Method and control device for customizing the configuration of a vehicle

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method and a control device (10) for controlling a vehicle (2) having a user interface (3). The method comprises: detecting a navigation instruction (CMD2) defining a journey (TJ) to be carried out; determining at least one user preference PF, relating to a function (F1) of the vehicle (2), from personalization data (DT1) associating said at least one user preference (PF) with said journey (TJ); and controlling the user interface (3) causing a display of a preferred configuration option (20a), selectable by default, to configure said function (F1) according to said at least one user preference (PF). Figure for abstract: Figure 1

Description

Title of the invention: Method and control device for personalizing the configuration of a vehicle Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to methods and devices for controlling a vehicle, in particular but not exclusively of the automobile type, and aims in particular at controlling a user interface on board such a vehicle to enable efficient configuration of said vehicle. Technological background

[0002] In the ever-evolving automotive industry, vehicle customization is a major area of differentiation and improvement in the user experience. Currently, some solutions exist to allow users to configure certain functions of their vehicle. These features, while beneficial, are limited in their ability to offer a truly tailored and personalized experience for each user.

[0003] One of the limitations that needs to be addressed is the lack of ergonomics and intuitiveness of current personalization systems. User interfaces, often complex and unintuitive, lead to a frustrating and unsatisfying user experience. Users frequently find themselves faced with confusing menus and laborious and repetitive procedures when they want to adjust their vehicle's settings. This complexity not only detracts from the user experience, but can also lead to dangerous distractions while driving, which poses road safety concerns.

[0004] For example, adjusting certain systems of a motor vehicle may indeed require considerable attention, forcing the driver to divert his attention from the road, in particular if the user does not understand, or has poor mastery of, the adjustment procedure to be followed. In addition, carrying out such adjustment procedures may prove time-consuming and does not always allow the vehicle to be configured according to the user's needs. Summary of the present invention

[0005] One of the objects of the present invention is to solve at least one of the problems or deficiencies of the technological background described above.

[0006] Another object of the present invention is to enable efficient and easy customization of the configuration of a vehicle by a user.

[0007] Another object of the present invention is to efficiently control a user interface embedded in a vehicle in order to configure a vehicle according to the user needs.

[0008] According to a first aspect, the present invention relates to a control method implemented by a control device for controlling a vehicle having a user interface, said method comprising: - detection of a navigation instruction defining a route to be taken; - determination of at least one user preference, relating to a function of the vehicle, from personalization data associating said at least one user preference with said journey; and - user interface control causing a display of a preferred configuration option, selectable by default, to configure said function according to said at least one user preference.

[0009] The method according to the invention may include other characteristics which may be taken separately or in combination, in particular among the embodiments which follow.

[0010] According to a particular embodiment, the determination of said at least one user preference comprises: - consultation of a database in which the personalization data is pre-recorded.

[0011] According to a particular embodiment, the method comprises, prior to the detection of the navigation instruction: - reception, from a client terminal, of a customization command defining, for said journey, said at least one user preference relating to the function of the vehicle; and - recording, as personalization data, said at least one user preference in association with said journey.

[0012] According to a particular embodiment, said at least one user preference defines a preferred setting of the vehicle function from among a plurality of possible settings.

[0013] According to a particular embodiment, the control of the user interface comprises: - selection of the preferred configuration option, representative of said at least one user preference, from a plurality of possible configuration options of said function; and - displaying, through the user interface, the preferred configuration option while hiding every other possible configuration option of said function.

[0014] According to a particular embodiment, the method comprises, after said control of the user interface: - upon detection of a user instruction selecting the configuration option preferred, configuring said function according to said at least one user preference.

[0015] According to a particular embodiment, the function comprises at least one of: - a function of a vehicle infotainment system; - a vehicle ambient lighting function; and - a function of an integrated vehicle massage system.

[0016] According to a second aspect, the present invention relates to a control device for controlling a vehicle having a user interface, the control device comprising a memory associated with a processor configured for implementing the steps of the control method according to the first aspect of the present invention.

[0017] It should be noted that the various embodiments mentioned above in relation to the control method according to the first aspect of the invention as well as the associated advantages apply in a similar manner to the control device according to the second aspect of the invention.

[0018] According to a third aspect, the present invention relates to a vehicle, for example of the automobile type or of the land motor vehicle type, comprising a user interface and a control device according to the second aspect of the present invention.

[0019] According to a fourth aspect, the present invention relates to a computer program which comprises instructions adapted for executing the steps of the control method according to the first aspect of the present invention, in particular when the computer program is executed by at least one processor. In other words, the different steps of the control method are determined by computer program instructions. This computer program is configured to be implemented in a control device of the second aspect of the invention, or more generally in a computer.

[0020] Such a computer program may use any programming language, and be in the form of source code, object code, or intermediate code between source code and object code, such as in a partially compiled form, or in any other desirable form.

[0021] According to a fifth aspect, the present invention relates to a recording medium (or information medium), readable by the control device according to the second aspect or more generally by a computer (or a processor), on which is recorded a computer program comprising instructions for executing the steps of the control method according to the first aspect of the present invention.

[0022] On the one hand, the 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 memory, a CD-ROM or a microelectronic circuit type ROM memory, or a magnetic recording means or a hard disk.

[0023] Furthermore, this recording medium may also be a transmissible medium such as an electrical or optical signal, such a signal being able to be conveyed via an electrical or optical cable, by conventional or hertzian radio or by self-directed laser beam or by other means. The computer program according to the present invention may in particular be downloaded from an Internet-type network.

[0024] Alternatively, the recording medium may be an integrated circuit in which the computer program is incorporated, the integrated circuit being adapted to perform or to be used in performing the method in question.

[0025] The present invention advantageously makes it possible to efficiently and easily personalize the configuration of a vehicle by a user. It is thus possible to transform the personalization experience into an intuitive, pleasant process that is fully adapted to the individual preferences and needs of the user according to the context of use of the vehicle.

[0026] In particular, the invention advantageously makes it possible to efficiently control a user interface embedded in a vehicle in order to configure the vehicle according to the needs of a user. Thanks to the invention, the content displayed by the user interface of a vehicle can be personalized according to the context of use of the vehicle, namely according to a predefined journey to be carried out. Thus the user chooses, in an ergonomic and intuitive manner, a suitable configuration of the vehicle when said journey is carried out. By thus personalizing the user interface, it is possible to simplify the configuration of a function of the vehicle and avoid long and tedious manipulations by the user, in particular so as to avoid unnecessary distractions while driving the vehicle and guarantee road safety.In this way, it is possible to facilitate the configuration of one or more vehicle functions according to the user's needs and with minimal user attention on board the vehicle. Brief description of the figures

[0027] Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will emerge from the description of the particular and non-limiting exemplary embodiments of the present invention below, with reference to the appended figures 1 to 6, in which:

[0028] [Fig.l] schematically illustrates an environment comprising a vehicle carrying a control device and a user interface, according to at least one particular and non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] [Fig.2] schematically illustrates the vehicle of [Fig.l], according to at least one example particular and non-limiting embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] [Fig.3] schematically illustrates the entry of user preferences on a client terminal reader relating to a function of the vehicle of [Fig.l], according to at least one particular and non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] [Fig.4] schematically illustrates a display produced by the user interface embedded in the vehicle of [Fig.l], according to at least one particular and non-limiting embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] [Fig.5] schematically illustrates a control device, according to at least one particular and non-limiting example of embodiment of the present invention; and

[0033] [Fig.6] illustrates a diagram of different stages of a method of controlling a vehicle, such as the vehicle of [Fig.l], according to at least one particular and non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Description of examples of implementation

[0035] A method and a device for controlling a vehicle will now be described in the following with reference to Figures 1-6. Unless otherwise indicated, elements common or similar to several figures bear the same reference signs and have identical or similar characteristics, so that these common elements are generally not described again for the sake of simplicity.

[0036] The terms "first(s)", "second(s)", etc.) are used in this document by arbitrary convention to enable different elements (such as operations, means, etc.) implemented in the embodiments described below to be identified and distinguished.

[0037] It is not currently possible to effectively customize one or more functions of a vehicle according to the user's needs. In addition to the long and tedious manipulations that are generally required to adjust the various systems of a vehicle, the user's needs are not sufficiently taken into account, which prevents a customized user experience from being offered.

[0038] The present invention therefore proposes to facilitate the customization of the configuration of a vehicle, in particular but not exclusively of the automobile type, in order to configure the vehicle in the most appropriate manner to the needs of the user according to the context considered, and to do so in an efficient and ergonomic manner.

[0039] To this end, the invention relates in particular to a device and a method for controlling a vehicle, for example of the automobile type or more generally of the motorized land vehicle type, this vehicle having a user interface. The invention is based in particular on the personalization of content displayed by the user interface of the vehicle according to a route to be taken.

[0040] According to a particular and non-limiting example of embodiment of the present invention, the control method comprises: - detection of a navigation instruction defining a route to be taken; - determination of at least one user preference, relating to a function of the vehicle, from personalization data associating said at least one user preference with said journey; and - user interface control causing a display of a preferred configuration option, selectable by default, to configure said function according to said at least one user preference.

[0041] The control method makes it possible in particular to overcome current limitations by offering a user interface displaying personalized content according to a journey to be made, and therefore according to the context of use of the vehicle. It is thus possible to transform the personalization experience into an intuitive, pleasant process that is entirely adapted to the individual preferences and needs of the user according to the context of use of the vehicle.

[0042] Other aspects and advantages of the present invention will emerge from the exemplary embodiments described below with reference to the drawings mentioned above.

[0043] Figures 1 and 2 schematically illustrate a vehicle 2 carrying a control device 10 and a user interface 3, according to particular embodiment examples. In this example, the user interface 3 comprises a display device 4 configured to display content intended for a user UR1 of the vehicle 2, namely information, in particular in the form of configuration options. The user interface 3 is configured to operate under the control of the control device 10. The display device 3 can implement any appropriate display technology to visually render content intended for the user.

[0044] The type and characteristics of the vehicle 2 may be adapted as appropriate. For example, the vehicle 2 is of the automobile type or equivalent. More generally, the vehicle 2 may be a motorized land vehicle type vehicle, such as a car, a coach, a bus, a truck, a utility vehicle or a motorcycle.

[0045] The vehicle 2 is furthermore capable of executing a function (or functionality, or application) F1 according to a configuration, denoted CGI, which can be adapted according to the case. The nature of this function F1 can vary according to the case. For the purposes of simplifying the description of the invention, and unless otherwise indicated, it is hereinafter considered that a single function F1 is controlled by means of the invention, although it is of course possible to control in a similar manner a plurality of functions F1 executable by all or part of the vehicle 2.

[0046] As illustrated in [Fig. 1], it is subsequently assumed that the vehicle 2 carries a component 22 responsible for executing the function F1, for example under the control of the control device 10. The nature and characteristics of the component 22 may vary depending on the function F1 considered.

[0047] According to one example, the function Fl comprises at least one of: - a function of a vehicle infotainment system 2; - a vehicle ambient lighting function 2; and - a function of an integrated vehicle massage system 2.

[0048] Also, component 22 may be, or comprise, at least one of: - an infotainment system capable of reproducing multimedia content on board the vehicle 2, for example in visual and / or audio form; - an on-board lighting system capable of providing ambient lighting on board the vehicle 2; and - an on-board massage system (for example in a seat of the vehicle 2) capable of massaging a user on board the vehicle 2 (for example a user positioned on the seat carrying the massage system).

[0049] Other types of function F1, and other corresponding components 22, are however possible (heating function, armchair adjustment function, etc.).

[0050] The function F1 can be executed by the component 22 according to a given CGI configuration ([Fig.l]). This configuration can be adapted according to a configuration choice made by the user UR1 by means of the user interface 3, as described below in particular embodiment examples.

[0051] To do this, the control device 10 is configured to detect a navigation instruction CMD2 issued by the user UR1, this navigation instruction CMD2 defining a path TJ to be carried out. In other words, this navigation instruction CMD2 identifies a predefined path TJ.

[0052] This navigation instruction CMD2 can for example be sent from the user interface 3 to an on-board navigation system (not shown) of the vehicle 2. The navigation system is for example a GPS system (for “Global Positioning System”) comprising a navigation function for providing navigation instructions to a user of the vehicle 2. The control device 10 is able to detect, intercept or recover the CMD2 instruction thus sent from the user interface 3. By way of example, the user UR1 can use the user interface 3 to send such a navigation instruction CMD2. The manner adopted by the device 10 to detect such a navigation instruction CMD2 can be adapted according to the case. This instruction CMD2 defines for example a target destination or a route that the user UR1 wishes to take.

[0053] The control device 10 is further configured to determine at least one user preference PF, relating to the function Fl of the vehicle 2, from DTI personalization data associating said at least one user preference PF with said trip TJ. In other words, the control device 10 can use the DTI personalization data to determine at least one user preference PF associated with said trip TJ. This or these user preferences PF specify a CGI configuration according to which the function Fl must be carried out when the trip TJ is carried out. As described below, these user preferences PF can be predefined by the user UR1 by means of a client terminal T1 ([Fig.l]) so that these user preferences PF are accessible by the control device 10. These user preferences PF represent the way in which the user UR1 wishes the function Fl to be carried out on board the vehicle 2 when the trip TJ is, or must be, carried out.

[0054] For the purpose of simplifying the description of the present invention, it is hereinafter considered that a single user preference PF is determined by the control device 10 although the invention can be applied in a similar manner to support a plurality of user preferences PF defined by the user UR1.

[0055] The prior storage of the DTI personalization data associating the user preference PF with the journey TJ can be carried out in various ways. As illustrated in [Fig.l], the DTI personalization data are for example pre-recorded in a memory DB1, for example taking the form of a database, accessible by the control device 10. According to a particular example, the memory DB1 is on board the vehicle 2. According to another example, the memory DB1 is a remote memory located outside the vehicle 2 and accessible via appropriate communication means.

[0056] The manner in which the DTI personalization data is pre-recorded in the memory DB1 may vary depending on the case. As illustrated in [Fig.l], it is assumed for example that the user UR1 uses a terminal T1 to predefine the DTI personalization data and to cause them to be recorded in the memory DB1 for later consultation by the control device 10. The terminal T1 may be any suitable client terminal allowing the user UR1 to predefine at least one user preference PF relating to the function F1 of the vehicle 2 in association with the journey TJ. This terminal T1 may allow the user UR1 to specify, remotely from the vehicle 2, the DTI personalization data in the memory DB1, for example from his home or another location.

[0057] By way of example, the terminal T1 may be a mobile terminal, such as a smartphone, a tablet, or the like. According to one example, the terminal T1 is on board, or included, in the vehicle 2.

[0058] [Fig. 3] represents the entry by the user UR1, by means of the terminal T1, of a user preference PF relating to the function F1 of the vehicle 2. To do this, the terminal T1 can for example execute an application allowing the user UR1 to define one or more user preferences PF relating to at least one function F1 executable on board the vehicle 22, namely executable by a component 22 as illustrated in [Fig.l]. Once the user UR1 has entered the data, the terminal T1 is then configured to transmit the DTI personalization data, associating the user preference PF with the journey TJ, for recording in the memory DB1. The terminal T1 can for example send this DTI data to the control device 10 which then performs the recording in the memory DB1 on board the vehicle 2. Alternatively, the terminal T1 can send the DTI personalization data to a remote server (not shown), separate from the vehicle 2, which is responsible for recording this DTI data in the DTI memory located outside the vehicle 2.

[0059] As already indicated, the user interface 3 is configured to display content intended for the user UR1 when the latter is on board the vehicle 2. The control device 10 can in particular cause the display, by the user interface 3, of a preferred configuration option 20a to configure the function Fl according to the user preference PF, the latter being previously determined by the control device 10 from the journey TJ to be carried out and the personalization data DTI. This preferred configuration option 20a is selectable by default. In other words, upon detection that the journey TJ must be carried out, the control device 10 causes the default display of the preferred configuration option 20a to propose to the user UR1 to configure the function Fl of the vehicle 2 according to the preference PF, in accordance with the personalization data DTI.

[0060] As illustrated in Figures 1-2 according to a particular example, the control device 10 may comprise at least one processor 11 and a non-volatile memory (not shown). The control device 10 is configured to implement a control method (or process) as described below. For this purpose, the device 10 may comprise a computer program PG1 stored in the non-volatile memory (Flash or ROM type memory for example), this computer program PG1 comprising instructions for implementing the control method (or process) as described below. The processor 11 is thus configured to execute in particular the instructions defined by the computer program PG1.

[0061] The control device 10 may for example take the form of a (or comprise a) computer, or a combination of computers. An example of implementation of the control device 10 is described later.

[0062] As illustrated, the control device 10 and the user interface 3 together form a system SY1. According to one example, the memory DB1 may be part of the system SY1.

[0063] As already indicated, the control device 10, as previously described in reference to Figures 1-2, is configured to implement a control process. This process is now described in conjunction with Figures 1-4 according to particular embodiments. For this purpose, the processor 11 of the control device 10 can execute the instructions of the computer program PG1.

[0064] We assume for example that user UR1 is on board vehicle 2 and that he wishes to make a particular journey noted TJ.

[0065] In a first operation, the control device 10 detects a navigation instruction CMD2 defining the route TJ to be taken. To do this, the user UR1 can for example use the user interface 3 to send the navigation instruction CMD2. This instruction CMD2 is for example sent to a navigation system (not shown) of the vehicle in order to trigger a navigation function to provide navigation instructions to the user UR1 while driving. The control device 10 then detects this instruction CMD2 in any appropriate manner.

[0066] According to one example, the control device 10 operates at the interface between the user interface 3 and the navigation system so as to be able to intercept and process each navigation instruction CMD2.

[0067] For example, the navigation instruction CMD2 defines a “Home - Work” journey as a TJ journey to be made, i.e. a journey from the home of the user UR1 to his usual place of work. According to another example, the TJ journey corresponds to a “Main home - Secondary home” journey, i.e. a journey from the main home of the user UR1 to his secondary home.

[0068] In a second operation, the control device 10 determines at least one user preference PF relating to the function F1 of the vehicle 2, from personalization data DTI associating said at least one user preference PF with said journey TJ. To do this, the control device 10 consults the memory DB1 in which the personalization data DTI are pre-recorded. The manner in which these personalization data DTI can be pre-recorded is described later according to a particular example. The memory DB1 is for example a database, on board the vehicle 2 or positioned outside the vehicle 2, this database being accessible by the control device 10.

[0069] As already indicated, it is subsequently assumed that the device 10 detects a user preference PF associated with the path TJ for the function F1, although the process can be executed in a similar manner to support a plurality of user preferences. The control device 10 thus extracts from the memory DB1 the user preference PF, predefined by the user UR1, which corresponds to the path TJ.

[0070] The user preference PF detected during this second operation defines a CGI configuration according to which the function Fl must be performed when the vehicle 2 moves along the route TJ. This user preference PF defines, for example, a preferred setting of the vehicle's function Fl from among a plurality of possible settings.

[0071] In a third operation, the control device 10 controls the user interface 3 causing a display of a preferred configuration option denoted 20a ([Fig.2]) which is selectable by default to configure the function F1 according to the user preference PF determined during the second operation. This preferred configuration option 20a can be presented in various forms, insofar as the user UR1 can view it on board the vehicle 2 and select it if necessary to trigger the configuration of the function F1 according to the user preference PF. This preferred configuration option 20a can for example take the form of an icon, a symbol, or more generally a graphic object representative of the user preference PF associated with the function F1.

[0072] Thus, the content displayed by the user interface 3 can be adapted according to the path TJ detected during the first operation. The configuration of the function Fl can further be adapted if the user UR1 decides to activate the preferred configuration option 20a, then causing the configuration of the function Fl according to the user preference PF.

[0073] According to a particular example, after triggering the third operation during which the preferred configuration option 20a is displayed by default, the control device 10 can check whether this preferred configuration option 20a is selected. Upon detection of a user instruction CMD3 ([Fig.l]) selecting or activating the preferred configuration option 20a, the control device 10 can then configure the function F1 according to the user preference PF. To do this, the control device 10 sends for example a configuration command CMD4 causing the configuration of the function F1 according to the user preference PF ([Fig.l]). Thus, the function F1 can be executed by the component 22 according to a CGI configuration which is in accordance with the user preference PF.

[0074] As already indicated, the manner in which the DTI personalization data are pre-recorded in the memory DB1 may vary depending on the case. According to a particular example, prior to the first operation during which the navigation instruction is detected, the control device 10 receives (or detects), from the client terminal T1, a personalization command CMD1 ([Fig.l]) defining, for the journey TJ, the user preference PF relating to the function F1 of the vehicle 2. The control device 10 then triggers the recording, as DTI personalization data, of the user preference PF in association with the journey TJ.

[0075] According to an example illustrated in particular in [Fig.4], during the third control operation, the control device 10 selects the preferred configuration option 22a, representative of the user preference PF determined during the second operation, from among a plurality of possible configuration options 20 of the function F1. Each possible configuration option 20 corresponds to (or represents) a respective setting, or a respective configuration, of said function F1. It is assumed for example that among the plurality of possible configuration options 20, there exists at least one alternative configuration option 20b, that is to say a possible configuration option 20 other than the preferred configuration option 20a.Still during the third operation, the control device 10 can then cause the display, by the user interface 3, of the preferred configuration option 20a while hiding (or blocking the display of) each other possible configuration option 20b of the function F1. In other words, the device 10 blocks the display of each alternative configuration option 20b relating to the function F1 to display only the preferred configuration option 20a, in accordance with the user preference PF predefined by the user UR1. Thus, the third control operation advantageously makes it possible to personalize the content displayed by the user interface 3, by causing the display of the preferred configuration option 20a as the only configuration choice of the function F1 among the possible configuration options 20.

[0076] In the case, for example, where there are three possible settings of a function F1 of the vehicle and the user UR1 has defined in his DTI customization data a preferred setting as a user preference PF, then only the preferred configuration option 20a corresponding to the preferred setting is displayed by the user interface 3, while the other two possible settings are hidden ([Fig.4]). Thus, the control carried out by the device 10 makes it possible to block the display of any alternative configuration option 20b which would make it possible to configure the function F1 according to a possible setting other than the preferred setting as defined in the DTI customization data.

[0077] As already indicated, the nature and specificities of the function Fl and the user preference PF can be adapted according to the case. For example, the function Fl comprises at least one of: - a function of a vehicle infotainment system 2; - a vehicle ambient lighting function 2; and - a function of an integrated vehicle massage system 2.

[0078] For purely illustrative purposes, the user UR1 can for example use his terminal T1 (a smartphone or other) as illustrated in [Fig.3] to choose his user preferences PF, relating to one or more functions F1 of the vehicle 2, to be applied on board the vehicle 2 when user UR1 makes a particular TJ trip, for example the “Home - Work” trip. For example, user UR1 can predefine his favorite music or radio station, a favorite sound ambiance (green for example), or even a favorite type of massage, for a specific TJ trip. The DTI personalization data thus makes it possible to define user preferences that are consistent with the habits or wishes of user UR1 in association with a particular TJ trip.

[0079] For example, when the user UR1 uses his vehicle 2 to go to work, he can thus trigger, via the user interface 3, a navigation function by sending a navigation instruction CMD2 ([Fig.l]) defining the “Home - Work” journey as the journey TJ to be carried out. Upon detection of this navigation instruction CMD2, the control device 10 consults the personalization data DTI and determines at least one user preference PF, relating to at least one function F1 of the vehicle 2, from the personalization data DTI associating said at least one user preference PF with the detected journey TJ.The device 10 can thus cause the default display, on the user interface 3, of one or more preferred configuration options 20a which are selectable by the user URL. Each preferred configuration option 20a allows, if selected, to configure a respective function Fl according to a user preference PF as defined in the personalization data DTI for the journey TJ considered.

[0080] Such a control process advantageously makes it possible to efficiently and easily personalize the configuration of the vehicle 2 by a user. It is thus possible to transform the personalization experience into an intuitive, pleasant process that is entirely adapted to the individual preferences and needs of the user according to the context of use of the vehicle.

[0081] In particular, the invention advantageously makes it possible to efficiently control the user interface 3 embedded in the vehicle 2 in order to configure this vehicle according to the needs of the user URL. Thanks to this process, the content displayed by the user interface 3 can be personalized according to the context of use of the vehicle, namely according to a predefined journey TJ to be carried out. Thus the user UR1 can choose, in an ergonomic and intuitive manner, a suitable configuration of the vehicle 2 when said journey TJ is carried out. By thus personalizing the user interface 3, it is possible to simplify the configuration of a function F1 of the vehicle 2 and avoid long and tedious manipulations by the user UR1, in particular so as to avoid unnecessary distractions while driving the vehicle and guarantee road safety.In this way, it is possible to facilitate the configuration of one or more Fl functions of the vehicle according to the user's needs and with minimal attention from the user on board the vehicle.

[0082] The process of the invention can in particular advantageously make it possible to personalize the content displayed by the user interface 3 so as to propose by default the configuration of the function F1 according to the user preference PF determined for the path TJ, while masking any other alternative choice of configuration of the function F1 which is not in accordance with this user preference PF.

[0083] [Fig. 5] schematically illustrates a control device 10 configured to control a vehicle, such as the vehicle 2 previously described with reference to FIGS. 1-4, according to a particular and non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The control device 10 comprises, for example, one or more computers.

[0084] The control device 10 is for example configured for implementing the operations of the control process as previously described with reference to FIGS. 1-4 and / or the steps of the method described below with reference to [Fig. 6]. Examples of such a control device 10 include, but are not limited to, on-board electronic equipment such as an on-board computer of a vehicle, an electronic computer such as an ECU (“Electronic Control Unit”), a smartphone, a tablet, a laptop. The elements of the control device 10, individually or in combination, may be integrated into a single integrated circuit, into several integrated circuits, and / or into discrete components. The control device 10 may be produced in the form of electronic circuits or software (or computer) modules or even a combination of electronic circuits and software modules.

[0085] The control device 10 comprises at least one processor 40, corresponding for example to the processor 11 of FIGS. 1-2, configured to execute instructions for carrying out the steps of the control method (or process) and / or for executing the instructions of the software(s) embedded in the control device 10. The processor 40 may include integrated memory, an input / output interface, and various circuits known to those skilled in the art. The control device 10 further comprises at least one memory 41 corresponding for example to a volatile and / or non-volatile memory and / or comprises a memory storage device which may comprise volatile and / or non-volatile memory, such as EEPROM, ROM, PROM, RAM, DRAM, SRAM, flash, magnetic or optical disk.

[0086] The computer code of the embedded software program(s) comprising the instructions to be loaded and executed by the processor 40 is for example stored on the memory 4L. The memory 41 can constitute an information medium according to a particular embodiment in that it comprises a computer program (for example PG1 illustrated in figures 1-2) comprising instructions for carrying out the steps of the control method (or process) of the invention.

[0087] According to various particular and non-limiting embodiments, the control device 10 is coupled in communication with other similar devices or systems and / or with communication devices, for example a TCU (from the English “Telematic Control Unit” or in French “Telematic Control Unit”), for example via a communication bus or through dedicated input / output ports.

[0088] According to a particular and non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the control device 10 comprises a block 42 of interface elements for communicating with external devices, for example a remote server or the “cloud”, or the vehicle 2 when the control device 10 corresponds to a smartphone or a tablet for example. The interface elements of the block 42 comprise one or more of the following interfaces:

[0089] - RF radio frequency interface, for example of the Wi-Fi® type (according to IEEE 802.11), by example in the 2.4 or 5 GHz frequency bands, or Bluetooth® type (according to IEEE 802.15.1), in the 2.4 GHz frequency band, or Sigfox type using UBN (Ultra Narrow Band) radio technology, or LoRa in the 868 MHz frequency band, LTE (Long-Term Evolution), LTE-Advanced;

[0090] - USB interface (from the English "Universal Serial Bus" or "Universal Serial Bus" in French);

[0091] - HDMI interface (from the English “High Definition Multimedia Interface”, or "High Definition Multimedia Interface" in French).

[0092] According to a particular and non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the control device 10 comprises a communication interface 43 which makes it possible to establish communication with other on-board devices (such as other computers of the on-board system, the user interface 3, the component 22 and / or the memory DB1 as the case may be) via a communication channel 45. The communication interface 43 corresponds for example to a transmitter configured to transmit and receive information and / or data via the communication channel 45.The communication interface 43 corresponds for example to a wired network of the CAN type (from the English “Controller Area Network” or in French “Réseau de contrôles”), CAN FD (from the English “Controller Area Network Flexible Data-Rate” or in French “Réseau de contrôles à débit de données flexible”), FlexRay (standardized by the ISO 17458 standard), Ethernet (standardized by the ISO / IEC 802-3 standard) or LIN (from the English “Local Interconnect Network”).

[0093] The control device 10 is for example coupled on the one hand to the terminal T1 by means of the block 42 of interface elements, and coupled on the other hand to the user interface 3 and to the on-board component 22 ([Fig.l]) by means of the communication interface 43.

[0094] According to a particular and non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the control device 10 can provide output signals to one or more external devices, such as the display device 4 of the user interface 3 (for example a touch screen or not), or one or more speakers and / or other peripherals (projection system) via respective output interfaces. According to a variant, one or other of the external devices is integrated into the control device 10.

[0095] [Fig.6] illustrates a diagram of the different steps of a method for controlling a vehicle having a user interface, for example the vehicle 4 as previously described with reference to FIGS. 1-5. The method is for example implemented by the control device 10 previously described, this device being able to be embedded in the vehicle 2.

[0096] In a first step S2, a navigation instruction CMD2, defining a path TJ to be carried out, is detected.

[0097] In a second step S4, at least one user preference PF, relating to a function F1 of the vehicle 2, is determined from personalization data DTI associating said at least one user preference PF with said journey TJ.

[0098] In a third step S6, a control of the user interface 3 is carried out, this control causing a display of a preferred configuration option 20a, selectable by default, to configure said function F1 according to said at least one user preference PF.

[0099] According to one example, the method comprises, prior to the detection step S2, a preliminary step S8 comprising: - reception (step S8a), from a client terminal T1, of a personalization command CMD1 defining, for said journey TJ, said at least one user preference PF relating to the function F1 of the vehicle 2; and - recording (step S8b), as DTI personalization data, of said at least one user preference PF in association with said journey TJ.

[0100] According to alternative embodiments, the variants and examples of the operations described above in relation to figures 1-4 apply to the steps of the control method of [Fig.6].

[0101] As understood by a person skilled in the art, all the embodiments and variants described above, some of which have been deliberately simplified to facilitate explanations, constitute only non-limiting examples of implementation of the present disclosure. In particular, a person skilled in the art may envisage any adaptation or combination of the embodiments and variants described above, in order to meet a particular need.

[0102] The present invention is therefore not limited to the exemplary embodiments described above but extends in particular to a control method which would include secondary steps without thereby departing from the scope of the present invention. The same would apply to a device configured for the implementation of such a method.

[0103] The present invention also relates to a vehicle such as the vehicle 2 previously described with reference to figures 1-6, for example a motor vehicle or more generally a land motor vehicle, this vehicle comprising the control device 10 as previously described.

Claims

Claims

1. Control method implemented by a control device (10) for controlling a vehicle (2) having a user interface (3), said method comprising: - detection (S2) of a navigation instruction defining a journey to be carried out; - determination (S4) of at least one user preference (PF), relating to a function (Fl) of the vehicle, from personalization data (DTI) associating said at least one user preference with said journey; and - control (S6) of the user interface (3) causing a display of a preferred configuration option (20a), selectable by default, to configure said function (Fl) according to said at least one user preference (PF).

2. Method according to claim 1, in which the determination (S4) of said at least one user preference (PF) comprises: - consultation of a database (DB1) in which the personalization data (DTI) are pre-recorded.

3. Method according to claim 1 or 2, in which the method comprises, prior to the detection (S2) of the navigation instruction: - reception (S8a), from a client terminal (Tl), of a personalization command (CMD1) defining, for said journey (TJ), said at least one user preference (PF) relating to the function (Fl) of the vehicle; and - recording (S8b), as personalization data (DTI), of said at least one user preference in association with said journey.

4. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said at least one user preference (PF) defines a preferred setting of the function (Fl) of the vehicle (2) from among a plurality of possible settings.

5. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control (S6) of the user interface comprises: - selecting the preferred configuration option (20a), representative of said at least one user preference (PF), from among a plurality of possible configuration options (20b) of said function (F1); and - displaying, by the user interface (3), the configuration option preferred (20a) while hiding every other possible configuration option (20b) of said function.

6. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the method comprises, after said control (S6) of the user interface: - upon detection of a user instruction (CMD3) selecting the preferred configuration option (20a), configuration of said function (Fl) according to said at least one user preference (PF).

7. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the function (F1) comprises at least one of: - a function of an infotainment system of the vehicle; - an ambient lighting function of the vehicle; and - a function of an integrated massage system of the vehicle.

8. Computer program (PG1) comprising instructions for implementing the method according to any one of the preceding claims, when these instructions are executed by a processor (11, 40).

9. Control device (10) for controlling a vehicle (2) having a user interface (3), said control device comprising a memory (41) associated with at least one processor (11, 40) configured for implementing the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

10. Vehicle (2) comprising a user interface (3) and the control device (10) according to claim 9.

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