Method and system for regulating the presence of fog on at least one window of a vehicle

Abstract

Method and system for regulating the presence of mist on at least one window of a vehicle The invention relates to a method for regulating the presence of mist on the inner surface of at least one window (110) of a vehicle (100). Said method comprises a control loop comprising steps of: - obtaining (E10) at least one signal, called a "control signal", associated with a quantity and comprising past values ​​and a current value of said quantity, a risk of condensation of humidity on the inner surface of said at least one window being able to be determined from said at least one quantity, - determining (E30), using said at least one control signal, a predictive command of at least one actuator of the vehicle so as to maintain or lower said risk below a threshold value, - transmitting (E40) the predictive command to said at least one actuator. Figure for the abstract: Fig. 4

Description

Title of the invention: Method and system for regulating the presence of mist on at least one window of a vehicle Prior art

[0001] The present invention belongs to the general field of managing the condition of one or more vehicle windows, such as cars, trucks, buses, trains and the like. It relates more particularly to a method for regulating the presence of fog on at least one window of a vehicle. It also relates to a system configured to implement said method. The invention finds a particularly advantageous, although in no way limiting, application in the case of a vehicle comprising at least one electric motor for movement, such as for example an electric or hybrid vehicle.

[0002] Managing the risk of moisture condensation, and therefore a fortiori the presence of mist, on the inner surface of the windshield of a vehicle is of particular importance in terms of the safety of users of said vehicle. Indeed, the presence of mist on the windshield has a direct influence on the visual comfort of the driver of the vehicle, it being expected that the latter has the widest and clearest possible field of vision in order to avoid any visual discomfort / fatigue detrimental to the safety of driving said vehicle.

[0003] In practice, the management of this risk of condensation can prove complex insofar as it is likely to come into conflict with the management of thermal comfort within the passenger compartment, the latter being traditionally defined as a combination between, in particular, the temperature felt by the user(s) of the vehicle, it being expected that this reaches a given value (example: a temperature determined by the driver) within said passenger compartment, and the relative or absolute humidity within said passenger compartment.

[0004] Indeed, to achieve a given thermal comfort, a climate control system is traditionally used, also called an “HVAC” system (acronym for the Anglo-Saxon expression “Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning”), making it possible to heat, cool and ventilate the air circulating in the living space.

[0005] However, in many current vehicles, this HVAC system is also used to manage the risk of fogging on the windshield, to the point that it even takes priority over thermal comfort management. This can therefore lead to problematic situations, such as in winter where the HVAC system cannot be used to manage the risk of fogging without introducing cold air and / or activating a circuit cooling, which then leads to a deterioration in thermal comfort, and even an increase in the consumption of electrical energy on board the vehicle.

[0006] To overcome this difficulty, it has been proposed to equip the windshield with dedicated heating means (example: resistive elements of the wire or metal strip type, heating interlayer of laminated glazing, etc.).

[0007] Such heating means make it possible to demist the windshield effectively, the latter being directly heated with low heat loss in its vicinity, which makes it possible to increase the room for maneuver in terms of optimizing the thermal management of the passenger compartment.

[0008] That being said, said heating means are generally controlled by an on / off switch, operated by a user of the vehicle (e.g.: driver of the vehicle). This use of the heating means cannot therefore be considered satisfactory since it results from a voluntary action by the user, that is to say an action based on a subjective criterion. Thus, it may happen that the heating means are left on simply because the user forgets, which certainly has a negative impact in terms of energy consumption.

[0009] One way of trying to overcome these drawbacks is to carry out automatic control of the management of fogging on the vehicle's windshield. Such automatic control is often carried out by means of a closed control loop using data from temperature and / or humidity sensors. Based on this data, the heating means are controlled in an attempt to reduce the risk of condensation on the windshield.

[0010] Current solutions offering automatic closed-loop control rely on traditional PID-type regulation techniques (acronym for "proportional, integral, derivative"), and ultimately prove to be unsatisfactory because they are not conducive to a reliable assessment of the risk of condensation on the vehicle's windshield, as well as to precise regulation thereof.

[0011] It is important to note that all of the elements set out above ultimately apply to any type of glazing of a vehicle, therefore in particular to glazing other than a windshield (example: rear window, side window, etc.). Statement of the invention

[0012] The present invention aims to remedy all or part of the drawbacks of the prior art, in particular those set out above, by proposing a solution which makes it possible to automatically regulate (control) the presence of mist on one or multiple windows of a vehicle, more precisely and more efficiently than state-of-the-art solutions.

[0013] To this end, and according to a first aspect, the invention relates to a method for regulating the presence of mist on the interior surface of at least one window of a vehicle, said method comprising a control loop comprising, during a current iteration, steps of: - obtaining at least one signal, called a “control signal”, associated with a quantity and comprising past values ​​and a current value of said quantity, a risk of condensation of humidity on the interior surface of said at least one glazing being able to be determined from said at least one quantity, - determination of a predictive command of at least one actuator of the vehicle so as to maintain or lower said risk below a threshold value, said command being determined by means of a predictive model of said risk using said at least one control signal, - transmission of the predictive command to said at least one actuator.

[0014] By "predictive control", reference is made here to a control aimed at activating / deactivating the heating means and / or activating / deactivating at least one component belonging to the air conditioning system so as to regulate the presence of mist on said at least one glazing.

[0015] It should be noted that the expression “regulate the presence of mist on said at least one glazing” covers several cases, namely: - cases where no mist is already present on said at least one glazing, the regulation in question then aiming to prevent the appearance of mist, - cases where condensation is already present on said at least one pane of glass, the regulation in question then aiming to eliminate it.

[0016] Furthermore, and more specifically, the term "predictive" refers to an anticipatory compensation / correction type control. Such a predictive control is part of an advanced automatic control technique (the acronyms "MPC" or "MBPC" are commonly used in English to describe this technique, and correspond to the expressions "Model (Based) Predictive Control").

[0017] In its general principle, an MPC technique consists of the use of at least one model supplied by signals. Said at least one model makes it possible to describe the evolution of one or more quantities, including in particular quantities associated with the signals which are provided as input to said at least one model, in order to anticipate the future evolution of the quantities in question, and thus predict which are the most appropriate commands to transmit as a function of this evolution.

[0018] The implementation of such an MPC technique proves to be particularly suitable for the application envisaged here, that is to say the regulation of the presence of mist on said at least one window of the vehicle. Indeed, the MPC technique makes it possible to create an anticipatory effect with respect to the control signals, so as to be able to generate regulation commands adapted to the evolution (over a determined future time horizon) of the quantities associated with the control signals.

[0019] It also makes it possible to avoid excessive variations in the quantities handled (i.e. the predictive control is smoother), which contributes to better use of the actuators (heating means, air conditioning system).

[0020] Ultimately, the implementation of the regulation method according to the invention advantageously makes it possible to finely regulate the presence of mist on said at least one glazing, in particular so as to minimize the risk of mist appearing, or even, if mist is already present, to favor rapid elimination thereof for reasons of driving safety.

[0021] In particular embodiments, the regulation method may further comprise one or more of the following characteristics, taken in isolation or in all technically possible combinations.

[0022] In particular embodiments, a plurality of control signals are obtained, including: - a signal whose associated quantity is a temperature of said at least one glazing, and - a signal whose associated quantity is absolute humidity within the vehicle interior.

[0023] In particular embodiments, a single control signal is obtained, the quantity associated with said control signal being a relative humidity inside the vehicle in the vicinity of said at least one glazing.

[0024] By "in the vicinity of said at least one glazing", reference is made here to a gap to the windshield of the order of a few millimeters, for example less than or equal to 10 mm.

[0025] In particular modes of implementation, the determination of said risk of condensation, by the predictive model and for a given time step of a future time horizon, comprises: - obtaining a temperature of said at least one glazing as well as a dew point of the passenger compartment, - a calculation of a difference between said temperature of said at least one glazing and said dew point of the passenger compartment, - a comparison of said deviation with at least one given value.

[0026] In particular modes of implementation, the determination of said risk of condensation, by the predictive model and for a given time step of a horizon future tense, includes: - obtaining relative humidity inside the vehicle in the vicinity of said at least one window, - a comparison of said relative humidity with at least one given value.

[0027] In particular embodiments, said at least one actuator comprises means for heating said at least one glazing and / or at least one actuator of an air conditioning system for the passenger compartment of the vehicle from among: a fan, a compressor, a heating resistor, an air recycling flap.

[0028] In particular modes of implementation, the predictive model is configured to model: - the evolution of temperature and humidity conditions at the level of the interior surface of said at least one glazing, and - the evolution of temperature and humidity conditions within the passenger compartment of the vehicle due to the operation of an air conditioning system of said passenger compartment.

[0029] In particular embodiments, the regulation method also comprises a step of obtaining at least one signal, called a “disturbance signal”, associated with a quantity and comprising past values ​​and a current value of said quantity, said at least one disturbance signal being at least one of: - a signal whose associated quantity is a number of people in the vehicle, - a signal whose associated quantity is a rate of carbon dioxide present in the passenger compartment, - a signal whose associated quantity is a vehicle speed, - a signal whose associated quantity is an external temperature of the vehicle, - a signal whose associated quantity is a relative or absolute humidity outside the vehicle, - a signal whose associated quantity is meteorological prediction data, - a signal whose associated quantity is a solar power absorbed by said at least one window and / or by the passenger compartment of the vehicle. The regulation method further comprises a step of determining, from said at least one disturbance signal, at least one predicted value of the quantity associated with said at least one disturbance signal, the predictive model of said condensation risk also using said at least one predicted value when determining the predictive control of said at least one actuator.

[0030] Such arrangements advantageously make it possible to take into consideration measurable disturbances likely to affect the predictive control. This therefore results in very high reactivity, in terms of regulation, with respect to conditions external to the vehicle, but also a possibility of refining (i.e. enriching) the predictive model, and therefore a fortiori to further increase the precision of the regulation.

[0031] In particular modes of implementation, the step of determining the predictive control comprises an optimization of a cost function comprising at least one term from among: - a gap between the risk of condensation predicted by the predictive model and said threshold value, - a rate of variation of the risk of condensation.

[0032] In particular modes of implementation, the cost function also comprises a weighting of at least one term representative of a vehicle usage criterion, said at least one usage criterion comprising at least one of: - a criterion relating to the absence of frost on said at least one glazing, - a criterion relating to thermal comfort within the passenger compartment, - a criterion relating to the consumption of electrical energy on board the vehicle and used for the operation of said at least one actuator, - a criterion relating to a carbon dioxide level within the passenger compartment, - a criterion relating to a noise level within the passenger compartment.

[0033] According to a second aspect, the invention relates to a computer program comprising instructions for implementing a regulation method according to the invention when said program is executed by a computer.

[0034] This program may use any programming language, and be in the form of source code, object code, or code intermediate between source code and object code, such as in a partially compiled form, or in any other desirable form.

[0035] According to a third aspect, the invention relates to a computer-readable information or recording medium on which a computer program according to the invention is recorded.

[0036] The information or recording medium may be any entity or device capable of storing the program. For example, the medium may comprise a storage means, such as a ROM, for example a CD ROM or a microelectronic circuit ROM, or a recording means, for example a USB key or a hard disk.

[0037] On the other hand, the information or recording medium may be a transmissible medium such as an electrical or optical signal, which may be conveyed via an electrical or optical cable, by radio or by other means. The program according to the invention may in particular be downloaded from a network such as the Internet.

[0038] Alternatively, the information or recording medium may be an integrated circuit in which the program is incorporated, the circuit being adapted to execute or to be used in carrying out the process in question.

[0039] According to a fourth aspect, the invention relates to a system for regulating the presence of fog on at least one window of a vehicle. Said system comprises means configured to implement a regulation method according to the invention.

[0040] According to a fifth aspect, the invention relates to a vehicle comprising a regulation system according to the invention.

[0041] In particular embodiments, said vehicle comprises at least one electric motor for movement. Brief description of the drawings

[0042] Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will emerge from the description given below, with reference to the appended drawings which illustrate an exemplary embodiment thereof without any limiting character. In the figures: [Fig.l] [Fig.l] schematically represents, in its environment, a particular embodiment of a regulation system according to the invention, said regulation system being configured to regulate the presence of mist on the windshield of a vehicle; [Fig.2] [Fig.2] schematically represents an example of hardware architecture of the regulation system of [Fig.l]; [Fig.3] [Fig.3] schematically represents a particular mode of operation of a control loop implemented by the control system of [Fig.l] to regulate the presence of mist; [Fig.4] [Fig.4] represents, in the form of a flowchart, a particular mode of implementation of a control method integrating the control loop of [Fig.3]; [Fig.5] [Fig.5] schematically represents a particular embodiment of a regulation module belonging to the regulation system of [Fig.l] and used for the operation of the control loop of [Fig.3]; [Fig.6] [Fig.6] another particular mode of operation of the control loop; [Fig.7] [Fig.7] represents, in the form of a flowchart, a particular mode of implementation of the regulation process integrating the control loop of [Fig.6]. Description of embodiments

[0043] The present invention belongs to the field of managing the condition of one or more glazings of a vehicle, and more specifically aims at regulating (i.e. controlling) the risk of humidity condensation (i.e. the risk of the presence of mist) on one or more glazings of said vehicle.

[0044] The remainder of the description relates more particularly to a vehicle of the electric car type. By "electric car", we refer here to a car which comprises at least one electric motor and which, in order to move (i.e. to operate said at least one electric motor), uses only the electrical energy on board one or more batteries which equip it.

[0045] For reasons of simplification of the description, it is also considered in a non-limiting manner that the regulation mentioned above applies only to the windshield of said electric car.

[0046] It is important to note, however, that the present invention is not limited to the case of an electric car, and may relate indifferently to a hybrid car or even a car equipped solely with a combustion engine.

[0047] More generally, the fact of considering a car-type vehicle does not constitute a limitation of the invention, the latter remaining applicable for any type of vehicle capable of moving by means of on-board energy (electrical energy and / or fuel), such as a truck, a bus, a train, etc. and comprising at least one window.

[0048] Furthermore, the fact of describing the invention here for the windshield of the electric car alone constitutes only a variant implementation of the invention. Thus, no limitation is attached to these aspects, so that it is possible to consider other glazings, such as for example a side window or a rear window of a car. Nothing also excludes considering a regulation of the presence of mist for a plurality of glazings.

[0049] Ultimately, whatever the type of vehicle considered and whatever the type and number of glazings considered, the person skilled in the art knows how to adapt the following description without difficulty.

[0050] [Fig.l] schematically represents, in its environment, a particular embodiment of a system SYS_C for regulating the presence of mist on the windshield 110 of the electric car 100.

[0051] In the embodiment of [Fig.l], the regulation system SYS_C is connected, via communication means described in more detail later, to an HVAC system (acronym for the English expression “Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning”) equipping the electric car 100.

[0052] Conventionally, said HVAC system is configured to heat, cool and ventilate the passenger compartment of the vehicle equipping the electric car 100. The design and implementation details of such an HVAC system being well known to those skilled in the art, they are not recalled here.

[0053] Furthermore, in the embodiment described here, in order to carry out the control of the demisting of the windshield 110, said system SYS_C is also connected to MOD_HEAT heating means equipping the windshield 110.

[0054] Said heating means MOD_HEAT comprise for example a network of electrical wires incorporated in the windshield 110 (case of laminated glazing comprising a layer in which said electrical wires are inserted). Generally speaking, all known heating means can be envisaged, this aspect not being limiting of the invention.

[0055] The regulation of the presence of mist on the windshield 110 of the electric car 100 is therefore carried out, in the embodiment described here, thanks to said heating means MOD_HEAT as well as thanks to said HVAC air conditioning system. It is important to note, however, that such arrangements are not limiting of the invention, only said heating means MOD_HEAT (respectively only said HVAC air conditioning system) being able for example to be used to regulate the presence of mist on the windshield 110.

[0056] Thus, said heating means MOD_HEAT form actuators with respect to the envisaged regulation. The same applies to the component(s) of the HVAC air conditioning system that may be used in the implementation of this regulation, such as for example: a fan and / or a compressor and / or a heating resistor (such as for example a heating resistor equipping a heated seat or a radiant panel of the car 100) and / or an air recycling flap, etc.

[0057] According to the invention, the system SYS_C is configured to carry out processing operations making it possible to regulate (i.e. control) the presence of mist on the inner surface of the windshield 110 of the electric car 100 (i.e. the surface in direct contact with the interior environment of the car 100, i.e. the passenger compartment of the car 100). In other words, said system SYS_C is configured to generate regulation commands intended for the heating means MOD_HEAT as well as for the air conditioning system HVAC, by implementing a regulation method according to the invention, described in detail below and the steps of which are included in a (closed) control loop.

[0058] The implementation of this regulation method, via said regulation system SYS_C, advantageously makes it possible to finely control the risk of condensation, and therefore of the presence of mist, on the windshield 110 of the electric car 100, so as to guarantee excellent driving comfort, in particular with regard to safety requirements linked to visibility through said windshield 110.

[0059] [Fig.2] schematically represents an example of hardware architecture of the SYS_C regulation system of [Fig.l].

[0060] As illustrated by [Fig.2], the regulation system SYS_C according to the invention has the hardware architecture of a computer. Thus, said regulation system SYS_C comprises, in particular, a processor 1_C, a RAM 2_C, a 3_C read-only memory and 4_C non-volatile memory. It also has 5_C communication means.

[0061] The read-only memory 3_C of the regulation system SYS_C constitutes a recording medium in accordance with the invention, readable by the processor 1_C and on which is recorded a computer program PROG_C in accordance with the invention, comprising instructions for the execution of steps of the regulation method according to the invention. The program PROG_C defines functional modules of the regulation system SYS_C, which rely on or control the hardware elements 1_C to 5_C cited above, and which include in particular: - an obtaining module MOD_OBT configured to obtain at least one signal, called a “control signal”, associated with a quantity and comprising past values ​​and a current value of said quantity, a risk RI of humidity condensation on the interior surface of the windshield 110 being able to be determined from said at least one quantity, - a regulation module MOD_REG configured to determine a predictive command C_PRED of the actuators of said heating means MOD_HEAT and of said air conditioning system HVAC, so as to maintain or lower said risk RI below a threshold value VS_RI, said command being determined by means of a predictive model MODEL of said risk RI, - a transmission module MOD_TX configured to transmit the predictive command C_PRED to said actuators.

[0062] In a known manner, the phenomenon of condensation on the windshield 110 can occur when any one of the assertions below is verified: - relative humidity reaches 100% near the windshield 110; - the air temperature in the vicinity of the windshield 110 reaches the dew point; - the partial pressure of the water in the vicinity of the windshield 110 reaches the saturation vapor pressure.

[0063] These three assertions are equivalent in that they each reflect the fact that if the mass of water present in the passenger compartment of the car 100 in the vicinity of the windshield 110 is greater than what the air can contain in the form of vapor in this vicinity, then condensation may appear on the interior surface of the windshield 110.

[0064] It results from these considerations, and more particularly from the equivalence between said assertions, that it is possible to define the risk of condensation RI as a function of different sets of physical quantities (a set being able to refer to one or more quantities), which then conditions different embodiments of the invention with regard to the control signals intended to be obtained via said obtaining module MOD_OBT.

[0065] Also, in the embodiment described here, it is considered that two signals of control are obtained (it being understood that each control signal is representative of a single quantity), which are: - a signal S_T_WS whose associated quantity is a temperature T_WS of the windshield 110. It should be noted that by “temperature T_WS of the windshield 110”, reference is made, for the present embodiment, to a temperature at the level of the interior surface of the windshield 110, - a signal S_AH_CAB whose associated quantity is an absolute humidity AH_CAB within the passenger compartment of the car 100. In a manner known per se, the absolute humidity AH_CAB corresponds to the proportion by weight of water vapor present in the air contained in said vicinity of the windshield 110.

[0066] From said two control signals S_T_WS, S_AH_CAB, and on the basis of calculations known to those skilled in the art, it is possible to determine (i.e. to estimate), initially, a dew point DP_CAB of the passenger compartment of the car 100 (i.e. the temperature below which the water vapor contained in the air of the passenger compartment condenses on the surfaces, by saturation effect).

[0067] Therefore, and in a second step, the risk RI of moisture condensation on the inner surface of the windshield 110 can be evaluated by considering a risk indicator I1_RI equal to the difference between the quantities T_WS and DP_CAB (i.e. I1_RI = T_WS - DP_CAB). More particularly, it is considered for example that: - if I1_RI is less than a first value T_INF, the RI risk is equal to 100%; - if I1_RI is greater than a second value T_SUP (T_SUP being greater than T_INF), the RI risk is zero; - if I1_RI is between T_INF and T_SUP (i.e. T_INF < I1_RI < T_SUP), the risk RI is expressed as follows: [Math.l] w - 4 v / H_RI-T_INF V " ~ A x T _SU P - T _IN FJ expression in which A and n are two given coefficients.

[0068] It should be noted that no limitation is attached to the choice of the parameters T_INF, T_SUP, A and n. In practice, these parameters are traditionally fixed during the manufacture of the car 100.

[0069] Furthermore, the fact of considering such a value of RI, when said indicator I1_RI is between T_INF and T_SUP, constitutes only a variant of implementation of the invention. Any other variant known to those skilled in the art can be used here when it is considered that the risk RI is determined from said risk indicator I1_RI.

[0070] More generally, it is important to note that taking into account said two control signals S_T_WS, S_AH_CAB to determine the risk RI, and therefore in fine to implement the regulation, is not limiting of the invention.

[0071] Indeed, nothing excludes, for example, considering other embodiments in which a single control signal is obtained by the obtaining module MOD_OBT, namely, for example, a signal S_RH_CAB whose associated quantity is a relative humidity RH_CAB inside the car 100 in the vicinity of the windshield 110 (typically at a distance from the windshield 110 less than or equal to 10 mm). From said signal S_RH_CAB, the risk RI of condensation of humidity on the inner surface of the windshield 110 can be evaluated by considering a risk indicator I2_RI equal to said quantity RH_CAB. More particularly, it is considered for example that: - if I2_RI is greater than a first value RH_SUP, the risk RI is equal to 100%; - if I2_RI is less than a second RH_INF value (RH_SUP being greater than RH_INF), the RI risk is zero; - if I2_RI is between RH_INF and RH_SUP (i.e. RH_INF < I2_RI < RH_SUP), the RI risk is expressed as follows: [Math.2] I2_RI-RH_INF \n Kl-A RH_SUP - RH_INF ) expression in which A' and n' are two given coefficients.

[0072] Following considerations similar to those mentioned above, no limitation is attached to the choice of the parameters RH_INF, RH_SUP, A' and n', the latter being traditionally fixed during the manufacture of the car 100. What is more, the fact of considering such a value of RI, when said indicator I2_RI is between RH_INF and RH_SUP, constitutes only a variant of implementation of the invention, any other variant known to those skilled in the art being able to be used here when it is considered that the risk RI is determined from said risk indicator I2_RI.

[0073] As regards the threshold value VS_RI, this can either be constant or be variable over time, no limitation being attached to this aspect. As a general rule, and as considered in the embodiment described here, it is a fixed constant value (for example during the construction of the car 100), stored in the non-volatile memory 4_C, and playing a role of threshold beyond which it is considered that fog is likely to appear on the windshield 110.

[0074] In other words, it is possible to consider this threshold value VS_RI as an operating constraint of the SYS_C regulation system. For the remainder of the description, we adopt the notation according to which the operating constraint(s) of the SYS_C regulation system form(s) a set of constraints noted “E_CONS”.

[0075] For the purposes of the present invention, the expression “predictive control C_PRED” refers to an anticipatory compensation / correction type command aimed at activating / deactivating the heating means MOD_HEAT and / or activating / deactivating at least one component belonging to the HVAC air conditioning system so as to regulate the presence of mist on the windshield 110. Such a predictive command falls under an advanced automatic control technique (the acronyms “MPC” or “MB PC” are commonly used in English to describe this technique, and correspond to the expressions “Model (Based) Predictive Control”).

[0076] The general principle of this MPC technique consists of the use of at least one model supplied by signals. Said at least one model makes it possible to describe the evolution of one or more quantities within the passenger compartment of the car 100, including in particular the quantities associated with the signals supplied to it as input, in order to anticipate the future evolution of the quantities in question, and thus predict which are the most appropriate commands to transmit to the actuators as a function of this evolution.

[0077] In this regard, and as already mentioned above, the model considered for determining the predictive control C_PRED is said predictive model MODEL using in particular the control signals S_T_WS, S_AH_CAB. More particularly, in the embodiment described here, it is considered that the predictive model MODEL comprises: - a first sub-model SS_MODEL_CAB configured to model the evolution of temperature and humidity conditions (therefore in particular to model the evolution of the quantities T_WS and AH_CAB) at the level of the interior surface of the windshield 110. Said first sub-model SS_MODEL_CAB is therefore a hygrothermal model of the zone located in the vicinity of the windshield 110 within the passenger compartment, - a second sub-model SS_MODEL_HVAC configured to model the evolution of temperature and humidity conditions within the vehicle passenger compartment due to the operation of an HVAC air conditioning system. For this purpose, said sub-model SS_MODEL_HVAC models and simulates the operation of the components of the HVAC system.

[0078] Any model (i.e. any set of equations, typically differential equations) capable of modeling the evolution of temperature and humidity conditions at the level of the interior surface of the windshield 110 (respectively capable of modeling the evolution of temperature and humidity conditions within the passenger compartment of the vehicle due to the operation of an HVAC air conditioning system), and known to those skilled in the art, can be used here. In other words, the choice of a particular model, both for said first sub-model SS_MODEL_CAB and said second sub-model SS_MODEL_HVAC, constitutes only an implementation variant of the invention.

[0079] Furthermore, although it is considered here that the two sub-models SS_MODEL_CAB, SS_MODEL_HVAC are integrated into the predictive model MODEL, it is important to note that the presence of said second sub-model SS_MODEL_HVAC is, within the meaning of the invention, optional. Thus, nothing precludes considering other embodiments in which only the first sub-model SS_MODEL_CAB is integrated into said predictive model MODEL (said first sub-model SS_MODEL_CAB is in fact the one responsible for modeling the evolution of the quantities associated with the control signals S_T_WS, S_AH, CAB).

[0080] In addition to the aspects linked to the use of a predictive model, the implementation of an MPC technique also comprises, in a conventional manner, an optimization of a cost function F. Said cost function F aims above all, in the context of the present invention, to allow the regulation of the presence of fog on the windshield 110.

[0081] In practice, the cost function F is constructed so as to at least allow the evaluation of the impact of predictions of the quantities associated with the control signals S_T_WS, S_AH_CAB with respect to the variation of the condensation risk RL. For this purpose, the cost function F can include at least one term from: - a gap between the risk of condensation RI and said threshold value VS_RI, - a rate of variation of the risk of condensation RI (by “rate of variation” we mean temporal variation).

[0082] Generally speaking, the theoretical foundations of the MPC technique are well known to those skilled in the art, and are not repeated here. Furthermore, the manner in which said predictive control C_PRED is determined by the regulation module MOD_REG is detailed later through modes of implementation of the regulation method according to the invention.

[0083] It can however already be noted that, in the embodiment described here, the predictive control C_PRED comprises a plurality of components dedicated to the HVAC air conditioning system, namely: - a C_PRED_VV component for controlling the speed of a fan (i.e. a fan blowing air into the passenger compartment of the electric car 100), - a C_PRED_VC component for controlling the speed of a compressor (i.e. the compressor conventionally integrated into the HVAC air conditioning system), - a C_PRED_PT component for controlling the power of a heating resistor (such as, for example, a heating resistor equipping a heated seat or a radiant panel of the car 100), - a C_PRED_PV component for controlling the angular position of an air recycling flap.

[0084] In addition to said components dedicated to the HVAC air conditioning system, said C_PRED command comprises, in the present embodiment, a C_PRED_HEAT component for controlling the heating means MOD_HEAT.

[0085] Of course, considering said plurality of components C_PRED_VV, C_PRED_VC, C_PRED_PT, C_PRED_PV with regard to the HVAC system constitutes only a variant implementation of the invention. Thus, nothing excludes considering only a part of said components. Nothing excludes either, in addition or as an alternative, considering one or more other components associated with the HVAC system.

[0086] It is furthermore possible to envisage that at least one component dedicated to the HVAC system or to the heating means MOD_HEAT is a zero component. In other words, the invention covers modes according to which only the heating means MOD_HEAT (respectively only one or more components of the HVAC system) are activated by the predictive control C_PRED.

[0087] The communication means 5_C allow in particular the regulation system SYS_C to transmit the command C_PRED to the heating means MOD_HEAT as well as to the HVAC system (consequently, the heating means MOD_HEAT and the HVAC system are equipped with communication means configured to receive the control component(s) C_PRED dedicated to them).

[0088] The communication means 5_C also allow the regulation system SYS_C to receive the control signals S_T_WS, S_AH_CAB.

[0089] Consequently, in the embodiment described here, said communication means 5_C integrate the obtaining module MOD_OBT as well as the transmission module MOD_TX. Furthermore, it is also considered that the transmission module MOD_TX is integrated into the regulation module MOD_REG, it being understood that nothing of course excludes considering that it is external to said regulation module MOD_REG. Nothing also excludes considering embodiments in which the obtaining module MOD_OBT is also integrated into the regulation module MOD_REG.

[0090] To carry out these data exchanges, the communication means 5_C comprise, for example, a computer data bus capable of transmitting the C_PRED command and receiving the control signals. According to another example, the communication means 5_C comprise a communication interface, wired or wireless, capable of implementing any suitable protocol known to those skilled in the art (Ethernet, Wifi, Bluetooth, 3G, 4G, 5G, etc.). Generally speaking, no limitation is attached to the manner in which the C_PRED command is transmitted and the manner in which the control signals are obtained.

[0091] In the embodiment described herein, the control signals S_T_WS, S_AH_CAB are obtained from measurements, these measurements being acquired by acquisition means (not shown in the figures) equipping the electric car 100. The measurements carried out to obtain the control signals S_T_WS, S_AH_CAB relate to the quantities T_WS, AH_CAB.

[0092] The acquisition means configured to acquire said measurements comprise, in a known manner, an acquisition chain comprising a sensor dedicated to the measurement of each of said quantities T_WS, AH_CAB. Each of these sensors forms a sensitive element configured to provide an electrical signal as a function of the variations in the physical quantity with which it is associated. Said acquisition chain also comprises, for example, an acquisition card configured to condition the electrical signal provided by a sensor, for example by amplification and / or filtering. Said acquisition means may also comprise, at the output of the acquisition chain, an analog / digital converter configured to digitize a conditioned electrical signal.

[0093] Generally speaking, the configuration of such acquisition means is well known to those skilled in the art and is therefore not detailed further here. In particular, those skilled in the art know, on the one hand, how to choose the sensors suitable for measuring the quantities T_WS, AH_CAB, and on the other hand how to position them.

[0094] Furthermore, although it is considered here that the acquisition means are external to the regulation system SYS_C (i.e. the obtaining module MOD_OBT does not integrate the acquisition means), nothing excludes considering, according to another variant, inverse arrangements (i.e. the obtaining module MOD_OBT integrates the acquisition means).

[0095] It is important to note that the invention is not limited to the case where the measurements carried out by the acquisition means relate directly to the quantities associated with the control signals. In particular, it is possible to envisage that at least part of the measurements relate to other quantities from which the control signals can be obtained, in which case the latter can also be qualified as synthesis signals.

[0096] By way of non-limiting example, temperature measurements may be acquired at the outer surface of the windshield 110 (i.e. the surface in direct contact with the external environment of the car 100). From these measurements, and by using a model (of a type known per se) of the windshield 110 modeling the effects of thermal conduction, the control signal S_T_WS may be obtained.

[0097] It is also important to note that acquiring measurements of the quantities T_WS, AH_CAB allows access, according to calculations known to those skilled in the art, to corresponding values ​​of the quantity RH_CAB, and therefore ultimately to an estimate of the risk indicator I2_RI. The reverse also remains true (i.e. estimating I1_RI from measurements of the quantity RH_CAB). These considerations therefore illustrate again that the measurements carried out by the acquisition means can relate directly or indirectly to the quantities associated with the control signals obtained by the MOD_OBT obtaining module.

[0098] We will now describe a particular mode of operation of the control loop of the regulation process, as implemented by means, in particular, of the regulation system SYS_C of [Fig.2]. The description of this particular mode of operation is carried out with reference to the block diagram of [Fig.3] which represents said control loop (i.e. the signals exchanged between the different functional modules of the regulation system SYS_C).

[0099] In parallel with the description of the operation of the control loop, we will also describe, with reference to [Fig.4], a particular mode of implementation of the regulation method.

[0100] As a reminder, it is considered in the mode described here that the condensation risk RI is defined from the risk indicator I1_RI mentioned above.

[0101] For the description of Figures 3 and 4, a current iteration of the control loop is considered. This current iteration is indexed by means of the integer index “i” (consequently, the iteration which immediately follows the current iteration is indexed by the index “i+1”, and so on).

[0102] It is also considered that the control loop is iterated according to a fixed period, for example a period of 1 second. It is noted, however, that such a period of XX seconds does not in any way constitute a limitation of the invention, and nothing excludes the possibility of considering another period, such as for example a period of less than XX seconds, more particularly of the order of XX.

[0103] Also, for this current iteration, and as mentioned above, each control signal comprises past values ​​and a current value of the quantity associated with it. Thus each control signal S_X (X can be T_WS or AH_CAB in the present embodiment) comprises a component S_X[i] (current value) but also components S_X[il],...,S_X[ik], where k is a determined integer defining the size of a history of past values. To designate the set of these current and past values ​​S_X[i], S_X[il],...,S_X[ik], we still use the compact writing S_X[i, il,...,ik].

[0104] It should be noted that taking into account past values ​​for each of the control signals S_T_WS, S_AH_CAB is a conventional approach in the context of determining a predictive command. Furthermore, it is of course understood that these past values ​​correspond to values ​​which were considered current during previous iterations of the control loop. These past values ​​are stored, as the control loop is iterated, by memory means. dedicated memory (e.g.: non-volatile memory 4_C of the SYS_C regulation system, dedicated server external to the SYS_C regulation system, etc.).

[0105] As illustrated by [Fig.3], the control signals S_T_WS, S_AH_CAB are obtained (received) by the obtaining module MOD_OBT. This is the subject of a step E10 of the regulation method, as illustrated by [Fig.4].

[0106] The control signals S_T_WS, S_AH_CAB thus obtained are then transmitted by the obtaining module MOD_OBT to the regulation module MOD_REG during a step E20 of the regulation method.

[0107] On receipt of said control signals S_T_WS, S_AH_CAB, and also from the threshold value VS_RI extracted from the non-volatile memory 4_C, the regulation module MOD_REG determines the predictive command C_PRED. This is the subject of a step E30 of the regulation method, as illustrated by [Fig.4].

[0108] As a reminder, in the present embodiment, the predictive control C_PRED comprises a plurality of components for the iteration of rank i+1, namely: - components C_PRED_VV[i+l], C_PRED_VC[i+l], C_PRED_PT[i+l], C_PRED_PV[i+l] intended for the HVAC air conditioning system, - a C_PRED_HEAT[i+l] component intended for MOD_HEAT heating means.

[0109] The predictive command C_PRED is then transmitted, thanks to the transmission module MOD_TX, to the heating means MOD_HEAT as well as to the air conditioning system HVAC to regulate the risk of condensation on the windshield 110. This is the subject of a step E40 of the regulation method, as illustrated by [Fig.4],

[0110] [Fig.5] is a more detailed schematic representation of the regulation module MOD_REG belonging to the regulation system SYS_C used for the operation of the control loop of [Fig.3]. The implementation details of step E30, executed by the regulation module REG of [Fig.5], are also represented in [Fig.4].

[0111] As a reminder, it is considered here, in no way limiting, that the predictive model MODEL used by the regulation module MOD_REG is formed by two sub-modules, namely said first and second sub-modules SS_MODEL_CAB, S_MODEL_HVAC.

[0112] As illustrated by [Fig.5], said sub-model SS_MODEL_CAB first receives as input, following the execution of step 20, the control signals S_T_WS, S_AH_CAB.

[0113] The sub-model SS_MODEL_CAB then determines, during a sub-step E30_l of step E30 of the regulation method, data S_T_WS[i+l],...,S_T_WS[i+j], as well as data S_AH_C AB [i+1 ],..., S_AH_CAB[i+j]. These data correspond to predicted values ​​over a future time horizon of size j for each of the quantities T_WS, AH_CAB associated with said control signals S_T_WS, S_AH_CAB.

[0114] It should be noted that considering predictions of said quantities T_WS, AH_CAB over a future time horizon is a conventional approach in the implementation of an MPC technique. Furthermore, no limitation is attached to the size of said future time horizon (i.e. to the value of the integer j), this being able to be chosen according to considerations well known to those skilled in the art (example: execution time of the control loop, precision of the predictive control C_PRED, etc.).

[0115] From the data determined during sub-step E30_l, the sub-model SS_MODEL_CAB performs, in the implementation mode described here and for each time step m of the future time horizon (i.e. for each integer m between i+1 and i+j): - a calculation of the risk indicator Il_RI[m], - a determination, based on the calculated risk indicator Il_RI[m], of an associated condensation risk RI[m].

[0116] The condensation risk RI determined by the sub-model SS_MODEL_CAB therefore comprises several components RI[i+l],.. .,RI[i+k], the calculation and determination steps described above to obtain these components being grouped in a sub-step E30_2 of step E30 of the regulation method.

[0117] The components RI[i+l],...,RI[i+k] (= RI[i+l,...,i+j] in [Fig.5]), as well as the threshold value VS_RI of the set of constraints E_CONS, are then used to carry out the optimization of the cost function F. This optimization is the subject of a sub-step E30_3 of step E30 of the regulation method, as illustrated by [Fig.4], and is also represented symbolically by means of a functional block referenced “OPTIM_F” in [Fig.5] (such a block has a solver function for the cost function F).

[0118] Any optimization algorithm known to those skilled in the art can be implemented here, and the choice of a particular optimization algorithm constitutes only a variant implementation of the invention.

[0119] It should be noted that the optimization of the cost function F can be carried out by also taking into account data provided by the sub-model SS_MODEL_HVAC, such as for example data relating to the electrical energy consumed by the components of the HVAC system for which the predictive control C_PRED is, at least in part, intended. Such arrangements are schematically represented in [Fig.5] by means of an arrow connecting said sub-model SS_MODEL_HVAC to the block OPTIM_F.

[0120] In practice, stopping the optimization algorithm of the cost function F is conditioned by a stopping criterion. No limitation is attached to the nature of this stopping criterion which may for example correspond to a convergence criterion of the metric used by the cost function F (difference between the condensation risk RI predicted by the predictive model and said threshold value VS_RI, rate of variation of the condensation risk RI) and / or to a calculation time having reached a given threshold and / or to the achievement of a given number of iterations during which the best solution no longer evolves.

[0121] The optimization of the cost function F ultimately makes it possible to generate a vector of predictive commands comprising as many components as the size j of the future time horizon used. In practice, only the first component of this vector (i.e. the component of rank i+1) is retained and corresponds to said predictive command C_PRED intended for the actuators.

[0122] It should be noted that the components of the predictive control C_PRED, in addition to being transmitted to the heating means MOD_HEAT and the air conditioning system HVAC, can also be used to: - the implementation of the calculations carried out by each of the said sub-models SS_MODEL_CAB, SS_MODEL_HVAC, and / or - updating the parameters of each of the said models SS_MODEL_CAB, SS_MODEL_HVAC.

[0123] For this purpose, and as illustrated by [Fig.5], the components C_PRED_VV[i+l], C_PRED_VC[i+l], C_PRED_PT[i+l], C_PRED_PV[i+l] are also transmitted to the SSMODEL_HVAC submodel. The C_PRED_HEAT[i+l] component is also transmitted to the SS_MODEL_CAB submodel.

[0124] Furthermore, once the components of the C_PREP command have been transmitted to said SS_MODEL_CAB, SS_MODEL_HVAC sub-models, additional data may be generated by said SS_MODEL_HVAC sub-model and transmitted to the SS_MODEL_CAB sub-model. For example, and as illustrated by [Fig.5], said additional data includes a value MP_AIR[i+l] of air flow rate of the HVAC air conditioning system, as well as a value T_AIR[i+l] of temperature of the air injected into the passenger compartment by the HVAC air conditioning system. Such additional data advantageously allows the SS_MODEL_CAB sub-model to refine its predictions for the next iteration of the control loop.

[0125] The invention has been described so far considering that the regulation method is implemented from the control signals alone (two control signals S_T_WS, S_AH, CAB or a single control signal S_RH_CAB). The invention is however not limited by such provisions, and indeed covers other embodiments in which still other signals, in addition to said control signals control, are used for the implementation of the regulation process.

[0126] [Fig.6] schematically represents another particular mode of operation of the control loop. [Fig.7] represents, in the form of a flowchart, a particular mode of implementation of the regulation process integrating the control loop of [Fig.6].

[0127] The steps of the regulation method of [Fig.7] include steps E10, E20, E30 and E40 already described above with reference to [Fig.4], but also, in no way limiting, sub-steps E30_1, E30_2 and E30_3 described above with reference to [Fig.5].

[0128] In the mode of [Fig.6], the obtaining module MOD_OBT is configured to receive, in addition to the control signals S_T_WS, S_AH_CAB, a plurality of signals, called “disturbance signals”, including: - a signal S_V_CAR whose associated quantity is a speed V_CAR of car 100, - a signal S_T_EXT whose associated quantity is an outside temperature T_EXT at car 100, - a signal S_RH_EXT whose associated quantity is a relative humidity RH_EXT outside the car 100, - an S_DATA_M signal whose associated quantity is a meteorological prediction data M (rainfall, sunshine, etc.).

[0129] In a similar manner to what has been described for the control signals S_T_WS, S_AH, CAB, each disturbance signal S_V_CAR, S_T_EXT, S_RH_EXT, S_DATA_M comprises past values ​​and a current value of the quantity associated with it.

[0130] Obtaining said disturbance signals S_V_CAR, S_T_EXT, S_RH_EXT, S_DATA_M by the obtaining module MOD_OBT is the subject of a step E11 of the regulation method, as illustrated in [Fig.7]. The order in which steps E10 and E11 are implemented is not limiting of the invention. For example, steps E10 and E11 can be implemented in parallel.

[0131] It should be noted that considering said disturbance signals S_V_CAR, S_T_EXT, S_RH_EXT, S_DATA_M only constitutes a variant implementation of the invention. Thus, nothing excludes considering, in addition to or as a replacement for one or more of said signals S_V_CAR, S_T_EXT, S_RH_EXT, S_DATA_M, still other disturbance signals, such as for example: - a signal whose associated quantity is a number of people in the vehicle, - a signal whose associated quantity is a rate of carbon dioxide present in the passenger compartment, - a signal whose associated quantity is absolute humidity outside the car 100, - a signal whose associated quantity is a solar power absorbed by said at least one window and / or by the passenger compartment of the car 100.

[0132] Generally speaking, no limitation is attached to the number and nature of the disturbance signals that can be considered.

[0133] In the mode of [Fig.6], the regulation system SYS_C also comprises a determination module MOD_DET configured to determine, from the disturbance signals S_V_CAR, S_T_EXT, S_RH_EXT, S_DATA_M, at least one predicted value for each of the quantities V_CAR, T_EXT, S_RH_EXT, DATA_M.

[0134] For example, and as illustrated by [Fig.6], the number of predicted values ​​for each quantity V_CAR, T_EXT, S_RH_EXT, DATA_M is equal to j, that is to say the number of time steps considered for the future time horizon used by the regulation module MOD_REG when determining the predictive command C_PRED. However, nothing excludes considering a different number of j, for example less than j, for the predicted values ​​for each of the quantities V_CAR, T_EXT, S_RH_EXT, DATA_M.

[0135] Following considerations similar to those mentioned above concerning the sub-models SS_MODEL_CAB, SS_MODEL_HVAC, any model (i.e. any set of equations, typically differential equations) capable of modeling the evolution of the quantities V_CAR, T_EXT, S_RH_EXT, DATA_M, and known to those skilled in the art, can be used here. In other words, the choice of a particular model constitutes only a variant of implementation of the invention.

[0136] The determination of the predicted values ​​for each of the quantities V_CAR, T_EXT, S_RH_EXT, DATA_M by the determination module MOD_DET is the subject of a step E13 of the regulation method, as illustrated by [Fig.7]. This step E13 is executed after the disturbance signals S_V_CAR, S_T_EXT, S_RH_EXT, S_DATA_M are transmitted by the obtaining module MOD_OBT to the determination module MOD_DET, this transmission being the subject of a step E12 of the regulation method.

[0137] The predicted values ​​for each of the quantities V_CAR, T_EXT, S_RH_EXT, DATA_M are in turn transmitted to the regulation module MOD_REG during a step E21 of the regulation method. The order in which steps E20 and E21 are implemented is not limiting of the invention. For example, steps E20 and E21 can be implemented in parallel.

[0138] In the mode of [Fig.6], during step E30 of determining the command C_PRED, the predictive model MODEL (more particularly here the sub-model SS_MODEL_CAB) uses, in addition to the control signals S_T_WS, S_AH_CAB, the predicted values ​​for each of the quantities V_CAR, T_EXT, S_RH_EXT, DATA_M.

[0139] Taking into account the predicted values ​​for each of the quantities V_CAR, T_EXT, S_RH_EXT, DATA_M advantageously makes it possible to refine (i.e. enrich) the models used for determining the predictive control C_PRED, and therefore a fortiori to further increase the precision of the regulation implemented.

[0140] The invention has also been described up to now by considering that the cost function F is optimized, when determining the predictive control C_PRED, by taking into account only the regulation of the presence of mist on the windshield 110. The invention is however not limited by such provisions, and in fact covers other embodiments in which the cost function F can still take into account other aspects.

[0141] For example, the cost function F may include a weighting of at least one term representative of a criterion for use of the car 100. Said at least one criterion for use may include at least one of: - a CRIT_1 criterion relating to the absence of frost on the windshield 110, - a CRIT_2 criterion relating to thermal comfort within the passenger compartment, - a CRIT_3 criterion relating to the consumption of electrical energy on board the car 100 and used for the operation of the MOD_HEAT heating means and the HVAC air conditioning system, - a CRIT_4 criterion relating to a carbon dioxide level within the passenger compartment, - a CRIT_5 criterion relating to a noise level within the passenger compartment (example: noise generated by a fan of the HVAC air conditioning system, the noise level can therefore be modulated by modifying the speed of said fan).

[0142] No limitation is attached to the number of usage criteria (and therefore to the number of terms to be weighted) that can be considered among said CRIT_p criteria (p being an integer index between 1 and 5). More generally, nothing excludes considering one or more other usage criteria in addition to or as an alternative to all or part of the CRIT_p criteria.

[0143] Consequently, in such embodiments, the cost function F admits a general formulation of the type F = F_D + F_CRIT, where: - F_D is a term representative of the sole contribution of the regulation of the presence of fog on the windshield 110 to the determination of the predictive control C_PRED, - F_CRIT is a term representative of the contribution of the usage criterion(s) taken into account in determining the predictive control C_PRED.

[0144] For purely illustrative purposes, we can consider the example according to which the usage criteria CRIT_2 and CRIT_3 are taken into account. For what concerns more speci Specifically, the CRIT_2 criterion, it is considered that comfort conditions are relative not only to the temperature within the passenger compartment but also to the absolute humidity within the passenger compartment. Therefore, the CRIT_2 criterion relates to thermal comfort within the passenger compartment.

[0145] In a manner known per se, the thermal comfort within the passenger compartment can be evaluated in different ways. In the example described here, it is considered in a non-limiting manner that the evaluation of the thermal comfort is carried out by calculating a difference between a temperature T_CAB of said passenger compartment and a setpoint temperature T_CAB_SET chosen by a user of the car 100 (example: the driver of the car 100 sets the temperature T_CAB_SET to 20°C within the passenger compartment). Obtaining said setpoint temperature T_CAB_SET is carried out for example via said obtaining module MOD_OBT (example: manual input interface integrated into said obtaining module MOD_OBT). Moreover, the way in which the temperature T_CAB is regulated may not only depend on said setpoint T_CAB_SET but also, for example, on a selection of an economical temperature regulation mode.

[0146] Other methods of evaluating thermal comfort can of course also be envisaged, such as for example an evaluation carried out using a Fanger model, also called PMV / PPD model (acronyms for the expressions “Predicted Mean Vote” and “Predicted Percentage of Dissatisfied” in the English literature). Generally speaking, no limitation is attached to the way in which thermal comfort is evaluated within the meaning of the present invention.

[0147] In the exemplary embodiment described here, the weightings of the usage criteria CRIT_2, CRIT_3 can be expressed as follows: F_CRIT = w2 * F_CRIT_2 + w3 * F_CRIT_3, expression in which: - w2 and w3 are weighting weights (i.e. positive or negative real numbers), - F_CRIT_2 is a term representing the contribution of the CRIT_2 usage criterion to the F_CRIT term, - F_CRIT_3 is a term representing the contribution of the usage criterion CRIT_3 to the term F_CRIT.

[0148] It should be noted that the term "weightings" covers all the possibilities of combination between F_CRIT_2 and F_CRIT_3. In other words, nothing excludes considering the following alternatives: - the weights w2 and w3 are both strictly positive, or - w2 (respectively w3) is strictly positive, w3 (respectively w2) being zero.

[0149] It may also be noted that taking into consideration one or more criteria of use in the cost function F has an impact in terms of signals intended to be obtained by the MOD_OBT obtaining module and / or operating constraints of the SYS_C regulation system which should be taken into account at the level of the OPTIM_F optimizer.

[0150] Thus, taking the previous example in which the cost function F admits the expression: F = F_D + w2 * F_CRIT_2 + w3 * F_CRIT_3, we understand that: - as regards the criterion CRIT_2, the obtaining module MOD_OBT obtains not only, via appropriate measurements, a control signal S_T_CAB whose associated quantity is the temperature T_CAB of the passenger compartment, but also the value T_CAB_SET which constitutes a constraint belonging to the set of constraints E_CONS and which is provided as input to the optimizer OPTIM_F, - with regard to criterion CRIT_3, a signal S_ELEC representative of a maximum electrical power available for the operation of said heating means MOD_HEAT and said air conditioning system HVAC, and belonging to the set of constraints E_CONS, is provided as input to the optimizer OPTIM_F.

[0151] Generally speaking, for any usage criterion likely to be taken into account in the optimization of the cost function F, the person skilled in the art knows how to determine the quantity(ies) (and therefore a fortiori the associated signal(s)) as well as the constraint(s) intended to be taken into account.

[0152] Finally, the invention has also been described up to now by considering that the heating means MOD_HEAT and the air conditioning system HVAC are two entities external to the regulation system SYS_C. These provisions are however not limiting of the invention, and nothing excludes considering embodiments in which the heating means MOD_HEAT and / or the air conditioning system HVAC belong to the regulation system SYS_C.

Claims

Claims

1. Method for regulating the presence of fog on the inner surface of at least one glazing (110) of a vehicle (100), said method comprising a control loop comprising, during a current iteration, steps of: - obtaining (E10) at least one signal, called a "control signal" (S_T_WS, S_AH_CAB), associated with a quantity and comprising past values ​​and a current value of said quantity, a risk of condensation of humidity on the inner surface of said at least one glazing being able to be determined from said at least one quantity, - determining (E30) a predictive command (C_PRED) of at least one actuator (MOD_HEAT, HVAC) of the vehicle so as to maintain or lower said risk below a threshold value (VS_RI), said command being determined by means of a predictive model (MODEL) of said risk using said at least one control signal, - transmitting (E40) the predictive control of at least one actuator.

2. Method according to claim 1, in which a plurality of control signals are obtained, including: - a signal (S_T_WS) whose associated quantity is a temperature of said at least one glazing (110), and - a signal (S_AH_CAB) whose associated quantity is an absolute humidity inside the vehicle in the vicinity of said at least one glazing.

3. Method according to claim 1, in which a single control signal is obtained, the quantity associated with said control signal being a relative humidity inside the vehicle in the vicinity of said at least one glazing.

4. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, in which the determination of said risk of condensation, for a given time step of a future time horizon, comprises: - obtaining a temperature of said at least one glazing as well as a dew point of the passenger compartment, - calculating a difference between said temperature of said at least one glazing and said dew point of the passenger compartment, - comparing said difference with at least one given value.

5. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the determination of said risk of condensation, for a given time step of a future time horizon, comprises: - obtaining a relative humidity inside the vehicle in the vicinity of said at least one glazing, - a comparison of said relative humidity with at least one given value.

6. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein said at least one actuator comprises heating means (MOD_HEAT) for said at least one glazing (110) and / or at least one actuator of an air conditioning system (HVAC) of the passenger compartment of the vehicle (100) among: a fan, a compressor, a heating resistor, an air recycling flap.

7. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, in which the predictive model (MODEL) is configured to model: - the evolution of temperature and humidity conditions at the level of the interior surface of said at least one glazing (110), and - the evolution of temperature and humidity conditions within the passenger compartment of the vehicle due to the operation of an air conditioning system of said passenger compartment.

8. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, said method also comprising a step of obtaining (El 1) at least one signal, called a “disturbance signal”, associated with a quantity and comprising past values ​​and a current value of said quantity, said at least one disturbance signal being at least one of: - a signal whose associated quantity is a number of people in the vehicle, - a signal whose associated quantity is a level of carbon dioxide present in the passenger compartment, - a signal (S_V_CAR) whose associated quantity is a speed of the vehicle, - a signal (S_T_EXT) whose associated quantity is a temperature outside the vehicle, - a signal (S_RH_EXT) whose associated quantity is a relative or absolute humidity outside the vehicle, - a signal (S_DATA_M) whose associated quantity is a meteorological prediction data, - a signal whose associated quantity is an absorbed solar power by said at least one glazing and / or by the passenger compartment of the vehicle, the method further comprising a step of determining (El3), from said at least one disturbance signal, at least one predicted value of the quantity associated with said at least one disturbance signal, the predictive model (MODEL) of said risk of condensation also using said at least one predicted value when determining the predictive control (C_PRED) of said at least one actuator (MOD_HEAT, HVAC).

9. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, in which the step of determining (E30) the predictive control comprises an optimization of a cost function comprising at least one term from among: - a difference between the risk of condensation predicted by the predictive model and said threshold value (VS_RI), - a rate of variation of the risk of condensation.

10. Method according to claim 9, in which the cost function also comprises a weighting of at least one term representative of a criterion of use of the vehicle, said at least one criterion of use comprising at least one of: - a criterion relating to an absence of frost on said at least one glazing, - a criterion relating to thermal comfort within the passenger compartment, - a criterion relating to a consumption of electrical energy on board the vehicle and used for the operation of said at least one actuator, - a criterion relating to a level of carbon dioxide within the passenger compartment, - a criterion relating to a noise level within the passenger compartment.

11. Computer program (PROG_C) comprising instructions for implementing a regulation method according to any one of claims 1 to 10 when said program is executed by a computer.

12. A computer-readable recording medium having a computer program recorded thereon according to claim 11.

13. System (SYS_C) for regulating the presence of mist on at least one window (110) of a vehicle (100), said system comprising means configured to implement a regulation method according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

14. Vehicle (100) comprising a control system according to claim 12.

15. Vehicle (100) according to claim 14, said vehicle comprising at least one electric motor for moving.

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