Control system for controlling a vehicle system

Abstract

Aspects of the invention relate to a control system (10) for controlling a vehicle system (20) configured to provide one or more functions of a vehicle (100, 200), the one or more functions of the vehicle (100, 200) comprising a set of one or more activable vehicle functions, the control system (10) comprising one or more processors collectively configured to: - identify (310) an occupant (400, 410) of the vehicle (100, 200); - determine (320), from a user profile associated with the identified occupant (400, 410), a subset of the set of one or more activable vehicle functions that can be activated by the identified occupant (400, 410); and - enable (330) the subset of the set of one or more activable vehicle functions in the vehicle system (20) that can be activated by the identified occupant (400, 410).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to control systems for controlling vehicle systems. Aspects of the invention relate to control systems, vehicles, and methods. Background Technology

[0002] In the prior art, vehicle functions are configured and activated by the vehicle occupants only during the initial setup phase. For example, a vehicle function may affect how the vehicle operates. For instance, a vehicle function might be adaptive cruise control, parking assist, blind-angle warning, or any other suitable operation that influences how the vehicle operates.

[0003] This approach limits customers' ability to experience updated feature enhancements tailored to their preferences or usage patterns throughout the vehicle's lifecycle. Furthermore, vehicle occupants cannot transfer activated features from one vehicle to another. For original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), this results in a reduced ability to optimize feature utilization throughout the vehicle's lifecycle.

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to address one or more of the disadvantages associated with the prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The various aspects and embodiments of the present invention provide control systems, vehicles, and methods as claimed in the appended claims.

[0006] According to one aspect of the invention, a control system for controlling a vehicle system is provided, wherein the vehicle system is configured to provide one or more functions of the vehicle. These functions include a set of one or more activatable vehicle functions. The control system includes one or more processors, said one or more processors being collectively configured to: identify vehicle occupants; determine, based on user profiles associated with the identified occupants, a subset of the activatable vehicle functions, a subset of the set of one or more activatable vehicle functions that can be activated by the identified occupants; and enable the subset of activatable vehicle functions in the vehicle system.

[0007] The control system according to the invention allows occupants to activate vehicle functions in any car based on a user profile. Furthermore, vehicle functions can be activated in a specific vehicle depending on the occupant. In other words, the control system according to the invention ensures that the activatable vehicle functions match the functions associated with the vehicle's occupants. Therefore, if the occupant changes, the features activated in the vehicle may change. Similarly, if the occupant changes vehicles, for example, if the occupant uses a rental car, the vehicle functions associated with the occupant follow the occupant and are activated in the different vehicles.

[0008] The control system may include one or more controllers, which collectively include: at least one electronic processor having an electrical input for receiving input signals; and at least one memory device electrically coupled to the at least one electronic processor and storing instructions therein; and wherein the at least one electronic processor is configured to access the at least one memory device and execute the instructions thereon.

[0009] A vehicle system can be an integrated set of components and / or subsystems that work together within a vehicle to perform vehicle functions. A vehicle system can be, for example, an engine management system, a braking system, or an infotainment system.

[0010] Vehicle functions can be understood as operations and / or features that a vehicle can perform or provide. Vehicle functions may include climate control, navigation, or adaptive cruise control. In particular, vehicle functions can be specified as vehicle-specific. In other words, a vehicle function can be a function performed by the vehicle itself rather than by another device, such as hill start assist, ADAS, etc. An example of a function that can be performed by another device is, for example, control of infotainment functions provided by a smartphone.

[0011] Occupant identification can involve determining the identity of people, particularly those inside and / or near the vehicle.

[0012] Recognition can include facial recognition, fingerprint scanning, or voice recognition. Facial recognition can be achieved using at least one camera device installed in the vehicle, specifically positioned on the dashboard or rearview mirror, to capture at least one image of the occupant's face. An advantage of facial recognition is that it can be operated passively without requiring any action from the occupant, thus providing a seamless user experience.

[0013] Fingerprint scanning can be achieved using fingerprint sensors, particularly those embedded in vehicle buttons, such as the start button or door handles. The advantages of fingerprint scanning are its high accuracy and security, as fingerprints are unique to each individual.

[0014] Alternatively, or otherwise, voice recognition can be implemented using microphones, particularly those placed inside the vehicle, to capture the voice of the occupants. The advantage of voice recognition is that it can be used for hands-free operation, thereby enhancing safety by allowing the driver to keep their hand on the steering wheel and pay close attention to the road.

[0015] It is also conceivable that occupant identification includes providing a user interface where users can enter user credentials, specifically a username and / or password.

[0016] A user profile can refer to a set of data representing at least one of the following: the occupant's identity, a subset of the set of one or more activatable vehicle functions that can be activated by the identified occupant, and vehicle preferences. In addition to information about the subset of one or more activatable vehicle functions that can be activated by the identified occupant, a user profile may also include preferences, settings, and personal information. A user profile enables the association of an occupant with a set of one or more activatable vehicle functions that can be activated by the identified occupant, thus allowing a subset of vehicle functions to be enabled.

[0017] Determining based on a user profile can be understood as querying a database that includes the user profile, which contains a subset of one or more sets of activatable vehicle functions. This allows for finding the correct subset of activatable functions for the identified occupant.

[0018] Activatable vehicle functions can be a single vehicle function or a collection of vehicle functions that can be enabled based on conditions and / or input. Conditions may include, for example, that the function has previously been selected and / or acquired by the occupant. Enabled functions may not be activated immediately. For example, parking assistance may be enabled but will only be activated when the vehicle is about to park.

[0019] Enabling and / or activating vehicle functions may involve activating and / or allowing the use of certain features or operations. This can be accomplished specifically through software commands, user input, or automated processing. However, only a subset of the activatable vehicle functions in the vehicle system is enabled, where the subset of activatable vehicle functions is based on a user profile associated with the identified occupant.

[0020] It is conceivable that the control system, including one or more processors, is also collectively configured to disable a second subset of the set of one or more activatable vehicle functions, which is not part of the determined subset. Therefore, occupants can only activate functions enabled according to the corresponding user profile.

[0021] Optionally, the control system includes one or more processors configured to collectively identify occupants, determine, and activate a subset of features when the vehicle enters a driving mode. In other words, the control system may include processors that work together to identify occupants, determine, and activate a subset of features when the vehicle is set to a driving mode. This has the advantage that the vehicle can be prepared before startup, eliminating the need to operate the control system in areas with poor reception.

[0022] Driving mode can refer to the operational settings of a vehicle in which it can move. Driving mode can be manually selected by the occupant or automatically activated, particularly based on detected conditions. Alternatively or additionally, the one or more processors can be jointly configured to identify the occupant, determine, and activate a subset of characteristics at the start of the vehicle's power cycle. A power cycle can be defined as the time between the activation of the active power source, particularly the internal combustion engine or battery, and the deactivation of the active power source.

[0023] Optionally, the one or more processors are also collectively configured to identify the occupant at least in the second vehicle, and to enable a subset of the set of one or more activatable vehicle functions in the vehicle system of the second vehicle that can be activated by the identified occupant. In other words, the processor can identify the occupant in another vehicle and activate the same subset of functions in that other vehicle. Thus, the occupant of the vehicle can enable the subset of functions in the second vehicle or any other vehicle after identification.

[0024] The second vehicle can be understood as a separate vehicle operating independently of the first vehicle. The second vehicle can be of the same or different type. This allows for seamless switching of vehicle functions between different vehicles.

[0025] Optionally, one or more processors are also jointly configured to: identify at least a second occupant of the vehicle; determine a subset of the set of one or more activatable vehicle functions that can be activated by the identified second occupant, based on a user profile associated with the identified second occupant; and enable the subset of the set of one or more activatable vehicle functions in the vehicle system that can be activated by the identified second occupant. In other words, the processor can identify a second person in the vehicle and activate different subsets of functions for them. This ensures that multiple occupants can have personalized vehicle functions.

[0026] Occupants may be in the vehicle simultaneously or at different times. If only a second occupant is in the vehicle, it can be specified that only a subset of the set of one or more activatable vehicle functions that can be activated by the identified second occupant is enabled. If the first occupant is also present, it can be specified that a subset of the set of one or more activatable vehicle functions that can be activated for both the first and / or second occupant is enabled. In other words, it can be specified that the vehicle functions available to occupants can be the union of subsets of those occupants. This provides the advantage of an improved user experience for occupants because more functions are available to them, and there is no need to switch user profiles to enable functions available only to one occupant.

[0027] Optionally, at least one of the set of one or more activatable vehicle functions controls at least one of the following: vehicle speed; and vehicle direction of travel. In other words, activatable functions may include controlling vehicle speed and steering. This provides the advantage of integrating key, particularly Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) functions into the control system. Since more advanced vehicle functions can undergo further development after vehicle deployment, managing and providing these functions using the control system improves the user experience, as occupants can enable the latest features that follow them between vehicles.

[0028] Optionally, it is conceivable that the one or more processors are also jointly configured to: for at least one vehicle function within the subset of the set of one or more activatable vehicle functions that can be activated by the identified occupant, determine, based on the vehicle profile associated with the vehicle, whether the at least one vehicle function for the vehicle can be activated; and if the at least one vehicle function for the vehicle can be activated, enable the at least one vehicle function. In other words, the processor can check whether a particular function is available for the vehicle, and if the particular function is available for the vehicle, enable that particular function. This ensures that only compatible functions are enabled.

[0029] A vehicle profile can be understood as a collection of characteristics and / or settings associated with a vehicle.

[0030] Optionally, a vehicle profile includes at least one of the following: vehicle type, version of the computer program installed on the vehicle, a list of activatable vehicle functions, and dependencies on other vehicle functions. In other words, a vehicle profile may include details such as the vehicle model, software version, available functions, and how they interact with each other. A vehicle profile like this ensures that only functions compatible with a specific vehicle are enabled.

[0031] Optionally, the one or more processors are also collectively configured to output a signal indicating the enabled subset of the set of one or more activatable vehicle functions that can be activated by the identified occupant. In other words, the processor can send a signal indicating which functions have been activated for the occupant. This provides clear feedback on the status of the vehicle functions. The signal can be displayed on the user interface, particularly on lights on the display and / or control panel. It is also conceivable to send a notification to the occupant that a function has been enabled.

[0032] Optionally, the control system further includes at least one of the following: a vehicle function system; and an occupant identification device configured to identify occupants of the vehicle. In other words, the control system may include the vehicle's function system and a method for identifying occupants. This ensures that the system can identify who is in the vehicle and activate the appropriate functions.

[0033] Optionally, the control system may include a communication system configured to communicate with vehicle functional systems and / or shared resources. The communication system may be specifically electrically connected to the vehicle functional systems. Furthermore, the communication system may be configured to communicate wirelessly with shared resources, particularly via Wi-Fi and / or mobile radio.

[0034] Occupant identification devices can be understood as systems used to identify people inside a vehicle.

[0035] Furthermore, it is conceivable that vehicle functional systems include advanced driver assistance systems. In other words, vehicle functional systems can include features that assist the driver. This provides the advantage of enhanced driving safety and convenience.

[0036] Optionally, the advanced driver assistance system is configured to perform at least one of the following: adaptive cruise control, lane assist, blind spot detection, automatic emergency braking, and parking assist. In other words, the driver assistance system may include features such as speed maintenance, lane change assistance, vehicle detection in blind spots, automatic braking in emergency situations, and parking assistance. This ensures a comprehensive set of complex features. These complex features are often further developed after the vehicle is deployed, making the control system according to the invention advantageous in providing new, advanced, or updated vehicle functions for occupants. It is also advantageous if the user can always access the same driver assistance system when changing vehicles, as these same driver assistance systems increase driving comfort.

[0037] According to another aspect of the invention, a vehicle is provided that includes a control system according to the invention.

[0038] This endows the vehicle with the same advantages as those already described in detail in conjunction with the control system according to the invention.

[0039] According to another aspect of the invention, a method is provided for controlling a control system, particularly for controlling a vehicle system according to the invention, the vehicle system being configured to provide one or more functions of the vehicle, said one or more functions comprising a set of one or more activatable vehicle functions. The method includes: identifying a vehicle occupant; determining, based on a user profile associated with the identified occupant, a subset of the set of one or more activatable vehicle functions that can be activated by the identified occupant; and activating the subset of the set of one or more activatable vehicle functions in the vehicle system that can be activated by the identified occupant.

[0040] This gives the method the same advantages as those already described in detail in conjunction with the control system and / or vehicle according to the invention.

[0041] According to another aspect of the invention, a computer-readable instruction is provided, which, when executed by a computer, is configured to perform the method according to the invention.

[0042] This provides computer-readable instructions with the same advantages as those already described in detail in conjunction with the control systems, vehicles, and / or methods according to the present invention.

[0043] Within the scope of this application, it is expressly intended that various aspects, embodiments, examples, and alternatives, and in particular their features, set forth in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims, and / or in the following description and drawings, may be adopted independently or in any combination. That is, all embodiments and / or features of any embodiment may be combined in any manner and / or combination, unless such features are incompatible. The applicant reserves the right to amend any originally filed claim or accordingly file any new claim, including the right to modify any originally filed claim to be subordinate to any other claim and / or incorporated into any other claim, although not initially claimed in this manner. Attached Figure Description

[0044] One or more embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0045] Figure 1 A vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention and a control system according to an embodiment of the present invention are shown;

[0046] Figure 2 A method according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0047] Figure 3 Another method according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0048] Figure 4 A first vehicle and a second vehicle having a control system according to an embodiment of the present invention are shown;

[0049] Figure 5 A data flow diagram according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown; and

[0050] Figure 6 A control system according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0051] This article refers to the appendix Figure 1 A vehicle 100 and a control system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention are described. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the control system 10 is installed in the vehicle 100. Figure 1 As further shown, occupant 400 is in vehicle 100.

[0052] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a control system 10 is provided for controlling a vehicle system 20, wherein the vehicle system 20 is configured to provide one or more functions of a vehicle 100. These functions include a set of one or more activatable vehicle functions. The control system 10 includes one or more processors, which are collectively configured to: 310 identify an occupant 400 of the vehicle 100; determine, based on a user profile associated with the identified occupant 400, 320 determine a subset of activatable vehicle functions, a subset of the set of one or more activatable vehicle functions that can be activated by the identified occupant 400; and 330 enable the subset of activatable vehicle functions in the vehicle system 20.

[0053] According to the present invention and as follows Figure 1 The control system 10 shown allows occupant 400 to activate any vehicle function enabled in the vehicle based on a user profile. Furthermore, vehicle functions can be activated in a specific vehicle 100 depending on the occupant 400. In other words, the control system 10 according to the invention ensures that the activatable vehicle functions match the functions associated with the occupant 400 of the vehicle 100. Therefore, regardless of which vehicle the occupant is in, the vehicle will have the activatable functions enabled (as long as such functions exist in said vehicle).

[0054] like Figure 6 The control system 10 shown is configured to receive identification data 16 from identification sensor 30 and identify occupant 400 of vehicle 100. The control system 10 can then output control signal 17 to enable a subset of activatable vehicle functions in vehicle system 20.

[0055] like Figure 6 The control system 10 shown includes a controller 11, but it will be understood that this is merely illustrative. The controller 11 includes a processing device 12 and a memory device 13. The processing device 12 may be one or more electronic processing devices 12 capable of executing computer-readable instructions. The memory device 13 may be one or more memory devices 13. The memory device 13 is electrically coupled to the processing device 12. The memory device 13 is configured to store instructions, and the processing device 12 is configured to access the memory device 13 and execute the instructions stored thereon.

[0056] The controller 11 includes an input device 14 and an output device 15. The input device 14 may include an electrical input terminal 14 of the controller 11. The output device 15 may include an electrical output terminal 15 of the controller 11. The input terminal 14 is configured to receive an identification signal 16 from the identification sensor 30. The identification signal 16 is an electrical signal indicating the occupant 400. The output terminal 17 is configured to output an enable control signal 17, which indicates a subset of activatable vehicle functions in the vehicle system 20 for controlling the vehicle system 20.

[0057] Vehicle system 20 may be an integrated component and / or subsystem within vehicle 100 that works together to perform vehicle functions. Vehicle system 20 may be, for example, an engine management system, a braking system, or an infotainment system.

[0058] Vehicle functions can be understood as operations and / or features that vehicle 100 can perform or provide. Vehicle functions may include climate control, navigation, or adaptive cruise control. Occupant identification 400 may involve determining the identity of people, particularly those inside and / or near vehicle 100. In particular, vehicle functions may be specific to vehicle 100. In other words, a vehicle function may be a function that can be performed solely by vehicle 100 and not by another device, such as hill start assist. An example of a function that can be performed by another device is, for example, infotainment functions that can be provided by a smartphone.

[0059] The identification 310 may include facial recognition, fingerprint scanning, or voice recognition. Facial recognition can be achieved using at least one camera device installed in the vehicle 100, particularly arranged on the dashboard or rearview mirror, to capture at least one image of the occupant 400's face. An advantage of facial recognition is that it can be operated passively without requiring any action from the occupant 400, thus providing a seamless user experience.

[0060] Fingerprint scanning can be achieved using fingerprint sensors, particularly those embedded in vehicle buttons, such as the start button or door handles. The advantages of fingerprint scanning are its high accuracy and security, as each fingerprint is unique.

[0061] Alternatively or otherwise, voice recognition can be implemented using microphones, particularly those located within vehicle 200, to capture the voice of occupant 400. The advantage of voice recognition is that it can be used for hands-free operation, thereby improving safety by allowing the driver to keep their hand on the steering wheel and pay close attention to the road.

[0062] It is also conceivable that occupant identification 400 includes providing a user interface where users can enter user credentials, specifically a username and / or password.

[0063] A user profile may refer to a set of data representing at least one of the following: the identity of occupant 400, a subset of one or more activatable vehicle functions that can be activated by the identified occupant 400, and vehicle 200 preferences. In addition to information about the subset of one or more activatable vehicle functions that can be activated by the identified occupant 400, the user profile may also include preferences, settings, and personal information. The user profile enables the association of occupant 400 with the set of one or more activatable vehicle functions that can be activated by the identified occupant 400, thus allowing the subset of vehicle functions to be enabled.

[0064] Determining 320 based on the user profile can be understood as querying a database that includes user profiles containing subsets of sets with one or more activatable vehicle functions. This enables the correct subset of activatable functions to be found for the identified occupant.

[0065] Activable vehicle functions can be a single vehicle function or a set of vehicle functions that can be enabled based on conditions and / or input. Conditions may include, for example, that the function has previously been selected and / or acquired by the occupant 400. Enabled functions may not be activated immediately. For example, parking assistance may be enabled, but will only be activated when the vehicle is about to park.

[0066] Enabling 330 and / or activating vehicle functions may involve activating and / or allowing the use of certain features or operations. This can be accomplished specifically through software commands, user input, or automated processing. However, only a subset of the activatable vehicle functions in vehicle system 20 is enabled, wherein the subset of activatable vehicle functions is based on a user profile associated with the identified occupant 400. It can also be specified that a deactivated subset of vehicle functions is disabled based on a user profile associated with the identified occupant 400.

[0067] It is conceivable that the control system 10, including one or more processors, is also collectively configured to disable a second subset of one or more activatable vehicle functions, which is not part of the determined subset. Therefore, the occupant 400 can only activate functions enabled according to the corresponding user profile.

[0068] For example, occupants 400 with advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) functions linked to their profile can use the function in their vehicle because the function is enabled and can be activated as needed. If occupants 400 switch from one vehicle 100 to another vehicle 200, the ADAS functions are also available there.

[0069] Similarly, for the first vehicle 100, if the first occupant 400 is replaced by a different occupant (not shown), the function activated for the first occupant (e.g., advanced driver assistance system function) can be disabled for the second occupant when the function is not related to the second user. Therefore, the function activated for the first vehicle 100 can vary depending on the occupant. Optionally, the determination of the occupant 400 and the activation and / or disabling of its associated functions occur during each power cycle of the vehicle.

[0070] Figure 2 A method 300 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Method 300 is a vehicle 400 (such as...) Figure 4 The method of the control system 10 of the vehicle 400 shown. Method 300 can be... Figure 6 The control system 10 shown executes this. In particular, the memory 13 may include computer-readable instructions that, when executed by the processor 12, perform the method 300 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] like Figure 2 Further illustrated, a method 300 is provided for controlling a control system 10, particularly a control system according to the invention for controlling a vehicle system 20, the vehicle system 20 being configured to provide one or more functions of the vehicle 200, said one or more functions comprising a set of one or more activatable vehicle functions. Method 300 includes: identifying 310 an occupant 400 of the vehicle 200; determining 320 a subset of the set of one or more activatable vehicle functions that can be activated by the identified occupant 400 based on a user profile associated with the identified occupant 400; and activating 330 the subset of the set of one or more activatable vehicle functions that can be activated by the identified occupant 400 in the vehicle system 20.

[0072] This gives method 300 the same advantages as those already described in detail in conjunction with the control system 10 and / or vehicle 200 according to the invention.

[0073] The variant combination control system 10 involving the second occupant 410 and / or the second vehicle 200 is described and in Figure 3 As shown in the image.

[0074] Optionally, the control system 10 includes one or more processors configured to collectively identify 310 occupants 400, determine 320, and activate a subset of features when the vehicle 100 enters a driving mode. In other words, the control system 10 may include processors that work together to identify 400, determine, and activate a subset of features when the vehicle 100 is set to a driving mode. This has the advantage that the vehicle 100 can be prepared before startup, eliminating the need to operate the control system 10 in areas with poor reception.

[0075] Driving mode can refer to the operational settings of vehicle 100, in which vehicle 100 is capable of movement. Driving mode can be manually selected by occupant 400 or automatically activated, particularly automatically activated based on detected conditions. Alternatively or additionally, one or more processors can be jointly configured to identify occupant 400, determine, and activate a subset of characteristics at the start of the power cycle of vehicle 100. Power cycle can be defined as the time between the activation of the active power source, particularly the internal combustion engine or battery, and the deactivation of the active power source.

[0076] Now turn to Figure 3 and Figure 4 It can be specified that one or more processors are also jointly configured to identify, at least, an occupant 400 in the second vehicle 200, and to enable, at least, a subset of one or more activatable vehicle functions in the vehicle system 20 of the second vehicle 200 that can be activated by the identified occupant 400. In other words, a processor can identify, at least, an occupant 400 in another vehicle 200 and activate, at least, the same subset of functions in that vehicle 200. Thus, an occupant 400 of another vehicle 200 can activate, upon identification, a subset of functions on the second vehicle 200 or any other vehicle 200.

[0077] The second vehicle 200 can be understood as another vehicle 200 operating independently of vehicle 100. The second vehicle 200 can be of the same or different type. This allows vehicle functions to be seamlessly switched between different vehicles 100 and 200.

[0078] like Figure 3As further illustrated, optionally, one or more processors are also jointly configured to: identify at least a second occupant 410 of vehicle 100; determine, based on a user profile associated with the identified second occupant 410, a subset of one or more activatable vehicle functions that can be activated by the identified second occupant 410; and enable, in vehicle system 20, a subset of one or more activatable vehicle functions that can be activated by the identified second occupant 410. In other words, the processor can identify a second person in vehicle 100 and activate different subsets of functions for them. This ensures that multiple occupants 400, 410 can have personalized vehicle functions.

[0079] Occupants 400 and 410 may be in vehicle 100 simultaneously or at different times. If only the second occupant 410 is in vehicle 100, it can be specified that only a subset of the set of one or more activatable vehicle functions that can be activated by the identified second occupant 410 is enabled. If the first occupant 400 is also present, it can be specified that a subset of the set of one or more activatable vehicle functions that can be activated for the first occupant 400 and / or the second occupant 410 is enabled. In other words, it can be specified that the vehicle functions available to occupants 400 and 410 can be the union of subsets of occupants 400 and 410. This provides the advantage of improving the user experience for occupants 400 and 410, as more functions are available to the occupants, and there is no need to switch user profiles to enable functions available only to one occupant.

[0080] Optionally, at least one of a set of one or more activatable vehicle functions controls at least one of the following: the speed of vehicle 100; and the direction of travel of vehicle 100. In other words, activatable functions may include controlling the speed and steering of vehicle 100. This provides the advantage of integrating key, particularly advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) functions into control system 10. Since more advanced vehicle functions can undergo further development after vehicle 100 is deployed, managing and providing these functions using control system 10 improves the user experience, as occupants 400, 410 can enable the latest functions that follow them from vehicle 100 to vehicle 200.

[0081] Optionally, it is conceivable that one or more processors are also jointly configured to: for at least one vehicle function within a subset of one or more activatable vehicle functions that can be activated by the identified occupant 400, determine 340 whether the at least one vehicle function can be activated for vehicle 100 based on the vehicle profile associated with vehicle 100; and if the at least one vehicle function can be activated for vehicle 100, enable 330 the at least one vehicle function. In other words, the processor can check whether a specific function is available for vehicle 100, and if the specific function is available for the vehicle, enable that specific function. This ensures that only compatible functions are enabled.

[0082] For example, vehicle functions such as parking assistance or adaptive cruise control systems may exist on the first vehicle 100. This information may be stored in the vehicle profile. However, at least one of these functions may not exist on the second vehicle 200. In this case, the corresponding vehicle function is not enabled in the second vehicle 200. In this case, a message may also be output to the occupants 400 so that they know why the function is unavailable.

[0083] A vehicle profile can be understood as a collection of characteristics and / or settings associated with vehicle 100.

[0084] Optionally, the vehicle profile includes at least one of the following: vehicle type, version of the computer program installed on vehicle 100, a list of activatable vehicle functions, and dependencies on other vehicle functions. In other words, the vehicle profile may include details such as the model of vehicle 100, software version, available functions, and how they interact with each other. A vehicle profile like this ensures that only functions compatible with a specific vehicle 100 are enabled.

[0085] Optionally, one or more processors are also configured to collectively output a signal indicating the enabled subset of one or more sets of activatable vehicle functions that can be activated by the identified occupant 400. In other words, the processor can send a signal indicating which functions have been activated for the occupant 400. This provides clear feedback on the status of the vehicle functions. The signal can be displayed on the user interface, particularly on lights on the display and / or control panel. It is also conceivable to send a notification to the occupant 400 that a function has been enabled.

[0086] Optionally, such as Figure 1 and Figure 4As shown, the control system 10 also includes at least one of the following: vehicle function systems 20, 21; and an occupant identification device 30 configured to identify occupants 400, 410 of vehicles 100, 200. In other words, the control system 10 may include vehicle function systems 20, 21 and a method for identifying occupants 400. This ensures that the system 10 can identify who is in vehicles 100, 200 and activate the appropriate functions.

[0087] Optionally, the control system 10 may include a communication system configured to communicate with the vehicle function system 20 and / or shared resources. The communication system may be specifically electrically connected to the vehicle function system 20. Furthermore, the communication system may be configured to communicate wirelessly with shared resources, particularly via WiFi and / or mobile radio.

[0088] The occupant identification device 30 can be understood as a system for identifying people inside the vehicle 100.

[0089] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the vehicle function system 20 includes an advanced driver assistance system. In other words, the vehicle function system 20 may include features that assist the driver. This provides the advantage of enhanced driving safety and convenience.

[0090] Optionally, the advanced driver assistance system is configured to perform at least one of the following: adaptive cruise control, lane assist, blind spot detection, automatic emergency braking, and parking assist. In other words, the driver assistance system may include features such as speed maintenance, lane change assistance, vehicle detection in blind spots, automatic braking in emergency situations, and parking assistance. This ensures a comprehensive set of complex features. These complex features are typically further developed after the vehicle 100 is deployed, so that the control system 10 according to the invention offers the advantage of providing new, advanced, or updated vehicle functions for the occupants 400.

[0091] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle 100 is provided, the vehicle 100 including a control system 10 according to the present invention.

[0092] This gives vehicle 200 the same advantages as those already described in detail in conjunction with control system 10 according to the invention.

[0093] According to another embodiment of the invention, computer-readable instructions are provided, which, when executed by a computer, are configured to perform the method 300 according to the invention.

[0094] This provides computer-readable instructions with the same advantages as those already described in detail in conjunction with the control system 10, vehicle 200, and / or method 300 according to the invention.

[0095] Figure 5 An embodiment of method 300, control system 10, and vehicle 100 is illustrated. Here, occupant 400 requests vehicle functions. This request can be initiated by identifying occupant 400 via identification 310.

[0096] The request is sent to the shareable computing resource (by...) Figure 5 (The cloud symbol is depicted in the image). Shared computing resources are used in conjunction with vehicle profiles to check requests. For example, vehicle wiring, vehicle type, or software or hardware version can be stored in the vehicle profile. By checking requests in conjunction with the vehicle profile, the shared resources ensure that the requested vehicle function is compatible with vehicle 100. If this is not the case, the shared resources notify occupant 400 by sending a notification. If the check is successful, a notification can also be sent to remind occupants that the vehicle function is available in vehicle 100 with that profile.

[0097] Subsequently, the control system 10 is used to examine the user profile of the occupant 400, and based on the user profile associated with the identified occupant 400, a subset of one or more activatable vehicle functions that can be activated by the identified occupant 400 is determined.

[0098] Then, the vehicle system 20 is instructed to activate a subset of one or more activatable vehicle functions that can be activated by the identified occupant 400. For example... Figure 5 As shown, vehicle system 20 can be configured to check whether vehicle functions have been enabled and / or activated before following instructions from control system 10.

[0099] In addition, vehicle system 20 can send notifications to occupant 400 to indicate a subset of vehicle functions that have been enabled and / or disabled.

[0100] It should be understood that various changes and modifications can be made to this invention without departing from the scope of this application.

[0101] The text in the table below can replace the relevant figure labels in the accompanying drawings:

[0102]

Claims

1. A control system for controlling a vehicle system configured to provide one or more functions of the vehicle, said one or more functions comprising a set of one or more activatable vehicle functions, the control system comprising one or more processors configured to: - Identify the occupants of the vehicle. - Based on the user profile associated with the identified occupant, determine a subset of the set of one or more activatable vehicle functions that can be activated by the identified occupant, and - Enable the subset of the set of one or more activatable vehicle functions in the vehicle system that can be activated by the identified occupant.

2. The control system according to claim 1, wherein, The one or more processors are collectively configured to identify the occupants, determine, and activate the subset having the features of claim 1 when the vehicle enters driving mode.

3. The control system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The one or more processors are also collectively configured to: - Identify the occupants at least in the second vehicle. - A subset of the set of one or more activatable vehicle functions that can be activated by the identified occupant in the vehicle system of the second vehicle.

4. The control system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The one or more processors are also collectively configured to: - Identify at least a second occupant of the vehicle. - Based on the user profile associated with the identified second occupant, determine a subset of the set of one or more activatable vehicle functions that can be activated by the identified second occupant, and - Enable the subset of the set of one or more activatable vehicle functions in the vehicle system that can be activated by the identified second occupant.

5. The control system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, At least one of the set of one or more activatable vehicle functions controls at least one of the vehicle's speed and the vehicle's direction of travel.

6. The control system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The one or more processors are also collectively configured to: for at least one vehicle function within a subset of the set of one or more activatable vehicle functions that can be activated by the identified occupant: - Based on the vehicle profile associated with the vehicle, determine whether at least one vehicle function for the vehicle can be activated; as well as - If at least one vehicle function can be activated for the vehicle, then the at least one vehicle function is enabled.

7. The control system according to claim 6, wherein, The vehicle profile includes at least one of the following: vehicle type, version of the computer program installed on the vehicle, list of vehicle functions that can be activated, and interdependencies with other vehicle functions.

8. The control system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The one or more processors are also collectively configured to: - Outputs a signal indicating the enabled subset of the set of one or more activatable vehicle functions that can be activated by the identified occupant.

9. The control system according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one of the following: - Vehicle functional systems, and - An occupant identification device configured to identify occupants of the vehicle.

10. The control system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The vehicle's functional systems include advanced driver assistance systems.

11. The control system according to claim 10, wherein, The advanced driver assistance system is configured to perform at least one of the following: adaptive cruise control, lane assist, blind spot detection, automatic emergency braking, and parking assist.

12. A vehicle comprising a control system according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. A method for controlling a control system for controlling a vehicle system, particularly a control system according to any one of claims 1 to 11, said vehicle system being configured to provide one or more functions of the vehicle, said one or more functions of the vehicle comprising a set of one or more activatable vehicle functions, the method comprising: - Identify the occupants of the vehicle. - Based on the user profile associated with the identified occupant, determine a subset of the set of one or more activatable vehicle functions that can be activated by the identified occupant, and - Enable the subset of the set of one or more activatable vehicle functions in the vehicle system that can be activated by the identified occupant.

14. A computer-readable instruction, which, when executed by a computer, is configured to perform the method of claim 13.

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