Vehicle smart key system and method

Abstract

The invention relates to a vehicle smart key system and method. Methods, systems, and apparatus for a vehicle pre-conditioning system. A vehicle pre-conditioning system includes a vehicle and an associated wireless key for the vehicle. The wireless key is configured to measure biometric data (e.g., heart rate, temperature, etc.) of a user of the wireless key to determine a physiological state of the user. The wireless key may send a signal to the vehicle that includes biometric data of the user. The vehicle may receive the signal and pre-condition the vehicle based on the signal. The pre-conditioning may include adjusting climate control settings, lighting settings, and / or audio settings, and other settings. The wireless key may send location data for the wireless key, which may be used to pre-adjust the vehicle (e.g., to detect that the wireless key is approaching or to determine a current activity of the user).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to vehicle smart key systems and methods, and particularly, but not exclusively, to a key fob that utilizes user biometric data to control vehicle systems. Background Art

[0002] Typically, vehicles utilize remote keyless entry systems to enable a user (e.g., the driver) to unlock and / or open the doors without inserting a key into the lock. Some remote keyless entry systems include a key fob carried by the user. The key fob has a wireless sensor that communicates with the vehicle to initiate unlocking and / or opening of the doors. Other remote keyless entry systems utilize an application running on a mobile device (e.g., a smartphone) that communicates with the vehicle to unlock and / or open the doors.

[0003] When a driver enters a vehicle, they may manually adjust vehicle settings (e.g., climate control, seat position, lighting, etc.) according to their preferences. This process takes time and can distract the driver from other important tasks, such as maintaining attention to the vehicle's surroundings. Therefore, a need exists for systems and methods for pre-conditioning a vehicle according to the driver's real-time preferences. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Generally, one aspect of the subject matter described in this disclosure can be implemented in a system including a wireless key and a vehicle. The wireless key can be configured to determine the location of the wireless key and / or biometric data of a user of the wireless key. The wireless key can be configured to transmit a signal including at least one of the location of the wireless key and / or biometric data of the user of the wireless key. The vehicle can be configured to receive the signal from the wireless key and precondition the vehicle based on the signal.

[0005] These and other embodiments may optionally include one or more of the following features. The wireless key includes a biometric sensor configured to measure biometric data of a user. The biometric data may include the user's heart rate and / or the user's temperature. Signal-based vehicle preconditioning may include adjusting the vehicle's interior lighting, the vehicle's climate control, and / or the vehicle's audio settings. Adjusting the vehicle's interior lighting may include adjusting the color of the interior lighting. The wireless key may also include GPS, whereby the wireless key is configured to determine the wireless key's location. The wireless key may also include a gyroscope sensor, whereby the wireless key is configured to determine the user's movement. The wireless key may also include a preconditioning button. The wireless key may be configured to send a signal in response to the user pressing the preconditioning button. The signal may include the location of the wireless key. The vehicle may also be configured to determine that the wireless key is approaching the vehicle and precondition the vehicle in response to determining that the wireless key is approaching the vehicle.

[0006] In another aspect, a vehicle is provided. The vehicle may include a communication module and a vehicle preconditioner. The communication module may be configured to broadcast a beacon to cause a wireless key to transmit a signal, and to receive a signal from the wireless key including biometric data of a user of the wireless key. The vehicle preconditioner may be configured to determine a desired vehicle condition based on the biometric data and precondition the vehicle to the desired vehicle condition.

[0007] These and other embodiments may optionally include one or more of the following features. The desired vehicle condition may include a climate control setting, a lighting setting, and / or an audio setting. The biometric data may include the user's heart rate and / or the user's temperature. The vehicle preconditioner may also be configured to determine whether the wireless key is within a preconditioning zone of the vehicle. Preconditioning the vehicle to the desired vehicle condition may be performed in response to the vehicle preconditioner determining that the wireless key is within the preconditioning zone of the vehicle.

[0008] In another aspect, a method is provided that includes receiving a signal including biometric data of a user of the wireless key from a wireless key via a communication module of a vehicle, and preconditioning the vehicle based on the biometric data of the user.

[0009] These and other embodiments may optionally include one or more of the following features. The method may further include measuring a physiological state of the user using a biometric sensor of the wireless key, wherein the physiological state of the user is included in the biometric data. Preconditioning the vehicle may include adjusting interior lighting of the vehicle, adjusting an interior cabin temperature of the vehicle, and / or adjusting audio settings of the vehicle. The physiological state of the user may include a heart rate of the user and / or a body temperature of the user. The method may further include detecting a location of the user using GPS of the wireless key, and preconditioning the vehicle based on the biometric data of the user is further based on the location of the user. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] After studying the following drawings and detailed description, other systems, methods, features and advantages of the present invention will be clear to those skilled in the art. The components shown in the drawings are not necessarily to scale and may be exaggerated to better illustrate important features of the present invention.

[0011] Figure 1 An example vehicle and an example wireless key according to an aspect of the present invention are illustrated.

[0012] Figure 2 According to one aspect of the present invention Figure 1 Block diagram of the electronic components of a wireless key.

[0013] Figure 3 According to one aspect of the present invention Figure 1 Block diagram of the vehicle's electronic components.

[0014] Figure 4 A block diagram of an example vehicle and an example wireless key according to an aspect of the present invention is illustrated.

[0015] Figure 5 is an example graph of HVAC temperature versus heart rate according to an aspect of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 6 An example wireless key with a pre-adjusted button according to an aspect of the present invention is illustrated.

[0017] Figure 7 is a flow chart of an example method for preconditioning a vehicle based on data measured by a wireless key according to an aspect of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 8A A user is illustrated with a wireless key located outside of a pre-conditioned area of ​​a vehicle in accordance with an aspect of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 8B A user is illustrated with a wireless key located within a pre-conditioned area of ​​a vehicle in accordance with an aspect of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] Disclosed herein are systems, devices, vehicles, and methods for improving the user experience when entering and operating a vehicle. Specific embodiments of the subject matter described in this disclosure can be implemented to achieve one or more of the following advantages. A wireless key system utilizes biometric sensors and / or other sensors to collect information about a user's physiological state. The vehicle uses this information to precondition the vehicle in real time based on the user's physiological feedback. In this way, the system provides a user-centric cabin experience in real time based on the user's physiological feedback.

[0021] The vehicle can adapt to different environmental factors and / or the physiological state of the user. The wireless key can utilize a global positioning system (GPS) unit to detect location data including the current location of the wireless key to determine the location of the user. The user's location can indicate the user's physiological state to the system (for example, the system can assume that the user's heart rate is elevated when the user is at the gym) and / or can indicate to the system the time when the user arrives at the vehicle (for example, the system can use GPS data to determine that the user is approaching the vehicle or will be approaching the vehicle). The wireless key can utilize one or more biometric sensors to detect the user's physiological state (for example, heart rate and / or body temperature). The system can adjust climate control settings (and / or other vehicle settings) based on the user's physiological state. In this way, the wireless key can be linked to the vehicle to send the driver's information when the driver is not in the vehicle. The vehicle can intelligently provide vehicle comfort and adjust dynamic vehicle settings based on data inferred from the wireless key.

[0022] Other benefits and advantages include the use of artificial intelligence, including machine learning algorithms utilizing models to anticipate, predict, or otherwise determine a user's desired settings based on the user's physiological data. By anticipating, predicting, or otherwise determining a user's desired vehicle settings when the user is in different physiological states, the system can proactively anticipate desired vehicle settings for different user data and can take action to pre-condition the vehicle accordingly.

[0023] Go to the attached figure, Figure 1 An example vehicle 100 and a user 102 carrying an example wireless key 104 according to the teachings herein are illustrated. The vehicle 100 can be a standard gasoline-powered vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, an electric vehicle, a fuel cell vehicle, and / or any other type of vehicle. The vehicle 100 includes components related to mobility, such as a powertrain having an engine, a transmission, a suspension, a drive shaft, and / or wheels. The vehicle 100 can be non-autonomous, semi-autonomous (e.g., some conventional motor functions are controlled by the vehicle 100), or autonomous (e.g., motor functions are controlled by the vehicle 100 without direct driver input).

[0024] In the illustrated example, the vehicle 100 includes a communication module 106 that is communicatively coupled to the wireless key 104. The communication module 106 may be a short-range wireless module that includes a wireless sensor to wirelessly communicate with the wireless key 104 and / or another device within a broadcast range or distance of the communication module 106. The short-range wireless module includes software, hardware, and firmware to establish a connection with the wireless key 104. In some examples, the short-range wireless module implements Protocol and / or low power (BLE) protocol. Protocol and BLE protocol in Volume 6 of Specification 4.0 (and subsequent revisions) The short-range wireless module can implement Wi-Fi, NearLink, near field communication (NFC), LPWAN, ultra-wideband (UWB), and / or IEEE 802.15.4. In various examples, the vehicle 100 includes one communication module (e.g., communication module 106). In other examples, the vehicle 100 includes multiple communication modules that communicate with the wireless key 104 and are located at different locations throughout the vehicle 100.

[0025] like Figure 1 As shown, the broadcast range of the communication module 106 can define a proximity range 108 of the vehicle 100 within which the communication module 106 can communicate with the wireless key 104 and / or another device. For example, when the wireless key 104 is within the proximity range 108 of the vehicle 100, the wireless key 104 can collect beacons or signals (e.g., such as low power consumption) intermittently broadcast by the communication module 106. In some examples, the signal is broadcast by the communication module 106 at a constant rate (e.g., once per second). In other examples, the rate at which the communication module 106 broadcasts the signal depends on the distance between the communication module 106 and the wireless key 104. For example, the closer the wireless key 104 is to the vehicle 100, the greater the rate at which the communication module 106 broadcasts the signal.

[0026] The preconditioning system may have a network 115 that links the wireless key 104 to the vehicle 100. The network 115 may be a personal area network (PAN), a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a cellular network, the Internet, or a combination thereof, that connects, couples, and / or otherwise communicates between the vehicle 100 and the wireless key 104.

[0027] Additionally, when the wireless key 104 is within the proximity range 108, the communication module 106 can receive a signal sent by the wireless key 104 (eg, via protocol and / or BLE protocol, Wi-Fi, etc.). For example, the signal received by the communication module 106 of the vehicle 100 may include user biometric data (e.g., heart rate, body temperature, etc.), location data (e.g., GPS location), speed data (e.g., including direction and speed of travel), orientation data, and / or other data of the wireless key 104. In addition, the communication module 106 can determine the distance between the vehicle 100 and the wireless key 104. For example, the communication module 106 can determine the distance to the wireless key 104 based on the signal strength of the received signal. In some such examples, the communication module 106 determines the distance to the wireless key 104 using a received signal strength indication (RSSI) corresponding to the received signal. In other examples, the communication module 106 can determine the distance to the wireless key 104 based on GPS data received from the wireless key 104.

[0028] The illustrated example vehicle 100 includes a global positioning sensor (GPS) receiver 114, exterior lights 116, interior lights 118, and a climate control system 126. The GPS receiver 114 determines and / or obtains the location and / or direction (e.g., magnetic direction) of the vehicle 100. In the example shown, the exterior lights 116 include headlights and taillights, while the interior lights 118 include dome lights. The climate control system 126 includes various components for adjusting the cabin environment to a target cabin temperature. The climate control system 126 may include a heater and / or air conditioner as part of the vehicle's HVAC system, as well as a suitable fan. The climate control system 126 may include HVAC components, heated seat features, heated mirror features, heated steering wheel features, cooled seat features, cooled mirror features, cooled steering wheel features, and the like.

[0029] The vehicle 100 may also include an audio system 128 so that the driver and (one or more) passengers can enjoy music, etc. while driving. The audio system 128 may include vehicle audio equipment such as a radio tuner, a tape player, a CD player, etc. The audio system 128 receives sound signals from the vehicle audio equipment as a source and processes the sound signals to be output from the speakers. The speakers are typically embedded in the doors, dashboard, seats, roof, etc. to allow the speakers to reproduce sound.

[0030] Each of the exterior lights 116, interior lights 118, climate control system 126, and audio system 128 can be communicatively coupled to a vehicle preconditioner 124, which can send a signal to one or more of the exterior lights 116, interior lights 118, climate control system 126, and audio system 128 to precondition the corresponding one or more of the exterior lights 116, interior lights 118, climate control system 126, and audio system 128. For example, the color and / or brightness of the exterior lights 116 and / or interior lights 118 can be precondition based on the time of day, the driver's perceived mood, the driver's physiological data, the driver's location (e.g., leaving home, leaving work, leaving the gym, at a sporting event, etc.), etc. The climate control system 126 can be precondition by the vehicle preconditioner 124 based on the driver's physiological data (e.g., an elevated heart rate and / or body temperature can cause the climate control system 126 to target a first (lower) cabin temperature, while a lower heart rate and / or body temperature can cause the climate control system 126 to target a second (higher) cabin temperature). The audio system 128 may be adjusted by the vehicle pre-conditioner 124 based on the time of day, the driver's perceived mood, the driver's physiological data, the driver's location (eg, leaving home, leaving work, leaving the gym, etc.), etc.

[0031] Vehicle 100 also includes doors 120 that enable user 102 to access and / or enter the interior of vehicle 100. In the illustrated example, vehicle 100 is a four-door vehicle, such that doors 120 include a front driver's side door; a front passenger's side door; a rear driver's side door; and a rear passenger's side door. In other examples, vehicle 100 may include more or fewer doors through which user 102 can access and / or enter the interior of vehicle 100. Vehicle 100 also includes electronic latches 122 that lock and / or unlock doors 120. Each of electronic latches 122 can control a corresponding one of doors 120. In some examples, each of electronic latches 122 is communicatively coupled to a sensor (e.g., a capacitive touch sensor, an infrared sensor, an angular rotation sensor, etc.) of a corresponding door 120 to detect when user 102 attempts to open door 120. Each of the electronic latches 122 may be communicatively coupled to a vehicle pre-conditioner 124 , which may send signals to one or more of the electronic latches 122 to unlock and / or lock a corresponding one or more of the doors 120 .

[0032] The vehicle preconditioner 124 is also communicatively coupled to the communication module 106 and / or the GPS receiver 114 of the vehicle 100. In operation, the vehicle preconditioner 124 collects data (e.g., user biometric data, location data, speed data, direction data) from the wireless key 104 received by the communication module 106 of the vehicle 100. In some examples, the vehicle preconditioner 124 utilizes sensor fusion (e.g., executes a sensor fusion algorithm) to combine and / or reduce uncertainty associated with the data received from the wireless key 104. Additionally, the vehicle preconditioner 124 obtains the distance between the vehicle 100 and the wireless key 104, which is determined, for example, by the communication module 106 based on the RSSI of a signal received from the wireless key 104. Alternatively, the vehicle preconditioner 124 may determine the distance between the vehicle 100 and the wireless key 104 based on data (e.g., GPS location data) collected by the vehicle 100 and / or the wireless key 104.

[0033] In addition, the vehicle pre-conditioner 124 of the illustrated example collects data associated with the vehicle 100. For example, the vehicle pre-conditioner 124 collects data from the vehicle 100's sensor(s) (e.g., Figure 3 The sensor 304) and / or the GPS receiver 114 collects the direction (e.g., magnetic direction) and / or position data of the vehicle 100. In some examples, the GPS receiver 114 collects the position and / or direction data of the vehicle 100 determined using satellite-based GPS and / or terrestrial-based assisted GPS.

[0034] Based on the collected data, the vehicle preconditioner 124 determines the time when the user 102 arrives at the vehicle 100. For example, the vehicle preconditioner 124 can determine an estimated time when the user 102 arrives at the vehicle 100 (e.g., 5:25 P.M.) and / or an estimated duration of time (e.g., 45 seconds) before the user 102 arrives at the vehicle 100. Additionally, the vehicle preconditioner 124 preconditions the vehicle 100 (e.g., activating exterior lighting 116 and / or interior lighting 118, preconditioning climate control and / or audio systems, etc.) prior to the arrival time to enhance the comfort of the user 102 upon arrival at the vehicle 100 and / or during and after entering the vehicle 100.

[0035] By preconditioning the vehicle 100 based on user biometric data, location data, speed, and / or other data received from the wireless key 104, the vehicle preconditioner 124 is able to precondition the vehicle 100 before a user (e.g., user 102) arrives at the vehicle 100. For example, if the user 102 is moving quickly toward the vehicle 100, the vehicle preconditioner 124 may determine to precondition the vehicle 100 before the communication module 106 broadcasts another beacon to ensure that the vehicle 100 is preconditioned before the user 102 arrives at the vehicle 100. Alternatively, if the user 102 is moving slowly toward the vehicle 100, the vehicle preconditioner 124 may determine to wait, broadcast another beacon, and receive additional corresponding speed data from the wireless key 104 before determining whether and / or when to precondition the vehicle 100.

[0036] Figure 2 FIG. 1 is a block diagram of the electronic components 200 of the wireless key 104. Figure 2 As shown, the electronic component 200 includes a microcontroller unit, controller, or processor 202. Additionally, the electronic component 200 includes a memory 204, a communication module 206, and a sensor 208.

[0037] In the illustrated example, the processor 202 is configured to include a biometric determiner 210. The processor 202 may be any suitable processing device or group of processing devices, such as, but not limited to, a microprocessor, a microcontroller-based platform, an integrated circuit, one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), and / or one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs).

[0038] Memory 204 can be volatile memory (e.g., RAM including non-volatile RAM, magnetic RAM, ferroelectric RAM, etc.), non-volatile memory (e.g., disk memory, flash memory, EPROM, EEPROM, memristor-based non-volatile solid-state memory, etc.), unchangeable memory (e.g., EPROM), read-only memory, and / or high-capacity storage device (e.g., hard disk drive, solid-state drive, etc.). In some examples, memory 204 includes multiple types of memory, particularly volatile memory and non-volatile memory.

[0039] The memory 204 is a computer-readable medium on which one or more sets of instructions, such as software for operating the methods of the present disclosure, may be embedded. The instructions may implement one or more of the methods or logic described herein. For example, during execution of the instructions, the instructions may reside completely or at least partially within any one or more of the memory 204, the computer-readable medium, and / or within the processor 202.

[0040] The terms "non-transitory computer-readable medium" and "computer-readable medium" include a single medium or multiple media, such as a centralized or distributed database, and / or associated caches and servers that store one or more sets of instructions. Furthermore, the terms "non-transitory computer-readable medium" and "computer-readable medium" include any tangible medium that can store, encode, or carry a set of instructions for execution by a processor or for causing a system to perform any one or more of the methods or operations disclosed herein. As used herein, the term "computer-readable medium" is expressly defined to include any type of computer-readable storage device and / or storage disk, and to exclude propagating signals.

[0041] The communication module 206 of the electronic component 200 of the wireless key 104 is communicatively coupled to the communication module 106 of the vehicle 100. The communication module 206 may include a short-range wireless module having a wireless sensor to communicate with the communication module 106 when the vehicle 100 is within the proximity or distance of the wireless key 104. The short-range wireless module includes software, hardware, and firmware to establish a connection with the communication module 106 of the vehicle 100. In some examples, the short-range wireless module implements Protocol and / or low power In some examples, the short-range wireless module implements the Wi-Fi protocol.

[0042] The sensor 208 monitors properties or characteristics related to the wireless key 104 and / or the device on which the wireless key 104 is mounted. In the example where the wireless key 104 is a remote key, the sensor 208 is located within the remote key and monitors the properties or characteristics of the remote key and / or the environment in which the remote key is located. In the example where the wireless key 104 is an application of a mobile device, the sensor is located within the mobile device and monitors the properties or characteristics of the mobile device and / or the environment in which the mobile device is located. The sensor 208 may include one or more of a gyroscope 212, an accelerometer 214, a magnetometer 216, a GPS 218, and / or a biometric sensor 220. For example, the accelerometer 214 measures the speed at which the wireless key 104 is moving. The gyroscope 212 and / or the magnetometer 216 measure the magnetic direction of the wireless key 104 and / or the direction in which the wireless key 104 is moving. The GPS 218 may be a satellite-based GPS and / or a terrestrial-based assisted GPS for determining the location, orientation, and / or velocity of the wireless key 104. The biometric sensor 220 may be defined as measuring a physiological characteristic of a user who is using the wireless key 104 .

[0043] In various embodiments, the biometric sensor 220 includes a heart rate monitoring sensor. The biometric sensor 220 may include a light source and a reflected light detector. The light source and the reflected light detector may be selected for any suitable wavelength or suitable wavelength band of light ranging from infrared, through the human visible spectrum to ultraviolet wavelengths. In one example, the light source uses infrared (IR) light. In operation, a user may place the skin of a fingertip or other body part on the light source. The light source may direct light into the skin. The light may pass through the skin to reach blood vessels, such as capillaries, arteries, or veins within a finger or hand. The reflected portion of the light may be reflected from the blood vessels toward the reflected light detector. The light detector may output a signal corresponding to the reflected portion of the light. The signal may be transmitted to the processor 202 for processing to identify the user's heartbeat and generate an indication of the heart rate. The indication of the heart rate may be used to pre-condition the vehicle 100 (see Figure 1 ). The user's heart rate may be measured using any suitable method and / or sensor 208 and sent to the processor 202 for processing and / or preconditioning the vehicle 100.

[0044] In various embodiments, the biometric sensor 220 includes a temperature sensor for measuring the user's body temperature. The biometric sensor 220 may use infrared technology or similar technology to accurately measure skin temperature with or without direct skin contact. Once the wireless key 104 measures the driver's body temperature, it transmits this data to the vehicle's onboard computer system (e.g., vehicle preconditioner 124) using wireless communication technology (e.g., via network 115). The system can be designed to ensure that data transmission is secure and only between the wireless key 104 and the vehicle 100 to protect the driver's privacy. Based on this data, the vehicle's climate control system (e.g., climate control system 126) can automatically adjust the cabin temperature to ensure driver comfort. If the driver's body temperature is above an optimized range, the system cools the cabin before the driver enters. Conversely, if the driver's body temperature is below the optimized range, the system can increase the cabin temperature. Despite the automatic system, the driver still has the option of setting preferences or manually overriding the automatic settings, for example, via the vehicle's infotainment system. This ensures that the driver always has control over their comfort.

[0045] In operation, the biometric determiner 210 of the processor determines biometric data of the user and / or location data, velocity data, direction data, and / or other data of the wireless key 104 based on data collected by the gyroscope 212, accelerometer 214, magnetometer 216, GPS 218, biometric sensor(s) 220, and / or any other sensor 208 of the wireless key 104. In some examples, the biometric determiner 210 utilizes sensor fusion (e.g., executes a sensor fusion algorithm), wherein data collected from multiple sensors 208 are combined to reduce uncertainty associated with the data collected from the sensors 208. In addition, when the wireless key 104 is within the proximity range 108 of the vehicle 100, the communication module 206 can collect beacons broadcast by the communication module 106. Additionally or alternatively, the communication module 206 uses the GPS 218 and / or the cellular communication transceiver to determine the location, velocity, and / or direction of the wireless key 104. Upon collecting the beacon from the communication module 106 , the communication module 206 of the wireless key 104 may generate a signal to include biometric data, location data, speed data, direction data, and / or other data of the wireless key 104 and transmit or send the signal to the communication module 106 of the vehicle 100 .

[0046] Figure 3 FIG. 1 is a block diagram of the electronic component 300 of the vehicle 100. Figure 3 As shown, electronic components 300 include a vehicle control module 302 , a GPS receiver 114 , a communication module 106 , sensors 304 , an electronic control unit (ECU) 306 , and a vehicle data bus 308 .

[0047] The vehicle control module 302 controls one or more subsystems throughout the vehicle 100 , such as exterior lighting, interior lighting, power windows, power mirrors, door locks, climate control (e.g., heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC)), audio control, etc. For example, the vehicle control module 302 includes circuits for driving one or more of relays (e.g., to control wiper fluid, etc.), brushed direct current (DC) motors (e.g., to control power seats, power windows, wipers, etc.), stepper motors, LEDs, etc.

[0048] The vehicle control module 302 includes a microcontroller unit, controller, or processor 310 and memory 312. In some examples, the vehicle control module 302 is configured to include the vehicle pre-conditioner 124. Alternatively, in some examples, the vehicle pre-conditioner 124 is incorporated into another electronic control unit (ECU) having its own processor 310 and memory 312. The processor 310 can be any suitable processing device or group of processing devices, such as, but not limited to, a microprocessor, a microcontroller-based platform, an integrated circuit, one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), and / or one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs). The memory 312 can be volatile memory (e.g., RAM including non-volatile RAM, magnetic RAM, ferroelectric RAM, etc.), non-volatile memory (e.g., disk memory, flash memory, EPROM, EEPROM, memristor-based non-volatile solid-state memory, etc.), unchangeable memory (e.g., EPROM), read-only memory, and / or high-capacity storage devices (e.g., hard disk drives, solid-state drives, etc.). In some examples, the memory 312 includes multiple types of memory, particularly volatile memory and non-volatile memory.

[0049] Memory 312 is a computer-readable medium on which one or more sets of instructions, such as software for operating the methods of the present disclosure, may be embedded. The instructions may implement one or more of the methods or logic described herein. For example, during execution of the instructions, the instructions may reside completely or at least partially within any one or more of memory 312, the computer-readable medium, and / or within processor 310.

[0050] Sensors 304 are arranged in and around vehicle 100 to monitor properties of vehicle 100 and / or the environment in which vehicle 100 is located. One or more sensors 304 may be installed to measure properties of the exterior surroundings of vehicle 100. Additionally or alternatively, one or more sensors 304 may be installed within the cabin of vehicle 100 or within the main body of vehicle 100 (e.g., engine compartment, wheel well, etc.) to measure properties within the interior of vehicle 100. For example, sensors 304 include accelerometers, odometers, tachometers, pitch and yaw sensors, wheel speed sensors, microphones, tire pressure sensors, biometric sensors, and / or any other suitable type of sensor. In the illustrated example, sensors 304 include a magnetometer 314, an ambient light sensor 316, and a temperature sensor 317. For example, magnetometer 314 can determine the orientation of vehicle 100 (e.g., magnetic orientation). Additionally or alternatively, the ambient light sensor 316 can measure the amount of ambient light around the vehicle 100 to enable the vehicle control module 302 to adjust the brightness of the exterior lights 116 and / or interior lights 118 based on the amount of ambient light. The temperature sensor 317 can measure the cabin temperature and / or the ambient temperature around the vehicle 100 to enable the vehicle control module to adjust and target a desired interior cabin temperature.

[0051] The ECU 306 monitors and controls the subsystems of the vehicle 100. For example, the ECU 306 is a collection of discrete electronic devices that include their own circuit(s) (e.g., integrated circuits, microprocessors, memory, storage devices, etc.) and firmware, sensors, actuators, and / or mounting hardware. The ECU 306 transmits and exchanges information via a vehicle data bus (e.g., vehicle data bus 308). Additionally, the ECUs 306 can transmit properties (e.g., ECU 306 status, sensor readings, control status, error and diagnostic codes, etc.) to each other and / or receive requests. For example, the vehicle 100 can have multiple ECUs 306 located in various locations around the vehicle 100 and communicatively coupled via the vehicle data bus 308. In the illustrated example, the ECUs 306 include a light control unit 318, a door control unit 320, an engine control unit 322, a climate control unit 326, and an audio control unit 328. For example, the light control unit 318 can operate the exterior lights 116 of the vehicle 100 and / or the interior lights 118 of the vehicle 100, the door control unit 320 operates (e.g., locks, unlocks, pre-conditions) the power locks of the doors 120 of the vehicle 100, the engine control unit 322 controls remote starting of the engine of the vehicle 100, the climate control unit 326 controls the HVAC system of the vehicle 100, and the audio control unit 328 controls the vehicle audio system.

[0052] The vehicle data bus 308 communicatively couples the communication module 106, the GPS receiver 114, the vehicle control module 302, the sensor 304, and the ECU 306. In some examples, the vehicle data bus 308 includes one or more data buses. The vehicle data bus 308 can be configured in accordance with the Controller Area Network (CAN) bus protocol defined by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 11898-1, the Media Oriented Systems Transport (MOST) bus protocol, the CAN Flexible Data (CAN-FD) bus protocol (ISO 11898-7), and / or the K-line bus protocol (ISO 9141 and ISO 14230-1), and / or Ethernet. TM It is implemented using bus protocols such as IEEE 802.3 (after 2002).

[0053] Figure 4 4 is a schematic diagram of a system including a wireless key 404 in communication with a vehicle 400 according to various aspects. According to various aspects, the wireless key 404 can be similar to the wireless key 104 (see FIG. Figure 1 ). According to various aspects, vehicle 400 may be similar to vehicle 100 (see Figure 1 ). The wireless key 404 can collect biometric data, such as the user's physical movement data or physiological information, from the user 402 and send the physiological information to the vehicle 400. The wireless key 404 can communicate with the vehicle 400 via a network 415. According to various aspects, the network 415 can be similar to the network 115 (see Figure 1 ). The wireless key 404 can directly (for example, BTLE, LTE, 5G (or nG), etc.) or communicate with the vehicle 400 via the cloud 490 to pre-adjust dynamic vehicle settings to enhance user experience and comfort.

[0054] The wireless key 404 may include a gyroscope sensor 412 for motion information, a GPS sensor 418 for location information, and one or more biometric sensors 420 for heart rate information, body temperature, external temperature, and sound (via a microphone). In various embodiments, the biometric sensor 420 is a touch sensor capable of measuring the driver's body temperature. For example, the biometric sensor 420 may include a touch-sensitive area on the wireless key 404 where the driver's thumb or finger is naturally placed when holding the wireless key 404. The wireless key 404 may detect the driver's heart rate and body movement to provide a welcome light, adjust the vehicle cabin temperature, and / or perform another cabin pre-conditioning activity based on the driver's physical condition. For example, Figure 5 An example temperature control curve 500 is shown. The temperature control curve 500 may be stored in the memory 312 (see FIG. Figure 3) to control the interior temperature of the vehicle. As shown in temperature control curve 500, as the user's heart rate increases, the vehicle pre-conditioner 124 can target a lower (colder) cabin temperature (and / or adjust fan speed and / or direction), and conversely, as the user's heart rate decreases, the vehicle pre-conditioner 124 can target a higher (warmer) cabin temperature (and / or adjust fan speed and / or direction). It should be understood that the same principles can be applied based on the user's body temperature (e.g., by targeting a cooler temperature in response to detecting an elevated body temperature, and a warmer temperature in response to detecting a decreased body temperature). Other examples include using rotational, motion, and / or other direct and indirect sensors to trigger changes in the vehicle's interior and / or exterior environment, such as cabin temperature, cabin light levels and lighting frequency, cabin odor, air direction, window transparency, seat position, and / or general audio settings. Thus, the vehicle 400 can take advantage of a premium vehicle cabin / cockpit experience based on the user's 402 psychological and / or physical state.

[0055] Figure 6 6 is an example wireless key 604 having a lock button 610, an unlock button 612, and a preconditioning button 614. In response to the driver pressing the lock button 610, a signal can be sent from the wireless key 604 to the vehicle 600 via the network 615 to lock the vehicle doors. In response to the driver pressing the unlock button 612, a signal can be sent from the wireless key 604 to the vehicle 600 via the network 615 to unlock the vehicle doors. In response to the driver pressing the preconditioning button 614, a signal including the user's current biometric data and / or location can be sent from the wireless key 604 to the vehicle 600 via the network 615 to precondition the vehicle 400 based on the biometric data and / or location.

[0056] In various embodiments, and in conjunction with reference Figure 4 and Figure 6 , the wireless key 604 does not have a preconditioning button 614, and the wireless key 604 automatically causes the vehicle to precondition the vehicle 400 based on the user's movement and / or location. For example, the wireless key 604 can send a signal to the vehicle 400 indicating the user's movement (e.g., using the gyroscope sensor 412) and / or the user's location (e.g., using the GPS sensor 418). In this way, the vehicle 400 can determine that the user is approaching the vehicle 400 and / or determine the user's arrival time to activate preconditioning of the vehicle 400. In various embodiments, the vehicle 400 can detect that the wireless key is within proximity of the vehicle 100 (e.g., see FIG. 4 ). Figure 1 ) to determine that a user is approaching. In various embodiments, the vehicle 400 determines that a user is approaching based on GPS sensor data. The vehicle 400 can precondition itself without unlocking the vehicle's doors for safety purposes.

[0057] Figure 7 is a flow chart of an example method 700 for preconditioning a vehicle based on positional and / or geometric data of a user of a wireless key. Figure 7 The flowchart of FIG. 1 represents machine-readable instructions stored in a memory such as a Figure 2 Memory 204 and / or Figure 3 312) and includes one or more programs, which, when executed by a processor such as Figure 2 The processor 202 and / or Figure 3 When the processor 310 of the wireless key 104 executes them, Figure 2 An example biometric determiner 210 and / or enabling the vehicle 100 to implement Figure 1 and Figure 3 Example vehicle preconditioner 124. Although reference Figure 7 The flowchart shown in describes an example procedure, but many other methods of implementing the example biometric determiner 210 and / or the example vehicle pre-conditioner 124 may be used instead. For example, the order of execution of the blocks may be rearranged, changed, eliminated, and / or combined to perform the method 700. Furthermore, because the method 700 is combined with Figure 1-Figure 3 Therefore, some functions of these components will not be described in detail below.

[0058] Initially, at block 702, the communication module 106 of the vehicle 100 broadcasts a beacon. At block 704, the communication module 206 of the wireless key 104 collects the beacon. For example, the communication module 206 collects the beacon upon entering the proximity range 108 of the vehicle 100. At block 706, the biometric determiner 210 of the wireless key 104 determines wireless key data. For example, the biometric determiner 210 determines biometric data (e.g., heart rate, temperature, etc.) of the user of the wireless key 104 collected from one or more sensors 208 of the wireless key 104. The biometric determiner 210 can determine location data (e.g., the location of the wireless key 104) of the wireless key 104 based on the data collected from the one or more sensors 208 of the wireless key 104. The biometric determiner 210 can also determine velocity data (e.g., direction and speed of travel) of the wireless key 104 based on the data collected from the one or more sensors 208 of the wireless key 104. At block 708, the biometric determiner 210 identifies whether there is additional wireless key data to determine. If the biometric determiner 210 identifies that additional data exists, blocks 706 , 708 are repeated until no additional wireless key data remains to be determined.

[0059] At block 710, the communication module 206 of the wireless key 104 generates a signal 112 to include the wireless key data and transmits the signal 112 to the communication module 106 of the vehicle 100. At block 712, the communication module 106 of the vehicle 100 receives the signal 112 from the wireless key 104. In various embodiments, the communication module 106 of the vehicle 100 may determine the distance between the vehicle 100 and the wireless key 104 based on the signal strength (e.g., RSSI) of the signal 112. In various aspects, the communication module 106 of the vehicle 100 may determine the distance between the vehicle 100 and the wireless key 104 based on GPS data received from the wireless key 104.

[0060] At block 714, the vehicle preconditioner 124 collects vehicle data from the vehicle 100. For example, the vehicle preconditioner 124 may determine the time of day and / or ambient brightness (e.g., daytime, dusk, dawn, nighttime, etc.) to help determine interior lighting settings, audio settings, etc. The vehicle preconditioner 124 may determine directional data for the vehicle 100 based on data collected from one or more sensors 304 and / or the GPS receiver 114 of the vehicle 100. At block 716, the vehicle preconditioner 124 identifies whether there is additional vehicle data to be collected. If the vehicle preconditioner 124 identifies that there is additional vehicle data, blocks 714 and 716 are repeated until no additional vehicle data remains to be determined.

[0061] At block 718, the vehicle preconditioner 124 determines whether the wireless key 104 is approaching the vehicle 100. In response to determining that the wireless key 104 is not approaching the vehicle 100, the method 700 returns to block 702. In response to determining that the wireless key 104 is approaching the vehicle 100, the method 700 proceeds to block 720. In various embodiments, at block 718, the vehicle preconditioner 124 may determine whether the wireless key 104 is approaching the vehicle 100 by determining whether the vehicle preconditioning button 514 has been activated.

[0062] At block 720, the vehicle preconditioner 124 determines the time at which the user 102 arrives at the vehicle 100. For example, the vehicle preconditioner 124 determines the arrival time based on the speed data of the wireless key 104. In some examples, the vehicle preconditioner 124 can compare the arrival time to a first predetermined threshold. For example, if the user 102 is moving slowly such that the user 102 will not arrive at the vehicle 100 before the first predetermined threshold (e.g., the arrival time is greater than the predetermined threshold), the method 700 returns to block 702 so that the communication module 106 of the vehicle 100 can broadcast another beacon (block 702) and receive subsequent additional wireless key data from the wireless key 104 (block 712).

[0063] At block 722, the vehicle preconditioner 124 preconditions the vehicle 100 for the user 102. For example, the vehicle preconditioner 124 may activate the exterior lights 116 and / or the interior lights 118, etc., to precondition the vehicle 100. The vehicle preconditioner 124 may adjust the climate control settings of the vehicle to precondition the vehicle 100. The vehicle preconditioner 124 may adjust the audio settings of the vehicle to precondition the vehicle 100. The vehicle preconditioner 124 may adjust various settings of the vehicle (e.g., cabin temperature, cabin light level and lighting frequency, cabin scent, air direction, window transparency, seat position, and general audio settings) to precondition the vehicle 100.

[0064] In one example, a vehicle's ventilation system can be controlled by sensors in a wireless key fob, adjusting the direction and intensity of airflow based on the key's relative position to the vehicle and preset user preferences. For example, on a hot day, the system could maximize airflow as the user approaches the vehicle.

[0065] In one example, circadian lighting, which mimics natural light patterns, can significantly enhance the driving experience by aligning with the driver's natural body rhythms. Its implementation in vehicles can support drivers in various ways, thereby improving safety, comfort, and overall well-being during travel. Some use cases include:

[0066] 1) Enhance alertness during early morning and nighttime driving. Circadian lighting emits cooler, bluer light in the early morning and during nighttime driving to help increase alertness and focus. This type of light mimics daylight and can help suppress melatonin production, making the driver feel more awake.

[0067] 2) Support relaxation during long journeys. For long drives, especially during daylight hours, circadian lighting can shift to warmer tones to promote relaxation without inducing drowsiness. This can help reduce stress and make long drives more comfortable.

[0068] 3) Integration with vehicle systems. Circadian lighting can be integrated with other vehicle systems to provide a holistic environment that supports the driver’s well-being. For example, lighting can be coordinated with audio or climate control for a comprehensive approach to comfort and alertness.

[0069] 4) Driver Personalization. Allowing drivers to personalize lighting settings based on their preferences and needs. This can include adjusting the intensity of lighting transitions, ensuring that each driver can create an environment that best supports their rhythm.

[0070] Turn and / or motion sensors can detect when a driver approaches the vehicle, automatically adjusting the cabin lighting to a preset brightness and color temperature for comfort and safety, even during darker hours. The lighting can also be programmed to adjust the frequency for warning purposes, such as gently pulsing to signal that the vehicle is locked or unlocked.

[0071] In one example, smart windows equipped with electrochromic technology can be controlled via a wireless key. As a user approaches, the windows can automatically adjust their tint for privacy or climate control purposes.

[0072] In one example, a wireless key can communicate with the vehicle to adjust the seat position according to the preset preferences of an approaching user. This personalization can be enhanced by using rotation and movement sensors that initiate the adjustment process once the user is detected moving toward the vehicle.

[0073] In one example, a vehicle's audio system can automatically adjust to the user's preferred settings, such as radio stations, volume, and sound balance, based on the presence of a wireless key. Movement toward the vehicle can prompt the system to start playing the user's favorite music or news station as the user enters the vehicle. Once the vehicle is unlocked with the wireless key, the vehicle's audio system can retrieve the driver's preferred music playlist and sound settings (such as bass and treble levels).

[0074] The system can use data from the vehicle's speedometer and external noise sensors (e.g., traffic noise, rain) to automatically adjust the volume of the audio output. For example, as the vehicle accelerates and external noise increases, the volume can automatically increase to maintain audio clarity without requiring manual adjustment by the driver.

[0075] Leveraging the key's biometric capabilities, such as measuring the driver's heart rate or stress level, the audio system can suggest or automatically play music that matches the driver's mood or stress level. For example, if the driver's stress level is high, calming music can be played, or if the driver's heart rate indicates they are drowsy, more energetic music can be played to help maintain alertness.

[0076] Figure 8AThe user 102 is shown with the wireless key 104 located outside of a defined pre-conditioning zone 850. The pre-conditioning zone 850 may be defined within a predetermined radius of the vehicle 100. The pre-conditioning zone 850 may be any suitable distance from the vehicle 100 depending on a number of factors such as the time of day, the location of the vehicle, etc. The pre-conditioning zone 850 may be set to an area responsive to the wireless key 104 entering the pre-conditioning zone 850, assuming, according to various aspects, that the user 102 is approaching the vehicle and / or will soon enter the vehicle 100, such as within one minute, within five minutes, or within ten minutes. In various embodiments, the vehicle pre-conditioner 124 (see Figure 1 ) may use a combination of the pre-conditioning area 850 and the user's real-time speed and direction to determine whether to initiate pre-conditioning of the vehicle 100.

[0077] Figure 8B The user 102 is shown with the wireless key 104 located within the pre-conditioning area 850. In response to detecting that the wireless key 104 has entered the pre-conditioning area 850, the vehicle pre-conditioner 124 (see FIG. Figure 1 ) can start pre-conditioning vehicle 100 as described herein.

[0078] As an example of the system of the present disclosure, user Kate may be leaving the gym after an intense workout. Using the location of the wireless key, her vehicle may recognize that she is on her way to the vehicle. The wireless key may communicate to the vehicle that Kate's body temperature is high and her heart rate is elevated. The vehicle may pre-condition the vehicle by activating the air conditioning so when she enters the vehicle the air has already cooled the interior of the vehicle, targeting an optimal temperature for her. Kate may begin to calm down due to the cool temperature in her vehicle. As she becomes more comfortable, the wireless key may continue to send her body temperature signal to the vehicle, which slowly increases the temperature from a cold draft to a lighter cool breeze. Although Kate can still set the temperature herself if she wishes, Kate may comfortably drive the entire way from the gym to her home without having to manually adjust the temperature in the vehicle.

[0079] In another example, when user John goes to work, his vehicle's preconditioner system can provide a different atmosphere, including music. The vehicle's preconditioner system can provide brighter interior lighting and provide uplifting music. Conversely, when returning home after a long day at work, the vehicle's preconditioner system can make the interior lighting more soothing or soft (i.e., dimmer and / or more yellow) and can play relaxing music.

[0080] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention are disclosed in an illustrative manner. Therefore, the terms used throughout the text should be interpreted in a non-restrictive manner. Although those skilled in the art will appreciate that minor modifications to the teachings herein may be made, it should be understood that all such embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the patents granted herein that reasonably fall within the scope of the improvements contributed thereby to the art, and that the scope should not be limited except in accordance with the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A system comprising: A wireless key, wherein the wireless key is configured to: determining at least one of a location of the wireless key and biometric data of a user of the wireless key, and transmitting a signal including the at least one of a location of the wireless key and biometric data of a user of the wireless key; as well as A vehicle, the vehicle being configured to: receiving the signal from the wireless key, and The vehicle is pre-conditioned based on the signal.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The wireless key includes a biometric sensor configured to measure biometric data of the user.

3. The system according to claim 2, wherein: The biometric data includes at least one of a heart rate of the user and a body temperature of the user.

4. The system according to claim 2, wherein: The wireless key further includes a GPS, and the wireless key is configured to determine a location of the wireless key through the GPS.

5. The system according to claim 2, wherein: The wireless key further includes a gyro sensor, and the wireless key is configured to determine the movement of the user through the gyro sensor.

6. The system according to claim 2, wherein: The wireless key further includes a pre-adjustment button, and the wireless key is configured to transmit the signal in response to the user pressing the pre-adjustment button.

7. The system according to claim 1, wherein: Preconditioning the vehicle based on the signal includes adjusting at least one of: interior lighting of said vehicle; climate control of said vehicle; and The audio settings of the vehicle.

8. The system according to claim 7, wherein: Adjusting interior lighting of the vehicle includes adjusting a color of the interior lighting.

9. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The signal includes the location of the wireless key; and The vehicle is further configured to: determining that the wireless key is approaching the vehicle; and In response to determining that the wireless key is approaching the vehicle, the vehicle is pre-conditioned.

10. A vehicle comprising: A communication module, wherein the communication module is configured to: Broadcast beacon to prompt wireless key to send signal, receiving the signal including biometric data of a user of the wireless key from the wireless key; as well as A vehicle preconditioner, the vehicle preconditioner being configured to: determining a desired vehicle condition based on the biometric data, and The vehicle is preconditioned to the desired vehicle condition.

11. The vehicle according to claim 10, wherein: The desired vehicle condition is at least one of a climate control setting, a lighting setting, and an audio setting.

12. The vehicle according to claim 10, wherein: The biometric data includes at least one of a heart rate of the user and a body temperature of the user.

13. The vehicle according to claim 10, wherein: Preconditioning the vehicle based on the biometric data includes adjusting at least one of: interior lighting of said vehicle; climate control of said vehicle; and The audio settings of the vehicle.

14. The vehicle according to claim 13, wherein: Adjusting interior lighting of the vehicle includes adjusting a color of the interior lighting.

15. The vehicle of claim 10, wherein: The vehicle preconditioner is further configured to: determining whether the wireless key is within a pre-conditioned area of ​​the vehicle; and In response to the vehicle pre-conditioner determining that the wireless key is within a pre-conditioning zone of the vehicle, pre-conditioning the vehicle to the desired vehicle condition is performed.

16. A method comprising: receiving a signal from a wireless key via a communication module of the vehicle, the signal including biometric data of a user of the wireless key; as well as The vehicle is pre-conditioned based on biometric data of the user. 17 . The method of claim 16 , further comprising measuring a physiological state of the user using a biometric sensor of the wireless key, wherein the physiological state of the user is included in the biometric data.

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein The user's physiological state includes at least one of the user's heart rate and the user's body temperature.

19. The method according to claim 16, wherein Preconditioning the vehicle includes at least one of: adjusting interior lighting of said vehicle; regulating the interior cabin temperature of the vehicle; and Adjust the audio settings of the vehicle.

20. The method of claim 16, further comprising: detecting the user's location using the GPS of the wireless key; as well as Preconditioning the vehicle based on the user's biometric data is also based on the user's location.

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