Method for configuring local area network to allow wireless communication to be carried out between multiple communication sets of motor vehicle users, and device

Abstract

To provide a method for configuring a local area network to allow a wireless communication to be carried out between multiple communication sets of motor vehicle users, and a device.SOLUTION: In a method for configuring a local area network, multiple communication sets 12a to 12d are connected via communication units 11a, 11b to local area networks 10a, 10b. The communication unit comprises a configuration memory for at least one audio channel which defines a voice connection between subsets, comprising at least two communication sets of the multiple communication sets, and is connected to motor-vehicle-based control tools 14a, 14b conditioned for control. The method comprises: receiving a selection pertaining to an audio channel recorded in the configuration memory on the motor-vehicle-based control tool in order to control the communication unit; configuring the local area network according to the selected audio channel; and carrying out the wireless communication via the selected audio channel.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for configuring a local network to enable wireless communication between a plurality of communication sets of a vehicle user, and also includes a device configured to perform such a method for configuring a local network. [Background technology]

[0002] A vehicle user is a driver and possibly at least one passenger. The term "passenger" also includes a person in a vehicle behind or in front of the driver, such as in the case of a motorcycle. A motorcycle passenger may alternatively be referred to as a pillion passenger. Thus, for example, a motorcycle may have other passengers in its sidecar. Communication between users of a single vehicle and / or between users in different vehicles is at least very difficult while traveling due to background noise, such as from the surrounding air and / or engine noise.

[0003] Therefore, vehicle users typically use communication sets to communicate with each other while driving. Such communication sets include at least one microphone for acquiring audio signals and earphones or headphones for outputting audio signals. The communication sets can be mounted in or on the vehicle, and in some cases can be mounted on the clothing or accessories of the vehicle user, for example, on or in the vehicle user's helmet. In this case, from the viewpoint of traffic safety, the operation of the communication sets should minimize the need for the vehicle user to stretch their hands and / or take their eyes off the traffic situation in order to communicate. Therefore, even if a mobile phone includes a microphone and headphones and is capable of communication, it is not suitable by itself as a communication set while driving.

[0004] To enable communication between such multiple communication sets while driving, the multiple communication sets are typically connected to one another via a network before driving, with the network being used to forward call input captured by one of the connected communication sets to other communication sets connected to the network.

[0005] In the following, active call connections between communication sets, as distinct from connections to the local network, are referred to as "voice channels", which are simply intended to represent the reachability or "visibility" in the network for the establishment of such voice channels, i.e., the allocation and contactability of communication sets via their IDs or network addresses in the local network.

[0006] However, two vehicle users equipped with communication sets can communicate without interference as long as the distance does not exceed a maximum range. This maximum range is given by the connection technology to which the two communication sets are connected. Therefore, the communication sets can be connected using various connection technologies, such as Bluetooth® and / or WLAN. If the distance between the two vehicle users is greater than the range specified by the connection technology, their connection, and therefore their communication, will be interrupted.

[0007] A typical communication set, in part as a telephone transmitting / receiving unit, needs to be connected to a mobile phone, so that a vehicle user can make a call while driving. In a call between multiple vehicle users equipped with such a communication set, it is usually necessary to transfer the call from one mobile phone to another. According to the prior art, a specialized intercom standard, such as 802.11p, is usually used for this purpose. If the connection between only two of the multiple vehicle users is interrupted, for example, because the distance between the users is too great, this usually inevitably results in the interruption or even the interruption of calls between the other users, which is problematic. Furthermore, in this case, the vehicle user can only set up a call to his / her own communication set.

[0008] Communication sets may also be connected to a mesh network (also called a mesh network). In such a mesh network, all communication sets typically transmit and receive audio signals equally. For example, Bluetooth provides a mesh mode of operation in which multiple Bluetooth devices are joined or connected to a mesh wireless network.

[0009] However, using such mesh technology for communication between vehicle users has the disadvantage that all users have equal rights and there is no central control unit where one user can make configurations, for example, to set up parallel operation of two separate voice channels. Also, vehicle users can usually only change the settings (e.g., volume) of their own communication set. Furthermore, such mesh networks are not intended for communication among at least a subset of users.

[0010] Therefore, Patent Document 1 discloses a Bluetooth intercom call hub including one or more Bluetooth modules each connected to an intercom module including a plurality of ports and at least one of the plurality of ports. At least one of the one or more Bluetooth modules is connected to a Bluetooth headset. This technical teaching focuses on use for communication between subscribers via the hub. Similarly, Patent Document 2 discloses a Bluetooth intercom hub for information sharing. This Bluetooth intercom information exchange hub includes one or more Bluetooth modules each connected to an intercom module including a plurality of connections and at least one of the connections. At least one Bluetooth module is connected to a host terminal device. The at least one Bluetooth module transmits a call received from the connected host terminal device to the intercom module. The intercom module then forwards the transmitted call to at least some of the one or more Bluetooth modules. However, neither Patent Document 1 nor Patent Document 2 discloses an operating device that enables improved control of the hub for flexible subscriber connections.

[0011] Patent Document 3 discloses a wireless portable communication device that allows users to communicate within a group. In particular, the user can use optional headphones to talk to and listen to other members of the group. In this case, the communication device functions as a radio transceiver and transmits the user's voice communication to the communication devices of other members of the group and receives voice communication from other users. In contrast, Patent Document 3 does not disclose the connection of multiple headphones via a central unit. Therefore, a user always needs at least one communication device to be able to participate in voice communication.

[0012] Patent document 4 relates to a method, a terminal device and a system for simultaneous direct connection with other communication means in other networks for full-duplex voice or data communication in an independent network, whereby a user can converse over multiple independent networks using only one voice device (e.g., a headset with or without noise protection) connected to the terminal device via a single connection. The present invention discloses a telecommunications network including multiple terminals that are individually connected to a terminal device for connection. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0013] [Patent Document 1] Korean Patent No. 101998152B1 [Patent Document 2] Korean Patent No. 101998153B1 [Patent Document 3] European Patent No. 3311626B1 [Patent Document 4] US Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 014416A1 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0014] The invention is based on the problem of enabling a flexible integration of communication sets into wireless communication in a user-friendly manner. [Means for solving the problem]

[0015] This problem is solved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Advantageous further developments of the invention are explained by the dependent claims, the following description and the figures.

[0016] As a solution, the invention proposes a method for configuring a local network in which vehicle users can communicate wirelessly using a communication set. The communication set is connected to the local network via a (shared) communication unit. For this purpose, the communication unit may have multiple connections, for example via one or more Bluetooth and / or WLAN interfaces. Furthermore, the communication unit is connected to operating devices, for example provided by a vehicle display, for the control thereof.

[0017] Thus, the method allows for wireless communication between multiple communication sets of vehicle users, where "communication" means conversation between vehicle users over a voice channel.

[0018] Thus, according to the present invention, multiple communication sets are connected to a local network via one communication unit. Depending on the wireless range, such a communication unit can couple the communication sets of the driver and passengers of a common vehicle to the local network, or even couple the communication sets of multiple vehicles (range extension for multiple vehicles will be discussed further below). In other words, the multiple communication sets can be arranged in a star-shaped network topology via the communication unit, with the communication unit as the central node. In this respect, the local network is centralized by the communication unit. The communication unit can be realized, for example, by a circuit board enclosed in a housing having a processor circuit, a memory, and a hardware-based wireless interface. The memory can then include the processor circuit and / or operating software for operating the communication unit via the local network. Advantageously, this allows the operating software of the local network to be updated by updating the software in the memory of the communication unit. The star-shaped network topology also has the advantage that an interruption in the connection of one of the multiple communication sets does not affect the connection between the other communication sets of the multiple communication sets and the communication unit.

[0019] Furthermore, the communication unit includes a configuration memory for the voice channels. In other words, the communication unit has a memory for storing configuration data for the voice channels, which can be used for configuring the local network. The communication unit can thereby advantageously directly access the stored voice channels and use them for configuring the local network. Thus, the communication unit can delete stored voice channels and save new voice channels in the configuration memory. The configuration memory can exist, for example, as a register database of a processor circuit and / or as a cache memory within the communication unit.

[0020] According to the present invention, at least one voice channel recorded in the configuration memory establishes a call connection between all of a subset of the plurality of communication sets, including at least two communication sets, or between one representative subset. In other words, there is at least one voice channel recorded in the configuration memory that enables communication between all of the plurality of communication sets, or between at least two, but not all, communication sets via that call connection. Thus, a voice channel recorded in the configuration memory can establish a call connection in which one or more vehicle users connected to the communication unit via that communication set do not participate in the communication, thereby advantageously allowing the one or more vehicle users to continue to concentrate on driving without being disturbed. For example, a connection selection can be stored in the configuration memory of the communication unit for each voice channel, and the communication unit executes the connection selection after acquiring a voice signal, thereby not forwarding the acquired voice signal to all connected communication sets.

[0021] The communication unit according to the present invention is connected to a vehicle-side operating device configured for control. This has the advantage that the vehicle user can control the communication unit via an operating device attached to the vehicle for wireless communication without having to search or reach out. For example, the operating device can be connected to the vehicle via a cable and, in some cases, can be attached above the steering wheel. Therefore, the operating device can be, for example, a touch display that controls the communication unit.

[0022] Performing wireless communication between a plurality of communication sets of a vehicle user according to the present invention includes the following method steps. receiving, at the vehicle-side control device, a selection of one audio channel from the plurality of audio channels stored in a configuration memory for controlling a communication unit connected to the vehicle-side control device; configuring a local network corresponding to the selected voice channel; Performing wireless communication over the selected voice channel.

[0023] In other words, the vehicle user can select an audio channel by inputting the operating device, and the communication unit then adjusts or configures the corresponding call connection so that communication can be performed according to the call connection. Thus, the vehicle user can advantageously select an audio channel flexibly and / or with a single operation while driving in order to connect a communication set for communication as needed. For this purpose, the operating device can have, for example, multiple touch- or pressure-sensitive operating elements for audio channel selection. Thus, the communication unit can store a protocol or a reference to a protocol in its memory during configuration. During communication execution, the protocol can, in some cases, be executed by a processor circuit to forward audio signals received from the communication unit.

[0024] A further solution according to the invention is provided by an apparatus configured for carrying out the method, which apparatus is used to carry out the method according to the invention for configuring a local network according to the invention for carrying out wireless communication between a plurality of communication sets of vehicle users.

[0025] The present invention also includes further developments that provide further advantages.

[0026] In the following, further developments of the method for configuring a local network according to the invention are described, which also apply accordingly to a device according to the invention arranged to carry out this method.

[0027] In a further development, a further cross-network voice channel is provided for selection, and the cross-network voice channel connects a communication unit of the local network to a communication unit connected to a further communication set for the further local network automatically or after authorization by the vehicle user at a vehicle-side operating device to enable a cross-network call connection between the local network and the further local network. In other words, both the local network and the further local network are connected to respective communication sets and can be connected automatically or after authorization by the vehicle user. The automatic connection of two local networks or their communication units can be achieved, for example, by the connection being made only after matching an identifier or key in one of the two communication units. For this purpose, the identifier or key can be exchanged manually or automatically, for example, during coupling and / or mutual registration of the two communication units. After the connection between the communication units is established, the further cross-network voice channel is stored in the configuration memory of the two communication units. The cross-network voice channel is used to enable communication between vehicle users of the local network and the further network in terms of the further cross-network voice channel. Consequently, if the local network and the further local network are disconnected, such an automatic connection setting has the advantage that it allows a flexible reconnection of the two local networks, for example without interrupting the routing of audio data of an active audio channel. Preferably, the connection between the communication units uses, for example, GSM, LTE, BT, mobile radio and / or WLAN. However, Bluetooth is also conceivable.

[0028] In a further development, a communication unit of a local network is connected to and maintained with a communication unit of a further local network, whereby the further local network is connected or maintained connected to a further communication set via its communication unit. In other words, both interconnected and maintained local networks can each have a communication set. Advantageously, if one communication unit is not sufficient for multiple vehicle users to communicate with each other, a second communication unit can be used. For example, the communication unit may have a finite number of Bluetooth-enabled interfaces, e.g., 2, 3, 4, ... 10, via which a communication set can be connected to the communication unit, respectively. Thus, multiple communication units may be required to connect a certain number of vehicle users to each other.

[0029] Furthermore, in one operating step, the vehicle-side operating device can receive a selection of a further cross-network voice channel for controlling a communication unit connected to the operating device. The cross-network voice channel establishes at least one call connection between all or a representative subset of the plurality of communication sets from the local network and the plurality of communication sets from the further local network, the subset including at least two communication sets. In other words, a vehicle user can select a cross-network voice channel via which vehicle users whose communication sets are directly or indirectly connected to different communication units can communicate. Advantageously, vehicle users whose communication sets belong to different networks can thereby communicate with each other and / or with other vehicle users.

[0030] Furthermore, the controlled communication unit can transmit configuration data of the crossing voice channel specified by the control to the communication unit of the further local network to configure the further local network by adding at least the crossing voice channel specified by the control to the voice channels recorded in the configuration memory of the communication unit of the further local network. In other words, the configuration memories of the communication unit of the local network and the communication unit of the further local network are unified with respect to the crossing voice channel specified by the control. Advantageously, unifying the configuration of the further local network with the local network allows centralized management of cross-network wireless communications. For example, such unification can be performed according to a rule, for example upon receiving a selection and / or periodically.

[0031] In a further development, the local network is connected to a mobile terminal. In other words, a communication unit of the local network can be connected to the mobile terminal in order to receive data and / or signals from the mobile radio network and / or transmit them via the mobile radio network. Advantageously, this allows the vehicle user to communicate with people outside the local network, in particular to make phone calls. Furthermore, it is advantageous to be able to receive data from outside the local network, such as navigation data and / or traffic-related data. The mobile terminal can be, for example, a mobile phone or a tablet. The mobile terminal can then be connected to the communication unit, for example, via Bluetooth. It is also conceivable that a connection between the local network and a further local network is provided via such a mobile terminal.

[0032] Furthermore, the voice channel specified by the received selection can be used by the mobile terminal to establish at least one call connection between all or a representative subset of the plurality of communication sets, thereby enabling, for example, a conference call. Or, in other words, a vehicle user can select a predetermined voice channel via its operating device, through which the vehicle user, whose communication set is connected to the local network, can communicate with a person outside the local network. Thus, for example, a vehicle user within the local network can communicate with another person via an LTE connection while driving.

[0033] In a further development of the invention, the step of performing wireless communication over the selected voice channel comprises the following steps: acquiring a voice signal from one of a plurality of communication sets connected by a voice channel and transferring the voice signal to a communication unit connected to the communication set; processing the voice signal in a communication unit connected to the communication set to determine a connection established by a selected voice channel; Transferring the processed voice signal to a communication set designated corresponding to the connection over the voice channel.

[0034] In other words, a vehicle user can transmit a voice input (voice speech) via his / her communication set to another communication set connected to the communication unit, which then outputs the voice input as a voice signal. The communication unit then processes the voice signal obtained by the voice input and transfers the processed voice signal to the communication set in accordance with a preselected voice channel. This has the advantage that the communication unit always controls the communication as a central unit. For example, processing of the voice signal can include applying encryption and / or modulation and / or voice coding methods in accordance with the protocol used for transfer. It is also conceivable that the communication unit, when processing the voice signal, can perform further configuration of the local network, for example, holding the voice signal or mixing multiple voice signals.

[0035] In a further development, while a wireless communication is being performed via a selected voice channel, another communication is simultaneously performed via a voice channel stored in the configuration memory of the controlled communication unit that is different from the selected voice channel. In other words, the communication unit can simultaneously and separately receive, process, and forward two voice signals for different wireless communication, each corresponding to a different voice channel. This has the advantage that two conversations can be simultaneously performed in one local network, each corresponding to a different communication. For example, a vehicle driver can have a conversation with his passenger via a first voice channel, and at the same time, another vehicle driver can communicate with his passenger via the same communication unit.

[0036] In a further development, the vehicle-side operating device functions as a vehicle display, displays vehicle-specific data and / or communication-specific data, and receives the selection of an audio channel. In other words, the vehicle display can function as an operating device on which vehicle-specific data and / or communication-specific data are displayed. To this end, the vehicle display can have sensors and / or operating elements for the vehicle user to select an audio channel. This has the advantage of saving space and being within easy reach in the instrument area of ​​the vehicle. For example, the vehicle display can have a speed display, a gasoline display, an oil display, and / or further vehicle settings, as well as a touch screen for selecting an audio channel. It is also conceivable that the operating device includes a device that allows the vehicle user to select an audio channel by voice input.

[0037] In a further development, the controlled communication unit receives predetermined audio signals for at least traffic-related information via a connected operating device, stores at least one audio channel in its configuration memory, and outputs the predetermined audio signals via the audio channel to a predetermined number of connected communication sets. In other words, the communication unit can be configured to automatically or input-based forward the predetermined audio signals for at least traffic-related information received via the operating device to a predetermined number of connected communication sets. This allows one or more vehicle users to adapt their driving behavior based on the traffic-related information. This allows the vehicle user to utilize congestion and / or weather information while driving without losing track of the traffic situation, for example, to avoid delays and / or dangerous traffic situations. In some cases, such predetermined audio signals can be automatically or manually forwarded to all communication sets of the local network via a broadcast function immediately after receiving the predetermined audio signals. Which audio signals are predetermined can be established and / or changed, for example, by configuration settings of the communication unit.

[0038] In a further development, the vehicle is provided as a two-wheeled vehicle, a three-wheeled vehicle, a four-wheeled light vehicle, and / or a personal watercraft. In other words, the vehicle used belongs to one or more of the vehicle classes of two-wheeled or three-wheeled vehicles, or four-wheeled light vehicles, or personal watercraft. For example, a quad bike belongs to the four-wheeled light vehicle class. A jet ski is also an example of a personal watercraft. Examples of two-wheeled vehicles include, in particular, motorcycles or mopeds. In particular, the collection of two-wheeled vehicles, three-wheeled vehicles, four-wheeled light vehicles, and / or personal watercraft includes all vehicles of EU vehicle classes L1 to L7 (Europaeische Union Fahrzeugklassen).

[0039] A processor circuit, possibly having programming or software, may be provided in the communication unit and / or operating device to perform the described steps. The programming or software includes program instructions that, upon execution, cause the processor circuit to perform the method embodiments. Multiple processor circuits may therefore each have at least one microprocessor and / or microcontroller. The program instructions may each be stored in a data memory of the processor circuit.

[0040] Depending on the method, it may be provided that error messages and / or requests for user feedback are issued and / or that standard settings and / or predetermined initial states are set for applications or application situations that may arise during the method and that are not explicitly described in this specification.

[0041] The present invention also includes combinations of features of the described embodiments.

[0042] An embodiment of the present invention will be described below. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0043] [Figure 1]FIG. 1 shows one communication unit connected to a communication set for a local network and also to an operating device and a mobile terminal. [Figure 2] 1 shows two communication units connected to each other, each connected to a communication set, for a local network. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0044] The examples described below are preferred embodiments of the present invention. In these examples, the components of the described embodiments each represent individual features of the present invention that should be considered independently of one another, and also form the present invention independently of one another, and are therefore considered part of the present invention individually or in combinations other than those shown. Furthermore, the described embodiments can be supplemented by other features of the present invention already described. In the figures, elements having the same function are provided with the same reference numerals.

[0045] 1 shows an embodiment in which a number of communication sets 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d of vehicle users 13a, 13b, 13c, 13d are connected to a local network 10 via a communication unit 11. Furthermore, the communication unit 11 is connected (16) to a vehicle-side operating device 14 and a mobile terminal 15.

[0046] In this case, the vehicle users 13a, 13b, 13c, and 13d may be the drivers of the vehicles or the passengers thereof. For example, the vehicle users 13a and 13c may be the drivers of the vehicles, and the vehicle users 13b and 13d may be the passengers thereof.

[0047] The communication unit 11 may have one or more input elements through which the vehicle user can directly input information to control the communication unit 11. The communication unit 11 may be powered by a battery and / or a storage battery. Otherwise, the communication unit 11 may be powered by the vehicle and / or its storage battery may be charged via a possible connection, for example, via the operating device 14. The communication unit 11 serves as a central unit for communication, thereby simplifying fault correction and updating of the local network 10. Furthermore, interruption of the connection of, for example, one of the connected communication sets 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d does not affect the connection of further devices 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d, 14, 15 to the communication unit 11. Connection of further devices, such as, for example, the communication sets 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d or the mobile terminal 15, to the communication unit 11 simply requires a connection between the new device and the communication unit 11.

[0048] As already mentioned above, the vehicle-side operating device 14 of the local network 10 can be used to control the communication unit 11. To this end, the vehicle-side operating device 14 can be provided by and / or integrated into a vehicle display, for example. However, it is also conceivable that the operating device 14 is connected to the vehicle via a separable interface. In that case, the operating device 14 can be optionally disconnected from the vehicle for maintenance and / or repair work. Furthermore, the vehicle users 13a, 13b, 13c, 13d can optionally also receive and transmit data and / or signals from and to parties outside the local network 10 via the mobile terminal 15.

[0049] The individual connections 16 within the local network 10 may all be identical. However, they may preferably be partially different. For example, it is conceivable that one or more of the connections 16 may use different Bluetooth specifications, and possibly provide WLAN or other connections suitable for transmitting signals. Also, some or all of the connections 16 may be provided by cable connections. The connection 16 between the communication sets 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d and the communication unit 11 may advantageously be energy-saving, such as Bluetooth LE (registered trademark), to enable permanent and stable execution of communication. Again, the connection 16 between the communication unit 11 and one or more devices, such as a mobile terminal 15, may be configured in such a way that the connection 16 with one or more devices is possible even if the vehicle user 13a, 13b, 13c, 13d does not carry the one or more devices directly while driving, but rather carries them, for example, in a vehicle side pocket and / or seat shell. This is particularly advantageous when space is limited and further improves safety while driving as none of the vehicle users 13a, 13b, 13c, 13d are directly distracted by the connected device in the side pocket.

[0050] The vehicle users 13a, 13b, 13c, and 13d can select a voice channel via an input to the operating device 14. As already mentioned above, the voice channel can establish a call connection between all of the subsets including at least two communication sets of the vehicle users 13a, 13b, 13c, and 13d, or between one representative subset. Thus, for example, the voice channel can enable a call connection between two vehicle users, such as vehicle user 13a and vehicle user 13b. Or, for example, the voice channel can enable communication between all vehicle users 13a, 13b, 13c, and 13d. In some cases, all vehicle users 13a, 13b, 13c, and 13d, or their communication sets 12a, 12b, 12c, and 12d, are connected simultaneously, but a call connection can be established between all or only a subset, however, through which at least two of the vehicle users 13a, 13b, 13c, and 13d can communicate.

[0051] The selection on the operating device 14 and the subsequent control of the communication unit 11 may be causally related to the configuration of the local network 10 based on the selected voice channel. During the configuration of the local network 10, a call connection can be established according to the selected voice channel, for example, based on hardware and / or software. This establishment may include, for example, determining and / or storing addresses of the communication sets 12a, 12b, 12c, and 12d established in the call connection. Such addresses may be given, for example, by names, e.g., Bluetooth names, and / or identifiers, e.g., MAC addresses. Thus, establishing the configuration connections as part of the configuration of the local network 10 may include, for example, storing one or more addresses for the communication sets 12a, 12b, 12c, and 12d established in the call connection in a memory area upstream of the processor circuit. This allows for quick access to the selected call connection during further operation of the communication unit. Digitized voice samples of the voice signals from the communication sets are routed within the communication unit according to the configured addresses, which results in a voice channel between the communication sets.

[0052] It is possible for the local network 10 to have multiple configurations simultaneously for different selected voice channels. For example, at an initial selection, a first set of addresses may be stored in memory. Upon a further selection, a second set of addresses for further selection may be stored in memory, in which case the first set may be removed from memory beforehand or may remain in memory as the case may be.

[0053] Alternatively or additionally, the communication unit 11 can receive predetermined audio signals for traffic-related information via the operating device 14 and / or the mobile terminal 15. The audio signals can be predetermined, insofar as the vehicle user 13a, 13b, 13c, 13d pre-configures, for example on the operating device, which audio signals are predetermined audio signals, as the case may be. However, alternatively or additionally, the communication unit 11 can have a setting such that audio signals received during operation of the communication unit 11, such as incoming audio signals from traffic radio and / or weather radio and / or mobile radio networks, to name just a few, are always classified by the communication unit 11 as predetermined audio signals. It is also conceivable that the received audio signals have an identifier, by which the communication unit 11 classifies the received audio signals as predetermined audio signals. In any case, the communication unit 11 may have an audio channel in its configuration memory, according to which, upon receiving such a predetermined audio signal, the communication unit outputs the predetermined audio signal to a predetermined number of the connected communication sets 12 a, 12 b, 12 c, 12 d. It is also conceivable that, without receiving such a channel selection, the communication unit 11 configures the local network 10 corresponding to the audio channel associated with a predetermined audio signal, so that, based on the reception of such a predetermined audio signal, the received predetermined audio signal is immediately forwarded for reception to a predetermined number of the connected communication sets 12 a, 12 b, 12 c, 12 d. Advantageously, therefore, incoming traffic messages, such as congestion messages or telephone calls, can be automatically and without delay forwarded by the communication unit 11 to a group of vehicle users 13 a, 13 b, 13 c, 13 d, e.g., to the drivers of the vehicle users 13 a, 13 b, 13 c, 13 d, to ensure improved and safe driving. The communication unit 11 may possibly have in its configuration memory a voice channel for notification, according to which notification signals, such as emergency call signals, are transmitted.This notification can be, for example, possibly forwarded to an emergency call station via the connected mobile terminal 15 and / or to at least the other communication sets 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d. The communication unit 11 can possibly transmit such a notification signal automatically and / or via the voice channel in situations such as an accident detected by the vehicle's sensors and / or upon receiving a corresponding selection. Advantageously, the notification signal possibly also contains the coordinates of the accident location. Thus, the communication unit possibly not only performs communication but also simultaneously functions as an emergency system for the vehicle user while driving.

[0054] Thus, after the configuration of the local network 10, communication can be performed according to the voice channel selected by the input. During such communication, for example, a voice signal emitted by one of the vehicle users 13a, 13b, 13c, and 13d and acquired by the communication sets 12a, 12b, 12c, and 12d is forwarded to the other communication sets 12a, 12b, 12c, and 12d designated corresponding to the selected voice channel. For example, if the communication set 12a acquires a voice signal from the vehicle user 13a and the local network 10 is configured such that a call connection exists and the vehicle users 12a and 12c are connected for communication, the voice signal received by the communication unit from the vehicle user 12a is forwarded to the vehicle user 12c after processing. For this purpose, the acquired voice signal can first be forwarded to the communication unit 11 and processed by the communication unit 11. As already mentioned above, processing of the voice signal can include, for example, decompressing and / or decoding the voice signal and / or mixing multiple acquired voice signals. It is also conceivable that the communication unit 11 applies a filter to remove background noise when processing the audio signal, so that the processed audio signal has less unwanted background noise than the acquired audio signal. The communication sets 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d may additionally or alternatively be equipped with such a filter, whether hardware or software based, to reduce unwanted background noise. Such a reduction of unwanted background noise in the acquired and / or received audio signals advantageously results in improved and safer communications between the vehicle users 13a, 13b, 13c, 13d.

[0055] The local network 10 may also have multiple configurations, such that two audio signals acquired by different communication sets 12a, 12b, 12c, and 12d, possibly even simultaneously, can be forwarded to the communication sets 12a, 12b, 12c, and 12d corresponding to the different configurations after parallel processing in one and the same communication unit 11. For example, a first audio signal from vehicle user 13a acquired by communication set 12a can be forwarded to communication set 12d of vehicle user 13d after processing in the communication unit 11 according to a first call connection to the first configuration in the local network 10, while a second audio signal acquired by communication set 12b is forwarded from vehicle user 13b to communication set 12c of vehicle user 13c after processing in the communication unit 11 according to a first call connection to the first configuration in the local network 10. As a result, the communication unit 11 can advantageously process and forward multiple received audio signals corresponding to possibly different configurations of the local network 10 simultaneously. Therefore, the communication unit 11 can control and enable multiple communications simultaneously.

[0056] As mentioned above, the communication unit 11 can also be connected 16 to a mobile terminal 15. The connection to the mobile terminal 15 can, in some cases, supplement the voice channels already stored in the configuration memory of the communication unit 11 with additional, predefined voice channels. For example, the vehicle user 13a can select a voice channel with a call connection on the operating device 14, so that the vehicle users 13a and 13c can talk to people who are not in the local network via the communication unit 11 and the mobile terminal 15. Furthermore, the communication unit 11 can receive data and / or signals via the mobile terminal, which data and / or signals can receive directly or at the request of one or more vehicle users 13a, 13b, 13c, 13d, possibly via the communication sets 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d. For example, a call from a person outside the local network can be received at the mobile terminal 15 connected to the communication unit 11, and one or more vehicle users 13a, 13b, 13c, 13d can be notified of this. For example, one of the vehicle users 13a, 13b, 13c, 13d can accept a call for communication by selecting a voice channel via the operating device 14. When the vehicle user accepting the call for communication selects a voice channel, a call connection is thereby established between one or more of the vehicle users 13a, 13b, 13c, 13d and the mobile terminal 15 for communication.

[0057] FIG. 2 shows an embodiment with two local networks 10a, 10b, which can exchange voice signals and / or data via a connection 20 between communication units 11a, 11b belonging to the local networks 10a, 10b.

[0058] The first communication unit 11a is connected for the first local network 10a to two communication sets 12a, 12b of vehicle users 13a, 13b and a first operating device 14a, and possibly to a first terminal 15a. The second communication unit 11b is connected for the second local network 10b to two communication sets 12c, 12d of vehicle users 13c, 13d and a second operating device 14b, and possibly to a second terminal 15b.

[0059] The connection 20 between the first and second communication units 11a, 11b is used for the exchange of data and / or signals between the two local networks 10a, 10b and can be established automatically or with the authorization of the vehicle users 13a, 13b, 13c, 13d, as described above. For example, the communication units 11a and 11b can be so close that one of the two or both communication units 11a, 11b automatically transmits an identifier to the other communication unit for a check. If the check is positive, a connection is established between the communication units 11a, 11b; otherwise, it is not established. It is also conceivable to establish the connection automatically without checking. This allows for flexible connection of the communication units 11a, 11b of the two local networks 10a, 10b. This allows communication between multiple vehicle users 13a, 13b, 13c, 13d whose communication sets 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d are connected to two different communication units 11a, 11b, with the communication units 11a, 11b automatically connecting to each other as long as the distance between the communication units 11a, 11b of the two local networks 10a, 10b allows.

[0060] As described above, as a result of establishing such a connection between the two local networks 10a, 10b, the communication units 11a, 11b can store additional cross-voice channels in their configuration memories. Call connections to such cross-voice channels enable, for example, communication between vehicle users 13a, 13b, 13c, and 13d. Such cross-voice channels can also be provided by cross-network call connections between at least one of the mobile terminals 15a, 15b and one or all of the at least two communication sets 12a, 12b, 12c, and 12d. For example, vehicle user 13d of the second local network 10b and vehicle user 13b of the first local network can use the mobile terminal 15a to call a person outside the two local networks 10a, 10b via the connection 20 between the communication units 11a, 11b. The vehicle users 13a, 13b, 13c, 13d can thereby select such crossing voice channels, for example, via input of one of the two operating devices 14a, 14b. This selection controls the nearest communication units 11a, 11b. Thus, for example, if the vehicle user 13a selects a crossing voice channel via the operating device 14a, possibly initially only the communication unit 11a is controlled and configured. In this case, if there is a connection between the first and second communication units 11a, 11b, the first communication unit 11a can transmit the selected crossing voice channel to the second communication unit 11b for unification of the first network 10a and the second network 10b.

[0061] A particularly preferred embodiment will now be described.

[0062] Drivers of motorcycles, jet skis or quad bikes, as well as vehicles of vehicle classes L1 to L7, usually connect a headset directly to their mobile phone. There is then a direct connection between the headset and the mobile phone; no further units are involved. In this case, only a maximum of one headset can be connected to a mobile phone. The use of multiple headsets per mobile phone is usually not supported.

[0063] Therefore, the prior art has the following particular drawbacks: Only one headset can be connected to one cellular link. Passengers, such as backseat passengers, or other multiple participants cannot be included in the call unless they initiate a call forwarding to another mobile device.

[0064] Therefore, there is a challenge to be able to flexibly incorporate additional call participants into an existing call connection.

[0065] The solution according to the invention therefore comprises a communication unit 11, 11a, 11b, also called CIB (Connected Infotainment Box), which initiates the connection (via Bluetooth Classic, possibly via WIFI) to mobile phones, also called mobile terminals 15, 15a, 15b, and further to various headsets, also called communication sets 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d, via Bluetooth Low Energy (LE Audio) and / or Bluetooth EDR / BR (classic). The CIB mixes and switches the various audio channels and sends them to the mobile phones. Furthermore, it is also possible to talk to each other without the mobile phones.

[0066] The advantages of the solution according to the invention are: Drivers, passengers, and other participants, such as vehicle users 12a, 12b, 12c, and 12d, can connect to mobile phones and make common calls. Group calls can be made using a single mobile phone, especially when participants are spatially separated. Simple connection configuration. User guidance possible via a central unit.

[0067] The invention is useful for use on off-road vehicles, agricultural vehicles, forestry vehicles (e.g. EU vehicle classes such as L, M, N, O, T, C....), as well as quad bikes or small vehicles of low complexity.

[0068] In one embodiment, the CIB consists of at least one Bluetooth Classic module and one Bluetooth Low Energy module conforming to standard 5.2 or later, or a new Bluetooth Low Energy module supporting the optional LE Audio feature, as both a central and peripheral module. A Bluetooth connection is first established between the CIB and a mobile phone. A legacy audio profile is used for communication. A headset is also connected to the CIB. This connection transmits LE Audio and, optionally, legacy Bluetooth profiles. The CIB is then used as a central node for signal conversion, switching, and mixing.

[0069] In a further embodiment, there is the possibility of using a central node (CIB) to connect a group of people (in this case, a group of motorbikes) to each other and enable group conversations. Such communication systems have been implemented using 802.11p so far and are proprietary. The patent-pending approach is based on a given standard and is not a proprietary solution. Commercially available headsets that support LE Audio can be used. Control and authorization of conversation partners are always performed via the CIB. Furthermore, music or voice as well as navigation announcements can be forwarded to all participants in the group via the CIB.

[0070] Overall, this embodiment illustrates how audio signals and / or data for motorcycle infotainment can be provided from multiple headsets on a motorized two-wheeler to a mobile phone via the motorcycle CIB. [Explanation of symbols]

[0071] 10, 10a, 10b local network 11, 11a, 11b communication units 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d communication sets 13a, 13b, 13c, 13d Vehicle users 14, 14a, 14b Operating equipment 15, 15a, 15b Mobile devices 16 connections 20 Connection between communication units

Claims

1. 1. A method for configuring a local network (10, 10a, 10b) to enable wireless communication between a plurality of communication sets (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) of vehicle users (13a, 13b, 13c, 13d), wherein the plurality of communication sets (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) are connected (16) to the local network (10, 10a, 10b) via communication units (11, 11a, 11b), the communication units (11, 11a, 11b) being configured for voice channels. a memory, wherein at least one voice channel among a plurality of voice channels stored in the configuration memory is configured to establish a call connection between all of a subset of the plurality of communication sets (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) including at least two communication sets, or between a representative subset of the subsets, the communication units (11, 11a, 11b) being connected (16) to vehicle-side operating devices (14, 14a, 14b) configured for control thereof, The method comprises the steps of: receiving, at the vehicle-side operating device (14, 14a, 14b), a selection of one voice channel from the plurality of voice channels stored in the configuration memory for controlling the communication unit (11, 11a, 11b) connected to the vehicle-side operating device (14, 14a, 14b); configuring said local network (10, 10a, 10b) in response to said selected voice channel; and conducting the wireless communication over the selected voice channel.

2. maintaining the communication units (11, 11a, 11b) of the local network (10, 10a, 10b) connected (20) to communication units (11, 11a, 11b) of further local networks (10, 10a, 10b); 2. A method according to claim 1, characterized in that the further local network (10, 10a, 10b) is kept connected to a further communication set (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) via its communication unit (11a, 11b, 11c).

3. providing a further cross-network voice channel for selection, the cross-network voice channel being adapted to provide a cross-network call connection between said local network (10, 10a, 10b) and a further local network (10, 10a, 10b); 3. The method according to claim 1, further comprising connecting (20) the communication units (11, 11a, 11b) of the local network (10, 10a, 10b) to a further communication unit (11, 11a, 11b) connected to a further communication set (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) automatically or after authorization by a vehicle user on the vehicle-side operating device.

4. the vehicle-side operating device (14, 14a, 14b) receives a selection of a further cross voice channel for controlling the communication unit connected to the vehicle-side operating device (14, 14a, 14b); 4. The method according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the crossing voice channels establish at least one call connection between all or a representative one of a subset of a plurality of communication sets (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) from the local network (10, 10a, 10b) and a plurality of communication sets (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) from the further local network (10, 10a, 10b), the subset comprising at least two communication sets.

5. to configure the further local network (10, 10a, 10b) by adding at least the crossing voice channels designated by the control to the voice channels recorded in the configuration memory of the communication unit (11, 11a, 11b) of the further local network (10, 10a, 10b), 5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that the controlled communication unit (11, 11a, 11b) transmits the crossing voice channel designated by the control to the communication unit (11, 11a, 11b) of the further local network (10, 10a, 10b).

6. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the local network (10, 10a, 10b) is connected (16) to a mobile terminal (15, 15a, 15b).

7. 7. The method of claim 6, wherein the voice channel designated by the received selection establishes at least one call connection by the mobile terminal (15, 15a, 15b) between all subsets or a representative subset of the plurality of communication sets (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d).

8. said step of performing wireless communication over a selected voice channel comprising: acquiring a voice signal from one of a plurality of communication sets (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) connected by the voice channel, and transferring the voice signal to a communication unit (11, 11a, 11b) connected to the communication set (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d); processing the voice signal in the communication unit (11, 11a, 11b) connected to the communication set and determining the call connection established by the selected voice channel; and transferring the processed voice signal to the communication set (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) designated corresponding to the call connection established by the selected voice channel.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, while performing wireless communication via the selected voice channel, another communication is performed via a voice channel different from the selected voice channel among the voice channels recorded in the configuration memory of the controlled communication unit (11, 11a, 11b).

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the vehicle-side operating device (14, 14a, 14b) serves as a vehicle display, displaying vehicle-specific data and / or communication-specific data, and receiving the selection of the voice channel.

11. the controlled communication units (11, 11a, 11b) receive predetermined audio signals for at least traffic-related information via the connected operating devices (14, 14a, 14b); The controlled communication unit (11, 11a, 11b) stores at least one voice channel in its configuration memory, Method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the predetermined audio signal is outputted via the audio channel to a predetermined number of connected communication sets (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d).

12. 12. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that each vehicle used is a two-wheeled vehicle, a three-wheeled vehicle, a four-wheeled light vehicle and / or a jet ski.

13. At least one operating device (14, 14a, 14b); a communication set (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d); at least one communication unit (11, 11a, 11b) configured to perform the method for configuring a local network (10, 10a, 10b) according to any one of claims 1 to 12 for performing wireless communication between a plurality of communication sets (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d) of vehicle users (13a, 13b, 13c, 13d); An apparatus comprising:

14. an operating device (14, 14a, 14b); a communication unit (11, 11a, 11b) having a configuration memory for a voice channel and adapted to carry out the method according to any one of claims 1 to 12; A vehicle equipped with.

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