Control device and method for adjusting the functionality of a user terminal device

Abstract

The invention relates to a control device in a motor vehicle and a method for adapting the functionality of a user terminal device communicating with the motor vehicle. The control device is configured to determine the current functionality and / or parameters of a system of the motor vehicle; to establish a communication link between the motor vehicle and a user terminal device; and to transmit control signals to the user terminal device via the communication link in order to adapt the functionality of the user terminal device based on the determined functionality and / or parameters of the motor vehicle.

Description

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a control device or a control unit in a motor vehicle for adapting a range of functions of a user terminal communicating with the motor vehicle, a motor vehicle having a control device, and a method for adapting a range of functions of a user terminal communicating with the motor vehicle. Additionally or alternatively, a computer program is provided which comprises instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer, cause the computer to at least partially execute the method. Additionally or alternatively, a computer-readable medium is provided which comprises instructions which, when the instructions are executed by a computer, cause the computer to at least partially execute the method.

[0002] Modern motor vehicles, especially automobiles, are increasingly being equipped with various systems with different functions. These functions provide the occupants, such as the driver, with various functions for driving the vehicle as well as functions for a pleasant driving experience. This can include the interior experience function. Various contributors can be provided. These can include light, fragrance, music, massage, or climate control and can be used in a corresponding context. These functions are specifically designed for the vehicle interior. In addition, the occupants and driver usually carry a user device (smartphone, tablet, smartwatch). This user device does not know the selected functions of the vehicle.

[0003] Furthermore, a method for controlling the driving mode of a mobile terminal is known from document CN 107 749 917 A. The method comprises the following steps: connecting a received command to a motor vehicle center console; receiving a current motor vehicle driving speed transmitted from the motor vehicle center console; and starting a driving mode of the mobile terminal according to the current motor vehicle driving speed and limiting the corresponding functions of the mobile terminal.

[0004] Furthermore, document EP 2 871 866 A1 discloses an in-vehicle computer system and a method for controlling vehicle settings using the in-vehicle computer system based on inputs. The on-board computer system can automatically adjust one or more vehicle settings based on the received inputs.

[0005] From document CN 113 596 247 A, an alarm information processing method and device, a vehicle, a storage medium, and a program product are known. The method comprises the following steps: activating a target vehicle to confirm that a user enters the target vehicle; receiving a wake-up event set on the corresponding mobile terminal by the user and adopting the wake-up event set on the mobile terminal associated with the user after detecting that the vehicle enters the target vehicle; upon detecting that the target vehicle enters sleep mode, generating a ringing task based on the output equipment of the target vehicle and adopting a wake-up task on a mobile terminal associated with a user according to the wake-up event;and according to the ringing task, executing the ringing operation to execute a ringing reminder to the user, wherein the target vehicle takes over the wake-up event and executes the ringing operation, the intelligence level of the smart cabin is improved, and the user experience is improved.;

[0006] Against the background of this prior art, the object of the present disclosure is to provide a control device and / or a method which are each suitable for enriching the prior art.

[0007] The problem is solved by the features of the independent claim. The subordinate claims and the dependent claims each contain optional developments of the disclosure.

[0008] According to this, the object is achieved by a control device in a motor vehicle for adapting a functional scope of a user terminal communicating with the motor vehicle. The control device is designed to determine a current functional scope and / or parameters of a system of the motor vehicle. Furthermore, the control device can establish a communication connection between the motor vehicle and a user terminal. Furthermore, the control device is provided to transmit control signals to the user terminal via the communication connection in order to adapt a functional scope of the user terminal based on the determined functional scope and / or the parameters of the motor vehicle.

[0009] The control device or control unit can be part of a driver assistance system or represent it. The control device can be, for example, an electronic control unit (ECU). The electronic control unit can be an intelligent processor-controlled unit that can communicate with other modules, for example, via a central gateway (CGW), and that can optionally form the vehicle's on-board network via fieldbuses such as the CAN bus, LIN bus, MOST bus, FlexRay, and / or via the automotive Ethernet, e.g., together with telematics control units and / or environmental sensors. The control device can have a data processing device or a processor device that is configured to carry out an embodiment of the method according to the invention.For this purpose, the processor device can have at least one microprocessor and / or at least one microcontroller and / or at least one FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) and / or at least one DSP (Digital Signal Processor). Furthermore, the processor device can have program code which, when executed by the processor device, is configured to carry out the embodiment of the method according to the invention. The program code can be stored in a data memory of the processor device. The processor device can, for example, be based on at least one circuit board and / or on at least one SoC (System on Chip). Furthermore, the control device or control unit can be implemented in software outsourced to a cloud and communicate and exchange data with the motor vehicle via a communication medium.

[0010] For the purposes of this disclosure, the functionality of a user terminal refers to the various capabilities and features the device offers the user. The functionality of a user terminal may vary depending on the device type and manufacturer. The functionality may include: communications (calls, text messages, emails, instant messaging, and social networking), internet access (Wi-Fi, cellular networks, or other network connections), multimedia (photos, videos, music, podcasts, and games; depending on the device, features such as a camera, music player, video player, and image viewer may be integrated), apps and software (productivity apps, games, social networking, e-commerce applications, image editing programs, etc.).), storage (internal storage space where users store files, photos, videos and other data; external storage with memory cards), usability (touchscreens, keyboards, voice control, gesture control and other input methods), connectivity (Bluetooth, NFC (Near Field Communication), infrared, USB ports and wireless connections such as Wi-Fi and cellular networks) and security (password and PIN protection, fingerprint recognition, facial recognition, encryption and the ability to remotely wipe or locate devices).

[0011] A user terminal, as defined in the present disclosure, may be an electronic device used by a user in a mobile manner to access information, communicate, perform tasks, and perform various functions. The user terminal may be embodied as a handheld device and may include a smartphone, tablet, PDA, laptop, smartwatch, VR headset, etc.

[0012] For the purposes of this disclosure, the current functional scope of a motor vehicle system refers to the functions requested by a passenger / user of the motor vehicle and provided by the motor vehicle in general or by the individual system of the motor vehicle. Furthermore, a system parameter refers to the data and control signals provided by the system and which can be provided to other systems for further processing or output / displayed to the passenger / user.

[0013] Furthermore, in the context of the present disclosure, adapting the range of functions of the user terminal means that functions of the user terminal can be changed, restricted, deactivated / activated in their actual scope.

[0014] The device described above offers a number of advantages. Among other things, the control device automatically adjusts or adapts the user terminal to the vehicle's range of functions. This range of functions can include a specific application. This provides the occupant / driver with an additional function that simplifies the technical use of the vehicle and also enhances comfort.

[0015] Possible further developments of the device described above are explained in detail below.

[0016] It can be provided that the current range of functions is determined automatically by the control device. This allows the control device to automatically monitor the range of functions of the motor vehicle and automatically adapt the user terminal accordingly. Thus, the user terminal is always adapted to a changing range of functions. Alternatively, the adaptation of the range of functions of the user terminal can be actively initiated manually by an occupant. This can involve selecting the range of functions to be adapted. Thus, only functions for adapting the user terminal's range of functions that are actually desired by the occupant / user are taken into account.

[0017] It can be provided that the current functional scope includes networked functions of the motor vehicle, and these functions cause the adaptation of the user terminal via the control signals. Networked functions can include a multitude of functions that contribute to the control of an entire system of the motor vehicle and / or subsystem. Thus, the functional scope of a user terminal can be holistically adapted to networked functions.

[0018] The parameters can be configured to include data from sensors in a motor vehicle system. The data provided by the sensors can be used to adjust the functionality. The sensor data can be evaluated, and the adjustment of the functionality can be automated. Alternatively, the adjustment can be suggested and activated by a user.

[0019] The specific functionality of the motor vehicle can be provided to include at least occupant monitoring. Occupants can be detected and monitored using sensors. Based on the monitoring results (number of people, interests of the people, condition of the people), the functionality of one or more user devices can be adjusted.

[0020] It can be provided that the specific functional scope of the motor vehicle includes at least the air conditioning and ventilation system. In this case, the functional scope of the user terminal can be adapted based on data and sensor signals from the air conditioning and ventilation system.

[0021] It can be provided that the specific range of functions of the motor vehicle includes at least the entertainment system. In this case, the range of functions of the user terminal can be adapted based on data from the entertainment system. For a specific selection of entertainment, the range of functions can be adjusted accordingly. For example, the user terminal can be muted or deactivated.

[0022] It can be provided that the specific range of functions of the motor vehicle includes at least the lighting system. In this case, the range of functions of the user terminal can be adapted based on data from the lighting system. For example, the brightness of the user terminal can be adjusted according to the lighting of the motor vehicle.

[0023] It can be provided that the specific range of functions of the motor vehicle includes at least the seating system. In this case, the range of functions of the user terminal can be adapted based on data from the seating system. The range of functions of the user terminal can be adapted via the seating system settings.

[0024] It can be provided that the specific range of functions of the motor vehicle includes at least scenting. Scenting in a motor vehicle can include the option of using fragrances or perfumes in the interior of the vehicle to create a pleasant smell. Scenting in a motor vehicle can be electronic. They can include fragrance dispensers or containers that can be integrated into the vehicle's ventilation system. When required, a fragrance is released and distributed with the air in the interior of the vehicle. The fragrances can be available in the form of liquids, gels, or capsules. The range of functions of the user terminal can be adapted based on the fragrance.

[0025] It may be stipulated that the specific range of functions of the motor vehicle includes at least air quality improvement measures. Air quality improvement measures on the motor vehicle may include various measures aimed at improving the air quality in the interior and reducing potentially harmful substances.

[0026] It can be provided that the device is designed to provide control signals for displaying the adapted range of functions on a human-machine interface (HMI) and / or the user terminal. Control signals can be provided that control the HMI on which the adapted range of functions is displayed. The HMI can be designed as a display, LCD display, touch screen, or monitor. It can also be provided that the adapted range of functions is provided / output on the user terminal. For this purpose, an overview can be displayed, which can be used to make a corresponding selection / deselect for adaptation.

[0027] The communication connection can include at least one WLAN connection, one Bluetooth connection, one Bluetooth Low Energy connection, and / or one wired connection. Furthermore, combinations of the aforementioned communication connections can be provided. Data is exchanged via the communication connections. The communication connection can be selected according to the data volume, energy consumption, and other requirements.

[0028] Adjusting the functionality of the user terminal may include turning the user terminal off, on, or muting it. Based on the specific functionality, the user terminal may be automatically turned on, off, or muted.

[0029] Adjusting the functionality of the user terminal may include switching the user terminal to airplane mode. This can deactivate the reception of calls or messages. This can be advantageous if a passenger or the driver does not want to be disturbed.

[0030] It may be intended that adapting the functionality of the user device includes activating / deactivating a mobile application. A mobile application, also known as a mobile app, is a software application that can be specifically developed for use on mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets. These apps can be downloaded from an app store or online marketplace and installed on the user device. Mobile apps can offer users a wide range of functions and services to perform various tasks, retrieve information, communicate, and enjoy entertainment. The apps' functionality can be restricted, and their functionality can be deactivated or activated.

[0031] It may be provided that adapting the functionality of the user device includes providing status information. In particular, based on the specific functionality, status information from apps can be output, and messages and emails can be provided and displayed.

[0032] The above description can be summarized in other words and in a possible more concrete embodiment of the disclosure as described below, whereby the following description is not to be interpreted as limiting the disclosure. Motor vehicles can be offered or developed with various networked functions in the interior. This can include, among other things, the interior experience function. Various contributors (light, fragrance, music, massage, climate) are staged in a corresponding context. This function is developed for vehicle interiors. In addition, the user usually carries their user terminal (mobile phone) with them in the vehicle. This user terminal does not recognize the corresponding selected function of the vehicle.In essence, the networked function can be transferred from the interior experience to a user device, and the user device can be configured accordingly. This function transfer can also occur from the user device to the vehicle.

[0033] With the interior experience, these networked functions can be created in the vehicle depending on user wishes and made available to the user. The user device is connected to the vehicle via an interface (e.g. WLAN). This different information should ideally be processed in the vehicle and the corresponding configuration(s) should be communicated to the user device. For example, relaxing in the vehicle: the user device is switched to silent mode, for a power nap in the vehicle: the user device is switched to flight mode. The options on the user device as to what can be switched on or off are displayed to the user on the user device and / or in the HMI in the vehicle. The user settings (regarding the interior experience) should then be communicated to the user device via this interface. The settings can be made automatically and / or manually.

[0034] A dependence on location, time, conditions in the vehicle (e.g. Drive-Select is set to Dynamic -Activate), state of mind of the occupant (interior camera) are possible.

[0035] This device automatically adjusts or adapts the user device to the vehicle interior experience use case. This provides the user with an additional function that enhances comfort. The technical implementation can be achieved using a vehicle with an "interior experience" function and an HMI. The vehicle includes the option to connect a user device and a control unit with the appropriate software for communication between the vehicle and the user device, allowing the corresponding settings in the user device.

[0036] Furthermore, it can be specified that when a scenario is started in the vehicle (prerequisite: connection to the user device), the corresponding functions of the user device are muted. This can include mute, airplane mode, turning other apps on / off, and displaying Calendar, Teams, and / or Outlook as busy. After the scenario has ended, everything is turned back on. Turning on can also be delayed. An example could be a power nap. Airplane mode is activated at startup. Airplane mode is turned off and mute is turned on during a wake-up phase. Updates are made available after the power nap.

[0037] Furthermore, a motor vehicle with the control unit or control device described above is provided. The motor vehicle can be a passenger car, in particular an automobile, or a commercial vehicle, such as a truck. The motor vehicle can be automated. The motor vehicle can be designed to at least partially and / or at least temporarily assume longitudinal guidance and / or lateral guidance by means of the control device during automated driving of the motor vehicle. Automated driving can take place in such a way that the movement of the motor vehicle is (largely) autonomous. Automated driving can be controlled at least partially and / or temporarily by the control device. It is conceivable that the motor vehicle can be actively guided by a driver assistance system, e.g. by adapting an actual steering wheel position, and optionally passively, e.g.by displaying a turn signal, intervenes in the lateral guidance of the motor vehicle. The above description with reference to the control device also applies analogously to the motor vehicle, and vice versa.

[0038] What has been described above with reference to the control device also applies analogously to the motor vehicle and vice versa.

[0039] Furthermore, a method for adapting the range of functions of a user terminal communicating with a motor vehicle is provided. The method comprises various method steps. In a first step, a current range of functions and / or parameters of a system of the motor vehicle is determined. In a further step, a communication connection is established between the motor vehicle and the user terminal. In a further step, control signals are transmitted to the user terminal via the communication connection in order to adapt the range of functions of the user terminal based on the determined range of functions and / or the parameters.

[0040] The method may be a computer-implemented method, meaning that one, several, or all steps of the method can be carried out at least partially by a computer or a data processing device, optionally the control device. The above description with reference to the control device and the motor vehicle applies analogously to the method, and vice versa.

[0041] For use cases or application situations that may arise during the method and which are not explicitly described here, it may be provided that, in accordance with the method, an error message and / or a request to enter user feedback is issued and / or a default setting and / or a predetermined initial state is set.

[0042] Furthermore, a computer program is provided, comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer, cause the computer to at least partially carry out or carry out the method described above.

[0043] A program code of the computer program may be in any code, in particular in a code suitable for motor vehicle controls.

[0044] What has been described above with reference to the control device, the motor vehicle and the method also applies analogously to the computer program and vice versa.

[0045] As a further solution, the invention also encompasses a computer-readable storage medium comprising program code which, when executed by a computer or computer network, causes the computer to carry out an embodiment of the method according to the invention. The storage medium can be provided at least partially as a non-volatile data memory (e.g. as a flash memory and / or as an SSD - solid state drive) and / or at least partially as a volatile data memory (e.g. as a RAM - random access memory). The storage medium can be arranged in the computer or computer network. However, the storage medium can also be operated on the Internet, for example, as a so-called app store server and / or cloud server. The computer or computer network can provide a processor circuit with, for example, at least one microprocessor.The program code may be provided as binary code and / or as assembly code and / or as source code of a programming language (e.g. C) and / or as a program script (e.g. Python).

[0046] The invention also encompasses combinations of the features of the described embodiments. The invention therefore also encompasses implementations that each comprise a combination of the features of several of the described embodiments, unless the embodiments are described as mutually exclusive.

[0047] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are described below. Shown are: Fig. 1 schematically shows a motor vehicle with a control device according to the disclosure; and Fig. 2 schematically shows a flow diagram of a method according to the disclosure.

[0048] The exemplary embodiments explained below are preferred embodiments of the invention. In the exemplary embodiments, the described components of the embodiments each represent individual features of the invention that can be considered independently of one another, each of which also develops the invention independently of one another. Therefore, the disclosure is intended to encompass combinations of the features of the embodiments other than those shown. Furthermore, the described embodiments can also be supplemented by further features of the invention already described.

[0049] In the figures, the same reference symbols designate elements with the same function.

[0050] The Fig. The motor vehicle 10, which is only schematically illustrated in Figure 1, has the control device 11 according to the disclosure. The control device 11 can comprise a storage unit (not illustrated). Alternatively, the storage unit can be provided outsourced to a cloud and communicatively connected to the control device 11. The motor vehicle 10 can have a telematics module (not illustrated). The telematics module can establish a communication connection, in particular a 5G communication connection, to a higher-level instance and / or to other motor vehicles. The communication connection can be embodied as a mobile connection to a mobile radio network and / or satellite connection. The telematics module can establish a communication connection cyclically and acyclically.

[0051] The control device 11 according to the disclosure is designed to adapt a functional scope of a user terminal 12 communicating with a motor vehicle 10. The control device 11 according to the disclosure can determine a current functional scope and / or parameters of a system of the motor vehicle 10. The determined functional scope can be stored / cached as a data set in the memory of the control device. Furthermore, a communication connection 13 can be established between the motor vehicle 10 and a user terminal 12 via the control device 11. The communication connection 13 can include a WLAN connection, a Bluetooth connection, a Bluetooth Low Energy connection, and / or a wired connection.The control device 11 can transmit control signals to the user terminal 12 via the communication connection 13 in order to adapt a range of functions of the user terminal 12 based on the determined range of functions and / or the parameters of the motor vehicle 10. For this purpose, the control device 11 can evaluate the determined range of functions and provide and transmit corresponding control signals for controlling the user terminal 12. The determination of the range of functions of the motor vehicle 10 can be automated. Alternatively, it can be provided that the determination of the range of functions of the motor vehicle 10 is initiated by an occupant and carried out accordingly. Furthermore, it can be provided that an occupant of the motor vehicle 10 selects which range of functions of the user terminal is to be adapted.

[0052] In particular, the user terminal 13 can be automatically adjusted or adapted to a specific application of the motor vehicle.

[0053] The control device 11 can determine a range of functions of the vehicle 10. The determination can be automated or manual. The range of functions can include functions of the motor vehicle 10 and / or specifically of a subsystem. For this purpose, occupant monitoring can be performed, and the air conditioning and ventilation system, entertainment system, lighting system, and / or seating systems provided in the motor vehicle 10 can be taken into account. Control signals for addressing and adapting the range of functions of the user terminal 12 can be derived and provided from the functions. The occupant and user of the user terminal 12 can be automatically enabled to adjust comfort settings. Furthermore, the functions to be adapted can be provided (displayed) on an HMI of the motor vehicle 10 or the user terminal 12.

[0054] Furthermore, it can be provided that sensors of the motor vehicle 10 provide data which, after evaluation, can be used to allow corresponding conclusions to be drawn about the range of functions of the motor vehicle 10 or to allow conclusions to be drawn about the requirements of the occupant(s) during driving, thus providing control signals for adapting the range of functions of the user terminal 12.

[0055] The user device 12 can be designed as a mobile device, in particular a handheld device. The range of functions of the user terminal 12 to be adapted can include switching on and off, muting, and activating flight mode. Furthermore, provision can be made for activating or deactivating mobile applications executable on the terminal 12. In addition, the range of functions can be restricted. Status information can be provided according to the specific range of functions of the motor vehicle. This can include providing text messages, transmitting emails, and displaying presence / availability via communication applications and / or social media and / or calendar entries. Provision can be made for the execution of applications of the user terminal 12 to be adapted accordingly using the control signals.

[0056] Fig.2 schematically shows a flow diagram of a method V according to the disclosure for adapting a range of functions of a user terminal 12 communicating with a motor vehicle 10. The method V comprises several method steps. In a first method step S1, a current range of functions and / or parameters of a system of the motor vehicle 10 is determined. In a second method step S2, a communication connection 13 is established between the motor vehicle 10 and the user terminal 12, and in a further method step S3, control signals are transmitted to the user terminal 12 via the communication connection 13 in order to adapt the range of functions of the user terminal 12 based on the determined range of functions and / or the parameters.

[0057] Overall, the examples show how a device can be provided on a vehicle to perform the interior experience function and a corresponding transfer to a device and its possible change of settings. QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] CN 107 749 917 A

[0003] EP 2 871 866 A1

[0004] CN 113 596 247 A

[0005]

Claims

[1] Control device (11) in a motor vehicle (10) for adapting a range of functions of a user terminal (12) communicating with the motor vehicle (10), wherein the control device (11) is designed to: - to determine a current range of functions and / or parameters of a system of the motor vehicle (10); - to establish a communication connection (13) between the motor vehicle (10) and a user terminal (12); and - to transmit control signals to the user terminal (12) via the communication connection (13) in order to adapt a range of functions of the user terminal (12) based on the determined range of functions and / or the parameters of the motor vehicle (10). [2] Control device (11) according to the immediately preceding claim, wherein the determination of the current functional scope can be carried out automatically by the control device (11) or initiated by an occupant. [3] Control device (11) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the current range of functions comprises networked functions of the motor vehicle (10) and these functions effect the adaptation of the user terminal (12) via the control signals. [4] Control device (11) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the parameters comprise data from sensors of a system of the motor vehicle (10). [5] Control device (11) according to at least one of the preceding claims 3 and 4, wherein the specific range of functions of the motor vehicle (10) comprises at least: - Occupant monitoring; - Air conditioning and ventilation system; - entertainment system; - lighting systems; - scenting; - Air quality improvement measures and / or - Seating systems. [6] Control device (11) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the device (11) is designed to provide control signals for displaying the adapted range of functions on a human-machine interface and / or the user terminal (12). [7] Control device (11) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the communication connection (13) comprises at least: - a Wi-Fi connection; - a Bluetooth connection; - a Bluetooth Low Energy connection; and / or - a wired connection. [8] Control device (11) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein adapting the range of functions of the user terminal (12) comprises: - On / off; - Mute; - Activation of airplane mode; - Enable / disable mobile applications; - Restrict the functionality of mobile applications; and / or - Provide status information. [9] Motor vehicle (10), characterized by that the motor vehicle (10) includes a control device (11) according to one of the preceding claims. [10] Method (V) for adapting a range of functions of a user terminal (12) communicating with a motor vehicle (10), comprising the following steps: - determining (S1) a current range of functions and / or parameters of a system of the motor vehicle (10); - establishing (S2) a communication connection (13) between the motor vehicle (10) and the user terminal (12); and - transmitting (S3) control signals to the user terminal (12) via the communication connection (13) in order to adapt the functionality of the user terminal (12) based on the determined and / or the functionality parameters. [11] Computer program, characterized bythat the computer program comprises instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the method according to the method claim. [12] Computer-readable medium, characterized by that the computer-readable medium comprises instructions which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the method according to the method claim.

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