Interface for external vehicle control

Abstract

The present disclosure provides an interface for external vehicle control. An interface configured to be removably attached to an exterior surface of a vehicle is disclosed. The interface may include a sensor unit configured to receive user input associated with at least one of vehicle longitudinal movement and vehicle steering wheel rotation. The interface may also include an interface communication module communicatively coupled with the sensor unit. The interface communication module may be configured to communicatively couple with a vehicle communication module when the interface is attachable to a vehicle exterior surface. The interface communication module may also obtain user input from the sensor unit when the interface communication module may be coupled with the vehicle communication module, and transmit the user input to the vehicle communication module to cause the vehicle to move based on the user input.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an interface for external vehicle control, and more particularly to an interface configured to enable vehicle movement from outside the vehicle. Background Art

[0002] When the user may be performing an outdoor activity or task, the user may frequently move their vehicle within a relatively short distance. For example, when the user performs an activity, the user may frequently move the user's vehicle within a short distance (e.g., 5 to 10 meters).

[0003] It may be inconvenient for a user to frequently enter and move a vehicle and then exit the vehicle multiple times to perform activities, and thus the user may not like to frequently enter the vehicle when the user may be performing such activities. Therefore, it may be desirable to have a system that can enable a user to conveniently move a vehicle within a relatively short distance without repeatedly entering and exiting the vehicle. Summary of the invention

[0004] The present disclosure describes an interface that can be removably attached to an outer surface of a vehicle and can be used by a user to cause and control vehicle movement. For example, the interface can be removably attached to the top surface of an outer side wall of the vehicle, a vehicle cargo compartment, etc. The interface may include a sensor unit that can be configured to receive user input associated with longitudinal movement of the vehicle or rotation of the vehicle steering wheel and transmit the user input to the vehicle. The vehicle can receive user input and can cause vehicle movement based on the user input. For example, the vehicle can move forward or backward and / or rotate the vehicle steering wheel to the left or right based on the user input. In this way, the user can cause and control vehicle movement from the outside of the vehicle by using the interface, and can move the vehicle without entering the interior portion of the vehicle.

[0005] In some aspects, the sensor unit may include one or more pressure sensors that may receive user input associated with longitudinal movement of the vehicle and may cause the vehicle to move based on the pressure applied by the user on the pressure sensor. In an exemplary aspect, when the user applies a push pressure or a pull pressure on the pressure sensor, the pressure sensor may generate a current or a command signal based on the pressure applied by the user on the pressure sensor. The pressure sensor may transmit the generated current or command signal to the vehicle, which may cause the vehicle to move longitudinally and control the vehicle speed based on the generated current or command signal.

[0006] In an additional aspect, the sensor unit may include a rotational position sensing element that may be configured to receive a user input associated with a vehicle steering wheel rotation. The sensor unit may additionally or alternatively receive a user input associated with a vehicle steering wheel rotation based on the pressure sensor described above. In response to receiving the user input associated with a vehicle steering wheel rotation, the sensor unit may transmit the user input to the vehicle to cause the vehicle steering wheel to rotate based on the user input.

[0007] The interface can have any shape that can facilitate the user to conveniently provide input to the vehicle to cause and control the movement of the vehicle. In an exemplary aspect, the interface can be dome-shaped. In another exemplary aspect, the interface can be shaped as a cuboid with flat walls. In yet another exemplary aspect, the interface can be shaped as an elongated rod (e.g., like a joystick). In some aspects, the interface can be a high impedance joystick that can include a rigid compliance mechanism to achieve longitudinal movement of the vehicle or rotation of the vehicle steering wheel.

[0008] The present disclosure discloses an interface that can be removably attached to an exterior surface of a vehicle and that can enable a user to cause and control vehicle movement without having to enter an interior portion of the vehicle. Since the user is not required to enter the vehicle to cause the vehicle to move, the interface can facilitate the user to perform outdoor activities that may require frequent vehicle movement over short distances, such as farming, laying fences, etc. In addition, the interface is easily attached to an exterior surface of the vehicle, thereby enhancing ease of use for the user.

[0009] These and other advantages of the present disclosure are provided in detail herein. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Detailed description is set forth with reference to the accompanying drawings. The use of the same reference numerals may indicate similar or identical items. Various embodiments may utilize elements and / or components other than those shown in the accompanying drawings, and some elements and / or components may not be present in various embodiments. The elements and / or components in the accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. Throughout this disclosure, singular and plural terms may be used interchangeably, depending on the context.

[0011] Figure 1 An environment is depicted in which techniques and structures for providing the systems and methods disclosed herein may be implemented.

[0012] Figure 2 A pressure sensor associated with an external interface according to the present disclosure is depicted.

[0013] Figure 3 A first encapsulation member associated with an external interface according to the present disclosure is depicted.

[0014] Figure 4A second encapsulation member associated with an external interface according to the present disclosure is depicted.

[0015] Figure 5 A rotational position sensing element associated with an external interface according to the present disclosure is depicted.

[0016] Figure 6 Depicted is a top view of an external interface according to the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 7 Different orientations of the external interface associated with different vehicle movements in accordance with the present disclosure are depicted.

[0018] Figure 8 An elongated connector configured to connect an external interface to an exterior surface of a vehicle according to the present disclosure is depicted.

[0019] Fig. 9 A block diagram of a system for inducing and controlling movement of a vehicle according to the present disclosure is depicted.

[0020] Fig.10 A flow chart of a method for inducing and controlling movement of a vehicle according to the present disclosure is depicted. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] The present disclosure will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which example embodiments of the disclosure are shown and which are not intended to be limiting.

[0022] Figure 1 An example environment 100 is depicted in which techniques and structures for providing the systems and methods disclosed herein may be implemented. The environment 100 may include a vehicle 102 and a user 104. The user 104 may be performing outdoor activities in a farm 106 where the vehicle 102 may be located. For example, the user 104 may be sowing plants around the farm or may be laying a fence. The user 104 may be using the vehicle cargo box to store materials 108 that may be needed to perform outdoor activities, such as sand, plants, equipment / tools, fertilizer, etc. In some aspects, when the user 104 performs outdoor activities around the farm, the user 104 may be required to frequently move the vehicle 102 within a short distance (e.g., 5 to 10 meters).

[0023] The vehicle 102 may take the form of any passenger or commercial vehicle, such as, for example, a car, a work vehicle, a crossover vehicle, a truck, a minivan, etc. Furthermore, the vehicle 102 may be a manually driven vehicle and / or may be configured to operate in a fully autonomous (e.g., driverless) mode or a partially autonomous mode, and may include any powertrain, such as, for example, a gasoline engine, one or more electric actuation motors, a hybrid powertrain, etc.

[0024] Environment 100 may also include an external interface 110 (or interface 110) that may be configured to be removably attached to an exterior surface of the vehicle (or interior surface of the vehicle). In some aspects, the exterior surface of the vehicle may include one or more cavities or slots into which user 104 may attach or "insert" interface 110. As an example, the cavities or slots may be provided on the top surface of a vehicle sidewall, on the right and left edges of a vehicle bumper, on a vehicle cargo bed, etc. User 104 may attach or "insert" interface 110 via an elongated connector (in the form of a connector) that may be inserted into the cavity or slot. Figure 8 The interface 110 is removably attached to the cavity or slot (shown as connector 800 in FIG. 1 ). Figure 1 In the exemplary aspect depicted in FIG. 1 , the interface 110 is attached to a top surface of a vehicle side wall, but the present disclosure is not limited in this regard.

[0025] The interface 110 can be configured to cause and / or control vehicle movement based on user input. In some aspects, the use of the interface 110 may eliminate the need for the user 104 to enter and exit the vehicle 102 multiple times to frequently move the vehicle 102 short distances around the farm. Since the interface 110 can be configured to be removably attached to an exterior surface of the vehicle, the user 104 can conveniently cause and control vehicle movement from outside the vehicle 102 by using the interface 110.

[0026] The interface 110 may include a sensor unit 112, which may be configured to receive user input associated with vehicle longitudinal or linear movement (e.g., vehicle movement in a forward or backward direction) and / or vehicle steering wheel rotation angle and torque. The sensor unit 112 may include a plurality of units, including but not limited to one or more pressure or force sensors (in Figure 2 202), an encapsulating member configured to encapsulate the pressure sensor (in Figure 3 and Figure 4 302, 402), a rotational position sensing element (in Figure 5 102 as a rotational position sensing element 502), etc. In an exemplary aspect, the user 104 can "push" or "pull" the interface 110 / sensor unit 112 in a forward or rearward direction relative to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle to provide user input to the sensor unit 112 to move the vehicle 102 linearly forward or backward (i.e., to cause the vehicle to move longitudinally). In addition, the user 104 can axially rotate or laterally tilt the interface 110 / sensor unit 112 to the left or right side to provide user input to the sensor unit 112 to cause the vehicle steering wheel to rotate. In this way, the user 104 can cause and control vehicle movement without having to enter the vehicle 102 (or the interior portion of the vehicle).

[0027] In some aspects, the interface 110 may also include an interface communication module (in Fig. 9 902), which can communicate wirelessly or via a wired connection with a vehicle communication module associated with the vehicle 102 (in Fig. 9 In response to receiving the user input, the sensor unit 112 may transmit the user input (in the form of a current, a voltage change, a command signal, etc. generated by the sensor unit 112 based on the user input) to the interface communication module, which in turn may transmit the user input to the vehicle communication module. In response to obtaining the user input via the vehicle communication module, the vehicle 102 may cause the vehicle to move. For example, when the user 104 pushes the interface 110 in a forward direction relative to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle, the vehicle 102 may move forward. In some aspects, the vehicle speed in the forward direction may correspond to the pressure or force of the user 104 pushing the interface 110 forward. Similarly, when the user 104 axially rotates the interface 110 in a right direction, the vehicle steering wheel may also rotate in the same direction, resulting in lateral vehicle movement.

[0028] In additional aspects, the interface 110 may include a dedicated actuator 114 (or hard button) that may be disposed anywhere on a body associated with the interface 110. The actuator 114 may be configured to activate the sensor unit 112 and enable the sensor unit to receive user input when the actuator 114 may be actuated. For example, to enable the sensor unit 112 to receive user input, the user 104 may "press" the actuator 114. In response to the user 104 pressing / activating the actuator 114, the sensor unit 112 may receive user input associated with longitudinal movement of the vehicle and / or rotation of the vehicle steering wheel. In some aspects, the actuator 114 may ensure that the sensor unit 112 does not inadvertently receive user input when the user 104 does not intend the vehicle 102 to move, or process a push / pull / rotation action of the interface 110 caused by any other object (e.g., a tool, a broom, etc.) as a user input. The user 104 may activate the actuator 114 only when the user 104 intends to move the vehicle 102 , thereby reducing the probability of misreading of the sensor unit 112 .

[0029] Although the above description describes aspects in which the actuator 114 is a button disposed on the interface body, the present disclosure is not limited to such aspects. In alternative aspects, the actuator 114 may be a proximity sensor, a capacitive sensor, etc., which may be configured to determine the presence of a biological unit (e.g., a user's hand / palm) on the interface body. In response to such a determination, the actuator 114 may enable the sensor unit 112 to receive user input.

[0030] Although Figure 1The interface 110 is depicted as having a dome-shaped structure including a pressure sensor, but the present disclosure is not limited to such an interface structure. In other aspects (not shown), the interface 110 can be shaped as a rod, such as a joystick, which can be attached to the outer surface of the vehicle. In exemplary aspects, the joystick can be a high-impedance joystick that can include a rigid compliance mechanism. When the interface 110 is a high-impedance joystick, the user 104 can apply a forward push or pull backward (with a force greater than the force applied to the dome-shaped interface) to move the vehicle forward or backward. In addition, the user 104 can tilt the joystick to the left or right to cause the vehicle steering wheel to rotate. In addition, in this case, one or more parts of the joystick (e.g., the top part) can include a capacitive sensor that can act as the above-mentioned actuator 114. In addition, when the interface 110 is a high-impedance joystick, the higher force on the joystick can increase the vehicle speed (and vice versa). In exemplary aspects, when the interface 110 is a high-impedance joystick, the joystick can be attached anywhere on the vehicle cargo compartment.

[0031] Additional details associated with interface 110 are described below in conjunction with subsequent figures.

[0032] The vehicle 102 and interface 110 implement and / or perform operations as described herein in the present disclosure in accordance with the owner's manual and safety guidelines. Additionally, any actions taken by the user 104 based on recommendations or notifications provided by the vehicle 102 should comply with all rules specific to the location (e.g., federal, state, country, city, etc.) and operation of the vehicle 102. Recommendations or notifications as provided by the vehicle 102 should be considered suggestions and followed only in accordance with any rules specific to the location and operation of the vehicle 102.

[0033] Figure 2 A pressure sensor 202 is depicted associated with the interface 110 in accordance with the present disclosure. The pressure sensor 202 may be part of the sensor unit 112 described above. Figure 2 The interior portion of the sensor unit 112 is specifically depicted, and in addition to the pressure sensor 202, the sensor unit 112 may also include a support base 204 and a vertical pad 206 (or paddle) that may be disposed perpendicular to the support base 204. When the interface 110 may be disposed or attached to an exterior surface of a vehicle (e.g., on a vehicle sidewall), the support base 204 may be disposed parallel to the surface of the vehicle sidewall or the vehicle cargo bed, and the vertical pad 206 may be disposed perpendicular to the surface of the vehicle sidewall or the vehicle cargo bed. The support base 204 and the vertical pad 206 may be of any shape. Figure 2 In the exemplary aspect depicted in FIG. 2 , support base 204 is shown as circular and vertical pads 206 are shown as square / rectangular in shape, but the present disclosure is not limited to these shapes.

[0034] The pressure sensor 202 can be attached to the first surface 208 of the vertical pad 206. In some aspects, the second surface ( Figure 2 The second surface 208 may be opposite to the first surface 208 .

[0035] Examples of pressure sensor 202 include, but are not limited to, force sensitive resistors, piezoelectric sensors, inductive sensors, capacitive sensors, and the like. In some aspects, pressure sensor 202 may be configured to generate an electrical signal / current when user 104 may apply pressure on pressure sensor 202. The amount of current may depend on the pressure applied by user 104 on pressure sensor 202. For example, when user 104 applies higher pressure on pressure sensor 202, pressure sensor 202 may generate a larger amount of current, and vice versa. In this manner, the generated current may be based on user input provided by user 104 on pressure sensor 202 (or pressure applied by user 104 on pressure sensor 202). Pressure sensor 202 may transmit the generated current to an interface communication module via wired connection 210. In response to receiving the generated current, the interface communication module may transmit a command signal to the vehicle communication module based on the current or user input, which may cause the vehicle to move, as described above in conjunction with Figure 1 as described.

[0036] In some aspects, the sensor unit 112 may also include one or more rubber or plastic diaphragms 212 that may be disposed over the pressure sensor 202, such as Figure 2 In other words, the pressure sensor 202 can be disposed between the rubber or plastic diaphragm 212 and the first surface 208. The rubber or plastic diaphragm 212 can facilitate enhancing the response associated with the pressure sensor 202 and reducing misreadings / errors in current generation. Specifically, the rubber or plastic diaphragm 212 can facilitate focusing the user interaction (or user push) on the pressure sensor 202 rather than on other areas around the pressure sensor 202. In addition, as opposed to a single rubber or plastic diaphragm, using more than one rubber or plastic diaphragm (such as Figure 2 ) reduces the presence of any static stress that could cause a false reading of the pressure sensor 202.

[0037] The sensor unit 112 may also include a number of additional units / components that may enhance sensor unit operation and reduce the chance of false readings. Such additional units / components are described below.

[0038] Figure 3An exemplary first encapsulation member 302 associated with the interface 110 according to the present disclosure is depicted. The encapsulation member 302 can be part of the sensor unit 112 and can be configured to be placed over or attached to the support base 204. The encapsulation member 302 can be made of a flexible rubber or plastic. When the encapsulation member 302 can be placed over the support base 204, the encapsulation member 302 can cover or encapsulate the vertical pad 206 including the pressure sensor 202 and the rubber or plastic diaphragm 212, as shown in FIG. Figure 3 As shown in view 304.

[0039] exist Figure 3 , the encapsulating member 302 is dome-shaped with a first opening 306 at the encapsulating member top wall and a second opening 307 at the encapsulating member side wall. In some aspects, the encapsulating member 302 can be hollow. When the encapsulating member 302 can be placed over the support base 204, the top part / portion of the vertical pad 206 can protrude from the first opening 306, and the actuator 114 can protrude from the second opening 307, as shown in view 304. In some aspects, the size and shape of the first opening 306 can correspond to the size and shape of the vertical pad.

[0040] During operation, the user 104 may place the user's hand / palm on the encapsulating member 302 and apply a forward push in the direction 308 to move the vehicle 102 forward. In response to receiving the user's push in the direction 308, the inner wall of the first opening 306 may contact the rubber or plastic diaphragm 212, thereby transmitting the user's push to the rubber or plastic diaphragm 212. The rubber or plastic diaphragm 212 may then transmit the user's push to the pressure sensor 202, which generates an electric current based on the pressure applied by the user 104, as described above. In this manner, the user 104 may enable the pressure sensor 202 to generate an electric current (and thereby cause vehicle movement in the direction 308, i.e., forward vehicle movement) by applying a push to the encapsulating member 302. The user 104 may similarly pull the encapsulating member 302 from a direction opposite to the direction 308 to cause vehicle movement in a direction opposite to the direction 308 (i.e., reverse vehicle movement). In this manner, when the user 104 applies a push pressure or a pull pressure on the enclosing member 302 , the sensor unit 112 (or the pressure sensor 202 ) receives user input associated with longitudinal or linear vehicle movement (ie, forward or rearward vehicle movement).

[0041] In some aspects, the encapsulation member 302 can ensure that the pressure sensor 202 is protected from any unintentional pressure / force that may be applied to the pressure sensor 202 from any object (such as a broom, tool, etc.) that falls on the interface 110. In other words, the encapsulation member 302 can ensure that the pressure sensor 202 is not engaged when the user 104 is not engaging / interacting with the interface 110 or the sensor unit 112. The function of the encapsulation member 302 is to apply consistent and repetitive pressure on the pressure sensor 202 and only in the direction desired by the user 104 when the user 104 applies a pulling / pushing pressure or force on the encapsulation member 302.

[0042] Although Figure 3 A dome-shaped encapsulation member 302 is depicted, but the present disclosure is not limited to this encapsulation member shape. The encapsulation member 302 may have any other shape without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Figure 4 Examples of different encapsulation member shapes are depicted in and described below.

[0043] Figure 4 An exemplary second enclosure member 402 associated with the interface 110 according to the present disclosure is depicted. The enclosure member 402 can perform a similar function as the enclosure member 302; however, the enclosure member 402 can be shaped as a hollow cuboid with flat / linear walls. The enclosure member 402 can be placed above the support base 204 and can enclose the vertical pad 206, such as Figure 4 404 is shown in FIG. Figure 4 In the exemplary aspect depicted in FIG. 4 , the encapsulation member 402 may not include an opening for the actuator 114. In this case, the support base 204 may include an opening 406 through which the actuator 114 may protrude. The size and shape of the encapsulation member 402 may correspond to the size and shape of the vertical pad.

[0044] Since the functions of the encapsulation members 302 and 402 are similar to each other, the function of the encapsulation member 402 will not be described herein for the sake of simplicity and conciseness.

[0045] Figure 5 An exemplary rotational position sensing element 502 associated with the interface 110 according to the present disclosure is depicted. The rotational position sensing element 502 may be part of the sensor unit 112. In other words, the sensor unit 112 may include the rotational position sensing element 502 in addition to the pressure sensor 202, the support base 204, and the vertical pad 206.

[0046] As described above, the pressure sensor 202 can be configured to receive user input associated with longitudinal or linear movement of the vehicle. When the pressure sensor 202 receives user input associated with longitudinal / linear movement of the vehicle, the sensor unit 112 can be configured to receive user input associated with vehicle steering wheel rotation / torque via the rotational position sensing element 502, as described below.

[0047] In some aspects, in addition to the above elements, the interface 110 may also include a mounting base 504, which may be configured to connect to the interface 110 via an elongated connector (in Figure 8 The rotational position sensing element 502 may be disposed on the mounting base 504 such that the rotational position sensing element 502 may be rotated in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction relative to the mounting base 504, as indicated by the first bidirectional arrow 506. In addition, the support base 204 and the vertical pad 206 including the pressure sensor 202 may be placed / disposed on the mounting base 504 such that the rotational position sensing element 502 may be disposed between the mounting base 504 and the vertical pad 206 including the pressure sensor 202 (and the support base 204).

[0048] In some aspects, in the fully assembled state of the interface 110 (in Figure 5 ), when the user 104 rotates the sensor unit 112 or the encapsulating member 302 in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction (as shown in the second bidirectional arrow 510), the rotational position sensing element 502 may also rotate in the same direction. The rotation of the rotational position sensing element 502 may generate an electrical signal, and the sensor unit 112 may transmit the electrical signal to the interface communication module. The electrical signal may indicate or correspond to the rotation angle of the rotational position sensing element 502. The interface communication module may transmit the generated electrical signal as a command signal to the vehicle communication module, which in turn may cause the vehicle steering wheel to rotate based on the received command signal. In this way, the user 104 may cause the vehicle steering wheel to rotate by rotating the sensor unit 112 or the encapsulating member 302 in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction.

[0049] In some aspects, the rotational position sensing element 502 can be a spring-loaded rotational position sensing element. In other aspects, an arrangement of an alternative spring-loaded rotational position sensing element can be used to receive user input associated with vehicle steering wheel rotation. For example, in an exemplary aspect, one or more external springs (not shown) can be disposed between the mounting base 504 and the support base 204 or the vertical pad 206. In this case, the interface 110 can also include a rotational position sensor (e.g., a Hall effect sensor), an encoder, and a potentiometer to measure the rotation of the support base / vertical pad relative to the mounting base 504 (when the user 104 rotates the encapsulation member 302) and generate the above-mentioned electrical signal / command signal to cause the vehicle steering wheel to rotate.

[0050] In another aspect, one or more elastic switches may be disposed near the bottom portion of the first surface 208 and the second surface (which may be opposite to the first surface 208) of the vertical pad 206. In this case, when the user 104 rotates the encapsulation member 302, the inner wall of the one or more housing members forming the first opening 306 may contact or push against the elastic switch disposed on the first surface 208 or the second surface (depending on the rotation angle of the encapsulation member 302), thereby triggering the elastic switch. The triggering of the elastic switch may generate the above-mentioned electrical signal / command signal that may cause the vehicle steering wheel to rotate.

[0051] In alternative aspects, the sensor unit 112 may not include any spring-loaded rotational position sensing elements, external springs, and / or resilient switches to measure the support base / vertical pad rotation. In such cases, the sensor unit 112 may alternatively include more than one pressure / force sensor on each of the first surface 208 and the second surface of the vertical pad 206, which may facilitate receiving / determining user input associated with the vehicle steering wheel rotation, as described below in conjunction with Figure 6 and Figure 7 as described.

[0052] Figure 6 Depicts a top view of an interface 110 according to the present disclosure. Figure 6 When Figure 7 .exist Figure 6 and Figure 7 In the exemplary aspect depicted in FIG. 2 , instead of a single pressure sensor 202, the vertical pad 206 may include four pressure sensors 602a, 602b, 602c, and 602d. The pressure sensors 602a, 602b may be disposed on the first surface 208, and the pressure sensors 602c, 602d may be disposed on the second surface 604 of the vertical pad 206. Figure 6 As shown, the first surface 208 may be opposite the second surface 604 .

[0053] In addition, if Figure 6 As shown, the vertical pad 206 can be enclosed by an encapsulation member 402, which can include a first wall 606a, a second wall 606b, and side walls 606c, 606d. The first wall 606a can be parallel to the second wall 606b and perpendicular to the side walls 606c, 606d. In some aspects, there can be a predefined small distance or gap between the pressure sensors 602a-602d and the corresponding first wall 606a and second wall 606b.

[0054] During operation, when the user 104 desires to move the vehicle 102 forward along the longitudinal axis of the vehicle, the user 104 may provide a forward push to the first wall 606a so that the first wall 606a may contact and press the pressure sensors 602a, 602b simultaneously, as shown in FIG. Figure 7 As shown in view 702 of . In response to the first wall 606a contacting the pressure sensors 602a, 602b simultaneously, the sensor unit 112 can generate a first current / command signal and transmit the generated first current / command signal to the vehicle communication module (via the interface communication module) to cause the vehicle to move forward.

[0055] Similarly, when the user 104 desires to move the vehicle 102 backward in a reverse direction along the longitudinal axis of the vehicle, the user 104 may provide a push to the second wall 606b so that the second wall 606b may contact and press the pressure sensors 602c, 602d simultaneously, as shown in FIG. Figure 7 As shown in view 704 of . In response to the second wall 606b contacting the pressure sensors 602c, 602d simultaneously, the sensor unit 112 may generate a second current / command signal and transmit the generated second current / command signal to the vehicle communication module (via the interface communication module) to cause the vehicle to move in reverse.

[0056] When the user 104 desires to rotate the vehicle steering wheel in the right direction, the user 104 may provide a push to the left portion of the first wall 606a, thereby causing the first wall 606a to contact the pressure sensor 602a and the second wall 606b to contact the pressure sensor 602d. Figure 7 706. In response to this user action, the sensor unit 112 may generate a third current / command signal to move the vehicle steering wheel in the right direction.

[0057] Similarly, when the user 104 desires to rotate the vehicle steering wheel in a left direction, the user 104 may provide a push to the right portion of the first wall 606a, thereby causing the first wall 606a to contact the pressure sensor 602b and the second wall 606b to contact the pressure sensor 602c, as shown in FIG. Figure 7708. In response to this user action, the sensor unit 112 may generate a fourth current / command signal to move the vehicle steering wheel in a left direction.

[0058] When the user 104 desires to move the vehicle 102 forward and rotate the vehicle steering wheel in the right direction, the user 104 may provide a slight push to the left portion of the first wall 606a, thereby causing the first wall 606a to contact the pressure sensor 602a. Figure 7 710. In response to this user action, the sensor unit 112 may generate a fifth current / command signal to move the vehicle 102 forward and rotate the vehicle steering wheel in a right direction.

[0059] Similarly, when the user 104 desires to move the vehicle 102 backward in the reverse direction and rotate the vehicle steering wheel in the left direction, the user 104 may provide a slight push to the right portion of the second wall 606b, thereby causing the second wall 606b to contact the pressure sensor 602c, such as Figure 7 712. In response to this user action, the sensor unit 112 may generate a sixth current / command signal to move the vehicle 102 backward and rotate the vehicle steering wheel in a left direction.

[0060] although Figure 6 The interface 110 / sensor unit 112 is depicted as including the enclosing member 402 , but the same arrangement of pressure sensors 602 a - d and walls 606 a - d may operate equally effectively when the enclosing member 402 is replaced with the enclosing member 302 .

[0061] In other aspects, the vehicle 102 may implement a plurality of different processes to cause and control vehicle steering wheel movement based on input / signals obtained from the sensor unit 112. For example, the vehicle 102 may map a continuous rotation analog input of the interface 110 / sensor unit 112 scaled by an appropriate factor. In addition, when the user 104 centers the interface 110 / sensor unit 112, the vehicle 102 may also center the vehicle steering wheel. In additional aspects, the vehicle steering wheel may be rotated in the direction indicated by the interface 110 / sensor unit 112, wherein the rotation speed is proportional to the interface / sensor unit angle. In this case, vehicle steering wheel centering may not be provided / implemented by the vehicle 102. In other aspects, the vehicle steering wheel may be rotated in the direction indicated by the interface 110 / sensor unit at a constant rotation speed based on a signal provided by the sensor unit 112. In this case, the vehicle steering wheel may be self-centered at a rate proportional to the forward / reverse vehicle speed. In other words, when the vehicle 102 may be stationary, the vehicle steering wheel may not self-center, and the faster the vehicle 102 moves, the more aggressive / noticeable the self-centering may be.

[0062] Figure 8 An exemplary elongated connector 800 (or connector 800 ) configured to connect an interface 110 with an exterior surface of a vehicle according to the present disclosure is depicted. The connector 800 may include a first portion 802 and a second portion 804 .

[0063] In an exemplary aspect, the first portion 802 can be circular in shape and can include one or more connection structures 806a-d disposed on a top surface of the first portion. In some aspects, the connection structures 806a-d can be configured to couple or removably attach to a bottom surface of the mounting base 504 of the interface 110, thereby enabling the interface 110 to be removably attached to the first portion 802.

[0064] The first portion bottom surface can be configured to be attached to the top surface 808 of the second portion 804. In addition, the bottom part 810 of the second portion 804 can be configured to be inserted into a cavity or slot present on the outer surface of the vehicle, so that the interface 110 can be placed or removably attached with the outer surface of the vehicle. Specifically, the user 104 can attach the interface 110 to the first portion top surface and then attach the first portion 802 to the second portion 804 (or the first portion 802 and the second portion 804 can be pre-attached to each other). Thereafter, the user 104 can insert the bottom part 810 into the cavity or slot present on the outer surface of the vehicle to fix the interface 110 on the outer surface of the vehicle.

[0065] Figure 8 The connector shapes depicted in are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. Connector 800 may have any other shape without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, in some aspects, connector 800 may be replaced by or may additionally include one or more of a clamp, a suction cup, a magnet, a mounting panel, etc.

[0066] Although the above description describes aspects in which the interface 110 includes a pressure sensor 202 disposed on a vertical pad 206, the present disclosure is not limited to such aspects. In alternative aspects, the interface 110 may be an elongated structure or rod that may be inserted into a cavity or slot in an exterior surface of the vehicle without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In this case, the interface 110 may resemble a joystick (e.g., a high impedance joystick with a rigid compliance mechanism, as described above in conjunction with the present disclosure) that may be communicatively coupled to the vehicle 102. Figure 1The user 104 may cause and control vehicle movement based on forward, backward, and / or sideways movement of the interface 110 (e.g., joystick movement). Furthermore, in this case, the position of the interface 110 / joystick relative to its default position may enable the vehicle 102 to move quickly or slowly. For example, if the user 104 pushes the interface 110 forward so that the interface 110 is displaced 30 degrees from its default position, the vehicle 102 may move quickly compared to a position where the interface 110 may only be displaced 5 or 10 degrees.

[0067] Fig. 9 A block diagram of a system 900 for causing and controlling vehicle movement according to the present disclosure is depicted. The system 900 may include a vehicle 102 and an interface 110. The interface 110 may include a sensor unit 112 and an interface communication module 902 that may be communicatively coupled to the sensor unit 112 via a wired connection 210 (or wirelessly).

[0068] The vehicle 102 may include a vehicle communication module 904, a vehicle control unit (VCU) 906, a memory 908, and a processor 910. The vehicle communication module 904 may be configured to be communicatively coupled to an external system or device wirelessly or via a wired connection. For example, the vehicle communication module 904 may be configured to be communicatively coupled to the interface communication module 902 via a wired connection or a wireless network 912.

[0069] In some aspects, when the interface 110 can be attached to an exterior surface of the vehicle (e.g., via the connector 800), the interface communication module 902 can be communicatively coupled to the vehicle communication module 904 via a wired connection. On the other hand, when the interface communication module 902 can be configured to connect wirelessly with the vehicle communication module 904, the interface communication module 902 can be communicatively coupled to the vehicle communication module 904 via a wireless network 912 when the interface 110 can be disposed within a predefined distance of the exterior surface of the vehicle.

[0070] Wireless network 912 illustrates an exemplary communication infrastructure in which connected devices discussed in various embodiments of the present disclosure may communicate. Wireless network 912 may be and / or include the Internet, a private network, a public network, or other configurations operating using any one or more known communication protocols, such as, for example, Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol (TCP / IP), BLE, Wi-Fi based on the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) standard 802.11, ultra-wideband (UWB), and cellular technologies such as time division multiple access (TDMA), code division multiple access (CDMA), high-speed packet access (HSPDA), long-term evolution (LTE), global system for mobile communications (GSM), and fifth generation (5G), to name a few examples.

[0071] The VCU 906 may control aspects of vehicle operation based on instructions or command signals received from the processor 910. For example, the VCU 906 may cause the vehicle to move forward or backward / reverse, rotate the vehicle steering wheel, stop vehicle movement, etc. based on instructions or command signals received from the processor 910.

[0072] The processor 910 may be configured to communicate with one or more memory devices (eg, memory 908 and / or Fig. 9 The processor 910 may utilize the memory 908 to store programs and / or store data in the form of code to perform operations according to the present disclosure. The memory 908 may be a non-temporary computer-readable storage medium or memory that stores program codes that enable the processor 910 to perform operations according to the present disclosure. The memory 908 may include any one or combination of volatile memory elements (e.g., dynamic random access memory (DRAM), synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), etc.), and may include any one or more non-volatile memory elements (e.g., erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), flash memory, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), etc.).

[0073] In operation, when the interface 110 is attachable to an exterior surface of the vehicle or when the interface 110 can be disposed within a predefined distance of the exterior surface of the vehicle, the interface communication module 902 can be communicatively coupled with the vehicle communication module 904. In response to being communicatively coupled with the vehicle communication module 904, the interface communication module 902 can obtain user input associated with longitudinal movement of the vehicle or rotation of the vehicle steering wheel from the sensor unit 112. The interface communication module 902 can then transmit the user input (specifically, the current / command signal associated with the user input generated by the sensor unit 112) to the vehicle communication module 904 to cause the vehicle to move based on the user input.

[0074] The vehicle communication module 904 may receive user input from the interface communication module 902. In addition, the processor 910 may determine whether the vehicle communication module 904 may be communicatively coupled to the interface communication module 902. In response to determining that the vehicle communication module 904 may be communicatively coupled to the interface communication module 902, the processor 910 may obtain the user input from the vehicle communication module 904. The processor 910 may also cause the vehicle to move via the VCU 906 based on the user input. For example, the processor 910 may cause the vehicle 102 to move forward or backward and / or turn the vehicle steering wheel left or right based on the user input.

[0075] Fig.10 A flow chart of an exemplary method 1000 for inducing and controlling vehicle movement according to the present disclosure is depicted. Fig.10 The following process is exemplary and is not limited to the steps described below. Furthermore, alternative embodiments may include more or fewer steps than shown or described herein, and may include the steps in an order different from the order described in the following exemplary embodiments.

[0076] The method 1000 begins at step 1002. At step 1004, the method 1000 may include determining, by the processor 910, that the vehicle communication module 904 may be communicatively coupled to the interface communication module 902. At step 1006, the method 1000 may include obtaining, by the processor 910, a user input from the vehicle communication module 904 in response to determining that the vehicle communication module 904 may be communicatively coupled to the interface communication module 902. At step 1008, the method 1000 may include causing, by the processor 910, vehicle movement based on the user input.

[0077] Method 1000 may end at step 1010 .

[0078] In the above disclosure, reference has been made to the accompanying drawings that form a part of the above disclosure, which illustrate specific embodiments in which the present disclosure can be practiced. It should be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. References in this specification to "one embodiment," "embodiment," "example embodiment," etc. indicate that the described embodiment may include specific features, structures, or characteristics, but each embodiment may not necessarily include the specific features, structures, or characteristics. In addition, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. In addition, when features, structures, or characteristics are described in conjunction with an embodiment, whether or not explicitly described, those skilled in the art will recognize such features, structures, or characteristics in conjunction with other embodiments.

[0079] In addition, where appropriate, the functions described herein may be performed in one or more of the following: hardware, software, firmware, digital components, or analog components. For example, one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICs) may be programmed to perform one or more of the systems and programs described herein. Certain terms are used throughout the specification and claims to refer to specific system components. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, components may be referred to by different names. This document is not intended to distinguish between components that have different names but the same function.

[0080] It should also be understood that the word "example" as used herein is intended to be non-exclusive and non-limiting in nature. More specifically, the word "example" as used herein indicates one of several examples, and it should be understood that no undue emphasis or preference is placed on the specific example described.

[0081] Computer-readable media (also referred to as processor-readable media) include any non-transitory (e.g., tangible) media that participate in providing data (e.g., instructions) that can be read by a computer (e.g., by a processor of a computer). Such media may take many forms, including, but not limited to, non-volatile media and volatile media. A computing device may include computer-executable instructions, where the instructions may be executable by one or more computing devices (such as those listed above) and stored on a computer-readable medium.

[0082] With respect to the processes, systems, methods, heuristics, etc. described herein, it should be understood that although the steps of such processes, etc. have been described as occurring according to a certain ordered sequence, such processes may be practiced by performing the described steps in an order different from that described herein. It should also be understood that certain steps may be performed simultaneously, other steps may be added, or certain steps described herein may be omitted. In other words, the descriptions of the processes herein are provided for the purpose of illustrating various embodiments and should in no way be construed as limiting the claims.

[0083] Therefore, it should be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative rather than restrictive. Upon reading the above description, many embodiments and applications other than the examples provided will be apparent. The scope should not be determined with reference to the above description, but should be determined with reference to the entire scope of the appended claims and equivalents to which such claims are entitled. It is anticipated and expected that the technology discussed herein will develop in the future, and the disclosed systems and methods will be incorporated into such future embodiments. In short, it should be understood that the present application is capable of modification and change.

[0084] Unless explicitly indicated to the contrary in this article, all terms used in the claims are intended to be given their ordinary meanings as understood by the skilled person described herein. Specifically, unless the claim states an explicit limitation to the contrary, the use of singular articles such as "one", "the", "said" and the like should be interpreted as describing one or more of the indicated elements. Unless otherwise specifically stated or understood in other ways within the context when used, conditional language such as, in particular, "can", "may", "can" or "may" is generally intended to express that certain embodiments may include certain features, elements and / or steps, while other embodiments may not include certain features, elements and / or steps. Therefore, such conditional language is generally not intended to imply that one or more embodiments require each feature, element and / or step in any way.

[0085] According to an embodiment, the external interface further comprises a mounting base, and wherein the one or more pressure sensors are arranged on the mounting base.

[0086] According to an embodiment, the sensor unit further comprises a rotational position sensing element arranged between the mounting base and the one or more pressure sensors, and wherein the sensor unit receives the user input associated with the vehicle steering wheel rotation via the rotational position sensing element.

[0087] According to the present invention, a method for causing vehicle movement includes: determining, by a processor, that a vehicle communication module is coupled to an interface communication module associated with an external interface, wherein: the external interface is configured to be removably attached to an outer surface of the vehicle, and the vehicle communication module is configured to receive user input from the interface communication module when the vehicle communication module is coupled to the interface communication module, and the user input is associated with at least one of longitudinal movement of the vehicle and rotation of a steering wheel of the vehicle; in response to determining that the vehicle communication module is coupled to the interface communication module, obtaining, by the processor, the user input from the vehicle communication module; and causing the vehicle movement by the processor based on the user input.

[0088] In an aspect of the present invention, the external interface includes a sensor unit configured to receive the user input.

[0089] In one aspect of the invention, the sensor unit comprises one or more pressure sensors.

Claims

1. An interface, comprising: a sensor unit configured to receive a user input associated with at least one of longitudinal movement of the vehicle and rotation of a steering wheel of the vehicle; and an interface communication module, the interface communication module being communicatively coupled to the sensor unit, wherein the interface communication module is configured to: communicatively coupling with a vehicle communication module when the interface is attached to an exterior surface of the vehicle; obtaining the user input from the sensor unit when the interface communication module is coupled to the vehicle communication module; as well as The user input is transmitted to the vehicle communication module to cause vehicle movement based on the user input.

2. The interface of claim 1, wherein the sensor unit comprises one or more pressure sensors.

3. The interface of claim 2, further comprising a mounting base, wherein the one or more pressure sensors are disposed on the mounting base.

4. An interface as described in claim 3, wherein the sensor unit further includes a rotational position sensing element, which is arranged between the mounting base and the one or more pressure sensors, and wherein the sensor unit receives the user input associated with the rotation of the vehicle steering wheel via the rotational position sensing element.

5. The interface of claim 4, wherein the rotational position sensing element is a spring-loaded rotational position sensing element.

6. The interface of claim 2, wherein the one or more pressure sensors include at least one of a force sensitive resistor, a piezoelectric sensor, an inductive sensor, and a capacitive sensor.

7. The interface of claim 2, wherein the sensor unit further comprises a plurality of rubber or plastic diaphragms disposed over the one or more pressure sensors.

8. An interface as described in claim 7, wherein the sensor unit further includes an encapsulation member configured to encapsulate the one or more pressure sensors and the plurality of rubber or plastic diaphragms, wherein when a user applies a pushing pressure or a pulling pressure on the encapsulation member, the sensor unit receives the user input associated with the longitudinal movement of the vehicle.

9. The interface of claim 1, wherein the interface is removably attached to the vehicle exterior surface via an elongated connector configured to be inserted into a cavity provided on the vehicle exterior surface.

10. The interface of claim 1, further comprising an actuator, wherein the sensor unit receives the user input when the actuator is activated by a user.

11. The interface of claim 10, wherein the actuator is a capacitive sensor.

12. A vehicle comprising: A vehicle communication module configured to couple with an interface communication module associated with an external interface, wherein: The external interface is configured to be removably attached to an exterior surface of a vehicle, The vehicle communication module is configured to receive user input from the interface communication module when the vehicle communication module is coupled to the interface communication module, The user input is associated with at least one of longitudinal movement of the vehicle and rotation of a steering wheel of the vehicle; and a processor communicatively coupled to the vehicle communication module, wherein the processor is configured to: determining that the vehicle communication module is coupled to the interface communication module; In response to determining that the vehicle communication module is coupled to the interface communication module, obtaining the user input from the vehicle communication module; and The vehicle is caused to move based on the user input.

13. The vehicle of claim 12, wherein the external interface is removably attached to the vehicle exterior surface via an elongated connector configured to be inserted into a cavity provided on the vehicle exterior surface.

14. The vehicle of claim 12, wherein the external interface comprises a sensor unit configured to receive the user input.

15. The vehicle of claim 14, wherein the sensor unit comprises one or more pressure sensors.

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