Method and device for dynamic configuration of vehicle functions for a vehicle system

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for the dynamic configuration of vehicle functions for a vehicle system, in particular a driver assistance system, comprising the steps: Providing a plurality of possible vehicle functions to the vehicle system; Evaluating at least one vehicle function, in particular several vehicle functions, from the plurality of possible vehicle functions depending on vehicle-specific data, situation-specific data and / or user-specific data; Selecting at least one vehicle function from the plurality of possible functions depending on the evaluation and a, in particular current, user preference; Configure the vehicle system according to the selection.

Description

[0001] The invention is based on a method and a device for the dynamic configuration of vehicle functions for a vehicle system and on a vehicle system. State of the art

[0002] In current vehicle systems, the provision of functions is typically static, which limits adaptability and adaptation to changing requirements. Existing methods often offer only limited variants and extensions, which may not adequately address individual preferences and situation-specific parameters. There is a need for an innovative approach that enables the dynamic selection and use of function variants and extensions based on situation-dependent and customer-specific parameters.

[0003] The not-yet-published German patent application with the file number 102023202055.6 describes a computer-implemented method, a data processing device for a mobile system, and a system for processing data provided dynamically and / or situation-selectively. The invention particularly relates to semi-autonomous and / or autonomous and / or driver-assisted and / or sensor-assisted vehicles with a data processing device, for example, a control unit, that comprises data and / or software that is / are used only in specific situations and / or contexts. Disclosure of the invention

[0004] Against this background, the approach presented here provides a method having the features of claim 1, a device having the features of claim 11, a vehicle system having the features of claim 12, a computer program having the features of claim 13 and a computer-readable medium having the features of claim 14.

[0005] The method for dynamically configuring vehicle functions for a vehicle system, in particular a driver assistance system, comprises a step of providing a plurality of possible vehicle functions to the vehicle system. Furthermore, the method comprises a step of evaluating at least one vehicle function, in particular a plurality of vehicle functions, from the plurality of possible vehicle functions depending on vehicle-specific data, situation-specific data, and / or user-specific data. Furthermore, the method comprises a step of selecting at least one vehicle function from the plurality of possible vehicle functions depending on the evaluation and on a user preference, in particular a current one, and a step of configuring the vehicle system according to the selection.

[0006] In other words, the method involves providing a plurality of possible vehicle functions to the vehicle system. These functions can relate to various aspects of the vehicle, such as safety, comfort, or efficiency.

[0007] Subsequently, at least one vehicle function, possibly even several vehicle functions, is evaluated from the multitude of possible vehicle functions. The evaluation is based on vehicle-specific data, such as vehicle type, model, or condition, as well as situation-specific data, such as weather conditions, traffic situation, or road conditions. Alternatively or additionally, user-specific data, such as individual preferences or driving behavior, can be taken into account.

[0008] In the next step, at least one vehicle function is selected from the multitude of possible vehicle functions based on the evaluation and a current user preference. This allows the vehicle system to be individually adapted to the driver's needs and preferences.

[0009] Finally, the vehicle system is configured according to the selection made. This includes activating the selected vehicle function(s) and adjusting the system settings according to specific requirements. Advantages of the invention

[0010] The technical effects of this process lie in the dynamic adaptation of vehicle functions to the respective vehicle-specific, situation-specific, and / or user-specific data. This enables optimal use of the available functions, leading to increased safety, improved driving comfort, and a personalized driving experience. Furthermore, resources can be used more efficiently, as only those functions that are actually needed are activated.

[0011] Further advantages arise from the subclaims.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment, the vehicle-specific data relate to various aspects of the vehicle.

[0013] Vehicle-specific data includes, for example, the vehicle type, which describes the basic vehicle configuration. The chassis number enables unique identification of the vehicle. The software parts list and configuration provide information about the installed software and its settings in the vehicle system.

[0014] Alternatively or additionally, the system status, the error status, and the diagnostic entry are considered. The system status provides information about the current status of the vehicle system, while the error status provides information about occurring errors or malfunctions. The diagnostic entry contains relevant information from the vehicle diagnostics.

[0015] Incorporating this vehicle-specific data into the evaluation of vehicle functions enables a more precise and tailored configuration of the vehicle system. This leads to optimized use of available functions, improved fault detection and troubleshooting, and increased vehicle safety. Overall, the process contributes to increasing the efficiency and reliability of the vehicle system.

[0016] In a further preferred embodiment, it is provided that the situation-specific data are specific to a current and / or future traffic situation and / or environmental situation of the vehicle.

[0017] The situation-specific data can include various aspects of the traffic situation, such as traffic density, speed limits, road conditions, weather conditions, or traffic signs. It can also provide information about the vehicle's surroundings, such as the presence of pedestrians, cyclists, or other vehicles nearby.

[0018] By taking this situation-specific data into account when evaluating vehicle functions, the vehicle system can adapt its functionality to the respective traffic situation and surrounding environment. This enables improved safety, as the vehicle system can, for example, automatically react to changing traffic conditions. It also contributes to increased efficiency, as the vehicle system can optimize its functions according to the current situation.

[0019] In a further preferred embodiment, the method is expanded to include additional situation-specific data that are taken into account when evaluating the vehicle's functions. This data relates to various aspects of the current or future traffic situation and / or the vehicle's surroundings.

[0020] The situation-specific data can include the current or future location of the vehicle, for example, to take into account regional peculiarities or specific traffic regulations. The current or future route section can provide information about the road type, curves, or gradients. The current or future speed and acceleration enable the vehicle functions to be adapted to the driving behavior and driving conditions.

[0021] In addition, the driver and passenger status can be taken into account, for example, to adapt vehicle functions to the occupants' needs and preferences. The current or future time can provide information about traffic hours or specific events. Current or future weather conditions allow vehicle functions to be adapted to the current weather conditions.

[0022] By incorporating this situation-specific data into the evaluation of vehicle functions, an even more precise and situation-appropriate configuration of the vehicle system is enabled. This leads to further optimization of vehicle performance, increased safety, and improved driving comfort. Overall, the process contributes to the individual adaptation of the vehicle system to the respective situation, thus increasing driver and passenger satisfaction.

[0023] In a further preferred embodiment, it is provided that the situation-specific data are provided by a vehicle-internal sensor system and / or by a vehicle-external sensor system.

[0024] In-vehicle sensors can include various sensors within the vehicle, such as cameras, radar, lidar, ultrasonic sensors, or inertial sensors. These sensors collect data about the vehicle's surroundings, driving behavior, or the condition of the vehicle itself.

[0025] The vehicle-external sensors can be, for example, traffic sensors, weather stations, or GPS satellites. They provide information about the traffic situation, weather conditions, or the exact location of the vehicle.

[0026] By utilizing both internal and external sensors, more comprehensive and precise situation-specific data can be collected. This enables even more precise adaptation of vehicle functions to the respective situation, leading to further improvements in safety, efficiency, and the driving experience.

[0027] In a further preferred embodiment, it is provided that the method is extended to take into account user-specific data, in particular user evaluations of the driving functions by previous users.

[0028] This user-specific data may, for example, include a statistically significant number of user ratings of the respective driving functions. The experiences and opinions of previous users regarding the various vehicle functions are recorded and documented in the form of user ratings.

[0029] A rating metric can be used to quantify the quality or satisfaction with a specific driving function. This metric can be expressed, for example, on a scale of 1 to 5 or in the form of positive or negative user ratings.

[0030] By incorporating this user-specific data, users' preferences and experiences can be incorporated into the configuration of vehicle functions. Features that have been positively rated by previous users can be given priority to ensure high customer satisfaction.

[0031] The use of user ratings and rating metrics enables personalized adaptation of the vehicle system to the individual preferences of the user. This contributes to an improved user experience and higher vehicle acceptance.

[0032] In a further preferred embodiment, it is provided that the possible vehicle functions comprise vehicle-internal software functions and / or vehicle-external software functions.

[0033] In-vehicle software functions refer to functions implemented directly within the vehicle system. These can include functions such as driver assistance systems, infotainment options, climate control, or safety features.

[0034] Vehicle-external software functions refer to functions provided via external software applications or services. These can include functions such as navigation systems, traffic data, weather information, or online services.

[0035] By incorporating both internal and external software functions, the process expands the possibilities for configuring the vehicle system. It allows for a comprehensive selection of functions that can be selected according to user needs and preferences.

[0036] In a further preferred embodiment, it is provided that the method is extended by the determination of the user preference before and / or during a trip by the user in the selection step.

[0037] This means that the user's preferences regarding vehicle functions are determined before or during the trip. The user can indicate their preferences either before starting the trip or during the trip itself.

[0038] The user preference can be determined in various ways, for example by entering preferences via a user interface in the vehicle, by voice commands or by selecting options in a menu.

[0039] The ability to determine user preferences while driving enables dynamic adjustment of vehicle functions in real time. Users can adjust their preferences as the driving situation changes or as they develop new preferences.

[0040] In a further preferred embodiment, it is provided that the steps of the method, in particular the evaluation, the selection and the configuration, are carried out repeatedly or continuously.

[0041] This means that the steps of the procedure are not performed just once, but can be applied repeatedly or continuously. After the vehicle functions have been evaluated, selected, and configured, these steps can be performed again to adjust the configuration based on new data or changing conditions.

[0042] By repeatedly or continuously executing the procedure, the vehicle system can respond flexibly to changing situations and adjust vehicle functions accordingly. This ensures optimal performance and safety while driving.

[0043] Repeating or continuously executing the procedure also allows for continuous monitoring of vehicle data and adjustment of the configuration according to the user's current needs and preferences.

[0044] In a further preferred embodiment, the method according to one of the preceding embodiments is expanded to include a step of evaluating the vehicle function by the user, particularly after the configuration step. The user's evaluation is then integrated into the user-specific data. The user can be understood to be a driver or a passenger of the vehicle.

[0045] Once the vehicle system has been configured, the user has the opportunity to rate the performance and quality of the selected vehicle functions. This rating can be done, for example, on the vehicle's user interface or via a separate rating platform.

[0046] The user's rating is then incorporated into the user-specific data used in the process. This enables continuous improvement of the configuration and selection of vehicle functions based on user experiences and opinions.

[0047] By incorporating user ratings into the user-specific data, the process's adaptability is further increased. Features that receive positive user ratings can be preferentially selected and configured to ensure high customer satisfaction.

[0048] The above-mentioned advantages also apply correspondingly to a device, in particular for data processing, preferably a vehicle-external device, which is configured to carry out the method according to one of the previously described embodiments.

[0049] For example, this device can be an external control unit, a server or a cloud-based platform that communicates with the vehicle system and handles data processing for the process.

[0050] The device can also be designed as an internal vehicle device, for example as a control unit.

[0051] Alternatively, the device may comprise at least one vehicle-internal device and at least one vehicle-external device that are signal-connected to one another.

[0052] The aforementioned advantages also apply correspondingly to a vehicle system comprising at least one vehicle and the device according to the previously described embodiment or another vehicle-external device. This device is specifically designed to carry out the method according to one of the previously described embodiments.

[0053] In other words, the vehicle system consists of one or more vehicles that communicate with the device or external device. The device or external device handles data processing and the execution of the method for dynamically configuring the vehicle functions.

[0054] The vehicle system enables seamless integration of the process into the vehicle environment. The device or external device can, for example, communicate with the vehicle via a wireless connection and exchange the necessary data.

[0055] By combining at least one vehicle and the special device or vehicle-external facility, the method for dynamically configuring the vehicle functions is effectively and efficiently integrated into the vehicle system.

[0056] The invention also relates to a computer program product or computer program with program code, which can be stored on a machine-readable, in particular non-volatile, carrier or storage medium such as a semiconductor memory, a hard disk memory or an optical memory and is used to carry out, implement and / or control the steps of the method according to one of the embodiments described above, in particular when the program product or program is executed on a computer or a device according to one of the embodiments described above.

[0057] The invention also relates to a computer-readable storage medium comprising the computer program. The storage medium is designed, for example, as a data storage device such as a hard disk and / or a non-volatile memory and / or a memory card. The storage medium can, for example, be integrated into the computer or a device according to one of the embodiments described above. Short description of the drawing

[0058] Embodiments of the invention are schematically illustrated in the drawings and explained in more detail in the following description. The same reference numerals are used for the elements shown in the various figures and have a similar effect, and a repeated description of the elements is omitted.

[0059] They show: Fig. 1 a schematic representation of a method, a device, a vehicle system, a computer program and a storage medium according to embodiments; Fig. 2 a schematic representation of a sequence of the method according to an embodiment; Fig. 3 a schematic representation of a sequence of the method according to a further embodiment; Fig. 4 a schematic representation for visualizing the invention according to an embodiment; and Fig. 5 a schematic representation for visualizing the invention according to a further embodiment.

[0060] As already explained above, the present invention describes a method, a device, a vehicle system and a computer program which advantageously make it possible to adapt the provided vehicle functions to the respective vehicle-specific, situation-specific and / or user-specific data.

[0061] Fig. 1 illustrates, according to embodiments of the invention (on the left side), a method 100 for the dynamic configuration of vehicle functions 30 for a vehicle system 8, in particular a driver assistance system.

[0062] Furthermore, the vehicle system 8 (in two alternative embodiments, top right and bottom right) with a vehicle 1, a device 10 for data processing, a storage medium 15 and a computer program 20 according to embodiments of the invention are schematically illustrated. The vehicle system 8 in the top right illustration comprises the vehicle 1 and the device 10, wherein the device 10 is integrated or arranged in or on the vehicle 1. In contrast, the device 10 in the vehicle system 8 in the bottom right illustration is not integrated or arranged in or on the vehicle 1, but is spatially separated from it and only connected to it in terms of signals.

[0063] According to a first method step 101, a plurality 30 of possible vehicle functions 31, 32, 33, 34 can be provided to the vehicle system 8. The vehicle functions 31, 32, 33, 34 can include vehicle-internal software functions and / or vehicle-external software functions 30a, 30b, 30c, 30d.

[0064] Subsequently, according to a second method step 102, an evaluation of at least one vehicle function 31, 32, 33, 34, in particular a plurality of vehicle functions 31, 32, 33, 34, from the plurality 30 of possible vehicle functions 31, 32, 33, 34 can take place depending on vehicle-specific data 40, situation-specific data 50 and / or user-specific data 60. The vehicle-specific data 40 can include at least one vehicle type, a chassis number, a software parts list, a software configuration 41, a system status 42, an error status 43 and / or a diagnostic entry 44. Furthermore, the situation-specific data 50 can be specific to a current and / or future traffic situation 80 and / or environmental situation 81 of the vehicle 1.In particular, the situation-specific data 50 can specify a current or future location 51, a current or future route section 52, a current or future speed 53, a current or future acceleration 54, a driver state 55, a passenger state 56, a current or future time 57, and / or current or future weather conditions 58. The situation-specific data 50 is preferably provided by a vehicle-internal sensor system 9 and / or by a vehicle-external sensor system 11. Furthermore, the user-specific data 60 can include, in particular, a statistically significant number of evaluations 61 of the respective driving function 31, 32, 33, 34 by previous users, in particular an evaluation index 62.

[0065] Subsequently, in a third method step 103, at least one vehicle function 31', 32', 33', 34' can be selected from the plurality of possible vehicle functions 31, 32, 33, 34 depending on a, in particular current, user preference 70. The user preference 70 can be determined by the user before and / or during a trip.

[0066] Then, according to a fourth method step 104, the vehicle system 8 can be configured according to the selection. It can further be provided that the steps of the method 100, in particular the evaluation 102, the selection 103, and / or the configuration 104, are executed repeatedly or continuously 105.

[0067] Optionally, after the configuration step 104, a step of evaluation 106 of the vehicle function 31, 32, 33, 34 by the user can take place, wherein the user's evaluation is incorporated into the user-specific data 60.

[0068] Method steps 101-104 can be carried out by the data processing device 10. The device 10 is designed, for example, as a computer and can comprise means for carrying out the steps of a method 100 according to embodiments of the invention. As explained above, the device 10 can be integrated into the vehicle 1 and / or designed as a vehicle-external device, wherein said device has a communication interface for networking, in particular wirelessly, with other devices, units, vehicles or the like. Furthermore, the device 10 can have a computer program 50 according to embodiments of the invention. When executed by a computer or the device 10, the computer program 50 can cause the computer or the device 10 to carry out the steps of the method 100 according to embodiments of the invention.For example, the device 10 can, as indicated, be part of a cloud 5, so that the method described below can run at least partially in the cloud 5.

[0069] In Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 shows schematic representations of a sequence of the method according to further exemplary embodiments. The vehicle 1 travels along a route section 52 on which a current or future traffic situation 80 and / or environmental situation 81 exists. A plurality 30 of possible vehicle functions 31, 32, 33, 34 are then provided 101 to the vehicle system 8, for example from a cloud 6. The possible vehicle functions 31, 32, 33, 34 can be, for example, downloadable apps 30a, services 30b, in particular machine learning models 30c, and / or externally provided data 30d, which are particularly useful for safe and comfortable vehicle operation. In this case, the plurality 30 of possible vehicle functions 31, 32, 33, 34 provided by the cloud 6 can already be restricted according to external sensor data 85 and metadata 86, such as data on the current weather and / or traffic data.The user of the vehicle 1 can report 107 his user preference 70 to the cloud 6 and / or the device 10 executing the method 100 before or during the journey. Then, for example in the cloud 6 or in the device 10, an evaluation 102 of the provided plurality 30 of the vehicle functions 31, 32, 33, 34 takes place.

[0070] This is done, as already mentioned in Fig. 1, depending on vehicle-specific data 40, situation-specific data 50 and / or user-specific data 60. In this case, a “score” can be assigned for the respective driving function 31, 32, 33, 34, for example with regard to the properties “safety”, “comfort” and / or “energy efficiency”, which is then output to the user.

[0071] On the basis of these properties, a model can be identified as one of the driving functions 31, 32, 33, 34 with the best ability to fulfil, for example, a specific safety function (e.g. maintaining a distance from objects) under the currently given conditions (e.g. despite a low, glaring sun) and evaluated with the corresponding "score". The resulting score can be a "confidence score" that relates to the estimated quality of the driving functions 31, 32, 33, 34 themselves (e.g. an AI function). The evaluation can be based, for example, on a look-up table, artificial intelligence methods, in particular machine learning models created through data-based learning (possibly through crowd learning or feedback) or rule-based models. The model of the driving function, orThe models of the driving functions can also be stored as a digital twin of the road (Digital Twin of the Road) in the cloud 6 or in the device 10 or in the vehicle 1.

[0072] The selection 103 of the thus evaluated vehicle functions 31', 32', 33', 34' then takes place according to the user preference 70 and the configuration 104 of the vehicle system 8 takes place according to the selection.

[0073] After a journey or after completing a journey along a specific route section 52, the vehicle system 8 and / or the user can provide feedback 106 to the cloud 6 or the device 10 about the configured vehicle function 31', 32', 33', 34', so that the respective vehicle functions 31, 32, 33, 34 in the cloud 6 can be optimized for future use cases based on the feedback.

[0074] In Fig. 4 and Fig.Figure 5 shows schematic representations for visualizing the invention according to exemplary embodiments. Vehicle 1 is located on section 52 of the highway, and there is a traffic jam or slow-moving traffic, alternating with periods of free-flowing traffic.

[0075] Along the route section 52, the optimal vehicle function 31, 32, 33, 34 for the user preference 70, for example an app 30a, a service 30b, or a model 30c, can change due to changing conditions and requirements. In the example, along the route, the optimal variant is first the first vehicle function 31, then the second vehicle function 32, then again the first vehicle function 31, then the third vehicle function 33, then again the first vehicle function 31 (e.g., for the "safety" property of the vehicle functions 31, 32, 33, 34). Accordingly, "switching" takes place between the vehicle functions 31, 32, 33. Each of the vehicle functions 31, 32, 33 used for the various partial route sections 52 is additionally labeled with its "score" or evaluation index 62.

[0076] If an error is detected in one of the vehicle functions 31, 32, 33 during use (e.g., by a diagnosis, indicated by the lightning 90), the vehicle system 8 falls back to the next best vehicle function 31, 32, 33. In this case, for the current route section, this is the first vehicle function 31, which is used instead of the second vehicle function 32.

[0077] Further variants of embodiments are described below.

[0078] Variations: A cloud service in Cloud 6 could run slight variations of the parameterization (random or targeted) of the function variants and extensions for each vehicle 8 to find new optima through feedback. Depending on the vehicle function 31, 32, 33, 34, variations can also be performed in a shadow mode, for example, to determine which function variants perform best with which configuration, models, or hyperparameters in different ODD subspaces or geolocal zones.

[0079] Release: Release of functional variants and extensions, or of vehicle functions 31, 32, 33, and 34, can be performed after testing or simulation in the backend or in Cloud 6, either manually or automatically, depending on their criticality. Automated release can be based on predefined function-related safety performance indicators and sufficient statistical data.

[0080] Fallback: Ideally, a fallback should always be available for safety-related functional variants and extensions or vehicle functions 31, 32, 33, 34, to which the vehicle system 8 can switch as soon as critical errors or deviations are detected. Detection can occur either in the vehicle 1 itself or in the cloud 6 via the cloud service, through data analysis or observation.

[0081] Pseudo Ground Truth: By evaluating several similar but different functional variants and extensions or vehicle functions 31, 32, 33, 34, conclusions can be drawn about the so-called ground truth, for example, detected and existing objects.

[0082] Data protection: In situations or zones where the use of the procedure 100 could allow conclusions to be drawn about the end customer and his preferences, the procedure 100 may either not be offered or terminated in order to ensure privacy.

Claims

[1] Method (100) for the dynamic configuration of vehicle functions (31, 32, 33, 34) for a vehicle system, in particular a driver assistance system, comprising the steps: - Providing (101) a plurality (30) of possible vehicle functions (31, 32, 33, 34) to the vehicle system (8); - evaluating (102) at least one vehicle function (31, 32, 33, 34), in particular a plurality of vehicle functions (31, 32, 33, 34), from the plurality (30) of possible vehicle functions (31, 32, 33, 34) depending on vehicle-specific data (40), situation-specific data (50) and / or user-specific data (60); - selecting (103) at least one vehicle function (31', 32', 33', 34') from the plurality (30) of possible vehicle functions (31, 32, 33, 34) depending on the evaluation and a, in particular current, user preference (70); - Configure the vehicle system (8) according to the selection. [2] Method (100) according to claim 1, characterized by that the vehicle-specific data (40) comprise at least one vehicle type, a chassis number, a software parts list, a software configuration (41), a system status (42), an error status (43) and / or a diagnostic entry (44). [3] Method (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by that the situation-specific data (50) are specific to a current and / or future traffic situation (80) and / or environmental situation (81) of the vehicle (1). [4] Method (100) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized bythat the situation-specific data (50) specify a current or future location (51), a current or future route section (52), a current or future speed (53), a current or future acceleration (54), a driver state (55), a passenger state (56), a current or future time (57) and / or current or future weather conditions (58). [5] Method (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the situation-specific data (50) are provided by a vehicle-internal sensor system (9) and / or by a vehicle-external sensor system (11). [6] Method (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the user-specific data (60), in particular a statistically significant number of, evaluations (61) of the respective driving function (31, 32, 33, 34) by previous users, in particular an evaluation key figure (62). [7] Method (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the possible vehicle functions (31, 32, 33, 34) comprise vehicle-internal software functions and / or vehicle-external software functions. [8] Method (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that in the step of selecting (103) the user preference (70) is determined before and / or during a trip by a user. [9] Method (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the steps of the method (100), in particular the evaluation (102), the selection (103) and the configuration (104), are carried out repeatedly or continuously (105). [10] Method (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat, in particular after the configuration step (104), a step of evaluating (106) the vehicle function (31, 32, 33, 34) by the user takes place, wherein the user's evaluation is incorporated into the user-specific data (60). [11] Device (10) for data processing, in particular a vehicle-external device, which is designed to carry out the method (100) according to one of claims 1 to 10. [12] Vehicle system (8) comprising at least one vehicle (1) and the device (10) according to claim 11 or a vehicle-external device which is configured to carry out the method (100) according to one of claims 1 to 10. [13] Computer program (20) comprising instructions which, when the computer program (20) is executed by a computer or by a device (10) according to claim 11, cause the computer or device (10) to carry out the method (100) according to one of claims 1 to 10. [14] Computer-readable medium (15) on which the computer program (20) according to claim 13 is stored.

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