System and method for intelligently controlling vehicle window

Abstract

The invention provides a system and a method for intelligently controlling a vehicle window. Systems and methods for operating a vehicle are provided. A vehicle may detect activation of a one-button window opening / closing feature of the vehicle. Based on the activation, the vehicle then detects that one or more conditions associated with the one-button window opening / closing feature are satisfied. The vehicle also provides one or more options for modifying default operation of the one-button window opening / closing feature. The vehicle then receives an input indicating a selection of one of the one or more options and modifies a default operation of the one-button window opening / closing feature to determine a modified operation. Thereafter, the vehicle performs a one-button window opening / closing operation based on the modified operation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of vehicle window control operation. Specifically, embodiments of this disclosure relate to the intelligent operation of a vehicle's one-touch window opening or closing feature. Background Technology

[0002] One-touch window opening / closing is common in vehicles. This feature allows the driver or passenger to fully lower the window with a single press, freeing their hands for other tasks. This is particularly useful when entering parking lots, toll booths, or drive-thru zones where quick entry is essential. The feature helps maintain focus on the road by allowing vehicle users to lower the window with a single touch. It reduces the need to repeatedly press buttons, minimizing interruptions.

[0003] One-touch functionality enhances the overall user-friendliness of modern vehicles, contributing to a smoother and easier driving experience. This is a small but important convenience that aligns with the broader trend of enhancing vehicle usability and comfort. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This disclosure describes a system and method for modifying the default operation of a vehicle's one-touch window opening / closing feature based on specific conditions detected near the vehicle.

[0005] Embodiments of this disclosure provide a method for operating a vehicle. The method includes detecting activation of a one-touch window opening / closing feature of the vehicle. The method further includes detecting satisfaction of one or more conditions associated with the one-touch window opening / closing feature, and providing one or more options from the vehicle for modifying a default operation of the one-touch window opening / closing feature. The method also includes: receiving input indicating selection of one of the one or more options; modifying the default operation of the one-touch window opening / closing feature to determine a modified operation; and performing the one-touch window opening / closing operation based on the modified operation.

[0006] In another scenario, a vehicle is provided that can detect the activation of a one-touch window opening / closing feature and detect that one or more conditions associated with the one-touch window opening / closing feature are met. The vehicle also provides one or more options for modifying the default operation of the one-touch window opening / closing feature. Thereafter, the vehicle receives input indicating a selection of one of the one or more options; modifies the default operation of the one-touch window opening / closing feature to determine the modified operation; and performs the one-touch window opening / closing operation based on the modified operation.

[0007] In another embodiment, a method is provided for operating a one-touch window opening / closing feature of a vehicle. The method includes the vehicle detecting that it is in a first position at a first instant. The method further includes determining one or more conditions associated with the first position and determining the state of the vehicle's windows in the first position. The method also includes generating association information related to the first position, the one or more conditions, and the window state. The method then includes the vehicle associating the one-touch window opening / closing control operation with the association information.

[0008] These and other advantages of this disclosure are provided in detail herein. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Specific embodiments are illustrated with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same reference numerals may be used to indicate similar or identical items. Various embodiments may utilize elements and / or components other than those shown in the drawings, and some elements and / or components may not be present in various embodiments. Elements and / or components in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. Throughout this disclosure, singular and plural terms can be used interchangeably depending on the context.

[0010] Figure 1 An environment in which embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented is shown.

[0011] Figure 2 A block diagram of a vehicle according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0012] Figure 3 A flowchart illustrating the process of operating a vehicle according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0013] Figure 4 An example user interface screen according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0014] Figure 5 A flowchart illustrating the process of operating a one-touch window opening / closing feature according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0015] Figure 6 A flowchart illustrating the process of operating a one-touch window opening / closing feature according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0016] Figure 7 A block diagram of an example control server according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted. Detailed Implementation

[0017] The present disclosure will be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and are not intended to be limiting.

[0018] Figure 1 An environment 100 in which embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented is shown. Vehicle 102 may be any passenger or commercial vehicle, such as a car, truck, tanker, bus, etc.

[0019] Environment 100 may also include a control server 104. Control server 104 may be part of a cloud-based computing infrastructure and may be associated with and / or include a Telematics Service Delivery Network (SDN) that provides digital data services to vehicle 102. (See below for reference.) Figure 7 Provide details of control server 104.

[0020] Environment 100 may also include a user device 112. User device 112 may be a smartphone, tablet computer, personal computer, smart key fob, etc. User device 112 may be associated with a user 110 of vehicle 102. User 110 may be the driver of vehicle 102 or a passenger in vehicle 102. User device 112 may receive information from vehicle 102 and / or control server 104. User device 112 may have a dedicated application installed thereon, which can interface with vehicle 102 to download and display various types of vehicle-generated information and other control data. In one embodiment, vehicle 102 may communicate directly with user device 112 to send and receive data without network 108 and / or server 104.

[0021] Environment 100 may also include network 108. Network 108 illustrates an example communication infrastructure in which connected devices discussed in various embodiments of this disclosure may communicate. Network 108 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 Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol (TCP / IP). Low Energy (BLE), Wi-Fi based on the IEEE 802.11 standard, 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 5G are just a few examples.

[0022] Vehicle 102 may include multiple units, including but not limited to an automotive computer, a vehicle control unit (VCU), and a detection unit. See below for reference. Figure 2 Details of vehicle 102 are provided.

[0023] Figure 2A block diagram of a vehicle 102 in which embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented is shown. The vehicle 102 may include multiple units, including but not limited to an automotive computer 208, a vehicle control unit (VCU) 210, and an infotainment unit 238. The VCU 210 may include multiple electronic control units (ECUs) 214 configured to communicate with the automotive computer 208.

[0024] In some embodiments, a user device, such as a mobile phone or a laptop computer, may be configured to connect to the vehicle computer 208. The user device may communicate via one or more wireless connections, and / or via the Near Field Communication (NFC) protocol. Protocols, Wi-Fi, Ultra-Wideband (UWB), and other possible data connectivity and sharing technologies can be used to directly connect to vehicle 102.

[0025] According to this disclosure, the vehicle computer 208 can be installed anywhere in the vehicle 102. The vehicle computer 208 may be or include an electronic vehicle controller having one or more processors 202, one or more memory devices 204, and one or more transceivers 206.

[0026] Processor 202 may be configured to communicate with one or more memory devices (e.g., memory 204 and / or memory 205) configured to communicate with a corresponding computing system. Figure 2 The processor 202 may communicate with one or more external databases (not shown in the diagram). The processor 202 may utilize the memory 204 to store programs and / or data in code form to perform operations according to this disclosure. The memory 204 may be a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium or memory storing vehicle control program code. The memory 204 may include any or a 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.). In some embodiments, the memory 204 may include modules 245 that may implement various embodiments of this disclosure. Modules 245 may include instructions that can be executed by the processor 202 to implement various embodiments of this disclosure.

[0027] The vehicle computer 208 may also include a transceiver 206. The transceiver 206 may be configured to receive information / input from one or more external devices or systems (e.g., user device 208, external server, etc.). Furthermore, the transceiver 206 may transmit notifications, requests, signals, etc., to external devices or systems. Additionally, the transceiver 206 may be configured to receive information / input from vehicle components (such as vehicle sensing system 232, one or more ECUs 214, etc.). Furthermore, the transceiver 206 may transmit signals (e.g., command signals) or notifications to vehicle components such as BCM 220, infotainment system 238, etc.

[0028] In some embodiments, VCU 210 may share a power and / or communication bus with vehicle computer 208 and may be configured and / or programmed to coordinate data between vehicle systems, connected servers, etc. VCU 210 may include or communicate with any combination of ECUs 214, such as BCM 220, Engine Control Module (ECM) 222, Transmission Control Module (TCM) 224, Telematics Control Unit (TCU) 226, Driver Assist Technology (DAT) Controller 228, etc. VCU 210 may also include and / or communicate with a Vehicle Sensing System (VPS) 230, which may connect to and / or control one or more vehicle sensing systems 232. The vehicle sensing system 232 may include one or more vehicle sensors, including but not limited to radio detection and ranging (LiDAR or “radar”) sensors configured to use radio waves to detect and locate objects inside and outside the vehicle 102, seating area latch sensors, seating area sensors, light detection and ranging (“LiDAR”) sensors, door sensors, proximity sensors, temperature sensors, wheel sensors, one or more ambient weather or temperature sensors, interior and exterior cameras, steering wheel sensors, etc. Sensors as part of the vehicle sensing system 232 may be coupled to the vehicle 102 at one or more locations in one or more ways. For example, various sensors of the vehicle sensing system 232 may be integrated into various subsystems of the vehicle 102 (such as doors, mirrors, roof, etc.) or attached to the vehicle 102 using suitable mounting mechanisms. In some embodiments, various sensors of the vehicle sensing system 232 may be located at the front, rear, sides, top, bottom, and underside of the vehicle 102. The location of the sensors may depend on their function. For example, sensors monitoring the area beneath the vehicle can be attached to the underside of vehicle 102, while sensors monitoring areas on either side of vehicle 102 can be mounted or integrated into the doors of vehicle 102. Vehicle sensing system 232 may also include one or more road noise sensors, such as accelerometers attached to various mechanical components and / or systems of vehicle 102. Those skilled in the art will recognize that sensors can be attached to the vehicle in various different ways and locations besides those mentioned above.

[0029] In some embodiments, VCU 210 can control vehicle operation aspects and implement one or more instruction sets received from server 104, user device 112, or from one or more instruction sets stored in memory 204.

[0030] TCU 226 can be configured and / or programmed to provide vehicle connectivity to wireless computing systems on and outside the vehicle 102, and may include a navigation (NAV) receiver 234 for receiving and processing GPS signals. Module (BLEM) 236, Wi-Fi transceiver, UWB transceiver and / or may be configured for use in vehicle 102 with other systems (e.g., vehicle key fob). Figure 2 Other wireless transceivers (not shown in the image), external servers, user devices, etc., and wireless communication (including cellular communication) between the computer and the module. Figure 2 (Not shown in the image). TCU 226 can communicate with ECU 214 via a bus. In some respects, TCU 226 can be configured to determine the real-time vehicle geolocation, for example, via NAV receiver 234.

[0031] ECU 214 can control various aspects of vehicle operation and communication using inputs from the human driver, inputs from the vehicle computer 208, and / or wireless signal inputs received from other connected devices (such as server 206, etc.) via a wireless connection.

[0032] The BCM 220 typically integrates sensors, vehicle performance indicators, and variable reactors associated with vehicle systems. It may also include processor-based power distribution circuitry that controls functions associated with the vehicle body, such as lights, windows, safety devices, one or more cameras, one or more audio systems, speakers, windshield wipers, door locks and entry controls, various comfort controls, etc. The BCM 220 can also operate as a gateway for bus and network interfaces to communicate with remote ECUs ( Figure 2 (Not shown in the image) Interaction.

[0033] The DAT controller 228 and / or the autonomous driving system 240 can provide Level 1 to Level 5 automated driving and driver assistance functionality, which may include features such as active parking assist, vehicle reversing assist, and / or adaptive cruise control. The DAT controller 228 can also provide various aspects of user and environmental inputs that can be used for user authentication.

[0034] In some embodiments, the vehicle computer 208 may be connected to the infotainment system 238 (or the vehicle human-machine interface (HMI)). The infotainment system 238 may include a touchscreen interface portion and may include voice recognition features, and the ability to identify a user's biometrics based on facial recognition, voice recognition, fingerprint recognition, or other biometric identification methods. In other aspects, the infotainment system 238 may also be configured to receive user commands via the touchscreen interface portion and / or output or display notifications, navigation maps, etc., on the touchscreen interface portion.

[0035] The computing system architecture of the automotive computer 208 and / or VCU 210 can omit certain computing modules. This should be easily understood. Figure 2The computing environment depicted herein is an example of possible implementations according to this disclosure and should therefore not be considered limiting or exclusive.

[0036] In addition to the components mentioned above, vehicle 102 may also have numerous mechanical systems and subsystems. A chassis or frame may form the backbone of vehicle 102 and support the body and other components of vehicle 102. Vehicle 102 may include an engine that converts fuel into mechanical power to propel the vehicle forward. The engine includes various components such as engine block, pistons, valves, and spark plugs. Vehicle 102 also includes a transmission system. The transmission system transmits power from the engine to the wheels. It includes a clutch, gearbox, drive shaft, differential, and other components. The transmission adjusts power output to suit the vehicle's speed and load. Vehicle 102 may also include a suspension system. The suspension system absorbs shocks and maintains contact between the tires and the road, thus providing a smooth ride. It includes components such as springs, shock absorbers, and linkages. Vehicle 102 also includes a braking system that allows the driver to decelerate or stop vehicle 102. It includes components such as a brake pedal, master cylinder, brake lines, and brake pads or brake shoes. Vehicle 102 also includes a steering system that allows the driver to guide the vehicle. The steering system includes components such as a steering wheel, steering column, rack and pinion, and tie rods. Vehicle 102 also includes an exhaust system for removing and filtering exhaust gases produced by the engine. It includes an exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, and exhaust tailpipe, among other components. Vehicle 102 also includes a cooling system to prevent engine overheating. It includes components such as a radiator, water pump, thermostat, and coolant. Vehicle 102 also includes a cooling system for storing fuel and supplying fuel to the engine. It includes a fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, and fuel injectors. The electrical system of vehicle 102 powers the vehicle's electrical components. It includes a battery, alternator, starter motor, and wiring. The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system regulates the temperature inside vehicle 102. It includes a heater core, blower motor, and air conditioning compressor. In some embodiments, the vehicle may be an electric vehicle (EV) or a hybrid vehicle, and in either case, some of the aforementioned components will be replaced by an electric motor and battery. All the mechanical components working together ensure optimal vehicle operation.

[0037] Most modern vehicles offer a one-touch window opening / closing feature. This feature is designed for convenience, allowing you to fully lower the window with a single press of a button. To activate the one-touch feature, a control input such as a window switch is pressed firmly and then immediately released. This action sends a signal to the window's control module. The control module, part of the vehicle's electronic system, receives the signal and activates the motor controlling the window. The motor then runs continuously until the window is fully lowered or raised. This differs from standard operation, where the motor simply runs as long as the switch is held down. By pressing the switch again, the window can be stopped before reaching its fully open or fully closed position, thus halting the window's movement. In this disclosure, this type of operation of the one-touch window opening / closing feature will be referred to as the "default" operation. Any change to this default operation mode will be referred to as "modification," "modified mode," or "modified operation," etc.

[0038] There may be situations where vehicle users do not want the one-touch window opening / closing feature to operate in its default mode. For example, if it is raining, intentionally or even unintentionally activating the one-touch window opening / closing feature would cause the window to open fully, allowing rainwater to enter the vehicle. In such cases, it would be beneficial to modify the operation of the one-touch window opening / closing feature and prevent the window from opening fully. The systems and methods provided in this disclosure allow for intelligent control of the one-touch window opening / closing operation to take into account various internal and external conditions associated with the vehicle, thereby further enhancing the usability of the one-touch window opening / closing feature. Although this disclosure uses rain as an example of an external condition, it should be noted that the techniques disclosed herein are equally applicable to any other external conditions, including but not limited to snow, sleet, smoke, dust, sand, other pollutants, debris, etc.

[0039] Figure 3A flowchart illustrating a method 300 for operating a one-touch window open / close feature according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. Method 300 may be performed by the vehicle 102 itself or in conjunction with a server 104. At step 304, the vehicle may detect the presence of one or more conditions inside or outside the vehicle. For example, one of the conditions may be rain near the vehicle. The type of these one or more conditions may be predetermined or may be learned based on user driving patterns and / or information collected from external sources. At step 304, the vehicle may detect activation of the one-touch window open / close control input. Continuing the example above, since it is raining, it may not be desirable to fully open the window. In other words, under these conditions, the default operation of the one-touch window open / close feature may not be the optimal option. In this case, at step 306, the vehicle may present the vehicle's user with a list of options providing modifications to the default operation of the one-touch window open / close feature. For example, one option may be to partially, rather than fully, open the window to limit the amount of rain that may enter the vehicle.

[0040] At step 308, the user can select one of the options, and the vehicle receives information about the user's selection. Subsequently, at step 310, the vehicle can operate the window based on the selected option. Therefore, in this case, even if the control input associated with the one-touch window opening / closing feature is activated, the operation of the feature is modified, and the window is only partially opened, thereby preventing rainwater from entering the vehicle and providing a better user experience for the vehicle's occupants.

[0041] The one or more conditions detected in step 302 may include one or more of environmental conditions, a specific location, a specific structure, a person, an event, a fixed or temporary object, etc. In one embodiment, the operation of the one-touch window open / close feature may be modified based on location or based on the presence of a specific structure or object at a specific location. For example, when a vehicle approaches a location such as a drive-through location (such as a coffee shop or ATM, toll plaza, checkpoint, border crossing, etc.), the driver of the vehicle typically needs to lower the driver's side window to perform associated transactions, such as paying tolls, collecting drinks, etc. The one-touch window open / close feature is typically useful in these situations. In embodiments, various sensors associated with the vehicle (e.g., sensing system 232) can detect and identify the location. For example, if the location is a border crossing, the vehicle's GPS or other location sensors can determine that the vehicle is at the border crossing location and the driver will likely need to interact with border crossing officials. In this case, if the control associated with the one-touch window open / close feature is activated, the vehicle can determine that the default operation of the one-touch window open / close feature is likely required, and therefore the vehicle can perform the default operation. However, if the vehicle determines, based on one or more of its sensors, that it is also raining as the vehicle approaches a border crossing, the vehicle may determine that performing the default operation of the one-touch window open / close feature may not be ideal, and instead, the vehicle may present a modified operation of the feature. For example, the vehicle may suggest that the window can be opened only partially (e.g., 50%), allowing the driver to still interact with the border crossing officer but reducing the amount of rainwater that may enter the vehicle. Furthermore, when the vehicle is at a tollbooth or other checkpoint location, it can also track its orientation to determine which window should be opened at that particular location. For example, depending on the driving system at that location (e.g., left-hand drive vs. right-hand drive), the border crossing officer's position at the checkpoint may be to the left or right of the vehicle. In such cases, opening the correct window to allow the driver to interact with the border crossing officer is beneficial. Therefore, the vehicle can also track and record the position of the checkpoint relative to the vehicle's orientation or heading to determine which window needs to be opened at that particular checkpoint.

[0042] In another embodiment, the vehicle can also determine the presence of a person nearby and suggest modifications to the default operation of the one-touch window opening / closing feature. For example, at a drive-through ATM, if the vehicle uses one or more of its sensors to determine that a person is nearby, the vehicle can provide an alert to the driver notifying them of the presence and suggesting modifications to the default operation of the one-touch window opening / closing feature. If the driver selects one of the modified operations, the vehicle can then operate the window based on the modified operation instead of the default operation of the one-touch window opening / closing feature. Thus, the vehicle can intelligently change the behavior of the one-touch window opening / closing operation based on the presence or fulfillment of certain conditions.

[0043] In a further embodiment, the vehicle's one-touch window opening / closing operation can be modified based on the presence of an unknown person near the vehicle. If the vehicle determines that an unknown person is nearby, the vehicle can actively disable the feature or limit the amount of time the window can be opened when the one-touch window opening / closing feature is activated. The vehicle and / or server 104 can store a database of known persons associated with the vehicle. For example, a user can register his / her family members and other persons the user wishes to register under their user account. The vehicle and / or server can store information about these known persons, such as their photographs. In operation, one or more cameras of the vehicle can capture images of persons near the vehicle and compare those images with images in the database of known persons. If no match is found, the vehicle can infer that the person near the vehicle is an unknown person. If the one-touch window opening / closing feature is activated when the unknown person is near the vehicle, the vehicle can provide an alert to the driver, notifying him / her of the presence of the unknown person and suggesting a modified operation for the one-touch window opening / closing feature. In another embodiment, if the vehicle detects an unknown person approaching the vehicle, activating the one-touch window open / close feature of any one of the vehicle's windows can simultaneously close all open windows of the vehicle. Therefore, in this case, the one-touch window open / close operation is automatically performed for all windows of the vehicle, not just the one with the activated feature. In other cases, under the conditions described above, even if a passenger in the rear seat activates a window open / close control that is not a one-touch window open / close control, that window will also perform the default one-touch window open / close operation along with the rest of the vehicle's windows. This provides enhanced safety for the vehicle's occupants. The automatic window opening / closing control will be implemented in accordance with current appropriate anti-pinch regulations and other design standards. In other cases, if the vehicle determines that a person approaching or adjacent to the vehicle is a known person, the vehicle can operate the one-touch window open / close feature according to its default operation.

[0044] In other embodiments, the one-touch window opening / closing operation can be modified based on environmental factors. For example, if one or more sensors of the vehicle detect that it is raining and a user of the vehicle activates the one-touch window opening / closing control input, the vehicle can provide the user with a list of options to modify the one-touch window opening / closing operation. In one case, the list of options can be provided on the vehicle's HMI screen and / or via user device 112. The list of options may include options to partially open the window (e.g., 10%, 20%, etc.) instead of fully opening the window. In other embodiments, the vehicle can determine the intensity of the rain and can suggest a preset opening amount for the window. This suggestion can be made on the HMI screen or via voice synthesis. The user's response can also be performed via voice recognition. For example, the vehicle may include a conductivity sensor capable of measuring the conductivity of water. When raindrops fall on the surface of the sensor, they change the resistance between conductive traces. The more intense the rainfall, the lower the resistance, which can be translated into rainfall intensity. In other embodiments, the vehicle may include an optical rain sensor using infrared light and the principle of total internal reflection. When raindrops strike the surface of the sensor, they disrupt the optical path, causing changes in reflected light. The sensor measures these changes to determine the presence and intensity of rain. In another embodiment, the vehicle may include a capacitive sensor that measures changes in capacitance caused by the presence of water. As raindrops accumulate on the sensor, the capacitance changes, which can be used to determine the amount and intensity of rainfall. The vehicle may also include a radar-based sensor that measures the size and velocity of raindrops. By analyzing the radar signals, the sensor can estimate the rainfall rate and intensity.

[0045] In another embodiment, the one-touch window opening / closing operation can be modified based on the external temperature. In extremely cold or hot weather conditions, the vehicle can suggest modifications to the one-touch window opening / closing operation to prevent vehicle occupants from being exposed to extreme temperatures. One or more sensors of the vehicle can monitor the external temperature and compare it to a threshold temperature value. If the currently measured temperature is above (or below) the threshold (depending on whether it is hot or cold), the vehicle can suggest modifications to the default operation of the one-touch window opening / closing feature. In one embodiment, if the interior temperature of the vehicle is above the threshold, activating the one-touch window opening / closing control of any window can cause all windows of the vehicle to open, thereby allowing ventilation within the vehicle. Activation of the one-touch window opening / closing feature in any of the situations described in this disclosure can be accomplished by pressing a physical or virtual button, using a voice command, or using a gesture. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other means of activating the one-touch window opening / closing feature may exist within the spirit of this disclosure.

[0046] In another embodiment, the vehicle may suggest modifications to the one-touch window opening / closing feature based on the presence of specific structures or objects around the vehicle. For example, if the vehicle determines that it is not under a covered structure such as a garage or canopy, it may suggest modifications to the one-touch window opening / closing feature. Consider a scenario where it is raining, but the vehicle is under a awning / canopy in a drive-through position. In this case, even though it is raining, the vehicle can still operate the one-touch window opening / closing feature according to its default operation because the vehicle determines that it is under some form of protection and therefore it is impossible for rainwater (or other types of debris or contaminants) to enter the vehicle if the window is fully opened. In other embodiments, if it is raining and the vehicle determines, based on one or more of its sensors, that it is traveling in a direction in which the vehicle will soon be under an awning / canopy, the vehicle may delay the execution of the one-touch window opening / closing operation until the vehicle is under an awning / canopy. In other words, if a user activates the one-touch window open / close control input in the above scenario, the vehicle can delay opening (e.g., delay for a few seconds) instead of opening the associated window immediately until the vehicle is under the awning / roof.

[0047] In yet another embodiment, the vehicle's one-touch window opening / closing feature can be programmed to operate in a certain way based on the vehicle's geographic location. In one embodiment, a specific operation of the one-touch window opening / closing feature can be associated with a specific location. For example, if the vehicle determines that the driver frequently passes through a specific checkpoint and lowers one or more specific windows at the checkpoint, the vehicle can use machine learning techniques to learn this behavior. Once learned, the vehicle can automatically operate one or more windows whenever the driver approaches that specific checkpoint without the driver physically activating the one-touch window opening / closing controls.

[0048] In some embodiments, a vehicle user can activate a one-touch window open / close feature via the vehicle's HMI system, using voice commands, gestures, etc. In one case, the user can specify a particular value (e.g., xx inches or yy%) to open the window. In some cases, activating the one-touch window open / close feature on one window may result in the remaining windows of the vehicle partially opening. This amount can be programmed according to the user's expectations. In other embodiments, activating the one-touch window open / close feature may also result in the complete closure of any other open windows of the vehicle. In embodiments, while a window is opening or closing, the user can use voice or gesture input to stop the window at a specific point within its travel. In some embodiments, the vehicle can use image recognition to determine whether all windows of the vehicle are fully open. For example, if the vehicle determines that there are occupants in the vehicle and the temperature outside or inside the vehicle indicates that ventilation is needed, the vehicle may fully or partially open all windows of the vehicle. In other cases, the degree of opening of each window of the vehicle can be programmed by the user based on his / her expectations. In some cases, if a vehicle has a sunroof or rear ventilation window, these can also be programmed to use a one-touch window opening / closing feature.

[0049] For vehicles with a cargo bed and ventilation windows at the rear of the passenger compartment (such as pickup trucks), the vehicle can use one or more of its sensors (such as cameras) to determine the presence of any objects / cargo in the cargo bed. The vehicle can also determine the type of object / cargo in the cargo bed and, based on that determination, decide whether to open the rear ventilation window. For example, if a user is towing a covering in the cargo bed of his / her pickup truck, the vehicle can identify the nature of the cargo and determine that opening the rear ventilation window is not recommended. If the user attempts to open the rear ventilation window, the vehicle can provide an alert to the user and advise keeping the rear ventilation window closed to prevent the covering from entering the passenger compartment and / or to prevent the odor of the covering from permeating the passenger compartment.

[0050] In some embodiments, the vehicle can be programmed to learn certain behaviors or events, and specific functions can be assigned to the one-touch window open / close control based on said behaviors or events. The machine learning model can be programmed (e.g., programmed into memory 204) by providing various aspects of the user's behavior and vehicle-related data (such as the speed, position, state, etc. of various vehicle components) to generate a user-specific model. In operation, the model can analyze the current situation and determine the appropriate action to take. For example, consider that when ordering food at a drive-thru, the user of the vehicle always lowers the driver's side window. The user parks the vehicle at a first specific location in the drive-thru path where a menu of items is posted. The vehicle can learn this behavior, capture an image of said location, and associate it with the window being fully open. The next time the vehicle is at said location and detects the presence of the menu based on the captured image, the vehicle can infer that the user is about to order from the menu items and automatically lower the driver's side window, allowing the user to communicate with the order taker at said establishment. Many other such behaviors and locations can be associated with specific functions of the one-touch window open / close operation.

[0051] As mentioned above, the vehicle can present information about the one-touch window opening / closing operation and / or provide options for modifying the default operation of the one-touch window opening / closing feature via the vehicle's HMI system. Figure 4A number of user interface screens 400 that a vehicle may display according to embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. Screen 402 may be a “main” screen that displays several control inputs 404 associated with various features of the vehicle. If the vehicle detects activation of a one-touch window open / close control input (e.g., a physical or virtual button) and also detects environmental conditions such as rain, the vehicle may display a screen 406 informing the user that rain has been detected. Additionally, the vehicle may present the user with options 408 to modify the one-touch window open / close operation. As shown, the modification may include changing the window opening to a certain percentage value that may be greater than 0 but less than 100. The user then has the option to select one of the options or reject both. If the user selects one of the options 408, the vehicle may then modify the default operation of the one-touch window open / close feature based on the selected option, instead of opening the associated window. If the driver rejects or ignores the offered option, the vehicle may then continue with the default operation of the one-touch window open / close feature. In another embodiment, if the vehicle detects an unknown person near the vehicle and the user activates the one-touch window open / close feature, the vehicle may display screen 410. Screen 410 may include an alert notifying the user that an unknown person has been detected and that the window will be opened to its maximum opening degree of 10% of full opening. It should be noted that screens 402, 406, and 410 are exemplary and other screens with different information may be displayed based on the specific state and operation of the vehicle.

[0052] Figure 5 This is a flowchart of a process 500 for operating a one-touch window opening / closing feature of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Process 500 may be performed by vehicle 102 or in conjunction with vehicle 102. Figure 1 The server 104 executes the procedure. At step 502, the vehicle may detect activation of the vehicle's one-touch window open / close control input. Based on the detection of activation of the one-touch window open / close control input, the vehicle may determine at step 504 whether one or more conditions have been met. As explained above, conditions may include various things such as environmental conditions, the presence of a person, location, the presence of an object or structure, etc. In some embodiments, these conditions may be programmed into the vehicle. In other embodiments, the vehicle may infer the conditions. The vehicle may use data collected by one or more of its sensors to determine and / or infer the conditions. If the vehicle determines that none of the conditions are met, the vehicle may continue to perform the default operation associated with the one-touch window open / close feature at step 506. For example, the vehicle may fully open the window associated with the one-touch window open / close feature.

[0053] If, at step 506, the vehicle determines that one or more of the conditions are met, the vehicle can provide a list of one or more options to modify the operation of the one-touch window opening / closing feature based on the met conditions (step 508). At step 510, the vehicle can receive input indicating a selection of one of the one or more options provided in the previous step. Based on the selected option, the vehicle can modify the operation of the one-touch window opening / closing feature at step 512. Thereafter, the vehicle operates the associated window based on the modified operation.

[0054] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of process 600 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Process 600 illustrates a method for automatically modifying and performing a one-touch window opening / closing operation without user intervention. At step 602, the vehicle may determine the activation of a one-touch window opening / closing feature (e.g., by pressing a button, a voice command, a gesture, etc.). At step 604, the vehicle may determine that one or more of predetermined conditions are met (e.g., it is raining, the vehicle is in a specific location, etc.). Based on the determined conditions, the vehicle determines at step 606 the modifications to be made to the one-touch window opening / closing operation. Then, at step 608, the vehicle then continues to perform the one-touch window opening / closing operation according to the modifications determined at step 606, without any user intervention. In some embodiments, step 602 may be optional, and the vehicle may perform process 600 without any user intervention.

[0055] Figure 7 An example control server 700 (e.g., according to one or more example embodiments of the present disclosure) is described, capable of performing any of one or more technologies (e.g., methods) or performing the methods described above in conjunction with vehicle 102. Figure 1A block diagram of the control server 104. In other embodiments, server 700 may act as a standalone device or may be connected to other servers (e.g., networked). In a networked deployment, server 700 may operate as a server machine, a client machine, or both in a server-client network environment. In the example, server 700 may act as a peer-to-peer (P2P) (or other distributed) network environment. Server 700 may be a personal computer (PC), tablet PC, set-top box (STB), personal digital assistant (PDA), mobile phone, smart keychain, wearable computing device, network device, network router, switch, or bridge, or any machine capable of executing instructions (continuously or otherwise) specifying actions to be taken by the server (such as a base station). Furthermore, while only a single server is described, the term "server" should also be considered as including any collection of servers that individually or jointly execute a set (or more sets) of instructions for performing any one or more of the methodologies discussed herein, such as those configured for cloud computing, Software as a Service (SaaS), or other computer clusters.

[0056] The examples described herein may include logic or components, modules, or mechanisms, or may operate on logic or components, modules, or mechanisms. A module is a tangible entity (e.g., hardware) capable of performing a specified operation during operation. A module includes hardware. In the examples, the hardware may be specifically configured to perform a specific operation (e.g., hardwired). In another example, the hardware may include a configurable execution unit (e.g., a transistor, circuit, etc.) and a computer-readable medium containing instructions that configure the execution unit to perform a specific task when in operation. The configuration may occur under the guidance of the execution unit or loading mechanism. Thus, when the device is operating, the execution unit is communicatively coupled to the computer-readable medium. In this example, the execution unit may be a member of more than one module. For example, under operation, the execution unit may be configured at one point in time to implement a first module via a first set of instructions, and at a second point in time to reconfigure the execution unit to implement a second module via a second set of instructions.

[0057] Server (e.g., computer system) 700 may include a hardware processor 702 (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a hardware processor core, or any combination thereof), main memory 704, and static memory 706, some or all of which may communicate with each other via interconnect (e.g., bus) 708. Server 700 may also include a graphics display device 710, an alphanumeric input device 712 (e.g., a keyboard), and a user interface (UI) navigation device 714 (e.g., a mouse). In this example, the graphics display device 710, the alphanumeric input device 712, and the UI navigation device 714 may be a touchscreen display. Server 700 may additionally include a storage device (i.e., a drive unit) 716, a network interface device / transceiver 720 coupled to an antenna, and one or more sensors 728, such as a global positioning system (GPS) sensor, a compass, an accelerometer, or other sensors. Server 700 may include output controller 734, such as serial (e.g., Universal Serial Bus (USB)), parallel, or other wired or wireless (e.g., infrared (IR), near field communication (NFC), etc.) connections, to communicate with or control one or more peripheral devices (e.g., printers, card readers, etc.).

[0058] Storage device 716 may include machine-readable medium 722 on which one or more sets of data structures or instructions (e.g., software) embodying or being utilized by any or more of the techniques or functions described herein are stored. The instructions may also reside wholly or at least partially within main memory 704, static memory 706, or hardware processor 702 during execution of the instructions by server 700. In this example, one or any combination of hardware processor 702, main memory 704, static memory 706, or storage device 716 may constitute the machine-readable medium.

[0059] Although machine-readable medium 722 is shown as a single medium, the term "machine-readable medium" can include a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed database, and / or associated caches and servers) configured to store one or more instructions.

[0060] Various embodiments may be implemented wholly or partially in software and / or firmware. This software and / or firmware may take the form of instructions contained in or on a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. Those instructions may then be read and executed by one or more processors to perform the operations described herein. The instructions may be in any suitable form, such as, but not limited to, source code, compiled code, interpreted code, executable code, static code, dynamic code, etc. Such computer-readable medium may include any tangible non-transitory medium for storing information in a form readable by one or more computers, such as, but not limited to, read-only memory (ROM); random access memory (RAM); disk storage media; optical storage media; flash memory, etc.

[0061] The term "machine-readable medium" can include any medium having the following properties: capable of storing, encoding, or transporting instructions executable by server 700; and causing server 700 to perform any or more of the technologies disclosed herein; or capable of storing, encoding, or transporting data structures used by or associated with such instructions. Examples of non-limiting machine-readable media can include solid-state memory as well as optical and magnetic media. In examples, mass-capacity machine-readable media includes machine-readable media having a plurality of particles having rest masses. Specific examples of mass-capacity machine-readable media can include non-volatile memory, such as semiconductor memory devices (e.g., electrically programmable read-only memory (EPROM) or electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM)) and flash memory devices; magnetic disks, such as internal hard disks and removable disks; magneto-optical disks; and CD-ROM and DVD-ROM disks.

[0062] The instructions can be further transmitted or received over a communication network via a transmission medium using any of a variety of transport protocols (e.g., Frame Relay, Internet Protocol (IP), Transmission Control Protocol (TCP), User Datagram Protocol (UDP), Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP), etc.) through the network interface device / transceiver 720. Example communication networks may include local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), packet data networks (e.g., the Internet), mobile phone networks (e.g., cellular networks), conventional telephone (POTS) networks, and wireless data networks (e.g., networks called wireless communication networks). The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11 series of standards, known as The IEEE 802.16 series of standards, the IEEE 802.15.4 series of standards, and peer-to-peer (P2P) networks are examples of such standards. In the example, the network interface device / transceiver 720 may include one or more physical sockets (e.g., Ethernet sockets, coaxial sockets, or telephone sockets) or one or more antennas for connection to a communication network. In the example, the network interface device / transceiver 720 may include multiple antennas for wireless communication using at least one of the following: Single-Input Multiple-Output (SIMO) technology, Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) technology, or Multiple-Input Single-Output (MISO) technology. The term "transmission medium" should be considered to include any intangible medium capable of storing, encoding, or transmitting instructions for execution by server 700 and comprising digital or analog communication signals, or other intangible media used to facilitate communication of such software. The operations and processes described and shown above may be implemented or performed in any suitable order as needed in various embodiments. Additionally, in some embodiments, at least a portion of the operations may be performed in parallel. Furthermore, in some embodiments, fewer or more operations than described may be performed.

[0063] It should be noted that the vehicle implements and / or performs the operations described herein in accordance with the owner's manual and safety guidelines. Additionally, any action taken by the vehicle owner / driver based on recommendations or notices provided by the vehicle should comply with all rules specific to the vehicle's location and operation (e.g., federal, state, national, city, etc.). Recommendations or notices provided by the vehicle should be considered as advice and followed only in accordance with any rules specific to the vehicle's location and operation. In the foregoing disclosure, reference has been made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the foregoing disclosure, illustrating specific embodiments in which the present disclosure may be practiced. It should be understood that other implementations may be utilized and structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. References to “an embodiment,” “embodiment,” “example embodiment,” etc., in this specification indicate that the described embodiment may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but each embodiment may not necessarily include said particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Furthermore, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Moreover, when features, structures, or characteristics are described in connection with embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize such features, structures, or characteristics in conjunction with other embodiments, whether explicitly described or not.

[0064] Furthermore, where appropriate, the functions described herein may be performed by 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 those skilled in the art will appreciate, components may be referred to by different names. This document is not intended to distinguish between components with different names but identical functions.

[0065] It should also be understood that the word “example” as used herein is intended to be non-exclusive and non-restrictive in nature. More specifically, the word “example” as used herein refers to one of several examples, and it should be understood that there is no undue emphasis or preference for any particular example described.

[0066] Computer-readable media (also known as processor-readable media) include any non-transitory (e.g., tangible) medium that contributes to providing data (e.g., instructions) that can be read by a computer (e.g., by the computer's processor). Such media can take many forms, including but not limited to non-volatile and volatile media. Computing devices may include computer-executable instructions, wherein the instructions can be executed by one or more computing devices (such as those listed above) and stored on a computer-readable medium.

[0067] Regarding the processes, systems, methods, heuristics, etc., described herein, it should be understood that although the steps of such processes, etc., are described as occurring in a certain ordered order, such processes can be practiced by performing the described steps in a different order than that described herein. It should also be understood that some steps may be performed simultaneously, other steps may be added, or some steps described herein may be omitted. In other words, the description of processes herein is provided for the purpose of illustrating various embodiments and should in no way be construed as limiting the claims.

[0068] Therefore, it should be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative rather than restrictive. Many embodiments and applications beyond the examples provided will become apparent upon reading the above description. The scope should not be determined by reference to the above description, but rather by reference to the appended claims and the full scope of their equivalents. It is anticipated and expected that the techniques discussed herein will evolve in the future, and the disclosed systems and methods will be incorporated into such future embodiments. In conclusion, it should be understood that modifications and changes are possible with this application.

[0069] Unless explicitly indicated otherwise herein, all terms used in the claims are intended to be given their ordinary meaning as understood by one skilled in the art as described herein. Specifically, unless the claims explicitly limit the recitation to the contrary, the use of singular articles such as “a,” “the,” or “the” should be interpreted as one or more of the elements indicated by the recitation. Unless otherwise specifically stated or otherwise understood in the context of use, conditional language such as, in particular, “can,” “may,” “may,” or “may” is generally intended to express that some 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.

[0070] In one aspect of the invention, the method includes: determining, by the vehicle at a first position, at a second time after a first time; detecting, by the vehicle, activation of a control input associated with a window; and performing a one-touch window opening / closing control operation by the vehicle to place the window in the stated state.

[0071] In one aspect of the invention, the state of the window corresponds to the degree to which the window is open or closed.

[0072] In one aspect of the invention, determining one or more conditions associated with a first location includes capturing audio, video, images, and other data associated with the first location.

[0073] In one aspect of the invention, determining the vehicle's first location by the vehicle at a second time after the first time includes capturing data at the second time and comparing the data with audio, video, images, and other data associated with the first location.

[0074] In one aspect of the invention, the one or more conditions include one or more of the following: geographic location data associated with the first location; the presence of a specific object and a specific structure at the first location; the orientation of the vehicle at the first location; and the speed of the vehicle at the first location.

Claims

1. A method comprising: The vehicle detects the activation of the vehicle's one-touch window opening / closing feature; The vehicle detects that one or more conditions are satisfied with the one-touch window opening / closing feature; The vehicle provides one or more options for modifying the default operation of the one-touch window opening / closing feature; The vehicle receives input indicating a selection of one of the one or more options; The default operation of the one-touch window opening / closing feature is modified by the vehicle to determine the modified operation; as well as The vehicle performs the one-touch window opening / closing feature based on the modified operation.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein detecting the activation includes detecting the activation of physical controls of the vehicle.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein the one or more conditions include one or more of the following: The environment surrounding the vehicle may contain rain, snow, sleet, smoke, pollutants, or dust. There were unknown individuals near the vehicle; The vehicle is in a specific location; There is a specific structure or object near the vehicle; The ambient temperature of the environment meets the threshold temperature; or The activity is performed by the user of the vehicle.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein receiving the input includes receiving a voice command or gesture from a user of the vehicle.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein providing the one or more options includes displaying the one or more options on a display of the vehicle.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein the modified operation is associated with a first window of the vehicle, the method further comprising: The vehicle performs a window opening / closing operation on its second window simultaneously with the modified operation, wherein the window opening / closing operation is different from the modified operation.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein modifying the default operation further comprises: The vehicle determines that it satisfies a first condition among the one or more conditions; as well as The vehicle determines a first modified operation associated with the first condition, wherein the first modified operation includes opening the associated window to less than 100% of the value defined by the default operation.

8. A vehicle comprising: One or more processors; One or more memory devices, the one or more memory devices storing instructions and being coupled to the one or more processors; as well as One or more sensors are coupled to one or more processors, wherein the one or more processors are configured to execute one or more instructions that cause the vehicle to: Detect the activation of the vehicle's one-touch window opening / closing feature; The detection confirms that one or more conditions associated with the one-touch window opening / closing feature are met; Provide one or more options for modifying the default operation of the one-touch window opening / closing feature; Receive input indicating a selection of one of the one or more options; Modify the default operation of the one-touch window opening / closing feature to determine the modified operation; as well as The one-touch window opening / closing feature is executed based on the modified operation.

9. The vehicle of claim 8, wherein, in order to provide the one or more options, the one or more processors are configured to display the one or more options on a display of the vehicle.

10. The vehicle of claim 8, wherein, in order to detect the activation, the one or more processors are configured to detect the activation of physical controls of the vehicle.

11. The vehicle of claim 8, wherein the one or more conditions include one or more of the following: The environment surrounding the vehicle may contain rain, snow, sleet, smoke, pollutants, or dust. There were unknown individuals near the vehicle; The vehicle is in a specific location; There is a specific structure or object near the vehicle; The ambient temperature of the environment meets the threshold temperature; or The activity is performed by the user of the vehicle.

12. The vehicle of claim 8, wherein the one or more processors are configured to perform a window opening / closing operation for a second window of the vehicle simultaneously with the modified operation, wherein the window opening / closing operation is different from the modified operation.

13. The vehicle of claim 8, wherein one or more processors are further configured to: determine that a first condition among the one or more conditions is satisfied; and A first modified operation associated with the first condition is determined, wherein the first modified operation includes opening the associated window to less than 100% of the value defined by the default operation.

14. The vehicle of claim 8, wherein, in order to receive the input, the one or more processors are further configured to receive voice input or gesture input.

15. A method comprising: The vehicle is detected to be in the first position at the first moment; The vehicle determines one or more conditions associated with the first location; The state of the vehicle's window at the first position is determined by the vehicle. The vehicle generates associated information related to the first location, the one or more conditions, and the state of the window; as well as The vehicle associates the one-touch window opening / closing control operation with the associated information.

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