SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CONTROLLING THE OPERATION OF MULTIPLE VEHICLE AUTOMATION SYSTEMS

Abstract

A vehicle is disclosed that includes a transceiver and a processor. The transceiver can receive trigger signals associated with switching on and off a variety of automation modes. The processor can receive a first trigger signal for a request to switch on a first automation mode and a second trigger signal for a request to switch on a second automation mode. The processor can further determine first optimal operating states for a first set of vehicle components associated with the first automation mode and second optimal operating states for a second set of vehicle components associated with the second automation mode.Furthermore, the processor can ensure that the first set of vehicle components is operated in the first optimal operating states and the second set of vehicle components is operated simultaneously in the second optimal operating states, if no vehicle component is common to the first and second sets of vehicle components.

Description

AREA OF TECHNOLOGY

[0001] The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for simultaneously controlling the operation of multiple vehicle automation systems. GENERAL STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Many modern vehicles allow users to activate one or more vehicle automation modes based on their needs, automatically adjusting vehicle components for user comfort. For example, if a user wants to watch a movie in the vehicle, they can activate a cinema / movie mode, which can cause the vehicle to automatically adjust the operating states of interior lights, sound systems, windows, and other features to allow the user to watch the movie comfortably. These operating states for each automation mode can be defined by the vehicle manufacturer and / or can be set or customized by the user according to their preferences.

[0003] While automation modes provide many benefits to users, there are cases where users may desire additional features to further enhance the user experience when using the automation modes in the vehicle. SUMMARY

[0004] The present disclosure describes a vehicle that allows a user to conveniently turn one or more automation modes on or off simultaneously in the vehicle. In particular, the vehicle allows the user to "create" a list or stack of automation modes that can run / execute simultaneously in the vehicle. In some aspects, the user can transmit requests or trigger signals to the vehicle via a user device or a human-machine interface (HMI) to turn one or more automation modes on or off. For example, the user can send an initial trigger signal to execute a first automation mode (e.g.,a “cinema mode” or a “film mode” (the terms “cinema mode” and “film mode” are used interchangeably in this disclosure) is transmitted to the vehicle, and a second trigger signal for executing a second automation mode (e.g., a “reading mode”) is transmitted to the vehicle simultaneously with the first automation mode. The user can transmit the first and second trigger signals at the same time or sequentially. In other aspects, one or more vehicle systems or units can automatically generate these first and second trigger signals based on predefined vehicle operating conditions (e.g., based on vehicle speed or other vehicle operating parameters). In this case, these systems can transmit the trigger signals to the vehicle.

[0005] In response to receiving the first and second trigger signals from the user, the vehicle can simultaneously operate a first set of vehicle components, assigned to the first automation mode, in first optimal operating states, and a second set of vehicle components, assigned to the second automation mode, in second optimal operating states, where possibly no vehicle component is common to the first and second sets of vehicle components.

[0006] If one or more vehicle components are common to the first and second sets of vehicle components, the vehicle can determine a priority order for activating the first and second automation modes in response to receiving the first and second trigger signals. In some aspects, the priority order can be based on the sequence in which the vehicle receives the first and second trigger signals. For example, if the second trigger signal is received after the first, the vehicle can determine that the second automation mode has a higher priority than the first. In other aspects, the priority order can be based on user input or user preferences.

[0007] In response to the determination of the priority order, the vehicle can cause the vehicle components common to the first and second sets of vehicle components to operate according to the automation mode with the higher priority. For example, if the second automation mode has a higher priority than the first automation mode, the vehicle can cause the "common" vehicle components to operate according to the operating states defined for the second automation mode.

[0008] In other aspects, the vehicle can allow the user to deactivate one automation mode even if other automation modes are still running. For example, the user can transmit a shutdown request to the vehicle via the user device or the MMS to deactivate the first automation mode if the second automation mode is still running. In this case, in response to receiving the shutdown request, the vehicle causes the vehicle components associated with the first automation mode to return to their pre-automation operating state (i.e., i ..., when no automation was performed in the vehicle) or to its standard operating state (which can be defined by the user) or to an operating state defined by an automation mode that may have a lower priority than the first automation mode (e.g. a predecessor automation mode).

[0009] Furthermore, in response to receiving a shutdown request for the first automation mode, the vehicle can store a priority position assigned to the first automation mode in the priority order. The vehicle can use this priority position to restore the operating states of the vehicle components assigned to the first automation mode when the user sends a restart request to the vehicle to reactivate the first automation mode.

[0010] The vehicle may also allow the user to define preferred operating states for one or more vehicle components when automation modes may be active / executing in the vehicle. In some respects, the vehicle may ensure that such vehicle components retain their user-preferred operating states even if the respective automation modes are deactivated in the vehicle.

[0011] The present disclosure reveals a vehicle that enhances the user experience and comfort when operating the vehicle's automation modes. The vehicle allows the user to operate multiple automation modes simultaneously. Furthermore, the vehicle can store the priority position of an automation mode in the priority order when the automation mode is deactivated, so that the vehicle can restore the operating states of vehicle components associated with the automation mode when the automation mode is reactivated. This significantly improves user comfort when reactivating an automation mode.Furthermore, the vehicle can restore the operating states of vehicle components to their respective pre-automation operating states or user-defined default operating states when the user disables the automation modes running in the vehicle. This eliminates the need for the user to manually restore the operating states of vehicle components when the automation modes are disabled.

[0012] These and other benefits of the present revelation are provided in detail in this document. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] The detailed description is set forth with reference to the accompanying drawings. The use of the same reference numerals may indicate similar or identical elements. Different embodiments may use different elements and / or components than those illustrated in the drawings, and some elements and / or components may not be present in different embodiments. The elements and / or components in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. Throughout this disclosure, singular and plural expressions may be used interchangeably depending on the context. Fig. Figure 1 represents an environment in which techniques and structures for providing the systems and procedures disclosed in this document may be implemented. Fig. Figure 2 shows a block diagram of a system for simultaneously controlling the operation of several vehicle automation modes according to the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 3 shows an exemplary first sequence flow diagram illustrating a transition from operating states of a vehicle component according to the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 4 shows an exemplary second sequence flow diagram illustrating a transition from operating states of a vehicle component according to the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 5 shows an exemplary third sequence flow diagram illustrating a transition from operating states of a vehicle component according to the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 6 shows a flowchart of an exemplary first method for controlling the operation of a vehicle component according to the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 7 shows a flowchart of an exemplary second method for controlling the operation of a vehicle component according to the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 8 shows a flowchart of an exemplary third method for controlling the operation of a vehicle component according to the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 9 shows a flowchart of an exemplary fourth method for controlling the operation of a vehicle component according to the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0014] The disclosure is described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which show exemplary embodiments of the disclosure, and is not intended to be restrictive.

[0015] Fig. Figure 1 depicts an exemplary environment 100 in which techniques and structures for providing the systems and procedures disclosed in this document may be implemented. The environment 100 may include a vehicle 102 and a user 104 who may be located inside the vehicle 102. In the exemplary aspect described in Fig. As depicted in Figure 1, the user 104 is shown sitting in a driver's seat area; however, the present disclosure is not limited to such an aspect. The user 104 may be sitting in a passenger seat area, a rear seat area, or the like, without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0016] Vehicle 102 can take the form of any passenger or commercial vehicle, such as a car, work vehicle, crossover, truck, van, minivan, taxi, bus, etc. Vehicle 102 can be manually driven or configured to operate in a semi- or fully autonomous mode. Furthermore, Vehicle 102 can incorporate any powertrain, such as a gasoline engine, one or more electric motors, a hybrid system, etc.

[0017] In some aspects, the vehicle 102 can allow the user 104 to independently or simultaneously select and execute one or more automation modes assigned to the vehicle 102. This can cause the vehicle 102 to automatically adjust the operating states of one or more vehicle components based on the automation mode(s) selected by the user 104. For example, the user 104 can select a "cinema mode" if they wish to watch a film while seated in the vehicle 102, a "reading mode" if they wish to read, a "cool comfort mode" if they wish the vehicle 102 to create a cool and comfortable atmosphere in a section of the vehicle interior, and / or similar modes.

[0018] In response to the user 104 selecting an automation mode to execute, the vehicle 102 can automatically adjust the operating states of one or more vehicle components that may be associated with or assigned to the selected automation mode. For example, if the user 104 selects "Cinema Mode," the vehicle 102 can automatically cause the vehicle's interior lights to illuminate in blue, the vehicle's fan speed to be set to low, the vehicle's interior temperature to be set to 72-75 degrees Fahrenheit, the vehicle's seating area where the user 104 is seated to be heated, the upper window to be closed, and / or similar actions.Similarly, if user 104 selects "Reading Mode," vehicle 102 can automatically cause the vehicle's interior lights to illuminate in purple, the seat where user 104 is sitting to rise, the upper window to open for ventilation, and / or similar actions. As another example, if user 104 selects "Cool Comfort Mode," vehicle 102 can automatically close the vehicle's windows, lower the vehicle's temperature, close the upper window, and / or similar actions.

[0019] The vehicle components whose operating states should be set for each automation mode, and the respective optimal operating states for the vehicle components, can be predefined by a vehicle manufacturer and / or can be defined / customized by User 104. For example, the vehicle manufacturer and / or User 104 can predefine the respective optimal operating states of one or more vehicle components for each automation mode, such as "Cinema Mode," "Reading Mode," "Cool Comfort Mode," etc., as described above.

[0020] User 104 can select to execute an automation mode by sending a trigger signal or a request to activate the automation mode via a user device (shown as user device 202 in Fig. 2) a human-machine interface 106 (or MMS 106) of the vehicle and / or the like transmits to the vehicle 102. In the exemplary aspect described in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the MMS 106 displays a variety of automation modes, such as a cinema mode 108, a reading mode 110, etc. In some aspects, the user 104 can select one or more automation modes on the MMS 106 to cause the vehicle 102 to execute the selected automation mode(s). In additional or alternative aspects, the vehicle 102 can select an automation mode based on trigger signals from a vehicle control unit (in Fig. 2 (shown as VCU 210) is obtained or generated by it, and automatically executes user preferences predefined by user 104 in vehicle 102. For example, if user 104 prefers that the "Cool Comfort Mode" be automatically activated in vehicle 102 when the vehicle speed drops below 5 mph, the VCU can generate a trigger signal when the vehicle speed falls below 5 mph. In this case, in response to the VCU generating the trigger signal, vehicle 102 can automatically activate and run the "Cool Comfort Mode".

[0021] In some aspects, several different trigger signals (e.g., one or more trigger signals generated by the VCU, together with user requests) can cause the vehicle 102 to execute an automation mode, for example, for short periods of time. Similarly, several different automation modes can be executed by the vehicle 102 based on a single trigger signal generated by the VCU.

[0022] In some aspects, vehicle 102 can allow user 104 to select and execute multiple automation modes simultaneously. In this case, vehicle 102 can allow user 104 to overlay or stack multiple automation modes and / or define a priority order in which the automation modes should be executed. For example, if user 104 wishes to execute multiple automation modes simultaneously in vehicle 102, they can transmit a request for a multi-automation mode to vehicle 102 via the user device or the MMS 106. Upon receiving the multi-automation mode request from user 104, vehicle 102 can determine / detect that user 104 wishes to execute multiple automation modes simultaneously.In this case, in response to a request from user 104 for multi-automation mode, vehicle 102 can incrementally update configurations / operating states of additional vehicle components based on the priority order of the respective operating modes in the list / stack of operating modes that can be executed in vehicle 102, as user 104 adds or selects additional automation modes. For example, an automation mode that configures or controls the operation of vehicle lights and a vehicle sound system can build upon seating area configurations / operating states established by a previous automation mode that may already be running in vehicle 102.

[0023] Vehicle 102 can allow automation modes to run "in addition to each other" without requiring user 104 to disable a previous automation mode to run a new one. Vehicle 102 can also allow user 104 to disable any one or more automation modes from the list / stack of operating modes that can run in Vehicle 102 at any time. When an automation mode is disabled by user 104, the operating states of the vehicle components associated with or assigned to the disabled automation mode can be reset to, or "revert" to, their previous operating states before the automation mode was enabled.In particular, when an automation mode is deactivated, the vehicle 102 can cause the vehicle components associated with the deactivated automation mode to operate in their "pre-automation operating states." For example, a pre-automation operating state for a vehicle component can specify an operating state of the vehicle component before the automation mode was activated or before the vehicle component was caused to operate in an optimal operating state associated with the automation mode. Furthermore, in some aspects, the vehicle 102 can cause one or more vehicle components associated with the deactivated automation mode to operate in their predefined default operating states, if such default operating states have been defined / specified by the user 104.

[0024] The following are examples of how vehicle components can be set to operating states when one or more automation modes are switched on and / or off (if the vehicle allows multiple automation modes to operate simultaneously). The examples described below are for illustrative purposes only and should not be considered restrictive.

[0025] In a first example, user 104 can enable a setting to activate multi-automation mode in vehicle 102 or (via the user device or the MMS 106) transmit the multi-automation mode request to vehicle 102 and can then transmit an initial trigger signal / request to execute the cool comfort mode. In response to receiving the first trigger signal from user 104, vehicle 102 can close the vehicle's windows and the overhead window and cool the interior to a comfortable / refreshing temperature (e.g., between 72 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit). Afterward, user 104 can transmit a second trigger signal to vehicle 102 to execute read mode 110.In response to receiving the second trigger signal, vehicle 102 can maintain or leave unchanged the operating states of the vehicle components described above that are assigned to the cool comfort mode, and can additionally switch on a warm interior vehicle light. In this case, there may be no vehicle components common to the cool comfort mode and the read mode 110, and thus vehicle 102 can allow the vehicle components to operate independently and simultaneously in the operating states assigned to their respective automation modes.

[0026] User 104 can then transmit a third trigger signal to vehicle 102 to execute Cinema Mode 108. In response to receiving the third trigger signal, vehicle 102 may maintain or not change the operating states of the vehicle components described above that are associated with Cool Comfort Mode, but it may dim the vehicle interior lighting. Additionally, in response to receiving the third trigger signal, vehicle 102 may begin playing or outputting a predefined media / audio file from MMS 106. In this case, while there may be no vehicle components common to Cool Comfort Mode and Cinema Mode 108, the control of the vehicle interior lighting may be common to Cinema Mode 108 and Reading Mode 110.In this case, in response to the determination that there may be a vehicle component that shares two automation modes selected by the user 104 for execution, the vehicle 102 can determine the priority order for activating the two automation modes (e.g., movie mode 108 and reading mode 110). In some aspects, the vehicle 102 can activate the operation of the "shared" vehicle component based on the operating state associated with the automation mode that has a higher priority. In the example described above, the vehicle 102 dims the vehicle interior light in response to receiving the third trigger signal because movie mode 108 may have a higher priority for activation than reading mode 110.

[0027] In some aspects, the priority order can be based on the sequence in which the trigger signals or activation requests are received by the vehicle 102. For example, in the aspect described above, since the third trigger signal is received after the second, the priority order assigned to the third trigger signal or Cinema Mode 108 can be higher than the priority order assigned to the second trigger signal or Read Mode 110. In alternative aspects, the priority order can be set / defined by the user 104 when the user 104 receives the trigger signals (e.g.,the first, second and third trigger signal described above) is transmitted to the vehicle 102, or if the user 104 may create a list / stack of automation modes to be executed simultaneously by the vehicle 102 on the user device or the MMS 106.

[0028] In a second example, the user 104 (via the user device or the MMS 106) can transmit an initial trigger signal to the vehicle 102 to execute a mode that illuminates the vehicle lights for visibility. In response to receiving the initial trigger signal, the vehicle 102 can turn on the vehicle lights. Subsequently, the user 104 can transmit a second trigger signal to execute a new mode that is ambiguous with respect to the lighting state. In response to receiving the second trigger signal, the vehicle 102 can control / set operating states of one or more vehicle components associated with the new mode, while maintaining the lighting state associated with the vehicle lights (instead of automatically turning off the lights when the new mode is activated / executed).

[0029] In a third example, the user 104 (via the user device or the MMS 106) can transmit an initial trigger signal to the vehicle 102 to execute Cinema Mode 108, which may cause the vehicle 102 to turn off its vehicle lights. The user 104 can then manually turn on the lights in the vehicle 102 (since the interior section of the vehicle may become dark). The user 104 can then transmit a shutdown request to the vehicle 102 to turn off or disable Cinema Mode 108. In response to receiving the shutdown request, the vehicle 102 may restore the operating states of other vehicle components associated with Cinema Mode 108 to their respective pre-automation operating states; however, the vehicle 102 may leave the vehicle lights on regardless of the pre-automation operating state of the lights.In this case, the vehicle 102 can prioritize the user-defined or user-preferred operating state of a vehicle component (e.g., the vehicle lights) over its operating state before automation, while switching off the automation mode (e.g., the cinema mode 108).

[0030] In a fourth example, the user 104 (via the user device or the MMS 106) can transmit a first trigger signal to the vehicle 102 to execute a first automation mode, which can cause the vehicle 102 to configure or adjust the operating states of the vehicle windows and mirrors and to deactivate the vehicle lights. The user 104 can then transmit a second trigger signal to the vehicle 102 to execute a second automation mode, which can cause the vehicle 102 to open the window in the upper section of the vehicle and to turn on the vehicle lights.In this case, since vehicle 102 receives the second trigger signal after receiving the first trigger signal, the priority order assigned to the second automation mode is higher than that of the first automation mode, and thus vehicle 102 switches on the vehicle lights (which may be the optimal operating state of the light in the second automation mode) instead of keeping the lights in the deactivated state (which may be the optimal operating state of the light in the first automation mode).

[0031] User 104 can then transmit a third trigger signal to vehicle 102 to execute a third automation mode, which can change the operating state associated with the vehicle windows. User 104 can then transmit a shutdown request to deactivate / turn off the second automation mode. In response to receiving the shutdown request, vehicle 102 can restore the operating state associated with the window in the upper section of the vehicle to its original state (i.e., the operating state before automation) prior to the first automation mode being activated, while maintaining the operating states of the mirrors and vehicle lights as defined by or associated with the first automation mode, and the window state as defined by or associated with the third automation mode.In other words, when vehicle 102 receives the shutdown request to deactivate the second automation mode, vehicle 102 restores the operating states of all vehicle components associated with the second automation mode to their respective operating states prior to automation (i.e., before the vehicle components began operating in the second automation mode).

[0032] The vehicle 102 can further enable the user 104 to provide user preferences associated with the operating states of one or more vehicle components, to reactivate an automation mode after it has been switched off, to change the priority order of the automation modes, and / or the like. Such additional vehicle details are described below in conjunction with Fig. 2 described.

[0033] Vehicle 102 and / or User 104 shall implement and / or carry out operations as described herein in accordance with the user manual and safety guidelines. In addition, any action taken by User 104 based on notifications / recommendations provided by Vehicle 102 should comply with all regulations specific to the location and operation of Vehicle 102 (e.g., federal, state, country, city, etc.). The notifications / recommendations provided by Vehicle 102 should be treated as suggestions and followed only in accordance with any rules specific to the location and operation of Vehicle 102.

[0034] Fig. Figure 2 depicts a block diagram of a system 200 for simultaneously controlling the operation of several vehicle automation modes according to the present disclosure. In describing Fig. 2 will be applied to the Fig. 3, Fig. 4 and Fig. 5. Referenced.

[0035] System 200 can include the vehicle 102, a user device 202, and one or more servers 204 (or a single server 204) that are communicatively coupled to one or more networks 206. In some aspects, the user device 202 can be assigned to the user 104 and can be, for example, a mobile phone, a laptop, a tablet, a smartwatch, or any other device that has communication capabilities. The server 204 can be part of a cloud-based computing infrastructure and can be associated with and / or include a telematics service delivery network (SDN) that connects the vehicle 102 and other vehicles (in Fig. 2 not shown), which may be part of a vehicle fleet, provides digital data services.

[0036] In other aspects, the Server 204 can store an assignment of numerous sets of vehicle components to be configured with a variety of automation modes. For example, the Server 204 can store an assignment indicating that the operating states assigned to a first set of vehicle components should be set when Cinema Mode 108 is activated in vehicle 102; the operating states assigned to a second set of vehicle components should be set when Reading Mode 110 is activated; the operating states assigned to a third set of vehicle components should be set when Cool Comfort Mode is activated, and so on. The first, second, and third sets of vehicle components may or may not share common vehicle components.The server 204 can further store operating state information that is associated with an optimal operating state for each vehicle component from the multitude of vehicle component sets described above, for each automation mode from the multitude of automation modes. For example, the server 204 can store the operating state information that specifies the first optimal operating states in which the first set of vehicle components should operate when Cinema Mode 108 is activated in vehicle 102, the second optimal operating states in which the second set of vehicle components should operate when Reading Mode 110 is activated, the third optimal operating states in which the third set of vehicle components should operate when Cool Comfort Mode is activated, and so on.

[0037] The examples for the first, second, and third set of vehicle components (i.e., the vehicle components assigned to Cinema Mode 108, Reading Mode 110, and Cool Comfort Mode, respectively) and the first, second, and third optimal operating states assigned to the three exemplary automation modes (i.e., the operating states in which the vehicle components are operated in the respective automation modes) are given above in conjunction with Fig. 1 described.

[0038] In some aspects, the vehicle manufacturer and / or user 104 can define and / or configure / customize the assignment and / or operating state information. In some aspects, multiple users can have different saved assignments for the vehicle's components to the automation modes according to their individual customization / preferences. Furthermore, server 204 can transmit the assignment and / or operating state information to vehicle 102 at a predefined frequency or, if vehicle 102 sends a request to server 204 to obtain such information, to vehicle 102.

[0039] The network(s) 206 illustrate(s) an exemplary communication infrastructure in which the connected devices discussed in various embodiments of this disclosure can communicate. The network(s) 206 may be and / or include the Internet, a private network, a public network, or another configuration operating using one or more of any known communication protocols, such as Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol (TCP / IP), Bluetooth, or similar technologies. ®Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Wi-Fi based on the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) standard 802.11, Ultra-wideband (UWB) and mobile communication technologies such as Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), High-Speed ​​Packet Access (HSPDA), Long-Term Evolution (LTE), Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) and Fifth Generation (5G), to name a few examples.

[0040] The vehicle 102 can include a variety of units, including a vehicle computer 208, a vehicle control unit (VCU) 210, and an automation mode unit 212 (or unit 212). The VCU 210 can include a variety of electronic control units (ECUs) 214, which communicate with the vehicle computer 208.

[0041] In some aspects, the vehicle computer 208 and / or the unit 212 can be installed at any location in the vehicle 102 in accordance with the disclosure. Furthermore, the vehicle computer 208 can be operated as a functional component of the unit 212. The vehicle computer 208 can be or include an electronic vehicle control unit comprising one or more processor(s) 216 and a memory 218. In addition, the unit 212 can be separate from the vehicle computer 208 (as in Fig. 2 shown) or integrated as part of the vehicle computer 208.

[0042] The processor(s) 216 can communicate with one or more storage devices that communicate with the respective computing systems (e.g., the memory 218 and / or one or more external databases located in Fig. (2 not shown). The processor(s) 216 can / can use the memory 218 to store programs in code and / or data for performing aspects in accordance with the disclosure. The memory 218 can be a non-transient, computer-readable storage medium or a memory in which program code for vehicle automation modes is stored. The memory 218 can include any or a combination of volatile memory elements (e.g., dynamic random-access memory (DRAM), synchronous dynamic random-access memory (SDRAM), etc.) and can include any or several non-volatile memory elements (e.g.,including erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), flash memory, electronically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), etc.).

[0043] In accordance with certain aspects, the VCU 210 can share a power bus with the vehicle computer 208 and can be configured and / or programmed to transmit data between systems of the vehicle 102, connected servers (e.g., the server(s) 204), and other vehicles (in Fig. 2 not shown), which are operated as part of a vehicle fleet. The VCU 210 can include or communicate with any combination of the ECUs 214, such as a Body Control Module (BCM) 220, an Engine Control Module (ECM) 222, a Transmission Control Module (TCM) 224, a Telematics Control Unit (TCU) 226, a Driver Assistance Technologies (DAT) 228, etc. The VCU 210 can also include and / or communicate with a Vehicle Perception System (VPS) 230, which has connectivity with and / or controls one or more vehicle sensor systems 232.The vehicle sensor system 232 may include one or more vehicle sensors, including, but not limited to, a radio detection and ranging sensor (radar sensor) configured to detect and locate objects inside and outside the vehicle 102 using radio waves, seat belt buckle sensors, seat area sensors, a light detection and ranging sensor (lidar sensor), door sensors, proximity sensors, temperature sensors, wheel sensors, ambient weather sensors, vehicle interior and exterior cameras, one or more rain sensors, capacitive humidity sensors, a tire pressure sensor, ultrasonic sensors, etc.

[0044] In some aspects, the VCU 210 can control operational aspects of the vehicle and implement one or more instruction sets received from the user device 202 from one or more instruction sets stored in the memory 218, which include instructions that are operational as part of the unit 212.

[0045] The TCU 226 can be configured and / or programmed to provide vehicle connectivity with wireless computing systems inside and outside the vehicle 102, and can include a navigation receiver (NAV receiver) 234 for receiving and processing a GPS signal, a BLE module (BLEM) 236, a Wi-Fi transceiver, a UWB transceiver and / or other wireless transceivers (in Fig. 2 (not shown) include components that can be configured for wireless communication (including cellular communication) between the vehicle 102 and other systems (e.g., the user device 202, a radio key, an NFC device, etc.), computers, and modules. The TCU 226 can communicate with the ECUs 214 via a bus.

[0046] The ECUs 214 can control aspects of vehicle operation and communication using inputs from human drivers, inputs from a controller of an autonomous vehicle, the unit 212 and / or via wireless signal inputs received via the wireless link(s) from other connected devices, such as, among others, the user device 202, the server(s) 204.

[0047] The BCM 220 generally integrates sensors, vehicle performance indicators, and variable throttles assigned to vehicle systems. It may include processor-based power distribution circuits capable of controlling functions associated with the vehicle body, such as lights, windows, security, camera(s), fans, headlights, audio system(s), speakers, windshield wipers, door locks and access control, mirrors, various comfort controls, body panels, and the like. The BCM 220 can also operate as a gateway for bus and network interfaces to communicate with remote ECUs (in Fig. (2 not shown) to interact. In some aspects, the BCM 220 can be configured to set the operating states of one or more vehicle components when an automation mode is activated / executed in the vehicle 102 based on inputs or command signals obtained from the user device 202, the radio key, the processor 216, the unit 212 and / or the like.

[0048] The DAT 228 controller can provide Level 1 to Level 3 automated driving and driver assistance functionality, which may include, for example, active parking assistance, reverse parking assistance, and adaptive cruise control, among other features. The DAT 228 controller can also provide aspects of user and environmental input that can be used for user authentication.

[0049] In some aspects, the vehicle computer 208 can connect to the MMS 106 or an infotainment system 106 (hereinafter referred to as the infotainment system 106). The infotainment system 106 may include a touchscreen interface section and may include voice recognition features and biometric identification capabilities that can identify users based on facial recognition, voice recognition, fingerprint identification, or other biological identification methods. In other aspects, the infotainment system 106 may also be configured to receive user instructions / inputs via the touchscreen interface section and / or display notifications / recommendations, navigation maps, etc., on the touchscreen interface section.

[0050] In the computer system architecture of the vehicle computer 208, the VCU 210 and / or the unit 212, certain computing modules may be omitted. It goes without saying that the in Fig. The computing environment shown in Figure 2 is an example of a possible implementation according to the present disclosure and should therefore not be considered restrictive or exclusive.

[0051] In accordance with certain aspects, the unit 212 can be integrated into the ECUs 214 and / or implemented as part of them. Regardless of whether it is integrated into the vehicle computer 208 or the ECUs 214, or operated as an independent computing system in the vehicle 102, the unit 212 can include a transceiver 238, a processor 240, and a computer-readable memory 242.

[0052] The transceiver 238 can be configured to receive information / inputs from one or more external devices or systems, such as the user device 202, the server(s) 204, and / or the like, via the network 206. For example, the transceiver 238 can receive the assignment and operating status information described above from the user device 202 and / or the server 204 via the network 206. As another example, the transceiver 238 can receive trigger signals or requests from the user device 202, the VCU 210, the infotainment system 106, and / or the like to activate and deactivate one or more automation modes assigned to the vehicle 102. Furthermore, the transceiver 238 can transmit notifications (e.g., warning / alarm signals) to the external devices or systems.Additionally, the transceiver 238 can be configured to receive information / inputs from components of the vehicle 102, such as the infotainment system 106, the vehicle sensor system 232, the TCU 226, and / or the like. Furthermore, the transceiver 238 can transmit notifications (e.g., warning / alarm / command signals) to the components of the vehicle 102, such as the infotainment system 106, the BCM 220, etc.

[0053] The processor 240 and the memory 242 may be identical or similar to the processor 216 and the memory 218, respectively. In some aspects, the processor 240 may use the memory 242 to store programs as code and / or data for performing aspects in accordance with the disclosure. The memory 242 may be a non-transient, computer-readable storage medium or a memory in which the program code for vehicle automation modes is stored. In some aspects, the memory 242 may be configured to store the allocation and operating state information described above, which the vehicle 102 obtains from the server 204, the user device 202, and / or the like.In additional or alternative aspects, the vehicle 102 (and thus the memory 242) can obtain the assignment and operating status information directly from the user 104 and / or the vehicle manufacturer via the infotainment system 106.

[0054] If the user 104 wishes to execute two or more automation modes simultaneously in the vehicle 102, the user 104 can transmit the request for the multi-automation mode to the transceiver 238 via the user device 202 or the infotainment system 106, as described above in conjunction with Fig. As described in section 1, the transceiver 238 can transmit the request for multi-automation mode to the processor 240. In response to receiving the multi-automation mode request, the processor 240 can enable the vehicle 102 to execute multiple automation modes simultaneously, or enable / activate a "multi-automation mode" in the vehicle 102. When the multi-automation mode is activated, the vehicle 102 can execute a new automation mode "in addition" to a previous automation mode, so that both automation modes are executed / running simultaneously in the vehicle 102.

[0055] In response to the activation of the multi-automation mode in vehicle 102, user 104 can transmit trigger signals or requests to simultaneously activate / execute one or more automation modes in vehicle 102 to transceiver 238 via user device 202 or infotainment system 106 (or the VCU 210 can transmit the trigger signals to transceiver 238). In some aspects, user 104 can transmit all trigger signals / requests to transceiver 238 together or at the same time. In other aspects, user 104 can transmit the trigger signals / requests sequentially (i.e., one after the other) to transceiver 238. As an example, user 104 can send an initial trigger signal, which is a request to activate a first automation mode (in Fig. The first three trigger signals (shown as mode “A”) in vehicle 102, a second trigger signal (shown as mode “B”), a third trigger signal (shown as mode “C”), and so on, are transmitted to transceiver 238, either all at once or sequentially. Transceiver 238 can then transmit the received first, second, and third trigger signals to processor 240.

[0056] Processor 240 can receive the first, second, and third trigger signals from transceiver 238. In response to receiving these signals, processor 240 can retrieve the assignment and operating state information from memory 242.Based on the retrieved assignment, the Processor 240 can then determine a first set of vehicle components assigned to the first automation mode (mode "A"), whose operating state should be set when the first automation mode is switched on / executed; a second set of vehicle components assigned to the second automation mode (mode "B"), whose operating state should be set when the second automation mode is switched on / executed; and a third set of vehicle components assigned to the third automation mode (mode "C"), whose operating state should be set when the third automation mode is switched on / executed.As an example, the processor 240 can determine, based on the assignment, that the operating states of the windows 302 and the mirror 304 (which can be examples of the first set of vehicle components) should be set when mode “A” is switched on / executed, the operating states of the vehicle locks 306 and the lighting 308 (which can be examples of the second set of vehicle components) should be set when mode “B” is switched on / executed, and the operating states of the windows 302 and the lighting 308 (which can be examples of the third set of vehicle components) should be set when mode “C” is switched on / executed, as in . Fig. 3 shown.

[0057] The processor 240 can further determine, based on the retrieved operating state information, first optimal operating states in which the first set of vehicle components should operate when the first automation mode is switched on / activated, second optimal operating states in which the second set of vehicle components should operate when the second automation mode is switched on / activated, and third optimal operating states in which the third set of vehicle components should operate when the third automation mode is switched on / activated. For example, based on the operating state information, the processor 240 can determine that the windows 302 should be set to a predefined position (shown as a block 310) and that the mirrors 304 should be folded in (shown as a block 312).Blocks 310 and 312 may be examples of the first optimal operating states), when mode “A” is switched on / activated, the shutter 306 or the window in the upper section should be opened (shown as block 314) and the illumination 308 should be deactivated (shown as block 316; blocks 314 and 316 may be examples of the second optimal operating states), when mode “B” is switched on / activated, and the position of the window 302 should be changed (shown by a block 318) and the illumination 308 should be activated (shown as block 320; blocks 318 and 320 may be examples of the third optimal operating states), when mode “C” is switched on / activated, as in ; Fig. 3 shown.

[0058] In response to the determination of the first, second, and third sets of vehicle components and / or the associated first, second, and third optimal operating modes, as described above, the processor 240 can determine whether any vehicle component is common to the first, second, and third sets of vehicle components. If the processor 240 determines that no vehicle component is common to the first, second, and third sets of vehicle components, the processor 240 can, via the BCM 220, cause the first, second, and third sets of vehicle components to operate in their respective first, second, and third optimal operating modes. For example, as described in Fig. Figure 3 shows no vehicle component that is common to the vehicle components assigned to mode “A” (i.e., windows 302 and mirrors 304) and the vehicle components assigned to mode “B” (i.e., shutter 306 and lighting 308). In this case, the processor 240 can cause windows 302 and mirrors 304 to operate based on their respective optimal operating modes assigned to mode “A”, and shutter 306 and lighting 308 to operate based on their respective optimal operating modes assigned to mode “B”.

[0059] If, however, the processor 240 determines in some aspects that one or more vehicle components may be common to the first, second, and / or third set of vehicle components, the processor 240 can determine a priority order for activating the first, second, and third automation modes. Alternatively, the processor 240 can determine the priority order for activating the first, second, and third automation modes when it receives the first, second, and third trigger signals, regardless of whether any vehicle component is common to the first, second, and third set of vehicle components.

[0060] The priority order can define the "importance" or "priority" of one automation mode over another. In some aspects, the priority order assigned to the first, second, and third automation modes can be based on the sequence in which processor 240 receives its assigned first, second, and third trigger signals. In one exemplary aspect, the automation mode whose trigger signal is received later has a higher priority than the automation modes whose trigger signals were received earlier or in the past. For example, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, mode "B" has a higher priority than mode "A" because the trigger signal associated with mode "B" is received later than the trigger signal associated with mode "A". Similarly, mode "C" has a higher priority than mode "B" because the trigger signal associated with mode "C" is received later than the trigger signal associated with mode "B". The example described above can be associated with a scenario in which user 104 transmits the trigger signals (e.g., the first, second, and third trigger signals) to vehicle 102 in a sequential manner (i.e., one after the other).

[0061] In other aspects, the priority order assigned to the first, second, and third automation modes can be based on user preferences or input obtained from user 104. For example, if user 104 creates a list / stack of automation modes to be executed simultaneously on the user device 202 or the infotainment system 106, and / or transmits the first, second, and third trigger signals to the vehicle 102 simultaneously / together, user 104 can additionally transmit user preferences or input assigned to the priority order in which user 104 wishes the automation modes to be executed.For example, while creating the stack of automation modes on the user device 202 or the infotainment system 106, user 104 can provide input indicating that mode "C" should have a higher priority than mode "B," and mode "B" should have a higher priority than mode "A." User 104 can also modify or update the priority order at any time on the user device 202 or the infotainment system 106 while the automation modes are potentially running in the vehicle 102. When the priority order is updated or modified, the vehicle 102 / processor 240 can "reapply" all automation modes running in the vehicle 102 according to the modified or updated priority order of the automation modes.As an example, user 104 can update the priority order, which specifies which automation mode can “override” others and be “expressed” in the modified or updated priority order.

[0062] In response to the determination of the priority order, as described above, the processor 240 can determine, based on the priority order, that mode "C" has a higher priority than mode "B" and mode "B" has a higher priority than mode "A". In response to such a determination, the processor 240 can cause the vehicle components common to the second and third sets of vehicle components (i.e., vehicle components common to modes "C" and "B") to operate in the third optimal operating mode (i.e., the operating mode associated with mode "C"), while simultaneously causing the remaining vehicle components in the second set of vehicle components to operate in the second optimal operating mode (i.e., the operating mode associated with mode "B").Likewise, the processor 240 can cause the vehicle components that are common to the first and second sets of vehicle components (i.e., common to modes "B" and "A") to operate in the second optimal operating mode (i.e., the operating mode associated with mode "B"), while simultaneously operating the remaining vehicle components in the first set of vehicle components in the first optimal operating mode (i.e., the operating mode associated with mode "A").

[0063] In this way, if the vehicle components share two automation modes that the user 104 wishes to activate / execute simultaneously, processor 240 sets the operating state of the "shared" vehicle components based on the automation mode with the higher priority. As an example, as described in Fig. Figure 3 shows that processor 240 changes the window position (shown by block 318) from the previously set position (shown by block 310) when mode "C" is executed, because the priority assigned to mode "C" is higher than that of mode "A". Similarly, processor 240 activates the lighting 308 (shown by block 320) when mode "C" is executed, from its previous state in which it was deactivated (shown by block 316), because the priority assigned to mode "C" is higher than that of mode "B".

[0064] In other aspects, before any change is made to the operating states associated with the first, second, and third sets of vehicle components described above, the processor 240 can determine their pre-automation operating states based on inputs received from the VCU 210. In some aspects, the processor 240 can determine the pre-automation operating states associated with the first, second, and / or third sets of vehicle components in response to receiving the first, second, and / or third trigger signal from the user 104. In one exemplary aspect, the pre-automation operating states can be the current operating states associated with the first, second, and third sets of vehicle components before the processor 240 causes the first, second, and third sets of vehicle components to be in their respective optimal operating states (e.g.,the first, second, and third optimal operating states). In additional or alternative aspects, the operating states prior to automation can be the operating states assigned to the vehicle components before an automation mode was executed in vehicle 102 (e.g., before the first automation mode / mode "A" was switched on in vehicle 102).

[0065] In response to the determination of the pre-automation operating states associated with the first, second, and / or third set of vehicle components, as described above, the processor 240 can store information associated with the pre-automation operating states in memory 242. The processor 240 can use the information associated with the pre-automation operating states when the user 104 wishes to disable or turn off one or more automation modes, as described below.

[0066] If the user 104 wishes to disable or turn off all automation modes running in the vehicle 102 (e.g., the first, second, and third automation modes, or modes "A," "B," and "C"), the user 104 can transmit a fourth trigger signal, associated with a shutdown request for the vehicle automation mode, to the transceiver 238 via the user device 202 or the infotainment system 106. The transceiver 238 can transmit the fourth trigger signal to the processor 240. The processor 240 can receive the fourth trigger signal and retrieve the information associated with the operating states prior to automation from memory 242 in response to receiving the fourth trigger signal.The processor 240 can then, via the BCM 220, restore the operating states assigned to the first, second and third set of vehicle components to their respective pre-automation operating states (when no automation was performed in the vehicle 102), based on the retrieved information assigned to the pre-automation operating states.

[0067] For example, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, in response to receiving the fourth trigger signal or shutdown request for vehicle automation mode (shown as Restore block 322), the processor 240 restores the operating states associated with the windows 302, the shutters 306 (or the window in the upper section) and the mirrors 304 to their respective operating states prior to automation (as shown by blocks 324, 326 and 328).

[0068] In other aspects, the vehicle 102 can allow the user 104 to cause one or more vehicle components to continue operating in their existing operating modes, even when the vehicle automation mode is switched off. In this case, the user 104 can transmit an input to the transceiver 238 via the user device 202 or the infotainment system 106, specifying the vehicle component whose operating mode should not be changed when the vehicle automation mode is switched off or when the processor 240 receives the fourth trigger signal. The transceiver 238 can transmit the input to the processor 240, which can cause the specified vehicle component to continue operating in its existing operating state, even after the vehicle automation mode has been switched off. For example, by a block 330 in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the processor 240 may not change the operating state assigned to the lighting 308 if the user 104 specifies in the input that the lighting state should be kept in its existing operating state even after the vehicle automation mode has been turned off.

[0069] In some aspects, the "input," as described above, can be part of the vehicle's or automation mode's settings / configuration and can be provided by user 104 before the automation in vehicle 102 runs or is executed. In other words, user 104 is not required to provide the input described above when the automation runs, but can alternatively or additionally provide the input when vehicle 102 or the automation modes are being configured. In additional or alternative aspects, user 104 can also specify that the objects / vehicle components with which user 104 interacts during automation should be marked in this way, without this needing to be explicitly done.

[0070] In additional or alternative aspects, the input transmitted by user 104 can specify a default operating state of one or more vehicle components from the first, second, and / or third set of vehicle components. The default operating state can specify an operating state of a vehicle component that is desired by user 104 when the vehicle automation mode is deactivated. For example, user 104 can specify in the input that the lighting 308 should always be activated (i.e., its default operating state) when the vehicle automation mode is deactivated.In this case, in response to receiving input from user 104, processor 240 can cause the vehicle component(s) specified by user 104 to operate in their standard operating state when processor 240 switches off vehicle automation mode or when processor 240 receives the fourth trigger signal.

[0071] In other aspects, the vehicle 102 can allow the user 104 to manually set or change the operating states of one or more vehicle components from the first, second, and / or third set of vehicle components via the user device 202 or the infotainment system 106, when these vehicle components may be operating in their respective optimal operating states. In other words, the vehicle 102 can allow the user 104 to manually set or change the operating states of one or more vehicle components from the first, second, and / or third set of vehicle components when the first, second, and / or third automation mode (e.g., modes "A", "B", and / or "C") may be running in the vehicle 102.In this case, the user 104 can transmit user inputs, which are assigned to preferred operating states of one or more vehicle components from the first, second, and / or third set of vehicle components, to the transceiver 238 via the user device 202 or the infotainment system 106, if the first, second, and / or third automation mode is possibly running in the vehicle 102. The transceiver 238 can transmit the user inputs to the processor 240, which can cause the vehicle components to operate in their respective preferred operating states in response to receiving the user inputs.

[0072] For example, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the user 104 transmits / provides user inputs (shown as a user override block 402) to the transceiver 238 / processor 240, specifying the preferred operating states associated with the windows 302 and the lighting 308 when the first and second automation modes (e.g., modes "A" and "B") are running in the vehicle 102. In response to receiving the user inputs / override 402, the processor 240 can, based on the preferred operating states associated with these vehicle components as specified in the user inputs, effect a change in the operating state of the window (shown as block 404) and activate the lighting 308 (shown as block 406).

[0073] Furthermore, in this case, when processor 240 receives the fourth trigger signal or shutdown request for vehicle automation mode from user 104, it cannot cause these vehicle components (e.g., the windows 302 and the lighting 308) to "return" to or be reset to their respective operating states prior to automation. Instead, processor 240 can cause these vehicle components to continue operating in their preferred operating states, even after the fourth trigger signal has been received, as defined by blocks 408 and 410 in Fig. Figure 4 shows that in this way, when the processor 240 receives the fourth trigger signal and restores the operating states assigned to the vehicle components, it gives preference / priority to the user-preferred operating states of vehicle components over their operating states prior to automation.

[0074] In yet another aspect, the vehicle 102 can allow the user 104 to disable or turn off one or more automation modes from a list of automation modes running / executing in the vehicle 102, while allowing the remaining automation modes to continue running. For example, if the first, second, and third automation modes (e.g., modes "A," "B," and "C") are possibly running in the vehicle 102, the user 104 can disable or turn off one automation mode (e.g., mode "B") while keeping the remaining automation modes (e.g., modes "A" and "C") in their enabled states. An exemplary illustration of this aspect is shown in Fig. 5 shown.

[0075] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, when mode "A" is enabled, processor 240 can adjust the window position (shown as block 310), fold in the mirrors 304 (shown as block 312), and disable the lighting 308 (shown as block 502). When mode "B" is enabled, processor 240 can open window 306 in the upper section (shown as block 314) and enable lighting 308 (shown as block 504). Because the priority assigned to mode "B" is higher than that of mode "A," processor 240 can change the operating state assigned to lighting 308 from the disabled state to the enabled state in response to the activation / execution of mode "B," as shown in Figure 5. Fig. 5 shown. Furthermore, when mode “C” is executed, processor 240 can change the window state (shown as block 318) from the state shown in block 310, because the priority assigned to mode “C” is higher than that of mode “A”.

[0076] If, in this configuration, the user 104 wishes to disable an automation mode (e.g., mode "B") when modes "A", "B", and "C" may be running in the vehicle 102, the user 104 can transmit the shutdown request to disable mode "B" to the transceiver 238 via the user device 202 or the infotainment system 106. In other words, the user 104 can transmit the shutdown request to disable mode "B" to the transceiver 238 when the first, second, and third sets of vehicle components may be operating in their respective optimal operating modes.

[0077] In response to receiving the shutdown request, the transceiver 238 can transmit the shutdown request to the processor 240, which can restore the operating states of the vehicle components assigned to mode "B" (e.g., the second set of vehicle components) to their respective operating states prior to automation or to their respective operating states prior to mode "B" being activated. For example, as shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, in response to receiving the shutdown request for mode "B" (shown as Block B Undo 506), processor 240 restores the operating state of the window in the upper section to its operating state 508 prior to automation (when no automation mode was running / executing in vehicle 102), since the operating state of the window in the upper section is not defined in mode "A". Furthermore, processor 240 can reset the operating state associated with the light 308 to its operating state in mode "A" (shown as Block Retain Light Configuration A 510), since the operating state associated with the light 308 is defined in mode "A".

[0078] An average person skilled in the art can understand from the foregoing description that the processor 240 thus causes the vehicle components whose automation mode is switched off to be reset to their respective operating states associated with the automation mode that has a lower priority (or a predecessor automation mode, if available), or to their original operating states prior to automation.

[0079] Furthermore, in this case, the 240 processor may not change the operating states assigned to vehicle components that are not assigned to the deactivated automation mode (e.g., mode "B"). As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, in response to receiving the shutdown request to turn off mode “B”, the processor 240 may, for example, not change or retain operating states associated with windows 302 and mirrors 304 (shown as blocks 512 and 514), since these vehicle components are not associated with or assigned to the turned-off mode “B”.

[0080] In addition to setting the operating states of the vehicle components associated with the deactivated mode "B" as described above, the processor 240 can, in further respects, in response to receiving the shutdown request, store priority information in memory 242 that is associated with a priority position of deactivated mode "B" in the priority order of switching on the first, second, and third automation modes (e.g., modes "A", "B", and "C"). For example, the processor 240 can store information indicating that the priority associated with deactivated mode "B" is higher than mode "A" but lower than mode "C". The processor 240 can use this stored information when the user 104 reactivates mode "B", as described below and by a block 516 in Fig. 5 shown.

[0081] The vehicle 102 can further enable the user 104 to reactivate an automation mode that the user 104 previously deactivated (e.g., mode "B") if the remaining automation modes (e.g., modes "A" and "C") may still be running / executing in the vehicle 102. In this case, the user 104 can transmit a request to reactivate mode "B" (or a reactivation request, shown by block 516) to the transceiver 238 via the user device 202 or the infotainment system 106 if the user 104 wishes to reactivate mode "B" and if modes "A" and "C" may still be running / executing in the vehicle 102.The transceiver 238 can transmit the reconnection request to the processor 240, which, in response to receiving the reconnection request, can determine the priority position assigned to mode "B" in the priority sequence based on the priority information stored in memory 242. The processor 240 can further set the operating states of the vehicle components assigned to mode "B" based on the priority position. In particular, although the reconnection request assigned to mode "B" is received after the reconnection request for mode "C", the processor 240 cannot treat mode "B" as the automation mode with the highest priority over mode "C" because mode "B" had a lower priority than mode "C" in the original priority sequence.Therefore, in this case, the processor 240 can set the operating modes assigned to the window in the upper section 306 and the lighting 308 (e.g., the second set of vehicle components) based on the original priority order of mode B, thus preventing any inconvenience to the user 104.

[0082] For example, in this case, if mode "B" is reactivated, the processor 240 can maintain the position of window 302 according to mode "C" (as defined by block 512 in Fig. (as shown in Figure 5), since the priority of mode "C" is greater than that of mode "B" (and also the windows 302 are not assigned to mode "B"). Furthermore, processor 240 can open window 306 in the upper section according to mode "B", as shown by block 314. Processor 240 can also maintain the position of mirrors 304 according to mode "A", as shown by block 514. Processor 240 can also activate lighting 308 according to mode "B" (as shown by block 504), since the priority of mode "B" is higher than that of mode "A".

[0083] An average professional can see from the above description that the purpose of saving the priority information / list is that, without it, Mode "B" would not behave as expected (i.e., as it behaved the first time) if it were paused / turned off and then resumed / re-enabled. Saving the priority information / list prevents any inconvenience to User 104.

[0084] Although the foregoing description describes one aspect in which the transceiver 238 / processor 240 receives the trigger signals for turning automation modes on or off from the user 104 via the user device 202 or the infotainment system 106, the present disclosure is not limited to such an aspect. In some aspects, the transceiver 238 / processor 240 can receive a trigger signal for turning an automation mode on or off from the VCU 210 based on settings or inputs provided by the user 104. For example, if the user 104, as described above in connection with Fig. As described in section 1, preferably, the "Cool Comfort Mode" is automatically executed in the vehicle 102 when the vehicle's speed falls below 5 mph. The VCU 210 can generate a trigger signal when the vehicle's speed falls below 5 mph. In this case, the processor 240 can receive the trigger signal from the VCU 210 and, in response to receiving the trigger signal from the VCU 210, automatically activate the "Cool Comfort Mode" when the vehicle's speed falls below 5 mph.

[0085] Fig. Figure 6 shows a flowchart of an exemplary first method 600 for controlling the operation of a vehicle component according to the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 6 may be described with continued reference to previous figures. The following process is exemplary and is not limited to the steps described below. Moreover, alternative embodiments may include more or fewer steps than shown or described in this document, and these steps may be in a sequence that differs from the sequence described in the following exemplary embodiments.

[0086] Procedure 600 begins at step 602. At step 604, procedure 600 may involve processor 240 obtaining a trigger signal to activate an automation mode (e.g., mode "B"). At step 606, procedure 600 may involve processor 240 determining whether an automation mode (e.g., modes "A" and / or "C") is already running in vehicle 102. In response to the determination at step 606 that no automation mode is currently running in vehicle 102, processor 240 may, at step 608, store the information associated with the pre-automation operating modes of the vehicle components assigned to mode "B," and at step 610, add mode "B" to the end of an automation mode list. In some aspects, the automation mode at the end of the automation mode list has the highest priority.

[0087] At step 612, the procedure 600 can be executed by processor 240 in mode "B". At step 614, the procedure 600 can end.

[0088] In contrast, in response to the determination in step 606 that one or more automation modes (e.g., modes "A" and / or "C") may already be running in vehicle 102, processor 240 can determine in step 616 whether mode "B" has already run. In response to the determination in step 616 that mode "B" has already run, processor 240 can move mode "B" to its previous priority position in the priority sequence in step 618 and then execute mode "B" in step 612. In contrast, in response to the determination in step 616 that mode "B" has not already run, procedure 600 can proceed to step 610 as described above.

[0089] Fig. Figure 7 shows a flowchart of an exemplary second method 700 for controlling the operation of a vehicle component according to the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 7 can be described with continued reference to previous figures. The following process is exemplary and is not limited to the steps described below. Moreover, alternative embodiments may include more or fewer steps than are shown or described in this document, and these steps may be performed in a sequence that differs from the sequence described in the following exemplary embodiments.

[0090] Procedure 700 begins at step 702. At step 704, procedure 700 may involve processor 240 obtaining an automation mode shutdown request to disable one or more automation modes that may be running in vehicle 102. At step 706, procedure 700 may involve processor 240 storing the priority position(s) in the priority order of the automation mode(s) to be disabled in memory 242 and removing the automation mode(s) from the automation mode list.

[0091] At step 708, procedure 700 may include determining, for each vehicle component associated with the automation mode(s) to be disabled, whether user 104 has modified the operating state. In response to the determination at step 708 that user 104 has modified the operating state, processor 240 may not change its operating state at step 710. At step 712, procedure 700 may end.

[0092] In response to the determination in step 708 that user 104 has not modified the operating state, processor 240 can determine in step 714 whether a default operating state exists for the vehicle component. In response to the determination in step 714 that a default operating state exists for the vehicle component, processor 240 can reset the operating state associated with the vehicle component to its default operating state in step 716. After step 716, procedure 700 proceeds to step 712.

[0093] In response to the determination in step 714 that no standard operating state exists for the vehicle component, processor 240 can, in step 718, reset the operating state assigned to the vehicle component to its pre-automation state. After step 718, procedure 700 proceeds to step 712, where procedure 700 terminates.

[0094] Fig. Figure 8 shows a flowchart of an exemplary third method 800 for controlling the operation of a vehicle component according to the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 8 can be described with continued reference to previous figures. The following process is exemplary and is not limited to the steps described below. Moreover, alternative embodiments may include more or fewer steps than shown or described in this document, and these steps may be performed in a sequence that differs from the sequence described in the following exemplary embodiments.

[0095] Procedure 800 begins at step 802. At step 804, procedure 800 may involve, by processor 240, obtaining an automation mode shutdown request from the vehicle to shut down all automation modes running / executing in the vehicle 102. At step 806, procedure 800 may involve, by processor 240, deleting priority sequence information or priority position information associated with the priority sequence for all automation modes from memory 242.

[0096] In step 808, procedure 800 may involve processor 240 removing all automation modes from the automation mode list. In step 810, procedure 800 may involve processor 240 causing one or more vehicle components assigned to automation modes with default (or user-preferred) operating states to operate in their respective default (or user-preferred) operating states. In step 812, procedure 800 may involve processor 240 causing the remaining vehicle components assigned to automation modes to operate in their respective pre-automation operating states.

[0097] At step 814, the procedure 800 can end.

[0098] Fig. Figure 9 shows a flowchart of an exemplary fourth method 900 for controlling the operation of a vehicle component according to the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 9 can be described with continued reference to the preceding figures. The following process is exemplary and is not limited to the steps described below. Moreover, alternative embodiments may include more or fewer steps than are shown or described in this document, and these steps may be performed in a sequence that differs from the sequence described in the following exemplary embodiments.

[0099] Procedure 900 begins at step 902. At step 904, procedure 900 may involve processor 240 receiving a trigger signal to activate one or more automation modes. At step 906, procedure 900 may involve processor 240 executing automation modes based on their respective priority positions. While executing the automation modes for each vehicle component assigned to the automation modes, processor 240 may determine at step 908 whether the vehicle component has already been configured.

[0100] As a result of the determination in step 908 that the vehicle component has already been configured, processor 240 cannot further modify the operating state associated with the vehicle component in step 910. Procedure 900 can end in step 912.

[0101] In response to the determination in step 908 that the vehicle component has not already been set, processor 240 can update the operating state associated with the vehicle component in step 914 based on its respective automation mode or default state. In step 916, procedure 900, initiated by processor 240, can include marking the vehicle component as set. After step 916, procedure 900 can proceed to step 912, where it can terminate.

[0102] The preceding disclosure refers to the accompanying drawings, which form part thereof and illustrate specific implementations in which the present disclosure can be practically implemented. It is understood that other implementations may be used and structural modifications made without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure. References in the description to "an embodiment," "an exemplary embodiment," etc., indicate that the described embodiment may include a specific feature, structure, or property, but not every embodiment necessarily includes that specific feature, structure, or property. Furthermore, such formulations do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment.Furthermore, if a feature, structure or property is described in connection with an embodiment, the person skilled in the art will recognize such a feature, structure or property in connection with other embodiments, whether this is expressly described or not.

[0103] Furthermore, the functions described in this document may be performed in one or more hardware, software, firmware, digital components, or analog components. For example, one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) may be programmed to execute one or more of the systems and procedures described in this document. Certain terms are used throughout the description, and patent claims refer to specific system components. It is obvious to those skilled in the art that the components may be designated by other names. This document does not distinguish between components that differ in name but not in function.

[0104] It is also understood that the word "example," as used in this document, is not intended to be exclusive or restrictive. In particular, the word "example" in this context indicates one of several examples, and it is understood that no undue emphasis or preference is placed on the specific example described.

[0105] A computer-readable medium (also called a processor-readable medium) includes any non-transient (e.g., physical) medium involved in providing data (e.g., instructions) that can be read by a computer (e.g., by a computer's processor). Such a medium can take many forms, including, without limitation, non-volatile and volatile media. Computing devices can contain computer-executable instructions, the instructions being executable by one or more computing devices, such as those listed above, and being stored on a computer-readable medium.

[0106] With regard to the processes, systems, procedures, heuristics, etc., described in this document, it is understood that although the steps of such processes, etc., have been described as occurring according to a specific, ordered sequence, such processes could be implemented in practice, with the described steps being carried out in a sequence that differs from the sequence described in this document. Furthermore, it is understood that certain steps could be carried out simultaneously, that other steps could be added, or that certain steps described herein could be omitted. In other words, the descriptions of processes in this document serve the purpose of illustrating various embodiments and should in no way be interpreted as limiting the patent claims.

[0107] Accordingly, it is understood that the foregoing description is intended to be illustrative and not limiting. Many other embodiments and applications beyond the examples provided will become apparent from reading the preceding description. The scope should not be determined by reference to the foregoing description, but instead by reference to the attached claims, together with the full scope of equivalents to which these claims entitle. It is anticipated and intended that there will be future developments in the prior art discussed in this document and that the disclosed systems and methods will be incorporated into such future embodiments. Overall, it is understood that the application may be modified and varied.

[0108] All terms used in the patent claims shall have their general meanings as known to a person skilled in the art in the field of the technologies described herein, unless expressly stated otherwise herein. In particular, the use of singular articles such as "a," "an," "the," "a," "a," etc., shall be understood to mean that one or more of the specified elements are named, unless a patent claim expressly limits this to the contrary. Formulations expressing conditional relationships, such as "may," "could," "may," or "could," are generally intended to convey that certain embodiments may include certain features, elements, and / or steps, whereas other embodiments may not include them, unless specifically stated otherwise or the context makes it clear otherwise.Therefore, such formulations, which express conditional relationships, should generally not imply that features, elements and / or steps are required in any way for one or more embodiments.

[0109] According to one embodiment, the processor is further configured to: receive a request to reactivate the first automation mode after receiving the shutdown request when the second set of vehicle components is operating in the second optimal operating states; determine the priority position of the first automation mode in the priority order based on the priority information in response to receiving the request to reactivate the first automation mode; and set operating states associated with the first set of vehicle components based on the priority position.

[0110] According to one embodiment, the transceiver receives the trigger signals from a user device, a human-machine interface (MMS) of the vehicle, or a vehicle control unit.

[0111] According to the present invention, a method comprises: obtaining, by a processor, a first trigger signal associated with a request to activate a first automation mode, and a second trigger signal associated with a request to activate a second automation mode; determining, by the processor, first optimal operating states for a first set of vehicle components associated with the first automation mode, and second optimal operating states for a second set of vehicle components associated with the second automation mode, in response to the acquisition of the first trigger signal and the second trigger signal;and cause, through the processor, the first set of vehicle components to operate in the first optimal operating states and the second set of vehicle components to operate simultaneously in the second optimal operating states, if no vehicle component is common to the first set of vehicle components and the second set of vehicle components.

[0112] In one aspect of the invention, the method includes the following: determining that one or more first vehicle components are common to the first set of vehicle components and the second set of vehicle components; determining a priority order for switching on the first automation mode and the second automation mode in response to determining that the one or more first vehicle components are common to the first set of vehicle components and the second set of vehicle components; and determining, based on the priority order, that the second automation mode has a higher priority for switching on than the first automation mode.and cause one or more of the first vehicle components to operate in the second optimal operating states, and cause the remaining vehicle components of the first set of vehicle components to operate simultaneously in the first optimal operating states, in response to determining that the second automation mode has the higher priority.

[0113] According to the present invention, a non-transitory, computer-readable storage medium is provided on which instructions are stored which, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to: obtain a first trigger signal associated with a request to activate a first automation mode, and a second trigger signal associated with a request to activate a second automation mode; determine first optimal operating states for a first set of vehicle components associated with the first automation mode, and second optimal operating states for a second set of vehicle components associated with the second automation mode, in response to the acquisition of the first and second trigger signals;and cause the first set of vehicle components to operate in the first optimal operating conditions and the second set of vehicle components to operate simultaneously in the second optimal operating conditions, if no vehicle component is common to the first set of vehicle components and the second set of vehicle components.

Claims

[1] Vehicle, comprising: a transceiver configured to receive trigger signals associated with switching on and off a variety of automation modes assigned to the vehicle; and a processor configured to do the following: Obtaining a first trigger signal associated with a request to activate a first automation mode, and a second trigger signal associated with a request to activate a second automation mode; Determining first optimal operating states for a first set of vehicle components assigned to the first automation mode, and second optimal operating states for a second set of vehicle components assigned to the second automation mode, in response to receiving the first and second trigger signals; and To cause the first set of vehicle components to operate in the first optimal operating conditions and the second set of vehicle components to operate simultaneously in the second optimal operating conditions, if no vehicle component is common to the first set of vehicle components and the second set of vehicle components. [2] Vehicle according to claim 1, further comprising a memory configured to store the following: an allocation of a multitude of sets of vehicle components, which must be configured with the multitude of automation modes; and Operating state information that is assigned to an optimal operating state of each vehicle component of the multitude of sets of vehicle components for each automation mode of the multitude of automation modes. [3] Vehicle according to claim 2, wherein the processor is further configured as follows: Retrieving the assignment and operating state information from memory in response to receiving the first and second trigger signals; Determining the first set of vehicle components and the second set of vehicle components based on the assignment; and Determining the first optimal operating states associated with the first set of vehicle components and the second optimal operating states associated with the second set of vehicle components, based on the operating state information. [4] Vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured as follows: Determine that one or more first vehicle components are common to the first set of vehicle components and the second set of vehicle components; and Determining a priority order for turning on the first automation mode and the second automation mode in response to determining that one or more first vehicle components are common to the first set of vehicle components and the second set of vehicle components. [5] Vehicle according to claim 4, wherein the processor is further configured as follows: Determine, based on the priority order, that the second automation mode has a higher priority for power-on than the first automation mode; and Causing one or more of the first vehicle components to operate in the second optimal operating states, and causing the remaining vehicle components of the first set of vehicle components to operate simultaneously in the first optimal operating states, in response to determining that the second automation mode has the higher priority. [6] Vehicle according to claim 4, wherein the priority order is based on a sequence of obtaining the first trigger signal and the second trigger signal. [7] Vehicle according to claim 4, wherein the priority order is based on user preferences obtained from a vehicle user. [8] Vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to: Determining pre-automation operating states associated with at least one of the first set of vehicle components or the second set of vehicle components in response to receiving at least one of the first trigger signal or the second trigger signal, wherein the pre-automation operating states are current operating states of the first set of vehicle components and the second set of vehicle components before the first set of vehicle components and the second set of vehicle components are caused to operate in the first optimal operating states and the second optimal operating states, respectively; and Storing information associated with operating states prior to automation. [9] Vehicle according to claim 8, wherein the processor is further configured to obtain a third trigger signal associated with an automation mode shutdown request of the vehicle. [10] Vehicle according to claim 9, wherein the processor is further configured to: Retrieving the information associated with the operating states prior to automation in response to receiving the third trigger signal; and Restoring the operating states of the first set of vehicle components and the second set of vehicle components based on the information back to their respective operating states before automation in response to receiving the third trigger signal. [11] Vehicle according to claim 9, wherein the processor is further configured to: Obtaining inputs that are associated with a standard operating state of at least one vehicle component from at least one of the first set of vehicle components or the second set of vehicle components; and Causing at least one vehicle component to operate in the standard operating state in response to receiving the third trigger signal. [12] Vehicle according to claim 9, wherein the processor is further configured to: Obtaining user inputs that are assigned to preferred operating states of one or more second vehicle components of at least one of the first set of vehicle components or of the second set of vehicle components, when the first set of vehicle components is operated in the first optimal operating states or the second set of vehicle components is operated in the second optimal operating states; and Causing one or more secondary vehicle components to operate in the preferred operating states in response to user input. [13] Vehicle according to claim 12, wherein the processor is further configured to cause, in response to the acquisition of the third trigger signal, one or more second vehicle components to continue operating in the preferred operating states. [14] Vehicle according to claim 8, wherein the processor is further configured to: Obtaining a shutdown request to deactivate the first automation mode when the first set of vehicle components is operating in the first optimal operating states and the second set of vehicle components is operating in the second optimal operating states; and Restoring the operating states of the first set of vehicle components to their corresponding pre-automation operating states in response to receiving the shutdown request. [15] Vehicle according to claim 14, wherein the processor is further configured to store priority information associated with a priority position of the first automation mode in a priority order of switching on the first automation mode and the second automation mode in response to receiving the shutdown request.

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