Information reproducing system for a vehicle and method for providing information to a user of a vehicle

Abstract

Information reproducing system (15) for a vehicle, having the following features: an input device (12) designed to receive a selection signal (16); a processor (10) designed to generate a video or control signal (18, 18a, 18b) such that a selection area (20) and at least two adjacent display areas (22a, 22b) laterally offset from the selection area (20) from the view of a user can be reproduced by a combination instrument (102) of a vehicle based on the video or control signal (18, 18a, 18b), wherein the selection signal (16) comprises information about a content category (50) selected in the selection area (20) and about a selectable display location, wherein the selection signal (16) comprises information about the display location of the selected content category (50) based on an n-fold actuation of a first shift key (42) by a user on an input device (100), wherein the processor (10) is designed to generate the video or control signal (18, 18a, 18b) so that the selection area (20) and at least n adjacent display areas (22a, 22b) that are laterally offset from the selection area (20) from the view of a user can be reproduced by the instrument cluster (102) of a vehicle based on the video or control signal (18, 18a, 18b), and the content category (50) with extended content (60) is displayed in the n-th display area with respect to the selection area (20) is reproducible, wherein the processor (10) is designed to generate the video or control signal (18, 18a, 18b) based on the selection signal (16), so that a content (60) of the selected content category (50) can be reproduced by the instrument cluster (102) depending on the information about the selectable display location either with an expanded information content compared to the information content displayed in the selection area (20) on one of the at least two display areas (22a, 22b) or with an even higher information content on at least the two display areas (22a, 22b) of the at least two display areas (22a, 22b), or the content (60) of the selected content category (50) can be reproduced by a display device (104) provided in addition to the instrument cluster (102) as a function of the information about the selectable display location with an expanded information content compared to the information content displayed in the selection area (20); and an output device (14) which is designed to provide the video or control signal (18, 18a, 18b) to a combination instrument (102) or a display device (104) present in addition to the combination instrument (102).

Description

[0001] The present invention is in the field of concepts for information reproduction in vehicles and, in particular, relates to an information reproduction system for a vehicle and methods for providing information to a user of a vehicle.

[0002] Digital instrument clusters (FPK, freely programmable instrument clusters) are increasingly being used in series production by automobile manufacturers. They have a variety of useful functions that can be implemented in different ways. These functions include, for example, navigation or route guidance to a specific destination, which can also take current conditions such as local traffic volumes or road closures into account. They also include entertainment functions such as the playback of radio programs or entertainment media, especially music, which can be stored on local or removable storage devices. However, these functions also include the display of safety-relevant or driving-related information, such as the distance to a vehicle ahead, a fuel level indicator, or the outside temperature.To perform such functions or display content categories, digital instrument clusters usually include several selection and display areas.

[0003] The publication US 2010 / 0 302 018 A1 covers the field of individually adjustable display instruments. It discloses an instrument cluster comprising two zones, each of which can display data relevant to a driver. The instrument cluster can be individually configured. For example, a fuel level indicator and route guidance to a destination can be displayed simultaneously, each in a separate zone.

[0004] The document DE 10 2009 036 371 A1 describes a method for providing a user interface, particularly in a vehicle, comprising at least two display areas. In the method, a graphical object is displayed in the first display area, and the graphical object is moved into the second display area by means of the operating device. An anchor object is displayed for the graphical object in the first display area, which allows operation of the object displayed in the second display area by means of the operating device. The disadvantage of the above embodiment is that the menu navigation is confusing. This, in turn, requires increased attention from the user while driving.

[0005] The document DE 2009 006 896 A1 provides a method for displaying information on a display unit in a vehicle. This comprises multiple pieces of information from several different information sources. The display unit comprises a main display area and at least one secondary display area. In the method, an information source is selected by a user, and the information from the selected information source is displayed in the main display area. Furthermore, information from at least some of the non-selected information sources is displayed in a secondary display area.

[0006] There is therefore a need to create an improved concept for information display in a vehicle that enables high flexibility of use and / or increases user safety.

[0007] DE 10 2009 059 141 A1 describes a method for integrating a component into a vehicle information system, in which at least one application executable or provided by the component is made available to a user of the vehicle via a human-machine interface of the information system. The integration of the component into the information system with respect to the input and / or output of information by the user is personalized for a user of the component.

[0008] US 2010 / 0 127 847 A1 discloses a vehicle comprising an instrument panel with one or more touchscreen displays; a wireless network interface; and a plurality of icons for presentation by one or more of the touchscreen displays to a user in the vehicle. Each of one or more icons is configurable by the user through tactile interaction with the icon via one or more of the touchscreen displays. Each of the icons, when presented to the user, makes certain functions accessible to the user via one or more of the touchscreen displays. The vehicle includes software associated with the icons for displaying the icons on the touchscreen displays and implementing their functionality.

[0009] US 2011 / 0 006 892 A1 shows an electronic instrument panel for vehicles consisting of a bendable information display that wraps around the interior contour of the vehicle. The display provides an on-demand image presentation in which the instruments are not in a static, fixed position, but rather change depending on the conditions and environment in which the vehicle is located, as well as user or factory preferences and settings. The presentation can be continuous or fragmented around the vehicle with any contour angle. The information display can change colors, dim itself, and offer a wide range of telemetry, entertainment, vehicle data, climate control, instrumentation, and powertrain information.The instrument panel will be online via wireless connectivity and will provide occupants with real-time information about the vehicle and its surroundings on demand via an electronic display and a human voice.

[0010] EP 1 493 607 A1 discloses a central display mounted on an instrument panel. A meter display is mounted on an instrument cluster. A switching unit switches a display mode between the central display and the counter display depending on the confidentiality level of the information to be displayed. The vehicle's display device can display the information according to the confidentiality level of the information, taking into account the protection of personal data.

[0011] WO 2010 / 042 101 A1 proposes a vehicle information system for a vehicle and a method for controlling at least one vehicle function and / or for displaying information, wherein the vehicle comprises a steering wheel, wherein the vehicle information system comprises a user interface module, a first display module and a second display module, wherein the user interface module has a sensitive interface surface, wherein the second display module has a visible second display surface, wherein the interface surface is provided at least partially overlapping with the second display surface, wherein the first display module has a visible first display surface, wherein the first display surface is located at least partially within the driver's field of vision, which is normally limited by the steering wheel,and wherein the second display module is located adjacent to or near the first display module, but at least partially at a location outside the driver's field of vision normally limited by the steering wheel.

[0012] The driver information system of DE 10 2005 011 094 A1 comprises an operating unit with a plurality of functional elements for selecting main functions, a plurality of control elements for selecting functions of a main function, a selection element for selecting subfunctions of the functions and a return element for returning to the higher-level level and with a display unit for graphically displaying at least operating unit-related information, wherein the driver information system has a plurality of display modes for displaying the displayed information on the display unit.

[0013] DE 10 2009 036 371 A1 discloses a method for providing a user interface, particularly in a vehicle, comprising at least two display areas and an operating device. In the method according to the invention, a graphical object is displayed in the first display area, and the graphical object is moved into the second display area by means of the operating device. An anchor object is displayed for the graphical object in the first display area, which anchor object allows operation of the object displayed in the second display area by means of the operating device. Furthermore, the invention relates to a device for carrying out this method.

[0014] This need is met by an information reproduction system according to patent claim 1, a method according to patent claim 13 and a computer program according to patent claim 14.

[0015] Some embodiments relate to an information display system for a vehicle, comprising an input device, a processor, and an output device. The input device is configured to receive a selection signal, and the processor is configured to generate a video or control signal, such that a selection area and at least two adjacent display areas, laterally offset from the selection area from a user's perspective, can be displayed by an instrument cluster of a vehicle based on the video or control signal. Furthermore, the selection signal includes information about a content category selected in the selection area and about a selectable display location.In addition, the processor is designed to generate the video or control signal based on the selection signal, so that a content of the selected content category can be reproduced by the instrument cluster depending on the information about the selectable display location either with an expanded information content compared to the information content displayed in the selection area on one of the at least two display areas or with an even higher information content on at least the two display areas of the at least two display areas, or the content of the selected content category can be reproduced by a display device present in addition to the instrument cluster depending on the information about the selectable display location with an expanded information content compared to the information content displayed in the selection area.The output device is designed to provide the video or control signal to an instrument cluster or a display device present in addition to the instrument cluster.

[0016] Embodiments are based on the core idea that the user safety of an information reproduction system in a vehicle can be increased if the user can access the information they need or want in a simple and clear manner. This can be made possible by providing a selection area for various content categories (e.g. radio, telephone, air conditioning or vehicle status) and several possible display areas for desired content categories. By allowing the user to select any content category in the easily understandable instrument cluster of a vehicle and have them displayed in different locations and with different information content, the user can adapt the information reproduction system very flexibly to their individual needs, so that they can obtain the information they want without great effort.This allows the user to concentrate even more on steering the vehicle while receiving the desired information. Furthermore, the amount of information provided can be increased, as the instrument cluster can be utilized more effectively and content can optionally be displayed on an additional display.

[0017] In some embodiments, the processor generates the video or control signal so that a content category is provided for display in at least one of the at least two display areas exclusively based on information contained in the selection signal about a user-controlled selection of the content category in the selection area. By defining the selection area at a fixed location on the instrument cluster, the user can find their selection options at a defined location without having to spend a long time gaining an overview. This can increase the reliability of the system and simplify operation.

[0018] Some embodiments comprise a processor that generates the video or control signal so that at least one special display area exists that at least partially overlaps at least one of the display areas or the selection area, and in which special information can be displayed. Furthermore, the processor can generate the video or control signal so that, based on an event, special information is displayed in the overlapping special display area. In this case, the special information can be highlighted compared to the previously displayed content in the overlapping part of the at least one display area or the selection area. By being able to overlay the information in the display areas with special information that may be of greater importance to the user than the previous content, it can be ensured that the user can access the special information (e.g.warning messages) can be quickly perceived and reacted to.

[0019] According to the invention, the selection signal comprises information about a display location of a selected content category based on a user pressing a first shift key on an input device n times. The processor generates the video or control signal such that the selection area and at least n adjacent display areas that are laterally offset from the selection area from the user's perspective can be displayed by the instrument cluster of a vehicle based on the video or control signal, and the content category with expanded content can be displayed in the nth display area with respect to the selection area. This allows the user to very easily and flexibly move the desired content to a desired location where they can best perceive this content for themselves.This allows the user to reduce the time needed to orient themselves on the instrument cluster or auxiliary display and obtain the desired information, allowing them to better concentrate on steering the vehicle. This can increase the safety of using the system.

[0020] Some embodiments relate to a vehicle with an information reproduction system according to the described concept.

[0021] In the following, embodiments are described and explained in more detail with reference to the attached figures. Fig. 1 shows a block diagram of an information reproducing system; Fig. 2-9 show schematic examples of possible displays on an instrument cluster; Fig. 10 shows a schematic representation of an input device; Fig. 11 shows a block diagram of an information reproducing system; and Fig. 12 shows a flowchart of a method for providing information to a user of a vehicle.

[0022] In the following description of the accompanying figures, which show exemplary embodiments, identical reference numerals designate identical or comparable components. Furthermore, collective reference numerals are used for components and objects that appear multiple times in an exemplary embodiment or in a drawing, but are described together with respect to one or more features. Components or objects described with identical or collective reference numerals may be identical with respect to individual, several, or all features, for example, their dimensions, but may also be different, unless the description explicitly or implicitly indicates otherwise.

[0023] Fig. 1 shows a block diagram of an information reproduction system for a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment. The information reproduction system 15 for a vehicle comprises an input device 12, a processor 10, and an output device 14. The processor 10 is connected to the input device 12 and the output device 14. The input device 12 is designed to receive a selection signal 16, and the processor 10 is designed to generate a video or control signal 18, so that a selection area and at least two adjacent display areas, which are laterally offset from the selection area from a user's perspective, can be reproduced by an instrument cluster of a vehicle based on the video or control signal 18. Furthermore, the selection signal 16 contains information about a content category selected in the selection area and about a selectable display location.In addition, the processor 10 is designed to generate the video or control signal 18 based on the selection signal 16, so that a content of the selected content category can be or is reproduced by the instrument cluster depending on the information about the selectable display location either with an expanded information content compared to the information content displayed in the selection area on one of the at least two display areas or with an even higher information content on at least the two display areas of the at least two display areas together, or the content of the selected content category can be or is reproduced by a display device present in addition to the instrument cluster depending on the information about the selectable display location with an expanded information content compared to the information content displayed in the selection area.The output device 14 is designed to provide the video or control signal 18 to an instrument cluster or a display device present in addition to the instrument cluster.

[0024] The described concept can increase the user safety of an information display system 15 in a vehicle, as the user can access the information they need or desire in a simple and clear manner. The ability for the user to select any content category in the easily understandable instrument cluster of a vehicle and display it in different locations and with different information content allows the user to adapt the information display system 15 very flexibly to their individual needs, allowing them to receive the desired information without great effort. This allows the user to concentrate better on driving the vehicle while still receiving the desired information.Furthermore, the amount of information provided can also be increased, as the instrument cluster can be used more effectively and content can optionally be shown on an additional display device.

[0025] The input device 12 can, for example, be an independent hardware unit (e.g. a receiver connected to a communication bus) or part of the processor (e.g. input interface of the processor).

[0026] The selection signal 16 can contain a wide variety of information related to the operation of the information reproduction system 15. At a minimum, the selection signal 16 contains information about a selected content category and a selectable display location when a user selects a content category in the selection area and selects a display location. For example, the selected display location can be one of the at least two display areas, both display areas together, or a display area on the additional display device. The information can, for example, appear in the selection signal 16 sequentially or at any desired time interval. Furthermore, the information can be encoded in the selection signal so that the processor 10 can reconstruct the corresponding information.

[0027] The selection area is, for example, a part of the available display area of ​​an instrument cluster in which an instrument cluster can display 18 selectable content categories for the user based on the video or control signal.

[0028] The display area of ​​an instrument cluster is, for example, a maximum area of ​​the display device on which content that can be visibly changed by the user can be displayed based on the video or control signal 18. The instrument cluster can, for example, be an LED display (light-emitting diode), a TFT screen (thin film transistor), a touch-sensitive screen, a so-called touchscreen, or a head-up display (head-up display system), which is arranged, for example, behind the steering wheel of a vehicle in the area of ​​the dashboard, as seen from the user.

[0029] A display area is, for example, a part of the available display area of ​​an instrument cluster in which an instrument cluster can display content from one or more content categories based on the video or control signal 18. At least two such display areas can be displayed by an instrument cluster laterally offset from the selection area. Laterally offset refers, for example, to the at least two display areas being arranged to the left or right of the instrument cluster from the user's perspective. Since the at least two display areas are adjacent to one another, they are both arranged either to the left or right of the selection area. The at least two display areas can be used to display content from one content category jointly on both display areas since the two display areas are adjacent to one another.This allows content from a content category to be displayed with variably adjustable information content. Limited to one of the two display areas, content with more information content than the selected area can be displayed. However, if both display areas are selected as the display location, even more information can be displayed in the larger area, further increasing the information content.

[0030] Alternatively, content belonging to the content category to be played back can also be displayed on a display surface of an additional display device. The display device can be, for example, an LED (light-emitting diode), a TFT (thin film transistor), a touchscreen, or a head-up display. Furthermore, the display device can be permanently installed in the vehicle (e.g., centrally located on the dashboard or in the center console) or portable (e.g., a mobile phone or laptop).

[0031] A content category can, for example, represent a generic term such as media, maps, navigation, driving-related information or safety-relevant data, but also a subordinate term such as specific radio stations, artists, music albums, individual songs, map sections, routes, destinations, waypoints, engine speed, fuel consumption, oil level or the distance of a vehicle ahead.

[0032] Content in a content category can, for example, contain detailed information about the content category. The content is therefore thematically assigned to the content category. For example, a navigation map can be assigned to the content category Navigation, but not to the content category Radio Station. In other words, displayed content can be assigned to a content category, for example the name and frequency of a radio station in the content category Radio, the name of a currently playing song, possibly with name, artist, album, year of release or a timeline of the song to be played, a map display or route in the content category Navigation or digitally displayed visualizations of the rev counter or fuel gauge in the content category Vehicle Status. In other words, the content to be played can be of very different types, as can its sources.For example, the content to be played back can be entertainment information (e.g. film, radio or games), vehicle status information (e.g. speed, engine temperature, engine rpm or mileage), communication information (e.g. phone book) or navigation data. A piece of content or information can be defined arbitrarily. A piece of content can be, for example, a single bit or multiple bits of the video or control signal, a value to be displayed (e.g. speed), an entire image (e.g. an image of a navigation map or a compilation of content to be played back that is shown together on one image), or an image section or similar. Accordingly, an information source can be, for example, a DVD player, a radio, a computer, a laptop, vehicle sensors or a navigation device.The information may be provided in a data format customary for the respective information source.

[0033] The processor 10 can, for example, provide the video signal or the control signal in a format that can be processed by the respective display device (e.g., instrument cluster or additional display device) to display information (e.g., in the form of images).

[0034] The instrument cluster and / or the additional display device may be optional parts of the information display system 15 or may be external components to which the information display system 15 can be connected.

[0035] Optionally or additionally, the information reproduction system 15 can comprise an input device that, for example, generates the selection signal and provides it to the input device 12 of the processor. The input device can be, for example, a keypad on a multifunction steering wheel, a control element in the center console of a vehicle, or even the instrument cluster or another display device if the instrument cluster or other display device is touch-sensitive (touchscreen) or equipped with a control panel.

[0036] In the following, further embodiments are described which implement optional, additional or alternative functionalities, but which can be combined individually or in combination with one another with the previously described concept and one or more of the described embodiments.

[0037] An information playback system can, for example, be part of a so-called infotainment system (from information and entertainment). The receiving device can generally correspond to a receiving means, such as a receiver, an interface, a connection, etc. The receiving device can, for example, comprise an interface for wireless or wired communication.

[0038] The video or control signal can be, for example, an electronic, optical, or radio signal. The selection area can be implemented, for example, as a pure text menu, in the form of graphic representations (so-called icons), or a mixture of both. The display areas can, for example, correspond to subdivision units of a screen, with the selection area being located to the right or left of them.

[0039] The output device can, analogous to the receiving device, be, for example, an interface or a connection, or any type of transmitting device or an interface to such a device. The same or similar wireless or wired communication options can be used as for the receiving device. The receiving and output devices can, for example, be integrated into the processor or represent external components that are connected to the processor, for example, via a data bus system.

[0040] Fig. Figure 2 shows an example of a display on an instrument cluster 102. In the example, the selection area 20 is located on the right, and to its left are two display areas 22a, 22b. This represents an example configuration. Alternatively, the selection area 20 can also be located to the left of the display areas, or there can be more than two display areas. The display areas can, for example, be intended only for display and not for operation. Menu or list control can take place in the selection area. From here, the content can be distributed across display areas.

[0041] In embodiments, the processor can be configured to generate the video or control signal such that a content category is provided for display in at least one of the at least two display areas solely based on information contained in the selection signal about a user-controlled selection of the content category in the selection area. In other words, a user can initiate display of content of the selected content category in at least one of the display areas simply by making a selection in the menu area. In contrast, in this example, the system can already change the content category in a display area based on automatic, user-independent functions (e.g., displaying a warning message).By defining the selection area at a fixed location on the instrument cluster, the user can access their options in a defined location without having to spend a long time looking through the options. This increases the system's usability and simplifies operation.

[0042] Optionally, additionally, or alternatively, the selection signal can contain information about a user-controlled selection of a display type of the displayed content of the selected content category in at least one of the at least two display areas. Based on this, the processor can change the display of the displayed content of the selected content category in the corresponding display area. In other words, the display type (e.g., in contrast to the content category) of a content can still be modified in the display area even after the content category has been selected in the selection area. For example, a route view can be converted from a 2D perspective to a 3D perspective, the radio frequency can be changed, or any zoom functions of a map view can be used.For example, the timeline of a currently playing song can display the remaining playing time instead of the elapsed playing time, or the volume of music media or radio station playback can be controlled. This allows, for example, a user-controlled selection to take place exclusively in the selection area, whereas changes to the presentation or presentation type of a content category can also take place in the display area. The user can thus very intuitively and easily find the selectable content categories in the selection area and the selection of presentation options assigned to a content category displayed in a display area in the display area.

[0043] In some embodiments, a special display area may optionally, alternatively, or additionally be present which at least partially overlaps at least one of the display areas or the selection area, and in which special information can be displayed. The processor can then, based on an event, display special information in the overlapping special display area. This special information can be highlighted compared to the previously displayed content in the overlapping part of the at least one display area or the selection area. The special information can be highlighted, for example, by hiding the previous content, making the previous content at least partially transparent, or by displaying the special information significantly brighter than the previous content.In other words, the special display area can be realized, for example, in the form of a so-called pop-up window (appearance window), which is opened automatically due to a current event.

[0044] An event that triggers the display of special information can have a variety of origins and types. For example, the processor may receive a signal containing information about a low fuel level, low temperatures, an open door, a rapidly approaching vehicle, or other information that has a higher priority than the previous content. Accordingly, the special information could be a warning message, such as a frost warning, or a display indicating a technical malfunction, such as a light burning out. The special information could also be a tip-off, for example, indicating an imminent motorway exit or a nearby rest stop.By overlaying the previously displayed content and visually highlighting the special information, for example by graying out the previously displayed content, the immediate attention of the vehicle driver can be maintained, which can ensure a higher level of safety.

[0045] In some embodiments, the selection signal comprises information about a selection of a content category in the selection area by a user pressing a selection button on an input device. The processor can then, for example, highlight the selected content category in comparison to the remaining content of the selection area previously displayed. In other words, at the push of a button the selected content category can be moved to the foreground, for example by graying out all other objects in the selection area or by displaying the content category larger than other selectable content categories in the selection area. The other objects can be, for example, icons or headings that designate a higher-level category, such as "Maps" or "Music".This ensures a clearer overview of the menu navigation, allowing the driver to concentrate more on the road. The user safety of the information display system can thus be further increased. The selection button can, for example, be part of an input device as described previously or as shown in . Fig. 10 is shown as an example.

[0046] Additionally, alternatively, or optionally, the selection signal can contain information about a display location of a selected content category based on a user pressing a first shift key on an input device n times. Furthermore, the processor can cause the selection area and at least n adjacent display areas that are laterally offset from the selection area from the user's perspective to be displayed by the instrument cluster of a vehicle based on the video or control signal. The content category with expanded content can be displayed in the nth display area with respect to the selection area. If the display location depends, for example, on which of several existing shift keys is pressed and, if applicable, how often this happens, the selected content category can be displayed in the corresponding display area.The display areas provided in the instrument cluster can, for example, be arranged in a row, starting from the selection area. The display area closest to the selection area would have the ordinal number 1, the second closest would have the ordinal number 2, and so on. Pressing the first shift button once would display the desired content in the display area with ordinal number 1, pressing it twice would display the desired content in the display area with ordinal number 2, and so on. This ensures intuitive operation. As mentioned at the beginning, the display areas can be arranged to the right or left of the selection area.

[0047] Furthermore, the selection signal can additionally, alternatively, or optionally contain information about a display location of a content category based on a user pressing the first shift button n+1 times on an input device. The processor can then initiate display of the content category with expanded content across at least two of the n display areas through the instrument cluster of a vehicle. In other words, if the first shift button is pressed once more than there are display areas, several display areas can be combined into a larger one. The content of the selected content category can then be displayed on a larger area and thus include more information than if it were displayed on a single display area. For example, a map showing the current vehicle position can display a larger surrounding area.

[0048] Likewise, for example, a longer or more complex route can be displayed, while the navigation map can simultaneously display specific route details. A user of the instrument cluster could also play a song for which they would like more detailed information, such as the title, album, artist, year of release, song length including timeline, or an associated cover image. The simultaneous display of these information can be ensured by the enlarged display field by combining at least two display areas. Therefore, a user who currently only wants to display content from a single content category can, for example, use the entire combined area of ​​all display areas.

[0049] Optionally, alternatively, or additionally, the selection signal can contain information about a display location of a selected content category based on a user actuation of a second shift button on an input device. The processor can then initiate display of the content category with expanded content on the display device present in addition to the instrument cluster. In other words, a second shift button can be present that allows the user to display content on a device external to the instrument cluster. This device can be mobile, e.g., a smartphone, laptop, or tablet, and the mobile device can be connected to the output device either wired or wirelessly.

[0050] Alternatively, the additional display device can also be, for example, a center console display installed in the vehicle. A variety of options exist here, which can provide even greater flexibility for selecting the display location for content categories.

[0051] In some embodiments, the processor generates the video or control signal such that different content categories are displayed by the instrument cluster of a vehicle in the at least two display areas. In other words, if a piece of content is already displayed in one display area, additional content from a different content category can be displayed simultaneously in another display area. Thus, a user has the option, for example, of displaying as many content categories as there are display areas. For example, in addition to a route, a fuel gauge or a received radio station can also be displayed.

[0052] Furthermore, the processor can optionally, additionally, or alternatively generate the video or control signal so that the selection area or at least one of the at least two display areas is partially surrounded by a speedometer or an engine speed indicator. By additionally incorporating, for example, a speedometer or engine speed indicator, it is possible to combine user-specific content with displays traditionally integrated in the dashboard behind the steering wheel of a vehicle, thus providing the user with a clear overview of a variety of different information.

[0053] In some embodiments, the receiving device can additionally, alternatively, or optionally be configured to receive a memory signal. The memory signal can contain information about user settings to be saved. Furthermore, the processor can have a memory device that stores a current setting for displaying content in the display areas based on the memory signal. In other words, currently displayed content and / or content categories and, in addition, their respective display locations can be stored. Such a storable configuration would be, for example, the frequency of a specific radio station in display area 1, a fuel gauge in display area 2, and a destination to be reached, shown on a 2D navigation map in the center console display.Another storable configuration would be, for example, a 3D navigation map in the combined display area of ​​display areas 1 and 2, and a specific song on an external display device. This allows frequently used content to be quickly made accessible to a user, allowing the user to focus more on the road, as they spend less time trying to display the desired content.

[0054] Fig. 3-7 each show embodiments of the individual steps of operating an instrument cluster via an input device 100, which in Fig. 10 is described in more detail. The instrument cluster is operated via a selection button 40 as well as a first shift button 42 and a second shift button 44. Optionally, additional buttons 46 can be provided. In the upper area of Fig. 3 contains the display areas 22a, 22b and a selection area 22. Various content categories 50 are shown in the selection area 22, which are designated here, for example, as "Titles," "Artists," and "Albums." The umbrella term "Media" represents a further, higher-level content category 50. Furthermore, images can be present in the selection area 20. In this example, at least one further control element 48 is used for control within the selection area 20, which, as in the exemplary embodiment, can be designed as a capacitive rocker switch. However, control via cursor keys, for example, would also be possible.

[0055] By pressing the selection button 40, the content category 50, for example “Media”, is now decoupled from the selection area 20, as it is, for example, in Fig. 4, and further content 62 is additionally grayed out. Due to the visual prominence of the content category 50, the menu navigation through subordinate content categories 50, designated in the exemplary embodiment as "Song 1" to "Song 6", is made clearer and thus easier. If, for example, the content category 50 "Song 1" is now accessed by pressing the first shift key 42 once, its content 60 is displayed in the display area 22a closest to the selection area 20, wherein the information content is increased compared to the display in the selection area 20. A second press of the selection key 42 moves the currently selected content 60 to the next, adjacent display area 22b, as shown in Fig. 5 is shown.

[0056] The Fig. The exemplary embodiments illustrated in Figures 3-7 show examples of possible operating logic and use two display areas 22a, 22b; however, as already mentioned, arrangements with more than two display areas are also possible. In the case of two display areas 22a, 22b, for example, pressing the selection key 42 three times results in the linking of both display areas 22a, 22b and the display of the content 60 on the entire surface of both display areas 22a, 22b, wherein the information content of the content 60 is higher than in the display on a single display area 22a or 22b, as in Fig. 6. Alternatively, there may be three display areas. Accordingly, pressing the shift key 42 four times would, for example, result in the combination of all three display areas and the display of content 60 in the entire area of ​​those display areas. It would also be possible that pressing the selection key 42 four times would, for example, only combine two of the three display areas. Fig. 7, in the display areas 22a, 22b there are two different contents 60, described as “Image 1 - Artist - Song 1 - Album” on the one hand, and “Image 2” on the other hand.

[0057] Fig. 8 shows a detailed example of a display on an instrument cluster 102. In addition to the selection area 20 and the display areas 22a, 22b, the example shown here includes at least one special display area 24, which at least partially overlaps at least one display area 22a, 22b. Various vehicle control displays 80 can optionally be included. For example, a display area for human-machine interface (MMI) content, which includes at least the selection area and the display areas, can include a main menu, operable content, a center display area, a left display area, and an expanded display area. Additionally, a display area (instrument cluster) can include navigation, a media or chamber light, an oil temperature, a gear indicator, an FAS status (driver assistance system), an engine speed, an on-board computer display, a speed, and / or a fuel gauge.

[0058] Fig. 9 shows an example of a display of selected content 60 on an instrument cluster 102. Various content categories 50 are shown in the selection area 20. These can be partially surrounded by a speedometer 26. The middle display area 22a shows a content 60, e.g., in the form of a date. In the left display area 22b, another content 60 is shown in the form of a cover image, artist, album, and music title of a specific song. The display area 22b can be partially surrounded by a rev counter 28. Alternatively, the rev counter 28 and the speedometer 26 can be swapped, e.g., for display in Fig. 9 or separately on dedicated instruments permanently installed in the vehicle.

[0059] Fig. 10 shows an example of an input device 100. This can be integrated, for example, into a multifunction steering wheel or into a center console of a vehicle. On the input device 100 there are, for example, at least one selection button 40, a first shift button 42, a second shift button 44 and at least one further control element 48 for controlling the selection area. In the example shown, the latter can form a unit with the selection button 40 in the form of a capacitive rocker switch. The control element 48 can, for example, have buttons for menu, lists, forward, back and view. However, the control element 48 can also be implemented separately and, for example, in the form of several cursor buttons. Optionally, the input device 100 comprises a further set of buttons 46, with which, for example, the FAS (driver assistance system) can be operated or a map perspective can be changed from 2D to 3D or the frequency of a radio station can be changed.These functions can also be performed by control element 48. For example, by pressing the View button, the contents of the control panel can be undocked and visually highlighted. The contents in the display areas can be slightly grayed out. Driving and safety-relevant data, for example, can still be viewed in a fixed location.

[0060] Fig. 11 shows a block diagram of an information reproduction system 15 according to an embodiment. In addition to the Fig. In addition to the components already described in Figure 1, the exemplary embodiment comprises an input device 100, from which the selection signal 16 is forwarded to the processor 10 via the input device 12. Furthermore, a memory signal 17 can be sent to the receiving device 12, via which the memory signal 17 can be transmitted to a memory device 11 included in the processor 10. The processor 10 generates a video or control signal 18, 18a, 18b, which can be forwarded via the output device 14 either to an instrument cluster 102 or to an additional display device 104.

[0061] In other words, the Fig. The information reproduction system 15 shown in Figure 11 has an instrument cluster for reproducing content based on a video or control signal generated by the processor, an additional display device for reproducing content based on a video or control signal generated by the processor, and an input device for generating a selection signal based on a user input. In other words, a variety of devices can be considered for communication with the processor. For example, an instrument cluster can also be an infotainment system or be comprised of such a system. Examples of an additional display device have already been mentioned. An input device can comprise physical buttons or virtual buttons in the form of a touchscreen. In particular, the operating device can also be, for example, a multifunction steering wheel (MFL) with a corresponding button arrangement.This allows a vehicle driver to keep both hands on the steering wheel while operating the system. Alternatively, the control device can also be a laptop, smartphone, or cell phone keyboard, for example, which can be connected to the receiving device either wired or wirelessly.

[0062] Fig. 12 shows a flowchart of a method 200 for providing information to the user of a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment. The method 200 comprises receiving 110 a selection signal. The method 200 also comprises generating 112 a video or control signal such that a selection area and at least two adjacent display areas, which are laterally offset from the selection area from a user's perspective, can be reproduced by an instrument cluster of a vehicle based on the video or control signal. The selection signal comprises information about a content category selected in the selection area and about a selectable display location. The selection signal 16 comprises information about the display location of the selected content category 50 based on a user pressing a first shift key 42 n times on an input device 100. The processor 10 is designed toto generate the video or control signal 18, 18a, 18b, so that the selection area 20 and at least n adjacent display areas 22a, 22b, which are laterally offset from the selection area 20 from the view of a user, can be reproduced by the instrument cluster 102 of a vehicle based on the video or control signal 18, 18a, 18b, and the content category 50 with extended content 60 can be reproduced in the nth display area 20 with respect to the selection area, wherein the video or control signal is generated based on the selection signal,so that a content of the selected content category can be reproduced by the instrument cluster depending on information contained in the selection signal about the selectable display location either with an expanded information content of the content category in one of the at least two display areas compared to the information content displayed in the selection area or with an even higher information content in the two display areas of the at least two display areas,or the content of the selected content category can be reproduced by a display device provided in addition to the instrument cluster, depending on information contained in the selection signal about the selectable display location, with expanded information content compared to the information content of the content category displayed in the selection area. Finally, the method 200 includes providing 114 the video or control signal to an instrument cluster or a display device provided in addition to the instrument cluster.

[0063] The method 200 may include further optional, additional, or alternative method steps that correspond to optional, additional, or alternative embodiments explained in connection with the previously described concept or previously described embodiments.

[0064] For example, Fig.12 is a block diagram of a flowchart of an embodiment of a method for slider concepts in a digital instrument cluster 102. The method includes a step of receiving 110 a selection signal 16, a step of generating 112 a video or control signal by the processor 10, and a step of providing 114 the video or control signal either to an instrument cluster 102 or an additional display device 104.

[0065] Some embodiments relate to a slider concept in the digital instrument cluster. In this case, the user can be offered the option, for example with the help of the slider concept for digital instrument clusters, of individually configuring content in at least three defined display and selection areas. In addition, the concept offers the option, for example, of sliding content from the digital instrument cluster to another display device, for example a central display (ABT, screen) in the dashboard and vice versa. There can therefore be an exclusive area for operation in the instrument cluster. From there, content, for example a media list or a map display, can be distributed to display areas in the instrument cluster and to the display and control areas in another display device, e.g. a central screen (ABT).In addition, the various configurations of the instrument cluster can be saved and filled with predefined content with just one click.

[0066] Display areas include, for example, individual sections of a screen or the entire portion of a screen intended for displaying content. An additional display device can be, for example, a central display on the dashboard, a display located in the center console, or even a mobile device such as a smartphone, tablet, or laptop.

[0067] The instrument cluster described above can be used very flexibly in terms of display location. Furthermore, the information content of an already displayed item can be not only restricted but also expanded or modified. In other words, the individual areas of the instrument cluster can be populated with content in a very customized way.

[0068] More than one piece of content can also be displayed in detail simultaneously. Furthermore, a clearly separated menu area can be provided, simplifying the process of selecting a content category. This simplifies menu navigation and provides multiple options for displaying content.

[0069] The main menu can be structured horizontally or vertically, similar to a central display (ABT). The concept described can be used to create an intermediate level between a maximum and a minimum variant, i.e. only display or all settings. For example, the basic HMI (human machine interface) elements of an analog central display (ABT), such as a split screen, status or main menu, can also be located there. A split screen concept (e.g. 1 / 3, 2 / 3) with a reduced display in 1 / 3 and an expanded display in 2 / 3 mode can also be implemented. Complexity can also be reduced by using an anchor point for operation. For example, a display for operation can be arranged in the right tube (area surrounded by the rpm or speed information) via a control island on a multifunction steering wheel.A warning light concept and location tracking, including satellites, can also be implemented. Furthermore, a pop-up concept for warnings and error messages can be implemented using a tab concept (vertical split screen).

[0070] The features disclosed in the above description, the following claims and the attached figures can be important and implemented both individually and in any combination for the realization of an embodiment in its various forms.

[0071] Although some aspects have been described in connection with a device, it is understood that these aspects also represent a description of the corresponding method, so that a block or component of a device can also be understood as a corresponding method step or as a feature of a method step. Similarly, aspects described in connection with or as a method step also represent a description of a corresponding block, detail, or feature of a corresponding device.

[0072] Depending on specific implementation requirements, embodiments of the invention may be implemented in hardware or software. The implementation may be performed using a digital storage medium, such as a floppy disk, a DVD, a Blu-ray disc, a CD, a ROM, a PROM, an EPROM, an EEPROM, or a FLASH memory, a hard disk, or other magnetic or optical storage device storing electronically readable control signals that can interact or interact with a programmable hardware component to perform the respective method.

[0073] A programmable hardware component can be formed by a processor, a computer processor (CPU = Central Processing Unit), a graphics processor (GPU = Graphics Processing Unit), a computer, a computer system, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC = Application-Specific Integrated Circuit), an integrated circuit (IC = Integrated Circuit), a single-chip system (SOC = System on Chip), a programmable logic element or a field-programmable gate array with a microprocessor (FPGA = Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0074] The digital storage medium can therefore be machine- or computer-readable. Some embodiments thus comprise a data carrier having electronically readable control signals capable of interacting with a programmable computer system or a programmable hardware component such that one of the methods described herein is performed. One embodiment is thus a data carrier (or a digital storage medium or a computer-readable medium) on which the program for performing one of the methods described herein is recorded.

[0075] In general, embodiments of the present invention can be implemented as a program, firmware, computer program, or computer program product with program code or data, wherein the program code or data is effective to perform one of the methods when the program runs on a processor or a programmable hardware component. The program code or data can also be stored, for example, on a machine-readable medium or data carrier. The program code or data can be present, among other things, as source code, machine code, or bytecode, as well as other intermediate code.

[0076] A further embodiment is a data stream, a signal sequence, or a sequence of signals that represents the program for performing one of the methods described herein. The data stream, the signal sequence, or the sequence of signals can be configured, for example, to be transferred via a data communication connection, for example, via the Internet or another network. Thus, embodiments also include signal sequences representing data that are suitable for transmission via a network or data communication connection, wherein the data represents the program.

[0077] A program according to one embodiment can implement one of the methods during its execution, for example, by reading memory locations or writing one or more pieces of data into them, which may trigger switching operations or other processes in transistor structures, amplifier structures, or other electrical, optical, magnetic, or other functionally principle-based components. Accordingly, by reading a memory location, data, values, sensor values, or other information can be acquired, determined, or measured by a program. A program can therefore acquire, determine, or measure quantities, values, measured quantities, and other information by reading one or more memory locations, and can trigger, initiate, or perform an action and control other devices, machines, and components by writing to one or more memory locations.

[0078] The above-described embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles of the present invention. It is understood that modifications and variations of the arrangements and details described herein will be apparent to others skilled in the art. Therefore, it is intended that the invention be limited only by the scope of the following claims and not by the specific details presented in the description and explanation of the embodiments herein.

Claims

[1] Information reproducing system (15) for a vehicle, having the following features: an input device (12) designed to receive a selection signal (16); a processor (10) designed to generate a video or control signal (18, 18a, 18b) such that a selection area (20) and at least two adjacent display areas (22a, 22b) laterally offset from the selection area (20) from the view of a user can be reproduced by a combination instrument (102) of a vehicle based on the video or control signal (18, 18a, 18b), wherein the selection signal (16) comprises information about a content category (50) selected in the selection area (20) and about a selectable display location, wherein the selection signal (16) comprises information about the display location of the selected content category (50) based on an n-fold actuation of a first shift key (42) by a user on an input device (100), wherein the processor (10) is designed to generate the video or control signal (18, 18a, 18b) so that the selection area (20) and at least n adjacent display areas (22a, 22b) that are laterally offset from the selection area (20) from the view of a user can be reproduced by the instrument cluster (102) of a vehicle based on the video or control signal (18, 18a, 18b), and the content category (50) with extended content (60) is displayed in the n-th display area with respect to the selection area (20) is reproducible, wherein the processor (10) is designed to generate the video or control signal (18, 18a, 18b) based on the selection signal (16), so that a content (60) of the selected content category (50) can be reproduced by the instrument cluster (102) depending on the information about the selectable display location either with an expanded information content compared to the information content displayed in the selection area (20) on one of the at least two display areas (22a, 22b) or with an even higher information content on at least the two display areas (22a, 22b) of the at least two display areas (22a, 22b), or the content (60) of the selected content category (50) can be reproduced by a display device (104) provided in addition to the instrument cluster (102) as a function of the information about the selectable display location with an expanded information content compared to the information content displayed in the selection area (20); and an output device (14) which is designed to provide the video or control signal (18, 18a, 18b) to a combination instrument (102) or a display device (104) present in addition to the combination instrument (102). [2] Information reproduction system (15) according to claim 1, wherein the processor (10) is designed to generate the video or control signal (18, 18a, 18b) such that a content category (50) is provided for display in at least one of the at least two display areas (22a, 22b) exclusively based on information contained in the selection signal (16) about a user-controlled selection of the content category (50) in the selection area (20). [3] Information reproduction system (15) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the selection signal (16) comprises information about a user-controlled selection of a representation of the displayed content (60) of the selected content category (50) in at least one of the at least two display areas (22a, 22b) in a display area (22a, 22b), wherein the processor (10) is designed to generate the video or control signal (18, 18a, 18b) so that the representation of the displayed content (60) of the selected content category (50) on the corresponding display area (22a, 22b) is changed based on the selection signal (16). [4] Information reproduction system (15) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the processor (10) is designed to generate the video or control signal (18, 18a, 18b) such that at least one special display area (24) exists which at least partially overlaps at least one of the display areas (22a, 22b) or the selection area (20) and in which special information can be displayed, wherein the processor (10) is designed to generate the video or control signal (18, 18a, 18b) such that, based on an event, special information is displayed in the overlapping special display area (24), wherein the special information is displayed in a highlighted manner compared to the previously displayed content (60) in the overlapping part of the at least one display area (22a, 22b) or the selection area (20). [5] Information reproduction system (15) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the selection signal (16) comprises information about a selection of a content category (50) in the selection area (20) by actuation of a selection key (40) by a user on an input device (100), wherein the processor (10) is designed to generate the video or control signal (18, 18a, 18b) so that the selected content category (50) is highlighted in the selection area (20) compared to the previously displayed remaining content (62) of the selection area (20). [6] Information reproduction system (15) according to claim 5, wherein the selection signal (16) comprises information about a display location of a content category (50) based on an n+1 actuation of the first shift key (42) by a user on an input device (100), wherein the processor (10) is designed to generate the video or control signal (18, 18a, 18b) such that the selection area (20) and exactly n, from the view of a user to the selection area (20), laterally offset, adjacent display areas (22a, 22b) are reproducible by the instrument cluster (102) of a vehicle based on the video or control signal (18, 18a, 18b), and the content category (50) with extended content (60) extends through the instrument cluster (102) of a vehicle over at least two of the n display areas (22a, 22b). is reproducible. [7] Information reproduction system (15) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the selection signal (16) comprises information about a display location of a selected content category (50) based on an actuation of a second shift key (44) by a user on an input device (100), wherein the processor (10) is designed to generate the video or control signal (18, 18a, 18b) so that the content category (50) with extended content (60) can be displayed on the display device (104) present in addition to the instrument cluster (102). [8] Information reproduction system (15) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the processor (10) is designed to generate the video or control signal (18, 18a, 18b) so that contents (60) of different content categories (50) can be reproduced in the at least two display areas (22a, 22b) by the instrument cluster (102) of a vehicle. [9] Information reproduction system (15) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the processor (10) is designed to generate the video or control signal (18, 18a, 18b) such that the selection area (20) or at least one of the at least two display areas (22a, 22b) can be reproduced by the instrument cluster (102) of a vehicle, partially surrounded by a speedometer (26) or an engine speedometer (28). [10] Information reproduction system (15) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a receiving device (12) is designed to receive a storage signal (17), wherein the storage signal (17) comprises information about a storage of user settings to be carried out, wherein the processor (10) has a storage device (11) which is designed to store a current setting of the presentation of contents (60) in the display areas (22a, 22b) based on the storage signal (17). [11] Information reproduction system (15) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising an instrument cluster (102) for reproducing content (60) based on a video or control signal (18, 18a, 18b) generated by the processor (10), an additional display device (104) for reproducing content (60) based on a video or control signal (18, 18a, 18b) generated by the processor (10), and an input device (100) for generating a selection signal (16) based on a user input. [12] Vehicle with an information reproducing system (15) according to one of the preceding claims. [13] A method for providing information to a user of a vehicle, comprising the following steps: Receiving (110) a selection signal (16); Generating (112) a video or control signal (18, 18a, 18b) such that a selection area (20) and at least two adjacent display areas (22a, 22b) laterally offset from the selection area (20) from the view of a user can be reproduced by a combination instrument (102) of a vehicle based on the video or control signal (18, 18a, 18b), wherein the selection signal (16) comprises information about a content category (50) selected in the selection area (20) and about a selectable display location, wherein the selection signal (16) comprises information about a display location of a selected content category (50) based on an n-fold actuation of a first shift key (42) by a user on an input device (100), wherein the processor (10) is designed to generate the video or control signal (18, 18a, 18b) so that the selection area (20) and at least n adjacent display areas (22a, 22b) that are laterally offset from the selection area (20) from the view of a user can be reproduced by the instrument cluster (102) of a vehicle based on the video or control signal (18, 18a, 18b), and the content category (50) with extended content (60) is displayed in the n-th display area with respect to the selection area (20) is reproducible wherein the video or control signal (18, 18a, 18b) is generated based on the selection signal (16), so that a content (60) of the selected content category (50) can be reproduced by the instrument cluster (102) depending on the information about the selectable display location either with an expanded information content compared to the information content displayed in the selection area (20) on one of the at least two display areas (22a, 22b) or with an even higher information content on at least the two display areas (22a, 22b) of the at least two display areas (22a, 22b), or the content (60) of the selected content category (50) can be reproduced by a display device (104) provided in addition to the instrument cluster (102) as a function of the information about the selectable display location with an expanded information content compared to the information content displayed in the selection area (20); and Providing (114) the video or control signal (18, 18a, 18b) to a combination instrument (102) or a display device (104) present in addition to the combination instrument (102). [14] Program with a program code for carrying out the method according to claim 13, when the program code is executed on a computer, a processor (10) or a programmable hardware component.

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