METHOD FOR SELECTING A RELAXATION OR STIMULATION SERVICE FOR A MOTOR VEHICLE DRIVER

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a method for selecting a relaxing or stimulating service for a driver of a motor vehicle. The invention further relates to a system for selecting a service and a vehicle equipped with such a system. The invention also relates to a computer program implementing the aforementioned method.

[0002] In the automotive industry, it is common practice to equip vehicles with systems that offer services designed to affect the driver's state or mood, including relaxing or stimulating services. Such services can be offered and activated when the vehicle is stationary or in motion.

[0003] US 2021 / 031786 A1 proposes a system that determines when the biometric condition of a vehicle occupant deviates from an optimal biometric condition associated with external and internal vehicle environmental conditions. A countermeasure is then selected.

[0004] Due to the wide variety of existing services, existing systems may offer services that are unsuitable for the driver on the one hand and / or unsuitable for a particular situation in which the driver finds themselves on the other.

[0005] The invention falls within this context and aims to provide a method for selecting a service for the driver, allowing the aforementioned drawbacks to be resolved at a lower cost.

[0006] The invention provides a method for selecting a relaxing or stimulating service for a driver of a motor vehicle equipped with at least one memory unit in which a list of services for the driver is stored. The selection method comprises: a step of detecting a physiological state of the driver or a step of gathering information on a need of the driver; a step of detecting an external context and / or an internal context of the vehicle; and a step of calculating a level of availability of the driver based on data relating to the external context and / or the internal context of the vehicle; a step of consulting the driver's usage preferences; and a step of consulting data characterizing at least one level of experience of using relaxing or stimulating services by the driver; then the selection of at least one relaxing or stimulating service from the list of services being carried out based on the physiological state of the driver or based on the driver's need, based on the level of availability of the driver, based on the driver's usage preferences and based on the data characterizing the driver's level of experience of the vehicle.

[0007] The selection process may include an initial phase of selecting a first subset of services, comprising at least one service, from the list of services. This initial selection phase may be based on the driver's physiological state to correct any detected driver condition, or it may be based on a driver need to address that need. The process may then include a second phase of selecting a second subset of services from the first subset, based on the driver's availability, usage preferences, and experience level.

[0008] The selection process may include a random selection step, implemented when, after the selection of at least one service based on the driver's physiological state or the driver's need, and based on the level of availability, usage preferences and the driver's level of experience, a plurality of services are available.

[0009] The step of detecting a driver's condition may include: a sub-step of measuring at least one emotional and / or physiological parameter of the driver; and / or a sub-step of detecting at least one abnormal or risky driving behavior by at least one driver assistance system and / or by a measuring device equipped in the vehicle; and a sub-step of classifying the driver's condition according to the driver's physiological parameter and / or according to the driver's driving behavior, with the selection of a service being implemented when an abnormal driver condition is detected.

[0010] The step of calculating a driver availability level may include a sub-step of classifying the driver availability level based on data relating to the external context and / or the internal context of the vehicle.

[0011] In addition, the selection process may include at least one step of gathering information on at least one preference of the driver relating to all or part of the services included in the list of services, the information step being able to be carried out prior to the step of detecting a driver condition or the step of gathering information on a driver need, in particular when the vehicle is stopped, and / or the information step being able to be carried out subsequent to the selection of a service.

[0012] The driver experience level consultation step may include a step of determining the level of experience of using the services based on a number of occurrences of execution of the services by the driver and a step of comparing the experience level with an experience index, specific to each service and defining a minimum level of experience required by the driver for the proper execution of the service, the service being selected when the experience index is less than or equal to the detected driver experience level.

[0013] The invention also relates to a method of relaxing or stimulating a driver of a motor vehicle, the method comprising initially the steps of the selection process as previously described and then a step of executing at least one selected service, implemented when the number of services selected at the end of the selection process is greater than or equal to 1, or a step of early interruption of the execution process, implemented when the number of services selected at the end of the selection process is zero.

[0014] The relaxation or stimulation process may include a step of blocking a repetition of the selection process steps implemented following a service execution step during a process execution cycle so as to prevent the successive execution of services in a time interval less than a predefined threshold value.

[0015] The relaxation or stimulation process may include, subsequent to the performance of a service, a step of saving the driver's experience level in relation to said service or a step of modifying a previously recorded driver experience level in relation to said service.

[0016] The invention further relates to a system for selecting a relaxing or stimulating service for a driver of a motor vehicle, the system comprising hardware and / or software elements implementing the selection process according to the invention, the hardware elements comprising at least one data processing unit configured to cooperate with at least one memory unit on which the list of services intended for the driver is recorded.

[0017] The invention also relates to a motor vehicle equipped with a selection system as described above and at least one means of implementing one or more relaxing or stimulating service(s).

[0018] Further details, features and advantages will become clearer upon reading the detailed description given below, which is indicative and not exhaustive, in relation to the various implementation examples illustrated in the following figures: There figure 1 This schematically represents one embodiment of a vehicle equipped with a selection system. figure 2 is a general flowchart for executing a selection process. figure 3 is a detailed flowchart of an example execution of a step for detecting the state of a conductor in the selection process. figure 4 is a detailed flowchart of an alternative example of executing the driver state detection step. figure 5 is a general flowchart of an alternative method for executing the selection process. figure 6 is a general flowchart of a particular method of executing the selection process.

[0019] There figure 1 This schematically illustrates a motor vehicle 1 according to an embodiment of the invention. Vehicle 1 can be of any type. In particular, it can be a passenger car, a commercial vehicle, a truck, or a bus. The vehicle can also be autonomous or non-autonomous.

[0020] The vehicle 1 is equipped to offer a driver a variety of services, including relaxing or stimulating ones. In this respect, the vehicle 1 may be equipped with means for implementing such services, for example, an interior lighting system, an air conditioning system, a heating system, an interior sound system, an olfactory ambiance system, or a system for creating a visual and / or tactile ambiance. The vehicle is also equipped with at least one memory unit on which a list of services, including relaxing or stimulating ones, intended for the driver is stored. The vehicle 1 further includes a service selection system for the driver, comprising hardware and / or software components capable of implementing a service selection process as illustrated in figures 2 à 6 .

[0021] The system 12 includes, in particular, at least one data processing unit 13. In one particular example, the system may include the memory unit 11 on which the service list is stored; alternatively, the system may be configured to exchange data with the memory unit 11 included in the vehicle 1. Additionally, the system 12 may include at least one memory element 14 of its own.

[0022] The processing unit 13 includes at least one computing unit comprising hardware and software resources, more specifically at least one processor, or microprocessor, cooperating with the memory unit 11 and / or with the memory element 14. This computing unit is capable of executing instructions for the implementation of a computer program.

[0023] The selection system 12 can, in addition, understand, or be capable of exchanging data with various elements of the vehicle, such as: a means of locating 15 the position of the vehicle 1 in a road infrastructure; and / or a monitoring unit 16 of a user's state; and / or a communication module 17 with a connected device and / or a database; and / or one or more measuring devices 18 for data relating to the vehicle 1, in particular the longitudinal speed of the vehicle 1; and / or one or more driver assistance systems 19.

[0024] The location device 15 enables the location of vehicle 1 within the road infrastructure. It incorporates, for example, a vehicle location system and / or a map of the road infrastructure. Specifically, the location of vehicle 1 can be provided by a GPS (Global Positioning System) type system. Alternatively, or in addition, the location device 15 can be a location system integrated into vehicle 1. The location of vehicle 1 allows for the extraction of information from a mapping database concerning the road infrastructure and / or topology and / or geography within a radius of a few hundred meters around the position of vehicle 1.

[0025] The monitoring unit 16 is configured to monitor a physiological state of the driver and to enable, but not limited to, the detection of fatigue, drowsiness, stress, or anxiety that could affect their driving behavior. The monitoring unit 16 may include at least one monitoring sensor, such as a camera installed in the passenger compartment of the vehicle 1 or a sensor installed in a component of the vehicle 1, for example, a steering wheel, capable of measuring at least one physiological parameter of the driver, including, in particular, gaze direction, head movement, heart rate, or electrodermal activation.

[0026] The communication module 17 enables vehicle 1 to receive data from a database, connected devices (for example, a connected phone, a connected remote vehicle, or a connected road or urban infrastructure element) via a low-frequency or high-frequency wireless link. This wireless link may, for example, be based on "cellular," "Bluetooth," or "Wi-Fi" technologies (registered trademarks). Such data may, but is not limited to, relate to the driver (for example, the current use of a connected device or an event scheduled in a calendar) or relate to a context external to vehicle 1 (for example, weather, traffic, topographical, or geographical conditions).

[0027] The measuring device(s) 18 are capable of performing measurements relating to one or more vehicle parameters 1 such as, but not limited to, longitudinal speed, vehicle acceleration and / or deceleration, brake pedal pressure, or brake pedal pressure velocity. Alternatively, all or part of these parameters may be measured by a driver assistance system 19.

[0028] As illustrated, vehicle 1 may be equipped with at least one driver assistance system 19, including at least one means of detecting the environment of vehicle 1, such as radar and / or lidar and / or a camera. By way of non-limiting example, "driver assistance system" includes an autonomous emergency braking system (AEB), an automatic emergency braking system, a system for detecting surrounding vehicles, and / or a parking assistance system. In particular, vehicle 1 may include multiple driver assistance systems 19.

[0029] The processing unit 13 of the selection system 12 is thus capable of exchanging information with the memory unit 11, but is also capable of receiving data from the location device 15 and / or the monitoring unit 16 and / or the communication module 17 and / or at least the measuring device(s) 18 and / or the driver assistance system(s) 19 as previously described, such data then being used in the process as described below to enable the selection of a service for the driver. The processing unit 13 can also exchange information with a control unit 20, fitted in the vehicle and which may, for example, be included in the selection system 12.Such a control unit 20 may, for example, be able to act on the various components 11, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18 or 19 mentioned above and / or on the means 300 for implementing one or more relaxing or stimulating service(s) and / or be able to control an operating status, for example, of the parameters or settings executed, of these.

[0030] A general flowchart and a specific example of the execution of the selection process 100 are respectively illustrated in figures 2 And 6The selection method 100 can also be considered as a method for operating the selection system 12 according to the invention or as a method for operating a motor vehicle 1 equipped with such a system. The method is particularly configured to implement the selection of at least one relaxing or stimulating service, for its execution, based on the driver's physiological state, allowing, for example, the indirect detection of the driver's emotional state. In particular, the service selected by the method can then aim to correct, at least in part, such a state. Alternatively, the method according to the invention can be executed based on a need of the driver, notably one indicated by the driver. The service is then selected to meet such a need.The process is also configured to implement such a selection based on driver availability, driver usage preferences, and data characterizing the driver's level of expertise with the vehicle and / or their level of experience using the services. figures 2 And 6 also illustrate a relaxation or stimulation method 200 of the driver comprising the steps of the selection method 100 according to the invention.

[0031] The selection process 100 includes a detection step E1 of a driver's state or an information step E1' of a driver's need.

[0032] When the process includes the detection step E1 of a driver's physiological state, it allows, in particular, the detection and differentiation of a normal, or balanced, driver state from an abnormal one. Specifically, the process can be conditionally executed so that it only proceeds when an abnormal, or unbalanced, driver state is detected. The process then aims to correct such a detected abnormal state in order to return the driver to, or into, a normal or balanced state. In other words, the process aims to meet a driver need identified by vehicle 1. Alternatively, when a normal, or balanced, state is detected, the service(s) can be selected based on whether they allow the maintenance of such a state.

[0033] By way of non-limiting example, an abnormal state of the driver may be related to a state of stress or anxiety, i.e. a state in which the driver is overstimulated and requires a relaxing service, or to a state of fatigue, drowsiness or boredom, i.e. an understimulated state in which he requires a stimulating or energizing service.

[0034] As detailed in the figure 3 The detection step E1 may include a direct measurement substep E11 of at least one physiological parameter of the driver. For example, the monitoring unit 16 may measure the driver's gaze direction, head movement, heart rate, or electrodermal activation; such parameters allow, among other things, the detection of agitation, particularly indicative of a state of stress or anxiety in the driver, and then transmit these measurements to the processing unit 13. The selection system 12 then performs a classification substep E12 of the driver's state according to the driver's physiological criterion.In other words, the processing unit 13 is capable of performing calculation and comparison operations to determine whether the measured criterion(a) exceeds, by a higher or lower value, at least a given reference threshold, thus allowing, where appropriate, the identification of a state of the conductor among the various states mentioned above.

[0035] Alternatively, or in combination with measurement step E11, the detection of a driver's physiological state can be achieved indirectly through driving analysis. The method may then include a detection substep E13 of at least one abnormal or risky driving behavior, performed via the driver assistance system(s) 19 and / or via the vehicle's measuring device(s) 18. At least one emotional and / or physiological parameter of the driver can then be indirectly defined by the driver's behavior. For example, the triggering, at least once or repeatedly, of an event initiated by the driver assistance system(s) 19 to prevent a risky situation, such as braking implemented by an AEB system, may be characteristic of driver drowsiness.According to another example, the detection of an abnormally irregular longitudinal speed by the measuring organ(s) can be defined as being characteristic of a state of stress in the driver.

[0036] Optionally, such detection E13 may also take into account an environment external to the vehicle 1, for example weather conditions or geolocation, provided by the location means 15 in particular.

[0037] The process then includes a driver state classification step E12' similar to the previously described classification step E12, except that this time it is executed based on the driver's driving behavior detected through the driver assistance system(s) and / or the measuring device(s) 18 fitted on the vehicle 1.

[0038] According to the example of implementation illustrated in the figure 3 When the detection step includes a measurement substep E11 of at least one emotional and / or physiological criterion of the driver and a detection substep E13, these substeps may be performed at least partially simultaneously. The procedure may then continue, in particular, as soon as an abnormal state is identified as a result of substep E11 and / or substep E13.

[0039] Alternatively, as illustrated in the figure 4 One of the aforementioned substeps E11, E13 can be executed in such a way as to confirm a state detected during the other of said substeps. For example, the driver assistance system 19 can detect driver drowsiness due to repeated emergency braking, and then the monitoring unit 16 can confirm this state based on a measurement of the driver's heart rate or the rate at which their eyelids droop. In other words, substeps E11, E13 are then executed sequentially. The reverse operation can also be implemented, i.e., the driver assistance system 19 and / or one or more measuring devices can confirm a driver state detected by the monitoring unit 16.

[0040] Selecting a service based on a driver's state is specifically designed to correct their detected state; that is, such a service aims to bring the driver back to, or into, a balanced state. Each service is characterized by data relating to an identifier and at least one state and / or need index, corresponding to the detected state for which it is intended and / or a need it addresses. For example, some breathing exercise or yoga services are designed for a driver experiencing overstimulation, i.e., a state of stress or anxiety, and address a need for relaxation. Following the execution of substep E11 and / or substep E13, the process includes a comparison substep E15 of the driver's detected state with the state and / or need index specific to each service, enabling the selection of a service adapted to the driver's physiological state at a given moment.

[0041] The system also performs a detection step E2 of an external and / or internal vehicle context. Such data can then be used by the selection system 12 to define the driver's availability level. In other words, the process then includes a calculation step E3 of a driver availability level based on data relating to the external and / or internal vehicle context. According to the execution mode of the process illustrated in figures 2 à 5 , all or part of step E2 and / or step E3 may be executed simultaneously with step E1 as previously described.

[0042] The term "availability" refers to a parameter defining the degree to which the driver can be called upon or the level of attention required from the driver while performing the service. This parameter aims, in particular, to adapt the service to be performed so as not to call upon or interrupt the driver at an inopportune moment, or even in a risky situation or one likely to generate a risk.

[0043] The driver availability level calculation step E3 includes, similarly to what was previously described regarding driver status, a substep E31 classifying driver availability into different levels. As a non-limiting example, driver availability can be classified into at least three levels: a level of total availability for which an implemented service can, for example, call out to the driver without risk or without generating inconvenience, in particular by soliciting all or part of his attention; a level of total unavailability, for which the service performed must be discreet and must not call out to or solicit the driver; at least an intermediate level of availability, between the level of total availability and the level of total unavailability, for which the driver's attention may be partially solicited.

[0044] Data relating to the vehicle's internal context may include the vehicle's status 1, such as whether the vehicle is stationary, in motion, or if a technical fault has been detected. This data is transmitted, for example, to the processing unit 13 of the selection system 12 by the measuring device(s) 18 fitted to the vehicle and may concern the status of at least one engine of the vehicle 1, the parking brake, the vehicle's longitudinal speed, or the consistency of that speed. This data may also be communicated by the driver assistance system(s) 19, for example, to inform the selection system 12 about driving smoothness, the number of overtaking maneuvers performed, or any other relevant value.Thus, when vehicle 1 is stationary, or if vehicle 1 is moving at a low longitudinal speed, for example less than 15 km / h, the selection system can deduce, based on its calculations, a state of full driver availability. Conversely, if vehicle 1 is moving and has a high longitudinal speed, the driver can be considered to have intermediate availability or to be unavailable.

[0045] The context inside the vehicle can also include the use of a connected device, such as a phone, or the use of onboard systems, such as a multimedia system (not shown). In other words, the selection system can also be configured to take into account at least one connected device, specifically its usage. For example, if a call is in progress, the driver will be considered unavailable.

[0046] Alternatively, or in addition, the driver's availability level can be defined based on data relating to the context external to the vehicle 1, i.e., for example, data relating to weather, topographical, geographical, or traffic conditions. For example, this data can be transmitted by at least one of the driver assistance system(s) 19, the measuring device(s), the location device 15, or a connected device. Congested traffic, poor weather conditions, mountain roads, or dangerous roads, for example, could be characteristic of the "unavailable" level or an "intermediate availability" level.

[0047] The driver availability classification step E31 can be performed in such a way as to simultaneously consider all received driver availability data in order to directly define the driver's availability level. Alternatively, the selection system 12 can first associate a driver availability level with each data type and then, based on these, calculate an overall availability level. In particular, the system can be configured so that if at least one data type, for example, the use of a connected device, indicates a driver unavailability state, the overall driver availability level will be classified as "unavailable".

[0048] Thus, by way of example (though not exhaustive), if the driver is on a phone call, they are considered unavailable, even if they are driving on a highway with light traffic or are stopped. It is then necessary to select, from the services in the first subset, a discreet, even imperceptible, service that requires no input from the driver. For example, such a service could include regulating the cabin temperature or lighting, without requiring any adjustment or intervention from the driver. Conversely, when vehicle 1 is stopped, particularly in a parking area, and the driver is considered available, for example, at the end of a journey, a service requiring significant driver engagement could be chosen from the services in the first subset, such as breathing or yoga exercises, with eyes open or even closed.

[0049] Following substep E31, the process includes a comparison substep E32 of the calculated driver availability level with an availability index, specific to each service, defining a driver availability level required for the service to be executed. In other words, the service is selected if its availability index is less than or equal to the calculated driver availability level.

[0050] The method also includes a consultation step E4 of the driver's usage preferences, including preferences saved on the memory unit 11 located in the vehicle or in the selection system 12. Alternatively, such preferences may be saved in the memory element 14 of the selection system 12. The criterion of "preference" is defined according to the driver's tastes and / or choices. In this sense, the method may include at least one information step E41 of at least one driver preference relating to all or some of the services included in the service list. Such a step may be performed prior to the consultation step E4, for example, when the vehicle 1 is stationary or during the adjustment of the selection system 12 or the vehicle 1.Alternatively, the E41 information step can be executed at the end of a cycle of the selection process 100, i.e., for example, after a selected service has been implemented. According to an alternative not shown, the process can include multiple information steps for a preference, such that one is executed at the beginning of the process, while another is executed at the end.

[0051] The information step E41 can thus include a substep for entering a preference, for example, defined by a service rating or evaluation system, as well as a substep for saving such a preference or a substep for modifying previously recorded data relating to said preference. The preference can be entered manually, for example, via a specific menu displayed on a human-machine interface installed in vehicle 1. The driver can then select, deselect, or rate the services. According to another embodiment, such a preference may have been detected by vehicle 1 during a previous process execution cycle.For example, a service may be considered preferred if the user allows it to run in its entirety or if at least one physiological criterion of the driver, as previously described, indicates that the driver appreciates the service. Conversely, a service may be considered undesirable if the driver manually interrupts it, particularly via the human-machine interface, or if such a service appears to further distance the driver from a normal or balanced state, for example, if the service generates additional stress or agitation in the driver.

[0052] The driver's level of "expertise" relates in particular to their experience in performing the various services listed, that is, their ability to use and familiarity with these services. Indeed, it is preferable that the driver, if their contribution is required during the service, be able to perform it without difficulty, or at least without undue difficulty, especially if the service is performed while the vehicle is in motion and it is essential not to unexpectedly divert the driver's attention.

[0053] The method thus includes a data consultation step E5 characterizing the driver's level of expertise, which is defined at least according to the driver's level of experience using the services. In other words, the method includes a data consultation step E5 characterizing the driver's level of expertise and / or the driver's level of experience using the services. The driver's level of experience can, according to one embodiment, be defined at least through a substep E51 determining the level of experience using the services based on the number of times the driver has executed the services. For example, the selection system 12 can include a counter configured to increase the number of times a given service is executed as soon as it is implemented, particularly in its entirety, by the driver.Different levels of driver experience can then be defined based on threshold values ​​for the number of occurrences of execution of a given service.

[0054] For example, a driver's experience level can be defined as "beginner," "intermediate," or "expert" in using a given service. Indeed, to avoid disrupting the driver and thus creating a risky situation, it may be preferable to limit or even block access to certain services, particularly when such services require a greater level of driver attention. As a non-exhaustive example, a driver can be considered a beginner for a given service if they have used it fewer than three times, intermediate if they have used it between three and five times, and expert if they have used it more than five times.

[0055] Such a substep E51 is followed by a comparison substep E52 of the driver's experience level with an experience index specific to each of the services. This index defines a minimum level of experience required by the driver for the proper execution of the service. For example, a breathing exercise with an "expert" experience index can be made inaccessible to a novice driver and only available after the execution of similar services with a lower experience index. In other words, a service is selected when its experience index is lower than or equal to the detected driver's experience level.

[0056] Additionally or alternatively, each service may present different levels of difficulty, each level being defined by its own expertise index. The "expert" level of a service, for example, the aforementioned breathing exercise, may then be made inaccessible to a driver who has not previously completed the "beginner" and / or "intermediate" levels. The selection system 12 can then, as previously described, implement a count of the number of times each level is performed and make access to a service at a defined level contingent upon the completion of a predetermined number of times the lower-level levels have been performed.

[0057] According to a particular example of implementation, illustrated in dotted lines at the figure 2 The experience index specific to a service can also be adjusted by the processing unit based on data relating to the driver's physiological state and / or data relating to the external context and / or the internal context of the vehicle, as previously described. In this way, the experience index for the previously mentioned "expert" level breathing exercise can be modified based on this data. For example, the experience index can be lowered when the vehicle status indicates that it is stopped, so that the service is then made accessible to a driver with a "beginner" level of experience with this service. The process can then include a substep E53 for adjusting the experience index specific to at least one service, for example, performed prior to step E51 or step E52.

[0058] Optionally, during the driver assessment consultation step E21, the selection system 12 can also take into account the driver's driving level, corresponding in particular to the driver's driving experience previously indicated by the driver. For example, a driver with a driving experience of more than three years may be classified as an experienced driver. Conversely, a driver with a driving experience of less than three years may be considered a young or novice driver.

[0059] Thus, selecting at least one relaxing or stimulating service from the list stored on memory unit 11 and / or memory element 14, based on the driver's physiological state or need, availability, usage preferences, and expertise level, results in a subset of services with a number strictly lower than the number of services included in the initial list. This subset advantageously includes services adapted to the driver's context, the vehicle's interior context, and the external vehicle context.

[0060] Following the execution of selection process 100, as illustrated in figures 2 Or 5The vehicle can, within the framework of the relaxation or stimulation process 200 as previously described, implement an execution step E6 of a selected service. The execution step E6 is particularly implemented when the number of selected services included in the subset of services at the end of the selection process is greater than or equal to 1. If the subset comprises only one service, the vehicle 1 then directly implements this execution step E6.

[0061] Optionally, when the subset comprises a plurality of services, the selection process 100 further includes a random selection step E7, shown here as a dashed line, so as to select only one service to be executed. Such a selection is notably implemented by the processing unit 13. The vehicle 1 can then execute the selected service as previously described.

[0062] Optionally, once a single service is selected from the service list, i.e., following selection E100 or selection E7, the process may include a control step E201, which checks the status of at least one means 300 for implementing the selected service. The control unit 20 and / or the processing unit 13 can then detect real-time status data of at least one means 300, i.e., detect, for example, whether it is currently operating or not, or detect parameters and settings being executed if the means 300 is in use. The control unit 20 can then compare the detected status data of at least one means 300 with data stored on the memory unit 11 and / or the storage memory 14 relating to a status to be executed, corresponding in particular to parameters or settings to be implemented in order to allow the execution of the selected service.When the control unit 20 and / or the processing unit 13 detect that this data is identical, i.e., that the selected service is already being executed, for example, due to a previous cycle of the relaxation or stimulation process, the selection process can then be repeated immediately or later. When such data differs, i.e., that the selected service is not currently being executed, the vehicle 1 can then execute said service. For example, for a relaxing service requiring the ambient lighting system to implement lighting in cool tones, if the control unit 20 and / or the processing unit 13 detect that said system is already in use with these same parameters or settings, then the process can be repeated, in particular to allow the selection of a new service from the list of services.

[0063] As illustrated in figures 2 And 5 If the subset is empty, meaning it contains zero services, an early interruption step E8 of the relaxation or stimulation process can then be executed. The process can then be repeated, either immediately or later.

[0064] System 12 then executes, after the execution E6 of a service, either a saving step E61 of the user's experience level with respect to that service or a modification step E62 of the previously recorded user experience level with respect to that service. Thus, the driver's experience level is updated after each execution cycle of the relaxation or stimulation process, and the future selection of a service, performed during a subsequent execution of the selection process 100, can be optimized.

[0065] According to an option not shown, the system, in particular the control unit 20 and / or the processing unit 13, can implement a step to verify the correct execution of the selected service. Such a step is implemented according to a principle similar to that of step E201. The process can then be configured so that it is repeated when an anomaly is detected in the execution of the service, that is, when detected data relating to the status of at least one means 300 of implementing the service differs from recorded data, in particular relating to the status, parameters, or settings, that should be observed when the service is executed correctly.

[0066] According to an alternative embodiment of the selection process, selection process 100 may include, as previously mentioned, an information step E1' of a driver's need instead of a detection step E1 of a driver's physiological state. Such an alternative embodiment is substantially identical to the embodiment detailed previously, therefore the above description applies. mutatis mutandis à the present alternative. The driver can, manually or verbally, indicate a need via the Human-Machine Interface, for example. Such a step E1' can then trigger the implementation of the process according to the invention.

[0067] According to one execution option, illustrated in the figure 5 The selection system 12 can be programmed to prevent the execution of multiple services, each specific to a distinct execution cycle of the relaxation or stimulation process 200, within a predefined time interval. In other words, following an execution step E6 of a service implemented during a cycle n x During the execution of the relaxation or stimulation process 200, the selection system 12 can be configured to implement a blocking step E9 of the execution of the steps of the selection process 100 in an execution cycle. n x +1 when a certain amount of time has elapsed since the execution step E6 of the cycle n x The execution time of the process is less than a threshold value for duration, for example less than 15 minutes. In other words, the selection system 12 can be configured to perform a countdown of the time elapsed since the implementation of a previous execution step E6.

[0068] There figure 6 illustrates a particular example of implementing the selection process according to the invention, similar to what has been previously described; therefore, the description and the various methods and alternatives above apply. mutatis mutandis. The present execution example differs from the previous one in that it includes two distinct, successive phases of service selection.

[0069] Specifically, the method includes a first selection phase A1 of a first subset of services, comprising at least one service, from the list of services. This first selection phase A1 allows for a selection E101 of at least one service based on the driver's physiological state, or the first selection phase is carried out based on a driver need in order to address that need. In other words, during the first selection phase A1, the detection step E1 of a driver's physiological state or the information step E1' of a driver need is executed. In particular, the method can be initiated by the vehicle detecting a driver state.

[0070] System 12, in particular processing unit 13, implements a first selection phase, within the list of services, of the first subset of services. The first subset comprises at least one service. Similar to what was previously explained, when the process includes the step E1 of detecting a driver's state, the service(s) selected and integrated into the first subset of services aim(s) to correct the detected driver's state, that is, they aim to bring the driver back to, or into, a balanced state.

[0071] Optionally, the process can be programmed to execute when an abnormal, i.e., unbalanced, conductor state is detected. In such a case, selection E101 and then the second selection phase A2 can be implemented when an abnormal conductor state is detected during step E1. In other words, the process can be configured to stop after detection step E1 when a normal, or balanced, conductor state is detected. Alternatively, when a normal, or balanced, state is detected, the service(s) integrated into the first subassembly(ies) can be selected based on whether they maintain such a state.

[0072] The process then includes a second selection phase A2 of a second subset of services within the first subset. This second selection phase A2 enables a selection E102 based on the driver's availability level, usage preferences, and expertise level, as described previously. The second selection phase A2 thus includes all or part of the various steps and substeps related to the driver's availability level, preferences, and expertise level. Specifically, the second selection phase A2 may include at least: the calculation step E3 of a driver availability level based on data relating to the external context and / or the internal context of the vehicle; the consultation step E4 of driver usage preferences; the consultation step E5 of data characterizing a driver experience level at least defined based on a driver's experience level of service use.

[0073] Optionally, the second phase may include the E2 detection step of the external context and / or the internal context of the vehicle as described above.

[0074] Such a mode advantageously optimizes vehicle resources so that the selection system 12, if programmed in this way, only executes the second selection phase A2 when the situation requires it.

[0075] Once the second selection phase A2 is executed, the system obtains a second subset of services, derived from the first subset and thus from the initial list of services, adapted to the context related to the driver, the context of vehicle 1, and the context external to vehicle 1. Optionally, when the subset comprises a plurality of services, the process may include the random selection step E7 as previously described, corresponding here to a third selection phase. The process may also optionally include the control step E201 as described above. Vehicle 1 can then execute the selected service as previously described.

[0076] The present invention thus proposes a method for selecting a service for a driver of a motor vehicle from a list of a plurality of services intended for the driver, the method allowing a selection adapted to contexts relating to the driver, the vehicle and the external environment in order to optimize the comfort and safety of the driver at a lower cost, in particular by implementing equipment already integrated into the vehicle.

Claims

1. Method (100) for selecting a relaxing or stimulating service for a driver of a motor vehicle (1) equipped with at least one memory unit (11) in which a list of services intended for the driver is stored, the method being characterized in that it comprises: - a step (E1) of detecting a physiological state of the driver by way of a monitoring unit (16) of the vehicle or a step (E1') of providing information about a need of the driver by way of a human-machine interface of the vehicle; - a step (E2) of detecting a context external and / or a context internal to the vehicle by way of at least one out of one or more driving assistance systems (19), one or more measuring members (18), a locating means (15) of the vehicle or a connected device; and - a step (E3) of computing a level of availability of the driver on the basis of the data in relation to the context external and / or to the context internal to the vehicle; - a step (E4) of consulting use preferences of the driver that are saved in a memory unit (11) of the vehicle; and - a step (E5) of consulting data characterizing at least one level of experience that the driver has of using the relaxing or stimulating services; and then - the selection (E101, E102, E103) of at least one relaxing or stimulating service from the list of services being carried out on the basis of the physiological state of the driver or on the basis of the need of the driver, on the basis of the level of availability of the driver, on the basis of the use preferences of the driver and on the basis of the data characterizing the level of experience of the driver of the vehicle.

2. Selection method (100) according to the preceding claim, comprising a first selection phase (A1) of selecting a first subset of services, comprising at least one service, within the list of services, the first selection phase (A1) being carried out on the basis of the physiological state of the driver in order to correct the detected state of the driver or the first selection phase (A1) being carried out on the basis of a need of the driver in order to address said need, the method then comprising a second selection phase (A2) of selecting a second subset of services, within the first subset, carried out on the basis of the level of availability of the driver, on the basis of the use preferences of the driver and on the basis of the level of experience of the driver.

3. Selection method (100) according to either of the preceding claims, comprising a random selection step (E7), implemented when a plurality of services are available at the end of the selection of at least one service on the basis of: - the physiological state of the driver or the need of the driver, and - the level of availability, and - the use preferences, and - the level of experience of the driver.

4. Selection method (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the step (E1) of detecting a state of the driver comprises: - a sub-step (E11) of measuring at least one emotional and / or physiological parameter of the driver; and / or - a sub-step (E13) of detecting at least one abnormal or risky driving behaviour by way of at least one driving assistance system (19) and / or by way of a measuring member (18) fitted in the vehicle; and - a sub-step (E12, E12') of classifying the state of the driver on the basis of the physiological parameter of the driver and / or on the basis of the driving behaviour of the driver, a service being selected when an abnormal state of the driver is detected.

5. Selection method (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the step (E5) of consulting the level of experience of the driver comprises a step (E51) of determining the level of experience of using the services on the basis of a number of occurrences of the driver executing the services, and a step (E52) of comparing the level of experience with an experience index, specific to each service and defining a minimum level of experience required by the driver to execute the service correctly, the service being selected when the experience index is lower than or equal to the detected level of experience of the driver.

6. Method (200) for relaxing or stimulating a driver of a motor vehicle, the method first comprising the steps of the selection method (100) according to one of the preceding claims, and then a step (E6) of executing at least one service selected by at least one means (300) for implementing said service, the execution step (E6) being implemented when a number of services selected at the end of the selection method (100) is greater than or equal to 1, or a step (E8) of interrupting the execution method early, implemented when the number of services selected at the end of the selection method (100) is zero.

7. Relaxation or stimulation method (200) according to the preceding claim, comprising a step (E9) of blocking a repetition of the steps of the selection method (100), implemented following a step (E6) of executing a service in an execution cycle (nx) of the method so as to prevent the successive execution of services within an interval of a duration less than a predefined threshold value.

8. Relaxation or stimulation method according to Claim 6 or 7, comprising, following the execution (E6) of a service, a step (E61) of saving the level of experience of the driver in relation to said service or a step (E62) of modifying a previously stored level of experience of the driver in relation to said service.

9. System (12) for selecting a relaxing or stimulating service for a driver of a motor vehicle (1), the system comprising hardware and / or software elements implementing the selection method (100) according to one of Claims 1 to 5, the hardware elements comprising at least one data processing unit (13) configured to cooperate with at least one memory unit (11) in which the list of services intended for the driver is stored.

10. Motor vehicle equipped with a selection system according to the preceding claim and with at least one means (300) for implementing one or more relaxing or stimulating services.