METHOD FOR CONTROLLING THE CONFIGURATION OF A MOTOR VEHICLE

Description

Technical field of the invention

[0001] The invention relates to a method for managing the configuration of a motor vehicle. The invention also relates to a system for managing the configuration of a motor vehicle. The invention further relates to a computer program product comprising program code instructions stored on a medium readable by an electronic control unit for implementing the steps of the motor vehicle configuration management process. The invention also relates to a data storage medium, readable by an electronic control unit, on which such a program product is stored. Prior art

[0002] The behavior of a motor vehicle, particularly through chassis settings and the onboard living or ambiance, is generally configurable by the user by selecting a driving mode from those predefined by the car manufacturer.

[0003] Furthermore, some vehicles allow users to independently adjust several parameters, such as engine power, brake pedal feel, and / or regenerative braking. Such adjustments can be tedious and complex to understand. In any case, the limited customization options can lead to user disappointment.

[0004] US 2019 / 344797 A1 is known a method for managing the configuration of a motor vehicle that allows for the automatic setting of at least one component of the vehicle in an operating mode associated with parameter setting values ​​of at least two emotional criteria, the setting values ​​being entered by a user. Presentation of the invention

[0005] The aim of the invention is to provide a method for managing the configuration of a motor vehicle that overcomes the above-mentioned drawbacks and improves upon prior art configuration management methods. In particular, the invention enables the creation of a vehicle that allows the user to personalize it more intuitively and precisely, based on their feedback, in order to more closely match their expectations. Summary of the invention

[0006] To achieve this objective, the invention relates to a method for managing the configuration of a motor vehicle according to independent claim 1.

[0007] The parameter setting value entry step can be done by a user entering three parameter setting values ​​for three emotional criteria.

[0008] The method may include a step of inputting parameter setting values ​​for two emotional criteria by a user and, as a result of this input, a step of automatically adjusting at least three organs, or the method may include a step of inputting parameter setting values ​​for three emotional criteria by a user and, as a result of this input, a step of automatically adjusting at least four organs.

[0009] The input step may include the user entering a value for each emotional criterion.

[0010] At least one component may include a vehicle drive motor and / or a braking system and / or a vehicle behavior control system, including vehicle stability control, and / or an electronically controlled suspension system and / or a steering system and / or a massage system and / or an air conditioning system and / or a heating system and / or a sound system, including sound design, and / or a human-machine interface system and / or a driving space adjustment system and / or an olfactory ambiance creation system and / or a lighting ambiance creation system. The invention further relates to a vehicle configuration management system according to independent claim 6.

[0011] The invention further relates to a computer program product according to independent claim 7.

[0012] The invention further relates to a data recording medium according to independent claim 8. Presentation of the figures

[0013] These objects, features and advantages of the present invention will be described in detail in the following description of a particular embodiment, given by way of non-limiting example, with reference to the accompanying figures, among which: There figure 1 is a schematic view of one embodiment of a motor vehicle. figure 2 is a block diagram of the steps in a process according to a given execution method. figure 3 is a two-axis graph representing two emotional criteria according to a preferred mode of realization of the motor vehicle. figure 4 is a schematic representation of an emotional criterion according to the preferred mode of realization of the motor vehicle. figure 5is a three-axis graph, each axis representing an emotional criterion according to the preferred mode of realization of the motor vehicle. figure 6 is a three-axis graph, each axis representing an emotional criterion, illustrating a representation of a massage system-type organ comprising several massage modes and operating according to an execution method of the invention, the transitions between the massage modes being discrete. figure 7 is a three-axis graph, each axis representing an emotional criterion, illustrating a representation of a driving space adjustment system comprising several adjustment positions and operating according to an embodiment of the invention, the transitions between the adjustment positions being discrete. figure 8is a three-axis graph, each axis representing an emotional criterion, illustrating a representation of a sound system-type organ comprising several sound modes and operating according to an embodiment of the invention's process, the transitions between the sound modes being discrete. figure 9 is a three-axis graph, each axis representing an emotional criterion, illustrating the management of sensory intensity of a suspension system-type organ according to an embodiment of the invention's method. Figure 10 is a three-axis graph, each axis representing an emotional criterion, illustrating a binary management of a vehicle cabin air recycling system according to an embodiment of the invention's process. Detailed description

[0014] The direction in which a motor vehicle travels in a straight line is defined as the longitudinal direction X. By convention, the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, located in a plane parallel to the ground, is called the transverse direction Y. The third direction, perpendicular to the other two, is called the vertical direction Z. Thus, we use a right-handed coordinate system XYZ in which X is the longitudinal direction in the front-to-back direction of the vehicle, therefore directed towards the rear, Y is the transverse direction directed to the right, and Z is the vertical direction directed upwards. The forward direction corresponds to the direction in which the motor vehicle usually travels in the longitudinal direction and is opposite to the backward direction.

[0015] There figure 1This schematically illustrates one embodiment of a vehicle 1, in particular a motor vehicle. Vehicle 1 can be, for example, a private car or a commercial vehicle, a truck or a bus.

[0016] Vehicle 1 includes a vehicle configuration or operation management system 100. The system 100 preferably includes hardware and / or software elements 110 capable of implementing, or designed to implement, a vehicle operation management process which will be described later.

[0017] Thus, the motor vehicle 1 includes 110 hardware and / or software elements capable of implementing, or designed to implement, the vehicle operation management process which will be described later.

[0018] The vehicle further includes a computer program product comprising program code instructions recorded on a medium readable by an electronic control unit 200 to implement the management process steps will be described later when the program is running on the electronic control unit 200.

[0019] The vehicle also includes a data recording medium, readable by the electronic control unit 200, on which is stored a computer program containing program code instructions for implementing the process. The management process will be described later.

[0020] Vehicle 1 includes at least one component 20. Preferably, a component 20 can be: a vehicle drive engine 21, and / or a braking system 22, and / or a vehicle handling control system (including stability control) 23, and / or an electronically controlled suspension system 24, and / or a steering system 25, and / or a massage system 26, preferably located at the driver's seat, and / or an air conditioning system 27, and / or a heating system 28, and / or a sound system (including sound design) 29, and / or a human-machine interface system 30, preferably located in an area accessible, or at least visible, from the driver's position or seat, and / or a driving space adjustment system 31, namely seat adjustment and / or mirror(s) and / or steering column adjustment, and / or an olfactory ambiance system, and / or a lighting ambiance system 32 (screens, projectors, backlights, additional elements for ambient lighting design).

[0021] An execution method for a vehicle configuration management process is described below with reference to the figure 2 .

[0022] It should be noted that the configuration management process is intended for both manually driven vehicles and autonomous vehicles. An autonomous vehicle is capable of traveling from its current location to a destination autonomously, for example, simply by a passenger selecting a destination. The configuration management process is also intended for vehicles equipped with a driver assistance system that allows for partial delegation of driving, representing an intermediate solution between manual and fully autonomous driving.

[0023] As illustrated in particular on the figure 2The vehicle configuration management process includes an E10 input step of at least one setting value of a parameter of at least one emotional criterion 10. This input is carried out by a user.

[0024] This user is preferably the vehicle's driver but can also be a passenger, particularly a front-seat passenger near the driver and / or a passenger near a vehicle information area on the dashboard. Finally, this user can be someone outside the vehicle. In this case, the user performs the E10 data entry step, which manages the subsequent configuration of the vehicle used by the user or at least one other user.

[0025] As a result of this input step E10 of at least one setting value of a parameter of an emotional criterion 10, an automatic setting step E20 of the vehicle component 20 in an operating mode associated with the setting value of the parameter of the emotional criterion 10 is launched.

[0026] A first emotional criterion is a criterion of dynamism 11 of the vehicle represented along the x-axis of the graph of the figure 3 Preferably, a low level (53) or even zero of this dynamism or energy criterion (11) corresponds to a relaxing sensation. Conversely, preferably, a high level (54) or even maximum of this dynamism or energy criterion (11) corresponds to a stimulating sensation. Thus, the dynamism criterion (11) can be seen as a level of energy or tonicity.

[0027] The dynamics criterion impacts the vehicle's dynamic behavior, particularly that of the chassis (damper control, accelerator pedal feel, drive engine power, braking system, vehicle stability, steering system). It also affects equipment that contributes to the dynamic experience, such as seats (massage), a sound system (calm / dynamic ambiance), and systems for creating ambient scents and lighting.

[0028] A second emotional criterion is a criterion of symbolic control or mastery, or level of delegation of driving of the vehicle represented along the ordinate axis of the graph. figure 3Preferably, a low level (52), or even zero, of this control criterion (12) corresponds to at least partial delegation of control from the user to the vehicle, for example, in terms of braking related to the detection of situations requiring the vehicle to slow down or even stop, particularly in the case of a vehicle equipped with an ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System). Conversely, preferably, a high level (51), or even the maximum level, of this control criterion (12) corresponds to complete control of the vehicle (for example, as if the vehicle were not equipped with ADAS). Advantageously, as will be seen later, a modification or evolution of the driving environment can be provided to complement this emotional control criterion or level of driving delegation (12).

[0029] In other words, the level of driving delegation represents the level of driving involvement in the vehicle. In the case of a vehicle equipped with an ADAS system or an autonomous driving mode, certain tasks are delegated to the vehicle.

[0030] A third emotional criterion is a criterion of information distribution 13 within the vehicle, as illustrated on the figure 4 This information distribution criterion 13 within the passenger compartment is, for example, represented along an axis perpendicular to the axis of the emotional criterion of dynamism 11 and perpendicular to the axis of the emotional criterion of control 12 mentioned previously, as illustrated on the figure 5Preferably, a low or even zero level of this information distribution criterion 13 corresponds to information extending to the rear seats of the vehicle. An intermediate level of this information distribution criterion 13 corresponds, for example, to information displayed in front of the driver and on at least one side of the driver (right / central part of the figure 4 Preferably, a high, or even maximum, level of this information distribution criterion 13 in the passenger compartment corresponds to information displayed in front of the driver, or substantially in front of the driver only, or directed towards the driver. Information distribution is understood as the level of information concentration relative to the driver. Thus, a high information distribution criterion 13 corresponds to one or more sensory stimuli and pieces of information provided by the car to the driver. figure 4illustrates an information distribution 13 extending behind the driver (reference 42), in front of the driver (reference 40) and on the right side of the driver (reference 41).

[0031] The level of information distribution corresponds, for example, to the location of information within the vehicle, meaning whether it is disseminated to the driver or to the entire vehicle (passengers in particular). Information can be visual, displayed on screens and / or projected onto one or more windows, and / or presented through spatialized sound, ambient lighting (such as a light guide), and / or the diffusion of scents and / or vibrations. For example, a low level of distribution results in little feedback for the driver.

[0032] Preferably, input step E10 includes user input of a setting value for at least one parameter for one of the three emotional criteria 11, 12, 13. Alternatively, input step E10 includes user input of parameter setting values ​​for two of the three emotional criteria. Alternatively again, input step E10 includes user input of parameter setting values ​​for all three emotional criteria.

[0033] Preferably, for each emotional criterion 11, 12, 13, the parameter setting value can take several discrete values ​​between a minimum and a maximum value. For example, the criteria can be defined by integer values ​​between 0 and 10. Alternatively, the criteria can be defined by selecting a value from a continuum extending between a minimum and a maximum value, for example, by moving a slider on a scale between a minimum and a maximum value.

[0034] Thus, the settings are then established continuously or with a relatively large number of selectable values, preferably along the three axes mentioned previously. As mentioned earlier, the x-axis represents the emotional criterion of dynamism, or energy level, for example, from relaxing to stimulating. The y-axis represents the emotional criterion of the level of delegated driving or control, or the level of symbolic mastery of the vehicle. The third axis, for example, extending virtually or substantially longitudinally, represents the emotional criterion of information distribution, or information level.

[0035] Thus, for the configuration of the vehicle, for example that of the chassis and / or life on board, the vehicle preferably includes the human-machine interface system 30. The human-machine interface system 30 includes for example a touch means and / or a means including a physical control of the type of control lever, possibly rotary.

[0036] Alternatively, or in addition, when the three axes of emotional criteria coexist, for example, three sliders can be moved, each along one of the three axes. Alternatively, or in addition, a three-dimensional representation is provided, for example, a cube whose three edges, perpendicular to each other, illustrate the three emotional criteria along the three axes (as illustrated on the...). figure 5Such a three-dimensional representation is preferably manipulable virtually. For example, a three-dimensional representation includes one or more tactile faces, surfaces, or areas so that it is possible to interact with them by simple touch.

[0037] Advantageously, a low score of 57 on the three emotional criteria 11, 12, and 13 corresponds to a feeling of "comfort" within the vehicle. A high score of 56 on the three emotional criteria 11, 12, and 13 corresponds to a feeling of "sport" within the vehicle.

[0038] Alternatively, or as a complement, two two-dimensional graphs are arranged. These two graphs preferably share a common axis representing an emotional criterion. In this case, manipulating the emotional criterion represented on the shared axis in one graph should automatically update the level of that emotional criterion in the other graph, using the value selected or estimated from the shared axis.

[0039] Note that for vehicles not equipped with ADAS, the emotional criterion axis for driving delegation level 12 is of little or no relevance. In such cases, a simple two-axis graph may suffice to illustrate and / or select the emotional criteria for dynamism 11 and information level 13. Similarly, for vehicles not equipped with a light strip, digital screen, or other information display features, the emotional criterion axis 13 for information distribution is of little or no relevance. In such cases, a simple two-axis graph may suffice to illustrate and / or select the emotional criteria for dynamism 11 and driving delegation level 12.

[0040] For example, the vehicle includes a predefined map of the operating mode of the organ(s) 20 based on emotional criteria. For example, the vehicle includes maps specific to the different organs. These define the functions and / or behaviors of the organs according to emotional criteria.

[0041] In step E20, the parameter settings for the emotional criteria are read. Simultaneously, or nearly simultaneously, or subsequently, these values ​​are transferred to the dedicated map(s). Simultaneously, or nearly simultaneously, or subsequently, the settings for the relevant organ(s) are automatically deduced.

[0042] For example, organ 20 or "contributor" of the massage system type 26 acts at the driver's seat.

[0043] The type of massage for low or even zero levels of the three emotional criteria is predefined, for example, the "Relax" mode 60. From this mode, a progression of massages is applied as illustrated on the figure 6 between the four distinct modes namely “Relax” 60 (relaxing massage - as opposed to tonic - i.e. slower with larger movements), “Lower back” 61 (massage at the driver’s lower back), “Tonic” 62 (tonic massage over the entire surface of the seat i.e. the driver’s back) and “stop” 63.

[0044] According to the embodiment shown figure 6 , we apply an evolution of massages discreetly, by changing step by step, between the four distinct modes namely "Relax" 60, "Lower back" 61, "Tonic" 62 and "stop" 63.

[0045] According to another embodiment not shown, the massage techniques are applied continuously, evolving between the four distinct modes, namely "Relax" 60, "Lower Back" 61, "Tonic" 62 and "Stop" 63. At each phase of transition from one massage mode to another, this transition is carried out smoothly and continuously: From Relax 60 to Lumbar 61: gradually the massage focuses more on the lumbar region and the intensity of movements on other areas of the body decreases until it disappears completely, giving priority to lumbar massages; from Lumbar 61 to Tonic 62: gradually the intensity of the massage on the lumbar area decreases and the movements extend to the massage areas dedicated to the Tonic typing; from Tonic 62 or Lumbar 61 to stop 63: gradually the intensity of the massage decreases until it disappears completely.

[0046] For example, organ 20 of type driving space adjustment system 31, namely seat and mirror(s) adjustment and steering column adjustment acts to adjust the driving space.

[0047] The position of the driving space (seat, rearview mirror, steering column) for low or even zero levels of the three emotional criteria is predefined. We then apply either a discrete evolution of the distribution of driving space positions 80, 81, 82, 83 throughout the space defined by the axes of the emotional criteria, through step-by-step changes in position / values, as illustrated in the diagram. figure 7 , either continuously (not shown).

[0048] Thus, for example, when the setting is at the high reference level, or strong or even maximum level, for each emotional criterion axis, the driving space position 83 is such that the driver faces forward, preferably in a high position to ensure optimal control of their surroundings. The driver's seat may then be firmer, becoming more supportive. Conversely, when the setting is at the low reference level, or low or even zero level, for each emotional criterion axis, the driving space position 80 is such that the driver's seat is, for example, turned slightly inwards, towards the vertical and longitudinal mid-plane of the passenger compartment, to encourage interaction with passengers or other activities. In this case, driving is, for example, partially delegated. The driver's seat may then be softer, less firm.

[0049] For example, the sound system 20 29 acts on improving the sound of the vehicle's drive engine 21, for example by adding sound.

[0050] The improvement for low or even zero levels of the three emotional criteria is defined beforehand. For example, an evolution of the distribution of improvement of sound levels 90, 91, 92, 93 is applied discretely throughout the space defined by the three axes of the emotional criteria, as shown in the diagram. figure 8 , or continuously (not shown). The contribution of improving engine sound is then more evenly distributed than in the prior art.

[0051] For example, when the setting is at the high, strong, or even maximum level for each emotional criterion axis, the 93 sound enhancement is activated with a "Sport" sound. Indeed, such a sound generally evokes control of the car and dynamism. Furthermore, the sound is, for example, directed solely towards the driver.

[0052] For example, component 20 of the suspension system type acts on the vehicle's shock absorbers.

[0053] A configuration of the shock absorbers or suspension system for low or even zero levels of the three emotional criteria, for example, high absorption, is defined beforehand. Preferably, and as represented on the figure 9The sensory intensity of the shock absorbers is then managed throughout the space defined by the axes of the emotional criteria, continuously as represented by the gray gradient, progressively, down to a low level of shock absorption for high or even maximum levels of the emotional criteria. Indeed, the shock absorbers are generally stiffer in the mode usually called "Sport" (dark gray or even black) and softer in the mode usually called "Comfort" (light gray or even white). An embodiment with a subtle evolution of the sensory intensity of the shock absorbers is also possible.

[0054] Thus, at the high reference position or high levels, the driver and possibly passengers have excellent road feel, with the vibrations corresponding to a lively / dynamic sensation, and the driver is more engaged as the master of their vehicle and the associated driving. Whereas at the low reference position or low levels, the driver and possibly passengers feel the road much less (a floating, carpet-like effect), the driving is calmer and encourages delegation so that other tasks can be performed while driving.

[0055] Like sound, other sensory modalities such as, for example: visual modalities such as the interior of the screen(s) and / or the wallpaper(s) and / or the light strip(s) arranged within the passenger compartment in particular, olfactory modalities in the case of a device offering perfume diffusion, tactile modalities in the case of a device offering different haptic feedback, for example when manipulating the screen(s), in particular the central screen, and one or more physical controls, can evolve continuously or discretely.

[0056] More specifically, for example, the graphics of the screen interiors include the integration of morphing for at least one button and / or at least one animation, etc. For example, the information displayed on the screens is more or less directed towards the driver or, conversely, shared with the passengers. For example, the interior lighting is activated and / or directed towards the driver and then spreads throughout the cabin at a more or less rapid pace for animations, particularly animations using light guides.

[0057] Certain types of components or contributors, such as the recirculation of interior passenger air, cannot vary continuously. Thus, as illustrated in this case on the Figure 10 , only the discrete evolution implementation mode remains with only an active configuration 70 and an inactive configuration 71, without continuous evolution between these two configurations.

[0058] Variations in implementation methods with other emotional criteria can be considered, preferably based on the same number of personalization axes, namely three.

[0059] In summary, the solution allows for the simultaneous configuration of a multitude of vehicle components, as illustrated in the figures 6 to 9 , via the entry of a setting value by selecting a single triplet or a single duo of emotional criteria.

[0060] Thus, just as with adjusting sound or light intensity, this approach focuses not on the type of vehicle behavior expected, for which specific names are assigned (e.g., sporty, comfortable, eco-friendly), but on the type of sensations experienced and / or sought by the user in real time, in other words, in the moment. For example, the sound volume is not adjusted to a number but according to the perceived intensity.

[0061] Beyond the sensations experienced or felt while driving, this approach allows one to focus on the living world and the engagement of the senses.

[0062] Thus, links between the user's positioning or choice on one or more continuous axes, appealing to their feelings, and all the emotional contributors present in the motor vehicle such as engine(s), 4x4 transmission, shock absorbers, steering wheel, front and rear steering, braking, regenerative braking, engine sound, massaging seats, ambient lighting, ambient sound, driving space configuration (seat, rearview mirror, steering column), ADAS, information display (staging in general: location and graphics, sensory congruence), interior air recycling, air conditioning, become tangible.

[0063] Ultimately, the user experience, which can activate or stage all contributors simultaneously if necessary, is experienced as a continuous experience, precisely customizable according to their feelings.

[0064] Therefore, the user is not disappointed by comparing their experience to the name or label of the "mode" they are in, as the various modes are numerous and unnamed. Thus, regardless of the user's culture and / or expectations, no disappointment is possible. Indeed, the solution offers an interface and vehicle settings that create the perception of unlimited and customizable experiences.

Claims

1. Method for managing the configuration of a motor vehicle (1), characterized in that it comprises: - a step of a user entering (E10) values for adjusting parameters of at least two emotional criteria (10) from among a criterion of the dynamism (11) of the vehicle and / or a criterion of the level of delegation of the driving (12) of the vehicle and / or a criterion of the distribution of information (13) in the vehicle and, as a consequence of this entry, - a step of automatically adjusting (E20) several members (20) of the vehicle in an operating mode associated with the adjustment values.

2. Configuration management method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the step of entering (E10) parameter adjustment values takes place by a user entering three values for adjusting parameters of three emotional criteria (10).

3. Configuration management method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a step of a user entering (E10) values for adjusting parameters of two emotional criteria (10) and, as a consequence of this entry, a step of automatically adjusting (E20) at least three members (20), or in that it comprises a step of a user entering (E10) values for adjusting parameters of three emotional criteria (10) and, as a consequence of this entry, a step of automatically adjusting (E20) at least four members (20).

4. Configuration management method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the entry step (E10) comprises the user entering a value for each emotional criterion.

5. Configuration management method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one member (20) comprises a drive engine (21) of the vehicle and / or a braking system (22) and / or a system for controlling the behaviour of the vehicle (23), notably the stability of the vehicle, and / or a controlled suspension system (24) and / or a steering system (25) and / or a massage system (26) and / or an air conditioning system (27) and / or a heating system (28) and / or a sound system (29), notably a sound design system, and / or a human-machine interface system (30) and / or a system for adjusting the driving space (31) and / or an olfactory ambience creation system and / or a light ambience creation system (32).

6. System (100) for managing the configuration of a motor vehicle (1), the system comprising hardware and / or software elements (110) implementing the method according to one of Claims 1 to 6.

7. Computer program product comprising program code instructions stored on a medium which can be read by an electronic control unit (200) in order to implement the steps of the management method according to any one of Claims 1 to 6 when said program operates on an electronic control unit (200).

8. Data storage medium, which can be read by an electronic control unit (200), on which a computer program product according to Claim 7 is stored.