ETCS supporting integrated type digital rear mirror device and operation method thereof

Abstract

To provide an ETCS supporting integrated type digital rear mirror device and an operation method thereof.SOLUTION: According to one embodiment, a digital rear mirror device includes: a digital rear mirror module configured to provide a rear visual field of a vehicle within a single housing; and an ETCS module for electronic charge collection for the vehicle. In the digital rear mirror device, a substrate of the digital rear mirror module and a substrate of the ETCS module are arranged separately, not stacked. According to another embodiment, the ETCS module transmits information received from an external device to the digital rear mirror module, and the digital rear mirror module displays the information while providing the rear visual field. Here, the information includes at least one of charging information, event information, traffic information, environmental information, or disaster state information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an electronic toll collection system (ETCS) assisted integrated digital rear mirror (DRM) device and its method of operation. [Background technology]

[0002] ETCS, which stands for Electronic Toll Collection System, is a system that automatically collects tolls, congestion tolls, and other fees from vehicles passing through toll roads, bridges, etc. Specifically, ETCS includes an ETCS terminal mounted on a vehicle, an ETCS relay device that is installed at a given location and communicates with the ETCS terminal when a vehicle passes that location, and an ETCS server that is connected to the ETCS relay device and collects tolls from the vehicle via the ETCS relay device. Thus, to realize ETCS, an ETCS terminal must be mounted on a vehicle. Such an ETCS terminal must be able to communicate smoothly with the ETCS relay device and must be mounted on the vehicle in a manner that does not spoil the aesthetic appearance of the vehicle. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] The present disclosure provides an ETCS-assisted integrated digital rear-mirror device and its operating method. [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] In the present disclosure, a digital rear-mirror device for a vehicle may include a digital rear-mirror module configured to provide a rear view of the vehicle, and an ETCS module arranged separately from the digital rear-mirror module within the digital rear-mirror device and configured for electronic toll collection for the vehicle.

[0005] In the present disclosure, a digital rear mirror device for a vehicle may include a display module and a processor coupled to the display module and configured to display information received via an ETCS module configured for electronic toll collection for the vehicle while providing a rear view of the vehicle via the display module.

[0006] In the present disclosure, a method of operating a digital rear-mirror device for a vehicle may include a step in which a digital rear-mirror module provides a rear view for the vehicle, and an ETCS module arranged separately from the digital rear-mirror module within the digital rear-mirror device supports electronic toll collection for the vehicle.

[0007] In the present disclosure, a method of operating a digital rear mirror device of a vehicle may include providing a rear view of the vehicle via a display module, and displaying information received via an ETCS module configured for electronic toll collection for the vehicle while providing the rear view via the display module. Effect of the Invention

[0008] According to the present disclosure, the digital rear-view mirror device can not only provide a rear view of the vehicle, but also support electronic toll collection. Therefore, the digital rear-view mirror device can be mounted on the vehicle without impairing the aesthetics of the vehicle while smoothly communicating with the ETCS relay device. In this case, the digital rear-view mirror device includes a digital rear-view mirror module and an ETCS module in a single housing, and in particular, the boards that respectively realize the digital rear-view mirror module and the ETCS module are arranged separately from each other in the housing. Therefore, the thickness of the digital rear-view mirror device can be reduced, which can reduce the space occupied by the digital rear-view mirror device in the vehicle, and can increase the flexibility of space utilization of the vehicle V and the design of the digital rear-view mirror device. Furthermore, overheating of the digital rear-view mirror device can be prevented.

[0009] According to the present disclosure, the digital rear-view mirror device can display information received via an ETCS module while providing a rear view of the vehicle, thereby enabling the driver to intuitively grasp the relevant information while keeping their eyes on the road ahead while driving. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates a system including a digital rear-mirror device according to various embodiments. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the digital rear-mirror device of FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] 2 is a flowchart showing a signal flow in the system of FIG. 1. [Figure 4] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the configuration of a digital rear-mirror device according to various embodiments. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the internal structure of the digital rear mirror device in the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the internal structure of a digital rear mirror device in a second embodiment. [Figure 7] 7a to 7c are diagrams for explaining specific functions of the digital rear mirror device in various embodiments. [Figure 8] 1 illustrates a method of operation of a digital rear mirror device in accordance with various embodiments. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a vehicle equipped with a digital rearview mirror device according to various embodiments. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a control device for the vehicle shown in FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] Various embodiments of the present specification will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0012] Fig. 1 is a diagram showing a system including a digital rear-mirror device 100 according to various embodiments. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the digital rear-mirror device 100 of Fig. 1.

[0013] 1, a digital rear-mirror device 100 may be mounted in a vehicle (V) together with at least one camera device 10. The digital rear-mirror device 100 may be realized in a single housing 200 and mounted within the field of view of a driver in the vehicle V, for example, as shown in FIG. 2. The digital rear-mirror device 100 may include a digital rear-mirror module 110 and an ETCS module 130.

[0014] The digital rear-view mirror module 110 may display the image information acquired by the camera device 10. For this purpose, the digital rear-view mirror module 110 may be connected to the camera device 10. The camera device 10 may acquire image information related to the surrounding environment of the vehicle V. In some embodiments, the camera device 10 may record the image information in a memory in the camera device 10. The image information may include a rear image of the vehicle V. For this purpose, the camera device 10 may be attached to the rear side of the vehicle V so as to face the rear of the vehicle V. In some embodiments, the image information may include a front image of the vehicle V. For this purpose, the camera device 10 may be attached to the front side of the vehicle V so as to face the front of the vehicle V.

[0015] The camera device 10 and the digital rear-mirror module 110 may be connected to each other so as to be capable of wired or wireless communication. In some embodiments, the camera device 10 and the digital rear-mirror module 110 may be connected to each other via a communication cable. In one embodiment, the camera device 10 and the digital rear-mirror module 110 may communicate with each other in an analog manner. The analog manner may include, for example, AHD (analog high definition). In another embodiment, the camera device 10 and the digital rear-mirror module 110 may communicate with each other in a digital manner. For example, the digital manner may include a serial transmission manner. In such a case, the camera device 10 may include a serializer, and the digital rear-mirror module 110 may include a deserializer. However, this should not be limited thereto, and the camera device 10 and the digital rear-mirror module 110 may be connected to each other via a vehicle V internal network communication (for example, CAN communication). The camera device 10 and the digital rear-mirror module 110 may include various communication chips.

[0016] In some embodiments, an image processing device (not shown) may be added between the camera device 10 and the digital rear mirror module 110. In such a case, the image processing device may process the image information captured by the camera device 10 and communicate the processed image information to the digital rear mirror module 110. In one embodiment, the image processing device may record the image information in a memory within the image processing device. In another embodiment, the image processing device may crop a portion of the image information. In yet another embodiment, the image processing device may enlarge at least a portion of the image information.

[0017] In various embodiments, the digital rear-mirror module 110 may provide a rear view of the vehicle V. The digital rear-mirror module 110 may operate in at least one of a mirror mode or a display mode. In the mirror mode, the digital rear-mirror module 110 may directly display a rear view of the vehicle V. In the display mode, the digital rear-mirror module 110 may provide a rear view of the vehicle V by displaying a rear image of the vehicle V acquired by the camera device 10. However, this is not limited thereto, and the digital rear-mirror module 110 may provide a front view of the vehicle V by displaying a front image of the vehicle V acquired by the camera device 10. The camera device 10 may capture a front image. The camera device 10 transmits the front image to the digital rear-mirror device 100, so that the digital rear-mirror module 110 can display the front image. In such a case, the digital rear-mirror module 110 may obtain information regarding the front of the vehicle V from the front image. For example, when electronic toll collection is required for vehicle V, the digital rear mirror module 110 may detect lanes in which electronic toll collection is available from the captured forward image, thereby enabling vehicle V to change in advance to a lane in which electronic toll collection is available.

[0018] The ETCS module 130 may support electronic toll collection for the vehicle V. That is, the ETCS module 130 may execute payment of a toll collected from the vehicle V when the vehicle V passes through a toll road, a bridge, or the like. For this purpose, the ETCS module 130 may communicate with the ETCS relay device 20, which may be connected to the ETCS server 30. The ETCS relay device 20 may play a role of relaying between the ETCS module 130 and the ETCS server 30. Specifically, the ETCS relay device 20 may be installed at a predetermined position such as a toll road or a bridge. The ETCS relay device 20 may detect a vehicle V passing through the corresponding position and communicate with the ETCS module 130 of the vehicle V. Here, the ETCS module 130 and the ETCS relay device 20 may communicate with each other by a wireless communication method. For example, the wireless communication method may include at least one of a radio frequency (RF) method or an infrared ray (IR) method. In the case of a radio frequency method, V-line radio waves may be used. The ETCS server 30 may collect electronic tolls from the ETCS module 130 via the ETCS relay device 20.

[0019] In various embodiments, the ETCS module 130 may transmit information received from the ETCS relay device 20 to the digital rear-view mirror module 110. This allows the digital rear-view mirror module 110 to display the relevant information while providing a rear view. For example, the relevant information may include at least one of electronic toll collection billing information, event information, traffic information, environmental information, or disaster situation information.

[0020] FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the flow of signals in a system including the digital rear-mirror device 100 in various embodiments.

[0021] Referring to FIG. 3, in step 330, the digital rear-mirror module 110 of the digital rear-mirror device 100 may provide a rear view of the vehicle V. The digital rear-mirror module 110 may operate in at least one of a mirror mode or a display mode to provide a rear view of the vehicle V. In this case, if the digital rear-mirror module 110 is operable in both the mirror mode and the display mode, the digital rear-mirror module 110 may be switched between the mirror mode and the display mode as necessary. In the mirror mode, the digital rear-mirror module 110 may directly project a rear view of the vehicle V. Meanwhile, in the display mode, the digital rear-mirror module 110 may provide a rear view of the vehicle V by displaying a rear image of the vehicle V. In this case, in step 310, the camera device 10 captures a rear image of the vehicle V, and in step 320, the camera device 10 transmits the rear image to the digital rear-mirror device 100, so that in step 330, the digital rear-mirror module 110 can display the rear image.

[0022] Meanwhile, in step 340, the ETCS module 130 of the digital rear-view mirror device 100 may support automatic toll collection for the vehicle V. That is, the ETCS module 130 may perform payment of a toll collected for the vehicle V when the vehicle V passes through a toll road, a bridge, or the like. Specifically, the ETCS relay device 20 detects the passing vehicle V, and the ETCS server 130 transmits a payment request to the ETCS module 130 of the vehicle V via the ETCS relay device 20, and in response, the ETCS module 130 may perform payment to the ETCS server 30 via the ETCS relay device 20. In this process, the ETCS module 130 may receive information from the ETCS relay device 20. For example, the information may include at least one of billing information by electronic toll collection, event information, traffic information, environmental information, or disaster situation information. Next, in step 350, the ETCS module 130 may transmit the information to the digital rear-view mirror module 110. As a result, the digital rear-mirror module 110 can display the relevant information while providing a rearward field of view in step 340. Here, the digital rear-mirror module 110 may display the relevant information for a predetermined period of time.

[0023] As described above, when the digital rear-mirror device 100 includes the digital rear-mirror module 110 and the ETCS module 130 in the housing 200, the ETCS module 130 transmits information to the digital rear-mirror module 110, so that the digital rear-mirror module 110 can display the corresponding information while providing a rearward field of view. However, this is not limited to the above. It is also possible that the digital rear-mirror device 100 includes only the digital rear-mirror module 110 in the housing 200, and the ETCS module 130 is located outside the digital rear-mirror device 100. In this case, too, the ETCS module 130 transmits information to the digital rear-mirror module 110, so that the digital rear-mirror module 110 can display the corresponding information while providing a rearward field of view.

[0024] Fig. 4 is a diagram showing the configuration of the digital rear mirror device 100 in various embodiments. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing the internal structure of the digital rear mirror device 100 in a first embodiment. Fig. 6 is a diagram showing the internal structure of the digital rear mirror device 100 in a second embodiment. Figs. 7a to 7c are diagrams for explaining specific functions of the digital rear mirror device 100 in various embodiments.

[0025] 4, the digital rear-mirror device 100 may be mounted inside the vehicle V together with the camera device 10 and connected to the camera device 10 so as to be communicatively connected thereto. In this case, the digital rear-mirror device 100 may be disposed within the driver's field of vision. Specifically, the digital rear-mirror device 100 may include a digital rear-mirror module 110 and an ETCS module 130. The digital rear-mirror module 110 and the ETCS module 130 may be realized as separate boards (first boards 510, 610 and second boards 530, 630 in FIGS. 5 and 6), respectively, in a single housing 200, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6.

[0026] The digital rear-view mirror module 110 may include a first substrate 510, 610 and a number of first components mounted on the first substrate 510, 610. The first components may include an input module 411, a sensor module 413, a communication module 415, an interface module 417, an audio output module 419, a display module 421, a connection terminal 423, a memory 425, and a processor 427. In various embodiments, the first substrate 510, 610 may be disposed in the housing 200 on at least a portion of the rear surface of the display module 421, as shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. 6. In some embodiments, at least one of the first components may be omitted, and at least one other first component may be added. In some embodiments, at least two of such first components may be realized as one integrated circuit.

[0027] The input module 411 may input a signal used for at least one first component. For example, the input module 411 may include at least one of at least one button (also called a key), a keyboard, a keypad, a mouse, a joystick, or a microphone. The buttons may be arranged at at least one end of the display module 421. As an example, the buttons may be arranged at one end of the display module 421 at the lower end of the digital rear-mirror device 100 as shown in FIG. 5, FIG. 6, and FIG. 7a to FIG. 7c. Here, the buttons may include at least one of a physical button or a touch button. The physical button may have a structure that protrudes from the surface of the housing 200 and can be pushed, as shown in the figure. The touch button may have a structure that is flat with respect to the surface of the housing 200, although not shown in the figure. In some embodiments, the input module 411 may include touch circuitry assembled with the display module 421 .

[0028] The sensor module 413 may generate an electrical signal or a data value corresponding to an internal operating condition (e.g., power or temperature) or an external environmental condition of the digital rear mirror device 100. For example, the sensor module 413 may include at least one of a global positioning system (GPS) sensor, a motion sensor (also called a gesture sensor), a proximity sensor, a touch sensor, a radar sensor, a LIDAR sensor, a movement sensor, a gyro sensor, a pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor (e.g., a G sensor), a proximity sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a biosensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0029] The communication module 415 may perform communication with an external device. The communication module 415 may establish a communication channel between the digital rear-mirror module 110 and the external device, and perform communication with the external device through the communication channel. Here, the external device may include at least one of a satellite, a base station, a server, or other electronic device (e.g., used by a user). The communication module 415 may include at least one of a wired communication module or a wireless communication module. The wired communication module may be wiredly connected to the external device and perform wired communication. The wireless communication module may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module. The short-range communication module may communicate with the external device through a short-range communication method. For example, the short-range communication method may include at least one of Bluetooth, Wi-Fi direct, Near Field Communication (NFC), or infrared data association (IrDA). The long-range communication module may communicate with the external device through a long-range communication method. Here, the remote communication module may communicate with external devices via a network, which may include at least one of a cellular network, the Internet, or a computer network such as a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), for example.

[0030] According to various embodiments, at least one of the input module 411, the sensor module 413, or the communication module 415 may generate the user input. In one embodiment, any sensor of the input module 411 or the sensor module 413 may generate the user input based on a signal input directly from a user. In another embodiment, the communication module 415 may generate the user input based on a signal input from another electronic device utilized by the user.

[0031] The interface module 417 may be provided for connection with an external device. Specifically, the interface module 417 may support a specified protocol for wired or wireless connection with the external device. Here, the external device may include at least one of the vehicle V or the camera device 10. In one embodiment, when communicating with the camera device 10 in an analog manner, the interface module 417 may receive video information from the camera device 10 and convert the analog signal into digital data. In another embodiment, when communicating with the camera device 10 in a digital manner, the interface module 417 may receive video information from the camera device 10 and convert the serial data into parallel data. In such a case, the interface module 417 may be implemented as a deserializer.

[0032] The audio output module 419 may output an audio signal generated from the digital rearview mirror module 110. For example, the audio output module 419 may include at least one of a speaker or a receiver. In one embodiment, the speaker may include at least one voice coil that provides vibrations through a diaphragm, and a magnet that forms a magnetic field. When a current flows through the voice coil, the magnetic field formed by the voice coil may interact with the magnetic field formed by the magnet to vibrate the voice coil. The diaphragm connected to the voice coil may vibrate based on the vibration of the voice coil. The speaker may output an audio signal based on the vibration of the diaphragm. The display module 421 may be configured to provide a rear view of the vehicle V. The display module 421 may output visualized information to the driver. For example, the display module 421 may include at least one of a display, a hologram device, or a projector. In some embodiments, the display module 421 may be assembled with a touch circuit of the input module 411 to be realized as a touch screen. Furthermore, the display module 421 may display the image information received from the processor 427. The display module 421 may have a display area with a predetermined resolution and size. The display module 421 may be accommodated in the housing 200 such that the display area is exposed toward the rear of the vehicle V, as shown in FIG. 5, FIG. 6, and FIG. 7a to FIG. 7c. In various embodiments, the display module 421 may operate in at least one of a mirror mode or a display mode. In the mirror mode, the display module 421 may directly project the rear view of the vehicle V using light reflection. In the display mode, the display module 421 may display the rear image received from the processor 427 to provide the rear view of the vehicle V. In various embodiments, the display module 421 may have an anti-glare function that is activated in response to an applied voltage.To this end, the display module 421 may be implemented, for example, in an electrochromic (EC) manner or a liquid crystal (LC) manner.

[0033] The connection terminal 423 may be provided for connection to the ETCS module 130. Specifically, the connection terminal 423 may be connected to a connection terminal 435 of the ETCS module 130. For example, the connection terminal 423 may be realized by a universal asynchronous receiver / transmitter (UART).

[0034] The memory 425 may store various data used by the at least one first component. For example, the memory 425 may include at least one of a volatile memory or a non-volatile memory. The data may include at least one program and input or output data associated therewith. The program may be stored in the memory 425 as software including at least one instruction and may include at least one of an operating system, middleware, or application, for example.

[0035] The processor 427 may execute a program in the memory 425 to control at least one first component. This allows the processor 427 to perform data processing or calculation. In this case, the processor 427 may execute instructions stored in the memory 425.

[0036] In various embodiments, the processor 427 may provide a rear view of the vehicle V via the display module 421. The processor 427 may operate in at least one of a mirror mode or a display mode using the display module 421. In the mirror mode, the processor 427 may directly project a rear view of the vehicle V via the display module 421. In the display mode, the processor 427 may provide a rear view of the vehicle V by obtaining a rear image of the vehicle V from the camera device 10 via the interface module 417 and displaying the rear image via the display module 421. In this case, when the processor 427 is capable of operating in both the mirror mode and the display mode, the processor 427 may be switched between the mirror mode and the display mode as necessary. In some embodiments, the processor 427 may be switched between the mirror mode and the display mode in response to a user input.

[0037] In various embodiments, the processor 427 may display information on at least a portion of the display module 421 while providing a rear view through the display module 421. In this case, the processor 427 may display the corresponding information in an on screen display (OSD) manner so as to be superimposed on the rear view. For example, the processor 427 may include a video scaler and transmit the corresponding information to the video scaler through an inter-integrated circuit (I2C) interface so that the video scaler displays the corresponding information in an OSD manner through the display module 421. In some embodiments, the corresponding information may be based on at least one of information received from an external source or pre-recorded information. As an example, the processor 427 may display the corresponding information in response to an external signal. Here, the external signal may represent a signal received through at least one of the communication module 415, the interface module 417, or the connection terminal 423. As another example, the processor 427 may display the corresponding information in response to a user input. In another embodiment, the relevant information may include reference information associated with the rear view. Specifically, the processor 427 may analyze the rear view to detect the reference information. The reference information may be information in the rear view, such as road signs, or information derived from the rear view, such as the distance to adjacent vehicles and the speed of adjacent vehicles.

[0038] In some embodiments, the processor 427 may further provide a forward view of the vehicle V via the display module 421. The camera device 10 transmits a forward image to the digital rear-mirror device 100, so that the processor 427 can display the forward image via the display module 421. In such a case, the processor 427 may obtain information about the front of the vehicle V from the forward image. For example, when electronic toll collection is required for the vehicle V, the processor 427 may detect a lane in which electronic toll collection is available from the obtained forward image, thereby enabling the vehicle V to change in advance to a lane in which electronic toll collection is available.

[0039] In various embodiments, the processor 427 may additionally adjust the display module 421. In some embodiments, the processor 427 may activate an anti-glare function of the display module 421 by adjusting a voltage applied to the display module 421. The processor 427 may adjust the display module 421 in response to a user input or a sensing input input via the sensor module 413. For example, the processor 427 may sense a sensing input indicating ambient brightness or the like input via an illuminance sensor or the like, and in response thereto, activate an anti-glare function of the display module 421.

[0040] The ETCS module 130 may include a second substrate 530, 630 and a plurality of second components mounted on the second substrate 530, 630. The second components may include a communication module 431, a notification module 433, a connection terminal 435, a connection module 437, a memory 439, and a processor 441. In the first embodiment, the second substrate 530 may be arranged on the rear surface of the display module 421 in the housing 200 and stacked on the first substrate 510 as shown in FIG. 5. In the second embodiment, the second substrate 630 may be arranged on the rear surface of the display module 421 in the housing 200 and separated from the first substrate 610 without being stacked on the first substrate 610 as shown in FIG. 6. In other words, when the first substrate 610 is arranged on a part of the rear surface of the display module 421, the second substrate 630 may be arranged on the remaining part of the rear surface of the display module 421. In some embodiments, at least one of the second components (e.g., the connection module 437) may be omitted and at least one other second component may be added, in some embodiments, at least two of such second components may be implemented as one integrated circuit.

[0041] The communication module 431 may perform communication with an external device. The communication module 431 may establish a communication channel between the ETCS module 130 and the external device, and perform communication with the external device through the communication channel. Here, the external device may include the ETCS relay device 20. The communication module 130 may communicate with the ETCS relay device 20 through a wireless communication method. For example, the wireless communication method may include at least one of a radio frequency method or an infrared method. In the case of the radio frequency method, a V-line radio wave may be used.

[0042] The notification module 433 may output a notification signal generated by the ETCS module 130. The notification signal may include at least one of an audio signal or a light emitting signal. The notification module 433 may include an audio output module that outputs an audio signal, for example, at least one of a speaker or a receiver. Meanwhile, the notification module 433 may include a light emitting module that outputs a light emitting signal, for example, an LED (light emitting diode) lamp. The notification module 433 may be exposed at various positions of the digital rear mirror device 100. As an example, the notification module 433 may be exposed on a lower surface of the digital rear mirror device 100.

[0043] The connection terminal 435 may be provided for connection with the digital rear mirror module 110. Specifically, the connection terminal 435 may be connected to the connection terminal 423 of the digital rear mirror module 110. For example, the connection terminal 435 may be realized by a UART.

[0044] The connection module 437 may be provided for connection with a physical card. The physical card may have card information used for electronic toll collection. The physical card may be insertable into the digital rear-mirror device 100, and may be connected to the connection module 437 when inserted into the digital rear-mirror device 100. For this reason, although not shown in the figure, the housing 200 may be provided with a structure, for example, a socket, into which the physical card can be inserted and into which the inserted physical card is connected to the connection module 437.

[0045] The memory 439 may store various data used by the at least one second component. For example, the memory 439 may include at least one of a volatile memory or a non-volatile memory. The data may include at least one program and input or output data associated therewith. The program may be stored in the memory 439 as software including at least one instruction and may include at least one of an operating system, middleware, or application, for example. In some embodiments, the memory 439 may store a virtual card having card information utilized for electronic toll collection.

[0046] The processor 441 may execute a program in the memory 439 to control at least one second component. This allows the processor 441 to execute data processing or calculation. In this case, the processor 441 may execute instructions recorded in the memory 439.

[0047] In various embodiments, the processor 441 may support electronic toll collection for the vehicle V. That is, the processor 441 may execute payment of a toll collected for the vehicle V by using card information of a real card or card information of a virtual card when the vehicle V passes through a toll road, a bridge, or the like. Specifically, the processor 441 may receive a payment request from the ETCS relay device 20 via the communication module 431, and in response thereto, the processor 441 may execute payment to the ETCS server 30 via the ETCS relay device 20 by using card information via the communication module 431. Here, the processor 441 may check the card information of the real card via the connection module 437, or check the card information of the virtual card recorded in the memory 439.

[0048] In various embodiments, the processor 441 may transmit information received from the ETCS relay device 20 to the digital rear-view mirror module 110. For example, the information may include at least one of electronic toll collection billing information, event information, traffic information, environmental information, or disaster situation information. In this way, the processor 441 may cause the digital rear-view mirror module 110 to display the information while providing a rear view.

[0049] In this manner, the digital rear-mirror module 110 and the ETCS module 130 may be realized on separate substrates 510 and 530, 610 and 630, respectively, within a single housing 200, as shown in Figure 5 or Figure 6. Specifically, the digital rear-mirror module 110 may be realized on a first substrate 510, 610, and the ETCS module 130 may be realized on a second substrate 530, 630. The first substrate 510, 610 and the second substrate 530, 630 may each be disposed on the rear surface of the display module 421 within the housing 200.

[0050] In the first embodiment, the first substrate 510 and the second substrate 530 may be arranged in a stacked manner on the back surface of the display module 421 within the housing 200, as shown in FIG. 5. In this case, the thickness of the digital rear-mirror device 100 may be determined in a direction perpendicular to the display module 421 (for example, the Z direction in FIGS. 5 and 6), including both the thickness of the digital rear-mirror module 110 and the thickness of the ETCS module 130. Therefore, the thickness of the digital rear-mirror device 100 is relatively thick, which requires a large space for the digital rear-mirror device 100 in the vehicle V, reducing the space utilization of the vehicle V and the flexibility of the design of the digital rear-mirror device 100. Furthermore, since the first substrate 510 and the second substrate 530 are stacked, the heat generated by the first substrate 510 and the second substrate 530 causes heat accumulation, which causes the digital rear-mirror device 100 to overheat, which causes the digital rear-mirror device 100 to malfunction or fail.

[0051] In the second embodiment, the first substrate 610 and the second substrate 630 may be arranged separately from each other in the housing 200 without being stacked on the back surface of the display module 421 as shown in FIG. 6. In other words, when the first substrate 610 is arranged on a part of the back surface of the display module 421, the second substrate 630 is arranged on the remaining part of the back surface of the display module 421. As an example, the first substrate 610 and the second substrate 630 may be arranged in a line arrangement manner arranged in a line on the same plane. In this case, the thickness of the digital rear-mirror device 100 in the direction perpendicular to the display module 421 (e.g., Z direction in FIGS. 5 and 6) may be determined by the thicker one of the thickness of the digital rear-mirror module 110 or the thickness of the ETCS module 130. Therefore, the thickness of the digital rear-mirror device 100 can be reduced, thereby reducing the space occupied by the digital rear-mirror device 100 in the vehicle V, and increasing the flexibility of the space utilization of the vehicle V and the design of the digital rear-mirror device 100. In addition, since the first substrate 610 and the second substrate 630 are arranged separately, the heat generated by the first substrate 610 and the second substrate 630 is not only dispersed over a wide area but also smoothly discharged by the surrounding air flow (e.g., natural convection, forced convection using a fan), thereby preventing overheating of the digital rear mirror device 100. In addition, since separate heat dissipation solutions (e.g., shielding cans or thermally conductive materials) are applied to the first substrate 610 and the second substrate 630, respectively, the heat generated by the first substrate 610 and the second substrate 630 can be more effectively resolved, and overheating of the digital rear mirror device 100 can be further prevented.

[0052] Meanwhile, the digital rear-mirror module 110 may display the information received through the ETCS module 130 while providing a rear view of the vehicle V. Specifically, the ETCS module 130 transmits the information received from the ETCS relay device 20 to the digital rear-mirror module 110, and the digital rear-mirror module 110 may display the corresponding information while providing a rear view through the display module 421, as shown in FIGS. 7a to 7c. In some embodiments, the digital rear-mirror module 110 may select and display the corresponding information according to a pre-setting based on a user input. That is, the digital rear-mirror module 110 may display the corresponding information in at least one of the upper part, the center, or the lower part of the display module 421 by an OSD method so as to be displayed superimposed on the rear view. For example, the corresponding information may include at least one of billing information by electronic toll collection, event information, traffic information, environmental information, or disaster situation information. The billing information may include information regarding the location (e.g., the name of a toll booth) of the ETCS relay device 20 and the toll.

[0053] As described above, when the digital rear-mirror device 100 includes the digital rear-mirror module 110 and the ETCS module 130 in the housing 200, the ETCS module 130 transmits information to the digital rear-mirror module 110, so that the digital rear-mirror module 110 can display the corresponding information while providing a rear view. However, this is not limited to this. The digital rear-mirror device 100 may include only the digital rear-mirror module 110 in the housing 200, and the ETCS module 130 may be located outside the digital rear-mirror device 100. In this case, too, the ETCS module 130 transmits information to the digital rear-mirror module 110, so that the digital rear-mirror module 110 can display the corresponding information while providing a rear view via the display module 421, as shown in FIGS. 7a to 7c.

[0054] 8 is a diagram showing an operation method of the digital rear-mirror device 100 in various embodiments. Here, this operation method is possible not only when the digital rear-mirror device 100 includes the digital rear-mirror module 110 and the ETCS module 130 in the housing 200, but also when the digital rear-mirror device 100 includes only the digital rear-mirror module 110 in the housing 200, and the ETCS module 130 is located outside the digital rear-mirror device 100.

[0055] Referring to FIG. 8, in step 810, the digital rear mirror module 110 may provide a rear view of the vehicle V. Specifically, the processor 427 may provide a rear view of the vehicle V via the display module 421. At this time, the processor 427 may operate in at least one of a mirror mode or a display mode using the display module 421. In the mirror mode, the processor 427 may directly display a rear view of the vehicle V via the display module 421. In the display mode, the processor 427 may provide a rear view of the vehicle V by obtaining a rear image of the vehicle V from the camera device 10 via the interface module 417 and displaying the rear image via the display module 421. At this time, when the processor 427 is capable of operating in both the mirror mode and the display mode, the processor 427 may be switched between the mirror mode and the display mode as necessary. In some embodiments, the processor 427 may be switched between the mirror mode and the display mode in response to a user input.

[0056] While the digital rearview mirror module 110 provides a rear view for the vehicle V, in steps 820, 830, and 840, the ETCS module 130 may assist in automatic toll collection for the vehicle V. That is, the ETCS module 130 may execute toll payments collected for the vehicle V when the vehicle V passes through a toll road, a bridge, or the like.

[0057] First, the ETCS module 130 may receive a payment request in step 820. Specifically, when a vehicle V passes a location where an ETCS relay device 20 is installed on a toll road, a bridge, or the like, the ETCS relay device 20 may detect the passing vehicle V, and the ETCS server 30 may transmit a payment request to the ETCS module 130 via the ETCS relay device 20. As a result, the processor 441 may receive the payment request via the communication module 431.

[0058] In response, in step 830, the ETCS module 130 may execute the payment. Specifically, the processor 441 may utilize the card information via the communication module 431 to execute the payment to the ETCS server 30 via the ETCS relay device 20. In one embodiment, when a real card is inserted into the digital rear mirror device 100 and connected to the connection module 437, the processor 441 may confirm the card information of the real card via the connection module 437. In another embodiment, when a virtual card is recorded in the memory 439, the processor 441 may confirm the card information of the virtual card from the memory 439.

[0059] Next, in step 840, the ETCS module 130 may receive a payment confirmation. Specifically, depending on the payment execution result of the ETCS module 130, the ETCS server 30 may send a payment confirmation to the ETCS module 130 via the ETCS relay device 20. Here, the payment confirmation may indicate a successful payment or a failed payment. As a result, the processor 441 may receive the payment confirmation via the communication module 431.

[0060] Next, while the digital rear-mirror module 110 provides a rear view of the vehicle V, in step 850, the digital rear-mirror module 110 may display the information received from the ETCS module 130. Specifically, the ETCS module 130 may transmit the information received from the ETCS relay device 20 to the digital rear-mirror module 110. At this time, since the connection terminal 423 of the digital rear-mirror module 110 and the connection terminal 435 of the ETCS module 130 are connected, the processor 441 may transmit the corresponding information via the connection terminal 435, and the processor 427 may receive the corresponding information via the connection terminal 423. Here, the corresponding information may be received from the ETCS relay device 20 via at least one of a payment request or a payment confirmation, or may be received from the ETCS relay device 20 separately from the payment request and the payment confirmation. For example, the corresponding information may include at least one of billing information by electronic toll collection, event information, traffic information, environmental information, or disaster situation information. Thus, the processor 427 can display the corresponding information through at least a portion of the display module 421 while providing a rear view through the display module 421. The processor 427 may display the corresponding information in at least one of the upper part, the center part, and the lower part of the display module 421 in an OSD manner so as to be displayed superimposed on the rear view. Here, the processor 427 may cause the corresponding information to be displayed for a predetermined time.

[0061] In some embodiments, when the ETCS module 130 transmits the corresponding information to the digital rear-mirror module 110, the ETCS module 130 may output a notification signal for the corresponding information. Specifically, the processor 441 may output at least one of an audio signal or a light emitting signal via the notification module 433. Here, the audio signal may include at least one of a preset notification sound or a voice that reads out the corresponding information (e.g., text-to-speech conversion). In other embodiments, when the digital rear-mirror module 110 displays the corresponding information, the digital rear-mirror module 110 may output an audio signal for the corresponding information. Specifically, the processor 427 may output an audio signal for the corresponding information via the audio output module 419. Here, the audio signal may include at least one of a preset notification sound or a voice that reads out the corresponding information (e.g., text-to-speech conversion).

[0062] According to the present disclosure, the digital rear-mirror device 100 can not only provide a rear view of the vehicle V, but also support electronic toll collection. Therefore, the digital rear-mirror device 100 can be attached to the vehicle V so as to smoothly communicate with the ETCS relay device 20 and not to impair the aesthetics of the vehicle V. At this time, the digital rear-mirror device 100 includes the digital rear-mirror module 110 and the ETCS module 130 in a single housing 200, and in particular, the boards 610 and 630 that respectively realize the digital rear-mirror module 110 and the ETCS module 130 are arranged separately from each other in the housing. Therefore, the thickness of the digital rear-mirror device 100 can be reduced, which reduces the space occupied by the digital rear-mirror device 100 in the vehicle V, and can increase the flexibility of space utilization of the vehicle V and the design of the digital rear-mirror device 100. Furthermore, overheating of the digital rear-mirror device 100 can be prevented.

[0063] According to the present disclosure, the digital rear-mirror device 100 can display information received via the ETCS module 130 while providing a rear view of the vehicle V. As a result, the digital rear-mirror device 100 allows the driver to intuitively grasp the relevant information while keeping his or her eyes on the road ahead while driving.

[0064] In summary, the present disclosure provides an ETCS-assisted integrated digital rear-mirror device 100 and a method of operation thereof.

[0065] In the present disclosure, the digital rear-mirror device 100 of the vehicle V may include a digital rear-mirror module 110 configured to provide a rear view of the vehicle V, and an ETCS module 130 located separately from the digital rear-mirror module 110 within the digital rear-mirror device 100 and configured for electronic toll collection for the vehicle V.

[0066] According to various embodiments, the digital rear-mirror module 110 includes a first substrate 610 and a number of first components mounted on the first substrate 610, the first components including a display module 421 positioned toward the rear of the vehicle V, and the first substrate 610 may be disposed on a portion of the rear surface of the display module 421.

[0067] According to various embodiments, the ETCS module 130 includes a second substrate 630 and a number of second components mounted on the second substrate 630, which may be disposed on the remaining portion of the rear surface of the display module 421.

[0068] According to various embodiments, the ETCS module 130 is configured to transmit information received from an external device to the digital rear-mirror module 110, which may be configured to display the information while providing a rear view via the display module 421.

[0069] According to various embodiments, the relevant information may include at least one of billing information, event information, traffic information, environmental information, or disaster situation information.

[0070] According to various embodiments, the external device may include an ETCS relay device 20 installed at a predetermined location, capable of communicating with an ETCS module 130 as a vehicle V passes through the location, and connected to an ETCS server 30 for performing electronic toll collection for the vehicle V.

[0071] According to various embodiments, the digital rear-view mirror module 110 may be configured to connect to at least one camera device 10 mounted on the vehicle V and display a rear image of the vehicle V captured by the camera device 10 via the display module 421 to provide a rear view.

[0072] According to various embodiments, the digital rearview mirror module 110 may be configured to be switchable between a mirror mode for directly displaying a rear view via the display module 421 and a display mode for displaying a rear image to provide a rear view.

[0073] According to various embodiments, the second component may include a memory 439 that stores a virtual card having card information that is utilized for electronic toll collection.

[0074] According to various embodiments, the second component may include at least one of a connection module 437 configured to connect with a physical card inserted into the digital rear mirror device 100 having card information utilized for electronic toll collection.

[0075] In the present disclosure, the digital rear mirror device 100 of the vehicle V may include a display module 421 and a processor 427 connected to the display module 421 and configured to display information received via the ETCS module 130 configured for electronic toll collection for the vehicle V while providing a rear view of the vehicle V via the display module 421.

[0076] According to various embodiments, it may further include a first substrate 610 arranged on a portion of the back surface of the display module 421 and on which the display module 421 and the processor 427 are mounted, and a second substrate 630 arranged on the remaining portion of the back surface of the display module 421 and on which the ETCS module 130 is implemented.

[0077] According to various embodiments, the ETCS module 130 may be configured to receive information from an external device.

[0078] According to various embodiments, the relevant information may include at least one of billing information, event information, traffic information, environmental information, or disaster situation information.

[0079] According to various embodiments, the external device may include an ETCS relay device 20 installed at a predetermined location, capable of communicating with an ETCS module 130 as a vehicle V passes through the location, and connected to an ETCS server 30 for performing electronic toll collection for the vehicle V.

[0080] In the present disclosure, a method of operating the digital rear-mirror device 100 of a vehicle V may include a step (step 810) in which the digital rear-mirror module 110 provides a rear view for the vehicle V, and a step (step 820, step 830, and step 830) in which the ETCS module 130 arranged separately from the digital rear-mirror module 110 within the digital rear-mirror device 100 assists in electronic toll collection for the vehicle V.

[0081] According to various embodiments, the digital rear-mirror module 110 includes a first substrate 610 and a number of first components mounted on the first substrate 610, the first components including a display module 421 positioned toward the rear of the vehicle V, and the first substrate 610 may be disposed on a portion of the rear surface of the display module 421.

[0082] According to various embodiments, the ETCS module 130 includes a second substrate 630 and a number of second components mounted on the second substrate 630, which may be disposed on the remaining portion of the rear surface of the display module 421.

[0083] According to various embodiments, the operating method of the digital rear-mirror device 100 may further include a step (step 850) of the ETCS module 130 transmitting information received from an external device to the digital rear-mirror module 110, and the digital rear-mirror module 110 displaying the information while providing a rear view via the display module 421.

[0084] According to various embodiments, the relevant information may include at least one of billing information, event information, traffic information, environmental information, or disaster situation information.

[0085] According to various embodiments, the external device includes an ETCS relay device 20 installed at a predetermined location and connected to an ETCS server 30 for performing electronic toll collection for the vehicle V, and the steps of supporting electronic toll settlement (steps 820, 830, and 840) may include steps of the ETCS module 130 communicating with the ETCS relay device 20 and performing settlement for the electronic toll collection performed by the ETCS server 30 when the vehicle V passes through the location.

[0086] According to various embodiments, the digital rear-mirror module 110 is connected to at least one camera device 10 mounted on the vehicle V, and the step of providing a rear view (step 810) may include a step in which the digital rear-mirror module 110, in a display mode, displays a rear image of the vehicle V captured by the camera device 10 via the display module 421 to provide a rear view.

[0087] According to various embodiments, the step of providing a rear view (step 810) may further include a step of the digital rear mirror module 110 directly displaying the rear view via the display module 421 in mirror mode, and a step of the digital rear mirror module 110 being switched between the display mode and the mirror mode.

[0088] According to various embodiments, the second component may include a memory 439 that stores a virtual card having card information that is utilized for electronic toll collection.

[0089] According to various embodiments, the second component may include at least one of a connection module 437 configured to connect with a physical card inserted into the digital rear mirror device 100 having card information utilized for electronic toll collection.

[0090] In the present disclosure, a method of operating the digital rear mirror device 100 of a vehicle V may include a step of providing a rear view of the vehicle V via the display module 421 (step 810), and a step of displaying information received via an ETCS module 130 configured for electronic toll collection for the vehicle V while providing the rear view via the display module 421 (step 850).

[0091] According to various embodiments, the digital rear mirror device 100 may include a first substrate 610 arranged on a portion of the rear surface of the display module 421 and on which the display module 421 is mounted, and a second substrate 630 arranged on the remaining portion of the rear surface of the display module 421 and on which the ETCS module 130 is realized.

[0092] According to various embodiments, the step of displaying the information may include receiving the relevant information from the ETCS module 130 by the ETCS module 130 receiving the relevant information from an external device, and displaying the relevant information on the display module 421.

[0093] According to various embodiments, the relevant information may include at least one of billing information, event information, traffic information, environmental information, or disaster situation information.

[0094] According to various embodiments, the external device may include an ETCS relay device 20 installed at a predetermined location, capable of communicating with an ETCS module 130 as a vehicle V passes through the location, and connected to an ETCS server 30 for performing electronic toll collection for the vehicle V.

[0095] 9 is a block diagram showing a vehicle 2000 equipped with a digital rear-mirror device 100 according to various embodiments. FIG 10 is a block diagram showing a control device 2100 of the vehicle of FIG 9.

[0096] 9 and 10, the digital rear-mirror device 100 according to various embodiments may be mounted on a vehicle 2000, and the vehicle 2000 may include a control device 2100. In this case, the vehicle 2000 may be an autonomous vehicle. In some embodiments, at least one component of the digital rear-mirror device 100 may be integrated into at least one component of the control device 2100.

[0097] The control device 2100 may include a controller 2120 including a memory 2122 and a processor 2124 , a sensor 2110 , a wireless communication device 2130 , a LIDAR 2140 , and a camera module 2150 .

[0098] The controller 2120 may be configured at the time of manufacture by the vehicle manufacturer, may be additionally configured after manufacture to perform autonomous driving functions, or may include configuration to perform additional ongoing functions by upgrading the controller 2120 configured at manufacture.

[0099] The controller 2120 may transmit control signals to other components included in the vehicle, such as a sensor 2110, an engine 2006, a user interface (IU) 2008, a wireless communication device 2130, a LIDAR 2140, and a camera module 2150. In addition, although not shown, the controller 2120 may transmit control signals to an acceleration device, a braking system, a steering device, or a navigation device associated with the running of the vehicle.

[0100] The controller 2120 may control the engine 2006, for example, by detecting the speed limit of the road on which the vehicle 2000 is traveling and controlling the engine 2006 so that the traveling speed does not exceed the speed limit, or by controlling the engine 2006 so that the traveling speed of the vehicle 2000 accelerates within a range not exceeding the speed limit. Additionally, when the sensing modules 2004a, 2004b, 2004c, and 2004d detect the environment outside the vehicle and transmit it to the sensor 2110, the controller 2120 may receive it and generate a signal to control the engine 2006 or a steering device (not shown) to control the traveling of the vehicle.

[0101] The controller 2120 may control the engine 2006 or the brake system to decelerate the traveling vehicle when there is another vehicle or an obstacle ahead of the vehicle, and may control the trajectory, driving path, steering angle, and other aspects of the speed. Alternatively, the controller 2120 may generate necessary control signals to control the traveling of the vehicle according to other external environment recognition information such as the lane the vehicle is traveling in, driving signals, and the like.

[0102] In addition to generating its own control signals, the controller 2120 can also control the running of the vehicle by communicating with surrounding vehicles or a central server and sending instructions to control peripheral devices based on the information received.

[0103] In addition, when the position or angle of view of the camera module 2150 is changed, the vehicle or lane may not be accurately recognized. To prevent this, the controller 2120 may generate a control signal to control the camera module 2150 to perform calibration. Therefore, the controller 2120 can continue to maintain the normal mounting position, direction, angle of view, etc. of the camera module 2150 by generating a calibration control signal through the camera module 2150, even if the mounting position of the camera module 2150 is changed due to vibration or impact caused by the movement of the autonomous vehicle 2000. The controller 2120 may generate a control signal to perform calibration of the camera module 2150 when the initial mounting position, direction, angle of view information of the camera module 2150 stored in advance and the initial mounting position, direction, angle of view information, etc. of the camera module 2150 measured during the traveling of the autonomous vehicle 2000 differ by a threshold value or more.

[0104] The controller 2120 may include a memory 2122 and a processor 2124. The processor 2124 may execute software stored in the memory 2122 in accordance with control signals from the controller 2120. Specifically, the controller 2120 may store data and instructions in the memory 2122 for detecting a field of view image from a rear image of the vehicle 2000, and the instructions may be executed by the processor 2124 to implement one or more methods disclosed herein.

[0105] In this case, the memory 2122 may be stored in a non-volatile recording medium executable by the processor 2124. The memory 2122 may store software and data through an appropriate internal or external device. The memory 2122 may be configured with a memory 2122 device connected to a RAM (random access memory), a ROM (read only memory), a hard disk, or a dongle.

[0106] The memory 2122 may store at least an operating system (OS), user applications, and executable instructions, and may also store application data and array data structures.

[0107] The processor 2124 may be a microprocessor or any suitable electronic processor, such as a controller, microcontroller, or state machine.

[0108] The processor 2124 may be implemented by a combination of computing devices, which may be digital signal processors, microprocessors, or any suitable combination thereof.

[0109] The controller 2100 may also monitor interior and exterior characteristics of the vehicle 2000 via at least one or more sensors 2110 to sense conditions.

[0110] The sensor 2110 may be configured with at least one or more sensing modules 2004, which may be implemented in a specific location of the vehicle 2000 depending on the purpose of sensing. The sensing modules 2004 may be located at the bottom, rear end, front end, top or side end of the vehicle 2000, may be located in an internal part or tire of the vehicle, etc.

[0111] Thus, the sensing module 2004 can sense information related to driving, such as the engine 2006, tires, steering angle, speed, vehicle weight, etc., as internal information of the vehicle. In addition, at least one of the sensing modules 2004 may be configured with an acceleration sensor 2110, a gyroscope, an image sensor 2110, a RADAR, an ultrasonic sensor, a LiDAR sensor, etc., and may sense motion information of the vehicle 2000.

[0112] The sensing module 2004 can receive specific data on external environmental conditions such as road condition information on the road where the vehicle 2000 is located, surrounding vehicle information, weather, etc. as external information, and can sense vehicle parameters based on the data. The sensed information can be temporarily or long-term stored in the memory 2122 depending on the purpose.

[0113] The sensor 2110 may integrate and collect information from the sensing module 2004 to collect information occurring inside and outside the vehicle 2000.

[0114] The control device 2100 may further include a wireless communication device 2130 .

[0115] The wireless communication device 2130 is configured to realize wireless communication between the vehicles 2000. For example, it allows the vehicle 2000 to communicate with a user's mobile phone, or other wireless communication devices 2130, other vehicles, a central device (traffic control device), a server, etc. The wireless communication device 2130 may transmit and receive wireless signals according to a connection wireless protocol. The wireless communication protocol may be Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Long-Term Evolution (LTE), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA), Global Systems for Mobile Communications (GSM), but the communication protocol should not be limited thereto.

[0116] The vehicle 2000 may also realize inter-vehicle communication through the wireless communication device 2130. That is, the wireless communication device 2130 may perform communication with other vehicles on the road and other vehicles through vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication. The vehicle 2000 may transmit and receive information such as driving warnings and traffic information through the inter-vehicle communication, and may also request information from and receive requests from other vehicles. For example, the wireless communication device 2130 may perform V2V communication as a dedicated short-range communication (DSRC) device or a C-V2V (Celluar-V2V) device. In addition to inter-vehicle communication, communication between vehicles and other things (e.g., electronic devices carried by pedestrians) (V2X, Vehicle to Everything communication) may also be realized through the wireless communication device 2130.

[0117] The control device 2100 may also include a LIDAR device 2140. The LIDAR device 2140 may detect objects around the vehicle 2000 during operation using data sensed through the LIDAR sensor. The LIDAR device 2140 may transmit detected information to the controller 2120, and the controller 2120 may operate the vehicle 2000 based on the detected information. For example, when the detection information indicates that there is a vehicle traveling at a low speed ahead, the controller 2120 may command the engine 2006 to reduce the vehicle speed. Alternatively, the controller 2120 may command the vehicle to reduce the entry speed according to the curvature of the curve into which the vehicle is entering.

[0118] The control device 2100 may further include a camera module 2150. The controller 2120 may extract object information from an external image captured by the camera module 2150, and the controller 2120 may process the information related thereto.

[0119] The control device 2100 may further include an imaging device for recognizing the external environment. In addition to the LIDAR 2140, RADAR, GPS devices, odometry devices, and other computer vision devices may be used, which may be selected or operated simultaneously as needed to enable more precise sensing.

[0120] The vehicle 2000 may further include a user interface 2008 for user input to the control device 2100 described above. The user interface 2008 may allow the user to input information through appropriate interaction. For example, the user interface 2008 may be realized by a touch screen, a keypad, an operation button, etc. The user interface 2008 may transmit the input or command to the controller 2120, and the controller 2120 may execute a control operation of the vehicle in response to the input or command.

[0121] The user interface 2008 may be a device external to the vehicle 2000 and may communicate with the vehicle 2000 through the wireless communication device 2130. For example, the user interface 2008 may be capable of linking with a mobile phone, tablet, or other computer device.

[0122] Additionally, while the vehicle 2000 has been described as including the engine 2006, it may include other types of propulsion systems. For example, the vehicle may be powered by electric energy, hydrogen energy, or a hybrid system that combines these. Thus, the controller 2120 may include propulsion mechanisms according to the propulsion system of the vehicle 2000 and provide corresponding control signals to the configuration of each propulsion mechanism.

[0123] Hereinafter, the detailed configuration of the control device 2100 of the vehicle 2000 will be described in more detail with reference to FIG.

[0124] The controller 2100 includes a processor 2124. The processor 2124 may be a general purpose single or multi-chip microprocessor, a special purpose microprocessor, a microcontroller, a programmable gate array, etc. A processor is also referred to as a central processing unit (CPU). The processor 2124 may also be used with a combination of multiple processors.

[0125] The controller 2100 includes a memory 2122. The memory 2122 may be any electronic component capable of storing electronic information. The memory 2122 may also include a single memory as well as a combination of memories 2122.

[0126] According to various embodiments, data and instructions 2122a of the vehicle 2000 may be stored in the memory 2122. When the processor 2124 executes the instructions 2122a, all or a portion of the instructions 2122a and data 2122b required to execute the instructions may be loaded 2124a, 2124b onto the processor 2124.

[0127] The controller 2100 may include a transmitter 2130a, a receiver 2130b, or a transceiver 2130c to allow transmission and reception of signals. One or more antennas 2132a, 2132b may be electrically connected to the transmitter 2130a, the receiver 2130b, or each transceiver 2130c, and may additionally include an antenna.

[0128] The controller 2100 may include a digital signal processor (DSP) 2170. The DSP 2170 may enable the vehicle to quickly process digital signals.

[0129] The controller 2100 may include a communication interface 2180. The communication interface 2180 may include one or more ports and / or communication modules for connecting other devices to the controller 2100. The communication interface 2180 may allow a user and the controller 2100 to interact.

[0130] The various components of the controller 2100 may be connected via one or more buses 2190, which may include a power bus, a control signal bus, a status signal bus, a data bus, etc. Under the control of the processor 2124, the components may communicate information with each other via the bus 2190 to perform their intended functions.

[0131] The above-mentioned devices may be realized by hardware components, software components, and / or a combination of hardware and software components. For example, the devices and components described in the embodiments may be realized using one or more general-purpose or special-purpose computers, such as a processor, a controller, an arithmetic logic unit (ALU), a digital signal processor, a microcomputer, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a programmable logic unit (PLU), a microprocessor, or various devices capable of executing and responding to instructions. The processing device may execute an operating system (OS) and one or more software applications that run on the OS. The processing device may also respond to the execution of the software to access, record, manipulate, process, and generate data. For convenience of understanding, a single processing device may be described as being used, but one skilled in the art will understand that the processing device may include multiple processing elements and / or multiple types of processing elements. For example, the processing device may include multiple processors or one processor and one controller. Other processing configurations, such as parallel processors, are also possible.

[0132] The software may include computer programs, codes, instructions, or a combination of one or more of these, and may configure a processing device to operate as desired or instruct the processing device, either independently or collectively. The software and / or data may be embodied in any type of machine, component, physical device, computer storage medium, or device to be interpreted by the processing device or to provide instructions or data to the processing device. The software may be distributed and stored or executed in a distributed manner on computer systems connected by a network. The software and data may be stored on one or more computer-readable storage media.

[0133] The method according to the embodiment may be realized in the form of program instructions executable by various computer means and recorded on a computer-readable medium. In this case, the medium may be one that continuously records a program executable by a computer, or one that temporarily records the program for execution or download. The medium may be one of various recording means or storage means in the form of a single or multiple hardware devices combined, and may be a medium directly connected to a certain computer system, or may be one that is distributed on a network. Examples of the medium include magnetic media such as hard disks, floppy disks, and magnetic tapes, optical media such as CD-ROMs and DVDs, magneto-optical media such as floptical disks, and media configured to record program instructions such as ROMs, RAMs, flash memories, etc. Examples of other media include recording media and storage media managed by app stores that distribute applications, sites that supply or distribute various other software, and servers.

[0134] The various embodiments and terms used herein should not be understood to limit the technology described herein to a particular embodiment, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, and / or substitutes of the embodiment. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals have been used for similar components. A singular expression may include a plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this specification, expressions such as "A or B," "at least one of A and / or B," "A, B, or C," or "at least one of A, B, and / or C" may include all possible combinations of the listed items. Expressions such as "first," "second," "first," or "second" modify the corresponding component regardless of order or importance, and are used only to distinguish a certain component from other components, and do not limit the component. When a (e.g., first) component is described as being "(functionally or communicatively) coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., second) component, the one component may be directly connected to the other component or may be connected through another component (e.g., a third component).

[0135] The term "module" as used herein includes a unit configured of hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A module may be an integrally configured component, or a minimum unit or part thereof that performs one or more functions. For example, a module may be configured as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0136] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or program) of the described components may include one or more objects. According to various embodiments, one or more components or steps of the above-mentioned components may be omitted, or one or more different components or steps may be added. Alternatively or additionally, multiple components (e.g., modules or programs) may be integrated into one component. In such a case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the multiple components in a manner that is the same or similar to that performed by the corresponding component of the multiple components before integration. According to various embodiments, the steps performed by the modules, programs, or other components may be performed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, one or more of the steps may be performed in a different order, omitted, or one or more different steps may be added. [Explanation of symbols]

[0137] 10: Camera equipment 20: ETCS repeater 30: ETCS server 100: Digital rear-view mirror device 110: Digital rear mirror module 130: ETCS module

Claims

1. A digital rear-view mirror device for a vehicle, comprising: a digital rearview mirror module configured to provide a rearward view of the vehicle; and an ETCS module arranged separately from the digital rear-mirror module within the digital rear-mirror device and configured for electronic toll collection for the vehicle; Including, Digital rear-view mirror device.

2. The digital rear mirror module includes a first substrate and a plurality of first components mounted on the first substrate; the first component includes a display module positioned toward the rear of the vehicle; The first substrate is disposed on a part of the rear surface of the display module. The digital rear-mirror device according to claim 1 .

3. the ETCS module includes a second substrate and a plurality of second components mounted on the second substrate; the second substrate is disposed on the remaining portion of the rear surface of the display module; The digital rear-mirror device according to claim 2 .

4. The ETCS module is configured to transmit information received from an external device to the digital rear mirror module; the digital rear mirror module is configured to display the information while providing the rear view via the display module. The digital rear-mirror device according to claim 2 .

5. The information includes at least one of billing information, event information, traffic information, environmental information, or disaster situation information. The digital rear-mirror device according to claim 4.

6. The external device includes an ETCS relay device that is installed at a predetermined position, is capable of communicating with the ETCS module when the vehicle passes through the position, and is connected to an ETCS server for performing the electronic toll collection of the vehicle. The digital rear-mirror device according to claim 4.

7. The digital rear-mirror module is connected to at least one camera device mounted on the vehicle, and is configured to display a rear image of the vehicle captured by the camera device via the display module to provide the rear view. The digital rear-mirror device according to claim 2 .

8. The digital rearview mirror module is configured to be switched between a mirror mode for directly projecting the rear view through the display module and a display mode for displaying the rear image to provide the rear view. The digital rear-mirror device according to claim 7.

9. the second component includes a memory for storing a virtual card having card information utilized for the electronic toll collection; The digital rear-mirror device according to claim 3 .

10. The second component includes at least one of a connection module configured to connect with a physical card inserted into the digital rearview mirror device, the physical card having card information utilized for the electronic toll collection; The digital rear-mirror device according to claim 3 .

11. A digital rear-view mirror device for a vehicle, comprising: A display module, and a processor coupled to the display module and configured to display information received via an ETCS module configured for electronic toll collection for the vehicle while providing a rear view of the vehicle via the display module; Including, Digital rear-view mirror device.

12. a first substrate disposed on a portion of the rear surface of the display module, on which the display module and the processor are mounted; and a second substrate arranged on the remaining part of the rear surface of the display module, on which the ETCS module is implemented; Further comprising: The digital rear-mirror device according to claim 11.

13. the ETCS module is configured to receive the information from an external device; The digital rear-mirror device according to claim 11.

14. The information includes at least one of billing information, event information, traffic information, environmental information, or disaster situation information. The digital rear-mirror device according to claim 13.

15. the external device includes an ETCS relay device that is installed at a predetermined position, is capable of communicating with the ETCS module when the vehicle passes through the position, and is connected to an ETCS server for performing the electronic toll collection for the vehicle; The digital rear-mirror device according to claim 13.

16. A method for operating a digital rear-mirror device for a vehicle, comprising: a digital rearview mirror module providing a rear view of the vehicle; and an ETCS module arranged separately from the digital rear-mirror module in the digital rear-mirror device and supporting electronic toll collection for the vehicle; Including, A method for operating a digital rear-view mirror device.

17. The digital rear mirror module includes a first substrate and a plurality of first components mounted on the first substrate; the first component includes a display module positioned toward the rear of the vehicle; The first substrate is disposed on a part of the rear surface of the display module.

17. A method for operating a digital rear-mirror device according to claim 16.

18. the ETCS module includes a second substrate and a plurality of second components mounted on the second substrate; the second substrate is disposed on the remaining portion of the rear surface of the display module; 20. A method for operating a digital rear-mirror device according to claim 17.

19. transmitting information received by the ETCS module from an external device to the digital rear-view mirror module; and displaying the information while the digital rear-mirror module provides the rear view through the display module; Further comprising:

20. A method for operating a digital rear-mirror device according to claim 17.

20. The information includes at least one of billing information, event information, traffic information, environmental information, or disaster situation information.

20. A method for operating a digital rear-mirror device according to claim 19.

21. the external device includes an ETCS relay device that is installed at a predetermined position and is connected to an ETCS server for performing the electronic toll collection for the vehicle; The step of supporting electronic bill settlement includes: when the vehicle passes the location, the ETCS module communicates with the ETCS relay device to effect payment for the electronic toll collection performed by the ETCS server. Including, 20. A method for operating a digital rear-mirror device according to claim 19.

22. The digital rear-mirror module is connected to at least one camera device mounted on the vehicle; The step of providing a rear view includes: The digital rear-mirror module displays the rear image of the vehicle captured by the camera device through the display module in a display mode to provide the rear view. Including, 20. A method for operating a digital rear-mirror device according to claim 17.

23. The step of providing a rear view includes: the digital rearview mirror module directly projects the rear view through the display module in a mirror mode; and The digital rear-mirror module is switched between the display mode and the mirror mode. Further comprising:

23. A method for operating a digital rear-mirror device according to claim 22.

24. the second component includes a memory for storing a virtual card having card information utilized for the electronic toll collection; 20. A method for operating a digital rear-mirror device according to claim 18.

25. The second component includes at least one of a connection module configured to connect with a physical card inserted into the digital rearview mirror device, the physical card having card information utilized for the electronic toll collection; 20. A method for operating a digital rear-mirror device according to claim 18.

26. A method for operating a digital rear-mirror device for a vehicle, comprising: providing a rear view of the vehicle via a display module; and displaying information received via an ETCS module configured for electronic toll collection for the vehicle while providing the rear view via the display module; Including, A method for operating a digital rear-view mirror device.

27. The digital rear-mirror device includes: a first substrate disposed on a part of a rear surface of the display module, on which the display module is mounted; and a second substrate arranged on the remaining part of the rear surface of the display module, on which the ETCS module is implemented; Including, 27. A method for operating a digital rear mirror device according to claim 26.

28. The step of displaying the information includes: receiving the information from the ETCS module by the ETCS module receiving the information from an external device; and displaying the information via the display module. Including, 25. A method for operating a digital rear-mirror device according to claim 24.

29. The information includes at least one of billing information, event information, traffic information, environmental information, or disaster situation information.

29. A method of operating a digital rear mirror device according to claim 28.

30. the external device includes an ETCS relay device that is installed at a predetermined position, is capable of communicating with the ETCS module when the vehicle passes through the position, and is connected to an ETCS server for performing the electronic toll collection for the vehicle; 29. A method of operating a digital rear mirror device according to claim 28.

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