VEHICLE COMMUNICATION SYSTEM WITH THE CAPABILITY TO INTERRUPT A COMMAND REQUEST AND TO SIGNAL AN INSPECTING VIA A WIRELESS COMMUNICATION CONNECTION

Abstract

A vehicle communication system (1) comprising: an on-board computer processor (3) communicating with a wireless transceiver (15), wherein the wireless transceiver (15) is capable of communicating with a wireless communication device (17) located remotely from the processor (3); at least one audio output (13) controllable by the processor (3); at least one input control communicating with the processor (3), configured as a touch-controlled input device; a microphone (29) communicating with the processor (3); wherein the processor (3) is capable of establishing a connection to a remote network (61) via the wireless communication device (17), and wherein the processor (3) is also configured to detect activation of the touch-controlled input device (301) and, in response, to initiate a voice session (303);characterized in that the processor (3) is also configured to proceed to the detection (309) of speech input via the microphone (29) in response to the detection of a reactivation (305) of the touch-controlled input device after the start of the speech session (303), without first providing session instructions with a playback of the voice-controlled menu (307), and to provide session instructions with a playback of the voice-controlled menu (307) in response to the detection (309) of speech input via the microphone (29) in response to the detection (309) of speech input via the microphone (29) after the start of the speech session (303), and to proceed to the detection (309) of speech input via the microphone (29) in response to the detection (309) of the touch-controlled input device after the start of the speech session (303).

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

[0001] The explanatory embodiments generally refer to a system and a method for interrupting a command request and signaling an impending input via a wireless communication link. BACKGROUND

[0002] Modern technology and cost-saving methodologies have led to the implementation of numerous electronic menus, replacing a telephone operator with a user-friendly interface. Many people have experienced this when calling, for example, a cable network operator, a credit card company, a telephone company, etc. Even when calling a company to purchase a product, these electronic menus are frequently used.

[0003] Electronic menus can also be used to provide a range of information services. In one case, a company called TELLME provides a call service where callers can request information on everything from weather and news to sports score updates.

[0004] The electronic menus used were primarily controlled by dual-tone multi-frequency (DTMF) signals. That is, a user was prompted to enter the number 1, 2, 3, etc. Entering a specific number activated a DTMF tone that corresponded to a specific menu selection.

[0005] As speech recognition technology improved, some electronic menus replaced tone controls with voice controls. That is, instead of typing a 1, the user says "one." Other options in voice-based menus allow the user to ask for specifically "named" options. For example, a user might call their bank and, instead of typing a 2 to verify information, they could say "verify information" when prompted.

[0006] Hybrid menus also exist, allowing a choice between number entry via a keyboard and voice input. These might be desirable, for example, if a user is entering a secure number in a public place and does not wish to disclose their social security number to bystanders.

[0007] It is often possible to interrupt the menu by pressing an Enter key or speaking a command prematurely. Menus that allow interruption simultaneously display information and listen for input. SUMMARY OF THE EXPLANATORY FORMATIONS

[0008] In one explanatory embodiment, a vehicle communication system includes a computer processor in communication with a wireless transceiver capable of communicating with a wireless communication device and located remotely from the processor.

[0009] The system also includes at least one output controllable by the processor. As a non-limiting example, this output could be the vehicle's speakers. Also included in the system is at least one input controller communicating with the processor. In this illustrative embodiment, this input is a touch-controlled input, such as a button mounted on the steering wheel. However, the input controller could be any suitable input.

[0010] The system also includes a microphone for communication with the processor. This microphone can be used, for example, to input verbal commands.

[0011] In this illustrative embodiment, the processor can connect to a remote network via the wireless communication device. The remote network can be a network that provides user services, and the processor can further provide the playback of a voice-controlled menu, which is queried by the remote network through the output.

[0012] If the user wishes to respond to a voice-controlled menu, for example to enter a menu selection, the user can activate the initial input control, and the processor can detect this activation. At this point, the processor can also stop menu playback and begin capturing microphone input.

[0013] In a second explanatory embodiment, an automated menu system includes permanent and / or non-permanent memory. Furthermore, a predetermined audio menu, providing selectable menu items, is stored in at least one permanent or non-permanent memory. The system also includes a processor communicating with the permanent and non-permanent memory to instruct the transmission of the predetermined menu via a communication link. This transmission can, for example, be to a vehicle-based communication system.

[0014] At any point, a user may wish to enter a verbal command and activate an input signaling this wish. Accordingly, the processor can recognize an interrupt command (such as one provided due to the input activation) received over the communication link.

[0015] Once the interrupt command is detected, the processor can stop transmitting the predetermined menu and begin receiving a menu item selection via the communication link.

[0016] In yet another explanatory embodiment, a method for processing a speech-interactive session includes providing instructions or information to be output. This could, for example, be a menu selectable via voice. While the information is being provided, an initial input can be detected.

[0017] In this explanatory embodiment, the recognition of the first input signals the desire to enter a verbal command. Therefore, the provisioning process ends after input recognition. At the same time, listening for a second input begins.

[0018] Usually, the second input corresponds to a menu item desired for selection. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] Other aspects and features of the explanatory embodiments will become apparent from the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments when read in relation to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0020] Fig. 1 shows an exemplary explanatory system usable for the implementation of the explanatory embodiments;

[0021] Fig. Figure 2 shows an exemplary explanatory remote system communicating with a voice menu system; and

[0022] Fig. Figure 3 shows an exemplary sequence of an exemplary explanatory query routine to determine when an impending speech input was signaled. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXPLANATORY EXECUTION FORMS

[0023] The present invention is described here in connection with specific exemplary embodiments. However, a person skilled in the art will recognize that modifications, extensions, and changes can be made to the disclosed exemplary embodiments without departing from the true scope and spirit of the direct invention. In short, the following descriptions are provided only by way of example, and the present invention is not limited to the specific exemplary embodiments disclosed herein.

[0024] Fig. Figure 1 illustrates the system architecture of an explanatory built-in communication system used for transmitting information from network to network. 61 It can be used as a passenger car. A vehicle equipped with a vehicle-based computer system. 31 It is equipped with a visual front-end interface. 4The interface is located within the vehicle. The user can also interact with it if, for example, it is equipped with a touchscreen. In another illustrative embodiment, interaction occurs through button presses, audible speech, and speech synthesis.

[0025] In the explanatory embodiment from Fig. 1 controls a processor 3 at least part of the operation of the vehicle-based computer system. Located inside the vehicle, the processor enables the onboard processing of instructions and programs. Furthermore, the processor is compatible with both non-permanent and non-permanent operation. 5 as well as permanent storage 7 connected. In this explanatory embodiment, the non-permanent memory is random access memory (RAM) and the permanent memory is a hard disk drive (HDD) or flash memory.

[0026] The processor is also equipped with a number of different inputs that allow the user to connect to the processor. In this illustrative embodiment, a microphone is used. 29 , an auxiliary entrance 25 (for entrance) 33 ), a USB input 23 , a GPS input 24 and a BLUETOOTH input 15 It also includes an input selector. 51 Designed to allow a user to switch between different inputs. Input to both the microphone and the auxiliary input is converted from analog to digital by a converter. 27 converted before being passed to the processor.

[0027] Outputs to the system can include a screen. 4 and a loudspeaker 13 or include a stereo system output, but are not limited to that. The speaker is equipped with an amplifier. 11connected and receives its signal from the processor 3 via a digital-to-analog converter 9 Output can also be sent to a remote Bluetooth device such as a PND. 54 or a USB device such as a car navigation system 60 along the bidirectional data streams, which are considered 19 or 21 are shown.

[0028] In one explanatory embodiment, the system uses 1 the BLUETOOTH transceiver 15 , in order to use a nomadic device 53 to communicate with a user (e.g. mobile phone, smartphone, PDA, etc.) 17 The nomadic device can then be used to connect to a network. 61 outside of vehicle 31 via, for example, a transmission path 55 with a mobile phone tower 57 to communicate 59 .

[0029] Pairing a nomadic device 53with the BLUETOOTH transceiver 15 can be done via a button 53 or a similar input, which tells the CPU that the onboard BLUETOOTH transceiver is being paired with a BLUETOOTH transceiver in a nomadic device.

[0030] Data can be transferred between CPU and CPU 3 and network 61 Communication is possible using, for example, a data plan, data-over-voice, or DTMF tones, which are compatible with the nomadic device. 53 are connected. Alternatively, an onboard modem may be desirable. 63 to include data between CPU 3 and network 61to transfer via the voice band. In one explanatory embodiment, the processor is provided with an operating system including an API for communicating with the modem application software. The modem application software can access an embedded module or firmware on the BLUETOOTH transceiver to complete wireless communication with a remote BLUETOOTH transceiver (such as the one found in a mobile device). In another embodiment, the mobile device includes 53A modem for voice or broadband data communication. In the data-over-voice implementation, a technique known as frequency division multiplexing can be used when the owner of the portable device can speak while data is being transmitted. At other times, data transfer can utilize the entire bandwidth (300 Hz to 3.4 kHz in one example) when the owner is not using the device.

[0031] If the user has a data plan associated with the nomadic device, it's possible that the data plan enables broadband transmission and the system could utilize a much wider bandwidth (which would speed up data transfer). In yet another embodiment, the nomadic device 53 replaced by a cellular communication system (not shown) located on the vehicle 31 appropriate.

[0032] In one embodiment, incoming data can be transmitted by the nomadic device via a data-over-voice data transmission or a data plan through the onboard Bluetooth transceiver and into the vehicle's internal processor. 3 be directed. In the case of certain temporary data, for example, the data can remain on the HDD or another storage medium for as long as necessary. 7 The data will be stored until it is no longer needed.

[0033] Additional sources that can interface with the vehicle include a personal navigation device. 54 , for example, a USB port 56 and / or an antenna 58 features or a vehicle navigation device 60 , which has a USB 62 or has another connection, an onboard GPS device 24 or a remote navigation system (not shown) that connects to a network 61 exhibits.

[0034] Furthermore, the CPU could communicate with a variety of other additional devices. 65 These devices can be wireless. 67 or a wired one 69 The connection must be established. Alternatively, or in addition, the CPU could be connected to a vehicle-based wireless router. 73 be connected, for example to a WiFi transceiver 71 used. This could allow the CPU to access remote networks within range of the local router. 73 to connect.

[0035] Fig. Figure 2 shows an exemplary explanatory remote control system communicating with a voice menu system. A vehicle 201 , for example with some or all in Fig. The vehicle system, equipped with the components shown in 1, can drive around and the vehicle system can, for example, travel via mobile phone towers. 203 in communication with a network 205 remain.

[0036] The network relays commands from the vehicle to various remote applications. One example of a remote application could be TELLME, which runs on a speech application server. 207 It may contain. TELLME is an example of a voice-controlled application that provides news, weather, stock market updates, sports updates, etc. Information flows to and from applications such as TELLME to the nomadic device. 53 , which is located in the vehicle.

[0037] Fig. Figure 3 shows an exemplary explanatory query routine to determine when an impending speech input has been signaled. Numerous possible programs could be used to determine whether an interrupt signal is present, instructing the system to abort spoken instructions and begin listening for speech or other input. The one in Fig. The example shown is just one of many possible query methods.

[0038] In this explanatory embodiment, the system waits until it detects that a voice button has been pressed. 301 has been pressed. One example of detection relies on a DTMF tone. In this explanatory embodiment, the DTMF tone for the "*" key is sent when the voice key is pressed as a sine wave with two frequencies of 941 Hz and 1240 Hz. However, any DTMF tone could be used, or any other suitable method to detect key input. The voice key has more than one function in this explanatory embodiment. At a minimum, it signals the initiation of a voice session and signals an interruption in a played set of commands. Once the voice key has been pressed, the voice session begins. User instruction 303 to eavesdrop.

[0039] In this explanatory embodiment, the start of the voice session corresponds to a connection to TELLME, although any voice-interactive application can be accessed. The system checks to see if the voice button has been pressed again. 305 When the voice button is pressed a second time, the system begins listening for a command without providing instructions. This allows experienced users to immediately enter a command without waiting for familiar menus to play.

[0040] If the voice button is not pressed again, the system will begin playing back the instruction. 307 The instructions, for example, inform the user which menu items are available. Once the instructions have been provided, the system listens for input. 309 off. As long as there is no timeout. 311 If an error has occurred, the system checks to see if the input is correct. 317is valid. If the input is valid, the system initiates the input command. 319 .

[0041] If the input is not recognized, the system notifies the user that there is no match. 315 If a user is found, the system returns to listening for input. If a timeout occurs, the system reminds the user to provide input and returns to listening for input.

[0042] While the invention has been described in connection with what are currently considered to be the most practical and advantageous embodiments, it is obvious that the invention is not intended to be limited to the disclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, it is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements that are contained within the spirit and scope of the attached claims.

Claims

[1] A vehicle communication system comprising: a computer processor in communication with a wireless transceiver, wherein the wireless transceiver is capable of communicating with a wireless communication device located remotely from the processor; at least one audio output controllable by the processor; at least one input controller in communication with the processor; a microphone in communication with the processor; wherein the processor is capable of establishing a connection to a remote network via the wireless device, and wherein the processor is also capable of providing the playback of a voice-controlled menu via the at least one audio output; wherein the processor is capable of detecting the activation of the at least one input control and stopping playback in order to begin detection for a microphone input after detecting the activation of the at least one input control. [2] System according to claim 1, wherein the processor is capable of repeating the playback of the voice-controlled menu when a predetermined time period has elapsed since the processor detected the activation of the at least one input control. [3] System according to claim 1, wherein the processor is capable of issuing an input prompt when a predetermined time period has elapsed since the processor detected the activation of the at least one input controller. [4] System according to claim 1, wherein the processor is capable of receiving a microphone input and determining whether the microphone input is a valid input. [5] System according to claim 4, wherein the processor is capable of informing a user that an input is invalid if the microphone input is an invalid input. [6] An automated menu system for delivery via a wireless communication link, comprising: a storage device; a predetermined audio menu that provides selectable menu items stored in the storage device; a processor in communication with the storage device to instruct the delivery of the predetermined menu via a wireless communication link; wherein the processor is capable of recognizing an interrupt instruction received by the processor via the wireless communication link; where, after detection of an interrupt instruction, the processor is functional to terminate the transmission of the predetermined menu and to begin receiving a menu item selection via the communication link. [7] System according to claim 6, wherein the processor is capable of continuing the transmission of the predetermined menu over the communication link when a predetermined time period has elapsed since the processor detected an interrupt instruction. [8] System according to claim 6, wherein the processor is capable of repeating the transmission of the predetermined menu over the communication link when a predetermined time period has elapsed since the processor detected an interrupt instruction. [9] System according to claim 6, wherein the processor is capable of instructing the transmission of an input request via the communication link when a predetermined time period has elapsed since the processor detected an interrupt instruction. [10] System according to claim 6, wherein the processor is capable of receiving an oral input via the communication link and determining whether the oral input is a valid input. [11] System according to claim 10, wherein the processor is capable of instructing the transmission of an “Invalid Input” message via the communication link when the oral input is an invalid input. [12] A method for processing a speech-interactive session, comprising: Providing instructions or information to be issued; during the provisioning process, to recognize an initial input; the termination of the provisioning process when the first input is recognized; to listen for a second oral input after recognizing the first input; and Processing the second input to provide a further output based at least partially on the processing. [13] The method of claim 12, further comprising counting for a predetermined time period; and after the predetermined time period has elapsed, stopping the listening and then repeating the steps of provisioning, detecting, stopping provisioning, listening and processing. [14] Method according to claim 12, further comprising: determining whether the second input is a valid input. [15] Method according to claim 14, further comprising: Displaying a message that the second input is invalid if the second input is invalid.