Signal distribution to and / or from the controller in a vehicle

Abstract

The in-vehicle system for distributing signals to controllers includes: an ADAS controller configured to control the vehicle's advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS); an infotainment controller configured to control the vehicle's infotainment system; a sensor device; and a switch, the switch being powered coaxially from the ADAS controller or the infotainment controller, and configured to distribute a first signal from the sensor device to either the ADAS controller or the infotainment controller.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] [Cross - Reference to Related Applications] This application is a continuation application of U.S. Non - Provisional Patent Application No. 18 / 364,752, filed on August 3, 2023, entitled "SIGNAL DISTRIBUTION TO AND / OR FROM CONTROLLERS IN VEHICLE", and claims priority therefrom. The disclosure of the U.S. Non - Provisional Patent Application is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety into this specification.

[0002] This disclosure relates to signal distribution to and / or from controllers in a vehicle.

Background Art

[0003] Some modern vehicles are equipped with an advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) that uses sensors (e.g., radar, cameras, light detection and ranging (LiDAR) devices, and / or ultrasonic transducers) to perform its operations. Typically, the sensors used by the ADAS are interfaced to an ADAS module. Some vehicles also have an infotainment system for functions such as media, navigation, communication, or vehicle control.

Summary of the Invention

[0004] In a first embodiment, the in-vehicle system for distributing signals to controllers comprises: an ADAS controller configured to control the vehicle's advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS); an infotainment controller configured to control the vehicle's infotainment system; a sensor device; and a switch, the switch being powered coaxially by the ADAS controller or the infotainment controller, and the switch being configured to distribute a first signal from the sensor device to either the ADAS controller or the infotainment controller.

[0005] The implementation may include any or all of the following features: The sensor device has a camera in the vehicle. The sensor device has a plurality of cameras distributed around the vehicle and directed around the vehicle, and the system further comprises a plurality of switches, each of which is for a corresponding one of a plurality of isolated channels for the plurality of cameras. The cameras include a serializer configured to perform serialization that generates the first signal. The system is configured to operate in sentry mode, in which the ADAS controller is turned off, and in which the infotainment controller provides power on the coaxial cable to the switches, and the switches distribute the first signal to the infotainment controller. The system further comprises a display device in the vehicle, in which the infotainment controller is configured to generate a second signal for the display device in which the sentry mode, the second signal being based on the first signal from the cameras. The switch includes at least one selected from the group consisting of a radio frequency switch, a semiconductor device, a digital switch, a multiplexer, a demultiplexer, or a mechanical switch. The switch is isolated from the ADAS controller and isolated from the infotainment controller. The switch is integrated with the ADAS controller, and the infotainment controller is interfaced to the ADAS controller. The switch is integrated with the infotainment controller, and the ADAS controller is interfaced to the infotainment controller. The switch is integrated with the sensor device.The switch is configured such that i) when either the ADAS controller or the infotainment controller provides power to the switch via the coaxial cable, the switch distributes the first signal to either the ADAS controller or the infotainment controller; and ii) when both the ADAS controller and the infotainment controller provide power to the switch via the coaxial cable simultaneously, the switch has a prioritization for distributing the first signal to only one of the ADAS controller or the infotainment controller. The prioritization is to distribute the first signal to the ADAS controller. The prioritization is to distribute the first signal to the infotainment controller. The system further includes an interface between the ADAS controller and the infotainment controller, wherein the ADAS controller is configured to provide the second signal via the interface so that the second signal is received by the infotainment controller without passing through the switch.

[0006] In a second embodiment, the in-vehicle system for distributing signals from controllers comprises: an ADAS controller configured to control the vehicle's advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS); an infotainment controller configured to control the vehicle's infotainment system; a display device; and a switch, the switch being powered coaxially from the ADAS controller or the infotainment controller, and the switch being configured to distribute a first signal from either the ADAS controller or the infotainment controller to the display device.

[0007] The implementation may include any or all of the following features: The switch includes at least one selected from the group consisting of radio frequency switches, semiconductor devices, digital switches, multiplexers, demultiplexers, or mechanical switches. The switch is isolated from the ADAS controller and isolated from the infotainment controller. The switch is integrated with the ADAS controller and the infotainment controller is interfaced to the ADAS controller. The switch is integrated with the infotainment controller and the ADAS controller is interfaced to the infotainment controller. The switch is configured such that i) when either the ADAS controller or the infotainment controller provides power to the switch on the coaxial cable, the switch distributes the first signal generated by either the ADAS controller or the infotainment controller to the display device; and ii) when both the ADAS controller and the infotainment controller provide power to the switch on the coaxial cable simultaneously, the switch has a priority system for distributing the first signal generated by either the ADAS controller or the infotainment controller to the display device. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] An example of a vehicle having a system for distributing signals to and / or from multiple controllers is shown.

[0009] [Figure 2A] An example of a system that could be implemented in the vehicle shown in Figure 1 is presented. [Figure 2B] An example of a system that could be implemented in the vehicle shown in Figure 1 is presented.

[0010] [Figure 3] Another example of a system that could be implemented in the vehicle shown in Figure 1 is shown.

[0011] [Figure 4] Another example is shown, including the components of the system in Figure 3.

[0012] [Figure 5] Figure 3 shows an example of a system in which a high-speed switch is used to switch automotive Ethernet® links between the vehicle's electronic control units.

[0013] [Figure 6] Here is another example of a vehicle.

[0014] [Figure 7] This document provides an exemplary architecture of a computing device that may be used to implement aspects of this disclosure.

[0015] Similar reference numerals in various drawings indicate the same elements. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0016] This book describes examples of systems and techniques for distributing signals to and / or from multiple controllers in a vehicle. High-speed switches and "coaxial power" power supplies may be used to route signals (e.g., one or more camera feeds) to and / or from any of the vehicle's multiple controllers based on the vehicle state. In some implementations, camera outputs may be routed to the ADAS controller while the ADAS is powered, and then routed to the infotainment controller instead when the ADAS is shut down. For example, this can facilitate the implementation of a sentry mode in a vehicle where camera feeds are presented on a display device.

[0017] In contrast, implementing Sentry Mode can be more difficult if the camera is interfaced directly to the ADAS controller. Specifically, the ADAS module may require a considerable amount of power to activate and process the camera feed. Furthermore, the processed video should then be sent to the infotainment controller for recording and to facilitate presentation on in-vehicle display devices. Depending on the details of the ADAS controller, such an approach may require a considerably long boot-up time.

[0018] The implementation of this subject may offer one or more and / or other advantages: The camera feed can be automatically switched between two or more vehicle controllers based on the vehicle power mode, without any additional control signals. No external power is required. The solution can operate on existing coaxial power, which can be used to power the camera from the controller. Power consumption for routing can be kept very low (e.g., on the order of milliwatts). Failure rates can be very low; for example, if one of multiple signal channels fails, the other channels can continue to operate. Implementation costs can be very low.

[0019] The examples described herein refer to vehicles. A vehicle is a machine that transports passengers, cargo, or both. A vehicle may have one or more motors that use at least one type of fuel or other energy source (e.g., electricity). Examples of vehicles include, but are not limited to, cars, trucks, and buses. The number of wheels may vary between types of vehicles, and one or more (e.g., all) of the wheels may be used for propulsion. A vehicle may include a passenger compartment that accommodates one or more people. At least one vehicle occupant may be considered the driver; in that case, the driver may be provided with various tools, instruments, or other devices. In the examples described herein, any person transported by a vehicle may be referred to as the “driver” or “passenger” of the vehicle, regardless of whether that person is driving the vehicle, or whether that person has access to the controls for driving the vehicle, or whether that person lacks the controls for driving the vehicle. The vehicles in these examples are shown for illustrative purposes only, as being similar to or identical to one another.

[0020] The examples described herein refer to ADAS. Assisted driving involves at least partially automating one or more dynamic driving tasks by computer-based operations (e.g., by a processor executing instructions). ADAS is capable of performing assisted driving and is an example of an assisted driving system. Assisted driving is performed based in part on the outputs of one or more sensors typically positioned above, below, or inside a vehicle, which may be referred to as the host vehicle in some cases. ADAS may plan one or more trajectories for the vehicle before and / or while controlling the movement of the vehicle. The planned trajectory may define a route for the vehicle to travel. Thus, propelling the vehicle according to the planned trajectory may correspond to controlling one or more aspects of the vehicle's behavior, such as, but not limited to, the steering angle, gear (e.g., forward or reverse), speed, acceleration, and / or braking of the vehicle. As used herein, an ADAS controller is a processor-based device that executes one or more ADAS functions in a vehicle. For example, the ADAS controller may be referred to as an electronic control unit (ECU) of the vehicle.

[0021] An autonomous vehicle is an example of a system that performs assisted driving, but not all assisted driving systems are designed to provide fully autonomous vehicles. SAE International has defined multiple levels of driving automation, which are typically referred to as levels 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, respectively. For example, a level 0 system or driving mode may not involve continuous vehicle control by the system. For example, a level 1 system or driving mode may include adaptive cruise control, emergency brake assist, automatic emergency brake assist, lane keeping, and / or lane centering. For example, a level 2 system or driving mode may include highway assist, autonomous obstacle avoidance, and / or autonomous parking. For example, a level 3 or 4 system or driving mode may include increasing control of the vehicle by the assisted driving system. For example, in a level 5 system or driving mode, human intervention in the assisted driving system may not be required.

[0022] The examples described herein refer to infotainment controllers. As used herein, an infotainment controller is a processor-based device in a vehicle that performs one or more functions, including infotainment, media, navigation, communications, or vehicle control, or a combination thereof. Infotainment may refer to a human-machine interface for passengers to interact with the vehicle's computer. An infotainment controller may provide a graphical user interface, such as one supported by touchscreen input technology, keys, and / or voice recognition. An infotainment controller may be referred to as (for example, the vehicle's ECU (for the front passenger media system)).

[0023] Examples in this specification refer to sensors. A sensor is configured to detect one or more aspects of its environment and output a signal reflecting the detection. The detected aspect can be static or dynamic at the time of detection. By way of merely illustrative examples, a sensor can indicate one or more of the distance between the sensor and an object, the speed of a vehicle holding the sensor, the trajectory of the vehicle, or the acceleration of the vehicle. A sensor can generate an output without using anything to explore the surroundings (e.g., passive sensing such as an image sensor that captures electromagnetic radiation), or the sensor can explore the surroundings (e.g., active sensing by transmitting electromagnetic radiation and / or sound waves) and detect a response to the exploration. Examples of sensors that can be used with one or more embodiments include optical sensors (e.g., cameras); light-based sensing systems (e.g., light detection and ranging (LiDAR) devices); wireless-based sensors (e.g., radars); acoustic sensors (e.g., ultrasonic devices and / or microphones); inertial measurement units (IMUs) (e.g., gyroscopes and / or accelerometers); speed sensors (e.g., for a vehicle or its components); location sensors (e.g., for a vehicle or its components); orientation sensors (e.g., for a vehicle or its components); torque sensors; thermal sensors; temperature sensors (e.g., primary or secondary thermometers); pressure sensors (e.g., for ambient air or vehicle components); humidity sensors (e.g., rain detectors); or seating sensors, including but not limited to these.

[0024] Examples described in this specification refer to cameras. As used herein, a camera includes any image sensor that captures electromagnetic radiation.

[0025] Examples described in this specification refer to display devices. As used herein, a display device includes any device that can present a visual output generated by one or more processors.

[0026] The examples described herein refer to switches. A switch may include one or more selected from the group consisting of radio frequency switches, semiconductor devices, digital switches, multiplexers, demultiplexers, or mechanical switches. The examples described herein may refer to a switch as a high-speed switch. For example, a high-speed switch may be a radio frequency switch. For example, a high-speed switch may be a semiconductor switch. As another example, a high-speed switch may be a high-speed digital switch. As yet another example, a high-speed switch may be a multiplexer. As yet another example, a high-speed switch may be a demultiplexer. As yet another example, a high-speed switch may be a mechanical switch.

[0027] The examples described herein refer to interfaces between components, or components being interfaced with one another. As used herein, “interfaced / interfaced” means an electrical connection between components that enables power and / or signals to be supplied in at least one direction.

[0028] Figure 1 shows an example of a vehicle 100 having a system 102 for distributing signals to and / or from multiple controllers. The system 102 may be implemented inside the vehicle 100 (for example, to function as part of its control circuit configuration) and is shown here separately from the vehicle 100 for clarity. The vehicle 100 and / or system 102 may be used in conjunction with one or more other examples described elsewhere in this specification.

[0029] Vehicle 100 may include one or more types of sensors, where vehicle 100 includes a camera 104 as schematically illustrated. In some implementations, camera 104 may include multiple cameras distributed around the vehicle and directed toward the vehicle's surroundings 106. Any number of cameras 104 may be used. Any type of image sensor capable of capturing the surroundings 106 may be used as camera 104. Here, camera 104A is positioned at the front of vehicle 100 and oriented forward; camera 104B is positioned at the rear of vehicle 100 and oriented backward; camera 104C is positioned on the left side of vehicle 100 and oriented to the left; and camera 104D is positioned on the right side of vehicle 100 and oriented to the right. The cameras 104 may have the same or different fields of view from one another. For example, one or more of cameras 104A to 104D may be so-called fisheye cameras. Each of the cameras 104 may correspond to a respective channel in the system 102.

[0030] Vehicle 100 may include one or more display devices that are observable (and optionally interactable) by passengers. Here, vehicle 100 includes display devices 108 and 110. In some implementations, both display devices 108-110 are located within the instrument panel of vehicle 100. For example, display device 108 may form a group of instruments within vehicle 100 or be otherwise aligned with them. In another example, display device 110 may be located on or aligned with the center console within vehicle 100.

[0031] System 102 includes one or more high-speed (HS) switches 112. The high-speed switches 112 may be used to distribute signals between the vehicle 100 and the controller of system 102 in either one or both directions. The high-speed switches 112 have a sufficient operating frequency bandwidth for the type of signal to be distributed. High-resolution video signals may be distributed, for example, using gigabit transmission technology. In some implementations, the high-speed switches 112 include semiconductor devices. For example, metal oxide semiconductor switches may be used. In some implementations, at least one of the high-speed switches 112 is a mechanical switch with sufficient frequency capacitance.

[0032] The high-speed switch 112 can be interfaced to the cameras 104 by their respective cables. Here, coaxial / twisted pair cable 114A interfaces camera 104A to the high-speed switch 112, coaxial / twisted pair cable 114B interfaces camera 104B to the high-speed switch 112, coaxial / twisted pair cable 114C interfaces camera 104C to the high-speed switch 112, and coaxial / twisted pair cable 114D interfaces camera 104D to the high-speed switch 112. The coaxial / twisted pair cables 114A to 114D may be part of a point-to-point architecture. In some implementations, each of the coaxial / twisted pair cables 114A to 114D can provide a high-speed serializer / deserializer interface between the high-speed switch 112 and the corresponding one of the cameras 104A to 104D. For example, coaxial / twisted-pair cables 114A-114D can provide a physical layer compliant with Gigabit Serial Multimedia Link (GSML), Flat Panel Display (FPD) Link, or A-PHY specifications from MIPI standard-setting organizations.

[0033] System 102 includes an ADAS controller 116. The ADAS controller 116 is configured to control the ADAS of the vehicle 100. The ADAS controller 116 is interfaced to a high-speed switch 112 by its respective conductor 118. If the high-speed switch 112 and the ADAS controller 116 are separate devices, the conductor 118 may include a coaxial cable. For example, the conductor 118 can provide the respective high-speed (e.g., GSML / FPD / MIPI-A) connections between the ADAS controller 116 and the high-speed switch 112. If the high-speed switch 112 is integrated into the ADAS controller 116, the conductor 118 may include the respective lines on the circuit board.

[0034] System 102 includes an infotainment controller 120. The infotainment controller 120 is configured to provide infotainment functionality in the vehicle 100. The infotainment controller 120 is interfaced to a high-speed switch 112 by its respective conductors 122. If the high-speed switch 112 and the infotainment controller 120 are separate devices, the conductors 122 may include coaxial cables. For example, the conductors 122 can provide their respective high-speed (e.g., GSML / FPD / MIPI-A) connections between the infotainment controller 120 and the high-speed switch 112. If the high-speed switch 112 is integrated into the infotainment controller 120, the conductors 122 may include their respective lines on a circuit board.

[0035] The high-speed switch 112 can regulate signal transmission in one or more directions. In operation, the high-speed switch 112 may be configured to distribute signals from the camera 104 to either the ADAS controller 116 or the infotainment controller 120. In some implementations, this distribution may be controlled based on the state of the vehicle. For example, if the ADAS controller 116 provides coaxial power to the high-speed switch 112, the high-speed switch 112 can distribute the camera feed to the ADAS controller 116. As another example, if the infotainment controller 120 provides coaxial power to the high-speed switch 112, the high-speed switch 112 can distribute the camera feed to the infotainment controller 120. As yet another example, if both the ADAS controller 116 and the infotainment controller 120 are active and providing coaxial power to the high-speed switch 112, the ADAS controller 116 may have priority over the infotainment controller 120.

[0036] System 102 includes an interface 124 between the ADAS controller 116 and the infotainment controller 120. The interface 124 can enable high-speed communication between the ADAS controller 116 and the infotainment controller 120 in either one or both directions, without signals passing through the high-speed switch 112 between them. For example, the ADAS controller 116 is configured to provide signals via the interface 124 to be received by the infotainment controller 120. In some implementations, the interface 124 can provide an Ethernet connection.

[0037] The above example illustrates a system (e.g., system 102) within a vehicle (e.g., vehicle 100) for distributing signals to controllers (e.g., ADAS controller 116 and infotainment controller 120). The system includes an ADAS controller (e.g., ADAS controller 116) configured to control the vehicle's ADAS; an infotainment controller (e.g., infotainment controller 120) configured to control the vehicle's infotainment system; a sensor device (e.g., one or more of the cameras 104); and a high-speed switch (e.g., one of the high-speed switches 112), which is powered coaxially from either the ADAS controller or the infotainment controller, and is configured to distribute a first signal from the sensor device to either the ADAS controller or the infotainment controller.

[0038] System 102 facilitates the operation of vehicle 100 in Sentry Mode. When Sentry Mode is enabled, the vehicle's cameras / sensors remain powered on and ready to record any suspicious activity around the locked and parked vehicle at any time. For example, Sentry Mode allows a passenger in vehicle 100 to monitor the surroundings 106 using camera 104 while vehicle 100 is parked. The infotainment controller 120 can interface with display devices 108 and 110 via their respective conductors 126. Conductors 126 can provide a high-speed digital video interface. For example, conductor 126 can provide flat panel display (FPD) links between the infotainment controller 120 and the display devices 108 and 110.

[0039] In Sentry mode, the ADAS controller 116 may be turned off, and the infotainment controller 120 can provide coaxial power to the high-speed switch 112. The high-speed switch 112 can distribute camera signals to the infotainment controller 120 by sensing the power status of the ADAS and infotainment. The infotainment controller 120 can process and record camera signals and may also generate other signals (e.g., high-speed video content) for presentation on display devices 108 and / or 110. The user may be able to select a camera feed from among several available camera feeds for presentation and / or control the camera feeds in a different manner.

[0040] Figures 2A-2B show an example of a system 200 that may be implemented in the vehicle 100 of Figure 1. Furthermore, or alternatively, system 200 may be used in conjunction with one or more other examples described elsewhere in this specification. System 200 includes any number of devices 202 in the vehicle. Here, devices 202A-202D are shown as examples. In some implementations, one or more of the devices 202 may be display devices. For example, a display device may be part of an infotainment system used by passengers.

[0041] In some implementations, one or more of the devices 202 may be vehicle sensors. For example, a device may be at least one camera of the vehicle positioned to capture at least a portion of the area around the vehicle. Cameras and / or other devices may have their own isolated channels within the system 200. In some implementations, device 202 is a fisheye camera, and the channel for device 202A may be called "left fisheye" (LF), the channel for device 202B may be called "right fisheye" (RF), the channel for device 202C may be called "front fisheye" (FF), and the channel for device 202D may be called "back fisheye" (BF).

[0042] Device 202 may be interfaced to other embodiments of System 200 by conductor 204. In some implementations, conductor 204 includes a cable assembly having separate cables leading to devices 202A to 202D, respectively. For example, conductor 204 can form a harness installed inside a vehicle.

[0043] System 200 includes a switching circuit configuration 206, an ADAS controller 208, and an infotainment controller 210. The switching circuit configuration 206 can control the distribution of signals in one or more directions between device 202, the ADAS controller 208, and / or the infotainment controller 210. In this example, the switching circuit configuration 206 is isolated from the ADAS controller 208 and the infotainment controller 210. For example, the switching circuit configuration 206 is formed by one or more circuit boards.

[0044] The switching circuit configuration 206 includes at least one connector 212 for interface connection to the channels of device 202. In some implementations, connector 212 is a single connector with at least the number of inputs equal to the number of channels used. Any type of connector that is compatible with the type of signals to be distributed may be used. For example, connector 212 may include a so-called Fakra connector (named after the automotive standards group Fachkreis Automobil).

[0045] In an implementation where device 202 is to generate signals (for example, if they are sensors such as a camera), system 200 may include one or more serializers for device 202, where device 202A includes serializer 214A, device 202B includes serializer 214B, device 202C includes serializer 214C, and device 202D includes serializer 214D. Serializers 214A-214D can serialize the sensor outputs from their respective devices 212A-212D to generate one or more signals (for example, a video feed of a camera output).

[0046] The switching circuit configuration 206 may include conductors 216 that carry signals to or from device 202. In some implementations, conductors 216 include one or more lines on a circuit board. This example includes four channels, and therefore four of the conductors 216 are shown.

[0047] The switching circuit configuration 206 includes a power over coaxial circuitry configuration 218. The provision of power over coaxial circuitry allows each of the ADAS controller 208 and the infotainment controller 210 to supply power to either of the devices 202 through the switching circuit configuration 206. For example, the power over coaxial circuitry configuration 218 may include capacitive and inductive components arranged so that the supplied power and the transmitted signals are carried within the same conductor.

[0048] The switching circuit configuration 206 includes high-speed switches 220 that control the distribution of signals in one or more directions between device 202, ADAS controller 208, and / or infotainment controller 210. In some implementations, the high-speed switches 220 can function similarly to or identically to the high-speed switches 112 in Figure 1. For example, high-speed switch 220A may correspond to the LF channel, high-speed switch 220B to the RF channel, high-speed switch 220C to the FF channel, and high-speed switch 220D to the BF channel. Each of the high-speed switches 220 may include any switching configuration, including but not limited to single-pole, double-throw (SPDT). Any of various combinations, including but not limited to multiplexing and / or demultiplexing, may be used. Each of the high-speed switches 220 may include a selector 222 that controls each switch. For example, the selector 222 can control the switches according to the vehicle power status. The conductor 216 can provide a high-speed (e.g., GSML / FPD / MIPI-A) connection between the corresponding high-speed switch 220 and device 202.

[0049] The high-speed switch 220 can form one of several connections in the system 200. Here, connection 224 is schematically shown by a dotted line and represents the interface connection between the high-speed switch 220 and the ADAS controller 208. Connection 224 may include the respective connections for each channel in the system 200. Here, connections 224A to 224D are shown for illustrative purposes. For example, connection 224A may correspond to the LF channel, connection 224B may correspond to the RF channel, connection 224C may correspond to the FF channel, and connection 224D may correspond to the BF channel.

[0050] Similarly, connection 226 is schematically shown with a dashed line and represents the interface connection between the high-speed switch 220 and the infotainment controller 208. Connection 226 may include the respective connections for each channel in the system 200. Here, connections 226A to 226D are shown for illustrative purposes. For example, connection 226A may correspond to the LF channel, connection 226B may correspond to the RF channel, connection 226C may correspond to the FF channel, and connection 226D may correspond to the BF channel.

[0051] The switching circuit configuration 206 may include conductors 228 that carry signals to or from the ADAS controller 208. In some implementations, conductors 228 include one or more lines on the circuit board. This example includes four channels, and therefore four of the conductors 228 are shown. Conductors 228 can provide a high-speed (e.g., GSML / FPD / MIPI-A) connection between the high-speed switch 220 and the ADAS controller 208.

[0052] The switching circuit configuration 206 includes at least one connector 230 for interface connection with the ADAS controller 208. In some implementations, the connector 230 is a single connector having at least the number of inputs equal to the number of channels used. For example, the connector 230 may include a Fakra connector.

[0053] The ADAS controller 208 may be interfaced to one or more aspects of the system 200 by a conductor 232. The conductor 232 can provide a high-speed (e.g., GSML / FPD / MIPI-A) connection between the high-speed switch 220 and the ADAS controller 208. In some implementations, the conductor 232 includes a cable assembly with separate cables corresponding to each channel. Any type of conductor that is suitable for the type of signal being distributed may be used, including but not limited to coaxial cables.

[0054] The switching circuit configuration 206 may include conductors 234 that carry signals to or from the infotainment controller 210. In some implementations, conductors 234 include one or more lines on the circuit board. This example includes four channels, and therefore four of the conductors 234 are shown. Conductors 234 can provide a high-speed (e.g., GSML / FPD / MIPI-A) connection between the high-speed switch 220 and the infotainment controller 210.

[0055] The switching circuit configuration 206 includes at least one connector 236 for interface connection with the infotainment controller 210. In some implementations, connector 236 is a single connector having at least the number of inputs equal to the number of channels used. For example, connector 236 may include a Fakra connector.

[0056] The infotainment controller 210 may be interfaced to one or more aspects of the system 200 by a conductor 238. The conductor 238 can provide a high-speed (e.g., GSML / FPD / MIPI-A) connection between the high-speed switch 220 and the infotainment controller 210. In some implementations, the conductor 238 includes a cable assembly with separate cables corresponding to each channel. Any type of conductor that is suitable for the type of signal being distributed may be used, including but not limited to coaxial cables.

[0057] The switching circuit configuration 206 includes a coaxial power circuit configuration 240. By providing power coaxially, the ADAS controller 208 and the infotainment controller 210 may each be able to supply power to either of the devices 202 through the switching circuit configuration 206. For example, the coaxial power circuit configuration 240 may include capacitive and inductive components arranged so that the supplied power and the transmitted signals move within the same conductor.

[0058] The high-speed switch 220 may be configured such that if either the ADAS controller 208 or the infotainment controller 210 provides coaxial power to either of the high-speed switches 220, the high-speed switch 220 closes the connection to the controller. That is, a logical OR function may be applied to the power of the controllers. If device 202 is a camera, this may include the high-speed switch 220 distributing a signal from one of the cameras to either the ADAS controller 208 or the infotainment controller 210 that powers the high-speed switch 220. The high-speed switch 220 does not need to have a separate power supply. Power output from the coaxial power circuit configuration 240 may be demodulated, a very small amount of power may be used for the switching circuit configuration 206, and the remaining power may be returned to the coaxial power circuit configuration 218 to power device 202 (e.g., a camera).

[0059] The high-speed switch 220 may use prioritization when both the ADAS controller 208 and the infotainment controller 210 simultaneously supply coaxial power to either of the high-speed switches 220. In some implementations, the high-speed switch 220 may prioritize the ADAS controller 208. For example, both the ADAS controller 208 and the infotainment controller 210 may be powered during normal vehicle operation, and prioritization may then ensure that signals (e.g., camera feeds) are supplied to the ADAS controller 208. In some implementations, the high-speed switch 220 may prioritize the infotainment controller 210.

[0060] The above examples have focused on signal distribution from device 202 (e.g., a camera) to either the ADAS controller 208 or the infotainment controller 210. Signal distribution in system 200 may occur in different directions, or in other ways. In some implementations, one or more of the devices 202 may be display devices, and the high-speed switch 220 may be used to control which controller output the display device should present. Similar functionality to that described above may be used, including but not limited to the high-speed switch 220 being able to connect device 202 to either the ADAS controller 208 or the infotainment controller 210, which supply power coaxially. As another example, prioritization may be applied when controllers supply power simultaneously.

[0061] The preceding example illustrates a system (e.g., system 200) within a vehicle (e.g., vehicle 100 in Figure 1) for distributing signals from controllers (e.g., ADAS controller 208 and infotainment controller 210). The system includes an ADAS controller (e.g., ADAS controller 208) configured to control the vehicle's ADAS; an infotainment controller (e.g., infotainment controller 210) configured to control the vehicle's infotainment system; a display device (e.g., one or more of devices 202); and a high-speed switch (e.g., one of high-speed switches 220), which is powered coaxially from either the ADAS controller or the infotainment controller, and is configured to distribute a first signal from either the ADAS controller or the infotainment controller to the display device.

[0062] Figure 3 shows another example of a system 300 that may be implemented in the vehicle 100 of Figure 1. Furthermore, or alternatively, the system 300 may be used in conjunction with one or more other examples described elsewhere in this specification. The system 300 includes any number of devices 302 in the vehicle; here, one device is shown as an example. The system 300 includes a first type controller 304 (e.g., either an ADAS controller or an infotainment controller) and a second type controller 306 (e.g., the other of either an ADAS controller or an infotainment controller). The controller 304 includes at least one high-speed switch 308 that can selectively enable a connection between the system-on-chip (SOC) 310 of the device 302 and the controller 304, or a connection between the device 302 and the controller 306. Device 302 (e.g., a sensor such as a camera) may include a serializer 312 for serializing a camera feed (e.g., a video feed), and controller 304 may include a deserializer 314 before SOC 310. System 300 can receive coaxial power from any one of controllers 304-306, as in the example described above with reference to Figures 2A-2B. Any one or both of controllers 304-306 may include connectors and conductors, as in the example described above. For example, some components (e.g., connectors and / or coaxial power or other filter circuits) may already be present in controller 304 and may be used to facilitate the transfer of signals to any one of controllers 304-306. That is, in this example, the high-speed switch 308 is integrated into the first controller (e.g., an ADAS controller or an infotainment controller), and the second controller (an infotainment controller or an ADAS controller) is interfaced to the first controller.

[0063] This example shows a system (e.g., system 300) within a vehicle (e.g., vehicle 100 in Figure 1) for distributing signals to controllers (e.g., controllers 304-306). The system includes an ADAS controller (e.g., controller 304 or 306) configured to control the vehicle's ADAS; an infotainment controller (e.g., controller 306 or 304) configured to control the vehicle's infotainment system; a sensor device (e.g., one or more of the cameras 104 in Figure 1); and a high-speed switch (e.g., high-speed switch 308), which is powered coaxially from either the ADAS controller or the infotainment controller, and is configured to distribute a first signal from the sensor device to either the ADAS controller or the infotainment controller.

[0064] This example also shows a system (e.g., system 300) within a vehicle (e.g., vehicle 100 in Figure 1) for distributing signals from a controller (e.g., controller 304 or 306). The system includes an ADAS controller (e.g., controller 304 or 306) configured to control the vehicle's ADAS; an infotainment controller (e.g., controller 306 or 304) configured to control the vehicle's infotainment system; a display device (e.g., device 302); and a high-speed switch (e.g., high-speed switch 308), which is powered coaxially from either the ADAS controller or the infotainment controller, and is configured to distribute a first signal from either the ADAS controller or the infotainment controller to the display device.

[0065] Figure 4 shows another example including the components of system 300 in Figure 3. This example may be used in conjunction with one or more other examples described elsewhere in this specification. Unlike the examples in Figures 2A-2B in which the high-speed switch 220 is implemented in a separate device, and unlike the example in Figure 3 in which the high-speed switch 308 is integrated into the controller 304, here the high-speed switch 308 is integrated into device 302. Device 302 may include, but is not limited to, a sensor device (e.g., a camera) or a display device. The controller 306 may include a deserializer 316 in front of the SOC 318.

[0066] In operation, the serializer 312 serializes the sensor signal (e.g., camera feed), and the high-speed switch 308 can provide a signal to either controller 304 or controller 306, depending on which of the controllers 304-306 is active and supplying power to device 302. System 300 can receive coaxial power from either controller 304-306. When both controllers 304-306 are active, signals can be distributed according to priority. Components not explicitly mentioned can operate similarly or identically as described above.

[0067] Figure 5 shows an example of system 500 in which the high-speed switch 308 of Figure 3 is used to switch the automotive Ethernet link 502 between the vehicle's ECUs 504-506. Thus, a vehicle may include system 500 to facilitate communication to and / or from vehicle components. System 500 or any embodiment thereof may be used in conjunction with one or more other examples described elsewhere in this specification.

[0068] The automotive Ethernet link 502 can provide automotive Ethernet network communication in accordance with published standards. In operation, the high-speed switch 308 can connect either ECU 504 or ECU 506 to the automotive Ethernet link 502, depending on which of ECUs 504-506 is active. When both ECUs 504-506 are active, connections may be made according to priority. Thus, the system 500 can switch the automotive Ethernet link 502 between ECUs 504-506.

[0069] The automotive Ethernet link 502 may be provided by the vehicle's Ethernet gateway 508. For example, the Ethernet gateway 508 is implemented using a combination of software and hardware. The Ethernet gateway 508 can function as part of the Ethernet network within the vehicle. For example, the Ethernet gateway 508 performs encapsulation and decapsulation of non-Ethernet messages into Ethernet packets / frames; reads virtual local area network tags and labels messages with them; and / or routes Ethernet packets / frames.

[0070] Here, the high-speed switch 308 is implemented as a device separate from the ECUs 504-506 and also separate from the Ethernet gateway 508. In some implementations, the high-speed switch 308 may instead be integrated into the Ethernet gateway 508 (for example, as in the example in Figure 4). In some implementations, the high-speed switch 308 may instead be integrated into either the ECU 504 or 506 (for example, as in the example in Figure 3).

[0071] Figure 6 shows an example of vehicle 600. Vehicle 600 may be used in conjunction with one or more other examples described elsewhere in this specification. Vehicle 600 includes ADAS 602 and vehicle control 604. ADAS 602 includes sensors 606 and planning algorithms 608. Other embodiments of vehicle 600, including but not limited to other components of vehicle 600 in which ADAS 602 may be implemented, are omitted here for simplicity.

[0072] Sensor 606 is described herein as also including appropriate circuit configurations and / or executable programming for processing the sensor output and performing detection based on said processing. Sensor 606 may include radar 610. In some implementations, radar 610 may include any object detection system that is at least partially based on radio waves. For example, radar 610 may be oriented in the forward direction relative to the vehicle and may be used to detect the distance to at least one or more other objects (e.g., another vehicle). Radar 610 can detect the surrounding conditions of vehicle 600 by sensing the presence of objects in relation to vehicle 600.

[0073] Sensor 606 may include an active light sensor 612. In some implementations, the active light sensor 612 may include any object detection system that is at least partially based on laser light or LED light. For example, the active light sensor 612 may include LiDAR. The active light sensor 612 may be oriented in any direction relative to the vehicle and may be used to detect the distance to at least one or more other objects (e.g., another vehicle). The active light sensor 612 can detect the surroundings of vehicle 600 by sensing the presence of objects in relation to vehicle 600.

[0074] Sensor 606 may include one or more cameras 614. In some implementations, camera 614 may include any image sensor whose signal the vehicle 600 considers. For example, camera 614 may be oriented in any of several directions relative to the vehicle and may be used to detect the vehicle or other objects, lanes, lane markings, curbs, and / or road signs.

[0075] Sensor 606 may include an ultrasonic sensor 616. The ultrasonic sensor 616 may include any device that determines its position based on generating and detecting sound waves.

[0076] Regardless of whether ADAS 602 is controlling the motion of vehicle 600, any of the sensors 606 can detect the surrounding conditions of vehicle 600 individually, or two or more of the sensors 606 can detect the surrounding conditions of vehicle 600. In some implementations, at least one of the sensors 606 can generate an output that is taken into consideration when providing prompts to the driver and / or when controlling the motion of vehicle 600. For example, the outputs of two or more sensors may be combined. In some implementations, one or more other types of sensors may be included in addition to or instead of sensor 606. Based on the outputs of one or more sensors 606, ADAS 602 may execute a motion plan for vehicle 600 and / or plan its trajectory.

[0077] Vehicle control 604 may include steering control 618. In some implementations, the ADAS 602 and / or another driver of vehicle 600 control the trajectory of vehicle 600 by operating the steering control 618 to adjust the steering angle of at least one wheel. The steering control 618 may be configured to control the steering angle through a mechanical connection between the steering control 618 and an adjustable wheel, or it may be part of a steer-by-wire system.

[0078] Vehicle control 604 may include gear control 620. In some implementations, the ADAS 602 and / or another driver of the vehicle 600 use the gear control 620 to select from several operating modes of the vehicle (e.g., driving mode, neutral mode, or parking mode). For example, gear control 620 may be used to control an automatic transmission in the vehicle 600.

[0079] Vehicle control 604 may include signal control 622. In some implementations, signal control 622 may control one or more signals that the vehicle 600 can generate. For example, signal control 622 may control the turn signals and / or horn of the vehicle 600.

[0080] Vehicle control 604 may include brake control 624. In some implementations, brake control 624 may control one or more types of braking systems designed to decelerate the vehicle, bring the vehicle to a stop, and / or keep the vehicle stopped when it is stopped. For example, brake control 624 may be activated by ADAS 602. In another example, brake control 624 may be activated by the driver using the brake pedal.

[0081] Vehicle control 604 may include a vehicle dynamics system 626. In some implementations, the vehicle dynamics system 626 may control one or more functions of the vehicle 600 in addition to, in the absence of, or in place of, driver control. For example, if the vehicle is stopped on a slope and the driver does not activate brake control 624 (e.g., by pressing the brake pedal), the vehicle dynamics system 626 may keep the vehicle stopped.

[0082] Vehicle control 604 may include acceleration control 628. In some implementations, acceleration control 628 may control one or more types of propulsion motors of the vehicle. For example, acceleration control 628 may control the electric motor and / or internal combustion motor of vehicle 600.

[0083] Vehicle control 604 may include one or more other controls 630 in addition to those exemplified above.

[0084] The vehicle 600 may include a user interface 632. The user interface 632 may include an audio interface 634. In some implementations, the audio interface 634 may include one or more speakers located within the passenger compartment. For example, the audio interface 634 may operate at least partially in conjunction with an infotainment system in the vehicle.

[0085] The user interface 632 may include a visual interface 636. In some implementations, the visual interface 636 may include at least one display device in the passenger compartment of the vehicle 600. For example, the visual interface 636 may include a touchscreen device and / or an instrument cluster display.

[0086] The following are further examples related to this subject. Each example will be referred to as a “clause” for identification purposes.

[0087] Clause 1: A vehicle comprising: a first electronic control unit (ECU); a second ECU; an automotive Ethernet link; and a switch configured to switch the automotive Ethernet link between the first ECU and the second ECU based on which of the first ECU or the second ECU is active.

[0088] Clause 2: A vehicle under Clause 1 in which the switch is separated from the first and second ECUs.

[0089] Clause 3: A vehicle under Clause 1 in which the switch is integrated into either the first or second ECU.

[0090] Clause 4: The vehicle of Clause 1 further comprises an Ethernet gateway providing an automotive Ethernet link.

[0091] Clause 5: The vehicle in Clause 4, wherein the automotive Ethernet link is integrated into the Ethernet gateway.

[0092] Clause 6: The vehicle of Clause 1, wherein the switch includes at least one selected from the group consisting of radio frequency switches, semiconductor devices, digital switches, multiplexers, demultiplexers, or mechanical switches.

[0093] Clause 7. A vehicle according to Clause 1, wherein the switch is configured such that i) when either the first or second ECU is active, the switch switches the automotive Ethernet link to the first or second ECU; and ii) when both the first and second ECUs are active at the same time, the switch has a priority for switching the automotive Ethernet link to only the first or second ECU.

[0094] The computer-based techniques, processes, components, or systems described herein may be implemented by one or more processors that execute instructions stored in a non-temporary computer-readable medium.

[0095] Figure 7 shows an exemplary architecture of a computing device 700 that can be used to implement aspects of the disclosure, including any of the systems, apparatus, and / or techniques described herein, or any other systems, apparatus, and / or techniques that may be used in various possible embodiments.

[0096] The computing device shown in Figure 7 can be used to run the operating systems, application programs, and / or software modules (including software engines) described herein.

[0097] In some embodiments, the computing device 700 includes at least one processing device 702 (e.g., a processor), such as a central processing unit (CPU). A variety of processing devices are available from various manufacturers (e.g., Intel or Advanced Micro Devices). In this example, the computing device 700 also includes system memory 704 and a system bus 706 that interfaces various system components, including the system memory 704, to the processing device 702. The system bus 706 is one of any number of bus structures that can be used, including a memory bus, or a memory controller; peripheral bus; and local bus, using any of a variety of bus architectures, but is not limited to.

[0098] Examples of computing devices that can be implemented using computing device 700 include desktop computers, laptop computers, tablet computers, mobile computing devices (such as smartphones, touchpad mobile digital devices, or other mobile devices), or other devices configured to process digital instructions.

[0099] The system memory 704 includes a read-only memory 708 and a random-access memory 710. A basic input / output system 712, which includes basic routines that function to transfer information within the computing device 700 during startup, can be stored in the read-only memory 708.

[0100] In some embodiments, the computing device 700 also includes a secondary storage device 714, such as a hard disk drive, for storing digital data. The secondary storage device 714 is connected to the system bus 706 by a secondary storage interface 716. The secondary storage device 714 and the computer-readable medium associated therewith provide non-volatile and non-temporary storage for computer-readable instructions, data structures, and other data (including application programs and program modules) for the computing device 700.

[0101] In the examples of environments described herein, a hard disk drive is used as the secondary storage device, but in other embodiments, other types of computer-readable storage media are used. Examples of these other types of computer-readable storage media include magnetic cassettes, flash memory cards, solid-state drives (SSDs), digital video discs, Bernoulli cartridges, compact disk read-only memory, digital multipurpose disk read-only memory, random access memory, or read-only memory. Some embodiments include non-temporary media. For example, a computer program product can be tangibly embodied in a non-temporary storage medium. Furthermore, such computer-readable storage media may include local storage or cloud-based storage.

[0102] Multiple program modules can be stored in a secondary storage device 714 and / or in a system memory 704 containing an operating system 718, one or more application programs 720, other program modules 722 (such as the software engine described herein), and program data 724. The computing device 700 can utilize any suitable operating system.

[0103] In some embodiments, the user provides input to the computing device 700 via one or more input devices 726. Examples of input devices 726 include a keyboard 728, a mouse 730, a microphone 732 (for, e.g., voice and / or other audio input), a touch sensor 734 (such as a touchpad or touch-sensitive display), and a gesture sensor 735 (for, e.g., gesture input). In some implementations, the input devices 726 provide detection based on presence, proximity, and / or motion. Other embodiments include other input devices 726. The input devices can be connected to the processing device 702 via input / output interfaces 736 interfaced to the system bus 706. These input devices 726 can be connected by any number of input / output interfaces, such as parallel ports, serial ports, game ports, or a universal serial bus. Wireless communication between the input device 726 and the input / output interface 736 is also possible, and in some possible embodiments, to name just a few, includes infrared, BLUETOOTH® wireless technology, 802.11a / b / g / n, cellular, ultra-wideband (UWB), ZigBee®, or other radio frequency communication systems.

[0104] In this exemplary embodiment, a display device 738, such as a monitor, liquid crystal display device, light-emitting diode display device, projector, or touch-sensitive display device, is also connected to the system bus 706 via an interface such as a video adapter 740. In addition to the display device 738, the computing device 700 may include various other peripheral devices (not shown), such as speakers or printers.

[0105] The computing device 700 can be connected to one or more networks via a network interface 742. The network interface 742 can provide wired and / or wireless communication. In some implementations, the network interface 742 may include one or more antennas for transmitting and / or receiving wireless signals. When used in a local area networking environment or a wide area networking environment (such as the Internet), the network interface 742 may include an Ethernet® interface. In other possible embodiments, other communication devices are used. For example, some embodiments of the computing device 700 include a modem for communication across a network.

[0106] The computing device 700 may include at least some form of computer-readable medium. The computer-readable medium includes any available medium that can be accessed by the computing device 700. Examples of computer-readable medium include computer-readable storage media and computer-readable communication media.

[0107] Computer-readable storage media include volatile and non-volatile, removable and fixed media configured to store information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data, and implemented in any device. Computer-readable storage media include, but are not limited to, random-access memory, read-only memory, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory, flash memory or other memory technologies, compact disk read-only memory, digital versatile disk or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tapes, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other media that can be used to store desired information and can be accessed by computing device 700.

[0108] Computer-readable communication media typically embody computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data in modulated data signals (e.g., carrier waves or other means of transport), and include any information distribution medium. The term “modulated data signal” refers to a signal in which one or more of its characteristics are set or modified in a manner that encodes information into a signal. Examples of computer-readable communication media include wired media (e.g., wired networks or direct wired connections) and wireless media (e.g., acoustic media, radio frequency media, infrared media, and other wireless media). Any combination of the above also falls within the scope of computer-readable media.

[0109] The computing device shown in Figure 7 is also an example of a programmable electronic device which may include one or more such computing devices, and if it includes multiple computing devices, such computing devices may be interfaced together in a suitable data communication network to collectively perform various functions, methods, or operations disclosed herein.

[0110] In some implementations, the computing device 700 can be characterized as an ADAS computer. For example, the computing device 700 may include one or more components that are sometimes used to handle tasks arising in the field of artificial intelligence (AI). The computing device 700 may, in that case, include sufficient processing power and a sufficient supporting architecture for the demands of ADAS or AI in general. For example, the processing device 702 may include a multi-core architecture. As another example, the computing device 700 may include one or more coprocessors in addition to, or as part of, the processing device 702. In some implementations, at least one hardware accelerator may be interfaced to the system bus 706. For example, a graphics processing unit may be used. In some implementations, the computing device 700 may implement neural network-specific hardware to handle one or more ADAS tasks.

[0111] The terms “substantially” and “about” as used throughout this specification are used to describe and account for small variations, such as those resulting from processing variability. For example, they may mean less than or equal to ±5%, less than or equal to ±2%, less than or equal to ±1%, less than or equal to ±0.5%, less than or equal to ±0.2%, less than or equal to ±0.1%, less than or equal to ±0.05%. Also, as used herein, indefinite articles such as “a” or “an” mean “at least one.”

[0112] It should be understood that all combinations of the concepts described above and any additional concepts discussed in more detail below (provided that such concepts are not mutually contradictory) are considered to be part of the subject matter of the invention disclosed herein. In particular, all combinations of the claimed subject matter appearing at the end of this disclosure are considered to be part of the subject matter of the invention disclosed herein.

[0113] Multiple implementations have been described. Nevertheless, it should be understood that various modifications may be made without deviating from the intent and scope of this specification.

[0114] Furthermore, the logical flow shown in the diagram does not require a specific or sequential order to achieve the desired result. In addition, other processes may be provided, or processes may be excluded from the described flow; other components may be added to or removed from the described system. Therefore, other implementations fall within the scope of the following claims.

[0115] While specific features of the described implementations are shown as described herein, many modifications, substitutions, alterations, and equivalents will now be conceivable to those skilled in the art. It should be understood that the appended claims are intended to encompass all such modifications and alterations that fall within the scope of these implementations. They are presented merely as examples and not as limitations, and it should be understood that various modifications may be made in form and detail. Any part of the apparatus and / or method described herein may be combined in any combination, except for mutually exclusive combinations. The implementations described herein may include various combinations and / or partial combinations of the functions, components, and / or features of the different implementations described.

Claims

1. A system within a vehicle for distributing signals to a controller, wherein the system is An ADAS controller configured to control the advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) of the vehicle; An infotainment controller configured to control the infotainment system of the aforementioned vehicle; Sensor devices; and A switch, the switch is powered by coaxial power from the ADAS controller or the infotainment controller, and the switch is configured to distribute a first signal from the sensor device to either the ADAS controller or the infotainment controller. A system equipped with these features.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the sensor device has a camera on the vehicle.

3. The system according to claim 2, wherein the sensor device has a plurality of cameras distributed around the vehicle and directed toward the vehicle, and the system further comprises a plurality of switches, each of which is for a corresponding one of a plurality of isolated channels for the plurality of cameras.

4. The system according to any one of claims 2 to 3, wherein the camera includes a serializer configured to perform serialization that generates the first signal.

5. The system according to any one of claims 2 to 3, wherein the system is configured to operate in a sentry mode, in which the ADAS controller is turned off, and in which the infotainment controller provides power on the coaxial cable to the switch, and the switch distributes the first signal to the infotainment controller.

6. The system according to claim 5, further comprising a display device in the vehicle, wherein the infotainment controller is configured to generate a second signal for the display device in the centrie mode, the second signal being based on the first signal from the camera.

7. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the switch includes at least one selected from the group consisting of a radio frequency switch, a semiconductor device, a digital switch, a multiplexer, a demultiplexer, or a mechanical switch.

8. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the switch is separated from the ADAS controller and also separated from the infotainment controller.

9. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the switch is integrated into the ADAS controller, and the infotainment controller is interfaced to the ADAS controller.

10. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the switch is integrated into the infotainment controller, and the ADAS controller is interfaced to the infotainment controller.

11. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the switch is integrated into the sensor device.

12. The aforementioned switch is i) Even if either the ADAS controller or the infotainment controller provides power to the switch via the coaxial cable, the switch distributes the first signal to either the ADAS controller or the infotainment controller; and ii) When both the ADAS controller and the infotainment controller simultaneously supply power to the switch via the coaxial cable, the switch has a priority system for distributing the first signal to only one of the ADAS controller or the infotainment controller. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, configured as described above.

13. The system according to claim 12, wherein the prioritization involves distributing the first signal to the ADAS controller.

14. The system according to claim 12, wherein the prioritization involves distributing the first signal to the infotainment controller.

15. The system according to claim 12, further comprising an interface between the ADAS controller and the infotainment controller, wherein the ADAS controller is configured to provide the second signal via the interface so that the second signal is received by the infotainment controller without passing through the switch.

16. A system within a vehicle for distributing signals from a controller, wherein the system is An ADAS controller configured to control the advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) of the vehicle; An infotainment controller configured to control the infotainment system of the aforementioned vehicle; Display devices; and A switch, the switch is powered by coaxial power from the ADAS controller or the infotainment controller, and the switch is configured to distribute a first signal from either the ADAS controller or the infotainment controller to the display device. A system equipped with these features.

17. The system according to claim 16, wherein the switch includes at least one selected from the group consisting of a radio frequency switch, a semiconductor device, a digital switch, a multiplexer, a demultiplexer, or a mechanical switch.

18. The system according to any one of claims 16 to 17, wherein the switch is separated from the ADAS controller and also separated from the infotainment controller.

19. The system according to any one of claims 16 to 17, wherein the switch is integrated into the ADAS controller, and the infotainment controller is interfaced to the ADAS controller.

20. The system according to any one of claims 16 to 17, wherein the switch is integrated into the infotainment controller, and the ADAS controller is interfaced to the infotainment controller.

21. The aforementioned switch is i) Even if either the ADAS controller or the infotainment controller provides power to the switch via the coaxial cable, the switch distributes the first signal generated by either the ADAS controller or the infotainment controller to the display device; and ii) When both the ADAS controller and the infotainment controller simultaneously supply power to the switch via the coaxial cable, the switch has a priority system for distributing the first signal generated by either the ADAS controller or the infotainment controller to the display device. The system according to any one of claims 16 to 17, configured as follows.

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