Method and device for controlling a thermal parameter regulation system using a rotary knob on the door

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method and device for controlling a regulation system for regulating at least one thermal parameter in the passenger compartment (12) of a vehicle (10) comprising a touchscreen interface (14), at least one door (16), said system comprising at least one rotary knob (18), said at least one door comprising said at least one rotary knob (18). Figure 1

Description

Title of the invention: Method and device for controlling a thermal parameter regulation system using a rotary knob on a door technical field

[0001] The invention relates to methods and devices for controlling a climate control system in the passenger compartment of a vehicle, particularly, but not exclusively, a motor vehicle. The invention specifically relates to a method and device for controlling a climate control system that allows a thermal parameter to be regulated via the interface of at least one rotary knob positioned on a vehicle door. Technological background

[0002] Contemporary vehicles include, for some of them, several screens to display information useful to the driver for driving the vehicle as well as comfort information, such as, for example, information to interact with the infotainment system, also called IVI system (from the English "In-Vehicle Infotainment" or in French "Infodivertissement étoilé"), of the vehicle.

[0003] Among these screens, it is known to include one or more LCD type screens (from the English "Liquid Crystal Display" or in French "Affichage à cristals liquide"), for example of type TFT (from the English "Thin-Film Transistor" or in French "Transistor en film mince"), or OLED (from the English "Organic Light-Emitting Diode" or in French "Diode électroluminescente organique").

[0004] The integration of such screens makes it possible, for example, to control, via a graphical Human-Machine Interface (HMI) displayed on such screens, the operating status of the systems on board the vehicle, for example AD AS systems (from the English "Advanced Driver-Assistance System" or in French "Système d'aide à la conduite avancé").

[0005] The control of embedded systems is achieved, for example, by executing commands on the touch interface of a vehicle screen. These commands are varied and include, for example, short or brief touch presses, long touch presses, multiple touch presses (e.g., double touch presses), touch swipes in several directions, touch presses with one or more fingers, etc.

[0006] Using a central touchscreen to control an embedded system in a vehicle presents several disadvantages for the user, particularly the driver. First, interacting with this screen requires the driver This diverts the driver's attention from the road, increasing the risk of accidents due to loss of concentration. Furthermore, reaching the central screen often requires the driver to extend their arm, which not only reduces the precision of hand movements due to the distance and vibrations inherent in driving, but also leads to increased arm and shoulder fatigue over extended periods. This strained posture impairs the precision of movement, making it difficult to interact with controls requiring fine selection, such as climate control adjustments, especially on rough roads.

[0007] In contrast, a remote interface (i.e., one located away from the vehicle's main or central touchscreen interface), particularly one positioned ergonomically, offers significant advantages. This interface allows for more intuitive and comfortable operation, as the driver does not have to uncomfortably extend their arm. It also allows for a more natural posture, which reduces muscle fatigue while improving the precision of movements, especially if the interface incorporates features such as physical buttons or touch controls, thus providing more reliable interaction even while in motion.The proximity of this interface to the driver's hands, which can also be operated almost blindly or completely blindly if necessary, reduces the transition time between controls and driving, thus improving not only ergonomics but also safety and overall user comfort, by ensuring access to important on-board system functions without compromising attention to driving. Summary of the present invention

[0008] One object of the present invention is to solve at least one of the problems of the technological background described above.

[0009] Another object of the present invention is, for example, to improve the user experience and comfort with respect to a touch interface of a central or main display screen of a vehicle.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to improve the accuracy of the control of a thermal parameter of the vehicle's passenger compartment.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to minimize the loss of driver attention and to improve vehicle safety.

[0012] According to a first aspect, the present invention relates to a method for controlling a regulation system for regulating at least one thermal parameter, referred to as the thermal regulation system, in the passenger compartment of a vehicle comprising a touchscreen interface, referred to as the touchscreen, comprising at least one door, said system comprising at least one rotary button comprising at least one actuator and a display means, said at least one door comprising said at least one rotary button, said process being implemented by at least one processor and comprising the following steps: - receipt of initial data representative of at least one press on said at least one actuator; said initial data including initial information representative of the choice of said at least one thermal parameter; - control of display of graphic content on said display means of said rotary button comprising a first graphic object representative of said first information, and in which a graphic representation of said first graphic object is a function of said first data; - reception of second data representing a rotation of said rotary knob; said second data including a second piece of information representing a variation of said thermal parameter; - control of display of said graphic content on said display means of said rotary button comprising a second graphic object representing said second information, and in which a graphic representation of said second graphic object is a function of said second data; - control of said thermal parameter in the vehicle's passenger compartment in response to the first and second data points.

[0013] The use of a remote control method employing a rotary knob offers significant advantages in terms of ergonomics, ease of use, and user safety. This device allows for the easy selection of a specific function or parameter to be adjusted, such as adjusting the airflow of the passenger compartment or seat ventilation system, or controlling the temperature of the passenger compartment or seat heating system. Using the rotary knob actuator, the user intuitively navigates between the various available functions. Once the desired function is selected, the same rotary knob allows for precise control of this parameter, for example, by increasing or decreasing the airflow or adjusting the temperature.The advantage of this approach lies in its ease of use and the haptic feedback of the rotary knob, which provides a direct physical control sensation. This improves the precision of adjustments, even while moving, compared to simple remote (non-remote) touch interfaces. Furthermore, manipulating a single knob for multiple functions reduces user interface complexity and cognitive load for the driver, while minimizing arm and hand movements, thus preventing fatigue. This remote control method therefore allows for a more natural, faster, and safer interaction, ensuring optimal control of the vehicle's thermal comfort functions without requiring drivers to take their eyes off the road, contributing to a smoother and safer driving experience.

[0014] According to one variant, said method comprises only one actuator, said actuator comprises said display means and corresponds to a push button or a touch interface of said display means, and said graphical representation of said first graphical object comprises: - a first graphical representation of a first thermal parameter, when the said first data indicate the presence of a single press on said actuator; - a first graphical representation of a second thermal parameter, when the said first data indicate the presence of two consecutive presses on said actuator; - a first graphical representation of a third thermal parameter, when the said first data indicate the presence of three consecutive presses on said actuator.

[0015] According to another embodiment, the method comprises three separate actuators and said graphical representation of said first graphical object comprises: - a first representation of a first thermal parameter, when said first data indicate a press on a first actuator; - a first representation of a second thermal parameter, when the said first data indicate a press on a second actuator; - a first representation of a third thermal parameter, when the said first data indicate a press on a third actuator.

[0016] According to another variant, the method comprises a plurality (2, 3, 4, or 5, for example) of distinct actuators each operating in the manner described herein.

[0017] Additionally, a display of said second graphic object is controlled such that said graphic representation of said second graphic object is representative of a value of a rotation angle and the direction of rotation of said rotary knob. The larger the angle, the greater the variation of the thermal parameter will be, for example, the more the air temperature in the passenger compartment will be increased or decreased (depending on the direction of rotation), or the greater or lesser the airflow blown into the passenger compartment will be (also depending on the direction of rotation).

[0018] According to one variant, a display of the graphical representations of said first graphical object is controlled in such a way that a first representation of a second thermal parameter replaces a first representation of a first thermal parameter when said first information is representative of the presence of two consecutive supports, and that a first representation of a third thermal parameter replaces a first representation of a second thermal parameter when said first information is representative of the presence of three consecutive supports.

[0019] According to a further variant, a graphical representation of said first graphical object is controlled in such a way that a first representation of a first thermal parameter replaces any subsequent representation of a thermal parameter in the event of inactivity exceeding a threshold duration.

[0020] According to yet another variant, said vehicle comprises a plurality of doors each comprising a rotary knob allowing each to regulate, depending or independently of each other, at least one thermal parameter.

[0021] According to an additional variant, the thermal parameter is chosen from the temperature of the air contained in the passenger compartment, the temperature of a seat, the humidity level, the air circulation rate in the passenger compartment, or the air circulation rate in a seat.

[0022] According to a second aspect, the present invention relates to a control device for a vehicle regulation system, the device comprising a memory associated with a processor configured for the implementation of the steps of the process according to the first aspect of the present invention.

[0023] According to a third aspect, the present invention relates to a vehicle, for example of the automobile type, comprising a device as described above according to the second aspect of the present invention. Brief description of the figures

[0024] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the description of the particular and non-limiting embodiments of the present invention below, with reference to the attached Figures 1 to 7, in which:

[0025] [Fig-1] schematically illustrates part of a vehicle's passenger compartment, according to a example of a particular embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] [Fig.2] schematically illustrates a rotary knob according to an example embodiment particular and non-limiting of the present invention;

[0027] [Fig.3] schematically illustrates the display of the first graphic object on the display device for the rotary button of the vehicle of [Fig.1], according to a particular and non-limiting embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] [Fig.4] schematically illustrates the display of the second graphic object on the display device for the rotary button of the vehicle of [Fig.1], according to a particular and non-limiting embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] [Fig.5] schematically illustrates the display of the first graphic object at different temporal instants on the display means of the rotary button of the vehicle of [Fig.1], and the consequences of a press time between two consecutive presses exceeding a threshold duration, according to a particular and non-limiting embodiment example of the present invention;

[0030] [Fig.6] illustrates a device configured to control a regulation system of a thermal parameter of the vehicle of [Fig.1], according to a particular and non-limiting embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] [Fig.7] illustrates a flowchart of the different stages of a control process of a A system for regulating a thermal parameter of the vehicle [Fig. 1], according to a particular and non-limiting embodiment of the present invention. Description of embodiment examples

[0032] A method and a device for controlling a thermal parameter regulation system in the passenger compartment of a vehicle will now be described in what follows with joint reference to Figures 1 to 7. The same elements are identified with the same reference signs throughout the following description.

[0033] The terms "first," "second" (or "firsts," "seconds"), etc., are used in this document by arbitrary convention to allow for the identification and distinction of different elements (such as operations, means, etc.) implemented in the embodiments described below. Such elements may be distinct or correspond to a single element, depending on the embodiment.

[0034] According to a particular and non-limiting example of an embodiment of the present invention, the control of a thermal parameter regulation system embedded in a vehicle is, for example, implemented by one or more vehicle computers, for example via one or more processors.

[0035] For this purpose, representative data of a touch or non-touch (simple physical pressure) press performed by one or more fingers of a user on a rotary button actuator are received. A short or long touch press can be used. A long press corresponds to a continuous and prolonged touch press of one or more fingers on a part of the touch screen, the continuous and prolonged touch press being of a given duration (for example, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 or 10 seconds) and depending on the user's intention.

[0036] The received data characterizing the pressing of an actuator of the rotary button (for example, a button representing a thermal parameter of the vehicle) allows the processor(s) to determine a graphic object of a human-machine interface (HMI) of the vehicle whose graphic representation is representative of the thermal parameter selected by the user, to be displayed on the display means of the rotary button in response to the press, as well as the function(s) and / or action(s) associated with each graphic object to be executed in response to the press.

[0037] The display of a second graphic object identifying or representing a function, driven by the rotation of a ring of said rotary knob, is controlled so that this second graphic object is displayed on the display means of said knob, in substitution for the first graphic object. The graphic representation of said second graphic object is a function of the angle of rotation of the ring relative to an initial position.

[0038] A rotary knob generally allows precise control of a command, by For example, within a remote control system, it consists of a mechanical or electromechanical device that allows the user to select and adjust parameters smoothly and precisely. A rotary knob can be designed to offer rotation with defined detents or continuous, smooth rotation, depending on the application requirements. In one variant, the detented rotary knob provides tactile feedback at each intermediate position, enabling more precise control and physical confirmation of each adjustment. This type of feedback is particularly advantageous when the user needs to make delicate adjustments, such as fine-tuning the temperature or ventilation volume, ensuring that each adjustment increment is intentional and measurable.

[0039] In a second embodiment, the rotary knob can be combined with a "push" function, where the user can press the knob after selection to confirm a choice or activate a function. This "push" function can be used, for example, to confirm the selection of a function (such as airflow or temperature) before beginning to adjust the corresponding parameter by rotating the knob. The rotary knob can also be equipped with LED backlighting or an integrated display to provide immediate visual feedback on the selected function or the value being modified, thus improving ergonomics and readability, particularly in low-light conditions.

[0040] In another embodiment, the rotary knob can be coupled to a variable resistance mechanism, where the resistance to turning adjusts according to the controlled parameter, providing a stronger resistance feel for critical or sensitive settings, such as safety systems. This type of adaptive feedback allows for better differentiation between critical and non-critical functions, thus increasing safety and ease of use.

[0041] The typical structure of a rotary knob may include the following elements:

[0042] The scroll wheel or outer ring is the part visible and manipulated by the user. Generally made of plastic, metal, or a mixture of materials, it is typically textured to provide good grip. The scroll wheel may have notches or be smooth, depending on the function and the desired tactile feedback. It may be cylindrical, conical, or ergonomically shaped to facilitate use.

[0043] The rotating shaft is connected directly to the outer wheel. It is a central component, often made of metal or durable plastic, which transfers the rotational motion to the internal part of the mechanism. This shaft is mounted on bearings or pivots to ensure smooth and durable movement, reducing friction and mechanical stress.

[0044] The rotary encoder is an electromechanical element and is placed at the base of the rotating shaft. The rotary encoder translates the mechanical motion into an electrical signal. It can be optical or magnetic, and it is capable of detecting the angular position of the shaft with high precision. The encoders can be configured to measure both continuous or incremental rotations, allowing for fine motion detection, which is essential for precise adjustments.

[0045] The return detent (or detent mechanism) provides tactile feedback during rotation; a detent or spring mechanism is often integrated. It consists of a spring applied against a series of small notches on the shaft or in the base of the knob. This creates detents, ensuring that each rotation is marked by a small click, giving the user precise tactile feedback with each adjustment. This system can be adjusted to offer variable resistance as needed.

[0046] The push-button or click-activated switch: Some rotary knobs are equipped with a push-button actuator integrated into the shaft. By pressing the knob, the user activates a secondary function (mode selection, confirmation, etc.). This switch can be mechanical or capacitive, and it is located just below the encoder or inside the rotary shaft, allowing for the addition of extra functionality without increasing the overall size.

[0047] The LED backlight or indicator provides backlighting or a visual indication of the current settings. This backlight can change color to indicate the active function or the status of the parameter being modified (for example, red for temperature, blue for ventilation).

[0048] The printed circuit board (PCB): The rotary knob is mounted on a small printed circuit board that integrates electronic components, such as the encoder, LEDs, and possibly capacitive sensors. The PCB receives the electrical signals generated by the encoder and transmits them to the vehicle's control system, interpreting the knob's movements as actions on the parameters.

[0049] All the components are encapsulated in a plastic or metal housing, which provides protection against external elements such as dust or moisture, and secures the button to the vehicle door. This housing is designed to minimize vibrations and ensure the button's durability under harsh driving conditions.

[0050] Fig. 1 schematically illustrates part of the passenger compartment of a vehicle 10, according to a particular and non-limiting embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Vehicle 10 corresponds for example to a vehicle with a thermal engine or to a hybrid vehicle with a thermal engine and one or more electric motors. Vehicle 10 thus corresponds, for example, to a land vehicle, for example a car, a truck, a bus.

[0052] The vehicle 10 includes a door 16 comprising a rotary knob 18. In a particular embodiment, the rotary knob 18 is positioned so as to be as ergonomically accessible to, or within easy reach of, the user, and in particular, it may be positioned on an upper part of the door near an armrest. The vehicle 10 may also include a plurality of rotary knobs, one on each door of the vehicle; in particular, 2, 3, or 4 rotary knobs may advantageously be present in the passenger compartment 12 of the vehicle 10. In a particularly envisaged embodiment, the vehicle 10 includes 2 rotary knobs, one positioned on the driver's front door and the other positioned on the passenger's front door.

[0053] The vehicle beneficially incorporates a display system comprising a touchscreen 14 and a computer configured to control the display of content(s) from a graphic HMI on the touchscreen 14. The computer corresponds, for example, to the computer of the infotainment system, known as the IVI computer (from the English "In-Vehicle Infotainment" or in French "Infodivertissement étoilé") of the vehicle 10.

[0054] The touch screen 14 corresponds for example to an LCD type screen (from the English "Liquid Crystal Display" or in French "Affichage à cristals liquide"), for example of type TFT (from the English "Thin-Film Transistor" or in French "Transistor en film mince"), or OLED (from the English "Organic Light-Emitting Diode" or in French "Diode électroluminescente organique").

[0055] The touchscreen 14 is configured to display content for the driver and passengers of the vehicle 10. The touchscreen 14 is also configured to allow the driver and / or passengers of the vehicle to interact with one or more on-board systems in the vehicle via a human-machine interface (HMI) displayed on the touchscreen 14. For example, the screen 14 is configured to interact with any on-board system of the vehicle 10, for example with one or more of the following systems, the list below being provided by way of illustration and not exhaustive: - an infotainment system, known as an IVI system; and / or - a vehicle navigation and geolocation system 10; and / or - a vehicle air conditioning system 10; and / or - a vehicle seat adjustment control system 10; and / or - a vehicle seat ventilation control system 10; and / or - a vehicle seat temperature control system 10; and / or - a vehicle speed control system; and / or - a vehicle trajectory control and / or lane keeping system 10; - etc.

[0056] The rotary knob 18 allows remote control of the thermal comfort control systems in the passenger compartment 12 of the vehicle 10. In an advantageous embodiment, the rotary knob 18 performs this control redundantly with the main control unit located at the touchscreen 14, namely that any control action or setting change made via the rotary knob 18 is automatically synchronized with all the devices for controlling the thermal comfort systems located in the vehicle, for example, the touchscreen 14 and / or other rotary knobs located in the passenger compartment.

[0057] The control systems associated with the thermal comfort of the driver and passengers of a vehicle 10 are generally called HVAC for "Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning", or, in French, chauffage, ventilation et climatisation.

[0058] The HVAC system in a vehicle is designed to precisely regulate the temperature, humidity, and air quality in the passenger compartment, according to the needs of the occupants and the outside conditions. This system consists of several interconnected components, including a compressor, an evaporator, a condenser, an expansion valve, a fan, and thermal sensors, all controlled by an electronic control unit (ECU). The compressor is driven by the vehicle's engine and compresses the refrigerant, increasing its temperature and pressure, before this hot refrigerant is directed to the condenser, where it is cooled and condensed into a liquid state by an airflow from the fan. The refrigerant is then directed to an expansion valve, which reduces its pressure, causing a drop in the fluid's temperature. This cooled fluid then enters the evaporator, located in the passenger compartment air circuit.Ambient air passes through the evaporator, where it is cooled and dehumidified before being distributed into the passenger compartment via electrically controlled ducts and vents. In heating mode, a heat exchanger (often linked to the engine cooling system) is used to preheat the air before it is blown into the passenger compartment. The ECU adjusts the fan speed, the position of the air distribution vents, and the temperature of the refrigerant and heat transfer fluid in real time based on inputs from the temperature sensors and user demand.

[0059] According to a particular embodiment, the vehicle 10 carries one or more embedded systems, each controlled by one or more computers. These computers, together with the IVI computer, form, for example, a multiplexed architecture for providing various services useful for the proper functioning of the vehicle and for assisting the driver and / or passengers of the vehicle in controlling the vehicle 10. via the control of the vehicle's on-board systems 10, such as the HVAC system for example. The computers communicate and exchange data with each other via one or more computer buses, for example a CAN data bus (from the English "Controller Area Network" or in French "Réseau de contrôlers"), CAN FD (from the English "Controller Area Network Flexible Data-Rate" or in French "Réseau de contrôlers à débit de données flexible"), FlexRay (according to the ISO 17458 standard), LIN (from the English "Local Interconnect Network" or in French "Réseau interconnecté local") or Ethernet (according to the ISO / IEC 802-3 standard).

[0060] A control process for a thermal parameter regulation system embedded in the vehicle 10 is advantageously implemented by one or more processors of the thermal comfort regulation system of the passenger compartment, for example by a computer of an embedded system of the vehicle 10 such as the HVAC system.

[0061] The control process is described in support of Figures 2, 3, 4, and 5, each of which illustrates the result of the actuation of a rotary button 18 according to different embodiment examples.

[0062] In a first operation of the process, data representing a user's (for example, the driver of vehicle 10) press on an actuator 20 or 23 is received. In some embodiments, the actuator 20 may, for example, include the display means 22 and correspond to a push button that the user must press to mechanically depress the button to validate the press, or correspond to a touchscreen interface advantageously having the characteristics described here and on which the user's finger(s) only need to make contact with the screen to validate the press. Haptic feedback may be beneficially provided to confirm to the user that the press has been correctly registered.

[0063] Such a press on the actuator sends information to the computer, for example a computer of the HVAC system, so that the latter implements one or more functions associated with the command corresponding to the press.

[0064] The representative data of the support are for example received via one or more data buses linking the actuator and the HVAC computer.

[0065] In a particular embodiment, the display means 22 comprises a touch or non-touch screen as described herein and allows the display of the first and second graphic objects 36 and 40 (Figures 3 and 4, in particular). Advantageously, the display means 22 corresponds to a touch or non-touch screen.

[0066] Typically, and as illustrated by [Fig. 2], the rotary knob 18 may advantageously include a central portion 35 around which the wheel 21 can rotate in a direction of rotation 32 or in a direction of rotation 34, depending on the user's choice. The display means 22 may also include One or more display zones 24, 26, 28, and 30 allow for the display of additional data, particularly in the form of color codes, such as a blue zone to indicate a colder temperature or a red zone to indicate a warmer temperature. For example, this additional information can advantageously allow the user to know in which direction (32 or 34) to turn the rotary knob 18 according to their needs; for example, if they wish to heat the air inside the passenger compartment 12, and display zone 30 shows a red color, the user will be directed to turn the knob in the direction of rotation 32.

[0067] In a particular embodiment, the rotary button 18 comprises one or more actuators 23. Figure 2 illustrates a particular and non-limiting embodiment of the invention in which the rotary button 18 comprises three actuators 23.

[0068] In an advantageous embodiment, a portion 25 of the rotary knob 18 comprises the actuator 23, said portion 25 being distant and distinct from the rotating portion 21 of the knob 18. For example, a portion of the housing encapsulating the various components of the rotary knob comprises the actuator 23, in particular a portion of the housing in direct contact with the door 16 of the vehicle comprises the actuator 23. In a refinement, the actuator 23 is positioned such that the fingers of the same hand of the user can easily and ergonomically reach both the actuator 23, or each of the actuators 23 in the case of a plurality of actuators, and the rotary knob 21.

[0069] In an advantageous embodiment, the actuator 23 has a function of its own, said function being able to perform one or the other of the functions controlled by the thermal comfort regulation system on board the vehicle 10.

[0070] For example, a first actuator 23 can be associated with the temperature regulation function in the vehicle's passenger compartment, a press on the latter allowing control of the display of a first graphic representation 360 ([Fig.3]) of a first graphic object 36 on the display means 22, and selection of the corresponding function associated with the temperature regulation system.

[0071] For example, a second actuator 232 can be associated with the function of regulating the flow of air blown into the passenger compartment of the vehicle, a press on the latter allowing control of the display of a second graphic representation 362 of a first graphic object 36 on the display means 22, and selection of the corresponding function associated with the air flow regulation system.

[0072] For example, a third actuator 234 can be associated with the temperature control function of a so-called "heated" seat 20 in the vehicle's passenger compartment, pressing the latter allowing control of the display of a third graphic representation 364 of a first graphic object 36 on the display means 22, and to select the corresponding function associated with the temperature control system of said seat.

[0073] The actuator 23 may also include a marking 27 explicitly representing the function to which the actuator is associated. For example, for the temperature function, the marking may be "°C", or "°K", or "°T"; for the function of regulating airflow in the passenger compartment, the marking may be a schematic representation of a fan with 4 blades whose color may vary according to the value / power of the airflow selected by the user.

[0074] A display control of a graphic object (text, pictogram, icon, speech bubble etc.) or graphic content includes a rendering of the graphic content or graphic object, such rendering corresponding to a set of operations performed by one or more processors on the pixels of one or more images of the graphic content to be displayed on the display means 22. For example, the rendering consists of associating to a set of pixels of an image pixel data (for example color data expressed in an RGB (Red, Green, Blue) type space) associated with each graphic object.

[0075] The display control of a graphic object thus includes the transmission of control signals to the display means 22 to modify the values ​​associated with the pixels of the display means 22 at the location intended to display the graphic object, i.e. at a determined position on the display means 22.

[0076] In another embodiment, the rotary button 18 comprises a single actuator 20 or 23, a first press on the actuator allowing access to a first function of regulation of a thermal comfort parameter, for example temperature regulation, a second press on said actuator allowing access to a second function of regulation of a thermal comfort parameter, for example air flow regulation, and a third press on said actuator allowing access to a third function of regulation of a thermal comfort parameter, for example seat ventilation regulation, each press also causing the display of the graphic representation of the first graphic object according to the selected function.

[0077] In another embodiment, the display means 22 of the rotary knob 18 is controlled to display, by default or permanently / persistently, in the absence of any actuator press, one of the graphical representations of the first graphical object corresponding to one of the functions of the vehicle's thermal comfort control system. Consequently, a first press of the actuator allows access to a second control function (distinct from the one selected by default, which may be, in some embodiments, the control of the air temperature in the passenger compartment) of a thermal comfort parameter, for example, the regulation of the airflow, and a second press on said actuator allows access to a third regulation function (distinct from the previous one) of a thermal comfort parameter, for example the regulation of the ventilation of a seat.

[0078] The data received thus characterize the support made by the user at any time on the actuator 20 or 23, some information not being understood as such but deduced or obtained from the data, for example obtained by derivative or integral of the data received.

[0079] As illustrated in [Fig. 3], in a first operation of the process, the thermal parameter whose function is to be regulated is selected. To do this, the display of a first graphic object 36 is controlled so that this first graphic object is displayed on the display means 22 as a first graphic representation of a first thermal parameter 360. This first graphic representation of a first thermal parameter 360 may be pre-programmed by default by the vehicle manufacturer and / or customizable by the user. There are no particular limitations regarding the function represented by this first graphic representation of a first thermal parameter 360.

[0080] In a particular embodiment, each press on the actuator causes, consecutively, the control of the display of a first graphic representation of a first thermal parameter 360, then of a first graphic representation of a second thermal parameter 362, then of a first graphic representation of a third thermal parameter 364, then of a first graphic representation of a fourth thermal parameter 366, and so on.

[0081] When consecutive presses are performed, the time interval required between each press to switch between the display and the selection of the various functions / thermal parameters is not particularly limited and may correspond, for example, to 1s, 2s, 3s, 4s, or any intermediate duration, but should preferably be less than a certain threshold duration beyond which the on-board system considers the user to be inactive and resets the display of the rotary knob 18's display means 22 to its default display. In some cases, this default display may be a display containing no graphic objects, for example, a black screen to optimize the vehicle's energy consumption, or a graphic representation of a first graphic object.

[0082] The value of the threshold duration is not particularly limited and can be 3s, 4s, 5s, 6s, or any intermediate duration.

[0083] Each graphical representation may include graphical elements recalling the selected thermal parameter and indicating its current regulation level. For example, display areas 280 and 300 may be colored blue or red to indicate the current temperature state in the passenger compartment, the blades 38 of a Fans can be blackened to indicate a high airflow or whitened to indicate a low airflow, and a 37-point gauge can indicate the heating intensity of a heated seat.

[0084] The thermal function or thermal parameter thus selected by pressing the actuator in a first operation of the process is then regulated in a second operation of the process.

[0085] As illustrated in [Fig. 4], in a second operation of the process, the display of a second graphic object 40 is controlled so that this second graphic object is displayed on the display means 22 in the form of a graphic representation 400, 420, 440, or 460, for example. This graphic representation is a function of second received data representing a rotation of the wheel 21 of said rotary knob 18.

[0086] Advantageously, said graphical representation of the second graphical object is also a function of said first received data representing the press or sequence of presses on the actuator of said rotary button 18. Indeed, when a thermal parameter or function is selected during a first operation of the process, a first graphical representation of this thermal parameter is displayed on the display means 22 and will therefore condition the display of a second graphical representation (400, 420, 440 or 460 for example), in connection with said first graphical representation of this parameter and according to the second data representing a variation of said parameter corresponding to the rotation of the wheel of the rotary button in one direction 32 or in the other 34.

[0087] In a particular embodiment, said graphic representation of said second graphic object 40 includes a first graphic representation corresponding to an indicative number of the temperature prevailing at that moment in the passenger compartment 12 of the vehicle 10. A rotation of the dial 21 allows the user to increment (to increase the temperature) or reduce (to decrease the temperature) this number in steps of one unit for example (or 0.5 or 2 units), advantageously, by following the directions of rotation provided by the display areas 280 and 300.

[0088] Typically, the magnitude of the variation of the thermal parameter is proportional to the value of the rotation angle of the knob 21 between its initial position and its stop position by the user.

[0089] The time interval required for the rotation of the dial 21 to reach the position desired by the user, corresponding to the desired level of variation of the thermal parameter, is not particularly limited and may correspond, for example, to 1 second, 2 seconds, 3 seconds, 4 seconds, or any intermediate duration, but should preferably be less than a certain threshold duration beyond which the embedded system considers that the user is inactive and resets the display of the rotary knob 18's display means 22 to its default display. In some cases, this default display may be a display containing no graphic objects, for example a black screen to optimize the vehicle's energy consumption, or a graphic representation of a first or second graphic object.

[0090] The value of this threshold duration is not particularly limited and can be 3s, 4s, 5s, 6s, or any intermediate duration.

[0091] Fig. 5 illustrates, in a completely non-limiting manner, a sequence of presses (50, 52) on an actuator 20 comprising the display means 22 of a rotary button 18, at three time instants t0, t1 and t2, the third time instant t2 being posterior to the second time instant t1, itself posterior to the first time instant t0.

[0092] The initial time instant tO corresponds to a display prior to a press by the user on the graphic object 36. Alternatively, in an embodiment not detailed here, the initial time instant tO may correspond to a display subsequent to a first press by the user on the actuator 20, in order for example to bring the display system out of its standby mode.

[0093] The second time instant tl corresponds to a time instant subsequent to a press (tactile by touch or contact on a touch interface, or mechanical by pressing a push button) 50 made by the user on a first graphic representation of a first thermal parameter 360 causing the control of the display of a first graphic representation of a second thermal parameter 362. When the time elapsed between the time tl and a subsequent press on the actuator 20 or a rotation of the wheel 21, is greater than said threshold time described here, the display is controlled to return to the display of the time instant tO.

[0094] The third time instant t2 corresponds to a time instant subsequent to a second press 52 by the user on a first graphic representation of a second thermal parameter 362, which occurred in a time less than the said threshold duration described here, and which triggers the display of a first graphic representation of a third thermal parameter 364. Similarly, when the time elapsed between time t2 and a subsequent press on the actuator 20 or a rotation of the wheel 21 is greater than the said threshold duration described here, the display is controlled to return to the display of time instant t0.

[0095] In a particular embodiment, an audible signal and / or haptic feedback indicates to the user that the desired thermal parameter has been selected and that the rotation of the dial 21 will cause the thermal parameter to vary and the associated function to be triggered subsequently.

[0096] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the process of the invention comprises a plurality (2, 3, 4, 5 or 6) of graphic objects, each associated with a given thermal function / parameter. The user can thus access a multitude of different thermal functions / parameters and regulate their intensity with a single button.

[0097] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the vehicle of the invention comprises a plurality (2 or 4) of rotary button doors, each comprising a rotary button 18. In some cases, the rotary buttons are functionally connected to the main display system 14 of the vehicle 10 to allow synchronization of the display in relation to thermal comfort parameters on all the display means available in the vehicle.

[0098] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, said vehicle comprises a first driver's side door and a second passenger's side door, each comprising a rotary knob allowing each to regulate, depending or independently of each other, at least one thermal parameter.

[0099] Figure 6 schematically illustrates a device 6 configured for controlling a thermal parameter regulation system of a vehicle, for example vehicle 10, according to specific and non-limiting embodiments of the present invention. The device 6 corresponds, for example, to a device embedded in the vehicle 10, for example a computer.

[0100] Device 6 is, for example, configured to carry out the operations described opposite Figures 1 to 5 and / or the steps of the process described opposite [Fig. 7]. Examples of such a device 6 include, but are not limited to, embedded electronic equipment such as a vehicle's on-board computer, an electronic control unit such as an ECU (Electronic Control Unit), a smartphone, a tablet, or a laptop computer. The elements of device 6, individually or in combination, may be integrated into a single integrated circuit, into several integrated circuits, and / or into discrete components. Device 6 may be implemented in the form of electronic circuits or software (or computer) modules, or a combination of electronic circuits and software modules.

[0101] The device 6 comprises one (or more) processor(s) 60 configured to execute instructions for carrying out the steps of the process and / or for executing instructions from the software embedded in the device 6. The processor 60 may include integrated memory, an input / output interface, and various circuits known to those skilled in the art. The device 6 further comprises at least one memory 61, corresponding, for example, to volatile and / or non-volatile memory, and / or includes a memory storage device that may include volatile and / or non-volatile memory, such as EEPROM, ROM, PROM, RAM, DRAM, SRAM, flash, magnetic disk, or optical disk.

[0102] The computer code of the embedded software(s) including the instructions to be loaded and executed by the processor is for example stored on memory 61.

[0103] According to various particular and non-limiting embodiments, the device 6 is coupled in communication with other similar devices or systems and / or with communication devices, for example a CCU (from the English "Climate Control Unit" or in French "Unité de Contrôle Climatique") or HVAC, for example via a communication bus or through dedicated input / output ports.

[0104] According to a particular and non-limiting embodiment, the device 6 includes a block 62 of interface elements for communicating with external devices. The interface elements of the block 62 include one or more of the following interfaces: - LIN interface (from the English Local Interconnect Network); - CAN interface (from the English Controller Area Network); - PWM interface (from the English Pulse Width Modulation or "pulse width modulation"); - I2C interface (from the English Inter-Integrated Circuit); - Modbus interface (used in some industrial and commercial HVAC systems).

[0105] Figure 7 illustrates a flowchart of the different steps in a method for controlling a thermal parameter regulation system embedded in a vehicle, for example vehicle 10, according to a particular and non-limiting embodiment of the present invention. The method is implemented, for example, by a device embedded in vehicle 10 or by device 6 of Figure 6.

[0106] In a first step 71, initial data representing a press on an actuator of a rotary button of a vehicle are received.

[0107] In a second step 72, the display of a first graphic object as a function of said first representative data is controlled so as to display this first graphic object on the display means of the rotary button.

[0108] In a third step 73, second data representing a rotation of the rotary knob of the vehicle's rotary button are received.

[0109] In a fourth step 74, the display of a second graphic object as a function of said second representative data is controlled so as to display this second graphic object on the display means of the rotary knob.

[0110] In a fourth step 75, the thermal parameter corresponding to the first and second graphic objects is controlled in response to the first and second data.

[0111] According to one variant, the variants and examples of the operations described in relation to one of Figures 1 to 5 apply to the steps of the process in [Fig.7].

[0112] The present invention also relates to a computer program which includes instructions adapted for carrying out the steps of the process according to the first aspect of the present invention, in particular when the computer program is executed by at least one processor.

[0113] Such a computer program may use any programming language, and be in the form of source code, object code, or an intermediate form between source code and object code, such as in a partially compiled form, or in any other desirable form.

[0114] The present invention further relates to a computer-readable recording medium on which is recorded a computer program comprising instructions for carrying out the steps of the process according to the first aspect of the present invention.

[0115] On the one hand, the recording medium can be any entity or device capable of storing the program. For example, the medium can include a storage means, such as a ROM, a CD-ROM or a microelectronic circuit-type ROM, or a magnetic recording means or a hard disk drive.

[0116] On the other hand, this recording medium can also be a transmissible medium such as an electrical or optical signal, such a signal being able to be transmitted via an electrical or optical cable, by conventional or radio frequency, by self-directing laser beam, or by other means. The computer program according to the present invention can, in particular, be downloaded onto an Internet-type network.

[0117] Alternatively, the recording medium may be an integrated circuit in which the computer program is incorporated, the integrated circuit being adapted to execute or to be used in the execution of the process in question.

[0118] Of course, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above but extends to a method for controlling the execution of instructions representing functions or actions implemented by at least one system embedded in a vehicle, which would include secondary steps without falling outside the scope of the present invention. The same would apply to a device configured for implementing such a method.

[0119] The present invention also relates to a vehicle, for example an automobile or more generally an autonomous land-based motor vehicle, comprising the device 6 of [Fig.6] or a thermal parameter regulation system comprising the device 6 of [Fig.6] connected in communication to a rotary button 18.

[0120] The present invention also relates to a computer-readable recording medium on which is recorded a computer program comprising instructions for carrying out the steps of the process of [Fig.7].

Claims

Demands

1. A method for controlling a regulation system for regulating at least one thermal parameter, referred to as the thermal regulation system, in the passenger compartment (12) of a vehicle (10) comprising a touchscreen interface display, referred to as the touchscreen (14), comprising at least one door (16), said system comprising at least one rotary button (18) comprising at least one actuator (20, 23) and a display means (22), said at least one door comprising said at least one rotary button (18), said method being implemented by at least one processor and comprising the following steps: - receiving (71) initial data representing at least one press on said at least one actuator (20); said initial data comprising initial information representing the selection of said at least one thermal parameter;- control (72) of displaying graphic content on said display means (22) of said rotary knob (18) comprising a first graphic object (36) representing said first information, and in which a graphic representation (360, 362, 364, 366) of said first graphic object is a function of said first data; - reception (73) of second data representing a rotation of said rotary knob (18); said second data comprising a second piece of information representing a variation of said thermal parameter; - control (74) of displaying said graphic content on said display means (22) of said rotary knob (18) comprising a second graphic object (40) representing said second information, and in which a graphic representation (400, 420, 440, 460) of said second graphic object is a function of said second data;- control (75) of said thermal parameter in the vehicle's passenger compartment in response to the first and second data points.;

2. A method according to claim 1, comprising only one actuator (20, 23), said actuator comprising said display means and corresponding to a push button or a touch interface of said display means (22), said graphic representation of said first graphic object comprising:

3.

4.

5. - a first representation of a first thermal parameter (360), when the said first data indicate the presence of a single press on said actuator; - a first representation of a second thermal parameter (362), when the said first data indicate the presence of two consecutive presses on said actuator; - a first representation of a third thermal parameter (364), when the said first data indicate the presence of three consecutive presses on said actuator. A method according to claim 1, comprising three separate actuators (23, 232, 234) and wherein said graphical representation of said first graphical object comprises: - a first representation of a first thermal parameter (360), when said first data indicate a press on a first actuator; - a first representation of a second thermal parameter (362), when the said first data indicate a press on a second actuator; - a first representation of a third thermal parameter (364), when the said first data indicate a press on a third actuator. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a display of said second graphic object (40) is controlled in such a way that said graphic representation of said second graphic object is representative of a value of an angle of rotation and the direction of rotation (32, 34) of said rotary knob. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a display of the graphic representations of said first graphic object (360, 362, 364) is controlled in such a way that a first graphic representation of a second thermal parameter (362) replaces a first graphic representation of a first thermal parameter (360) when said first information is representative of the presence of two consecutive supports, and that a first graphic representation of a third thermal parameter (364) replaces a first graphic representation of a second thermal parameter (362) when said first information is representative of the presence of three consecutive supports.

6. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a graphic representation of said first graphic object (36) is controlled in such a way that a first graphic representation of a first thermal parameter (360) replaces any subsequent representation (362, 364, 366, 400, 420, 440, 460) of a thermal parameter in the event of inactivity exceeding a threshold duration.

7. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said vehicle (10) comprises a plurality of doors (16) each comprising a rotary knob (18) each enabling the regulation, dependently or independently of each other, of at least one thermal parameter.

8. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the thermal parameter is chosen from the temperature of the air contained in the passenger compartment, the temperature of a seat, the humidity level, the air circulation rate in the passenger compartment, or the air circulation rate in a seat.

9. Device (6) for controlling a climate control system of a vehicle (10), said device (6) comprising a memory (61) associated with at least one processor (60) configured for carrying out the steps of the method according to any one of the preceding claims.

10. Vehicle (10) comprising the device (6) according to claim 9.