Method for controlling a window, computer program, device and vehicle

Abstract

Exemplary embodiments relate to a method for controlling a window. The method comprises receiving data indicative of a passenger's characteristics in the interior of a vehicle, determining a control characteristic of the window based on the passenger's characteristics, and sending the control characteristic to control an actuator of the window.

Description

[0001] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention relate to a method for controlling a window, a computer program, a device and a vehicle.

[0002] If, for example, a child or a dog is in the vehicle, the driver is usually responsible for ensuring adequate fresh air or cooling. However, the driver might also want to allow the dog to briefly stick its head out of the window. Traditionally, the driver has to open and close the window manually for this. This conventional method of operating the window poses significant safety risks.

[0003] Firstly, there is a risk that a window opened too wide could cause a child to reach out or a dog to jump out of the vehicle. Conversely, closing the window could lead to crushing injuries or damage to objects. Secondly, manually operating the window requires a high level of attention from the driver, which can compromise road safety.

[0004] There is therefore a need to provide an improved method for controlling a window. The method, the device, the computer program, and the vehicle, according to the independent claims, address this need.

[0005] Examples of implementation are based on the core idea that a window control system can be learned and applied automatically to make window operation easier for the driver.

[0006] Exemplary embodiments relate to a method for controlling a window. The method comprises receiving data indicative of a passenger's characteristics in the interior of a vehicle, determining a control characteristic of the window based on the passenger's characteristics, and sending the control characteristic to control an actuator of the window.

[0007] By collecting data that allows inferences to be made about the passenger's characteristics, the system can optimize window control. This minimizes risks such as a window being opened too wide, which could lead to injuries or uncontrolled protrusion.

[0008] The risk of crushing or other injuries when closing the window can also be reduced.

[0009] Since the control characteristics are determined automatically, the driver needs little to no manual intervention. This helps to minimize distractions and keep the driver's attention focused on the road. Automatic window position selection also reduces driver workload and makes driving more comfortable.

[0010] In one embodiment, the method further comprises obtaining image data indicative of an image of the passenger in the interior and determining, based on the image data, whether the passenger is a pet or a child. Based on this (i.e., whether the passenger is a pet or a child), the control characteristic is determined.

[0011] This system enables personalized window control that adapts to the needs of different passengers. For example, a child or pet can be better protected while still having access to fresh air through window positions tailored to their needs.

[0012] In one embodiment, the method further comprises obtaining image data indicative of an image of the passenger in the interior and identifying the passenger based on the image data. Based on this (i.e., on the result of the passenger identification), the control characteristic is determined.

[0013] Passenger identification enables personalized window control. This allows for individual window settings to be accessed for a specific person. For example, separate settings can be configured for each child or dog.

[0014] In one embodiment, the method further comprises obtaining image data indicative of an image of the passenger in the interior and determining, based on the image data, whether the passenger is blocking the window. Based on this (i.e., whether the passenger is blocking the window), the control characteristic is determined.

[0015] By automatically detecting whether a passenger is blocking the window, the system can prevent the window from being moved in a way that could lead to injuries or accidents. This avoids incorrect operation.

[0016] In one embodiment, determining the control characteristic includes: determining a maximum value for opening or closing the window, or enabling or blocking one or more human-machine interfaces for controlling the window.

[0017] Setting a maximum opening and closing value ensures that the window does not move beyond a safe operating range. This minimizes risks such as reaching out and prevents potential crushing injuries. The ability to selectively enable or disable a human-machine interface, such as one within the passenger's reach, ensures that only authorized control commands are executed. This prevents unintentional or incorrect operation of the window.

[0018] Passenger control of the window can be completely disabled or enabled, optionally only up to the maximum opening of the window. The opening range can optionally vary depending on the driving situation, e.g., vehicle speed, air quality, or noise level outside the vehicle, etc.

[0019] In one embodiment, the method further comprises sending a request to apply the control characteristic to a human-machine interface within the driver's sphere of influence. The request is sent based on a driving situation, temperature, or air quality inside the vehicle. The control characteristic is then sent based on input from the driver (response to the request).

[0020] The option is displayed to the driver, for example, on a user interface, if the temperature inside the vehicle suggests a need for it. The driving situation, which determines the driver's level of attention to the road, can be taken into account to avoid distracting the driver. If the driving situation does not permit a request, it can be made at a later time, or the control characteristic can be set as the default. If the driver grants permission, the window can, for example, be automatically opened to its maximum position.

[0021] This method enables context-sensitive control of the window, dynamically taking into account the current driving situation, temperature conditions, and air quality inside the vehicle. By actively involving the driver in the decision-making process, control always remains with them. Driver input ensures that individual preferences and situational characteristics are considered.

[0022] In one embodiment, the method further comprises obtaining image data indicative of an image of the passenger in the interior and assigning the passenger to the window based on the image data. Correct assignment reduces the risk of malfunctions, as the window is controlled only in relation to the actually assigned passenger.

[0023] In summary, the system can develop specific window opening or closing strategies tailored to each passenger. This allows for needs-based adjustments that increase both comfort and safety.

[0024] Exemplary embodiments also include a computer program for carrying out one of the methods described herein, if the computer program runs on a computer, a processor, or a programmable hardware component.

[0025] Another embodiment is a device for controlling a window. The device comprises a data processing circuit configured to carry out at least one of the methods described herein. Further embodiments include a vehicle with a device as described herein.

[0026] Examples of implementation are explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying figures. These show: Fig. Figure 1 shows a flowchart of an embodiment of a method for controlling a window; and Fig. Figure 2 shows a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a device for controlling a window.

[0027] Several embodiments are now described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some of these embodiments are illustrated. For the sake of clarity, the thickness dimensions of lines, layers, and / or regions may be exaggerated in the figures.

[0028] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of an example of a method 100 for controlling a window. The method 100 can be computer-implemented. For example, the method 100 can be executed by a control unit in a vehicle.

[0029] The procedure 100 comprises receiving 110 data indicative of a passenger's characteristic in the interior of the vehicle, determining 120 a control characteristic of the window based on the passenger's characteristic, and sending 130 the control characteristic to control an actuator of the window.

[0030] The actuator control is the mechanical implementation of window movement in the vehicle. The actuator performs the physical task of opening or closing the window according to the control characteristics specified by the control system. The control system (for example, a microcontroller) calculates the desired window position. This setpoint is converted into a control command and transmitted to the actuator. During the movement sequence, the actuator control can optionally operate in a closed-loop system. This means that sensors (such as limit switches or position sensors) continuously monitor the current window position. This feedback allows the control system to correct any deviations from the setpoint.

[0031] Determining the control characteristic (120) can include, for example, setting a maximum value for opening or closing the window, or enabling or disabling one or more human-machine interfaces for controlling the window. This human-machine interface can be one within the passenger's reach. For example, the driver can use another human-machine interface to control whether the operation is locked or enabled, perhaps with a maximum opening.

[0032] In addition to passenger characteristics, the maximum opening, closing, or unlocking value of the window can depend on driving conditions, temperature, or air quality inside or outside the vehicle. In this case, procedure 100 can include receiving driving situation data indicative of a driving situation or other data. This data can be received by a control unit in the vehicle, which acquires it via sensors. With such a situation-dependent control characteristic, the opening angle can be reduced, for example, if the air quality outside the vehicle is too poor or the temperature too low.

[0033] Optionally, procedure 100 can include sending a request to apply the control characteristic to a human-machine interface within the driver's sphere of influence. The driver is then presented with the option to apply the control characteristic. The request can be based on the driving situation, temperature, or air quality inside the vehicle. The control characteristic is then applied or modified based on the driver's input in response to the request. The driving situation could be, for example, the vehicle's speed, the type of road (highway or rural road), or similar factors. For instance, sending the request could depend on whether the passenger actually needs fresh air and how much attention the driver is currently required by the traffic.

[0034] Receiving data (110) can, for example, involve receiving the data. For instance, the controller executing the procedure (100) can receive the data via a communicative link from a sensor system in the vehicle or a unit that evaluates the corresponding sensor data. Alternatively, receiving data (110) can involve determining the data, if the sensor system or the evaluation unit is part of the controller. As an alternative to the sensor system, the data can be obtained through manual input at a human-machine interface, for example, before the journey begins. In the latter case, the driver would, for instance, input the passenger's characteristics, from which the control characteristics would be determined.

[0035] The passenger's characteristics can include one or more features that the system can consider when controlling the window. For example, the passenger's identity (e.g., name), age, type, or size, seating position in the vehicle, or blockage status (i.e., whether the passenger is blocking or could block the window) can be used as a characteristic. These features can form the basis for individualized and context-sensitive window control, thereby improving safety and comfort.

[0036] For example, the data can indicate whether the user is a child, an adult, or a senior citizen, allowing the control characteristics to be determined so that appropriately adapted safety and comfort functions are activated. For children, independent operation of the window could be blocked or limited to a maximum opening angle. The driver could, for instance, use a button in the vehicle to determine whether the child is allowed to open the window themselves or whether the driver retains control. In the latter case, the driver can still operate the window mechanism, but the predetermined control characteristics limit its use, so the driver doesn't have to worry about the safe operation of the window while driving.

[0037] Adult passengers have a higher awareness of danger, so the window can be operated over a wider range of motion. Older passengers may benefit from a slower window movement.

[0038] If the characteristics are automatically determined by sensors, the passenger's height, for example, can be used to estimate their age. Another possibility is to infer the passenger's age directly. For instance, audio or image data recorded by a microphone or camera in the vehicle can be used. In the case of image data, facial recognition (i.e., isolating the facial area in the image) and feature extraction (i.e., extracting features such as wrinkles, skin texture, facial proportions, and geometries) can be used to determine an indicator for age estimation. For example, a pre-trained neural network, such as a convolutional neural network (CNN), can be used to make an age prediction based on the extracted features.

[0039] Alternatively or additionally, the system can use the data to determine whether the passenger is a pet (e.g., a dog) or a human. Sensor data can also be used to identify characteristics of the passenger that indicate whether it is one or the other. Microphone or camera data can be used to distinguish between a human and a pet. Acoustic analysis of the microphone data can help identify human- or animal-specific speech and sound patterns. For example, humans speak with a characteristic intonation, pitch, and articulation. Speech processing algorithms can recognize these patterns. Pets, such as dogs or cats, produce specific sounds (barking, meowing) that are clearly different from human voices. Classification models can be trained to recognize these differences.Using camera data, for example with the help of image processing algorithms or CNNs, human faces can be identified because the facial features and body shapes of animals are structured differently.

[0040] For example, the procedure may include obtaining image data (camera data) indicative of an image or video of the passenger inside the vehicle and determining whether the passenger is a pet or a child based on the image data, thereby determining the control characteristic.

[0041] The control characteristics can be adjusted for animals, for example, as follows: To prevent the animal from protruding too far from the vehicle or even jumping out, the maximum opening angle is reduced. This ensures sufficient ventilation without the risk of an unintentional escape. Slower window movement reduces sudden movements inside the vehicle that could frighten or unsettle the animal. This helps avoid unexpected reactions from the animal. Before moving the window, sensors can be used to check whether the animal is in a position where movement could be dangerous. If the animal is too close to the window, for example, the system will either stop or adjust the opening process to prevent the animal from being crushed or the window regulator from being damaged. Depending on the type of pet (e.g.,Different parameters can be set for dogs or cats.

[0042] For example, a slightly larger opening might be permitted for a dog than for a smaller cat.

[0043] Method 100 can further include obtaining image data indicative of an image of the passenger inside the vehicle. This image data can originate from an interior camera. The image data can be used, for example, to identify the passenger, determine the blockage status, or assign the passenger to the window. Based on this, the control characteristics can then be determined.

[0044] First, an image of the vehicle interior can be captured using a camera or other imaging sensor. This image data contains visual information about the arrangement and characteristics of the passengers inside. The captured image or video is processed by an analysis module. Using image processing algorithms—for example, facial recognition or other pattern recognition methods—the passenger can be identified by comparing this information with data stored in a database. An individual control profile may have been learned for the passenger and is retrieved accordingly.

[0045] The blockage status describes whether the passenger is physically obstructing the window's movement. The image processing module analyzes the image data from the interior camera and checks whether any part of the passenger's body (e.g., head, arms, or hands) is in the path of the moving window. Image processing algorithms determine the passenger's position relative to the window. If, for example, the head or an outstretched arm is in the window's movement range, the system interprets this as a blockage. In such a case, the window's maximum closing position can be adjusted to prevent any crushing.

[0046] The assignment refers to assigning each passenger to a specific window. This is particularly important in vehicles with multiple windows and seats to ensure individually tailored control characteristics. The following approach can be used: The interior camera captures an overall image divided into different zones corresponding to the seats and their respective windows. Based on these predefined areas, the system can determine which passenger is seated in which zone. Using image processing algorithms, the passenger's precise position within the image is determined. If the detected position lies within the predefined area of ​​a specific window, that passenger is assigned to that window.

[0047] One possible configuration of procedure 100 would be that the control characteristic is a window position that the driver can set once. This can be done per child or per person, if necessary. Presence detection and identification are carried out using an interior camera. This window position can then be dynamically offered to the driver as a button.

[0048] Another possible configuration of Procedure 100 would be that, in the case of children, the driver is automatically advised to either let the child operate the controls or to block the controls for the child and / or hand them over to the driver. The maximum window opening can be limited in this case. A suggestion can be made to the driver based on an age estimate using the interior camera (e.g., a maximum opening of 10 centimeters could be such a suggestion).

[0049] Fig. Figure 2 shows a block diagram of an embodiment of a device 30 for controlling a window. The device 30 comprises an interface 32 for communication with a sensor or an input device, from which the data indicative of the passenger characteristics, as described above, are obtained. The interface 32 can also be configured for communication with an actuator of the window. The device 30 further comprises a data processing circuit 34, which is configured to carry out at least one of the methods described herein, for example, method 100. Further embodiments include a vehicle 40 with a device 30.

[0050] The in Fig. The interface 32 shown in Figure 2 can, for example, correspond to one or more inputs and / or one or more outputs for receiving and / or transmitting information, such as digital bit values ​​based on a code, within a module, between modules, or between modules of different entities. The interface 32 can, for example, be configured to communicate with other network components via a (radio) network or a local area network.

[0051] In exemplary embodiments, the data processing circuit 34 can correspond to any controller or processor, or to a programmable hardware component. For example, the data processing circuit 34 can also be implemented as software programmed for a corresponding hardware component. In this respect, the data processing circuit 34 can be implemented as programmable hardware with appropriately adapted software. Any processor, such as digital signal processors (DSPs), can be used. These exemplary embodiments are not limited to a specific type of processor. Any processor, or even multiple processors, are conceivable for implementing the data processing circuit 34.

[0052] As in Fig.As shown in Figure 2, the interface 32 can be coupled to the respective data processing circuit 34 of the device 30. In examples, the device 30 can be implemented by one or more processing units, one or more processing devices, or any means of processing, such as a processor, a computer, or a programmable hardware component that can be operated with appropriately adapted software. Likewise, the described functions of the data processing circuit 34 can also be implemented in software, which is then executed on one or more programmable hardware components. Such hardware components can be a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), a microcontroller, etc.The data processing circuit 34 can be able to control the interface 32, so that any data transmission that takes place via the interface 32 and / or any interaction in which the interface 32 may be involved can be controlled by the data processing circuit 34.

[0053] In one embodiment, the device 30 may comprise a memory and at least one data processing circuit 34 which is functionally coupled to the memory and configured to perform one of the methods described above.

[0054] In examples, interface 32 can correspond to any means of receiving, receiving, transmitting, or providing analog or digital signals or information, such as any connector, contact, pin, register, input terminal, output terminal, conductor, track, etc., that enables the provision or receipt of a signal or information. Interface 32 can be wireless or wired and can be configured to communicate with other internal or external components, such as sending or receiving signals or information.

[0055] In at least some embodiments, the vehicle 40 can correspond, for example, to a land vehicle, a watercraft, an aircraft, a rail vehicle, a road vehicle, a car, a bus, a motorcycle, an all-terrain vehicle, a motor vehicle, or a truck. The device 30 can, for example, be a part of or a control unit of the vehicle 40.

[0056] Further embodiments include computer programs for carrying out one of the methods described herein, when the computer program runs on a computer, a processor, or a programmable hardware component. Depending on specific implementation requirements, embodiments of the invention can be implemented in hardware or in software. The implementation can be carried out using a digital storage medium, for example, a floppy disk, a DVD, a Blu-ray disc, a CD, a ROM, a PROM, an EPROM, an EEPROM, a FLASH memory, a hard disk, or other magnetic or optical storage media on which electronically readable control signals are stored. These control signals can interact with, or interact with, a programmable hardware component in such a way that the respective method is carried out.

[0057] A programmable hardware component can be a processor, a computer processor (CPU = Central Processing Unit), a graphics processor (GPU = Graphics Processing Unit), a computer, a computer system, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC = Application-Specific Integrated Circuit), an integrated circuit (IC = Integrated Circuit), a system-on-a-chip (SOC = System on Chip), a programmable logic element, or a field-programmable gate array with a microprocessor (FPGA = Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0058] The digital storage medium can therefore be machine-readable or computer-readable. Some embodiments thus include a data carrier containing electronically readable control signals capable of interacting with a programmable computer system or programmable hardware component to execute one of the methods described herein. An embodiment is therefore a data carrier (or a digital storage medium or a computer-readable medium) on which the program for performing one of the methods described herein is recorded.

[0059] In general, embodiments of the present invention can be implemented as a program, firmware, computer program, or computer program product with program code or as data, wherein the program code or data is / are effective in carrying out one of the methods when the program runs on a processor or a programmable hardware component. The program code or data can, for example, also be stored on a machine-readable medium or data carrier. The program code or data can be in the form of, among other things, source code, machine code, bytecode, or other intermediate code. Reference symbol list 30 Device 32 interface 34 Data processing circuit 40 vehicles 100 procedures 110 Received 120 Determine 130 Send

Claims

[1] Method (100) for controlling a window, comprising: Obtained (110) data indicative of a characteristic of a passenger in an interior of a vehicle; Determine (120) a control characteristic of the window based on the passenger's characteristics; and Sending (130) the control characteristic to control an actuator of the window. [2] Method (100) according to claim 1, further comprising: Obtaining image data indicative of an image of the passenger in the interior; and Determine whether the passenger is a pet or a child based on the image data, and determine the control characteristic based on this (120). [3] Method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: Obtaining image data indicative of an image of the passenger in the interior; and Identifying the passenger based on the image data, thereby determining the control characteristic (120). [4] Method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: Obtaining image data indicative of an image of the passenger in the interior; and Determine whether the passenger is blocking the window, based on the image data, and determine the control characteristic (120) based on this. [5] Method (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein determining (120) the control characteristic comprises: Determining a maximum value for opening or closing the window; or Enabling or blocking one human-machine interface from a multitude of human-machine interfaces for controlling the window. [6] Method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: Sending a request to apply the control characteristic to a human-machine interface within the influence of a driver of the vehicle, wherein the request is sent based on a driving situation, a temperature or an air quality in the vehicle, and wherein the control characteristic is sent based on an input from the driver (130). [7] Method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: Obtaining image data indicative of an image of the passenger in the interior; and Assigning the passenger to the window based on the image data. [8] Computer program for carrying out one of the methods (100) according to one of the preceding claims, if the computer program runs on a computer, a processor, or a programmable hardware component. [9] Device (30) for controlling a window, comprising: a data processing circuit (34) configured to carry out at least one of the methods (100) according to one of claims 1 to 7. [10] Vehicle (40) with a device (30) according to claim 9.

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