Vehicle-mounted multi-screen linkage system, use method and vehicle

Abstract

The application discloses a kind of vehicle-mounted multi-screen linkage systems, including car system and permission setting module, car system includes several vehicle-mounted screens, and the vehicle-mounted screen of request linkage is activated, select one or more linked vehicle-mounted screen to link;Permission setting module is set to determine the permission level of vehicle-mounted screen.The vehicle-mounted multi-screen linkage system of the application, the permission level between multiple vehicle-mounted screens can be set, and is managed by permission partition, that is, the function of linkage sharing between screens is achieved, and the willingness of individual can be respected to the maximum extent.The operation between multiple screens can make the screen in cabin more flexible, and also increase the interaction between passengers in the car.The application also discloses a kind of vehicle-mounted multi-screen linkage system and a kind of vehicle.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of intelligent cockpit technology. Specifically, this invention relates to an in-vehicle multi-screen linkage system, its usage method, and the vehicle itself. Background Technology

[0002] In current in-vehicle smart cockpits, screens are evolving from single screens to multiple screens, with cars typically equipped with 4 to 12 screens. The interface content or displayed content between these screens only considers the migration from the main screen to secondary screens, between secondary screens, and from secondary screens to the main screen. This neglects not only driving safety and access control settings, but also user convenience.

[0003] With the rapid development of in-vehicle intelligent cockpit technology, the number and complexity of in-vehicle screens are constantly increasing. Current designs for in-vehicle screen content migration have some shortcomings, particularly regarding driving safety, access control, and user convenience. Current screen content migration designs primarily focus on content transfer between the main and secondary screens, but rarely consider the impact of this migration on driver attention. Content migration between secondary screens and from the secondary screen to the main screen can distract the driver, thereby increasing the risk of accidents.

[0004] Current in-vehicle screen content migration systems often lack granular access control. Drivers and passengers may not be able to flexibly control the display and migration of screen content according to their own needs.

[0005] Current screen content migration designs are often overly complex, making them difficult for users to quickly understand and operate. Content migration between secondary screens and from secondary screens to the main screen may lack intuitive interfaces and feedback mechanisms.

[0006] The goal is to provide an improved in-vehicle multi-screen linkage system. Summary of the Invention

[0007] This invention aims to at least solve one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, this invention provides an in-vehicle multi-screen linkage system, the purpose of which is to improve operational convenience and achieve access control by partition.

[0008] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the technical solution adopted by the present invention is: an in-vehicle multi-screen linkage system, including an in-vehicle system and a permission setting module. The in-vehicle system includes several in-vehicle screens. After the in-vehicle screen requesting linkage is activated, one or more in-vehicle screens to be linked are selected for linkage.

[0009] The permission setting module is configured to determine the permission level of the vehicle screen.

[0010] The permission setting module can be divided into permission level 1, permission level 2, permission level 3... permission level N from high to low. Each permission level is further divided into upper zone, middle zone and lower zone.

[0011] The screens include a main screen and a secondary screen, which are located on the same local area network. There is one main screen and at least one secondary screen.

[0012] The permission setting module sets the permission level of the main screen to the first level and enables the main screen to set the permission level of the secondary screen.

[0013] The in-vehicle multi-screen linkage system also includes a linkage setting module, which is configured to provide a selection of linkage methods. The linkage methods include forced linkage and free linkage. The free linkage method is further divided into inquiry linkage, direct linkage and rejection linkage.

[0014] The in-vehicle multi-screen linkage system also includes a linkage selection module. The linkage selection module is configured such that when one of the in-vehicle screens is activated and the in-vehicle screen is in a link request state, if the screen is swiped along the selected swipe direction, the system will link with the other in-vehicle screen pointed to by the swipe direction, with the screen as the origin.

[0015] The in-vehicle multi-screen linkage system also includes a multi-screen selection module, which is configured to control multiple in-vehicle screens to link together and select the linkage mode.

[0016] The linkage modes include synchronous linkage mode and cross-linkage mode.

[0017] The present invention also provides a method for using an in-vehicle multi-screen linkage system, comprising:

[0018] The permission setting module sets the permission level of the vehicle screen;

[0019] The in-vehicle screen has 8 swipe directions for screens with first-level permissions and 3 to 5 swipe directions for screens with other permissions.

[0020] When one of the in-vehicle screens is activated and in a link request state, swiping along the selected swipe direction on the in-vehicle screen will link to the other in-vehicle screen, with that screen as the origin.

[0021] The present invention also provides a vehicle including the aforementioned in-vehicle multi-screen linkage system.

[0022] The in-vehicle multi-screen linkage system of this invention allows multiple in-vehicle screens to interact and share information by setting permission levels and managing permissions in designated areas. This achieves screen sharing while respecting individual user preferences to the greatest extent possible. Operation of multiple screens makes screen use in the cabin more flexible and increases interaction among passengers. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Figure 1 and Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating permission level settings;

[0024] Figure 3 This is a diagram of the first-level permission partition;

[0025] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating each level of access control partitions;

[0026] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating the direction of screen swiping;

[0027] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating the interaction of four screens.

[0028] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating the interaction of 6 screens;

[0029] Figure 8 This is another diagram illustrating the linkage between the six screens;

[0030] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating multi-screen interaction across 6 screens;

[0031] Figure 10 and Figure 11 It is a method for determining successful interaction between screens;

[0032] The labels in the above diagrams are: 1. Main screen; 2. First secondary screen; 3. Second secondary screen; 4. Third secondary screen; 5. Fourth secondary screen; 6. Fifth secondary screen; 7. Sixth secondary screen; 8. Seventh secondary screen. Detailed Implementation

[0033] To facilitate understanding of the present invention, a more comprehensive description of the present invention will be given below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate several embodiments of the present invention. However, the present invention can be implemented in different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described in the text. Rather, these embodiments are provided to make the disclosure of the present invention more thorough and complete.

[0034] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly associated with those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains. The terminology used herein in the specification of this invention is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and is not intended to limit the invention. The term "and / or" as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0035] like Figures 1 to 9 As shown, this embodiment of the invention provides a vehicle-mounted multi-screen linkage system, including a vehicle system and a permission setting module. The vehicle system includes several vehicle screens, all of which are on the same local area network to ensure that they can communicate and transmit data. After the vehicle screen requesting linkage is activated, one or more vehicle screens to be linked are selected for linkage.

[0036] The in-vehicle screen is configured to identify at least one screen to be linked by recognizing the operator's swipe direction and / or swipe technique. Swipe direction refers to several preset operation directions on the in-vehicle screen, while swipe technique refers to the swipe path on the screen, including swipes along straight lines and swipes along curves. It can be a simple swipe along a straight line or a complex swipe along a curve. Swipes along straight lines are typically used to select basic linked operations or screens, while swipes along curves may be used to perform more complex linked tasks or select specific screen combinations. Different swipe techniques can correspond to different linked functions or screen selection logic, thus providing users with richer operation options.

[0037] Specifically, during the operation of the vehicle's infotainment system, when a certain in-vehicle screen (which we call the "request screen") is activated for a linked operation, the system enters the linked mode. In linked mode, the request screen provides an interface that allows the user to select one or more other in-vehicle screens for linked operation. The selection methods can be varied, including changing the direction and technique of swiping on the in-vehicle screen.

[0038] One innovation of this invention is that the in-vehicle screen can determine which screens need to be linked by recognizing the operator's swipe direction and swipe technique. For example, the operator can swipe left on the request screen, which the system may interpret as selecting the left-hand in-vehicle screen for linkage; or multiple screens can be selected through specific swipe techniques. This operation method improves the user experience: selecting linked screens through intuitive swipe operations makes operation simpler and more intuitive. It also offers good flexibility: users can select one or more screens for linkage as needed, meeting different usage scenarios and requirements. Furthermore, since all screens are on the same local area network, screens can be easily added or removed without affecting the overall functionality of the system.

[0039] The permission settings module is configured to determine the permission levels for the vehicle's screen. The permission levels, from highest to lowest, are divided into Level 1, Level 2, Level 3... Level N, where N is a positive integer. Each permission level is further divided into three sub-regions: upper, middle, and lower. These different regions further refine the differences in operational permissions based on the permission levels.

[0040] The in-vehicle multi-screen linkage system of this invention also includes a linkage setting module, which is configured to provide a selection of linkage methods. The linkage methods include a forced linkage method and a free linkage method. The free linkage method is further divided into inquiry linkage, direct linkage, and rejection linkage.

[0041] Forced linkage means that a vehicle screen with a higher permission level can forcibly link with other vehicle screens with relatively lower permission levels without needing the consent of the vehicle screen with the lower permission level.

[0042] "Inquiry-based linkage" means that in-vehicle screens at the same or relatively higher permission levels can freely link together. In other words, if one in-vehicle screen wants to link with other in-vehicle screens, it needs to ask for and obtain the consent of the other in-vehicle screens before it can link together. If they do not agree, the linking cannot be carried out.

[0043] Direct linkage means that in-vehicle screens with the same or relatively higher permission levels can freely link together. That is, if one in-vehicle screen wants to link with other in-vehicle screens with the same permission level, the other in-vehicle screens can choose to link directly. In other words, when they receive a link request asking for linkage, they will automatically agree to the linkage.

[0044] "Refuse linkage" means that when a vehicle screen at the same or relatively lower permission level receives a link request from another vehicle screen asking for linkage, it will default to refusing linkage and will not pop up a prompt interface to disturb the user of that screen.

[0045] In this embodiment of the invention, the screens include a main screen and secondary screens, which are located on the same local area network. One main screen and at least one secondary screen are provided. The main screen is the in-vehicle screen operated from the driver's seat. The secondary screens include an in-vehicle screen operated from the passenger seat, an in-vehicle screen operated from the rear seats (rear seat screens in 4-seater and 7-seater models), a roof projection screen, and external screens connected to the vehicle's infotainment system via signals.

[0046] The permission settings module sets the main screen's permission level to Level 1, the highest permission level in the entire in-vehicle screen system, and grants the main screen the ability to set permission levels for secondary screens. The main screen can set the permission level of other secondary screens to Level 1. Secondary screens with Level 1 permissions enjoy all the operational permissions of the main screen, but cannot set directional permissions for the main screen. This ensures the main screen's core position and operational independence within the system.

[0047] The interaction between high-level and low-level vehicle screens corresponds to forced interaction; the interaction between screens with upper-level permissions corresponds to direct interaction; the interaction between screens with middle-level permissions corresponds to interactive interaction upon request; and the interaction between screens with lower-level permissions corresponds to rejecting interaction. The selection of upper, middle, and lower-level permissions allows the main screen to operate all secondary screens, but each secondary screen can only select upper, middle, or lower-level permissions for itself. For each permission level, only the main screen and the secondary screens granted first-level permissions by the main screen can set permissions for other screens; the permission level of the main screen cannot be changed.

[0048] In this embodiment of the invention, by setting a permission setting module, the main screen can set and manage permission levels for all secondary screens. This includes setting different permission levels and selecting different area divisions. Each secondary screen can only select permissions for itself at the top, middle, and bottom zone levels. This ensures that secondary screens have a certain degree of autonomy and flexibility in permission settings.

[0049] It allows for restrictive permission settings: only the main screen and secondary screens granted first-level permissions by the main screen can configure permissions for other screens. This further strengthens the central role of the main screen in permission settings and management.

[0050] It enables home screen permission protection: the permission level of the home screen cannot be changed. This ensures the stability and security of the home screen within the entire in-vehicle screen system.

[0051] The permission settings module provides an efficient, secure, and flexible permission management mechanism for the in-vehicle screen system through detailed permission hierarchy, area division, and linkage settings. This helps improve the overall system's operational efficiency and user experience.

[0052] The methods for setting permissions and linkage methods are as follows:

[0053] The driver's screen (main screen) has the first-level permission by default in the vehicle system and has the ability to set permission levels for other secondary screens. It can also divide the secondary screens in each permission level into any one of the three zones (upper, middle, and lower) and lock them. Once locked, the secondary screens cannot customize the position of the upper, middle, or lower zone in their own permission level.

[0054] If the main screen sets the permission levels and defines the attitude zones for the secondary screens, and the main screen does not lock the attitude zones, other secondary screens can freely switch between the upper, middle, and lower attitude zones within their respective permission levels. (That is, a secondary screen can freely choose to be in the upper zone, meaning that when other screens with higher or equal permissions send it a link invitation, it can directly agree to the link request without asking the user on that screen; in the middle zone, it means that when other screens with higher or equal permissions send it a link invitation, it needs to ask the user on that screen and obtain the user's consent before establishing the link and responding to the link request; in the lower zone, it means that when other screens with higher or equal permissions send it a link invitation, it can directly reject the link request without asking the user on that screen.)

[0055] Through the aforementioned permission and linkage settings, the vehicle infotainment system can flexibly manage the permissions and linkage relationships between different screens. The main screen, as the core of the system, possesses the highest permissions and the ability to set permissions for other screens; while secondary screens can adjust their linkage response based on the main screen's settings and their own needs. This configuration method ensures both system stability and security while enhancing the user's operating experience and freedom.

[0056] The in-vehicle screen can be configured with up to eight swipe directions to meet the requirements of multi-screen interaction. For example... Figure 5 As shown, in this embodiment of the invention, the eight swipe directions include top, bottom, left, right, upper right, lower right, lower left, and upper left. To accurately distinguish each swipe direction, each swipe direction is represented as an angle relative to a certain reference direction (such as the rightward direction). For example, the rightward direction can be defined as 0 degrees, the top direction as 90 degrees, the bottom direction as -90 degrees (or 270 degrees), the leftward direction as 180 degrees, the right direction as 0 degrees, the upper right direction as 45 degrees, the lower right direction as -45 degrees (or 315 degrees), the lower left direction as 225 degrees, and the upper left direction as 135 degrees.

[0057] The in-vehicle multi-screen linkage system of this invention also includes a screen activation module. This module is configured to activate the in-vehicle screen to be linked, placing it in a state where it requests to establish a connection with other in-vehicle screens. In this embodiment, the screen to be linked can be activated through custom settings, such as voice recognition activation or multi-finger touchscreen activation.

[0058] A screen activation module is set up to activate the in-vehicle screens to be linked, ensuring they can receive and respond to linkage requests from other screens. The screen activation module manages the screen's state transition: once activated, the screen changes from standby or independent operation to a link request state, waiting to establish a linkage relationship with other screens. During operation, users can activate the in-vehicle screens via voice commands, which not only improves ease of operation but also allows users to operate the screen without distraction while driving or riding in the vehicle. Users can also activate the screen using specific multi-finger gestures. For example, touching and swiping the screen with two fingers simultaneously, or drawing a specific pattern on the screen with their fingers. This provides another intuitive and easy-to-learn activation method, suitable for users who prefer or are more accustomed to touch operation. Users can choose between voice recognition or multi-finger touch as the screen activation method according to their preferences or needs. The screen activation module enables the system to flexibly respond to different usage scenarios and user needs, improving system flexibility and enhancing the user experience.

[0059] The in-vehicle multi-screen linkage system of this invention also includes a linkage selection module. The linkage selection module is configured such that when one of the in-vehicle screens is activated and the in-vehicle screen is in a link request state, if the screen is swiped along the selected swiping direction, the screen will be used as the origin to link to another in-vehicle screen pointed to by the swiping direction.

[0060] A linkage selection module is set up to handle the linkage selection logic between in-vehicle screens. When one of the in-vehicle screens is activated and in a link request state, this module allows the user to select which in-vehicle screen to link with via a swipe gesture. The user can swipe along the selected direction on the activated in-vehicle screen, and the linkage selection module will recognize this gesture and initiate a linkage request from that screen as the origin to the other in-vehicle screen pointed to by the swipe direction.

[0061] In this embodiment of the invention, the vehicle screen has 8 swipe directions for vehicles with first-level permissions and 3 to 5 swipe directions for vehicles with other permissions.

[0062] In-vehicle screens with Level 1 access have more swipe direction options, a total of 8. This means that users can start from a Level 1 access screen and swipe in 8 different directions to select other in-vehicle screens that are linked to it. In-vehicle screens with other access permissions have fewer swipe direction options, with 3 to 5. These screens have more specific roles or functions in the system, so they do not require as many linked direction options.

[0063] During operation, on the activated in-vehicle screen, the user selects a suitable swipe direction based on the target in-vehicle screen they wish to link with. Then, a linking request is initiated. The user swipes along the selected direction, and the linking selection module recognizes this action and immediately initiates a linking request from that screen to the other in-vehicle screen pointed to by the swipe direction. The linking relationship is then established: upon receiving the request, if the requested in-vehicle screen agrees to link, a linking relationship is established with the requesting screen, and the linking operation begins.

[0064] In this embodiment of the invention, the user selects linked screens via swipe gestures, allowing for flexible adjustment of the linkage relationship as needed, thus improving operational flexibility. Screens with different permissions offer varying numbers of swipe direction options, satisfying both system functionalities and providing a personalized user experience, thereby enhancing the user experience. For screens with lower permissions or specific functions, reducing swipe direction selection can save and optimize system resources, contributing to improved overall system performance.

[0065] The in-vehicle multi-screen linkage system of this invention also includes a multi-screen selection module, which is configured to control multiple in-vehicle screens to link together and can select the linkage mode.

[0066] In this embodiment of the invention, the linkage modes include synchronous linkage mode and cross-linking mode. In synchronous linkage mode, multiple in-vehicle screens simultaneously display the same content or perform the same operation. For example, when the driver selects to play music on the main screen, other in-vehicle screens will also synchronously play the same music. In cross-linking mode, the user can designate one or more in-vehicle screens as linkage intermediaries to indirectly link with other in-vehicle screens. For example, the driver can select a navigation destination on the main screen, and then this information is transmitted to the rear-seat in-vehicle screens through another in-vehicle screen (such as the passenger-side screen) so that passengers can understand the trip information.

[0067] By configuring a multi-screen selection module, when a user needs to link multiple in-vehicle screens, or when linking multiple in-vehicle screens but doesn't want to link with just one screen, the system can determine whether to use a synchronous linking mode or a cross-screen linking mode through custom settings.

[0068] If the first in-vehicle screen linked through the multi-screen selection module has not finished its linkage operation, the first in-vehicle screen can be used as the new origin for the next linkage operation. Then, the next in-vehicle screen to be linked can be selected by swiping in a new direction through the linkage selection module.

[0069] In this embodiment of the invention, by setting a multi-screen selection module, users can select different linkage modes as needed, thereby improving the operational flexibility of the system. By providing multiple linkage modes, the system can meet the needs and preferences of different users, thereby enhancing the user experience. Crossing linkage modes allows users to indirectly link with other screens by specifying an intermediary screen, which helps optimize the path and efficiency of information transmission.

[0070] like Figure 5 As shown, through the screen activation module (such as long-pressing any position on the screen with multiple fingers to shrink the screen to activate), theoretically each in-vehicle screen has eight degrees of freedom for swiping (up, down, left, right, upper right, lower right, lower left, upper left). If there is a corresponding object screen in the swiping direction, the screen linkage request can be completed. Each screen can be set to retain a portion of the swiping freedom according to its actual position.

[0071] like Figure 6 As shown, the vehicle has four screens: a main screen, a first secondary screen, a second secondary screen, and a third secondary screen. The first secondary screen is for the front passenger, the second is the rear left secondary screen (located behind the driver's seat), and the third is the rear right secondary screen (located behind the front passenger seat). The main screen allows swiping in three directions: right, down, and down-right. The first secondary screen allows swiping in three directions: left, down, and down-left. The second secondary screen allows swiping in three directions: up, right, and up-right. The third secondary screen allows swiping in three directions: up, left, and up-left.

[0072] like Figure 7As shown, the vehicle has six screens: a main screen, a first secondary screen, a second secondary screen, a third secondary screen, a fourth secondary screen, and a fifth secondary screen. The first secondary screen is the passenger-side secondary screen; the second secondary screen is the center-left secondary screen (located behind the driver's seat); the third secondary screen is the center-right secondary screen (located behind the passenger-side secondary screen); the fourth secondary screen is the rear-left secondary screen (located behind the center-left secondary screen); and the fifth secondary screen is the rear-right secondary screen (located behind the center-right secondary screen). The main screen can be swiped in three directions: right, down, and down-right. The first secondary screen can be swiped in three directions: left, down, and down-left. The second secondary screen can be swiped in five directions: up, down, right, up-right, and down-right. The third secondary screen can be swiped in five directions: up, down, left, up-left, and down-left. The fourth secondary screen can be swiped in three directions: up, right, and up-right. The fifth secondary screen can be swiped in three directions: up, left, and up-left.

[0073] like Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, this embodiment demonstrates how to link multiple screens (≥2 screens) across 6 screens. It links the main screen to the third, fourth, and fifth sub-screens. Taking the linkage of the main screen, third sub-screen, fifth sub-screen, and fourth sub-screen as an example, (long press with multiple fingers) activates the main screen to enter the linkage state (screen shrinks). Starting from point A on the main screen, slide downwards and to the right to point B on the main screen. Point B corresponds to the third sub-screen (at this point, the available operations are: Operation 1: Slide in an arc, which means bypassing the third sub-screen; the third sub-screen acts as a springboard, and the main screen does not link with the third sub-screen; Operation 2: Slide in a straight line, which means the main screen links with the third sub-screen; the third sub-screen acts as a springboard and links with the third sub-screen). Continue sliding downwards from point B. Move to point C on the main screen. Point C corresponds to the fifth sub-screen. (At this point, you can choose from two options: Option 1: Swipe in an arc, which means you bypass the fifth sub-screen, which acts as a springboard, and the main screen does not interact with the fifth sub-screen; Option 2: Swipe in a straight line, which means the main screen interacts with the fifth sub-screen, which acts as a springboard and interacts with the fifth sub-screen.) Continue swiping from point C to the left to point D on the main screen. Point D corresponds to the fourth sub-screen. (After reaching the fourth sub-screen, there are no further actions. If the user leaves the screen, it means the multi-screen input ends, and the main screen interacts with the fourth sub-screen.) By choosing different arc or straight lines for the corresponding points on each screen, you can achieve precise screen selection and avoid misselection.

[0074] In this embodiment of the invention, the screens in the cockpit are identified, and within the scope of interconnection permissions, in-vehicle screens can be added or deleted, and personalized operations can be performed as needed.

[0075] By designing different permission levels, the permission level of the screen can be adjusted according to actual needs and the identity of the passenger in front of each screen, making the interconnection between screens more in line with the needs.

[0076] Each permission level is further divided into three permission areas: upper, middle, and lower, corresponding to direct linkage, prompt linkage, and deny linkage, respectively, to meet the user's current needs and make it more user-friendly.

[0077] The system uses swipe gestures to connect different screens. Straight lines and arcs correspond to connecting or not connecting, allowing users to freely choose which screens to connect in a multi-screen vehicle. This method also effectively prevents accidental screen connections when swiping in a multi-screen environment.

[0078] Secondly, the present invention also provides a method of using an in-vehicle multi-screen linkage system, comprising:

[0079] The permission settings module allows you to configure the permission level for the in-vehicle screen.

[0080] In the in-vehicle screen, there are 8 swipe directions for in-vehicle screens with first-level permissions, and 3 to 5 swipe directions for in-vehicle screens with other permissions.

[0081] In the vehicle screen, when one of the vehicle screens is activated and in a link request state, swiping along the selected swipe direction on the vehicle screen will link to the other vehicle screen pointed to by the swipe direction, with that vehicle screen as the origin.

[0082] Thirdly, the present invention also provides a vehicle including an in-vehicle multi-screen linkage system with the above-described structure. The specific structure and usage of this in-vehicle multi-screen linkage system can be found in [reference needed]. Figures 1 to 11 Further details will not be elaborated here. Since the vehicle of the present invention includes the in-vehicle multi-screen linkage system described in the above embodiments, it possesses all the advantages of the aforementioned in-vehicle multi-screen linkage system.

[0083] Example 1

[0084] Permission level settings:

[0085] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, in the initial state, only the main screen (corresponding to number 1 in the figure) can set the permission level. You can add a second level of permission by clicking the plus sign (+) below the first level of permission (the second level of permission is lower than the first level of permission).

[0086] Similarly, you can add a lower permission level by clicking the "+" sign below the current lowest permission level (permission levels are in descending order: Level 1 permission > Level 2 permission > Level 3 permission > ... > Level N permission). You can also delete a permission level by clicking the minus sign (-) to the right of each permission level (except for Level 1 permission).

[0087] The vehicle infotainment system detects the in-vehicle screens that have established connections with it. Initially, the system displays the screens on the right side of the settings interface, each labeled with a serial number. Users can customize the screen corresponding to each serial number. As more in-vehicle screens connect to the system, users can add new serial numbers using the plus sign (+) below the screen serial number, facilitating easy matching. The number of new serial numbers is limited; the maximum number of serial numbers for an in-vehicle screen is the total number of screens in the system. If a user no longer wants a screen to be in the sequence, they can delete its corresponding serial number.

[0088] You can drag the vehicle screen number into the corresponding permission level and permission area (the three attitude areas: upper area, middle area, and lower area).

[0089] Level 1 permissions are the highest level of permissions. Initially, only the main screen has this permission. When the main screen drags the first and seventh sub-screens into the Level 1 permissions, the first and seventh sub-screens can exercise the same operating permissions as the main screen (except that they cannot change any settings for operating the main screen).

[0090] A high-privilege in-vehicle screen can forcibly link with other relatively low-privilege screens without obtaining the consent of the low-privilege screens, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the first sub-screen can be forcibly linked with the second sub-screen, the seventh sub-screen, and the fifth sub-screen, and the second sub-screen can be forcibly linked with the fifth sub-screen.

[0091] When dealing with screens at the same or relatively higher permission levels, a free linkage method is adopted. That is, it depends on which of the three attitude zones (upper, middle, and lower) the screen to be linked is located in. If it is in the upper zone, it means that the screen can be linked directly without asking. If it is in the middle zone, it means that the user of the screen needs to be asked. If the user agrees, the linkage can be carried out; if the user disagrees, the linkage is rejected. If it is in the lower zone, it means that the user of the screen rejects linkage requests from other screens.

[0092] like Figure 3 As shown, each level of permission is divided into upper, middle and lower zones (upper zone = direct linkage, middle zone = request linkage, lower zone = refuse linkage).

[0093] like Figure 2The main screen is located in the upper area of ​​the first level of permissions. As an object screen, the main screen can be directly linked by any other screen.

[0094] The first screen is located in the middle area of ​​the first level of permission. As the object screen, the first screen can be asked to link with any other screen. If the first screen agrees, the link is established. If the first screen disagrees, the link is refused. Because the first screen is located in the first level of permission (highest permission), no screen with a higher permission level can force the link to be linked with the first screen.

[0095] The seventh sub-screen is located in the lower area of ​​the first level of permissions. The seventh sub-screen rejects any screen linkage requests because the seventh sub-screen is located in the first level of permissions (highest permissions), and no screen with a higher permission level can force linkage to the first sub-screen.

[0096] The third sub-screen is located in the upper area of ​​the second level of permissions. As an object screen, the third sub-screen can be directly linked by any other screen.

[0097] The second screen is located in the middle area of ​​the second level of permissions. As the target screen, the second screen can be asked to link with any other screen. If the second screen agrees, the link is established. If the second screen disagrees, the link is refused. However, the second screen cannot refuse the forced link with the main, first, or seventh screen.

[0098] The seventh sub-screen is located in the lower area of ​​the second level of permissions. The seventh sub-screen indicates that it will refuse any screen linkage request, but it cannot refuse the forced linkage of the first and sixth sub-screens.

[0099] Summary: 1. The main screen has the highest level of permissions and its permissions cannot be changed by other secondary screens;

[0100] 2. Screens with higher-level permissions have the right to force interaction with screens with lower-level permissions;

[0101] 3. Screens within the first level of permissions have the permission to operate on other sub-screens. That is, sub-screens within the first level of permissions are screens that have been granted the same rights by the main screen and can exercise all the rights of the main screen on other sub-screens (except for changing the permissions of the main screen, and the permissions of the main screen are higher than any sub-screen, that is, the main screen can grant a sub-screen the right of first-level permissions and can also revoke the rights of the sub-screen at any time).

[0102] 4. The screen uses a free linkage method between users with the same level of permissions and between users with lower-level permissions and users with higher-level permissions;

[0103] 5. The vehicle-connected screens detected by the vehicle system can be mapped to the screen number in the permission settings interface through the screen settings module. By dragging the screen number into a certain level of permission and the permission area, the screen's permissions can be set and adjusted.

[0104] Example 2

[0105] Adjusting and locking permission levels and permission zones:

[0106] In the permission settings interface, drag the corresponding number of each screen into the permission area within the corresponding permission level to complete the adjustment of screen permissions.

[0107] like Figure 4 As shown, there is a lock icon to the left of each permission level. If the lock icon to the left of a permission level is unlocked, such as... Figure 4 The second level of permissions, indicated by the lock icon on the left, means the second, third, and seventh sub-screens are within the second level of permissions. These three sub-screens can customize their own screen number's permission area within the second level of permissions. Figure 2 and Figure 4 The change means that, in the unlocked state, the seventh sub-screen, located in the second-level permission area, can be moved to the upper area; for example... Figure 4 In the third level of permissions, the lock icon on the left is in a locked state. Therefore, the fourth and fifth sub-screens are within the third level of permissions, and neither of these screens can customize or adjust the permission area of ​​their own screen number within the third level of permissions.

[0108] Summary: 1. Only screens with first-level permissions have the authority to access the permission settings of other sub-screens;

[0109] 2. Within each unlocked permission level, the screen can customize and select its own permission area within that permission level. Within each locked permission level, the screen cannot adjust or select the permission area.

[0110] Example 3

[0111] Screen linkage selection method:

[0112] like Figure 5 As shown, through the screen activation module (such as long-pressing any position on the screen with multiple fingers to shrink the screen to activate), theoretically each in-vehicle screen has eight degrees of freedom for swiping (up, down, left, right, upper right, lower right, lower left, upper left). If there is a corresponding object screen in the swiping direction, the screen linkage request can be completed. Each screen can be set to retain a portion of the swiping freedom according to its actual position.

[0113] like Figure 6As shown, the vehicle has four screens: a main screen, a first secondary screen, a second secondary screen, and a third secondary screen. The first secondary screen is for the front passenger, the second is the rear left secondary screen (located behind the driver's seat), and the third is the rear right secondary screen (located behind the front passenger seat). The main screen allows swiping in three directions: right, down, and down-right. The first secondary screen allows swiping in three directions: left, down, and down-left. The second secondary screen allows swiping in three directions: up, right, and up-right. The third secondary screen allows swiping in three directions: up, left, and up-left.

[0114] like Figure 7 As shown, the vehicle has six screens: a main screen, a first secondary screen, a second secondary screen, a third secondary screen, a fourth secondary screen, and a fifth secondary screen. The first secondary screen is for the front passenger, the second is the center left secondary screen (located behind the driver's seat), the third is the center right secondary screen (located behind the front passenger seat), the fourth is the rear left secondary screen (located behind the center left secondary screen), and the fifth is the rear right secondary screen (located behind the center right secondary screen). The main screen can be swiped in three directions: right, down, and down right. The first secondary screen can be swiped in three directions: left, down, and down left. The second secondary screen can be swiped in five directions: up, down, right, up right, and down right. The third secondary screen can be swiped in five directions: up, down, left, up left, and down left. The fourth secondary screen can be swiped in three directions: up, right, and up right. The fifth secondary screen can be swiped in three directions: up, left, and up left.

[0115] like Figure 8 and Figure 9As shown, this embodiment demonstrates how to link multiple screens (≥2 screens) across 6 screens. It links the main screen to the third, fourth, and fifth sub-screens. Taking the linkage of the main screen, third sub-screen, fifth sub-screen, and fourth sub-screen as an example, (long press with multiple fingers) activates the main screen to enter the linkage state (screen shrinks). Starting from point A on the main screen, slide downwards and to the right to point B on the main screen. Point B corresponds to the third sub-screen (at this point, the available operations are: Operation 1: Slide in an arc, which means bypassing the third sub-screen; the third sub-screen acts as a springboard, and the main screen does not link with the third sub-screen; Operation 2: Slide in a straight line, which means the main screen links with the third sub-screen; the third sub-screen acts as a springboard and links with the third sub-screen). Continue sliding downwards from point B. Move to point C on the main screen. Point C corresponds to the fifth sub-screen. (At this point, you can choose from two options: Option 1: Swipe in an arc, which means you bypass the fifth sub-screen, which acts as a springboard, and the main screen does not interact with the fifth sub-screen; Option 2: Swipe in a straight line, which means the main screen interacts with the fifth sub-screen, which acts as a springboard and interacts with the fifth sub-screen.) Continue swiping from point C to the left to point D on the main screen. Point D corresponds to the fourth sub-screen. (After reaching the fourth sub-screen, there are no further actions. If the user leaves the screen, it means the multi-screen input ends, and the main screen interacts with the fourth sub-screen.) By choosing different arc or straight lines for the corresponding points on each screen, you can achieve precise screen selection and avoid misselection.

[0116] Example 4

[0117] The secondary screen sends a notification to the main screen.

[0118] Use case: When the driver is driving in complex road conditions and needs to perform navigation operations without being distracted, they can use a secondary screen to perform navigation operations on their own screen and then link their own screen to the main screen, allowing the driver to access the navigation interface without having to perform the operations themselves.

[0119] Operating instructions:

[0120] The first step is to set permissions and linkage methods. If the main screen is located in the upper or middle area of ​​the first level of permissions, it is in an open state for linkage with other screens and can be linked by other secondary screens directly or after being asked. If the main screen is located in the lower area of ​​the first level of permissions, it means that any linkage between the main screen and other screens is rejected.

[0121] The second step is the linking operation. Other secondary screens perform navigation operations on their own screens. After the start navigation interface is set up, the interface on the secondary screen is linked to the main screen through the linking operation module. In this way, the navigation interface on the secondary screen can be directly displayed on the main screen.

[0122] With this operation, when the driver needs to control and adjust the main screen interface, they can use other secondary screens for assistance. It is not necessary for someone to be in the front passenger seat. Any passenger in any position can operate the interface content through the screen connected to the vehicle system, as long as there is a screen in front of them. Then, the content of the screen is directly projected onto the main screen, making driving safer.

[0123] Example 5

[0124] There are two scenarios when the main screen sends a notification to the secondary screen, as explained below.

[0125] The first type is where the main screen has a higher permission level than the secondary screen. Regardless of whether the secondary screen is located in the top, middle, or bottom area, the main screen can forcibly link with the secondary screen without the secondary screen's consent.

[0126] The second scenario involves the main screen and the secondary screen having the same permission level. When the secondary screen is located in the upper area, the main screen can directly link with it without being prompted. When the secondary screen is located in the middle area, the main screen needs to ask the secondary screen for permission when making a link request. If the secondary screen agrees, the main screen can successfully link with it; if the secondary screen refuses, the main screen cannot link with it. When the secondary screen is located in the lower area, the main screen will directly refuse a link request and will be unable to link with it.

[0127] Example 6

[0128] There are two scenarios when a secondary screen sends a notification to another secondary screen, as explained below.

[0129] The first type has a higher permission level than the second screen. Regardless of whether the second screen is located in the top, middle, or bottom area, the first screen can forcibly link with the second screen without needing the second screen's consent.

[0130] The second scenario involves the first and second sub-screens having the same permission levels. When the second sub-screen is located in the upper area, the first sub-screen can directly link with it without being prompted. When the second sub-screen is located in the middle area, the first sub-screen needs to ask for the second sub-screen's consent before making a link request. If the second sub-screen agrees, the first sub-screen can successfully link with it; if the second sub-screen refuses, the first sub-screen cannot link with it. When the second sub-screen is located in the lower area, the first sub-screen's link request will be directly rejected, preventing it from linking with the second sub-screen.

[0131] Example 7

[0132] like Figure 10 and Figure 11 The method shown illustrates how to determine whether in-vehicle screens can be successfully linked.

[0133] The first step is to identify the activated in-vehicle screen, which includes the in-vehicle screen that requests linkage and the in-vehicle screen that receives linkage (activated by touching the screen with a finger or by voice interaction).

[0134] The second step is to determine the permission level. The vehicle screen that requests the linkage and the vehicle screen that receives the linkage are identified and their permission levels are compared and determined. There are three possible results for the permission comparison between the vehicle screen requesting linkage and the vehicle screen receiving linkage: (high: low, level: level, low: high).

[0135] The third step is to determine the permission area. The system identifies the permission area location of the requesting and receiving in-vehicle screens within their respective permission levels.

[0136] The fourth step involves the processor determining whether the linkage between the vehicle screens is successful, based on the differences in permission levels and permission areas between the requesting and receiving vehicle screens.

[0137] The present invention has been described above by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the specific implementation of the present invention is not limited to the above-described manner. Any non-substantial improvements made using the inventive concept and technical solution of the present invention, or the direct application of the inventive concept and technical solution of the present invention to other occasions without modification, are all within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A vehicle-mounted multi-screen linkage system, characterized in that, It includes the vehicle infotainment system and permission settings module. The vehicle infotainment system includes several in-vehicle screens. After the requested in-vehicle screen is activated, one or more in-vehicle screens can be selected for linkage. The permission setting module is configured to determine the permission level of the vehicle screen; The permission setting module sets the permission levels from high to low as follows: Level 1 permission, Level 2 permission, Level 3 permission... Level N permission. Each permission level is further divided into upper, middle and lower zones. The in-vehicle multi-screen linkage system also includes a linkage setting module, which is configured to provide a selection of linkage methods. The linkage methods include forced linkage and free linkage. The free linkage method is further divided into inquiry linkage, direct linkage and rejection linkage. The linkage between in-vehicle screens with higher-level permissions and those with lower-level permissions is forced linkage; the linkage between in-vehicle screens with upper-level permissions is direct linkage; the linkage between in-vehicle screens with middle-level permissions is interactive linkage; and the linkage between in-vehicle screens with lower-level permissions is denial linkage.

2. The in-vehicle multi-screen linkage system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The aforementioned vehicle-mounted screens include a main screen and a secondary screen, which are located on the same local area network. There is one main screen and at least one secondary screen.

3. The in-vehicle multi-screen linkage system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The permission setting module sets the permission level of the main screen to the first level and enables the main screen to set the permission level of the secondary screen.

4. The in-vehicle multi-screen linkage system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, It also includes a linkage selection module, which is configured such that when one of the vehicle screens is activated and the vehicle screen is in a link request state, if the vehicle screen is swiped along the selected swipe direction, the linkage will be initiated with the vehicle screen as the origin to the other vehicle screen pointed to by the swipe direction.

5. The in-vehicle multi-screen linkage system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, It also includes a multi-screen selection module, which is configured to control multiple in-vehicle screens to work together and select the working mode.

6. The in-vehicle multi-screen linkage system according to claim 5, characterized in that, The linkage modes include synchronous linkage mode and cross-linkage mode.

7. The method of using the in-vehicle multi-screen linkage system as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, include: The permission setting module sets the permission level of the vehicle screen; The in-vehicle screen has 8 swipe directions for screens with first-level permissions and 3 to 5 swipe directions for screens with other permissions. When one of the in-vehicle screens is activated and in a link request state, swiping along the selected swipe direction on the in-vehicle screen will link to the other in-vehicle screen, with that screen as the origin.

8. A vehicle, characterized in that, Including the in-vehicle multi-screen linkage system as described in any one of claims 1 to 6.

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