COMMUNICATION SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR A VEHICLE

Abstract

Communication system (300) for a vehicle (100), comprising: a telematics control unit (310), wherein the telematics control unit (310) is connected to a first microphone (312); the telematics control unit (310) includes a first amplifier (314); the telematics control unit (310) is configured for communication with a remote device (95); a second control unit (330), wherein the second control unit (330) includes a second amplifier (334); an audio speaker (320); a switch (316) located in the telematics control unit (310); an electrical connection (335) located between the second control unit (330) and the telematics control unit (310); wherein the audio speaker (320) can be selectively connected to the second amplifier (334) via the switch and the electrical connection (335); and wherein the audio speaker (320) can be selectively connected to the first amplifier (314) via the switch;wherein the switch is operationally controlled by the telematics control unit (310); and wherein the telematics control unit (310) is configured to control the switch (316) to control the audio speaker (320) to enable audio communication between the vehicle (100) and the remote device (95); wherein the telematics control unit (310) is configured to use the first microphone (312) and the audio speaker (320) to enable audio communication between the vehicle (100) and the remote device (95) when a fault is detected in the second control unit (330).

Description

INTRODUCTION

[0001] Vehicles may be equipped with telematics and infotainment systems that use multiple speakers, microphones, and other audio devices to enhance vehicle operation and communication. Under certain circumstances, a vehicle communication system may be affected.

[0002] A control unit for a telematics system may have its own independent speaker and microphone for communication, and a second control unit for an infotainment system may have separate speakers and microphones to support emergency calls. Some systems may have five or more speakers supporting communication and infotainment features, such as AM / FM / XM radio, subscription services, hands-free mobile phone communication, etc. DESCRIPTION

[0003] The concepts described here comprise a vehicle communication system that can be adapted to enable wireless audio communication even when a speaker, microphone, or other audio device malfunctions or has been damaged due to a collision or other event. These concepts can reduce or eliminate the need for additional hardware such as cable harness sheathing and shielding to maintain robust two-way telematics communication.Furthermore, the communication system can provide a reliable response to emergency calls while minimizing the number of audio speakers by enabling a telematics control unit to forward audio communication in response to a Post-Collision Notification (PCN) signal to an existing speaker under its control, thus eliminating the need for a separate speaker for emergency calls.

[0004] The concepts described here offer, in one embodiment, an architecture that adopts an existing vehicle midrange speaker, which is driven either by an audio amplifier in a telematics control unit or by an audio amplifier in a second control unit, e.g. an infotainment control unit, using logic and circuits that are controlled by the telematics control unit.

[0005] One aspect of the disclosure may include a telematics control unit, a second control unit, a dual-function audio speaker, and a switch. The telematics control unit communicates with a first microphone. The telematics control unit includes a first amplifier and is configured to communicate wirelessly with a remote device. The second control unit has a second amplifier and a second microphone. The switch is located in the telematics control unit, and an electrical connection is established between the second control unit and the telematics control unit. The dual-function audio speaker can be selectively connected to the second amplifier via the switch and the electrical connection. The dual-function audio speaker can also be selectively connected to the first amplifier via the switch.The switch is controlled by the telematics control unit, and the telematics control unit controls the switch to control the dual-function audio speaker to enable audio communication between the vehicle and the remote device.

[0006] Another aspect of the disclosure may include an emergency service request activator that communicates with the telematics control unit, the telematics control unit operating in such a way that the first microphone and audio speaker can be used to effect audio communication between the vehicle and the remote facility in response to a command from the telematics control unit, the command being generated by the telematics control unit through activation of the emergency service request activator.

[0007] Another aspect of the disclosure may include the telematics control unit being set up to use the first microphone and audio speaker to establish audio communication between a vehicle occupant and a counselor located in the remote facility in response to the activation of the emergency service request activator.

[0008] Another aspect of the disclosure may include that the emergency service request activator is an actuating button located in a cabin area of ​​the vehicle and near a vehicle operator.

[0009] Another aspect of the disclosure may include a vehicle monitoring system in communication with the telematics control unit, wherein the telematics control unit is configured to use the first microphone and audio speaker to effect audio communication between the vehicle and the remote device in response to a command from the telematics control unit, the command being generated by the telematics control unit based on an input from the vehicle monitoring system.

[0010] Another aspect of the disclosure may include that the vehicle monitoring system is a global position sensor, an inertial monitoring sensor, or an airbag trigger sensor.

[0011] Another aspect of the disclosure may include a secondary battery that is set up to power the first amplifier when the telematics control unit controls the switch to control the speaker in order to effect audio communication between the vehicle and the remote device.

[0012] Another aspect of the disclosure may include that the telematics control unit is configured to control the switch to control the speaker in order to effect audio communication between the vehicle and the remote device in response to a request originating from the remote device.

[0013] Another aspect of the disclosure may include that the telematics control unit is set up to use the first microphone and audio speaker to enable audio communication between the vehicle and the remote facility when a fault is detected in the second control unit.

[0014] Another aspect of the disclosure may include that the telematics control unit is set up to use the first microphone and audio speaker to establish audio communication between the vehicle and the remote device in the event of a loss of communication with the second control unit.

[0015] Another aspect of the disclosure may include a communication system for a vehicle that incorporates a telematics control unit, wherein the telematics control unit is connected to a first microphone. The telematics control unit includes a first amplifier and is configured for communication with a remote device. There is a second amplifier and a second microphone; a dual-function audio speaker; a switch located in the telematics control unit; and an electrical connection located between the second amplifier and the switch. The dual-function audio speaker can be selectively connected to the second amplifier via the switch and the electrical connection. The dual-function audio speaker can also be selectively connected to the first amplifier via the switch.The switch is operationally controlled by the telematics control unit; and the telematics control unit is configured to control the switch to control the dual-function audio speaker to enable two-way communication between the vehicle and the remote device.

[0016] The above summary is not intended to represent every possible embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure. Rather, the preceding summary is intended to illustrate some of the novel aspects and features disclosed herein. The above features and advantages, as well as other features and advantages of the present disclosure, will be readily apparent from the following detailed description of representative embodiments and modes of carrying out the present disclosure in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] One or more embodiments are now described by way of example with reference to the attached drawings, in which: In Fig. Figure 1 is a vehicle as depicted in the disclosure. Fig. Figure 2 illustrates a driver information center for an embodiment of the vehicle, in accordance with the disclosure. Fig. Figure 3 schematically shows an embodiment of a communication system capable of enabling two-way audio communication between a vehicle 100 and a remote facility according to the disclosure. Fig. Figure 4 schematically shows a method for providing two-way audio communication between a vehicle 100 and a remote facility according to the disclosure.

[0018] The accompanying drawings are not necessarily to scale and may represent a somewhat simplified depiction of various preferred features of the present disclosure as disclosed herein, including, for example, certain dimensions, orientations, positions, and shapes. Details associated with such features are partly determined by the intended application and operating environment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] The components of the embodiments described and illustrated herein can be arranged and designed in a multitude of different configurations. Therefore, the following detailed description is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed disclosure, but merely to present possible embodiments thereof. Furthermore, while numerous specific details are included in the following description to enable a comprehensive understanding of the embodiments disclosed herein, some embodiments can also be implemented without some of these details. For the sake of clarity, a detailed description of certain technical details known in the prior art has also been omitted in order to avoid unnecessarily complicating the disclosure.

[0020] Furthermore, the revelation as illustrated and described herein can also be carried out without any element that is not specifically revealed herein.

[0021] The following detailed description is merely exemplary and is not intended to limit application and use. Furthermore, no intention is made to be bound by any express or implied theory presented herein. In the drawings, corresponding reference numbers indicate identical or equivalent parts and features.

[0022] As used here, the term “system” can refer to one or a combination of mechanical and electrical actuators, sensors, controllers, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), combinational logic circuits, software, firmware and / or other components arranged to provide the described functionality.

[0023] The use of terms of order such as "first", "second" and "third" does not necessarily imply a ranking, but may only distinguish between several instances of an action or structure.

[0024] Referring to the drawings, in which identical reference numerals correspond to identical or similar components in the various illustrations, the Fig. 1 to 4, in accordance with the embodiments disclosed herein, are elements of a vehicle 100 equipped to implement an embodiment of a communication system 300, including a communication process 400, which can be used in the vehicle. Details of the communication system 300, including the communication process 400, are given with reference to the Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 described. The vehicle 100 may comprise, but is not limited to, a mobile platform in the form of a commercial vehicle, an industrial vehicle, an agricultural vehicle, a passenger car, an aircraft, a watercraft, a train, an all-terrain vehicle, a passenger transport device, a robot and the like, in order to fulfill the purposes of this disclosure.

[0025] As in the Fig. 1 and Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the vehicle 100 is located on a roadway, e.g., a paved road, and can travel on it. In one embodiment, the vehicle 100 comprises a vehicle operating system 10, a passenger compartment 20, a space monitoring system 30, an infotainment system 60, a telematics system 70, and a vehicle monitoring system 80. In another embodiment, the vehicle 100 comprises an advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) 40. In yet another embodiment, the vehicle 100 comprises a navigation system 50.

[0026] The vehicle operating system 10 consists of a drive system 11, a steering system 12, a braking system 13 and a suspension system 14. The operation of the various elements of the vehicle operating system 10 is controlled by one or more control units depending on the inputs of the driver at the control elements 25.

[0027] The vehicle monitoring system 80 comprises a plurality of sensors and calibrated routines that are set up to monitor a plurality of operating parameters 82 of the vehicle operating system 10, including, for example, vehicle speed, acceleration, braking, yaw rate, roll, tilt, etc.

[0028] In one embodiment, the vehicle monitoring system 80 comprises a GPS sensor 83 which is used by the navigation system 50.

[0029] In one embodiment, the vehicle monitoring system 80 comprises an inertial measurement unit (IMU) 84. The IMU 84 is an electronic device that uses one or more combinations of accelerometers, gyroscopes, and magnetometers arranged to measure and report vehicle dynamics parameters such as the specific force, angular velocity, yaw, and orientation of the vehicle 100.

[0030] In one embodiment, the vehicle monitoring system 80 comprises an airbag trigger sensor 85 configured to detect the triggering of one or more vehicle airbags.

[0031] The controls 25 may be located in the passenger compartment 20 of the vehicle 100 and may, by way of non-limiting examples, include an accelerator pedal, a steering wheel, a brake pedal, a turn signal, a chassis selector switch, a gear range selector (PRNDL), a cruise control, an ADAS actuator, a parking brake and / or other operator-controlled devices.

[0032] The passenger cabin 20 also includes an emergency call trigger, referred to here as the eCall button 35. The eCall button 35 can be located in the cabin in a position accessible to the driver and one or more passengers. When activated, the eCall button 35 generates signals via the telematics system 70 to establish a connection to emergency services.

[0033] The controls 25 may also include a user interface, which is an element of the infotainment system 60, e.g., a visual display system 24 with a touchscreen. The controls 25 enable the driver to interact with the vehicle 100 and control its operation to ensure passenger transport, navigation, infotainment, environmental comfort, etc., and to gain access to recessed areas of the vehicle.

[0034] The navigation system 50 can be used via the infotainment system 60.

[0035] In one embodiment, the microphone 28 is arranged to monitor audible noises in the passenger cabin 20 and in the exterior of the vehicle 100.

[0036] In one embodiment, the spatial monitoring system 30 may also include one or more spatial sensors and systems arranged to monitor a visible area at the periphery and / or in front of the vehicle 100, as well as a spatial monitoring control unit. The spatial sensors may, for example, include a video camera, a lidar sensor, a radar sensor, and / or other device and are arranged within the vehicle to monitor at least a portion of the visible area in order to detect nearby distant objects such as road features, lane markings, buildings, pedestrians, road signs, traffic lights and signs, other vehicles, and geographical features located near the vehicle 100.

[0037] The ADAS system 40 is designed to implement autonomous driving or advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) functions in the vehicle. These functions may include an in-vehicle control system capable of providing a certain degree of driving automation. The terms "driver" and "operator" describe the person responsible for the operation of the vehicle 100, regardless of whether they are actively involved in controlling one or more vehicle functions or controlling autonomous vehicle operation. Driving automation can encompass a range of dynamic driving and vehicle functions. Driving automation may include a certain degree of automatic control or intervention with respect to a single vehicle function, such as steering, acceleration, and / or braking, while the driver retains overall control of the vehicle 100 at all times.Driving automation can involve a certain degree of automatic control or intervention regarding the simultaneous control of multiple vehicle functions, such as steering, acceleration, and / or braking, while the driver retains overall control of the vehicle. Driving automation can also include the simultaneous automatic control of vehicle functions such as steering, acceleration, and braking, with the driver relinquishing control of the vehicle for a specific period during the journey. Autonomous vehicle functions can include, but are not limited to, adaptive cruise control (ACC), lane keeping and lane guidance, lane changing, steering assistance, object avoidance, parking assistance, vehicle braking, vehicle speed and acceleration, and vehicle lateral movement, for example, as part of lane keeping, lane guidance, and lane changing.

[0038] The infotainment system 60 enables human-machine interaction to control the operation of an infotainment system, the GPS sensor 83, the navigation system 50, and the like, and includes a control unit, e.g., the second control unit 330, which, with reference to Fig. 3 is described. For the sake of simplicity, the infotainment system 60 is represented as a single unit, but in one embodiment of the system described here, it can be configured as a plurality of control units and associated sensor devices. The operator interface devices can include devices capable of transmitting a message prompting the operator to take action, and they can include the visual display system 24. In one embodiment, the visual display system 24 is an electronic visual display module, e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD) with touchscreen capability and / or a head-up display (HUD).

[0039] The telematics system 70 comprises a wireless telematics communication system capable of off-vehicle communication, including communication with a communication network 90 with wireless and wired communication capabilities. Off-vehicle communication may include short-range vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication and / or vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication, which may include communication with infrastructure monitoring, such as a traffic camera. Alternatively or additionally, the telematics system 70 may include wireless telematics communication systems capable of short-range wireless communication with a handheld device, such as a mobile phone, satellite phone, or other telephone device.In one embodiment, the handheld device includes a software application containing a wireless protocol for communication with the telematics system 70, and the handheld device performs the vehicle-external communication, including communication with a vehicle-external server via the wireless communication network. Alternatively or additionally, the telematics system 70 can perform the vehicle-external communication directly by communicating with the remote device 95 via the communication network 90. ​​The remote device 95 can facilitate communication during an emergency, either directly or via the emergency service provider 96.

[0040] The communication network 90 may include one or more of the following elements: cellular communication 91, satellite communication 92 and cloud-based communication 93, all of which are designed to enable communication with a remote facility 95 and / or an emergency service provider 96.

[0041] The term "cloud" and related terms can be defined as a model for ubiquitous, convenient, on-demand network access to a shared pool of configurable computing resources (e.g., networks, servers, storage, applications, and services) that can be rapidly provisioned via virtualization and released with minimal management effort or interaction with the service provider, and then scaled accordingly. A cloud model can consist of various features (e.g., self-service on demand, broad network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, metered service, etc.), service models (e.g., Software as a Service ("SaaS"), Platform as a Service ("PaaS"), Infrastructure as a Service ("IaaS")), and deployment models (e.g., private cloud, community cloud, public cloud, hybrid cloud, etc.).

[0042] Fig. Figure 2 shows an embodiment of the passenger compartment 20 for an embodiment of the vehicle 100, including the multiple controls 25, an audio system 22 with at least one loudspeaker 23 and at least one microphone 28, a visual display system 24, the driver's seat 26, and the eCall button 35. In one embodiment, the driver's seat 26 includes several haptic devices 27 arranged in a seat base and / or a seat backrest. The visual display system 24 is designed as an electronic visual display device capable of electronically displaying still images, text, and / or videos in black and white and / or color formats. The visual display system 24 includes one or more elements such as a driver information center, a head-up display, interior vehicle lighting, left and right side mirrors, a rearview mirror, etc.Other elements can be connected to the Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) 40, the Space Monitoring System 30, the Navigation System 50 including the GPS Sensor 52, the Human-Machine Interface System (Infotainment) 60, and the Telematics System 70. The Visibility Display System 24 can, in one embodiment, be part of the Infotainment System 60.

[0043] The term "control unit" and related terms such as microcontroller, control unit, processor and similar terms refer to one or more combinations of application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), electronic circuits, central processing units, e.g.

[0044] Microprocessors and associated non-transitory memory components in the form of memory and storage devices (read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, direct access memory, hard disk drive, etc.). The non-transitory memory component stores machine-readable instructions in the form of one or more software or firmware programs or routines, combinational logic circuits, input / output circuits and devices, signal conditioning and buffer circuits, and other components that one or more processors can access to provide the described functionality. Input / output circuits and devices include analog-to-digital converters and related devices that monitor sensor inputs, with such inputs being monitored at a preset sampling frequency or in response to a triggering event.Software, firmware, programs, instructions, control routines, code, algorithms, and similar terms refer to sets of instructions, including calibrations and lookup tables, that can be executed by electronic control units (ECUs). Each ECU executes control routine(s) to provide the desired functionality. These routines can be executed at regular intervals, such as every 100 microseconds during normal operation. Alternatively, they can be executed in response to a triggering event.

[0045] Communication between control units, actuators, and / or sensors can occur via a directly wired point-to-point connection, a networked communication bus connection, a wireless connection, or another suitable communication link, such as an Ethernet connection or a CAN (Controller Area Network) connection. This communication involves the exchange of data signals in a suitable format, such as electrical signals over a conductive medium, electromagnetic signals over air, optical signals over fiber optic cables, and similar methods. The data signals can be discrete analog or digitized analog signals representing sensor inputs, actuator commands, and communication between control units.

[0046] The term "signal" refers to a physically perceptible indicator that transmits information and can be a suitable waveform (e.g., electrical, optical, magnetic, mechanical, or electromagnetic), such as direct current, alternating current, sine wave, triangle wave, square wave, vibration, and the like, which can propagate through a medium. A parameter is defined as a measurable quantity that represents a physical property of a device or other element, which can be determined using one or more sensors and / or a physical model. A parameter can have a discrete value, e.g., either "1" or "0," or it can have a continuously variable value.

[0047] Fig. Figure 3 schematically shows an embodiment of the communication system 300, which is capable of two-way audio communication between an embodiment of the vehicle 100 and an embodiment of the remote device 95 and / or the emergency service provider 96, which, with reference to Fig. The communication system 300 provides the functions described in section 1. It enables two-way audio communication between an occupant of the vehicle 100, such as a driver or passenger, and a call center consultant working at the remote facility 95 and / or the emergency service provider 96. The communication system 300 also provides a backup system to support an emergency call, which can be triggered by a post-collision notification sent from the vehicle 100 to the remote facility 95 and / or the emergency service provider 96.

[0048] The communication system 300 consists of various elements, including a telematics control unit 310, a second control unit 330, a loudspeaker arrangement 320 and a plurality of microphones, including a first microphone 312 and a second microphone 332.

[0049] As described here, during operation, when the telematics control unit 310 receives a vehicle input signal 318, an emergency call can be triggered, with two-way audio communication taking place via the loudspeaker arrangement 320 and the microphone 332, which are managed by the second control unit 330. In one embodiment, the second control unit 330 is an infotainment control unit. In another embodiment, the vehicle input signal 318 is a Post-Collision Notification (PCN) 318.

[0050] If it is determined that the second control unit 330 cannot support an audio emergency call, the telematics control unit 310 uses a dual-function audio speaker 322 and a first microphone 312.

[0051] If the DC power supply to the second control unit 330 or the vehicle battery is impaired, the two-way audio transmission at the second control unit 330 may become unstable, which may necessitate the use of a backup battery 326.

[0052] The telematics control unit 310 is an integral part of the telematics system 70 and comprises a first processor 311, a first audio amplifier 314, a high-frequency (HF) communication link 315 connected to a first HF antenna 319, a digital audio signal processing controller (DSP) 340, and a switch 316. Signals from the first microphone 312 are input to these components. In one embodiment, the first microphone 312 is permanently wired to the telematics control unit 310. A backup DC power supply 326, e.g., a buffer battery 326, is arranged to supply the first audio amplifier 314 with DC power in the event of a power supply failure.

[0053] The telematics control unit 310 is configured to receive the vehicle input signal 318 and act accordingly. In one embodiment, the vehicle input signal 318 originates from the vehicle monitoring system 80 and may contain input from one or more of the following sensors: the GPS sensor 83, the IMU sensor 84, and / or the airbag deployment sensor 85. In one embodiment, the vehicle input signal 318 indicates that the vehicle 100 has experienced a collision event.

[0054] The second control unit 330 comprises a second processor 331 and an amplifier arrangement 334. The signals from the second microphone 332 are fed to it. It is understood that several microphones can be connected to the second control unit 330. The second processor 331 has a first communication link 336 with the first processor 311. The second processor 331 has a second communication link 338 to a second RF antenna 339.

[0055] In one embodiment, the first RF antenna 319 is arranged on a front part of the vehicle 100, as described with reference to Fig. The second RF antenna 339 is located at the rear of the vehicle 100, as described in section 1. This improves the robustness of the communication, as it reduces the probability that both antennas will be disabled in the event of a collision.

[0056] The speaker group 320 comprises a plurality of first audio speakers 321 and the dual-function speaker 322. The multiple first audio speakers 321 and the dual-function speaker 322 can be used to support infotainment systems such as AM / FM / XM radio, subscription services, hands-free mobile phone systems, etc.

[0057] The first several loudspeakers 321 are directly connected to the infotainment systems and support audio communication with them via the amplifier arrangement 334.

[0058] The loudspeaker 322 is a loudspeaker with a dual function in that it is able to support audio communication from the infotainment systems via the amplifier arrangement 334 described here, and is also able to directly support audio communication via the first audio amplifier 314 of the telematics control unit 310.

[0059] Switch 316 is a two-input, one-output switch. Its first input is connected to the first audio amplifier 314 of the telematics control unit 310, its second input is connected via an electrical connection 335 to the amplifier assembly 334 of the second control unit 330, and its output is connected to the dual-function loudspeaker 322. The first processor 311 of the telematics control unit 310 operationally controls switch 316.

[0060] The amplifier array 334 is connected directly to the multiple first loudspeakers 321 via electrical cables or via a direct wireless connection.

[0061] The amplifier arrangement 334 can be selectively electrically connected to the dual-function loudspeaker 322 via the electrical connection 337 and the electrical connection 335 when the switch 316 is controlled in a first position by the telematics control unit 310.

[0062] The first audio amplifier 314 can be selectively electrically connected to the dual-function loudspeaker 322 when the switch 316 is controlled in a second position by the telematics control unit 310.

[0063] The telematics control unit 310 controls the switch 316 to use the dual-function audio speaker 322, the first microphone 312, and the RF communication link 315 to enable audio communication between the vehicle 100 and the remote device 95, also in response to a command from the telematics control unit 310 generated based on input from the vehicle monitoring system 80. Such inputs may include, as non-limiting examples, inputs from one or more of the GPS sensors 83, the IMLT sensor 84, and / or the airbag deployment sensor 85, which may indicate the occurrence of an impact, collision, or other event.

[0064] Furthermore, the telematics control unit 310 is able to control the switch 316 to use the dual-function audio speaker 322, the first microphone 312, the RF communication link 315 and the first RF antenna 319 to effect audio communication between the vehicle 100 and the remote facility 95 and / or the emergency service provider 96, also in response to a request originating from the emergency service request activation button (eCall) 35.

[0065] Furthermore, the telematics control unit 310 is able to control the switch 316 to use the dual-function audio speaker 322, the first microphone 312 and the RF communication link 315 to effect audio communication between the vehicle 100 and the remote device 95, also in response to a request originating from the remote device 95 and transmitted to the telematics control unit 310.

[0066] Fig. Figure 4 schematically illustrates a communication process 400, which is derived from an embodiment of the with reference to Fig. The communication system 300 described in section 3 can be implemented to provide two-way audio communication between an embodiment of the vehicle 100 and an embodiment of the remote device 95 and / or the emergency service provider 96, with reference to the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 are described.

[0067] The communication process 400 is executed by monitoring inputs originating from the vehicle monitoring system 80, the eCall button 35, or the remote device 95, which are transmitted to the telematics control unit 310 (step 401). In one embodiment, such inputs can occur in response to a Post Collision Notification (PCN) signal.

[0068] If there is no such input (step 402)(0), the switch 316 is controlled by the telematics control unit 310 to select the dual-function audio speaker 322 (step 408), using a tuning generated by a dynamic infotainment audio path transmission function (step 409), and this iteration ends with the second control unit 330 controlling audio signals to the dual-function audio speaker 322, which may originate from infotainment systems such as AM / FM / XM radio, subscription services, hands-free mobile phone systems, etc.

[0069] If there are one or more inputs originating from the vehicle monitoring system 80, the eCall button 35 and / or the remote device 95 and transmitted to the telematics control unit 310 (step 402)(1), the system determines whether a fault has been detected in the audio part of the telematics control unit 310 (step 413).

[0070] If a fault is detected in the audio part of the telematics control unit 310 (step 413)(1), the switch 316 is controlled by the telematics control unit 310 to allow the second control unit 330 (e.g. the infotainment control unit) to select the dual-function audio speaker 322 (step 408), using a tuning generated by a dynamic infotainment audio path transfer function (step 409), and this iteration ends with the second control unit 330 controlling audio signals to the dual-function audio speaker 322.

[0071] If no fault is detected in the audio section of the telematics control unit 310 (step 413)(0), the switch 316 is controlled by the telematics control unit 310 to allow the telematics control unit 310 to select the dual-function audio speaker 322 (step 410), using a tuning generated by a dynamic telematics audio path transmission function (step 412), with electrical power supplied from the backup battery 326 if required.

[0072] Following this action, the communication process 400 performs a series of checks to determine whether the telematics control unit 310 or the second control unit 330 should be used for further communication.

[0073] This includes checking whether an Ethernet connection to the second control unit 330 exists (step 404).

[0074] If a fault occurs in the Ethernet connection to the second control unit 330 (step 404)(1), this iteration ends with the switch 316 being controlled by the telematics control unit 310 to control audio signals to the dual-function audio speaker 322 (step 410), using a tuning generated by a dynamic telematics audio path transmission function (step 412), with electrical power supplied from the backup battery 326 if required.

[0075] If there is no fault in the Ethernet connection to the second control unit 330 (step 404)(0), the communication process 400 checks whether there is a fault in the CAN connection to the second control unit 330 (step 405).

[0076] If a fault occurs in the CAN connection to the second control unit 330 (step 405)(1), this iteration ends with the control of the switch 316 by the telematics control unit 310 to enable the telematics control unit 310 to select the dual-function audio speaker 322 (step 410) using a tuning generated by a dynamic telematics audio path transmission function (step 412), with electrical power supplied from the backup battery 326 if required.

[0077] If there is no fault in the CAN connection to the second control unit 330 (step 405)(0), the communication process 400 checks whether there is a fault in the power supply of the second control unit 330 (step 406).

[0078] If a fault occurs in the power supply of the second control unit 330 (step 406)(1), this iteration ends with the switch 316 being controlled by the telematics control unit 310 so that the telematics control unit 310 can control the audio signals to the dual-function audio speaker 322 (step 410), using a tuning generated by a dynamic telematics audio path transfer function (step 412), with electrical power being supplied from the backup battery 326 if required.

[0079] If there is no fault in the power supply of the second control unit 330 (step 406)(0), the communication process 400 checks whether there is a fault in the second control unit 330 (step 407).

[0080] If a fault occurs in the second control unit 330 (step 407)(1), this iteration ends with the switch 316 being controlled by the telematics control unit 310 so that the telematics control unit 310 can control the audio signals to the dual-function audio speaker 322 (step 410), using a tuning generated by a dynamic telematics audio path transfer function (step 412), with electrical power supplied from the backup battery 326 if required.

[0081] If there is no fault in the second control unit 330 (step 407)(0), the communication process 400 determines whether there is a request from the call center consultant working in the remote facility 95 and / or the emergency service provider 96 to use the second control unit 330 to control audio signals to the dual-function loudspeaker 322 (step 403).

[0082] When a request is received from the call center consultant working at remote facility 95 and / or the emergency service provider 96 to use the second control unit 330 (step 403)(1), the switch 316 is controlled by the telematics control unit 310 to allow the second control unit 330 (e.g., the infotainment control unit) to control audio signals to the dual-function audio speaker 322 (step 408), using a tuning generated by a dynamic infotainment audio path transfer function (step 409), (step 403)(1), the switch 316 is controlled by the telematics control unit 310 to allow the second control unit 330 (e.g., the infotainment control unit) to control audio signals to the dual-function audio speaker 322 (step 408), using a tuning generated by a dynamic infotainment audio path transfer function (step 409), (step 403)(1), the switch 316 is controlled by the telematics control unit 310 to allow the second control unit 330 (e.g., the infotainment control unit)to enable the infotainment control unit) to control audio signals to the dual-function audio speaker 322 (step 408), using a tuning generated by a dynamic infotainment audio path transfer function (step 409), and this iteration ends with the second control unit 330 controlling audio signals to the dual-function audio speaker 322.

[0083] If there is no request from the call center consultant working in the remote facility 95 and / or the emergency service provider 96 to use the second control unit 330 (step 403)(0), the switch 316 is controlled by the telematics control unit 310 to allow the telematics control unit 310 to control audio signals to the dual-function audio speaker 322 (step 410), using a tuning generated by a dynamic telematics audio path transmission function (step 412), with electrical power supplied by the backup battery 326 when required, and this iteration ends.

[0084] The concepts described here provide a system for two-way communication between a vehicle and a remote facility following a collision event. This includes a system architecture that utilizes a dual-function vehicle speaker, driven either by an audio amplifier in a telematics control unit or by an audio amplifier in a second control unit, such as an infotainment control unit, based on logic controlled by the telematics control unit. The system described here allows the dual-function vehicle speaker to be used during an eCall without reducing or otherwise affecting the audio output or the number of speakers available in the vehicle. This can reduce packaging, space requirements, and weight, as no separate speaker, wiring harness reinforcements, brackets, etc., are required.This can reduce the complexity of manufacturing and the need for service.

[0085] The concepts provide an architecture and associated procedure for supporting emergency calls and general audio in the vehicle, using a single dual-functional loudspeaker that enables cooperation with a telematics control unit to support emergency calls and cooperation with a second control unit such as an infotainment control unit to support audio not related to an emergency call.Elements of the architecture and the associated method may include a single dual-function loudspeaker, a backup battery, a primary cellular antenna, a secondary cellular antenna, a local microphone connected to the telematics control unit, and a bipolar switching mechanism operationally connected to the telematics control unit to route audio signals to the dual-function audio loudspeaker either from the telematics control unit or from the second control unit. In one embodiment, the second control unit is an infotainment control unit with a second set of microphones. In one embodiment, the system also includes an emergency call button or eCall button.In one embodiment, a remotely controlled back-office control unit is configured to forward the audio signals either to the telematics control unit or to the second control unit to control the single dual-function loudspeaker that plays the emergency call tone, without affecting the audio output or volume of the other loudspeakers in the vehicle. The system is supported by a backup battery to keep the two-way audio systems at the telematics control unit operational even if the vehicle battery fails.

[0086] The flowcharts and block diagrams in the flowcharts illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, procedures, and computer program products according to various embodiments of this disclosure. In this respect, each block in the flowchart or block diagrams can represent a module, segment, or portion of code comprising one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). It is also noted that each block in the block diagrams and / or flowchart representations, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and / or flowchart representations, can be implemented by hardware-based systems with special functions that perform the specified functions or actions, or by combinations of hardware with special functions and computer instructions.These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable medium capable of instructing a computer or other programmable data processing device to operate in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable medium produce a manufactured item including a set of instructions that implements the function / action specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram block or blocks.

[0087] The detailed description and the drawings or illustrations are supporting and descriptive of the present teaching, but the scope of the present teaching is defined exclusively by the claims. While some of the best modes and other embodiments for carrying out the present teaching have been described in detail, various alternative designs and embodiments for carrying out the present teaching are defined in the claims.

Claims

[1] A communication system for a vehicle, comprising: a telematics control unit, wherein the telematics control unit is connected to a first microphone; the telematics control unit contains a first amplifier; the telematics control unit is configured to communicate with a remote device; a second control unit, the second control unit including a second amplifier; an audio speaker; a switch arranged in the telematics control unit; an electrical connection arranged between the second control unit and the telematics control unit; wherein the audio speaker is selectively connectable to the second amplifier via the switch and the electrical connection; and wherein the audio speaker is selectively connectable to the first amplifier via the switch; wherein the switch is operatively controlled by the telematics control unit; and wherein the telematics control unit is configured to control the switch to control the audio speaker to effect audio communication between the vehicle and the remote device. [2] The communication system of claim 1, further comprising an emergency service request activator communicating with the telematics controller; wherein the telematics controller is configured to utilize the first microphone and the audio speaker to effect audio communication between the vehicle and the remote device in response to a command from the telematics controller, the command being generated by the telematics controller by activating the emergency service request activator. [3] The communication system of claim 2, wherein the telematics controller is configured to employ the first microphone and the audio speaker to effect audio communication between a vehicle occupant and an advisor located at the remote facility in response to activation of the emergency service request activator. [4] The communication system of claim 2, wherein the emergency service request activator comprises an actuation button disposed in a cabin area of ​​the vehicle and located near a vehicle operator. [5] The communication system of claim 1, further comprising a vehicle monitoring system communicating with the telematics controller; wherein the telematics controller is configured to utilize the first microphone and the audio speaker to effect audio communication between the vehicle and the remote device in response to a command from the telematics controller, the command being generated by the telematics controller based on an input from the vehicle monitoring system. [6] The communication system of claim 5, wherein the vehicle monitoring system comprises a global positioning system sensor, an inertial monitoring sensor, or an airbag deployment sensor. [7] The communication system of claim 1, further comprising a secondary battery configured to supply electrical power to the first amplifier when the telematics controller controls the switch to control the speaker to effect audio communication between the vehicle and the remote device. [8] The communication system of claim 1, wherein the telematics controller is configured to control the audio speaker control switch to effect audio communication between the vehicle and the remote device in response to a request originating from the remote device. [9] The communication system of claim 1, wherein the telematics controller is configured to use the first microphone and the audio speaker to effect audio communication between the vehicle and the remote device when a fault is detected in the second controller. [10] A communication method for a vehicle, the method comprising: Arranging a telematics control unit in conjunction with a first microphone, a first amplifier, a switch and a dual-function audio speaker; Controlling the switch via the telematics control unit to connect the dual-function audio speaker to the first amplifier via the switch; Controlling the switch via the telematics control unit to connect the dual-function audio speaker to effect two-way communication between the vehicle and the remote device, wherein the telematics control unit is configured to use the first microphone and the dual-function audio speaker to effect two-way communication between the vehicle and a remote device in response to a command from the telematics control unit.

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