the plurality of map tiles according to further instructions provided by the processor.

[0007] Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment: obtaining data access information includes obtaining cellular reception information for each of the plurality of geographic regions; and determining the priority sequence includes determining, via a processor, a priority sequence for downloading the plurality of map tiles based on the cellular reception information of the plurality of geographic regions.

[0008] Furthermore, in an exemplary embodiment, the method further includes determining, via a processor, a continuous set of map tiles corresponding to geographic areas with reduced cellular reception or no cellular reception; wherein the step of determining a priority sequence includes determining, via a processor, a priority sequence for downloading the plurality of map tiles based on the continuous set of map tiles corresponding to geographic areas with reduced cellular reception or no cellular reception.

[0009] Furthermore, in an exemplary embodiment, the step of determining the priority sequence further includes determining a priority sequence such that a specific map tile is downloaded before any consecutive group of map tiles representing a corresponding geographic area with reduced cellular reception or no cellular reception, wherein such consecutive group of map tiles immediately precedes the specific map tile.

[0010] Furthermore, in an exemplary embodiment, the method also includes determining, based on signal continuity data obtained from one or more other vehicles, whether a specific geographic area has reduced cellular reception or no cellular reception.

[0011] Furthermore, in an exemplary embodiment, the method further includes: determining additional signal continuity data from the vehicle; and using the additional signal continuity data from the vehicle to update cellular reception information for use by one or more other vehicles.

[0012] In another exemplary embodiment, a system is provided comprising: a computer memory configured to store map data; and a processor coupled to the computer memory and configured to at least facilitate: using the map data to identify a plurality of geographic areas in which a vehicle will travel along selected routes to a destination; using the map data to identify a plurality of map tiles corresponding to the plurality of geographic areas, such that each of the plurality of map tiles corresponds to a different one of the plurality of geographic areas; obtaining data access information for each of the plurality of geographic areas; and determining a priority sequence for downloading the plurality of map tiles based on the data access information for the plurality of geographic areas.

[0013] Furthermore, in an exemplary embodiment, the processor is further configured to at least facilitate the downloading of the plurality of map tiles to the vehicle via instructions provided by the processor in a priority order.

[0014] Furthermore, in an exemplary embodiment, the processor is further configured to at least facilitate the use of geographic information from the plurality of map tiles to control vehicle movement according to further instructions provided by the processor.

[0015] Furthermore, in an exemplary embodiment, the processor is further configured to at least facilitate: obtaining cellular reception information for each of the plurality of geographic regions; and determining a priority sequence for downloading the plurality of map tiles based on the cellular reception information of the plurality of geographic regions.

[0016] Furthermore, in an exemplary embodiment, the processor is further configured to at least facilitate: determining a group of consecutive map tiles representing corresponding geographic areas with reduced cellular reception or no cellular reception; and determining a priority sequence for downloading the plurality of map tiles based on the group of consecutive map tiles representing corresponding geographic areas with reduced cellular reception or no cellular reception.

[0017] Furthermore, in an exemplary embodiment, the processor is further configured to at least facilitate the determination of a priority sequence such that a particular map tile is downloaded before any consecutive group of map tiles representing a corresponding geographic area with reduced or no cellular reception, wherein such consecutive group of map tiles immediately precedes the particular map tile.

[0018] Furthermore, in an exemplary embodiment, the processor is further configured to at least facilitate the determination, based on signal continuity data obtained from one or more other vehicles, of a specific geographical area having reduced cellular reception or no cellular reception.

[0019] Furthermore, in an exemplary embodiment, the processor is further configured to at least facilitate: determining additional signal continuity data from the vehicle; and using the additional signal continuity data from the vehicle to update cellular reception information for use by the one or more other vehicles.

[0020] In another exemplary embodiment, a vehicle is provided, comprising: a body; a computer memory configured to store map data; and a processor coupled to the computer memory and configured to at least facilitate: identifying, using the map data, a plurality of geographic areas in which the vehicle will travel along selected routes to a destination; identifying, using the map data, a plurality of map tiles corresponding to the plurality of geographic areas, such that each of the plurality of map tiles corresponds to a different one of the plurality of geographic areas; obtaining data access information for each of the plurality of geographic areas; and determining a priority sequence for downloading the plurality of map tiles based on the data access information for the plurality of geographic areas.

[0021] Furthermore, in an exemplary embodiment, the processor is further configured to at least facilitate: downloading the plurality of map tiles to the vehicle according to a priority sequence via instructions provided by the processor; and controlling vehicle movement using geographic information from the plurality of map tiles according to further instructions provided by the processor.

[0022] Furthermore, in an exemplary embodiment, the processor is further configured to at least facilitate: obtaining cellular reception information for each of the plurality of geographic regions; and determining a priority sequence for downloading the plurality of map tiles based on the cellular reception information of the plurality of geographic regions.

[0023] Furthermore, in an exemplary embodiment, the processor is further configured to at least facilitate: determining a group of consecutive map tiles representing corresponding geographic areas with reduced cellular reception or no cellular reception; and determining a priority sequence for downloading the plurality of map tiles based on the group of consecutive map tiles representing corresponding geographic areas with reduced cellular reception or no cellular reception.

[0024] This invention includes the following technical solutions: Option 1. A method comprising: The processor uses map data to identify multiple geographic areas where the vehicle will travel along a selected route to its destination; The processor uses the map data to identify multiple map tiles corresponding to the multiple geographical regions, such that each of the multiple map tiles corresponds to a different one of the multiple geographical regions; Obtain data access information for each of the plurality of geographic regions; and The processor determines a priority sequence for downloading the multiple map tiles based on data access information from the multiple geographic regions.

[0025] Option 2. The method according to Option 1 further includes: The plurality of map tiles are downloaded to the vehicle according to the priority order, via instructions provided by the processor.

[0026] Option 3. The method according to Option 2 further includes: The vehicle's movement is controlled using geographic information from the plurality of map tiles, based on further instructions provided by the processor.

[0027] Option 4. The method described in Option 1, wherein: Obtaining the data access information includes obtaining cellular reception information for each of the plurality of geographical regions; and The determination of the priority sequence includes determining, via the processor, a priority sequence for downloading the multiple map tiles based on cellular reception information of the multiple geographic regions.

[0028] Option 5. The method according to Option 4 further includes: The processor determines a group of consecutive map tiles representing corresponding geographic areas with reduced or no cellular reception. The step of determining the priority sequence includes determining, via the processor, a priority sequence for downloading the plurality of map tiles based on a continuous set of map tiles representing corresponding geographic areas with reduced or no cellular reception.

[0029] Option 6. The method according to Option 5, wherein the step of determining the priority sequence further comprises determining the priority sequence such that a specific map tile is downloaded before any consecutive group of map tiles representing a corresponding geographic area with reduced cellular reception or no cellular reception, wherein the consecutive group of map tiles immediately precedes the specific map tile.

[0030] Option 7. The method according to Option 5 further includes: The determination of a specific geographic area with reduced or no cellular reception is based on signal continuity data obtained from one or more other vehicles.

[0031] Option 8. The method according to Option 7 further includes: Determine additional signal continuity data from the vehicle; and The cellular reception information is updated using additional signal continuity data from the vehicle for use by the one or more other vehicles.

[0032] Option 9. A system comprising: Computer memory, configured to store map data; and A processor, which is connected to the computer memory and is configured to at least facilitate: The map data is used to identify multiple geographic areas where vehicles will travel along selected routes to their destinations; The map data is used to identify multiple map tiles corresponding to the multiple geographical regions, such that each of the multiple map tiles corresponds to a different one of the multiple geographical regions; Obtain data access information for each of the plurality of geographic regions; and The priority sequence for downloading the multiple map tiles is determined based on data access information from the multiple geographic regions.

[0033] Option 10. The system according to Option 9, wherein the processor is further configured to at least facilitate: The plurality of map tiles are downloaded to the vehicle according to the priority order, via instructions provided by the processor.

[0034] Option 11. The system according to Option 10, wherein the processor is further configured to at least facilitate: The vehicle's movement is controlled using geographic information from the plurality of map tiles, based on further instructions provided by the processor.

[0035] Option 12. The system according to Option 9, wherein the processor is further configured to at least facilitate: Obtain cellular reception information for each of the plurality of geographical regions; and The priority sequence for downloading the multiple map tiles is determined based on cellular reception information from the multiple geographical regions.

[0036] Option 13. The system according to Option 12, wherein the processor is further configured to at least facilitate: Identify contiguous groups of map tiles representing corresponding geographic areas with reduced or no cellular reception; and A priority sequence for downloading the multiple map tiles is determined based on consecutive groups of map tiles representing corresponding geographic areas with reduced or no cellular reception.

[0037] Option 14. The system according to Option 13, wherein the processor is further configured to at least facilitate: The priority sequence is determined such that a specific map tile is downloaded before any consecutive group of map tiles representing a corresponding geographic area with reduced or no cellular reception, wherein the consecutive group of map tiles immediately precedes the specific map tile.

[0038] Option 15. The system according to Option 13, wherein the processor is further configured to at least facilitate: The determination of a specific geographic area with reduced or no cellular reception is based on signal continuity data obtained from one or more other vehicles.

[0039] Option 16. The system according to Option 15, wherein the processor is further configured to at least facilitate: Determine additional signal continuity data from the vehicle; and The cellular reception information is updated using additional signal continuity data from the vehicle for use by the one or more other vehicles.

[0040] Option 17. A vehicle comprising: Body; Computer memory, configured to store map data; and A processor, which is connected to the computer memory and is configured to at least facilitate: The map data is used to identify multiple geographic areas where the vehicle will travel along a selected route to its destination; The map data is used to identify multiple map tiles corresponding to the multiple geographical regions, such that each of the multiple map tiles corresponds to a different one of the multiple geographical regions; Obtain data access information for each of the plurality of geographic regions; and The priority sequence for downloading the multiple map tiles is determined based on data access information from the multiple geographic regions.

[0041] Option 18. The vehicle according to Option 17, wherein the processor is further configured to at least facilitate: Download the plurality of map tiles to the vehicle according to the priority order, via instructions provided by the processor; and The vehicle's movement is controlled using geographic information from the plurality of map tiles, based on further instructions provided by the processor.

[0042] Option 19. The vehicle according to Option 18, wherein the processor is further configured to at least facilitate: Obtain cellular reception information for each of the plurality of geographical regions; and The priority sequence for downloading the multiple map tiles is determined based on cellular reception information from the multiple geographical regions.

[0043] Option 20. The vehicle according to Option 18, wherein the processor is further configured to at least facilitate: Identify contiguous groups of map tiles representing corresponding geographic areas with reduced or no cellular reception; and A priority sequence for downloading the multiple map tiles is determined based on consecutive groups of map tiles representing corresponding geographic areas with reduced or no cellular reception. Attached Figure Description

[0044] The present disclosure will be described below in conjunction with the following figures, wherein similar numerals denote similar elements, and in the figures: Figure 1 This is a functional block diagram of a communication system according to an exemplary embodiment, the communication system including a vehicle with a control system configured to download map information for an upcoming geographic area (including areas with little or no cellular reception). Figure 2This is a flowchart of a process according to an exemplary embodiment, which is used to download map information for an upcoming geographic area (including areas with little or no cellular reception) and is capable of combining... Figure 1 The implementation of a communication system, which includes the vehicle and its control system; Figure 3 It is a combination according to exemplary embodiments Figure 2 The process used (i.e., identifying low cellular signal areas) is illustrated in the flowchart. Figure 4 It is a combination according to exemplary embodiments Figure 2 The flowchart of the process implementation; and Figure 5-8 Provided according to exemplary embodiments Figure 2-4 An illustration of an exemplary implementation of the process. Detailed Implementation

[0045] The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the content, application, or purpose of the disclosure. Furthermore, it is not intended to be bound by the foregoing background technology or any theories presented in the following detailed description.

[0046] Figure 1 This is a functional block diagram of a communication system 10 according to an exemplary embodiment. As described in further detail below, according to an exemplary embodiment, the communication system 10 includes a vehicle 12 (also referred to herein as the "main vehicle"), which includes a control system 11 configured to download map information, including for geographical areas with little or no cellular reception (e.g., such as...). Figure 2-8 As described in the text and further described in more detail below.

[0047] As further described below, in various embodiments, the control system 11 includes a mapping system 21, a processor 38, a computer memory 40, vehicle sensors 72, and one or more displays 67. In some embodiments, the control system may also include a satellite-based positioning system component (e.g., GPS) 42, in addition to various other components.

[0048] In some embodiments, vehicle 12 includes a semi-autonomous vehicle 12 having automated control of certain vehicle functions via control system 11, such as automated control of vehicle powertrain 17, braking system 23 and / or steering system 19, and other possible vehicle systems.

[0049] like Figure 1As depicted, in some embodiments, the user (e.g., driver) 13 also has a device 15 (such as a smartphone, computer, and / or other electronic device 15) that can communicate with both the user (e.g., driver) 13 and the vehicle 12.

[0050] like Figure 1 As depicted herein, the communication system 10 typically includes a vehicle 12, together with one or more wireless operator systems 14, one or more land networks 16, and one or more remote servers 18. In various embodiments, the communication system 10 may also include one or more information providers 85 and other vehicles 90. It should be understood that the overall architecture, setup, and operation of the illustrated system, as well as the individual components, are merely exemplary, and communication systems constructed differently may also be utilized to implement examples of the methods disclosed herein. Therefore, the following paragraphs, which provide a brief overview of the illustrated communication system 10, are not intended to be limiting.

[0051] Vehicle 12 can be any type of mobile vehicle (such as a motorcycle, car, truck, recreational vehicle (RV), boat, airplane, agricultural equipment, etc.) and is equipped with suitable hardware and software that enable it to communicate through communication system 10. Figure 1 As shown, in various embodiments, vehicle hardware 20 is housed within the body 75 of vehicle 12 and includes a telematics unit 24, a microphone 26, a speaker 28, and buttons and / or controls 30 connected to the telematics unit 24. Operationally coupled to the telematics unit 24 is a network connection or vehicle bus 32. Examples of suitable network connections include Controller Area Network (CAN), System Transmission for Media (MOST), Local Interconnect Network (LIN), Ethernet, and other suitable connections, such as those conforming to known ISO (International Organization for Standardization), SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers), and / or IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) standards and specifications, to name a few.

[0052] The telematics unit 24 is an in-vehicle device that provides various services through its communication with the remote server 18, and typically includes an electronic processing unit (processor) 38, one or more types of electronic memory 40, a cellular chipset / component 34, a wireless modem 36, a dual-mode antenna 70, and a navigation unit containing a GPS chipset / component 42. In one example, the wireless modem 36 includes a set of computer programs and / or software routines suitable for execution within the electronic processing unit 38.

[0053] In various embodiments, the telematics unit 24 can be embedded / installed within the vehicle 12 during manufacturing, or it can be an aftermarket unit installed after the vehicle 12 is manufactured. In various embodiments, the telematics unit 24 enables voice and / or data communication via one or more wireless networks (e.g., wireless carrier system 14) and / or via wireless networking, thereby allowing communication with a remote server 18 and / or other vehicles and / or systems.

[0054] In various embodiments, the telematics unit 24 may use radio transmissions to establish voice and / or data channels with the wireless operator system 14, enabling both voice and data transmission to be sent and received via these channels. Vehicle communication is implemented via a cellular chipset / component 34 for voice communication and a wireless modem 36 for data transmission. Any suitable encoding or modulation technique may be used with this example, including digital transmission techniques such as TDMA (Time Division Multiple Access), CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access), W-CDMA (Wideband CDMA), FDMA (Frequency Division Multiple Access), OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access), and so on. In one embodiment, a dual-mode antenna 70 serves both the GPS chipset / component 42 and the cellular chipset / component 34. In various embodiments, the telematics unit 24 utilizes cellular communication according to industry standards such as LTE, 5G, etc. Additionally, in various embodiments, the telematics unit 24 implements wireless networking between the vehicle 12 and one or more other network devices, for example, using one or more wireless protocols such as one or more IEEE 802.11 protocols, WiMAX, or Bluetooth.

[0055] According to an exemplary embodiment, the telematics unit 24 can provide a variety of different services to the user of the vehicle 12, including downloading map information, including for geographical areas with little or no cellular reception (e.g., such as...). Figure 2-8 As described in the text and further described in more detail below), and using such downloaded map information to automatically control one or more vehicle functions (such as powertrain 17, braking system 23, steering system 19 and / or other vehicle systems).

[0056] Additionally, in some embodiments, the telematics unit 24 may also provide connectivity to the electronic device 15. In various embodiments, the electronic device may, for example, include various consumer electronic / mobile devices such as smartphones, laptops, smart wearable devices, tablet computers, web computers, and / or one or more other electronic devices and / or combinations thereof.

[0057] In various embodiments, one or more Short Range Wireless Connectivity (SRWC) protocols (e.g., Bluetooth / Bluetooth Low Energy, or Wi-Fi) may be utilized. In various embodiments, once SRWC is established, electronic device 15 can become a network participant connected to and / or identified as a telematics unit 24, for example, for current use and for the future. For example, in some embodiments, when electronic device 15 is subsequently within wireless range of telematics unit 24 after initial pairing, telematics unit 24 (and / or remote server 18) can confirm that electronic device 15 has been identified as paired or established as a network participant in order to communicate with and receive services from telematics unit 24.

[0058] In addition, in various embodiments, the telematics unit 24 may also provide other services, such as, for example: turn-by-turn direction and other navigation-related services provided by the GPS chipset / component 42; emergency assistance services; information requests from users of the vehicle 12 (e.g., about points of interest along the route while the vehicle 12 is traveling); and / or infotainment-related services, such as music, internet web pages, movies, television programs, video games and / or other content downloaded by an infotainment center 46, which may be part of the telematics unit 24 and / or operatively connected to the telematics unit 24 via the vehicle bus 32 and audio bus 22; and various other types of possible services.

[0059] Regarding other electronic components utilized in conjunction with the telematics unit 24, the microphone 26 provides a means for the driver or other vehicle occupants to input verbal or other auditory commands and can be equipped with an embedded voice processing unit utilizing human-machine interface (HMI) technologies known in the art. Conversely, the speaker 28 provides audible output to the vehicle occupants and can be either a separate speaker specifically designed for use with the telematics unit 24 or can be part of the vehicle audio component 64. In either case, both the microphone 26 and the speaker 28 enable the vehicle hardware 20 and the remote server 18 to communicate with the occupants via audible speech. The vehicle hardware also includes one or more buttons and / or controls 30 for enabling the vehicle occupants to activate or engage one or more of the vehicle hardware components 20. For example, one of the buttons and / or controls 30 can be an electronic push-button for initiating voice communication with the remote server 18, whether it is a human such as advisor 58 or an automated call response system. In another example, one of the buttons and / or controls 30 can be used to initiate emergency services.

[0060] Audio component 64 is operatively connected to vehicle bus 32 and audio bus 22. Audio component 64 receives analog information via audio bus 22, thereby presenting it as sound. It also receives digital information via vehicle bus 32. Audio component 64 provides AM and FM radio, CD, DVD, and multimedia functionality independent of infotainment center 46. Audio component 64 may include a speaker system, or may utilize speaker 28 via arbitration on vehicle bus 32 and / or audio bus 22. In various embodiments, audio component 64 includes radio system 65 (in some embodiments, radio system 65 also includes antenna 70, as well as amplifiers, speakers, etc.).

[0061] Furthermore, in various embodiments, the display component 67 provides a visual display to the driver 13 of the vehicle 12. In various embodiments, the display component 67 provides the driver 13 with visual displays, such as information about downloaded maps and / or related to automatic control of vehicle functions via the control system 11, for example, as described below. Figure 2-8 As described in a further, more detailed manner.

[0062] Vehicle sensors 72, connected to various sensor interface modules 44, are operatively connected to the vehicle bus 32. In various embodiments, vehicle sensors 72 may also include any number of different types of sensors, including, for example, wheel speed sensors, gyroscopes, accelerometers, magnetometers, emissions detection and / or control sensors, etc. Furthermore, in various embodiments, exemplary sensor interface modules 44 include powertrain control, braking control, steering control, climate control, and body control, to name just a few.

[0063] In various embodiments, the wireless operator system 14 can be any number of cellular phone systems, satellite-based wireless systems, and / or any other suitable wireless systems that, for example, transmit signals between vehicle hardware 20 and terrestrial network 16 (and / or, in some embodiments, communicate directly with vehicle 12 and / or remote server 18). According to some examples, the wireless operator system 14 may include and / or be coupled to one or more cellular towers 48, satellites 49, base stations, and / or mobile switching centers (MSCs) 50, as well as any other networking components required to connect the wireless operator system 14 to the terrestrial network 16. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, various cellular tower / base station / MSC arrangements are possible and can be used with the wireless operator system 14.

[0064] Land network 16 can be a conventional land-based telecommunications network that connects to one or more fixed-line telephones and connects wireless carrier system 14 to remote server 18. For example, land network 16 can include a Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) and / or an Internet Protocol (IP) network, as understood by those skilled in the art. Of course, one or more segments of land network 16 can be implemented in the form of a standard wired network, fiber optic or other optical network, cable network, other wireless network (such as a wireless local area network (WLAN)) or a network providing broadband wireless access (BWA), or any combination thereof.

[0065] The remote server 18 is designed to provide a variety of different system backend functions for the vehicle hardware 20, and, according to the example shown herein, typically includes one or more switches 52, a server 54, a database 56, an advisor 58, and various other telecommunications / computer equipment 60. These various call center components are appropriately interconnected via a network connection or bus 62 (such as the network connection or bus previously described in conjunction with the vehicle hardware 20). The switch 52 (which can be a private branch exchange (PBX) switch) routes incoming signals so that voice transmissions are typically sent to either the advisor 58 or the automated response system, and data transmissions are passed to a modem or other telecommunications / computer equipment 60 for demodulation and further signal processing.

[0066] Furthermore, in various embodiments, the information provider 85 and other vehicles 90 may provide the vehicle 12 with information about the geographical area in which the vehicle 12 can travel, including information about the cellular signal strength in such geographical area.

[0067] Modem or other telecommunications / computer equipment 60 may include encoders (as previously explained) and is capable of connecting to various devices, such as server 54 and database 56. For example, database 56 can be designed to store subscriber profile records, subscriber behavior patterns, or any other relevant subscriber information. Although the illustrated example has been described as being used in conjunction with a manned remote server 18, it will be understood that remote server 18 can be any central or remote facility (manned or unmanned, mobile or fixed).

[0068] Figure 2 This is a flowchart of process 200 according to an exemplary embodiment, which is used to download map information for an upcoming geographic area (including areas with little or no cellular reception). In various embodiments, according to an exemplary embodiment, process 200 can be combined with Figure 1The communication system 10 is used to implement this, which includes a vehicle 12 and its control system 11.

[0069] like Figure 2 As depicted, in an exemplary embodiment, process 200 begins at step 202. In various embodiments, process 200 begins when the driver enters vehicle 12 and / or begins operation of vehicle 12, and / or when current vehicle driving and / or ignition cycle begins.

[0070] In various embodiments, at step 204, driver input is received. In various embodiments, driver input is based on input from the driver (e.g., Figure 1 The inputs are obtained via one or more vehicle sensors 72, either from the driver 13 or directly to the vehicle 12 and / or via the driver's electronic device 15.

[0071] In various embodiments, the destination is set at step 206. In various embodiments, Figure 1 The processor 38 of the control system 11 sets the destination of the vehicle 12 based on the driver input in step 204.

[0072] Furthermore, in various embodiments, various additional inputs are obtained, including navigation system input (step 208), information service input (step 210), and additional driver input (step 212). In various embodiments, the navigation system input in step 208 includes inputs from... Figure 1 The GPS chipset / component 42 coordinates with a satellite-based network (e.g., Global Positioning System (GPS)) system, and information about the geographic area along possible routes to the destination. Furthermore, in various embodiments, the information service input for step 210 includes information from… Figure 1 Information about possible routes to the destination from one or more information providers 85 (e.g., online mapping services, etc.). Furthermore, in various embodiments, the additional driver input in step 212 includes any additional driver input, such as preferences for different types of routes to reach the destination.

[0073] In various embodiments, a route is selected (step 214). In various embodiments, Figure 1 The processor 38 of the control system 11 selects a route for the vehicle to reach the destination of step 206 based on the inputs of steps 208-216. In some embodiments, the additional driver input of step 212 reflects the driver's selection of possible routes displayed based on the navigation system input of step 208 and the information service input of step 210; however, this may vary in other embodiments.

[0074] refer to Figure 5An exemplary illustration of the selected route 520, as depicted on a simplified map, is provided. Figure 5 As shown, the selected route 520 travels from the initial (or current) position 521 to the destination 522.

[0075] Return to reference Figure 2 In various embodiments, at step 216, map data is obtained. In various embodiments, the map data contains geographic information about geographic areas approaching the route selected in step 214. In some embodiments, the map data is stored in... Figure 1 The map data is stored in the memory 40 of vehicle 12. In some other embodiments, the map data is... Figure 1 The remote server 18 provides the map data to the vehicle 12. In yet another embodiment, the map data is provided by... Figure 1 Information provider 85 provides information to vehicle 12.

[0076] Furthermore, in various embodiments, multiple tiles [0, ..., k] are selected to support the selected route (step 218). In various embodiments, Figure 1 The processor 38 of the control system 11 selects tiles from the map data in step 216 based on the route selected in step 214. In various embodiments, each tile represents a square or rectangular geographic area from the map data, wherein the vehicle 12 is configured to travel to that geographic area via the selected route in order to reach its destination.

[0077] refer to Figure 6 It provides options including the selected route 520. Figure 5 An exemplary illustration of a simplified map. (e.g.) Figure 6 The map depicts numerous map tiles 201-210, 301-310, 401-410, 501-510, and 601-610 that approximate the selected route 520. Furthermore, as... Figure 6 As depicted in the exemplary embodiment, the selected route 520 is configured to travel through the following map tiles: 301, 302, 402, 403, 503, 504, 505, 506, 507, 508, 509, 510 and 410.

[0078] Return to reference Figure 2 In various embodiments, a data access map is provided (step 220). In various embodiments, the data access map represents... Figure 6 The data access level (e.g., the level of cellular or other communication reception or availability) for each of the map tiles. In some embodiments, the data access map is stored in... Figure 1 The data is stored in the memory 40 of vehicle 12. In some other embodiments, the data access map is provided by... Figure 1The remote server 18 provides data to the vehicle 12. In yet another embodiment, the data access map is provided by... Figure 1 Information provider 85 provides data to vehicle 12. In some embodiments, the data access map incorporates data from other vehicles that are driving through or have already driven through some of the same geographical areas (e.g., Figure 1 The data access experience of other vehicles (90%).

[0079] refer to Figure 7 Provided Figure 5 and Figure 6 An exemplary illustration of a simplified map, which includes selected route 520 and map tiles, and also includes a data access map. (See attached image.) Figure 7 As depicted, map tiles are assigned one of the following data access indicators: (i) good data access (e.g., having sufficient cellular or other communication reception to meet vehicle download requirements), including map tiles 201-207, 301-307, 401-403, 501-503, 509 and 510, and 601-603, 609 and 610; (ii) limited data access (e.g., having limited cellular or other communication reception, making vehicle downloads difficult or slower than expected), including map tiles 208, 308, 404-410, 504, 508, 604 and 608; and (iii) no data access (e.g., no cellular or other communication reception available to support vehicle downloads), including map tiles 209, 210, 309, 310, 505-507 and 605-607.

[0080] Return to reference Figure 2 In various embodiments, the data access map is used to arrange the required map tiles for download by the vehicle (step 222). In various embodiments, such as Figure 2 As depicted, step 222 refers to a combination of steps (hereinafter described as individual steps 224-228, which in various embodiments are performed for each selected map tile), wherein map tiles representing the selected route are arranged based on data access maps for download in a sequential order. Furthermore, in various embodiments, the downloaded map tiles are used by the vehicle when performing automated control of one or more vehicle functions, such as control of the powertrain, steering, and / or braking.

[0081] In various embodiments, during step 224, for each specific map tile on the selected route, a determination is made regarding whether the map tile overlaps with a list of map tiles that have limited data access or no data access. In various embodiments, this determination is made by... Figure 1 The processor 38 is based on a data access map.

[0082] In various embodiments, if it is determined that a particular map tile does not have limited data access or no data access (i.e., according to the data access map, the particular tile has good data access), the process proceeds to step 226. During step 226, the particular map tile is queued for regular or standard download (e.g., when a vehicle enters or is about to enter the geographic area represented by the map tile), without any particular priority.

[0083] Conversely, if it is determined instead that a particular map tile does indeed have limited data access or no data access (according to the data access map), the process proceeds instead to step 228. During step 228, before the vehicle approaches the geographic area represented by that particular map tile (i.e., before the vehicle leaves, it is expected that the vehicle will lose its data access upon approaching that particular map tile), the particular map tile is queued into a priority sequence for priority download. In various embodiments, as part of steps 222-228, the processor (such as...) Figure 1 The processor 38) determines consecutive groups of map tiles corresponding to geographic areas with reduced cellular reception or no cellular reception, and determines a priority sequence for downloading the plurality of map tiles based on the consecutive groups of map tiles corresponding to geographic areas with reduced cellular reception or no cellular reception, such that a particular map tile is downloaded before any consecutive group of map tiles corresponding to geographic areas with reduced cellular reception or no cellular reception, wherein such consecutive groups of map tiles immediately precede the particular map tile.

[0084] In various embodiments, steps 224-228 are performed for each map tile on the selected route for the vehicle to reach its destination.

[0085] refer to Figure 8 , combined with the foundation Figure 5-7 An exemplary embodiment of a simplified map depiction illustrates the queuing of map tiles. Specifically, as... Figure 8 As illustrated in the exemplary embodiment, map tiles 301, 302, 402, 403, and 404 are downloaded by the vehicle in a standard or typical sequence as the vehicle approaches or enters these specific geographic areas, because data access is available for these map tiles. Furthermore, as... Figure 8As depicted in the exemplary embodiment, map tiles 504, 505, 506, 507, 508, and 509 are downloaded earlier due to specific prioritization. Specifically, in the exemplary embodiment, map tiles 504, 505, 506, 507, 508, and 509 are downloaded before the vehicle enters the geographic area represented by tile 504, because data access is limited or unavailable for each of tiles 504, 505, 506, 507, and 508. Next, in the exemplary embodiment, map tile 510 is downloaded in a standard or typical sequence as the vehicle approaches or enters the geographic area represented by map tile 510, because data access is available for map tile 510. Finally, in the exemplary embodiment, map tile 410 is downloaded before the vehicle enters the geographic area represented by map tile 410, because data access is limited or unavailable for tile 410. Therefore, in an exemplary embodiment, map tile 410 is downloaded while the vehicle is still located in one of the geographical areas represented by map tiles 509 and 510.

[0086] Return to reference Figure 2 In various embodiments, map tiles are downloaded (step 229). In various embodiments, map tiles are downloaded in the sequence determined in steps 224-228 as described above. In various embodiments, the map tiles are downloaded and stored in the memory 40 of vehicle 12 (step 230), and then implemented during vehicle operation (step 232). In various embodiments, geographic information from the map tiles is implemented in the provided automated control of one or more vehicle functions, such as automatic powertrain control, automatic steering control, and automatic braking control. For example, in some embodiments, Figure 1 The processor 38 utilizes information about the road's location, curvature, slope, and other geographic information, along with other geographic information, in the automatic control of these vehicle functions.

[0087] Furthermore, in various embodiments, the map database is updated (step 232). Specifically, in various embodiments, the database is updated based on information obtained and / or experienced by vehicle 12 during the passage process 200. Figure 5-8 The map database. In various embodiments, this includes updating... Figure 7 The data access map and associated data enable the data access map to be updated accordingly for subsequent use by [the relevant entity / organization]. Figure 1 Vehicle 12 and / or other vehicles 90 are used.

[0088] In various embodiments, the process then terminates (step 236).

[0089] refer to Figure 3A flowchart of a process 300 for determining a low cellular signal region according to an exemplary embodiment is provided. In various embodiments, according to an exemplary embodiment, process 300 can be used to construct... Figure 7 The data access map data, and the data map in Figure 2 The process was utilized in 200.

[0090] In an exemplary embodiment, process 300 begins at step 302. During step 302, in an exemplary embodiment, the transmission drop flag (t_Drop) is set to zero.

[0091] In various embodiments, telemetry signals are received (step 304). In various embodiments, when a vehicle (such as...) Figure 1 When vehicle 12 and / or one or more other vehicles 90 are set up and / or traveling within a specific geographic area, telemetry signals are received by the vehicle's cellular chipset / component 34. In various embodiments, this step is repeated for various geographic locations within the map (along with subsequent steps of process 300).

[0092] Furthermore, in various embodiments, a determination is made regarding whether the signal continuity of the telemetry signal is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold (step 306). In an exemplary embodiment, this predetermined threshold is equal to approximately two seconds (2 sec); however, this may vary in other embodiments. Moreover, in various embodiments, this determination is made by a processor (such as...). Figure 1 The processor 38) was used to make it.

[0093] In various embodiments, if the signal continuity is determined to be greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold, the process proceeds to step 308. During step 308, the drop flag (t_Drop) is decreased. In some embodiments, the drop flag (t_Drop) is decreased by one. In various embodiments, this is handled by a processor (such as...) Figure 1 The processor 38) executes the process. Furthermore, in various embodiments, process 300 then proceeds to step 312, which is further described below.

[0094] Conversely, in various embodiments, if it is determined that the signal continuity is less than a predetermined threshold, the process proceeds instead to step 310. During step 310, a drop flag (t_Drop) is incremented. In some embodiments, the drop flag (t_Drop) is incremented by one. In various embodiments, this is handled by a processor (such as...) Figure 1 The processor 38) executes the process. Moreover, in various embodiments, process 300 then proceeds to step 312, which is described directly below.

[0095] During step 312, a determination is made regarding whether the drop flag (t_Drop) is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold. In an exemplary embodiment, this predetermined threshold is equal to three (3); however, this may vary in other embodiments. Furthermore, in various embodiments, this determination is made by a processor (such as...) Figure 1 The processor 38) was used to make it.

[0096] In various embodiments, if the drop marker (t_Drop) is determined to be less than a predetermined threshold in step 312, the process proceeds to step 313. During step 313, process 300 waits for a predetermined amount of time before further iterations in steps 304 and 306. In one example, the predetermined amount of time for step 313 may be equal to approximately one second (1 sec); however, this may vary in other embodiments. In various embodiments, after waiting for the predetermined amount of time in step 313, process 300 then resumes iterating through steps 304 and 306 using the new, updated cellular signal. In various embodiments, steps 304-312 are repeated using the updated cellular signal until the drop marker (t_Drop) is determined to be greater than or equal to the predetermined threshold in step 312 during the iteration of step 312.

[0097] In various embodiments, once it is determined in the iteration of step 312 that the drop marker (t_Drop) is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold of step 312, process 300 then proceeds to steps 314 and 316. Specifically, during step 314, in an exemplary embodiment, the current map tile is provided or identified for the geographic area in which the vehicle is currently located. Moreover, during step 316, in an exemplary embodiment, the current map tile is marked as having limited data access. In various embodiments, this is handled by a processor (such as...) Figure 1 The processor 38) executes.

[0098] Furthermore, in various embodiments, intelligent learning is performed for the geographic region (step 318). Specifically, in various embodiments, the data access map is updated to reflect the information obtained during process 300. Specifically, in some embodiments, this includes updating during the iterations of steps 304-316. Figure 7 A data access map is provided to reflect which geographic areas are currently identified as having low or no data access. Furthermore, in various embodiments, an updated data access map is provided... Figure 1 Vehicle 12 and other vehicles 90.

[0099] Figure 4 It is also combined with the exemplary embodiments. Figure 2 The process 200 is implemented in flowchart 400. As described below, in various embodiments, flowchart 400 corresponds to... Figure 2The process is 200, but described in a slightly different way.

[0100] like Figure 4 As depicted in the exemplary embodiment, at position 402, from Figure 1 The navigation (e.g., GPS) system 42 obtains geographic data. In various embodiments, the geographic data 402 includes the current location of the vehicle 12. And in various embodiments, this corresponds to... Figure 2 Step 208.

[0101] Furthermore, in various embodiments, at point 406, a destination is selected. In various embodiments, this is in response to geographic data input by the driver. Figure 1 The driver 13 selects a destination. In various embodiments, this corresponds to... Figure 2 Steps 204 and 206.

[0102] Furthermore, in various embodiments, at point 408, the origin and destination are provided, and the origin and destination are used together with the origin and destination... Figure 1 Information provided by one or more information providers (e.g., map providers) 85 is used to perform route optimization. Furthermore, in various embodiments, at 412, route options are provided using the above information; at 413, the driver selects a route; and at 414, the selected route is provided, along with the current location at 416. In various embodiments, these correspond to... Figure 2 Steps 208-214.

[0103] Moreover, in various embodiments, from... Figure 1 The mapping system 21 provides map information through its geographic map tile database 402 (including tile map 417), and performs a search for map tiles needed to support the selected route at 418. Additionally, at 420, sequential tile identification is provided to support the route; at 422, current map tile identification is provided; and at 424, this current map tile identification is provided. In various embodiments, these correspond to... Figure 2 Steps 216-218.

[0104] Moreover, in various embodiments, at location 426, a provision is provided Figure 1 The mapping system 21 accesses data from map 404 (which has cellular strength information for each geographic region), performs a search for the communication signal strength of each map tile at 428, and provides signal strength information for each map tile on a selected route for sequential tile identification at 430. In various embodiments, these correspond to Figure 2 Step 220.

[0105] Furthermore, in various embodiments, the above data and information are combined and utilized. Figure 1The mapping system 21 has a tile download optimizer 406 that prioritizes the download of map tiles at 432, specifically selecting the download order of different map tiles based on their respective priorities (e.g., based on cellular availability before and near different map tiles). Specifically, in various embodiments, for each map tile, the download order is based on (i) a group or “chunk” of consecutive low-data-access or no-data-access tiles that are close to or preceding that map tile; (ii) the distance to each of these “chunks”; and (ii) the estimated time to each “chunk”. In various embodiments, based on this information, the order of tile identification to be downloaded is established. In various embodiments, at 434, the identification of tiles to be downloaded is provided in a prioritized sequence. In various embodiments, these correspond to… Figure 2 Steps 222-228. In various embodiments, as part of 434 (and as...) Figure 2 Part of steps 222-228), processor (such as Figure 1 The processor 38) determines a group of consecutive map tiles representing corresponding geographic areas with reduced cellular reception or no cellular reception, and determines a priority sequence for downloading the plurality of map tiles based on the group of consecutive map tiles representing corresponding geographic areas with reduced cellular reception or no cellular reception, such that a particular map tile is downloaded before any group of consecutive map tiles representing corresponding geographic areas with reduced cellular reception or no cellular reception, wherein the group of consecutive map tiles immediately precedes the particular map tile.

[0106] Moreover, in various embodiments, at position 436, utilizing Figure 1 The mapping system 21's tile download system 408 requests specific map tiles at appropriate times according to a defined sequence. In various embodiments, at 438, the requested tiles are downloaded for use by the vehicle. In various embodiments, the downloaded tiles are utilized in automatically controlling one or more vehicle functions, such as automatic powertrain control, automatic braking, and / or automatic steering. In various embodiments, these correspond to... Figure 2 Steps 229-232.

[0107] Furthermore, in various embodiments, at step 410, the current cellular signal strength value is obtained. In various embodiments, this is achieved by... Figure 1 Vehicle 12 and one or more other vehicles 90 perform the operation. In various embodiments, at 442, the data access map is updated using the latest information, and the updated data access map is provided to the remote server 18 and other vehicles 90. In various embodiments, these correspond to... Figure 2 Steps 234.

[0108] Therefore, in various embodiments, methods and systems are provided for downloading map tiles for use in an automated vehicle system. In various embodiments, data access (e.g., including cellular reception) is determined for a geographic area in which a selected route will be traveled, and the downloading of map tiles is prioritized based on this data access.

[0109] It will be understood that the systems and methods may differ from those depicted in the accompanying drawings and described herein. For example, in various embodiments, Figure 1 The communication system (including its vehicles and components) may differ from Figure 1 The communication systems described in and / or described herein. Similarly, it will be understood that, among other possible variations, Figure 2-4 The process may differ from that described herein and / or Figure 3 The processes and / or steps described herein may be performed simultaneously and / or in ways different from those described herein. Figure 2-4 The sequence of execution is as described in the text. Similarly, it will be understood that... Figure 5-8 The implementation method may vary in different embodiments.

[0110] Although at least one example has been presented in the foregoing detailed description, it should be understood that numerous variations exist. It should also be understood that the one or more examples are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of this disclosure in any way. Rather, the foregoing detailed description will provide those skilled in the art with a convenient roadmap for implementing one or more examples. It should be understood that various changes can be made to the function and arrangement of the elements without departing from the scope of the appended claims and their legal equivalents.

Claims

1. A method for downloading geographic information, comprising: The processor uses map data to identify multiple geographic areas where the vehicle will travel along a selected route to its destination; The processor uses the map data to identify multiple map tiles corresponding to the multiple geographical regions, such that each of the multiple map tiles corresponds to a different one of the multiple geographical regions; Obtain data access information for each of the multiple geographical regions; as well as The processor determines a priority sequence for downloading the multiple map tiles based on data access information from the multiple geographic regions. The acquisition of the data access information includes obtaining cellular reception information for each of the plurality of geographical regions; and The determination of the priority sequence includes determining, via the processor, a priority sequence for downloading the multiple map tiles based on cellular reception information of the multiple geographical regions; The processor determines a group of consecutive map tiles representing corresponding geographic areas with reduced or no cellular reception. The step of determining the priority sequence includes determining, via the processor, a priority sequence for downloading the plurality of map tiles based on a continuous set of map tiles representing corresponding geographic areas with reduced or no cellular reception.

2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: The plurality of map tiles are downloaded to the vehicle according to the priority order, via instructions provided by the processor.

3. The method according to claim 2, further comprising: The vehicle's movement is controlled using geographic information from the plurality of map tiles, based on further instructions provided by the processor.

4. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The step of determining the priority sequence further includes determining the priority sequence such that a specific map tile is downloaded before any consecutive group of map tiles representing a corresponding geographic area with reduced or no cellular reception, wherein the consecutive group of map tiles immediately precedes the specific map tile.

5. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: The determination of a specific geographic area with reduced or no cellular reception is based on signal continuity data obtained from one or more other vehicles.

6. The method of claim 5, further comprising: Determine additional signal continuity data from the vehicle; as well as The cellular reception information is updated using additional signal continuity data from the vehicle for use by the one or more other vehicles.

7. A system for downloading geographic information, comprising: Computer memory, which is configured to store map data; as well as A processor, which is connected to the computer memory and is configured to at least facilitate: The map data is used to identify multiple geographic areas where vehicles will travel along selected routes to their destinations; The map data is used to identify multiple map tiles corresponding to the multiple geographical regions, such that each of the multiple map tiles corresponds to a different one of the multiple geographical regions; Obtain data access information for each of the multiple geographical regions; as well as The priority order for downloading the multiple map tiles is determined based on data access information from the multiple geographical regions. The processor is further configured to at least facilitate: Obtain cellular reception information for each of the plurality of geographical regions; and A priority sequence for downloading the multiple map tiles is determined based on cellular reception information from the multiple geographical regions. The processor is further configured to at least facilitate: Identify contiguous groups of map tiles representing corresponding geographic areas with reduced or no cellular reception; and A priority sequence for downloading the multiple map tiles is determined based on consecutive groups of map tiles representing corresponding geographic areas with reduced or no cellular reception.

8. The system according to claim 7, wherein, The processor is also configured to at least promote: The plurality of map tiles are downloaded to the vehicle according to the priority order, via instructions provided by the processor.

9. The system according to claim 8, wherein, The processor is also configured to at least promote: The vehicle's movement is controlled using geographic information from the plurality of map tiles, based on further instructions provided by the processor.

10. The system according to claim 7, wherein, The processor is also configured to at least promote: The priority sequence is determined such that a specific map tile is downloaded before any consecutive group of map tiles representing a corresponding geographic area with reduced or no cellular reception, wherein the consecutive group of map tiles immediately precedes the specific map tile.

11. The system according to claim 7, wherein, The processor is also configured to at least promote: The determination of a specific geographic area with reduced or no cellular reception is based on signal continuity data obtained from one or more other vehicles.

12. The system according to claim 11, wherein, The processor is also configured to at least promote: Determine additional signal continuity data from the vehicle; and The cellular reception information is updated using additional signal continuity data from the vehicle for use by the one or more other vehicles.

13. A vehicle comprising: Body; Computer memory, which is configured to store map data; as well as A processor, which is connected to the computer memory and is configured to at least facilitate: The map data is used to identify multiple geographic areas where the vehicle will travel along a selected route to its destination; The map data is used to identify multiple map tiles corresponding to the multiple geographical regions, such that each of the multiple map tiles corresponds to a different one of the multiple geographical regions; Obtain data access information for each of the multiple geographical regions; as well as The priority order for downloading the multiple map tiles is determined based on data access information from the multiple geographical regions. The processor is further configured to at least facilitate: Obtain cellular reception information for each of the plurality of geographical regions; and A priority sequence for downloading the multiple map tiles is determined based on cellular reception information from the multiple geographical regions. The processor is further configured to at least facilitate: Identify contiguous groups of map tiles representing corresponding geographic areas with reduced or no cellular reception; and A priority sequence for downloading the multiple map tiles is determined based on consecutive groups of map tiles representing corresponding geographic areas with reduced or no cellular reception.

14. The vehicle according to claim 13, wherein, The processor is also configured to at least promote: The plurality of map tiles are downloaded to the vehicle according to the priority order, via instructions provided by the processor. as well as The vehicle's movement is controlled using geographic information from the plurality of map tiles, based on further instructions provided by the processor.

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