Convertible top control arrangement and convertible top control procedure

Abstract

The present invention relates to a convertible top control arrangement (100) for controlling a convertible top (110) of a vehicle (120), comprising a digital key device (101) assigned to a vehicle user (130), a detection device (102) for detecting and analyzing the movement patterns of the digital key device (101) in the immediate vicinity of the vehicle (120), an interface (103) configured to receive weather data from a weather data provisioning device (104), an evaluation device (105) configured to analyze the habits of the vehicle user (130) based on the movement patterns and the received weather data using machine learning algorithms and subsequently to generate a prediction about the intended use of the vehicle (120), and a control device (106) configured toto cause the convertible top (110) to open or close depending on the intended use of the vehicle (120). Furthermore, the present invention relates to a convertible top control method.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a convertible top control arrangement and a convertible top control method.

[0002] As technology advances in the automotive sector, automation and improved user interaction are playing an increasingly important role. A key aspect of user interaction with vehicles is adapting vehicle functions to individual user preferences and environmental conditions to enhance both comfort and efficiency. One critical area where these adaptations are of great importance is the control of convertible tops.

[0003] Traditionally, convertible tops are operated manually by the driver. However, this method is suboptimal in terms of both user-friendliness and functional adaptability to changing environmental conditions. For example, manual procedures distract the driver and are often unable to react to changes in the weather, exposing the vehicle and its occupants to adverse conditions.

[0004] One object of the present invention can be seen as providing an improved convertible top control arrangement and an improved convertible top control method.

[0005] This problem is solved by a convertible top control arrangement with the features of claim 1, and by a convertible top control method with the features of claim 10.

[0006] According to the invention, the following is provided: A convertible top control arrangement for controlling a convertible top of a vehicle, comprising a digital key device assigned to a vehicle user, a sensing device for sensing and analyzing the movement patterns of the digital key device in close proximity to the vehicle, an interface configured to receive weather data from a weather data provisioning device, an evaluation device configured to analyze the vehicle user's habits based on the movement patterns and the received weather data using machine learning algorithms and subsequently to make a prediction about the intended use of the vehicle, and a control device configured to cause the convertible top to be opened or closed depending on the intended use of the vehicle.

[0007] Furthermore, a convertible top control procedure is provided for controlling a vehicle's convertible top, comprising the following steps: assigning a digital key device to a vehicle user, capturing and analyzing the movement patterns of the digital key device in close proximity to the vehicle by means of a capture device, receiving weather data via an interface from a weather data provisioning device, analyzing the vehicle user's habits and generating a prediction about the intended use of the vehicle based on the movement patterns and the received weather data by an evaluation device using machine learning algorithms, and initiating the opening or closing of the convertible top depending on the intended use of the vehicle by a control device.

[0008] The present invention relates to a convertible top control arrangement for the automated control of a vehicle's convertible top. This convertible top control arrangement comprises several components which, in combination, enable intelligent control of the convertible top by taking into account movement patterns, weather conditions, and the habits of the vehicle user.

[0009] A convertible top, as defined in the present invention, is a movable vehicle component that completely or partially covers the vehicle interior as needed. The convertible top can be made of fabric, plastic, or other weather-resistant materials. It serves both to protect the occupants from the elements and to create an open-air driving experience by exposing the vehicle interior.

[0010] A vehicle within the meaning of the present invention comprises any motor-driven means of transport equipped with a convertible top. This can be, for example, a passenger car, in particular a convertible or roadster, suitable for both private and commercial use.

[0011] The first feature of this convertible top control arrangement is a digital key device, sometimes also referred to as a digital key, assigned to a vehicle user. Specifically, the digital key device within the meaning of the present invention is a technical device comprising both a physical component for storing and processing cryptographic data and the cryptographic data itself. This digital key device serves to control a vehicle, in particular to open and close a convertible top, as well as to manage other vehicle functions. The digital key device provides the necessary authorization to grant access to the vehicle and / or to authorize certain user actions.

[0012] The digital key device consists of two essential aspects: cryptographic data and physical components for storing and managing the cryptographic data.

[0013] The cryptographic data includes key pair data (private and public keys) used to identify and authorize the vehicle user. This cryptographic data is securely stored, for example, in a Secure Element (SE), a specially secured hardware component within the digital key device that is protected against unauthorized access. This cryptographic data is crucial because it represents the authorization to access the vehicle and / or control its functions.

[0014] The physical components for storing and managing the cryptographic data of the digital key device are integrated into a physical device, such as a smartphone, key fob, smartwatch, or other wearable electronic device. These devices are specifically equipped with communication interfaces such as Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Ultra-Wideband (UWB), and / or Near Field Communication (NFC) to transmit the secure cryptographic data to the vehicle and ensure secure communication with it.

[0015] According to the CCC Digital Key Specification Release 3.0 or higher, the digital key device supports passive, location-based, and keyless interaction with the vehicle. This means that the user does not need to actively use the digital key device to unlock and / or operate the vehicle. Using UWB and BLE technology, the vehicle can determine the exact location of the digital key device, which can then trigger functions such as automatically opening the convertible top as soon as the user approaches the vehicle.

[0016] Overall, the digital key device of the present invention enables secure, flexible, and convenient control of the convertible top based on a combination of encrypted authentication, location tracking, and individual user preferences. It meets the requirements of the CCC Digital Key Specification Release 3.0 or higher to provide seamless and secure keyless interaction between the user and the vehicle.

[0017] Another feature is the sensing device. This is designed to capture and analyze the movement patterns of the digital key device in the immediate vicinity of the vehicle. This can involve technologies such as ultra-wideband or Bluetooth, which enable precise location tracking and movement monitoring. The sensing device collects data on how and in which direction the vehicle occupant moves relative to the vehicle, which is later important for controlling the convertible top.

[0018] An interface is the next essential feature of the convertible top control system. This interface is designed to receive weather data from a weather data provider. Weather data is a key factor in deciding whether the convertible top should be opened or closed. By accessing current and forecasted weather data, the control system can react to changing weather conditions and adjust the convertible top accordingly.

[0019] The evaluation unit is designed to analyze the recorded movement patterns of the digital key device and the received weather data. This analysis is performed using machine learning algorithms trained to recognize the vehicle user's habits. By evaluating data such as the frequency of vehicle use under specific weather conditions, the evaluation unit can predict the intended use of the vehicle. This enables predictive control of the convertible top without requiring manual intervention from the vehicle user.

[0020] The control unit is designed to open or close the convertible top based on a prediction of the intended vehicle use. The control unit receives the analysis results from the evaluation unit and translates them into specific control commands to automatically operate the convertible top. This occurs depending on factors such as current weather conditions and the vehicle occupant's movements.

[0021] The operating principle of the convertible top control arrangement according to the invention is designed to offer the vehicle user convenient and automated control of the convertible top. As soon as the vehicle user approaches the vehicle with the digital key device, the detection device records their movement patterns. Simultaneously, the interface receives current weather data. The evaluation unit analyzes this data and makes a prediction about the likely use of the vehicle. For example, it might recognize that the vehicle user typically drives the vehicle with the convertible top open in good weather. In this case, the control unit issues the command to open the convertible top before the vehicle user reaches the vehicle. However, should the weather deteriorate, the control unit will automatically keep the convertible top closed.

[0022] A technical advantage of this convertible top control system is that it significantly reduces the need for manual operation of the convertible top. The automated control saves the driver time and increases comfort, especially in changeable weather conditions. Another advantage is enhanced safety, as the convertible top closes automatically when adverse weather conditions are imminent, without any intervention from the driver. This protects the vehicle from the elements and contributes to a longer lifespan for the convertible top.

[0023] The ability to control the convertible top based on the driver's habits and current weather conditions also represents a technological advancement, as machine learning could be used in this context to enhance the driver experience and tailor vehicle functions to individual preferences. Automated forecasting relieves the driver of the need to constantly worry about the weather and ensures the vehicle is optimally prepared before use.

[0024] According to a preferred embodiment, the evaluation unit can use machine learning algorithms based on supervised learning. In this embodiment, the evaluation unit is trained to make decisions based on previously provided and classified datasets. This means that the evaluation unit learns from predefined datasets, such as weather conditions, movement patterns, and manually entered vehicle user preferences. This data forms the basis on which the evaluation unit recognizes future situations and makes corresponding decisions. A technical example could be a prediction that the convertible top should be opened in sunny weather and closed in rain, based on previous interactions of the vehicle user and the weather conditions at those times.The system works by continuously improving its evaluation unit through the input of labeled data, learning from both predictions and actual results. One advantage is that the evaluation unit's predictions are particularly accurate because they are based on clear and predefined data. The evaluation unit can recognize specific patterns in vehicle user behavior and weather conditions and adjust the convertible top control accordingly. For example, the evaluation unit could learn that the vehicle user frequently opens the convertible top at a certain temperature or humidity level and then use this data to make similar decisions in the future.Another technical advantage is that the accuracy of the predictions can be improved through regular updates of the data, which allows for continuous optimization of the convertible top control arrangement.

[0025] According to another preferred embodiment, the evaluation unit can use machine learning algorithms based on unsupervised learning methods. In this embodiment, the evaluation unit is not fed with pre-classified data but learns independently to recognize patterns in the acquired data. This means that the evaluation unit autonomously identifies rules and relationships in the vehicle user's movement patterns and the weather data without these having been explicitly defined beforehand. A technical example of this would be a scenario in which, after a certain number of trips, the evaluation unit recognizes that the vehicle user opens or closes the convertible top more frequently in certain situations, without any explicit instructions. The functionality of unsupervised learning enables the evaluation unit to react flexibly and dynamically to changes in the data.The evaluation unit develops its own models for predicting and controlling the convertible top by learning from observations of behavior and environmental conditions. An advantage of this design lies in its adaptability. Because the evaluation unit is not dependent on predefined patterns, it can adapt more quickly to new user habits or changing environmental conditions. For example, the evaluation unit could recognize that the user has different habits on weekends than during the week, without these differences needing to be manually defined. A technical advantage of this design is the high flexibility and adaptability of the evaluation unit, as it continuously learns from the collected data and can adjust to changing conditions or new user habits.This leads to an improved vehicle user experience, as the evaluation unit becomes increasingly adept at taking individual preferences into account, even if these vary over time.

[0026] Both embodiments offer specific advantages depending on the application. While the embodiment using supervised learning methods is particularly precise and well-structured, the unsupervised variant offers greater flexibility and the ability to independently recognize unforeseen patterns. From a technical perspective, a combination of both methods can also represent an interesting solution, where the evaluation system is initially based on supervised learning methods and subsequently further optimized using unsupervised methods.

[0027] According to another preferred embodiment, the evaluation unit can use machine learning algorithms based on neural networks. Neural networks are a special type of machine learning modeled on the structure of the human brain. They consist of multiple layers of interconnected nodes or "neurons" capable of recognizing complex patterns and relationships in large datasets. In this embodiment, the evaluation unit is trained by processing large amounts of data, such as vehicle user movement patterns and weather conditions, and thereby learns to identify patterns independently. A technical example of a possible application would be for the evaluation unit to accurately predict the vehicle user's preferences regarding opening and closing the convertible top under different weather conditions.By using a neural network, the convertible top control system can recognize even complex relationships between various input parameters, such as temperature, humidity, vehicle speed, or location, and make informed decisions based on this information. The functionality of this implementation is characterized by the fact that the neural network becomes increasingly accurate through repeated training. It continuously adapts to new data, thus improving the precision of its predictions. A technical advantage of this method is the high accuracy in pattern recognition, even when patterns are not obvious. Furthermore, neural networks can handle large amounts of input data and create complex models from it, enabling very precise control of the convertible top.

[0028] According to another preferred embodiment, the evaluation unit can be configured to recognize recurring behavior patterns of the vehicle user and to create learning models using machine learning algorithms, which are then used for future predictions. In this embodiment, the evaluation unit continuously analyzes the data collected during vehicle use, searching for recurring user behaviors. These could be, for example, specific driving habits, such as opening the convertible top in certain weather conditions or at certain times of day. A technical example would be that the evaluation unit recognizes that the vehicle user opens the convertible top every morning in mild weather and an outside temperature above 15 degrees Celsius, while it remains closed in rain or strong winds.Based on this, the evaluation unit creates a learning model that maps these recurring patterns and uses them for future predictions. The functionality of this embodiment is based on the machine learning algorithms continuously collecting and analyzing data to make predictions about the future behavior of the vehicle user. These learning models are constantly updated through the analysis of the collected data to improve predictive accuracy. A significant technical advantage of this embodiment is its ability to precisely capture and consider the individual preferences and behavioral patterns of the vehicle user, resulting in personalized vehicle control. This ensures that the convertible top control system not only reacts to general patterns but is specifically tailored to the individual vehicle user.This increases the comfort and efficiency of vehicle use, as the convertible top is automatically controlled according to the personal preferences of the vehicle user.

[0029] According to another preferred embodiment, the control unit can be linked to other vehicle functions, such as seat position adjustment, interior temperature control, and / or the activation of entertainment systems, with these settings being synchronized with the opening or closing of the convertible top. For example, opening the convertible top could automatically move the seats to a preferred position, adjust the interior temperature, and activate the entertainment system. Conversely, closing the convertible top could move the seats back to a closed position and adjust the ventilation to keep out rain or cold air. The operation of this embodiment involves the control unit sending signals to the various components in the vehicle that control these functions.Synchronizing the various vehicle functions with the convertible top ensures a harmonious interplay that enhances comfort and convenience for the vehicle user. A technical example would be that when the convertible top is opened, the seat heating is automatically deactivated and the temperature control switches to outside air intake. One advantage of this design is the increased user-friendliness, as the vehicle user does not have to adjust each function individually; instead, the convertible top control system automatically reacts to their preferences and the current situation. This results in seamless interaction between the vehicle and the vehicle user, significantly increasing comfort and the driving experience.

[0030] According to another preferred embodiment, the detection device can use ultra-wideband (UWB) technology and / or Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) to detect the position and movement patterns of the digital key device. In this embodiment, the position of the digital key device is detected with high accuracy to determine when and how the vehicle user approaches the vehicle. UWB technology enables very precise localization over short distances, allowing the detection device to accurately detect even small movements and distances. BLE, on the other hand, offers an energy-efficient way to monitor the position and movement patterns of the key device, especially over longer distances. The operation of this embodiment involves the detection device continuously collecting and analyzing data on the position of the digital key device.This data can be used to interpret the vehicle occupant's behavior and control the vehicle accordingly, for example, to automatically open the convertible top when the occupant approaches the vehicle. A technical example would be that the detection device recognizes the occupant's distance from the vehicle and opens the convertible top when the occupant approaches to a predetermined distance, such as less than 5 meters. The use of UWB or BLE ensures that the detection of movement patterns is both accurate and energy-efficient. A technical advantage of this embodiment lies in the high precision and speed with which the occupant's position is detected. This enables a faster and more accurate response from the convertible top control system to the occupant's behavior.Furthermore, the use of BLE reduces energy consumption, which is particularly advantageous for mobile devices such as keys or smartphones, as they can be used for longer periods without recharging. Overall, this implementation increases the efficiency and accuracy of the interactions between the vehicle and the vehicle user.

[0031] According to another preferred embodiment, the weather data provisioning device can establish a direct connection to a weather data server to obtain current and forecasted weather data. In this embodiment, the weather data provisioning device is used to retrieve information about current weather conditions and forecasts for future weather conditions, preferably in real time. This data is crucial for the automatic control of the convertible top, as it determines whether the convertible top is opened or closed. A technical example of a possible embodiment is the use of an internet connection in the vehicle, via which a weather app or weather service continuously sends weather data to the weather data provisioning device.As soon as a sudden change in weather, such as rain or strong winds, is reported, the convertible top control system can automatically close the convertible top to protect the vehicle and its occupants from the elements. This design relies on continuous communication with an external weather data server that provides the most up-to-date information. The advantage of this design lies in the accuracy and reliability of the weather forecasts, as the convertible top control system can access highly current and precise information. Furthermore, this increases safety and comfort for the vehicle user, as they no longer need to monitor the weather themselves; the convertible top control system reacts proactively to changing conditions.

[0032] According to another preferred embodiment, the prediction and activation of vehicle functions can also be based on location information of the vehicle, such as its position in a garage or outdoors. This embodiment uses the vehicle's current location to optimize the control of the convertible top. For example, if the vehicle is parked in a garage, the convertible top control system could decide to keep the top closed, as there is no risk of rain or other weather conditions inside the garage. Conversely, if the vehicle is parked outdoors, the convertible top control system could use weather data to decide whether to open or close the top. A technical example would be the use of a GPS system that detects whether the vehicle is parked in a protected area, such as a garage, or outdoors.If the vehicle is parked outdoors and the weather forecast predicts rain, the convertible top control system could automatically close the top to protect the vehicle. This embodiment operates by combining location data with weather information to determine the optimal conditions for convertible top control. The technical advantage of this embodiment is that it improves the efficiency and accuracy of the convertible top control by taking the vehicle's surroundings into account. This results in more appropriate and situation-specific control of the convertible top, adapting to local conditions.

[0033] According to another preferred embodiment, the evaluation unit can access a central database containing driver data and driving behavior, which is used to optimize machine learning algorithms. This embodiment incorporates driver data, such as preferences for convertible top use and general driving habits, into the predictive algorithms. This data might include, for example, the times of day the driver prefers to have the convertible top open or the weather conditions most comfortable for the driver. A technical example of implementing this embodiment would be for the vehicle to regularly upload data about the driver's driving behavior to a central cloud database. This data could then be used to optimize the algorithms that control the convertible top.By analyzing historical data, the convertible top control system can make more precise predictions about when and under what conditions the driver will want to open or close the top. Its operation is based on the continuous analysis and evaluation of information stored in the database. One advantage of this design is the continuous improvement and adaptation of the convertible top control to the individual preferences of the vehicle user. The central database makes it possible to create learning models over extended periods that are tailored to specific usage patterns, leading to increased personalization and an improved vehicle user experience. This means that the convertible top control system becomes increasingly precise over time and better adapted to the driver's needs.

[0034] According to another preferred embodiment, in the event of incorrect predictions, the control unit can send feedback to the evaluation unit to continuously improve the machine learning model. In this embodiment, a feedback mechanism is integrated that allows the convertible top control arrangement to learn from its own errors. If the control unit makes a prediction that does not correspond to the actual driver behavior—for example, the convertible top is closed even though the vehicle user wants to open it—the control unit sends this information back to the evaluation unit. This feedback is used to optimize the machine learning algorithms and make future predictions more accurate. A technical example would be the convertible top being incorrectly closed due to an inaccurate weather forecast.The convertible top control unit detects errors based on user input and adjusts its learning model accordingly. This embodiment works by implementing a dynamic learning model that responds to actual events and continuously improves the underlying algorithms. The technical advantage lies in the convertible top control unit's ability to adapt and improve as more data is collected. This significantly reduces mispredictions and increases the efficiency and precision of the control unit, as it becomes increasingly adept at accurately predicting driver behavior and external conditions.

[0035] According to another preferred embodiment, the control unit can combine the distance of the digital key device and the current weather data from the weather data provisioning device to decide whether to open or close the convertible top, with the convertible top opening only when the digital key device is within a certain distance and the weather conditions are favorable. This embodiment integrates both location data and weather information to automatically control the convertible top. The control unit monitors how far the digital key device is from the vehicle and combines this information with the current weather conditions.A technical example would be that the convertible top opens automatically as soon as the vehicle user approaches the vehicle within 10 meters with their key fob or smartphone and the weather conditions are dry and sunny. Conversely, the convertible top remains closed if rain or severe weather is forecast, even if the vehicle user approaches the vehicle. This embodiment relies on combining two critical factors—the vehicle user's distance and the weather—to make an informed decision about whether to open or close the convertible top. The technical advantage is that the convertible top control system prevents unnecessary opening of the top when external conditions are unfavorable, thus improving vehicle protection.At the same time, this design increases the comfort for the vehicle user by ensuring that the convertible top is open in good time when conditions allow.

[0036] According to another preferred embodiment, the control unit can adjust the convertible top's position in response to changing weather conditions, even when the vehicle occupant is already near the vehicle, in order to close or keep the top open in a timely manner. In this embodiment, the convertible top's position is dynamically adjusted as soon as the weather changes, even if the driver is already in close proximity to the vehicle. For example, the vehicle occupant approaches the vehicle with the convertible top open, but at that moment, an unexpected downpour begins. The convertible top control unit reacts to the change in weather and closes the top before the vehicle occupant enters the vehicle. The functionality of this embodiment is based on the real-time analysis of weather data and the rapid response to changing conditions.The technical advantage lies in the fact that the vehicle is optimally protected at all times, regardless of whether the driver is nearby or not. This design increases the protection of the vehicle interior from unexpected weather conditions and ensures that the vehicle user does not have to manually operate the convertible top, even in rapidly changing weather conditions. This enhances both the comfort and safety of vehicle use.

[0037] According to another preferred embodiment, the detection device can measure the distance of the digital key device from the vehicle and trigger the activation of the vehicle functions only when a predefined distance is not reached. This embodiment is based on the detection device continuously monitoring the position of the digital key device, for example, an electronic key or a mobile device, relative to the vehicle. The distance between the key device and the vehicle is measured, and only when the vehicle user falls below a predefined distance to the vehicle are certain vehicle functions activated. A technical example would be that the vehicle's convertible top opens automatically only when the vehicle user approaches to within 5 meters of the vehicle.As long as the vehicle user is a certain distance away, the convertible top remains closed to prevent unnecessary opening. This embodiment is designed so that the detection device monitors the distance in real time and, in combination with predefined parameters, triggers the vehicle functions. The distance is measured using technologies such as Ultra-Wideband (UWB), Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), or similar positioning technologies, which enable accurate and energy-efficient localization. These technologies ensure that the distance to the digital key device is precisely detected and that the convertible top control unit can react immediately to the vehicle user's approach. A technical advantage of this embodiment is the avoidance of unnecessary functionality when the vehicle user is not in the immediate vicinity of the vehicle.This saves energy and minimizes mechanical wear and tear on vehicle functions, such as the convertible top. Additionally, it increases user comfort, as desired functions, like opening the convertible top, are triggered automatically and without manual input as soon as the user approaches the vehicle within a defined radius. Another example could be that, in addition to opening the convertible top, other vehicle functions, such as unlocking the doors or activating the air conditioning, are also triggered as soon as the user approaches the vehicle's sill. This ensures that the vehicle is ready for the user's arrival without requiring any explicit action from the user.

[0038] The present invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the exemplary embodiments shown in the schematic figures of the drawings.

[0039] Brief description of the drawings: Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of the convertible top control arrangement according to the invention. Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic view of another embodiment of the convertible top control arrangement according to the invention. Fig. Figure 3 shows a schematic flowchart of an embodiment of a convertible top control method according to the invention. Fig. Figure 4 shows a schematic flowchart of a further embodiment of a convertible top control method according to the invention.

[0040] Where appropriate, the described designs and further training courses can be combined in any way desired.

[0041] Further possible embodiments, developments and implementations of the invention could also include combinations of features of the invention described previously or subsequently with regard to the exemplary embodiments that are not explicitly mentioned.

[0042] The accompanying drawings are intended to provide a further understanding of the embodiments of the invention. They illustrate embodiments and, in conjunction with the description, serve to explain the principles and concepts of the invention.

[0043] Other embodiments and many of the advantages mentioned could be seen in the drawings.

[0044] The elements in the drawings are not necessarily shown to scale. Identical reference symbols denote identical or similarly functioning components.

[0045] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of the convertible top control arrangement 100 according to the invention, and Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic view of a further embodiment of the convertible top control arrangement 100 according to the invention. The convertible top control arrangement 100 for controlling a convertible top 110 of a vehicle 120 comprises a digital key device 101, which is assigned to a vehicle user 130. A detection device 102 serves to detect and analyze the movement patterns of the digital key device 101 in the immediate vicinity of the vehicle 120. Furthermore, an interface 103 is provided, which is configured to receive weather data from a weather data provisioning device 104. An evaluation device 105 analyzes the habits of the vehicle user 130 based on the movement patterns and the received weather data using machine learning algorithms and then generates a prediction about the intended use of the vehicle 120.Finally, a control device 106 ensures that, depending on the intended use of the vehicle 120, the convertible top 110 is opened or closed.

[0046] Optionally, the evaluation unit 105 can use machine learning algorithms based on supervised learning methods. Alternatively, the evaluation unit 105 can use machine learning algorithms based on unsupervised learning methods. The machine learning algorithms can also be based on neural networks. The evaluation unit 105 can be trained to recognize recurring behavior patterns of the vehicle user 130 and to create learning models using machine learning algorithms for future predictions.

[0047] The control unit 106 can also be linked to other vehicle functions, such as seat position adjustment, interior temperature control, and / or the activation of entertainment systems, with these settings being synchronized with the opening or closing of the convertible top 110. The sensing unit 102 can use UWB technology and / or BLE technology to detect the position and movement patterns of the digital key device 101.

[0048] The weather data provisioning unit 104 can establish a direct connection to a weather data server to obtain current and forecasted weather data. The forecasting and activation of vehicle functions, particularly the convertible top control, can also be based on location information of the vehicle 120, such as its position in a garage or outdoors. The evaluation unit 105 can access a central database containing driver data and driving behavior, which is used to optimize machine learning algorithms.

[0049] In the event of incorrect predictions, the control unit 106 can send feedback to the evaluation unit 105 to continuously improve the machine learning model. Furthermore, the control unit 106 can combine the distance of the digital key device 101 and the current weather data from the weather data provisioning unit 104 to decide whether to open or close the convertible top 110. The convertible top 110 will only open if the digital key device 101 is within a certain distance and the weather conditions are favorable. In the event of changing weather conditions, the control unit 106 can adjust the position of the convertible top 110, even if the vehicle user 130 is already near the vehicle 120, to close or keep the convertible top 110 open in a timely manner.

[0050] Finally, the detection device 102 can measure the distance of the digital key device 101 from the vehicle 120 and trigger the activation of the vehicle functions, in particular the convertible top control, only when a predefined distance is undershot.

[0051] Fig. Figure 3 shows a schematic flowchart of an embodiment of a convertible top control method according to the invention. The convertible top control method for controlling a convertible top 110 of a vehicle 120 comprises the following steps: In step S100, a digital key device 101 is assigned to a vehicle user 130. In step S200, the movement patterns of the digital key device 101 in the immediate vicinity of the vehicle 120 are recorded and analyzed by means of a detection device 102. Subsequently, in step S300, weather data is received via an interface 103 from a weather data provisioning device 104. In step S400, the habits of the vehicle user 130 are analyzed, and a prediction of the intended use of the vehicle 120 is generated based on the movement patterns and the received weather data by an evaluation device 105, using machine learning algorithms.Finally, in step S500, the opening or closing of the convertible top 110 is initiated by a control unit 106, depending on the intended use of the vehicle 120.

[0052] Fig. Figure 4 shows a schematic flowchart of a further embodiment of a convertible top control method according to the invention, comprising seven process steps S101 to S701. In step S101, the digital key device 101 is assigned to a vehicle user 130. This digital key device 101, for example in the form of an electronic key or a smartphone app, serves to identify the vehicle user 130 and to establish a connection to the vehicle 120.

[0053] In step S201, the distance and movement of the vehicle user 130 are recorded via the detection device 102. The detection device 102, which uses, for example, UWB technology and / or BLE technology, analyzes the movement patterns of the digital key device 101 to determine whether the vehicle user 130 is approaching the vehicle 120.

[0054] In step S301, the interface 103 receives current weather data from the weather data provisioning device 104. This weather data is continuously updated and enables a real-time analysis of the current and forecasted weather conditions, which are relevant for the decision on whether to open or close the convertible top 110.

[0055] In step S401, the evaluation unit 105 analyzes the movement patterns of the vehicle user 130 and the received weather data. The evaluation unit 105 uses machine learning algorithms to recognize recurring behavior patterns of the vehicle user 130. Based on this analysis, a prediction is made about the intended use of the vehicle 120. For example, the convertible top control arrangement can determine that the vehicle user 130 regularly opens the convertible top 110 in sunny weather.

[0056] In step S501, the forecast generated in step S401 is processed in the control unit 106. The distance between the digital key device 101 and the vehicle 120 is combined with the received weather data to determine whether the convertible top 110 should be opened or closed. The convertible top 110 will only be opened if the vehicle user 130 is within a certain distance of the vehicle 120 and the weather conditions are favorable.

[0057] In step S601, the control unit 106 executes the decision. Once the conditions are met, the opening or closing of the convertible top 110 is initiated. If the weather conditions change while the vehicle user 130 is approaching, the convertible top control unit 100 can keep the convertible top 110 closed or close it to protect the vehicle 120 from adverse weather conditions.

[0058] In step S701, additional vehicle functions are activated as needed. These can include adjusting the seat position, regulating the interior temperature, and / or activating the entertainment system. These functions are synchronized with the opening or closing of the convertible top 110 to provide the vehicle user 130 with maximum comfort.

[0059] In this scenario, the convertible top 110 is automatically controlled depending on the position of the vehicle user 130, the weather conditions, and the individual preferences of the vehicle user 130. This leads to optimized use of the vehicle 120 and increases comfort, as the convertible top control arrangement 100 adapts to the behavior of the vehicle user 130 and the external conditions. Reference symbol list 100 Convertible top control arrangement 101 Digital Key Device 102 Recording device 103 Interface 104 Weather Data Provisioning Facility 105 Evaluation unit 106 Control unit 110 Convertible top 120 vehicles 130 vehicle users S100 process step S200 process step S300 process step S400 process step S500 process step S101 Procedure step S201 Procedure step S301 Procedure step S401 Procedure step S501 Procedure step S601 Procedure step S701 Procedure step

Claims

[1] Convertible top control arrangement (100) for controlling a convertible top (110) of a vehicle (120), comprising: a digital key device (101) that can be assigned to a vehicle user (130), a recording device (102) for recording and analyzing the movement patterns of the digital key device (101) in the immediate vicinity of the vehicle (120), an interface (103) that is configured to receive weather data from a weather data provisioning device (104), an evaluation unit (105) which is trained to analyze the habits of the vehicle user (130) based on the movement patterns and the received weather data using machine learning algorithms and then to make a prediction about the intended use of the vehicle (120), and a control device (106) which is designed to cause the convertible top (110) to open or close depending on the intended use of the vehicle (120). [2] Convertible top control arrangement (100) according to claim 1, characterized by , that the machine learning algorithms of the evaluation unit (105) are based on supervised learning procedures and / or on unsupervised learning procedures. [3] Convertible top control arrangement (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by , that the control unit (106) is coupled with other vehicle functions, such as the adjustment of the seat position, the temperature control in the vehicle interior and / or the activation of entertainment systems, with these settings being synchronized with the opening or closing of the convertible top (110). [4] Convertible top control arrangement (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the detection device (102) uses UWB and / or BLE technology to detect the position and movement patterns of the digital key device (101). [5] Convertible top control arrangement (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the prediction about the intended use of the vehicle (120) is additionally based on location information of the vehicle (120), such as its position in a garage or outdoors. [6] Convertible top control arrangement (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the control unit (106) is trained to send feedback to the evaluation unit (105) in the event of incorrect predictions, in order to continuously improve the machine learning algorithms. [7] Convertible top control arrangement (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the control device (106) is configured to combine the distance of the digital key device (101) and the current weather data of the weather data provision device (104) to make the decision to open or close the convertible top (110), wherein the convertible top (110) is only opened when the digital key device (101) falls below a certain distance and the weather conditions are favorable. [8] Convertible top control arrangement (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the control device (106) is designed to adjust the convertible top position of the convertible top (110) in response to changing weather conditions, even if the vehicle user (130) is already near the vehicle (120) in order to close or keep the convertible top (110) open in a timely manner. [9] Convertible top control arrangement (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the detection device (102) is designed to measure the distance of the digital key device (101) from the vehicle (120) and to initiate the opening or closing of the convertible top (110) only when a predefined distance is undershot. [10] Convertible top control method for controlling a convertible top (110) of a vehicle (120), comprising the following steps: (S100) Assigning a digital key device (101) to a vehicle user (130), (S200) Capturing and analyzing the movement patterns of the digital key device (101) in the immediate vicinity of the vehicle (120) using a detection device (102), (S300) Receiving weather data via an interface (103) from a weather data provisioning device (104), (S400) Analyzing the habits of the vehicle user (130) and creating a prediction about the intended use of the vehicle (120) based on the movement patterns and the weather data received by an evaluation unit (105) using machine learning algorithms, (S500) Initiating the opening or closing of the convertible top (110) depending on the intended use of the vehicle (120) by a control device (106).

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