Vehicle and method of controlling a vehicle

Abstract

The present application relates to a vehicle and a method of controlling a vehicle. According to an embodiment, a vehicle is provided, comprising one or more processors and a memory configured to store one or more programs for execution by the one or more processors, wherein the processors comprise a first processing unit configured to search for a second user terminal in a registered state and located in a second area using a communication device when a vehicle control signal is received from a first user terminal in a connected state and located in a first area by the communication device, and a second processing unit configured to acquire information about the second user terminal located in the second area by the communication device, and perform a personalized linkage of the vehicle using the information about the second user terminal.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments of the present invention relate to vehicles and methods for controlling vehicles. Background Technology

[0002] The Passive-Entry-Passive-Start (PEPS) function can estimate the location of a smartphone using a communication module installed in the vehicle, and then automatically perform operations such as locking / unlocking the vehicle doors and starting the vehicle.

[0003] Once inside a Bluetooth-connected area, the vehicle owner establishes a Bluetooth communication channel between the smartphone app and the vehicle, and receives PEPS functionality based on their location.

[0004] However, traditional vehicles cannot provide PEPS functionality when connected to multiple smartphones simultaneously, and when the first connected smartphone is present, personalized linkage is automatically performed through the corresponding smartphone.

[0005] Therefore, when multiple smartphones are registered, personalized linkage is performed using the first connected smartphone, which creates a problem where the driver cannot use the desired smartphone to automatically perform personalized linkage. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This invention aims to provide a vehicle and a method for controlling the vehicle, which can perform personalized linkage by automatically identifying a terminal located in the driver's seat area.

[0007] Furthermore, this invention aims to provide a vehicle and a method for controlling the vehicle, which can perform personalized linkages via a smartphone near the driver's seat without disconnecting the currently connected smartphone.

[0008] According to an implementation scheme, a vehicle is provided, the vehicle including one or more processors and a memory, the memory being configured to store one or more programs executed by the one or more processors, wherein the processor includes a first processing unit and a second processing unit, the first processing unit being configured to: when receiving a vehicle control signal from a first user terminal in a connected state and located in a first area via a communication device, search for a second user terminal in a registered state and located in a second area via the communication device, the second processing unit being configured to: obtain information about the second user terminal located in the second area via the communication device, and perform personalized linkage of the vehicle based on the information about the second user terminal.

[0009] When the second processing unit does not find a user terminal in the second area, the second processing unit can perform personalized linkage of the vehicle based on the first user terminal.

[0010] The first region centered on the vehicle can have a wider radius than the second region.

[0011] The first area can be an operable area for keyless entry, and the second area can be an area less than or equal to a predetermined distance relative to the driver's seat.

[0012] The vehicle may further include a third processing unit configured to control the operation of the vehicle based on vehicle control signals received from a first user terminal, wherein the vehicle control signals may include door control signals and start control signals.

[0013] After the third processing unit unlocks the vehicle doors based on the vehicle control signal, the second processing unit can execute personalized linkages of the vehicle through the second user terminal.

[0014] When a second user terminal in a registered state is found in the second area, the second processing unit can send a personalized linkage request message based on the second user terminal to the first user terminal through the communication device.

[0015] When the second processing unit receives a personalized linkage permission message from the first user terminal, it can execute the personalized linkage of the vehicle through the second user terminal.

[0016] When multiple second user terminals are set in the second area, the second processing unit can select the second user terminal for personalized linkage according to the preset priority and execute the personalized linkage of the vehicle.

[0017] The second processing unit can use a communication device to send personalized linkage request messages based on the second user terminal to the first user terminal in order of priority.

[0018] When the second processing unit receives a personalized linkage permission message from the first user terminal, it can stop sending personalized linkage request messages.

[0019] After the personalized linkage of the vehicle is executed through the second user terminal, the second processing unit can initialize the personalized linkage settings when the vehicle is started.

[0020] According to an implementation scheme, a method for controlling a vehicle is provided, the method being executed by a computing device including one or more processors and a memory configured to store one or more programs executed by the one or more processors. The method includes the steps of: the processor receiving a vehicle control signal from a first user terminal in a connected state and located in a first area via a communication device; the processor searching for a second user terminal in a registered state and located in a second area via the communication device; the processor obtaining information about the second user terminal located in the second area via the communication device; and the processor executing personalized linkages of the vehicle based on the information about the second user terminal.

[0021] The method may further include: after searching for a second user terminal, if no user terminal is found in the second area, the processor performs personalized linkage of the vehicle based on the first user terminal.

[0022] The method may further include: before performing the personalized linkage step of the vehicle, the processor controls the operation of the vehicle based on the vehicle control signal received from the first user terminal.

[0023] Controlling the vehicle may include: the processor controlling the unlocking of the vehicle doors based on vehicle control signals.

[0024] The method may further include: before executing the personalized linkage of the vehicle, the processor sends a personalized linkage request message based on the second user terminal to the first user terminal through a communication device.

[0025] Executing personalized linkage of a vehicle may include: the processor receiving a personalized linkage permission message from a first user terminal via a communication device, and executing the personalized linkage of the vehicle via a second user terminal according to the personalized linkage permission message.

[0026] According to an implementation scheme, a method for controlling a vehicle is provided, the method being executed by a computing device including one or more processors and a memory, the memory being configured to store one or more programs executed by the one or more processors, the method comprising the steps of: the processor receiving a vehicle control signal from a first user terminal in a connected state and located in a first area via a communication device; the processor using the communication device searching for a plurality of second user terminals in a registered state and located in a second area; the processor selecting a second user terminal for personalized linkage from the plurality of second user terminals according to a preset priority; the processor obtaining information about the selected second user terminal via the communication device; and the processor executing personalized linkage of the vehicle based on the information about the second user terminal.

[0027] The method may include: before executing personalized linkage of the vehicle, the processor sequentially sends personalized linkage request messages based on selected second user terminals to the first user terminal via a communication device, and when a personalized linkage permission message is received from the first user terminal, the processor executes the personalized linkage of the vehicle via the corresponding second user terminal. Attached Figure Description

[0028] The above and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent to those skilled in the art from the detailed description of exemplary embodiments of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0029] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram used to describe the vehicle according to the implementation plan;

[0030] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the vehicle according to the implementation scheme;

[0031] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a user terminal according to the implementation scheme;

[0032] Figure 4 It is a schematic diagram used to describe the operation of a vehicle according to one implementation scheme;

[0033] Figure 5 and Figure 6 It is a schematic diagram used to describe the operation of the first processing unit according to the implementation scheme;

[0034] Figure 7 It is a schematic diagram used to describe the operation of a vehicle according to another embodiment; and

[0035] Figures 8 to 11 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a vehicle according to an implementation scheme. Detailed Implementation

[0036] In the following, exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0037] However, the technical spirit of the present invention is not limited to the described embodiments, but can be implemented in various different forms, and one or more components in the embodiments can be used by selective coupling or substitution without departing from the scope of the technical spirit of the present invention.

[0038] Furthermore, unless explicitly defined and described, the terms (including technical and scientific terms) used in embodiments of the present invention may be interpreted as having meanings that would be commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains, and the meanings of commonly used terms (such as terms defined in dictionaries) may be interpreted based on the contextual meaning of the relevant art.

[0039] Furthermore, the terminology used in the embodiments of the present invention is for describing the embodiments and is not intended to limit the invention.

[0040] In the specification, unless otherwise stated in the phrase, the singular form may include the plural form, and when described as “at least one (or one or more) of A, B and C”, it may include one or more of all possible combinations of A, B and C.

[0041] Furthermore, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a) and (b) can be used to describe components of embodiments of the present invention.

[0042] These terms are used only to distinguish one component from another, and the nature, order, sequence, etc. of the corresponding components are not limited by these terms.

[0043] Furthermore, when the first component is described as "connected", "joined", or "attached" to the second component, it can include not only cases where the first component is directly connected, joined, or attached to the second component, but also cases where the first component is "connected", "joined", or "attached" to the second component through other components existing between the first component and the second component.

[0044] Furthermore, when the first component is described as being formed or disposed "above" or "below" the second component, "above" or "below" can include not only the case where the two components are in direct contact with each other, but also the case where one or more third components are formed or disposed between the two components. Additionally, when described as "above" or "below," it can include not only the meaning based on being above a component, but also the meaning based on being below a component.

[0045] In the following description, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, and the same or corresponding components will be indicated by the same reference numerals regardless of the reference numerals used, and repeated descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0046] For the purposes of this application and claims, the exemplary phrases “at least one of A; B; or C” or “at least one of A, B, or C” are used, which means “at least one A, or at least one B, or at least one C, or any combination of at least one A, at least one B, and at least one C.” Furthermore, exemplary phrases such as “A, B, and C,” “A, B, or C,” “at least one of A, B, and C,” “at least one of A, B, or C,” etc., as used herein, may refer to each of the enumerated items or all possible combinations of the enumerated items. For example, “at least one of A or B” may mean (1) at least one A; (2) at least one B; or (3) at least one A and at least one B.

[0047] Throughout this invention, references to components, units, or modules generally refer to items that can be logically combined to perform a function or a set of related functions. The same reference numerals are generally intended to refer to the same or similar components. Components, units, and modules can be implemented in software, hardware, or a combination of software and hardware. The components, units, modules, and / or functions described above can be implemented and / or performed by one or more processors. For example, components, units, and / or modules may include processors, microprocessors, graphics processing units, logic circuits, application-specific circuits (ASICs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), programmable array logic, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), controllers, microcontrollers, and / or other suitable hardware. Components, units, and / or modules may also include, for example, software control modules implemented using processors or logic circuits. Components, units, and / or modules may include memory or otherwise accessible memory, such as one or more non-volatile computer-readable storage media, such as random access memory, read-only memory, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory, erasable programmable read-only memory, flash memory / other memory devices, data registers, databases, and / or other suitable hardware. One or more storage media may include any or all tangible memory or associated modules (such as various semiconductor memories, tape drives, disk drives, etc.) of a computer, processor, etc., capable of providing non-volatile memory for software programming at any time.

[0048] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram used to describe a vehicle according to an implementation scheme, and Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the vehicle according to the implementation scheme. (Refer to...) Figure 1 and Figure 2 According to the implementation scheme, vehicle 1 may include: an audio video navigation and telematics (AVNT) 100, a processor 200, a communication device 300, and a memory 400.

[0049] Vehicle 1 may include AVNT 100, which is located on the central panel and controls audio devices, air conditioning, Bluetooth devices, seat heaters, etc.

[0050] An input device for receiving user input may be provided on the central panel or AVNT 100, and a display device for displaying operation information of at least one function performed in vehicle 1 may be provided on the central panel or AVNT 100.

[0051] Input devices may include hardware devices such as various buttons or switches, pedals, keyboards, mice, trackballs, various joysticks, handles, sticks, etc.

[0052] In addition, the input device may include a graphical user interface (GUI), i.e., a software device such as a touchpad. The touchpad may be implemented as a touch screen panel (TSP) that forms a layered structure with the display panel of the display device.

[0053] The display device can be used as a user interface. The processor enables the display device to show the vehicle's operating status, control status, route / traffic information, remaining energy information, driver requests, etc. Furthermore, the display device can be configured as a touchscreen, which can detect driver input to receive requests from the driver instructing the processor.

[0054] The vehicle's interior may include a key slot into which a FOB or card-type remote control can be inserted. This key slot can be located on the dashboard or center panel, and positioned adjacent to the driver's seat.

[0055] When the remote control is inserted into the key slot or when the vehicle completes authentication with the remote control or terminal via a wireless communication network, vehicle 1 can send and receive information with the remote control or terminal.

[0056] The vehicle's interior may further include a start button that receives on / off commands. Therefore, after authentication with the remote control or terminal, the vehicle starts when the user presses the start button.

[0057] The vehicle 1 may further include a communication device for sending and receiving information with at least one electronic device and terminal 20 disposed in the vehicle.

[0058] The communication device 300 may include one or more components that enable communication between vehicle components, and may include, for example, at least one of a short-range communication module, a wired communication module, and a wireless communication module.

[0059] In addition, the communication device 300 may include at least one wired communication module and one wireless communication module for communicating with the user terminal 20 and the server 30.

[0060] For example, a short-range communication module may include various short-range communication modules for sending and receiving signals over short distances using wireless communication networks, such as Bluetooth modules, infrared communication modules, radio frequency (RF) identification communication modules, wireless local area network (WLAN) communication modules, near-field communication (NFC) communication modules, or ZigBee communication modules.

[0061] For example, wired communication modules can include not only various wired communication modules, but also various cable communication modules. Wired communication modules include Controller Area Network (CAN) communication modules, Local Area Network (LAN) modules, Wide Area Network (WAN) modules, Value Added Network (VAN) modules, etc. Cable communication modules include Universal Serial Bus (USB), High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI), Digital Visual Interface (DVI), Recommended Standard 232 (RS-232), Power Line Communication, Plain Old Telephone Service (POTS), etc.

[0062] For example, Controller Area Network (CAN) can include communication protocols designed for real-time data exchange between microcontrollers and devices within vehicle and industrial systems. CAN enables multiple electronic control units to communicate with each other without a host, making it suitable for applications where reliable, high-speed communication is critical.

[0063] For example, a Value Added Network (VAN) can include a dedicated network that provides businesses with a secure and reliable communication channel for exchanging data and documents. VANs can provide services (e.g., data encryption, format conversion, message routing, or tracking) to ensure that business documents (e.g., invoices, purchase orders, or shipping notices) can be transmitted efficiently and / or securely between trading partners.

[0064] The wired communication module may further include a Local Interconnect Network (LIN) communication module. For example, the LIN may include a low-cost serial communication protocol that can be used in vehicle systems to connect electronic components (e.g., sensors, actuators, or control units). For example, for simplicity and / or cost-effectiveness, LIN can manage functions that do not require high-speed data transmission (e.g., window control, seat adjustment, lighting, or climate control). LIN can operate in a single-master multiple-slave architecture, where one master node can coordinate communication with multiple slave nodes.

[0065] In addition to Wi-Fi and Wireless Broadband (WiBro) modules, wireless communication modules may also include wireless communication modules that support various wireless communication methods, such as Global System for Mobile communication (GSM), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA), Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS), Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA), and Long Term Evolution (LTE).

[0066] User terminal 20 communicates with vehicle 1. User terminal 20 receives at least one of the following commands as user input: door lock and unlock command, tailgate lock and unlock command, headlight illumination command, and start command. User terminal 20 also sends information corresponding to the received commands to vehicle. User terminal 20 can also send information corresponding to the received commands as communication signals to vehicle.

[0067] User terminal 20 can be implemented as a computer or portable terminal that can be connected to the vehicle via network communication.

[0068] Here, for example, a computer may include a laptop, desktop computer, laptop computer, tablet PC, board PC, etc. equipped with a web browser, and a portable terminal is a wireless communication device that ensures portability and mobility, and may include, for example, various types of handheld-based wireless communication devices (such as Personal Communication System (PCS), GSM, Personal Digital Cellular (PDC), Personal Handyphone System (PHS), Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), International Mobile Telecommunication (IMT)-2000, CDMA-2000, WCDMA and Wireless Broadband Internet (WiBro) terminals, smartphones, etc.), as well as wearable devices (such as watches, rings, bracelets, anklets, necklaces, glasses, contact lenses or head-mounted devices (HMDs), etc.).

[0069] In the implementation scheme, user terminal 20 can communicate with the vehicle via Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication. User terminal 20 can perform communication based on the Bluetooth beacon standard (iBeacon).

[0070] AVNT 100 is referred to as an in-vehicle information and entertainment system, and may be a system that integrates navigation, audio, video, and communication functions. AVNT 100 may output messages generated by processor 200 in a visual, auditory, or at least a combination thereof manner.

[0071] The AVNT 100, processor 200, and communication device 300 can be implemented as a single module, but in this implementation, they will be described separately for ease of description.

[0072] The AVNT 100 can be a component used to provide a hardware interface for integration into a vehicle system. The AVNT 100 can perform system control over screens, buttons, and various integrated information and entertainment functions.

[0073] The AVNT 100 can be installed in the center of the vehicle's dashboard or on the console to provide a vehicle information and entertainment interface. The information and entertainment system can include an AM / FM radio, satellite radio, DVD / CD, cassette tape, USB MP3 player, dashcam, GPS navigation, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, etc., and also provides status information for the vehicle systems. Furthermore, the AVNT 100 can perform functions such as voice control and motion recognition.

[0074] Processor 200 can control the vehicle body, such as the vehicle itself, doors, and windows, or the key (digital key, smartphone key, and FOB). The processor can execute body control functions (e.g., Body Control Module (BCM)), Smart Key (SMK) entry / start functions, tire pressure monitoring functions (e.g., Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)), immobilizer (IMMO) functions, digital key authentication (e.g., Identity Authentication Unit (IAU)), and automatic parking-related control functions (e.g., Parking Distance Warning (PDW)). For example, processor 200 can be a Body Domain Controller (BDC), but is not limited to this, and processor 200 can be used as a platform controller that provides electronic convenience functions to the body domain area.

[0075] The communication device 300 can use Bluetooth signals to perform pairing between the user terminal 20 and the vehicle 1.

[0076] The communication device 300 may include a transceiver for transmitting and receiving information using an antenna, communication circuitry, a communication processor, etc., and the communication device 300 can perform short-range communication with the user terminal 20. According to embodiments, the communication device 300 can perform Bluetooth communication, NFC communication, or ultra-wideband (UWB) communication. The communication device 300 may be positioned near the door handle of the vehicle 1 to request authentication information when it is determined that the user terminal is approaching within a predetermined distance.

[0077] In the Bluetooth standard, Bluetooth 1.0 specifies a data transmission rate of 1 Mbps and a transmission distance range of 10m to 100m. Because Bluetooth 1.0 utilizes a high radio frequency of 2.4 GHz, it can communicate even in the presence of obstacles.

[0078] When the user terminal, including the digital key, approaches the exterior of vehicle 1, the communication device 300 according to the implementation scheme can measure the position of the user terminal under the control of the processor 200, unlock the door based on the positioning result, and control the remote start of vehicle 1 to be performed.

[0079] The communication device 300 may include a plurality of positioning modules 310 to 340. Positioning modules 310 to 340 may be short-range wireless communication modules, and each wireless communication module may measure the strength of a wireless signal received from a user terminal. One of the plurality of wireless communication modules installed in vehicle 1 may be designated as the master module. The master module may collect the strength of the wireless signal measured by another wireless communication module and send that strength to a processor.

[0080] For example, positioning modules 310 to 340 can be composed of Bluetooth modules, BLE modules, Wi-Fi modules, etc. Positioning modules 310 to 340 may include an FRT antenna, an RR antenna, an LH antenna, and an RH antenna. The FRT antenna is located at the front of the vehicle 1 and installed in the AVNT; the RR antenna is located at the rear of the vehicle and installed on the shark fin antenna; the LH antenna is installed in the left exterior rearview mirror; and the RH antenna is installed in the right exterior rearview mirror. Each module can measure the wireless signal strength of the user terminal 20 and transmit this signal strength to the main module.

[0081] Processor 200 can perform overall control of vehicle 1. Processor 200 can be configured to execute applications and instructions stored in memory 400.

[0082] The processor 200 may be the main CPU for overall control of the vehicle control system. In one embodiment, the processor 200 may perform pairing operations by running a Bluetooth application to facilitate communication between the Bluetooth application and the communication device.

[0083] The processor 200 can determine the relative position of the user terminal 20 with respect to the vehicle 1. In an embodiment, the relative position may include the distance between the vehicle 1 and the user terminal 20, as well as the orientation of the user terminal 20 relative to the vehicle 1.

[0084] For example, the processor 200 can use at least one of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and BLE methods to determine the relative position.

[0085] The processor 200 can compare the positioning results obtained using Wi-Fi, BLE (Digital Keyless Encryption), and UWB with a preset matching table to determine the relative position of the user terminal 20. The matching table may include stored records of positioning results when the user terminal 20 is inside the vehicle 1, and results obtained by experimenting with positioning methods for each positioning method while the user terminal 20 is inside the vehicle 1. The matching table may be stored in the memory 400.

[0086] For example, the processor 200 can determine the relative position between the vehicle and the user terminal using at least one of the following UWB positioning methods: time of flight (TOF), two-way ranging (TWR), and angle of arrival (AOA). The time of flight (TOF) method calculates the distance by measuring the time required for a signal to travel from the transmitter to the receiver. The two-way ranging (TWR) method calculates the distance by measuring the round-trip time between the transmitter and the receiver. The angle of arrival (AOT) method calculates the position by measuring the angle at which the signal arrives at the receiver.

[0087] Alternatively, the processor 200 may determine the relative position between the vehicle and the user terminal using at least one of the following Wi-Fi positioning methods: Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI), Time-of-Flight (TOF), and fingerprinting. The RSSI method estimates the distance by measuring the strength of the Wi-Fi signal, the TOF method calculates the distance by measuring the time required for the signal to travel from the transmitter to the receiver, and the fingerprinting method pre-measures the Wi-Fi signal strength distribution (fingerprint) at a specific location to establish a database and estimates the position by comparing the distribution with the currently measured signal strength.

[0088] Alternatively, the processor 200 can determine the relative position between the vehicle and the user terminal using at least one of the following Bluetooth positioning methods: RSSI method, AOA method, and fingerprint method. The RSSI method estimates the distance by measuring the strength of the BLE signal, the AOA method calculates the position by measuring the angle at which the signal arrives at the receiver, and the fingerprint method pre-measures the BLE signal strength distribution (fingerprint) at a specific location to establish a database and estimates the position by comparing the distribution with the currently measured signal strength.

[0089] The memory 400 can store applications and various data used to control the vehicle 1, and can load applications or read or write data according to the request of the processor 200.

[0090] According to the implementation scheme, memory 400 can store at least one algorithm that performs the calculation or implementation of various instructions for operations of processor 200. Memory 400 may include at least one storage medium such as flash memory, hard disk, memory card, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), programmable ROM (PROM), magnetic storage, magnetic disk, and optical disk.

[0091] In the following implementation, an example of using Bluetooth signals to perform location positioning and control keyless entry and keyless start (PEPS) operations will be described.

[0092] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a user terminal according to the implementation scheme.

[0093] Reference Figure 3 The user terminal 20 may include a communication unit 21, an output unit 22, a storage unit 23, and a control unit 24.

[0094] User terminal 20 may include a smartphone, smart tablet, laptop, or other device that the user can carry. User terminal 20 may store a digital key that generates authentication information for controlling functions such as locking and unlocking vehicle doors, remote start, emergency alarms, and opening the trunk.

[0095] The communication unit 21 may include a transceiver for transmitting and receiving information using an antenna, communication circuitry, a communication processor, etc., and the communication unit 21 can perform short-range communication with the vehicle. According to the embodiment, the communication unit 21 can perform NFC communication or UWB communication.

[0096] The output unit 22 can output information stored in the user terminal 20 in a visual, auditory, or combined manner, or at least one of these methods. According to embodiments, the output unit 22 can be implemented as a display device employing a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light-emitting diode (LED) panel, an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) panel, a plasma display panel (PDP), or the like. The LCD may include a thin-film transistor LCD (TFT-LCD). The output unit 22 can be implemented as a touch screen panel (TSP) integrally formed with an input unit (not shown).

[0097] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the storage unit 23 may store at least one algorithm that performs the calculation or implementation of various instructions for the operation of the user terminal 20. The storage unit 23 may include at least one storage medium such as flash memory, hard disk, memory card, ROM, RAM, EEPROM, PROM, magnetic storage, magnetic disk, optical disk, etc. The storage unit 23 may store driver information for multiple vehicles.

[0098] According to the implementation scheme, the control unit 24 can be implemented by various processing devices (such as a microprocessor, which has a semiconductor chip capable of executing various instructions embedded therein) and can control the operation of the user terminal 20. The control unit 24 can be electrically connected to the communication unit 21, the output unit 22, and the storage unit 23 via wired cables or various circuits to send electrical signals including control commands, and can send and receive electrical signals including control commands via various wireless communication networks such as CAN.

[0099] In the vehicle control system according to the implementation scheme, the user terminal 20 can be operated as a digital key. In the following text, "digital key" and "user terminal" can be used as terms referring to the same component.

[0100] The digital key 20 can, as needed, open or close the doors of the vehicle 1, turn the power to the vehicle 1 on or off, and perform various functions included in the vehicle 1. The digital key 20 can be one or more devices capable of utilizing Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication and NFC.

[0101] A digital key 20 can operate after being connected to a specific vehicle 1, and multiple digital keys 20 can be connected to a vehicle 1, or a digital key 20 can be connected to multiple vehicles 1, as needed. Furthermore, it is possible for multiple digital keys 20 to be connected to multiple vehicles 1.

[0102] However, after the vehicle 1 is connected to only one digital key 20 at a time, in order to connect to another digital key 20, the vehicle 1 needs to disconnect the currently connected digital key 20 and establish a new connection.

[0103] Furthermore, the digital key 20 can be installed and operated in devices such as smartphones, and there may be cases where multiple digital keys 20 are installed in one smartphone. Although the embodiments describe an example of installing and operating the digital key 20 in a smartphone, the invention is not limited thereto, and the digital key 20 can also be installed in devices other than smartphones as needed.

[0104] Digital key 20 can control vehicle 1, and for this purpose, digital key 20 can communicate with vehicle 1 via BLE communication, UWB communication, wireless internet network communication or mobile communication network communication.

[0105] The digital key 20 can be operated by the user to perform various functions for controlling the vehicle 1, and the digital key 20 can be operated to set one or more wireless anchor points.

[0106] Digital key 20 can search for nearby wireless anchors and register the found wireless anchors. That is, digital key 20 can utilize various communication methods to search for wireless anchors that can be connected wirelessly. For example, when two wireless anchors are near digital key 20, one wireless anchor can communicate via BLE communication, and the other wireless anchor can communicate via a wireless internet network, digital key 20 can communicatively connect to one of the two wireless anchors or communicatively connect to both wireless anchors.

[0107] In the implementation scheme, the wireless anchor point can be the same component as the positioning module.

[0108] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram used to illustrate the operation of a vehicle according to one implementation scheme. See also... Figure 4 When a vehicle control signal is received from a first user terminal 20a that is in a connected state and located in a first area via a communication device, the first processing unit 210 can use the communication device to search for a second user terminal 20b that is in a registered state and located in a second area.

[0109] In the implementation scheme, the first user terminal 20a and the second user terminal 20b may have the same characteristics as... Figure 3 The same configuration for user terminals.

[0110] In the implementation scheme, the first area centered on the vehicle may have a wider radius than the second area. The second area may include the area within the first area; for example, the first area may be an operable area for keyless entry, and the second area may be an area smaller than a predetermined distance preset relative to the driver's seat. The first area may have a radius of approximately 0.8 meters to 6 meters centered on the vehicle, and the second area may have a predetermined radius relative to the driver's seat of the vehicle.

[0111] Figure 5 and Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of the first processing unit according to the implementation scheme. (Refer to...) Figure 5 The Bluetooth signal strength of the second user terminal 20b was measured to be -32dBm, -56dBm, -40dBm, and -45dBm respectively using the positioning modules on the left, right, front, and rear. When the Bluetooth signal strength measured by the left positioning module... Figure 6 When the distance is within the range of -50dBm to -25dBm, the first processing unit 210 determines that the second user terminal is located in the second region. Therefore, the first processing unit can determine that the second user terminal is located in the second region. Figure 5 The second user terminal 20b was found to be located in the second area.

[0112] The vehicle control signal may be a Bluetooth signal of the first user terminal 20a measured by the positioning module of the communication device, and as described below, the PEPS function is provided using the Bluetooth signal strength of the first user terminal 20a.

[0113] The first processing unit 210 can analyze the Bluetooth signal strength of the first user terminal 20a measured by the positioning module of the communication device. When it is determined that the first user terminal 20a has entered a keyless entry area, the first processing unit 210 can use the positioning module to search for a second user terminal 20b registered in the second area. The first processing unit 210 can control the positioning module to search for previously registered second user terminals 20b other than the first user terminal 20a. When a previously registered second user terminal 20b other than the first user terminal 20a is found, the first processing unit 210 can use the Bluetooth signal strength received from the second user terminal 20b to determine whether the second user terminal 20b is located in the second area.

[0114] The second processing unit 220 can obtain information about the second user terminal 20b located in the second area through a communication device, and perform personalized linkage of the vehicle based on the information about the second user terminal 20b.

[0115] In the implementation plan, personalized linkage can be a process that automatically controls the following functions based on the settings registered by an individual: such as vehicle seat position, position and angle of exterior (OS) rearview mirrors, on / off settings of convenience functions, radio / DMB broadcast channels, and media volume settings.

[0116] When it is determined that the second user terminal 20b is located in the second area, the second processing unit 220 can use the above information to load personalized linkage information corresponding to the information obtained from the second user terminal 20b, and automatically control the following functions according to the settings registered by the individual: such as vehicle seat position, position and angle of the exterior rearview mirror, ON / OFF settings of convenience functions, radio / DMB broadcast channels, and media volume settings.

[0117] In this scenario, after the third processing unit 230 unlocks the door based on the vehicle control signal, the second processing unit 220 can execute personalized vehicle linkages via the second user terminal 20b. That is, the second processing unit 220 can execute personalized linkages based on the second user terminal 20b without disconnecting the first user terminal 20a from the vehicle. Specifically, the second processing unit 220 obtains information from the second user terminal 20b to execute personalized linkages and measures the Bluetooth signal strength of the first user terminal 20a to provide PEPS functionality.

[0118] When the second processing unit 220 does not find a user terminal in the second area, it can perform personalized vehicle linkage based on the first user terminal 20a. After receiving a vehicle control signal from the first user terminal 20a, if no other terminal is found within a predetermined time, the found terminal is not located in the second area, or the found terminal is not registered, the second processing unit 220 can perform personalized vehicle linkage by obtaining information from the first user terminal 20a.

[0119] When a second processing unit 220 in a registered state is found in the second area, the second processing unit 220 can send a personalized linkage request message based on the second user terminal 20b to the first user terminal 20a through a communication device.

[0120] When a personalized linkage permission message is received from the first user terminal 20a, the second processing unit 220 can execute the personalized linkage of the vehicle through the second user terminal 20b.

[0121] In other words, when a second user terminal 20b in a registered state is found in the second area, the second processing unit 220 will only execute personalized linkage based on the second user terminal 20b if a confirmation message is received from the first user terminal 20a. At this time, if the second processing unit 220 does not receive a personalized linkage permission message from the first user terminal 20a, the second processing unit 220 can execute personalized linkage of the vehicle based on the first user terminal 20a.

[0122] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram used to illustrate the operation of a vehicle according to another embodiment. (See reference...) Figure 7 When multiple second user terminals 22a to 22c are located in the second area, the second processing unit 220 can select the second user terminal 22a for personalized linkage according to a preset priority and execute the personalized linkage of the vehicle. The preset priority can be information pre-set by the driver or vehicle user, matched with terminal information, and stored in the memory in the form of a table. When multiple second user terminals 22a to 22c are located in the second area, the second processing unit 220 can execute the personalized linkage of the vehicle based on the second user terminal 22a with the highest preset priority.

[0123] Alternatively, when multiple second user terminals 22a to 22c located in the second area exist, the second processing unit 220 can select the second user terminal 22a for personalized linkage according to the registration order and execute the personalized linkage of the vehicle. When no priority is set, the second processing unit 220 can execute the personalized linkage of the vehicle based on the second user terminal 22a with the earliest registration order.

[0124] Alternatively, when multiple second user terminals 22a to 22c are located in the second area, the second processing unit 220 can select the second user terminal 22a closest to the driver's seat and execute the personalized linkage of the vehicle. When no priority is set, the second processing unit 220 can analyze the Bluetooth signal strength received from the multiple second user terminals 22a to 22c to estimate the location, and based on the estimated location, determine the second user terminal 22a closest to the driver's seat to execute the personalized linkage of the vehicle.

[0125] Alternatively, the second processing unit 220 can use a communication device to send personalized linkage request messages based on the second user terminals 22a to 22c sequentially to the first user terminal 20a in order of priority.

[0126] When the second processing unit 220 receives a personalized linkage permission message from the first user terminal 20a, it can stop sending personalized linkage request messages.

[0127] When multiple second user terminals 22a to 22c located in the second area exist, the second processing unit 220 can send a personalized linkage request message to the first user terminal 20a for the second user terminal 22a with the highest preset priority. When a personalized linkage permission message is received from the first user terminal 20a, the second processing unit 220 can stop sending personalized linkage request messages and execute personalized linkage based on the second user terminal 22a with the highest priority.

[0128] When the second processing unit 220 does not receive a personalized linkage permission message from the first user terminal 20a, the second processing unit 220 may send a personalized linkage request message to the first user terminal 20a for the second user terminal 22b, which has the second higher priority. When it receives a personalized linkage permission message from the first user terminal 20a, the second processing unit 220 may stop sending personalized linkage request messages and perform personalized linkage based on the second user terminal 22b, which has the second higher priority.

[0129] The second processing unit 220 repeats the process of sending personalized linkage request messages sequentially according to priority. When the second processing unit 220 does not receive a personalized linkage permission message for the second user terminal 22c with the lowest priority, the second processing unit 220 can perform personalized linkage based on the first user terminal 20a.

[0130] Alternatively, when there are multiple second user terminals 22a to 22c located in the second area, the second processing unit 220 can send personalized linkage request messages based on the second user terminals 22a to 22c sequentially to the first user terminal 20a according to their registration order. When a personalized linkage permission message is received from the first user terminal 20a, the second processing unit 220 can stop sending personalized linkage request messages and execute personalized linkage based on the second user terminal 22a with the earliest registration order.

[0131] The second processing unit 220 repeats the process of sending personalized linkage request messages sequentially according to the registration order. When the second processing unit 220 does not receive a personalized linkage permission message for the second user terminal 22c with the latest registration order, the second processing unit 220 can perform personalized linkage based on the first user terminal 20a.

[0132] Alternatively, when multiple second user terminals 22a to 22c located in the second area exist, the second processing unit 220 can send personalized linkage request messages based on the second user terminals 22a to 22c sequentially to the first user terminal 20a in the order closest to the driver's seat. When a personalized linkage permission message is received from the first user terminal 20a, the second processing unit 220 can stop sending personalized linkage request messages and execute personalized linkage based on the second user terminal 22a closest to the driver's seat.

[0133] The second processing unit 220 repeats the process of sending personalized linkage request messages sequentially according to the order of proximity to the driver's seat. When the second processing unit 220 does not receive a personalized linkage permission message for the second user terminal 22c, which is furthest from the driver's seat, the second processing unit 220 can perform personalized linkage based on the first user terminal 20a.

[0134] After the personalized linkage of the vehicle is executed through the second user terminal 20b, the second processing unit 220 can initialize the personalized linkage settings when the vehicle is started. When a vehicle start signal is received, the second processing unit 220 can output a control signal to change the vehicle's state back to the state before the personalized linkage of the vehicle with the second user terminal 20b.

[0135] The third processing unit 230 can control the operation of the vehicle based on the vehicle control signal received from the first user terminal 20a.

[0136] Vehicle control signals may include PEPS signals, namely door control signals and start control signals. The third processing unit 230 can estimate the location of the first user terminal 20a via a communication module installed in the vehicle, and then provide PEPS functionality, i.e., automatically performing operations such as door locking / unlocking and vehicle start. For example, the third processing unit 230 can estimate the relative position of the first user terminal 20a relative to the vehicle using the signal strength of the Bluetooth signal received from the first user terminal 20a connected to the Bluetooth module. The third processing unit 230 can provide keyless entry functionality when the estimated location of the first user terminal 20a is close to the vehicle, and keyless start functionality when the estimated location of the first user terminal 20a is inside the vehicle.

[0137] For convenience, one or more figures are described with the aid of examples of steps performed by processor circuitry. One, some, or all of the steps of the exemplary method or a portion thereof in the figures may be performed by one or more other circuits. One or some steps of the exemplary method in the figures may be omitted, performed in a different order, and / or modified in other ways, and / or one or more additional steps may be added.

[0138] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a vehicle according to one implementation scheme. (See reference...) Figure 8 The processor receives a vehicle control signal from a first user terminal that is connected and located in the first area using a communication device (S801). The vehicle control signal may be a Bluetooth signal from the first user terminal, and the PEPS function can be executed through the vehicle control signal.

[0139] Next, the processor uses the communication device to search for a second user terminal that is registered and located in the second area (S802).

[0140] When a registered second user terminal is found in the second area, the processor uses the communication device to obtain information about the second user terminal located in the second area (S803).

[0141] Next, the processor controls the door to unlock based on the vehicle control signal from the first user terminal (S804).

[0142] Next, the processor executes personalized linkage of the vehicle based on information about the second user terminal (S805).

[0143] Alternatively, if the processor does not find a registered second user terminal in the second region, the processor performs personalized linkage of the vehicle based on information about the first user terminal (S806).

[0144] Next, when the vehicle starts, the processor initializes the personalized linkage settings (S807).

[0145] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a vehicle according to another embodiment. (See reference...) Figure 9 The processor uses a communication device to receive vehicle control signals from a first user terminal that is in a connected state and located in a first area (S901).

[0146] Next, the processor uses the communication device to search for a second user terminal that is registered and located in the second area (S902).

[0147] When a registered second user terminal is found in the second area, the processor sends a personalized linkage request message based on the second user terminal to the first user terminal through the communication device (S903).

[0148] Next, when a personalized linkage permission message is received from the first user terminal, the processor obtains information about the second user terminal located in the second area (S904 and S905).

[0149] Next, the processor controls the door to unlock based on the vehicle control signal from the first user terminal (S906).

[0150] Next, the processor executes personalized linkage of the vehicle based on information about the second user terminal (S907).

[0151] When the processor does not find a registered second user terminal in the second region or when the processor does not receive a personalized linkage permission message from the first user terminal, the processor performs personalized linkage of the vehicle based on the information about the first user terminal (S908).

[0152] Next, when the vehicle starts, the processor initializes the personalized linkage settings (S909).

[0153] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a vehicle according to another embodiment. (Refer to...) Figure 10 The processor uses a communication device to receive vehicle control signals from a first user terminal that is in a connected state and located in a first area (S1001).

[0154] Next, the processor uses the communication device to search for a second user terminal that is registered and located in the second area (S1002).

[0155] When multiple registered second user terminals are found in the second area, the processor selects one of the multiple second user terminals and obtains information about that terminal. For example, the processor selects the second user terminal with the highest preset priority among the found second user terminals and obtains information about that terminal. Alternatively, the second processing unit selects the second user terminal with the earliest registration order among the second user terminals located in the second area and obtains information about that terminal. Alternatively, the second processing unit selects the second user terminal closest to the driver's seat among the second user terminals located in the second area and obtains information about that terminal (S1003 and S1004).

[0156] Next, the processor controls the door to unlock based on the vehicle control signal from the first user terminal (S1005).

[0157] Next, the processor executes personalized linkage of the vehicle based on information about the second user terminal (S1006).

[0158] Alternatively, if the processor does not find a registered second user terminal in the second region, the processor performs personalized linkage of the vehicle based on information about the first user terminal (S1007).

[0159] Next, when the vehicle starts, the processor initializes the personalized linkage settings (S1008).

[0160] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a vehicle according to yet another implementation scheme. (Refer to...) Figure 11 The processor uses a communication device to receive vehicle control signals from a first user terminal that is in a connected state and located in a first area (S1101).

[0161] Next, the processor uses the communication device to search for a second user terminal that is registered and located in the second area (S1102).

[0162] When multiple registered second user terminals are found in the second area, the processor selects one of the multiple second user terminals. For example, the processor selects the second user terminal with the highest preset priority among the multiple found second user terminals. Alternatively, the second processing unit selects the second user terminal with the earliest registration order among the second user terminals located in the second area. Alternatively, the second processing unit selects the second user terminal closest to the driver's seat among the second user terminals located in the second area (S1103 and S1104).

[0163] Next, the communication device will send a personalized linkage request message based on the selected second user terminal to the first user terminal (S1105).

[0164] Next, when a personalized linkage permission message is received from the first user terminal, the processor obtains information about the selected second user terminal (S1106 and S1107).

[0165] Next, when the processor does not receive a personalized linkage permission message from the first user terminal, the processor obtains information about another of the multiple second user terminals. In this case, the selection method can be determined sequentially based on one of the aforementioned priorities, registration order, or order of proximity to the driver's seat.

[0166] The processor repeats the above process for all the second user terminals found until the processor receives the personalized linkage permission message (S1110).

[0167] Next, the processor controls the door to unlock based on the vehicle control signal from the first user terminal (S1108).

[0168] Next, the processor executes personalized linkage of the vehicle based on the information obtained about the second user terminal (S1109).

[0169] Alternatively, if the processor does not find a registered second user terminal in the second region or if the processor does not receive a personalized linkage permission message for all found second user terminals, the processor performs personalized linkage of the vehicle based on the information about the first user terminal (S1111).

[0170] Next, when the vehicle starts, the processor initializes the personalized linkage settings (S1112).

[0171] As used in this embodiment, the term "~cell" refers to a software or hardware component such as a Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) or ASIC, and the "~cell" serves a specific function. However, a "cell" is not limited to software or hardware. A "cell" can be configured to be located in an addressable storage medium and configured to be reproduced by one or more processors. Thus, by way of example, a "cell" is a component (such as a software component, an object-oriented software component, a class component, and a task component), a process, a function, an attribute, a program, a subroutine, a program code segment, a driver, firmware, microcode, a circuit, data, a database, a data structure, a graph, an array, and a variable. The functionality provided in a component and a "~cell" can be combined into fewer components and "cells" or additional components and "cells" can be separated. Furthermore, components and "~cells" can be implemented to reproduce one or more CPUs in a device or a secure multimedia card.

[0172] According to the implementation plan, the vehicle and the method of controlling the vehicle can perform personalized linkage by automatically identifying the terminal located in the driver's seat area.

[0173] In addition, the first connected smartphone can be used to provide PEPS functionality, and another smartphone located in the driver's seat can be used to perform personalized linkage.

[0174] Furthermore, personalized linkages can be performed using another smartphone located in the driver's seat without disconnecting the first connected smartphone.

[0175] Furthermore, personalized linkage can only be performed using a smartphone near the driver's seat when confirmation is performed by a connected smartphone.

[0176] In addition, when multiple registered smartphones are found near the driver's seat, a personalized linkage can be executed by selecting one smartphone according to preset criteria.

[0177] Although the invention has been described above with reference to exemplary embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and changes can be made to the invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as described in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A vehicle comprising: One or more processors; as well as Memory configured to store one or more programs executed by one or more processors. The processor includes: A first processing unit is configured to: when receiving a vehicle control signal via a communication device from a first user terminal that is in a connected state and located in a first area, use the communication device to search for a second user terminal that is in a registered state and located in a second area; and The second processing unit is configured to: acquire information about a second user terminal located in a second area via a communication device, and execute personalized linkages of the vehicle based on the information about the second user terminal.

2. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, When the second processing unit does not find a user terminal in the second area, the second processing unit performs personalized linkage of the vehicle based on the first user terminal.

3. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, The first region centered on the vehicle has a wider radius than the second region.

4. The vehicle according to claim 3, wherein, The first zone is the keyless entry operable area, and the second zone is an area less than or equal to a predetermined distance relative to the driver's seat.

5. The vehicle according to claim 1, further comprising a third processing unit configured to: control the operation of the vehicle based on a vehicle control signal received from a first user terminal; in, The vehicle control signals include door control signals and start control signals.

6. The vehicle according to claim 5, wherein, After the third processing unit unlocks the vehicle doors based on the vehicle control signal, the second processing unit executes personalized linkage of the vehicle based on the second user terminal.

7. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, When a second user terminal in a registered state is found in the second area, the second processing unit sends a personalized linkage request message based on the second user terminal to the first user terminal through a communication device.

8. The vehicle according to claim 7, wherein, When a personalized linkage permission message is received from the first user terminal, the second processing unit executes the personalized linkage of the vehicle based on the second user terminal.

9. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, When multiple second user terminals are set in the second area, the second processing unit selects the second user terminal for personalized linkage according to the preset priority and executes the personalized linkage of the vehicle.

10. The vehicle according to claim 9, wherein, The second processing unit sends personalized linkage request messages based on the second user terminal to the first user terminal in order of priority via a communication device.

11. The vehicle according to claim 10, wherein, When the personalized linkage permission message is received from the first user terminal, the second processing unit stops sending personalized linkage request messages.

12. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, After the personalized linkage of the vehicle is executed based on the second user terminal, the second processing unit initializes the personalized linkage settings when the vehicle is started.

13. A method for controlling a vehicle, the method being performed by a computing device including one or more processors and a memory configured to store one or more programs executed by the one or more processors, the method comprising the steps of: The processor receives vehicle control signals from a first user terminal that is in a connected state and located in a first area via a communication device. The processor uses a communication device to search for a second user terminal that is registered and located in the second area; The processor obtains information about the second user terminal located in the second area via a communication device; The processor executes personalized vehicle linkages based on information about the second user terminal.

14. The method for controlling a vehicle according to claim 13, further comprising: After the step of searching for the second user terminal, if no user terminal is found in the second area, the processor executes the personalized linkage of the vehicle based on the first user terminal.

15. The method for controlling a vehicle according to claim 13, further comprising: Before executing personalized linkages for the vehicle, the processor controls the vehicle's operation based on vehicle control signals received from the first user terminal.

16. The method for controlling a vehicle according to claim 15, wherein, The operation of controlling the vehicle includes: the processor controlling the unlocking of the vehicle doors based on the vehicle control signals.

17. The method for controlling a vehicle according to claim 13, further comprising: Before executing the personalized linkage of the vehicle, the processor sends a personalized linkage request message based on the second user terminal to the first user terminal through the communication device.

18. The method for controlling a vehicle according to claim 17, wherein, Personalized linkages for vehicles include: The processor receives a personalized linkage permission message from the first user terminal via a communication device; According to the personalized linkage permission message, the processor executes the personalized linkage of the vehicle based on the second user terminal.

19. A method for controlling a vehicle, the method being performed by a computing device including one or more processors and a memory configured to store one or more programs executed by the one or more processors, the method comprising the steps of: The processor receives vehicle control signals from a first user terminal that is in a connected state and located in a first area via a communication device. The processor uses a communication device to search for multiple second user terminals that are registered and located in the second area; The processor selects a second user terminal for personalized linkage from multiple second user terminals according to a preset priority. The processor obtains information about the selected second user terminal via a communication device; The processor executes personalized vehicle linkages based on information about the second user terminal.

20. The method for controlling a vehicle according to claim 19, further comprising: Before executing the personalized linkage of the vehicle, the processor sends the personalized linkage request message using the selected second user terminal to the first user terminal in sequence through the communication device. When a personalized linkage permission message is received from the first user terminal, the processor executes the personalized linkage of the vehicle based on the corresponding second user terminal.

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