Entertainment system for a motor vehicle, motor vehicle and methods for operating it

Abstract

Entertainment system (8) for a motor vehicle (4), for providing an entertainment function to a user (12) of the motor vehicle (4), wherein the entertainment system (8) - a detection device for detecting use of the motor vehicle (4) by the user (12), which does not require any operating action by the user (12) to drive the motor vehicle (4), and - is configured to automatically provide the entertainment function to the user (12) upon detection of such use, wherein the entertainment system (8) is configured to - automatically unlock hidden entertainment content (24) if a previous use of the motor vehicle (4) by the user (12) fulfills at least one predefined location-, time- and / or usage-intensity-dependent condition, and - to make the hidden entertainment content (24) available via the entertainment function only when it is unlocked, characterized in that - the entertainment system (8) is configured to detect the use of a charging of a battery (7) of the motor vehicle (4) at a charging station (3) during a stopover along a current route of the motor vehicle (4), and - further hidden entertainment content (24) is provided which the user (12) can gradually unlock by continuing to use the motor vehicle (4).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to an entertainment system for a motor vehicle, a motor vehicle with such an entertainment system, and a corresponding method for operating the entertainment system and / or the motor vehicle.

[0002] Motor vehicles today are no longer just means of transportation, but can also offer entertainment functions for their occupants. For example, WO 2017 / 112 646 A1 describes a system and a procedure for integrated charging and content delivery to a vehicle. Based on a charging parameter, which in turn corresponds to a battery status parameter, content to be provided is selected. This content is then provided while the battery is being charged according to the charging parameter. The system is specifically designed to provide advertising content. By consuming this advertising content, a vehicle user can, for example, reduce the price of the energy consumed to charge the battery.

[0003] Furthermore, US patent 2014 / 0358649A1 discloses a method for offering additional services while an electric vehicle is charging. During the charging of the electric vehicle's battery, a secondary battery device sends a download request to a content-providing device, and the corresponding content and advertising data are downloaded. The content and advertising data are then transmitted to a vehicle management device. The vehicle management device is configured to execute the content according to user input and to display the advertising data during content execution. This is intended to make particularly efficient use of the charging time required for battery charging.

[0004] Furthermore, the publication US 2017 / 0 124 406 A1 describes a vehicle adaptation system, the publication WO 2017 / 112 646 A1 describes systems and methods for integrated vehicle charging and content delivery, the publication DE 10 2014 011 278 A1 describes a method for bridging a period of time during autonomous driving of a vehicle and a vehicle, and the publication DE 10 2015 013 319 B4 describes a method for operating a motor vehicle, a motor vehicle and a computer program.

[0005] The object of the present invention is to increase the entertainment value of a motor vehicle in a particularly safe manner. This object is achieved according to the invention by the subject matter of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments and further developments of the present invention are specified in the dependent claims, in the description, and in the figures.

[0006] An entertainment system according to the invention for a motor vehicle serves, and is thus configured, to provide an entertainment function to a user of the motor vehicle. For this purpose, the entertainment system includes a detection device or detection function for detecting use of the motor vehicle by the user that does not require any operating action by the user to drive the motor vehicle. In other words, the detection device is designed and configured to detect when the user is using the motor vehicle but is not actively driving or controlling it manually. The user is therefore not performing a primary driving task during the detected use. This can be the case, for example, when the user is using a function or functionality of the motor vehicle that is independent of driving the vehicle.The detection device can detect such use, for example, by capturing and evaluating data signals from the vehicle's electrical system. The detection device can therefore include, for example, a data interface and a corresponding program module, or a corresponding data acquisition and / or data processing device. The detection device itself can also include appropriate sensors.

[0007] The entertainment system, according to the present invention, is configured to automatically provide the entertainment function to the user upon detection of such use. Providing the entertainment function in this sense can involve activating or executing the entertainment function. It can also mean issuing a request to the user asking whether they wish to use the corresponding entertainment function or a specific sub-function of the entertainment function. In this case, the entertainment function and / or the corresponding request can be issued or provided, for example, via a display device and / or a loudspeaker system of the motor vehicle. The entertainment system can therefore, for example, be or comprise a multimedia system of the motor vehicle, or be integrated into one.

[0008] According to the invention, the entertainment system is designed to automatically unlock hidden entertainment content if the user's previous use of the vehicle fulfills at least one predefined condition dependent on location, time, and / or usage intensity. Hidden entertainment content in this sense is content, a function, or a functionality that is not readily accessible or available. In this sense, hidden entertainment content is not a standard function that the user can use freely and unconditionally at any time. This can mean, for example, that for a user who has just purchased the vehicle and / or is driving a brand-new vehicle, the hidden entertainment content is not yet unlocked and therefore not, or at least not directly, accessible or usable.In other technical fields, the term "Easter Egg" is also known for such hidden content or functions.

[0009] According to the invention, the entertainment system is further configured to make the hidden entertainment content available via the entertainment function only when it has been unlocked. Unlocking the hidden entertainment content thus means making it accessible, revealing, or disclosing it to the user. The entertainment content can be unlocked only for a specific situation, for a limited period of time, or permanently. Depending on the specific design of the unlocking mechanism, the user can then access the entertainment content only in the respective situation, only for a predetermined time, or, for example, access it again via a corresponding menu in the entertainment system. Preferably, the hidden entertainment content can be unlocked on a user-specific basis, i.e., for each individual user.The entertainment system may include a user identification device or function by which the respective user of the vehicle can be identified. The entertainment system may then be configured to provide user-specifically unlocked entertainment content to the respective identified user. It may therefore be intended that the user is identified, particularly automatically, before or during the unlocking of the entertainment content and / or before or during the use of the vehicle.

[0010] In accordance with the present invention, the entertainment function can consist of reproducing, playing, or executing the entertainment content. Likewise, further or different content can be provided or reproduced via the entertainment function. The hidden entertainment content in accordance with the present invention can preferably be or comprise a computer game, which is described in more detail below. Likewise, the entertainment content can be or comprise, for example, a specific graphic, a specific lighting color, a specific lighting pattern, a greeting message, an animation, and / or the like.

[0011] The hidden entertainment content can preferably be provided via a display device in the vehicle's instrument cluster, such as the Audi Virtual Cockpit, a display device in or on a dashboard or center console, or similar. Accordingly, the user can be, in particular, the driver of the vehicle or a person in the driver's seat of the vehicle.

[0012] The user's previous use of the vehicle, or the corresponding condition, can specify or request information such as where, when, for how long, how regularly, and / or in what manner the user has previously used the vehicle. This usage, or a corresponding usage pattern, can be considered over a predetermined period. Ideally, this predetermined period could begin with the vehicle's manufacture or its acquisition by the user and continue until the current date. Alternatively, the predetermined period could be, for example, the three, six, or twelve months preceding the current date.

[0013] The use of the motor vehicle by the user can describe or include an interaction between the user and the motor vehicle. The use within the meaning of the present invention is therefore not limited to driving, but can also include, for example, charging a battery, in particular a traction battery, using or performing a function of the motor vehicle, carrying out maintenance or repair work, refilling operating fluids, and / or the like.

[0014] With conventional vehicles, it is usually not possible to change the display or menu design or unlock additional functions after the vehicle has been manufactured and delivered. However, customers—that is, users or drivers—develop an emotional connection to their vehicle. Conventional vehicles, however, cannot currently reflect this connection.

[0015] As a result, customers, especially tech-savvy users, currently don't get the feeling that their vehicle emotionally connects to them. A deeper possibility of anthropomorphization and emotionalization is therefore not available in existing vehicles. Easter eggs, such as the hidden entertainment content or a corresponding hidden entertainment function proposed here, and their activation, can, however, advantageously create or effect anthropomorphization and emotionalization for the respective customer or user.

[0016] The activation of the secret or hidden function or entertainment content occurs through the triggering of a predefined trigger or trigger event, in this case, the detected use of the vehicle in combination with the user's use of the vehicle fulfilling the predefined condition. The user can therefore unlock the hidden entertainment content by using the vehicle. Furthermore, additional hidden entertainment content is provided, which the user can unlock gradually through continued use of the vehicle. Accordingly, multiple conditions and / or multiple tiered values ​​for the condition(s) can be specified. For example, after an initial usage period or duration, a first piece of hidden entertainment content can be unlocked, and after a longer second usage period or duration, a second piece of hidden entertainment content can be unlocked.Similarly, corresponding hidden entertainment content may be provided and unlocked for different locations or venues and / or for the use of the motor vehicle in a predetermined number of different, in particular predetermined, locations or venues.

[0017] In this way, it can be advantageously achieved that the user is regularly and positively surprised by the entertainment system or the vehicle through the hidden entertainment content made available to him after its respective activation—that is, content that was not previously visible or accessible. This can advantageously contribute to building an emotional bond between the user and the vehicle. These effects and advantages can, in turn, motivate the user to take care of the vehicle, in particular its maintenance and operational safety. Thus, the present invention can advantageously contribute to securing or improving the technical condition of the respective vehicle and therefore to improved road safety.Since the present invention provides that the entertainment function and the unlocked hidden entertainment content are only made available during or when the detected use does not require any action to operate the motor vehicle, it advantageously avoids the user being distracted from traffic by the entertainment content while driving, as can happen today with entertainment functions that are freely available and usable at any time. This aspect of the present invention can therefore also improve safety in traffic or when using the motor vehicle.

[0018] In light of the ongoing development and spread of autonomous or automated driving functions, the present invention can also contribute to improved road safety by keeping the user motivated and involved through the entertainment content provided. This means that the user is more likely to remain awake and mentally alert or active while using the vehicle. This, in turn, can improve traffic safety, as the user can perceive the surrounding traffic situation as well as the condition or behavior of the vehicle better and more quickly from this state and, if necessary, actively intervene manually in the driving process—for example, by taking over the steering or control of the vehicle—than would be possible if, for instance, the user were asleep.

[0019] From the perspective of a vehicle manufacturer, the present invention can also offer the advantages of improved loyalty to the manufacturer or brand of the motor vehicle and a rejuvenation of the brand image of the motor vehicle.

[0020] A time-dependent condition could be, for example, that the vehicle is or was used by the user during a specified period, such as on a particular holiday, in a specific month, or similar. The usage that unlocks the hidden entertainment content does not necessarily have to coincide with the detected usage, which does not require the user to operate the vehicle. If the user unlocks the hidden entertainment content, for example, by using the vehicle on a holiday, at a specific time of day, or in a specific month, the unlocked entertainment content could still be made available only upon the next detected instance of corresponding usage, in order to avoid distracting the user at a safety-critical time.

[0021] Similarly, an additional or alternative location-dependent condition may be specified, for example, the use of the motor vehicle at one or more predetermined locations or types of locations. Such locations may be, for example, one or more specific types of roads or routes, one or more predetermined cities, regions, or countries, or one or more charging stations, and / or the like. Preferably, the specified condition may consist of several sub-conditions, for example, in the form of a collection. Thus, the overall condition may, for example, be the use of the motor vehicle on each different day of the week or month, or in each federal state or state capital, and / or the like.The use of the motor vehicle on a specific day of the week, or in a specific month, or in a specific federal state, or a specific state capital, or the like, then fulfills a sub-condition of the overarching overall condition, which is fulfilled when all sub-conditions are fulfilled.

[0022] A usage-intensity-dependent condition could, for example, specify a certain usage time or mileage during a given period, for example in hours and / or kilometers per day, per week, per month and / or per year.

[0023] According to the present invention, the entertainment system is also configured to detect when a vehicle's battery, in particular a traction battery, is being charged at a charging station during a stop along the vehicle's current route. Charging is a core function in the use and operation of electric or hybrid vehicles. However, at least according to the current state of the art, charging still takes longer than refueling a conventional vehicle. During the charging process, the vehicle generally requires no user input or attention. Therefore, charging is a particularly suitable time to provide the entertainment function or unlocked hidden entertainment content.It is particularly advantageous to distinguish between different situations in which charging takes place. For example, if the user connects the vehicle to the charging station in the morning at their workplace or in the evening at home to charge the battery during their working hours or overnight, it is generally not expected that the user will remain in the vehicle during these charging processes. However, the present embodiment of the invention is based on the understanding that during charging at an intermediate stop, for example at a charging station in a motorway rest area or the like, the user will most likely want to continue their journey immediately after the battery has been sufficiently charged. Therefore, charging at such charging stations typically takes the form of fast charging.Accordingly, charging during the stopover can be detected, for example, using navigation and / or position data and / or the charging method used, such as the detection of fast charging.

[0024] This embodiment of the present invention offers a particularly advantageous way to bridge the waiting time for the user during charging by providing an entertainment function or content. This can advantageously improve the acceptance of electric vehicles and thus promote their widespread use. A further advantage is that the user is engaged or remains engaged by the entertainment system during charging and can therefore, for example, be prevented from falling asleep or leaving the vehicle. This can represent an increase in comfort and safety. In particular, it enables the user to release the charging station or specific charging port used to charge the battery as quickly as possible after charging is complete.The present invention can therefore contribute to improving the utilization of charging stations, particularly those accessible to the public. Furthermore, it can reduce the likelihood of users walking into surrounding traffic, thereby lowering the risk of accidents and / or improving traffic flow. In addition, users can react or intervene particularly quickly and effectively if manual intervention is required to drive or operate the vehicle during or immediately after charging, and / or if an unforeseen situation arises.

[0025] In a further advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the entertainment system is configured to detect when the vehicle is operating in autonomous or automated mode. In other words, it detects when the vehicle is moving independently and therefore no user intervention is required to drive or control the vehicle in this mode. It cannot be assumed that the user is constantly paying attention to the vehicle's operation and the surrounding traffic situation during such a driving mode. Therefore, it presents a challenging problem to improve, through technical measures, the likelihood that the user can intervene in the driving process as quickly, safely, and appropriately as possible when necessary. This is typically not the case, for example, when the user is asleep.Thus, the present invention can also contribute to improving safety during autonomous or automated driving. Furthermore, relatively long journeys or driving segments during autonomous or automated driving can be perceived as boring or tiring by the user, as they are not actively involved in driving the vehicle. Providing entertainment during autonomous or automated driving can advantageously avoid or reduce this. This, in turn, can advantageously improve the driver's emotional connection to the vehicle and create a positive association with it, which, as described, can lead to more conscientious care and maintenance by the user, thereby ensuring or improving the vehicle's technical condition.This ultimately also leads to improved user comfort and improved safety in traffic.

[0026] In a further advantageous embodiment of the present invention, a mileage and / or a usage time of the motor vehicle is specified as the condition. In other words, the entertainment system is configured to unlock a specific hidden entertainment content when the mileage and / or the usage time of the motor vehicle reaches a predetermined value or one of several predetermined values. For example, the mileage can be set to a value of 50,000 km and / or 100,000 km. Likewise, several staggered values, for example, for every 10,000 km, can be specified, so that, for example, a new hidden entertainment content is unlocked every n times 10,000 km or every n times 5,000 km, where n is a predetermined number.Accordingly, the usage time can be predefined, for example, as a value of 50 hours, 100 hours, or 200 hours, or multiple values ​​according to a specific pattern, such as n times 20 hours or n times 50 hours, and / or the like. In this way, it can advantageously be achieved that the described beneficial effects occur regularly and repeatedly. Particularly preferably, the mileage and / or usage time can be recorded and tracked individually for each user or driver of the vehicle, so that the hidden entertainment content is / are unlocked for each user individually, depending on their use of the vehicle. The user(s) can be identified or recognized, i.e., identified, by means of the aforementioned user identification device or function.This can be achieved, for example, through optical occupant detection using a camera located in the vehicle's interior and / or identification of the respective user through authentication or login via a user interface (HMI, or "Human Machine Interface"). This user interface can be part of the entertainment system.

[0027] In a further advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the entertainment system comprises a detection device for recognizing the presence of the user in the motor vehicle, in particular on a seat of the motor vehicle. The entertainment system is then configured to provide the entertainment content only when the user's presence in the motor vehicle is detected. For detecting presence, the detection device can, for example, be or comprise an interior camera for optically capturing the interior of the motor vehicle and / or a seat occupancy sensor integrated into the seat.Likewise, the detection device may be or include a corresponding data interface and data processing device, which is designed and configured to retrieve relevant sensor data, for example from the interior camera and / or from the seat occupancy sensors, and to process this sensor data to detect the presence of the user.

[0028] By making the unlocked entertainment content available to the user only when they are actually in the vehicle, the likelihood that the user will actually register, i.e., recognize, the unlocking and provision of the entertainment content can be advantageously increased. In this way, the described positive effects of the present invention can be realized particularly reliably. For example, if a vehicle's instrument cluster is used to provide the entertainment content, it can be provided that the entertainment content is only made available when the user is in a driver's seat of the vehicle, i.e., in a position from which they can optimally view the provided entertainment content.Particularly advantageous is the combination of presence detection with user identification to provide user-specific or individualized entertainment content. This allows the present invention to exert its beneficial effects particularly effectively even when the motor vehicle is used by several different users.

[0029] In a further advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the entertainment system is configured to provide at least one computer game as entertainment content. The computer game or games—as well as any other optional hidden entertainment content—can be stored, or in particular installed, on a storage device of the entertainment system or the motor vehicle before they are activated. This enables particularly fast and reliable provision of the entertainment content(s) after their respective activation. Providing the computer game as hidden entertainment content is particularly advantageous because, based on experience, computer games are perceived very positively by users, especially in situations where the user might otherwise be idle.

[0030] To provide the computer game, the entertainment system may preferably have a display device, i.e. a display or screen, and / or be equipped to control a display device of the motor vehicle, for example a screen in an instrument cluster.

[0031] Furthermore, the entertainment system can include at least one control element and / or be equipped to capture user input at at least one control element of the vehicle. This at least one control element can then be used to operate or control the computer game. This design of the entertainment system is particularly easy and efficient to implement, as modern vehicles are already widely equipped with suitable features, thus minimizing the need for additional components.

[0032] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the entertainment system is configured to recognize, interpret, or evaluate, a manual input from the user at the steering wheel of the motor vehicle as a control input or command for the computer game. In other words, the steering wheel is thus provided as a control element or controller for the computer game, i.e., for operating or controlling the computer game. Preferably, the steering wheel can then be decoupled from a driving function of the motor vehicle during use of the computer game. In other words, it can then be provided that the input at the steering wheel does not affect driving operation, a steering device (i.e., the wheel steering angle), and / or one or more other mechanical or electromechanical devices or systems of the motor vehicle necessary for driving operation.Such decoupling of the steering wheel from the vehicle's operation or driving function can be achieved particularly easily electronically, for example, via the entertainment system, when using a steer-by-wire system. Once the computer game is finished, the decoupling can then be reversed, preferably automatically, allowing the user to use the steering wheel again to steer or control the vehicle, i.e., to influence its driving. Decoupling the steering wheel from the vehicle's driving function or operation can also be performed automatically, semi-automatically, upon confirmation of a corresponding request, or manually by the user. This allows for the implementation of various comfort and safety levels as needed.Using the steering wheel as a control element or controller for the computer game is particularly efficient and convenient, since the steering wheel is already present in the vehicle and designed and intended for manual operation by the user. This eliminates the need for an additional control element. Furthermore, in an emergency, for example, the driver can advantageously regain control of the vehicle very quickly, as their hands are already on the steering wheel and they are not distracted or hindered by a separate control element or controller. This aspect of the present invention can therefore also contribute to improved safety when using the vehicle.

[0033] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the entertainment system comprises a communication function or communication interface for communication, i.e., for data exchange, with at least one appropriately equipped third-party vehicle in the vicinity of the motor vehicle. The entertainment system is then configured to operate the computer game in a multiplayer mode with the participation of the user of the motor vehicle and a respective occupant of the at least one third-party vehicle. For this purpose, the entertainment system can include a detection device for detecting suitable, i.e., appropriately equipped, third-party vehicles in the vicinity.The detection, i.e., the identification or location of corresponding foreign vehicles, can be achieved, for example, by sending a corresponding request via the communication interface and receiving a corresponding confirmation, or conversely, by receiving a corresponding request sent by a foreign vehicle.

[0034] Communication between the motor vehicle and at least one other vehicle can preferably be established via a direct data connection, for example, via a car-to-car communication link. This advantageously allows for particularly low latency and avoids or reduces the load on, for example, a mobile network. Furthermore, the multiplayer mode can then also be provided in situations or locations where no mobile network connection is available. The multiplayer mode, i.e., the inclusion of several vehicle occupants or users, particularly from different vehicles, allows the described advantageous effects of the present invention to be realized and extended particularly effectively.This is based on the understanding that a multiplayer mode can lead to or contribute to an increased level of user engagement or interaction with the entertainment system.

[0035] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the entertainment system comprises a communication function or communication interface for communication, i.e., for data exchange, with an external server, in particular via a wireless mobile communication connection. The entertainment system can then be configured to operate the computer game in a multiplayer mode, mediated by the server. In other words, users or occupants of several vehicles can then participate in the provided computer game together, particularly regardless of their respective locations.Cross-platform use is also possible, meaning that at least one player connected via the server does not necessarily have to be in a vehicle or use the entertainment system of their vehicle (i.e., another person's vehicle) to participate in the computer game. This allows for a larger player base, i.e., a greater number of potentially available players, and thus makes the multiplayer mode particularly reliable.

[0036] The server setup can be a backend or cloud server, a data center, or something similar. The server setup can function as a game server, running the computer game itself, with the entertainment system or vehicle acting as the client. Alternatively, the server setup can simply act as an intermediary between players or participants, in which case the computer game is run by the entertainment system itself.

[0037] Another aspect of the present invention is a motor vehicle which has an entertainment system according to the invention. The motor vehicle according to the invention can therefore be, in particular, the motor vehicle mentioned in connection with the entertainment system according to the invention. Accordingly, the motor vehicle according to the invention can have some or all of the features and / or components or devices described in connection with the entertainment system according to the invention. This can, for example, relate to the display device in an instrument cluster of the motor vehicle.

[0038] Another aspect of the present invention is a method for operating an entertainment system and / or a motor vehicle according to the invention. In the method according to the invention, use of the motor vehicle by the user that does not require any action by the user to operate the motor vehicle is automatically detected. Furthermore, upon detection of this or such use, the entertainment function is automatically made available to the user. According to the invention, the method tracks how the user uses the motor vehicle. The entertainment system can therefore be configured to detect and record the use of the motor vehicle.The entertainment system can generate or derive corresponding connection data from appropriate raw data, for example retrieved or recorded via an on-board network, which characterize the operation of the motor vehicle, and which characterize, describe, or indicate the use of the motor vehicle by the user.

[0039] In the method according to the invention, it is further provided that the hidden entertainment content is automatically unlocked by the entertainment system when the user's use of the motor vehicle fulfills at least one predetermined condition dependent on location, time, and / or usage intensity. Furthermore, in the method according to the invention, it is provided that the hidden entertainment content is only made available via the entertainment function if it is unlocked or has been unlocked.

[0040] Since the method according to the invention is thus directly linked with the other aspects of the present invention, i.e., with the entertainment system and the motor vehicle according to the invention, processes or measures described in connection with these aspects can be provided as further process steps of the method according to the invention.

[0041] The method according to the invention can in particular be a fully or partially computer-implemented method.

[0042] Further aspects of the present invention include a corresponding computer program product or program code, which comprises, i.e., encodes or represents, commands or control instructions that, when executed by a computer or data processing device, cause it or these devices to execute at least one embodiment of the method according to the invention, i.e., its process steps. A further aspect of the present invention is a computer-readable storage medium on which a computer program product according to the invention is stored.

[0043] To execute the described functions, processes, and measures, particularly automatically, the entertainment system and the motor vehicle according to the invention can each comprise a data processing unit with a corresponding computer-readable storage medium according to the invention and a processor unit for executing the computer program product, i.e., program code, stored on this storage medium. The processor unit can comprise at least one microchip or microcontroller.

[0044] The invention also includes further developments of the motor vehicle and the method according to the invention, which have features as described in connection with the further developments of the entertainment system according to the invention, and vice versa. To avoid unnecessary redundancy, the corresponding further developments are not described separately here for all these aspects of the present invention.

[0045] The invention also includes combinations of the features of the described embodiments.

[0046] The following are exemplary embodiments of the invention described. This is illustrated by: Fig. 1 a schematic overview of a traffic scene in which two motor vehicles are being charged at a charging station; Fig. 2 schematically an exemplary first partial flowchart of a procedure for operating an entertainment system of a motor vehicle; Fig. 3 schematically an exemplary second partial flowchart of a procedure for operating an entertainment system of a motor vehicle; Fig. 4 a schematic representation of a combination instrument in a first state as part of an entertainment system of a motor vehicle; Fig. 5 a schematic representation of a combination instrument in a second state as part of an entertainment system of a motor vehicle; Fig. 6. A schematic representation of a combination instrument in a third state as part of an entertainment system of a motor vehicle; and Fig. 7 A schematic representation of a combination instrument in a fourth state as part of an entertainment system of a motor vehicle.

[0047] The exemplary embodiments described below are preferred embodiments of the invention. In these exemplary embodiments, the described components each represent individual features of the invention, which can be considered independently of one another and each further develops the invention independently. Therefore, the disclosure is intended to include combinations of features of the embodiments other than those shown. Furthermore, the described embodiments can also be supplemented by further features of the invention already described.

[0048] In the figures, identical reference symbols denote functionally equivalent elements.

[0049] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic top view of a traffic scene with a road 1, which in this case could be a motorway. Next to the road 1 is a parking area 2 connected to it, serving as a charging station for electric vehicles. A charging station 3 with multiple charging ports is provided in the parking area 2. A motor vehicle 4 and a third-party vehicle 5 are connected to the charging station 3 via charging cables 6 to charge their batteries 7.

[0050] Motor vehicle 4 and the other vehicle 5 are equipped in the same way, which is why the corresponding equipment will only be described below with reference to motor vehicle 4, and in Fig. 1 is only detailed for motor vehicle 4, but can also apply to the third-party vehicle 5. The respective equipment of motor vehicle 4 and third-party vehicle 5 includes an entertainment system 8 with a display unit 10 arranged in a respective instrument cluster 9. Furthermore, both motor vehicle 4 and third-party vehicle 5 each have a steering wheel 11, which in this case serves as a control element for operating the respective entertainment system 8. The respective entertainment system 8 can therefore be operated via the respective steering wheel 11 by a driver or user 12 of motor vehicle 4 or by a driver or occupant of third-party vehicle 5, who in this case is referred to as a participant 13.

[0051] The entertainment system 8 also includes a computer-readable storage medium 14 containing a computer program or program code, which comprises, i.e., encodes or represents, the functions of the entertainment system 8 as well as corresponding control commands or instructions. Furthermore, the entertainment system 8 includes a processor unit 15 connected to the computer-readable storage medium 14 for executing this computer program product or program code. In addition, the entertainment system 8 includes at least one vehicle-side communication interface 16, also connected to the processor unit 15. Via this vehicle-side communication interface 16, the entertainment system 8 of the motor vehicle 4 can communicate with the other vehicle 5 or its entertainment system 8, i.e., exchange data.The entertainment system 8 can also communicate with an external server unit 17, also shown schematically here, via the vehicle-side communication interface 16, i.e., exchange data. The server unit 17 also has a server-side communication interface 18. Furthermore, the server unit 17 has at least one data storage device 19 and an associated server processor 20 for executing program code stored on the data storage device 19 and for processing data received via the server-side communication interface 18.

[0052] Fig. Figure 2 schematically shows an exemplary first partial flowchart 21 of a procedure for operating the entertainment system 8 or the motor vehicle 4. Fig. Figure 3 schematically shows an exemplary second partial flowchart 22 for the procedure for operating the entertainment system 8. The partial flowcharts 21 and 22 are explained in more detail below with reference to the other figures.

[0053] According to the first sub-procedure plan 21, in process step S1a, the use of the vehicle 4 by user 12 is recorded during operation of the vehicle 4. This occurs continuously during the operation or use of the vehicle 4, as indicated here by a loop-like program path P1. In process step S2a, it is regularly checked whether the recorded use fulfills a predefined condition dependent on location, time, and / or usage intensity. The fact that this is repeated regularly, especially when new usage data is available due to the continuous recording of usage, is indicated here by a loop-like program path P2. If at least one predefined condition is fulfilled, then, following a program path P3, a hidden entertainment content associated with the respective condition is automatically unlocked in process step S3a.

[0054] The conditions specified here include, for example, a mileage of 10,000 km for the vehicle 4, a driving or usage time of 100 hours, and / or charging of the battery 7 of the vehicle 4 at a fast charging station of a public charging infrastructure, in this case, for example, charging station 3. In the Fig. In the situation shown in 1, one or more of these conditions are met, so that at least one corresponding hidden entertainment content is unlocked for driver 12.

[0055] According to the second part of the flowchart 22, in process step S1, the current use of the motor vehicle is continuously monitored and evaluated, as indicated here by a loop-shaped program path P4. If a use of the motor vehicle 4 is detected that does not require any action by the user 12 to operate the motor vehicle 4, the process continues. In this case, such use is detected or recognized as the charging of the battery 7 of the motor vehicle 4 at the charging station 3. As an additional condition for this detection of such use, it can be checked, for example, whether a handbrake or an electronic parking brake of the motor vehicle 4 is activated. In process step S2, it is then checked whether the driver 12 is in the motor vehicle 4, in particular in a driver's seat.During the detected usage, this is repeated continuously or regularly, which is indicated here by a loop-like program path P5.

[0056] If the driver is 12, as in the present case, in Fig. As shown in Figure 1 on the driver's seat of motor vehicle 4, in a process step S3, it is checked whether the expected remaining charging time, i.e., the remaining time or duration for charging battery 7, is longer than a predefined threshold, in this case, for example, longer or greater than 10 minutes. If this is not the case, the process follows a program path P6 in order to detect a corresponding usage again in a subsequent iteration of the process and then continue the process accordingly.

[0057] If, however, in process step S1, autonomous or automated driving operation of the motor vehicle 4, for example along road 1, is detected, then in process step S3 it can be checked whether a likely travel time to a respective current travel or navigation destination is greater or longer than the specified threshold.

[0058] If the relevant time period, i.e., the remaining charging time or the travel time, is greater than the corresponding predefined threshold, the entertainment system 8 determines in a procedure step S4 which hidden entertainment content is unlocked for the driver 12.

[0059] Subsequently, in process step S5, a request is sent to user 12 asking whether they wish to use the unlocked hidden entertainment content. This is shown schematically in the following. Fig. Figure 4 shows a schematic representation of the instrument cluster 9 with the integrated display unit 10, on which the request is displayed as a popup menu 23. The request asks whether the user 12 wants to play a game, specifically a computer game, or not. If the user 12 answers "no," the procedure follows a program path P7 back to the procedure step S1.

[0060] If, however, user 12 affirms or confirms the request, user 12 is presented with a selection of available unlocked entertainment content in process step S6. This is schematically shown in Fig. 5 is presented as a selection of several computer games. Examples of computer games that can be provided as hidden entertainment content via the Entertainment System 8 include "Space Invaders", "Tetris", or "Pong", or a variety of other games.

[0061] After user 12 has selected entertainment content, in this case a computer game, the entertainment system 8 checks in process step S7 whether a multiplayer mode and, if applicable, participants are available for the selected computer game. In this case, a corresponding request is sent via the vehicle's communication interface 16 to vehicles in the vicinity of the vehicle 4, in this case to the other vehicle 5, and / or to the server 17. The server 17 can be used schematically or as an example to represent a network, such as the internet. Accordingly, a worldwide online search for participating users 12 or fellow players 13 can be automatically performed to find potential participants or opponents. This allows players or users 12 to be networked with each other worldwide.

[0062] It is determined that the external vehicle 5 is equipped to participate in the selected computer game and is located in the vicinity of the motor vehicle 4. Furthermore, player 13 is identified as a potential participant. Relevant data is transmitted from the entertainment system 8 of the external vehicle 5 and / or from the server unit 17 to the entertainment system 8 of the motor vehicle 4.

[0063] Accordingly, in a process step S8, for example also via the display unit 10, a query is sent to user 12 asking whether they wish to use the multiplayer mode. If so, in a process step S9, user 12 is then presented with an opponent or teammate suggestion or a corresponding selection by the entertainment system 8. This is shown schematically in Fig. Figure 6 illustrates this. The display unit 10 shows the potential teammates or opponents found, along with additional related data such as profile pictures, geographical locations, and the like. User 12 can then select an opponent, for example, teammate 13. Alternatively, the entertainment system 8 or the server unit 17 can automatically select an opponent, such as teammate 13, and establish a connection.

[0064] After the match has been made and the opponent selected, the selected entertainment content, in this case the selected computer game, is then displayed in a procedural step S10. In the present case, this shows Fig.Figure 7 schematically shows how a game field 24 for the selected computer game can be displayed on the display unit 10 of the instrument cluster 9. The user 12 can then operate or control the selected computer game using the steering wheel 11, steering wheel buttons arranged on it, and / or other controls of the instrument cluster 9 or the vehicle 4. It is also possible to use, for example, a mobile electronic device, such as a mobile phone (smartphone) or the like, to operate or control the entertainment content. This device can be connected to the vehicle 4, in particular to the entertainment system 8, via a data connection.

[0065] If, in process step S7, it is determined that no multiplayer mode is available for the selected computer game or that there are currently no available participants or opponents, the process can jump directly to process step S10 by following a program path P8. Likewise, the process can jump directly to process step S10 from process step S8 if user 12 does not select the multiplayer mode in process step S8, i.e., does not wish to use it.

[0066] The procedures or sub-procedures according to the first sub-procedure plan 21 and the second sub-procedure plan 22 can run in parallel. Likewise, the second sub-procedure plan 22 can, for example, be automatically activated after an entertainment content has been unlocked in procedure step S3a.

[0067] The process steps S1a to S3a and S1 to S10 described here, and the program paths P1 to P9, can be understood as program modules or program functions of a corresponding computer program. This computer program can be stored, for example, in storage medium 14 as part of an operating system of the Entertainment System 8 or as an application for the Entertainment System 8.

[0068] Overall, the examples described demonstrate how the invention enables a method for emotionalizing and anthropomorphizing the user experience through hidden entertainment content, so-called Easter eggs, during the use of a motor vehicle, for example, while charging an electric vehicle. This allows the entertainment value of the motor vehicle to be enhanced in a particularly safe manner.

Claims

[1] Entertainment system (8) for a motor vehicle (4), for providing an entertainment function to a user (12) of the motor vehicle (4), wherein the entertainment system (8) - a detection device for detecting use of the motor vehicle (4) by the user (12), which does not require any operating action by the user (12) to drive the motor vehicle (4), and - is configured to automatically provide the entertainment function to the user (12) upon detection of such use, wherein the entertainment system (8) is configured to - automatically unlock hidden entertainment content (24) if a previous use of the motor vehicle (4) by the user (12) fulfills at least one predefined location-, time- and / or usage-intensity-dependent condition, and - to make the hidden entertainment content (24) available via the entertainment function only when it is unlocked, characterized by , that - the entertainment system (8) is configured to detect the use of a charging of a battery (7) of the motor vehicle (4) at a charging station (3) during a stopover along a current route of the motor vehicle (4), and - further hidden entertainment content (24) is provided which the user (12) can gradually unlock by continuing to use the motor vehicle (4). [2] Entertainment system (8) according to claim 1, characterized by , that the entertainment system (8) is designed to detect, as its use, driving in an autonomous or automated driving mode of the motor vehicle (4). [3] Entertainment system (8) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the condition is a mileage and / or a usage period of the motor vehicle (4). [4] Entertainment system (8) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the entertainment system (8) includes a detection device for detecting the presence of the user (12) in the motor vehicle (4), in particular on a seating system of the motor vehicle (4), and provides the entertainment content (24) only when the presence of the user (12) in the motor vehicle (4) is detected. [5] Entertainment system (8) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the entertainment system (8) is set up to provide at least one computer game (24) as entertainment content (24). [6] Entertainment system (8) according to claim 5, characterized by, that the entertainment system (8) is configured to recognize a manual operating input of the user (12) on a steering wheel (11) of the motor vehicle (4) as a control input for the computer game (24), preferably the steering wheel (11) being decoupled from a driving function of the motor vehicle (4). [7] Entertainment system (8) according to one of claims 5 and 6, characterized by , that the entertainment system (8) includes a communication function (16) for communication with at least one appropriately equipped external vehicle (5) in an environment of the motor vehicle (4) and is set up to operate the computer game (24) in a multiplayer mode with the participation of the user (12) of the motor vehicle (4) and a respective vehicle occupant (13) of the at least one external vehicle (5). [8] Entertainment system (8) according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized by, that the entertainment system (8) includes a communication function (16) for communication with an external server facility (17) and is set up to operate the computer game (24) in a multiplayer mode with the mediation of at least one other player (13) by the server facility (17). [9] Motor vehicle (4) comprising an entertainment system (8) according to any of the preceding claims. [10] Method for operating an entertainment system (8) according to any one of claims 1 to 8 and / or for operating a motor vehicle (4) according to claim 9, comprising the method steps - automatic detection of the use of the motor vehicle (4) by the user (12), which does not require any operating action by the user (12) to drive the motor vehicle (4), and - automatic provision of the entertainment function to the user (12) upon detection of usage, wherein - it is tracked how the user (12) uses the motor vehicle (4), - the hidden entertainment content (24) is automatically unlocked by the entertainment system (8) when the use of the motor vehicle (4) by the user (12) fulfills at least one predefined location-, time- and / or usage-intensity-dependent condition, and - via the entertainment function, the hidden entertainment content (24) is only made available when it is unlocked, characterized by , that - the entertainment system (8) detects the use of a charging of a battery (7) of the motor vehicle (4) at a charging station (3) during a stopover along a current route of the motor vehicle (4), and - further hidden entertainment content (24) is provided which the user (12) can gradually unlock by continuing to use the motor vehicle (4).

Images