Customizing your vehicle's driving modes

Abstract

Exemplary techniques for customizing a driving mode of an electric vehicle (EV) are described herein. A vehicle control unit (VCU) for the EV receives input signals from an input device of the EV. The input signals include a plurality of operating parameters associated with a powertrain of the EV for customizing a driving mode of the EV. The VCU compares each of the operating parameters to its operable limits and adjusts operation of at least one element of the powertrain in response to the comparison.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates generally to vehicles, and more particularly to customizing driving modes for a vehicle. [Background technology]

[0002] A vehicle, such as an electric vehicle, includes a motor that powers the vehicle and a vehicle control unit that controls various functions of the vehicle. The vehicle control unit receives inputs related to the operation of the vehicle and coordinates the operation of one or more components of the vehicle. For example, in response to the vehicle's throttle being operated, the vehicle control unit may trigger control of the electric vehicle's motor to increase the vehicle's driving speed. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] Vehicles, such as two-wheeled electric vehicles, generally include preset driving modes for operating the vehicle. For example, the vehicle may have a power mode and an economy mode. In the power mode, the vehicle may be operated at high speed and / or high acceleration, while in the economy mode, the vehicle may be operated for longer distances and with greater efficiency. Upon selecting a mode, a vehicle control unit (VCU) of the vehicle may retrieve previously stored operating parameters, such as maximum speed and acceleration, for the corresponding mode and adjust the operation of one or more components of the vehicle according to the retrieved operating parameters.

[0004] For example, in a power mode, it may be necessary to control the torque generated by the motor to achieve a particular acceleration value. To achieve the particular acceleration value, a torque map may be calibrated. Thus, upon selection of the power mode, the VCU may control the operation of the motor and transmission assembly to achieve the particular acceleration value. That is, the VCU may calibrate the torque map, and the torque generated at various operating conditions, such as throttle and motor speed, may vary according to the calibration, thereby varying the acceleration. The VCU may adjust the operation of the components via the control units of the corresponding components. Alternatively, instead of the VCU controlling the motor via a motor control unit (MCU), the MCU may directly adjust the operation of the motor. Similarly, upon selection of the economy mode, the VCU may obtain operating parameters corresponding to the economy mode and adjust the vehicle components based on the operating parameters corresponding to the economy mode.

[0005] However, in some cases, the driver may not be able to fully familiarize himself with the available driving modes, for example, due to driving style preferences or road or weather conditions. In other words, the driver may want to have values ​​of the operating parameters that cannot be achieved in either the power mode or the economy mode. However, in existing electric vehicles, it may not be possible to reconfigure the operating parameters without updating the VCU by the vehicle manufacturer.

[0006] Furthermore, in some scenarios, driving in both modes may not be efficient. For example, when the vehicle is descending a hill, the regenerative power value may be set to the highest value to better utilize the vehicle's regenerative power. However, the regenerative power may not be the highest possible value in either mode. Similarly, the preset operating parameters may not be efficient and / or safe and may not provide an enhanced driving experience for all driving scenarios, such as changing road conditions, changing weather conditions, and changing number of people in the vehicle. For example, during rainy season, the driver may prefer the smoothest braking pattern to avoid skidding of the vehicle. However, such an option may not be available in any of the preset modes. In one example, the VCU may need to be updated by the manufacturer to change one or more operating parameter values ​​or to add a preset mode. However, updating the VCU is a cumbersome, complicated, and time-consuming process, and is usually deployed as a variant and not updated for each customer. In a workshop, the VCU may be updated, but if updated by an unskilled or untrained person, it may have a negative impact on the operation of the vehicle. Furthermore, because the updates are static, i.e., cannot be modified once made, even after an update, a driver may find that in certain scenarios, the vehicle may not be able to meet their driving preferences or requirements and / or may not provide efficient driving for various driving conditions. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The detailed description is provided with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the left-most digit of a reference number identifies the figure in which the reference number first appears, and the same numbers are used throughout the drawings to reference like features and components.

[0008] The present invention relates to a vehicle control unit (VCU) for an electric vehicle (EV) that enables customization of vehicle operating parameters to customize driving modes of the EV. As an example, the present invention enables an interface between a driver of the EV and the VCU, e.g., via an application programming interface (API), to enable the driver to provide various values ​​of the operating parameters as inputs to the VCU. These input values, if valid, are then provided to various controllers of the EV's driveline components, thereby customizing the driving modes. In the above example, the VCU, and the various controllers controlling the EV's driveline components, may be provided or have the flexibility to undergo such modifications in the machine-readable instructions therein based on the input values ​​provided by the driver. Implementation of the present invention allows the driver to set various operating parameters without the VCU having to be updated by the manufacturer. Thus, the present invention accommodates and fulfills various driving preferences, providing efficient and safe driving in various driving conditions. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electric vehicle (EV) according to an implementation of the present invention. [Figure 2a] FIG. 1 illustrates a method for customizing a driving mode of an EV according to an implementation of the present invention. [Figure 2b] FIG. 1 illustrates a method for customizing a driving mode of an EV according to an implementation of the present invention. [Figure 3a] FIG. 1 illustrates setting operational parameters to customize a driving mode of an EV according to an implementation of the present invention. [Figure 3b] FIG. 1 illustrates setting operational parameters to customize a driving mode of an EV according to an implementation of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 illustrates a method for customizing a driving mode of an EV according to an implementation of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] According to an example implementation, the VCU may receive an input signal from an input device of the EV. The EV may be, for example, a two-wheeler, a three-wheeler, a four-wheeler, or a multi-wheeler having more than four wheels. The input signal may include a plurality of operational parameters associated with a powertrain of the EV. In one example, the operational parameters may include a maximum speed of the EV, an acceleration of the EV, a braking pattern of the EV, a regenerative power, and the like. In one example, the input device may enable setting of the operational parameters to customize a driving mode of the EV. The VCU may compare each of the operational parameters to its operable limit. The operable limit may be a safety limit beyond which the operational parameter may cause a malfunction of a component of the EV. Further, in response to the comparison, the VCU may adjust the operation of at least one element of the powertrain. For example, if each of the operational parameters is determined to be within a corresponding operable limit, the VCU may adjust the operation of at least one element of the powertrain based on the set operational parameter. For example, the operable limit of the maximum speed may be 100 kilometers per hour (Kmph), and the operable limit of the acceleration may be 3.5 meters (m) per second (s). 2 Furthermore, the set maximum speed is 90Kmph and the set acceleration is 2m / s 2 In such a case, by comparison, the VCU may determine that the set parameters are within operable limits. In response to this determination, the VCU may set the maximum speed to 90Kmph and the acceleration to 2m / s. 2The VCU may trigger a motor control unit (MCU) for controlling a motor of the EV and a transmission control unit (TCU) for controlling a transmission assembly of the EV to set the operating parameters to the corresponding operational limits. In one example, when comparing each of the operating parameters with the corresponding operational limits, if at least one of the operating parameters exceeds the corresponding operational limit, the VCU may send an alert to an input device to indicate that at least one of the set operating parameters exceeds the corresponding operational limit. For example, the operational limit for maximum speed is 100 kilometers per hour (Kmph) and the operational limit for acceleration is 3.5 m / s 2 Furthermore, the set maximum speed is 95Kmph and the set acceleration is 4m / s 2 In such a case, the VCU may determine that the set acceleration exceeds the operable limits of acceleration and may send an alert to the input device indicating that the set acceleration exceeds the operable limits.

[0011] The present invention allows customization of operational parameters for driving a vehicle. According to the present subject matter, different operational parameters can be set depending on the driver's preferences, road conditions, weather conditions, etc. Because the operational parameters can be customized, the present invention eliminates the cumbersome process of updating the VCU by the manufacturer to change the values ​​of the vehicle's preset modes or add one or more modes. The present invention makes driving easier, safer, and improves the efficiency of the vehicle. Furthermore, the present subject matter enhances the driving experience by accommodating various driving preferences.

[0012] The present invention will be further described with reference to Figures 1-4. It should be noted that the description and figures are merely illustrative of the principles of the present invention. Although not explicitly described or shown herein, various arrangements can be devised that incorporate the principles of the present invention. Furthermore, all statements herein that recite the principles, aspects, and examples of the present invention, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass their equivalents.

[0013] FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of an electric vehicle (EV) 100 according to an implementation of the present invention. The EV 100 may be, for example, a two-wheeled vehicle. The EV 100 may include a powertrain 102 for causing the movement of the EV 100. In one example, the powertrain 102 may include a motor 104, a transmission assembly 106, and a battery 108. The motor 104 may provide a driving force for driving the EV 100. The transmission assembly 106 may transmit the driving force from the motor 104 to driving wheels (not shown in FIG. 1) of the EV 100. The battery 108 may provide power to components of the EV 100. Each component of the powertrain 102 may be controlled by an electronic control unit. In one example, the EV 100 may include a motor control unit (MCU) 110 that may control the motor 104, a transmission control unit (TCU) 112 that may control the transmission assembly 106, and a battery management system (BMS) 114 that may control the battery 108.

[0014] The EV 100 may include a vehicle control unit (VCU) 116 for controlling the functions of the EV 100. For example, the VCU 116 may be coupled to other control units, such as the MCU 110, the TCU 112, the BMS 114, etc. of the EV 100, and may coordinate the operation of the components of the EV 100 to control the functions of the EV 100. The VCU 116 may enable customization of driving modes of the EV 100. The driving modes may indicate the manner in which the EV 100 is driven and may include operating parameters associated with the powertrain 102 depending on the driving mode. The operating parameters associated with the powertrain 102 may include a maximum speed of the EV 100, an acceleration of the EV 100, a regenerative power, a braking pattern of the EV 100, etc. The regenerative power indicates the torque of the motor 104 used to recharge the battery 108 when the EV 100 decelerates. The braking pattern may indicate whether the braking of the EV 100 will be smooth or abrupt. Smooth braking indicates that EV 100 slowly decelerates upon application of the brakes (not shown in FIG. 1 ) of EV 100. Hard braking indicates that EV 100 suddenly decelerates while braking. Operating parameters associated with powertrain 102 may hereinafter be referred to as "operating parameters."

[0015] In one example, the driving modes may include a preset mode and a custom mode. The preset mode indicates that the mode was already preset in the VCU 116 during manufacturing of the EV 100. The preset modes may include a power mode and an economy mode. The power mode may include operating parameters that may enable the EV 100 to travel at high speeds and high acceleration. The economy mode may include operating parameters that may enable the EV 100 to achieve long distances, thereby enabling better fuel economy for the EV 100.

[0016] In the custom mode, the EV 100 may allow the driver to set operational parameters to drive the EV 100 according to the driver's preferences. Furthermore, in one example, the custom mode may include a plurality of stored user profiles and allow selection of a user profile from the plurality of stored user profiles. Each stored user profile may be, for example, a user profile created by using a plurality of operational parameters set in a previous instance by the driver to customize a driving mode. Upon selection, the stored user profile may be retrieved to drive the EV 100 according to the driver's preferences, as described in detail with reference to FIGS. 2a and 2b. In the present invention, the driving mode of the EV 100 may be customized by selecting the custom mode. Thus, the present invention does not require the manufacturer of the EV 100 to update the VCU 116 to change values ​​of the preset modes of the EV 100 or to add one or more preset modes.

[0017] Furthermore, the present invention allows for storage of a user profile corresponding to the set operating parameters, so that the driver does not need to set the operating parameters every time. Instead, EV 100 can allow for selection of a stored user profile and retrieval of the operating parameters corresponding to the stored user profile. Thus, the present invention improves the operability of EV 100, especially in scenarios where the driver wants to drive EV 100 with the same set of operating parameters every time.

[0018] Furthermore, in some scenarios, the EV 100 may be driven by multiple people in one outing, and each driver may have their own driving preferences. In such scenarios, the present invention allows each driver to customize the driving mode according to their own preferences, either by retrieving from a stored user profile or by setting a new set of operating parameters. The operation of the EV 100 is described in detail with reference to Figures 2a and 2b.

[0019] In one example, the EV 100 can include an input device 118. The input device 118 can be communicatively coupled to the VCU 116 to transmit signals to the VCU 116. In one example, the input device 118 can be a thin film transistor (TFT) cluster, a liquid crystal display (LCD) screen, or a light emitting diode (LED) display. The input device 118 can display various parameters, such as different driving modes of the EV 100, a current driving mode of the EV 100, a driving speed of the EV 100, a braking pattern of the EV 100, a fuel level, an oil level, and the like. In one example, the input device 118 can enable setting of operational parameters to customize a driving mode of the EV 100. Thus, to enable setting of the operational parameters, the input device 118 can include a touch sensor (not shown in FIG. 1). Additionally, the input device 118 can also enable selection of a driving mode of the EV 100, and selection of a stored user profile of the EV 100.

[0020] In one example, instead of the input device 118 that allows to set the operating parameters, driving modes, or stored user profiles, the EV 100 can be connected with a mobile device 120, which can be connected to the vehicle with a wired or wireless connection. For example, the mobile device 120 can allow to log in to select a user profile from a plurality of user profiles using a user identification, as described in detail with reference to Figs. 2a and 2b. Thus, via the mobile device 120, multiple different drivers of the EV, e.g., individual members of a family, can set their respective preferences of operating parameters when they want to ride the EV in a customized mode rather than using a default mode. Thus, for the same vehicle, multiple different drivers, who can be identified by the VCU 116 based on their login credentials, can log in and thus set the predefined modes of the EV 100 according to the preferences of the individual drivers.

[0021] In one example, the mobile device 120 may be, for example, a mobile phone, a smart card, a personal digital assistant (PDA) held by the driver, a smart accessory such as a smart watch worn by the driver, a remote server, a laptop, etc. In one example, the mobile device 120 may be connected to the EV 100 using Bluetooth, Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi), cellular communication, infrared, or a wired connection.

[0022] In one example, the EV 100 may include a vehicle bus (not shown in FIG. 1 ) to enable communication between various components of the EV 100, such as the VCU 116, the input device 118, the MCU 110, the TCU 112, and the BMS 114. The vehicle bus may be, for example, a control area network (CAN) bus. The operation of the EV 100 for customizing the driving mode is as follows.

[0023] In one example, the input device 118 can display different driving modes of the EV 100, such as preset modes and custom modes. The input device 118 may further enable selection of a mode from the displayed modes. In one example, a custom mode can be selected on the input device 118 to customize the driving modes of the EV. Selection of the custom mode can enable setting of operational parameters. In one example, the operational parameters may be provided or displayed to the driver on the input device 118, in such a case, the range of modification of the operational parameters may be limited based on the options provided on the input device 118. Thus, the VCU 116 can enable such operational parameters to be selected by the driver without having to verify whether the operational parameters are within range or acceptable range. In other examples, as described above and below, limitations on the operational parameters may not be provided or the driver may not be aware of the limitations, in such cases, the VCU 116 can determine the feasibility or acceptability of the operational parameters entered by the driver.

[0024] In response to the setting of the operational parameters, the input device 118 can send an input signal including the set operational parameters to the VCU 116. The VCU 116 can receive the input signal from the input device 118. The VCU 116 can compare each of the operational parameters to its operable limit. The operable limit can be a safety limit beyond which the operational parameter may cause a malfunction of a component of the EV 100. For example, the operable limit for the top speed may be 95 Kmph, indicating that the top speed may cause a malfunction of the EV 100 if it exceeds 95 Kmph. Further, in response to the comparison, the VCU 116 can adjust the operation of at least one element of the powertrain 102. For example, if each of the operational parameters is determined to be within the corresponding operable limit, the VCU 116 can adjust the operation of at least one element of the powertrain 102 based on the set operational parameter. For example, the operable limit for the top speed may be 100 Kmph and the operable limit for acceleration may be 3.5 m / s. 2 Furthermore, the set maximum speed is 90Kmph and the set acceleration is 2m / s 2 Upon comparison, the VCU 116 may determine that the set parameters are within operable limits. In response to this determination, the VCU 116 may set the maximum speed to 90 Kmph and the acceleration to 2 m / s 2 In another example, when comparing each of the operating parameters with a corresponding operable limit, if at least one of the operating parameters exceeds the corresponding operable limit, the VCU 116 can send an alert to the input device 118 to indicate that at least one of the set operating parameters exceeds the corresponding operable limit. For example, the operable limit for maximum speed is 100Kmph and the operable limit for acceleration is 3.5m / s 2 Furthermore, the set maximum speed is 95Kmph and the set acceleration is 4m / s 2In such a case, the VCU 116 may determine that the set acceleration exceeds the operable limits of acceleration and may send an alert to the input device 118 indicating that the acceleration exceeds the operable limits.

[0025] 2a illustrates a method 200 for customizing a driving mode of an EV according to an implementation of the present invention. The order in which the method 200 is described is not intended to be construed as a limitation, and any number of the described method blocks may be combined in any order to implement the method 200 or alternative methods. Furthermore, the method 200 may be implemented by a processor or computing device via any suitable hardware, non-transitory machine-readable instructions, or combination thereof. The EV may correspond to the EV 100, and the method 200 may be performed by the EV 100.

[0026] In block 202, the input device may display a plurality of preset modes and a custom mode to enable selection of one of the preset modes or the custom mode. The input device may correspond to, for example, the input device 118. The preset modes may include a power mode and an economy mode. To display the modes, the EV may include a mode switch, which may be provided on a handlebar of the EV. In one example, when the EV is switched on, pressing the brake switch while applying the brakes of the EV may cause the input device to display the preset modes and the custom modes.

[0027] In block 204, the input device may detect whether one of the preset modes has been selected. If it is detected that one of the preset modes has been selected, in block 206, the VCU may adjust the operation of at least one element of the powertrain based on the operating parameters corresponding to the selected preset mode. For example, if a power mode is selected, in block 206, the VCU may adjust the operation of at least one element of the powertrain based on the operating parameters corresponding to the power mode. Similarly, if an economy mode is selected, in block 206, the VCU may adjust the operation of at least one element of the powertrain based on the operating parameters corresponding to the economy mode. The powertrain may correspond to the powertrain 102, and the VCU may correspond to the VCU 116.

[0028] As mentioned above, in some scenarios, the driver may prefer to customize the driving mode of the EV for riding the EV depending on his / her preferences, road conditions, weather conditions, etc. In such a scenario, the driver may select a custom mode on the input device instead of selecting one of the preset modes. Thus, if it is detected that none of the preset modes are selected, in block 208, the input device may detect whether the custom mode is selected. If it is detected that the custom mode is selected, in block 210, the input device may display a plurality of stored user profiles to enable selection of a user profile from the plurality of stored user profiles. Each stored user profile may include a plurality of operating parameters. Each stored user profile may be, for example, a user profile created by using a plurality of operating parameters set in a previous instance by the driver to customize the driving mode of the EV. The storage of the user profile is described with reference to FIG. 2b. If it is detected that the custom mode is not selected, in block 202, the input may display the preset modes and the custom mode.

[0029] Further, in block 212, the input device may detect whether a user profile has been selected from a plurality of stored user profiles. In one example, if a user profile has been selected, the input device may send a selection signal corresponding to the selected user profile to the VCU. If it is detected that one of the user profiles has not been selected, the method may proceed through "A" and perform further steps described with reference to FIG. 2b. Further, in block 214, the VCU may determine whether a selection signal has been received. If the VCU determines that a selection signal has not been received, in block 212, the VCU may determine whether one of the stored user profiles has been selected.

[0030] On the other hand, if a selection signal is received, the VCU may obtain a number of operating parameters corresponding to the selected user profile in block 216. The VCU may then adjust operation of at least one element of the powertrain based on the obtained operating parameters in block 218.

[0031] In the above example, the input device allows for a user profile to be selected from a plurality of stored user profiles. In an example, instead of allowing the input device to select a user profile from a plurality of stored user profiles, a mobile device may be used to select a user profile. The mobile device may correspond to, for example, mobile device 120. For example, the mobile device may be connected to the EV. The mobile device may allow for logging in to select a user profile from a plurality of user profiles using a user identification. For example, a user profile with operating parameters corresponding to the user profile may be stored in a memory of the VCU along with the user identification. The mobile device may include a software application that may allow for logging in using the user identification. Further, in response to logging in, the mobile device may send an input request to an input device corresponding to the user identification. The VCU may receive the input request from the input device and, based on the input request, obtain a plurality of operating parameters corresponding to the selected user profile. In other words, the VCU may obtain a user profile and a plurality of operating parameters corresponding to the user identification. Upon obtaining, the VCU may further adjust the operation of at least one element of the powertrain based on the obtained operating parameters. The present invention facilitates the process of customizing the driving mode since a user profile can be selected and operational parameters can be obtained by logging in from a mobile device. Furthermore, in a scenario where multiple different people drive an EV, such as when an EV is used by individual members of a family, the present invention allows each driver to drive according to their own preferences simply by selecting a user profile, thereby improving the operability of the EV and enhancing the driving experience of the EV.

[0032] 2b illustrates a method 200 for customizing a driving mode of an EV according to an implementation of the present invention. If a user profile is not selected from a plurality of user profiles at block 212 of FIG. 2a, the method 200 may proceed to execute block 220. At block 220, an input device may enable setting of a plurality of operating parameters. In one example, the input device may enable a driver to key in values ​​of the operating parameters. For example, the input device may include a keypad for keying in values.

[0033] Further, the input device may detect whether the multiple operating parameters have been set, in block 222. If it is detected that the multiple operating parameters have been set, the VCU may compare each operating parameter to its operable limits, in block 224. The multiple operating parameters may include a maximum speed of the EV, an acceleration of the EV, a regenerative power of the EV, and a braking pattern of the EV.

[0034] If it is determined that at least one of the operating parameters exceeds the operational limit, then in block 226, the VCU may send an alert to the input device. The alert may indicate that at least one of the operating parameters exceeds the corresponding operational limit. The input device may then display an alert to the driver indicating that the operating parameter exceeds the corresponding operational limit. For example, the operational limit for top speed is 100Kmph and the operational limit for acceleration is 3.5m / s 2 The regenerative power limit is -50Nm. Furthermore, the set maximum speed is 95Kmph and the set acceleration is 4m / s 2and the set regenerative force is -45 Nm. In such a case, the VCU may determine that the set acceleration exceeds the operable limits of the acceleration and may send an alert to the input device to indicate that the acceleration exceeds the operable limits. In one example, upon sending the alert, the driver may be prompted to enable setting of the multiple modified operating parameters in block 228. Subsequently, the method 200 may proceed from the step of block 228 to performing the step of block 222. In other words, following enabling the setting of the multiple modified operating parameters, the input device may detect whether the multiple modified operating parameters have been set in block 222 and detect whether all the modified operating parameters are within the corresponding limits in block 224.

[0035] If the VCU determines that each operating parameter is within the corresponding operational limit, the VCU may create a user profile including the set operating parameters and store the user profile in block 230. For example, if the operational limit of the EV's maximum speed is 100 Kmph and the operational limit of acceleration is 3.5 m / s 2 The regenerative power limit is -50Nm. Furthermore, the set maximum speed is 90Kmph and the set acceleration is 2m / s 2 and the regenerative force is set to -40Nm. In such a case, the VCU can determine that the set parameters are within the corresponding operable limits, and set the maximum speed to 90Kmph and the acceleration to 2m / s 2 A user profile can be created and stored with the regenerative force set to -40Nm.

[0036] In one example, the user profile and corresponding operating parameters may be stored in a memory of the VCU. It will be appreciated that each time a number of operating parameters are set and determined to be within corresponding operable limits, a user profile having the set operating parameters may be created and stored, thereby forming a number of stored user profiles.

[0037] Further, in block 232, the VCU may adjust the operation of at least one element of the powertrain based on the set operating parameters. In one example, the adjustment may include triggering the MCU that controls the motor, the TCU that controls the transmission assembly, and the BMS that controls the battery. For example, the VCU may adjust the maximum speed to 90 Kmph and the acceleration to 2 m / s 2 In the example shown in FIG. 1, the MCU 110 may correspond to the MCU 110, the TCU 112 may correspond to the TCU 112, and the BMS 114 may correspond to the BMS 114.

[0038] In the above examples, the operating parameters have been described as being keyed in as values, however, in some examples, instead of keying in values ​​for the operating parameters, visual indicators, such as a graphical equalizer, may be provided for setting the operating parameters.

[0039] FIG. 3a illustrates a setting of operational parameters for customizing a driving mode of the EV 100 according to an implementation of the present invention. FIG. 3b illustrates a setting of operational parameters for customizing a driving mode of the EV 100 according to an implementation of the present invention. For brevity, FIG. 3a and FIG. 3b are described in relation to each other. In one example, visual indicators may be provided for setting the operational parameters. Each visual indicator may correspond to an operational parameter. The visual indicator may be, for example, a graphic equalizer, and may include at least one bar. The number of bars in the visual indicator may indicate a value of the operational parameter. In other words, the more bars, the higher the value of the operational parameter, and the fewer bars, the lower the value of the operational parameter. In some examples, the number of bars may indicate a feel obtained corresponding to the operational parameter. For example, a larger number of bars for a braking pattern may indicate abrupt braking, and a smaller number of bars may indicate smoother braking.

[0040] In one example, as shown in Figure 3a, adjusting the number of bars may correspond to setting an operating parameter to a particular value. For example, if the visual indicator corresponding to the maximum speed is set to have one bar, the maximum speed may be set to 45Kmph. Similarly, if the visual indicator corresponding to the maximum speed is set to have four bars, the maximum speed may be set to 95Kmph.

[0041] In another example, adjusting the number of bars may indicate adjusting the feel obtained corresponding to the motion parameter, as shown in Fig. 3b. For example, if the visual indicator corresponding to acceleration has four bars, the acceleration value set may be the largest value acceptable for EV, and if the visual indicator corresponding to acceleration has a single bar, the acceleration value set may be the smallest, as shown in Fig. 3b.

[0042] In the above example, the VCU 116 is described as controlling the motor 104 by triggering the MCU 110, controlling the transmission assembly 106 by triggering the TCU 112, and controlling the battery 108 by triggering the BMS 114. However, in one example, the MCU 110 may directly regulate the operation of the motor 104, and the VCU may only control the transmission assembly 106 by triggering the TCU 112 and control the battery 108 by triggering the BMS 114. In this regard, the MCU 110 may be coupled to an input device 118.

[0043] 4 illustrates a method 400 for customizing a driving mode of an EV according to an implementation of the present invention. The order in which the method 400 is described is not intended to be construed as a limitation, and any number of the described method blocks may be combined in any order to implement the method 400 or alternative methods. Furthermore, the method 400 may be implemented by a processor or computing device via any suitable hardware, non-transitory machine-readable instructions, or combination thereof. The EV may correspond to the EV 100.

[0044] At block 402, a number of operating parameters associated with a powertrain of the EV may be set by an input device of the EV to customize a driving mode of the EV. The powertrain may correspond to the powertrain 102, which may include the motor 104, the battery 108, and the transmission assembly 106. The input device may correspond to the input device 118. In one example, the operating parameters may include a maximum speed of the EV, an acceleration of the EV, a regenerative power of the EV, and a braking pattern of the EV.

[0045] At block 404, an input signal may be sent by an input device to the VCU. The input signal may include a number of operating parameters. The VCU may correspond to the VCU 116. At block 406, each of the operating parameters may be compared by the VCU to its operable limits.

[0046] At block 408, in response to the comparison, the operation of at least one element of the powertrain may be adjusted by the VCU. In an example, the MCU, the TCU, the BMS, or a combination thereof may be triggered to adjust the operation of at least one element of the powertrain. The MCU may control the motor, the TCU may control the transmission assembly, and the BMS may control the battery. The VCU may trigger the MCU to modify the MCU mapping, the TCU to modify the TCU mapping, and the BMS to modify the BMS mapping. The MCU may correspond to the MCU 110, the TCU may correspond to the TCU 112, and the BMS may correspond to the BMS 114.

[0047] In one example, upon comparing each of the input parameters to a corresponding operational limit, the method 400 may further include sending an alert to the input device if at least one of the operational parameters exceeds the corresponding operational limit. The alert may be sent by the VCU and may indicate that at least one of the set operational parameters exceeds the corresponding operational limit.

[0048] The present invention allows customization of operational parameters for driving an EV. According to the present invention, different operational parameters can be set depending on the driver's preferences, road conditions, weather conditions, etc. Because the operational parameters can be customized, the present invention removes the cumbersome process of updating the VCU by the manufacturer to change the values ​​of the EV's preset modes or add one or more modes. The present invention makes driving easier, safer, and improves the efficiency of the EV. Furthermore, the present invention allows storage of a user profile corresponding to the set operational parameters, so that the driver does not need to set the operational parameters every time. Instead, the EV can allow selection of the stored user profile and retrieval of the operational parameters corresponding to the stored user profile. Thus, the present invention facilitates the process of customizing the driving modes, especially in scenarios where the driver wants to drive the EV with the same set of operational parameters every time. Furthermore, in the present invention, a user profile can be selected and the operational parameters can be retrieved by logging in from a mobile device. Thus, the present invention facilitates the process of customizing the driving modes. Furthermore, in a scenario where multiple different people, for example individual members of a family, drive an EV, the present invention improves operability of the EV and enhances the EV driving experience by allowing each driver to drive according to their individual preferences by simply selecting a user profile from an input device or mobile device.

[0049] While the present invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments, this description is not intended to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternative embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention.

Claims

1. 1. A vehicle control unit (VCU) for an electric vehicle, the VCU comprising: receiving an input signal from an input device, the input signal including a plurality of operating parameters associated with a powertrain of the electric vehicle for customizing an operation mode of the electric vehicle; comparing each of said operating parameters to its operable limits; creating a user profile including the set operating parameters if each of the operating parameters is within the corresponding operable limits; storing said user profile; adjusting operation of at least one element of the powertrain based on a comparison of the set operating parameters and the created user profile; Set the VCU.

2. 2. The VCU of claim 1, wherein when the comparison of each of the operating parameters with the corresponding operable limit indicates that at least one of the operating parameters exceeds the corresponding operable limit, the VCU is configured to send an alert to the input device to indicate that at least one of the set operating parameters exceeds the corresponding operable limit.

3. Upon sending the alert to the input device, the VCU: receiving a modified input signal from the input device, the modified input signal including a plurality of modified operating parameters associated with the powertrain of the electric vehicle for customizing a driving mode of the electric vehicle; comparing each of the modified operating parameters with the corresponding operable limit; and adjusting operation of at least one element of the powertrain based on the modified operating parameter in response to the comparison. The VCU of claim 1 , wherein the VCU sets:

4. The at least one element of the powertrain a motor for supplying a driving force for driving the electric vehicle; a transmission assembly for transmitting drive power from the motor to drive wheels of the electric vehicle; a battery for powering components of the electric vehicle; The VCU of claim 1 , comprising:

5. For the coordination of operation of the at least one element of the powertrain, the VCU: a motor control unit (MCU) configured to control a motor of the electric vehicle to modify MCU mapping; a transmission control unit (TCU) configured to control a transmission assembly of the electric vehicle to modify a TCU mapping; and the battery management system (BMS) configured to control a battery of the electric vehicle to modify a BMS mapping. The VCU of claim 1 , wherein the VCU triggers at least one of the following:

6. The VCU of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of operating parameters include a maximum speed of the electric vehicle, an acceleration of the electric vehicle, a regenerative power of the electric vehicle, and a braking pattern of the electric vehicle.

7. 1. An input device comprising: enabling configuration of a plurality of operating parameters associated with a powertrain of the electric vehicle to customize an operating mode of the electric vehicle; sending an input signal including the plurality of operating parameters to a vehicle control unit (VCU) upon enabling the setting of the plurality of operating parameters; an input device for setting the the powertrain for driving the electric vehicle; The VCU, receiving the input signal; comparing each of said operating parameters to its operable limits; adjusting operation of at least one element of the powertrain in response to the comparison; and creating a user profile including the set operating parameters if each of the operating parameters is within the corresponding operable limits; storing said user profile; adjusting operation of at least one element of the powertrain based on a comparison of the set operating parameters and the created user profile; The VCU and An electric vehicle comprising:

8. said comparing each of said input parameters with the corresponding operable limits; When at least one of the operating parameters exceeds the corresponding operable limit, the VCU is configured to send an alert to the input device to indicate that at least one of the set operating parameters has exceeded the corresponding operable limit; The input device is configured to display the alert received from the VCU.

8. The electric vehicle according to claim 7.

9. When the alert is displayed, the input device enabling configuration of a plurality of modified operating parameters associated with the powertrain of the electric vehicle to customize an operating mode of the electric vehicle; transmitting a modified input signal including the plurality of modified operating parameters to the VCU; Set The VCU receiving the modified input signal from the input device; comparing each of the modified operating parameters to the corresponding operable limits; adjusting operation of at least one element of the powertrain based on the modified operating parameter in response to the comparison; and The electric vehicle according to claim 7, wherein:

10. Prior to enabling the setting of the plurality of operating parameters, the input device enabling selection of a user profile from a plurality of stored user profiles, each user profile including a preset combination of values ​​of the plurality of operating parameters associated with the powertrain of the electric vehicle; storing a user profile when each of the plurality of operating parameters received from the input device in the preset combination is within its operable limits, the input device allowing a user to log in to select the user profile from the plurality of user profiles using a user identification; and enabling selection of a user profile. enabling said setting of said plurality of operating parameters; The electric vehicle of claim 7 , wherein the setting is one of:

11. Upon enabling the selection of a user profile, the input device configured to transmit a selection signal corresponding to said selection of said user profile; The VCU receiving the selection signal from the input device; upon receiving the selection signal, obtaining a plurality of operating parameters corresponding to the selected user profile; adjusting operation of at least one element of the powertrain based on the obtained operating parameters; The electric vehicle of claim 10, wherein the electric vehicle is configured to set

12. a mobile device connected to the electric vehicle; enabling a user to log in to select a user profile from the plurality of user profiles using a user identification; sending an input request to the input device corresponding to the user profile; The VCU receiving the input request from the input device; obtaining the plurality of operating parameters corresponding to the selected user profile based on the input request; adjusting operation of at least one element of the powertrain based on the obtained operating parameters; The electric vehicle of claim 10, wherein the electric vehicle is configured to set

13. The electric vehicle of claim 12 , wherein the mobile device connects to the electric vehicle using one of Bluetooth, Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi), cellular communication, infrared, and a wired connection.

14. Brakes and Handlebars and said handlebar-mounted switch; Equipped with 11. The electric vehicle of claim 10, wherein applying the brakes while pressing the switch causes the input device to display the plurality of stored user profiles to enable the selection of a user profile from the plurality of stored user profiles.

15. 8. The electric vehicle of claim 7, wherein the input device is a thin film transistor cluster liquid crystal display, and the input device comprises a touch sensor.

16. The at least one element of the powertrain a motor for supplying a driving force for driving the electric vehicle; a transmission assembly for transmitting drive power from the motor to drive wheels of the electric vehicle; a battery for powering components of the electric vehicle; The electric vehicle of claim 7, comprising:

17. a motor control unit (MCU) for controlling a motor of the electric vehicle; a transmission control unit (TCU) for controlling a transmission assembly of the electric vehicle; a battery management system (BMS) for controlling a battery of the electric vehicle; Equipped with For the coordination of operation of the at least one element of the powertrain, the VCU: To modify the MCU mapping, To modify the TCU mapping, the TCU, and To modify the BMS mapping, The electric vehicle of claim 7 , wherein the electric vehicle is configured to trigger at least one of the following:

18. The electric vehicle of claim 7 , wherein the plurality of operating parameters include a maximum speed of the electric vehicle, an acceleration of the electric vehicle, a regenerative power of the electric vehicle, and a braking pattern of the electric vehicle.

19. 1. A method for customizing an operation mode of an electric vehicle, the method comprising: setting, via an input device of the electric vehicle, a plurality of operating parameters associated with a powertrain of the electric vehicle to customize an operating mode of the electric vehicle; transmitting, by the input device of the electric vehicle, an input signal including the plurality of operating parameters to a vehicle control unit (VCU) of the electric vehicle; comparing, by the VCU, each of the operating parameters to its operable limits; creating a user profile including the set operating parameters if each of the operating parameters is within the corresponding operable limits; storing said user profile; adjusting operation of at least one element of the powertrain based on a comparison of the set operating parameters and the created user profile; A method comprising:

20. Upon comparing each of the input parameters to the corresponding operable limits, the method comprises:

20. The method of claim 19, further comprising the step of, if at least one of the operating parameters exceeds the corresponding operable limit, sending, by the VCU, an alert to the input device to indicate that at least one of the set operating parameters exceeds the corresponding operable limit.

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